A new study has identified key genetic markers that control sugar and acid levels in sweet cherries, paving the way for breeding tastier and more consistent fruit. 

A new study in Engineering presents a coordinated planning framework for power systems with high renewable energy (RE) penetration, introducing the concept of Renewable Energy Power-Flow Density (RE-PFD) to track RE transmission pathways through internal loads, external exports, and storage losses. Developed by researchers from Xi’an Jiaotong University, the model integrates transmission network and energy storage system (ESS) planning to address RE variability, ensuring efficient grid operation and compliance with green power trading requirements across interconnected systems.

In a recent study published in Engineering, researchers have developed an exact algorithm for placement optimization in mixed-cell-height (MCH) circuits, addressing key challenges in modern chip design such as non-overlapping constraints, voltage drain drain (VDD)/voltage source substrate (VSS) alignment, and minimum implantation area rules. The work presents a mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) model and a Benders decomposition (BD)-based approach to minimize placement cost while enhancing space utilization, validated through numerical experiments on benchmark datasets to demonstrate its efficiency for practical circuit design applications.

A new study published in Engineering uses integrated LEAP–WEAP models to analyze Pakistan’s water–energy challenges. It reveals consumption trends under different scenarios, offers potential saving strategies, and points out the implementation challenges, providing crucial insights for resource management in the country.

BGI Genomics has successfully wrapped up its inaugural Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) Interpretation of Genetic Diseases Training Workshop for Southeast Asia, marking a significant milestone in international genomics education.

Held at the BGI Center in late May, the workshop brought together emerging healthcare professionals and researchers from Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam for a week of intensive, hands-on learning.

Lithium–oxygen (Li–O₂) batteries are poised to revolutionize energy storage with their ultrahigh theoretical energy density. However, performance barriers at both the cathode and anode have prevented their practical deployment. A new study proposes an elegant solution: atomic-scale nickel (Ni) catalysts anchored on nitrogen-doped reduced graphene oxide (Ni–N/rGO). This dual-function material enhances the oxygen reduction/evolution reactions at the cathode while stabilizing lithium metal at the anode. The resulting batteries exhibit impressive capacity, extended cycle life, and reduced polarization. By unifying cathode and anode improvements in a single material platform, the work sets a new standard for the design of high-performance, rechargeable Li–O₂ batteries.