Photodetectors require complex evaporation-based fabrication processes and exhibit relatively high dark currents and noise levels under operation. Besides, system size, cost, and the mismatch in responsivity between different types of photodetectors hinder further commercial application. Now, researchers from Dalian Minzu University have proposed the construction of a perovskite/In0.53Ga0.47As thin-film heterojunction, thereby realizing broadband photodetectors covering the deep-ultraviolet to short-wavelength infrared range.

Inspired by fish lateral lines, researchers developed a lightweight, miniaturized sensing unit that estimates both flow speed and direction. Combined with a neural network and an inertial measurement unit, the single unit was validated on an underwater robot during multiple motion states and attitude disturbances, reflecting practical underwater operating conditions.

Seed-grown Cannabis sativa crops often vary in flowering time, yield, sex expression, and chemical profile, making large-scale production less predictable. 

This review examines how indigenous water-harvesting systems have helped dryland communities manage scarce water for centuries. It shows that many are now declining due to groundwater pumping, migration, climate change, policy shifts, weak maintenance, urbanization and natural disasters. The authors argue that revitalizing these systems can improve water access, agriculture, livestock production, groundwater recharge and flood control, while preserving traditional knowledge. Combined with appropriate modern technologies and supportive policies, these systems can strengthen water resilience in arid and semi-arid regions.

Clean hydrogen production depends on catalysts that can split water efficiently while using precious metals more wisely. A new catalyst design addresses one of the long-standing barriers in alkaline water electrolysis: the slow breakdown of water molecules on platinum (Pt) surfaces. By placing Pt clusters on a symbiotic oxide support made from titanium dioxide quantum dots and cobalt oxide (TiO₂ QDs/Co₃O₄), the study reshapes the electronic state of Pt and creates paired active sites. These sites separately accelerate water dissociation and hydrogen adsorption, enabling faster hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activity, stronger stability, and a clearer path toward more efficient alkaline electrolyzers.

New PNAS study finds atmospheric feedbacks cancel over half of vegetation's expected water-saving benefit