EurekAlert! In the Spotlight - Artificial Intelligence

This month, we’re focusing on artificial intelligence (AI), a topic that continues to capture attention everywhere. Here, you’ll find the latest research news, insights, and discoveries shaping how AI is being developed and used across the world.

New AI tool fights back against speech eavesdropping

University of Maryland

University of Maryland computer scientists developed an AI-enhanced system that protects personal voice data from automated surveillance.

27-Oct-2025

Nearly half of US workers don’t know work experience could count toward a degree, according to University of Phoenix survey

University of Phoenix
Reports and Proceedings

A new University of Phoenix survey conducted by The Harris Poll finds that while 90% of U.S. workers are actively learning or developing new skills on the job, many don’t realize those experiences may translate into college credit. While 45% of employed Americans do not believe work experience can count towards a degree, among workers without a college degree, nearly 3 in 5 (57%) don’t know that work experience could count toward a degree. Evaluating prior learning — sometimes called credit for prior learning (CPL) or prior learning assessment (PLA) — allows eligible, college-level knowledge gained through work, training, military service and other avenues to be assessed for potential credit toward a degree or certificate.

27-Oct-2025

Genome-wide analysis of gene expression in sorghum furthers efforts to improve stem biomass

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment
Peer-Reviewed Publication

Sorghum bicolor is a deep-rooted, heat- and drought-tolerant crop that thrives on marginal lands and is increasingly valued for its applications in biofuel, bioenergy, and biopolymer production. Although recent advances in genetic, genomic, and transcriptomic resources have improved understanding of sorghum biology, comprehensive genome-wide analyses of functional dynamics across diverse organ types and developmental stages remain limited. This study, led by the Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation (CABBI), presents a genome-wide analysis of organ-specific gene expression, functions, and regulatory networks in sorghum. The findings offer valuable candidates for further functional characterization and genetic engineering aimed at improving sorghum stem biomass and composition.

Journal: BMC Plant Biology
Funder: DOE/US Department of Energy

Welcome to In the Spotlight, where each month we shine a light on something exciting, timely, or simply fascinating from the world of science.

Latest News Releases

New AI tool fights back against speech eavesdropping

Nearly half of US workers don’t know work experience could count toward a degree, according to University of Phoenix survey

Genome-wide analysis of gene expression in sorghum furthers efforts to improve stem biomass

Young adults fear mass shootings but don’t necessarily support gun control

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