6G’s space-ground integrated networks need reliable simulation tools for LEO satellite mega-constellations. A new study in Engineering unveils UltraStar, a high-fidelity simulator that models dynamic satellite topologies, real communication conditions and boosts efficiency via parallel computing. It’s validated across network layers and paves the way for 6G space-ground network development.

Modern technology demands compact, efficient optical devices for cameras, sensors, and quantum systems. Metasurfaces offer nanoscale control of light, yet strong confinement remains difficult. While traditional cavities rely on mirrors, bound states in the continuum (BICs) trap light through destructive interference. A recent review in Opto-Electronic Advances highlights BIC materials across wavelengths, machine-learning-driven designs, emerging topological forms like super-BICs, and scalable applications in lasing, sensing, and nonlinear optics.

Tomato yellow leaf curl disease (TYLCD), caused by begomoviruses, is a global problem in tomato production, affecting yield. While introduction of resistance genes is one of the strategies to control TYLCD, introduction of a single Ty-gene is inadequate in providing full protection against begomoviruses. Now, researchers have determined that a combination of Ty-1/Ty-3 and Ty-6 can fully protect tomato plants from begomoviruses, providing a promising strategy to improve tomato varieties and ensure their stable production.

Clinical interviewing is an essential skill in medical training, but often requires significant time and training. Generative artificial intelligence (AI) can be used to help accelerate this training; however, its effectiveness remains unclear. Now, a new study reports how AI-based assessment of medical interview transcripts closely matches human-based assessments. These findings suggest that AI could support more efficient and scalable training in medical education.

Researchers have developed a stable, orally administrable "nanoreactor" using hydrogen-bonded organic frameworks (HOFs) that withstands the gastrointestinal environment to deliver protective enzymes. By targeting and degrading a specific aging-associated metabolite in the gut, this targeted therapy reduced neuroinflammation and alleviated cognitive decline in aged mice. This study offers a potential strategy for senescence intervention and the oral delivery of sensitive biologic drugs.