Researchers at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) have found a way to generate mechanoluminescence in non-crystalline materials, bringing a new wave of potential applications in engineering, industrial safety and beyond. “Traditionally, chemists have thought crystal fracture an essential step in generating mechanoluminescence,” notes Dr Ayumu Karimata, first author of the study. “We have proved that’s not necessary. Our findings open up a vast array of possibilities in materials science, as they remove the need for complex crystal design and engineering when creating mechanoluminescent materials.” 

Researchers at Seoul National University have compiled the latest technologies in the field of fabricating stretchable synaptic transistors, a neuromorphic device capable of learning even under deformation. This review introduces materials, manufacturing processes (photopatterning, printing, lamination-and-transfer), and structures (vertical, wave-like, textile) that maintain low-voltage stable operation even under deformation. By clearly identifying remaining technical challenges, such as n-type/bipolar semiconductors, CMOS-compatible patterning, and biocompatibility, it provides a roadmap for developing scalable wearable and neuroprosthetic systems.

This week, Tatta Bio, a scientific nonprofit advancing AI for genomics, has launched SeqHub — a platform helping scientists rapidly interpret proteins & genomes through AI-driven function prediction, context & structure.

High-voltage cycling can quietly degrade LiCoO₂ cathodes, but a new low-dose nanoscale imaging method reveals the precise crystal transformations driving battery performance loss. By combining cepstral matching analysis with scanning nanobeam electron diffraction, researchers achieved nanometer-scale visualization with minimal beam damage. The study uncovered local structural changes at the cathode interface with the electrolyte, providing important clues to how batteries degrade and helping guide the design of longer-lasting, higher-energy lithium-ion batteries for future devices and electric vehicles.

Microbial proteins are attracting attention for their potential in biomanufacturing a variety of products, including pharmaceuticals, industrial enzymes, and diagnostic antibodies. These proteins can also be used for converting resources into biofuels and bioplastics. Producing proteins from Escherichia coli (E. coli) has become popular due to its cost-effectiveness and efficiency. However, yields of protein production in E. coli may be reduced depending on the specific gene sequence of the target protein. A research group in Japan has successfully developed a new technology that improves the efficiency of protein production in E. coli. Their findings could provide fundamental technology to support sustainable manufacturing that does not depend on petroleum.