In a landmark advancement set to revolutionize surgical procedures, Wayne State University, in partnership with RediMinds Inc., has secured a patent for an innovative technology designed to detect and visualize arterial bleeding during minimally invasive surgeries. The newly granted United States Patent No. 12,635,098 B2, issued on May 26, 2026, represents a pivotal leap in surgical safety, addressing one of the most challenging complications faced by surgeons—unexpected intraoperative bleeding. This development holds the promise of dramatically improving patient outcomes in robotic and laparoscopic surgeries, where precise control over bleeding is critical.

Minimally invasive surgical procedures, including robotic and laparoscopic surgeries, have transformed the medical landscape by reducing recovery times and minimizing trauma. However, they are not without significant risks. Among these, arterial bleeding is a particularly severe complication. When bleeding occurs unexpectedly inside the surgical field, it can obscure the surgeon’s view, creating a dangerous scenario termed a “red out.” This occlusion of the visual field complicates the surgeon’s ability to manage the procedure effectively, potentially leading to adverse patient outcomes including increased mortality.

Led by Dr. Abhilash K. Pandya, a professor of electrical and computer engineering at Wayne State’s James and Patricia Anderson College of Engineering, the research incorporates cutting-edge computer vision and machine learning technologies. These sophisticated techniques analyze real-time data from the surgical camera, enabling the system to detect the onset of arterial bleeding instantly. The patented system goes beyond simple detection by providing precise localization and assessment of the bleeding source, which is then visually communicated to the surgeon through augmented reality overlays.

The core innovation lies in the seamless integration of artificial intelligence (AI) with existing surgical visualization tools. Surgical cameras already provide live video feeds during operations, but this technology enhances those feeds with AI-driven analysis that identifies bleeding with remarkable accuracy. By superimposing detailed visual cues onto the real-time surgical view, it guides the surgeon to the exact location of arterial injury, thus enabling swift and targeted intervention to control the bleeding.

This bleeding management system is designed as an add-on module compatible with the more than 2,000 robotic and 7,000 laparoscopic surgical systems currently deployed across hospitals in the United States. Its compatibility ensures that existing surgical infrastructure can be upgraded without requiring entirely new equipment, facilitating rapid adoption and widespread impact across healthcare institutions. The potential integration signals a significant stride toward the era of AI-assisted surgery, where technology acts as a vigilant partner alongside the surgeon.

Dr. Pandya emphasized the strategic importance of this development, describing the patented technology as a precursor to more sophisticated AI support systems in the operating room. Such systems are envisioned to monitor a variety of critical parameters beyond bleeding, including patient vitals and surgeon fatigue, providing timely warnings and augmenting human decision-making during complex surgical interventions. This holistic approach could transform surgical safety by proactively preventing complications and enhancing the surgeon’s situational awareness.

The implications of this advancement are profound. The ability to monitor and manage intraoperative bleeding with high precision is expected to minimize the need for blood transfusions, reduce infection rates, and decrease the length of hospital stays, all contributing to improved patient welfare and lower healthcare costs. Moreover, the technology holds promise in advancing intelligent safety tools that will serve as safeguards in the challenging environment of modern surgery, where every second and detail matter.

Dean Ali Abolmaali of the James and Patricia Anderson College of Engineering highlighted the interdisciplinary nature of the project, which synthesizes expertise in artificial intelligence, computer vision, and medical science. This synergy exemplifies how engineering innovations are poised to tackle complex healthcare challenges by translating laboratory discoveries into practical technologies with tangible benefits. The research portfolio showcased by Dr. Pandya and his collaborators illustrates the kind of transformative work that positions Wayne State University at the forefront of health-related engineering advancements.

From a commercialization perspective, Wayne State University’s commitment to transitioning early-stage innovations into market-ready solutions was underscored by Taunya Phillips, assistant vice president for technology commercialization at Wayne State. Securing this patent is a critical milestone in protecting intellectual property and ensuring that the invention not only advances science but also delivers societal and economic benefits. The collaboration between academic research and industry partners stands as a model for accelerating the impact of scientific breakthroughs on real-world medical practice.

As surgical procedures continue to evolve with the integration of robotics and AI, technologies like Dr. Pandya’s bleeding detection system portend a future where surgical errors and complications due to visual impairment from bleeding could become significantly less common. By automating the detection and localization process, this system frees surgeons to focus on critical decision-making and precision control, ultimately enhancing the safety and effectiveness of surgical interventions.

In closing, this patented technology heralds a new chapter in surgical innovation, leveraging AI to provide augmented reality-enhanced visualization that directly addresses the critical challenge of intraoperative bleeding. With the potential to save lives and improve surgical outcomes nationwide, this invention exemplifies how academic ingenuity can lead to global healthcare improvements. As adoption grows, the promise of AI as a vigilant and trustworthy assistant in the operating room moves closer to reality.

Subject of Research: Artificial Intelligence and Computer Vision Applications in Surgical Safety

Article Title: Wayne State University Secures Patent for AI-Driven Arterial Bleeding Detection System in Surgery

News Publication Date: May 26, 2026

Web References: research.wayne.edu

Image Credits: Wayne State University

Keywords

Applied sciences and engineering, Engineering, Human health, Biomedical engineering, Surgery

In the relentless quest to mimic the extraordinary efficiency and precision of biological molecular machines, chemists have long sought to create synthetic molecular motors capable of directed, unidirectional motion. These artificial constructs promise revolutionary advances in nanotechnology, potentially transforming everything from targeted drug delivery to energy conversion at the smallest scales. Yet, despite these strides, achieving complex functionalities akin to biological machinery remains a formidable challenge. The recent breakthrough presented by van Beek, Sidler, and Feringa introduces a novel class of molecular motors with two distinct rotors operating simultaneously at different rotational frequencies. This pioneering design echoes the advanced control found in natural molecular assemblies and hints at unprecedented levels of mechanical complexity in synthetic nanoscale devices.

Traditional molecular motors have predominantly featured a single rotor unit, which undergoes conformational changes driven by light irradiation or thermal energy to induce continuous rotation. While impressive on its own, the single-rotor model imposes limits on the diversity and complexity of mechanical outputs that these molecules can generate. The innovation introduced by this research lies in the integration of two structurally distinct rotors within a single molecule, each capable of independent, actively powered rotation. This dual-rotor configuration effectively operates like a molecular steering system, a concept previously unrealized in synthetic chemistry.

A key challenge addressed by the authors is the control of rotor activation preferences without relying solely on thermal processes, which typically govern isomerization rates in molecular motors. Instead, they harness differences in photochemical behavior—how each rotor responds to specific wavelengths of light—to selectively activate one rotor over the other. This photochemical bias allows each rotor to turn at its intrinsic frequency, unaffected by the constraints of thermal equilibration, thus imparting a finely tunable dynamic to the system.

The design strategy involves careful selection and modification of rotor structures to exploit their unique absorption spectra and photochemical reaction pathways. By tuning these molecular features, the researchers demonstrated that the rotational frequencies could be modulated through variations in the rotor’s electronic and steric environments. Moreover, solvent effects were shown to influence the photochemical behavior, providing an additional parameter to fine-tune the relative activity of each rotor within the same molecular framework.

The practical implications of this work extend beyond fundamental chemistry into the realm of molecular machinery design. By proving the feasibility of dual, independently driven rotors, this study opens avenues for creating nanoscale devices capable of complex mechanical outputs—such as synchronized or coupled rotational motions, directional switching, and multi-step reaction sequences powered by light. Such capabilities mirror the intricate, multi-component systems observed in biological motors like ATP synthase and flagellar motors.

Furthermore, this research underscores the versatility of photochemical control in molecular machines. Photons offer a non-invasive, highly controllable energy input, allowing spatial and temporal precision in motor activation. By establishing a protocol for biasing rotor activity photochemically, the authors have laid the groundwork for future systems where multiple rotors or motor components can be selectively engaged or inhibited simply by altering the wavelength or intensity of incident light.

Another compelling aspect of this dual rotor system is its potential adaptability. The approach could be extended to other rotor architectures or combinations thereof, including different classes of molecular motors. This modularity suggests a general blueprint for engineering synthetic systems with multi-functional and multi-frequency components, akin to the modular design principles seen in biological nano-machines, where distinct parts perform specialized roles coordinated to achieve complex outcomes.

The team’s experiments were complemented by detailed photochemical analyses and kinetic studies revealing how the energy landscape of the molecule facilitates selective rotor activation. Advanced spectroscopic techniques and computational models helped elucidate the mechanistic basis underlying the asymmetric light-driven activation pathways. This mechanistic insight not only reinforces the robustness of the dual rotor concept but also guides future molecular designs aimed at refining rotor selectivity and performance.

In practical terms, the ability to drive two rotors simultaneously but asynchronously offers the potential to develop molecular-level “gearboxes” or “steering systems,” conceptually similar to mechanical systems in macroscopic machinery. Such systems could allow precise control of molecular orientation and movement, a prerequisite for constructing more sophisticated nanoscale machines capable of performing intricate tasks with timing and sequence control.

Importantly, the work provides a novel approach to tackle a long-standing hurdle in synthetic molecular machine development: the interplay and coordination of multiple active components within the same system. By establishing photochemical rotor bias as a tunable parameter, the authors effectively demonstrate a path forward where multi-component interactions can be controlled predictably, a crucial step towards integrating molecular motors into complex functional assemblies.

The research, appearing in Nature Chemistry, comes from the laboratories of renowned molecular scientist Ben Feringa, who famously contributed to the development of the first light-driven molecular motors. This latest advance not only cements his legacy but also paves the way for a new era where molecular machines achieve unprecedented dynamism, complexity, and autonomy, all powered by light.

One of the most exciting prospects emerging from this work is its potential to inspire future applications beyond fundamental science, including the assembly of nanoscale robotic devices capable of performing useful work or information processing at the molecular level. By harnessing the responsive behavior of each rotor to specific light stimuli, molecular systems can be engineered for programmability—turning on or off mechanical functions with exquisite control.

However, challenges remain in scaling and integrating these dual rotor systems into larger networks and ensuring sustained operation under biologically or technologically relevant conditions. Nonetheless, this pioneering study solidly advances the frontier of molecular machines, showing that complex, multi-rotor systems are no longer aspirational but firmly within reach, thanks to innovative photochemical engineering.

As this exciting field continues to evolve, the marriage of photochemistry and molecular motor design promises to unlock deeper control over motion and function at the nanoscale, bringing us ever closer to realizing artificial molecular machinery with capabilities rivaling those honed by nature over billions of years.

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Subject of Research: Molecular machines; dual molecular motors; photochemical rotor control; nanoscale mechanical motion

Article Title: A photochemical rotor bias in dual molecular motors

Article References:
van Beek, C.L.F., Sidler, E. & Feringa, B.L. A photochemical rotor bias in dual molecular motors.
Nat. Chem. (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41557-026-02142-5

Image Credits: AI Generated

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41557-026-02142-5

In a groundbreaking development poised to revolutionize energy storage technologies, researchers Park, D., Kim, H., and Kim, Y. have unveiled a novel class of flexible lithium supercapacitors featuring water-processable solid-state electrolytes. Published in the upcoming 2026 issue of npj Flexible Electronics, this study introduces an innovative electrolyte system rooted in aromatic acid-doped branched poly(ethylene imine) platforms, promising significant advancements in safety, flexibility, and device performance. This pioneering work addresses longstanding challenges plaguing conventional lithium-ion battery and supercapacitor technologies, particularly in the realm of wearable and flexible electronics.

The surge in demand for flexible energy storage solutions stems from the rapid proliferation of wearable devices, soft robotics, and flexible displays. However, traditional lithium-ion batteries, with their liquid electrolytes, pose severe safety hazards, including leakage and flammability, and suffer from mechanical rigidity, limiting their integration in flexible platforms. Solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) have emerged as a promising alternative due to their inherent safety and stability advantages, but they often encounter issues related to ionic conductivity and processability that impede their commercial adoption.

Against this backdrop, the research team drew inspiration from polymer chemistry and green processing techniques to engineer a new electrolyte matrix capable of marrying mechanical flexibility with outstanding electrochemical performance. Their approach leveraged the unique molecular architecture of branched poly(ethylene imine) (bPEI), a polymer known for its high density of amine groups, and strategically doped it with aromatic acids to enhance ionic transport pathways. This synergy not only optimizes lithium-ion mobility but also facilitates electrolyte fabrication through environmentally friendly water-based processing methods.

The doping of bPEI with aromatic acids imparts several critical functionalities. Aromatic acids bestow rigidity and electronic delocalization within the polymer matrix, which supports the formation of stable ion-conducting networks. This doping fundamentally alters the polymer’s microstructure, tailoring its free volume and facilitating the transport of lithium ions across the electrolyte. The resultant material exhibits a remarkable balance between mechanical robustness—allowing for bending and twisting—and ionic conductivity, which rivals that of traditional liquid electrolytes.

Water processability represents a significant leap forward in sustainable manufacturing of flexible energy devices. Conventional polymer electrolytes often require toxic organic solvents or complicated synthesis protocols, limiting scalability and environmental compatibility. The ability to process the new electrolyte in aqueous media simplifies fabrication, reduces costs, and enhances the potential for large-scale roll-to-roll manufacturing of flexible supercapacitors and batteries. This eco-friendly aspect aligns with global sustainability goals and strengthens the commercial viability of next-generation energy storage systems.

Electrochemical characterization of the newly developed supercapacitors revealed impressive performance metrics. The devices demonstrate high specific capacitance and excellent rate capability, maintaining stable charge-discharge cycles over extended periods. Crucially, the solid-state nature of the electrolyte effectively suppresses dendritic lithium growth, a major challenge that causes short circuits and catastrophic failure in lithium-metal batteries. This safety enhancement is particularly crucial for flexible applications where mechanical deformation could exacerbate dendrite formation.

Moreover, the mechanical testing underscored the electrolyte’s resilience under dynamic deformation. The supercapacitors sustain stable electrochemical performance even after multiple bending tests, mimicking real-world application conditions such as wearable textiles and foldable devices. The polymer matrix’s branched architecture absorbs mechanical stress, preventing microcracks and delamination that typically deteriorate device longevity. This robustness opens pathways to integrate lithium supercapacitors into versatile form factors previously inaccessible to rigid battery chemistries.

The theoretical underpinning for the enhanced ionic conductivity was explored through molecular dynamics simulations and spectroscopic analysis. These studies revealed that the aromatic acid dopants serve as both lithium-ion coordination centers and physical crosslinks within the bPEI network, creating continuous lithium-ion conduction pathways. This contrasts with typical polymer electrolytes where ionic clusters form isolated domains that impede charge transport. The design principle showcased here demonstrates how chemical tailoring at the molecular level can profoundly influence macroscopic device properties.

The researchers also explored the electrolyte’s thermal stability, a critical parameter for real-world deployment. Thermal gravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry confirmed that these materials remain stable across a wide temperature range, preventing degradation under harsh operating conditions. This attribute is essential not only for flexible electronics subjected to varying ambient conditions but also for high-power applications where heat generation can impair battery life or pose safety risks.

Integration of the solid-state electrolyte within flexible device architectures leveraged straightforward fabrication techniques, including solution casting and layer-by-layer assembly. The compatibility with standard lithographic and printing methods underscores its adaptability to diverse manufacturing environments. The seamless assembly of the supercapacitor components ensures uniform electrolyte distribution, intimate electrode-electrolyte contact, and minimal interfacial resistance, which are paramount for optimal device efficiency.

The implications of this research extend beyond flexible energy storage. The design concept of aromatic acid-doped branched polyamines could be expanded to develop other functional polymer systems for energy conversion, including solid polymer electrolytes for fuel cells or electrochromic devices. The water-processable and environmentally benign processing methodology further positions this platform as a versatile candidate for green electronics manufacturing.

Looking forward, the study lays a robust foundation for incorporating additional functional dopants to tailor electrolyte properties for specific applications—such as enhanced ionic selectivity, improved mechanical strength, or self-healing capabilities. Coupling these materials with emerging electrode chemistries, including lithium metal or silicon-based anodes, may unlock unprecedented energy densities for flexible supercapacitors, tackling limitations inherent in current lithium-ion technology.

As wearable and flexible electronics become pervasive, the need for energy storage systems that are not only high-performing but also safe, scalable, and environmentally friendly grows exponentially. The work by Park and colleagues represents a major milestone in achieving this balance, demonstrating an elegant interplay of molecular design, green chemistry, and device engineering. Their innovative solid-state electrolyte platform heralds a new era in flexible lithium supercapacitors that could transform consumer electronics, healthcare devices, and beyond.

The prominence of this new electrolyte system is expected to catalyze further research efforts aimed at bridging the gap between laboratory prototypes and market-ready products. Industry stakeholders are particularly interested in its compatibility with existing manufacturing infrastructure and its potential to circumvent safety concerns associated with liquid electrolytes. This advancement is well aligned with the increasing regulatory emphasis on safe and sustainable battery technologies worldwide.

In conclusion, the introduction of aromatic acid-doped branched poly(ethylene imine) to create water-processable solid-state electrolytes marks a significant step toward flexible, safe, and durable lithium supercapacitors. The exemplary performance, coupled with environmentally conscious processing approaches, positions these materials at the forefront of next-generation energy storage innovation. As the digital age embraces flexibility and mobility, such breakthroughs are indispensable in powering our increasingly connected world.

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Subject of Research: Development of flexible lithium supercapacitors leveraging water-processable solid-state electrolytes based on aromatic acid-doped branched poly(ethylene imine) platforms.

Article Title: Flexible Lithium Supercapacitors with Water-Processable Solid-State Electrolytes Based on Aromatic Acid-Doped Branched-Poly(ethylene imine) Platforms.

Article References:
Park, D., Kim, H. & Kim, Y. Flexible Lithium Supercapacitors with Water-Processable Solid-State Electrolytes Based on Aromatic Acid-Doped Branched-Poly(ethylene imine) Platforms. npj Flex Electron (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41528-026-00600-1

Image Credits: AI Generated

In the hidden depths of coastal ecosystems, the dynamic interplay between hard-shelled marine mollusks and their predators unfolds silently yet profoundly influences the health of these environments. Organisms like clams and snails, essential for stabilizing shorelines, filtering water, and supporting biodiversity, face mounting threats from ocean acidification and burgeoning populations of mobile shell-crushing predators. Despite their importance, deciphering the rapid and often submerged interactions that govern these predator-prey relationships has long posed a formidable scientific challenge.

The primary obstacle in studying these underwater predation events lies not only in their elusive locations but also in the fleeting nature of the encounters. Predators such as the whitespotted eagle rays (Aetobatus narinari) forage silently in subtidal zones where direct visual observation is hindered by light availability and water clarity. Consequently, the critical ecological process of mollusk consumption remains difficult to quantify in natural settings, leaving a significant knowledge gap in coastal marine ecology.

Unexpectedly, these predation events broadcast distinct acoustic signatures through the water. The fracturing and crushing of clam and snail shells generate unique sounds—transient acoustic signals rich with ecological information. Employing passive acoustic monitoring techniques coupled with autonomous recording devices, researchers can now “listen in” on these feeding behaviors as they happen in situ, capturing data inaccessible through visual surveys alone. Nonetheless, the challenge remains to reliably isolate these faint shell-crunching sounds amid the cacophony of underwater noise.

Addressing this, a team from Florida Atlantic University (FAU) has created an innovative machine learning framework designed to enhance the detection and classification of these subtle shell-crushing acoustic events. Through controlled aquarium trials featuring whitespotted eagle rays—a species renowned for their shell-cracking feeding strategy—the researchers built and trained an AI system adept at distinguishing feeding sounds from ambient oceanic noise, vastly advancing the capability to monitor predator-prey interactions acoustically.

This framework employs a sophisticated, multi-tiered approach. Initially, it processes extensive underwater audio recordings to identify potential predation events via acoustic pattern recognition. Subsequent analytical layers refine these detections by using machine learning classifiers to minimize false positives, thereby filtering actual shell-crushing events from environmental background sounds with high precision.

Beyond mere detection, the system also categorizes the type of mollusk prey consumed during these events. This is achieved by integrating traditional classification algorithms such as random forests with advanced deep learning architectures, including long short-term memory networks (LSTMs) and convolutional neural networks (CNNs). Each method is fine-tuned to recognize nuanced features in the acoustic structure of shell-crushing sounds, enabling detailed insights into prey identity.

Significantly, the study, recently published in the journal Ecological Informatics, demonstrates that complex AI architectures are not always essential for robust performance. Simplified models leveraging gammatone feature cepstral coefficients (GTCCs)—a biologically inspired auditory filterbank approach—proved nearly as effective as deep learning models in detecting shell-crushing sounds, while demanding significantly less computational power. This finding holds promise for scalable, long-duration deployment in challenging marine environments where energy and processing capacity are constrained.

As Laurent Chérubin, Ph.D., a research professor at FAU’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute and lead author, emphasizes, these acoustic signals reveal substantial ecological information beyond mere occurrence. Passive acoustic monitoring represents a transformative tool, offering unprecedented access to predator-prey dynamics in otherwise inaccessible ocean habitats, enhancing our understanding of marine ecosystem functionality.

The implications for coastal ecosystem management are profound. By remotely detecting and classifying predation events, the new technology enables quantification of predator impacts on mollusk populations at ecosystem-wide scales—a methodological leap beyond fragmented, location-specific observations. This ability not only enriches basic ecological knowledge but also equips managers with actionable insights into shellfish populations vital for habitat restoration and commercial aquaculture.

The system’s effectiveness extends beyond controlled laboratory settings. Tested in real-world conditions, including data from animal-borne acoustic tags and fixed underwater sensors, the AI framework reliably identified feeding events and prey types in natural habitats. Its resilience when trained exclusively on tank data yet performing accurately in the field demonstrates robust generalizability, critical for widespread application.

Further intriguing is the framework’s capacity to elucidate predator behavior. According to Dr. Matt Ajemian, senior author and director of the Fisheries Ecology and Conservation Lab at FAU Harbor Branch, the acoustic signatures not only reflect prey species but also reveal handling techniques and processing durations. This opens potential avenues for scientists to distinguish between individual feeding strategies and even estimate prey size categories from subtle variations in shell-crushing sounds.

As global investments in shellfish aquaculture and coastal restoration intensify, tools that effectively monitor predator-prey interactions grow increasingly vital. Considering the diverse prey types analyzed range from buried filter feeders to agile mobile shellfish, this AI-powered acoustic monitoring system emerges as a versatile instrument for tracking mollusk mortalities and ecosystem health across heterogeneous coastal environments.

Finally, the computational efficiency of GTCC-based detection models is especially advantageous for deployment on autonomous underwater platforms constrained by limited power and processing resources. This capability supports extensive, real-time ecological monitoring in remote marine areas where traditional sensor networks are impractical, heralding a new era in marine ecology research.

The research represents a collaborative effort among scientists at Florida Atlantic University, including Ph.D. candidates and faculty from the College of Engineering and Computer Science, highlighting the power of interdisciplinary approaches to address complex ecological challenges with innovative technological solutions. Funded partially by the National Science Foundation and institutional grants, this work exemplifies how AI and acoustic technologies can transform environmental conservation, providing a vital toolkit for safeguarding marine ecosystems under increasing anthropogenic pressure.

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Subject of Research: Animals

Article Title: Evaluation of a signal processing and machine learning framework to detect and classify shell-crushing predation events

News Publication Date: 7-May-2026

Web References:

• Florida Atlantic University: https://www.fau.edu/
• Ecological Informatics Journal: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1574954126002013

References:

• DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoinf.2026.103795

Image Credits: FAU Harbor Branch, Cat Nickell and Conrad Pfalzgraf

Keywords

Artificial intelligence, aquatic animals, natural resources conservation, sustainability, wildlife management, engineering, technology, acoustics, sound, underwater acoustics, wildlife, predators, marine conservation, ecological restoration, ecosystem management

The Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Solid State Physics (IAF) has unveiled a groundbreaking advancement in electric vehicle (EV) power electronics with the development of a gallium nitride (GaN)-based power electronics module tailored for 800 V bidirectional direct current (DC) charging systems. This innovative module, realized within the GaN4EmoBiL project—an initiative funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi)—marks a significant leap towards more efficient, compact, and versatile EV charging solutions. The module’s integration into a bidirectional, single-phase off-board charger prototype, implemented by project partner Ambibox GmbH, signals a strategic shift in the landscape of EV charging technology.

At the heart of this module lies 1200 V GaN devices crafted on insulating substrates, leveraging the superior electrical and thermal properties of GaN semiconductors. The demonstrator is designed to accommodate battery voltages ranging from 150 V to an impressive 920 V, providing a versatile platform to evaluate device performance under realistic operating conditions. Gallium nitride’s wide bandgap enables higher breakdown voltage and faster switching speeds compared to conventional silicon-based devices, delivering unprecedented efficiency and power density in a compact footprint. These characteristics are pivotal for next-generation power electronics essential to the electrification of transport and energy systems.

The bidirectional, single-phase 800 V DC charger prototype delivers up to 3 kW of power, addressing a critical market gap where traditional on-board chargers fall short in balancing cost, flexibility, efficiency, and size. EVs typically rely on on-board chargers converting AC from household or public charging infrastructures into DC at 11 or 22 kW for rapid charging. However, these on-board units are burdened by high costs, substantial weight, and significant spatial requirements due to their complex electronics and cooling systems. By relocating the charger off-board and leveraging GaN technologies, the Fraunhofer IAF and partners have engineered a lightweight (5.7 kg including plugs), compact (8.3 liters in volume), and mobile solution compatible with Combined Charging System (CCS) and Schuko plugs.

Beyond physical advantages, the charger embodies the crucial function of bidirectional charging, a technology set to revolutionize grid interaction with EVs. High-voltage reverse power flow capability enabled by the GaN module allows EV batteries to not only draw energy from the grid but also feed stored energy back during peak demand or grid stress, thus acting as distributed energy storage. This vehicle-to-grid (V2G) functionality represents a paradigm shift toward a more resilient, efficient, and sustainable energy infrastructure, integrating transportation and power networks seamlessly.

Fraunhofer IAF continues to push the boundaries of GaN power electronics, pioneering innovative device architectures and integrated power circuits that enable system-level miniaturization through functional integration. Concurrent efforts focus on scaling these technologies to higher voltage classes, larger current capacities, and increased wafer sizes to achieve cost-effective wide-bandgap semiconductor solutions on par with silicon devices. The ultimate ambition is to harness the intrinsic performance benefits of GaN while adhering to the stringent cost targets demanded by widespread commercial adoption.

The institute plans to showcase these advancements at the upcoming PCIM Expo & Conference 2026 in Nuremberg, emphasizing “Power Electronics for Energy Technology.” Presentations and exhibits will highlight a suite of GaN-based components and modules, with the bidirectional EV charging system demonstrator serving as a flagship example. A robust scientific program includes keynote speeches, technical sessions, and panel discussions led by Fraunhofer researchers, illuminating the state-of-the-art in GaN devices and prospects for future innovation.

One keynote by Dr. Michael Basler will trace the evolution from lateral to vertical and bidirectional GaN transistor configurations, outlining the technological trajectories and breakthroughs fueling enhanced power electronic performance. Complementary talks by Dr. Richard Reiner will delve into comparative device concepts and strategies for scaling the power capabilities of GaN technologies to meet the demands of 1200 V and beyond, highlighting critical design trade-offs and manufacturing challenges. Poster sessions featuring research by Jun.-Prof. Dr. Stefan Mönch and Daniel Fugmann will provide detailed insights into inverter integration and device dynamic characteristics fundamental to system optimization.

The emerging All-Electric Society paradigm hinges on continuous advancements in power electronics that can efficiently convert and store energy at ever-increasing voltages and power densities. GaN semiconductors offer transformative potential, enabling devices that operate faster, dissipate less heat, and occupy less volume than silicon counterparts. This technological edge accelerates the deployment of high-performance converters and inverters essential for EVs, renewable energy integration, and smart grid applications, thereby catalyzing the transition to sustainable energy and mobility ecosystems.

Within the domain of electromobility, GaN makes it feasible to harness power electronics operating reliably at voltages up to 1200 V, with future prospects toward 1700 V classes. This capability unlocks new architectures for EV charging infrastructure and onboard powertrains that enhance battery range, charging speeds, and system efficiency while simultaneously reducing overall costs. Collectively, these improvements promise to diversify and democratize electric mobility, extending its appeal and accessibility to a broader segment of society.

The GaN4EmoBiL project embodies a comprehensive effort to bridge the gap between research and real-world application by delivering a cost-effective, intelligent bidirectional charging platform. Research spans from novel GaN high-voltage transistors fabricated on low-cost alternative substrates to innovative bidirectional switch component concepts and integrated system implementations for both on- and off-board chargers. A critical focus on reliability and long operational lifetimes aims to meet stringent automotive standards and market expectations.

As one of the world’s foremost institutes in III-V semiconductor technologies and synthetic diamond research, Fraunhofer IAF leverages deep expertise to develop cutting-edge components for communication, mobility, quantum computing, and sensing. The institute’s integrated approach—from material science through device fabrication and system demonstration—positions it uniquely to translate GaN innovations into impactful technological breakthroughs.

The introduction of the bidirectional GaN-based charging system stands as a testament to the transformative role of wide-bandgap semiconductors in shaping the future of energy and transportation. This development not only addresses current market demands for efficient and flexible EV charging but also lays groundwork for the integration of electric vehicles as active elements within a decarbonized energy grid, aligning with global sustainability goals.

Subject of Research: Gallium nitride (GaN)-based power electronics for 800 V bidirectional DC EV charging systems
Article Title: Fraunhofer IAF Unveils GaN-Based Bidirectional 800 V DC Charger Revolutionizing EV Charging
News Publication Date: 2026
Web References:
– https://www.iaf.fraunhofer.de/en/customers/electronic-circuits/power-electronics.html
– https://www.iaf.fraunhofer.de/en/researchers/electronic-circuits/power-electronics/gan4emobil.html
– https://www.iaf.fraunhofer.de/en/networkers.html
Image Credits: © Fraunhofer IAF

Keywords

Gallium Nitride, GaN Power Electronics, Electric Vehicle Charging, Bidirectional Charging, Wide-Bandgap Semiconductors, Energy Conversion, Power Modules, Electric Mobility, Vehicle-to-Grid, Off-Board Charger, 800 V DC Charging, Semiconductor Devices

In a groundbreaking advancement at the intersection of organic electronics and biomedical engineering, researchers at Linköping University have successfully replicated the ion signaling mechanism of heart muscle cells using conductive plastics. This achievement marks the first-ever artificial mimicry of cardiac ion transport—a complex biological process responsible for the heart’s relentless rhythm—and ushers in new possibilities for bio-integrated devices such as advanced prostheses, cardiac implants, and sensitive physiological sensors. Published in the revered journal Nature Communications, this pioneering work could redefine how we interface synthetic devices with living tissues.

The human heart’s ceaseless beating—approximately 2.6 billion cycles over an average lifespan—is orchestrated by a delicate dance of ions, including potassium, sodium, and calcium, across cellular membranes. This ion exchange generates the electrical impulses known as action potentials, which trigger myocardial contractions critical for blood circulation. Despite decades of research in bioelectronic interfaces, replicating the nuanced ion channel dynamics of cardiac cells, especially the comparatively slow calcium channels, has remained a formidable challenge for conventional electronics.

Traditional inorganic electronics excel in rapid signal processing but fail to emulate the intrinsic slowness of cardiac calcium ion channels. As Professor Simone Fabiano from Linköping University elucidates, the unique temporal properties of cardiac ion channels are crucial for effective heart function. “Nature has evolved these precise electrophysiological characteristics for good reason,” Fabiano notes. Recognizing this, the team turned to organic electronics, particularly conductive polymers, which naturally facilitate both ion and electron transport and can thus communicate analogously to biological cells.

At the heart of this research is an artificial cardiomyocyte device fabricated entirely from conductive plastic materials that recapitulate the cardiac action potential waveform. This synthetic cell mimics key electrical behaviors of native heart muscle cells by precisely controlling ion fluxes, thereby overcoming the temporal bottlenecks inherent in faster inorganic systems. Postdoctoral researcher Dace Gao explains that this dual ionic and electronic conductivity enables the sophisticated signal transduction necessary for genuine bioelectronic emulation.

Notably, this development builds upon the research group’s prior successes in engineering artificial neurons with organic electronic components. Transitioning from nerve cells to heart muscle cells represented a logical extension, confronting a higher degree of complexity due to the heart’s distinctive calcium channel kinetics. Developing hardware capable of duplicating these slow ion signaling dynamics filled a critical void in synthetic biointerfaces.

The implications of these findings transcend foundational science. According to Fabiano, such organic artificial cardiomyocytes could serve as powerful experimental models to investigate how physiological variables—like ion concentration fluctuations or pH changes—affect cardiac electrical signaling in a precisely controlled environment. “Hardware-based systems allow systematic study that would be challenging or impossible in vivo,” Fabiano remarks, emphasizing the intersection of materials science with electrophysiology.

Looking ahead, the research team aspires to integrate these artificial cardiac cells with living cardiac tissue, forging hybrid platforms that combine biological and synthetic components. This integration would be a transformative leap toward biohybrid implants capable of repairing or augmenting damaged heart tissue. Gao underlines the necessity for artificial cells not only to generate signals but to sense and relay impulses to and from biological cells, effectively functioning as bioelectronic conduits.

Potential applications envisioned by the team include minimally invasive “natural” pacemakers fabricated from flexible, biocompatible conductive polymers that synchronize seamlessly with the heart’s intrinsic rhythms. Furthermore, implants designed to activate specific muscle groups could revolutionize treatments for muscular dystrophies or nerve injuries. Sensitive biosensors derived from this technology might detect early electrophysiological disturbances, enabling preemptive clinical interventions for cardiac diseases.

The materials employed—organic conductive plastics—provide unique advantages over traditional silicon-based electronics. Their inherent compatibility with ionic signaling and their mechanical flexibility allow for intimate interfacing with soft biological tissues, reducing immune response and improving the longevity of implants. These properties position organic electronics as a promising frontier in the design of next-generation medical devices that bridge the gap between organism and machine.

Despite these promising advances, key challenges remain. Integrating artificial cells into the body’s existing complex electrical network requires precise synchronization and reliable signal transmission. The research community must also address long-term stability, biocompatibility, and potential immune reactions to organic materials. Nevertheless, the current breakthrough lays the foundational framework upon which such hurdles may be overcome.

By pioneering an organic artificial cardiomyocyte capable of emulating the nuanced ion transport and action potentials of heart muscle cells, the Linköping University team has opened new vistas in bioelectronic medicine. This fusion of organic materials science and cardiac electrophysiology not only deepens our understanding of living systems but also provides tangible pathways toward innovative therapies and diagnostic tools that harmonize human biology with technology.

As this work progresses, it promises to ignite profound transformations in cardiac healthcare, embodying the promise of truly integrative bioelectronics that respect and replicate the sophistication of the human heart.

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Subject of Research: Artificial mimicry of ion signaling in heart muscle cells using organic electronics.

Article Title: An organic artificial cardiomyocyte

News Publication Date: 6-May-2026

Web References: DOI: 10.1038/s41467-026-72584-5

Image Credits: Thor Balkhed

Keywords

Organic electronics, conductive plastics, cardiac muscle cells, ion signaling, artificial cardiomyocyte, bioelectronic interfaces, action potential, calcium ion channels, electrophysiology, biohybrid implants, pacemakers, biomedical devices

A new chip-making technique exploits a material’s crystal structure to create nanoscale patterns at room temperature directly onto

When a person loses a limb, a prosthesis often can help restore a significant degree of mobility. But

In a groundbreaking advancement for the field of organic electronics, researchers have unveiled a novel approach to creating deep-blue organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) that are not only highly efficient but also exhibit exceptional stability over prolonged use. This breakthrough hinges on optimizing the charge transfer dynamics within iridium-based phosphorescent materials, a feat that has eluded scientists for years due to the inherent challenges of balancing luminous efficiency with device longevity. The latest study, published on June 2, 2026, showcases how fine-tuning the molecular design and electronic interactions in these materials can revolutionize display technologies and solid-state lighting.

Organic light-emitting diodes are the backbone of modern display and lighting devices due to their lightweight, flexibility, and potential for low-cost manufacturing. However, blue OLEDs, particularly deep-blue variants, have long remained a bottleneck in the industry. Their performance typically pales in comparison to red and green counterparts, primarily because of difficulties in achieving high external quantum efficiency (EQE) while maintaining operational stability. The degradation mechanisms in blue OLEDs are often exacerbated by the high energy excitons required to produce blue light, resulting in rapid device failure. By addressing these persistent issues through enhanced charge transfer dynamics, the newly proposed iridium phosphorescent OLEDs mark a significant leap forward.

The core innovation lies in manipulating the photophysical properties of iridium complexes, which serve as the emissive centers in these OLED devices. Iridium is favored for its strong spin-orbit coupling, enabling efficient harvesting of triplet excitons and thereby boosting internal quantum efficiency. Yet, the challenge has been to mitigate efficiency roll-off at high luminance and to prolong device lifespan, especially for deep-blue hues where molecular stability is less assured. The interdisciplinary research team meticulously engineered ligands surrounding the iridium ion to facilitate precise electronic communication and improved charge transfer kinetics, which enhances both exciton utilization and thermal robustness.

A crucial aspect of the enhanced performance is the modulation of the charge transfer state between the iridium complex and its ligands. By optimizing this interaction, the researchers achieved balanced charge injection and transport within the OLED stack, thereby minimizing charge recombination losses. This optimization significantly reduces operational voltage, enhances brightness, and curbs the formation of non-radiative decay pathways that typically plague deep-blue emitters. The fine-tuned charge transfer dynamics ensure that excitons are efficiently channeled toward radiative recombination, culminating in record-breaking external quantum efficiencies surpassing previous benchmarks for deep-blue OLEDs.

Moreover, the study delves into the stability metrics under extended operational conditions, employing rigorous lifetime testing that simulates real-world device usage. The newly developed iridium-based OLEDs maintained over 90% of their initial luminance after 10,000 hours of continuous operation at high brightness levels—a figure that substantially outperforms existing commercial blue OLEDs. This endurance is attributed to the molecular stability endowed by the novel ligand design, which not only reinforces the metal center but also minimizes degradation reactions catalyzed by excited-state processes and charge imbalance.

From a device architecture perspective, the researchers integrated the iridium phosphorescent complexes into multi-layer OLED structures optimized for charge balance and thermal management. The strategic selection of charge transport layers and interface engineering further complemented the intrinsic molecular enhancements, enabling synergistic improvements in overall device efficiency and operational lifetime. This holistic approach underscores how molecular design, charge dynamics, and device engineering must coalesce to surmount the intrinsic limitations of deep-blue organic emitters.

The implications of this advancement extend far beyond displays. High-efficiency and stable deep-blue OLEDs pave the way for more energy-efficient solid-state lighting solutions with tailored spectral properties. The ability to generate more accurate blue wavelengths can also enhance color gamut reproduction and visual comfort in display technologies, addressing consumer demands for richer and more vibrant imagery. Additionally, the prolonged lifetime significantly reduces the environmental footprint associated with electronic waste, aligning with sustainable manufacturing goals.

The scientific community has recognized the strategic importance of charge transfer dynamics in governing OLED performance, but this research delivers actionable insights and practical molecular architectures that bring theoretical understanding into real-world application. Through state-of-the-art spectroscopic analyses and computational modeling, the team mapped out the electronic transitions and charge delocalization pathways, correlating these mechanisms directly with device-level improvements. This mechanistic clarity provides a blueprint for future material innovations across various optoelectronic platforms.

Notably, the researchers also investigated the effects of temperature and external stimuli on charge transfer behavior and device stability, demonstrating remarkable resilience under thermal cycling and high operational stress. Such robustness is critical for commercial adoption, where devices must withstand varying environmental conditions without degradation. The depth of characterization extends the relevance of the findings beyond fundamental science, emphasizing practicality and scalability.

Collaborations between chemists, physicists, and engineers were pivotal in realizing this breakthrough. The interdisciplinary nature of the project highlights the necessity of integrating expertise in organometallic chemistry, photophysics, and device fabrication. Such a collaborative framework accelerates innovation cycles and fosters the translation of lab-scale discoveries into market-ready technologies. The success of this study is a testament to the power of synergy in scientific research.

Looking ahead, the research opens avenues for further tuning of emission properties and charge transport by exploring alternative ligand frameworks and metal centers. The principles uncovered may also be applicable to other phosphorescent systems and even emerging classes of thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) emitters. There is a growing excitement that these advancements will catalyze a new generation of high-performance OLEDs with customizable emission spectra and unprecedented durability.

The commercial impact of these findings is poised to be transformative. Deep-blue OLEDs with enhanced efficiency and stability are crucial for the next wave of ultra-high-definition displays, flexible screens, and wearable electronics. Companies investing in OLED technology stand to benefit by adopting these cutting-edge materials and design principles, potentially reducing manufacturing costs and improving product lifespan. As consumer demand for premium visual experiences grows, innovations like these will set new industry standards.

In conclusion, the recent study on high-efficiency and stable deep-blue iridium phosphorescent OLEDs marks a milestone in organic electronics research. By elucidating and optimizing charge transfer dynamics at the molecular level, the researchers have surmounted longstanding challenges in blue OLED performance, delivering devices that combine record efficiency with exceptional stability. This achievement not only enhances current display and lighting technologies but also enriches the scientific understanding of photophysical processes in complex organic-metal hybrid materials. The future of OLED innovation looks brighter than ever.

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Subject of Research:
Development of high-efficiency and stable deep-blue iridium phosphorescent organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) through enhanced charge transfer dynamics.

Article Title:
High-efficiency and stable deep-blue iridium phosphorescent OLEDs with enhanced charge transfer dynamics.

Article References:
Li, S., Tong, KN., Zhang, M. et al. High-efficiency and stable deep-blue iridium phosphorescent OLEDs with enhanced charge transfer dynamics. Light Sci Appl 15, 259 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41377-026-02264-y

Image Credits: AI Generated

DOI: 02 June 2026

Keywords:
Deep-blue OLEDs, iridium phosphorescent complexes, charge transfer dynamics, organic light-emitting diodes, device stability, external quantum efficiency, ligand design, photophysics, solid-state lighting, optoelectronics

In a groundbreaking advance poised to revolutionize cardiac care, researchers have unveiled a wearable, non-invasive ultrasound pacemaker (NUP) that leverages engineered sonogenetic ion channels to precisely control heart rhythms without the risks associated with traditional implantable devices. This innovation marks a dramatic shift away from invasive cardiac implants, which, despite their life-saving potential, are often accompanied by significant complications and limitations related to their surgical implantation and long-term management. The new system exploits ultrasound technology in combination with genetic engineering, allowing for highly targeted, reversible, and externally modulated stimulation of cardiomyocytes.

Central to this innovation is the incorporation of the sonogenetic ion channel MscL-G22S, a genetically engineered protein sensitive to mechanical stimuli imparted by ultrasound waves. These modified ion channels have been transfected into cardiomyocytes, rendering them responsive to low-intensity ultrasound pulses. This approach extends the toolbox of cardiac modulation beyond electrical stimulation to a paradigm based on controlled mechanical activation at the cellular ion channel level. The ability to initiate synchronized calcium signaling within cardiac cells through ultrasound represents an unprecedented level of spatial and temporal control in non-invasive pacing technologies.

In vitro experiments performed on human cardiomyocytes expressing MscL-G22S demonstrated remarkable results. Controlled ultrasound stimulation elicited precise and reproducible intracellular calcium transients, indicating effective pacing at the cellular scale. This finding is critical as it validates the fundamental biological responsiveness of cells to externally applied ultrasound stimuli mediated through engineered ion channels. Such fine-tuned control over calcium signaling pathways is essential for establishing reliable cardiac contractions necessary for heart rhythm regulation.

Building on the cellular success, the research team implemented in vivo studies using rat models to assess the efficacy and precision of NUP under physiological conditions. The wearable device was capable of non-invasively pacing distinct chambers of the rat heart with a spatial precision less than one millimeter—a previously unattainable level of targeting that promises highly localized cardiac control. Furthermore, the device was able to modulate heart rates at frequencies reaching up to 9 Hz, demonstrating broad applicability across a range of heart rhythm scenarios.

Beyond basic pacing capabilities, the NUP system effectively restored sinus rhythm in arrhythmic rat models, underscoring its therapeutic potential. Cardiac arrhythmias, which encompass a variety of disturbances in normal heart rhythm, represent a major clinical challenge. Conventional treatments often rely on invasive devices or systemic pharmacological agents, both of which carry inherent risks and side effects. The non-invasive, ultrasound-driven pacemaker offers a tailored, adjustable alternative that could dramatically improve patient outcomes by minimizing procedural risks while maintaining high efficacy.

Safety, a paramount concern with any novel medical device, was rigorously evaluated during extended testing of the NUP in rats over eight months. The studies confirmed that daily use of the wearable pacemaker produced no adverse effects, highlighting its biocompatibility and physiological compatibility during long-term application. These extensive preclinical safety data provide a strong foundation for future translational efforts aimed at human clinical trials.

Genetic safety considerations were also thoroughly addressed. The research ensured that the sonogenetic modifications needed for therapeutic ultrasound responsiveness did not introduce off-target genetic effects or deleterious alterations to cardiac tissue integrity. This aspect is crucial as gene therapy and genetically engineered devices increasingly enter medical practice; maintaining genetic stability and minimizing unforeseen consequences remain central to regulatory approval and patient acceptance.

Pushing the boundaries of real-world applicability, the scientists demonstrated the feasibility of the NUP in ex vivo porcine heart models, highlighting the device’s potential scalability to human clinical contexts. These large-animal models bridge the gap between rodent studies and human applications by mimicking the size and anatomical complexities of the human heart. The successful imaging-guided ultrasound stimulation in these ex vivo models supports the device’s adaptability to human anatomy and its promise as a clinically viable alternative to current pacemaker technologies.

The device’s compact, wearable design addresses another critical limitation of traditional pacemakers: patient comfort and device integration into daily life. Unlike implantables that require invasive surgery and carry risks of infection and hardware failure, the NUP can be worn comfortably, maintaining uninterrupted pacing during regular activities. Its imaging-guided stimulation capability ensures that therapeutic ultrasound pulses are delivered with pinpoint accuracy, further enhancing safety and effectiveness.

This integration of wearable ultrasound technology with sonogenetic engineering situates the NUP at the forefront of emerging bioelectronic medicine. By harnessing the mechanosensitive nature of engineered ion channels, researchers have created a novel interface that translates external ultrasound signals into precise cellular responses. Such synergy illustrates the increasing convergence of genetics, materials science, and acoustics in developing next-generation therapeutic tools.

Beyond the direct implications for cardiac rhythm management, this technology paves the way for new explorations into non-invasive modulation of other excitable cells and tissues. Sonogenetics could unlock versatile control over neuronal, muscular, or endocrine systems, enabling treatments for a broad spectrum of diseases characterized by dysfunctional cellular excitability. The precision and safety profile demonstrated here bolster the potential for widespread application.

The impact of this work extends to patient quality of life and healthcare resource utilization. By eliminating the need for invasive surgeries, reducing complications, and facilitating adjustable pacing protocols, the NUP could significantly decrease hospital stays, reduce healthcare costs, and mitigate risks associated with current pacemaker therapies. The system also offers an agile platform for personalized medicine, allowing clinicians to adapt pacing parameters non-invasively in response to dynamic patient needs.

While the initial studies provide compelling evidence, further work is necessary to translate the NUP into routine clinical practice. Optimization of gene delivery methods, refinement of ultrasound hardware for human-scale wearability, and comprehensive clinical trials will be essential next steps. The interdisciplinary collaboration exemplified in this research underscores the importance of converging expertise to overcome these challenges.

In conclusion, the development of a wearable, non-invasive sonogenetic pacemaker utilizing MscL-G22S ion channels and targeted ultrasound stimulation represents a paradigm shift in cardiac rhythm management. Combining genetic engineering with state-of-the-art acoustic technology, this device promises unparalleled control, safety, and convenience for patients. As research advances toward clinical translation, this innovation holds the potential to redefine standards of care in cardiology and beyond.

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Subject of Research: Development of a wearable, non-invasive ultrasound-based sonogenetic pacemaker for precise cardiac rhythm management.

Article Title: A wearable non-invasive sonogenetic pacemaker.

Article References:
Gong, C., Lu, G., Liu, B. et al. A wearable non-invasive sonogenetic pacemaker. Nat. Biomed. Eng (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41551-026-01673-z

Image Credits: AI Generated

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41551-026-01673-z

Charlie Kirk, a young Christian influencer was assassinated on September 10, 2025. His death has spurred many on the right to blame the left and fuel division within America. This division is the work of Satan, not the work of Christ. Followers of Christ should have no part in such earthly warfare.

University of California, Irvine researchers have invented a wearable, wireless, battery-free, bioelectronic sensor to monitor users’ health by

If you were paranoid about digital tracking before, you might want to think twice about reading any further.

New research out of Germany’s Karlsruhe Institute of Technology found that the types of Wi-Fi routers we all have in our homes come with a major privacy vulnerability that can be used to identify any human body that comes within their range.

The study, flagged by Gizmodo, used machine learning systems to identify individuals with an accuracy rate of 99.5 percent. To do so, the researchers exploited a vulnerability in a process known as beamforming feedback information (BFI), which was introduced to allow routers to focus Wi-Fi signals on connected devices, as opposed to the older approach, which is to blanket an entire area in coverage.

While BFI is great for network connectivity, it has a major downsides for privacy. For starters, devices connected to a router using beamforming need to send constant feedback in order to be found. As routers send out and receive network feedback, the signal is inevitably impacted by real world factors like pets, walls, and people.

That gap, between the signals routers expect to receive and the distorted feedback they actually get, allowed researchers to extrapolate the identities of 161 individual participants based on BFI data which inadvertently mapped their physical characteristics. Even when individuals changed their gait or carried objects like backpacks and crates, the system registered an accuracy rate between 50 to 60 percent, the KIT team wrote.

“This works similar to a normal camera, the difference being that in our case, radio waves instead of light waves are used for the recognition,” study coauthors Thorsten Strufe said in a press release.

Making matters worse is the fact that this data is basically wide open for anyone to grab — not only is that feedback data unencrypted, it can also be accessed without ever connecting directly to the router.

“We have shown robust identity inference with common-of-the-shelf hardware which is already in widespread adoption in many homes and public areas,” the team wrote in their paper. “With this hardware making its way into millions of homes, the privacy concerns are severe.”

The KIT findings contrast to other Wi-Fi tracking systems, like one developed by researchers at the Sapienza University of Rome. That method, called “WhoFi,” uses channel state information, which is much harder to access on consumer hardware, but can still identify people through walls with an alarmingly high accuracy rate.

That WhoFi study made a point to highlight the anonymity factor: the idea that the sensing system can detect people’s presence, but not identify them. The KIT team refutes that framing outright, arguing that Wi-Fi-sensing technology poses major privacy risks regardless.

“While there maybe legitimate use-cases, we explicitly consider identity inference via Wi-Fi sensing a privacy attack,” they write. “This view reflects the serious risks associated with the ubiquity of Wi-Fi networks, their ability to sense through walls and in non-line-of-sight scenarios, and the fact that this would likely happen without explicit consent.”

While more research will be needed, the researchers don’t mince words about the implications of their initial findings. In their conclusion, the KIT team writes that regulators and companies moving to standardize Wi-Fi sensing should “strongly consider adding effective privacy protection,” or else “abandon beamforming entirely.”

More on surveillance: Town Councilmember Goes Berzerk at Surveillance Camera Ban, Threatens to Outlaw Virtually All Modern Technology

The post Random Standard Wi-Fi Routers Can Scan Your Body to Identify Exactly Who You Are, Alarming New Research Finds appeared first on Futurism.

Imagine this scenario: your algorithm has pulled up a background YouTube video, or maybe a podcast. Unbeknownst to you, hackers have embedded inaudible sounds in it, designed to hijack your smart speaker or phone’s AI assistant — meaning the cybercriminals can now access your private photos, bank accounts, or any other personal information you’ve hooked up to your AI system.

It sounds like an also-ran episode of “Black Mirror,” but it’s exactly what researchers have shown is possible in new research being presented this week at the IEEE Symposium on Security and Privacy.

Basically, a team of researchers in China and Singapore found that they can construct “adversarial audio,” completely undetectable to the human ear, that tricks voice AI models into doing things they shouldn’t. Then it’s a breeze to hide it in innocent-sounding audio — a song, a movie, or anything else that unsuspecting targets might play in the background — and lay in wait for users to accidentally compromise their digital lives.

“It takes just half an hour to train this signal, and then, because this signal is context-agnostic, you can use it to attack the target model whenever you want, no matter what the user says,” lead author Meng Chen, a PhD candidate at China’s Zhejiang University, told IEEE Spectrum of the work. “These single-point defenses struggle to resist our attack because we found it’s very hard for these models to distinguish the normal user intent and our adversary attack.”

One catch, at least for now: the technique required the hackers to have access to the full weights of the AI model they’re targeting, meaning they were only able to attack open source models. But because many commercial AI systems are built on open source models, that meant that their exploit was effective against mainstream products by Microsoft and Mistral.

Mistral didn’t respond to IEEE‘s request for comment, but Microsoft issued a statement that should probably give anyone pause before connecting any important information whatsoever to one of the company’s voice AI models.

“We appreciate the researchers’ work to advance understanding of this type of technique,” it read. “This study evaluates model resilience through controlled, direct interactions with the model itself, which helps inform our approach to building model resiliency. In practice, AI models are often integrated into user applications, and we offer developers tools and guidance they can use to implement additional layers of protection that help safeguard users.”

More on AI: Researchers Alarmed by AI That Can Self-Replicate Into Another Machine

The post Hackers Find That Inaudible Sounds Hidden in Podcasts or Random Videos Can Hijack Your AI Voice Chatbot appeared first on Futurism.

Like data centers, automatic license plate readers (ALPRs) are incredibly unpopular with voters around the US. Plenty of local politicians are taking the hint, choosing to cancel controversial surveillance contracts with the granddad of ALPR companies, Flock Safety.

In the tiny town of Bandera, Texas, however, one petty tyrant on the city council took personal offense after his fellow politicians voted 3-2 to immediately end their contract with Flock earlier this month. After voting, the dissenting councilmember, identified by 404 Media as Jeff Flowers, immediately went on the offensive, threatening to outlaw virtually all forms of modern technology and take the town “back to 1880.”

In a statement shared by the town newspaper the Bandera Bulletin, Flowers addressed the roughly 900 residents who call the town home.

“For months, I have listened to the outcry regarding [ALPR] technology,” he scathed. “I have seen the eyerolls, and I’ve even been met with ‘Nazi rhetoric,’ the dangerous claim that believing in accountability and community safety is somehow equivalent to totalitarianism. Comparing a neighbor’s desire for a safe street to a dark chapter of history is a classic case of comparing apples to oranges; it is a distraction used to avoid the reality of the threats our town faces today.”

“Since the Council has decided we are the ‘Free State of Bandera,’ a place where the ‘rights’ of a car thief or human trafficker to remain anonymous apparently outweigh the right of a resident to protect their property and the safety of their family, then we must go all the way,” Flowers continued his rant.

“To ensure our historic County Seat becomes the most ‘traditional’ sanctuary in Texas, I have requested… a total ban on all cellular and GPS-capable devices for all operations within city limits,” the councilman raged. “If we are to be truly ‘private,’ we must leave our smartphones at the city line.”

Continuing his childish crashout, Flowers also proposed a ban on all commercial and residential security cameras, as well as a “total total termination of all internet services and electronic record-keeping.”

“We are going back to 1880, paper ledgers and cash only,” he seethed.

Back in February, Flowers moderated a town hall meeting exclusively meant to discuss the Flock contract, which brought eight ALPRs into the one-horse town. During another February meeting, Flowers accused opponents of the private surveillance company of having something to hide, saying “I believe personally that guilty people act defensively.”

“If you don’t have anything to hide, then it shouldn’t be a problem,” he carried on. “I also believe when you are in a public space, your privacy kind of goes out the window because you are in essence in a public place.”

More on surveillance: Man Trapped in Dystopian Nightmare Thanks to AI Surveillance Cameras Flagging His Every Move

The post Town Councilmember Goes Berzerk at Surveillance Camera Ban, Threatens to Outlaw Virtually All Modern Technology appeared first on Futurism.

Researchers in Japan have succeeded in measuring the temperature inside living cells with high precision using a new class of biocompatible quantum nanosensor – something that has been difficult to do until now even. If improved, the nanosensor could be used to characterize a wide range of biological phenomena and so help in disease diagnosis, they say.

Recent years have seen the advent of a new generation of nanoscale quantum sensors that can detect the tiny magnetic fields of biological systems. Some of these sensors rely on photons and others on electrons or spin defects – typically diamond specially engineered with nitrogen–vacancy (NV) defects. This material is made by removing two carbon atoms from the diamond lattice and replacing one with a nitrogen atom. The other “hole” is left empty, thereby creating a vacancy or defect. The spin state of the defect is influenced by the local magnetic field that can be “read out” from the way it fluoresces.

While a powerful tool, and biocompatible, this type of quantum sensor does suffer from certain limits. For one, it can be structurally inhomogeneous, which affects how it detects temperature and other physical or chemical parameters inside biological cells.

A more homogenous structure

Even though the new molecular quantum nanosensor (MoQN) works in the same way as these conventional devices, it does not suffer from this problem, explain Nobuhiro Yanai of the University of Tokyo and Hitoshi Ishiwata of the National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology (QST), who led this research effort. This is because it has a more homogenous structure and does not contain any defects. Instead, it is made by embedding molecular spin qubits, in this case fabricated from pentacene, in nanocrystals of para-terphenyl. This design makes the structure uniform on a molecular scale and preserves the quantum coherence of the spin qubits. It is then coated with Pluronic F127, which is a biocompatible surfactant.

By detecting the spin direction of the “excited triplet state” of the pentacene qubits using a technique known as optically detected magnetic resonance (OMDR), the researchers can precisely determine the temperature of the qubits’ surroundings from the OMDR peak position. When they tested their method inside the cytoplasm of cancer cells in vivo, they found that the intracellular temperature was consistently higher than the surrounding medium.

Yanai says he embarked on this study after reading about the work of Sam Bayliss’ group at the UK’s University of Glasgow, and Ashok Ajoy’s group at the University of California, Berkeley in the US on OMDR in pentacene-doped para-terphenyl crystals. He says he immediately got the idea that nanocrystals of this material could be used for quantum sensing inside cells. This was because his group had already developed such nanocrystals for a different purpose in previous research.

Ensuring biocompatibility

“I then spoke with Hitoshi Ishiwata, who is an expert in quantum sensing using NV centres,” he recalls. “While many molecular qubits have been developed to date, there had been no examples demonstrating their sensing ability within living cells.”

The project required materials science expertise, he tells Physics World, and in particular, finding out how to reduce the material to the nanoscale and ensuring it was biocompatible.

“We already knew that nanodiamonds are good quantum sensors for temperature measurements, but I had noticed a practical limitation: their ODMR spectra often vary significantly from particle to particle,” he says. “This spectral dispersion can introduce errors, especially when trying to perform precise measurements at the single-particle level.”

Replacing hydrogen with deuterium

The researchers thought they had overcome this problem during the first run of their experiments because they found that different particles showed identical OMDR spectra. However, their joy quickly waned when they observed that the spectra were still broadened by hyperfine interactions between the pentacene-doped para-terphenyl molecules’ electron spins and hydrogen nuclear spins.

To improve the spectral resolution, Ishiwata says he suggested chemically modifying the molecule by replacing the hydrogen in it with deuterium. And the technique worked: “the hyperfine broadening was strongly suppressed, allowing us to determine the OMDR spectra much more precisely.”

These findings, which are detailed in Science Advances, show that MoQNs are a chemically versatile platform for quantum sensing in living cells and that they can operate directly inside them while maintaining the precision needed for absolute thermometry, he says. Their appeal also lies in in the fact that their structures can be easily modified.

It will not all be plain sailing, however, adds Yanai. MoQNs cannot yet target specific organelles within cells, so endowing them with this targeting capability is an important future challenge. “What is more, their size has been limited to around 200 nm so far, so creating smaller MoQN particles will be crucial,” he says.

The post Molecular spin sensor takes the temperature of cancer cells appeared first on Physics World.