March 28th 2025

Author

Max Gray
March 28, 2025

The Daily Innovation Newsletter

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March 28th 2025

💻 Technology

Scientists at Northwestern University have developed a tiny wearable device that delivers lifelike haptic feedback by pushing, pulling, and twisting the skin in multiple directions. Unlike standard vibration-based tech, this actuator engages various skin receptors to mimic real-world textures and sensations, enhancing immersion in VR and AR environments. Detailed in Science, the system may also support tactile shopping, assist visually impaired users, and translate sound into physical touch.

⚡️ Energy

China has launched construction of the world’s first fusion-fission hybrid power plant, aiming to generate 100 megawatts of electricity by 2030. The Xinghuo reactor, a joint venture between China Nuclear Industry 23 Construction Corporation and Lianovation Superconductor, will use fusion reactions to trigger fission, maximizing energy output and potentially reducing nuclear waste. The project targets an energy gain factor (Q) over 30, triple ITER’s goal of 10, marking a major leap in nuclear tech that could place China decades ahead in the race for clean fusion energy.

🤖 Artificial Intelligence

In the first clinical trial of its kind, researchers at Dartmouth demonstrated that an AI-powered chatbot named Therabot significantly reduced symptoms of depression, anxiety, and disordered eating. Over four weeks, users reported a 51% drop in depressive symptoms and improved outcomes compared to a control group without chatbot access. Published in The New England Journal of Medicine AI, the study suggests AI therapy could supplement traditional care and expand access amid growing provider shortages.

🌎 Sustainability

Scientists at RIKEN have developed a new supramolecular plastic that remains durable during use but dissolves completely in saltwater within hours, leaving behind only nitrogen and phosphorus. The material forms through reversible "salt bridge" bonds, which break down harmlessly in the ocean—unlike traditional plastics that generate toxic microplastics. Published in Science, the innovation could significantly reduce marine pollution while offering recyclable potential in controlled environments.

💊 Healthcare

In a world-first, researchers at Xijing Hospital in China successfully transplanted a gene-edited pig liver into a brain-dead human, where it remained functional for 10 days. The liver, from a Bama miniature pig and modified with six genetic edits to reduce immune rejection, produced bile and maintained blood flow shortly after transplantation without signs of acute rejection. Published in Nature, this breakthrough suggests xenotransplanted livers could one day serve as temporary support or permanent replacements for patients awaiting human organ donations.

Scientists at the University of Toronto have created magnetic, motor-free robotic tools just 3 mm wide that can grip, cut, and pull brain tissue using externally controlled electromagnetic fields. The tools achieved a 76% success rate in tests and made highly precise incisions, outperforming traditional surgical instruments. Published in Science Robotics, this innovation could enable minimally invasive neurosurgery with less pain, faster recovery, and reduced scarring.

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