🤖 Computer Science

AI models collapse when trained on recursively generated data

Generative AI, such as Stable Diffusion and GPT models, has transformed text and image creation. However, if AI-generated content is widely used in training data, it can cause "model collapse," leading to the loss of original content diversity in future models. This issue affects all generative models and emphasizes the need for genuine human-generated data to maintain model quality.

The key to detecting deepfakes may lie within deep space

Researchers at the University of Hull discovered that analyzing eye reflections can help identify deepfake images. By applying techniques used for observing distant galaxies, they found that AI-generated images often have subtle differences in reflections across both eyes, which can indicate whether an image is real or fake. This method was inspired by astrophysicist Kevin Pimbblet's study of AI-generated facial imagery.

⚛️ Physics and Chemistry

New technique detects THC in saliva in minutes with minimal sample

Researchers from the University of Cordoba and the University of Valencia have developed a quick and minimally invasive technique to detect THC in saliva using just 0.25 mL of the sample. This new method, published in Analytical Chemistry, accelerates the analysis process and requires only a few drops of saliva. This advancement aims to provide a reliable tool to monitor cannabis use and address associated health and social issues.

Optical trap experiments pick up recoil of a single alpha particle blasting off

Researchers at Yale University, led by physicist David Moore, have made new discoveries about alpha decay, 125 years after Ernest Rutherford's initial findings. They used optical traps, controlled by laser fields, to observe the mechanical recoil of a silica microparticle after the emission of a single alpha particle from an embedded radioactive atom.

🧬 Biology & Medicine

Scientists find secret 'back door' flu viruses use to enter cells

New research reveals that some flu viruses can use a second entryway, MHC-II, to infect cells and jump between species, in addition to the usual sialic acid route. This discovery adds complexity to our understanding of flu virus transmission.

Skin Cancer Prevalence Varies With Sexual Orientation and Racial and Ethnic Factors

A large cross-sectional study found that skin cancer prevalence varies among sexual minority (SM) Americans based on race, ethnicity, and sexual identity compared to heterosexual peers. Higher risks were identified for White gay males and Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black SM men and women, especially bisexual individuals. The study, which included over 1.5 million respondents, suggests tailored prevention, screening, and research efforts are needed for these specific subgroups.

Gene variant predicts cognitive decline after stroke

New research from UCLA Health has identified specific genes that may influence stroke recovery, offering potential for targeted therapies. Published in Stroke, the study explored whether certain genes could predict outcomes like depression, PTSD, and cognitive decline in stroke survivors. Dr. Steven C. Cramer, the lead author, highlighted that while factors like age and baseline health help predict recovery, they do not provide the full picture.

🔭 Space & Astronomy

Webb directly images giant exoplanet that isn’t where it should be

Directly imaging exoplanets is challenging due to the overpowering light from their host stars, but it is possible for large, distant planets. The Webb telescope, more sensitive than previous infrared observatories, has successfully imaged a relatively nearby exoplanet that is about as old as those in our Solar System.

NASA, Boeing to Stream Flight Test Mission Briefing on NASA+

NASA and Boeing will hold a news conference at 11:30 a.m. EDT on July 25 to update on the Boeing Crew Flight Test to the ISS. The event will be broadcast live on NASA+, NASA Television, the NASA app, YouTube, and NASA’s website. Participants include Steve Stich from NASA and Mark Nappi from Boeing.

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