🤖 Computer Science

Detecting hallucinations in large language models using semantic entropy

Large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT often generate false or unsubstantiated answers, posing risks in critical fields like law and medicine. Researchers propose a new statistical method using entropy-based uncertainty estimators to detect these errors, called confabulations. This approach works across various datasets and tasks without needing specific data, helping users identify when LLM outputs may be unreliable and enhancing their safe and effective use.

Depth Anywhere: Enhancing 360 Monocular Depth Estimation via Perspective Distillation and Unlabeled Data Augmentation

Accurate depth estimation in 360-degree imagery is crucial for VR and autonomous navigation. Existing methods struggle with different projections and lack of labeled data. We propose a new framework using pseudo labels from perspective depth models and a six-face cube projection, achieving significant accuracy improvements on benchmark datasets like Matterport3D and Stanford2D3D, especially in zero-shot scenarios.

⚛️ Physics and Chemistry

Boosting the synthesis of stable sugar compounds with a novel nature-inspired approach

Researchers from the National University of Singapore (NUS) have developed a nature-inspired method to synthesize stable sugar compounds without using protecting-group chemistry. This innovation accelerates carbohydrate synthesis and protein modification, benefiting pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and biotech sectors. Led by Associate Professor Koh Ming Joo, in collaboration with Professor Benjamin G. Davis from the University of Oxford, the study was published in Nature on June 19, 2024.

Scientists uncover hidden properties of rare-earth element promethium

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have experimentally examined the chemistry of promethium for the first time. Despite being discovered almost 80 years ago, little is known about this lanthanide with atomic number 61. Promethium, identified in 1945 by Manhattan Project scientists, possesses unique magnetic, optical, and electrical properties. The study provides new insights into this element named after the Greek hero Prometheus.

Hydroxide-loaded sponge soaks up atmospheric carbon dioxide

Researchers have developed cost-effective charcoal sponges with hydroxide ions to capture carbon dioxide from the air. This method, leveraging activated carbon's stability and scalability, allows for rapid reuse and offers a novel alternative to traditional amine-based solutions, addressing the climate crisis.

🧬 Biology & Medicine

Prion Disease Is Spreading in Deer. Here's What We Know About the Risk to Humans

Earlier this year, scientists reported two rare prion disease cases in hunters, potentially linked to contaminated deer meat, recalling the mad cow crisis. However, many experts and recent research dispute this possibility. The findings were presented in April by the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio at the American Academy of Neurology conference.

FDA Approves Skyrizi for Ulcerative Colitis

The FDA approved Skyrizi (risankizumab-rzaa) for treating moderate to severe ulcerative colitis in adults, making it the first anti–interleukin 23 monoclonal antibody approved for this condition. Approval was based on successful phase 3 trials showing clinical remission and endoscopic improvement.

Laser-based 3D bioprinting of corneas for vision restoration

Researchers at KIT have developed a laser-based method to 3D print personalized corneas during surgery, aiming to restore eyesight impaired by corneal disorders. This innovative approach won the NEULAND innovation contest this year and addresses common vision issues in the elderly caused by corneal deformities or loss of transparency.

🔭 Space & Astronomy

The speed of sound on Mars is constantly changing, study finds

Sound behaves uniquely on Mars due to its thin, CO2-rich atmosphere. Lower frequencies travel slower than higher ones, impacting potential communications in future missions. Researchers from French and U.S. institutions studied sound speed and attenuation up to 60 feet on Mars to understand these effects better.

NASA Releases Hubble Image Taken in New Pointing Mode

NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope, using a single gyro, captured new images of NGC 1546 in Dorado. The galaxy displays dusty lanes absorbing light from its core, casting a rusty-brown hue, while older stars emit yellowish light. Bright-blue regions indicate active star formation, with several background galaxies also visible. This observation is part of a joint program with NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope and the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array to study star formation across wavelengths.

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