🤖 Tech & Computer Science

DNA stores data in bits after epigenetic upgrade

A new method allows DNA to store information in binary code, using 0s and 1s like standard computers. This approach could be faster and cheaper than traditional DNA storage methods, which rely on encoding data using DNA’s building blocks. In a study, 60 volunteers successfully stored and retrieved text using the technique, surprising many with its effectiveness. The research, led by Long Qian from Peking University, was published in Nature. This breakthrough could advance DNA’s potential as a data storage solution.

Automating cancer diagnosis using advanced deep learning techniques for multi-cancer image classification

This paper evaluates deep learning models for automated cancer detection across seven cancer types using image datasets. DenseNet121 achieved the best performance with 99.94% accuracy and minimal errors, outperforming models like VGG19 and ResNet152V2. These results show AI's potential in enhancing cancer detection accuracy, with DenseNet121 being the most effective model.

⚛️ Physics and Chemistry

A multi-level breakthrough in optical computing—a faster, more efficient, and robust memory cell

Researchers have developed a new method for photonic in-memory computing, potentially bringing optical computing closer to reality. The international team, led by Nathan Youngblood (University of Pittsburgh) and others, has addressed limitations in photonic memory for AI processing, combining speed, energy efficiency, and endurance in a single platform. Their work was published in Nature Photonics and represents a breakthrough in integrating non-reciprocal magneto-optics with ultra-high endurance for photonic computing. This innovation could significantly advance AI and computing technologies.

Cosmic antimatter could be created by annihilating WIMPs

Physicists have proposed a potential link between dark matter, specifically weakly interacting massive particles (WIMPs), and the unexpected antimatter cosmic rays detected by NASA’s AMS-02 on the International Space Station. The theory suggests that WIMPs might annihilate to produce antinuclei, which could be detected as cosmic rays. New calculations by researchers from Spain, Sweden, and the U.S. suggest that these findings could provide insight into dark matter, potentially explaining the unusual antinuclei detections observed by AMS-02.

🧬 Biology & Medicine

McDonald’s deadly Quarter Pounder E. coli outbreak is likely bigger than we know

An E. coli O157:H7 outbreak linked to McDonald's Quarter Pounders and slivered onions has sickened 48 people across 10 states, with one death reported. McDonald's has halted onion distribution and removed Quarter Pounders from affected areas. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns the outbreak may be larger than reported due to untested cases and delays in confirming links. Illnesses occurred between September 27 and October 11, with the outbreak moving quickly, according to the CDC.

Researchers identify mechanism of immune suppression in ovarian cancer

Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine have uncovered how ovarian tumors block T cells' ability to use lipids as energy, impairing their immune response. In ovarian cancer, T cells need lipids to fuel their attack, but tumors trap a key protein, FABP5, inside the T cells, preventing lipid uptake. This discovery, published in Nature, points to a potential new immunotherapy strategy for treating ovarian cancer by restoring T cells' energy supply, helping them fight tumors more effectively.

🔭 Space & Astronomy

How Do Merging Supermassive Black Holes Pass the Final Parsec?

Galaxies merge over time, leading to the eventual merger of their supermassive black holes. However, astrophysicists have long questioned how these black holes get close enough to merge, as their progress stalls at the "final parsec," a distance of about 3.26 light-years. Recent evidence from pulsar timing arrays detecting gravitational waves suggests that supermassive black hole binaries do overcome this obstacle, providing the first confirmation that they can indeed merge after reaching this critical distance.

NASA’s Pioneering Solar Sail Hits a Snag While Tumbling in Space

A microwave-sized spacecraft, part of NASA's Advanced Composite Solar Sail System (ACS3), is experiencing orientation issues after one of its four solar sail booms bent slightly following deployment. Launched in April 2023, ACS3 aims to test solar sails, which use sunlight for propulsion. Engineers are working to resolve the problem, hoping the mission can continue without major setbacks despite the glitch.

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