🤖 Tech & Computer Science

Can we automate science? Sam Rodriques is already doing it.

FutureHouse, a nonprofit, is developing AI tools to accelerate scientific discovery, focusing initially on biology due to its complex mysteries and vast data. Their AI aims to integrate knowledge, formulate hypotheses, conduct experiments, and analyze results. They’ve already released PaperQA2, an AI that synthesizes scientific literature to streamline research. CEO Sam Rodriques envisions such systems solving major challenges like diseases and climate change while addressing inefficiencies in current research processes, with potential applications across fields like economics and climate science.

Why ‘open’ AI systems are actually closed, and why this matters

The paper critiques the concept of "open" AI, highlighting how its definitions are often vague and misapplied. While openness in AI fosters transparency, reusability, and extensibility, it does not address the concentration of power within the industry. Large tech companies often co-opt the rhetoric of openness to reinforce control rather than democratize AI. The study underscores the need for precise definitions in policy debates, revealing how claims about "open" AI can obscure underlying issues of power dynamics and industry dominance.

⚛️ Physics and Chemistry

How the world’s biggest laser smashed a nuclear-fusion record

The National Ignition Facility (NIF) in Livermore, California, aimed to achieve nuclear fusion ignition since 2011. Despite initial setbacks, the $3.5 billion facility succeeded in December 2022, meeting a decades-old goal of generating more energy from fusion than the energy supplied by lasers. Progress continued, with a record-breaking February 2023 experiment producing double the laser input and confirming multiple ignition successes. These achievements mark a pivotal milestone in fusion research and energy production.

Nanorobot hand made of DNA grabs viruses for diagnostics and blocks cell entry

Researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign have created the NanoGripper, a nanoscale robotic "hand" made from DNA. This four-fingered structure detects COVID-19 by gripping its virus particles and can block their cell entry. Inspired by human and bird claws, the NanoGripper features DNA aptamers that bind to targets like the COVID-19 spike protein, causing the fingers to clasp. The programmable design offers potential for broader applications, including virus detection, targeted drug delivery, and cancer treatment. The advance is detailed in Science Robotics.

🧬 Biology & Medicine

Microplastics Have Been Found in the Human Brain. Now What?

Microplastics have been detected in human brains for the first time, particularly in the olfactory bulb tissue of deceased individuals. Researchers found microplastics like polypropylene and nylon, commonly used in food packaging and textiles, in 8 out of 15 examined cases. These findings suggest inhalation through indoor air may be a primary exposure route. The potential health impacts remain uncertain, though microplastics are linked to inflammation, neurological risks, and systemic effects. Experts advocate stricter regulations to mitigate exposure and health risks.

Obe-cel demonstrates strong efficacy and safety in treating leukemia

The Phase Ib/II FELIX trial demonstrated that obe-cel, a novel anti-CD19 CAR T cell therapy, achieved a 76.6% response rate and 55.3% complete remission in adults with relapsed/refractory B-cell ALL. With minimal immunotoxicity and durable responses, most patients did not require a subsequent stem cell transplant. Median event-free survival was 11.9 months, and overall survival was 15.6 months. The FDA approved obe-cel in November 2024, establishing it as a promising standalone treatment option for this challenging leukemia population.

🔭 Space & Astronomy

Auroras could light up the US on Thanksgiving night, NOAA announces

The Northern Lights may be visible across the U.S.-Canada border on Thanksgiving night and Black Friday due to a coronal mass ejection (CME) from the Sun. NOAA predicts a minor to moderate geomagnetic storm (G1-G2), energizing atmospheric molecules and producing colorful auroras. Best viewing conditions include dark skies away from city lights. There's also a chance the CME could miss Earth. While no special equipment is needed, Black Friday deals might be ideal for those seeking telescopes or binoculars for future skywatching.

Happy Thanksgiving from space! NASA astronauts beam home Turkey Day message (video)

NASA astronauts aboard the ISS—Nick Hague, Don Pettit, Suni Williams, and Butch Wilmore—shared a Thanksgiving message to Earth, expressing gratitude and emphasizing the importance of connecting with loved ones, even virtually. They highlighted their unique celebration with space-friendly meals, showing pouches of their holiday feast.

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