🤖 Computer Science

New AI generates CRISPR proteins unlike any seen in nature

Berkeley-based startup Profluent has developed an AI that creates novel CRISPR proteins with unprecedented capabilities. They have also made a new AI-designed CRISPR system open source, enabling scientists worldwide to utilize these advanced gene editors in their research.

Quantum circuit synthesis with diffusion models

Quantum computing promises transformative technology, but its advantages depend on translating quantum operations into physical implementations. Researchers now use generative machine learning models, specifically denoising diffusion models (DMs), to achieve this. By employing text conditioning, DMs generate desired quantum operations within gate-based circuits, bypassing the classical simulation bottleneck of quantum dynamics during training.

⚛️ Physics and Chemistry

This modified stainless steel could kill bacteria without antibiotics or chemicals

Researchers at Georgia Tech have developed an electrochemical process that enhances the antibacterial properties of copper by creating tiny needle-like structures on stainless steel surfaces. This method effectively kills harmful bacteria such as E. coli and Staphylococcus, providing a convenient and cost-effective alternative to using chemicals and antibiotics in hospitals, kitchens, and other environments prone to surface contamination.

Light and air boost conductivity of polymer semiconductors

Researchers have developed a method to dope organic semiconductors using air and light at room temperature. This simple technique, reported in Nature, represents a significant advance toward creating high-performance, low-cost organic electronics.

Electronic cooling device is part fridge, part muscle

Researchers in China, led by Xiaoshi Qian of Shanghai Jiao Tong University, have developed a highly efficient, lightweight, and flexible refrigeration system by chemically modifying a soft film material. The device uses an electric field to move the film and drive heat transfer, making it the first to serve both as a cooling system and an artificial muscle.

🧬 Biology & Medicine

Fluoride Exposure in the Womb Could Lead to Later Problems in Kids

New research suggests a potential risk of fluoride exposure during early development. The study found that higher fluoride exposure in pregnant women is linked to a greater risk of neurobehavioral problems in their children by age 3. While the findings do not establish a cause-and-effect relationship, they indicate the need for further investigation.

Antiviral hydrogel stops SARS-CoV-2 in its tracks

A new hydrogel developed by US researchers binds to the spike proteins of the SARS-CoV-2 virus like "molecular Velcro," preventing the virus from infecting host cells. This multi-layer "mask" inhibits the virus non-specifically, meaning it doesn't need regular updates like vaccines. The technology could be developed into a cost-effective nasal spray to combat airborne infections.

The enigmatic 'brain microbiome' could play a role in neurological disease

Gut microbes are gaining attention, with numerous ads promoting probiotics and prebiotics for microbiome health. Other microbiomes, including those in the mouth, nasal cavity, skin, and scalp, also impact health. Some suggest the brain may have its own microbiome as well.

AAP Shifts Stance, Updates Guidance on Breastfeeding With HIV

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises that people with HIV who want to breastfeed should have sustained viral suppression, with a viral load below 50 copies per mL, to minimize the risk of transmitting HIV to their baby.

🔭 Space & Astronomy

Something strange is happening with Earth's magnetic field tail

Earth's magnetic field has a tail called the magnetotail, formed by the solar wind's impact on the planet. This tail usually contains magnetic storms. However, scientists have observed a mystery in the magnetotail: a missing storm, indicated by its signature but with no storm present. NASA’s Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission is currently investigating this phenomenon.

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