🤖 Tech & Computer Science

Virtual lab powered by ‘AI scientists’ super-charges biomedical research

Researchers developed a virtual lab where specialized AI "scientists" collaborate on scientific tasks, such as designing nanobodies for SARS-CoV-2, achieving results faster than traditional methods. The system includes AI agents with expertise in fields like immunology and machine learning, managed by a principal investigator AI and overseen by human researchers. While promising, human input is crucial for ensuring accuracy and reliability.

Key leaders behind Google’s viral NotebookLM are leaving to create their own startup

Three key members of Google’s NotebookLM team, including lead Raiza Martin, have left to form a stealth startup focused on building user-first AI products. While details remain sparse, the team aims to leverage cutting-edge AI models to create transformative, consumer-facing tools. The startup is in its early stages, with strong external support but no funding announced yet.

⚛️ Physics and Chemistry

Chemical structure's carbon capture ability doubled by new research

Oregon State University researchers improved carbon capture efficiency in a copper-based MOF by exposing it to ammonia gas, doubling its CO2 absorption. This method forms stable copper-carbamate compounds and allows energy-efficient regeneration with water. The approach enhances MOF selectivity for CO2, offering a reusable and cost-effective alternative to traditional sorbents.

FDA Approves Bizengri for NSCLC and Pancreatic Cancers Harboring NRG1 Gene Fusion

The FDA has granted accelerated approval to zenocutuzumab-zbco (Bizengri, Merus) for adults with advanced, unresectable, or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) or pancreatic adenocarcinoma with NRG1 gene fusions, following prior systemic therapy. The approval, based on the eNRGy trial, showed response rates of 33% in NSCLC and 40% in pancreatic cancer patients, with median response durations of 7.4 months and 3.7–16.6 months, respectively. Common side effects include diarrhea, fatigue, and musculoskeletal pain. Bizengri, the first approved NRG1+ therapy, will be available in the coming weeks.

🧬 Biology & Medicine

FDA Approves Bizengri for NSCLC and Pancreatic Cancers Harboring NRG1 Gene Fusion

The FDA has granted accelerated approval to zenocutuzumab-zbco (Bizengri, Merus) for adults with advanced, unresectable, or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) or pancreatic adenocarcinoma with NRG1 gene fusions, following prior systemic therapy. The approval, based on the eNRGy trial, showed response rates of 33% in NSCLC and 40% in pancreatic cancer patients, with median response durations of 7.4 months and 3.7–16.6 months, respectively. Common side effects include diarrhea, fatigue, and musculoskeletal pain. Bizengri, the first approved NRG1+ therapy, will be available in the coming weeks.

Creatine and resistance workouts combat sarcopenia

A study in Frontiers in Physiology advocates combining resistance training with creatine supplementation to treat and prevent sarcopenia, an age-related condition characterized by muscle loss and reduced strength. The research shows that creatine, when paired with resistance training, can enhance muscle mass and strength, especially in older adults. Creatine supplementation also has potential cognitive benefits. The study recommends incorporating creatine-rich foods (like meat and fish) and promoting accessible resistance training programs for older adults to combat sarcopenia and its related risks.

🔭 Space & Astronomy

NASA will update us all on its Artemis moon landing program on Dec. 5. Here's how to watch live.

NASA will hold a live press conference on Thursday, Dec. 5, to update the public on its Artemis program, aiming to return astronauts to the moon. The briefing, led by NASA Administrator Bill Nelson and other top officials, will cover the upcoming Artemis 2 mission, scheduled for 2025, and progress toward Artemis 3’s planned lunar south pole landing in 2026. This follows delays due to heat shield issues with the Orion spacecraft. The Artemis program seeks to establish a sustainable lunar presence as a foundation for future Mars exploration.

NASA Flips Efficient Wing Concept for Testing

NASA is testing the Transonic Truss-Braced Wing (TTBW), a design with long, thin wings supported by diagonal struts to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Using a 10-foot model, engineers simulate flight conditions by adding weights and measuring stress and vibration. This research, part of NASA’s Advanced Air Transport Technology project, aims to develop sustainable aircraft systems for future commercial planes.

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