🤖 Computer Science

Multiscale knowledge distillation with attention based fusion for robust human activity recognition

This paper introduces a multiscale knowledge distillation framework for multi-modal machine learning, featuring a semantic graph mapping loss and a fusion and tuning module. It improves human activity recognition, boosting performance by 2.31% and 0.29% on MMAct and UTD-MHAD datasets.

From Zero to Hero: Cold-Start Anomaly Detection

This paper addresses the challenge of deploying anomaly detection systems without observed data by proposing ColdFusion, a method that adapts zero-shot anomaly detection to contaminated observations. It aims to improve accuracy in "cold-start" cases by utilizing both zero-shot guidance and a small number of observations. The paper also introduces an evaluation suite for this setting.

➕ Math

A surprising result for a group's optimal path to cooperation

Researchers have found that varying the strategy update rates of individuals in a network, based on their number of connections, enhances cooperation. In networks where individuals with more connections update their strategies less frequently, cooperation is more likely. The study was published in Nature Communications.

⚛️ Physics and Chemistry

Quantum error correction produces better ‘magic’ states

Physicists at IBM Research have demonstrated progress in fault-tolerant quantum computing (FTQC), which aims to protect quantum states and logic gates from environmental interference. This advancement, achieved with resource-intensive methods, shows potential for more robust quantum systems using real-life quantum techniques.

Bioelectronic device is loaded with bacteria

Early bioelectronics were rigid and bulky, but recent advances have led to the development of soft, pliable sensors made from hydrogels and elastomers. Researchers at the University of Chicago and Rutgers University have now integrated living bacteria into these devices. These new sensors can monitor skin properties like body temperature, humidity, and electrical impedance, which are important for tracking disease progression and recovery.

Controlling ion transport for a blue energy future: Research highlights the potential of nanopore membranes

Blue energy, which harnesses energy from the movement of ions in salt solutions, has the potential to be a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. Researchers from Osaka University have investigated how voltage affects ion passage through nanopore membranes, allowing greater control over the process. Their study, published in ACS Nano, explores how tailoring ion flow through nanopores can facilitate the large-scale application of blue energy technology.

🧬 Biology & Medicine

Genetic engineering feat coaxes yeast to produce valuable vaccine compound

Researchers have successfully genetically engineered yeast to produce QS-21, a valuable vaccine adjuvant. This breakthrough, led by teams from the University of California, Berkeley, and the John Innes Centre, allows for the scalable and cost-effective production of QS-21, which is traditionally derived from the soapbark tree. This development could significantly lower vaccine costs and improve availability​

FDA Approves Nonstimulant Liquid Onyda XR for ADHD

The FDA has approved Onyda XR (clonidine hydrochloride) for treating ADHD, Tris Pharma announced. This drug is the first liquid nonstimulant ADHD medication and is an extended-release oral suspension for nighttime dosing. It can be used alone or with stimulant medications for children aged 6 and older.

Female and male heart failure may require distinct treatments

A study from the UC Davis School of Medicine discovered significant cellular differences between male and female mice with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). These differences could influence treatment approaches for HFpEF in men and women. HFpEF involves normal heart muscle contraction but improper relaxation and refilling between beats, known as diastolic dysfunction, often due to stiffness or delayed contraction relaxation.

🔭 Space & Astronomy

Webb Spots Most Distant Galaxy Ever Seen—and It's Weirdly Bright

Researchers have discovered the most distant and earliest galaxy ever observed, existing just 290 million years after the Big Bang. This galaxy's unexpected luminosity challenges our understanding of the Cosmic Dawn, the period when the first stars, black holes, and galaxies formed. Using the Webb Space Telescope, scientists captured deep field images of these ancient galaxies, revealing their light stretched to infrared wavelengths due to the universe's expansion.

How NASA's OSIRIS-APEX asteroid probe survived its 1st close encounter with the sun

OSIRIS-APEX emerged unscathed from its closest approach to the sun on January 2. Originally OSIRIS-REx, the probe completed its mission to asteroid Bennu and is now en route to Apophis. This mission involves several close passes by the sun to reach Apophis by 2029. During its first close approach, the spacecraft adjusted its solar panels to protect its instruments while maintaining power.

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