🤖 Computer Science

Cryptographers Discover a New Foundation for Quantum Secrecy

Cryptographers have discovered a new foundation for quantum encryption that doesn't rely on computational hardness, unlike classical cryptography. This breakthrough shows that secure quantum encryption can be based on the difficulty of a specific quantum problem. This expands the scope of quantum cryptography and enhances information security​.

On-device query intent prediction with lightweight LLMs to support ubiquitous conversations

Current Conversational Agents (CAs) use rigid dialogue models, limiting flexibility and scalability. While Large Language Models (LLMs) could help, they often compromise privacy. This paper explores fine-tuning lightweight LLMs like RoBERTa and XLNet for on-device use, balancing performance and privacy. Results show these models can match ChatGPT's performance, offering insights into effective, privacy-preserving CAs.

⚛️ Physics and Chemistry

A framework to construct quantum spherical codes

Researchers at NIST/University of Maryland have developed a framework to create quantum spherical codes, applicable to bosonic quantum systems like photonic resonators. These new codes, outlined in Nature Physics, can correct up to five photon losses of any frequency and enhance error correction for quantum computers, which are prone to errors due to environmental interactions. This framework extends error correction beyond qubit-based systems, improving reliability in various quantum devices.

Physicists coax molecules into exotic quantum state — ending decades-long quest

Physicists have cooled molecules to form a single, gigantic quantum state, where hundreds lock in step. This bizarre state of matter could be used to explore exotic physics, like creating materials that flow without resistance, and may contribute to developing new quantum computers.

Scientists develop 'X-ray vision' technique to see inside crystals

New York University researchers developed "Crystal Clear," a technique to visualize crystal structures using transparent particles, microscopes, and lasers. This allows scientists to see inside crystals and create 3D models, revealing the position of every unit within the structure. This advancement offers a powerful platform for studying crystals beyond their surface shape and structure. The study is published in Nature Materials.

🧬 Biology & Medicine

IgG from long COVID patients induces specific symptoms in mice, confirming autoimmunity's role

A study on bioRxiv found that transferring immunoglobulin G (IgG) from long COVID patients to mice induced symptoms, suggesting autoantibodies play a role in long COVID. Over 10% of COVID-19 survivors experience long-term symptoms. The study links these symptoms to autoimmunity, with autoantibodies binding to neurotransmitters and other molecules. Reducing autoantibodies may improve symptoms, but their exact contribution remains unclear.

Alcohol on Long Flights Could Be a Dangerous Cocktail for Your Heart

Mixing alcohol with a long plane ride can be risky for your heart, new research suggests. A small trial found that healthy volunteers had a greater drop in blood oxygen levels and an increased heart rate after drinking alcohol while sleeping in high-altitude conditions, compared to not drinking. This combination could be especially dangerous for those with cardiovascular issues or the elderly.

Moderna's RSV Vaccine Approved by FDA

The FDA approved mRESVIA (mRNA-1345, Moderna), a vaccine for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), for adults aged 60 and older to prevent lower respiratory tract disease. It is the third RSV vaccine approved recently, following GSK's Arexvy and Pfizer's Abrysvo. This marks the first approval of an mRNA vaccine for a disease other than COVID-19.

🔭 Space & Astronomy

SpaceX targeting June 6 for next launch of Starship megarocket (photos)

SpaceX plans to fly its giant Starship rocket again on Thursday, June 6, marking its fourth-ever test flight. SpaceX founder and CEO Elon Musk confirmed on June 2 that the 400-foot-tall rocket is ready for launch from the company's Starbase in South Texas.

China lands on the Moon again, taking another step toward human missions

China successfully landed its Chang’e 6 spacecraft in the Moon’s South Pole-Aitken Basin, marking its fourth lunar landing. The spacecraft will spend about 48 hours collecting samples from beneath the surface and the regolith on top. It aims to return these samples to Earth, potentially making it the first mission to bring back material from the Moon's far side.

Thanks For Reading!

Please move this email to your Primary Inbox (if it is not already there) to make sure you don’t miss any of the exciting news and updates!
Reply directly to this email with any questions, comments or suggestions. 🚀