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Dec 5, 2023

Hydrogen Detected in Lunar Samples, points to Resource Availability for Space Exploration

Posted by in categories: government, space

U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) researchers have discovered solar-wind hydrogen in lunar samples, which indicates that water on the surface of the Moon may provide a vital resource for future lunar bases and longer-range space exploration. Space-based resource identification is a key factor in planning for civilian-and government-led space exploration.

“Hydrogen has the potential to be a resource that can be used directly on the lunar surface when there are more regular or permanent installations there,” said Dr. Katherine D. Burgess, geologist in NRL’s Materials Science and Technology Division.

“Locating resources and understanding how to collect them prior to getting to the Moon is going to be incredibly valuable for space exploration.”

Dec 5, 2023

Organoids Evolve from Academic Marvel to Industrial Tool

Posted by in category: biotech/medical

No less sensitive for being mass produced, organoids are supporting applications such as drug development and providing an alternative to animal models.

Dec 5, 2023

CRISPR’s Hidden Universe: FLSHclust Algorithm Unlocks Secret Gene Modules

Posted by in categories: biotech/medical, information science

Researchers using the new FLSHclust algorithm discovered 188 unique CRISPR-linked gene modules, including a novel type VII CRISPR-Cas system, in a massive protein database. This breakthrough enhances our understanding of CRISPR systems and their potential in biotechnological innovations.

Researchers have developed a new algorithm, FLSHclust (“flash clust”), leading to the discovery of 188 rare and previously unknown CRISPR-linked gene modules. This includes a novel type VII CRISPR-Cas system found among billions of protein sequences. The findings of this approach offer new possibilities for exploiting CRISPR systems and exploring the vast diversity of microbial proteins.

CRISPR’s Growing Impact in Biotechnology.

Dec 5, 2023

This $1,000 card can store a message in DNA

Posted by in categories: biotech/medical, computing

The flash drive of the future?

Dec 5, 2023

See the Brain Like Never Before in This Gorgeous Art

Posted by in category: neuroscience

The complexity of the brain comes to life in the annual Art of Neuroscience competition.

By Lori Youmshajekian & Liz Tormes

Dec 5, 2023

Could Blood Transfusions and Tissue Transplants Spread Certain Dementias?

Posted by in categories: biotech/medical, neuroscience

Scattered evidence suggests that aberrant proteins act as “seeds” to transmit neurodegenerative disease, but the jury is still out.

By Esther Landhuis

Dec 5, 2023

“Singularities don’t exist,” claims black hole pioneer Roy Kerr

Posted by in category: cosmology

The brilliant mind who discovered the spacetime solution for rotating black holes claims singularities don’t physically exist. Is he right?

Dec 5, 2023

The Threat of Advanced AI: Urgent Attention Needed

Posted by in categories: futurism, robotics/AI

Geoffrey Miller is a professor of evolutionary psychology at the University of New Mexico, a researcher and an author.

Artificial Intelligence possesses the capability to process information thousands of times faster than humans. It’s opened up massive possibilities. But it’s also opened up huge debate about the safety of creating a machine which is more intelligent and powerful than we are. Just how legitimate are the concerns about the future of AI?

Dec 5, 2023

‘Doughnut’ beams help physicists see incredibly small objects

Posted by in categories: computing, physics

In a new study published in Optica, researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder have used doughnut-shaped beams of light to take detailed images of objects too tiny to view with traditional microscopes.

The new technique could help scientists improve the inner workings of a range of “nanoelectronics,” including the miniature semiconductors in computer chips. The discovery was also highlighted in a special issue of Optics & Photonics News.

The research is the latest advance in the field of ptychography, a difficult-to-pronounce (the “p” is silent) but powerful technique for viewing very small things. Unlike traditional microscopes, ptychography tools don’t directly view small objects. Instead, they shine lasers at a target and then measure how the light scatters away—a bit like the microscopic equivalent of making shadow puppets on a wall.

Dec 5, 2023

The 5 supplements scientists recommend for longevity

Posted by in category: life extension

Experts say when it comes to supplements for antiaging, your winning formula will depend on your body. Top picks include vitamin D and magnesium.