A new biography, “Ingenious,” sheds light on Benjamin Franklin’s scientific contributions, dispelling common misconceptions about his famous kite experiment and highlighting his approach to science as a joyful and humble pursuit. The book explores Franklin’s diverse interests, from electricity to geology, and his role as a founding father of the United States. As we reflect…
Researchers at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) have made a significant breakthrough in X-ray imaging by developing a new detector using cascaded single-crystal devices. This innovation has the potential to reduce radiation exposure while maintaining excellent image quality, paving the way for improved clinical X-ray imaging and various applications that require…
Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery in understanding the human brain’s unique genetic features, which could lead to new therapies for conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and schizophrenia. By comparing human and primate brain cells, researchers found that human dopamine neurons express more genes that boost the activity of damage-reducing antioxidants, allowing them to cope…
The article highlights six antisense oligonucleotide companies leading the way in this emerging field. These companies, including Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Isarna Therapeutics, Regulus Therapeutics, Sarepta Therapeutics, Secarna Pharmaceuticals, and Wave Life Sciences, are developing innovative treatments for various diseases. The global antisense oligonucleotides market is projected to grow significantly, driven by the ability of these treatments…
A new book, “How to Kill an Asteroid,” highlights the growing concern of asteroid defense and the need for a more robust planetary security system. The book’s author, Robin George Andrews, emphasizes that while scientists have made progress in deflecting asteroids, the real challenge lies in developing a reliable asteroid detector and navigating the bureaucratic…
Physicists in China and Austria have made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of quantum mechanics, calculating the effect of entanglement on the emission time of photoelectrons. Their research reveals counter-intuitive predictions that could be tested using improved free-electron lasers. The study focuses on the photoelectric effect, where photons interact with electrons in atoms, and…
A recent study in Ecuador has revealed that the spread of dengue fever is not limited to urban areas, as previously thought. In fact, the disease is spreading rapidly in rural areas with high population density, where access to government services and amenities is limited. This misunderstanding of what constitutes an urban or rural area…
A team of researchers from Seoul National University, Stanford University, and the Korea Institute of Science and Technology has made a groundbreaking discovery in camera technology. They have developed a metasurface-based folded lens system that enables unprecedented manipulation of light, paving the way for the creation of slimline cameras for use in smartphones and augmented/virtual…
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNA molecules that play a crucial role in regulating gene expression. Several companies are advancing candidates relying on miRNAs in 2024, with potential applications in disease diagnosis and treatment. Companies such as aceRNA Technologies, ARTHEx Biotech, and Transcode Therapeutics are developing innovative miRNA-based therapeutics for various diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular…
United States Securities and Exchange Commission Chair Gary Gensler will step down on January 20, marking the end of his ambitious tenure that saw him clash with Wall Street and the crypto industry. Gensler’s departure comes as the agency faces intense pushback from Wall Street and congressional Republicans over his sweeping agenda to boost transparency,…
