Author - Ngoma Manuel

The Emergence of JN.1: A New COVID-19 Variant and its Implications

JN.1 has its origins in the Omicron variant. Credit: Unsplash.The JN.1 variant of COVID-19 has recently captured attention after being highlighted in a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This highly mutated strain, a descendant of Omicron's BA.2.86 (Pirola) variant, shows signs of emergence in Europe and the United States,...

A Breakthrough Discovery: Oxygen Atoms Unveiled in Venus’ Dayside Atmosphere

Planet Venus. Credit: Unsplash.For the first time, oxygen atoms have been identified in the dayside atmosphere of Venus, free from being part of larger molecules. This revelation not only marks a significant advancement in our understanding of Venus but also paves the way for future missions to the enigmatic planet.Revised TextFor the first time...

Kepler Discovers a New System of 7 Planets

Seven Sweltering Worlds - A Glimpse of the Kepler-385 System. Credit: NASA/Daniel RutterNASA's Kepler missions have concluded, but astronomers persist in refining their data, leading to remarkable discoveries in exoplanets. Among these findings is identifying the hottest seven-planet system, facilitated by meticulous data analysis.A Fiery Star at the Center: Kepler-385At the heart of this...

Unveiling the Rice Washing Dilemma: To Wash or Not to Wash?

Washing the rice. Credit:  Teste Cooking.Rice is a staple food for billions of people in Asia and Africa. It's also a versatile ingredient for many iconic dishes worldwide, including Greece's dolmades, Italy's risottos, Spain's paella, and the UK's rice puddings. In this publication, we'll unravel the scientific dilemma of whether or not to wash...

Breaking Down Breast Cancer: Targeting PTPRD with Antibodies

Developed through collaboration between graduate student Zhe Qian and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory's Antibody & Phage Display Shared Resource, the synthetic antibody RD-43 shows potential in halting the progression of breast cancer by degrading the PTPRD enzyme. Image credit: Tonks lab/Cold Spring Harbor LaboratoryAn enzyme that may help some breast cancers spread can be...

Advancing Quantum Computing: Extending Coherence Time for Charge Qubits

Credit: TS2 Space.Coherence stands as a pillar of effective communication, whether it is in writing, speaking, or information processing. This principle extends to quantum bits or qubits, the building blocks of quantum computing.A Quantum Leap in Coherence TimeA team led by the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Argonne National Laboratory has achieved a significant...

GAC’s Groundbreaking Ammonia-Powered Engine: A Glimpse into the Future of Automotive Propulsion

Credit: carscoops.Chinese automaker GAC (Guangzhou Automobile Group) recently unveiled an innovative combustion engine that runs on liquid ammonia in collaboration with Toyota.This breakthrough explores an unconventional alternative to traditional fossil fuels, promising a more sustainable and environmentally friendly driving experience.The Ammonia-Powered EngineAt its annual technology showcase, GAC introduced a remarkable 2.0-liter engine designed to...

Discovering Ammonia’s Potential as a Fuel

An economic cycle of ammonia from production to utilization. Credit: Wiley Online Library.As the world strives to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and make the transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy sources, alternative fuels have been at the forefront of innovation. Among these alternatives, ammonia, a common industrial chemical, has been gaining attention...

Revolutionizing Object Interaction: StructCode’s Novel Approach

In a world where innovation often centers around entirely new materials and manufacturing techniques, StructCode presents a novel approach to unlocking hidden potential within everyday objects. Crafted by researchers at MIT, this ingenious concept combines laser-cutting techniques with common materials like wood to store data discreetly within object joints and living hinges.The Superman Analogy: A...

Unlocking Uranium from Oceans: How Rare-Earth Metal Could Simplify and Economize Extraction

Uranium stone, a very radioactive element. Credit: RHJPhtotos/Istockphoto.Discovering uranium in 1789 initially led to its application as a colorant in pottery. However, over time, it has transitioned into a coveted resource, serving the nuclear energy industry and medical field. This transformation underscores its increasing importance and utility.Abundance and Detection AdvantageUranium, more abundant than gold,...