Science and Technology Roundup: Caterpillars, AI Viruses, and Boeing Hacks
A compilation of recent scientific discoveries, technological advancements, and security developments.
Quick Look
Recent developments spanning various scientific and technological fields include research on caterpillar hearing, AI-generated viruses, space health monitoring, drug-resistant malaria, gut health links to Alzheimer's, laser drone defense, Boeing hacking devices, Martian moon probes, ICE shock gloves, and data center robots.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
A collection of headlines and short summaries highlighting various ongoing technological and scientific advancements.
Scientists Put Caterpillars in an Ultraquiet Chamber to Learn How They Hear Without Ears
The research could do more than help unlock the mystery of caterpillar hearing. It could also help make microphones better.
Scientists Used AI to Create 16 New Viruses
The use of AI systems to create viruses opens up new possibilities for combating bacterial resistance. It also raises concerns about the pace at which technology is outstripping regulation.
Space Agencies Are Trying to Keep Astronauts From Losing Their Sight
A device currently being used to help octogenarians do self-administered eye exams could be part of future space missions to monitor astronauts’ ocular health.
A Mutation Is Making It Easier for Drug-Resistant Malaria to Spread
New findings shed light on what’s making the parasite less treatable using the drug that’s considered a first line of defense.
There’s a New Link Between Gut Health and Alzheimer’s Disease
Researchers found that a metabolite produced by gut bacteria can weaken the barrier that protects the brain and promote changes associated with the cognitive disease.
Using High-Energy Laser, US Shoots Down Drones Near Mexico Border
The US Army’s laser system is part of a new generation of directed-energy weapons capable of detecting, tracking, and destroying drones with a concentrated beam of light.
This Coin-Sized Device Can Hack a Boeing 737
Security researchers found that in less than 60 seconds, they could open a hatch on a plane’s exterior, plug in a tiny device, and redirect the aircraft’s autopilot or sabotage its flight plan.
Japan Is Launching a Probe to Collect the First-Ever Samples From a Martian Moon
The mission to Phobos, Japan’s first Mars probe launch in 28 years, may reveal new information about our closest planetary neighbor.
The Painful Truth of Exactly How ICE’s New Shock Gloves Work
ICE is spending millions on shock gloves designed to overpower subjects through intense, localized pain.
Inside Meta’s Push to Put Robots to Work in Data Centers
The company is testing robots that can swap cables, reset servers, and take on other tasks performed by technicians, fueling concerns among some workers that their jobs could be at risk.
I Saw the Future of AI in a Robot That Can Learn on the Spot
During a recent visit to Generalist AI, I watched a robotic arm improvise and use a banana as a tool.
Open Questions
- How will regulations catch up with AI-generated virus research?
- What measures will Boeing take to address the hacking vulnerability?
