Injectable HIV Drug Marks Breakthrough
A new injectable drug named lenacapavir is showing remarkable promise in the fight against HIV. With just one injection providing protection for six months, lenacapavir targets the structure and function of HIV’s capsid protein. The prestigious journal Science recently hailed this development as the “Breakthrough of the Year,” calling it a pivotal step toward diminishing HIV/AIDS as a global health crisis.
Unveiling the Mystery of Io’s Volcanoes
Scientists from NASA’s Juno mission have made a groundbreaking discovery about Jupiter’s moon Io, the most volcanically active body in our solar system. With around 400 volcanoes, Io has puzzled scientists for decades. The new findings reveal that each volcano is powered by its own chamber of roiling hot magma, rather than a global magma ocean as previously thought. This solves a 44-year-old mystery about the moon’s fiery features.
Astro Bot Takes Home Game of the Year at TGA 2024
At The Game Awards 2024, the industry witnessed a surprising victory as Astro Bot was crowned Game of the Year. The PlayStation 5 title edged out strong competition, including Black Myth: Wukong, the first Chinese game to be nominated in the top category. The win sparked mixed reactions among gamers. While some questioned Astro Bot’s creativity and sales figures compared to its competitors, others praised its quality and engaging gameplay.
Quantum Computing Leaps Forward with Willow
In a significant advancement for quantum computing, Google’s parent company Alphabet introduced a new generation chip called “Willow.” This chip can perform “below threshold” quantum calculations, solving in five minutes what would take existing supercomputers longer than the history of the universe. Alphabet claims Willow could help overcome key challenges in quantum computing, though some scientists remain skeptical about its future applications.
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Science Saturday: HIV drug, Jovian moon's volcanoes and more
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