Science Saturday: Discoveries in HIV Treatment, Volcanic Activity on a Jovian Moon, and Additional Insights
Science Saturday features discussions on a new HIV drug breakthrough, the volcanic activity of a Jovian moon, and other intriguing scientific topics.
TroibNews 
This week has brought noteworthy advancements across various sectors, showcasing a promising HIV preventative, uncovering answers regarding Io's volcanoes, announcing the year’s top video game, and reporting substantial progress in quantum computing.
**Injectable HIV Drug**
An injectable HIV drug has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in preventing infection. The drug, known as lenacapavir, specifically targets the structure and function of HIV's capsid protein, providing protection for up to six months with just one injection. Last week, the journal *Science* recognized its development as the "Breakthrough of the Year," emphasizing that lenacapavir represents "a pivotal step toward diminishing HIV/AIDS as a global health crisis."
**Jovian Moon's Volcanoes**
A recent discovery has shed light on the enduring volcanic activity on Jupiter's third largest moon, Io. Known for being the most volcanically active body in the solar system, Io is home to approximately 400 volcanoes. Scientists involved in NASA's Juno mission have uncovered that each of these volcanoes is likely fueled by individual chambers of bubbling hot magma, rather than relying on a single magma ocean. This revelation addresses a 44-year-old mystery concerning the subsurface origins of Io's most prominent geological features.
**The Game Awards 2024**
The title of game of the year has been awarded to Astro Bot. At The Game Awards 2024, the premier event in the video game industry, the PlayStation 5 title triumphed over five other contenders, one of which was Black Myth: Wukong, marking it as the first Chinese game to be nominated in the top category. The outcome has elicited mixed reactions among gamers; some believe Astro Bot lacks distinctive creativity and has lower sales compared to Black Myth: Wukong, while others concede its quality as a casual game but remain surprised by its win.
**Quantum Computing**
Significant progress has been made in quantum computing with the introduction of a new generation chip called "Willow" by Google parent company Alphabet. They assert that Willow can perform "below threshold" quantum calculations. Notably, it can resolve a problem in just five minutes that would take a conventional supercomputer longer than the entire history of the universe. The company contends this breakthrough could help address a major challenge in quantum computing, though some scientists remain skeptical about Willow's practical capabilities in future applications.
Ian Smith contributed to this report for TROIB News
**Injectable HIV Drug**
An injectable HIV drug has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in preventing infection. The drug, known as lenacapavir, specifically targets the structure and function of HIV's capsid protein, providing protection for up to six months with just one injection. Last week, the journal *Science* recognized its development as the "Breakthrough of the Year," emphasizing that lenacapavir represents "a pivotal step toward diminishing HIV/AIDS as a global health crisis."
**Jovian Moon's Volcanoes**
A recent discovery has shed light on the enduring volcanic activity on Jupiter's third largest moon, Io. Known for being the most volcanically active body in the solar system, Io is home to approximately 400 volcanoes. Scientists involved in NASA's Juno mission have uncovered that each of these volcanoes is likely fueled by individual chambers of bubbling hot magma, rather than relying on a single magma ocean. This revelation addresses a 44-year-old mystery concerning the subsurface origins of Io's most prominent geological features.
**The Game Awards 2024**
The title of game of the year has been awarded to Astro Bot. At The Game Awards 2024, the premier event in the video game industry, the PlayStation 5 title triumphed over five other contenders, one of which was Black Myth: Wukong, marking it as the first Chinese game to be nominated in the top category. The outcome has elicited mixed reactions among gamers; some believe Astro Bot lacks distinctive creativity and has lower sales compared to Black Myth: Wukong, while others concede its quality as a casual game but remain surprised by its win.
**Quantum Computing**
Significant progress has been made in quantum computing with the introduction of a new generation chip called "Willow" by Google parent company Alphabet. They assert that Willow can perform "below threshold" quantum calculations. Notably, it can resolve a problem in just five minutes that would take a conventional supercomputer longer than the entire history of the universe. The company contends this breakthrough could help address a major challenge in quantum computing, though some scientists remain skeptical about Willow's practical capabilities in future applications.
Ian Smith contributed to this report for TROIB News
