News
Groundbreaking Discovery: First Nitrogen-Fixing Organelle Identified in Eukaryotic Cells
An international team of researchers has made a monumental breakthrough in biology by discovering the first known nitrogen-fixing organelle within a eukaryotic cell, challenging long-held beliefs that only bacteria could perform this essential function.
This organelle, termed a “nitroplast,” represents only the fourth instance of primary endosymbiosis documented—a pivotal process where a prokaryotic cell becomes part of a eukaryotic cell, evolving into an organelle.
The discovery was detailed in two recent papers, with significant contributions from Tyler Coale, a postdoctoral scholar at UC Santa Cruz. “This finding rewrites the textbooks, as it’s an event that has shaped complex life throughout Earth’s history, similar to the development of mitochondria and chloroplasts,” Coale explained.
The nitroplast was identified within marine algae where the UCYN-A, a type of cyanobacterium previously thought to be just a closely associated symbiont, has co-evolved with its algal host beyond mere symbiosis.
This relationship was first hinted at in 1998 when Jonathan Zehr, a distinguished professor of marine sciences at UC Santa Cruz, discovered a mysterious DNA sequence in Pacific Ocean seawater. It took decades of subsequent research and collaboration to understand the true nature of UCYN-A.
Recent studies published in Cell and Science journals confirm the integration of UCYN-A into the algal host, exhibiting classic organelle characteristics. These include synchronized growth with the host cell, the importation of proteins from the host, and inheritance patterns akin to other organelles. “The nitroplast scales with its host cell similar to how mitochondria and chloroplasts function within their eukaryotic cells,” Zehr added.
This evolution seems to have occurred around 100 million years ago, providing a relatively recent example of organellogenesis compared to the ancient origins of mitochondria and chloroplasts. The nitroplast’s ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen is crucial, especially considering its widespread presence in tropical to Arctic oceans, highlighting its significant ecological role.
Moreover, this discovery holds promising implications for agriculture by potentially offering new methods to naturally integrate nitrogen fixation into crops, thus reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers which are a major source of global CO2 emissions.
As research continues, the scientific community anticipates further insights into UCYN-A and its integration as a nitroplast, hoping to uncover more such evolutionary phenomena in other organisms. Kendra Turk-Kubo, assistant professor at UC Santa Cruz, will further this research in her new laboratory, aiming to deepen understanding of natural nitrogen fixation and its applications.
Games
AMD Ryzen 7 9700X Performance Boost with DDR5-8000: A Preliminary Look
The AMD Ryzen 7 9700X, part of AMD’s latest 9000 series, has been paired with Corsair’s Vengeance 2x16GB DDR5-8000 DIMMs to explore the potential performance gains from using higher-speed memory. This initial analysis gives us a glimpse into how DDR5-8000 compares to DDR5-6000 in real-world applications, setting the stage for more in-depth testing in the future.
Testing Setup and Configuration
The testing for the AMD Ryzen 7 9700X was conducted using Corsair Vengeance 2x16GB DDR5-8000 DIMMs (model CMH32GX5M2X8000C36) on an ASUS ROG STRIX X670-E GAMING WIFI motherboard. The memory modules were configured to run at their rated speed of DDR5-8000 with timings of 36-48-48-98 at 1.5V. For comparison, the system was also tested with G Skill F5-6000J3038F16G DDR5-6000 DIMMs, which were configured at 30-38-38-96 timings at 1.35V.
This setup allowed a direct comparison between DDR5-6000 and DDR5-8000 memory, highlighting the impact of higher memory speeds on the Ryzen 7 9700X’s performance.
Initial Observations and Performance
The testing was conducted on an Ubuntu 24.04 LTS system running the Linux 6.10 kernel, utilizing a mix of synthetic and real-world benchmarks. These tests aimed to determine whether the increased bandwidth from DDR5-8000 memory could deliver tangible performance improvements, especially considering the 1:2 UCLK ratio needed to achieve these higher speeds.
The Corsair Vengeance DDR5-8000 modules ran smoothly on the Ryzen 7 9700X system, indicating good compatibility despite the modules being primarily advertised for Intel 700 Series motherboards. The ease of setup through DOCP (Direct Overclock Profile) allowed for a straightforward comparison between the DDR5-6000 and DDR5-8000 configurations.
Benchmark Results
The benchmarks revealed that while DDR5-8000 offers greater bandwidth, the performance gains were more nuanced. In certain synthetic benchmarks, the higher memory speed provided a noticeable improvement, particularly in tasks that heavily rely on memory bandwidth. However, in real-world workloads, the benefits were less pronounced, with some applications showing only marginal gains.
One key factor is the UCLK ratio. Running at 1:2 instead of 1:1, which is required for DDR5-8000 speeds, may offset some of the potential performance improvements by introducing latency. This trade-off is something to consider for users looking to maximize performance in specific tasks.
What’s Next?
This preliminary analysis provides a snapshot of what DDR5-8000 memory can offer when paired with the Ryzen 7 9700X. However, it’s clear that more comprehensive testing, including additional benchmarks and comparisons with other DIMM kits, is needed to fully understand the impact of high-speed memory on AMD’s new Zen 5 architecture.
Artificial Intelligence
Galaxy AI to Expand to Mid-Range Galaxy A Phones in 2024
Exciting news for Galaxy A phone users! Samsung is set to bring its innovative Galaxy AI technology to select mid-range Galaxy A models in 2024. This expansion will start with the Galaxy A35 and Galaxy A55, according to sources from SamMobile.
Limited Galaxy AI Features for Galaxy A35 and A55
While this is a significant move, it’s important to note that not all Galaxy AI features will be available on these mid-range devices. Samsung has yet to specify which AI tools will be included, but features requiring substantial on-device processing power will likely be omitted.
The rollout of Galaxy AI to the Galaxy A35 and A55 is expected to happen through the One UI 6.1.1 update, which could arrive as early as this month or next. However, there is no confirmed release date.
Current Availability and Limitations
As of now, the most affordable Galaxy AI-enabled phone available is the Galaxy S23 FE. Even this model does not include all the AI features found in the original Galaxy AI suite for the Galaxy S24 series, such as Instant Slow-Mo.
Despite hardware similarities, older Galaxy A models like the Galaxy A54, which shares the Exynos 1380 SoC with the Galaxy A35, are not confirmed to receive Galaxy AI. Samsung appears to be focusing on models released in 2024 and later.
Samsung’s AI Ambitions
At Unpacked 2024, Samsung announced its ambition to extend Galaxy AI tools to over 200 million Galaxy devices, including phones, tablets, and wearables. This expansion to mid-range Galaxy A phones is a part of that strategy, aiming to democratize advanced AI features across a broader range of devices.
Summary
Samsung’s Galaxy AI is set to arrive on mid-range Galaxy A phones, starting with the Galaxy A35 and A55, through the One UI 6.1.1 update. While not all AI features will be available, this marks a significant step in making advanced AI technology more accessible. Stay tuned for further updates on the rollout and specific features.
Apps and Software
Reports: Samsung Delays One UI 7.0 Beta Release, Focuses on One UI 6.1.1
If you’re eagerly anticipating the One UI 7.0 beta update for your Galaxy phone, you may need to exercise some patience. According to a recent rumor, the beta program for One UI 7.0 is not expected to launch shortly.
Rumors Indicate Delay
The information comes from a post on X (formerly Twitter) by @UniverseIce, which states, “There are still no plans to launch it [One UI 7.0 beta] shortly.” The source did not provide specific dates, leaving the exact timeline unclear. This contrasts with earlier reports suggesting the One UI 7.0 beta might go live in the third week of August.
Focus Shifts to One UI 6.1.1
According to our sources, Samsung may have delayed the One UI 7.0 beta release to prioritize the rollout of the One UI 6.1.1 update across more devices. One UI 6.1.1 debuted with the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6 during the Unpacked event in July. Despite being a minor update, One UI 6.1.1 is expected to reach older Galaxy foldable phones, Galaxy tablets, and some high-end slab-type phones.
New Features and Improvements
The One UI 6.1.1 update is set to introduce new Galaxy AI features to older flagship phones. However, One UI 7.0 promises to be a more significant release. It is rumored to bring substantial changes to UI elements, new animations, and potentially more extensive Galaxy AI capabilities.
Limited Beta Release
When One UI 7.0 beta eventually launches, it will be available in limited markets and for select devices. If everything proceeds smoothly, the first stable build is expected to roll out before the end of the year.
Conclusion
Samsung’s decision to focus on One UI 6.1.1 indicates a strategic move to enhance the current user experience while preparing for the more extensive changes expected with One UI 7.0. We will keep you updated with any new information regarding the release dates and features of these updates.
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