Two lifeforms merge in once-in-a-billion-years evolutionary event

[New Atlas logo]( Biology [Two lifeforms merge in once-in-a-billion-years evolutionary event]( [The algae Braarudosphaera bigelowii has been found to have absorbed a cyanobacteria called UCYN-A, which may be a huge step forward for evolution]( Scientists have discovered that a once-in-a-billion-years evolutionary event is underway, as two lifeforms have merged into one organism that boasts abilities its peers would envy. Last time this happened, Earth got plants. [Read more]( Special Promotion for New Atlas Readers [MS Office Professional 2021 for Windows is just $56]( In today’s fast-moving environment, having reliable tools is a must. Microsoft Office Professional 2021 can enhance productivity at home or at work, and a lifetime license is available for just $55.99 with the code ENJOY20 through April 21. [Read more]( Robotics [Video: Boston Dynamics unveils stronger, more capable electric Atlas robot]( [The all-electric Atlas humanoid robot was announced this Wednesday (Apr. 17th)]( Boston Dynamics has unveiled a stronger, more agile, fully electric version of its Atlas humanoid robot. The kinda creepy-looking thing is already slated to enter use on Hyundai's automotive production line. [Read more]( Architecture [Carbon-capturing concrete walls conceal a quirky Japanese house]( [The Block-Wall House is located in Karuizawa, in Japan's Nagano Prefecture]( The production of concrete is a major contributor to worldwide CO2 emissions, however Nendo showcases a greener alternative with its Block-Wall House, which was part-built using a novel concrete that actually captures carbon-dioxide. [Read more]( Outdoors [SkyNest modular hammock tent works as a whole or in pieces]( [The multi-functional SkyNest is presently on Kickstarter]( The SkyNest combines a hammock, bug mesh net and rainfly in a single package that can be used all together or in its separate components. It's claimed to be roomier than other hammock tents, and easier to set up. [Read more]( Robotics [AI-powered robots can now autonomously repair other bots]( [The Aloha Unleashed manipulator arms set up a robot repair shop, seen here autonomously replacing the gripper of another service robot]( Back in January, researchers showed off the kitchen skills of an open-source Aloha housekeeping robot. Now the Unleashed project gets to grips with knotting shoelaces, hanging shirts and even repairing other robots. [Read more]( Architecture [USA's tallest building approved for Oklahoma City]( [Assuming all goes to plan, the Legends Tower will reach a height of 1,907 ft (581 m)]( Officials have given the thumbs up for a new tallest skyscraper in the United States – and it's not headed for New York City or Chicago, but to a tornado-prone area with a relatively small population: Oklahoma City. [Read more]( Mobile Technology [Hybrid camera system gives your smartphone "super-telephoto" zoom]( [Beaverlab says that the Excope DT1 "pairs cutting-edge optics with advanced digital technology, transforming any smartphone into a high-performance ultra-telephoto camera"]( Tech company Beaverlab has launched a Kickstarter to raise funds for a smart super-telephoto camera called the Excope DT1 that can be had with a 400-mm zoom lens, and works with a smartphone to capture distant imagery. [Read more]( Motorcycles [Arsenale’s "Plan B": lightweight, long-range, 2WD hybrid adventure bike]( [The Arsenale Plan B]( The latest offering from the Arsenale is a lightweight, ultra-long-range, two-wheel-drive, low-power, hybrid gas/electric bike called the Plan B that's designed for wet, slippery, snowy or sandy conditions. [Read more]( Medical [Light-activated propulsion spins bacteria-shredding micromotors]( [A conceptual rendering of the micromotors that can degrade bacterial cell walls, leading to their death]( The four spikes on a new nanocrystal developed in Spain spin up under light and move through liquid, blasting any bacteria unfortunate to be in their path. The development could spell trouble for bacteria that resists traditional drug treatments. [Read more]( Health & Wellbeing [If history repeats, a 100-year heart disease epidemic is on the way]( [Are we heading for a hundred years of heart problems in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic?]( Some researchers suggest the 1918 influenza pandemic caused a wave of heart disease in the 20th century. With new evidence showing the impact of COVID on our hearts, could this recent pandemic be setting us up for another century of cardiac problems? [Read more]( Automotive [Hydrogen combustion engine fires up on road to land speed record run]( [This Ginetta G20 will be reworked into a proper hydrogen-fueled land speed record car]( The latest hydrogen ICE to rumble to life was born with a special mission: claim a land speed record or two for the emerging hydrogen-combustion space. A University of Bath team has successfully gotten its hydrogen-burning prototype working. [Read more]( Aircraft [Video: Boom's XB-1 cleared for supersonic test flights]( [Boom Supersonic's XB-1 prototype has been granted permission to fly at Mach speeds]( Boom has been given permission to go supersonic by the US FAA. The first-ever Special Flight Authorization (SFA) to Exceed Mach means the company's XB-1 prototype will be allowed to break the sound barrier during its test flights. [Read more]( Science [Soft n' supple adhesive gel makes for gentler tracking of squids]( [A captive squid sports a temporary tracker attached via the BIMS interface]( The tracking of squid and other soft-bodied sea creatures may soon be a lot more doable, thanks to a new bioadhesive interface. It's claimed to be much gentler than current attachment methods, while still remaining up to the task. [Read more]( You are receiving this email because you signed up for our daily newsletter at [newatlas.com]( (or [gizmag.com]( before August 2016). 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