A message encoded as artificial DNA can be stored within the genomes of multiplying bacteria and then accurately retrieved, US scientists have shown.

Their concern that all current ways of storing information, from paper to electronic memory, can easily be lost or destroyed prompted them to devise a new type of memory - within living organisms.

"A big concern is the protection of valuable information in the case of a nuclear catastrophe," says information technologist Pak Chung Wong, of the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in Washington State. The laboratory was set up as a nuclear energy research institute.

One of the most peculiar and complex natural compounds, which was discovered many years ago inside sea sponges, has become the target of an international competition of sorts. Numerous research groups around the world have attempted to synthesize the elusive chemical Palau’amine in the lab, but, for as long as 17 years, these efforts have been in vain. Finally, a group announces that the goal has been reached, putting an end to the contest. The crown goes to a team of experts at the Scripps Research Institute, who were led by expert Phil Baran, Wired reports.

Did you know that every brain has a soundtrack?

Not only that -- its tone and tempo varies according to your mood, frame of mind and, of course, other features of your brain. Research shows when that soundtrack is recorded and played back to people under stressful jobs, it can sharpen their reflexes.

While a lot of professions can use this knowledge to devise ways in which they can impact cognitive development, learning and emotional well-being of people, the US Homeland Security department is already at it. It is studying a type of neurotraining called "Brain Music".