Researchers Discover Nanoparticle-Based Method to Neutralize Coronaviruses

Hello and welcome to our January 31st edition. The STEAM Digest is a curated newsletter that brings you the latest news in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.

In today’s edition:

• Science - New Biochemical Heat Engine Challenges Thermodynamic Limits, and more.

• Materials - Researchers Discover Nanoparticle-Based Method to Neutralize Coronaviruses, and more.

• Biotechnology - Scientists Develop Light-Based Method to Identify Viruses by Their Vibrations.

• Engineering & Technology - Flexible Membrane Wings Could Revolutionize Drone and Energy Technologies, and more.

• Health & Medicine - Nanoflower-Coated Bandages Show Promise for Wound Healing, and more.

• Neuroscience - Brain Noise May Enhance Memory Stability, Columbia Study Finds, and more.

• Environment - Constructed Wetlands Capture Carbon but Lose Efficiency Over Time, and more.

• Nature - Polar Bear Population Decline in Hudson Bay Directly Linked to Shrinking Sea Ice, and more.

• Other Sciences & The Arts - Scientists Call for Improved Measurement Literacy in Scientific Discourse.

Until Tomorrow,

~The STEAM Digest

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SCIENCE

New Biochemical Heat Engine Challenges Thermodynamic Limits: A groundbreaking study suggests that it may be possible to design a heat engine that achieves both maximum power output and Carnot efficiency—an achievement long thought to be impossible due to fundamental thermodynamic constraints. Researchers developed a biochemical heat engine incorporating energy states with high degeneracy, allowing for more efficient energy conversion. By leveraging phase transitions and collective molecular behavior, the model breaks traditional efficiency-power trade-offs, a principle that has governed heat engines since the Industrial Revolution. Their findings challenge the widely accepted "1/2-universality principle," which states that heat engines can only reach half the Carnot efficiency at maximum power. The discovery could have major implications for designing highly efficient biological and artificial energy systems, particularly in ATP synthesis and future energy-harvesting technologies.

Researchers Develop Bone Marrow-on-a-Chip to Advance Medicine and Space Research: Scientists at the University of Pennsylvania and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia have developed a bone marrow-on-a-chip, a bioengineered platform that mimics the human marrow environment. The research enables the generation of functional human blood cells, allowing for advanced studies on bone marrow function, immune response, and drug development. Initially designed to study astronauts' immune systems in space, the chip simulates how bone marrow interacts with other organs, such as the lungs during infection. This breakthrough has potential applications in cancer treatment, regenerative medicine, and space research, as well as in HSC-based cell therapies for blood disorders. Future work will focus on expanding stem cell capabilities for therapeutic use.

Breakthrough in Controlled Kelvin Wave Excitation in Superfluid Helium-4:
A recent study has unveiled the first controlled method to excite and observe Kelvin waves in superfluid helium-4. Kelvin waves—spiral-shaped oscillations along vortex lines first theorized by Lord Kelvin in 1880—are crucial for understanding energy dissipation in quantum systems but have long eluded controlled experimental observation. In the study, researchers from Kyoto University, led by Associate Prof. Yosuke Minowa, created silicon nanoparticles within superfluid helium at 1.4 Kelvin. These particles became trapped in the vortex cores, making the vortex filaments visible. By applying a time-varying electric field to these nanoparticles, the team induced forced oscillations that propagated as helical waves along the vortices. Detailed 3D reconstructions of the waves confirmed their left-handed helical structure and provided clear evidence that the observed oscillations were indeed Kelvin waves. This novel experimental approach not only enhances the understanding of quantum fluid dynamics but also opens new avenues for investigating similar phenomena in other quantum systems.

MATERIALS

Researchers Discover Nanoparticle-Based Method to Neutralize Coronaviruses: Scientists have discovered a novel way to neutralize coronaviruses and other membrane-enveloped viruses using mineral nanoparticles. The study reveals that nanoparticles of titanium oxide and similar minerals bind strongly to viral membranes, causing structural damage and preventing infection. Unlike previous antiviral nanotechnology approaches that required UV activation, this method works at room temperature and in the dark, making it highly effective for coating surfaces, filtering air and water, and developing antiviral sprays. The researchers confirmed that the nanoparticles are safe for human cells, opening doors for cost-effective disinfection strategies in healthcare and emergency settings.

Researchers Develop Wearable Sensors for Real-Time Air Quality Monitoring: Scientists have developed a flexible, low-cost sensor technology for wearable air quality monitors capable of detecting hazardous gases, particularly nitrogen dioxide (NO₂). The study leverages 2D material networks on flexible PET substrates to enable real-time pollution monitoring in wearable devices such as smartwatches and clothing. NO₂, a harmful pollutant emitted from fuel combustion and industrial sources, poses severe health risks, including respiratory issues. Current NO₂ sensors are costly and impractical for widespread use, but this breakthrough in sensor technology offers a scalable, affordable solution for personal air quality monitoring. The urgency of such technology is underscored by increasing wildfire emissions and growing concerns over global air pollution.

BIOTECHNOLOGY

Scientists Develop Light-Based Method to Identify Viruses by Their Vibrations: Researchers at Michigan State University have developed an all-optical technique called BioSonics spectroscopy to detect and identify viruses based on their unique vibrational frequencies. The study demonstrates how firing extremely small amounts of light at individual viruses causes them to emit distinct vibrational patterns, which can be detected and used for identification. Each virus type vibrates in a unique way, allowing for precise identification even among similar nanoscale particles. This breakthrough could lead to advanced sensors capable of detecting airborne viruses in real time and provide insights into virus assembly, potentially improving our understanding of viral behavior and aiding in disease control.

Scientists Develop Breakthrough Tool to Predict Protein-Metal Interactions: Researchers at Durham University have developed a metalation calculator, a pioneering tool that accurately predicts how proteins bind to metals inside cells. The study provides blueprints for engineering biological metalation processes, a breakthrough with major implications for biotechnology and sustainable manufacturing. The team discovered that metalation is not automatic and depends on intracellular metal availability, as demonstrated by a cyanobacterial manganese-binding protein that mistakenly bound iron when introduced into E. coli. By refining metal availability, scientists can better engineer biological systems for applications in pharmaceuticals, environmental biotechnology, and biofuel production. This discovery lays the groundwork for more efficient and predictable bioengineering strategies.

ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY

Flexible Membrane Wings Could Revolutionize Drone and Energy Technologies: Researchers at EPFL’s Unsteady Flow Diagnostics Laboratory have discovered that flexible membrane wings, inspired by bat flight, generate more lift than rigid wings without relying on leading-edge vortices. Their findings reveal that airflow naturally follows the curvature of the membrane, reducing separation and increasing efficiency. By experimenting with a silicone-based deformable membrane, the team demonstrated that precise flexibility is key—too much or too little curvature reduces performance. This breakthrough has potential applications in small drone design, allowing for more efficient hovering and payload capacity. Additionally, the findings could enhance energy-harvesting technologies, such as wind turbines and tidal current systems, by improving aerodynamics through controlled wing deformation.

Light-Controlled Microrobots Mimic Water Striders for Environmental and Medical Applications: Inspired by the movement of water striders, researchers at the University of Waterloo have developed tiny, light-controlled robots capable of gliding on water. The study details how these robots use liquid crystal elastomers to change shape in response to ultraviolet (UV) or visible light, altering surface tension to steer and propel themselves—similar to how insects move on water. Additionally, protein-based chemical motors, inspired by squid suction cups, enable the robots to absorb and release chemical fuel, providing propulsion without the need for external motors or tethers. Potential applications include autonomous environmental cleanup, such as microplastic removal, and biomedical uses, such as targeted drug delivery or minimally invasive procedures. Future research aims to develop 3D robots that navigate underwater and explore alternative propulsion methods like magnetic fields.

Study Reveals How Neutron Radiation Affects Concrete Longevity in Nuclear Reactors: Researchers from the University of Tokyo have uncovered new insights into how neutron radiation affects the structural integrity of concrete in nuclear reactors. Their findings show that quartz, a common component of concrete, exhibits a self-healing ability under prolonged exposure to radiation, potentially extending the operational lifespan of reactors. The study revealed that quartz expansion depends on both total radiation dose and dose rate, with slower exposure allowing time for structural recovery. Additionally, larger quartz crystals showed less expansion, suggesting that degradation may be less severe than previously thought. These discoveries could lead to improved materials selection and design for future nuclear power plants, as well as applications in extraterrestrial construction.

HEALTH & MEDICINE

Nanoflower-Coated Bandages Show Promise for Wound Healing: Researchers have developed a nanostructured bandage using carnation-like nanoflowers made of copper(II) phosphate and tannic acid, which exhibit antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and biocompatible properties. The study demonstrates that these nanoflower-coated dressings effectively eliminate a broad spectrum of bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant biofilms, while also scavenging harmful reactive oxygen species. The nanoflowers' large surface area allows for efficient drug delivery, making them a promising option for infection control and wound healing. This innovative approach could lead to cost-effective, natural, and highly effective wound care treatments in the future.

Engineered Asparaginase Could Revolutionize Pediatric Leukemia Treatment: Scientists have developed a modified version of asparaginase, a key enzyme used to treat acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the most common pediatric blood cancer. Traditional asparaginase, derived from bacteria, can cause severe side effects, including blood clots, liver damage, and immune reactions. By redesigning the enzyme from a guinea pig source and "humanizing" it through protein engineering, the UIC team created a more stable, longer-lasting version with fewer toxic effects. Their research shows that the novel enzyme successfully eliminated leukemia cells in mice without the side effects of conventional treatment. Additionally, it demonstrated potential for treating other cancers, including melanoma and liver cancer. With backing from the National Cancer Institute, the enzyme is advancing toward clinical trials, offering hope for a safer, more effective cancer therapy.

Scientists Discover Regulatory T Cells That Regenerate the Thymus After Damage: Researchers at City of Hope and international collaborators have identified a new type of regulatory T cell (Treg) that can migrate back to the thymus and promote its regeneration after damage caused by aging, stress, or cancer treatments. The study reveals that these Tregs secrete amphiregulin, a growth factor that aids in thymic repair and boosts immune function. By testing their findings in both mice and human tissue samples, the scientists demonstrated that this regenerative process could restore thymic function even in older subjects, offering potential therapeutic applications for cancer patients and individuals with weakened immune systems. The discovery paves the way for new approaches in immune system recovery, including Treg-based cell therapies and synthetic biology modifications to enhance thymic regeneration.

NEUROSCIENCE

Brain Noise May Enhance Memory Stability, Columbia Study Finds: Researchers at Columbia Engineering have discovered that the brain may utilize random fluctuations in neural activity to enhance memory stability rather than hinder it. The study challenges traditional views by demonstrating that random noise slows the weakening of inhibitory neuron connections, thereby stabilizing memory-related neural patterns. The findings suggest that noise plays a crucial role in cognitive function. This insight could inspire more resilient artificial intelligence systems and deepen our understanding of neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s and ADHD. The research may also enhance neuro-stimulation techniques for improving memory in patients with cognitive impairments.

Study Reveals Unified Brain Network for Recognition Memory: Researchers at Northwestern Medicine have discovered that two brain networks previously considered separate—the parietal memory network and the salience network—are actually closely linked and form a single, unified system involved in recognition memory. The study used high-resolution fMRI imaging to show strong correlations between these networks, challenging previous assumptions that they function independently. By recognizing these networks as a single entity, researchers suggest that neurocognitive treatments, such as neuromodulation for conditions like major depressive disorder, could be expanded to target different parts of this unified network for potentially greater therapeutic effects.

Brain Imaging Reveals How We Predict Others' Choices in Decision-Making: Researchers at the RIKEN Center for Brain Science have identified key brain regions involved in predicting others' choices and incorporating those predictions into decision-making. Using functional MRI (fMRI), participants played a decision-making game where their rewards depended on their own choices and those of another participant. The study found that the amygdala is particularly active when adjusting decisions based on predicted responses from others. Additionally, the posterior cingulate cortex and right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex process the likelihood of others' choices, helping to determine optimal actions for personal gain. These findings provide insights into the neural mechanisms underlying social decision-making, with potential implications for understanding cooperative and competitive behaviors. Future research will explore more complex social interactions.

ENVIRONMENT

Constructed Wetlands Capture Carbon but Lose Efficiency Over Time: A new study reveals that while constructed wetlands effectively sequester carbon in their early years, their ability to do so diminishes as they mature. Researchers at The Ohio State University analyzed nearly three decades of data from the Schiermeier Olentangy River Wetland Research Park, finding that carbon sequestration peaked within the first 15 years before stabilizing. Despite this decline, constructed wetlands still outperform many ecosystems in carbon storage and provide critical environmental benefits such as water purification and flood mitigation. With natural wetlands disappearing due to urbanization and agriculture, the study underscores the need for increased wetland restoration and creation to help combat climate change. Future research will examine plant community dynamics and methane emissions to better understand the long-term role of artificial wetlands as carbon sinks.

Diversified Carbon Removal Strategies Key to Achieving Climate Goals: A study by MIT’s Center for Sustainability Science and Strategy finds that a diversified carbon dioxide removal (CDR) portfolio is the most effective way to achieve net-zero emissions and limit global warming to 1.5°C. Researchers evaluated five CDR methods—BECCS, afforestation, DACCS, biochar, and enhanced weathering—finding that combining multiple approaches minimizes costs and land use impacts. BECCS and biochar were identified as the most cost-effective, while DACCS remains too energy-intensive. The study emphasizes the need for region-specific strategies and immediate policy action to avoid rising carbon costs.

Optimizing Reference Heights Improves Earth System Model Predictions: A study by researchers has found that selecting optimal reference heights improves the accuracy of Earth system models (ESMs) in predicting surface-atmosphere interactions. Traditionally, ESMs use arbitrarily chosen heights (10–50m) for computing surface turbulent fluxes, but this research shows that reference heights near the top of the surface layer yield more accurate estimates. By iteratively refining reference heights to minimize wind gradient deviations, the study demonstrated improved calculations of momentum and heat fluxes, which are critical for weather and climate modeling. The findings could help refine surface flux computations in future high-resolution ESM applications, enhancing hydrometeorology and atmospheric forecasting.

NATURE

Polar Bear Population Decline in Hudson Bay Directly Linked to Shrinking Sea Ice: A study by researchers at the University of Toronto Scarborough has directly linked the decline of Western Hudson Bay’s polar bear population to shrinking sea ice caused by climate change. Using a bio-energetic model, the study demonstrates how reduced hunting time on sea ice leads to energy deficits, impacting reproduction, cub survival, and overall population numbers. Since 1979, the polar bear population in this region has declined by nearly 50%, with adult females and cubs experiencing significant weight loss. The study highlights that fewer cubs are being born, and those that do survive face higher mortality rates due to insufficient maternal milk production. As the Arctic warms four times faster than the global average, researchers warn that similar declines could occur in other polar bear populations worldwide.

New Kentucky Bluegrass Variety Offers Higher Yields Without Burning: Researchers at Washington State University have developed "Matchless," a new variety of Kentucky bluegrass that provides higher seed yields without the need for field burning, a practice banned in Washington and Oregon due to environmental concerns. The study highlights how Matchless, derived from the Kenblue variety, offers a more sustainable and cost-effective option for growers. Washington produces 80% of the world’s Kentucky bluegrass seed, and the new variety provides an environmentally friendly alternative that maintains the durability, uniform color, and self-repairing qualities of traditional Kentucky bluegrass. Currently, Fusion Seed Company and Clearwater Seed Inc. are scaling up production to incorporate Matchless into future seed mixes.

Rising Global Temperatures Linked to Declining Bird Populations in Remote Forests: A study by researchers from Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas da Amazônia, Michigan Technologic University, and the University of Oregon reveals a strong correlation between increasing global temperatures and declining bird populations in remote forests. By analyzing decades of data from Brazil’s Biological Dynamics of Forest Fragments Project, the study found that rising temperatures have altered local ecosystems, making them less hospitable to bird species. Drier seasons caused by warming have reduced the survivability of 24 out of 29 studied bird species, with a 1°C increase in temperature leading to a 63% drop in survival rates. The findings highlight how even subtle climate changes disrupt nesting, food availability, and breeding cycles, exacerbating population decline. This research underscores the urgency of addressing climate change to protect vulnerable wildlife.

OTHER SCIENCES & THE ARTS

Scientists Call for Improved Measurement Literacy in Scientific Discourse: A new essay published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences warns of the risks posed by poor measurement literacy in science and public policy. Lead author Arthur Paul Pedersen, a faculty research scientist at CUNY’s CREST Institute, argues that misunderstandings in measurement impact experimental design, theory validation, and decision-making in fields ranging from public health to economics. The paper highlights historical consequences of measurement failures, such as the American eugenics movement and the 2008 financial crisis, emphasizing the need for systemic reform in measurement education. The authors call for renewed efforts to improve measurement literacy to address issues like the reproducibility crisis and to enhance scientific communication and policy decisions.