Scientists Transform Ordinary Liquids into Exotic Light-Manipulating Materials

Hello and welcome to our February 7th 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 - Scientists Transform Ordinary Liquids into Exotic Light-Manipulating Materials, and more.

• Materials - Scientists Develop Recyclable Alternative to Non-Degradable Plastics, and more.

• Biotechnology & Biomedical Technology - Nanotechnology-Based Drug Delivery System Extends Lifespan of Vein Surgeries, and more.

• Engineering & Technology - Self-Powered Wearable Sensor Separates Temperature and Strain Signals for Health Monitoring, and more.

• Astronomy & Space - New Chemotaxis-Based Method Could Aid Search for Extraterrestrial Life, and more.

• Health & Medicine - Excessive Screen Time in Toddlers Linked to Lower Language Development, and more.

• Neuroscience - How the Brain Learns to Influence Immunity: Neural Pathways of Conditioned Immune Responses, and more.

• Environment - 2020 Was the Greenest Year on Record, But Climate Trends, Not Lockdowns, Drove Growth, and more.

• Nature -New Light-Based Technology Boosts Coral Resilience by Enhancing Feeding, Study Reveals Algal Interactions Influencing Harmful Blooms in Coastal Waters, and more.

Until Tomorrow,

~The STEAM Digest

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SCIENCE

Scientists Transform Ordinary Liquids into Exotic Light-Manipulating Materials:
Researchers have demonstrated a new method to transiently convert ordinary liquids—such as water and alcohols—into epsilon-near-zero (ENZ) materials, which alter the speed of light propagation. The study shows that by using intense femtosecond laser pulses, scientists can generate free electrons in a liquid, triggering collective oscillations known as polarons. These oscillations create a condition where light's phase velocity becomes infinite and group velocity approaches zero, a hallmark of ENZ materials. This discovery enables tunable light manipulation in liquids, opening new possibilities for optical communication and sensing technologies.

Researchers Discover Mechanism Protecting Plant Cells from Collapse: A study reveals how plants maintain their structural integrity when cell walls are damaged. Researchers identified a quality control mechanism in Marchantia polymorpha and Arabidopsis thaliana that prevents vacuole rupture, which would otherwise lead to cell death. The study found that cell wall damage triggers ATG8ylation, a process where the molecule ATG8 relocates to the vacuole membrane, helping maintain stability. Disrupting this pathway results in vacuole rupture and cell death. The team aims to further explore how plants detect and respond to cellular damage, with implications for improving plant resilience against environmental stress and pathogens.

Scientists Uncover How an Extreme Alga Optimizes Photosynthesis: Researchers at Michigan State University have studied Cyanidioschyzon merolae (C. merolae), an alga that thrives in the extreme, acidic conditions of Italy’s Phlegraean Fields, to better understand its carbon-concentrating mechanism (CCM). The study reveals that C. merolae lacks many conventional structures associated with CCMs but still efficiently captures carbon for photosynthesis. Using mathematical models, scientists simulated the alga’s carbon uptake process, identifying essential components that could be applied to improve photosynthesis in other organisms. This research could lead to advances in crop engineering and bioenergy production, particularly in extreme environments.

MATERIALS

Scientists Develop Recyclable Alternative to Non-Degradable Plastics:
Researchers at Cornell University have created a bio-based alternative to thermoset plastics, offering a fully recyclable and degradable material that retains the durability of conventional petrochemical-based thermosets. The study introduces a dihydrofuran (DHF)-based polymer that can be tailored for various properties using light exposure. Unlike traditional thermosets, which are non-recyclable and persist in landfills, the DHF material can be chemically recycled with heat and naturally degraded by acid. The breakthrough could revolutionize industries reliant on durable plastics, such as automotive, medical implants, and electronics, promoting a more sustainable circular economy.

Researchers Develop Eco-Friendly Alternative to Petroleum-Based Polyurethane Foams: A Washington State University-led research team has developed a bio-based alternative to petroleum-derived polyurethane foams by incorporating lignin—a renewable plant material extracted from pine. The study shows that replacing 20% of fossil fuel-based chemicals with lignin maintains the strength and flexibility of conventional polyurethane foams. Using an environmentally friendly extraction process, the researchers obtained high-quality, thermally stable lignin, making it suitable for applications in cushions, insulation, adhesives, and coatings. The team is now collaborating with industry partners to optimize and scale up production, paving the way for sustainable plastic alternatives.

Scientists Develop Biosensor to Detect and Extract Rare Earth Elements:
Researchers at the Queensland University of Technology have engineered a biosensor capable of detecting rare earth elements (lanthanides) with high precision. The study details how the team combined a lanthanide-binding protein (LanM) with an antibiotic-degrading enzyme (beta-lactamase) to create a molecular switch that activates only in the presence of lanthanides. This innovation could revolutionize metal detection and extraction by offering a more sustainable and cost-effective method. The team is now refining the biosensor’s specificity and exploring applications for other critical elements, including ocean-based rare earth mineral recovery.

BIOTECHNOLOGY & BIOMEDICAL TECHNOLOGY

Nanotechnology-Based Drug Delivery System Extends Lifespan of Vein Surgeries: A nanotechnology-based hydrogel, Pericelle, developed at UVA Health, has shown unexpectedly long-lasting benefits in preventing vein blockages following revascularization surgeries. The study found that one-time application of Pericelle continued working for at least nine months—far beyond the expected three-month drug supply period. This innovation could reduce repeated surgeries for heart and dialysis patients, alleviating a $5 billion annual burden on the U.S. healthcare system. Researchers are also developing epiNanopaint, a similar approach to prevent future vein blockages, highlighting UVA’s commitment to medical nanotechnology advancements.

AI Model ProtGPS Predicts and Designs Protein Localization for Disease Research: Researchers at MIT and the Whitehead Institute have developed ProtGPS, an AI model that predicts protein localization within cells and designs new proteins to target specific compartments. The study demonstrates that ProtGPS can determine where proteins will localize and assess how disease-associated mutations affect their positioning. The model correctly identified changes in protein localization due to mutations and validated its predictions in lab experiments. Additionally, ProtGPS successfully generated novel proteins that localized as intended, offering potential applications in drug development and therapeutic design. This advancement expands protein research beyond structural prediction to functional and disease-related insights.

Develops Biodegradable Polymer for Safer and Longer-Lasting mRNA Delivery:
Researchers at POSTECH have developed a biodegradable polymer-based delivery system for mRNA transport, offering a safer and more efficient alternative to lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). The study synthesized 55 types of Poly β-amino ester (PBAE) polymers, designing novel polymer nanoparticles (PNPs). Compared to conventional LNPs, the new system achieved higher mRNA delivery efficiency, sustained expression for up to four weeks, and eliminated liver toxicity risks by restricting mRNA expression to the injection site. The polymer also effectively induced T-cell responses and neutralizing antibodies, making it a promising candidate for next-generation mRNA vaccines and gene therapies.

ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY

Self-Powered Wearable Sensor Separates Temperature and Strain Signals for Health Monitoring: Researchers from Penn State and Hebei University of Technology have developed a flexible, self-powered sensor that can independently measure temperature and strain using laser-induced graphene (LIG). The study reveals that LIG possesses thermoelectric properties, allowing the sensor to distinguish between temperature changes and physical deformation—a breakthrough for wound healing monitoring and health care applications. The highly sensitive sensor detects temperature changes as small as 0.5°C, stretches up to 45%, and can wirelessly transmit data, making it ideal for remote patient monitoring and emergency detection.

Breakthrough in Optical Fiber Technology Enables Distortion-Free Image Transmission: Researchers have developed a novel method for direct optical image transmission through multimode fibers (MMFs) by integrating miniaturized multilayer diffractive neural networks (DN²s) onto the fiber’s distal end. The study overcomes the longstanding challenge of modal dispersion in MMFs, which previously distorted transmitted images. Using 3D galvo-scanning two-photon nanolithography, the team fabricated a 150×150 μm DN²s structure, enabling high-quality optical inference at the speed of light. The innovation demonstrated exceptional performance in reconstructing handwritten digits and HeLa cell images, marking a significant step toward compact photonic systems for applications in endoscopy, quantum optics, and advanced signal transmission.

Scientists Identify Safe Temperature to Destroy Toxic PFAS in Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling: A study has identified the temperature needed to safely destroy bis-FASI, a toxic PFAS ("forever chemical") found in lithium-ion batteries. Researchers from Australia and the U.S. used quantum mechanics simulations to determine that bis-FASIs require temperatures of 1,000°C or higher to break down completely into harmless substances. Current battery recycling methods, particularly pyrometallurgy, may not reach these temperatures, potentially releasing hazardous byproducts. The findings guide recyclers on how to safely recover valuable metals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel, while preventing environmental contamination. The study calls for higher recycling rates and safer battery designs.

ASTRONOMY & SPACE

New Chemotaxis-Based Method Could Aid Search for Extraterrestrial Life:
Researchers at the Technical University of Berlin have developed a simple, low-cost method to detect motile microorganisms by inducing chemotaxis—a movement response to chemicals. The study tested three extremophile microbes, including Haloferax volcanii, a salt-loving archaeon, and found that all moved toward L-serine, a chemical believed to exist on Mars. The method, using a membrane-separation chamber, eliminates the need for complex equipment, making it a viable tool for future space missions searching for microbial life on Mars, Europa, and beyond.

Largest Early-Universe Radio Jet Discovered, Spanning 200,000 Light-Years:
Astronomers have discovered the largest radio jet ever observed in the early universe, extending 200,000 light-years—more than twice the size of the Milky Way. Using data from the LOFAR radio telescope, Gemini North, and the Hobby Eberly Telescope, researchers identified the quasar J1601+3102, which formed when the universe was just 1.2 billion years old. Despite its relatively small black hole (450 million solar masses), the quasar generates massive asymmetric jets, challenging previous assumptions about jet formation. This discovery provides new insights into the evolution of quasars and galactic jets in the early universe.

Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer Reveals New Insights into Cosmic Particle Behavior: Researchers from the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS) Collaboration have analyzed 11 years of data from the AMS aboard the International Space Station, revealing trends in cosmic particle interactions within the heliosphere over a single solar cycle. Their findings (1,2) show how variations in the heliospheric magnetic field influence antiprotons, cosmic nuclei, and galactic cosmic rays (GCRs). By studying elements like He, Be, Li, B, N, C, and O, the team observed fluctuations in particle fluxes and interactions, deepening our understanding of solar modulation and cosmic ray behavior beyond the solar system.

HEALTH & MEDICINE

Excessive Screen Time in Toddlers Linked to Lower Language Development:
A multinational study involving researchers from 20 nations found that toddlers consistently exceed recommended screen time limits, with television and smartphones being the most frequently used devices. Analyzing data from 1,878 toddlers aged 12 to 48 months across Latin America, researchers discovered a negative correlation between screen exposure and language development, particularly with background and general TV viewing. Conversely, book exposure and shared screen time with adults were associated with better language skills. The study highlights the growing concerns of excessive screen use on early cognitive development and underscores the importance of adult-guided media engagement.

Bacterial Infections Linked to Lung Transplant Rejection, Study Finds: A U.S.-based research team has discovered a strong association between Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections and lung transplant rejection. By analyzing patient case histories, the researchers found an unexpectedly high rate of lung rejection in those with P. aeruginosa infections. Further experiments in mice confirmed that the bacteria spread to lymphoid tissue, killing immune cells (CD4+), which triggered an immune response leading to lung rejection. However, blocking a specific protein (CXCR3) on B cells prevented rejection, offering a potential new therapeutic approach to improve lung transplant success rates.

Home-Based Symptom Monitoring Improves Quality of Life for Metastatic Cancer Patients: A national study led by researchers from the University of North Carolina Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center found that metastatic cancer patients who regularly reported symptoms via an electronic monitoring system experienced improved quality of life, reduced emergency visits, and better symptom management compared to those receiving usual care. Conducted across 52 community oncology practices, the PRO-TECT trial enrolled 1,191 patients, with those in the patient-reported outcomes (PRO) group showing a 6.1% reduction in emergency visits and significant delays in physical function decline and symptom deterioration. While overall survival rates were similar between both groups, most patients reported feeling more in control of their care. Researchers hope future studies will explore PRO’s benefits in non-metastatic cancer patients.

NEUROSCIENCE

How the Brain Learns to Influence Immunity: Neural Pathways of Conditioned Immune Responses: A study published in Nature Neuroscience, uncovers how the brain retrieves conditioned immune responses (CIRs) based on past sensory experiences. CIRs, a form of Pavlovian conditioning, involve the brain linking specific stimuli—like taste—to immune responses. Using mice, the researchers identified that the insular cortex (IC), particularly its anterior and posterior regions, plays a crucial role in processing and recalling these learned immune reactions. By selectively inhibiting neural activity in the IC using chemogenetic tools, they demonstrated that disrupting communication between these regions prevents CIRs. These findings offer insights into brain-immune interactions and could lead to novel treatments for autoimmune diseases through behavioral or neuromodulatory interventions.

How Babies’ Brains Shape Future Social Behavior: A new study at the University of Virginia’s Baby Lab explores how early brain activity influences later social development. Building on previous research published in Imaging Neuroscience, which found that infants with stronger neural responses to happy faces exhibited greater social engagement as toddlers, the new study examines even younger infants (2–12 months old). Using noninvasive brain imaging, researchers are analyzing activity in the medial prefrontal cortex to determine how social processing evolves in the first year of life. The findings could enhance understanding of early social development and its long-term impact.

Oxytocin Neurons Found to Play Key Role in Autism-Related Social Deficits:
A study by researchers has found that oxytocin-secreting neurons are selectively disrupted in a mouse model of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Using mice exposed to valproic acid in the womb—an established ASD model—the researchers observed lower oxytocin levels and altered gene expression in neurons associated with social bonding. Surprisingly, artificially stimulating these neurons shortly after birth increased oxytocin levels and restored social behaviors into adulthood. The findings suggest that targeting specific neuronal vulnerabilities could offer new therapeutic approaches for neurodevelopmental disorders.

ENVIRONMENT

2020 Was the Greenest Year on Record, But Climate Trends, Not Lockdowns, Drove Growth: A study published in Remote Sensing of Environment found that 2020 was the greenest year in modern satellite records (2001-2020), driven primarily by rising CO₂ levels, climate warming, and reforestation efforts—not pandemic-related lockdowns. Researchers from Duke University and other institutions analyzed satellite data and found that temperate and boreal forests, particularly in China and India, contributed most to the surge in vegetation, while high rainfall boosted tropical growth. However, scientists warn that climate extremes, water scarcity, and wildfires could reverse these gains, emphasizing the need for expanded monitoring and predictive climate models.

Study Reveals Biochar's Carbon Storage Potential May Be Undervalued:
A study by Stanford researchers challenges current biochar durability metrics, suggesting that traditional hydrogen-to-carbon ratio assessments underestimate its carbon storage potential. By reanalyzing existing datasets, the team found that soil type, climate, and feedstock variability significantly impact biochar's effectiveness. Laboratory-based assessments often fail to reflect real-world conditions, leading to undervalued carbon credits for biochar projects. The researchers propose a two-step evaluation process, incorporating field measurements to improve predictive modeling and credibility in carbon markets. The study calls for global field trials to refine biochar durability standards and enhance its role in carbon dioxide removal.

Heavy Metal Pollution in China’s Yangshan Port Threatens Marine Life and Human Health: A study has examined the impact of heavy metal pollution in China’s Yangshan Port, revealing high concentrations of arsenic, mercury, and other toxic metals in seawater, sediments, and marine organisms. Researchers from Zhejiang Ocean University found that bottom-dwelling species accumulate more heavy metals due to their contact with contaminated sediments, posing a greater toxicity risk. Anthropogenic pollution, including industrial waste, agriculture, and shipping activities, is the primary source of contamination. The study warns of potential human health risks from seafood consumption and highlights the urgent need for pollution control measures as global port expansion continues.

NATURE

New Light-Based Technology Boosts Coral Resilience by Enhancing Feeding:
Scientists have developed the Underwater Zooplankton Enhancement Light Array (UZELA), an innovative tool designed to increase coral feeding opportunities by attracting zooplankton. In a six-month study researchers found that UZELA enhanced local zooplankton density and significantly boosted coral feeding rates, benefiting both healthy and bleached corals. While not a permanent solution, the device could serve as a short-term aid for coral restoration, improving coral resilience against environmental threats like heat stress and ocean acidification. The research team is working on refining UZELA for wider deployment within the next few years.

Study Reveals Algal Interactions Influencing Harmful Blooms in Coastal Waters:
A study by researchers at Hiroshima University investigates how harmful algal species interact with environmental factors and other phytoplankton. Using 28 years of monitoring data and empirical dynamic modeling, the study found that salinity plays a greater role than temperature in influencing Pseudo-nitzschia growth—an algal group known for producing the neurotoxin domoic acid, which can cause amnesic shellfish poisoning (ASP). The findings could improve predictions of harmful algal blooms, particularly in Chile, where such events threaten the salmon aquaculture industry. Future research aims to develop a predictive model to help mitigate these environmental risks.

Migratory Beekeeping Impacts Native Bee Populations, But Recovery is Possible:
A study led by Penn State researchers found that migratory beekeeping reduces native bee populations, but native bees can recover when managed honey bee colonies are removed. Conducted on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau in China, the research showed that areas with active honey bee apiaries had lower native bee abundance and diversity. However, sites where apiaries were removed saw a rebound in native bee numbers, except for certain dominant species like Andrena sp. 3. The findings suggest that the long-term effects of managed honey bees depend on colony density and duration, with potential implications for global pollinator conservation efforts.