Ultra-Thin Materials Enable Rapid Optical Switching for Future Technologies

Hello and welcome to Friday’s STEAM newsletter! We bring you summaries of the latest news in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.

In today’s edition:

• Science - CBD Found to Be Lethal to Mosquito Larvae, Offering Potential New Insecticide, Chemists Create New Type of Covalent Bond Using a Single Electron, and more.

• Technology and AI - AI-Edited Images and Videos Can Distort Human Memory, Study Finds, and more.

• Engineering - Ultra-Thin Materials Enable Rapid Optical Switching for Future Technologies, and more.

• Astronomy & Space - New Theory Suggests Moon May Have Been Captured from a Binary System, and more.

• Health & Medicine - Study Reveals Almost 200 Carcinogens in Food Packaging Linked to Breast Cancer, Estrogen Found to Suppress Immune Response and Impair Immunotherapy in Cancer, and more.

• Environment - Daytime Aircraft Contrails May Have a Net Cooling Effect, AI Analysis Suggests, and more.

• Nature - Axolotls May Pause the Ageing Process, New Study Suggests, Northern Sea Robins Evolve Sensory "Legs" to Hunt Buried Prey, and more.

• Industry - NASA’s Artemis II Crew Trains in Iceland’s Lunar-Like Terrain to Prepare for Moon Mission, and more.

Until Tomorrow.

~The STEAM Digest

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This newsletter is curated by The STEAM Digest.

SCIENCE

CBD Found to Be Lethal to Mosquito Larvae, Offering Potential New Insecticide: Researchers have discovered that mosquito larvae die within two days after consuming hemp leaf extracts containing cannabidiol (CBD). The study suggests that CBD is toxic to mosquito larvae, even those resistant to standard insecticides. This finding could lead to a new form of pesticide to control mosquitoes, which transmit diseases like malaria, dengue fever, and zika. Scientists now plan to explore how CBD kills larvae and whether it can also be used to target adult mosquitoes. While promising, further testing is needed to assess its broader environmental impacts.

Chemists Create New Type of Covalent Bond Using a Single Electron: In a breakthrough nearly a century in the making, chemists have created a covalent bond that uses just one electron, a concept first proposed by Linus Pauling in 1931. Traditionally, covalent bonds share two or more electrons between atoms, but Takuya Shimajiri and his team at the University of Tokyo successfully removed one electron from a two-electron bond between carbon atoms, creating a stable one-electron bond. This discovery opens up possibilities for new types of molecules and could revolutionize the study of chemical reactions and bonding.

Genetically Engineered Bacteria as Tiny Biological Computers: Scientists have genetically engineered Escherichia coli bacteria into simple computers, called "bactoneurons," capable of solving mathematical problems like identifying prime numbers, vowels, and determining how many slices a pizza can be cut into. These bacteria use chemical reactions instead of electrical signals to perform tasks, operating like a modular artificial neural network. Due to their microscopic size and self-replication abilities, these biological computers have the potential to outperform traditional computer chips in terms of size and cost.

TECHNOLOGY AND AI

AI-Edited Images and Videos Can Distort Human Memory, Study Finds: A study from MIT reveals that artificial intelligence (AI)-edited photos and videos can significantly distort human memory. In an experiment involving 200 participants, researchers found that people shown AI-altered media, such as images with objects or people removed or added, were more likely to misremember details. The highest false memory rate, 40%, occurred in participants who viewed AI-generated videos of AI-edited photos. The study raises concerns as AI editing tools become more integrated into smartphones, potentially leading people to unknowingly misremember events or images they’ve seen.

Larger AI Models May Become Less Reliable, Study Suggests: A new study shows that as large language models (LLMs) like OpenAI’s GPT, Meta’s LLaMA, and BLOOM scale up with more data and computational power, their reliability on basic questions may decline. While these models improve at answering complex questions, their performance on simpler tasks, like basic arithmetic, does not show the same improvement. Researchers found that as LLMs grow, they are more likely to give incorrect answers. This highlights the risks of over-reliance on AI, as these models often fail to recognize the limits of their knowledge.

BRICS Seminar Explores AI Regulation and the Role of Competition Authorities in Tackling Big Tech Dominance: At a recent seminar hosted by the BRICS Competition Law and Policy Center, experts discussed the growing need for competition authorities from BRICS nations and beyond to adapt to the rapidly evolving AI sector, which is increasingly dominated by Big Tech. Elena Rovenskaya from the Advancing Systems Analysis program presented a systems-led approach using system dynamics modeling to evaluate partnerships, such as the 2019 Microsoft-OpenAI alliance, that often evade traditional regulatory scrutiny. Rovenskaya emphasized the importance of using integrated systems analysis to prevent the monopolization of AI innovation and ensure a fair competitive environment.

ENGINEERING

Ultra-Thin Materials Enable Rapid Optical Switching for Future Technologies: Researchers led by TU Dresden have developed a breakthrough in optical switching using ultra-thin, two-dimensional semiconductors. In an experiment, they accelerated the switching between excitons (electron-hole pairs) and trions (three-particle states) in molybdenum diselenide. Utilizing terahertz radiation, the team achieved switching speeds up to 1000 times faster than previous methods. The discovery opens new possibilities for optical data processing, sensor technology, and terahertz radiation detection. This innovation could pave the way for compact, high-speed devices for electronics and quantum technologies.

Researchers Develop Fluorine-Free Battery System for Eco-Friendly, High-Performance Energy Storage: A research team from POSTECH and Hansol Chemical has developed a fluorine-free binder and electrolyte system aimed at enhancing the sustainability and performance of lithium batteries. The "APA-LC" system, composed of a non-fluorinated aromatic polyamide (APA) binder and a lithium perchlorate-based electrolyte (LiClO4), outperforms traditional fluorinated systems by improving battery life and stability. This eco-friendly solution not only meets upcoming environmental regulations, such as the EU's PFAS ban, but also demonstrates superior energy retention and fast-charging capability. The innovation marks a significant step toward scalable, non-fluorinated battery technologies.

Concrete Wastewater Pipes Show Environmental Advantages Over Plastic Alternatives in Life Cycle Assessment: A life cycle assessment conducted by Fraunhofer UMSICHT for the Federal Association of Concrete Sewer Systems revealed that concrete wastewater pipes have a lower carbon footprint compared to plastic alternatives, especially for larger diameters. The study evaluated the environmental impact of pipes made from (steel) concrete, GRP, PVC, PE, and PP, covering production, installation, and disposal phases. The results show that concrete pipes, which can be reused and recycled, offer clear environmental benefits over plastic pipes, which are primarily incinerated. These findings are accessible via the ÖKOBAUDAT database.

Fair Financing Key to Enabling Equitable Renewable Energy Transition in Developing Countries: A new study led by CMCC scientists highlights the critical role of financing in ensuring a just transition to renewable energy in developing countries. The research reveals that high upfront costs and financing barriers hinder renewable energy deployment, especially in the Global South. By reducing the cost of capital for energy technologies through fair-finance policies, renewable energy generation could increase by 30%, lowering global emissions and energy inequality. The findings stress the importance of international policies to equalize financing conditions, promoting energy justice and affordability on a global scale.

ASTRONOMY & SPACE

New Theory Suggests Moon May Have Been Captured from a Binary System: For 40 years, the prevailing theory has been that the moon formed from debris after a massive collision on early Earth. However, new research from Penn State scientists Darren Williams and Michael Zugger offers an alternative: Earth's moon may have been captured from a binary system—a pair of rocky bodies orbiting each other. This idea explains why the moon orbits at an angle more aligned with the sun than Earth's equator. The study, published in The Planetary Science Journal, draws parallels with Neptune's moon Triton, which was likely captured from the Kuiper Belt. While the binary-capture theory matches the moon’s current behavior, further research is needed to determine if this is the true origin.

New Rocket Thruster Uses Metal Fuel, Enabling Endless Deep Space Exploration: Astro engineers at the University of Southampton are testing a revolutionary propulsion system that could propel spacecraft using any type of metal as fuel, allowing for indefinite exploration. The system, developed in collaboration with British space firm Magdrive and named Super Magdrive, could harvest metals like iron or aluminum from asteroids or moons for refueling, making long-duration space missions more feasible. Lead scientist Dr. Minkwan Kim says the technology, which is currently being tested, could unlock new frontiers and enable spacecraft to explore distant regions of the universe that were previously unreachable.

Mapping Gravitational Basins in the Local Universe Sheds New Light on Cosmic Structure: A new study published in Nature Astronomy has mapped gravitational basins of attraction in the local universe, offering fresh insights into large-scale cosmic structures and the forces shaping galaxy movement. Using data from the Cosmicflows-4 compilation, researchers identified key gravitational regions, including the Sloan Great Wall and Shapley Supercluster. The study suggests that the Milky Way may reside in the larger Shapley basin, challenging previous theories about its location. This research, led by an international team, enhances our understanding of how cosmic structures evolve and interact, revealing the gravitational dynamics influencing galaxy formation and movement.

HEALTH & MEDICINE

Study Reveals Almost 200 Carcinogens in Food Packaging Linked to Breast Cancer: A recent study by the Food Packaging Forum identified nearly 200 potential breast carcinogens in food contact materials (FCMs), including plastics and paper. Researchers found 189 possible carcinogens, with 143 detected in plastics and 89 in paper-based materials. Despite regulations in regions like the EU and US, the study shows that the public remains chronically exposed to these chemicals. The findings highlight significant gaps in current food packaging regulations and call for enhanced preventative measures to reduce the presence of harmful chemicals in everyday products.

Estrogen Found to Suppress Immune Response and Impair Immunotherapy in Cancer: A new study by Duke Cancer Institute reveals that estrogen plays a key role in promoting the growth of various cancers, including those without estrogen receptors, by weakening the immune response. Estrogen reduces the presence of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell important in fighting tumors, and diminishes the effectiveness of immunotherapies. The study found that anti-estrogen treatments can reverse these effects, enhancing immunotherapy across several cancer types, including triple-negative breast cancer and melanoma. Clinical trials are now being planned to test anti-estrogen drugs, like lasofoxifene, to improve cancer treatment outcomes.

Genetic Differences in Human Hearts Could Revolutionize Understanding of Heart Disease: Researchers at the Max Delbrück Center have discovered significant genetic distinctions between human hearts and those of non-human primates, offering new insights into heart disease. The study, published in Nature Cardiovascular Research, identified over 1,000 species-specific genomic adaptations in human hearts, including genes and microproteins absent in other species. These genetic differences are linked to human heart function, energy demands, and possibly our bipedalism. The findings underscore the limitations of using animal models like mice to study human cardiac diseases and highlight potential new therapeutic targets.

New Genetic Mutations in CSF1R-Related Disorder Identified, Offering Hope for Personalized Treatments: Mayo Clinic researchers have identified eight new mutations linked to CSF1R-Related Disorder (CSF1R-RD), a rare hereditary condition that causes cognitive decline, in a study published in Neurology: Genetics. The discovery highlights the global prevalence of the disease and lays the foundation for personalized treatments. Symptoms of CSF1R-RD include personality changes, anxiety, and memory loss, but diagnosis is complicated by similarities to other conditions. Future research will focus on improving genetic counseling and developing interventions for both symptomatic and asymptomatic carriers.

ENVIRONMENT

Daytime Aircraft Contrails May Have a Net Cooling Effect, AI Analysis Suggests: New research using AI-assisted satellite image analysis reveals that aircraft contrails formed during the day may have a net cooling effect on the planet by reflecting sunlight back into space. While contrails trap heat and contribute to global warming, those formed in the daytime reflect solar radiation, potentially offsetting some of their warming impact. The study, which analyzed 700,000 contrails, found that 62% formed at night and contributed to warming. Researchers suggest that flying during the day might reduce the climate impact of flights, though carbon emissions still have a warming effect.

Geoengineering Needed to Refreeze Arctic as Emissions Cuts Are No Longer Sufficient: With the Arctic ice melting at a rate of 12% per decade, simply reducing emissions will no longer be enough to preserve the region. Scientists predict the Arctic will be ice-free in summer by the 2030s, even with rapid emissions cuts. Geoengineering, such as refreezing the poles by thickening Arctic ice with seawater, is seen as a potential solution. While controversial, this approach could help buy time and stabilize the climate by reflecting solar radiation. Experts argue that delaying action has left us with no choice but to explore geoengineering to protect the fragile Arctic ecosystem.

Camellia Plants: A Sustainable Oil Alternative: A study suggests replacing some traditional vegetable oil crops, like soy and palm, with camellia plants could reduce environmental impact while maintaining oil production. Camellia oil, also known as tea seed oil, offers high yields, thrives in challenging conditions, and has health benefits similar to olive oil. Replacing 11% of current oil crops with camellia could cut greenhouse gas emissions by 14%, reduce water use by 5%, and lower pesticide use by 9%. However, widespread adoption depends on reducing costs and increasing consumer demand.

NATURE

Axolotls May Pause the Ageing Process, New Study Suggests: Axolotls, known for their remarkable regenerative abilities, seem to halt one of the key processes of ageing—DNA methylation—after their first four years of life. Researchers found that while mammals and other animals show changes in DNA methylation over time, axolotls’ methylation patterns remain stable after this initial period, suggesting they may exhibit negligible senescence. This discovery raises the possibility that their regenerative abilities and developmental flexibility help counteract ageing. However, more studies are needed to determine if axolotls truly represent a non-ageing species.

Northern Sea Robins Evolve Sensory "Legs" to Hunt Buried Prey: The northern sea robin (Prionotus carolinus), a striking bottom-dwelling fish in the Atlantic Ocean, has evolved specialized legs from its pectoral fins. These appendages act like sensory organs, helping the fish locate prey buried in the seabed. Researchers found that these "legs" contain taste receptors and touch-sensitive neurons, much like human taste buds. This adaptation allows the sea robin to efficiently walk, dig, and hunt buried prey. Genetic analysis revealed that this unique feature evolved through an ancient regulatory gene, tbx3a, showing how old genetic tools can create new body parts.

Climate Change Threatens High-Altitude Sloth Populations with Extinction by 2100: A recent study reveals that rising temperatures due to climate change may drive sloths, especially high-altitude populations, toward extinction by 2100. Sloths' low metabolic rates and inability to regulate body temperature make them particularly vulnerable. The research shows that highland sloths face sharp increases in metabolic demands as temperatures rise, but they are unable to migrate to cooler areas or increase food intake to compensate. The study calls for urgent conservation efforts to protect these vulnerable populations.

Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria Enhance Plant-Pollinator Relationships in Nutrient-Poor Soils: A study published in the American Journal of Botany reveals how nitrogen-fixing bacteria boost the reproductive success of Chamaecrista latistipula, a legume native to South America. The research, led by Anselmo Nogueira from Brazil’s Federal University of ABC, demonstrates that in nutrient-poor soils, these bacteria not only help the plant by providing nitrogen but also enhance flower attractiveness to pollinators like bumblebees. Surprisingly, plants grown in nitrogen-rich soils without bacteria underperformed compared to those in nutrient-poor soils with bacterial aid. The experiment also highlighted how this mutualistic relationship, vital for the plant’s reproduction, could be key to evolutionary adaptations in leguminous plants.

INDUSTRY

NASA’s Artemis II Crew Trains in Iceland’s Lunar-Like Terrain to Prepare for Moon Mission: NASA’s Artemis II crew, preparing for a mission around the Moon, underwent geology field training in Iceland, a location chosen for its lunar-like landscape. The training focused on using tools similar to those from the Apollo missions, as astronauts honed their skills in collecting rock samples and studying surface features. Iceland’s basalt and breccia formations, akin to lunar geology, made it an ideal training ground. This training is critical as Artemis II astronauts will visually study and document the Moon’s surface, contributing to scientific objectives, though they will not land on the Moon.

NTSB Issues Urgent Safety Recommendations for Boeing 737 Rudder Systems After Newark Incident: The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has issued urgent safety recommendations regarding rudder systems on certain Boeing 737 aircraft, citing a risk of jamming. The warning follows a February 6 incident involving a Boeing 737 MAX 8, where the rudder pedals became stuck in the neutral position after landing at Newark airport. The cause was identified as a faulty rollout guidance actuator, which is prone to moisture that can freeze and impair rudder movement. The actuator, made by Collins Aerospace, affects over 353 units installed in 737 NG and MAX planes since 2017. The FAA will review corrective actions based on the NTSB's findings. Boeing remains under scrutiny after other recent safety issues, including a mid-flight incident with Alaska Airlines in January.

Cornell Researchers Explore Agrivoltaics to Boost Apple Orchards and Renewable Energy: Cornell's Hudson Valley Research Laboratory is planning to install solar panels over a small apple orchard to both generate energy and protect the trees from extreme weather. This agrivoltaic system, the first of its kind in North America for apple orchards, aims to provide shade on hot days, warmth during cool spells, and protection from hail. The project, aligned with New York’s climate goals, could benefit farmers by reducing energy costs and improving crop resilience. Additional research on agrivoltaics, including the cultivation of crops like lettuce and radishes under solar panels, is underway across New York to explore how food production and renewable energy can coexist.