Algae Use Chemical Cues to Adapt and Communicate in Their Environment

Happy 4th of July and welcome to Thursday’s STEAM newsletter.

In today’s edition:

• Science - Searching for Dark Matter with the Coldest Quantum Detectors, Breakthrough Organic Molecule Sets New Phosphorescence Efficiency Records, and more.

• Technology and AI - AI to Detect Fake Content: Policymakers' New Tool, Mass Production of Ultra-Large Nano Transparent Screens Nears Reality, and more.

• Engineering - World's First Anode-Free Sodium Battery Developed, Cool Roofs Outperform Green Roofs in Urban Climate Study, New Thermodynamics Method Enhances Maintenance and Prevents Failures in Engineering Systems, and more.

• Art - Study Finds Song Melodies Have Simplified Since 1950.

• Space - Robotic Rover to Assist Astronauts During Moonwalks, and more.

• Health & Medicine - Key Mechanisms for Regeneration of Neurons Identified, Reversing Chemotherapy Resistance in Pancreatic Cancer, Machine Learning and Imaging Unveil Stem Cell Behavior, and more.

• Environment - Laser-Sonar Technology Measures Shrinking Lake Oroville in California, Compact Cities May Increase Carbon Emissions in Poorer Households, Study Reveals Fiberglass Contamination in Oysters and Mussels, and more.

• Nature - Algae Use Chemical Cues to Adapt and Communicate in Their Environment, and more.

• Industry - Japan Deploys Humanoid Robot for Railway Maintenance, LG Sees Battery Breakthrough by 2028 That Has Eluded Tesla, Amazon to Build 'Top Secret' Cloud for Australia's Spies, EU Imposes Tariffs on Chinese Electric Cars, and more.

~The STEAM Digest

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This newsletter is curated by The STEAM Digest.

SCIENCE

Searching for Dark Matter with the Coldest Quantum Detectors: Scientists from Lancaster University, University of Oxford, and Royal Holloway are developing the most sensitive dark matter detectors using advanced quantum technologies and ultra-low temperatures. These detectors aim to directly observe dark matter, which constitutes 80% of the universe's matter but remains undetected. The project, showcased at the Royal Society's Summer Science Exhibition, involves superfluid helium-3 and specialized quantum amplifiers to measure dark matter interactions and search for axions.

Using Copper to Convert CO₂ to Methane: A Potential Game Changer for Climate Change Mitigation: Researchers from McGill University have developed a new catalyst using copper nanoclusters to convert carbon dioxide (CO₂) into methane, a cleaner energy source. This process, called electrocatalysis, offers a sustainable solution by creating a closed carbon loop, where CO₂ is captured and recycled into methane. This innovative approach, which utilizes renewable energy sources, could significantly impact climate change mitigation by reducing atmospheric CO₂ levels.

Breakthrough Organic Molecule Sets New Phosphorescence Efficiency Records: A research team led by Osaka University has discovered a new organic molecule, thienyl diketone, that achieves unprecedented phosphorescence efficiency without using rare metals like iridium and platinum. This molecule demonstrates phosphorescence more than ten times faster than traditional materials, marking a significant advancement for applications in OLEDs, lighting, and medical diagnostics. This breakthrough offers a path to rare metal-free phosphorescent materials, potentially replacing current options in various technologies.

Physicists Develop Method to Detect Single-Atom Defects in Semiconductors: Physicists at Michigan State University have created a groundbreaking technique combining high-resolution microscopy with ultrafast lasers to detect single-atom defects in semiconductors. This method, described in Nature Photonics, enables precise identification of defects, which are crucial for the performance of nanoscale electronic devices. The innovation uses a scanning tunneling microscope paired with terahertz laser pulses, providing unparalleled sensitivity for locating defects.

TECHNOLOGY AND AI

AI to Detect Fake Content: Policymakers' New Tool: Researchers are developing an AI tool to help policymakers identify fake content on social media. The AI analyzes language patterns and content dissemination to detect disinformation campaigns. This technology aims to assist governments in combating the spread of false information, ensuring more reliable and truthful online discourse. The initiative responds to the increasing challenge of digital misinformation impacting public opinion and policy decisions.

Mass Production of Ultra-Large Nano Transparent Screens Nears Reality: Researchers from Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM) and Meta2People have developed a 100-inch Nano Transparent Screen (NTS) that adjusts its transparency according to the environment. This screen, made using a cost-effective roll-to-roll process, offers high resolution and visibility from various angles. The NTS is poised to revolutionize applications in displays, smart windows, and advertising by being significantly cheaper and more durable than existing transparent OLED screens.

Leveraging Social Media and AI for Disaster Response: Researchers at the University of Alabama in Huntsville have developed a method using social media and AI to improve supply chain assistance during disasters. By analyzing data from Twitter during the COVID-19 pandemic, the team identified key information and geographic locations of those in need. This approach enables quicker and more efficient disaster response, highlighting the potential of integrating AI with real-time social media data to address critical supply shortages and aid distribution.

ENGINEERING

World's First Anode-Free Sodium Battery Developed: Researchers at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) have created the world's first anode-free sodium battery. This innovative battery design eliminates the anode, replacing it with a metallic sodium layer, significantly reducing manufacturing costs and enhancing energy density. This breakthrough could lead to more affordable and sustainable battery technologies, providing a viable alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries, particularly for large-scale energy storage applications.

Cool Roofs Outperform Green Roofs in Urban Climate Study: A study by University College London found that "cool roofs," which are painted white or covered with reflective materials, are more effective at cooling urban environments than green roofs. Using a 3D urban climate model of London, researchers showed that cool roofs could reduce city temperatures by up to 2°C, compared to the negligible cooling effect of green roofs. This makes cool roofs a superior option for mitigating urban heat and improving thermal comfort in densely populated areas.

New Thermodynamics Method Enhances Maintenance and Prevents Failures in Engineering Systems: Researchers from the University of Twente have developed a thermodynamics-based method to improve maintenance and prevent failures in engineering systems. By utilizing the Phenomenological Entropy Generation (PEG) theorem, this approach accurately characterizes system degradation. It allows for in situ optimization and scheduled maintenance, offering a cost-effective and non-intrusive solution to prolong system lifespan and reduce failures. This method can be applied to various engineering systems, from batteries to metallic structures.

Student Designs Wearable Air Purifier for Underground Train Users: Mia Patterson Cox from Loughborough University has created "Aerate," a neck-worn air purifier aimed at improving air quality for underground train users. The device uses fans and filters to create a clean air bubble around the user's face, protecting against harmful particles. Accompanied by an app for real-time air quality monitoring, Aerate aims to enhance health and comfort for commuters by filtering out pollutants commonly found in underground environments.

Innovative 3D Food Printer Creates Edible QR Codes: Researchers at the Singapore University of Technology and Design have developed a 3D food printer capable of creating edible QR codes using a multi-channel nozzle. This technology allows seamless printing of complex food structures with different materials, enhancing customization and nutritional content. The breakthrough aims to cater to individual dietary needs, create interactive dining experiences, and use sustainable food sources.

ART

Study Finds Song Melodies Have Simplified Since 1950: A study published in Scientific Reports reveals that the complexity of popular song melodies has decreased since 1950. Researchers analyzed top-five Billboard hits from 1950 to 2022, noting significant reductions in melodic complexity in 1975, 1996, and 2000. These changes are attributed to the rise of genres like new wave, disco, hip-hop, and the use of digital audio workstations. The study suggests that as melodic complexity decreased, other musical elements, such as sound quality, may have become more complex.

SPACE

Robotic Rover to Assist Astronauts During Moonwalks: Researchers have developed a robotic rover designed to support astronauts during lunar missions. The rover can carry heavy equipment, assist with navigation, and even conduct preliminary scientific investigations autonomously. This innovation aims to enhance the efficiency and safety of moonwalks by reducing the physical burden on astronauts and allowing them to focus more on scientific exploration.

Cosmic Simulation Reveals New Insights into Black Holes: Researchers using a highly detailed cosmic simulation have discovered that black holes may be crucial in the formation of certain structures in the universe. These simulations showed how black holes can influence the distribution of gas and stars, impacting galaxy formation and evolution. The findings offer new perspectives on the role of black holes in shaping the cosmos and provide a deeper understanding of their dynamic interactions within galaxies.

NASA Planetary Radar Tracks Large Asteroid: NASA's planetary radar has successfully tracked a large asteroid, 2019 XS, using the Goldstone Solar System Radar. The radar provided detailed images and data, revealing the asteroid's size (approximately 220 meters in diameter), shape, and surface features, including boulders and craters. This precise tracking allows scientists to refine the asteroid's orbit and predict its future path with greater accuracy, which is vital for planetary defense and understanding NEOs' potential threat to Earth.

HEALTH & MEDICINE

Key Mechanisms for Regeneration of Neurons Identified: Researchers at Yale University have uncovered key mechanisms that allow for the regeneration of neurons. Their study reveals how specific signaling pathways and gene expressions can be manipulated to promote neural regeneration. This discovery opens new possibilities for developing treatments for neurodegenerative diseases and injuries that result in neuron loss. The findings provide a deeper understanding of the regenerative processes and could lead to innovative therapeutic strategies for neurological disorders such as trauma, stroke, epilepsy, and various neurogenerative diseases.

Reversing Chemotherapy Resistance in Pancreatic Cancer: Researchers at Stanford University have discovered that the stiffness of the extracellular matrix surrounding pancreatic cancer cells plays a critical role in chemotherapy resistance. By manipulating this stiffness and targeting the CD44 receptor, they found that cancer cells could be resensitized to chemotherapy. This breakthrough offers new potential strategies for overcoming chemoresistance in pancreatic cancer, a major clinical challenge.

Machine Learning and Imaging Unveil Stem Cell Behavior: Researchers at the University of Southern California have utilized machine learning and real-time imaging to gain deeper insights into stem cell behavior. By employing fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy, the team can non-invasively track metabolic activities and differentiate stem cell states. This approach allows for real-time observation of how stem cells divide and specialize, offering significant advancements for stem cell therapies and regenerative medicine.

Epilepsy Drug Shows Promise in Enhancing Chemotherapy for Stomach Cancer: Researchers have found that stiripentol, an epilepsy drug, can improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy in treating stomach cancer. The drug targets lactate production, which is linked to chemotherapy resistance. In preclinical studies, combining stiripentol with chemotherapy reduced tumor size and prolonged survival in mice. This discovery could lead to new treatment strategies for chemotherapy-resistant cancers, with clinical trials now underway to confirm its effectiveness in humans.

Re-engineering Cancerous Tumors to Self-Destruct and Kill Drug-Resistant Cells: Researchers at Penn State have developed a genetic circuit that reprograms cancer cells to self-destruct and kill nearby drug-resistant cells. This "Trojan horse" approach uses a modular genetic circuit with two switches to manipulate tumor evolution and target resistance mechanisms. Tested in human cell lines and mice, this method could potentially overcome the challenge of drug resistance in cancer treatment.

ENVIRONMENT

Laser-Sonar Technology Measures Shrinking Lake Oroville, California: California's Department of Water Resources (DWR) used laser and sonar technology to measure Lake Oroville's capacity, finding it has decreased by over 100,000 acre-feet since 1960 due to sediment accumulation and weather extremes. The lake's capacity is now 3% less than previously estimated. Despite this, Lake Oroville is at 95% capacity, surpassing its historical average after record winter storms in 2023. This data will inform future water operation calculations.

Compact Cities May Increase Carbon Emissions in Poorer Households: A study reveals that while compact cities can reduce overall carbon emissions, they may inadvertently increase emissions from poorer households. These households often rely on private vehicles due to inadequate public transportation and face higher energy costs in denser urban areas. The findings suggest that urban planning must consider social equity to ensure that the benefits of compact city designs are shared across all income groups.

Study Reveals Fiberglass Contamination in Oysters and Mussels: A study led by the University of Plymouth has found that oysters and mussels are contaminated with fiberglass particles, a type of microplastic. These particles originate from various sources, including boat paint and construction materials, and pose potential risks to marine life and human health. The research highlights the need for better waste management and pollution control to address this growing environmental issue.

AI Can Revolutionize Environmental Monitoring, But It's Not a Magic Solution: Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to transform environmental monitoring by providing accurate, real-time data on pollution, biodiversity, and climate change impacts. However, the article highlights that AI is not a standalone solution; it requires high-quality data, proper implementation, and consideration of ethical and social implications. Effective integration of AI in environmental efforts necessitates collaboration among scientists, policymakers, and communities to ensure that the technology benefits all stakeholders.

Harmful Substances in Soft Plastic Lures Used by Anglers: Researchers at the University of Adelaide have discovered that soft plastic lures used in recreational fishing contain harmful chemicals. These substances can leach into water, posing risks to aquatic life and potentially entering the food chain. The study calls for greater regulation and safer alternatives to protect ecosystems and human health.

Human Presence Alters Predator Dynamics in East Africa: A study by the University of Copenhagen reveals that human activity disrupts the balance between leopards and hyenas in Tanzania's Udzungwa Mountains. Leopards avoid human-populated areas, where hyenas thrive, using humans as shields and outcompeting leopards for resources. This shift benefits hyenas but threatens the survival of leopards, potentially causing cascading effects on the ecosystem.

NATURE

Algae Use Chemical Cues to Adapt and Communicate in Their Environment: A study by Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences reveals that glaucophytes, a type of single-celled algae, use chemical signals to respond to environmental stress, similar to plants. This finding suggests that chemical communication may have evolved earlier in the tree of life than previously thought. Understanding these mechanisms can provide insights into the evolutionary history of photosynthesis and the roles of microalgae in aquatic ecosystems.

Caterpillars Provide Food for Their Offspring Using Their Own Blood: A study by scientists from the University of Jyväskylä found that certain caterpillars sacrifice their own blood to nourish their offspring. These caterpillars produce a secretion, rich in nutrients, from their spiracles, which the larvae consume. This discovery highlights a unique survival strategy and sheds light on the complex reproductive behaviors in insects.

Silent Oceans: Over 100 Shark Species May Disappear by 2100 Due to Climate Change: A recent study highlights a critical environmental issue: more than 100 shark species are predicted to face severe population declines by 2100. This alarming trend is attributed to the impacts of climate change and human activities, including overfishing and habitat degradation. Sharks, essential for maintaining marine ecosystem balance, are losing their habitats and food sources due to warming oceans and environmental shifts. Immediate and stringent conservation efforts are vital to reverse these declines and protect these apex predators and the broader marine biodiversity.

Cat Scratching Solved: Scientists Reveal Strategies to Save Your Furniture: Researchers have pinpointed effective methods to prevent cats from scratching furniture. Factors like the presence of children, cat personality, and high activity levels contribute to this behavior. Key strategies include providing ample scratch posts, using calming pheromones, and creating a stress-free environment with short, engaging play sessions. These techniques can significantly reduce unwanted scratching and improve the relationship between cats and their owners.

INDUSTRY

Japan Deploys Humanoid Robot for Railway Maintenance: West Japan Railway has introduced a humanoid robot designed for railway maintenance tasks. The robot, mounted on a truck, can be remotely operated by a human in a cockpit, using cameras to see through the robot's eyes. It can reach up to 12 meters and handle various tools for tasks like trimming trees and painting. This innovation aims to address labor shortages and reduce workplace accidents in Japan's aging workforce.

LG Sees Battery Breakthrough by 2028 That Has Eluded Tesla: LG Energy Solution plans to commercialize a revolutionary battery technology by 2028, focusing on a dry-coating process for electrodes. This method, which reduces costs and energy consumption, aims to replace the traditional wet process. The technology has potential to lower manufacturing costs by 17-30% and save significant space and energy. Unlike Tesla, which has faced challenges in implementing this process, LG is confident in its approach to enhance battery efficiency and competitiveness.

Amazon to Build 'Top Secret' Cloud for Australia's Spies: Amazon Web Services has secured a $1.3 billion deal to create a "top secret" cloud for Australia's military and intelligence agencies. This initiative aims to enhance interoperability and collaboration with the United States. The cloud will support the "Redspice" intelligence program, designed to counter cyber threats, and involve the construction of three data centers across Australia. This project reflects a significant investment in national security infrastructure.

EU Imposes Tariffs on Chinese Electric Cars: The European Union has implemented provisional tariffs of up to 38% on Chinese electric vehicle imports, citing unfair state subsidies that undercut European manufacturers. This move aims to protect the EU's automotive industry during its transition to electric vehicles but risks escalating trade tensions with China. German automakers express concern over potential retaliatory actions, while other EU countries support the tariffs to safeguard their markets.

Microsoft to Pay $14M Over Allegations of Discrimination Against Non-U.S. Citizens: Microsoft has agreed to pay $14 million to settle allegations that it discriminated against non-U.S. citizens in its hiring practices. The U.S. Department of Justice found that the company violated immigration-related employment regulations by requiring unnecessary documentation from job applicants. The settlement includes compensating affected individuals and implementing changes to Microsoft's hiring policies to ensure compliance with federal laws.