Breakthrough in Space Manufacturing:3D Printer Successfully Operates in Microgravity

Hello and welcome to Friday’s STEAM newsletter.

In today’s edition:

• Science - MIT Researchers Develop Method to Make Microbes Resilient for Extreme Conditions, Bacteria Aligning with Magnetic Fields: A Surprising Discovery, and more.

• Technology and AI - Enhancing Robot Performance with Audio Perception, and more.

• Engineering - Breakthrough in Space Manufacturing: 3D Printer Successfully Operates in Microgravity, 3D Stretchable Electronic Strip Sparks Innovation in Wearable E-Textiles, and more.

• Mathematics - The Mathematical Magic of Counting Curves, New Mathematical Method Enhances Ocean Research.

• Space - Repurposed Technology to Probe Dark Regions on Mars, and more.

• Health & Medicine - AI Revolutionizes Antibody Drug Development, and more.

• Environment - Satellite Images Reveal Severe Deforestation in Indonesia.

• Nature - Starling Migratory Behavior is Inherited, and more.

• Industry - Hawaii's Climate Lawsuit Against Big Oil Paves Way for California's Efforts, Smart Solar-Powered Freezer Truck Unveiled in Hong Kong, Scale of Pharmaceutical Industry-Sponsored Events Revealed, and more.

Until Tomorrow,

~The STEAM Digest

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This newsletter is curated by The STEAM Digest.

SCIENCE

MIT Researchers Develop Method to Make Microbes Resilient for Extreme Conditions: MIT researchers have developed a method to make microbes resilient to extreme conditions for various applications. By mixing bacteria with FDA-approved safe compounds, they identified formulations that stabilize microbes like yeast and bacteria. These formulations withstand high temperatures, radiation, and industrial processing. Some microbes were even tested in space. This approach could benefit space missions, medical applications, and agriculture by enhancing the durability of microbial products.

Bacteria Aligning with Magnetic Fields: A Surprising Discovery: Physicists have discovered that certain bacteria can align themselves with magnetic fields. This phenomenon occurs due to the bacteria's internal structures, called magnetosomes, which allow them to sense and respond to magnetic fields. This finding could have significant implications for understanding bacterial behavior and developing new applications in biotechnology and medicine, such as targeted drug delivery systems.

Economical Synthesis and Purification of Ionic Liquids: Researchers at RMIT University have developed cost-effective methods for synthesizing and purifying ionic liquids, which are vital for various industrial applications. The new approach simplifies the production process, making it more environmentally friendly and economically viable. This advancement could lead to broader adoption of ionic liquids in sectors such as energy storage, pharmaceuticals, and green chemistry.

New Catalysts Enable Greener Ester Synthesis: Researchers have developed new catalysts that facilitate a more environmentally friendly synthesis of esters. These catalysts enhance efficiency and selectivity, reducing the need for harmful reagents and minimizing waste. This advancement has significant implications for the pharmaceutical and chemical industries, offering a sustainable alternative for producing a wide range of ester compounds. The new method supports greener manufacturing processes and aligns with ongoing efforts to reduce environmental impact in chemical synthesis.

New Methods in Ultrafast Science Provide Sharper Molecular Insights: Researchers have developed advanced methods in ultrafast science to achieve sharper imaging and better understanding of molecular dynamics. These techniques enable scientists to capture transient states of molecules with unprecedented clarity and detail. This breakthrough has significant implications for various fields, including chemistry and materials science, allowing for more precise observations of chemical reactions and molecular interactions.

Novel Probe Reveals Ice Microstructures: Scientists at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign have developed an advanced probe capable of revealing detailed microstructures within ice. This tool provides unprecedented insights into ice properties, critical for understanding ice-related processes in fields ranging from climate science to cryopreservation. The probe's ability to image ice at nanoscale resolution could lead to breakthroughs in studying ice formation, growth, and melting.

TECHNOLOGY AND AI

Enhancing Robot Performance with Audio Perception: Researchers are improving robots' efficiency by integrating audio perception into their systems. By adding microphones and sound processing algorithms, robots can better understand their environment and enhance their decision-making processes. This development allows robots to detect and interpret sounds, improving their ability to interact with humans and perform tasks in complex, dynamic settings, such as factories and healthcare environments.

Breakthrough in Neuromorphic Computing: Artificial Dendritic Neural Circuit: Researchers at Tsinghua University have developed a brain-inspired artificial dendritic neural circuit. This innovative neuromorphic architecture replicates the structure and function of neuronal dendrites, enhancing the processing of spatiotemporal signals. The device, called a "dendristor," demonstrates nonlinear dendritic integration and direction selectivity, achieving remarkable energy efficiencies. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient AI systems, capable of dynamic visual motion perception and other advanced tasks, paving the way for sustainable computing.

Is AI a Major Drain on the World's Energy Supply?: Artificial intelligence (AI) is significantly increasing global electricity demand, especially through the energy-intensive processes required for large language models (LLMs). Data centers, essential for AI operations, consume vast amounts of power, primarily for computing and cooling. The International Energy Agency (IEA) reports that data centers and AI combined used 460 TWh of electricity in 2022, nearly 2% of global demand. Despite tech giants' efforts to use renewable energy, AI's rapid growth poses substantial environmental and sustainability challenges.

ENGINEERING

Breakthrough in Space Manufacturing: 3D Printer Successfully Operates in Microgravity: Researchers at UC Berkeley, led by Ph.D. student Taylor Waddell, have achieved a significant milestone by sending a 3D printer called SpaceCAL into suborbital space aboard the Virgin Galactic 07 mission. The printer autonomously fabricated four test parts under microgravity conditions, demonstrating the potential for on-demand manufacturing of spacecraft components and medical supplies during space missions. This advancement could drastically reduce the need for carrying extensive spare parts on long-duration missions, enhancing space exploration and crew safety.

3D Stretchable Electronic Strip Sparks Innovation in Wearable E-Textiles: Researchers at Nottingham Trent University have created a 3D stretchable electronic strip, promising new possibilities for wearable electronic textiles. The strip's helical ribbon design allows it to bend and stretch with the body, making it ideal for embedding in health care and sportswear garments. This technology demonstrates superior flexibility and durability compared to existing solutions, potentially transforming wearable tech applications.

Novel 2D Device Enables Quantum Cooling with Voltage Control: Researchers at the University of Basel, Switzerland have developed a novel two-dimensional (2D) device capable of quantum cooling controlled by voltage. This technology utilizes a bilayer of tungsten diselenide and molybdenum disulfide to achieve precise temperature control, potentially revolutionizing quantum computing and other applications requiring extreme cooling precision. This advance opens new possibilities for energy-efficient cooling at the nanoscale.

Innovative Catalyst for Carbon Capture from Smokestacks: Researchers at the University of Toronto have developed a new contaminant-tolerant catalyst that efficiently converts captured carbon dioxide into valuable products, even in the presence of sulfur dioxide, a common industrial contaminant. This breakthrough, led by Professor David Sinton, could significantly enhance carbon capture and storage processes, making them more economically viable and aiding in the decarbonization of hard-to-abate industries like steel and cement manufacturing.

New Electrolyte Design Boosts Lithium Metal Battery Performance: Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a new electrolyte design for lithium metal batteries that significantly reduces the amount of environmentally harmful fluorine while boosting battery performance. The novel method uses fluorinated cations to stabilize the protective layer around the lithium, enhancing safety, efficiency, and lifespan. This advancement could lead to electric vehicles with greater range and reduced environmental impact, making the batteries more sustainable and cost-effective.

MATHEMATICS

The Mathematical Magic of Counting Curves: Pim Spelier of Leiden University has advanced the field of mathematics by exploring how to count points on curves and the number of possible curves passing through given points. His Ph.D. research, recognized with distinction, utilized geometric tricks and algebraic geometry to simplify complex spaces and curves into manageable parts. This innovative approach has provided new insights into longstanding mathematical problems and proven the superiority of the Edixhoven-Lido method for finding rational points on curves.

New Mathematical Method Enhances Ocean Research: Researchers at The University of Western Australia have developed a groundbreaking method for spectral density estimation, which corrects biases in traditional methods like Welch's estimator. This advancement, led by Dr. Lachlan Astfalck, improves the accuracy of measuring energy contributions from ocean waves and currents. The method's application in oceanographic studies aims to enhance understanding of complex ocean processes, climate models, and renewable energy technologies.

SPACE

Repurposed Technology to Probe Dark Regions on Mars: Scientists have adapted technology originally designed for Earth applications to explore dark regions on Mars. This innovation utilizes advanced imaging and analysis techniques to study areas previously inaccessible due to low light levels. The approach aims to uncover new insights about Martian geology and potential habitats, enhancing our understanding of the planet's surface and its potential for past or present life.

Webb Telescope Captures Quasar-Galaxy Merger in Distant Universe: The James Webb Space Telescope has observed a dramatic merger between a quasar and two massive satellite galaxies in the PJ308–21 system, providing unprecedented details about galaxy formation in the early universe. Led by INAF, the international team found high metallicity and photoionization conditions in the host galaxy, with differing characteristics in the satellite galaxies. This research, revealing a supermassive black hole of about 2 billion solar masses, enhances our understanding of cosmic history and galaxy evolution.

ESA's EarthCARE Mission to Enhance Understanding of Earth's Energy Balance: The European Space Agency (ESA) is set to launch the EarthCARE (Earth Clouds, Aerosols and Radiation Explorer) satellite to study Earth's energy balance. Equipped with advanced instruments, EarthCARE will provide detailed observations of clouds, aerosols, and radiation interactions. This mission aims to improve climate models and predictions by offering unprecedented insights into how these components affect the planet's climate system.

NASA's Parker Solar Probe Completes 20th Sun Approach: NASA's Parker Solar Probe has successfully completed its 20th close approach to the Sun, setting new records for speed and proximity. This mission aims to study the Sun's outer atmosphere and solar wind, providing critical data to understand space weather and its impact on Earth. The probe's instruments continue to deliver groundbreaking insights into solar phenomena, helping scientists unravel the mysteries of the Sun.

HEALTH & MEDICINE

AI Revolutionizes Antibody Drug Development: Stanford researchers, led by biochemistry professor Peter S. Kim, have developed an AI-based method to optimize antibody drugs. This approach integrates protein 3D structures with large language models to predict beneficial molecular changes. Demonstrated by enhancing a discontinued SARS-CoV-2 antibody, this method achieved a 25-fold improvement in effectiveness. This innovation could streamline the creation of more effective and lower-dose medicines, potentially transforming responses to evolving diseases.

Discovery of Genomic Variants Linked to Thyroid Cancer: Researchers have identified new genomic variants associated with thyroid cancer, providing insights into the genetic basis of the disease. This study, conducted by a team at the Institute of Cancer Research in London, highlights specific genetic changes that increase the risk of developing thyroid cancer. Understanding these variants can lead to improved screening, prevention, and treatment strategies, potentially offering personalized approaches for patients.

Scientists Discover Essential Role of Lipids in Human Brain Health: Researchers have uncovered crucial functions of lipids in the human brain, revealing their importance in neurodevelopment and disease. Lipids are vital for cell membrane integrity, energy storage, and signaling. This study highlights how lipid dysregulation is linked to neurological disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Understanding these roles opens new avenues for developing treatments targeting lipid metabolism, potentially offering novel approaches to managing and preventing brain diseases.

Deacetylation Process Revealed as Key in Viral Infection: Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University have discovered that deacetylation, the removal of acetyl groups from proteins, is crucial in viral infections. They found that the SARS-CoV-2 virus utilizes deacetylation to replicate and evade the immune system. Targeting this process could lead to new antiviral treatments. This study highlights the importance of protein modifications in viral life cycles and offers a potential pathway for developing therapies against COVID-19 and other viral diseases.

Smoking Linked to Accelerated Cognitive Decline in Older Adults: A study by University College London, published in Nature Communications, reveals that smoking significantly accelerates cognitive decline in older adults. Analyzing data from 32,000 Europeans aged 50+, researchers found smokers' cognitive scores declined up to 85% more over ten years than non-smokers. Even those with otherwise healthy lifestyles but who smoked showed similar declines. The findings highlight the critical role of smoking cessation in preserving cognitive health in aging populations.

Survey Highlights Men's Experiences with Cancer: A recent survey explores men's experiences and challenges with cancer, revealing critical insights into their unique struggles. The findings indicate that men often delay seeking medical help, leading to later-stage diagnoses and poorer outcomes. The study underscores the need for targeted awareness campaigns and support systems to encourage early detection and treatment among men, ultimately aiming to improve survival rates and quality of life.

ENVIRONMENT

Satellite Images Reveal Severe Deforestation in Indonesia: Recent satellite images have revealed the devastating extent of deforestation in Indonesia. The study highlights that large areas of forest are being cleared, primarily for palm oil plantations and logging activities. This rapid deforestation threatens biodiversity, contributes to climate change, and impacts indigenous communities. The findings underscore the urgent need for sustainable land management practices and stronger environmental protection policies.

Exploring Effects of Precipitation on Arctic Amplification: A study by University of Alaska Fairbanks researchers examines how changes in precipitation patterns influence Arctic amplification. They found that increased rain and snowfall accelerate the region's warming, impacting ice melt and atmospheric dynamics. This research highlights the complex interactions between precipitation and temperature in the Arctic, which could have significant implications for global climate models and future climate predictions.

NATURE

Starling Migratory Behavior is Inherited: A study by the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior reveals that migratory behavior in starlings is genetically inherited rather than learned. By tracking both captive-bred and wild starlings, researchers found that captive-bred starlings exhibited similar migratory patterns as their wild counterparts. This discovery sheds light on the genetic basis of migration and could inform conservation strategies for migratory birds.

Humpback Whales Experienced Reduced Stress During Pandemic: A study led by Dr. Jake Linsky at the University of Queensland found that humpback whales migrating off Australia's east coast showed significantly lower stress levels during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Using drone photos and blubber samples, researchers observed a drop in cortisol levels, suggesting reduced environmental stress due to decreased human activity and possibly lower pollution levels. These findings highlight the importance of mitigating human impacts on marine life.

High-Speed Video Reveals Hippos Get Airborne When Running: Researchers at the University of London's Royal Veterinary College have discovered that hippos can lift all four feet off the ground while running at full speed. Using high-speed cameras, they captured and analyzed 169 running cycles from 32 hippos. They found that hippos achieve this airborne state about 15% of the time, lasting approximately 0.3 seconds per occurrence. This study provides new insights into the biomechanics of these large, fast animals.

Listening for the Right Buzz Prevents Mosquitoes from Mating with the Wrong Species: Researchers at Nagoya University have discovered how male Aedes mosquitoes identify females of their own species by listening to the specific wingbeat frequencies. This helps prevent cross-species mating. The findings could lead to new mosquito control strategies using artificial flight sounds to trap both male and female mosquitoes, potentially reducing disease transmission without eliminating mosquitoes from the ecosystem entirely.

New Insights into Myrtle Rust Pathogen's Host Invasion: Researchers at the University of Sydney have uncovered how the myrtle rust pathogen, Austropuccinia psidii, invades its host plants. By analyzing the pathogen's genome, they identified specific genes responsible for host infection and adaptation. This breakthrough could lead to developing resistant plant varieties and effective treatments to combat this destructive pathogen, which threatens global biodiversity and ecosystems.

INDUSTRY

Hawaii's Climate Lawsuit Against Big Oil Paves Way for California's Efforts: Hawaii's Supreme Court recently ruled in favor of holding oil companies accountable for climate-related damages, establishing a precedent that could influence similar cases in California. The decision allows Hawaii to proceed with lawsuits against major oil firms for their role in climate change, potentially leading to significant financial repercussions. This landmark ruling may empower other states to pursue legal action against fossil fuel companies, aiming to mitigate climate impacts and fund environmental restoration.

Smart Solar-Powered Freezer Truck Unveiled in Hong Kong: Researchers at Hong Kong Polytechnic University have introduced a novel smart solar-powered freezer truck. The truck features extensible solar panels and an onboard lithium-ion battery, providing flexible energy input options and maintaining freezer temperatures as low as -45°C. This innovation aims to replace traditional diesel-powered freezer systems, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and operational costs. The truck's smart energy management system enhances efficiency and battery life, making it a sustainable solution for logistics and storage.

Scale of Pharmaceutical Industry-Sponsored Events Revealed: A new study highlights the extensive reach of pharmaceutical industry-sponsored events aimed at healthcare professionals. The research shows a significant number of such events, emphasizing the industry's influence on medical practice and decision-making. These events often involve meals, education, and promotional activities, raising concerns about potential biases in clinical judgment. Understanding the scope and impact of these events is crucial for maintaining ethical standards in healthcare.

Chinese Electric Vehicles Transforming Australia's Market: Pros and Cons: Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers like BYD are making significant inroads in Australia's car market, challenging Tesla's dominance. With affordable options, Chinese brands are driving EV sales up by 16.5% year-to-date. However, consumers should be cautious about potential quality and data privacy issues. Additionally, Australia faces challenges such as inadequate charging infrastructure and a shortage of EV technicians. Despite these hurdles, the influx of Chinese EVs is a step toward achieving net-zero targets and promoting green motoring.

Microgrids Empowering Remote Communities in Australia: Microgrids are providing regional and remote Australian communities with reliable, clean energy. These localized energy systems, often powered by solar with battery storage, are replacing diesel generators and enhancing energy security, especially during natural disasters. Projects like Marlinja's community-owned microgrid demonstrate significant cost savings and reduced environmental impact. Despite regulatory and investment challenges, microgrids offer autonomy and economic development, promoting resilience and sustainability in off-grid areas.