Buckwheat's Climate Resilience Makes It a Future Crop Contender

Hello and welcome to Saturday’s STEAM newsletter.

In today’s edition:

• Science - Novel Method Precisely Measures Thermal Expansion in Atom-Thin Materials, and more.

• Technology and AI - AI Guardian Developed to Verify Teen Authorship of Text Messages, AI Technology Enhances Classification of Medical Images, and more.

• Engineering - World's Thinnest Technology Survives Extreme Temperatures with New Reflectometry Technique, and more.

• Space - NASA's Fungal Habitats for Space Exploration, and more.

• Health & Medicine - Development of Monoclonal Antibody to Neutralize Deadly Nipah Virus, and more.

• Environment -Nigerians Harness Mangrove Forests for Economic and Environmental Sustainability, and more.

• Nature - Buckwheat's Climate Resilience Makes It a Future Crop Contender, and more.

• World - Bahamas Prepares for Caribbean's Next Debt-for-Nature Swap, Climate Lawsuits Against Companies Surge Globally, and more.

Until Tomorrow,

~The STEAM Digest

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This newsletter is curated by The STEAM Digest.

SCIENCE

Novel Spin-Spin Velocity Experiments Challenge the Standard Model: New experiments focusing on spin-spin interactions and velocity dependence suggest potential deviations from the Standard Model of particle physics. Conducted by researchers, these experiments revealed unexpected results that might indicate new physics. By meticulously measuring the forces between particles with aligned spins at various velocities, the findings could lead to significant revisions in our understanding of fundamental forces, potentially rewriting physics textbooks and opening up avenues for future research.

Novel Method Precisely Measures Thermal Expansion in Atom-Thin Materials: Researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory have developed a groundbreaking technique to measure the thermal expansion coefficient of two-dimensional materials, specifically tungsten di-selenide. This method, using four-dimensional scanning transmission electron microscopy and advanced computational analysis, allows for precise measurement without support structures. The findings, which align the thermal expansion properties of 2D materials with those of bulk materials, have significant implications for the future of microelectronics, particularly in managing heat-related performance issues.

New Insights into the Unique Properties of Gallium: Researchers at the University of Auckland have discovered surprising properties of gallium, showing that its covalent bonds reappear at high temperatures after melting. This contradicts long-held assumptions and suggests a large increase in entropy as the bonds break. These findings could impact nanotechnology and materials science, where gallium is used in semiconductors and other applications.

TECHNOLOGY AND AI

AI Guardian Developed to Verify Teen Authorship of Text Messages: Researchers have created an AI tool designed to verify the authorship of text messages from teenagers, aiming to detect cases of online coercion or impersonation. This "AI Guardian" analyzes writing patterns and context to ensure messages are genuinely from the purported sender. The technology addresses rising concerns about digital safety for teens, offering a way to protect them from online threats while maintaining privacy and security.

AI Technology Enhances Classification of Medical Images: Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed advanced AI technology to improve the classification of medical images. This innovation enhances the accuracy and efficiency of diagnosing diseases from medical scans, potentially transforming healthcare delivery. The new AI system can classify images more precisely by leveraging deep learning algorithms, reducing diagnostic errors, and accelerating the diagnostic process. This breakthrough represents a significant step forward in integrating AI into medical practice.

Study Finds AI Medical Imaging Systems Exhibit Biases: A study from the University of Cambridge reveals that AI systems used in medical imaging can exhibit biases, particularly against certain demographic groups. Researchers found that these biases stem from disparities in the data used to train the AI models, often lacking sufficient representation of diverse populations. The findings underscore the need for more inclusive data and rigorous evaluation of AI tools to ensure equitable healthcare outcomes.

Innovative 3D-Printed Chip Sensor Detects Foodborne Pathogens: Researchers have developed a novel 3D-printed chip sensor capable of rapidly detecting foodborne pathogens. This cutting-edge technology enhances food safety by providing quick, accurate, and cost-effective identification of harmful bacteria and viruses in food products. The chip utilizes advanced sensing techniques to deliver real-time results, potentially transforming food quality control and reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses.

ENGINEERING

World's Thinnest Technology Survives Extreme Temperatures with New Reflectometry Technique: Researchers at the National Physical Laboratory have developed a cutting-edge reflectometry technique to measure the properties of the world's thinnest materials, even under extreme temperatures. This advancement allows for precise analysis of materials only a few atoms thick, crucial for applications in electronics and nanotechnology. The technique enhances our understanding of material behavior, supporting the development of resilient devices for harsh environments.

Soft, Stretchy Electrode Simulates Realistic Touch Sensations: Researchers at the University of California, San Diego have developed a soft, stretchy electrode capable of simulating touch sensations such as pressure and vibration on the skin. This device, which can be worn like a sticker, uses electrical signals to create realistic haptic feedback without causing pain. The innovation, involving a novel conductive and stretchable polymer, has significant potential for applications in virtual reality, prosthetics, and wearable technology.

Breakthrough 3D Printing Technique Enables Customizable Porous Structures: Researchers at the Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology have developed a filament diameter-adjustable 3D printing strategy (FDA-3DP) that allows for precise control over the pore size gradients in printed structures. This innovative method, published in Nature Communications, uses variable filling density and customizable printing parameters to create complex 3D gradient structures. The technique has significant implications for biofabrication, tissue engineering, and flexible electronics, enhancing the capabilities of traditional direct ink writing 3D printers.

AI Technology Accurately Predicts Yield Strength of Metals: Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed an AI-based model to predict the yield strength of various metals. Utilizing machine learning algorithms, this technology can accurately determine how different metals will behave under stress without the need for extensive physical testing. This advancement not only accelerates material selection in engineering and manufacturing but also reduces costs and enhances the efficiency of developing new metal alloys.

Breakthrough in Biodegradable Electronics: Enhanced Dissolution Control: Scientists at Johannes Kepler University have made significant progress in biodegradable electronics by developing materials that dissolve more controllably in water. Using zinc, magnesium, and tungsten, combined with natural polymers, they created electronics that can degrade safely and predictably. This advancement promises applications in medical implants and environmental sensors, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional electronics.

SPACE

NASA's Parachute Sensor Prepares for Epic Mars Missions: NASA engineers have developed a novel sensor to test parachutes for future Mars missions, ensuring their reliability under extreme conditions. The sensor monitors the parachute's deployment and performance during high-speed atmospheric entry. This technology is critical for safely landing heavy payloads on Mars, including the Mars Sample Return mission. The sensor's data will guide the design of parachutes capable of withstanding the harsh Martian environment, marking a significant advancement in planetary exploration technology.

NASA's Fungal Habitats for Space Exploration: NASA's Mycotecture Off Planet project is advancing with a $2 million NIAC Phase III award to develop space habitats grown from fungi. This innovative approach uses mycelium, the main part of fungi, to create sustainable, lightweight structures for lunar and Martian missions. The technology, tested in planetary simulators, aims to reduce resource use and potentially integrate into future space stations. Beyond space, it has applications in water filtration and waste mineral extraction.

Milky Way's eROSITA Bubbles Revealed as Giant Structures: Recent research has mapped the eROSITA bubbles in the Milky Way, showing they are larger and more distant than previously thought. These hourglass-shaped structures, observed via X-rays, extend about 10,000 parsecs from the galactic center. The study clarifies that features like the North Polar Spur and Lotus Petal Cloud are part of a single, massive bubble rather than independent entities. This discovery has significant implications for understanding the Milky Way's structure and history.

Mapping Mars with Open Science: A Collaborative Endeavor: NASA's Mars 2020 mission utilizes open-source tools to map and explore Jezero Crater. The Multi-Mission Geographic Information System (MMGIS) developed by JPL allows scientists to integrate images from orbit and the Mars surface, aiding in rover navigation and scientific investigation. This approach enables global collaboration and transparency, enhancing mission success and future space exploration efforts.

Scientists Clarify Origins of Lunar Metallic Iron: A study by the Chinese Academy of Sciences, published in Nature Astronomy, elucidates the formation of metallic iron nanoparticles (npFe^0) on the Moon. Researchers found that solar wind irradiation forms smaller npFe^0, while micrometeorite impacts create larger npFe^0. This discovery helps explain the color variations of the lunar surface and the complexities in remote sensing data. The findings enhance our understanding of space weathering and its effects on airless bodies.

HEALTH & MEDICINE

Targeting Bone Marrow Fat Cells: A New Approach to Preventing Bone Loss: Researchers from the Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology have discovered that inhibiting estrogen-related receptor alpha (ESRRA) in bone marrow adipocytes can prevent bone loss and promote bone formation. This mechanism enhances osteogenesis and vascular formation by modulating the expression of leptin and secreted phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1). The findings provide a potential therapeutic target for osteoporosis and other bone disorders associated with high marrow adiposity.

Enhancing Hearing: Researchers Create Mice with Supranormal Auditory Abilities: Scientists at Michigan Medicine's Kresge Hearing Research Institute have successfully enhanced hearing in mice beyond normal levels by increasing the number of synapses between inner ear hair cells and neurons using the neurotrophic factor Ntf3. This breakthrough significantly improves auditory processing, offering potential treatments for hidden hearing loss and other neurodegenerative disorders by preserving or increasing synapse density.

Development of Monoclonal Antibody to Neutralize Deadly Nipah Virus: Researchers are developing a monoclonal antibody, hu1F5, targeting the Nipah virus, a highly lethal zoonotic pathogen with a mortality rate up to 90%. Engineered by Mapp Biopharmaceutical and U.S. academic centers, hu1F5 has shown promising results in animal models, offering 100% survival rates in hamsters and significant protection in monkeys. The antibody outperforms previous versions and is advancing toward human clinical trials, aiming to provide a therapeutic option for a virus with no existing licensed treatments.

Breakthrough in Scalable Synthesis of Cancer-Fighting Compounds: Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center in Florida have developed a scalable method for synthesizing withanolides, compounds known for their cancer-fighting properties. Published in Science Advances, this new technique uses a bioinspired sequence allowing large-scale production, overcoming the limitations of plant extraction. This innovation promises to accelerate cancer research and treatment development, offering a reliable source of these compounds to enhance the effectiveness of current therapies and combat drug resistance in various cancer types.

Promising Therapy for Fatal Prion Diseases Developed through Collaboration: A collaboration between Broad Institute and Whitehead Institute researchers has led to the development of a new therapeutic candidate for prion diseases. This innovative approach, named CHARMs (Coupled Histone tail for Autoinhibition Release of Methyltransferase), effectively silences disease-causing genes using epigenetic editing. Early tests show promise in animal models, with the potential for human clinical trials. This rapid progress offers hope for those affected by fatal prion diseases, which currently lack effective treatments.

ENVIRONMENT

Nigerians Harness Mangrove Forests for Economic and Environmental Sustainability: In Nigeria, local communities are leveraging the vast mangrove forests for economic and environmental benefits. These forests, among the world's largest, provide crucial resources like timber and fish while protecting shorelines from erosion and storm surges. Sustainable practices and restoration efforts are essential to maintaining these benefits, highlighting the mangroves' vital role in local livelihoods and ecosystem health.

Uncovering Pollution Hotspots in Aquatic Environments: A study from the University of Birmingham has identified pollution hotspots in aquatic environments caused by urbanization and agricultural runoff. Using advanced modeling techniques, researchers have pinpointed areas with high levels of contaminants such as heavy metals and pesticides. These findings highlight the need for targeted pollution management strategies to protect ecosystems and water quality, emphasizing the significant impact of human activities on aquatic health.

Fast Fashion vs. the Planet: How to Build a Sustainable Wardrobe: The fast fashion industry significantly contributes to environmental degradation through excessive waste, pollution, and resource depletion. To combat this, experts suggest adopting a sustainable wardrobe by purchasing fewer, higher-quality items, supporting ethical brands, and opting for second-hand or vintage clothing. Additionally, caring for clothes properly to extend their lifespan and recycling textiles can further reduce the fashion industry's ecological impact.

NATURE

Buckwheat's Climate Resilience Makes It a Future Crop Contender: Researchers from the University of the Basque Country have found that buckwheat responds better to future climate conditions, such as high CO2 levels, high temperatures, and drought, compared to wheat. In controlled growth chamber experiments, buckwheat maintained growth and enhanced photosynthesis under these conditions, while wheat's growth and photosynthesis declined. This study suggests that buckwheat could serve as a more resilient alternative to wheat in the face of climate change.

Giant Cactus to Combat Desertification in Brazil: Scientists in Brazil are utilizing the giant cactus (Cereus jamacaru) to combat desertification in the semi-arid northeast. This resilient plant, known for its drought resistance and ability to thrive in harsh conditions, is being integrated into reforestation efforts. The cactus helps restore degraded land by improving soil quality and providing a habitat for wildlife, ultimately supporting sustainable agriculture and ecosystem recovery.

Invasive Ants Spread via Hitchhiking on Personal Vehicles: Research from Virginia Tech has revealed that invasive ant species are increasingly spreading by hitchhiking on everyday vehicles. Over a six-year study in Taiwan, scientists observed nine ant species, seven of which were invasive, using cars to establish new colonies. This phenomenon, exacerbated by overcrowded colonies and rising temperatures, highlights the need for improved tracking and mitigation strategies to prevent further spread of these invasive ants.

Environmental and Social Influences on Nerve Cell Development in Brains: Research from the Max Planck Institute of Neurobiology has revealed that environmental and social factors significantly influence nerve cell development in the brain. Using zebrafish, scientists discovered that isolation and lack of social interaction negatively impact neuronal growth and connectivity. These findings emphasize the importance of external stimuli for healthy brain development and provide insights into neurological disorders and the developmental significance of social interactions.

WORLD

Bahamas Prepares for Caribbean's Next Debt-for-Nature Swap: The Bahamas is set to engage in a debt-for-nature swap, a financial strategy aimed at converting debt into funding for conservation projects. This initiative is expected to protect marine and terrestrial ecosystems while providing financial relief to the country. Following Belize and Barbados, the Bahamas' move highlights a growing trend in the Caribbean region, leveraging environmental conservation for economic benefits and sustainable development.

AI's Double-Edged Sword: Deepfakes and Democracy in the Indian Election: The recent Indian election saw an influx of deepfake content, raising concerns about misinformation. However, AI also played a positive role by enhancing democratic processes. AI tools helped in voter registration, electoral transparency, and combating fake news. Despite the challenges posed by deepfakes, the overall impact of AI on the election was beneficial, demonstrating its potential to support democratic integrity when used responsibly.

Climate Lawsuits Against Companies Surge Globally: A new report by the Grantham Research Institute at LSE reveals a significant rise in climate-related lawsuits against corporations, particularly post-2020. These lawsuits target various sectors, including fossil fuels, airlines, and e-commerce, often addressing issues like "climate-washing" and financing fossil fuel projects. Notable cases, such as the 2021 ruling against Shell, set precedents. The trend indicates growing legal pressure on companies to mitigate climate impacts, with international courts also increasingly involved in climate litigation.

Germany's Legal Weed Phase Two Faces Challenges: Germany's effort to implement legal cannabis use is encountering hurdles as it enters its second phase. Legal ambiguities, lack of clear regulations, and enforcement inconsistencies have complicated the rollout. While the initial phase allowed limited private cultivation and non-commercial distribution, the second phase aimed at establishing regulated commercial sales faces scrutiny and logistical issues. Policymakers are working to address these challenges to ensure a smooth transition to a fully legalized cannabis market.