Butter Made from CO2: A Revolutionary Approach to Sustainable Food Production

Hello and welcome to Tuesday’s STEAM newsletter.

In today’s edition:

• Science - Scientists Successfully Create Crystal from Giant Atoms, and more.

• Technology and AI - AI Chatbots Can Pass Certified Ethical Hacking Exams, Study Finds, Redesigning Videoconferencing for People Who Stutter, and more.

• Engineering - Invisible Shield: Wearable Air Curtain Blocks 99.8% of Aerosol Viruses, New Carbon Storage Technology is Fastest of its Kind, and more.

• Space - Evidence of Water Vapor Detected in the Atmosphere of Smertrios.

• Health & Medicine - Implantable LED Device Uses Light to Treat Deep-Seated Cancers, Tool Predicts Nerve Damage from Breast Cancer Treatment, and more.

• Environment - Butter Made from CO2: A Revolutionary Approach to Sustainable Food Production, Forever Chemical" Contamination Hot Spots Identified Across the U.S., and more.

• Nature - Database Reveals Presence of Magnetic Bacteria Worldwide, Researchers Listen to the Hearts of Bats in Flight, and more.

• Industry - Microsoft Seals Carbon Capture Deal with Occidental, University of Minnesota's First Semiconductor Officer: 'We Can Grow as a Semiconductor Hub', and more.

Until Tomorrow,

~The STEAM Digest

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This newsletter is curated by The STEAM Digest.

SCIENCE

Scientists Successfully Create Crystal from Giant Atoms: Researchers at Harvard University have successfully created a crystal using giant atoms, known as Rydberg atoms, arranged in a regular pattern. This breakthrough offers new insights into quantum simulations and the study of exotic states of matter. The team used laser cooling and trapping techniques to arrange these atoms, which have electron orbits thousands of times larger than normal. This achievement could pave the way for advances in quantum computing and other technological applications.

Efficient Method Developed to Recover Rare-Earth Metal Europium: Researchers at Tokyo Metropolitan University have devised a highly efficient method to recover the rare-earth metal europium from waste. Using a unique crystal structure called a "hexagonal perovskite," they demonstrated a recovery efficiency of 99.8%, which is significantly higher than conventional methods. This breakthrough has the potential to improve recycling processes for europium, which is crucial for various high-tech applications such as phosphors in LEDs and displays.

Scientists Create a Cell That Precludes Malignant Growth: Researchers from the University of Helsinki have developed a new type of cell that prevents malignant growth by using a safety system that halts cell division. These cells can only divide when provided with thymidine, a DNA building block. This innovation helps avoid risks associated with gene-edited cells, such as unintended DNA mutations leading to cancer. The modified stem cells have shown normal functionality and potential for various medical applications, including safe and novel cell therapies.

Paradigm-Challenging Discovery: Diamonds Grown Without High Pressure: Researchers at the Institute for Basic Science have developed a groundbreaking method to grow diamonds at atmospheric pressure and 1025°C using a liquid metal alloy of gallium, iron, nickel, and silicon. This new approach bypasses the traditional high-pressure techniques, opening up new possibilities for diamond production and applications in quantum computing and magnetic sensing. The discovery challenges long-standing paradigms in diamond synthesis and offers significant flexibility in the composition of liquid metals used for growth.

TECHNOLOGY AND AI

AI Chatbots Can Pass Certified Ethical Hacking Exams, Study Finds: Researchers from the University of Missouri and Amrita University have found that AI chatbots like ChatGPT and Google's Bard can pass certified ethical hacking exams. These AI tools demonstrated proficiency in explaining cybersecurity concepts and suggesting security measures, although they occasionally provided incorrect answers. The study highlights the potential of AI in cybersecurity but emphasizes that these tools should not replace human expertise due to the critical need for accuracy in this field.

Redesigning Videoconferencing for People Who Stutter: Researchers at the University of Bath have developed a videoconferencing tool specifically designed to assist people who stutter. The tool includes features such as real-time text displays, customizable communication settings, and visual cues to reduce anxiety and improve communication efficiency. This innovation aims to make virtual meetings more inclusive and accessible for individuals with speech impairments.

New Backscatter Communication Technique Promises to Power Internet of Things: Researchers have developed a backscatter communication technique that significantly reduces power consumption for Internet of Things (IoT) devices. This method enables devices to communicate by reflecting existing wireless signals rather than generating their own, making it highly energy-efficient. The innovation could extend the battery life of IoT devices and expand their applications in various fields, such as smart homes and industrial automation.

International Team Develops High-Frequency Transistors for Future Tech: An international team of researchers has developed high-frequency transistors that promise to revolutionize future technology. These transistors, made from new semiconductor materials, offer faster performance and greater efficiency. The innovation could impact various fields, including telecommunications, computing, and medical devices, by enabling higher-speed data processing and more efficient power usage. This breakthrough highlights the potential for significant advancements in electronic devices and systems.

Google Creates Self-Replicating Life from Digital Primordial Soup: Google researchers have developed a digital simulation that mimics the conditions of the primordial Earth to create self-replicating life forms. This groundbreaking experiment uses artificial intelligence to simulate the complex processes of life formation, potentially providing new insights into the origins of life on Earth and advancing the field of synthetic biology. The digital life forms created can replicate and evolve, showcasing the potential for digital environments to model biological phenomena.

ENGINEERING

Invisible Shield: Wearable Air Curtain Blocks 99.8% of Aerosol Viruses: Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed an innovative wearable device by Taza Aya that uses an air curtain to block 99.8% of aerosol viruses. This device, designed to protect agricultural and industrial workers, employs nonthermal plasma to sterilize the air before it reaches the user, offering superior respiratory protection without the drawbacks of traditional masks.

New Carbon Storage Technology is Fastest of its Kind: Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed a new method for ultrafast formation of carbon dioxide hydrates, which can efficiently store carbon captured from the atmosphere. This process is faster than existing methods and doesn't require harmful chemical accelerants. The hydrates, which form in the ocean, offer a promising solution for large-scale carbon sequestration, potentially aiding global efforts to combat climate change.

Engineers Fabricate Ultra-strong Aluminum Alloys for Additive Manufacturing: Researchers at Purdue University have developed a new process to create ultrahigh-strength aluminum alloys suitable for additive manufacturing. By introducing transition metals like cobalt, iron, nickel, and titanium, they created nanoscale intermetallics that enhance the strength and deformability of aluminum. This innovation addresses the limitations of traditional high-strength aluminum alloys, which are prone to defects during additive manufacturing. The findings could revolutionize industries reliant on lightweight, high-strength materials.

Scientists Design Method to Lessen Reliance on Air Conditioning: Researchers at the University of Sharjah have developed a cooling method that reduces reliance on air conditioning by employing natural ventilation techniques. Tested in a prototype building in the UAE, the system lowered indoor temperatures by 0.7°C. The study highlights the potential of passive cooling strategies, such as cross-ventilation and wind catchers, to reduce energy consumption, especially in regions with high electricity demand for cooling.

Moving from the Visible to the Infrared: Developing High Quality Nanocrystals: Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed high-quality mercury selenide (HgSe) and mercury cadmium selenide (HgCdSe) nanocrystals that absorb and emit infrared light. These nanocrystals, created using a new process called interdiffusion enhanced cation exchange, retain the desirable properties of their visible spectrum counterparts. This advancement could have significant implications for applications such as bioimaging, where infrared light can penetrate deeper into tissues, providing better imaging of biological processes.

SPACE

Evidence of Water Vapor Detected in the Atmosphere of Smertrios: Astronomers have discovered evidence of water vapor in the atmosphere of Smertrios, a hot Saturn exoplanet orbiting the star HD 149026. Using the CARMENES spectrograph, the researchers conducted high-resolution transmission spectroscopy and found a water signal close to the expected location of the planet. This discovery provides insights into the composition and formation of Smertrios, enhancing our understanding of such exoplanets.

HEALTH & MEDICINE

Implantable LED Device Uses Light to Treat Deep-Seated Cancers: Researchers at the University of Notre Dame have developed a miniature, implantable LED device that uses light to treat cancers located deep within the body. This device, in combination with a light-sensitive dye, can destroy cancer cells and mobilize the immune system to attack tumors. The device, which is the size of a grain of rice, is remotely activated and offers a minimally invasive treatment option for challenging cancer types.

Tool Predicts Nerve Damage from Breast Cancer Treatment: Researchers at Linköping University have developed a predictive tool to assess the risk of nerve damage in breast cancer patients treated with taxane-based chemotherapy. By analyzing genetic data and patient symptoms, the tool can help identify individuals at higher risk of persistent side effects, such as peripheral neuropathy. This innovation aims to improve personalized treatment plans and reduce long-term complications for cancer survivors.

AI Technology Advances Early Detection of Severe Diseases: Researchers at Peking University and the University of British Columbia have made significant strides in using artificial intelligence (AI) for the early detection of chronic illnesses and specific cancer subtypes. This cutting-edge technology can analyze vast datasets quickly, enhancing personalized, predictive, and prescriptive diagnostics. AI's capacity to identify novel data patterns plays a crucial role in diagnosing diseases much earlier than traditional methods, revolutionizing the field of medical diagnostics​.

AI Study Shows Faster Growth of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms in Women: A study by UC Davis Health researchers revealed that abdominal aortic aneurysms grow faster in women than in men, requiring more rigorous surveillance. Using AI technology to analyze medical records and images, the study found that women's aneurysms often grow more quickly and pose a higher risk of rupture. The findings suggest the need for updated guidelines to improve early diagnosis and treatment for women.

Possible Treatment for Sickle Cell Disease: Researchers at Novartis Biomedical Research have identified a potential treatment for sickle cell disease by developing a drug that induces fetal hemoglobin production without severe side effects. The compound, called dWIZ-1, was tested in animal models and significantly increased fetal hemoglobin levels, which could alleviate disease symptoms. Further testing is required to ensure safety and efficacy in humans.

Autism Spectrum Disorder Associated with Altered Gut Microbiome in Children: A study published in Nature Microbiology reveals significant differences in the gut microbiome of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) compared to neurotypical children. Researchers identified 31 key microbial markers, including bacteria, archaea, fungi, and viruses, which were consistently altered in children with ASD. These findings suggest that the gut microbiome plays a role in ASD and may offer potential for future diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

ENVIRONMENT

Butter Made from CO2: A Revolutionary Approach to Sustainable Food Production: Green-On, a Swedish tech start-up, has developed an innovative process to create butter from carbon dioxide, water, and electricity. This breakthrough offers a potential pathway to producing food without traditional farming methods. The process leverages renewable carbon and bypasses the environmental toll associated with conventional agriculture, such as deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions from livestock farming. While promising, this technology's success depends on the availability and environmental impact of electricity used in the process. As these products scale up, costs and infrastructure will also play critical roles in their viability and widespread adoption

Forever Chemical" Contamination Hot Spots Identified Across the U.S.: Researchers from West Virginia University identified multiple U.S. hot spots for "forever chemical" contamination, impacting 270 million Americans' drinking water. Densely populated, higher-income areas with industries like manufacturing and aviation are most affected. Surprisingly, groundwater sources have higher contamination levels than surface water. The study emphasizes the need for better industrial emissions control and consumer product regulations. "Forever chemicals" or PFAS, linked to severe health issues, persist in the environment, complicating mitigation efforts. Further research will assess the economic impact of PFAS contamination.

Self-Cooling Artificial Grass: A Solution for Urban Heat: Researchers have developed a self-cooling artificial grass that can help cities manage extreme weather. This innovative grass uses a special material that reflects sunlight and radiates heat away, significantly lowering its temperature compared to traditional artificial turf. The technology promises to mitigate the urban heat island effect, making outdoor spaces cooler and more comfortable during hot weather. This development could play a crucial role in adapting urban environments to the challenges of climate change.

New AI Model Achieves High-Accuracy Forecasts from Low-Resolution Data: Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have developed an AI model capable of producing highly accurate weather forecasts using low-resolution data. This model leverages "tokens" from spatial-temporal data, such as images of humidity and temperature, enabling it to deliver comparable results to high-resolution models with reduced computational costs. The innovative approach enhances weather prediction efficiency, potentially benefiting various sectors by providing reliable long-term forecasts.

NATURE

Database Reveals Presence of Magnetic Bacteria Worldwide: Researchers have compiled a global database of magnetic bacteria, organisms that orient themselves along magnetic fields due to magnetite crystals in their cells. These bacteria, found in various environments from deep ocean sediments to freshwater bodies, play roles in nutrient cycling and have potential applications in biotechnology and medicine. The database provides insights into the distribution and ecological significance of these bacteria, aiding further research into their unique properties.

Researchers Listen to the Hearts of Bats in Flight: Scientists from the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior and the University of Konstanz have successfully measured the heart rates of male noctule bats in flight using tiny heart rate transmitters. This pioneering study, conducted by following the bats in a small airplane, reveals that bats use up to 42% more energy in summer than in spring. The data helps understand how bats manage energy consumption across seasons, providing insights critical for predicting their survival in changing climates.

Stunning Blue-Skinned Frog Discovered: A Rare Genetic Mutation: Researchers have recently discovered a stunning blue-skinned frog, a rare genetic mutant. This frog's unusual color is due to a genetic mutation affecting its skin pigments. Normally, frogs have both blue and yellow pigments that combine to create a green appearance. However, in this rare case, the mutation prevents the production of yellow pigment, leaving the frog with a striking blue coloration. This discovery highlights the genetic diversity and fascinating anomalies that can occur in nature, providing valuable insights into amphibian genetics and evolution.

Iron Age Plant Remains Reveal New Agricultural Insights in East Africa: Researchers have uncovered 2,300-year-old plant remains at Kakapel Rockshelter near Mount Elgon, revealing the earliest evidence of plant farming in East Africa. The study found cowpeas, sorghum, and millet, indicating gradual crop introductions and farming practices evolving over 9,000 years. This discovery sheds light on the dynamic agricultural history of the region, highlighting diverse and adaptable farming systems contrary to modern stereotypes about Africa's agricultural past.

INDUSTRY

Microsoft Seals Carbon Capture Deal with Occidental: Microsoft has signed a record-breaking carbon capture agreement with Occidental Petroleum's subsidiary, 1PointFive. The deal involves Microsoft purchasing 500,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide removal (CDR) credits over six years, marking the largest single purchase of CDR credits enabled by direct air capture (DAC) technology. This initiative supports Microsoft's goal of becoming carbon negative by 2030 and highlights the growing commitment of tech companies to mitigate their carbon footprints through innovative carbon capture methods.

University of Minnesota's First Semiconductor Officer: 'We Can Grow as a Semiconductor Hub': The University of Minnesota has appointed Steven Koester as its first chief semiconductor officer to enhance coordination between academia, industry, and government in semiconductor innovation. This move aligns with efforts to secure federal funding through the CHIPS and Science Act, aimed at bolstering domestic semiconductor manufacturing and research. Koester's work focuses on advanced semiconductor devices, including transistors smaller than traditional ones, with potential applications in various technologies and partnerships with local companies.

Driverless Car Kills Pedestrian in China, Highlighting Autonomous Vehicle Risks: A tragic incident in Shenzhen, China, saw a driverless car fatally hitting a pedestrian, sparking concerns over the safety and regulation of autonomous vehicles. The vehicle, operated by a tech firm, failed to detect the pedestrian. This accident underscores the critical need for rigorous safety measures and robust regulatory frameworks as autonomous vehicle technology advances.

Australia Sounds Warning Over State-Backed Chinese Hackers: Australia's cyber intelligence agency has issued a rare warning about the increasing threat from state-backed Chinese hackers, specifically targeting the APT40 group linked to China's Ministry of State Security. The group conducts malicious cyber operations to infiltrate networks, often exploiting outdated devices. This advisory, co-authored with international partners, emphasizes the need for heightened cybersecurity measures to counter these persistent threats.