Elephants Use Unique Vocal Labels Similar to Human Names, Study Finds

Should science fiction remain as it is, or should we strive to turn it into reality? In the movie "Superman," the main character uses his X-ray vision to see through solid objects, detecting hidden items and threats. Superman’s ability is similar to the use of high-frequency electromagnetic waves to penetrate materials. Researchers from the University of Texas, USA, and Seoul National University, South Korea, have made this science fiction concept a reality by developing technology capable of detecting objects through walls and packages, bringing the fantasy of X-ray vision closer to real-world applications. This and more in today’s newsletter.

Also in this edition:

• Science - CRISPR Enhances Sugarcane Yield by Adjusting Leaf Angles - Enhancing Crop Yield.

• Technology and AI - Female AI Teammate Increases Women's Participation in Teams, Robotic Dog Sniffs Out Hazardous Gases in Dangerous Environments.

• Bioinspired Design - Skin-Inspired Sensory Robots Developed for Enhanced Medical Treatments.

• Engineering - New Material Testing Technique Enhances Travel Safety, Textured Tiles Aid Endangered Eels in Navigating Human-Made River Barriers, Ammonia-Fueled Marine Engine Reduces CO₂ Emissions by 50%.

• Health & Medicine - First Evidence of Sex Differences in Pain Production, New Blood Test Tracks Brain Recovery After Concussion.

• Environment - Microbes and Genes Key to Breaking Down Forever Chemicals Identified.

• Nature - Elephants Use Unique Vocal Labels Similar to Human Names, Study Finds.

• Education - Peer Influence Boosts Boys' Confidence in Math, Female High School Students Discover Not All Scientists Wear Lab Coats.

• Industry News: Majority of Americans Willing to Pay More for U.S.-Made Electric Vehicles, Tunisian Women's Team Finalists for Inventors' Prize with Smart Wheelchair.

Until tomorrow.

~The STEAM Digest

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This newsletter is curated by The STEAM Digest.

SCIENCE

New Protocol Enables Creation of 'Wired Miniature Brains' for Advanced Research: A team at the University of California San Diego has developed a groundbreaking protocol for creating brain cortical organoids—miniature artificial brains with functional neural networks. This method, detailed in Nature Protocols, allows for realistic modeling of brain activity, aiding research on conditions like autism and schizophrenia. The organoids, which can simulate different brain areas co-developing naturally, offer new possibilities for studying neurological diseases and testing treatments, including in microgravity environments on the International Space Station.

CRISPR Enhances Sugarcane Yield by Adjusting Leaf Angles: Researchers at the University of Florida have leveraged CRISPR/Cas9 to edit the LIGULELESS1 (LG1) gene in sugarcane, which determines leaf angle. This modification optimizes sunlight capture, resulting in an 18% increase in biomass production. This study, the first field trial of CRISPR-edited sugarcane, highlights the potential for precision genetic edits to enhance crop yields, particularly in polyploid crops with complex genomes.

Hypervelocity Star Discovered Speeding Through the Milky Way: Astronomers, with help from citizen scientists in the Backyard Worlds: Planet 9 project, have identified a rare hypervelocity L subdwarf star, CWISE J124909+362116.0. This star, moving at approximately 600 kilometers per second, may eventually escape the Milky Way. The star's high speed could be due to a past supernova explosion or an interaction with a black hole binary in a globular cluster. Further research aims to trace its origins by analyzing its elemental composition.

Study Reveals Mechanism of Sex Determination in Argentine Ants: Researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany have identified a noncoding RNA gene that determines sex in Argentine ants. This gene, which does not code for a protein, varies in expression levels between males and females, leading to sex differentiation. This discovery enhances understanding of genetic mechanisms in ants and provides insights into broader biological sex determination processes.

Atoms at Temperatures Beyond Absolute Zero: A New Quantum State of Matter: Researchers have observed a new quantum state of matter by cooling atoms to temperatures below absolute zero, a theoretically paradoxical state that is hotter than any positive temperature. In this state, atoms exhibit unique behaviors and interactions, potentially leading to advancements in thermodynamics and cosmology. This breakthrough offers insights into negative temperature systems, where particles achieve maximum kinetic energy, and may help in understanding dark energy and other cosmic phenomena.

TECHNOLOGY AND AI

Female AI Teammate Increases Women's Participation in Teams: Research by Cornell University found that a female-voiced AI teammate boosts participation and productivity among women in male-dominated teams. The study, using a "Wizard of Oz" experiment, showed that women engaged more actively and perceived higher support from the AI. This suggests that AI design incorporating gender-specific traits can positively influence team dynamics, particularly in gender-imbalanced settings.

Robotic Dog Sniffs Out Hazardous Gases in Dangerous Environments: Researchers have developed a four-legged robot, resembling a dog, equipped with an articulated arm to collect air samples in hazardous environments. This robot can navigate through challenging locations such as firegrounds, chemical warehouses, and sewer systems to detect volatile organic compounds (VOCs). While still requiring refinement, this innovation aims to enhance safety by reducing human exposure to dangerous conditions. The robot's efficiency was demonstrated by collecting and analyzing samples onsite faster than traditional methods.

MRI and AI Speed Up Pediatric Brain Tumor Diagnosis: Researchers from the University of Birmingham and Newcastle University have developed a method combining MRI and AI to quickly diagnose medulloblastoma, the most common malignant brain tumor in children. By identifying specific metabolic profiles, this technique can reduce diagnosis time from weeks to minutes, enabling faster and more accurate treatment decisions. This approach could revolutionize pediatric oncology by providing rapid, non-invasive tumor identification.

Open-Source Model Enhances Robot Object Manipulation: Researchers from UC Berkeley, Stanford, and CMU have developed Octo, an open-source generalist model for robotic manipulation. Capable of controlling various robots to perform tasks like picking up objects and closing drawers, Octo is trained on the largest dataset of robotic manipulation trajectories to date. This innovation aims to standardize and improve robotic capabilities across different platforms, fostering advancements in robotics research and practical applications.

Superman-Inspired Imager Chip for Mobile Devices Developed: Researchers at the University of Texas at Dallas and Seoul National University have created an imager chip inspired by Superman's X-ray vision. This chip uses terahertz signals to detect objects inside packages or behind walls and is small enough to fit into mobile devices. Potential applications include finding studs, cracks in pipes, and even medical uses. This breakthrough follows 15 years of research, significantly enhancing image quality while maintaining safety and privacy.

BIO-INSPIRED DESIGN/BIOMIMICRY

Skin-Inspired Sensory Robots Developed for Enhanced Medical Treatments: Researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill have created soft robots with electronic skins and artificial muscles for medical applications. These robots mimic natural muscle and skin interactions, allowing real-time adaptation and reducing stress on tissues. The innovations include ingestible robots for stomach monitoring and drug delivery, and robotic grippers for bladder control and heart monitoring. The study highlights the potential for these robots to improve diagnostics and treatments for various conditions.

ENGINEERING

New Material Testing Technique Enhances Travel Safety: Researchers at the University of Canterbury, New Zealand have developed an efficient and cost-effective method for material fatigue testing, which could significantly boost safety in aviation, maritime, and automotive industries. This innovative approach allows simultaneous testing of multiple samples, improving the prediction of material behavior under stress. This technique promises to reduce maintenance costs and increase safety by identifying potential issues earlier and more accurately.

Textured Tiles Aid Endangered Eels in Navigating Human-Made River Barriers: Researchers from Cardiff University have developed textured tiles to help critically endangered European eels overcome obstacles like culverts and weirs in rivers. These tiles, tested in lab-simulated river conditions, reduced water velocity, allowing eels to pass upstream more easily and conserve energy. This innovative solution aims to restore eel migration routes and improve river connectivity, potentially aiding in the species' conservation.

Ammonia-Fueled Marine Engine Reduces CO₂ Emissions by 50%: Researchers in South Korea have developed an LNG-ammonia dual-fuel marine engine that reduces carbon dioxide emissions by more than 50%. By optimizing ammonia injection and combustion processes, the team overcame challenges related to ammonia's corrosiveness and slow combustion speed. This technology promises significant environmental benefits and advances in sustainable marine propulsion.

Exploring Ice-Based Electricity Generation: Researchers from the US and Canada have developed a method to generate electricity from ice, utilizing electrochemical cells with acid and various additives to create a pH difference between ice layers. This innovative approach, producing 0.1 milliwatts of power, highlights the potential for using ice in energy generation, possibly contributing to sustainable energy solutions and providing insights into early Earth and extraterrestrial biochemistry.

HEALTH & MEDICINE

First Evidence of Sex Differences in Pain Production: Researchers from the University of Arizona have identified sex-based functional differences in nociceptors, the nerve cells responsible for pain, showing that males and females experience pain differently. This discovery could lead to sex-specific treatments for pain, improving the effectiveness of pain management strategies. The study highlights how prolactin and orexin B hormones differentially sensitize nociceptors in females and males, respectively, marking a significant advance in precision medicine for pain relief.

New Blood Test Tracks Brain Recovery After Concussion: Researchers from Monash University, Australia have developed a blood test that measures levels of brain-specific proteins, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and neurofilament light (NfL), to track recovery after sport-related concussions. This test can accurately detect ongoing brain trauma effects, aiding in determining safe return-to-play timelines. The study highlights significant variability in biomarker changes among individuals, with prolonged recovery observed in those who lost consciousness.

New Insights for Treating Chemotherapy-Resistant Ovarian Cancer: Cleveland Clinic researchers have discovered that the CD55 protein, which aids ovarian cancer cells in resisting chemotherapy, migrates to the cell nucleus, enhancing cancer aggressiveness. Blocking this migration disrupts cancer growth and reduces chemotherapy resistance. This finding could lead to targeted therapies for chemotherapy-resistant ovarian cancer, offering hope for more effective treatments.

Study Predicts Increased Dengue Spread in Mexico and Brazil: A new study from the University of Toronto's Temerty Faculty of Medicine predicts a significant increase in dengue spread in Mexico and Brazil by 2039. Using geospatial machine learning models, researchers forecast that dengue will impact 97% of municipalities in Brazil and 91% in Mexico, a rapid expansion influenced by environmental and human mobility factors. This research highlights the urgent need for improved strategies to combat dengue's spread.

Lab-Grown Mini-Guts Offer Personalized Crohn's Disease Treatments: Scientists at the University of Cambridge have developed lab-grown "mini-guts" to better understand Crohn's disease. These organoids, derived from patient cells, revealed key epigenetic differences in gut cells of those with Crohn's. This breakthrough could lead to personalized treatments by allowing doctors to test drug efficacy on a patient's specific gut cells, tailoring therapies to individual needs.

ENVIRONMENT

Microbes and Genes Key to Breaking Down Forever Chemicals Identified: Researchers at Cornell University have pinpointed microbes and specific genes that can help degrade per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as forever chemicals. By using bioinformatic tools traditionally employed in medical research, they have identified microbial communities capable of transforming these persistent pollutants. This discovery paves the way for developing biological treatment methods for PFAS contamination, offering a more economical and accessible solution compared to current physical-chemical methods.

NATURE

Elephants Use Unique Vocal Labels Similar to Human Names, Study Finds: A new study by Colorado State University reveals that wild African elephants use unique, name-like calls to address each other, a rare ability among nonhuman animals. Using machine learning, researchers confirmed that these calls identify specific individuals rather than imitating the receiver's vocalizations. This discovery suggests elephants may possess abstract cognitive abilities, enhancing our understanding of their complex social structures and communication methods.

Juvenile Dolphins' Play Linked to Adult Success: A study by the University of Bristol and the University of Western Australia found that juvenile male dolphins engaging in social play develop behaviors crucial for reproductive success. Observations in Shark Bay, Australia, showed that those who play more as juveniles are likely to father more offspring as adults. This research highlights the importance of social bonds and play in the development of successful reproductive strategies.

Male Lemurs Increase Testicle Size in the Presence of Rivals: Research indicates that male lemurs grow larger testicles when other males are present, likely as an evolutionary response to enhance reproductive success through increased sperm competition. This adaptive trait ensures that dominant males have a better chance of mating success in environments where competition is high.

NASA Uses Satellites to Monitor Endangered Species: NASA has employed advanced satellite technology to help track and protect endangered species such as elephants, tigers, and jaguars. Using high-resolution satellite imagery combined with deep learning algorithms, scientists can monitor animal populations and their habitats more efficiently than traditional ground or aerial surveys. This approach allows for accurate tracking across vast and often inaccessible areas, providing crucial data for conservation efforts. The satellite monitoring system helps identify critical habitats, observe migration patterns, and assess the impacts of human activities, facilitating better-informed decisions to protect these species and their ecosystems.

EDUCATION

Peer Influence Boosts Boys' Confidence in Math: A study by the University of Zurich reveals that boys' confidence in math is heavily influenced by their peers, unlike girls who rely more on their actual performance. Boys often maintain high confidence despite lower grades due to social comparisons, which highlights the critical role of peer relationships in shaping boys' self-perception in math. This understanding could help address the gender confidence gap in STEM fields.

Why female students at an inner London school are seeing scientists in a different light: 17-minute Nature Podcast on female students at an inner London high school discovering that not all scientists wear lab coats and goggles.

INDUSTRY NEWS

Majority of Americans Willing to Pay More for U.S.-Made Electric Vehicles: A survey by the University of Chicago's Energy Policy Institute reveals that most Americans prefer paying more for electric vehicles made in the U.S. over cheaper ones made in China. This preference is driven by concerns over climate change and financial benefits like savings on gas and maintenance. However, high costs and limited charging infrastructure remain significant barriers to widespread EV adoption.

Training Workers in the Chip-Making Capital of the World: To address the skilled labor shortage in the semiconductor industry, Taiwan's National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University has created a microelectronics department to fast-track students into the sector. The initiative aims to maintain Taiwan's dominance in chip production amid rising global demand and geopolitical tensions. The program seeks to attract young talent to sustain the industry's growth, essential for technological advancements and economic stability.

Tunisian Women's Team Finalists for Inventors' Prize with Smart Wheelchair: A team of young Tunisian women engineers has reached the finals of the European Inventors' Prize with their innovative smart wheelchair, Moovobrain. This system allows users to control the wheelchair via touchpad, voice commands, facial gestures, or brain signals. Despite Tunisia's economic and political challenges, the team aims to improve accessibility and independence for people with reduced mobility. They hope this recognition will help bring visibility and credibility to their work.

Strategies to Make Remanufacturing Profitable Unveiled: A study by Linköping University highlights strategies to make remanufacturing economically viable. By implementing methods like deposit schemes, core buy-backs, and leasing, companies can ensure a steady return of used products for refurbishment. This approach not only reduces raw material costs but also aligns with increasing environmental awareness, creating new business opportunities in a circular economy.