Fungi-Inspired Engineering: Researchers Use Mushroom Structure to Model Stronger Materials

Hello and welcome to our June 11th edition. The STEAM Digest is a curated newsletter that brings you the latest in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.

In today’s edition:

• Chemistry - Heat Pasteurization Boosts Polyphenol Absorption from Smoothies, Study Finds.

• Biology - Coral-Derived Molecules Weaken Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria Without Killing Them, and more.

• Materials & Nanotechnology- New Dual-Layer Coating Achieves 99.6% Rust Protection for Iron, and more..

• Biotechnology & Biomedical Technology - Researchers Develop Soft Robotic Leaf Injector for Precision Agriculture, and more.

• Engineering & Technology - Fungi-Inspired Engineering: Researchers Use Mushroom Structure to Model Stronger Materials, and more.

• Robotics, AI, Hardware, Software, Gadgets - MIT Develops AI Controller That Helps Drones Adapt to Unpredictable Winds, and more.

• Astronomy, Space, & Astrobiology - Lunar Glass Beads Reveal Explosive Volcanic Past of the Moon, and more.

• Health & Medicine - Common Psychiatric Medications Linked to Higher ALS Risk and Faster Disease Progression, and more.

• Neuroscience - Tiny Neuronal Cluster Found to Suppress Binge Drinking, and more.

• Environment & Earth Sciences - Dairy Digesters Cut Methane Emissions by 80%, UC Riverside Study Confirms.

• Nature & Ecology - Sea Cucumber Compound Blocks Cancer-Linked Enzyme Without Affecting Blood Clotting, and more.

• Other Sciences & The Arts - Study Traces Rise of Teaching and Language in Human Cultural Evolution, and more.

Until Tomorrow,

~The STEAM Digest

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CHEMISTRY

Heat Pasteurization Boosts Polyphenol Absorption from Smoothies, Study Finds: A preliminary study reports that heat-pasteurizing smoothies may significantly improve the gut microbiome's ability to absorb polyphenols—micronutrients linked to heart and brain health. Researchers compared untreated, high-pressure, and high-heat pasteurized green smoothies and found heat-pasteurized samples yielded the highest bioavailable polyphenol content post-digestion (44% vs. 17% untreated). The enhanced release is attributed to plant cell wall breakdown during heating. The microbiome further converted these polyphenols into potentially beneficial compounds, suggesting processing can enhance nutritional benefits in commercial smoothies.

BIOLOGY

Coral-Derived Molecules Weaken Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria Without Killing Them: Researchers have discovered natural molecules from coral-dwelling bacteria that disrupt harmful bacteria’s communication and biofilm formation, reducing their virulence without killing them. The study found that bisindole compounds interfere with quorum sensing in pathogens like Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii, making them more susceptible to antibiotics like tobramycin. This approach could help treat resistant infections while preserving beneficial microbiota and avoiding the development of further resistance.

Turtles Use Both Genetic and Mechanical Mechanisms to Form Head Scales, Revealing Ancient Reptilian Trait: A new study by the University of Geneva reveals that turtles form head scales using two distinct processes: genetically driven placode development on the sides and mechanically induced skin folding on the top. This dual mechanism, unique among vertebrates, links turtles with crocodiles—who rely solely on mechanical folding—suggesting the trait was shared by a common ancestor and likely dinosaurs, but lost in birds. The findings not only clarify reptile evolution but also offer insights for biomimetics and regenerative medicine.

MATERIALS & NANOTECHNOLOGY

New Dual-Layer Coating Achieves 99.6% Rust Protection for Iron: Researchers have developed a dual-layer coating that protects iron from corrosion with 99.6% efficiency. The system combines a molecular NHC primer that tightly bonds to iron with a polymer topcoat, forming a durable, long-lasting shield. Tested in saltwater conditions, the coating remained intact and dramatically reduced rust. This innovation could significantly cut maintenance costs and extend the life of iron structures in construction, transportation, and manufacturing.

Reusable Hydrogel Offers Cheap, Eco-Friendly Solution for Phosphorus Pollution: Researchers have developed a low-cost hydrogel made from two common polymers—PEI and PMVEMA—that efficiently filters phosphorus from contaminated water and allows its reuse. The hydrogel removes over 90% of phosphorus and can release up to 99% of it using mild bases, avoiding harsh chemicals. With reuse, the cost drops from $23 to less than 50 cents per pound of phosphorus. This innovation addresses both phosphorus pollution and the need for sustainable phosphorus harvesting in agriculture and industry. A provisional patent has been filed as researchers seek industry partners.

BIOTECHNOLOGY & BIOMEDICAL TECHNOLOGY

Researchers Develop Soft Robotic Leaf Injector for Precision Agriculture: Cornell scientists have created a soft robotic gripper that gently injects plant leaves with sensors and genetic material, enabling real-time, minimally invasive monitoring of plant health. Tested on tough crops like cotton and sunflower, the device showed over 91% delivery success with minimal damage—far outperforming traditional injection methods. It successfully delivered AquaDust for hydration monitoring and RUBY genes for visual confirmation of genetic transformation. Designed for adaptability across plant types, the gripper is a key step toward automated greenhouse systems and smarter agriculture that reduces waste and boosts yield.

CRISPR Gene Editing Applied to Oats for the First Time, Paving Way for Climate-Resilient Crops: In a major breakthrough, scientists at McGill University have successfully used CRISPR-Cas9 to edit oat DNA for the first time. This gene-editing advance allows precise modifications to traits such as yield, maturation time, and fiber content. The researchers created oats with altered flowering schedules and novel growth forms, offering potential benefits for forage production and adaptation to short growing seasons and cold climates. The study marks a significant step toward climate-resilient, health-enhancing oat varieties without introducing foreign DNA.

New Bioprinting Method TRACE Enables Functional Tissue Printing Using Collagen: Researchers at Stony Brook University have developed a breakthrough bioprinting method called TRACE (Tunable Rapid Assembly of Collagenous Elements) that enables the creation of biofunctional tissues using the body's natural building block—collagen. By accelerating collagen gelation through macromolecular crowding, TRACE allows for precise 3D printing of complex, living tissues and mini-organs like heart chambers. This innovation overcomes previous limitations in bioprinting by preserving cellular activity and structural integrity, offering new possibilities for disease modeling, drug testing, and future applications in regenerative medicine.

ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY

Fungi-Inspired Engineering: Researchers Use Mushroom Structure to Model Stronger Materials: Researchers have analyzed the microscopic hyphal filaments of mushrooms to understand how their structures influence mechanical strength. Comparing the random-growth white button mushroom with the directionally growing maitake, the team used electron microscopy and stress testing to build computational models simulating fungal resilience. They aim to harness AI and machine learning for "inverse design"—predicting optimal material structures from desired mechanical traits. This bioinspired research could lead to tougher, more adaptable materials for construction and aerospace industries.

Human-Like Decision System for Self-Driving Cars Dramatically Improves Safety: Researchers have developed a cognitive encoding framework that enables autonomous vehicles (AVs) to mimic human social sensitivity in traffic. Unlike current systems that assess risks in isolation, the new model holistically evaluates interactions among multiple road users, integrating ethics, behavioral prediction, and individual risk. Tested in 2,000 scenarios, it cut traffic risk by 26.3%, halved risk to vulnerable users like pedestrians, and improved driving efficiency by nearly 14%. The adaptable system supports region-specific norms, advancing global AV deployment.

Microwaves Power New Breakthrough in Recycling Rare Tantalum from E-Waste: Tantalum, a rare and essential metal used in electronics, is critical for capacitors in smartphones, laptops, and aerospace systems—but nearly all of it is lost in landfills. Researchers at West Virginia University have developed a novel microwave-based method that cleanly and efficiently recovers tantalum from discarded capacitors. Using carbothermal reduction, the technique converts shredded e-waste into tantalum carbide with over 97% purity, avoiding toxic chemicals and high energy costs. Backed by DARPA, this scalable innovation could make domestic recycling of critical materials both profitable and strategically vital.

ROBOTICS, AI, HARDWARE, SOFTWARE, GADGETS

MIT Develops AI Controller That Helps Drones Adapt to Unpredictable Winds: MIT researchers have created a machine learning-based adaptive control system that helps autonomous drones stay on course in the face of unpredictable disturbances like strong winds. Using just 15 minutes of flight data, the system learns how to adjust in real time without needing prior knowledge of the environment. It automatically selects the most suitable optimization strategy via meta-learning, achieving 50% lower tracking error than standard methods. The technique is especially effective under high wind conditions and could improve drone use in wildfire response, parcel delivery, and surveillance.

F-TAC Hand: Bio-Inspired Robotic Hand Achieves Human-Like Tactile Sensing for Precision Tasks: Researchers have developed the F-TAC Hand, a robotic hand that mimics human tactile sensing with 17 high-resolution sensors covering 70% of its surface and capturing data at 0.1 mm resolution. This allows the hand to dynamically plan grasping strategies across 19 human-like types, adapting in under 100 milliseconds. In 600 real-world tests, it achieved up to 100% success in multi-object grasping—nearly doubling performance over systems without tactile feedback. Designed for precision tasks like surgery and aerospace, the F-TAC Hand marks a step toward robots with advanced embodied intelligence.

NREL’s AI-Powered PINN Model Enables Rapid Battery Health Diagnostics: Researchers at NREL have developed a physics-informed neural network (PINN) that predicts lithium-ion battery health nearly 1,000 times faster than traditional models. Unlike conventional physics-based models like SPM and P2D—which require intensive computation—the PINN surrogate combines deep learning with physical laws to diagnose degradation mechanisms in real time. This breakthrough (1,2) enables faster, scalable battery diagnostics and opens the door to onboard health monitoring and adaptive charging systems. The team is now validating the model with real-world battery data to extend its practical deployment.

ASTRONOMY, SPACE, & ASTROBIOLOGY

Lunar Glass Beads Reveal Explosive Volcanic Past of the Moon: Bright orange and black glass beads, first collected by Apollo astronauts and long considered lunar curiosities, are now offering unprecedented insights into the moon’s ancient volcanic activity. Using advanced microscopy tools, scientists from Washington University and Brown University analyzed mineral coatings on beads that formed 3.3–3.6 billion years ago during explosive eruptions. The study reveals shifts in volcanic styles over time and confirms the beads as pristine capsules of the lunar interior. Findings highlight how modern technology is unlocking new secrets from decades-old lunar samples.

HEALTH & MEDICINE

Common Psychiatric Medications Linked to Higher ALS Risk and Faster Disease Progression: A large Swedish study led by Karolinska Institutet has found that use of common psychiatric medications—including antidepressants, anxiolytics, and sedatives—is associated with a higher risk of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and with worse outcomes after diagnosis. Analyzing data from over 1,000 ALS patients and matched controls, the study found prediagnostic use of these drugs raised ALS risk by 21–34%. Among diagnosed patients, prior use was linked to faster functional decline and shorter survival, particularly for those who had used antidepressants or anxiolytics. Researchers suggest psychiatric symptoms may be early signs of ALS or share biological pathways with neurodegeneration.

New Method Enhances Accuracy of Ankle Blood Pressure Readings: Researchers at the University of Exeter have developed a personalized predictive model to improve the accuracy of blood pressure readings taken at the ankle—a crucial advancement for patients who cannot use standard arm measurements due to stroke, disability, or limb loss. Using data from over 33,000 individuals worldwide, the new model reduces misdiagnoses by about 2%, potentially sparing thousands from incorrect treatment globally. Published in BMJ Open, the study led to an online calculator for clinical use and offers a significant step toward more inclusive, precise cardiovascular monitoring.

NEUROSCIENCE

Tiny Neuronal Cluster Found to Suppress Binge Drinking: New research has identified fewer than 500 neurons in the mouse brain that actively suppress binge drinking, offering an unprecedented glimpse into the neural circuitry behind alcohol overconsumption. Using advanced tools like fiber photometry, optogenetics, and single-cell transcriptomics, scientists led by Dr. Gilles Martin at UMass Chan pinpointed a small neural ensemble in the prefrontal cortex activated during binge-drinking behavior. Manipulating these neurons altered drinking behavior, suggesting misfiring in this system may contribute to alcohol dependence. The findings could guide future therapeutic strategies targeting precise neuronal populations to curb addiction.

Socioeconomic Status Linked to Brain Aging Risk via White Matter Changes: A major international study led by the University of Edinburgh has found that socioeconomic status (SES)—including income, education, occupation, and neighborhood deprivation—is associated with brain aging risk, specifically through changes in white matter. Analyzing genetic data from nearly one million people, researchers identified a common genetic factor underlying SES and found that higher SES appears to causally reduce harmful white matter hyperintensities, a known risk factor for cognitive decline and dementia. While genetics explained only 9% of SES differences, the findings highlight SES as a modifiable environmental influence on brain health.

MIT Study Reveals How Humans Switch Problem-Solving Strategies Under Cognitive Limits: MIT researchers have shown that humans solve complex tasks using a mix of hierarchical and counterfactual reasoning, switching strategies based on confidence in their memory. In a ball-tracking maze task too difficult for perfect prediction, participants used simplified heuristics—first guessing a general path and revising only if auditory cues conflicted with their choice. Computational models revealed that humans adjust strategies rationally within their cognitive limits. Neural networks mimicking human constraints adopted similar strategies, reinforcing the idea that the brain balances efficiency and accuracy when perfect solutions aren’t possible.

ENVIRONMENT & EARTH SCIENCES

Dairy Digesters Cut Methane Emissions by 80%, UC Riverside Study Confirms: A new study has verified that dairy digesters—gas-tight covers on manure lagoons—can reduce methane emissions by about 80%, aligning with California’s climate goals. Researchers from UC Riverside monitored a Central Valley dairy farm before and after a digester installation and confirmed substantial methane cuts following leak repairs and system adjustments. While digesters don’t address all dairy-related emissions and aren’t viable for every farm, the study highlights them as one of the most cost-effective methods for cutting greenhouse gases and a successful example of collaboration between science, policy, and industry.

NATURE & ECOLOGY

Sea Cucumber Compound Blocks Cancer-Linked Enzyme Without Affecting Blood Clotting: A sugar molecule from the sea cucumber Holothuria floridana can inhibit Sulf-2, an enzyme linked to cancer progression, without disrupting blood clotting—a common side effect of other treatments. In a study led by the University of Mississippi, researchers used lab tests and simulations to confirm that fucosylated chondroitin sulfate from sea cucumbers blocks Sulf-2, potentially hindering cancer spread. Unlike pig-derived drugs, marine compounds offer a cleaner and potentially safer alternative. The next step is synthesizing the compound for further testing, as natural supply is limited.

Summer Solstice May Mislead Plants in a Changing Climate, UBC Study Finds: A new study from UBC reveals that plants may use the summer solstice as a key signal for growth and reproduction, but this strategy is becoming unreliable due to climate change. As temperatures fluctuate and warm earlier in some regions, plants may flower too soon or too late, causing mismatches with pollinators and crop harvests. The study suggests that temperature is now a more accurate cue than daylength, and calls for improved models to predict plant responses and support ecosystem resilience.

Seaweed Takes Over Florida Lagoon as Seagrass Declines, Altering Marine Life: Following the collapse of native seagrass beds in Florida’s Indian River Lagoon due to pollution-fueled algal blooms, the opportunistic seaweed Caulerpa prolifera has spread widely, raising concerns about its impact on marine biodiversity. A study by FAU's Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute (2020–2021) found that while C. prolifera can temporarily shelter marine animals, species abundance is lower than in historic seagrass beds. Additionally, its natural toxins may harm key species, including manatees and fish. Recently, an explosion of sea slugs (Elysia subornata) has begun to wipe out C. prolifera patches, potentially opening the door for seagrass recovery but also threatening local fisheries. Researchers stress the need for continued study and nutrient pollution control to protect lagoon ecosystems.

OTHER SCIENCES & THE ARTS

Study Traces Rise of Teaching and Language in Human Cultural Evolution: Researchers have mapped how cultural transmission evolved from simple imitation to structured teaching over 3.3 million years. Analyzing 103 Paleolithic traits, they found that intentional demonstration became common after 2 million years ago, with explanatory gestures emerging around 400,000 years ago. Modular and selective instruction—key signs of structured teaching—rose between 200,000 and 75,000 years ago, suggesting that language and targeted learning helped sustain increasingly complex behaviors. Teaching modes accumulated over time, supporting the development of cumulative culture.

Fossil Discovery Reveals 250-Million-Year-Old Reptile Colonies in Underground Burrows: Paleontologists have uncovered the first fossil evidence that the reptile Procolophon trigoniceps—a small, burrowing herbivore from the Early Triassic—lived communally in underground colonies. Found in South Africa’s Karoo region, the fossils date to just after the end-Permian mass extinction. Using neutron tomography, researchers visualized entire family groups preserved in burrows, including adults and juveniles huddled together. Scratch marks matched their claws, indicating the reptiles dug the burrows themselves, likely to escape extreme climate swings. The findings show that complex communal behavior in reptiles predates mammals by 20 million years and helped Procolophon spread widely across Gondwana.

Ancient Carpetania Recast as Cultural Contributor, Not Imitator: A terracotta relief unearthed at the El Cerrón site in Spain is challenging assumptions that Late Iron Age Carpetania passively imitated external cultures. The artifact—a parade scene echoing Mediterranean styles—suggests local elites were actively engaged in cultural exchange with the wider Mediterranean world. Researchers argue that Carpetania was not a peripheral borrower but a dynamic participant in shaping regional identity, using imported styles to assert elite status. Radiocarbon dating places the relief in the 4th century BC, reinforcing evidence of sustained local innovation and interaction within broader trade and cultural networks.