Scientists Discover How a Laser Beam Can Cast a Shadow

Good Morning and welcome to Friday’s STEAM newsletter! We bring you summaries of the latest news in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.

In today’s edition:

• Science - Scientists Discover How a Laser Beam Can Cast a Shadow, Physicists Propose Experiment to Test if Gravity Is a Quantum Property, Scientists Engineer Sweeter Tomatoes Without Sacrificing Size or Yield, and more.

• Technology and AI - Researchers Develop "Sound Bubble" Headphones for Enhanced Selective Listening, and more.

• Engineering - MIT Researchers Develop Efficient Electrode Design to Convert CO2 into Valuable Products, Thermochemical Materials Show Promise for Efficient Building Heating, NREL Study Finds.

• Astronomy & Space - Astronomers Discover Rare X-ray Binary with Red Supergiant Companion.

• Health & Medicine - New Study Identifies Sphingolipids as Key Drivers of Heart Disease Beyond Cholesterol, and more.

• Neuroscience - Study Links Maternal Stress During Pregnancy to Higher Epilepsy Risk in Children, and more.

• Environment - Scientists Urge 1000-Year Carbon Sequestration to Prevent Long-Term Warming, and more.

• Nature - Study Uncovers Immigration as Key Trigger for Social Learning in Wild Birds, New Species of Rock Skink Discovered in Central Australia’s Hills.

• Other Sciences & The Arts - New Mathematical Approach Predicts Crystal Structures in Hours on a Laptop, AI-Generated Poetry Often Mistaken for Human-Written, New Research Reveals.

Until Tomorrow.

~The STEAM Digest

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This newsletter is curated by The STEAM Digest.

SCIENCE

Scientists Discover How a Laser Beam Can Cast a Shadow: Researchers from Brookhaven National Laboratory and the University of Ottawa have demonstrated that under specific conditions, a laser beam can cast a visible shadow, challenging the traditional understanding of light. The study reveals that using a high-power green laser and a blue laser aimed through a ruby crystal, the green laser acts like an opaque object blocking the blue light, thus creating a shadow. This effect is due to nonlinear optical absorption, where the green laser alters the material's response to the blue light. The findings could pave the way for applications in optical switching and laser-controlled technologies.

Researchers Achieve Robust Quantum Entanglement Between Photons and Phonons: Scientists at the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light (MPL) have demonstrated a novel method of entangling photons with acoustic phonons. Using Brillouin scattering, they created a resilient optoacoustic entanglement scheme that can operate at higher temperatures than typical quantum systems, potentially integrating into optical fibers or photonic chips. This breakthrough could advance quantum technologies by enabling robust quantum communication and computing applications, particularly in environments where traditional photon-only systems struggle with noise. The findings hold promise for more efficient quantum signal processing at elevated temperatures.

Scientists Engineer Sweeter Tomatoes Without Sacrificing Size or Yield: Researchers in China have successfully developed a sweeter tomato by genetically altering two key genes, without compromising the size, weight, or yield of the fruit. The study involved modifying genes (SlCDPK26 and SlCDPK27) that suppress sugar enzyme production. By disabling these genes in the large "Money Maker" tomato variety, the team increased sugar levels (fructose and glucose) by 30%. The modification did not affect fruit size or yield, though it resulted in fewer and smaller seeds. While these engineered tomatoes are not as sweet as cherry tomatoes, the research team is optimistic that further genetic adjustments could close this gap.

Physicists Propose Experiment to Test if Gravity Is a Quantum Property: A team of physicists has proposed an innovative experiment to determine whether gravity behaves as a quantum entity. By leveraging advancements in technology, the experiment seeks to bridge the gap between general relativity and quantum theory. The experiment would involve two tiny diamond crystals, with one in a quantum superposition state. If the gravitational influence of one crystal alters the state of the other upon measurement, it would suggest that gravity has quantum properties. This breakthrough could be a significant step toward developing a grand unified theory of physics, potentially uniting the realms of quantum mechanics and general relativity.

New Strategies to Improve Zinc-Enriched Fertilizers for Higher Crop Yields: Researchers from the University of Adelaide, using the Canadian Light Source (CLS), have discovered that the effectiveness of zinc-enriched fertilizers depends more on the pH level than on the type of zinc compound used. Their study shows that zinc added to alkaline fertilizers has low water solubility, limiting plant uptake. By lowering the fertilizer's pH or using a barrier coating to separate zinc from phosphate, the team improved zinc availability. These findings, now patented by The Mosaic Company, could help increase crop yields and improve global food quality.

TECHNOLOGY AND AI

Researchers Develop "Sound Bubble" Headphones for Enhanced Selective Listening: A team from the University of Washington has developed a prototype headphone system that creates a personalized "sound bubble," allowing users to hear conversations within a 3 to 6-foot radius while muting background noise by up to 49 decibels. This technology uses AI algorithms to differentiate sounds based on distance rather than direction, unlike current noise-canceling headphones. The system works in real-time by analyzing audio input from six small microphones on the headband, enabling users to focus on nearby conversations even in noisy environments. The researchers plan to adapt the technology for use in hearing aids and earbuds to broaden its applications.

LG Display Unveils Stretchable Micro-LED Screen with 50% Expandability: LG Display has developed a new stretchable video screen that can expand from 12 to 18 inches, thanks to advancements in materials and micro-LED technology. Funded by the South Korean government, this breakthrough builds on efforts to create next-generation flexible displays. The new screen uses a substrate similar to contact lens material, allowing it to be stretched up to 50%, bent, twisted, and folded without compromising durability or image quality. The display offers full RGB colors at 100ppi and has been tested to withstand over 10,000 stretches. Potential applications include wearable tech, automotive dashboards, and more. However, LG has not yet disclosed commercialization plans, and the screen's resolution may not match current smartphone standards.

ENGINEERING

MIT Researchers Develop Efficient Electrode Design to Convert CO2 into Valuable Products: Engineers at MIT have created a new electrode design that enhances the efficiency of converting captured carbon dioxide into useful products like ethylene, a valuable chemical used in plastics and fuels. The study demonstrates how weaving conductive copper wires into a hydrophobic PTFE (Teflon-like) material resolves the tradeoff between electrical conductivity and water repellency, crucial for electrochemical conversion systems. The new design improves performance at larger scales, making it more feasible for industrial applications. The innovation could accelerate scalable carbon capture technologies, potentially reducing CO2 emissions while producing high-value chemicals.

Thermochemical Materials Show Promise for Efficient Building Heating, NREL Study Finds: Researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), in collaboration with Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, have demonstrated that integrating thermochemical materials (TCMs) into HVAC systems can efficiently heat indoor spaces, especially in humid climates. The study found that using salt-hydrate TCMs like strontium chloride to store and release heat can reduce energy needs and shift heating loads to times when cleaner, cheaper electricity is available. The best results were achieved with an open-cycle system that uses indoor air without reducing humidity levels, making it ideal for humid regions like Seattle. The study also highlights the potential for TCMs to lower heating costs, particularly in larger buildings, with a levelized cost of storage under 10 cents per kWh.

ASTRONOMY & SPACE

Astronomers Discover Rare X-ray Binary with Red Supergiant Companion: An international team has studied the X-ray binary 1eRASS J085039.9-421151 (J085039), identifying it as a system with a neutron star and a rare red supergiant companion. Using data from eROSITA, NuSTAR, and the VLT, the researchers confirmed its unique nature. Located 24,300 light-years away, J085039 has a stable X-ray luminosity and shows signs of being obscured by material from its companion's wind. No outbursts or pulsations were observed, though variability beyond 200 seconds may have gone undetected due to data limits.

HEALTH & MEDICINE

New Study Identifies Sphingolipids as Key Drivers of Heart Disease Beyond Cholesterol: Researchers at the Salk Institute have discovered that sphingolipids, a type of fat, contribute significantly to arterial plaque formation and cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), independent of cholesterol levels. The study reveals that trans fats, when processed by the enzyme SPT, lead to the production of harmful sphingolipids, which increase lipoprotein secretion and plaque buildup in arteries. By comparing diets high in trans fats to those with cis fats in mice, researchers confirmed that trans fats accelerate atherosclerosis. Inhibiting the enzyme SPT reduced these negative effects, suggesting a new therapeutic target beyond cholesterol management. This research could pave the way for non-statin drugs to combat heart disease, especially as trans fats remain prevalent in global diets.

Study Finds Limited Impact of Budesonide with Surfactant in Reducing BPD in Preterm Infants: Research from the Royal Women's Hospital suggests that administering budesonide mixed with surfactant has little to no effect on reducing bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in extremely preterm infants. The multi-site PLUSS trial involved 1,059 infants born before 28 weeks, randomly assigned to receive either the budesonide-surfactant mix or surfactant alone. Results showed a minimal difference in BPD-free survival rates (25.6% vs. 22.6%), with no statistically significant benefit. This large-scale study challenges earlier findings suggesting budesonide could reduce BPD risk, highlighting the ongoing need for better treatments for preterm respiratory conditions.

NEUROSCIENCE

Study Links Maternal Stress During Pregnancy to Higher Epilepsy Risk in Children: Researchers at Tottori University, using data from nearly 100,000 participants in the Japan Environment and Children's Study, found that maternal psychological distress during pregnancy may increase the risk of early-onset epilepsy in children. The study, published in PLOS ONE, showed that children born to mothers with moderate stress levels (K6 score ≥5) at both early and late pregnancy had a 70% higher risk of being diagnosed with epilepsy by age 3. However, epilepsy remains rare, even with elevated maternal stress. Other factors, such as low birth weight and chromosomal abnormalities, showed much stronger associations, increasing epilepsy risk by up to 2100%.

Researchers Uncover Brain Circuits Linked to Navigation and Memory, Opening New Paths for Alzheimer’s Treatments: Scientists at the University of California, Irvine, have discovered two neural pathways in the brain's retrosplenial cortex (RSC) that are directly involved in spatial navigation and memory. The study reveals that two circuits—one connected to the secondary motor cortex (M2) and another to the anterior thalamus (AD)—play distinct roles in cognition. The M2 pathway aids in translating spatial information into actions, while the AD pathway is crucial for remembering specific locations. This breakthrough could lead to targeted treatments for Alzheimer’s and other cognitive disorders by focusing on specific neural circuits, potentially enhancing therapeutic precision.

ENVIRONMENT

Scientists Urge 1000-Year Carbon Sequestration to Prevent Long-Term Warming: Climate researchers from ETH Zurich and Stripe Inc. have found that only long-term carbon sequestration strategies, capable of storing CO₂ for at least 1000 years, can effectively prevent additional global warming. Their study reveals that shorter-term methods, such as natural sequestration through forests or soil, risk releasing stored carbon prematurely—potentially leading to an additional 1.1°C of warming by 2500. The researchers argue that durable, forced sequestration methods, like injecting CO₂ into underground rock formations, are necessary to ensure carbon remains stored long enough for natural atmospheric recycling, thus aligning with long-term climate goals.

Colorado River Basins Face Potential Tipping Point Amid Climate Challenges, Study Finds: A comprehensive study that water supplies from Colorado’s West Slope basins, crucial for supporting agriculture and ecosystems across seven western U.S. states, are at risk of reaching a tipping point. The study, led by researchers from Cornell University and Utrecht University, used advanced modeling to analyze streamflow scenarios under historical and projected climate conditions. The findings suggest that even moderate climate changes could significantly reduce water deliveries to Lake Powell, impacting agriculture and municipal water supplies. The study emphasizes the need for integrated, scientifically informed water management strategies to preserve resilience in the face of growing drought risks.

Study Reveals Four Key Policies to Cut Global Plastic Waste by 91%: A new study from UC Berkeley and UC Santa Barbara identifies four impactful policies that could reduce mismanaged plastic waste by 91% and cut plastic-related greenhouse gases by one-third by 2050. The policies include: requiring 40% recycled content in new products, capping new plastic production at 2020 levels, investing in waste management systems, and imposing a small fee on plastic packaging. Implementing these measures could reduce emissions equivalent to removing 300 million gas-powered cars from the road for a year. The study's findings come ahead of critical negotiations in Busan, South Korea, where over 190 countries will finalize the world’s first legally binding treaty on plastic pollution.

NATURE

Study Uncovers Immigration as Key Trigger for Social Learning in Wild Birds: Researchers from the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior and the University of Konstanz have discovered that immigration can be a powerful catalyst for social learning in wild animals. In an experiment with great tits scientists found that birds newly introduced to a group quickly adopted the behaviors of local residents to access food, even abandoning their previous learned methods. The study used puzzle boxes and manipulated environments to show that changes in surroundings significantly boosted social learning. This research offers the first experimental evidence that animals are more likely to learn from others when adapting to new environments—a strategy that may be crucial for survival in the wild.

New Species of Rock Skink Discovered in Central Australia’s Hills: Researchers from Monash University have identified a new species of rock skink, named Liopholis aputja, in the Mann-Musgrave Ranges of South Australia. The study confirms that this orange-snouted skink is unique to the region's hills. The discovery was made during a collaborative 2023 field trip with traditional owners from the Aṉangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands. Genetic analysis revealed differences in eye scales and ear lobules compared to related skinks in the Northern Territory. This finding underscores the biodiversity of the remote region and highlights the importance of integrating Aboriginal knowledge in conservation efforts.

OTHER SCIENCES & THE ARTS

New Mathematical Approach Predicts Crystal Structures in Hours on a Laptop: Researchers at New York University have developed a mathematical framework called "Crystal Math" that can predict the structures of organic molecular crystals in just hours using a standard laptop. This method contrasts with traditional physics-based approaches that require supercomputers and weeks of computation. By solving equations based on molecular packing and simple physical descriptors, the researchers demonstrated that Crystal Math could predict crystal structures, like those of aspirin, with high accuracy. Unlike previous methods that often overpredict crystal forms, Crystal Math consistently generated only experimentally realizable structures. This breakthrough could revolutionize industries reliant on molecular crystals, such as pharmaceuticals, by accelerating the development of new drugs and materials.

AI-Generated Poetry Often Mistaken for Human-Written, New Research Reveals: Research from the University of Pittsburgh suggests that readers struggle to distinguish between AI-generated and human-written poetry, often preferring AI poems. In an experiment involving 1,634 participants, individuals misidentified AI-created poems as human more frequently than actual poems by famous poets like Shakespeare and Dickinson. In a second experiment, 696 participants rated poems based on attributes such as quality and beauty. Those informed that a poem was AI-generated rated it lower, regardless of its true origin. The findings suggest that AI poetry is perceived as more accessible, which may lead readers to mistake clarity for human authorship.