New Form of Super-lubricity Discovered: Bismuth Crystals Glide on Graphite with Zero Friction in One Direction

Hello and welcome to our May 10th edition. The STEAM Digest is a curated newsletter that brings you the latest in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.

In today’s edition:

• Science - New Equation Revolutionizes Molecular Simulations by Accurately Modeling Friction in Complex Systems, and more.

• Materials - New Form of Super-lubricity Discovered: Bismuth Crystals Glide on Graphite with Zero Friction in One Direction, and more.

• Biotechnology & Biomedical Technology - Ultrasound-Guided 3D Printing Enables Targeted Drug Delivery Deep Inside the Body, and more.

• Engineering & Technology - Large-Scale Study Reveals Many Heat Pumps in Europe Are Inefficiently Configured, and more.

• Robotics, AI, Hardware, Software, Gadgets - Flexible, Skin-Conformal Haptic Patch Brings Realistic Touch to Virtual Worlds, and more.

• Astronomy, Space, Astrobiology - Seismic Signals from North Atlantic Storms Reveal New Way to Probe Earth's Core and Other Planets, and more.

• Health & Medicine - Single Injection of VIA Disc NP Shows Promise for Chronic Lumbar Discogenic Pain, Study Finds, and more.

• Neuroscience - Study Debunks Fears of Novel Brain Disease in New Brunswick, Identifies Known Neurological Conditions, and more.

• Environment & Earth Sciences - Nanoplastics from Real-World Waste Found to Intensify Heavy Metal Toxicity in the Human Body.

• Nature & Ecology - Combined Impacts of Climate Change and Land Use Intensification Threaten Insect Populations, Especially Bees, and more.

• Other Sciences & The Arts - Children Delay Gratification Longer When Paired with a Cooperative Peer, Study Finds, and more.

Until Tomorrow,

~The STEAM Digest

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SCIENCE

New Equation Revolutionizes Molecular Simulations by Accurately Modeling Friction in Complex Systems: A University of Oregon physics doctoral student has developed a new mathematical equation that significantly improves the accuracy of coarse-grained computer simulations used to study the motion of large biomolecules like proteins and nucleic acids. The model solves a decades-old challenge by providing the first equation to accurately describe both internal molecular fluctuations and external diffusion through fluid environments—key to understanding biological processes such as DNA replication. The breakthrough enhances simulations of large, complex systems by refining how friction is calculated, a factor long known to influence molecular behavior. The development promises faster, more precise simulations that can help advance drug discovery, materials science, and the study of diseases linked to errors in DNA replication.

Microscale Ferroelectric Topology in BaTiO₃ Enables Precise Light Field Control and Vortex Beam Generation: In a breakthrough researchers engineered micrometer-scale dome-shaped polar topologies in barium titanate (BaTiO₃) membranes, enabling precise manipulation of light fields. Unlike conventional 2D approaches, this method uses strain-driven 3D deformations to stabilize complex ferroelectric polarization patterns that align with the scale of laser wavelengths. These structures successfully modulate vortex light fields with orbital angular momentum, offering promising applications in on-chip photonics, optical communication, and high-density data storage.

DNA Requires More Force to Unwind in Crowded Cell Environments, Study Finds:
A study reveals that DNA strand separation may require significantly more mechanical force in crowded cellular environments than previously thought. Using magnetic tweezers and synthetic crowding agents, researchers simulated realistic cellular conditions and found that molecular crowding impedes DNA unwinding. The findings challenge standard lab assumptions and suggest that all DNA-protein interactions—including those essential for replication and repair—are likely influenced by intracellular crowding, with implications for genomic research and biotechnology.

MATERIALS

New Form of Super-lubricity Discovered: Bismuth Crystals Glide on Graphite with Zero Friction in One Direction: Researchers have discovered a new type of superlubricity—frictionless motion—between ultra-thin bismuth crystals and graphite. Unlike previously known isotropic superlubricity, this novel form is directional, allowing frictionless movement along straight “nano-highways” while maintaining friction in other directions. The crystals also exhibit rare Lévy flight motion, typically seen in animal foraging and data networks. This finding could revolutionize nanotechnology, paving the way for ultra-efficient, low-friction devices and significant energy savings.

Researchers Create 3D Reconfigurable Superconducting Nanostructures Using Nano-Printing Technique: An international team led by the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids has fabricated three-dimensional superconducting nanostructures using a nano-scale 3D printing approach. The structures exhibit controllable superconductivity, allowing researchers to switch the superconducting state on or off in different regions by rotating the structure in a magnetic field. This breakthrough enables reconfigurable superconducting devices and could pave the way for adaptive quantum technologies and neuromorphic computing systems.

Breakthrough Method Stabilizes Carbyne, Unlocking Potential for Future Electronics: Researchers from an international team led by Penn State have developed a low-temperature method to stabilize carbyne—a highly conductive, one-dimensional carbon chain—by enclosing it in single-walled carbon nanotubes. The technique dramatically improves carbyne’s stability and production yield, overcoming decades-long challenges of its fragility and scarcity. With its natural semiconductor gap and quantum properties, carbyne could outpace graphene in advanced electronics, opening new paths for next-generation computing and nanotechnology.

BIOTECHNOLOGY & BIOMEDICAL TECHNOLOGY

Ultrasound-Guided 3D Printing Enables Targeted Drug Delivery Deep Inside the Body: Caltech-led researchers have developed a novel technique called deep tissue in vivo sound printing (DISP), using focused ultrasound to 3D-print biocompatible polymers deep within living tissue. This method enables localized polymerization by triggering temperature-sensitive liposomes that release crosslinking agents. It has been successfully used to print drug-loaded gels for targeted cancer treatment and bioelectric materials for internal monitoring, marking a breakthrough in noninvasive, precision medicine.

Dual-Receptor T-Cell Therapy Enhances Cancer Targeting While Protecting Healthy Tissue: A study published in Cell introduces a breakthrough dual-receptor T-cell therapy that combines Chimeric Antigen Receptors (CARs) and T-cell Receptors (TCRs) to better discriminate between cancerous and healthy cells. Developed by researchers at the University of Oxford, the National Cancer Institute, and the University of Montréal, the engineered “Antagonism-Enforced Braking System” (AEBS) CAR T cells use weak TCR signals to inhibit harmful CAR activity near healthy tissues while boosting responses to tumor-specific mutations. This innovation could significantly improve the safety and effectiveness of immunotherapy, especially for solid tumors.

CRISPR-Cas9 Used to Genetically Modify Spider Silk for the First Time: Researchers at the University of Bayreuth have successfully applied CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing technology to spiders, enabling them to produce red fluorescent silk. This breakthrough marks the first time gene sequences have been inserted into spider silk proteins in vivo, paving the way for the development of customized silk fibers with enhanced properties for material science applications.

ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY

Large-Scale Study Reveals Many Heat Pumps in Europe Are Inefficiently Configured: An ETH Zurich-led study of over 1,000 heat pumps across 10 European countries, reveals significant inefficiencies in real-world operation, often due to improper configuration. Issues such as oversized units, poorly set heating curves, and unnecessary nighttime temperature reductions were found to waste energy and increase costs. In Switzerland, nearly half of the studied units had inefficient settings. Researchers recommend digital monitoring and standardized technical frameworks to optimize performance, reduce emissions, and boost adoption of climate-friendly heating technologies.

Researchers Develops CMOS-Compatible Mid-Infrared Photodetector for Real-Time Gas Sensing at Room Temperature: Researchers have developed a cutting-edge mid-infrared photodetector that operates at room temperature and is compatible with silicon-based CMOS processes, marking a major advancement in optical sensor technology. The waveguide-integrated germanium photodetector uses the bolometric effect to detect a broad mid-infrared spectrum without the need for cooling. This innovation paves the way for low-cost, compact, and scalable applications in environmental monitoring, medical diagnostics, smart devices, and beyond.

Researchers Set New World Record for Lithium-Ion Conductivity with Scandium-Doped Material: Scientists have developed a new lithium-ion conductor that surpasses all known materials in ion conductivity, advancing solid-state battery technology. The study reports that partially replacing lithium in lithium antimonide with scandium creates vacancies in the crystal lattice, dramatically enhancing lithium-ion mobility—over 30% faster than previous records. The new material also exhibits electrical conductivity and thermal stability, making it highly promising for electrode applications. Unlike earlier record-holding materials that required multiple additives, this discovery only relies on scandium and uses well-established synthesis methods. The team sees potential for adapting the principle to other systems, such as lithium-phosphorus compounds, and has filed a patent for their innovation.

ROBOTICS, AI, HARDWARE, SOFTWARE, GADGETS

Flexible, Skin-Conformal Haptic Patch Brings Realistic Touch to Virtual Worlds:
In a breakthrough, researchers have developed ultra-thin, flexible tactile actuators that enable detailed and natural-feeling touch feedback for virtual and augmented reality. Using dielectric elastomer actuators combined with springs, the team created compact, low-power actuators just 6 mm wide that can simulate pressure and vibration. Integrated into a lightweight fingertip patch with touch-sensing capabilities, the technology allows dynamic, bidirectional tactile feedback, paving the way for more immersive VR experiences and innovations in robotics, prosthetics, and healthcare.

New Headphone Tech Translates Multiple Voices in Real Time with Spatial Accuracy: Researchers have developed a novel headphone system called Spatial Speech Translation that can simultaneously translate multiple speakers in real time while preserving the direction, tone, and individuality of each voice. The system uses off-the-shelf noise-canceling headphones equipped with microphones and runs on local devices like Apple M2-powered laptops, avoiding cloud-based processing to protect user privacy. Unlike existing translation tools, it can identify and track speakers as they move in noisy environments, offering a delayed translation with a 2–4 second lag for better accuracy. The technology was presented at the ACM CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems on April 30, 2025, and has been successfully tested in various indoor and outdoor settings.

AI Tool "FaceAge" Uses Facial Photos to Predict Biological Age and Cancer Outcomes: Researchers at Mass General Brigham developed "FaceAge," a deep learning algorithm that predicts a person’s biological age and survival outcomes using facial photos. The study found that cancer patients generally had FaceAges about five years older than their chronological age, and higher FaceAge was linked to poorer survival. FaceAge also outperformed clinicians in predicting short-term life expectancy for patients in palliative care, offering a potential new biomarker for health and disease prognosis.

ASTRONOMY, SPACE, ASTROBIOLOGY

Seismic Signals from North Atlantic Storms Reveal New Way to Probe Earth's Core and Other Planets: Researchers from the Australian National University have detected core-traversing seismic waves—known as PKP waves—generated by strong winter storms in the North Atlantic. The study used custom spiral seismometer arrays in remote parts of Australia to identify microseismic signals originating from Greenland and Newfoundland. These findings not only deepen understanding of Earth's interior but also offer a method to explore the core structure of other planets and moons, even those without tectonic activity or quakes.

New Study Challenges Origins of Cosmic Microwave Background, Suggesting Star Formation May Account for Radiation: A new study by researchers suggests that elliptical galaxies may account for a significant portion—or possibly all—of the cosmic microwave background (CMB) radiation, long considered the "afterglow" of the Big Bang. By modeling the intense light from early star formation, the team found that this radiation could explain at least 1.4% of the observed CMB, potentially calling into question a key pillar of the standard cosmological model and our understanding of the universe’s early structure.

HEALTH & MEDICINE

Single Injection of VIA Disc NP Shows Promise for Chronic Lumbar Discogenic Pain, Study Finds: A prospective study sponsored by VIVEX Biologics reports that a single intradiscal injection of VIA Disc NP—an allogeneic nucleus pulposus product from cadaveric disc tissue—led to significant pain and disability reduction over 12 months in patients with chronic lumbar discogenic pain unresponsive to conservative treatments. Published in BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, the study showed a 43% average pain reduction and 50% improvement in function, with minimal adverse effects. However, the small sample size and lack of a control group highlight the need for larger, controlled tria

Roflumilast Foam Shows Strong Efficacy for Scalp and Body Psoriasis with Rapid Itch Relief: A randomized, placebo-controlled trial found that once-daily use of roflumilast foam, 0.3%, led to significant clearance of scalp and body psoriasis and rapid itch reduction. Among 432 patients, 66.4% achieved scalp lesion clearance and 45.5% body lesion clearance after 8 weeks, compared to 27.8% and 20.1% in the placebo group. Pruritus relief was reported within 24 hours. The foam's ease of use on hair-bearing areas and favorable tolerability suggest it may be a promising monotherapy for plaque psoriasis.

Fat-Rich Ascites Fluid Found to Suppress Immune Response in Advanced Ovarian Cancer: New research reveals that lipid-rich ascites fluid plays a key role in weakening immune responses in advanced ovarian cancer. The study shows that phospholipids present in ascites impair the function of natural killer (NK) cells by disrupting their metabolism, effectively suppressing their ability to eliminate cancer cells. The team also demonstrated that blocking the uptake of these lipids into NK cells restores their anti-tumor activity, pointing to a promising new target for immunotherapy. With over 70% of ovarian cancer patients diagnosed at an advanced stage and often presenting with ascites, these findings offer critical insight into immune suppression mechanisms and open the door to novel therapies aimed at reactivating the immune system to improve patient outcomes.

NEUROSCIENCE

Study Debunks Fears of Novel Brain Disease in New Brunswick, Identifies Known Neurological Conditions: A University of Toronto-led study has found that the so-called Neurological Syndrome of Unknown Cause (NSUC) in New Brunswick, Canada, does not represent a novel disease. Re-evaluation of 25 patients revealed known diagnoses such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and functional neurological disorders. No prion or unknown pathologies were found. Researchers attributed the initial cluster reports to diagnostic errors and media amplification, highlighting the need for independent evaluations and caution against speculative labeling.

Your Eye Movements Set the Speed Limit for What You Can See, Study Finds: A study by researchers at TU Berlin reveals that the limits of visual perception—when fast-moving objects become invisible—are tied to the speed of our own eye movements, specifically saccades. These rapid eye movements occur several times per second and help the brain suppress motion blur that would otherwise occur. Individuals with faster saccades can perceive faster-moving objects, suggesting our perceptual abilities are shaped by how we move. The research highlights a deep connection between motor control and visual perception.

ENVIRONMENT & EARTH SCIENCES

Nanoplastics from Real-World Waste Found to Intensify Heavy Metal Toxicity in the Human Body: A new study reveals that nanoplastics (NPs) generated from everyday plastic waste can significantly increase the health risks posed by heavy metals in the environment. Researchers produced NPs from commonly discarded plastics—PET, PS, and PP—using a salt milling method, resulting in irregular particles under 200 nm in size. These NPs were shown to adsorb toxic heavy metal ions like lead and cadmium with high efficiency, particularly polypropylene (PP), which adsorbed over 99% of lead ions within five minutes. The study warns that these NPs act as "Trojan horses," increasing the bioavailability and toxicity of heavy metals when they enter organisms. This highlights the urgent need to study real-world nanoplastics rather than idealized lab versions and to address the compounded health threats they pose through environmental and biological exposure.

NATURE & ECOLOGY

Combined Impacts of Climate Change and Land Use Intensification Threaten Insect Populations, Especially Bees: A study led by Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg reveals that rising temperatures and intensive land use jointly threaten insect populations, especially bees. Researchers found bee numbers declined by 65% in urban areas under high heat, with warmer night temperatures reducing bee diversity across all habitats. The study emphasizes that preserving and connecting natural areas is critical, as different insects respond uniquely to these stressors, risking disruption to pollination and pest control.

Vultures Found Crucial to Rapid Carcass Decomposition and Disease Prevention in Costa Rica Study: AA study reveals that pig carcasses decompose twice as slowly without vultures, underscoring the birds' vital role in ecosystem cleanup and disease prevention. Conducted in Costa Rica by researchers from the University of Exeter and OSA Conservation, the study found that no other scavengers compensated for the absence of vultures, leading to a surge in fly populations—potential vectors for harmful pathogens. The findings highlight the ecological importance of vultures and raise concerns over their declining numbers in the Americas.

OTHER SCIENCES & THE ARTS

Bronze Age Shipwrecks Reveal British Tin Fueled Ancient Mediterranean Civilizations: A new study has traced tin ingots from 3,300 years ago found in Eastern Mediterranean shipwrecks back to mines in southwest Britain, confirming that Cornwall and Devon were major suppliers of tin for Bronze Age societies. Using isotope and chemical analyses, researchers demonstrated that British tin was traded over 4,000 km, supporting large-scale bronze production across Europe and the Mediterranean. The findings reveal that small British communities played a key role in a vast international trade network, reshaping our understanding of Britain’s role in ancient global commerce.

Children Delay Gratification Longer When Paired with a Cooperative Peer, Study Finds: A new study by researchers from the University of Manchester and Mohammed VI Polytechnic University reveals that children are more likely to delay gratification in a variation of the Stanford marshmallow experiment when paired with a peer who also commits to waiting. Conducted online, the experiment showed that children waited longer for a better reward if they believed their partner would do the same—highlighting the influence of perceived social cooperation, even without direct communication.

Cambrian Fossil Shishania Reclassified as Sponge Relative, Not Early Mollusk: A new study led by Durham and Yunnan Universities has reclassified Shishania aculeata, a 500-million-year-old Cambrian fossil from China, as a chancelloriid—a bizarre sponge-like animal—rather than an early mollusk. The research used improved fossil specimens and imaging techniques to show that previously identified molluscan features were actually artifacts of fossilization. This finding reshapes our understanding of early animal evolution and highlights how simple organisms developed complex traits during the Cambrian explosion.