Recreational Drug Use Increases Risk of Repeat Cardiovascular Events

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

In today’s edition:

• Science - Nanoscale Silver Shows Intrinsic Self-Healing Abilities, and more.

• Technology and AI - Algorithm Enhances Real-Time Emotion Detection from Facial Features, and more.

• Engineering - Eco-Friendly Glove Coating Developed Using Lignin and 3D Printing, and more.

• Health & Medicine - Recreational Drug Use Increases Risk of Repeat Cardiovascular Events, Wearable Tech Helps Older Indigenous People Monitor Heart Health, and more.

• Neuroscience - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Enhances Brain Circuits to Alleviate Depression, Noninvasive Ultrasound Shows Promise for Chronic Pain Management.

• Environment - Swedish Mushrooms Contain Chernobyl Radioactive Cesium, India Identified as Top Plastic Pollution Hotspot Due to Uncollected Waste, and more.

• Nature - The True Rarity of Rare-Colored Lobsters, and more.

• Other Sciences & Arts - Pottery Shards Reveal Trade Networks of Enslaved People in the Cayman Islands, and more.

• Industry - BMW Plans Hydrogen-Powered Car Rollout by 2028 with Toyota's Collaboration, Brazilians Turn to Bluesky and Threads Following X Suspension, and more.

Until Tomorrow.

~The STEAM Digest

If you’d like to see more of this or if you want to share with others, please use the following link: https://thesteamdigest.beehiiv.com/subscribe

This newsletter is curated by The STEAM Digest.

SCIENCE

Nanoscale Silver Shows Intrinsic Self-Healing Abilities: Researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences have discovered that nanoscale silver (Ag) can autonomously repair itself from damage such as nanocracks and nanopores without any external intervention, even at temperatures as low as 173 K. This self-healing is driven by surface-mediated diffusion of silver atoms due to chemical potential imbalances. The finding could lead to the development of damage-tolerant materials and devices at the sub-micrometer scale.

Understanding the Stability of Black Holes Against Their Own Gravity: A new study suggests that black holes are stable against their own gravity due to a balance of forces: an outward pressure caused by negative scalar curvature and an inward gravitational pull. This equilibrium is governed by a universal black hole constant, explaining why black holes have no maximum mass. The research challenges previous assumptions about black hole singularities and the misapplication of causal physics to acausal black hole matter.

Catalyst Breakthrough Offers 800-Fold Boost in Carbon Dioxide Reduction: Researchers from Brookhaven National Laboratory and collaborators have developed a new catalyst that dramatically improves the electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide (CO₂) into useful products. By adjusting the distance of positively charged molecules around a rhenium-based catalyst, they achieved an 800-fold increase in catalytic activity, reducing the energy required for the process. This discovery could lead to more efficient carbon capture and conversion technologies.

TECHNOLOGY AND AI

Algorithm Enhances Real-Time Emotion Detection from Facial Features: Researchers at Northeastern University in China developed a method to improve dynamic emotion recognition using a convolutional neural network (CNN) that analyzes video sequences of facial expressions. The system employs a "chaotic frog leap algorithm" to sharpen key facial features, achieving up to 99% accuracy in detecting emotions in real time. Applications include mental health, human-computer interaction, security, and more.

Language-Like Communication Boosts Learning in AI Networks: A study from the University of Bonn demonstrates that language-like communication significantly enhances learning in artificial networks. Researchers created a "teacher-student" setup where artificial agents communicated to solve tasks, showing that effective, shared language between agents improves task performance and learning efficiency. The findings highlight the importance of communication for learning in both biological and artificial systems, providing insights into optimizing cognitive development.

App Empowers Mexican Tortilla Makers to Enter Digital Economy: A new mobile app, developed by the National Tortilla Council and tech firm Finsus, helps Mexico's tortilla vendors integrate into the digital economy by allowing them to accept payments via cards, QR codes, or cell phone numbers. This initiative aims to boost financial inclusion and modernize the tortilla industry, which largely operates in the informal sector. The app is designed to enhance business operations and offer additional services, like bill payments, to customers.

ENGINEERING

Eco-Friendly Glove Coating Developed Using Lignin and 3D Printing: Scientists at the German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research Denkendorf (DITF) have developed a sustainable glove coating using lignin, a natural by-product of paper manufacturing. The lignin-based coating is durable, resistant to water and chemicals, and biodegradable, reducing long-term environmental pollution. Utilizing 3D printing, the coating can be tailored to the user's needs, enhancing comfort and flexibility while meeting safety standards.

New Approach Enhances Performance of 2D Semiconductor-Based Transistors: Researchers from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Soochow University, and other institutes have developed a new method to fabricate high-performing transistors using 2D semiconductors. By incorporating hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) dielectrics and high cohesive energy metals like platinum (Pt), they achieved significantly reduced leakage currents and enhanced dielectric strength. This innovative design could lead to more reliable and efficient microelectronic circuits and devices based on 2D materials.

New Material Enhances Carbon Capture Efficiency: Researchers at MIT have developed porous polymeric electrodes (PPEs) that significantly improve carbon dioxide capture efficiency. Made from melamine foam, polyvinyl alcohol, carbon nanotubes, and quinone molecules, these electrodes enhance gas transport and increase active surface area, achieving up to 90% utilization of the capture material. This innovation could enhance carbon capture from low-concentration sources, aiding in climate change mitigation efforts.

Solar Power and Farming: A Path to Coexistence: Researchers from Swansea University have developed a tool to identify photovoltaic (PV) materials that maximize both crop growth and solar power generation. This new approach, called agrivoltaics, integrates semi-transparent PV materials into agricultural settings to optimize light absorption for crops while producing clean energy. The innovation aims to balance food production and renewable energy, offering a sustainable path to decarbonizing agriculture.

HEALTH & MEDICINE

Recreational Drug Use Increases Risk of Repeat Cardiovascular Events: A study presented at the European Society of Cardiology Congress 2024 found that recreational drug use triples the risk of a repeat cardiovascular event within a year of hospitalization. The research, involving over 1,300 patients, identified significant associations between drug use, including MDMA, heroin, and cannabis, and adverse cardiovascular outcomes. The findings suggest that systematic screening for drug use may improve risk stratification and personalized care.

Wearable Tech Helps Older Indigenous People Monitor Heart Health: A study found wearable technology, such as smartwatches and chest patches, can help older Indigenous Australians monitor heart conditions like atrial fibrillation. Participants reported increased awareness and confidence in managing their health, and one case led to a life-saving intervention. The research highlights the potential for culturally tailored health programs utilizing wearable tech in remote communities.

Crystallized DNA Structure Reveals New Insights on Insulin and Diabetes: A study led by University College London has crystallized an alternative DNA structure called the i-motif within the insulin gene for the first time. This DNA variant, which resembles a knot, affects how the insulin gene functions, potentially influencing diabetes development. The research offers a new avenue for drug discovery by targeting these specific DNA shapes, which could lead to novel treatments for diabetes and other genetic conditions.

Yoga Improves Urinary Incontinence in Older Women: A study suggests that yoga significantly reduces urinary incontinence in older women, improving quality of life. The research highlights the benefits of a targeted yoga program, which enhances pelvic muscle strength and mindfulness, leading to fewer incontinence episodes. The findings support yoga as a non-invasive, accessible treatment option for managing urinary symptoms in aging populations.

AI Method Advances Gene Therapy Development: Researchers at the University of California, San Diego, developed an AI-based method to improve gene therapy by predicting optimal DNA sequences for therapy delivery. This approach, using machine learning, identifies effective DNA sequences that enhance therapeutic gene delivery to cells, potentially reducing costs and speeding up gene therapy development.

NEUROSCIENCE

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Enhances Brain Circuits to Alleviate Depression: A study led by Stanford Medicine reveals that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), when tailored to a patient's specific type of depression, can lead to lasting changes in brain circuits and reduce symptoms more effectively. In patients with depression and obesity, CBT focused on problem-solving showed a 32% success rate in reducing symptoms, with corresponding adaptive changes in brain circuitry. This finding supports using brain activity to customize depression treatment, improving patient outcomes.

Noninvasive Ultrasound Shows Promise for Chronic Pain Management: Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a noninvasive focused ultrasound technology that targets specific brain circuits to suppress pain hypersensitivity. Unlike traditional treatments involving medications or opioids, this method offers a safer, reversible alternative with high spatial precision. Preliminary studies on animal models have shown promising results, and clinical trials on humans are planned. This technology could revolutionize pain management, particularly for those suffering from chronic conditions.

ENVIRONMENT

Swedish Mushrooms Contain Chernobyl Radioactive Cesium: A study reveals that wild mushrooms foraged in parts of Sweden still contain radioactive cesium from the 1986 Chernobyl disaster. Cesium-137 levels in some samples exceeded the EU's maximum limit for food safety. The findings highlight the long-term environmental impact of nuclear fallout and the need for monitoring, especially for foragers and consumers of wild mushrooms.

India Identified as Top Plastic Pollution Hotspot Due to Uncollected Waste: A global study using machine learning has identified India as the top plastic pollution hotspot, largely due to high levels of uncollected waste. With only 81% of waste being collected, India emits 9.3 million tons of plastic into the environment annually—about one-fifth of the global total. This research highlights the need for targeted policies to manage waste effectively and reduce pollution, particularly in areas with limited resources.

SF Bay Area Study Reveals Chemical Levels in Drinking Water: A study by SimpleLab tested water from bottled, tap, and household-treated sources in the San Francisco Bay area, finding that while all samples met federal health standards, tap water contained higher levels of chemicals like trihalomethanes. These chemicals, linked to health risks such as liver damage and cancer, were present in all water types. The study suggests that using filters could reduce chemical exposure and improve taste.

Earth's Hottest Summer on Record May Lead to Warmest Year Ever: Earth experienced its hottest summer on record in 2024, according to the European climate service Copernicus, with temperatures averaging 16.8°C (62.24°F). The findings suggest that 2024 could become the warmest year ever recorded, driven by human-caused climate change and a temporary El Niño effect. Scientists warn that extreme heat waves, droughts, and flooding are becoming more frequent and severe, emphasizing the urgency of addressing climate change impacts.

NATURE

The True Rarity of Rare-Colored Lobsters: Recent research suggests that the perceived rarity of colored lobsters, such as blue, orange, or two-toned varieties, may be less definitive than commonly thought. Scientists like Markus Frederich from the University of New England are studying the genetics behind these color variations, using noninvasive methods to better understand their molecular basis. Although estimates like "1 in a million" are often cited, there's no definitive source, and rare lobsters may not be as unusual in large catches as once believed.

Deep-Sea Mussels Host Intracellular Bacterial Parasites: Scientists from the Max Planck Institute have discovered a nuclear parasite, Candidatus endonucleobacter, in deep-sea mussels that invades and multiplies within the cell nuclei without killing the host. These bacteria use inhibitors of apoptosis (IAPs) to prevent the host cell from self-destructing, allowing massive bacterial replication. The study reveals unique insights into host-parasite interactions, highlighting genetic exchange between host and bacteria, and could have implications for understanding parasitic infections and cell death regulation.

Protecting 0.7% of Land Could Save a Third of Unique Species: A study by Imperial College London, On the Edge, and ZSL shows that conserving just 0.7% of the world's land could protect a third of unique and endangered tetrapod species. These areas, known as EDGE Zones, harbor species with high evolutionary distinctiveness and global endangerment, like the aye-aye and purple frog. The study highlights the need for targeted conservation in high-risk areas, which currently face significant human pressure.

OTHER SCIENCES & ARTS

Pottery Shards Reveal Trade Networks of Enslaved People in the Cayman Islands: Researchers have discovered 15 shards of Afro-Caribbean pottery at Jackson Wall Manor in the Cayman Islands, revealing insights into the lives of enslaved people. The pottery, originating from Jamaica, suggests that enslaved individuals engaged in inter-island trade, possibly to maintain connections with their communities. This discovery provides new perspectives on the history of slavery in the Cayman Islands and highlights the resilience and agency of the enslaved population.

Tiny Glass Beads Indicate Recent Volcanic Activity on the Moon: New research based on glass beads collected by China's Chang'e 5 mission suggests the Moon had active volcanoes as recently as 120 million years ago, overlapping with the era of the dinosaurs. This finding is much more recent than the previously believed 2 billion years. The beads provide the first physical evidence of this late volcanic activity, challenging our understanding of the Moon's geological history.

INDUSTRY

BMW Plans Hydrogen-Powered Car Rollout by 2028 with Toyota's Collaboration: BMW aims to mass-produce its first hydrogen-powered vehicle by 2028, leveraging fuel cell technology developed with Toyota. The partnership seeks to reduce costs and advance next-generation fuel cell technology, maintaining each brand's identity. Despite challenges like high costs and limited refueling infrastructure, BMW remains committed to hydrogen, offering an alternative path to decarbonization amid growing restrictions on combustion engines.

Brazilians Turn to Bluesky and Threads Following X Suspension: After the suspension of X (formerly Twitter) in Brazil, millions of Brazilians, including President Lula da Silva, have migrated to alternative social platforms like Bluesky and Threads. The ban resulted from a conflict between Elon Musk and Supreme Court Judge Alexandre de Moraes over disinformation concerns. Both Bluesky and Threads saw significant growth in Brazilian users, reflecting the country's demand for online spaces for public discourse amidst political polarization.

Why the Australian Push for AI Adoption Might Be Misguided: The Australian government encourages wider AI usage to build trust and foster adoption, but critics argue this approach may be flawed. While AI poses risks such as bias, data privacy concerns, and misinformation, the government suggests increased use despite these issues. The debate centers on whether promoting AI without adequate safeguards could lead to unintended negative consequences, like surveillance and loss of trust.