Revolutionary Finger Wrap Monitors Health Through Sweat: A Glimpse into the Future of Wearable Tech

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

In today’s edition:

• Science - Scientists Reveal Key Mechanism Ensuring Accurate DNA Segregation During Cell Division.

• Technology and AI - AI in Driverless Cars Found Vulnerable to Attacks, Research Shows, Machine Learning Enhances Safety by Preventing Car Battery Fires, Personalized Technology Could Transform Exercise Pain into Pleasure, and more.

• Engineering - Revolutionary Finger Wrap Monitors Health Through Sweat: A Glimpse into the Future of Wearable Tech, Breakthrough in Fire-Risk-Free Aqueous Zinc Batteries, Innovative Aerogel Enhances Monitoring of Radioactive Emissions in Nuclear Plants, and more.

• Astronomy & Space - James Webb Telescope Captures Cosmic Question Mark in Deep Space, and more.

• Health & Medicine - Gene Therapy Trial Shows Dramatic Vision Improvement in Patients with Inherited Blindness, and more.

• Neuroscience - New Brain Scanning Approach Reveals Wiring Patterns in Depression, Engineered Immune Cell Therapy Protects Neurons in Spinal Cord Injuries, and more.

• Environment - New Guidelines Aim to Enhance Emergency Responses to Weather Hazards: , New Report Reveals 2.3 Million Tons of Plastic Pollution in World's Oceans, and more.

• Nature - Amazon Parrots Adapt with Changing Accents Amid Environmental Pressures, Infrared Vision: How Mosquitoes Use Heat to Hunt Humans.

• Industry - EV Charging Stations Drive Economic Growth for Nearby Businesses, Netherlands Expands Export Curbs on Semiconductor Machines, Aligning with US Restrictions, UK Report Highlights Waste Clay and Brick as Key to Reducing Construction's Carbon Footprint, and more.

Until Tomorrow.

~The STEAM Digest

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This newsletter is curated by The STEAM Digest.

SCIENCE

Scientists Reveal Key Mechanism Ensuring Accurate DNA Segregation During Cell Division: Researchers from the University of Edinburgh have discovered how the centromere, a crucial DNA region, is maintained during cell division. The study identifies that the protein PLK1 initiates a series of phosphorylation events activating the Mis18 complex, which guides another protein, HJURP, to properly place CENP-A at centromeres. This process is essential for accurate chromosome segregation, preventing genetic errors linked to diseases and birth defects.

TECHNOLOGY AND AI

AI in Driverless Cars Found Vulnerable to Attacks, Research Shows: University at Buffalo researchers have uncovered potential vulnerabilities in the AI systems of driverless cars. Tests showed that adversarial objects, like strategically placed 3D-printed masks, could make vehicles invisible to radar systems, highlighting security risks. While current autonomous vehicles are not immediately unsafe, the findings suggest a need for robust countermeasures against possible attacks that could affect safety and insurance.

Machine Learning Enhances Safety by Preventing Car Battery Fires: Researchers from the University of Arizona have developed a machine-learning framework to predict and prevent thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries, a critical safety concern for electric vehicles. This framework uses historical temperature data from sensors around battery cells to anticipate overheating, offering a cost-effective, real-time solution to prevent fires. This innovation comes amid growing demand for electric vehicles, enhancing safety and addressing consumer concerns.

Personalized Technology Could Transform Exercise Pain into Pleasure: Researchers at the University of Bath are exploring how virtual reality (VR) games can enhance exercise enjoyment by adapting to users' emotional states. By using sensors to measure emotional responses like stress or boredom, the VR games adjust difficulty levels to maintain motivation and engagement. This approach aims to increase adherence to exercise routines, turning discomfort into a pleasurable experience through personalized feedback and challenges.

Avoiding the 'Tesla Trap': Caution Advised in AI Testing: Researchers at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology warn against relying solely on techno-optimists when testing AI tools, using Tesla's experience with its autopilot as an example. They found that risk-averse testers are more likely to provide valuable feedback by correcting AI mistakes, leading to safer and more reliable AI systems. This approach is recommended for AI adoption in fields like healthcare to build trust and ensure safety.

Apple's iPhone 16 Marks a Bold Move into AI Integration: Apple's upcoming iPhone 16 will emphasize AI capabilities, transforming Siri's functionality and enabling personalized features like custom emojis. This move, set to be unveiled in Cupertino, positions Apple as a key player in the consumer AI revolution. The new iPhone's on-device AI processing aims to differentiate it from competitors like Google's Pixel and Samsung's Galaxy, potentially boosting Apple's market value by nearly $400 billion.

ENGINEERING

Revolutionary Finger Wrap Monitors Health Through Sweat: A Glimpse into the Future of Wearable Tech: Engineers at the University of California San Diego have developed a sweat-powered electronic finger wrap that continuously monitors health biomarkers like glucose, lactate, vitamin C, and levodopa. The device, made of flexible materials, uses biofuel cells to convert chemicals in sweat into electricity, which powers sensors that transmit data wirelessly to a smartphone app. This technology could offer a convenient, autonomous way to monitor health metrics in real-time.

Breakthrough in Fire-Risk-Free Aqueous Zinc Batteries: Researchers have developed a new electrode technology using copper oxide to control dendrite formation in aqueous zinc batteries, significantly extending their lifespan. This advancement addresses a major challenge in making these batteries a safer, more environmentally friendly alternative to lithium-ion batteries, which are prone to fires. The new method promotes uniform zinc deposition, resulting in a battery lifespan over ten times longer, and has potential for commercialization due to its cost-effectiveness and scalability.

Innovative Aerogel Enhances Monitoring of Radioactive Emissions in Nuclear Plants: Researchers have developed a scintillating aerogel that enables real-time, cost-effective detection of radioactive gases like tritium and krypton-85 in nuclear power plants. This nanoporous material, which emits light upon contact with these gases, offers a quick and reusable alternative to traditional detection methods, enhancing safety monitoring and minimizing waste. The technology could be expanded for broader applications in various sectors.

Connected Cars: A Step Toward Reducing Fatal Crashes on US Roads: Vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technology, allowing cars to communicate with each other and infrastructure, could significantly reduce road accidents and fatalities. Pilot projects in Utah and Michigan show promise in improving traffic flow and safety by sharing real-time data about congestion, accidents, and road hazards. A federal blueprint aims for wider adoption by 2028, although privacy concerns remain.

Sensory Pen Transforms Braille Reading for the Visually Impaired: Researchers at the University of Bristol have developed a "Braille-tip" sensory pen that converts Braille text into English, aiming to improve literacy among visually impaired individuals. The device, featuring a sensor that reads Braille with 84.5% accuracy, allows for independent learning and practice of Braille. It has potential applications in public spaces and everyday interactions, with plans for further testing and development to increase its accuracy and usability.

Heat Pumps: A Crucial Component of U.S. Home Electrification: Heat pumps, energy-efficient appliances replacing traditional heaters and air conditioners, are vital for reducing carbon emissions in U.S. homes. Despite slow adoption, federal incentives like the Inflation Reduction Act aim to boost their uptake through tax credits and rebates. While early adopters are motivated by climate concerns, broader public awareness is needed for significant change, potentially reducing national greenhouse gas emissions by 5-9%.

ASTRONOMY & SPACE

James Webb Telescope Captures Cosmic Question Mark in Deep Space: Astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope have observed a unique gravitational lensing effect in galaxy cluster MACS-J0417.5-1154, revealing a distorted galaxy pair resembling a question mark. This rare alignment, featuring active star formation, showcases Webb's ability to uncover hidden details of distant galaxies that were previously unseen with other telescopes like Hubble, offering new insights into the universe's structure and the early stages of galaxy interactions.

Alfvén Waves: The Hidden Force Behind Solar Wind Acceleration and Heating: Recent data from NASA's Parker Solar Probe and ESA's Solar Orbiter show that Alfvén waves, electromagnetic plasma waves, are key drivers in accelerating and heating the solar wind. Researchers observed large-amplitude Alfvén waves transferring energy, matching the amount required to heat and speed up the solar wind. This discovery confirms that Alfvén waves play a crucial role in solar wind dynamics.

Cosmic Halos: New Insights into Galaxies' Hidden Structures: A study using data from the Subaru Telescope reveals that enormous, diffuse halos of gas surround galaxies far more extensively than previously thought. These halos, consisting of ionized gas, are shaped by galactic winds and feedback mechanisms, affecting star formation and galactic evolution. The findings offer a deeper understanding of how galaxies interact with their environments and challenge existing models of galactic growth.

The Legal Challenges of Cleaning Up Space Debris: Ph.D. candidate Zhuang Tian explores the legal complexities of space debris management, emphasizing the need for international agreements and clearer regulations. Current space law lags behind, complicating debris removal efforts due to ownership rights and potential misuse of removal technology. Tian suggests implementing "soft law" guidelines and an international hotline to coordinate actions, promoting sustainable use of space for future generations.

HEALTH & MEDICINE

Gene Therapy Trial Shows Dramatic Vision Improvement in Patients with Inherited Blindness: A clinical trial from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania demonstrated that gene therapy significantly improved vision in patients with Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA), a rare genetic condition causing early childhood blindness. Some patients experienced up to a 10,000-fold improvement in sight after treatment. The study, which tested different doses of a gene therapy called ATSN-101, showed rapid and substantial vision gains, highlighting the potential for treating other forms of congenital retinal blindness.

Vision Impairment Potentially Linked to 1 in 5 Dementia Cases Among Older Adults: A study by Johns Hopkins, the University of Michigan, and Duke University found that approximately 19% of dementia cases in U.S. adults aged 71 and older may be attributable to vision impairment. The research suggests that addressing vision problems, which are largely correctable, could help prevent nearly 20% of dementia cases. The study emphasizes the importance of early detection and correction of vision issues to potentially mitigate dementia risk.

Upper Gastrointestinal Ulcers Linked to Higher Risk of Parkinson's Disease: A study from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center indicates that individuals with a history of upper gastrointestinal tract damage, such as ulcers, have a 76% increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease. The research supports the "gut-first hypothesis," suggesting that Parkinson's may originate in the gut before affecting the central nervous system. The findings highlight the need for increased monitoring and early intervention for those with gastrointestinal damage.

New Technique Could Speed Up Forensic Analysis in Sexual Assault Cases: Researchers from the University of Toronto have developed a method using digital microfluidics to separate DNA from multiple sources more quickly, reducing the manual steps needed in forensic analysis from 13 to 5. This approach could allow rapid DNA analysis at the point of care, such as hospitals, speeding up the process and potentially increasing reporting rates by reducing delays.

NEUROSCIENCE

New Brain Scanning Approach Reveals Wiring Patterns in Depression: Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine have identified distinct patterns of neuronal interactions that may predispose individuals to depression. Using an innovative "deep scanning" approach, the study found that patients with depression often have an enlarged salience network in the brain, which could increase their risk for the condition. These findings suggest the potential for predicting susceptibility to depression and guiding new treatments.

Engineered Immune Cell Therapy Protects Neurons in Spinal Cord Injuries: Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have developed an immunotherapy using engineered T cells to protect neurons from damage following spinal cord injuries in mice. The therapy shows promise in reducing neuronal damage and improving mobility without triggering harmful autoimmune responses. The researchers aim to translate this approach into clinical trials for human patients, potentially extending the therapy's application to neurodegenerative diseases like ALS, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's.

New Insights Into the Neurobiological Origins of Ataxia Identified: Researchers from the University of Turku in Finland have discovered that ataxia, a disorder affecting coordination, can originate from brain regions outside the cerebellum. Using advanced imaging techniques, they identified a specific brain network connected to the cerebellum, challenging conventional beliefs that ataxia is solely due to cerebellar damage. The findings could refine medical training and improve safety in neurosurgical treatments by better understanding the brain networks involved.

Machine Learning Optimizes Electrical Stimulation Therapies for Nerve Disorders: Researchers at Duke University have developed a machine learning tool that optimizes electrical stimulation therapies by rapidly modeling nerve responses. This new method, called S-MF, runs thousands of times faster than traditional models, enabling more precise targeting of nerve fibers to enhance therapy effectiveness and reduce side effects. The tool could revolutionize treatments for conditions like epilepsy, depression, and heart disease by improving neuromodulation strategies.

Flexible Tentacle Electrodes Offer Precise Brain Activity Recording for Neurological Research: Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed ultra-thin, flexible "tentacle electrodes" that can precisely record brain activity without causing damage. These electrodes, made from fine gold fibers, allow for long-term monitoring and could lead to new treatments for neurological and psychiatric disorders. Unlike wider probes that risk damaging brain tissue, these electrodes can be safely inserted into the brain, providing high-quality signals. The technology is set to be tested on humans, particularly for drug-resistant epilepsy.

ENVIRONMENT

New Guidelines Aim to Enhance Emergency Responses to Weather Hazards: Scientists have developed new guidelines to improve emergency response to weather hazards by integrating more accurate meteorological data, real-time analysis, and better risk communication strategies. Recent studies supporting these guidelines show that incorporating localized data and improving forecast models can reduce casualties and damage by up to 30% during extreme weather events. For example, using high-resolution satellite data has enhanced the accuracy of early warning systems, enabling more precise evacuation orders and resource allocation in disaster-prone regions.

New Report Reveals 2.3 Million Tons of Plastic Pollution in World's Oceans: A groundbreaking study estimates that approximately 2.3 million tons of plastic waste enters the world's oceans annually, much higher than previous estimates. The study, conducted by the 5 Gyres Institute, highlights that global mismanagement of plastic waste is the main contributor. Researchers call for urgent global policy changes, including international agreements to limit plastic production and improve waste management, to combat this growing environmental crisis.

Antarctic Ozone Hole Expected to Persist for Decades: Scientists report that the ozone hole over Antarctica, which forms annually, will likely continue for several more decades despite recovery efforts. The delay is attributed to lingering atmospheric concentrations of ozone-depleting substances like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). While the 1987 Montreal Protocol has significantly reduced these chemicals, their persistence means full recovery of the ozone layer may not occur until the 2060s or later.

NATURE

Amazon Parrots Adapt with Changing Accents Amid Environmental Pressures: Scientists have observed that yellow-naped amazons in the Amazon are changing their vocal dialects, potentially as an adaptive response to environmental pressures like habitat loss and poaching. The changes may help parrots communicate across different groups, improving their survival by sharing resources or gaining new territories. These findings suggest that shifts in animal "accents" could be a response to human impact and may provide insights into the cultural evolution of species under threat.

Infrared Vision: How Mosquitoes Use Heat to Hunt Humans: Scientists have discovered that mosquitoes track humans using infrared sensors to detect body heat. The insects have specialized receptors that allow them to sense thermal radiation, guiding them to warm-blooded hosts. This new understanding of mosquito behavior could lead to better repellents and strategies to prevent mosquito-borne diseases.

INDUSTRY

EV Charging Stations Drive Economic Growth for Nearby Businesses: A study by MIT researchers shows that installing electric vehicle charging stations can significantly boost local business spending. In California, nearby businesses saw annual spending increases of around $1,500 in 2019 and $400 from January 2021 to June 2023. The findings highlight the economic benefits of EV infrastructure, especially in under-resourced areas, and suggest new business models for maximizing profitability.

Netherlands Expands Export Curbs on Semiconductor Machines, Aligning with US Restrictions: The Dutch government announced new export restrictions on semiconductor-manufacturing equipment from ASML, aligning with US export controls aimed at preventing sensitive technologies from reaching China. The restrictions apply to more equipment types, including ASML's TWINSCAN systems, to mitigate security risks associated with advanced military applications. The measures allow ASML to apply for export licenses through Dutch authorities, rather than the US, and are not expected to impact ASML's financial outlook for 2024.

UK Report Highlights Waste Clay and Brick as Key to Reducing Construction's Carbon Footprint: A new report by the University of Dundee, led by the Mineral Products Association (MPA), suggests using waste clay and brick in concrete production could reduce the UK construction industry's carbon footprint by up to 30%. The study found that reclaimed clays and finely ground brick powder could replace traditional cement, helping divert 1.4 million tons of material from waste streams. This approach supports the UK's net zero targets by reducing emissions and creating a sustainable supply chain.

Ant Group Launches AI 'Life Assistant' App to Enhance Everyday Living: China's Ant Group has unveiled an AI-powered "life assistant" app called Zhixiaobao, designed to help users with everyday tasks like ordering food, hailing taxis, and booking tickets. The app integrates with Alipay and leverages Ant Group's BaiLing AI model. This move comes amid broader AI adoption by global tech firms and follows Ant's strategic shift after regulatory challenges and a recent fine. The new app aims to position Ant Group competitively in the growing AI market.

New French Nuclear Reactor Shuts Down Automatically After Initial Startup: France's newest nuclear reactor at Flamanville, Normandy, automatically shut down a day after starting up for the first time. The European Pressurized Reactor (EPR) experienced a shutdown due to its complex startup process involving multiple tests. EDF, the state-owned energy company, indicated that the shutdown demonstrates the safety system's effectiveness. Despite the 12-year delay and cost overruns, the reactor is expected to reach 25% output and connect to the grid by the end of autumn.