Concussions May Trigger Latent Brain Viruses Linked to Neurodegeneration

Good afternoon welcome to our January 8th edition. The STEAM Digest is a curated newsletter that brings you the latest news in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.

In today’s edition:

• Science - Discovery of Alternate Cellulose Production Pathway in Plants, Hornworts Offer Blueprint for Boosting Photosynthesis in Crops, Machine Learning Unlocks Controlled Molecular Disassembly.

• Materials - Ring-Shaped Polymers Offer Path to More Sustainable Plastics, Advancing Microplasma Devices with Graphene-Nanodiamond Technology, Graphene-Enhanced Method Advances Flexible Electronics.

• Engineering & Technology - WeaRo: A Soft Wearable Robot to Reduce Work-Related Injuries, Advancing Tactile Sensors: A Path Toward Intelligent Systems, Optimizing Sensor Design to Improve Aerodynamics in Autonomous Vehicles.

• Astronomy & Space - NASA Revises Mars Sample Return Mission to Cut Costs and Accelerate Timeline.

• Biotechnology - CRISPR-Cas Repairs Natural Mutations, Enhancing Tomato Yield,

• Health & Medicine - Fluorinated Chemicals in U.S. Wastewater Pose Risks to Drinking Water Supplies, Bioengineered Blood Vessels Show Promise in Treating Severe Vascular Injuries, Glutamatergic Drugs Show Promise for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, AI-Powered Algorithm Identifies Subtypes of Type 2 Diabetes Using Glucose Monitor Data.

• Neuroscience - Concussions May Trigger Latent Brain Viruses Linked to Neurodegeneration, How Personal Interests Enhance Language Processing in Children's Brains, Key Blood Molecules Linked to Alzheimer’s Progression and Gender Differences, Key Sleep Mechanism Linked to Brain Health and Risks of Sleep Aids.

• Environment - Microplastics Found in Edible Marine Species, Study Links Iodine-Oxygen Interactions to Delayed Ozone Layer Formation.

• Nature - Falcon Eye Stripes: Multifunctional Adaptations, Parasite Manipulates Plants and Insects for Survival, Parasite Manipulates Plants and Insects for Survival, Hornwort Genomes Unlock Secrets of Early Plant Evolution.

Keep warm,

~The STEAM Digest

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SCIENCE

Discovery of Alternate Cellulose Production Pathway in Plants: Researchers, have discovered that plants can produce cellulose microfibrils using CSLD enzymes in addition to the previously known CESA enzymes. This breakthrough has significant implications for industries like textiles and renewable energy, as well as for improving crop resilience in changing climates. Using a moss model, the team demonstrated that CSLD enzymes produce cellulose structures similar to those made by CESAs, a surprising finding given their distinct evolutionary paths. CSLD enzymes are also essential for processes like pollen tube development and root hair growth, critical for reproduction and nutrient absorption. The research underscores the value of interdisciplinary collaboration and sets the stage for further studies on the unique roles and mechanisms of CSLD and CESA enzymes in plant cell development.

Hornworts Offer Blueprint for Boosting Photosynthesis in Crops: A study reveals that hornworts, a group of ancient plants, possess a unique CO₂-concentrating mechanism that could significantly enhance photosynthesis efficiency. This system, centered on a structure called a pyrenoid, allows hornworts to saturate the enzyme Rubisco with CO₂, minimizing energy waste from photorespiration and increasing sugar production. Researchers found that hornworts use a simpler and more efficient CO₂-concentration method compared to algae, making it a promising model for engineering similar mechanisms in food crops. This innovation could potentially boost crop photosynthesis by up to 60%, increasing yields without additional land or resources. The discovery also highlights how hornworts retained this advantageous trait from a common ancestor of land plants, offering valuable insights into plant evolution and sustainability. While further work is needed, the findings open a new path for addressing climate change and enhancing global food security.

Machine Learning Unlocks Controlled Molecular Disassembly: Researchers have developed a machine learning-based method to control molecular disassembly. The study designed a "spider" structure capable of removing a molecule from an icosahedral colloidal shell, mimicking processes like protein capsid disassembly. Using differentiable molecular dynamics, the team optimized the spider’s geometry and interaction forces, balancing efficient disassembly with structural integrity. Introducing flexibility to the spider further reduced energy requirements. This approach offers potential applications in drug delivery, gene therapy, and catalytic processes, providing a versatile tool for designing precise molecular interactions.

MATERIALS

Ring-Shaped Polymers Offer Path to More Sustainable Plastics: Researchers have discovered that ring-shaped polymers solidify into glass when their chains become sufficiently long. This phenomenon, confirmed through large-scale molecular simulations, occurs without temperature changes and is triggered solely by altering the polymer's molecular shape from open strings to closed rings. The findings have significant implications for designing recyclable and sustainable materials, as the unique behavior of ring polymers could guide the development of advanced cyclic polymers. Additionally, parallels with biological systems, such as folded proteins and DNA, suggest that this research could inform both materials science and biological studies, unlocking new innovations across disciplines.

Advancing Micro-plasma Devices with Graphene-Nano-diamond Technology: Researchers have enhanced the durability of micro-plasma devices by integrating graphene with nano-diamonds, overcoming material instability in extreme plasma conditions. Graphene, valued for its conductivity, is prone to degradation in harsh environments, while nano-diamonds provide superior durability. The team used laser-induced graphene (LIG) and a cost-effective drop-casting method to uniformly coat the graphene with nano-diamonds. This combination significantly improved stability and performance as a cathode in micro-plasma devices. This innovation could expand the applications of micro-plasma technology, including wound sterilization, chemical analysis, and imaging, paving the way for broader research and commercial use.

Graphene-Enhanced Method Advances Flexible Electronics: Researchers have developed a Graphene-Enhanced Laser Lift-Off (GLLO) technique to address challenges in manufacturing ultrathin electronic devices. By integrating a graphene layer between polyimide (PI) films and glass carriers, the method enables clean separation of PI substrates thinner than 5 μm, reducing wrinkles, mechanical damage, and carbon residues. Demonstrating the process, the team created durable OLED devices on ultrathin PI, which maintained performance under extreme deformations. The GLLO method offers a cost-effective and scalable solution for producing flexible, wearable electronics, marking a significant step toward integrating devices into clothing and skin for daily use.

ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY

WeaRo: A Soft Wearable Robot to Reduce Work-Related Injuries: Researchers have developed WeaRo, an innovative soft wearable robot designed to reduce job-related injuries during tasks like lifting, lowering, and carrying. Unlike existing robots that support limited body movements, WeaRo operates with multiple degrees of freedom, enabling complex, natural motions. Tests showed it reduced muscle activation in the lumbar, biceps, and triceps by up to 18.2%, 29.1%, and 27.0%, respectively, without restricting movement. Weighing under 11.5 pounds (5.2 kg) with batteries, WeaRo represents a breakthrough in wearable robotics, combining ergonomic support with usability. The methodology, developed by Yonsei University's Dongjun Shin, Ph.D., integrates movement analysis, design, and validation to address workplace safety challenges effectively.

Advancing Tactile Sensors: A Path Toward Intelligent Systems: A research team has developed novel strategies to enhance piezoelectric and triboelectric tactile sensors, which convert mechanical stimuli into electrical signals. The study provides a comprehensive overview of materials and fabrication techniques aimed at overcoming challenges like material brittleness and environmental sensitivity. For piezoelectric sensors, advancements include doping, crystallinity control, and integrating flexible composites to boost sensitivity and durability. Triboelectric sensors were improved through surface modifications and hybrid material integration, increasing charge transfer efficiency and resilience. The study highlights the potential of combining these sensors with artificial intelligence to enable multi-modal sensing and real-time interaction, paving the way for applications in health care, robotics, and wearable technology. This interdisciplinary approach promises next-generation tactile sensors that mimic human sensory capabilities and expand their use across industries.

Optimizing Sensor Design to Improve Aerodynamics in Autonomous Vehicles:
While autonomous vehicles (AVs) are advancing in functionality, aerodynamic drag caused by externally mounted sensors like cameras and LiDAR limits their efficiency. Researchers have addressed this issue by optimizing sensor design to reduce drag. Using computational platforms, substitute modeling, and wind tunnel experiments, they developed an optimized design that reduced the aerodynamic drag coefficient by 5.99% and total drag by 3.44%. These improvements minimize turbulence and enhance airflow, enabling longer driving ranges and better performance. The findings are expected to contribute to more efficient AVs for passenger, delivery, and logistics applications.

ASTRONOMY & SPACE

NASA Revises Mars Sample Return Mission to Cut Costs and Accelerate Timeline:
NASA has unveiled a revised plan to retrieve rock and soil samples from Mars at a reduced cost of $6-7 billion, down from the original $11 billion. The updated mission aims to deliver samples collected by the Perseverance rover by the 2030s, years earlier than initially projected. The new approach simplifies operations by cleaning sample tubes on Mars and utilizing nuclear power to withstand dust storms. Two options are under consideration: one relying on the proven sky crane landing system and another leveraging designs from private companies. NASA Administrator Bill Nelson emphasized the need for prompt funding to proceed, with the final decision deferred to the incoming administration. The mission remains a high priority in the search for evidence of ancient Martian life.

BIOTECHNOLOGY

CRISPR-Cas Repairs Natural Mutations, Enhancing Tomato Yield: Researchers from the University of Lausanne have demonstrated the potential of CRISPR-Cas genome editing to repair natural mutations in plants, focusing on tomatoes. Using base editing, they corrected a domestication-related mutation, producing a variety with earlier yields. This approach contrasts with traditional, less predictable methods like chemical or radiation-induced mutations. The study underscores the precision and agricultural benefits of genome editing, suggesting it could revolutionize crop breeding and sustainability while influencing GMO-related policies, particularly in Switzerland, where a moratorium on GMOs is set to expire in 2025.

HEALTH & MEDICINE

Fluorinated Chemicals in U.S. Wastewater Pose Risks to Drinking Water Supplies:
A Harvard-led study has revealed high concentrations of organofluorine in U.S. municipal wastewater, with 62–75% attributed to widely prescribed fluorinated pharmaceuticals and less than 10% to six federally regulated PFAS. These "forever chemicals," known for their resistance to degradation, are minimally removed by wastewater treatment processes, with removal rates under 24%. Simulations show over 20 million Americans may rely on drinking water supplies contaminated with PFAS levels above regulatory thresholds, particularly where treated wastewater mixes with drinking water sources. The study highlights the urgent need for safer strategies to manage PFAS contamination, which can persist and accumulate through water reuse cycles. The findings underscore the challenges posed by these chemicals in water systems, affecting millions nationwide.

Bioengineered Blood Vessels Show Promise in Treating Severe Vascular Injuries: Bioengineered blood vessels (ATEVs) have shown superior results over synthetic grafts for treating severe vascular injuries. In a phase II trial involving civilian and military patients, ATEVs demonstrated a 91.5% success rate in maintaining blood flow after 30 days, reduced amputation rates to 4.5%, and had less than 1% infection rates. These lab-grown vessels integrate with patient tissue, offering an immediately available and infection-resistant option, especially for trauma cases where veins are unsuitable for harvesting. With FDA approval, ATEVs are set to improve vascular care, including applications in dialysis and arterial reconstruction.

Glutamatergic Drugs Show Promise for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders:
A Harvard-led meta-analysis of 27 clinical trials found that glutamatergic medications significantly reduce symptoms of obsessive-compulsive and related disorders (OCRDs), particularly obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). These medications target glutamate neurotransmission, offering an alternative to standard treatments like SSRIs, which often fail to provide full symptom relief for many patients. The study demonstrated a notable reduction in OCD severity, with a mean decrease of 4.17 points on the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale. While results are promising, the researchers highlight the need for larger studies to confirm efficacy and investigate optimal dosing strategies.

AI-Powered Algorithm Identifies Subtypes of Type 2 Diabetes Using Glucose Monitor Data: Researchers at Stanford Medicine have developed an AI-based algorithm that analyzes data from continuous glucose monitors to identify three of the four main subtypes of type 2 diabetes. These subtypes, including insulin resistance and beta cell dysfunction, have distinct underlying mechanisms and may respond differently to treatments. The tool, tested on 54 participants, predicted subtypes with 90% accuracy, offering a more accessible and detailed approach than traditional metabolic tests. This innovation could transform diabetes care, enabling personalized interventions and early preventive measures for millions with diabetes or prediabetes, including those in underserved or remote areas.

NEUROSCIENCE

Concussions May Trigger Latent Brain Viruses Linked to Neurodegeneration: Researchers have uncovered a link between head trauma and neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's, through the reactivation of latent brain viruses like HSV-1. Using a lab-based brain tissue model mimicking concussions, they demonstrated that physical jolts can awaken dormant viruses, leading to inflammation, amyloid plaques, and other hallmarks of Alzheimer's. Repetitive trauma worsened these effects, while virus-free cells showed minimal damage. The findings suggest that concussions in athletes and others with head injuries may significantly increase the risk of neurodegeneration. Early interventions with antiviral or anti-inflammatory drugs could help prevent disease onset. With traumatic brain injuries affecting millions globally each year, this research opens doors to innovative treatments and further exploration of the injury-infection-disease connection.

How Personal Interests Enhance Language Processing in Children's Brains:
A study shows that tailoring language stimuli to children's personal interests strengthens neural responses in brain regions associated with language, reward, and self-reflection. Using fMRI, researchers observed that personalized audio stories elicited more robust and consistent brain activity compared to generic stories, even when the personalized content varied among participants. This innovative approach highlights the role of personal interests in modulating language processing and challenges traditional neuroscience methods that prioritize experimental control over individual variability. The findings have broad implications for understanding language processing in diverse and neurodivergent populations, with ongoing applications in studies involving autistic children. This research demonstrates the power of personalized paradigms to deepen insights into brain function and improve experimental validity.

Key Blood Molecules Linked to Alzheimer’s Progression and Gender Differences:
A study has identified declines in blood levels of acetyl-L-carnitine and free carnitine as biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease, with sharper declines observed in women. These molecules, vital for brain function, decrease progressively with disease severity. The study highlights gender-specific differences, with only acetyl-L-carnitine declining in men. Researchers suggest these findings could lead to noninvasive blood tests for diagnosing and tracking Alzheimer’s progression, replacing more invasive methods like spinal taps. The research also opens new avenues for exploring therapeutic targets to slow or prevent disease progression

Key Sleep Mechanism Linked to Brain Health and Risks of Sleep Aids: Researchers have identified synchronized oscillations in norepinephrine, cerebral blood flow, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) during non-REM sleep as critical for activating the brain's glymphatic system, which clears toxic protein waste linked to neurodegenerative diseases. The study, conducted on mice, highlights the role of norepinephrine in triggering "micro-arousals" that drive this cleansing process. However, the sleep aid zolpidem (Ambien) was found to suppress these oscillations, potentially disrupting waste removal and increasing neurological risks. The findings underscore the importance of preserving natural sleep patterns for brain health and caution against the long-term use of certain sedatives.

ENVIRONMENT

Microplastics Found in Edible Marine Species: A study by researchers found widespread microplastic contamination in the edible tissues of Oregon fish and shellfish, including black rockfish, Chinook salmon, and pink shrimp. Smaller species like shrimp and herring showed the highest concentrations due to their diet of zooplankton, which often accumulate plastics. The research highlights concerns about microplastics moving from the gut into muscle tissues consumed by humans, emphasizing the need for solutions to reduce microplastic pollution. The team is now testing cost-effective filtration systems for household appliances and stormwater drains to prevent microplastics from entering marine ecosystems. Researchers stress that microplastics are pervasive in the environment, making pollution reduction critical for protecting both wildlife and human health.

Study Links Iodine-Oxygen Interactions to Delayed Ozone Layer Formation: A Yale-led study reveals that elevated marine iodine levels likely delayed the formation of Earth's stable ozone layer, essential for shielding life from harmful ultraviolet radiation (UVR). This finding sheds light on why complex land life emerged only 450 million years ago, despite the early presence of cyanobacteria and atmospheric oxygen. The study suggests that iodine emissions from the oceans disrupted ozone production, similar to how chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) caused the Antarctic ozone hole. Researchers reconstructed Earth's early iodine-ozone dynamics, finding that unstable ozone levels persisted for nearly 2 billion years, despite high oxygen levels. This discovery challenges the idea that the delay in complex life evolution was solely due to intrinsic evolutionary timelines, emphasizing the role of atmospheric chemistry in shaping Earth's habitability.

NATURE

Falcon Eye Stripes: Multifunctional Adaptations: Falcons, found worldwide with 39 species, exhibit distinctive malar stripes—dark markings under their eyes. These stripes were traditionally thought to act as "natural sunglasses," reducing glare and aiding hunting in bright sunlight. A 2021 study confirmed this hypothesis for peregrine falcons, showing that those in sunnier regions had darker, larger stripes. However, broader research across 39 species revealed no consistent link between sunlight exposure and stripe size or darkness. While the solar glare hypothesis holds for peregrines, other species may use these stripes for different purposes, such as camouflaging their eyes or social signaling. The findings highlight the complexity of evolution and the need for species-specific studies. Citizen science platforms, like eBird and iNaturalist, play a vital role in advancing raptor research.

Parasite Manipulates Plants and Insects for Survival: A study uncovers how the phytoplasma parasite enhances its transmission by altering plant traits and insect behavior. The parasite's SAP54 protein modifies plants to attract female leafhoppers, its insect vector, but only in the presence of males. This is achieved by suppressing plant defense pathways through the involvement of the plant protein SHORT VEGETATIVE PHASE (SVP). Female leafhoppers lay eggs on infected plants, ensuring their offspring acquire the parasite and continue its transmission. This research highlights the intricate ways parasites manipulate host biology and vector behavior to ensure their survival and spread.

Hornwort Genomes Unlock Secrets of Early Plant Evolution: A study reveals new insights into the evolution of hornworts, among the first plants to transition from water to land over 450 million years ago. Researchers sequenced the genomes of ten species, uncovering stable chromosomes due to the absence of whole-genome duplication, alongside dynamic accessory chromosomes and potential sex chromosomes. The findings shed light on traits essential for early land adaptation, such as UV-protective flavonoids, stomata formation, and hormone signaling. This comprehensive dataset provides a deeper understanding of plant evolution and could inform strategies for developing resilient crops and addressing future environmental challenges.