Scientists Unveil Wireless Nanotech to Control Gene Expression in Living Organism

Hello and welcome to our May 20th edition. The STEAM Digest is a curated newsletter that brings you the latest in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.

In today’s edition:

• Physics - Microscale “Edge Currents” Reveal New Topological Behavior in Magnetic Particle Clusters, and more.

• Biology - Scientists Use GPS-Like NMR to Reveal How Crucial Cell Receptors Work at Atomic Level, and more.

• Materials - Nanoplastics May Make Foodborne E. coli More Dangerous, Study Finds.

• Biotechnology & Biomedical Technology - Scientists Unveil Wireless Nanotech to Control Gene Expression in Living Organism, and more.

• Engineering & Technology - New Haptic Devices Improve Safety and Precision in Industrial Robot Operations, and more.

• Robotics, AI, Hardware, Software, Gadgets - Study Finds LLMs and Humans Often Misread Emotions in Text, and more.

• Astronomy, Space, & Astrobiology - New Study Reveals Mars’s Missing Water Likely Vanished Underground—Permanently.

• Health & Medicine - Study Links Personality Traits—Especially Neuroticism—to Risk of Insomnia, and more.

• Neuroscience - Laughing Gas Enables Safer Gene Delivery to the Brain in Mice, and more.

• Environment & Earth Sciences - Scientists Use Salt to Track Seasonal Changes in Critical Northeast U.S. Cold-Water Habitat, and more.

• Nature & Ecology - Heat-Tolerant Algae May Be Key to Saving Florida’s Threatened Elkhorn Coral, and more.

• Other Sciences & The Arts - New Study Reveals Parthenon’s Interior Was Designed for Dramatic Darkness, Not Sunlight, and more.

Until Tomorrow,

~The STEAM Digest

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PHYSICS

Microscale “Edge Currents” Reveal New Topological Behavior in Magnetic Particle Clusters: Scientists at Rice University have discovered a surprising collective behavior in magnetic microparticles driven by rotating fields. When suspended in saltwater and exposed to these fields, the particles spontaneously form circulating edge currents along the borders of clusters or voids—akin to natural “conveyor belts.” The study shows these flows arise from topological physics, a field known for explaining robust phenomena in quantum computing and exotic materials. Depending on their shape, clusters either rotate entirely or remain static with only edge motion. The findings could inspire responsive materials and microscale robotic systems, with potential parallels in biological cell movement.

New Thin Films Enhance Infrared Light Control, Paving Way for Advanced Sensing and Thermal Tech: Researchers have developed ultra-thin strontium titanate membranes that can efficiently compress and guide infrared light across broader wavelengths and longer distances than previously demonstrated. The study shows that suspending the films—rather than mounting them on silicon—greatly reduces energy loss, enabling infrared light to propagate up to four times farther. The films also confine both mid- and far-infrared wavelengths and can be adapted to a variety of surfaces, making them promising for scalable applications in photonics, molecular sensing, and thermal management.

BIOLOGY

Scientists Use GPS-Like NMR to Reveal How Crucial Cell Receptors Work at Atomic Level: Researchers have uncovered the detailed activation mechanism of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs)—key molecular switches that regulate vital functions like pain, taste, and stress response. Using a novel GPS NMR technique, the team tracked the motions of the β1-adrenergic receptor, a GPCR involved in heart regulation and targeted by beta-blockers. Their findings show that GPCRs do not simply switch "on" or "off" but exist in dynamic equilibrium between inactive, preactive, and active states. Drug molecules like isoprenaline and beta-blockers shift this balance, while a central microswitch within the receptor governs the transitions. By pinpointing atomic-level movements, the study offers critical insights for designing more precise, side-effect-free medications that target GPCRs—already the focus of one-third of all approved drugs.

Global Research Team Unveils Landmark Map of Human Cell Transport System:
A groundbreaking international project has produced the first comprehensive functional blueprint of solute carrier (SLC) transporters—key proteins that control the movement of nutrients, drugs, and waste across cell membranes. The four-study (1,2,3,4) effort involved 120 scientists across 13 institutions and was supported by the EU’s Innovative Medicines Initiative. Using genetic, metabolic, proteomic, and computational techniques, researchers functionally annotated most SLCs, mapped thousands of protein interactions, identified therapeutic targets, and created an open-access knowledge base. The findings promise to accelerate drug development and precision medicine in diseases like cancer, metabolic disorders, and neurological conditions, while offering a model for future large-scale biological research.

"Donaldson" Sweet Orange Shows Promise Against Citrus Greening Disease:
ARS scientists have identified a sweet orange tree called Donaldson that may offer natural tolerance to Huanglongbing (HLB), also known as citrus greening disease—a major threat that has caused about 90% loss in Florida’s citrus production since 2005. Found at a USDA-ARS research farm in Florida, the Donaldson tree appears healthy despite testing positive for the disease’s causal agent, suggesting it may resist its damaging effects. In taste tests, Donaldson oranges performed comparably to Hamlin, the industry standard for juice production, which has been severely impacted by HLB. The findings support further study to determine Donaldson’s long-term tolerance and commercial potential, with field trials and genetic analysis planned to explore its resilience and flavor qualities.

MATERIALS

Nanoplastics May Make Foodborne E. coli More Dangerous, Study Finds: New research reveals that positively charged nanoplastics can increase the virulence of E. coli O157:H7, a major foodborne pathogen. The study found that these plastics cause physiological stress in the bacteria, leading to increased production of Shiga-like toxin, which causes illness in humans. Even within protective biofilms, E. coli exposed to positively charged nanoplastics showed heightened stress and toxin output. The findings raise concerns about nanoplastics in food and water, as they may not only boost bacterial toxicity but also potentially promote antibiotic resistance. Ongoing studies aim to assess these risks in real-world environments like food systems and soil.

BIOTECHNOLOGY & BIOMEDICAL TECHNOLOGY

Scientists Unveil Wireless Nanotech to Control Gene Expression in Living Organism: Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a groundbreaking non-invasive method to wirelessly regulate gene expression in mammals, using magnetic fields and specially engineered nanoparticles. The system—called EMPOWER—uses biocompatible multiferroic nanoparticles stimulated by low-frequency electromagnetic fields to trigger therapeutic protein production (e.g., insulin) via the body’s natural KEAP1/NRF2 cellular pathway. Tested successfully in diabetic mice, the technique controlled blood glucose with just three minutes of daily stimulation. With minimal side effects and potential for dynamic, remote treatment of chronic diseases, the technology could revolutionize synthetic biology, regenerative medicine, and disease management.

3D-Printed Microlaser Sensor Offers Breakthrough in On-Chip Disease Detection: Researchers have developed a highly sensitive 3D micro-printed biosensor based on a whispering-gallery-mode (WGM) microlaser. This innovation enables efficient on-chip detection of biomarkers like human immunoglobulin G (IgG), a common antibody, at ultralow concentrations—down to attograms per milliliter. Unlike traditional microlaser sensors that rely on fragile tapered fibers, the new Limacon-shaped microdisk design emits directional light, simplifying integration into lab-on-a-chip systems. The sensor could pave the way for compact, cost-effective diagnostic tools for early detection of diseases like cancer, Alzheimer’s, or COVID-19.

ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY

New Haptic Devices Improve Safety and Precision in Industrial Robot Operations: Researchers have developed two advanced haptic devices—POstick-KF and POstick-VF—to improve the control of robots in high-risk industrial environments. These tools allow users to feel tactile feedback while remotely manipulating robots, helping to enhance precision and safety. The POstick-KF provides detailed kinesthetic feedback for fine control, while the POstick-VF combines visual and tactile feedback for broader tasks and training. Both devices are tool-shaped for easy adoption, especially by beginners. Simulation tests showed improved accuracy and reduced collisions, and the system includes digital twin and AR technologies to boost user training and immersion.

Ultra-Thin Microimager Offers Breakthrough in Noninvasive Internal Imaging:
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a highly compact, flexible imaging device just 7 microns thick—thinner than a human eyelash—that can capture detailed images from inside the body. Made from a biocompatible polymer called Parylene, the microimager uses an array of waveguides and micromirrors to deliver and detect light, enabling high-resolution imaging of tissues. Demonstrated in mouse brain tissue, the device successfully captured both structural and functional activity. This miniaturized endoscope could one day be integrated into surgical tools or catheters to support real-time imaging during procedures, or implanted for disease monitoring and early detection.

New Thin-Film Material Boosts Efficiency and Durability of Tandem Solar Cells:
Researchers have developed a multifunctional hole-selective layer (mHSL) that significantly enhances the performance and stability of perovskite/organic tandem solar cells. The team achieved a record power conversion efficiency of 24.73% and an open-circuit voltage of 2.216 V, among the highest globally for this solar cell type. The new hole transport layer, created from self-assembled molecules, aligns energy levels for efficient charge extraction, reduces recombination losses, and stabilizes the perovskite crystal structure. The innovation promises scalable production of thin, flexible, and high-efficiency solar panels for wearable and building-integrated applications.

ROBOTICS, AI, HARDWARE, SOFTWARE, GADGETS

Study Finds LLMs and Humans Often Misread Emotions in Text: Researchers at Penn State found that both humans and large language models (LLMs) often misinterpret emotions in written text, especially when annotators differ demographically from the authors. The study, to be presented at ACL 2025, compared self-reported emotions from social media users with labels from third-party annotators. Results showed significant misalignment, though demographic similarity and prompting LLMs with author context improved accuracy slightly. The findings highlight the need for more nuanced, author-centered emotion models in sensitive applications like mental health tools.

“Kindergarten” Curriculum Boosts AI Learning of Complex Tasks, NYU Study Finds: Researchers at New York University have shown that training artificial intelligence using a step-by-step “kindergarten” approach—starting with simple cognitive tasks before progressing to complex ones—can significantly improve learning outcomes. The study found that recurrent neural networks (RNNs) trained in this way performed better on complex tasks than those trained with standard methods. Inspired by how rats learn to complete multi-step behaviors, the team applied this staged learning strategy to RNNs, enhancing their ability to store and combine knowledge for decision-making tasks. The findings suggest that gradual, foundational training may make AI systems more efficient and human-like in their learning.

ASTRONOMY, SPACE, & ASTROLOBIOLOGY

New Study Reveals Mars’s Missing Water Likely Vanished Underground—Permanently: Researchers have modeled how water on early Mars percolated into underground aquifers—filling a major gap in understanding the planet’s ancient water cycle. The study found it took 50–200 years for surface water to seep a mile underground, compared to just days on Earth. This slow infiltration may have accounted for enough water to cover Mars in 300 feet of water, much of which may have stayed trapped underground permanently. The findings suggest early Martian lakes and oceans were short-lived, and once water entered the subsurface, it likely never resurfaced. While that limits the potential for long-term surface habitability, it improves the odds that water—and possibly signs of life—may still exist underground for future exploration.

HEALTH & MEDICINE

Study Links Personality Traits—Especially Neuroticism—to Risk of Insomnia:
A recent study has found a strong link between personality traits and insomnia, especially high levels of neuroticism, which were present in 61.7% of insomniacs versus 32% of non-insomniacs. The study also showed that lower openness, agreeableness, and conscientiousness were more common among those with insomnia. Researchers determined that anxiety mediates the connection between neuroticism and insomnia, while depression does not. The findings support more personalized treatment plans that address both sleep and underlying anxiety. With cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT-I) being the gold standard but not widely available, the authors call for broader, transdiagnostic approaches to better support patients. Understanding personality traits could improve diagnosis, prevention, and treatment strategies.

Georgia Tech Engineers Develop Universal Cancer Immunotherapy Using mRNA and CAR T Cells: Biomedical engineers at Georgia Tech have developed a promising dual-action cancer therapy that trains the immune system to detect and destroy hard-to-treat tumors, including those in the brain, breast, and colon. The new strategy uses mRNA technology to “flag” tumor cells with a synthetic antigen—an artificial protein not found in the body—making them visible to specially engineered CAR T cells. This approach not only eliminated tumors in lab models without harming healthy tissue, but also prevented cancer from returning by teaching the immune system to recognize the cancer if it reappeared. Built on existing mRNA and CAR T technologies, the treatment is designed for quicker translation to human trials.

NEUROSCIENCE

Laughing Gas Enables Safer Gene Delivery to the Brain in Mice: Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have discovered that nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, can safely and effectively enhance the delivery of gene therapy to the brain by improving the temporary opening of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) in mice. The study demonstrated that using nitrous oxide during focused ultrasound (FUS) treatment reduced the amount of microbubbles and ultrasound pressure required, lowering the risk of brain tissue damage. This method significantly improved gene uptake in the brain and could pave the way for safer, more effective treatments for neurological diseases such as Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis, and brain tumors.

Brain Inflammation Linked to Repetitive Behaviors in Autism and OCD, Study Finds: A research team has identified a molecular mechanism linking chronic brain inflammation to repetitive behavioral disorders, such as those seen in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The study shows that inflammation triggered by mutated immune cells (microglia) activates NMDA glutamate receptors via the cytokine IL-1β, resulting in meaningless repetitive behaviors in mice. Treatment with FDA-approved drugs—memantine (used for Alzheimer’s) and anakinra (used for arthritis)—effectively reduced these behaviors, suggesting a promising path for repurposing these medications to treat ASD and OCD-related symptoms.

ENVIRONMENT & EARTH SCIENCES

Scientists Use Salt to Track Seasonal Changes in Critical Northeast U.S. Cold-Water Habitat: Researchers from the MIT-WHOI Joint Program have uncovered how warm, salty offshore waters contribute to the seasonal "erosion" of the U.S. Northeast continental shelf's cold pool—a vital cold-water marine habitat. By using salinity, rather than temperature, as a tracer, the team revealed a consistent seasonal salinification of the cold pool. This approach allowed them to trace the physical processes behind the changes, offering new insights into how offshore forces, air-sea interactions, and upstream conditions affect this region. Their findings help improve understanding of climate-driven changes and support NOAA Fisheries in managing fish stocks sustainably.

Not All Forests Are Equal: Study Finds Canopy Density and Tree Diversity Impact Human Health: An international study reveals that different forest characteristics have varied effects on human health. Analyzing 164 forests across five European countries, researchers found that while tree species diversity offers modest but safe health benefits, canopy structure has the most significant impact. Dense canopies can reduce heat stress and improve air quality but may also increase tick-related health risks and limit the growth of medicinal plants. Regardless of structure or biodiversity, simply spending time in forests was shown to reduce stress and anxiety. The findings support integrating forest design into public health strategies, including nature-based prescriptions for mental well-being.

NATURE & ECOLOGY

Heat-Tolerant Algae May Be Key to Saving Florida’s Threatened Elkhorn Coral: A new study finds that elkhorn corals (Acropora palmata) hosting heat-tolerant symbiotic algae—specifically Durusdinium—can better withstand rising ocean temperatures, offering a critical tool in coral restoration. The study tested 172 coral colonies and found those with Durusdinium survived short-term heat exposure nearly 2°C higher than corals with the more common Symbiodinium. These results suggest that introducing heat-resistant algae during early coral development can significantly boost resilience, an urgent need as marine heatwaves and bleaching events intensify. The findings underscore the importance of symbiont-based interventions in saving this endangered coral species and building long-term reef survival strategies.

Capuchin Monkeys Start Bizarre Tradition of Abducting Baby Howler Monkeys: Researchers studying wild white-faced capuchins on Jicarón Island, Panama, have documented a strange new behavior: young male capuchins repeatedly abducting infant howler monkeys and carrying them for days. First observed by researcher Zoë Goldsborough in 2022 through camera trap footage, the behavior started with a single male nicknamed "Joker" and later spread to four other males—a rare case of a cultural tradition with no clear benefit. Over 15 months, the group carried 11 howler infants, none of whom likely survived. While the capuchins didn’t harm the babies, they couldn’t provide the care needed. Researchers suspect boredom and a predator-free environment may have fostered this behavior, echoing human-like cultural fads. The findings raise important questions about animal culture and may have future conservation implications, as howler monkeys are endangered.

OTHER SCIENCES & THE ARTS

New Study Reveals Parthenon’s Interior Was Designed for Dramatic Darkness, Not Sunlight: A new study overturns long-held assumptions about the lighting of the Parthenon, the 5th-century BCE temple dedicated to Athena. Using advanced 3D simulations and physically based rendering (PBR), de Lara reconstructed the temple’s original lighting conditions and found that its interior was mostly dim, not sunlit as previously believed. Light entering the temple selectively illuminated parts of the chryselephantine (gold-and-ivory) statue of Athena, especially her lower half at dawn, enhancing her divine presence. Architectural features like translucent ceilings and reflective pools contributed little to overall lighting but may have served ritualistic or climate-control functions. The findings highlight a deliberate interplay of shadow and light in Classical Greek temple design to evoke spiritual awe rather than display brightness.

Rye’s Rise Was No Accident: New Study Reveals Intensive Farming Behind Medieval Rye Cultivation: Contrary to the belief that rye became a staple due to its ability to grow in poor soils, new research reveals that rye was purposefully integrated into an already labor-intensive, well-fertilized farming system in medieval northern Central Europe. The study analyzed stable isotopes in ancient charred rye grains, showing evidence of manuring with stable dung and peat, indicating deliberate cultivation strategies. High yields, especially in wetter coastal areas, suggest rye’s success was not due to hardiness alone, but rather its economic and social importance in surplus-driven agriculture—which also helped entrench social hierarchies. Rye remained dominant for over a millennium before being overtaken by wheat in the 20th century.