Stretchable Wearable Device Powered by Skin Warmth

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

In today’s edition:

• Science - New Bio-Inspired Method Simplifies Cellular Ceramic Manufacturing, and more.

• Technology and AI - Ford's Holographic Patent Envisions Digital Cops and Guard Dogs for Car Security, and more.

• Engineering - Stretchable Wearable Device Powered by Skin Warmth, and more.

• Astronomy & Space - Discovery of Hidden Compact Galaxies in the Distant Universe, Swarm of Robots to Explore Martian Canyons in Search of Life, and more.

• Health & Medicine - AI Detects High Blood Pressure from Voice Recordings, Genetic Overlap Found Between Dyslexia and ADHD, Novel Bone Cancer Therapy Shows 99% Success in Preclinical Study, and more.

• Neuroscience - Muscle Pressure Sensing Offers New Target for Treatments, How Flickering Lights Cause Hallucinations in the Brain, and more.

• Environment - Urban Areas Face Stronger, More Frequent Summer Storms, and more.

• Nature - Ants Modify Nest Structure to Reduce Disease Spread, Human Activities Make Salish Sea Noisy, Hindering Orcas' Hunting Abilities, and more.

• Industry - SpaceX's Polaris Dawn Launches for First Civilian Spacewalk, Apple Launches AI-Powered iPhone 16 Lineup, and more.

Until Tomorrow.

~The STEAM Digest

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This newsletter is curated by The STEAM Digest.

SCIENCE

New Bio-Inspired Method Simplifies Cellular Ceramic Manufacturing: Researchers at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology have developed a novel method to simplify the production of complex cellular ceramics. This bioinspired technique, known as the surface-tension-assisted two-step (STATS) process, leverages natural surface tension to control liquid geometry during fabrication, allowing for precise and programmable creation of various ceramic architectures. This innovation could enhance applications in energy, electronics, and biomedicine, including sensors, solar cells, and robotics.

How Viruses Navigate Through Insects to Spread Diseases: Recent research reveals how viruses use precise protein movements within insect hosts to facilitate their transmission to humans and other animals. Studying viruses in insect models like fruit flies, scientists discovered that viral proteins are directed to specific cellular locations, akin to having a built-in GPS. This understanding could lead to new strategies for preventing diseases like Zika, dengue, and West Nile virus by blocking the viruses' ability to move through insects.

First Neutrinos Detected at Fermilab's Short-Baseline Detector: The Short-Baseline Near Detector (SBND) at Fermilab detected its first neutrinos, marking a milestone in the search for new physics. The initial results confirm the detector's operational capabilities, with over 100,000 neutrino interactions expected annually. These findings are crucial for investigating the potential existence of sterile neutrinos, a theorized fourth type of neutrino. The SBND data will complement other experiments to refine neutrino interaction models and contribute to understanding unexplained anomalies in particle physics.

New Insights into the Complexities of Plant Reproduction: Scientists have discovered that plant reproduction is more intricate than previously understood. Advanced imaging techniques reveal that flowering plants use precise chemical signals to guide pollen tubes to specific ovules, ensuring successful fertilization. Plants also prevent multiple sperm from fertilizing a single ovule by using repulsion signals. This complex process helps optimize seed production, which is essential for food supply.

TECHNOLOGY AND AI

Ford's Holographic Patent Envisions Digital Cops and Guard Dogs for Car Security: Ford has filed a patent for using holographic technology in cars, potentially projecting digital images like police officers or guard dogs to deter criminals. The patent outlines how multiple integrated camera modules could create movable and interactive holograms both inside and outside the vehicle. These holograms could also serve other purposes, such as displaying virtual drive-through menus or aiding in parking. However, Ford has not confirmed plans to implement this technology in future models.

Understanding Memristor Stability for Advanced Memory Devices: Researchers at the University of Michigan have resolved a key mystery surrounding memristors, devices crucial for nonvolatile memory storage, by revealing the role of phase separation in maintaining information over long periods. The study demonstrates that phase separation prevents oxygen ions from diffusing back into the memristor, ensuring long-term data retention, which could extend device life from days to decades. This breakthrough has significant implications for energy-efficient AI and radiation-hardened memory for space applications.

Mixed Reactions to AI-Enhanced Smartphones: Awe and Concerns: The introduction of AI-powered features in smartphones like Google's Pixel 9 has elicited both excitement and concern among users. While the AI capabilities, such as intelligent assistants and creative tools, are impressive, there are worries about privacy, misinformation, and misuse. Experts highlight potential issues with AI-generated content and the need for regulatory safeguards. As AI becomes integral to smartphones, debates continue on balancing innovation with ethical concerns.

ENGINEERING

Stretchable Wearable Device Powered by Skin Warmth: Researchers at the University of Washington developed a flexible, stretchable device that converts body heat into electricity, powering small electronics like LEDs. This innovative design includes thermoelectric semiconductors and liquid metal, allowing the device to function even when damaged or stretched repeatedly. It can be used for wearable tech and energy-efficient electronics, potentially reducing energy consumption in data centers and creating self-sustained sensors.

Artificial Muscle-Powered Robot Leg Outperforms Conventional Designs: Researchers at ETH Zurich and the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems have developed a robotic leg powered by electrohydraulic actuators, or artificial muscles, that outperforms traditional motor-driven designs. This leg can efficiently perform jumps, react to obstacles, and adapt to uneven terrains without complex sensors. The new technology shows promise for energy-efficient, agile robots and potential applications in areas like rescue missions, where adaptability and reduced power consumption are crucial.

New 2D Metamaterial Boosts Satellite Communication for 6G Networks: Researchers from the University of Glasgow have developed a novel 2D metamaterial that enhances satellite communication by converting linear polarization of electromagnetic waves to circular polarization. This advancement reduces signal degradation and improves communication reliability for 6G networks, even under adverse atmospheric conditions. The metamaterial, which is cost-effective and easy to manufacture, can also double channel capacity and is suitable for space applications due to its lightweight and compact form.

ASTRONOMY & SPACE

Discovery of Hidden Compact Galaxies in the Distant Universe: Astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope have identified a new class of compact, red galaxies termed "Little Red Dots," visible only during a specific era of the universe's history. These galaxies, characterized by their density and possible supermassive black holes, challenge existing models of galaxy formation. Two main hypotheses suggest they are either extremely dense stellar environments or contain overmassive black holes with unusual properties, such as minimal X-ray emissions.

Swarm of Robots to Explore Martian Canyons in Search of Life: The German Aerospace Center's VaMEx initiative is developing a swarm of interconnected robots to explore the Valles Marineris canyon on Mars. These autonomous robots, which include drones and ground rovers, will investigate caves and gorges, searching for signs of water and life. The project also aims to improve communication between Mars surface elements and Earth, using new technologies such as autorotation bodies and an AI-based camera for detecting celestial phenomena.

NASA Clears Europa Clipper Mission to Study Jupiter Moon's Ocean: NASA's Europa Clipper mission, scheduled for an October 10 launch, has been approved following tests on its components' ability to withstand Jupiter's intense radiation. The spacecraft aims to explore the subsurface ocean on Jupiter's moon Europa, potentially suitable for life. The mission involves 49 flybys over six years, using instruments like ice-penetrating radar to study Europa's ice-covered surface.

NASA's Scientific Balloon Launches with Student Experiments: NASA's High-Altitude Student Platform (HASP) launched its fifth balloon mission of 2024, carrying 12 student-built payloads from universities across the US, Peru, and Canada. The mission, which lasted over 11 hours, tested compact satellites, prototypes, and small experiments. A larger version, HASP 2.0, will launch next year, supporting twice as many experiments. This initiative engages students in hands-on aerospace research and education.

National Lab Leverages Radiation Expertise for Space Research: The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) has launched an experiment aboard SpaceX's Polaris Dawn mission to study space radiation's impact on materials and human health. The experiment, OHSNAP, uses high-purity metal plates to measure radiation exposure in space, aiming to improve safety for future space travelers. The mission orbits Earth at high altitudes, exposing materials to cosmic rays and high-energy neutrons to help understand the risks of radiation in deep space missions.

HEALTH & MEDICINE

AI Detects High Blood Pressure from Voice Recordings: Klick Labs researchers developed an AI algorithm that accurately detects chronic high blood pressure (hypertension) by analyzing voice recordings. The study, involving 245 participants, demonstrated up to 84% accuracy for females and 77% for males. The AI uses machine learning to evaluate subtle vocal biomarkers, like pitch variability and sound patterns, that are imperceptible to humans. This innovation could provide a non-invasive, accessible method for early hypertension detection, particularly in underserved areas.

Genetic Overlap Found Between Dyslexia and ADHD: A study by the University of Edinburgh reveals shared genetic links between dyslexia and ADHD. Analyzing large genetic datasets, researchers identified 49 genetic regions and 174 genes associated with both conditions, including many previously unidentified. The findings enhance the understanding of the biological overlap between these neurodevelopmental disorders and could inform more tailored support for affected individuals.

Novel Bone Cancer Therapy Shows 99% Success in Preclinical Study: Researchers at Aston University have developed a new bone cancer treatment using bioactive glass doped with gallium, achieving a 99% success rate in killing osteosarcoma cells without harming healthy bone cells. The therapy also shows potential for regenerating diseased bones, with early signs of bone growth observed in lab tests. The treatment targets cancer cells by exploiting their uptake of gallium, minimizing side effects and enhancing treatment localization.

Heart-on-a-Chip Microreactor Advances Disease Modeling and Drug Screening: Researchers at Okayama University developed a "heart-on-a-chip" microreactor incorporating human endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes. The device replicates the cellular environment of the human heart, offering insights into cardiovascular disease mechanisms and drug effects. This innovative model demonstrated functional responses, such as changes in heart rate with noradrenaline and potential cardiotoxicity with nifedipine, providing a more accurate and ethical alternative to animal testing for drug development.

Faster, More Accurate Diagnostic Tool Using Nanopore Technology: Researchers at the University of California, Santa Cruz, have developed a new diagnostic tool that combines optofluidics and nanopore technology, achieving the same or better accuracy as PCR tests for detecting viruses like SARS-CoV-2 and Zika, but in a much shorter time. The system eliminates the need for amplification, simplifying the process and reducing testing time to hours instead of days, potentially revolutionizing rapid diagnostics in hospitals and clinics.

NEUROSCIENCE

Muscle Pressure Sensing Offers New Target for Treatments: Researchers at Umeå University discovered that muscles can sense mechanical pressure, challenging existing views that muscle spindles only respond to stretch. The study suggests that applying and quickly releasing pressure on muscles can decrease muscle stiffness, a finding that could enhance physical therapy and athletic training. The "triple-eight" technique, applying pressure for 8 seconds, releasing for 8 seconds, and repeating, shows promise for muscle relaxation and pain management.

How Flickering Lights Cause Hallucinations in the Brain: A study from the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience shows that flickering lights can create hallucinations by inducing "standing waves" of brain activity in the visual cortex. This research suggests that the rhythmic patterns of brain activity caused by flickering light could be the mechanism behind these hallucinations, which appear as geometric patterns or kaleidoscopic images. The study used genetically modified mice to visualize brain activity, providing new insights into how these visual phenomena occur.

AI Unveils New Insights into Human Brain Function: Researchers from Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg used AI to explore how the human brain processes information, confirming the theory of predictive coding. They discovered that spontaneous brain activities, or local field potential events (LFPs), play a critical role in predicting future events, even without external stimuli. This understanding could improve diagnostic methods for brain disorders and inspire further advancements in AI technology.

AI Algorithm Identifies Brain Patterns Related to Specific Behaviors: Researchers at the University of Southern California have developed an AI algorithm, named DPAD, that isolates specific brain patterns linked to behaviors, like movement, by prioritizing the relevant patterns during training. This innovation enhances the accuracy of brain-computer interfaces and holds promise for future applications in mental health, such as decoding pain or mood states. The algorithm's flexibility could lead to more effective treatments for neurological and mental health conditions.

Right Temporo-Parietal Junction Involved in Perceiving Others' Pain: A study by the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience reveals that the right temporo-parietal junction (rTPJ) is crucial for attributing pain to others. Using repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS), researchers found that temporarily disrupting this brain region affected participants' empathy levels and response times when viewing others in pain. These findings suggest the rTPJ's significant role in cognitive empathy, offering potential targets for therapies to enhance empathic abilities.

ENVIRONMENT

Urban Areas Face Stronger, More Frequent Summer Storms: A study reveals that summer storms are more frequent and intense over urban areas than rural ones. Analyzing data from eight cities in Europe and the U.S., researchers found that larger cities tend to generate stronger and more concentrated rainfall, increasing flood risks. Factors such as heat, city landscapes, and pollution contribute to storm formation. As urban areas expand and climate change progresses, city-specific strategies for managing stormwater are essential.

Large-Scale Deforestation Reduces Cloud Cover, Increasing Climate Warming: A study by researchers from the German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research, Leipzig University, and Sun Yat-sen University reveals that large-scale deforestation significantly reduces cloud cover, intensifying its warming effect on the climate. The loss of low- and high-level clouds decreases the cooling effect normally provided by forests, leading to greater heat retention. This finding underscores the critical role of forests in climate regulation and the complex effects of deforestation on global weather patterns.

Methane Emissions Rising Faster Than Ever, Study Finds: New research shows that global methane emissions have risen at an unprecedented rate over the past five years, despite global pledges to cut emissions by 30% this decade. Methane levels are now over 2.6 times higher than pre-industrial times, primarily driven by fossil fuels, agriculture, and waste. The current trajectory could result in global warming above 3°C by the century's end, threatening the goal of maintaining a habitable climate.

NATURE

Ants Modify Nest Structure to Reduce Disease Spread: Black garden ants exposed to a pathogenic fungus adapt their nest-building to reduce disease risk, making nests more compartmentalized and less connected. These changes, such as faster digging, more tunnels, and decentralized chambers, likely reduce ant contact and infection spread by 5-10%, according to simulations. The study suggests ants use these architectural adjustments alongside behavioral changes like self-isolation to manage disease, offering potential insights for human disease control strategies.

Human Activities Make Salish Sea Noisy, Hindering Orcas' Hunting Abilities: A study by the University of Washington and NOAA reveals that human-made underwater noise in the Salish Sea disrupts the hunting abilities of resident orcas, particularly the critically endangered southern population. Noise from vessels affects orcas' echolocation, reducing their hunting success and energy efficiency. Females, especially, face difficulties in noisy conditions, impacting their ability to feed and reproduce. Efforts to reduce noise, such as voluntary speed limits for vessels, are crucial but only part of the solution.

Origins of Complete Metamorphosis in Insects Traced Through Mathematical Modeling: Researchers from Freie Universität Berlin and Princeton University have explored the evolutionary origins of complete metamorphosis in insects. Their study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, used a mathematical model to show that insects with a pupal stage, like butterflies, achieve rapid growth advantageous in environments with scarce resources or short seasons. The findings suggest that metamorphosis is an evolutionary adaptation to ensure faster growth.

New Study Highlights Dengue Fever Risk Areas in Europe: A study by the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology has identified specific regions in Europe at risk of dengue fever due to the spread of the Asian tiger mosquito. The study uses high-resolution modeling to provide precise risk assessments, predicting that southern France and northern Italy will remain highly affected, with the risk expanding northwards due to climate change. This model aims to help authorities plan preventive measures to control dengue outbreaks more effectively.

INDUSTRY

SpaceX's Polaris Dawn Launches for First Civilian Spacewalk: SpaceX's Polaris Dawn mission has launched, aiming for the first civilian spacewalk. The four-member crew will orbit Earth for up to five days, with the spacewalk scheduled for the third day. Unlike previous missions, the Crew Dragon capsule will fully depressurize during the spacewalk due to its lack of an airlock, increasing risks alongside the use of newly designed spacesuits. The mission is led by Jared Isaacman, with crew members Scott Poteet, Sarah Gillis, and Anna Menon.

Apple Launches AI-Powered iPhone 16 Lineup: Apple has introduced its new iPhone 16 lineup, emphasizing artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities. The iPhones feature specialized chips for AI tools, enhancing Siri's functionality, automating tasks, and creating custom emojis. Most AI features will roll out with iOS 18 in October, with Apple's approach focused on privacy by processing data on-device. The launch aims to reverse a sales slump and capitalize on the growing AI market, positioning Apple against competitors like Samsung and Google.

Australia Considers Age Limit for Social Media Use by Children: Australia is proposing a minimum age limit of 14 to 16 for children using social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese aims to reduce the negative impacts of social media on young people's mental health by encouraging physical activities and real-life experiences. However, experts argue that enforcing such age limits may be technically challenging and could inadvertently exclude youth from meaningful digital engagement.