Study Finds Longest Land Lion Migration in Predator-Infested Area

Hello and welcome to Wednesday’s STEAM newsletter.

In today’s edition:

• Science - Understanding the Basis of Curiosity: Brain Regions Revealed by Columbia Researchers, Nanoparticle-Based Insulin Delivery for Allergy Sufferers.

• Technology and AI - New AI Tool for Filtering Offensive Image Content, New Firmware Update Hides Bluetooth Fingerprints for Enhanced Privacy, and more.

• Engineering - Feasibility of Converting Coal Plants to Nuclear Assessed, Fully Recyclable Rechargeable Batteries: A Leap Towards Sustainability, and more.

• Space - Time Moves Faster on the Moon: New Precise Measurement, Earth's Closest Black Hole Discovered in Omega Centauri, and more.

• Health & Medicine - Gen X Faces Higher Cancer Rates than Baby Boomers: Study Finds, World-First Study Finds Concerning Levels of Arsenic and Lead in Tampons, and more.

• Environment - Potential Environmental Impact of Sucralose (Artificial Sweetener) Uncovered, Planted Mangroves' Carbon Storage Ability Revealed.

• Nature - Study Finds Longest Land Lion Migration in Predator-Infested Area, Remarkable Memory in Tiny Birds: Chickadees Outperform Humans.

• Industry - Businesses Harvesting Biometric Data: Security Concerns Rise, Samsung's Latest Fashion in Wearable Tech: AI-Enhanced Watch and Ring, Toyota Invests in Ionna for Expanding EV Charging Network.

• World - Ghana's Move to Nuclear Energy: Key Factors and Benefits, Eastern Religions Support Ethical AI Development.

Until Tomorrow,

~The STEAM Digest

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This newsletter is curated by The STEAM Digest.

SCIENCE

Understanding the Basis of Curiosity: Brain Regions Revealed by Columbia Researchers: Columbia researchers have identified brain regions involved in processing uncertainty and confidence, fueling curiosity. Using fMRI, they observed that curiosity arises when the brain encounters uncertainty about visual stimuli, activating specific regions like the occipitotemporal cortex and the anterior cingulate cortex. This neural activity bridges subjective curiosity and sensory information processing. The findings could have implications for treating conditions like depression, where curiosity is often diminished.

Nanoparticle-Based Insulin Delivery for Allergy Sufferers: Researchers at Forschungszentrum Jülich have developed a nanoparticle-based delivery system for insulin, aimed at diabetics with rare insulin allergies. This system uses synthetic polymers to mask insulin, preventing allergic reactions by releasing the drug only at the target site. This targeted drug delivery method, detailed in the Journal of Colloid and Interface Science, could also be adapted for other medications, enhancing their effectiveness and reducing side effects.

TECHNOLOGY AND AI

New AI Tool for Filtering Offensive Image Content: Researchers at TU Darmstadt's Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Lab have developed LlavaGuard, a vision language model (VLM) tool to filter and evaluate image content. LlavaGuard can adapt to various legal and user requirements, categorizing and explaining why certain content is flagged as unsafe. This transparency aims to enhance trust and understanding, making it useful for social media platforms and image generators to promote a safer online environment.

New Firmware Update Hides Bluetooth Fingerprints for Enhanced Privacy: Researchers at UC San Diego have developed a simple firmware update that completely hides a device's unique Bluetooth fingerprint, which previously allowed for tracking due to hardware imperfections. The update uses multiple layers of randomization to mask these fingerprints, significantly enhancing user privacy. Tested on Texas Instruments CC2640 chipsets, the update requires continuous observation for over ten days to achieve tracking accuracy comparable to just one minute without the update. The team is now seeking industry partners for broader implementation.

AI Enhances Live Soccer Broadcasts by Eliminating Cameramen Distractions: Researchers at Kaunas University of Technology (KTU) have developed an AI system using the YOLOv8 model to remove visual distractions caused by cameramen in live soccer broadcasts. The AI detects and segments cameramen, then uses video inpainting to fill the removed areas with relevant background, creating a smoother and more immersive viewing experience. This technology can also be applied to other sports broadcasts and enhance pre- and post-match analyses.

New Framework for Child-Safe AI Following Trust Issues with Chatbots: Researchers from the University of Cambridge propose a framework for "child-safe AI" after incidents where children trusted AI chatbots too much, leading to potentially dangerous situations. The study highlights the need for AI design to account for children's unique needs and vulnerabilities. It suggests a proactive approach, with a 28-item framework for developers, educators, and policymakers to ensure AI interactions are safe for young users.

ENGINEERING

Fully Recyclable Rechargeable Batteries: A Leap Towards Sustainability: Researchers have developed fully recyclable rechargeable batteries using environmentally friendly and abundant materials. These innovative batteries, incorporating advanced electrode designs and liquid electrolytes, promise higher energy densities and safer operations compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. One example includes a calcium-oxygen-based battery capable of up to 700 recharge cycles at room temperature. This breakthrough aims to reduce the environmental impact of battery production and disposal, marking significant progress in sustainable energy storage solutions.

Cyberattack Exposes Sensitive Health Data in Massachusetts and New Hampshire: A cyberattack on Change Healthcare, owned by UnitedHealth Group, has potentially exposed sensitive personal and health data of up to one-third of Americans. The breach, which occurred in February, has led to data being leaked on the dark web. Massachusetts and New Hampshire officials are notifying affected residents and offering two years of free credit monitoring and identity theft protection. The states urge vigilance and recommend freezing credit to mitigate potential misuse.

Feasibility of Converting Coal Plants to Nuclear Assessed: A University of Michigan study evaluated the feasibility of converting 245 U.S. coal plants to advanced nuclear reactors. It found that transitioning to nuclear power could save time and money by using existing infrastructure, retain jobs, and reduce carbon emissions. The R M Schahfer and AES Petersburg plants in Indiana were identified as the most feasible sites. This transition supports decarbonization goals and economic revitalization in coal-dependent regions.

Heat Waves and Railways: The Impact of Extreme Temperatures on Train Tracks: Heat waves are causing steel railway tracks to expand and buckle, leading to significant risks of derailments and delays in both passenger and freight services. This phenomenon, known as "sun kinks," occurs because tracks are often laid at a neutral temperature to balance between cold and hot extremes. With rising temperatures due to climate change, the frequency and severity of these issues are increasing. Railways are employing both traditional engineering solutions and innovative nature-based approaches to address the problem and enhance infrastructure resilience​.

Cooler and Safer Sports Courts: Innovation in Artificial Turf: Researchers in the Netherlands have developed artificial turf with an integrated subsurface water storage and capillary irrigation system. This system reduces surface temperatures by utilizing evaporative cooling, significantly lowering the risk of heat-related injuries. The cooling effect also mitigates the urban heat island effect, making cities more comfortable. While installation is more expensive than conventional turf, the benefits include durability, cooling, and reduced urban flooding. Further research is needed to optimize the system for different climates.

Trust, More Than Knowledge, Critical for Acceptance of Fully Autonomous Vehicles: Study: A study by Washington State University researchers found that trust in the reliability and performance of fully autonomous vehicles (AVs) is more crucial for public acceptance than knowledge about them. The research indicates that fostering trust and positive experiences with AVs is essential to improve public perception and adoption, despite widespread knowledge about their benefits. The study emphasizes the need for transparent communication of risks and benefits to build consumer trust.

SPACE

Time Moves Faster on the Moon: New Precise Measurement: Recent scientific research has provided precise measurements indicating that time ticks faster on the Moon compared to Earth. This phenomenon, known as gravitational time dilation, occurs because the Moon's weaker gravitational field affects the passage of time differently than on Earth. This precise understanding of time dilation on the Moon is crucial for future lunar missions and navigation systems.

Study Suggests Up to 60% of Near-Earth Objects Could Be Dark Comets: Astronomers from the University of Michigan have proposed that up to 60% of near-Earth objects might be dark comets. These mysterious bodies, which combine characteristics of both asteroids and comets, likely contain subsurface ice. The study indicates these objects may originate from the asteroid belt, providing a potential pathway for delivering ice to the inner solar system. This finding could help explain how Earth's water arrived.

Earth's Closest Black Hole Discovered in Omega Centauri: Astronomers have identified an intermediate-mass black hole, the closest known to Earth, located about 18,000 light-years away in the Omega Centauri star cluster. This discovery, led by the Max-Planck Institute for Astronomy and the University of Utah, confirms a longstanding theory about galactic formations. The black hole's presence was deduced from the high velocities of stars within the cluster, indicating a concentrated mass influencing their movements.

HEALTH & MEDICINE

Gen X Faces Higher Cancer Rates than Baby Boomers: Study Finds: A recent study from the National Cancer Institute has projected that Generation X (born between 1965 and 1980) will face higher cancer rates than the Baby Boomer generation (born between 1946 and 1964) as they enter their 60s. The research analyzed data from 3.8 million people diagnosed with malignant cancer in the U.S. from 1992 to 2018. It found that Gen Xers are more likely to be diagnosed with invasive cancer than Boomers were at the same age. Several factors may contribute to this rise in cancer incidence, including early detection, increased obesity rates, sedentary lifestyles, and exposure to pollutants such as PFAS chemicals. While lung and cervical cancer rates have been declining, there has been an alarming increase in colorectal, thyroid, kidney, rectal, and other cancers among Gen Xers​.

World-First Study Finds Concerning Levels of Arsenic and Lead in Tampons: A groundbreaking study has detected concerning levels of arsenic and lead in tampons, marking the first time such heavy metals have been quantified in menstrual products. Researchers warn that prolonged exposure to these toxic substances could pose health risks, urging for stricter regulations and better transparency from manufacturers regarding product safety. This discovery highlights the need for more comprehensive testing of menstrual products to ensure consumer safety.

Blood Cancer Drug Enhances Radiotherapy for Brain Tumors: Researchers at the University of Plymouth found that the blood cancer drug HDAC6 inhibitor Cay10603 can enhance the effectiveness of radiotherapy on meningioma, a common brain tumor. Administering Cay10603 before radiotherapy reduced tumor cell growth and increased cell death, potentially improving treatment outcomes while minimizing radiation side effects. This promising approach could provide better options for patients with inoperable brain tumors.

Major Trial Finds Effective Speech Therapy for Parkinson's Disease: A large clinical trial led by the University of Nottingham found that the Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT LOUD) is more effective than current NHS speech therapy for people with Parkinson's disease (PD). LSVT LOUD, a high-intensity therapy, significantly reduced the impact of voice problems. This trial, involving 388 participants across 40 NHS sites, demonstrated that LSVT LOUD improves communication for PD patients, potentially enhancing their quality of life.

New CAR-T Therapy Gains FDA Breakthrough Designation for High-Risk Lymphoma: Stanford Medicine's phase 1 clinical trial of a new CAR-T cell therapy targeting the CD22 protein has shown promising results for patients with large B-cell lymphoma, especially those who relapsed after the original CD19-targeting CAR-T therapy. Over half of the 38 trial participants experienced complete cancer remission, leading the FDA to designate the treatment as a Breakthrough Therapy. This designation aims to expedite the development and review process for this potentially life-saving treatment.

ENVIRONMENT

Potential Environmental Impact of Sucralose (Artificial Sweetener) Uncovered: Researchers from the University of Florida have discovered that sucralose, a common artificial sweetener, can disrupt aquatic ecosystems. Sucralose, which is not easily degraded, affects cyanobacteria and diatoms, essential components of the marine food chain. The study showed varying impacts on these microorganisms, potentially threatening ecosystem balance. Further research is needed to understand the full extent of sucralose's environmental impact.

Planted Mangroves' Carbon Storage Ability Revealed: A study by the USDA Forest Service and international partners found that planted mangroves can store up to 70% of the carbon found in intact mangroves after 20 years. This research highlights the importance of mangrove restoration in mitigating climate change, though preserving existing mangrove stands remains crucial. Mangroves are essential for carbon storage, coastal protection, and providing habitats for diverse species. The study underscores the benefits of strategic mangrove planting for environmental restoration.

NATURE

Study Finds Longest Land Lion Migration in Predator-Infested Area: A male lion named Liwonde covered 286 miles across predator-filled landscapes in Malawi, marking the longest recorded land migration for a lion. The study by the University of Minnesota highlights the challenges and dangers the lion faced, emphasizing the need for wildlife corridors. This journey underscores the importance of connected habitats for the conservation of wide-ranging species.

Remarkable Memory in Tiny Birds: Chickadees Outperform Humans: Mountain chickadees have an extraordinary spatial memory, enabling them to recall thousands of food cache locations to survive winter. Researchers discovered nearly a hundred genes associated with this ability, highlighting a genetic trade-off between retaining long-term memories and forming new ones. This insight enhances our understanding of spatial memory evolution. Climate change could alter the selective pressures on chickadee memory, stressing the need for adaptability for survival.

Florida Cactus Species Becomes First U.S. Extinction Victim of Rising Seas: A species of cactus native to Florida, known as the Florida semaphore cactus, has become the first plant in the United States to go extinct due to rising sea levels. The primary cause of its extinction is the gradual encroachment of saltwater into its habitat, which disrupted its ability to survive and reproduce. Conservationists had made efforts to protect the species, but the increasing impact of climate change ultimately proved insurmountable. This event highlights the urgent need for more robust measures to protect vulnerable species from the ongoing effects of climate change.

INDUSTRY

Businesses Harvesting Biometric Data: Security Concerns Rise: Businesses are increasingly collecting biometric data, such as facial recognition, for security, customer experience, and efficiency. However, this practice raises significant privacy and ethical concerns. The public needs assurances about how this sensitive data is stored, managed, and protected against breaches. Transparent practices and stringent regulations are essential to ensure informed consent and prevent misuse. Companies must prioritize privacy and security to maintain public trust as the use of biometric data becomes more prevalent.

Samsung's Latest Fashion in Wearable Tech: AI-Enhanced Watch and Ring: Samsung has unveiled its Galaxy Watch Ultra and Galaxy Ring, both incorporating advanced AI features to enhance personal health monitoring. The Galaxy Watch Ultra, priced at $650, and the $400 Galaxy Ring analyze biometric data to provide customized health assessments and recommendations. The devices focus on improving user well-being with features like energy scores and virtual fitness coaching. Despite the higher price, these AI-driven wearables aim to compete in a growing market by offering innovative health solutions.

Toyota Invests in Ionna for Expanding EV Charging Network: Toyota is investing in Ionna, a company focused on implementing a widespread charging network for battery electric vehicles (EVs) in North America. Partnering with seven other automakers, Toyota aims to provide access to public DC fast chargers for its Toyota and Lexus customers. Ionna plans to install 30,000 charging ports by 2030, supporting both CCS and NACS connectors. This investment aligns with Toyota's goal to offer 30 EV models and produce 3.5 million battery EVs annually by 2030.

White House Tackles Flood Damage with Comprehensive Resilience Strategy: The Biden-Harris administration is implementing a robust strategy to address the increasing destruction of infrastructure caused by floods. This initiative includes significant investments from the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, totaling $50 billion for infrastructure protection and $4.5 billion for drought preparedness. The reinstated Federal Flood Risk Management Standard ensures federal agencies manage current and future flood risks effectively. FEMA's expanded BRIC program supports community resilience, focusing on underserved areas. Additionally, modern building codes and enhanced early warning systems are being promoted to protect against extreme weather events​

Tax Credits Lower Costs for Blue Hydrogen Production: A study by the University of Wyoming assesses the impact of federal tax credits on blue hydrogen production costs. By examining the 45Q tax credit for carbon sequestration and the 45V tax credit for clean hydrogen production, researchers found that these incentives significantly reduce the costs of blue hydrogen, which is produced using fossil fuels and carbon capture technology. The study supports the U.S. Department of Energy's goal to lower hydrogen production costs to $1 per kilogram within a decade.

WORLD

Ghana's Move to Nuclear Energy: Key Factors and Benefits: Ghana is planning its first nuclear power plant to diversify its energy mix, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and support industrial growth. The plant, expected to operate by 2030, will provide reliable baseload power and help the country meet climate commitments by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Ghana aims to become a net exporter of electricity in the region and sees nuclear energy as crucial for sustainable and affordable power.

Eastern Religions Support Ethical AI Development: Leaders from major Eastern religions, including Buddhism, Sikhism, and Shinto, have endorsed the Vatican-led "Rome Call for AI Ethics." This initiative, signed in Hiroshima, promotes ethical principles in AI development to ensure it benefits humanity. Key principles include preventing discrimination, ensuring accountability, and eliminating biases. This global moral check aligns religious and technological communities to promote responsible AI use, reflecting the urgency of addressing ethical challenges in AI's impact on society.

Chinese Auto Exports Surge Amid Domestic Sales Slump: In June 2024, Chinese auto exports increased by 29% to 400,000 units, offsetting a 7.4% decline in domestic sales. This trend highlights China's growing presence in the global automotive market, particularly in gasoline-powered vehicles. Key export markets include Russia, Brazil, and several European and Middle Eastern countries. The surge in exports helps counterbalance weak domestic demand and supports China's goal of becoming a leading global auto exporter.