Tiny Treadmills Unveil Secrets of Fruit Fly Movement

Hello and welcome to Thursday’s STEAM newsletter.

In today’s edition:

• Science - Breakthrough in Understanding Fungus Decimating North American Bats, and more.

• Technology and AI - New Approach Enhances AI Model Uncertainty Estimates, Reinforcement Learning Powers Nimble AI Robots, and more.

• Engineering -Hydrogen-Powered Air Taxi Completes Landmark 523-Mile Flight, and more.

• Astronomy & Space - Scientists Propose New Definition of a Planet Beyond Orbiting the Sun, The Universe's Inevitable Dark Future: Running Out of Stars.

• Health & Medicine - Prenatal Exposure to Air Pollution Linked to Cerebral Palsy, and more.

• Environment - Finding a Forever Home for Nuclear Waste, Effective At-Home Solutions for PFAS Removal from Drinking Water, and more.

• Nature - Tiny Treadmills Unveil Secrets of Fruit Fly Movement, The Hidden Dangers of Rat Poisons on Raptors and Wildlife, and more.

• Industry - Analyzing Cross-Border and Domestic Early-Stage Financial Investment in 3D Printing, Neuralink Seeks More Test Subjects for Brain Implant Technology, and more.

• World - Germany to Ban Chinese Telecom Giants from 5G Network, Norway's Push for a Circular Phosphorus Economy, and more.

Until Tomorrow,

~The STEAM Digest

If you’d like to see more of this or if you want to share with others, please use the following link: https://thesteamdigest.beehiiv.com/subscribe

This newsletter is curated by The STEAM Digest.

SCIENCE

Breakthrough in Understanding Fungus Decimating North American Bats: Scientists have made significant progress in understanding how the fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans, responsible for white-nose syndrome, infects and decimates North American bat populations. The fungus hijacks bat skin cells during hibernation, manipulating them to avoid detection by the immune system. Researchers found that inhibiting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) with the drug gefitinib stopped the infection, offering potential treatment avenues. This breakthrough could lead to effective treatments or vaccines, aiding bat conservation efforts.

First Cell-Free System Integrating Genetic Information and Metabolism Developed: Researchers at the Max Planck Institute have created a groundbreaking cell-free system where genetic information and metabolism interact synergistically. This system, combining the synthetic Cetch cycle and the Pure genetic system, mimics cellular processes by producing essential enzymes and sustaining protein production using CO2. This innovation represents a significant step towards self-sustaining synthetic biological systems, offering potential for future applications in sustainable biochemical production.

Chemists Develop Robust Molecule to Boost Organic Electronic Devices: RIKEN chemists have created a new molecule, DP7, enhancing the performance and stability of organic electronic devices like OLEDs. DP7, a derivative of tetraphenyl dipyranylidene, improves electron flow and maintains stability at high temperatures. This innovation significantly reduces electrical resistance in organic field-effect transistors (OFETs) and remains stable after storage, potentially benefiting industrial applications. DP7 is easily synthesized and integrated into devices using standard vacuum deposition techniques.

Lead-Coated Nickel Catalyst Enhances Hydrogen Evolution Efficiency: Researchers at POSTECH and Seoul National University have developed a lead-coated nickel catalyst that improves the efficiency of the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in alkaline water electrolysis systems. This new catalyst resists degradation from reverse current, enhancing the durability and performance of electrolysis systems used for hydrogen production. The lead coating acts as a co-catalyst, promoting proton desorption and water dissociation, making it a significant advancement for the hydrogen economy.

Muscle Machine: How Water Controls the Speed of Muscle Contraction: Researchers from the University of Michigan and Harvard University have found that the flow of water within muscle fibers plays a crucial role in controlling the speed of muscle contraction. The study, published in Nature Physics, reveals that muscle fibers act like "active sponges," where the movement of water influences contraction speed. This finding provides new insights into muscle physiology and highlights the importance of considering muscles as complex, hydrated structures rather than just molecular assemblies.

TECHNOLOGY AND AI

New Approach Enhances AI Model Uncertainty Estimates: MIT researchers have developed a technique called IF-COMP to improve uncertainty estimates in AI models, making them more accurate and efficient. This method, based on the minimum description length principle, can be scaled to large deep-learning models used in critical applications like healthcare. By providing better-calibrated uncertainty quantifications, this approach helps users make more informed decisions about the reliability of AI predictions, particularly in high-stakes.

Electrically Weldable Conductive Elastomers Revolutionize Flexible Electronics: A recent study published in Science Advances details the development of electrically weldable conductive elastomers, offering significant improvements in flexible and stretchable electronic devices. These elastomers, made from borate ester polymers and conductive fillers, can be welded using low voltages (1.5 to 4.5 V) in as little as 5 seconds. This innovation ensures strong mechanical and electrical connections, suitable for diverse applications including wearable electronics, flexible circuits, and sensors. The versatility and rapid welding process make these elastomers a robust platform for next-generation electronic devices.

Reinforcement Learning Powers Nimble AI Robots: Recent advancements in artificial intelligence have led to the creation of nimble robots capable of navigating complex terrains using reinforcement learning. This AI technique enables robots to adapt and improve their movements through trial and error, making them more agile and resilient compared to traditional programming methods. These robots, demonstrated through activities like playing soccer, highlight the potential for AI to enhance robotic capabilities in dynamic and challenging environments.

How Risk-Averse Are Humans When Interacting with Robots?: A study by UC San Diego researchers investigated human risk aversion when interacting with robots in crowded environments. Using behavioral economics models, participants navigated virtual scenarios involving COVID-19 risks. Findings revealed that people often underestimated their willingness to take risks for rewards. The study suggests programming robots with prospect theory, which accounts for human tendencies to weigh losses more heavily than gains, to improve human-robot interactions.

ENGINEERING

Hydrogen-Powered Air Taxi Completes Landmark 523-Mile Flight: Joby Aviation's hydrogen-powered vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft successfully completed a 523-mile test flight, emitting only water vapor. This milestone demonstrates the potential of hydrogen fuel cells to extend the range of electric aircraft and reduce emissions. The modified VTOL, equipped with a liquid hydrogen system, showcased its capability for regional travel, potentially revolutionizing clean air transport. However, challenges remain, such as the high cost and environmental impact of current hydrogen production methods.

Battery Innovation Could Boost Power Delivery for Electric Aircraft: Researchers from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and the University of Michigan have developed a new battery electrolyte that enhances power delivery for electric aircraft, especially during takeoff and landing. The innovation addresses power fade by creating a stabilizing, corrosion-resistant coating on the battery's positive electrode. This development could significantly extend the battery's performance, paving the way for more efficient and reliable electric aviation.

The Urban Planning Disaster of 'Stroads' and How to Fix Them: Stroads, a hybrid of streets and roads, fail to serve both as effective thoroughfares for vehicles and as pleasant places for people. These spaces prioritize car movement, creating noisy, unsafe, and unpleasant environments for pedestrians and cyclists. To fix stroads, urban planners advocate reallocating space from cars to people, using concepts like "complete streets" and "movement and place" frameworks. Successful examples include New York's Times Square and Melbourne's Swanston Street, which transformed into vibrant, pedestrian-friendly areas.

Artificial Foot Mimics Human Gait, Improves Stability on Slippery Ground: Researchers at the Italian Institute of Technology have developed SoftFoot Pro, a motorless, flexible, waterproof artificial foot. Mimicking the human foot's anatomy, it adapts to uneven terrain, enhancing stability and gait naturalness for users. The innovative design includes a mobile arch mechanism and high-strength plastic chains, allowing for shape adaptation and efficient energy use. This prosthetic foot improves the walking experience on challenging surfaces and is suitable for both prosthetic users and humanoid robots.

SPACE

Scientists Propose New Definition of a Planet Beyond Orbiting the Sun: A team of scientists has suggested a new, inclusive definition of a planet that is not limited to objects orbiting the Sun. This redefined criteria include celestial bodies with sufficient mass for their self-gravity to overcome rigid body forces, resulting in a nearly round shape, regardless of their orbital dynamics. This proposal aims to simplify classification and acknowledge exoplanets and rogue planets, enhancing our understanding of planetary systems.

The Universe's Inevitable Dark Future: Running Out of Stars: The article from Scientific American explains how the universe will eventually run out of stars. Using the Friedmann equation, scientists predict that as the universe expands and cools, star formation will cease. The galaxies will exhaust their gas supplies, and existing stars will burn out without replacements. This process will lead to a dark, starless universe, fundamentally altering the cosmic landscape and marking the end of stellar activity.

HEALTH & MEDICINE

Prenatal Exposure to Air Pollution Linked to Cerebral Palsy: A study by researchers from Harvard and Canadian institutions found a significant association between prenatal exposure to fine particulate air pollution (PM2.5) and an increased risk of cerebral palsy (CP) in children. The study, involving over 1.5 million births in Ontario, Canada, revealed a 12% increase in CP risk for every 2.7 µg/m³ increase in PM2.5 exposure during pregnancy. The findings highlight the importance of addressing air pollution to protect fetal health.

Study Links 40% of US Cancer Cases and Nearly Half of Deaths to Modifiable Risk Factors: A study by the American Cancer Society reveals that 40% of cancer cases and almost half of cancer deaths in the US are linked to modifiable risk factors, such as smoking, excess body weight, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and diet. Smoking remains the leading risk factor, followed by excess body weight and alcohol. The findings highlight the critical need for preventive healthcare measures and lifestyle changes to reduce cancer incidence and mortality.

Study Finds Second-Hand Vaping Exposure Much Lower Than Second-Hand Smoking: A study led by University College London researchers found that children exposed to second-hand vaping absorb significantly less nicotine compared to those exposed to second-hand smoking. Blood tests from a nationally representative sample showed that nicotine absorption from second-hand vapor was 84% lower than from second-hand smoke. While exposure to harmful substances from vaping is still higher than no exposure, the study suggests that concerns about second-hand vaping may be overstated compared to smoking.

AI Assistant Dora Enhances Post-Cataract Surgery Care: Researchers at Newcastle University in the UK and collaborators have developed an AI assistant named Dora that improves patient follow-up care after cataract surgery. Dora autonomously calls patients to assess their recovery, identifying those needing further clinical review with high accuracy. The study demonstrated Dora's potential to streamline care pathways, reduce costs, and save NHS resources. It also highlights the system's broader applicability in other clinical settings, offering a significant advancement in telemedicine and patient care.

First-of-its-Kind Clinical Trial Eliminates or Shrinks Melanoma Tumors in 70% of Patients: A groundbreaking clinical trial, NeoACTIVATE, has shown that a new drug combination can eliminate or significantly shrink melanoma tumors in 70% of participants. The trial involved pre-surgery treatments with targeted therapy and immunotherapy, followed by additional immunotherapy post-surgery. Results indicate a high rate of complete pathologic response in patients with the BRAF mutation. This innovative approach offers hope for improved melanoma treatments and survival rates.

ENVIRONMENT

Finding a Forever Home for Nuclear Waste: The Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) in New Mexico, operational since 1999, is the U.S.'s only deep geological repository for nuclear waste from defense projects. Originally intended as a temporary solution, WIPP faces no concrete plans for additional sites, potentially remaining open until the 2080s. Challenges include ensuring long-term safety, managing political and community acceptance, and addressing incidents like the 2014 waste drum explosion. The site demonstrates successful community support and technical feasibility for nuclear waste storage.

Effective At-Home Solutions for PFAS Removal from Drinking Water: Researchers have identified effective at-home methods for removing PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) from drinking water. Techniques such as using activated carbon filters and reverse osmosis systems have shown significant efficacy in reducing PFAS levels. These solutions offer practical ways for households to mitigate exposure to these harmful chemicals, which are commonly found in various consumer products and have been linked to adverse health effects.

Researchers Investigate Influences of Flash Droughts: A study led by Dr. Ashok Mishra from Texas A&M University explores the factors contributing to flash droughts, focusing on South Asia as a model. Findings indicate that atmospheric conditions and human-induced climate change exacerbate these rapid-onset droughts, affecting water availability, agriculture, and energy sectors. The study highlights the need for robust tools to predict and mitigate the impacts of flash droughts, urging policymakers to consider preventative infrastructure and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

NATURE

Tiny Treadmills Unveil Secrets of Fruit Fly Movement: Researchers have developed miniature treadmills to study how fruit flies, Drosophila melanogaster, control their movements. These tiny treadmills, equipped with high-speed cameras, allow scientists to observe the walking and running behaviors of fruit flies. The flies can reach speeds of up to 50 millimeters per second, the fastest recorded speed for these insects on the ground. By analyzing the stepping patterns, researchers discovered that the flies' middle legs adjust to maintain straight movement, especially when the treadmill moves at different speeds on each side. This research provides valuable insights into the neural control of movement in fruit flies, with implications for understanding similar processes in other animals, including humans.

The Hidden Dangers of Rat Poisons on Raptors and Wildlife: Second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs), designed to kill rodents, are having unintended and severe consequences on raptors and other wildlife. These poisons cause internal bleeding by inhibiting vitamin K processing, leading to prolonged suffering and increased vulnerability in affected animals. Studies reveal widespread contamination: 92% of raptors in San Diego County and 81% of Great Horned Owls in New York had rodenticides in their systems. Efforts to mitigate these impacts include legislative actions and community initiatives advocating for safer, non-toxic alternatives. Despite these efforts, the persistence and toxicity of SGARs continue to pose a significant threat to wildlife.

Bird Flu's New Threat: Cross-Species Infections Raise Alarms: Recent outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) have shown the virus's ability to infect mammals, including a case where it spread from a dairy cow to a human. This development highlights the virus's evolving threat, with significant implications for public health. Studies reveal widespread infections among birds and mammals, stressing the need for vigilant monitoring and robust response strategies to mitigate potential pandemics.

Millions of Crabs Scuttle Across Christmas Island in Annual Migration: Every year, tens of millions of red crabs migrate across Christmas Island to the Indian Ocean to breed. This spectacle is synchronized with the rainy season and lunar cycles, where the crabs traverse roads and forests, transforming the landscape. The population of these crabs has rebounded to over 100 million after facing significant declines due to invasive yellow crazy ants. Despite climate change threats, conservation efforts have helped stabilize their numbers.

INDUSTRY

Analyzing Cross-Border and Domestic Early-Stage Financial Investment in 3D Printing: A study by Professor Silvia Massini and Eugene D. Hahn from the University of Manchester examines the geographic and financial dynamics of early-stage investments in 3D printing technology. Using a dataset of 500 firm-level investments, the study finds that larger investments are directed towards countries with higher innovative capacity, greater human capital, and higher wages. This research highlights the importance of existing ecosystems in attracting investment and the global distribution of financial support for 3D printing innovations.

Neuralink Seeks More Test Subjects for Brain Implant Technology: Elon Musk's Neuralink is advancing its brain-computer interface technology, moving to a second test patient after initial success with a paralyzed individual controlling a computer cursor with his mind. The company aims to increase test subjects to high single digits this year. Neuralink plans to enhance implant precision and connectivity, ultimately aiming for applications like restoring vision and human-AI symbiosis. This progress marks significant steps toward integrating advanced neurotechnology with human capabilities.

Gas Taxes Can't Pay for Roads Much Longer, but Amazon Deliveries Might: As electric vehicles and fuel efficiency reduce gas tax revenues, states are exploring new funding methods for road maintenance. Colorado and Minnesota have implemented retail delivery fees, charging per delivery to fund infrastructure projects. These fees aim to offset the road wear caused by delivery trucks. While some argue the fees impact consumers, proponents highlight the necessity for sustainable road funding. Other states are considering similar measures to address infrastructure funding gaps.

WORLD

Germany to Ban Chinese Telecom Giants from 5G Network:Germany will phase out components from Chinese telecom firms Huawei and ZTE in its 5G networks due to national security concerns. By the end of 2026, these components will be removed from core 5G infrastructure, with broader network replacements by 2029. This decision aligns with EU warnings about the risks posed by these companies and reflects Germany's strategy to reduce economic dependence on China, particularly in critical infrastructure sectors.

Norway's Push for a Circular Phosphorus Economy: A new report emphasizes the need for phosphorus recovery and recycling in Norway to ensure food security and reduce environmental pollution. Phosphorus, vital for agriculture and aquaculture, often accumulates in soil and water systems, causing pollution. The report suggests four strategies: developing a nutrient accounting system, minimizing loss at farms, creating infrastructure for recycling phosphorus, and promoting a market for recycled products. These measures aim to enhance sustainability and reduce reliance on imported phosphorus.

China Leads Global Wind and Solar Capacity Expansion: China is constructing nearly twice as much wind and solar energy capacity as the rest of the world combined, with 339 GW under construction. This rapid expansion outpaces the next leading country, the United States, which has only 40 GW under construction. Despite relying on coal for peak power demands and transmission challenges from remote regions, China's renewable capacity is set to surpass coal. This development raises hopes for an earlier peak in China's carbon emissions.