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Science News for December 15, 2017


Columbia engineers develop floating solar fuels rig for seawater electrolysis

Researchers have developed a novel photovoltaic-powered electrolysis device that can operate as a stand-alone platform on open water, producing hydrogen fuel from sunlight and water. The device separates gases using buoyancy-driven product separation, resulting in high product purity without actively pumping the electrolyte.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·DateDec 15, 2017

Russian scientists developed a new technology of energy generation from bituminous coal

Researchers have created an electrochemical generator that converts bituminous coal into electrical energy, producing only water and heat as byproducts. The technology has been proven effective in joint generation of electrical and heat energy, with the added benefit of a simpler configuration compared to existing coal power plants.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·DateDec 15, 2017

Erectile dysfunction is red flag for silent early cardiovascular disease

A new study reveals a significant association between erectile dysfunction and impaired endothelial function, as well as increased carotid intimal medial thickness, indicating an early manifestation of atherosclerosis. The findings support a more aggressive CV disease risk assessment and management for persons with erectile dysfunction.

SourceSAGE·JournalVascular Medicine·DateDec 15, 2017

Single-photon detector can count to 4

Engineers at Duke University have successfully counted the presence of at least four photons at a time using a widely used method of detecting single photons, providing easier paths to developing quantum-based technologies. The discovery will unlock new capabilities in physics labs working in quantum information science around the world.

SourceDuke University·JournalOptica·DateDec 15, 2017

Exposure to larger air particles linked to increased risk of asthma in children

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University found that exposure to coarse particulate matter increases the risk of asthma and hospitalizations in children. For each microgram/cubic meter increase in coarse particulate matter, asthma diagnosis increased by 1.3 percent, emergency room visits for asthma by 3.3 percent, and hospitalizations by...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateDec 15, 2017

Coarse particulate matter may increase asthma risk

New research found that coarse particulate matter increases the risk of asthma diagnosis, ER visits for asthma, and hospitalizations in children. The study analyzed records of over 7 million children in Medicaid and found a strong association between PM10-2.5 exposure and asthma-related outcomes.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateDec 15, 2017

Many women report not feeling completely informed about breast cancer treatment options

A recent study found that the majority of women with breast cancer report not feeling completely informed about their treatment options. The study suggests that patients often prioritize making a quick decision over thoroughly researching their options. To address this issue, researchers recommend providing consistent, reliable informa...

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateDec 15, 2017

Could a new app help cure loneliness?

Researchers from Lancaster University are developing an app to tackle social isolation and loneliness in older adults. The app will provide users with information on local social opportunities and real-time data on factors that discourage outdoor activity, such as weather and daylight levels.

BIDMC researchers use artificial intelligence to identify bacteria quickly and accurately

Researchers at BIDMC used AI to develop an automated microscope system that can quickly and accurately identify images of bacteria, reducing the reliance on human clinical microbiologists. The system achieved nearly 95% accuracy in identifying three types of bacteria, paving the way for a future diagnostic platform.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Microbiology·DateDec 15, 2017

Study prompts new ideas on cancers' origins

Researchers found that mature cells can revert to a stem cell-like state, carrying accumulated mutations that predispose them to developing into precancerous lesions. This new understanding could lead to the development of treatments targeting mature cells, potentially preventing cancer recurrence.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateDec 15, 2017

Error-free into the quantum computer age

Researchers developed trapped-ion quantum error correction protocols to detect and correct processing errors, enabling the creation of larger quantum computers. The study suggests that today's quantum computer prototypes can meet specific criteria with current ion-trap technologies.

SourceSwansea University·JournalPhysical Review X·DateDec 15, 2017

Heavy-petroleum fuels raising vanadium emissions

Human emissions of vanadium have spiked since the start of the 21st century due to heavy oil use, surpassing natural sources combined. The health risks of airborne vanadium particles are not well documented but may impair respiratory functions and exacerbate conditions like asthma.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 15, 2017