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Science News for February 23, 2018


Private browsing gets more private

A new system called Veil provides added protections for users in shared computing environments, ensuring data remains encrypted until displayed. The Veil system works by using a blinding server to transmit decrypted pages, making it harder for attackers to retrieve sensitive information.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateFeb 23, 2018

PSU study: Pro-diversity policies make companies more innovative and profitable

A recent study by Portland State University found that companies with pro-diversity policies experience increased innovation and improved financial performance. The research showed that diverse hiring practices lead to a wider range of talent and expertise, ultimately driving creative solutions and product introductions.

SourcePortland State University·JournalFinancial Management·DateFeb 23, 2018

How cities heat up

Researchers at MIT have discovered that cities with grid-like street patterns tend to accumulate more heat than those with chaotic patterns, leading to increased urban heat islands and health risks. The study provides new insights into the impact of city design on heat buildup, offering potential solutions for urban planners.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 23, 2018

Children's learning is not affected by repeated sick days with fever and infections

A register-based study covering 598,553 Danish children found that recurring less serious severe infections do not affect children's cognitive development or ability to complete primary and lower secondary school. In contrast, severe infections with hospitalisations were associated with a lower chance of completing 9th grade.

SourceAarhus University·JournalThe Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal·DateFeb 23, 2018
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Impact of misunderstanding genetic tests for heart conditions

Researchers found that patients at risk of inherited heart disease often don't understand the implications of genetic test results, leading to psychological and behavioral changes. This study highlights the need for better communication around cardiac genetic counseling prior to testing.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalJournal of Genetic Counseling·DateFeb 23, 2018

On second thought, the Moon's water may be widespread and immobile

A new study published in Nature Geoscience finds evidence of widespread and relatively immobile water on the Moon. The research suggests that the water may be present primarily as OH, a more reactive relative of H2O, which doesn't stay on its own for long.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature Geoscience·DateFeb 23, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Nanomushroom sensors: One material, many applications

A team of scientists at OIST has created a new biosensing material that can detect interactions at the molecular level, allowing for real-time monitoring of cell proliferation. The material uses gold nanostructures coated with silicon dioxide and capable of detecting extremely low concentrations of substances.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalAdvanced Biosystems·DateFeb 23, 2018

Emergency CT for head trauma may be overused, study shows

A study presented at the ARRS 2018 Annual Meeting found that emergency patients are often given unnecessary head CT scans, leading to radiation exposure and healthcare costs. Motor vehicle accidents were associated with a higher rate of non-indicated CT examinations.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·DateFeb 23, 2018

Transforming patient health care and well-being through lighting

Researchers explore the link between lighting spectral power distributions and wellness, with LED technology striving to bring new healthy lighting to market. The workshop white paper provides insights shaping the field for lighting designers and health-care providers.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·DateFeb 23, 2018
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Why is mining-related lung disease on the rise?

A new research project aims to determine why mine dust-related lung diseases are increasing in prevalence among coal workers. The study will use a multidisciplinary approach to examine the relationship between mine dust exposures and severe lung disease, with a focus on identifying critical risk factors.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateFeb 23, 2018

Screening for fracture risk in postmenopausal women is cost-effective

A large randomized controlled trial found screening using FRAX calculator and bone density measurements to be highly cost-effective in preventing osteoporosis-related fractures. The study showed significant savings due to prevention of all fractures, including hip fractures.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateFeb 23, 2018

Genetics makes Asians and Europeans susceptible to severe dengue

Researchers identified genetic variants associated with blood vessel inflammation and metabolism that increase risk of severe dengue. These findings provide insights into the pathophysiology of the disease and may lead to new therapeutic approaches.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateFeb 23, 2018

China's two-child policy may exacerbate gender inequality

Research found that women with less marital power have lower fertility autonomy and are more likely to succumb to pressure for a second child. The study highlights the need for policies to enhance women's status and address the disadvantages of childbearing

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalChinese Sociological Review·DateFeb 23, 2018
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Charging ahead to higher energy batteries

Scientists at Shinshu University develop a thin and dense connecting layer between electrodes using cubic crystal growth, improving lithium ion battery efficiency and addressing temperature issues.

SourceShinshu University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 23, 2018

Developing a 'living lab' to study energy-efficient logistics

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute will collaborate with private sector companies and local transportation agencies to develop changes in freight demand patterns and reduce energy use. The project aims to test new ideas, collect data, and inform research on energy-efficient transportation technologies and systems.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·DateFeb 23, 2018

Complex inhalers prevent patients from taking medicine

Researchers found that only 15% of patients with rheumatoid arthritis could use a HandiHaler inhaler correctly, while 94% of healthy controls could. The study highlights the importance of ensuring patients can properly use their prescribed inhalers to manage their respiratory disease.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalRespiratory Medicine·DateFeb 23, 2018
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Why are there so many types of lizards?

An ASU study has shed light on the biodiversity of anole lizard family trees by comparing their genomes with those of other animals. The research found that genes involved in interbrain development, color vision, and hormones may contribute to species boundaries.

SourceArizona State University·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateFeb 23, 2018
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Gerald R. Ford Airport wins 2018 Speas Award for stormwater treatment system

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport has implemented a $20 million stormwater/glycol treatment system to address community concerns and meet operational requirements. The system successfully eliminated the airport's contribution to nuisance biofilm growth in Trout Creek, improving the local ecosystem.

SourceAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics·DateFeb 23, 2018

Researchers combine metalens with an artificial muscle

Harvard researchers create an adaptive metalens that controls focus, astigmatism and image shift in real-time, like the human eye. The device is made possible by combining metalens technology with artificial muscle technology, enabling dynamic aberration correction for various applications.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 23, 2018

Stem cell study may result in stronger muscles in old age

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet discover high number of mutations in muscle stem cells impairing cell regeneration, which may result in new medication for building stronger muscles. The study found that physical exercise could clear out cells with many mutations.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 2018

German nights get brighter -- but not everywhere

A recent study by GFZ scientists found that German night lights increased in brightness, except for Thuringia, which showed a decrease. The reason behind this trend is still unknown, but researchers suspect it may be related to the transition from older lighting technologies to LED lamps.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·DateFeb 23, 2018
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Study: Police use of force is rare, as are significant injuries to suspects

A multi-site study found that police use of force is rare, accounting for less than 1% of all calls and arrests. Most significant injuries were associated with firearms and dogs, while conducted electrical weapons like Tasers were rarely used in force incidents.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJournal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery·DateFeb 23, 2018

Scientists take step toward safer batteries by trimming lithium branches

Scientists at Shinshu University have discovered a way to curb the dangers of lithium ion batteries by adding magnesium salt, which prevents dendritic branching and improves electrochemical stability. The goal is to create high-capacity batteries with improved reversibility for widespread use in electric vehicles.

SourceShinshu University·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·DateFeb 23, 2018
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

New link between gut bacteria and obesity

Researchers at Lund University found that certain amino acids in blood are connected to obesity and gut microbiome composition. The study analyzed 674 participants and identified metabolites linked to BMI, including glutamate and BCAA, which interact with intestinal bacteria.

SourceLund University·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateFeb 23, 2018

US hospitals testing experimental therapies to prevent two common bacterial infections

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases is supporting clinical trials testing monoclonal antibodies as preventive therapies for antibiotic-resistant infections. The trials aim to prevent pneumonia caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus, two bacteria posing a significant threat to human health.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 23, 2018

SwRI scientist helps characterize water on lunar surface

A Southwest Research Institute scientist contributed to a study indicating water and/or hydroxyl may be more prevalent on the Moon's surface than previously thought. The research used multiple instruments and investigations to better characterize the inferred measurements of water, suggesting it is present under wider ranging conditions.

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·JournalNature Geoscience·DateFeb 23, 2018
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

How does GEOS-5-based planetary boundary layer height and humidity vary across China?

Research found that GEOS-5-assimilated planetary boundary layer height (PBLH) and relative humidity (RH) vary significantly across China's four regions, with Tibetan Plateau having the highest PBLH values and South China the lowest RH. Seasonal variations also played a crucial role in shaping these patterns.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateFeb 23, 2018

Crop-saving soil tests now at farmers' fingertips

Researchers at Washington State University have developed a new method for soil pathogen analysis that is portable, fast and inexpensive. This breakthrough technology allows farmers to detect disease-causing pathogens in their soil quickly and make informed decisions about treatments or management changes before planting.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Visualized Experiments·DateFeb 23, 2018

Proxima Centauri's no good, very bad day

A team of astronomers discovered a massive stellar flare from Proxima Centauri, which raises questions about the habitability of its exoplanetary neighbor, Proxima b. The flare, detected by ALMA, was 10 times brighter than our Sun's largest flares and could have sterilized the surface of Proxima b.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateFeb 23, 2018
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Study tracks evolutionary transition to destructive cancer

A new study examines the evolutionary dynamics of cancer development in Barrett's Esophagus patients, revealing influences that lead some cells to remain stable while others become cancerous. The research provides insights into the genetic and chromosomal variations that predict progression to esophageal adenocarcinoma.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 2018

Looking for an off switch for celiac disease

Researchers at Stanford have discovered how a disease-associated protein gets inactivated, potentially paving the way for new treatments for celiac disease. The discovery of ERp57, an enzyme that re-forms a disulfide bond to turn off TG2, raises questions about its functions in healthy people and could lead to targeted therapies.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateFeb 23, 2018

The 'loudness' of our thoughts affects how we judge external sounds

A team of researchers from NYU Shanghai and NYU found that the 'loudness' of our thoughts affects how we judge external sounds. This is because imagery and perception activate the same auditory brain areas, leading to a decrease in sensitivity to actual loudness perception.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateFeb 23, 2018

Short-term use of IV devices is common -- and risky -- study shows

A new study reveals that nearly one in four PICC placements are made for less than five days, resulting in complications such as blocked lines, infections, blood clots, and serious kidney problems. This raises concerns about the risks associated with short-term IV device use.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Hospital Medicine·DateFeb 23, 2018

Combating sulphuric acid corrosion at wastewater plants

Researchers from Graz University of Technology have developed a holistic solution using geopolymer concrete to resist microbial induced concrete corrosion (MICC), a common issue in wastewater treatment facilities. This approach has shown promising results in reducing the lifespan of damaged systems and extending their service life.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalWater Research·DateFeb 23, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Kids from low-income areas fare worse after heart surgery, finds study

A national study of over 86,000 kids with congenital heart disease found that children from low-income neighborhoods had a higher mortality rate and higher hospital costs after heart surgery compared to those from higher-income neighborhoods. The disparity persisted even after accounting for race, insurance, and disease severity.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 23, 2018

NASA's SDO reveals how magnetic cage on the Sun stopped solar eruption

Scientists used NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory to study a massive sunspot group and found that a magnetic cage prevented a coronal mass ejection (CME) from erupting. The model showed that the conflict between the magnetic rope and cage led to a powerful X-class flare instead.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature·DateFeb 23, 2018
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

A specific new ELISA method for analyzing cetuximab

A highly sensitive and selective ELISA for cetuximab determination in human plasma samples has been developed. The assay limit of detection was 0.0015 μg/mL and the effective working dynamic range was 0.005-6.25 μg/mL.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Pharmaceutical Analysis·DateFeb 23, 2018

NIH launches international study of AMD progression

The NIH-led AMD Ryan Initiative Study (ARIS) will follow 500 people over five years to learn more about the natural history of early age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Researchers aim to identify biomarkers of disease progression and develop therapies to halt its progression.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·DateFeb 23, 2018

Model based on hydrothermal sources evaluate possibility of life Jupiter's icy moon

Researchers compared the conditions on Europa with those of a terrestrial environment, finding similarities with a deep subterranean mine where bacteria survive without sunlight. They propose that radioactivity in Europa's crust could lead to chemical imbalances and potentially support life.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 23, 2018
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.