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Science News Archive February 2018


Page 1 of 36

Understanding the smallest brain circuits

Researchers recorded electrical activity of hundreds of neurons in a mouse model for up to half an hour, discovering competing neural networks that operate at different timescales. The findings show that certain networks can synchronize their activity, while others slow down or speed up in a coordinated manner.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 28, 2018

Novel 3-D printing method embeds sensing capabilities within robotic actuators

Researchers at Harvard University have developed a platform for creating soft robots with embedded sensors that can sense movement, pressure, touch, and even temperature. This innovation enables complex sensing motifs to be easily integrated into soft robotic systems, opening new avenues to device design and fabrication.

Moms who co-sleep beyond six months may feel more depressed, judged

Research finds that mothers who continue to co-sleep with their babies past six months are more likely to feel depressed, criticized, and anxious about their baby's sleep. Despite the trend to discourage co-sleeping, experts emphasize the importance of finding a sleep arrangement that works for everyone in the family.

SourcePenn State·JournalInfant and Child Development·DateFeb 28, 2018

Naked-eye detection of solvent vapor

Scientists at University of Tsukuba create effective fluorescent sensor for detecting solvent vapor, utilizing a branched molecule called a dendrimer. The sensor can distinguish between various solvents through changes in emission color and intensity.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalChemical Communications·DateFeb 28, 2018

Assessing quantum dot photoemissions

Researchers at Kumamoto University developed a technique to assess quantum dot photoluminescence emission mechanisms using polyoxometalates. The study revealed previously unseen peak emissions at 410 nm due to bulk defects in the quantum dots.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateFeb 28, 2018

The fine-tuning of two-dimensional materials

Scientists at Penn State have developed a new understanding of why synthetic 2D materials often perform orders of magnitude worse than predicted. By using oxygen-terminated substrate surfaces, they enhanced the photoluminescence intensity and carrier lifetime of molybdenum disulfide by 100 times.

SourcePenn State·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 28, 2018

Unlocking the secrets of the universe

A team of astronomers has detected the fingerprints of the earliest stars in the universe, revealing a wealth of information about their formation and evolution. The detection provides the first evidence for the oldest ancestors in our cosmic family tree, born just 180 million years after the universe began.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature·DateFeb 28, 2018

Risso's dolphins plan their dives

Researchers found that Risso's dolphins gather information from previous dives and combine it with present experience to optimize their dives. The dolphins adjust their strategy based on the depth distribution and availability of prey, showcasing advanced planning abilities.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateFeb 28, 2018

Is obesity associated with having a shorter life?

A recent study published in JAMA Network found that obesity is associated with a significantly shorter lifespan and an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease. In contrast, being overweight was not linked to a reduced risk of death but did increase the likelihood of developing CVD at a younger age.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateFeb 28, 2018

3-D simulations reveal synergistic mechanisms of the human heart

A new study introduces a holistic 3D numerical simulation model of the human heart, taking into account the mutual interaction between blood flow and individual components. The model reveals complex effects of heart strings on the mitral valve, shedding light on potential strategies for preventing cardiac problems.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateFeb 28, 2018

Nut consumption may aid colon cancer survival

A new study found that people who regularly eat nuts have a significantly lower risk of colon cancer recurrence and mortality. Nuts also improve disease-free survival and overall survival rates by reducing insulin resistance. Regular nut consumption is associated with being leaner, contrary to concerns about high fat content.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateFeb 28, 2018

The factors that most affect our immune system

A large-scale study of French volunteers found significant immune variation among individuals due to differences in sex and age, as well as genetic variations. These findings shed new light on potential causes of diseases such as pollen allergy and lupus erythematosus.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalNature Immunology·DateFeb 28, 2018

Solar-to-hydrogen conversion: Nanostructuring increases efficiency of metal-free photocatalysts by factor 11

Researchers developed nanostructured polymeric carbon nitrides as catalysts for hydrogen production, increasing efficiency under visible light irradiation. The nanostructure with large pores and specific functionalities improved the catalytic properties, approaching that of inorganic catalysts.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateFeb 28, 2018

Dressing atoms in an ultracold soup

Physicists have discovered a way to create complex structures called Rydberg polarons using ultracold strontium atoms, which can be assembled like Lego blocks. The findings reveal new insights into the basic nature of matter and challenge traditional chemistry laws.

SourceRice University·JournalPhysical Review A·DateFeb 28, 2018

Mapping the neural circuit governing thirst

Caltech scientists have identified a hierarchical neural circuit in the mouse brain that regulates thirst, involving excitatory and inhibitory neurons. The study reveals how this circuit integrates signals from the subfornical organ and organum vasculosum laminae terminalis to initiate drinking behavior, while also providing insight in...