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Science News Archive March 2018 - Page 13


Page 13 of 41

Can a smartwatch detect irregular heartbeat?

A smartwatch coupled with a machine learning algorithm detected atrial fibrillation (AF) with high accuracy in patients undergoing treatment for AF. The study used data from 9,750 participants and found promising results for the use of commercially available smartwatches to detect AF.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateMar 21, 2018

Learning to see

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital developed an artificial intelligence technique, AUTOMAP, that enables the production of high-quality images in less time and with lower doses. This approach uses deep learning to automatically determine the correct image reconstruction algorithm, allowing for instant feedback during scanning.

Design approach developed for important new catalysts for energy conversion and storage

Northwestern University researchers have discovered a new design approach for creating catalysts that can accelerate chemical reactions and processes, including clean energy conversion and storage. The method has the potential to impact various industries such as pharmaceuticals, optical data storage, and petroleum products.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 21, 2018

Seizures may be detected through sound

Researchers developed a novel method to detect ongoing seizures in comatose patients using brain waves converted to sound. The sonification of EEG provides a potential tool for quickly assessing patients with suspected subclinical seizures like nonconvulsive status epilepticus.

SourceWiley·JournalEpilepsia·DateMar 21, 2018

How trees coexist. New findings from biodiversity research published in Nature Communications

A study published in Nature Communications found that tree diversity and neighbourhood interactions significantly impact forest productivity, promoting more wood production and reducing soil erosion. By planting multiple native tree species at small spatial scales, afforestation programs can benefit from biodiversity conservation.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 21, 2018

Brain stethoscope listens for silent seizures

A new brain stethoscope technology has been developed that translates brain electrical activity into sounds, allowing medical professionals to detect silent seizures. Medical students and nurses were found to be remarkably accurate in identifying seizures with this tool, outperforming their traditional diagnostic abilities.

SourceStanford University·JournalEpilepsia·DateMar 21, 2018

Sweet surprise

Researchers studying cavefish found that they can live healthy lives with high blood sugar levels, contrary to what is seen in humans. The fish have insulin resistance but no apparent harm from chronically elevated glucose levels.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·DateMar 21, 2018

Cutting greenhouse gas emissions would help spare cities worldwide from rising seas

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions would significantly reduce sea level rise globally by the end of the century, especially for coastal cities on the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Cities like New York, Boston, London, and others would see substantial benefits from emission reductions.

Do young children learn anything from YouTube videos?

A study of 55 Indian children aged 6-24 months found they were attracted to music and could identify themselves in videos at various stages. However, despite interacting with parents during smartphone viewing, the children did not learn anything from the YouTube clips.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Paediatrica·DateMar 21, 2018

Conservation costs can be higher than bargained for

A new Michigan State University study reveals that participants in payments for ecosystem services programs may become conservation martyrs due to oversimplified payment models. The research highlights the importance of considering opportunity costs at the beginning and monitoring benefits over time to ensure participant well-being.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 21, 2018