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Science News Archive October 2018 - Page 24


Page 24 of 47

New memristor boosts accuracy and efficiency for neural networks on an atomic scale

Researchers demonstrate a new type of compound synapse that can achieve synaptic weight programming and conduct vector-matrix multiplication, achieving accuracies up to five times those of conventional devices. The development uses atomically thin boron nitride memristors running in parallel for energy-efficient performance.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateOct 16, 2018

Looking and listening for signals of navy test explosions off Florida coast

A team of researchers analyzed seismic and acoustic data from US Navy explosions off the Florida coast to better understand the relationship between local magnitude and charge weight. They found that both types of data can be used to identify underwater explosions, with seismic signals providing clearer evidence.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateOct 16, 2018

Infants are more likely to learn when with a peer

A new study found that infants who viewed instruction with a peer showed better neural response and improved phonemic learning compared to those who watched alone. The researchers suggest that social interaction increases arousal, which in turn boosts learning, and provide motivation for acquiring new skills.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 16, 2018

The science of sustainability

A new study presents a unified path for development and conservation, considering the needs of both people and nature. By using leading projections and aligning with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, researchers envision a world in 2050 where human well-being and nature thrive together.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateOct 16, 2018

Just how blind are bats? Color vision gene study examines key sensory tradeoffs

A new study reveals that bats' loss of UV vision may be linked to the development of advanced echolocation abilities. The research found that most bat species with high-duty cycle echolocation have non-functional SWS1 genes, suggesting a trade-off between vision and hearing.

Sydney to move away from CBD model

A recent study suggests that Sydney's urban structure is shifting from a monocentric city to a polycentric model, with populations aggregating around existing major urban areas. The study found that social cohesion and residential suburb attractiveness are key factors in driving this change.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateOct 16, 2018

Forest carbon stocks have been overestimated for 50 years

Researchers at CIRAD found an incoherence in a conversion factor for calculating basic wood density, leading to potential errors in estimating forest carbon stocks. The corrected formula will improve the accuracy of forest carbon assessments and understanding of forests' role in climate regulation.

SourceCirad·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateOct 16, 2018

'Terrorism does not terrorize' claims new study

A major review of 400 research articles found no significant association between acts of terrorism and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), suggesting that 'terrorism isn't terrorising' in terms of causing increased PTSD. The study argues that the focus on PTSD has overshadowed other impacts, such as social and economic effects.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateOct 16, 2018

True sanctuary

Researchers found high levels of illegal shark fishing in a Marshall Islands shark sanctuary, highlighting the need for active monitoring and enforcement. Satellite technology is proposed as a solution to track fishing vessels and monitor compliance with fishing regulations.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalConservation Letters·DateOct 16, 2018