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Science News Archive November 2015 - Page 20


Page 20 of 35

Contact, connect and fuse: An ultra-structural view of the muscle formation process

Researchers used electron microscopy to study the dynamic process of myoblast fusion with muscle cells, revealing a series of distinct stages that require communication between transmembrane elements and actin cytoskeleton. The study provides insights into understanding muscle development and repair processes in vertebrates.

SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateNov 11, 2015

The Lancet: Progress against cancer in low-income and middle-income countries possible with package of targeted priority interventions

A package of targeted priority interventions can significantly decrease the cancer burden in low-income countries by 2030 and even greater declines by 2050. The essential package includes access to opioid-based pain medications, tobacco control measures, and HPV vaccination, which are feasible, cost-effective, and affordable.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 11, 2015

Titan takes on the big one

Researchers are using the Titan supercomputer to create physics-based earthquake simulations to better understand earthquake systems and predict ground shaking in large earthquakes. The team has completed its highest resolution simulation map for Southern California, providing a tool for engineers to design and build critical infrastru...

Going native -- for the soil?

Researchers found that native prairie gardens showed a general trend towards lower soil density, better root penetration, and greater water movement compared to adjacent lawns. However, the differences were not enough to conclude that prairie gardens are flat out better for soil than lawns.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateNov 11, 2015

A 'nervous system' for ant colonies?

Researchers studied ant colonies subjected to simulated predator attacks, revealing differentiated responses based on location. The results show that ants respond appropriately to damage, similar to single organisms, with colony-wide responses triggered by loss of workers within the nest.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 11, 2015

Plate tectonics thanks to plumes?

Researchers propose that mantle plumes played a crucial role in initiating plate tectonics on Earth. Computer simulations suggest that plume-induced weaknesses in the lithosphere could have led to the formation of subduction zones and the emergence of modern plate boundaries. The study provides a possible explanation for the early hist...

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateNov 11, 2015

Self-calibration enhances BrainGate ease, reliability

A new study improves BrainGate's user experience and performance with three software innovations, allowing users to control electronic devices without frequent recalibration. The advancements enable longer use sessions and improved accuracy, paving the way for a practical BCI assistive technology.

SourceBrown University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 11, 2015

What's the best time to launch a video game?

Researchers at the University of Maryland studied console and game sales data to understand how base proportions of console owners change over time. The study found that companies should weigh tradeoffs between early adopters and later adopters when releasing games, with optimal timing depending on console adoption patterns.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalInternational Journal of Research in Marketing·DateNov 11, 2015

So long, stethoscope? New device and iPhone alter exams

A new portable device called HeartBuds detects sounds inside the body as well as traditional stethoscopes, while also being more sanitary. The technology has been shown to perform just as well as expensive stethoscope models in detecting heart murmurs and carotid bruits.

SourceMediaSource·JournalJournal of Mobile Technology in Medicine·DateNov 11, 2015

Scientists ID genetic factors that influence body weight and neurological disorders

A new study by Berkeley Lab researchers has identified genetic factors that influence motor performance and body weight in a genetically diverse group of mice. The findings show significant overlaps with genes related to neurological disorders and obesity in humans, providing a new framework for studying these connections.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 11, 2015