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ScienceDaily: Most Popular News

Computer model will help design flexible touchscreens

New research has shown a new a way to design transparent conductors using metal nanowires that could enable less expensive -- and flexible -- touchscreens.

Anterior cruciate ligament injuries may be prevented by different landing strategy

Women are two to eight times more likely than men to suffer a debilitating tear of the anterior cruciate ligament in the knee and a new study suggests that a combination of body type and landing techniques may be to blame.

Robotic surgery complications underreported

Despite widespread adoption by hospitals of surgical robot technology over the past decade, a "slapdash" system of reporting complications paints an unclear picture of its safety.

Life without insulin is possible, study suggests

Several millions of people around the world suffer from insulin deficiencies. Insulin is a hormone, secreted by the beta cells in the pancreas, which plays a major role in the regulation of energy substrates such as glucose. This insufficiency, primarily caused by diabetes (types 1 and 2), has lethal consequences if it is not treated. As of now, only daily insulin injections allow certain patients to survive.

New evidence to aid search for charge 'stripes' in superconductors

Scientists have used an indirect method to detect fluctuating "stripes" of charge density in a material closely related to a superconductor. The research identifies a key signature to look for in superconductors as scientists seek ways to better understand and engineer these materials for future energy-saving applications.

Action-inaction balance in cultural values more common in East Asian countries

Researchers looked at the difference between action and inaction depending on what country you are in.

Soccer matches and concerts from any angle you choose

In future, soccer and music fans will be able to choose the camera angle when watching live matches and concerts on TV, or even enjoy a 360-degree view of proceedings: all thanks to a new panorama camera that is small, robust, and easy to operate.

Mouse groups reveal complex relationships: Mice living together exhibited a social structure based on multiple-level interactions

In mouse groups, scientists find an inverse link between environmental and social complexity.

Disrupted heartbeat restored with regenerative intervention

Researchers have found a way to resynchronize cardiac motion following a heart attack using stem cells. Scientists implanted engineered stem cells, also known as induced pluripotent stem cells, into damaged regions of mouse hearts following a heart attack.

The 'weakest link' in the aging proteome

Proteins are the chief actors in cells, carrying out the duties specified by information encoded in our genes. Most proteins live only two days or less, ensuring that those damaged by inevitable chemical modifications are replaced with new functional copies.

'We may be able to watch dark energy turn on': Unprecedented sky survey

Moonless nights outside the Cerro Tololo astronomical observatory in Chile are so dark that when you look down, you can't see your feet. "You can't see your hands," said a physicist. "But you can hold them up to the sky and see a hand-shaped hole with no stars in it. It's really incredible."

Level playing field for Clostridium difficile diagnosis

The largest study of its kind has shown the most effective test for the diagnosis of Clostridium difficile, a bacterial infection which causes 15,000-20,000 deaths a year in hospitals in the United States.

New system for quantum simulation proposed

Researchers have proposed a new platform for quantum simulation. They show that a combined system of ultracold trapped ions and fermionic atoms could be used to emulate solid state physics. This system may outperform possibilities of existing platforms as a number of phenomena found in solid state systems are naturally included, such as the fermionic statistics of the electrons and the electron-sound wave interactions.

Lobster shell disease expanding north: One of several diseases of marine organisms causing worry

Recent reports that lobster shell disease has turned up along the coast of Maine have fisheries scientists worried. They have been working to understand what causes the disease that has, until recently, been confined primarily to the waters of southern New England and Long Island Sound.

Breakthrough model holds promise for treating Graves' disease

Researchers have developed the first animal model simulating the eye complications associated with the thyroid condition Graves' disease, a breakthrough that could pave the way for better treatments, according to a recent study.

Two new versions of the flu vaccine arriving soon

Some of this year's flu vaccine will protect against four strains of the virus. There will also be vaccines which protect against three strains of the virus as well. This is the first year the four strain flu vaccine is available.

Scientists discover new bat species in West Africa

Biologists have discovered five new species of bats in West Africa.

Death by asexuality: Biologists uncover new path for mutations to arise

Ground-breaking new research from a team of evolutionary biologists shows for the first time how asexual lineages of a species are doomed not necessarily from a long, slow accumulation of new mutations, but rather from fast-paced gene conversion processes that simply unmask pre-existing deleterious recessive mutations.

Clay key to high-temperature supercapacitors

Clay, an abundant and cheap natural material, is a key ingredient in a supercapacitor that can operate at very high temperatures, according to researchers who have developed such a device.

Proteins in histone group might influence cancer development, study shows

Spool-like proteins called histones play a crucial role in packaging the nearly seven feet of DNA found in most human cells. It has been thought that a particular group of histone isoforms were functionally identical. This study shows that these isoforms can have distinct functions, and that they might play a role in cancer development. The results provide a new mechanism for the regulation of chromatin structure.

Breakthrough could make electronics smaller and better: Surprising low-tech tool -- Scotch tape -- was key

Scientists have discovered a groundbreaking technique in manufacturing nanostructures that has the potential to make electrical and optical devices smaller and better than ever before. A surprising low-tech tool of Scotch Magic tape ended up being one of the keys to the discovery.

Massive storm pulls water and ammonia ices from Saturn's depths

Once every 30 years or so, or roughly one Saturnian year, a monster storm rips across the northern hemisphere of the ringed planet. In 2010, the most recent and only the sixth giant storm on Saturn observed by humans began stirring. It quickly grew to superstorm proportions, reaching 15,000 kilometers (more than 9,300 miles) in width and visible to amateur astronomers on Earth as a great white spot dancing across the surface of the planet.

Twitter and privacy: One-in-five tweets divulge user location

Hashtag #doyouknowwhoswatchingyou? A new study sampled more than 15 million tweets, showing that even Twitter users who have opted-out of location tagging may be inadvertently revealing where they are through updates on the social media channel.

Scientists encounter holes in tree of life, push for better data storage

When it comes to public access, the tree of life has holes. A new study shows about 70 percent of published genetic sequence comparisons are not publicly accessible, leaving researchers worldwide unable to get to critical data they may need to tackle a host a problems ranging from climate change to disease control.

Why parenting can never have a rule book: Children's genetics significantly affect how they are parented

Any parent will tell you that there is no simple recipe for raising a child. Being a parent means getting hefty doses of advice -- often unsolicited -- from others. But such advice often fails to consider a critical factor: The child. A new review of dozens of studies involving more than 14,600 pairs of twins shows that children's genetics significantly affect how they are parented.

Brain wiring quiets the voice inside your head

Researchers have developed the first diagram of the brain circuitry that enables a complex interplay between the motor system and the auditory system to occur. The research could lend insight into schizophrenia and mood disorders that arise when this circuitry goes awry and individuals hear voices other people do not hear.

Whole genome sequencing provides researchers with a better understanding of bovine TB outbreaks

The use of whole bacterial genome sequencing will allow scientists to inexpensively track how bovine tuberculosis is transmitted from farm to farm, according to new research.

Promiscuity and sperm selection improves genetic quality in birds

Research shows that females can maximize the genetic quality of their offspring by being promiscuous. Researchers studied red junglefowl and found that mating with different males helps females produce healthier offspring -- due to a mechanism in their reproductive tract which favors sperm from the most genetically different males. This is important for animal breeders because it shows that allowing multiple matings produces the most disease resistant and genetically healthy offspring.

Multi-drug pills help people stick to heart disease prevention regimens

People are much more likely to take preventive medicines if they're combined in one pill, an international study has found.

Sleep boosts production of brain support cells

Sleep increases the reproduction of the cells that go on to form the insulating material on nerve cell projections in the brain and spinal cord known as myelin, according to an animal study. The findings could one day lead scientists to new insights about sleep's role in brain repair and growth.

Stressful life events significantly raise the risk of falls in older men

A study of around 5,000 older men has shown that stressful life events such as death of a loved one, or serious financial problems, significantly raised the risk of falls in the year following the incident.

Uncontrolled hypertension is common, but untreated, worldwide

A global study has found that many patients don't know they have hypertension and, even if they do, too few are receiving adequate drug therapy for their hypertension.

Association between hormone replacement therapy use and breast cancer risk varies

According to a new study, risk of breast cancer associated with use of hormone replacement therapy among postmenopausal women varies when analyzed by race/ethnicity, body mass index, and breast density.

Sports addictions can ruin relationships

Sports are an enjoyable past-time, but they should be just that. Youth sports and marriages can be ruined by an adult's addiction to the game.

Bizarre alignment of planetary nebulae

The final stages of life for a star like our Sun result in the star blowing its outer layers out into the surrounding space, forming objects known as planetary nebulae in a wide range of beautiful and striking shapes. One type of such nebulae, known as bipolar planetary nebulae, create ghostly hourglass or butterfly shapes around their parent stars.

Unexpected magic by cosmic rays in cloud formation

Physicists suggested that cosmic rays, energetic particles from space, are important in the formation of clouds. Since then, experiments have demonstrated that cosmic rays actually help small clusters of molecules to form. But the cosmic-ray/cloud hypothesis seemed to run into a problem when numerical simulations of the prevailing chemical theory pointed to a failure of growth.

Blue light observations indicate water-rich atmosphere of super-earth

Astronomers and planetary scientists have observed planetary transits of super-Earth GJ 1214 b (Gilese 1214 b). The team investigated whether this planet has an atmosphere rich in water or hydrogen. The observations show that the sky of this planet does not show a strong Rayleigh scattering feature, which a cloudless hydrogen-dominated atmosphere would predict. When combined with the findings of previous observations in other colors, this new observational result implies that GJ 1214 b is likely to have a water-rich atmosphere.

New groundbreaking research may expose new aspects of the universe

No one knows for sure, but it is not unlikely that the universe is constructed in a completely different way than the usual theories and models of today predict. The most widely used model today cannot explain everything in the universe, and therefore there is a need to explore the parts of nature which the model cannot explain. This research field is called new physics, and it turns our understanding of the universe upside down. New research now makes the search for new physics easier.

Using harsh verbal discipline with teens found to be harmful

A longitudinal study of 967 two-parent families and their children has found that harsh verbal discipline, the psychological force causing emotional pain or discomfort to correct or control behavior, in early adolescence can be harmful to teens later. Researchers found that harsh verbal discipline can cause teens to misbehave at school, lie to parents, steal, or fight. Moreover, parents' hostility increases the risk of delinquency and fosters anger, irritability, and belligerence in adolescents.

People who undergo cataract surgery to correct visual impairment live longer

People with cataract-related vision loss who have had cataract surgery to improve their sight are living longer than those with visual impairment who chose not to have the procedure, according to a new article. After comparing the two groups, the researchers found a 40 percent lower long-term mortality risk in those who had the surgery.

Nanostructures with potential to advance energy devices produced

An engineering professor and materials scientist have been experimenting for more than two decades with the highly intricate process of dealloying materials. A new article details how the process can be used to produce nanostructures that could enable advances in battery technology and other energy sources.

The African fish that lives fast and dies young

African annual fish take the adage 'live fast, die young' to a whole new level with the discovery that their short lifespan is accompanied by the most rapid sexual maturation of any vertebrate species. Extreme environments can give rise to extreme adaptations. The tiny annual fish of Africa live in temporary puddles created by seasonal rainfall, and so must grow and reproduce quickly in order to lay their hardy eggs before the waters dry up. African annual fish can grow up to 23% of their body length in a day.

Psychological effects of genetic testing for risk of weight gain

Obesity gene testing does not put people off weight loss and may help to reduce self-blame, according to a new study.

Childhood adversity linked to higher risk of early death

Traumatic childhood experiences are linked to an increased risk of early death, according to new research.

'Seeing' faces through touch

Our sense of touch can contribute to our ability to perceive faces, according to new research.

Wiring microbes to conduct and produce electricity faster

Scientists have found evidence that altering the chemistry of an electrode surface (surface engineering) can help microbial communities to connect to the electrode to produce more electricity (electron-exchange) more rapidly compared to unmodified electrodes. Electron exchange is at the heart of all redox reactions occurring in the natural world, as well as in bioengineered systems: so called 'biolectrochemical systems'. Practical applications of these systems include current generation, wastewater treatment, and biochemical and biofuel production.

Ability to delay gratification may be linked to social trust

A person's ability to delay gratification -- forgoing a smaller reward now for a larger reward in the future -- may depend on how trustworthy the person perceives the reward-giver to be, according to a new study.

The difference between obsession and delusion

Because animals can't talk, researchers need to study their behavior patterns to make sense of their activities. Now researchers are using a common zoological method to study people with serious mental disorders such as schizophrenia and OCD.

Pain-free microneedle influenza vaccine is effective, long-lasting

Scientists have developed an influenza vaccine delivered via microneedle patch that provided 100 percent protection against a lethal influenza virus in mice more than one year after vaccination.

New approach enhances quantum-based secure communication

Scientists have overcome an "Achilles' heel" of quantum-based secure communication systems, using a new approach that works in the real world to safeguard secrets. The team's research removes a big obstacle to realizing future applications of quantum communication, including a fully functional quantum network.

Simian foamy viruses readily occur between humans and macaques in urban Bangladesh

Scientists have been examining transmission of a virus from monkeys to humans in Bangladesh, one of the world's most densely populated countries. The scientists have found that some people in urban Bangladesh are concurrently infected with multiple strains of simian foamy virus, including strains from more than one source (recombinant) -- and call for more surveillance to prevent another outbreak like HIV.

Better hygiene in wealthy nations may increase Alzheimer's risk

New research has found a 'very significant' relationship between a nation's wealth and hygiene and the Alzheimer's 'burden' on its population. High-income, highly industrialized countries with large urban areas and better hygiene exhibit much higher rates of Alzheimer's.

Biologists uncover details of how we squelch defective neurons

Biologists have identified a new component of the cellular mechanism by which humans and animals automatically check the quality of their nerve cells to assure they're working properly during development.

New low-temperature chemical reaction explained

Unusual reaction, never fully understood, is important to fuel combustion, atmospheric chemistry and biochemistry. In all the centuries that humans have studied chemical reactions, just 36 basic types of reactions have been found. Now, a 37th type of reaction can be added to the list.

Faulty internal recycling by brain's trash collectors may contribute to Alzheimer's

A defective trash-disposal system in the brain's resident immune cells may be a major contributor to neurodegenerative disease, scientists have found.

Alzheimer's 'missing link' found: Promising target for new drugs

Researchers have discovered a protein that is the missing link in the complicated chain of events that lead to Alzheimer's disease, they report in the Sept. 4 issue of the journal Neuron. Researchers also found that blocking the protein with an existing drug can restore memory in mice with brain damage that mimics the disease.

Why energy drinks are harming children, adolescents

Parents beware. If your tots and teens get their hands on your energy drinks, they could experience seizures, heart palpitations or other problems that drive them to the hospital emergency room, experts say.

Air pollution worsened by climate change set to be more potent killer in the 21st century

This century, climate change is expected to induce changes in air pollution, exposure to which could increase annual premature deaths by more than 100,000 adults worldwide. Scientists urge, in the face of future climate change, stronger emission controls to avoid worsening air pollution and the associated exacerbation of health problems, especially in more populated regions of the world.

Measuring progress in nanotech design

Engineers have developed a way to measure electron band offset in nanodevices using laser spectroscopy.

New pathway discovered in blood vessel inflammation and disease

Researchers have identified a genetic factor that blocks the blood vessel inflammation that can lead to heart attacks, strokes and other potentially life-threatening events.

Genetic similarities between bats and dolphins discovered

The evolution of similar traits in different species, a process known as convergent evolution, is widespread not only at the physical level, but also at the genetic level, according to new research.

Personality interactions between animals may dictate outcomes in the wild

Examining the varying personality types of multiple animal species at once -- in addition to common single-species studies -- could help biologists better predict ecological outcomes, according to a recent study.

Training the older brain in 3-D: Video game enhances cognitive control

Scientists have found a way to reverse some of the negative effects of aging on the brain, using a video game designed to improve cognitive control.

TB and Parkinson's disease linked by unique protein

A protein at the center of Parkinson's disease research now also has been found to play a key role in causing the destruction of bacteria that cause tuberculosis, according to microbiologists.

More than one-third of populations worldwide may have low levels of vitamin D, study shows

A systematic review focused on patterns of vitamin D status worldwide and in key population subgroups, using continuous values for 25(OH)D to improve comparisons. Although a high degree of variability between reports of vitamin D status at the population level was found, more than one-third of the studies reviewed reported mean serum 25(OH)D values below 50 nmol/l.

Bismuth-carrying nanotubes show promise for CT scans

Scientists are placing bismuth in nanotubes to tag stem cells for efficient tracking with CT scanners.

West Antarctica ice sheet existed 20 million years earlier than previously thought

The results of new research mark the beginning of a new paradigm for our understanding of the history of Earth's great global ice sheets. The research shows that, contrary to the popularly held scientific view, an ice sheet on West Antarctica existed 20 million years earlier than previously thought.

Experimental compound reverses down syndrome-like learning deficits in mice

Researchers have identified a compound that dramatically bolsters learning and memory when given to mice with a Down syndrome-like condition on the day of birth. The single-dose treatment appears to enable the cerebellum of the rodents' brains to grow to a normal size.

New laser-based tool could dramatically improve the accuracy of brain tumor surgery

A new laser-based technology may make brain tumor surgery much more accurate, allowing surgeons to tell cancer tissue from normal brain at the microscopic level while they are operating, and avoid leaving behind cells that could spawn a new tumor.

Children benefit from positive peer influence in afterschool programs

Children in afterschool programs who have a sense of connectedness with their peers are less likely to report emotional problems. These children exhibit fewer behavior problems if they perceive their peers are willing to encourage them to behave well.

Spouses play an important role in planning for retirement, researcher finds

As Baby Boomers begin entering retirement, some may find themselves unprepared for the transition. New research indicates that spouses tend to have similar levels of planning for retirement. This planning can lead to more success and less stress when they leave the workforce.

Knowing exposure risks important to saving structures from wildfires

A study of one of California's most devastating wildland fires -- the 2007 Witch Creek/Guejito fire -- strongly suggests that measures for reducing structural damage and property loss from wildland urban interface fires are most effective when they are based on accurate assessments of exposure risks both for individual structures and the community as a whole.

Links made between problem gambling and substance abuse, and lack of treatment options

Problem gamblers are a hidden population among people with mental health or substance abuse issues. These people often don't get the treatment they need.

Scientists link a protein to initial tumor growth in several cancers

A team of scientists have shown that a protein once thought to inhibit the growth of tumors is instead required for initial tumor growth. The findings could point to a new approach to cancer treatment.

Tattoos reduce chances of getting a job

Having a tattoo can reduce your chance of getting a job, but it depends on where the tattoo is, what it depicts, and if the job involves dealing with customers.

Treatment of children with cerebral palsy could be boosted

Children with cerebral palsy could be helped to speak more clearly following the advice of new research.

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Wednesday, September 4, 2013

FeedaMail: ScienceDaily: Most Popular News