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Scientists invent self-healing battery electrode

Researchers have made the first battery electrode that heals itself, opening a new and potentially commercially viable path for making the next generation of lithium ion batteries for electric cars, cell phones and other devices. The secret is a stretchy polymer that coats the electrode, binds it together and spontaneously heals tiny cracks that develop during battery operation, according to the research.

Near-future heat and precipitation extremes predicted

Unlike long-term climate predictions, forecasts about the next twenty to fifty years are fraught with major uncertainties. In spite of this, however, ETH-Zurich scientists have now managed to make projections about the future distribution of heat and precipitation extremes.

Graphene nanoribbons for 'reading' DNA

One of the methods used for examining the molecules in a liquid consists in passing the fluid through a nano-sized hole so as to detect their passage. Researchers have found a way to improve this technique by using a material with unique properties: graphene.

Volcano discovered smoldering under a kilometer of ice in West Antarctica: Heat may increase rate of ice loss

A temporary seismic array in Marie Byrd Land in West Antarctica recorded two bursts of activity in 2010 and 2011. Careful analysis of the events shows they originate from a subglacial volcano at the leading end of a volcanic mountain chain. The volcano is unlikely to erupt through the kilometer of ice that covers it but it will melt enough ice to change the way the ice in its vicinity flows.

Protein coding 'junk genes' may be linked to cancer

By using a new analysis method, researchers have found close to one hundred novel human gene regions that code for proteins. A number of these regions are so-called pseudogenes, which may be linked to cancer. The expectation is now that this recently developed protein analysis method will open up a whole new field of research.

Oxygen, phosphorus and early life on Earth

Two billion years ago the Earth system was recovering from perhaps the single-most profound modification of its surface environments: the oxygenation of the atmosphere and oceans. This led to a series of major changes in global biogeochemical cycles.

Sofrito contains substances that reduce risk of cardiovascular disease

The combination of tomato, olive oil, garlic and onion in a sofrito increases the amount of polyphenols and carotenoids. These bioactive compounds respectively help to prevent cardiovascular diseases and cancer. This study confirms sofrito as an essential part of the Mediterranean diet.

Videos more effective than texts in getting women to take action against breast cancer risks

A new study finds that video clips embedded on websites with public health messages do a better job than text alone at drawing attention to hazards, and in prompting the public to take recommended protective actions.

Two for one in solar power: New process could revolutionize solar energy harvesting

A process that could revolutionize solar energy harvesting has been efficiently demonstrated in solution for the first time.

Decline in creativity? It depends on how you look

Research has suggested that young Americans might be less creative than in decades past, even while their intelligence continues to rise. But new research, closely studying 20 years of student creative writing and visual artworks, hints that the dynamics of creativity may not break down as simply as that. Instead, it may be that some aspects of creativity — such as those employed in visual arts — are gently rising over the years, while other aspects, such as the nuances of creative writing, could be declining.

New heart disease and stroke prevention guidelines not fully supported by health insurance

The reality of existing insurance coverage precludes effective implementation of four newly released cardiovascular guidelines from the American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics supports the new guidelines and urges public and private insurance carriers to follow the recommendations so that Americans will have access to health care they deserve.

Nanoparticles to probe mystery sperm defects linked to infertility

A way of using nanoparticles to investigate the mechanisms underlying 'mystery' cases of infertility has been developed by scientists. The technique could eventually help researchers to discover the causes behind cases of unexplained infertility and develop treatments for affected couples. The method involves loading porous silica nanoparticle 'envelopes' with compounds to identify, diagnose or treat the causes of infertility.

Gentle pasteurization of milk – with microwaves

In the EU-funded project MicroMilk, researchers have developed a novel method for pasteurization of milk with microwaves. The system preserves the valuable components of milk, and is also suitable for heating viscous and concentrated dairy products due to minimized fouling formation. As a result, cleaning efforts can be reduced and detergents are saved. In the follow-up project MicroMilk Demo, the system will be transferred into industrial practice.

Cataract Surgery Saves $123.4 Billion in Costs, Delivers a 4,567% Return to Society

Cataract surgeries performed over one year eventually save $123.4 billion over 13 years and delivers a 4,567 percent financial return on investment to society according to the results of a cost-utility study. Researchers say that the results prove that healthcare interventions create substantial economic wealth.

Medication errors common on admission to mental health units

A recent study found that medication errors were common on admission to mental health services.

Ambiguous results in screening for celiac disease

Most children who undergo screening to detect gluten intolerance, celiac disease, can handle it well. However, many people feel that the discovery of the disease and the treatment they receive does not provide a better quality of life.

Study finds donor age not a factor in most corneal transplants

Ten years after a transplant, a cornea from a 71-year-old donor is likely to remain as healthy as a cornea from a donor half that age, according to a study. Corneas from donors over age 71 perform slightly less well, but still remain healthy for the majority of transplant recipients after 10 years, the study found.

Mandatory calorie postings at fast-food chains do not influence food choice

Posting the calorie content of menu items at major fast-food chains in Philadelphia, per federal law, does not change purchasing habits or decrease the number of calories that those customers consume, researchers have reported.

Safety in numbers? Not so for corals

Traditionally, it was assumed that corals do not face a risk of extinction unless they become very rare or have a very restricted range. A team of scientists has revealed that global changes in climate and ocean chemistry affect corals whether scare or abundant, and often it is the dominant, abundant corals with wide distributions that are affected the most.

Inflammatory skin damage blocked by bleach solution in animal study

Processes that age and damage skin are impeded by dilute bleach solution, according to a new study by researchers working with mice.

iPads help children with autism develop language

Some parents in a recent study were able to converse with their children for the first time with the help of language development programs on an iPad. Turns out children with autism can learn speech later than previously thought.

Promising approach to improve outcome for children with high-risk leukemia

Results from a new study is showing that a drug withdrawn from the market in 2010 may enhance the effectiveness of bone marrow transplants for select pediatric leukemia patients. Combining the drug gemtuzumab ozogamicin (GO) with conventional chemotherapy may improve the outcome of bone marrow transplantation for some children battling high-risk acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

'Mini-kidney' structures generated from human stem cells for first time

Diseases affecting the kidneys represent a major and unsolved health issue worldwide. The kidneys rarely recover function once they are damaged by disease, highlighting the urgent need for better knowledge of kidney development and physiology.

New device offers hope to people blinded due to incurable eye disorders

Research shows promising data about a device that helps people who have lost their vision due to a blinding genetic disease to recognize common objects. In the study, the researchers found when the objects' outlines had been enhanced, there was increased recognition. The device, called the Argus II, is the first FDA-approved retinal implant for adults with retinitis pigmentosa.

Eye injuries in NHL cost franchises more than $32 million

Research shows that wearing visors in the National Hockey League (NHL) could cause a four-fold decrease in the risk of eye injuries. Furthermore, the study found that eye injuries over the last 10 seasons have cost the NHL and its associated franchises more than $32 million in missed games.

Residents of most polluted US Cities have increased risk of dry eye syndrome

Residents of major cities with high levels of air pollution have an increased risk of dry eye syndrome, according to a study. Study subjects in and around Chicago and New York City were found to be three to four times more likely to be diagnosed with dry eye syndrome compared to less urban areas with relatively little air pollution.

Cardiac surgeon report cards do not influence referrals, study shows

Despite nearly universal awareness of report cards on risk-adjusted mortality rates of individual cardiac surgeons, cardiologists in New York State do not use these reports when making patient referral decisions.

Large-scale analysis describes inappropriate lab testing throughout medicine

A new study finds that, on average, 30 percent of all lab tests are probably unnecessary -- and equally as many necessary tests may be going unordered.

Childhood cancer treatment takes toll on hearts of survivors

Cancer treatment takes a toll on the hearts of child survivors, according to research.

Heart disease number one cause of pregnancy-related deaths in California

Heart disease is the leading cause of women's pregnancy-related deaths in California — but nearly one-third could be prevented.

BMI may predict heart disease risk for type-2 diabetic patients

Researchers have discovered a simple way to further predict a diabetic patient's risk for heart disease: by measuring their body mass index or BMI.

Environmental toxins linked to heart defects

Children's congenital heart defects may be associated with their mothers' exposure to specific mixtures of environmental toxins during pregnancy, according to research.

One minute of CPR video training could save lives

Just one minute of CPR video training for bystanders in a shopping mall could save lives in emergencies, according to research.

CPR for 38 minutes or longer improves chance to survive cardiac arrest

Performing CPR for 38 minutes or longer can improve a patient's chance of surviving cardiac arrest, according to a study.

Human error most common cause of birth asphyxia: Poor fetal monitoring in 50% of cases, Norwegian study shows

Human error is the most common cause of infant asphyxiation at birth, new research shows. Inadequate fetal monitoring, lack of clinical skills, and failure to obtain senior medical staff assistance are most often cited in Norwegian compensation claims following birth asphyxia.

World's smallest FM radio transmitter

Scientists have taken advantage of graphene's special properties —- its mechanical strength and electrical conduction —- and created a nano-mechanical system that can create FM signals, in effect the world's smallest FM radio transmitter.

Evidence found for granite on Mars

Researchers now have stronger evidence of granite on Mars and a new theory for how the granite – an igneous rock common on Earth -- could have formed there, according to a new study. The findings suggest a much more geologically complex Mars than previously believed.

With board games, it's how children count that counts

Researchers have examined whether playing board games can help children improve math skills. It turns out the method children use to count as they move their tokens on a board game is directly linked to their gains in numeracy. The new study suggests parents and teachers need to direct children's attention to the numbers on the board game in order to realize math gains.

Ancient, modern DNA tell story of first humans in the Americas

An anthropology professor has looked to DNA to tell the story of how ancient humans first came to the Americas and what happened to them once they were here.

Amber provides new insights into the evolution of Earth's atmosphere: Low oxygen levels for dinosaurs

Scientists have reconstructed the composition of the Earth's atmosphere of the last 220 million years by analyzing modern and fossil plant resins. The results suggest that atmospheric oxygen was considerably lower in the Earth's geological past than previously assumed. This new study questions some of the current theories about the evolution of climate and life, including the causes for the gigantism of dinosaurs.

More than 600 ancient seals and amulets found

Archaeologists have made an unusually large find in Turkey which has provided surprisingly vivid insights into the piety of the time. They discovered more than 600 stamp seals and cylinder seals at the sacred site of the storm and weather god Jupiter Dolichenus.

Together alone: Sportive lemurs stay individualists in relationships

During a one-year field study in Southern Madagascar scientists discovered that nocturnal white-footed sportive lemurs share a common territory with a pair partner of the opposite sex. This result clarified conflicting earlier reports on the social organization of this species.

Graphene: Minor rotation of 'chicken wire' has major consequences

Since the discovery of graphene, a great future has been predicted for the material, which is strong and highly conductive. The just one atom layer thick carbon can lead to new electronics. Examples include printable and flexible electronics, touch screens and OLEDs. For this, interaction with other materials is necessary, however. Researchers have now examined what happens at the interface with other materials and have thus brought graphene electronics a step closer.

Rate of aortic valve replacement for elderly patients increased; outcomes improved

Researchers have assessed procedure rates and outcomes of surgical aortic valve replacement among 82,755,924 Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries between 1999 and 2011.

Comparing outcomes of device for chest compressions vs manual CPR

Researchers assessed whether cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in which chest compressions are delivered with a mechanical device would result in superior 4-hour survival in patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest compared to CPR with manual chest compression.

Preventing antibiotic resistance in hospital textiles

"Antibiotic resistance threatens a return to the pre-antibiotic era". The World Health Organization uses this strong expression when referring to a phenomenon that is rapidly spreading: the increasing resistance of microorganisms to antimicrobial medicines, such as antibiotics. WHO estimates indicate that the excess mortality due to resistant bacterial hospital infections exceeds 25,000 every year, in Europe.

DIY and save: A scientist's guide to making your own lab equipment

Joshua Pearce has penned a how-to book on the open-source 3-D printing technology that could revolutionize how science is done all over the world.

Research program to tackle asteroid, space debris manipulation

World-leading scientists will push the boundaries of studies on how to deflect asteroids and manipulate space debris.

Untreated HIV carriers transmit resistant viruses

Human-Immunodeficiency Viruses that resist AIDS medicines are primarily transmitted by people who are not actually undergoing treatment. In order to prevent a spread of the resistant viruses increased efforts in prevention and early diagnosis of new infections are needed, as concluded by the Swiss HIV Cohort Study.

Bitter melon extract may have potential to fight head, neck cancer

Preliminary findings show bitter melon reduces cancer cell growth in animal model.

Physical fitness significantly improves survival, prevents heart attacks in people with stable coronary artery disease

A new study highlights the importance of exercise and physical fitness among people with stable coronary artery disease. Researchers found that higher levels of physical fitness lower the risk of having heart attacks and increase survival in those with coronary artery disease, whether or not they have had a procedure to open up their blocked arteries.

Researchers develop formula to more accurately calculate 'bad' cholesterol

Researchers have developed a more accurate way to calculate low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, the so-called "bad" form of blood fat that can lead to hardening of the arteries and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. If confirmed and adopted by medical laboratories that routinely calculate blood cholesterol for patients, the researchers say their formula would give patients and their doctors a much more accurate assessment of LDL cholesterol.

Novel gene variant discovered in severe childhood asthma

An international scientific team has discovered a gene associated with a high risk of severe childhood asthma. The specific gene variant may be an actual cause of this form of asthma, a leading cause of hospitalization in young children.

Graphene nanoribbons with nanopores created for fast DNA sequencing

Researchers have made an advance towards realizing a new gene sequencing technique based on threading DNA through a tiny hole in a layer of graphene. Earlier versions of the technique only made use of graphene's unbeatable thinness, but scientists now show how the material's unique electrical properties may be employed to make faster and more sensitive sequencing devices.

'Respiratory disorder' in the ocean

For more than four months, ocean scientists investigated the oxygen-poor upwelling regions in the tropical Pacific off Peru. First results show how eddies in the ocean influence the oxygen and nutrient distribution in the oxygen-poor regions.

Long-term oral contraceptive users twice as likely to have serious eye disease

Research has found that women who have taken oral contraceptives for three or more years are twice as likely to suffer from glaucoma, one of the leading causes of blindness which affects nearly 60 million worldwide. The researchers caution gynecologists and ophthalmologists to be aware of the fact that oral contraceptives might play a role in glaucomatous diseases, and inform patients to have their eyes screened for glaucoma if they also have other risk factors.

Digital radio requires high data rate

The digital radio DAB+ (Digital Audio Broadcast) must be assigned the capacity to broadcast with a high data rate, otherwise there is a risk for an inferior audio quality.

SlipChip counts molecules with chemistry and a cell phone

Limited access to expensive equipment and trained professionals can impede the diagnosis and treatment of disease. Qualitative tests that provide a "yes" or "no" answer (like at-home pregnancy tests) have been optimized for resource-limited settings, but most quantitative tests -- needed to determine precise concentrations, like viral loads -- are still done in a laboratory. Using a lab-on-a-chip device and a smartphone, researchers developed a method to determine the concentration of HIV RNA in a sample.

Consistent bed, wake time linked to healthier weight

Prior research has shown not getting enough sleep can impact your weight, but new research finds the consistency of your bed time and wake time can also influence body fat.

Deep-space radiation hazards documented and quantified

Scientists have published comprehensive findings on space-based radiation as measured by a detector aboard NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter. The data provide critical information on the radiation hazards that will be faced by astronauts on extended missions to deep space such as those to Mars.

After 84 years, von Neumann-Day math problem finally solved

A famous math problem that has vexed mathematicians for decades has finally met an elegant solution. Mathematicians have now described a geometric solution for the von Neumann-Day problem, first described by mathematician John von Neumann in 1929.

Structure of key part of deadly nipah virus captured

Researchers have solved the structure of a key protein in the Nipah virus, which could pave the way for the development of a much-needed antiviral drug.

Influence of pro-smoking media messages lasts 7 days, study finds

A first-of-its-kind study finds that an exposure to a single pro-smoking media message increases college-aged students' risk of using tobacco for seven days. The project is the first to attempt to quantify the persistence that cigarette advertising and other pro-smoking media messages have on consumers and has implications for policies that limit tobacco advertising and other efforts aimed at curbing youth tobacco use.

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Monday, November 18, 2013

FeedaMail: ScienceDaily: Most Popular News

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