October 31, 2012

It’s a Halloween full of Mother Nature’s tricks in a dozen states from the Alleghenies to the Atlantic Coast where officials are assessing the damage from Sandy. The hurricane that became an inland superstorm has brought historic storm surge flooding to coastal areas, dumped snow in mountain regions and left millions without electricity after high winds downed power lines. Source Link
 

Chalk up another benefit for the world’s original “wonder drug” -- researchers say aspirin could be used to treat colon cancer. About one out of six people diagnosed with colon cancer have a specific genetic makeup that responds to aspirin treatment. Those cancer patients who took aspirin lived longer than those who didn’t. Source Link

Are the iTunes people be ready to take their game to the streaming music world? A report says Apple is close to finalizing the rights for a streaming music service to challenge Pandora. The ad-supported app could come to the iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch next year. Source Link

October 30, 2012

Halloween is really scary when you consider it’s the deadliest day of the year for child pedestrian fatalities. Records show that the hour between 6 and 7 p.m. is the worst and that 12-to-15-year-olds are the most likely victims when crossing a street at mid-block, so drivers need to be extra careful and look out for trick-or-treaters of all ages. Source Link

Speed-learning a new language could be the fast lane to building your brain. A study found that those who took a crash course in a new language had more brain growth than medical students. Previous research has shown that multilingual people develop Alzheimer's disease at a later age. Source Link

Want to stop those annoying robocalls and earn $50,000? That’s the prize being offered by the Federal Trade Commission for the winning suggestion in a contest to find a technical solution to stop illegal automated telemarketing calls. Any crackdown would not affect political robocalls, which are allowed under federal law. Source Link

October 29, 2012

The Eastern Seaboard is bracing for wild weather as Hurricane Sandy comes ashore bringing heavy rains, high winds and coastal flooding. The tropical storm could combine with a wintry weather system moving east to compound the misery. Some forecasters say storm damage could top $10 billion. Source Link

Just how much caffeine are you getting in that energy drink? A Consumer Reports study found that many energy drink product labels don’t even list caffeine, and some that do aren’t accurate.  It’s a growing concern as young people are switching from sugary sodas to energy drinks that are loaded with caffeine. Source Link

It’s a hackers wish come true -- a new report says the most popular computer password is still “password.” A look at the list of most-stolen passwords also includes the favorites “123456” and “abc123.” Newcomers to this year’s worst  password list include “jesus,” “ninja,” “welcome” and “password1.” Source Link

October 26, 2012

In the world of Windows, Microsoft is hoping you’ll think that 8 is great. The software giant is unveiling its Windows 8 operating system that ditches the Start button and desktop icons for tiles and touchscreen features. Windows 8 is a cross-platform system to power new smart phones, tablets and PC’s. Source Link
 
Keeping your brain sharp as you age may have more to do with physical workouts than working on puzzles. A study found that people who stayed physically active into old age tended to have larger brains than those who did not. Shrinking brain size is often associated with age-related memory problems. Source Link

A new survey says the average household will spend $80 on Halloween, but there are ways to save money on that scary fun. Homemade costumes can cut the cost, and something as simple as a colored bulb in a porch light can make outdoor decorating affordable. And you’ll save by waiting until just before Halloween to buy candy. Source Link

October 25, 2012

When’s the best time to get the lowest price for airline tickets? Here’s a hint -- it’s not months in advance. A report from the travel web site Kayak.Com found that for domestic flights, tickets bought 21 days before departure had the lowest prices. For international flights, the best prices came 34 days before take-off. Source Link

Weight loss surgery can leave some people trading one addiction for another. A new study found a link between gastric bypass surgery and an  increased use of alcohol for some patients. Experts say so-called addiction replacement occurs when eating no longer provides an emotional release. Source Link

Parents need to update their advice to kids about crossing the street to say, “Look both ways and turn off the cell phone.” A new report says teenagers are twice as likely as adults to be hit by a car because they were distracted by using a cell phone or a music player.  Jaywalking was the number-one cause of pedestrian accidents involving teens. Source Link

October 24, 2012

The little brother to the world’s biggest selling tablet computer is officially here. Apple has unveiled its new smaller-screen iPad that will compete with Amazon’s Kindle Fire HD, Google’s Nexus 7 and e-readers like the Barnes and Noble Nook. The new iPad mini model will ship November 2nd with a starting price of  $329. Source Link 
 
Is that office chair your worst enemy when it comes to good health? A new study found that even those who exercise regularly face a higher risk of diabetes and heart disease from too much sitting. The average adult spends about half their day sitting, but you can break up that time with short walks, stand-up meetings and less time sitting while watching TV. Source Link

It appears that we’re hard-wired to hate harsh sounds like fingernails on a blackboard. Researchers say such sounds trigger a part of the brain that turns up our negative reaction. A study showed that the sound of metal scraping on glass is the most annoying, while the most pleasant sound is applause. Source Link

October 23, 2012

The hottest trend in early voting may not be good news for those who want every vote to be counted. A new report says mail-in ballots are twice as likely to be rejected because of errors in the way they’re completed. Experts suggest using in-person early voting centers where poll workers can help prevent ballot errors. Source Link

America’s cholesterol is down. The latest national study shows average cholesterol levels have dropped ten points in the last two decades. Researchers think one reason for the improvement could be that Americans are eating less trans fats that can raise cholesterol levels. Source Link

Following the news is one of America’s favorite pastimes. A survey found that two out of three people say they like to keep up with the news, with TV as the favorite news medium and online sources running a close second. About one out of eight people say following the news is their top hobby. Source Link

October 22, 2012

It’s the rubber game of the match tonight as their third and final debate gives President Barack Obama and challenger Mitt Romney a final chance to sway undecided voters with Election Day just two weeks away. Romney was the clear winner of the first face-off, while the President scored more points in their second debate last week. Source Link

Leaves aren’t the only thing falling this time of the year. Gasoline prices are dropping nationwide as inventories rise now that refiners have completed the switch to a winter blend. An unusual autumn price spike saw drivers paying more at the pump after Labor Day, when the end of summer driving usually brings prices down. Source Link

Study time is also often snack time for students, but what’s best to boost their brain power? Healthy carbs provide steady energy and can give you more of the natural body chemical that calms the brain. Reach for cereals and snacks with whole grains and fruits like grapes or apples that are naturally sweet and high in fiber.  Source Link

October 19, 2012

A first-of-its-kind study shows that taking a daily multivitamin can lead to a reduced risk of cancer for men. Researchers say the 10-year study showed an 8% reduction in total cancer cases for middle-aged and older men who took a multivitamin each day, but there was no reduction in rates of prostate cancer. Source Link

America’s seniors have a choice to make now that the annual open enrollment period for Medicare is underway. Officials say there are more top-rated Medicare plans available for 2013. And the Medicare prescription drug coverage gap known as the "donut hole" will continue to shrink as part of the 2010 health care reform law. Source Link 


Microsoft is trying to get the jump in the battle for tablet computer sales. Buyers can now pre-order the new Microsoft Surface tablet that will hit stores in one week. The iPad-sized touchscreen model runs on the new Windows 8 platform and offers twice the storage memory of the iPad for same $499 price. Source Link

October 18, 2012

Last month tied the record for the hottest September the world has ever recorded. Some experts think that September is becoming a warmer month worldwide because summer weather is lengthening due to global warming. The past 12-month period ranks as the third-warmest ever in the United States. Source Link

In the battle to beat Type 2 diabetes, it may not be how long you exercise, but how hard you do it. A new study found that fast walking, jogging, and other forms of more vigorous exercise may cut your risk for diabetes. Experts say any kind of exercise that makes you sweat can help lower your risk. Source Link

Is your cell phone preventing you from making new friends? A study found that people reported less of a connection with someone they spoke with who had their phone sitting out on the table. Experts think just the presence of the phone introduces a barrier that takes away from face-to-face communication between people. Source Link

October 17, 2012

It's time for the hype to hit the streets regarding the long-rumored smaller version of the world’s most popular tablet computer. An announcement expected from Apple next week could be news of the iPad Mini. The downsized model with a price tag rumored to start at $299 could be the hot tech gift item for this holiday season. Source Link

Making labels easier to read could be the prescription for fewer errors when people take their medicine. There are proposals to simplify the language used on labels for how much to take and how often to take it. Studies show that nearly half of patients misunderstand the instructions of prescription drug bottles. Source Link

Some kids may not agree, but a new study claims that eating your veggies makes you happier. Researchers found that those who ate seven servings of fruits and vegetables reported the highest levels of happiness. The more servings that were eaten each day, the higher the happiness levels. Source Link

October 16, 2012

It’ll be a closely-watched re-match in the second debate between President Barack Obama and challenger Mitt Romney. Tonight’s town hall meeting format with audience questions offers the President a chance to redeem himself after a poor performance in the first presidential debate two weeks ago that energized the Romney campaign. Source Link

There are now fewer deaths from cancer, heart disease and stroke, but deaths from diabetes are on the rise. The latest figures also show that more people are dying from chronic respiratory diseases. The average life expectancy for men is 76 years and 81 years for women. Source Link

Here’s a good reason to keep your Facebook posts to just your friends. A survey found that one out of three employers uses Facebook to research job applicants. And about one out of ten say they use the social network to find reasons not to hire someone.The solution is change your Facebook settings to remove your profile from public searches. Source Link

October 15, 2012

Why wait until “Black Friday” for the best shopping deals when it’s Green October now? A Wall Street Journal study of two years of daily prices for typical gifts found that early in the holiday shopping season is the best time to buy many items. And those Black Friday items with deep discounts were often in short supply. Source Link

When selecting a weight loss program, is it better to go with a medical professional or a commercial program led by successful dieters? A new study found both have about the same success rate, but twice as many participants in a Weight Watchers program lost at least 10% of their weight as compared those in a medically-supervised plan. Source Link

It’s a messaging malady that affects millions of people who live by their smart phones. Doctors say “text neck” is the neck and shoulder muscle strain caused by hunching over with your head tilted down while using a handheld device. Better posture is the solution and there’s even a smart phone app to help you avoid the problem. Source Link

October 12, 2012

Want to live a happier life? Try setting the alarm clock earlier. In a new study, morning people said they are happier with life than night owls. Experts say it’s not just an attitude, because people who are early risers often get better sleep, and that can benefit the body’s immune system. Source Link

If you think that using a no-fat dressing on your salad is the most-healthy choice, you may want to think again. A new study found that many of the important nutrients and vitamins in salad vegetables aren’t fully absorbed by the body without a touch of fat. Researchers say olive-oil based dressings offered some of the best results with the fewest grams of fat. Source Link

There’s new evidence that keeping it too quiet can keep you from being creative. Researchers found that moderate background  noise comparable to the sound of a busy coffee shop triggers the brain to think abstractly. But adding the noise track on the job works best only in limited doses and for people who are already in the habit of thinking out of the box. Source Link

October 11, 2012

The second-in-commands take the top spot tonight in the 2012 Vice Presidential debate. Democrat incumbent Joe Biden is looking to redeem his ticket after last week’s lackluster debate performance by President Obama, while Republican challenger Congressman Paul Ryan appears in his first debate as a national candidate.  Source Link

When it comes to winning the battle of the bulge, it may not be what you eat, but also when you eat it. Researchers say mice who ate for just eight hours a day gained less weight than those who could eat the same amount of food any time. Experts think the liver and intestines may have times of the day when they work at peak efficiency to limit how many of those calories end up around your waist. Source Link

America’s favorite snack brand is not some spicy flavor mix. An annual consumer survey named Ritz crackers as tops among snackers. It’s followed by Lay’s potato chips, Doritio’s, Frito’s and Orville Redenbacher’s popcorn.  Wheat Thins, Tostitos, Cheetos, Pringles and Triscuit round out the top-ten. Source Link 

October 10, 2012

There’s new evidence that indoor tanning may lead to more skin cancer. A study found that those who use tanning beds were more likely to develop common, less-deadly skin cancers. And researchers say more non-melanoma cancer cases occurred among people who start tanning before the age of  25. Source Link

As government regulators consider whether to give Internet users the legal power to say “do not track me,” a survey says most people don’t want their online activities followed by marketers. Nine out of ten people either want “do not track” regulations or built-in options to block online tracking that can serve up personalized ads. Source Link

Want to improve your concentration at work? Spend a few minutes browsing pictures of puppies and kittens. A new study found that participants had better focus on tasks after viewing pictures of cute animals. Researchers say viewing the adorable images makes people behave more deliberately and perform tasks with greater time and care. Source Link

October 9, 2012

Today’s new cars are going on a weight loss plan, even if the drivers aren’t. With fuel mileage linked to the weight of the car, automakers are using lighter materials and replacing physical items to shave those pounds. But America’s growing obesity epidemic challenges those changes as drivers and passengers put more weight into the car. Source Link

October is Fire Safety Month, and a new survey shows that many families are not prepared to escape a house fire safely. Only about 40% of children say they’ve practiced a home fire drill, and just one-in-three know of a prearranged family meeting place. Over 3,000 people die in house fires each year in North America. Source Link

A new report says drunk driving among high school students has been cut in half. The CDC data shows only 10% of 16-to-19 year-olds now drink and drive. The rate was twice that in 1991. Most teenagers who admit to drinking and driving also say they are binge drinkers who consume five or more drinks in a short time. Source Link

October 8, 2012

The recession continues in America’s maternity wards, as the nation’s birth rate has dropped for the fourth consecutive year. Experts say many couples continue to put-off starting or growing a family because of hard economic times. The figures for 2011 also show an historic drop in teen births, which were the lowest in 65 years. Source Link 

So what’s it worth to get your Facebook post at the top of the news feed for all of your friends? How about $7? That’s what Facebook is charging in a U.S. test of its “promoted posts” feature. It’s the latest move to find new revenue streams for the social network whose stock value has dropped by nearly half since its public debut back in May. Source Link

The world’s most valuable brand name isn’t on a smartphone, a website or a car nameplate. For the 13th consecutive year, Coke has been named the number-one brand in a global survey that measures value in terms of sales and marketing. Apple ranked second, and was among five tech companies in top 10 of the most valuable brands. Source Link

October 5, 2012

The old adage about “working up an appetite” may not be accurate, according to a new study. Researchers found that 45 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous exercise in the morning actually reduces your motivation for food. And the morning exercise routine lead to more physical activity throughout the day. Source Link

With so many choices for baby names these days, how do you pick one? Why not ask your online friends? Crowdsourcing baby names is a new trend, with websites that will help solicit suggestions from online acquaintances. The technique was used by the new CEO of Yahoo who polled friends and family for name suggestions for her newborn son. Source Link 


A 43-year old former military parachutist is preparing for an attempt to become the first person to break the sound barrier in a free fall. On Monday, Felix Baumgartner will jump from a balloon hoisted 23 miles above the New Mexico desert. He’ll wear a pressurized suit and helmet in the jump that will be broadcast live on the Internet. Source Link

October 4, 2012

There are 82 shopping days until Christmas, and a new survey says more than half of us will be spending the same amount or more on gifts this year.  The PriceGrabber report found that 50% of people plan to hold their holiday spending to last year’s levels and 12% will spend more. And nearly one-in-three say they’ll begin their holiday shopping this month. Source Link

If it works for summer’s worst weather, why not winter too? That’s the idea behind The Weather Channel’s plan to begin naming noteworthy winter storms. The cable forecasters say naming winter storms can raise awareness and preparedness. Their first batch of winter storm names includes Greek gods, famous scientists and characters from Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings. Source Link

Your holiday home video entertainment could include that latest entry in the streaming wars. The new Redbox Instant service is expected to debut by December. The joint venture between with Verizon will charge a monthly fee for an allotment of DVDs from Redbox kiosks along with streaming programs and rentals and purchases of new releases. Source Link

October 3, 2012

The presidential campaign shifts into high gear tonight with the first of three debates between Democrat incumbent Barack Obama and Republican challenger Mitt Romney. The face-off in Denver could offer Romney a chance to level the playing field in the race, while the President returns to a debate setting that he now must use to defend his record in office. Source Link

A new study shows that young children can spend an average of four to six hours a day in a room where a TV is playing. That’s bad news, because the sounds from a TV program can distract children’s play, which is the way kids learn problem solving and communications. The solution is to turn off the TV if no one’s watching it, and limit TV time when children are present. Source Link

Some owners of the new iPhone 5 are getting a shock as they’ve burned through a month’s worth of data allowance in less than two weeks. Apple admits the new smartphone is sometimes using cellular data service even when connected to WiFi. A fix is in the works and carriers say users hit with the double dip won’t face any overage charges. Source Link

October 2, 2012

Election Day is becoming Election Month as early voting is underway in over two dozen states where ballots can now be cast for the general election on November 6th. Voters in the key swing state of Ohio begin casting ballots today. Some estimate that as many as 40% of voters nationwide will cast their ballots before Election Day. Source Link

A new government report says only 3% of internet pharmacies meet state and federal guidelines and most of the prescription drugs bought online are probably fraudulent and could be harmful. The FDA is launching a new educational campaign with a website that explains how to look for a reputable online pharmacy. Source Link

Keeping drinks calorie-free for teenagers can prevent weight gain in young people who are overweight or obese. A new study showed that those who stopped the sugar-sweetened drinks for a year gained less weight.  Researchers say no other single food product has been shown to change body weight this much through its reduction. Source Link

October 1, 2012

Believe it or not, reading can make you thinner -- when you’re doing your reading at the grocery store. A new study found that people who read food labels while they grocery shop are thinner than people who don't. More women than men read food labels that list nutritional values like calories and amounts of fat, sugar  and sodium. Source Link

Watching Internet video is a big hit on the big screen. A new report says more people are now watch streaming video on their television sets than on computer monitors. The main reason for the move up to the big screen is Netflix, which accounts for 40% of all online content that’s viewed on televisions. Source Link


On the search for America’s safest drivers, it’s a good idea to head for the Badlands. A new report lists Sioux Falls, South Dakota as the city with drivers who are the least likely to get in an accident. Among America’s largest cities, the safest drivers are in Phoenix, and the worst are in Philadelphia. Source Link