Scientists hit by fallout from loss of public confidence in climate science

LONDON – A top US academic has claimed that the fallout from a loss of public confidence in climate science is affecting other fields of research.

American opinion polls point to a general deterioration in people’s faith in science, Dr Ralph Cicerone, president …. Original article  : Scientists hit by fallout from loss of public confidence in climate science.

Global warming both bane and boon for world’s poor

WASHINGTON – A new study by researchers at Stanford University, US, has determined that global warming may have an adverse impact on food prices and hunger in poor populations of the world, while others would be helped out of poverty because of it.

Researchers say that higher temperatures … Read more >>>.

7,000-year-old bricks discovered in China

NEW DELHI – Archaeologists have unearthed bricks dating back 5,000 to 7,000 years in northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, adding between 1,000 to 2,000 years onto Chinese brick-making history.

“The five calcined bricks were unearthed from a site of the Yangshao Culture Period … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 7,000-year-old bricks discovered in China.

Diabetes drug ‘ups heart disease, death risk’

LONDON – US senators have linked a diabetes drug to heart disease and death.
They have claimed that the drug Avandia used by tens of thousands of Britons increases the risk of heart problems and could even lead to death, reports the Telegraph.he US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the medicines …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Most test tube babies kids are ‘healthy’

WASHINGTON – Scientists have found only a few medical differences between children born as a result of assisted reproduction and kids conceived in the traditional way.

More than three million children have been born worldwide as a result of assisted reproductive technologies since the birth of the first …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Most test tube babies kids are ‘healthy’.

High Vitamin D levels in middle-age cut down heart disease risk

LONDON – The middle-aged and the elderly with high vitamin D levels could cut down risks of developing heart disease or diabetes by 43 percent, says a new research.

A Warwick Medical School research team carried out a systematic review of studies examining vitamin D and cardiometabolic disorders.
Cardiometabolic disorders include cardiovascular disease, type … Read more »»».

US plastic bag fee forces question from ‘paper or plastic?’ to ‘pay or no bag?’

Plastic bags in US _ to pay or not to pay?

WASHINGTON – For decades the standard question at U.S. grocery store check-out counters has been “Paper or Plastic?” But since January, consumers in the U.S. capital have faced a different question: “Will you pay 5 cents for a bag?”
Europeans have long accepted the idea of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US plastic bag fee forces question from ‘paper or plastic?’ to ‘pay or no bag?’.

‘Cosmic candles’ result of colliding dead stars

SYDNEY – In a new research, scientists have found that supernova, which are ‘cosmic candles’ used to fix the distance of objects in the universe, are caused by the merger of two small dead stars called white dwarfs.

For some time, there have been two most likely scenarios for what is causing these most generic explosions … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘Cosmic candles’ result of colliding dead stars.

Corals reef in danger of being wiped off the face of the Earth

WASHINGTON – If reports are anything to go by, then coral reefs are in danger of being wiped off the face of the Earth, all due to global warming.

Corals get most of their energy from microscopic algae that live in their tissue. These algae are colourful and are what gives corals their vivid hue.
When environmental …. Read the original article  : here.

Governments ‘underestimating’ scale of CO2 emissions

WASHINGTON – A new research has concluded that policymakers in Europe and US are markedly underestimating the changes needed to mitigate carbon dioxide (CO2) emission required to prevent dangerous climate change because they work in ’silos’.

Dr Sebastian Carney, from The University of Manchester, UK, discovered that the lack of communication between government departments, NGOs and …. Original article  : Governments ‘underestimating’ scale of CO2 emissions.

Ultra-fast tabletop X-ray laser may be used for high-resolution imaging

WASHINGTON – Recent breakthroughs by a team of scientists have paved the way on how to build a ultra-fast tabletop X-ray laser that could be used for super high-resolution imaging.

Both of these feats could lead to major breakthroughs in many fields including medicine, biology and nanotechnology development.
Research into the field is being carried out by …. Read the original article  : here.

Siesta makes you smarter

WASHINGTON – If you see a student dozing in the library or a co-worker catching 40 winks in her cubicle, don’t snigger. New research from the University of California, Berkeley (UC-B) shows that an hour’s nap can dramatically boost and restore brain power.

The findings suggest that a biphasic sleep (sleeping twice in a 24-hour …. Read the original article  : Siesta makes you smarter.

Midday napping can make you smarter

WASHINGTON – Taking a midday nap can dramatically boost brain’s learning capacity power, according to a new study.

The new research suggests that a biphasic sleep schedule not only refreshes the mind, but can also make you smarter.
On the other hand, the more hours we spend awake, the more sluggish our minds become, according to the … Read : Midday napping can make you smarter.

Sea levels wouldn’t rise by 82 cms by century end, say scientists

LONDON – The author of a study that claimed in 2009 that sea levels would rise by up to 82cm by the end of century, is now saying that the true estimate is still unknown, which seems like the fall out of the goof-up on the melting of the Himalayan glaciers.

The study, published in 2009 …. Original source  : Sea levels wouldn’t rise by 82 cms by century end, say scientists.

Soon, wearable solar cells to charge gadgets while on the move

LONDON – Charging gadgets while on the move may soon be possible, as scientists have developed a flexible solar cell that can be built into clothing.

Harry Atwater and his team at the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena have made the bendy cell from an array of microwires encased in a clear flexible polymer.
It uses … Read more »».

Boiling shrimps may reduce shellfish allergens: Study

WASHINGTON – A new study has found that boiling shrimp for 10 minutes may reduce allergenic properties of total shrimp extracts.

Researchers from Jimei University in Fujian China and the Agricultural Research Service in New Orleans, LA examined shrimp extracts from both raw and boiled shrimp, which were ground and then freeze-dried.
The research showed that boiling …. Read the original article  : Boiling shrimps may reduce shellfish allergens: Study.

Scientists sequence giant panda genome to shed new light into the bear’s diet

WASHINGTON – By successfully sequencing the panda genome for the first time, an international team of scientists has shed new light on some of the giant panda’s unusual biological traits, including its famously restricted diet.

Professor Mike Bruford, Cardiff School of Biosciences, worked on the study as part of an ongoing collaboration with the Chinese Academy … Read more »».

Monkeys more sensitive to damage to their habitat than previously thought

WASHINGTON – A new research has determined that monkey populations in threatened forests are far more sensitive to damage to their habitat than previously thought.

The research was conducted by Dr Andrew Marshall, from the Environment Department at the University of York and Director of Conservation at Flamingo Land Theme Park and Zoo, in collaboration with … Read more »».

Magnetic fields play important role in birth of massive stars

LONDON – In a new research, astronomers have used the MERLIN radio telescope network centered on the Jodrell Bank Observatory to show that magnetic fields play an important role during the birth of massive stars.

Magnetic fields are already known to strongly influence the formation of lower-mass stars like our Sun.
This new study reveals that the …. Original source  : Magnetic fields play important role in birth of massive stars.

Reed canary grass can provide excellent ‘green’ fuel

WASHINGTON – A long-term research has revealed that reed canary grass can be turned into an excellent ‘green’ fuel for biomass power stations and, on a smaller scale, boilers in buildings like schools.

The five-year research project was carried out by researchers from Teesside University’s Contaminated Land and Water Centre.
Reed canary grass, which is native to …. Source  : Reed canary grass can provide excellent ‘green’ fuel.

Ancient DNA reveals caribou history linked to volcanic eruption

WASHINGTON – DNA recovered from ancient caribou bones reveals a possible link between several small unique caribou herds and a massive volcanic eruption that blanketed much of the Alaskan Yukon territory in a thick layer of ash 1,000 years ago.

Tyler … Read : Ancient DNA reveals caribou history linked to volcanic eruption.

Unravelling brain activity that drives impulsive behaviour in teens

WASHINGTON – A new study by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh suggests that internal and environmental factors trigger unique brain activity in teens that leads them to engage in impulsive, self-indulgent, or self-destructive behaviour.

According to lead researcher Bita Moghaddam, a professor …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

New ovarian and breast cancer treatments

WASHINGTON – New medication, consisting of a blend of a protein inhibitor and traditional anticancer drugs, being developed to treat ovarian and breast cancer has been found to be effective, say researchers.

The finding has appeared in a new review for Faculty of 1000 Biology Reports.
Susan … Original source on Gaea Times at : New ovarian and breast cancer treatments.

Earthquake engineers release report on damage in Haiti

WASHINGTON – A team of earthquake engineers has released a report on the damage done in Haiti after the mega quake on January 12.

The five-person team sent to evaluate damage from the devastating magnitude-7 earthquake that struck Haiti found no …. Original source  : Earthquake engineers release report on damage in Haiti.

Scientists try to decipher “secret language” of elephants

LONDON – By using a microphone sensitive to low frequencies and a GPS tracking system, a team of researchers at San Diego Zoo has been studying what has been described as the “secret language” of elephants.

The elephant’s trumpeting call will be familiar to most people, but …. Original article  : Scientists try to decipher “secret language” of elephants.

Ice shelves attached to Antarctica are disappearing

WASHINGTON – Floating ice shelves attached to Antarctica are disappearing due to global warming, says a new study, adding that this is especially alarming because the shelves hold together the Antarctic ice sheet that covers nearly 98 percent of the continent.

As the ice shelves break off, it is easier for outlet glaciers and ice …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sunshine breaks through overcast sky in Chandigarh

CHANDIGARH – An overcast sky and drizzle greeted Chandigarh and its surrounding areas Tuesday morning, but soon it was followed by bright sunshine.

Most parts of Haryana and some parts of Punjab also received mild rainfall during the early hours Tuesday.
“We had short spells of rain and drizzle in most parts of Haryana like … Read more : Sunshine breaks through overcast sky in Chandigarh.

Leopard injures several villagers in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – A leopard strayed out of a jungle and injured several villagers in Orissa’s Balasore district, a forest official said Tuesday.

The leopard had strayed out of the Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary.
“The leopard had come out of the nearby sanctuary in search of food. When the villagers raised an alarm and started throwing stones at …. Original article  : Leopard injures several villagers in Orissa.

Beetle’s brilliant blue-green hue still preserved after 600,000 years

WASHINGTON – Scientists have found an iridescent blue-green beetle that looks like it did 600,000 years ago when it was alive, as its natural body colors have been preserved.

According to a report in Discovery News, the leaf beetle, Plateumaris sp., is one of just two such advanced age insect fossils that retain substantial original color … Read more : Beetle’s brilliant blue-green hue still preserved after 600,000 years.

Small earthquake rocks Assam

GUWAHATI – An earthquake measuring 4 on the Richter scale rocked Assam Tuesday, triggering panic among residents.

According to the Regional Seismological Centre in Meghalaya’s capital Shillong, the tremor was felt at 12.26 p.m in most parts of Assam. No casualties were reported in the first 90 minutes after the quake.
The epicentre was …. Read the original article  : Small earthquake rocks Assam.

Living in the trees may be the secret to longevity

LONDON – In a new research, scientists have determined that living in the trees may be the secret to longevity, at least in the evolutionary long run.

Evolutionary biologists have long predicted that natural selection should favour extending the lifespan of animals that live relatively safe lifestyles.
In fact, birds and bats, whose ability to fly helps …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Malicious software can invade smart phones, warns Indian American

WASHINGTON – Malicious software can now invade new generations of smart mobile phones, potentially with more serious consequences, says an Indian American computer scientist.

Smart phones are essentially becoming regular computers, said Vinod Ganapathy, assistant professor of computer science at the Rutgers University’ School of Arts and Sciences.
Ganapathy, who did his B.Tech. in Computer Science …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Malicious software can invade smart phones, warns Indian American.

UN says tougher targets needed to avert climate disaster

BALI ISLAND – Countries need to set tougher targets to cut greenhouse gas emissions if the world is to avert a climate-change catastrophe, according to a new UN report released Tuesday.

A study compiled by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) estimates that between 2020 and 2050, global emissions need to fall by between 48 and 72 … Read more >>>.

DNA evidence has enriched our understanding of human history on Earth

WASHINGTON – A collection of recent reviews has offered a timely update on how new genetic evidence, together with archaeological and linguistic evidence, has enriched our understanding of human history on earth.

“To understand what it is to be human, it is essential to understand the human past,” said Colin Renfrew of the University of Cambridge.
“Nearly …. Original source  : DNA evidence has enriched our understanding of human history on Earth.

An animal’s agility can be affected by the position of its eyes

WASHINGTON – A new research by scientists from the University of Liverpool, UK, has found that an animal’s agility can be affected by the position of its eyes.

The study sampled 51 species to compare the relationship between agility and vision between frontal eyed species to lateral-eyed mammals to establish if the positioning of the eyes …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : An animal’s agility can be affected by the position of its eyes.

Humidity affects influenza virus outbreaks

WASHINGTON – Dry winters are linked to seasonal outbreaks of influenza, suggests a new study.
The study, which has appeared in PLoS Biology, also discovered that the onset of outbreaks might be encouraged by unusually dry weather conditions, at least in temperate regions.

For a long time scientists have suspected a link between humidity and seasonal (epidemic) … Read more : Humidity affects influenza virus outbreaks.

‘Humanized’ mouse may offer liver disease treatments

WASHINGTON – Scientists have generated a mouse with an almost complete human liver.
The team, led by Salk Institute researchers, says this ‘humanized’ mouse is susceptible to human liver infections and responds to human drug treatments, providing a new way to test novel therapies for debilitating human liver diseases and other diseases with liver involvement such …. Original article  : ‘Humanized’ mouse may offer liver disease treatments.

Scientists identify tumour mechanism

WASHINGTON – A team of researchers has for the first time identified a key mechanism that makes certain cells become tumourous in the brain.

The resulting tumours occur most often spontaneously but can also occur in numbers as part of the inherited disease Neurofibromatosis type 2.
The tumours are caused by mutations affecting a protein called Merlin, …. Original article  : Scientists identify tumour mechanism.

Meet Linux’s Alex, the laptop for PC phobics!

LONDON – A new Linux based laptop called ‘Alex’ may be the right solution for people having trouble with their PCs.

With simplified e-mail, web browsing, image editing and office software, the new system apparently offers a nice change from the regular Windows and Mac operating systems.
“Alex is not designed as a super-computer,” BBC News quoted … Read more : Meet Linux’s Alex, the laptop for PC phobics!.

Non-invasive MRI effective for diagnosing testicular cancer

WASHINGTON – A new study has shown that non-invasive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an effective diagnostic tool for the evaluation and staging of testicular cancer and may improve patient care by sparing some men unnecessary surgery.

“Medical imaging plays an important role in the investigation of testicular masses,” said Athina C. Tsili, lead author of … Read more : Non-invasive MRI effective for diagnosing testicular cancer.

Satellite-navigation signals under increasing threat from ‘jammers’

LONDON – Scientists have said that satellite-navigation signals is under increasing threat from ‘jammers’.

According to BBC News, while “jamming” sat-nav equipment with noise signals is on the rise, more sophisticated methods allow hackers to program what receivers display.
At risk are not only sat-nav users, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Satellite-navigation signals under increasing threat from ‘jammers’.

Nanowires to give computers “racetrack memory”

SYDNEY – A US researcher has determined that nanowires could be used to give “racetrack memory” to computers, namely, significantly boosting conventional RAM, resulting in computers that are ready the minute you turn them on, and don’t lose data when the power fails.

According …. Source article  : Nanowires to give computers “racetrack memory”.

Sharp decline in public’s belief in threat posed by climate change

LONDON – A new poll in Great Britain has revealed that there has been a sharp decline in the British public’s belief in the threat posed by climate change.

According to a report in The Guardian, over 1,000 people in Great Britain were questioned on their views on climate …. Read the original article  : Sharp decline in public’s belief in threat posed by climate change.

Bear injures over 10

BHUBANESWAR – A wild bear strayed into Dhanurjaypur village in Orissa’s Ganjam district Wednesday and injured over 10 people, police said.

The bear first attacked a woman plucking flowers. As the villagers hit the animal with sticks, it injured several of them, police said. Some of the injured are reportedly in serious condition.
[..] Read the original article: here.

Belief in a caring God antidote to depression

WASHINGTON – Belief in a caring God can act as an antidote to depression, says a new study.

Rush University Medical Centre (RUMC) researchers surveyed 136 adults diagnosed with major depression or bipolar depression at inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care facilities.
“In our study, the positive response to medication had little to do with the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Belief in a caring God antidote to depression.

Climate change science is “robust”, not a “house of cards”

EDINBURGH – The head of the UK government’s climate change committee has said that the science behind climate change is “robust”, and not a “house of cards” that has come tumbling down due to the Climategate scandal.

According to a report in the Scotsman, David Kennedy, chief executive of the Committee on Climate Change, said he … Read more >>>.

Soon, astronauts to orbit Earth in inflatable space stations

LONDON – Soon, astronauts may orbit the Earth in inflatable space stations, now that NASA has made them a priority.

According to a report in New Scientist, NASA announced a change in this direction on February 1.
Instead of the planned crewed missions to the moon, the agency intends to pour money into research and development of [..] Read the original article: here.

Now control your cellphone using magnet magic

LONDON – Researchers have developed a new technique that makes it possible to control a cellphone with moving a magnet around or near it.

Experts at Deutsche Telekom (DT) in Berlin, Germany, have come up with a software that tracks changes to the magnetic field around a cellphone to identify different gestures by a hand holding …. Source  : Now control your cellphone using magnet magic.

“Shell crusher” shark swam Cretaceous Kansas 90 mln yrs ago

WASHINGTON – A team of paleontologists has identified the remains of a gigantic, 88.7-million-year-old shark nicknamed the “shell crusher”, which could pulverize large, shelled animals with its 1,000 teeth, while swimming in the Cretaceous waters in Kansas and other parts of North America.

A handful of other fossils for the shark, Ptychodus mortoni, had been previously …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Ecstasy ‘can cause memory lapse’

WASHINGTON – A new British study suggests that the regular consumption of recreational drugs like ecstasy can cause memory lapse.

This is the first study to have uncovered potential links between memory loss and cocaine.
Florentia Hadjiefthyvoulou, John Fisk, and Nikola Bridges from the University of Central Lancashire and Catharine Montgomery from Liverpool John Moores University wanted …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Ecstasy ‘can cause memory lapse’.

New technology can help identify melanoma stage with more accuracy

WASHINGTON – Scientists have come up with an important tool in the fight against the most serious type of skin cancer.

Being aware of a patient’s melanoma stage is crucial when it comes to choosing the best course of treatment. When the cancer has progressed to the lymph nodes, a more aggressive treatment is needed. Examining …. Source  : New technology can help identify melanoma stage with more accuracy.

Farmers, advocates optimistic new USDA rules mean better enforcement of organic labeling rules

Organic advocates optimistic about new USDA rules

WASHINGTON – New federal rules that define what makes milk and meat organic have natural food advocates optimistic that the government is committed to ensuring the label means something.
U.S. consumers bought $24 billion worth of organic products in 2008. But for many, the purchases came with uncertainty about what … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Farmers, advocates optimistic new USDA rules mean better enforcement of organic labeling rules.

New dinosaur species discovered

WASHINGTON – A team of paleontologists in the US has discovered a new dinosaur species they’re calling Abydosaurus.

Abydosaurus belongs to the group of gigantic, long-necked, long-tailed, four-legged, plant-eating dinosaurs such as Brachiosaurus.
In a rare twist, they recovered four heads – two still fully intact – from a quarry in Dinosaur National Monument in eastern … Read more >>>.

Chimps intelligent enough to appreciate a full pint

LONDON – New research has shown that chimpanzees are intelligent enough to appreciate how big a pint of liquid is, or the volume of any other measure.

According to BBC News, the findings came from tests carried out by comparative psychologist Dr Michael Beran of Georgia State University, Atlanta, US, on three chimps, a 37-year-old female …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chimps intelligent enough to appreciate a full pint.

How arsenic exposure triggers tumour growth

WASHINGTON – Scientists have discovered the mechanism by which the environmental toxin arsenic leads to adverse health effects, including bladder cancer.

“In a collaborative investigation we found that arsenic, at environmentally relevant levels, is capable of … Read : How arsenic exposure triggers tumour growth.

Design flaws may have doomed the “Big Bang Machine”

LONDON – A senior scientist who helped to build the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) is claiming that the cause of the shutdown of the giant particle accelerator in 2008 was not a freak accident, but a crucial flaw in the machine’s design.

Running more than a year …. Source article  : Design flaws may have doomed the “Big Bang Machine”.

Mega quake also set off swarm of unusual tsunamis in Haiti

WASHINGTON – Scientists have determined that the devastating January 12 earthquake in Haiti also set off a swarm of unusual tsunamis, which killed three and destroyed several homes.

Though surveying damage and rescuing survivors was of utmost priority for several weeks, scientists are now starting to examine some of the side effects of the temblor, such …. Source article  : Mega quake also set off swarm of unusual tsunamis in Haiti.

Newly discovered plant-eating dino didn’t chew its food, but swallow it

WASHINGTON – A team of paleontologists has discovered a new plant-eating dinosaur that didn’t chew its food, but just grabbed it and swallowed it.

The new dinosaur, which the paleontologists are calling Abydosaurus, belongs to the group of gigantic, long-necked, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Brainy battle of the sexes finally ends: Women are smarter than men

LONDON – The battle of the sexes is finally over – and it’s bad news for the guys. According to the results of an unscientific experiment of a game of Trivial Pursuit, women are smarter than men.

Five months ago, makers of the game had organized … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Brainy battle of the sexes finally ends: Women are smarter than men.

Small dogs may have originated in the Middle East 12,000 yrs ago

WASHINGTON – A genetic study has found that small domestic dogs probably originated in the Middle East more than 12,000 years ago.

Researchers, writing in the open access journal BMC Biology, traced the evolutionary history of the IGF1 gene, finding that the version of … Read more »».

Leopard strays into Himachal capital

SHIMLA – Panic gripped this Himachal Pradesh capital Thursday when a leopard was spotted strolling in areas adjoining the Mall, an official said. The animal was later trapped by the wildlife wing.

After receiving information this (Thursday) morning that the leopard attacked a man, we reached the spot. After three hours of searching, we traced it …. Original source  : Leopard strays into Himachal capital.

Scientists find new clues as to why animals grow bigger in the cold

WASHINGTON – Scientists have across new clues that offers new insight to Bergmann’s rule that animals grow larger at high, cold latitudes than their counterparts closer to the equator.

The scientists, who found the solution to this 163-year-old puzzle, were from the …. Source  : Scientists find new clues as to why animals grow bigger in the cold.

Larger and more frequent fires could aid ecosystems

WASHINGTON – Scientists have said that there’s a good chance that forest fires in the Pacific Northwest will become larger and more frequent, which could actually aid ecosystems.

The future of fire in this region is difficult to predict, …. Read the original article  : Larger and more frequent fires could aid ecosystems.

Scientists discover genetic link between misery and death

WASHINGTON – UCLA researchers have found the genetic link between misery and death.
The new study has also discovered a specific genetic variation in some people that apparently disconnects that link, rendering them more biologically tough to face adversity.

Steven Cole, a member of the … Original article on : Scientists discover genetic link between misery and death.

How key hormone helps animals to recognize others by their smell

WASHINGTON – In a new study, scientists have pinpointed how a key hormone helps animals to recognize others by their smell.

The study, by researchers at the University of Edinburgh, has shown that the hormone vasopressin helps the brain differentiate between familiar and new scents.
The study … Read more »».

Scientists discover first female sex hormone in a plant

WASHINGTON – Scientists have reported the first discovery of the female sex hormone progesterone in a plant.

Until now, scientists thought that only animals could make progesterone.
A steroid hormone, secreted by the ovaries, progesterone prepares the uterus for pregnancy and maintains pregnancy.
A synthetic version, progestin, is …. Source article  : Scientists discover first female sex hormone in a plant.

Prozac, Celexa show promise for rheumatoid arthritis treatment

WASHINGTON – A new British study has found that fluoxetine and citalopram exhibit anti-inflammatory effects.

The study led by Sandra Sacre, Ph.D. from the Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS) in the UK found that treatment with fluoxetine and citalopram, which are available under …. Original article  : Prozac, Celexa show promise for rheumatoid arthritis treatment.

Laser surgery technique finds second life in art restoration

WASHINGTON – A laser technique best known for its use to remove unwanted tattoos from the skin is finding a second life in preserving great sculptures, paintings and other works of art.

This was highlighted in a recent article in ACS’ monthly journal, Accounts of Chemical Research.
The technique, called laser ablation, involves removing … Read : Laser surgery technique finds second life in art restoration.

Heaviest chemical element 112 named “Copernicium”

BERLIN – Reports indicate that the heaviest recognized chemical element with the atomic number 112 has officially been named “Copernicium” and carries the chemical symbol “Cn”.

The element was discovered at the GSI …. Source article  : Heaviest chemical element 112 named “Copernicium”.

BSF to check rhino poaching in Kaziranga

KAZIRANGA – The Border Security Force (BSF) will be deployed at the Kaziranga National Park in Assam to check a spurt in incidents of rhino slaughtering by organised syndicates, officials said Thursday.

A wildlife department spokesman said the decision to deploy the BSF to assist forest guards at Kaziranga was taken at a high level meeting …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : BSF to check rhino poaching in Kaziranga.

Scientists trying to interpret baby’s bawling

WASHINGTON – Babies bawl aloud to reveal their emotions, but none of the parenting handbooks can tell whether they are feeling hunger or discomfort. To study this behaviour, Japanese engineers have now turned to an approach known as kansei engineering, which aims to “measure” feelings and emotions.

It was invented in the 1970s by Mitsuo …. Original source  : Scientists trying to interpret baby’s bawling.

US faces prospect of losing all out cyberwar

WASHINGTON – Computer-based network attacks are slowly bleeding US businesses of revenue and its market advantage. Even the government faces the prospect of losing in an all-out cyberwar, experts told US senators in a hearing.

“If the nation went to war today in a cyberwar, we would lose,” said Michael McConnell, executive vice president of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US faces prospect of losing all out cyberwar.

‘Monster croc’ feasted on humans 2 million years ago

LONDON – Scientists have identified the remains of a 7.5-metre man-eating crocodile in 1.8-million-year-old sediments in Olduvai gorge in Tanzania, an animal that would have been the largest predator ancient humans in the region … Read more »».

Coming soon: Emotion detector for babies

WASHINGTON – Parents-to-be can take a breather: It may soon be possible to translate infant cries, all thanks to Japanese scientists who have come up with a statistical computer program that can analyze a baby’s crying.

The details of the breakthrough have been …. Original article  : Coming soon: Emotion detector for babies.

Humans like sharing wealth – subconsciously

LONDON – Researchers from California Institute of Technology (Caltech) and Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland, have become the first to gather images to prove that the human brain is a big believer in equality.

In their research, the team found that the reward centers in the human brain respond more strongly …. Original article  : Humans like sharing wealth – subconsciously.

Immunosuppressive drug may help fight Alzheimer’s

WASHINGTON – A new study has revealed that rapamycin, a drug that keeps the immune system from attacking transplanted organs, may help fight Alzheimer’s disease.

Researchers from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio found that rapamycin rescued learning … Read more >>.

Stem cell therapy may help restore sight in retinitis pigmentosa sufferers

WASHINGTON – Scientists have successfully used mouse embryonic stem cells to replace diseased retinal cells and restore sight in a mouse model of retinitis pigmentosa.

According to the research team led by Columbia University Medical Center, this strategy could potentially become a new treatment for retinitis pigmentosa, … Read more »».

Modified adult stem cells may help patients with spinal cord injury

WASHINGTON – Transplanting genetically modified adult stem cells into an injured spinal cord can help restore the electrical pathways associated with movement, a new study in rats has shown.

In spinal cord injury, demyelination, or the destruction of the myelin sheath in the central nervous system, occurs.
The myelin sheath, produced …. Original source  : Modified adult stem cells may help patients with spinal cord injury.

World’s temperature record to be re-analyzed

LONDON – Reports indicate that the whole of the world’s instrumental temperature record is to be re-analyzed in an attempt to remove doubts about the reality of global warming.

According to a report in The Independent, the new analysis, which would take into account millions of observations dating back more than … Original article on : World’s temperature record to be re-analyzed.

World’s first: Danish woman gives birth to two kids after ovarian transplant

WASHINGTON – A Danish woman has become the world’s first to give birth to two babies after receiving an ovarian transplant following successful cancer treatment.

Stinne Holm Bergholdt, from Odense, Denmark, had ovarian tissue removed and frozen during treatment, which was later restored following her recovery.
She then gave birth to a girl in February 2007 after … Original source on Gaea Times at : World’s first: Danish woman gives birth to two kids after ovarian transplant.

Scientists make first measurement of age of cometary material

WASHINGTON – New research on comet Wild 2 indicates that inner solar system material was transported to the comet-forming region at least 1.7 million years after the formation of the oldest solar system solids, which is the first constraint on the age of cometary material from a known comet.

Scientists … Original article on : Scientists make first measurement of age of cometary material.

Scientists measure impacts of changing climate on ocean biology

WASHINGTON – A three-year field program now underway is measuring carbon distributions and primary productivity in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean to help scientists worldwide determine the impacts of a changing climate on ocean biology … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Scientists measure impacts of changing climate on ocean biology.

Mysterious ring fort in Ireland may have held sports arena during Bronze Age

DUBLIN – New findings by a team of archaeologists has suggested that a mysterious ring fort in County Tipperary in Ireland may have held a sports arena during the Bronze Age.

According to a report in The Irish Times, the initial findings of the archaeologists suggest that the site may have been used … Read more : Mysterious ring fort in Ireland may have held sports arena during Bronze Age.

Childhood stress may lead to brain damage

WASHINGTON – Childhood stress such as abuse or emotional neglect can result in structural brain changes, a new study has shown.

Using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), researchers have shown that childhood stress such as abuse or emotional neglect, in particular when …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Novel inhaled drug found effective against H5N1 avian influenza virus

WASHINGTON – Researchers have found a novel compound highly effective against the pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus, including some drug-resistant strains.

The work by a University of Wisconsin-Madison virologist has been published in the Public Library of Science …. Source article  : Novel inhaled drug found effective against H5N1 avian influenza virus.

Mum’s sensitivity may help language growth in autistic kids

WASHINGTON – Maternal sensitivity may influence language development among children who go on to develop autism, say scientists.

According to researchers at the University of Miami, maternal responsiveness can predict language growth among children in the early stages of autism.
The study entitled, “A Pilot Study of Maternal Sensitivity in the Context of Emergent Autism,” is published …. Original article  : Mum’s sensitivity may help language growth in autistic kids.

Human brain encodes nouns and verbs in different regions

WASHINGTON – The brain that activates when a person learns a new noun is different from the part used when a verb is learnt, researchers have shown.

“Learning nouns activates the left fusiform gyrus, while learning verbs switches on other regions (the left inferior frontal gyrus and part of the left posterior medial temporal gyrus)”, Antoni …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Human brain encodes nouns and verbs in different regions.

Smallest bubbles in oceans detected

WASHINGTON – In a new research, a team of physicists has detected the smallest bubbles in the oceans that are as tiny as one thousandth of a millimeter.

According to a report in Discovery News, by both looking and listening for tiny bubbles in the ocean near Hawaii, researchers think they have pinned down the signatures … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Smallest bubbles in oceans detected.

Good mothering can make up for prenatal stress

WASHINGTON – Fetuses exposed to elevated levels of the stress hormone cortisol – shown to be a harbinger for babies’ poor cognitive development – can escape this fate if their mothers provide them sensitive care during infancy and toddler-hood, says a new study.

The study has been published online in the journal Biological Psychiatry.
“Our results shape … Read more >>>.

Scientists find way to exploit the body’s own ability to fight heart attack

WASHINGTON – In a bid to find a way to better help patients protect themselves against harm from a heart attack, a group of scientists are taking their cues from cardiac patients.

The researchers based their work on: When faced with a heart attack, people who have had a previous one oftentimes fare better than patients …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Scientists find way to exploit the body’s own ability to fight heart attack.

World’s most sensitive neutrino experiment may reveal why we exist

LONDON – Reports indicate that the world’s most sensitive neutrino experiment, which could shed some light on why we exist, has begin.

According to a report in New Scientist, in the “T2K” (Tokai-to-Kamioka) experiment, an intense beam of neutrinos is being generated in a particle accelerator near Tokai village north of Tokyo, and aimed at the … Read more >>.

NASA preparing satellite repair robots

WASHINGTON – Reports indicate that the NASA that fixed the Hubble Space Telescope is now working to develop robotic satellite repair technology.

According to a report in Discovery News, the goal of the NASA project is to demonstrate to commercial firms the feasibility of refueling, repairing and servicing spacecraft in orbit.
There are more than 360 operational … Read more »»».

Clean energy cess on coal produced in India

NEW DELHI – Announcing the establishment of a National Clean Energy Fund (NCEF) for funding research and innovative projects in clean technologies, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee Friday proposed to levy clean energy cess on coal produced in India as also imported.

“There are many areas of the country where pollution levels have reached alarming proportions. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Clean energy cess on coal produced in India.

German chemical, pharmaceutical company Bayer says Q4 net income rose 44 percent

Bayer Q4 net income up 44 percent
FRANKFURT – German chemical and pharmaceutical company Bayer AG said Friday its net income rose 44 percent in the fourth quarter to euro153 million ($208 million) as cost savings and a pickup in some business offset negative currency effects and charges for the integration of Schering.

The company, famous for …. Original article  : German chemical, pharmaceutical company Bayer says Q4 net income rose 44 percent.

Engineers develop new eco-friendly process to produce jet fuel

WASHINGTON – A team of University of Wisconsin-Madison engineers has developed a highly efficient, environmentally friendly process that selectively converts gamma-valerolactone, a biomass derivative, into the chemical equivalent of jet fuel.

The team of researchers included …. Original article  : Engineers develop new eco-friendly process to produce jet fuel.

Species have to continue evolving to survive

WASHINGTON – A new study has proved that the ‘Red Queen Hypothesis’, which states that species were in a constant race for survival and have to continue to evolve new ways of defending themselves throughout time, is correct.

The theory, first put forward in the 1970s, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Species have to continue evolving to survive.

Indian-origin scientist’s energy “Bloom Box” is not revolutionary, say experts

WASHINGTON – Fuel cell experts have said that the “Bloom Box”, which is an as yet unbuilt in-home “power plant” designed by an Indian-origin scientist, is not revolutionary, nor is it the cheapest or most efficient fuel cell system available.

K.R. Sridhar from Silicon Valley’s Bloom Energy has developed the device.
Sridhar … Read more : Indian-origin scientist’s energy “Bloom Box” is not revolutionary, say experts.

Money doesn’t grow on trees: hard bargaining as Americans pay for war damage to Afghans

Afghans give US soldiers a run for their money

BADULA QULP, Afghanistan – The battalion commander pondered the question: How much is a tree worth?
Warrior one day, haggler the next. Lt. Col. Burton Shields was talking to an Afghan farmer who said the Americans had damaged five trees on his property in an operation against the …. Source article  : Money doesn’t grow on trees: hard bargaining as Americans pay for war damage to Afghans.

Plotting, treachery rife in ant royal families

LONDON – Social insects, ants in particular, are usually thought of as selfless entities willing to sacrifice everything for their comrades. However, research suggests that ant queens are also prepared to compromise the welfare of the entire colony in order to retain the throne.

A team from the University of Copenhagen, led by Luke Holman … Read more >>.

‘Devious’ ant queens compromise on colony’s welfare to retain throne

WASHINGTON – Previous studies have shown that ants are selfless entities as they sacrifice themselves for their comrades. However, a new study reveals that ant queens are prepared to compromise on the welfare of the entire colony in …. Read the original article  : ‘Devious’ ant queens compromise on colony’s welfare to retain throne.

Babies born to methadone mums develop eye defects: Study

LONDON – In a new study, medical experts found that babies born to mothers who had taken methadone during pregnancy developed a range of visual problems.

The research, carried out by doctors at the Royal Hospital for Sick Children at Yorkhill and Princess Royal Maternity, found that … Original source on Gaea Times at : Babies born to methadone mums develop eye defects: Study.

Now, an iPhone app that keeps adultery secret!

LONDON – An iPhone application has been launched which promises to cut the risk in adultery by making text messages vanish without trace as soon as they have been read.

TigerText enables the sender to set a lifespan for the message. Once …. Original article  : Now, an iPhone app that keeps adultery secret!.

Brain power, innovation and teamwork helped humans rule the world

WASHINGTON – Our ancestors used brain power, innovation and teamwork to dominate the planet, scholars in the US discussing how the humans colonized the globe suggested.

Why humans rose to the top the world and eventually came to rule it has been a matter curiosity for scientists.
The study …. Original article  : Brain power, innovation and teamwork helped humans rule the world.

Robots to rescue injured soldiers in the future

LONDON – The US military is urging engineers to come up with designs for a robot that can rescue injured soldiers from the battlefield, with minimal or no help from outside.

A posting on the Pentagon’s small business technology transfer website says that retrieving casualties while under fire …. Read the original article  : Robots to rescue injured soldiers in the future.

Chile earthquake shows earth more active in past 15 years: Scientist

WASHINGTON – The 8.8-magnitude earthquake that shook Chile on Saturday was not outside the realm of normal, but the Earth has been more active over the past 15 years or so relative to a time period in the past, according to a scientist.

“Relative to the …. Read the original article  : Chile earthquake shows earth more active in past 15 years: Scientist.

Peacekeeping and counterinsurgency can learn from each other

WASHINGTON – A new study has indicated that despite the differences between peacekeeping and counterinsurgency, both these operations can actually learn from each other.

On the surface, peacekeeping and counterinsurgency have little in common: neutral, nonviolent end of war versus an inherently non-neutral, violent operation to win a war.
Yet the two are not so … Original article on : Peacekeeping and counterinsurgency can learn from each other.

Snow cover on gardens can benefit plants

WASHINGTON – A new research has determined that snow cover on gardens can actually be beneficial for plants.

The research was carried out by Karen Snetselaar, chair and professor of biology at Saint Joseph’s University …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Snow cover on gardens can benefit plants.

Northern climate stops spread of beautiful killer plant

WASHINGTON – Canadian scientists have found that the invasive spread of a beautiful killer plant known as the purple loosestrife can be stopped by the northern climate.

Purple loosestrife has been heading north since it was first introduced from Europe to the eastern seaboard …. Source article  : Northern climate stops spread of beautiful killer plant.

Seals tend to sleep as they sink in the sea

WASHINGTON – In a new research, scientists have found that seals can sleep as they are sinking in the sea.

When northern elephant seals migrate between their breeding and foraging grounds, they spend as long as eight months at a time at sea.
They’re almost always underwater, devoting only a few minutes [..] Read the original article: here.

Perfect insulator could eliminate heating bills

WASHINGTON – Scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Sandia National Laboratories, US, have created a perfect insulator, a material that reflects heat while absorbing none of it, which could eliminate heating bills.

“All the heat that hits … Read more >>>.

Pompeii to offer live excavation experience to visitors

WASHINGTON – Visitors to Pompeii will be able to experience a live dig next month in the ancient Roman town that was buried in Mount Vesuvius’ catastrophic eruption in 79 A.D.

According to a report in Discovery News, the site of the open-door excavation is the so-called House …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Clear, warm day ahead in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Delhiites were Sunday greeted by pleasant weather and a clear morning. Although it may get cloudy later in the day, the weather won’t play spoilsport for the opening of the World Cup hockey event in the evening, the weatherman assured.

“During the day there will be mainly clear sky. It may get partly …. Read the original article  : Clear, warm day ahead in Delhi.

Privacy will be protected under UIDs: Nandan Nilekani (IANS Interview)

NEW DELHI – Privacy will be protected under the Unique Identity (UID) project and personal data will not be accessible to everybody, insists Nandan Nilekani, chairperson of the Unique Identification Authority.

“We are also conscious of the privacy issue. In fact the UID database cannot be read by anybody. The only thing you can use it …. Source article  : Privacy will be protected under UIDs: Nandan Nilekani (IANS Interview).

Amen Hallelujah wins Davona Dale at Gulfstream Park

Amen Hallelujah wins at Gulfstream Park
HALLANDALE BEACH, Fla. – Amen Hallelujah took the lead from favored Bickersons entering the stretch to win the $150,000 Davona Dale by 6 1/4 lengths Saturday at Gulfstream Park.

Ridden by Julien Leparoux and trained by Richard Dutrow Jr., Amen Hallelujah covered the mile over a fast track in 1:37.16. It … Read : Amen Hallelujah wins Davona Dale at Gulfstream Park.

International global warming panel to get independent review; details still to be worked out

Warming panel, under attack, seeks outside review

WASHINGTON – The Nobel Prize-winning international scientific panel studying global warming is seeking independent outside review for how it makes major reports.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change says it’s seeking some kind of independent review because of recent criticism about its four 2007 reports.
Critics have found a few unsettling …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

New graphene nanomesh could change the future of electronics

WASHINGTON – A team of scientists has created a new graphene nanostructure called graphene nanomesh, which provides a new solution to the challenges of the element, and may eventually change the future of electronics.

Graphene, a one-atom-thick layer of a carbon lattice with a honeycomb structure, has … Read : New graphene nanomesh could change the future of electronics.

‘Lab-on-a-chip’ device may detect kidney failure and diabetes

WASHINGTON – Scientists in Australia have reported the first use of ordinary cotton thread and sewing needles to literally stitch together a ‘lab-on-a-chip’ device capable of detecting diseases such as kidney failure and diabetes.

The microfluidic analytical device, created by … Read : ‘Lab-on-a-chip’ device may detect kidney failure and diabetes.

Move over flat images, TV to assume 3D avatar

LONDON – Soccer fans watch with bated breath as a penalty striker carefully sets the ball right, just before the kick. Like a cannon ball, the leather sails over and past the heads of the spectators, who are completely awestruck.

These fans are not sitting in the stadium, but rather in front of a 3D …. Read the original article  : Move over flat images, TV to assume 3D avatar.

Ocean temperature patterns in tropics and subtropics will change rainfall patterns

WASHINGTON – A team of scientists has found that that ocean temperature patterns in the tropics and subtropics will change in ways that will lead to significant changes in rainfall patterns.

The research was carried out by a team of scientists headed … Original source on Gaea Times at : Ocean temperature patterns in tropics and subtropics will change rainfall patterns.

Experts think up smarter honeypot traps to track malware

WASHINGTON – Honeypot traps designed to protect computers from Botnets, which are used to carry out fraudulent and criminal activity on the Internet, are now vulnerable to attack because of advances in Botnet malware, computer scientists say.

Botnets are armies of networked computers that have been compromised by malicious software.
In the 1990s and early … Read more : Experts think up smarter honeypot traps to track malware.