Why ginger hair is common among Scots

LONDON – Blame the prevalence of ginger hair among the Scottish people on genes and even the weather, says a new study.

A genetics research student Emily Pritchard, 26, revealed her insights in an article about her sister’s red hair … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Why ginger hair is common among Scots.

Pioneering ‘brainwashing’ treatment saves lives of premature babies

WASHINGTON – Scientists in the UK have come up with a pioneering ‘brainwashing’ procedure they believe will slash the number of premature babies suffering severe disabilities.

The technique involves removing potentially harmful toxic fluids from the [..] Read the original article: here.

Four in five people feel Internet access should be ‘a fundamental right’

LONDON – Almost four in five people feel that access to the World Wide Web is a fundamental right, according to a survey.

The poll for the BBC World Service, which quizzed more than 27,000 adults across 26 countries, found that 87 per … Read more >>.

Hitler Youth infiltrated Britain’s boy scouts in 1930s

LONDON – Secret intelligence papers have revealed that Britain’s Boy Scout movement was infiltrated by the Hitler Youth in the 1930s.

According to a report in the Daily Express, the Scouts were targeted by hundreds of Nazi teenagers sent on cycling tours of England, Scotland … Read : Hitler Youth infiltrated Britain’s boy scouts in 1930s.

Humans driving extinction faster than new species can evolve

LONDON – One of the world’s experts on biodiversity has warned that humans are driving animals and plants to extinction faster than new species can evolve.

According to a report in the Guardian, the expert in question is Simon Stuart, … Original article on : Humans driving extinction faster than new species can evolve.

Civilization in Malaysia might have been oldest in South-east Asia

KUALA LUMPUR – The Sungai Batu archeological site in the Bujang Valley in Malaysia has proven that civilization in this country had started much earlier and was the oldest in South-east Asia.

According to a report in Malaysian News Agency … Read : Civilization in Malaysia might have been oldest in South-east Asia.

Gene site linked to food allergy identified

LONDON – Scientists have discovered the first major gene location responsible for a severe, often painful type of food allergy called eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE).

In this disease, which may cause weight loss, vomiting, heartburn and swallowing difficulties, a patient may be unable to eat a wide variety of …. Read the original article  : Gene site linked to food allergy identified.

Scientists discover new way of producing electricity

WASHINGTON – A team of scientists at MIT has discovered a previously unknown phenomenon that can cause powerful waves of energy to shoot through minuscule wires known as carbon nanotubes, a discovery that could lead to a new way of producing …. Source  : Scientists discover new way of producing electricity.

Scientists transform polyethylene into a heat-conducting material

WASHINGTON – A research team from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has found a way to transform the most widely used polymer, polyethylene, into a material that conducts heat just as well as most …. Original article  : Scientists transform polyethylene into a heat-conducting material.

Study casts doubts on safety of invisible nano-sunscreens

MELBOURNE – While nano-sunscreens are considered very effective, a new Aussie modelling study has claimed that even the most effective nanoparticles in some invisible sunscreens might be the most toxic.

Dr Amanda Barnard of CSIRO Materials Science and Engineering … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Study casts doubts on safety of invisible nano-sunscreens.

How HIV escapes treatment

LONDON – The AIDS virus, HIV, can dodge treatment by staying dormant inside progenitor blood cells that develop into immune cells.

These cellular reservoirs are resistant to the immune response of the host and the highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) administered to patients.
This means that the virus can attack …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : How HIV escapes treatment.

Face of 2000 yr old Egyptian mummy reconstructed

BARCELONA – Reports indicate that the Quiron Hospital of Barcelona has reconstructed the face of an Egyptian mummy from 2000 years ago.

According to a report in the Barcelona Reporter, the presentation of the newly reconstructed face was given by Drs Felix Scales, Xavier Perich and Jordi Clos, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Face of 2000 yr old Egyptian mummy reconstructed.

Anti-social music ‘increases aggression in youngsters’

MELBOURNE – Music with anti-social content makes youngsters more aggressive, according to an expert.

Dr Wayne Warburton, a Macquarie University psychology expert, insisted violent music videos could encourage aggressive mindset.
“Across three decades, research has converged to suggest that exposure to music with violent themes increases the [..] Read the original article: here.

Oscar day has arrived! After all the anticipation, it’s time for the 82nd Academy Awards

After much anticipation, it’s finally Oscar time

LOS ANGELES – The big day is here.
Anticipation for the Academy Awards has been building all week, and finally, it’s time.
The entire area around the Kodak Theatre is closed. Traffic is shut down on Hollywood Boulevard. Tourists can only get as close to the action as barricades and security …. Original article  : Oscar day has arrived! After all the anticipation, it’s time for the 82nd Academy Awards.

US grant program that restored Rosa Parks’ bus, star-spangled banner is now endangered

Grants that saved historic relics now endangered
WASHINGTON – As Hillary Rodham Clinton was leaving the White House, she asked Laura Bush first lady to first lady to continue one program if nothing else – the historic preservation program Save America’s Treasures.
Mrs. Bush said she knew about the project and pledged to see it …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

AIDS virus avoids drugs by hiding in bone marrow; finding could point way to better treatment

Researchers: AIDS virus can hide in bone marrow

WASHINGTON – The virus that causes AIDS can hide in the bone marrow, avoiding drugs and later awakening to cause illness, according to new research that could point the way toward better treatments for the disease.
Finding that hide-out is a first step, but years of research lie ahead.
Dr. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : AIDS virus avoids drugs by hiding in bone marrow; finding could point way to better treatment.

Next step beyond: Obama calls for April conference in Fla. on future of human space flight

Obama sets conference on future of space program
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama plans to host a conference in Florida next month on his administration’s approach to the next step in space exploration.
The White House says Obama and top officials as well as leaders in space will discuss the future of U.S. efforts in …. Read the original article  : here.

Aaron Cohen, former head of Johnson Space Center, pioneer of shuttle program, dies in Texas

Former head of Johnson Space Center dies in Texas

HOUSTON – Aaron Cohen, the former director of NASA’s Johnson Space Center who helped create the space shuttle program, has died in College Station after a long fight with cancer. He was 79.
Cohen was named director of the Johnson Space Center in 1986 after the space shuttle … Read more »».

Manuscript of Albert Einstein’s famous relativity theory displayed in entirety for first time

Einstein’s relativity manuscript goes on display

JERUSALEM – The original manuscript of Albert Einstein’s groundbreaking theory of relativity, which helps explain everything from black holes to the Big Bang, went on display Sunday in its entirety for the first time.
Einstein’s 46-page handwritten explanation of his general theory of relativity, in which he demonstrates an expanding universe …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Manuscript of Albert Einstein’s most famous theory goes on display in Israel for first time

Einstein first complete manuscript goes on display

JERUSALEM – The original manuscript of Albert Einstein’s groundbreaking theory of relativity has gone on display in its entirety for the first time.
The Israel Academy of Sciences and Humanities in Jerusalem began exhibiting the 46-page handwritten document on Sunday as part of its 50th anniversary celebration.
In the document, Einstein …. Source  : Manuscript of Albert Einstein’s most famous theory goes on display in Israel for first time.

New asthma program to specifically help teens

WASHINGTON – A teen-specific asthma program could help people in rural areas to manage their disease and avoid potentially fatal complications, Medical College of Georgia researchers say.

Black males have a death rate from asthma that is six … Read more »»».

Warfarin users more vulnerable to brain bleeding after stroke treatment

WASHINGTON – Warfarin users appear more likely to develop brain haemorrhage following stroke treatment with the anticoagulant, a new study has found.

The report, posted online, will be published in the May print issue of Archives of Neurology, one of …. Read the original article  : Warfarin users more vulnerable to brain bleeding after stroke treatment.

Clamshells may provide most detailed record yet of global climate change

LONDON – A team of scientists, who studied a haul of ancient Icelandic mollusks, has said that oxygen isotopes in clamshells may provide the most detailed record yet of global climate change.

Most measures of palaeoclimate provide data on only average annual temperatures, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Clamshells may provide most detailed record yet of global climate change.

Obesity may protect against metabolic syndrome

WASHINGTON – While metabolic syndrome is apparently related to obesity, researchers have said that the link is not just negative.

Metabolic syndrome is characterised by-insulin resistance, high cholesterol, fatty liver, and a greater risk for diabetes, heart disease, and stroke- all of which are related to obesity.
But, Roger …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

New smartphone app exposes vulnerability to hackers

LONDON – Experts have developed a smartphone application called ‘WeatherFistBadMonkey’ to illustrate new threat ‘botnet’ that has hit the cyber world.

Derek Brown and Danny Tijerina at TippingPoint, a computer security firm in Austin, Texas, had first developed … Read more : New smartphone app exposes vulnerability to hackers.

‘Magnetic quantum dots’ could lead to faster and more efficient computers

SYDNEY – Reports indicate that an international team of scientists has developed a new type of semiconductor called ‘magnetic quantum dots’ that could lead to faster and more efficient computers with over double the average existing hard drive storage capacity.

According to a report in ABC …. Original article  : ‘Magnetic quantum dots’ could lead to faster and more efficient computers.

Minister: Israel wants to build nuclear plants to secure energy supplies, fight global warming

Israel wants to build nuclear power plants

PARIS – Israel’s infrastructure minister says his country wants to build nuclear power plants in cooperation with its Arab neighbors.
Uzi Landau says all nuclear plants built in Israel will be subject to strict safety and security controls.
He told a nuclear conference in Paris on Tuesday that “Israel has always … Read : Minister: Israel wants to build nuclear plants to secure energy supplies, fight global warming.

Consumer goods waste large quantities of water to be made

WASHINGTON – A new study has shown that consumer goods can take a large quantity of water to be made.

According to a report in Discovery News, the study, carried out by scientists at Carnegie Mellon University in the US, showed that industries use jaw-dropping amounts in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Consumer goods waste large quantities of water to be made.

Breadth of cheekbones may convey males’ trustworthiness

WASHINGTON – You can know whether or not a man is trustworthy by the breadth of his cheekbones, claims a new study.

The study has been published in the journal Psychological Science.
In the research, lead researcher Michael Stirrat … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Breadth of cheekbones may convey males’ trustworthiness.

Scientists solve mystery of high-CO2 Ice Age

LONDON – A team of scientists has claimed to have solved the mystery about the so-called high level of carbon dioxide (CO2) present in the atmosphere during the big ice age 444 million years ago.

The Ordovician ice age happened 444 million …. Original article  : Scientists solve mystery of high-CO2 Ice Age.

How ‘cosmic electric toaster’ puffs up planets to gigantic size

LONDON – In a new study, scientists have explained how a planet-sized version of an electric toaster heats up some exoplanets to puff up to gigantic size.

More than 150 planets have been found orbiting closer to their host stars than Mercury is to the sun.
Many of these star-hugging gas … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : How ‘cosmic electric toaster’ puffs up planets to gigantic size.

New experiment shows how to see through opaque materials

WASHINGTON – A new experiment conducted by scientists has shown that it’s possible to see through opaque materials and detect objects hidden behind them.

Materials such as paper, paint, and biological tissue are opaque because the light that passes through them … Original article on : New experiment shows how to see through opaque materials.

Testosterone can make you nice as well as nasty

WASHINGTON – A researcher has shed light on how testosterone affects human behavior in a ‘pro-social’ situation – an environment where it is beneficial for a person to help someone else.

In an evaluation for Faculty of 1000, Robert Sapolsky highlights a study on testosterone …. Source  : Testosterone can make you nice as well as nasty.

“Molecular midwives” may have helped give birth to genetic material of life

WASHINGTON – Scientists at the Georgia Institute of Technology have discovered that small molecules could have acted as “molecular midwives” in helping the building blocks of life’s genetic material form long chains and may have assisted in selecting the base pairs of the DNA double helix.

“Our hypothesis is that before there were protein enzymes to …. Original source  : “Molecular midwives” may have helped give birth to genetic material of life.

One good act really is the catalyst for three others

LONDON – Kindness is contagious, scientists have discovered. And good acts by a handful of individuals really can make a difference.

Professor James Fowler, of the University of California, and his colleagues have found that when a person receives a gift or favour they are more likely to be generous and give an even bigger gift …. Read the original article  : One good act really is the catalyst for three others.

‘Pain gene’ discovered

LONDON – Scientists have discovered a gene which may help explain why some people are more sensitive to and less able to tolerate pain.

Dr Geoffrey Woods, of Cambridge University, said that discovery of a gene responsible for pain could greatly increase the ability to conquer and control it.
“The search for effective analgesics (pain releaving drugs) …. Read the original article  : here.

Dogs can make out meaning of different growls

LONDON – Dogs can know what other canines mean when they growl- right from a rumble that says “back off” to playful snarls made in a tug-of-war game.

In 2008, Peter Pongracz, a behavioural biologist at Eotvos Lorand University in Budapest, Hungary, monitored dogs’ heart rates to show that they seem to notice differences between barks … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Dogs can make out meaning of different growls.

Snake venom could advance drug discovery, understanding of diseases

WASHINGTON – Snake venom contains a protein that has the potential for new drug discovery and to advance understanding of disease mechanisms, according to researchers.

Called haditoxin, the novel protein was discovered in Professor Manjunatha Kini’s laboratory at the National University of Singapore.
Co-author of the paper Dr S. Niru Nirthanan, has characterised the pharmacological actions of …. Source  : Snake venom could advance drug discovery, understanding of diseases.

Bone marrow can harbour HIV-infected cells

LONDON – Researchers at University of Michigan have identified a new reservoir for hidden HIV-infected cells that can serve as a factory for new infections.

The findings indicate a new target for curing the disease so that those infected with the virus might not have to rely on AIDS drugs for a lifetime.
“Antiviral drugs have been …. Source  : Bone marrow can harbour HIV-infected cells.

Romantic break-up shatters a person’s self-concept

WASHINGTON – A romantic break-up does make an individual’s self-concept vulnerable to change, according to a study.

Self-concept is defined as a person’s sense of “me.”
Romantic partners develop shared friends, activities and even overlapping self-concepts.
The researchers used three studies to examine self-concept changes that can occur after a break-up.
They found that individuals have reduced self-concept clarity … Original article on : Romantic break-up shatters a person’s self-concept.

Scientists extract DNA of extinct giant bird from fossil eggs

LONDON – Experts have successfully managed to extract DNA from a 19,000-year-old emu eggshell.

Charlotte Oskam and Michael Bunce, Murdoch University in Perth, Western Australia, were able to isolate mitochondrial DNA from the eggshells of several extinct megafauna, including the giant moa of New Zealand and a [..] Read the original article: here.

Now, mobile phones to offer X-ray vision

SYDNEY – Researchers at the University of South Australia have developed mobile phone software that can offer X-ray vision to see what’s on the other side of the building in front of you.

Christian Sandor said that the application works by using the phone’s camera, reports … Read more : Now, mobile phones to offer X-ray vision.

Soon, cotton fabrics to charge iPods, MP3 players and cell phones

WASHINGTON – Ever thought that your comfy cotton T-shirt could monitor your heart rate and breathing, analyse your sweat and even cool you off on a hot summer’s day? Or have you thought of a pillow that monitors your brain waves, or a solar-powered dress that can charge …. Read the original article  : here.

How Orangutans communicate through dense jungle

WASHINGTON – By delving deeper into the long calls of male Orangutans in Borneo, scientists have got new insight into how these solitary apes communicate through dense jungle.

The researchers conducted an acoustic analysis of the calls, and revealed that the calls not only serve to attract females, …. Source  : How Orangutans communicate through dense jungle.

Runaway Prius driver, patrol officer recount burning brakes as Toyota reputation suffers blow

Runaway Prius driver: Brakes were ‘almost burned’

EL CAJON, Calif. – Before he called 911, James Sikes says he reached down with his hand to loosen the “stuck” accelerator on his 2008 Toyota Prius, his other hand on the steering wheel. The pedal didn’t move.
“My car can’t slow down,” he began when a California Highway Patrol …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Runaway Prius driver, patrol officer recount burning brakes as Toyota reputation suffers blow.

China urges greater US commitments on climate change; technical, financial support

China tells US to do more on climate change
BEIJING – China told the United States on Wednesday to make stronger commitments on climate change and provide environmental expertise and financing to developing nations.
China’s top climate change negotiator, Xie Zhenhua, acknowledged the current U.S. administration’s greater stress on greenhouse gas reductions, but said its … Read more >>>.

Geneva’s Large Hadron Collider to shut down to address safety concerns

LONDON – Geneva’s Large Hadron Collider (LHC) is to shut down for a year to address safety concerns

Dr. Steve Myers, a director at the Large Hadron Collider in Geneva has told BBC News that some mistakes were made in construction.
Dr. Myers said these faults will delay the machine reaching its full potential for two years.
The … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Geneva’s Large Hadron Collider to shut down to address safety concerns.

Stress broadens men’s ‘mating’ tastes

LONDON – The mating business just got more complex: A new study has found that when stressed, men get drawn to a wider range of women.

Published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B, the research claimed that individuals are usually attracted to partners with similar facial features to their own, but after a brief but … Original article on : Stress broadens men’s ‘mating’ tastes.

Archaeologists identify oldest part of China’s Great Wall

BEIJING – Chinese archaeologists have identified the route of a 137-km stretch of China’s oldest Great Wall in central Henan Province, on which the remnants of 30 km of wall is still standing.

“The wall structure was built no later than 221 B.C. in the Warring States period,” China.org quoted Sun Yingmin, a spokesman of the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Archaeologists identify oldest part of China’s Great Wall.

Bronze-era Buddhist sites discovered in Swat

ISLAMABAD – An Italian archaeological mission in Pakistan has discovered a large number of Buddhist sites and rock shelters in Kandak and Kota valleys of Barikot in the Swat Valley linked to the Bronze Era.

“These are some of the finest and most fascinating ancient discoveries preserved in good condition,” Gulf News quoted Dr Luca Maria …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Ancient Chola period temple unearthed in North Jaffna

COLOMBO – A limestone temple 40 feet long and 10 feet wide belonging to the Chola period has been unearthed in the Delft area of Northern Jaffna.

Commenting on the finding, Professor P. Pushparatnam of the Jaffna University History Department, said the people of the locality are unable to say when this temple was built.
According to … Read : Ancient Chola period temple unearthed in North Jaffna.

Researcher reveals Kerala’s possible Mediterranean link

KOCHI – Archaeological remains like shards of Roman amphora have recently been dug up from Pattanam near Kochi, close to the ancient port town Muziris, known locally as Kdoungallur.

V. P. Devadas, principal investigator, carried out the recent study as part of a project of the University Grants Commission on ‘Megaliths of Kerala’ in the northern …. Original article  : Researcher reveals Kerala’s possible Mediterranean link.

Catastrophic event halted birth of stars, say Durham researchers

WASHINGTON – Scientists at Durham University’s Department of Physics have found evidence of a catastrophic event that they believe was responsible for halting the birth of stars in a galaxy in the early Universe.

Their results appear in the journal Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society.
The Royal Society …. Original source  : Catastrophic event halted birth of stars, say Durham researchers.

Reovirus may help fight prostate cancer

WASHINGTON – Scientists in Canada are working on a new way to treat prostate cancer using a virus.

In the study, researchers administered the virus to six volunteer patients and found that it killed off cancer cells while sparing normal tissue.
According to the study, the respiratory, enteric, orphan virus (commonly … Read : Reovirus may help fight prostate cancer.

How mosquitoes find a host

WASHINGTON – Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists have found how the potentially deadly yellow-fever-transmitting Aedes aegypti mosquito finds a host.

They have discovered that the mosquito detects the specific chemical structure of a compound called octenol as one way to find a mammalian host for a blood meal.
Scientists have long known that mosquitoes can detect octenol, …. Original source  : How mosquitoes find a host.

Light from lamps could one day encode a wireless broadband signal

WASHINGTON – Getting a broadband connection may soon be as simple as flipping on a light switch, say researchers from Germany.

According to the scientists, the light coming from the lamps could one day encode a wireless broadband signal.
“The advantage is that you’d be using light that is already there,” said Jelena Vucic of the Fraunhofer … Original source on Gaea Times at : Light from lamps could one day encode a wireless broadband signal.

Water discovered in Apollo moon rocks

WASHINGTON – Scientists have discovered tiny amounts of water in some of the famous moon rocks brought back to Earth by Apollo astronauts.

Recently NASA crashed two spacecraft into the moon and orbiters scanned the lunar surface for telltale light signatures.
And they confirmed existence of water on the moon.
The water levels detected in Apollo moon rocks … Original article on : Water discovered in Apollo moon rocks.

Animal activists from ‘The Cove’ documentary target Calif. sushi restaurant

Animal activists target Calif. sushi restaurant

SANTA MONICA, Calif. – Federal agents are investigating a high-end Santa Monica, Calif., sushi restaurant, following a video sting orchestrated by the producers of the Oscar-winning documentary “The Cove.”
U.S. attorney’s spokesman Thom Mrozek said Tuesday that Santa Monica’s The Hump restaurant is under investigation for serving slices of the endangered … Original article on : Animal activists from ‘The Cove’ documentary target Calif. sushi restaurant.

Colony of Tasmanian devils shows immunity to face cancer, revives hopes of species survival

Tasmanian devil colony shows immunity to cancer

ADELAIDE, Australia – Australian scientists said Wednesday that the discovery of a genetically distinct colony of Tasmanian devils may save the species from being wiped out by a contagious cancer that has decimated the population.
So far, the colony in northwestern Tasmania state has proven immune to the face cancer … Original source on Gaea Times at : Colony of Tasmanian devils shows immunity to face cancer, revives hopes of species survival.

Wide eyes betray decision-makers

LONDON – When people make decisions, their pupils dilate, a cue that could be used to predict a person’s intentions, says a new research.

It is already known that when it gets darker, pupils dilate. Such a reflex is mediated by the release of …. Read the original article  : Wide eyes betray decision-makers.

Extreme and moderate heat may help cure tumours

WASHINGTON – According to a new research treating tumors with extreme heat or moderate heat, aided by ultrasound guidance, may provide a possible therapeutic option.

Osama M. Al-Bataineh, an assistant professor in biomedical engineering at the Hashemite University in Jordan, said: … Read more : Extreme and moderate heat may help cure tumours.

Soon, therapeutic socks for diabetics

WASHINGTON – American scientists have developed a new nitric oxide-releasing cloth that may come handy in making a wrap for donor organs and therapeutic socks for diabetics.

According to Texas scientists Kenneth Balkus and Harvey, nitric oxide (NO) helps increase blood flow and regulates a range of other …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Soon, therapeutic socks for diabetics.

Electronic drug information system reduces risk for ICU patients

WASHINGTON – A new German study has demonstrated that doctors can lower the risk for patients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) with the help of the electronic drug information system “AiDKlinik”, which reduces the number of adverse drug interactions and adverse events.

The … Read more : Electronic drug information system reduces risk for ICU patients.

New ways for heart treatment

WASHINGTON – A new American study has suggested new ways to improve heart treatment.
The study, led by University of Iowa scientists, demonstrated in theory, that it might be possible to use drugs that maintain the positive effects on heart function of a known enzyme called calmodulin …. Read the original article  : here.

“Double burial” was practiced for 4,500 years in ancient Mexico

WASHINGTON – The first known evidence of “double burials” has revealed that ancient people in what is now Mexico, routinely dug up decomposing bodies and took off their arms, legs, and heads, then reburied the bodies, for about 4,500 years.

According to a report in National Geographic … Read more »».

40,000-yr-old site in Australia may hold world’s southernmost traces of early human life

WASHINGTON – Reports indicate that Australian archaeologists have uncovered a 40,000-year-old tribal meeting ground, which they believe is the world’s southernmost site of early human life.

The site appears to have been the last place of refuge for Aboriginal tribes … Read more : 40,000-yr-old site in Australia may hold world’s southernmost traces of early human life.

Explosion by “Underwear Bomber” could not have blown up plane

WASHINGTON – An experiment conducted by a BBC documentary team has proven that even if the “Underwear Bomber” had exploded his device on Christmas day, 2009, the Airbus A330 would have survived.

On Dec. 25, 2009 Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab, the man dubbed as the “Underwear Bomber”, boarded Northwest Airlines …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Explosion by “Underwear Bomber” could not have blown up plane.

Scientists sniff sea salt smell nearly 900 miles away from any ocean

WASHINGTON – In a new research, scientists have found that the process by which the smell of sea salt is created can occur in the atmosphere nearly 900 miles away from any ocean.

The smell of sea salt in the air is a romanticized feature of life along a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Scientists sniff sea salt smell nearly 900 miles away from any ocean.

Why some chickens are half male and half female

LONDON – A new study have solved a puzzle that has baffled scientists for centuries – why some birds appear to be male on one side of the body and female on the other.

The research, which involved studying rare naturally occurring chickens with white (male) plumage on one … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Why some chickens are half male and half female.

Plant hormones found to increase cotton yields during drought conditions

WASHINGTON – Scientists from the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) have found that a naturally occurring class of plant hormones called cytokinins has been found to help increase cotton yields during drought conditions.

Cytokinins promote cell division and growth in plants. In cotton, cytokinins stimulate the … Read more >>>.

World crude oil production may peak a decade earlier than some predict

WASHINGTON – In a new study, scientists in Kuwait have predicted that world conventional crude oil production will peak in 2014 – almost a decade earlier than some other predictions.

Ibrahim Nashawi and colleagues point out that rapid growth … Read more »»».

Scientists leap over major hurdle in mass production of grapheme

WASHINGTON – In a new study, scientists have leaped over a major hurdle in efforts to begin commercial production of graphene, a form of carbon that could rival silicon in its potential for revolutionizing electronics devices ranging from supercomputers to cell phones.

Graphene …. Original article  : Scientists leap over major hurdle in mass production of grapheme.

Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity passes biggest cosmic test

WASHINGTON – Albert Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity has passed its biggest test yet, with an analysis of more than 70,000 galaxies by scientists, supporting the hypothesis.

By calculating the clustering of these galaxies, which stretch nearly one-third of the way to the edge of the universe, and analyzing their velocities and distortion from intervening material, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Link between brain chemical, cognitive decline in schizophrenia demonstrated

WASHINGTON – UC Davis researchers have demonstrated a link between brain chemical, cognitive decline in schizophrenia.

In one of the first such studies involving human patients with schizophrenia, researchers provided evidence that deficits in a brain chemical may be responsible for some of the debilitating cognitive deficits – poor attention, memory and problem-solving abilities – that … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Link between brain chemical, cognitive decline in schizophrenia demonstrated.

Brain mechanism offers insight into alcohol cravings and relapse

WASHINGTON – US researchers have provided an insight into the molecular mechanisms associated with addiction and relapse.

Published by Cell Press in the March 11 issue of the journal Neuron, the study uncovers a crucial mechanism that facilitates motivation for alcohol after … Original article on : Brain mechanism offers insight into alcohol cravings and relapse.

Confidence key to weighing impressions we make

WASHINGTON – The art of understanding how we appear in the eyes of others is something which most humans have perfected. Now, in a new study, researchers have sought to determine precisely what triggers this ability, or, conversely, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Confidence key to weighing impressions we make.

Pachauri welcomes review of IPCC

LONDON – Reports indicate that UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has asked the world’s science academies to review work of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), and Rajendra Pachauri, the IPCC’s chair, has welcomed the move.

The IPCC has been under pressure over …. Read the original article  : Pachauri welcomes review of IPCC.

Novel drug reduces bad cholesterol without statin side effects

LONDON – The Methodist Hospital Research Institute researchers have claimed that a new drug can significantly lower bad cholesterol, triglycerides and Lp(A), without the side effects that statins cause in many people.

The study has been published in the New England …. Source  : Novel drug reduces bad cholesterol without statin side effects.

Scientists find frog that can undergo “striking” color change

WASHINGTON – Scientists have found a new frog species in Papua New Guinea, which undergoes a “striking” change from a black, yellow-spotted youngster to a peach-colored, blue-eyed adult.

According to a report in National Geographic News, the frog, known as Oreophryne ezra, was recently … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Scientists find frog that can undergo “striking” color change.

India needs more parks and corridors for long-term survival of its animals

WASHINGTON – In a new study, an international team of scientists has determined that the long-term survival of many large species in the midst of rapid economic growth in India will require improving existing protected areas and establishing new protected areas and corridors.

The study, carried out …. Source article  : India needs more parks and corridors for long-term survival of its animals.

Now, sticking plaster that can cure cancer

LONDON – Skin cancer patients have a new reason to smile – doctors are set to unveil the first ever sticking plaster that can cure the deadly disease.

The Ambulight plaster comprises a miniature light that combines with a chemical cream and destroys skin cancer cells.
The device …. Original article  : Now, sticking plaster that can cure cancer.

Quality of Wikipedia entries depends on authors’ collaboration

WASHINGTON – A new research by an Arizona University Professor of Indian origin has found that the quality of entries in Wikipedia depends on how authors collaborate.

Sudha Ram, a UA’s Eller College of Management professor, co-authored the article with Jun Liu, a …. Read the original article  : here.

China warns Google of ‘consequences’

BEIJING – Google will have to “bear the consequence” if it insists on violating China’s laws and regulations, a senior official warned Friday.

“It is irresponsible and unfriendly if Google insists in doing something that goes against China’s laws and regulations, and it will have to bear the consequence,” Xinhua quoted Li Yizhong, the minister of … Original article on : China warns Google of ‘consequences’.

Amazon rain forests were unaffected from once-in-a-century drought in 2005

WASHINGTON – A new NASA-funded study has concluded that the Amazon rain forests were remarkably unaffected in the face of once-in-a-century drought in 2005, neither dying nor thriving, contrary to a previously published report and claims by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

“We found no big differences in the greenness level of these forests between …. Original article  : Amazon rain forests were unaffected from once-in-a-century drought in 2005.

Overprotective parents put kids at risk of psychiatric disorders

LONDON – Overprotective parents slow their kids’ brain growth in an area linked to mental illness, a new study warns.

According to the study, led by Kosuke Narita of Gunma University, Japan, kids whose parents are overprotective or neglectful are believed to be more susceptible to psychiatric disorders.
To reach the conclusion, Narita scanned the brains of … Original article on : Overprotective parents put kids at risk of psychiatric disorders.

Aquatic “dead zones” increasing global warming

WASHINGTON – In a new research, scientists have determined that the increased amount of nitrous oxide (N2O) produced in oxygen-deprived aquatic “dead zones” can elevate concentrations in the atmosphere, further exacerbating the impacts of global warming and contributing to ozone “holes” that cause an increase in our exposure to harmful UV radiation.

“As the volume of … Read : Aquatic “dead zones” increasing global warming.

Shocking recipe for making killer electrons revealed

PARIS – ESA’s (European Space Agency’s) Cluster mission has revealed the shocking recipe for making killer electrons, by taking a bunch of fast-moving electrons, placing them in orbit and then hitting them with the shock waves from a solar storm.

Killer electrons are highly energetic particles trapped in Earth’s outer radiation belt, which extends from 12 …. Source  : Shocking recipe for making killer electrons revealed.

Brain replays control decision-making process, not long-term memories

WASHINGTON – Replaying recent events in the hippocampus of the brain has more to do with active decision-making process than with creating long-term memories, according to a new study.

Conducted by researchers at Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Minnesota Medical School, the study of rats navigating a maze found that replays occurring in the … Read more »»».

Now, a computer algorithm that can record memories

WASHINGTON – A new computer algorithm can successfully record a person’s memory just by looking at their brain activity, reveals a study.

In the study, researchers at the Wellcome Trust Centre for Neuroimaging at University College London (UCL) looked at a person’s brain activity and predicted which of three short films he or she was thinking … Read : Now, a computer algorithm that can record memories.

Why we get temporarily blinded from surprises

LONDON – While we can manage to read the newspaper in a bus with loud music, a sudden fire alarm can easily snatch away our attention from the paper to the blaring sound. Now, researchers have shown why we may be temporarily blinded by surprises.

The study from Vanderbilt University has for the first time revealed …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Why we get temporarily blinded from surprises.

New herpes vaccine shows promise

LONDON – Worried that your partner has genital herpes? Well, a new approach to a herpes vaccine might rid you of any such troubles.

The vaccine fights the herpes simplex 2 virus (HSV2), which coexists with the humans it infects for long periods, only rarely causing bouts of sores, reports New Scientist.
The vaccine achieves this feat …. Original article  : New herpes vaccine shows promise.

MINI-ME to uncover secrets of outer layers of Earth’s atmosphere

WASHINGTON – Reports indicate that and three scientific instruments will fly soon on the FASTSAT-HSV01 satellite to uncover the secrets in the outer layers of Earth’s atmosphere.

Known as MINI-ME, PISA and TTI, these instruments recently passed a series of important final tests to prove their readiness for spaceflight.
These instruments were conceived and built at NASA’s …. Source article  : MINI-ME to uncover secrets of outer layers of Earth’s atmosphere.

NASA proposes mission to snatch a piece from ‘time capsule’ asteroid

WASHINGTON – NASA has proposed a space mission that would return samples from asteroid 1999 RQ36, which is literally a ‘time capsule’ from before the birth of our solar system that could shed light on how life began.

“This asteroid is a time capsule from before the birth of our solar system,” said Bill Cutlip of …. Read the original article  : here.

Vision originated 600 mln yrs ago in sea-dwelling hydra

WASHINGTON – A team of scientists at UC (University of California) Santa Barbara have discovered that vision originated in the hydra, a member of an ancient group of sea creatures, about 600 million years ago.

Hydra are simple animals that, along with jellyfish, belong to the phylum cnidaria, which first emerged 600 million years ago.
“We determined …. Source article  : Vision originated 600 mln yrs ago in sea-dwelling hydra.

Lunar mirror mystery solved by scientists

SYDNEY – Scientists have determined that the degradation of the performance of the Apollo reflector arrays on the Moon is because they are covered by lunar dust.

The reflectors were placed on the lunar surface during the Apollo 11, 14 and 15 missions, as well as the Soviet Lunakhod 1 and 2 robotic missions.
Since 1969 astronomers …. Read the original article  : Lunar mirror mystery solved by scientists.

New oral treatment works better than lotions to eradicate lice

LONDON – A new oral treatment is more effective in eradicating lice as compared to any prescription lotion for the scalp, French medical researchers have found.

Lice are parasites, which infest more than 100 million people worldwide each year. Children between the ages of 3 and 11 years are particularly vulnerable because of their social behaviour, …. Source  : New oral treatment works better than lotions to eradicate lice.

Temperature at 40 degrees in parts of Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – The Orissa government Friday issued an advisory in all 30 districts asking people to stay indoors after the temperature soared to a sweltering 40 degrees Celsius in some parts of the state.

“In view of the heat wave conditions, we have asked collectors in all districts to remain alert,” a senior official of the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Temperature at 40 degrees in parts of Orissa.

Mums teach kids lessons of life – even before birth

WASHINGTON – Mother birds leave chemical “messages” in their eggs in a bid to communicate with their developing chicks, a new research has showed.

Team from the Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge found, by changing conditions within the egg, canary mothers leave a message for their developing chicks about the life they will face after … Read : Mums teach kids lessons of life – even before birth.

Body’s response to taste or smell of meal ‘a diabetes risk factor’

WASHINGTON – Our body’s response to foods’ smell, taste could be a risk factor for diabetes, say researchers.

Scientists at Duke University Medical Center have identified the specific mechanism in human specimens and in mice. According to them, when we anticipate or smell a meal, the parasympathetic nervous system triggers salivation and increases insulin production in … Original article on : Body’s response to taste or smell of meal ‘a diabetes risk factor’.

Copernicus invented geology more than 500 years ago

WASHINGTON – In a new study, two geologists have determined that Copernicus, the renowned Polish astronomer, had invented the field of geology more than 500 years ago.

According to a report in Discovery News, Walter Alvarez, a professor at the University of California at Berkeley, and science historian Henrique Leitao of the Universidade de Lisboa in …. Source article  : Copernicus invented geology more than 500 years ago.

Mass graves of Nazi victims found in Austria

WASHINGTON – Reports indicate that at least two mass graves containing dozens of people killed by the Nazis have been found on property used by the Austrian army.

According to a report in Discovery News, an army statement suggested that some of the remains may be that … Original source on Gaea Times at : Mass graves of Nazi victims found in Austria.

Finding Mallory’s camera may reveal whether he was first to climb Mount Everest

WASHINGTON – Reports indicate that a veteran Everest researcher is trying to find George Mallory’s camera, which may contain photographic evidence of whether he and Andrew Irvine were the first to summit Mount Everest.

According to a report in Discovery News, the lost camera …. Read the original article  : here.

Milky Way’s fastest stars circle each other at 500 kms a second

WASHINGTON – Astronomers have confirmed that two extremely dense stars in an intimate dance are spinning around each other in just 5.4 minutes at about 500 kilometers a second, making them the fastest known stellar partners in the galaxy.

The whirling duo, known as HM Cancri, also has the tightest orbit … Read more : Milky Way’s fastest stars circle each other at 500 kms a second.

Clock ticking for Istanbul quake

LONDON – Reports indicate that the clock is ticking for an earthquake to strike the city of Istanbul in Turkey.

The magnitude-6.1 earthquake that hit eastern Turkey on March 8 has provoked fresh concerns over whether Istanbul could be the next Turkish … Read more : Clock ticking for Istanbul quake.

World’s birds shrinking due to global warming

WASHINGTON – A new study by scientists has shown that many birds in the world, particularly in North America, are shrinking, in response to warmer temperatures.

In biology, there is a general rule of thumb that animals tend to become smaller in warmer climates: an idea known as Bergman’s Rule.
Usually, …. Original source  : World’s birds shrinking due to global warming.

Deformity-causing mechanism of drug Thalidomide discovered

LONDON – The primary mechanism by which thalidomide causes malformed limbs in developing embryos has been discovered by scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology.

The drug’s side-effect gained recognition after many affected children were born to mothers who had been prescribed the drug for morning sickness.
According to …. Source article  : Deformity-causing mechanism of drug Thalidomide discovered.

Legal and institutional issues linked to asteroid threats to Earth

WASHINGTON – The Secure World Foundation (SWF) has released the findings of a group of international experts that examines the legal and institutional issues linked to potential future threats posed by Near Earth Object …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Legal and institutional issues linked to asteroid threats to Earth.

Octopus is the Jekyll and Hyde of the ocean

LONDON – A new study using high definition television (HDTV) has revealed that the Octopus may be the Jekyll and Hyde of the ocean, as it is aggressive one day, while shrinking violets the next, which suggests that [..] Read the original article: here.

Chinese medicine societies reject use of tiger bones

WASHINGTON – Reports indicate that a statement by World Federation of Chinese Medicine Societies (WFCMS), which has urged its members not to use tiger bone or any other parts from endangered wildlife, has been welcomed by the WWF and TRAFFIC.

The statement was made at a symposium on March 12 in Beijing and … Read : Chinese medicine societies reject use of tiger bones.

Scientists creating ‘golden bullet’ for cancer

WASHINGTON – Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis are developing what they call a magic ‘golden’ bullet for cancer, which could kill the tumours by using gold nanoparticles.

The researchers- including Dr. Younan Xia, James M. McKelvey, Michael J. Welch- … Read more >>.

Seven cat species captured on camera in Indian rain forest

WASHINGTON – A photographer have captured on camera seven cat species in Jeypore-Dehing lowland rain forest in the northeast Indian state of Assam.

According to a report in National Geographic News, wildlife biologist Kashmira Kakati took the pictures during a two-year survey by …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Seven cat species captured on camera in Indian rain forest.

Konkan Turtle Festival draws domestic, foreign tourists

MUMBAI – The second Konkan Turtle Festival-2010 has got off to a flying start with over 375 Olive Ridley turtles released in the Arabian Sea during the past four days.

The festival, conducted jointly by the Sahyadri Nisarga Mitra (SNM) and Kasav Mitra Mandal (KMM), will be on till March 28 in Velas Sea Village in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Konkan Turtle Festival draws domestic, foreign tourists.

Investigators face several pesky questions in probe of runaway Toyota Prius

Runaway Prius case presents nagging questions

SAN DIEGO – Investigators are confronted with a series of nagging questions as they try to unravel the case of a California real estate agent who said his Toyota Prius turned into a runaway death trap after the gas pedal became stuck.
Why didn’t the driver simply throw the transmission into …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

AP Interview: Kerry says climate bill will focus on jobs, energy independence

AP Interview: Kerry: Energy bill more about jobs
WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kerry, hoping to win over wavering senators, said he is pushing environmental reforms to create jobs and spark energy independence, with climate benefits along “for the ride.”
In an interview with The Associated Press, the Massachusetts Democrat said legislation he’s … Original source on Gaea Times at : AP Interview: Kerry says climate bill will focus on jobs, energy independence.

Starving sea lions wash ashore in California

LOS ANGELES – Hundreds of starving sea lions are washing ashore along the California coast as El Nino weather conditions warm the Pacific Ocean and drive away their usual prey, according to media reports Friday.

The report in the Orange County Register follows accounts earlier in the year of hundreds of sick and starving pelicans along …. Source article  : Starving sea lions wash ashore in California.

Scientists need to do better job of explaining climate change science, NOAA’s director says

NOAA director urges better explanations of climate

WASHINGTON – Climate change is here and scientists need to do a better job of explaining it to the public, the director of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said Friday.
“We are no longer constrained by talking about some possible future. Climate change is happening now and it’s happening … Read more >>.

Blame game as Orissa government website hits snag

BHUBANESWAR – The Orissa government website has gone blank since last two days due to some technical snag and officials of the state government and the National Informatics Centre (NIC), which hosts the site, are blaming each other.

The Delhi excise department’s website appeared Thursday if one logged on to www.orissa.gov.in.
“We can’t say … Read more »».

LG Chem Ltd. says it will make battery cells for electric vehicles at Holland, Mich. plant

LG Chem Ltd. to make battery cells in Holland, MI

HOLLAND, Mich. – Korean battery-maker LG Chem Ltd. and its U.S. subsidiary Troy-based Compact Power Inc. will make battery cells for electric vehicles at a plant in western Michigan, the companies announced Friday.
At its peak, the $303 million factory in Holland will produce enough battery cells … Original source on Gaea Times at : LG Chem Ltd. says it will make battery cells for electric vehicles at Holland, Mich. plant.

Kerala reels under oppressive heat

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Kerala is reeling under intense heat for this time of the month with the temperature crossing 40 degrees Celsius in some parts of the state.

Palakkad district is the worst affected with the mercury touching 42.7 degrees Celsius Friday followed by Kollam 42 degrees, Kannur 39, Kottayam 38 and the capital 37.5 degrees …. Original source  : Kerala reels under oppressive heat.

Australia on watchlist with Iran for imposing censorship on the Internet

SYDNEY – A top media rights watchdog has listed Australia along with Iran and North Korea in a report on countries that pose a threat of internet censorship.

According to a report in The Sydney Morning Herald, Paris-based media rights group Reporters Without Borders on Thursday put Australia and South Korea on its list of countries …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Australia on watchlist with Iran for imposing censorship on the Internet.

‘Yoga’ polymer shifts shape with changing temperature

LONDON – A material commonly used in fuel cells can ‘remember’ up to three different shapes, and revert to each one at different temperatures, according to new research.

The new research unmasks the versatility of a new type of polymer, Nafion, reports New Scientist.
Tao Xie at General Motors in Warren, Michigan, twisted and stretched a Nafion …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Big box stores pose threat to people allergic to polyurethane

WASHINGTON – People allergic to polyurethane could face problems if they shop at a big box store because many of the products there contain that substance.

Products that contain polyurethane include memory foam mattresses and some pillows.
Allergic reactions to polyurethane can include itching eyes or skin, difficulty breathing, an irregular heartbeat and other symptoms.
It isn’t just … Read : Big box stores pose threat to people allergic to polyurethane.

Tomb of headless man adorned with jade found under Maya torture mural in Mexico

WASHINGTON – A team of archeologists has discovered the tomb of a headless man adorned with jade beneath an ancient Mexican chamber famously painted with scenes of torture.

Found under the Temple of Murals at the Maya site of … Read more : Tomb of headless man adorned with jade found under Maya torture mural in Mexico.

World’s largest meat-eating plant prefers to eat small animal poo

WASHINGTON – Botanists have discovered that the giant montane pitcher plant of Borneo, which is the largest meat-eating plant in the world, prefers to eat small animal poo.

According to a report by BBC News, the researchers found that the plant has a pitcher the exact same size as a tree shrew’s body.
But it is … Read : World’s largest meat-eating plant prefers to eat small animal poo.

Algae contributing to petroleum deposits from hundreds of millions of years

WASHINGTON – A new research has determined that a particular species of algae has been contributing to existing petroleum deposits from hundreds of millions of years.

The research was carried out by Dr. Timothy Devarenne, an AgriLife Research scientist with the Texas …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Algae contributing to petroleum deposits from hundreds of millions of years.

Analysis of blind scorpions in Mexico suggests adaptation to caves is reversible

WASHINGTON – A new phylogenetic analysis of blind scorpions that live in the stygian depths of caves in Mexico has suggested that adaptation to caves is reversible, which is evidence that specialized adaptations are not evolutionary dead ends.

The analysis revealed that scorpions currently living …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Analysis of blind scorpions in Mexico suggests adaptation to caves is reversible.

APNewsBreak: Probe raises questions about driver’s description of runaway Prius in Calif.

APNewsBreak: Probe questions runaway Prius story

SAN DIEGO – Investigators with Toyota and the federal government were unable to make a Toyota Prius speed out of control as its owner said it did on a California freeway, according to a memorandum obtained Saturday by The Associated Press. A congressional spokesman said the finding cast doubt on …. Source article  : APNewsBreak: Probe raises questions about driver’s description of runaway Prius in Calif..

Chinese premier says he was snubbed at Copenhagen climate summit, fires back at critics

China alleges diplomatic snub at Copenhagen summit

BEIJING – Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao said he was snubbed at last year’s Copenhagen climate change conference and fired back Sunday at critics who accuse China of arrogance.
China was blamed by some for undermining efforts to reach a binding agreement at the December conference and Wen was himself criticized …. Read the original article  : Chinese premier says he was snubbed at Copenhagen climate summit, fires back at critics.

Report: Probe opens questions about driver’s description of runaway Prius on Calif. freeway

Report: Probe questions driver’s account of Prius

SAN FRANCISCO – A newspaper is reporting that investigators probing a runaway Toyota Prius found its brakes didn’t show the wear expected when a driver exerts sustained pressure like the driver said he did during a dramatic incident on a San Diego highway.
The Wall Street Journal reported Saturday that …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Report: Probe opens questions about driver’s description of runaway Prius on Calif. freeway.

Former astronauts call US decision to cancel moon landing program disappointing

Former astronauts criticize US moon decision

LONDON – Two former astronauts say they are disappointed with the U.S. government’s decision to cancel NASA’s moon landing program.
Eugene Cernan, part of the 1972 Apollo 17 mission, said he’s disheartened he’s the last man to have walked on the moon and “I thought we’d (have) gone back long before … Original source on Gaea Times at : Former astronauts call US decision to cancel moon landing program disappointing.

Delegates gather in Qatar to save elephants, tuna

DOHA – Some 1,500 delegates representing 175 parties to a treaty designed to protect endangered species around the world on Saturday gathered in Qatar to discuss how best to protect wildlife.

Bluefin tuna, elephants, polar bears, and a wide variety of reptiles, insects, plants and corals would top the agenda of the two-week conference on the …. Source article  : Delegates gather in Qatar to save elephants, tuna.

Big-tent Democrats facing ever widening cracks in its base in difficult political environment

Divided party? It’s not just GOP, but also Dems
WASHINGTON – For all the evidence of a divided GOP, the Democratic Party has its own widening cracks that could make a potentially bleak election year even more dour.
In just the past two weeks, Arkansas Sen. Blanche Lincoln became the latest …. Read the original article  : Big-tent Democrats facing ever widening cracks in its base in difficult political environment.

Bluefin tuna, overfished oceans top agenda of UN wildlife protection conference in Doha

Bluefin tuna tops CITES conference agenda in Doha

DOHA, Qatar – A contentious battle between Asia and the West over the fate of the Atlantic bluefin tuna prized by sushi lovers overshadowed a United Nations conference that opened Saturday in the Gulf state of Qatar.
The 175-nation Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, or CITES, was … Read more : Bluefin tuna, overfished oceans top agenda of UN wildlife protection conference in Doha.

Ticker toll: Heart attacks may have risen when the stock market was falling, study suggests

Hearts may swoon when stocks do, study suggests

ATLANTA – Stock market slides may hurt more than your savings. New research suggests they might prompt heart attacks.
Duke University researchers found a link between how a key stock index performed and how many heart attacks were treated at their North Carolina hospital shortly after the recession began [..] Read the original article: here.

Blufin tuna, overfished oceans top agenda of UN wildlife protection conference in Doha

Blufin tuna tops CITES conference agenda in Doha

DOHA, Qatar – The Atlantic bluefin tuna and other marine life in the world’s overfished oceans are the focus of a United Nations conference in the Gulf state of Qatar.
The 175-nation Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, or CITES, is discussing new proposals to regulate the shark …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Blufin tuna, overfished oceans top agenda of UN wildlife protection conference in Doha.

Chandra X-ray observing telescope celebrates 10th anniversary

WASHINGTON – The Chandra X-ray observing telescope is celebrating ten years of its launch, during which it has made a number of significant achievements.

NASA launched its Chandra X-ray observing telescope into orbit in 1999.
During that time, astronomers didn’t know much about the galactic winds made of wispy, multi-million-degree gas clouds …. Source article  : Chandra X-ray observing telescope celebrates 10th anniversary.

Molecule that can switch off cancer discovered

WASHINGTON – Scientists from the University of Colorado have found a ’switch’ that can turn off cancer.

They have discovered a molecule that actually triggers cell death, and they are convinced it can be developed into a treatment for cancer and other illnesses.
They found that the molecule called caspase, which was already well known for killing …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Molecule that can switch off cancer discovered.

Arctic reindeer abandon use of internal clock to survive in extreme cold

WASHINGTON – A new study has shown that Arctic reindeer have abandoned use of the internal clock that drives the daily biological rhythms in other organisms, in order to live under extreme conditions in the Arctic.

“Our findings imply that evolution has come up with a means … Read more »»».

Extra instruction at home can jump-start reading skills of children

WASHINGTON – Reading to young children at home can play a big role in developing their English language skills, a new study has found.

The research has appeared in Learning and Instruction.
Because letters in the English alphabet sound different for various words, it’s a harder …. Original source  : Extra instruction at home can jump-start reading skills of children.

New Alzheimer’s test to ensure early detection

WASHINGTON – A new test, developed at the University of Tennessee, is over 95 percent accurate in detecting cognitive abnormalities linked with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of cognitive impairment.

Called computerized self-test (CST), it was designed to be both effective and relatively simple for … Read more »»».