Facebook ‘fuelling divorce’

MELBOURNE – British marriage counsellors claim that social networking sites like Facebook are contributing to separations and divorces.

According to the Sunday Mail, British divorce firm Divorce-Online said Facebook was cited in one-fifth of the divorce petitions it processed last year.

It emerged that a number … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Facebook ‘fuelling divorce’.

‘Junk’ DNA behind cancer growth

LONDON – Scientists have discovered a new driving force behind cancer growth.

Researchers from the University of Leeds, UK, the Charite University Medical School and the Max Delbruck Centre for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in Berlin, Germany, have identified [..] Read the original article: here.

Mammoth’s haemoglobin resurrection explain how they survived extreme cold

LONDON – Canadian scientists have resurrected haemoglobin of woolly mammoth – a blood protein that may explain how the animals coped with the cold of an ice age.

It is the first time that proteins from a long-dead organism have been recreated in a living cell.

And researchers believe … Original source on Gaea Times at : Mammoth’s haemoglobin resurrection explain how they survived extreme cold.

Obese kids are bullied more

WASHINGTON – A new study has shown that obese children are more likely to be bullied regardless of gender, race, socioeconomic status, social skills or academic achievement.

A research team, led by Julie …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Why do obese kids attract bullies?

WASHINGTON – Obese children are more likely to be bullied regardless of gender, race, socio-economic status, social skills or academic achievement, says a new study.

“Physicians who care for obese children should consider the role that being bullied is playing in the child’s well-being,” said study leader Julie C. Lumeng, assistant professor in paediatrics and communicable … Read more >>.

How omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation

LONDON – Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have found new mediators that not only can explain how omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation, but also hint at novel treatments for a host of diseases linked to … Read more : How omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation.

Soon, lasers may trigger showers on demand

LONDON – Shooting lasers into the air can elicit the formation of water droplets, and scientists claim that the technique could one day help to induce rain artificially.

For a long time, efforts to artificially trigger rain have focussed on … Read more »».

Two new genes linked to autism

WASHINGTON – Scientists have identified two additional genes that may be associated with autism.

Study co-author Ning Lei, a researcher at Princeton University and the Institute for Advanced Studies, said that there is no known cause of autism, but mutations of several genes have been linked to autism.

For the study, Dr. Lei and her colleagues analyzed …. Original article  : Two new genes linked to autism.

Watching TV ‘makes toddlers fatter and stupider’

LONDON – Watching television makes kids less intelligent and more likely to put on weight, according to a new research.

In the study, scientists found that the more television children watched aged two-and-a-half the worse they were at mathematics, the more junk food they ate, and …. Read the original article  : Watching TV ‘makes toddlers fatter and stupider’.

Delhi set for hot day

NEW DELHI – After the thundershowers that brought some relief from the searing heat last week, Delhi was Monday set for a hot day with the temperature hovering around 39 degrees Celsius.

The national capital recorded a minimum of 26.2 degrees Celsius, two notches above average for this time of the season.
“Skies … Original article on : Delhi set for hot day.

Aliens have been visiting Earth for decades: Canadian expert

TORONTO – Accusing world famous astrophysicist Stephen Hawking of spreading misinformation about threats from aliens, former Canadian defence minister Paul Hellyer claimed Sunday that extraterrestrials have actually been visiting earth for decades.

Rather than harm mankind, he said, their (aliens’) spaceships have provided us information for triggering today’s microchip and IT revolution on our planet. …. Original source  : Aliens have been visiting Earth for decades: Canadian expert.

Proposed Shelton biomass power plant garners opposition from critics concerned about pollution

Proposed Shelton biomass plant stirs opposition

SHELTON, Wash. – A proposed power plant that would burn wood waste from the forest floor to generate electricity is facing some citizen opposition.
Adage LLC, based in Maryland, wants to build a $250 million, 60-megawatt power plant in Mason County. The project was unveiled in February as a way to [..] Read the original article: here.

Mexico, Germany urge the world to act on climate change at conference with 45 countries

Mexico, Germany urge the world to act on climate
KOENIGSWINTER, Germany – With the fight against global warming in serious trouble, Germany and Mexico are calling on world leaders to get international negotiations back on track and reach concrete results by the end of the year.
“We need to show the world how …. Source  : Mexico, Germany urge the world to act on climate change at conference with 45 countries.

Buying a new car? Big springtime promotions, spurred by Toyota, could last through summer

Spring buyers market prevails in auto showrooms

NEW YORK – If you’re looking for a new car, the good news is it’s a buyer’s market. The better news is it could stay that way for a while.
Automakers have ratcheted up sales promotions this spring, spurred by Toyota, which is trying to goose sales after millions of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Buying a new car? Big springtime promotions, spurred by Toyota, could last through summer.

Lucknow Zoo sends elephants to wildlife parks

LUCKNOW – The Lucknow Zoo Sunday pulled out its two elephants and sent them to two wildlife parks of the state, an official said.

This follows an order of the Central Zoo Authority banning elephants in zoos of the country.
While one of the elephants was shifted to Dudhwa National Park in Lakhimpur district, about 250 … Read more »»».

Scientists go beyond diamond for quantum computing

Washington, May 2 (ANI): After pioneering research into the quantum properties of a small defect found in diamonds, scientists at UC Santa Barbara have now used cutting-edge computational techniques to … Read : Scientists go beyond diamond for quantum computing.

Surprising behaviour of tiny ‘artificial muscles’ explained

Washington, May 2 (ANI): By using neutron beams and atomic-force microscopes, researchers at National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) have uncovered the surprising behaviour of an exotic class of ‘artificial muscles’.

Their results could influence the design of future specialized robotic tools.

These “artificial muscles,” first …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Surprising behaviour of tiny ‘artificial muscles’ explained.

Inexpensive metal catalyst for generating hydrogen from water discovered

London, May 2 (ANI): A team of researchers with the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) and the University of California, Berkeley, has …. Original source  : Inexpensive metal catalyst for generating hydrogen from water discovered.

Gene’s role in breast-tumor growth unlocked

Washington, May 2 (ANI): A new research helps explain why breast-milk cells lose their structure, causing them to clump up in strange ways and sometimes become cancer tumors.

With the support of Chen Ling and Dongmei Zuo at McGill’s Goodman Cancer Centre, McGill Biochemist Dr. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Gene’s role in breast-tumor growth unlocked.

New measure to treat anthrax infection

Washington, May 2 (ANI): According to a new study, anthrax-causing bacteria can be engineered to shed their invisibility cloaks, which will make it easier for the immune system to eradicate it.

The study has been published in Microbiology.

The work … Read more >>>.

China won’t allow anonymous online comments

BEIJING – China will bring to an end anonymous online comments and “harmful information” on the Internet would be monitored, an official said.

Wang Chen, director of the State Council Information Office, said China would strengthen its monitoring on “harmful information” on the Internet in an attempt to prevent “overseas hostile forces from infiltrating through the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : China won’t allow anonymous online comments.

Blackberry ‘was first predicted 100 years ago’

LONDON – Blackberry, the leading smartphone device, had been predicted a century ago by an American physicist, it has been claimed.

Nikola Tesla made the prediction about the portable messaging service way back in 1909 in the Popular Mechanics magazine.

In the mag, he wrote that one day …. Source article  : Blackberry ‘was first predicted 100 years ago’.

Backers of bill that would have banned smoking at California state parks disappointed by veto

Veto disappoints backers of Calif. smoking ban

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Advocates of a bill that would have banned smoking at all California state parks and beaches say they’re disappointed in Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s decision to veto the measure.
“We’re very dismayed to see the governor has not prioritized clean and healthy beaches, especially since our coast lines …. Source article  : Backers of bill that would have banned smoking at California state parks disappointed by veto.

Mothers can pass disease caused by insect bites to babies

WASHINGTON – Bacteria transmitted by fleas-and potentially ticks-can be passed to human babies by the mother, causing chronic infections and raising the possibility of bacterially induced birth defects, a scientist has discovered.

Dr. Ed Breitschwerdt, professor of internal … Read more >>.

Purple periwinkles may help fight inflammatory diseases

WASHINGTON – Vinpocetine, a natural product derived from the periwinkle plant, can act as a novel anti-inflammatory agent that may one day be used for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, as well as …. Original article  : Purple periwinkles may help fight inflammatory diseases.

Low-maintenance strawberry may be good space crop

WASHINGTON – A strawberry that requires little maintenance and energy seems to meet NASA guidelines for foods that could be grown in space, say scientists.

Cary Mitchell, professor of horticulture at Purdue University, and Gioia Massa, a horticulture research scientist, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Low-maintenance strawberry may be good space crop.

Now, nano-based technology that can make PCs, net hundreds of times faster

WASHINGTON – Communication devices will soon turn smaller, more flexible and more powerful, thanks to a nano-based technology that can make computers and the Internet hundreds of times faster.

Currently being created by Dr. Koby Scheuer of Tel Aviv University’s School … Read more : Now, nano-based technology that can make PCs, net hundreds of times faster.

Teen smokers fail to recognize early signs of nicotine dependence

WASHINGTON – Teens, who have just started smoking occasionally, do not recognize the early symptoms of dependence, according to a new study.

Led by Dr. Chyke Doubeni, of the University of Massachusetts, the study found that among kids who have started smoking, “an urge to smoke or being irritable because they are … Read : Teen smokers fail to recognize early signs of nicotine dependence.

Childhood cancer survivors 4 times more prone to post-traumatic stress disorder

WASHINGTON – Young adult survivors of childhood cancers are four times more likely to develop Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) than their control group siblings, revealed a study.

The Childhood Cancer Survivors Study focused on 6,542 childhood cancer … Original article on : Childhood cancer survivors 4 times more prone to post-traumatic stress disorder.

First transgenic mouse created to mimic Parkinson’s earliest symptoms

WASHINGTON – Researchers have created the first transgenic mouse to display the earliest signs of Parkinson’s disease using the genetic mutation that is characteristic of human forms of the disease.

The mouse model, which expresses the same mutant proteins … Read more >>>.

Exercise early for stronger bones in old age

LONDON – Exercises early on increase bone density and size, which may spell a reduced risk of osteoporosis later, says a study.

Around 3,200 men had their bones examined and their exercise habits mapped. Of these, just over 2,300 18-year-olds were selected at random to have their heel bone studied by the researchers.
The heel bone …. Original article  : Exercise early for stronger bones in old age.

Scientists find way to boost nutritional levels of corn

WASHINGTON – An international team of agricultural scientists has found a way to boost the nutritional value of corn and prevent blindness among children.

In Africa and other developing regions, corn is a major staple and hundreds of thousands of children become blind, develop weakened immune systems and die because of diets based largely on … Read more »».

Genes associated with osteoporosis identified

LONDON – Researchers at Jewish General Hospital in Montreal have identified 20 genes associated with osteoporosis and bone weakness, including 13 genes never previously associated with the disease.

Osteoporosis is a highly heritable trait, but this marks the largest international effort to conclusively identify genes linked to the often-devastating bone disorder.

The study’s co-first author is Dr. … Read more >>.

Children’s copycat behavior is universal

WASHINGTON – A particular kind of imitation – overimitation, in which a child copies everything an adult shows them – appears to be a universal human activity, rather than something the children of middle-class parents pick up, claims a new study.

Scientists “have been finding this odd effect where children will copy everything that they see … Read more >>>.

Blame your genes for credit card debt

LONDON – A gene linked with impulsive and addictive behaviour makes people up to 16 per cent more likely to have credit card debt, a study has found.

The study was conducted by researchers from the London School of Economics and the University of California, reports The Independent.

Gene MAOA is associated with neurotransmitters which affect mood, … Original article on : Blame your genes for credit card debt.

Physicist made Blackberry prediction 100 years ago

LONDON – Blackberry, the leading smartphone device, had been predicted more than 100 years ago by an American physicist who said such a hand-held device would be simple to use and everyone would communicate to friends using it.

Nikola Tesla made the prediction about the portable messaging service way back in 1909 in the Popular … Original source on Gaea Times at : Physicist made Blackberry prediction 100 years ago.

Environmentalists warn Jordan River drying up, filled with sewage

Environmentalists warn Jordan River drying up

QASR AL-YAHUD, West Bank – Christian pilgrims who flock to the Jordan River to immerse themselves in the water where Jesus was baptized may have nothing left to dunk in next year.
A team of Israeli, Jordanian and Palestinian environmental scientists says large stretches of the biblical river could dry up … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Environmentalists warn Jordan River drying up, filled with sewage.

Male obesity tied to low testosterone levels

WASHINGTON – Obese men are more likely than others to have low levels of sex hormone testosterone, claims a new study.

Published in the journal Diabetes Care, the study conducted by University at Buffalo endocrinologists showed that 40 percent of obese participants involved in the Hypogonadism in Males (HIM) study had lower-than-normal testosterone readings.

The percentage rose …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Male obesity tied to low testosterone levels.

May won’t be as hot as April: met office

NEW DELHI – There is good news for Delhiites. The weather office has predicted that the heat in May will be less severe than what the capital experienced in April.

“The heat in the capital will be less severe in May than in April,” an official of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.
“The … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : May won’t be as hot as April: met office.

Iran to launch two satellites with Russia in 2010

TEHRAN – Iran is working on a plan to launch two communication satellites with Russia by the end of this year.

During the Moscow visit of Iran’s Minister of Telecommunication Reza Taqipour in April, a memorandum of understanding was signed between Taqipour and his Russian counterpart Igor Shchegolev for broader cooperation in the field of telecommunication. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Iran to launch two satellites with Russia in 2010.

New video camera can focus on near and far objects simultaneously

WASHINGTON – Experts at the University of Toronto have come up with a novel video camera design, which is based on an entirely new distance-mapping principle.

The Omni-focus Video Camera delivers automatic real-time focus of both near and far field images, simultaneously, in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : New video camera can focus on near and far objects simultaneously.

Stool DNA testing may help prevent colon cancer

WASHINGTON – Noninvasive stool DNA testing can detect two types of colorectal precancers and could play a larger role in colon cancer prevention, say two new studies.

Compared to widely used fecal blood tests, stool DNA testing has higher detection rates for curable stage colorectal cancer and for common …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Headless granite statue of ancient Egypt king discovered

WASHINGTON – A headless granite statue of a Ptolemaic king was recently discovered from the ruins of an ancient Egyptian limestone temple.

The temple is believed to have been the burial site of Queen Cleopatra and her lover … Read more »»».

Soon, plasma rocket that could take astronauts to Mars in just 39 days!

WASHINGTON – NASA is looking forward to flying a plasma-powered rocket to survey an asteroid that could take astronauts to Mars in a little over a month’s time.

The rocket called Variable Specific Impulse Magnetoplasma Rocket (VASIMR) is a twin of one being developed for testing aboard … Read more : Soon, plasma rocket that could take astronauts to Mars in just 39 days!.

Weather forecasts to get more accurate, courtesy Chinese radars

AGARTALA – Weather forecasting in India is all set to get more accurate with the met office setting up Chinese made Doppler radars across the country that can track and predict fast- evolving weather systems such as thunderstorms, cyclones and cloudbursts.

The radars, which have been procured from Beijing Metstar Radar Company, will be installed at … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Weather forecasts to get more accurate, courtesy Chinese radars.

Sleep-inducing genetic differences could offer protection against alcohol dependence

WASHINGTON – Genetic differences in alcohol-metabolising enzymes, that make you sleepy when you drink, could significantly alter your risk for developing alcohol dependence (AD), according to a study.

One variant of the alcohol dehydrogenase enzyme, ADH1B*3, is observed almost exclusively in populations … Read more >>>.

High doses of vitamins C and E may raise cancer risk

WASHINGTON – High doses of antioxidant nutritional supplements, such as vitamins C and E, could induce genetic abnormalities in cells, according to a study.

And these abnormalities could predispose supplement-takers to developing cancer, said Dr. Eduardo Marban director of …. Original source  : High doses of vitamins C and E may raise cancer risk.

Future temperatures could surpass liveable limits

WASHINGTON – In what could be called the worst scenarios for global warming, the temperatures could reach such heights that it would be impossible for humans to survive on the planet, say researchers from Purdue University and the University of New South Wales, Australia.

For the first … Read more : Future temperatures could surpass liveable limits.

Flaxseed-rich diet decreases severity of ovarian cancer in chickens

WASHINGTON – After spending five years researching on ovarian cancer in chicken models, University of Illinois scientists have discovered that a diet enriched with flaxseed decreases severity of the deadly disease and increases survival in hens.

Flaxseed is the richest plant source …. Original source  : Flaxseed-rich diet decreases severity of ovarian cancer in chickens.

Giant containment dome to bottle up oil in the Gulf soon headed to site of massive spill

Dome to contain Gulf oil the next best solution
NEW ORLEANS – The best short-term solution to bottling up a disastrous oil spill threatening sealife and livelihoods along the Gulf Coast should be arriving on Wednesday in the form of a specially built giant concrete-and-steel box designed to siphon the oil away.
Crews for … Read : Giant containment dome to bottle up oil in the Gulf soon headed to site of massive spill.

Sources of genetic resistance to rice sheath blight identified

WASHINGTON – Sources of genetic resistance to sheath blight, a major disease affecting rice production worldwide, have been identified by Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists.

Sheath blight, caused by the fungus Rhizoctonia solani, is a major disease of rice that …. Read the original article  : Sources of genetic resistance to rice sheath blight identified.

How breast tumor cells break free and start to spread

WASHINGTON – Researchers at the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center have identified a key mechanism in metastatic breast cancer.

The boffins have found a molecular mechanism in breast cancer that enables tumor cells to spread to adjacent or distant parts of the body in [..] Read the original article: here.

‘Near misses’ provoke problem gamblers to gamble more

WASHINGTON – Problem gamblers’ brains react more intensely to “near misses” than casual gamblers, possibly prompting them to play more, says a new research.

The study has been published in the May 5 issue of The Journal of Neuroscience.

In the study, researchers found the brain region … Read more »».

Single bin more efficient for recycling

LONDON – Using a single bin for collecting dry waste is more efficient for recycling than sorting it in different bins.

A report by waste consultancy WYG says local councils in Britain collected 25 percent more recyclable waste when households used just one bin for “dry” waste like cardboard and glass, reported Express.co.uk.
It said areas …. Source  : Single bin more efficient for recycling.

Short sleep ups risk of premature death

LONDON – People who sleep for less than six hours each night were 12 percent more likely to die prematurely than those who get the recommended six to eight hours.

The study by the University of Warwick and Federico II University Medical School, Italy, provides evidence of the direct link between short duration of sleep … Read more : Short sleep ups risk of premature death.

Hot day in Delhi, but thundershowers likely later

NEW DELHI – With the minimum temperature five notches above average, it was a warm start to the day Wednesday for Delhi’s residents. However, the met department has forecast a duststorm or thundershowers for later in the evening.

“There is a likelihood of a duststorm or thundershowers later in the evening today. But until then, the …. Source article  : Hot day in Delhi, but thundershowers likely later.

California water board adopts tighter rules for coastal power plants to protect marine life

Calif. regulates power plants to save marine life

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – State water regulators on Tuesday ordered coastal power plants to begin phasing out a cooling process that is blamed for killing billions of aquatic organisms every year.
After a nine-hour public hearing, the five members of the state Water Resources Control Board voted unanimously to adopt …. Original article  : California water board adopts tighter rules for coastal power plants to protect marine life.

EPA says Arizona uranium mine north of Grand Canyon is operating without federal authorization

EPA says Ariz. uranium mine operating illegally

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. – A uranium mine north of the Grand Canyon is operating in violation of the law, and its owner could face thousands of dollars in fines as a result, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency said.
The agency issued a notice of violation this week to Denison Mines Corp. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : EPA says Arizona uranium mine north of Grand Canyon is operating without federal authorization.

Ex-top Alaska Fish and Game administrators warn of economic impact in Sealaska land bill

Ex-Fish and Game officials warn of Sealaska bill

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Three former top administrators with the state Department of Fish and Game are warning Gov. Sean Parnell about a bill that would allow a Native corporation to hand-pick lands in the Tongass National Forest.
The bill pending in Congress would convey up to 85,000 acres to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ex-top Alaska Fish and Game administrators warn of economic impact in Sealaska land bill.

Schwarzenegger’s pending departure may not aid chances of revived oil drilling off Calif coast

Chance of oil drilling off Calif coast appears dim

LOS ANGELES – Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s surprise decision to pull support for a proposal to expand oil drilling off the coast of Santa Barbara County effectively killed any short-term prospects for the project.
Now, it appears the chances of reviving the proposal may not improve even after Schwarzenegger … Read : Schwarzenegger’s pending departure may not aid chances of revived oil drilling off Calif coast.

Scientists to survey huge volcanic flank collapse deposits

WASHINGTON – A team of scientists led by Dr Peter Talling of the UK’s National Oceanography Centre (NOC), currently aboard the Royal Research Ship James Cook, has set sail to map extremely large landslide deposits offshore from an active volcano on Montserrat in …. Source  : Scientists to survey huge volcanic flank collapse deposits.

Giant airship can carry 1,000 pounds of payloads up to 20,000-ft above Earth

WASHINGTON – A 235-foot prototype Bullet Airship, called The Bullet 580, can carry 1,000 pounds of payloads up to 20,000 feet above Earth.

The inflatable airship, which has a helium-filled tanker and an inner hull filled with ambient air, can fly heavy instruments to high altitudes and remote … Original source on Gaea Times at : Giant airship can carry 1,000 pounds of payloads up to 20,000-ft above Earth.

Bonobo chimps like humans may be hardwired to shake their heads to say ‘no’

LONDON – Anthropologists have recently filmed Bonobo chimps shaking their heads from side to side to ’say no’.

This finding may be indicative of the behaviour of humans as primates.

“In bonobos, our observations are the first reported use of preventive head-shaking,” BBC News quoted …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Bonobo chimps like humans may be hardwired to shake their heads to say ‘no’.

Platypus could help beat superbugs, battle climate change

MELBOURNE – The platypus – a semi-aquatic mammal – could help beat superbugs and fight climate change.

In a first, researchers at Victoria’s Department of Primary Industries (DPI) have isolated, synthesised and tested a number of platypus proteins called antimicrobials.

These substances, similar to antiseptics that kill … Read more »»».

Forest field staff threaten to boycott tiger census

BHUBANESWAR – Around 10,000 forest field staff in Orissa have threatened to boycott the tiger census starting Saturday to press their demand for more security in view of threats from Maoists and forest mafia.

J.B. Patnaik, general secretary of Orissa Non-gazetted Forest Service Association, said they will join the operation only after the government fulfils their …. Original article  : Forest field staff threaten to boycott tiger census.

Facebook security flaw revealed

LONDON – Social networking site Facebook temporarily disabled its chat system after a serious security flaw was revealed which allowed people to view chats and pending friend requests of their Facebook friends.

The security flaw, discovered Wednesday by technology website TechCrunch, related to a feature on Facebook that allows users to preview their own privacy …. Source  : Facebook security flaw revealed.

Facebook fixes security flaw that exposes personal chats

LONDON – Social networking site Facebook has made haste to fix a security flaw that allowed its users to view the live chats of their friends and also see their pending friend requests.

All one needed to do to spy on their friends’ … Read : Facebook fixes security flaw that exposes personal chats.

Why some people with HIV develop AIDS and others don’t

LONDON – Scientists are a step closer to understanding why some people with HIV develop full-blown AIDS, and others don’t.

Researchers in Massachusetts and California say that the answer lies in how the immune cells that recognize invaders are educated a finding …. Source article  : Why some people with HIV develop AIDS and others don’t.

Brain may use clot-busting drug naturally to offer protection against stroke

WASHINGTON – The clot-busting stroke drug tPA (tissue-type plasminogen activator) can act as a neuroprotectant and may form the keystone of an adaptive response to a reduction in blood flow, say scientists from Emory University School of Medicine.

In a new study, the boffins have shown … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Brain may use clot-busting drug naturally to offer protection against stroke.

New detection technology identifies bacteria, viruses within 24 hours

WASHINGTON – A Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) detection technology could help law enforcement authorities seeking to detect bioterrorism attacks, doctors diagnosing diseases and regulatory agencies checking product safety, claim creators.

The advance, known as the Lawrence Livermore Microbial … Read more »»».

Everolimus-eluting stent safer, more effective than paclitaxel-eluting stent

LONDON – Everolimus-eluting stents demonstrate enhanced safety and efficacy in the treatment of de novo native coronary artery lesions when compared to paclitaxel-eluting stents, scientists have discovered.

Results from the SPIRIT IV clinical trial, which were first presented at …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Earth’s twisted heart ‘dictates’ day’s length

LONDON – Fluctuations at Earth’s core decide the length of the day, according to scientists.

To come up with the finding, Nicolas Gillet of the University of Joseph Fourier in Grenoble, France, and colleagues, modelled fluid behaviour in the Earth’s core based on measurements … Original article on : Earth’s twisted heart ‘dictates’ day’s length.

House takes up $6 billion bill to pay homeowners for energy-efficiency improvements

House takes up homeowner energy efficiency bill

WASHINGTON – People who install new windows, heaters, refrigerators and other energy-efficient technology in their homes would be eligible for thousands of dollars in federal rebates under legislation the House is taking up.
The two-year, $6 billion program is being referred to as Cash for Caulkers, following on the popular …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sediment layers may help shed light on Mars’ climate history

WASHINGTON – A new stratigraphic record of Martian polar layered deposits could help provide new insights into Mars’ climate history, believe scientists.

Stratigraphic layers can give scientists important clues about the conditions at the time the layer of rock formed.

Fishbaugh et al. present the first high-resolution stratigraphic column of Marian north polar layered deposits.

In …. Original article  : Sediment layers may help shed light on Mars’ climate history.

Halley’s Comet Remnants Make Reappearance

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- It was way back in 1986 that people saw Halley’s Comet passing through the solar system. However, today the star gazers can see the remnants of the comet trail in the sky courtesy the Eta Aquarid meteor shower. The much anticipated meteor shower is said to peak around Thursday morning. If … Read more »»».

I’ve been to a spaceship where I met aliens: Russian politician

LONDON – A Russian politician has made the startling claim that he was taken on a spaceship where he met aliens who wore yellow spacesuits.

Kirsan Ilyumzhinov, the leader of the country’s southern region of Kalymkia, has spoken about his having met aliens at a primetime television show.
He said he was taken on a …. Original article  : I’ve been to a spaceship where I met aliens: Russian politician.

Hot and humid weather makes Delhi fret

NEW DELHI – Delhi woke up to a hot and humid morning Thursday. The weather office has, however, forecast thunderstorm later in the evening.

The minimum temperature recorded early in the day was three degrees above the average, at 28.4 degrees Celsius. The maximum is expected to hover around 42 degrees Celsius.
Humidity level was … Original source on Gaea Times at : Hot and humid weather makes Delhi fret.

Russia to encourage patriotism through computer game

Moscow, May 6 (IANS/RIA Novosti) The Russian government is working on a project to produce computer games aimed at boosting patriotism among young people.

The communication ministry and a leading software firm 1C have presented a project concerning six flight simulator games that they say are helping to improve Russia’s international hi-tech image and increase patriotism …. Read the original article  : Russia to encourage patriotism through computer game.

India among the worst 10 climate polluters: Study

MELBOURNE – India figures among the world’s worst 10 countries causing environmental damage, according to a new study which lists Brazil as the most polluting country.

The research led by professor Corey Bradshaw, of the University of Adelaide’s environment institute, has placed India at seventh position while ranking the US and China as the largest carbon … Read : India among the worst 10 climate polluters: Study.

US carbon-dioxide emissions dropped 7 percent in 2009

WASHINGTON – US emissions of carbon dioxide tumbled seven percent in 2009, government figures have showed, marking the largest one-year decline in the heat-trapping gas blamed for global warming since records began in 1949.

The Energy Information Administration (EIA) Wednesday attributed the sharp fall to a drop in energy use as the United States battled through … Original article on : US carbon-dioxide emissions dropped 7 percent in 2009.

Temperature plummets in Himachal after rain

SHIMLA – Temperatures across Himachal Pradesh fell sharply due to widespread rain — and the weatherman forecast more rainfall during the day Friday.

Shimla and nearby areas have been witnessing moderate rain since Friday morning.
“There are reports of rainfall across the state too,” Manmohan Singh, director of the meteorological office here, told IANS.
He … Read more >>.

Hormone therapies ‘up breast cancer metastasis risk in post-menopausal women’

WASHINGTON – A University of Missouri study has found that hormone therapies not just increase the risk of breast cancer in post-menopausal women, they can also increase the chance of the cancer metastasising.

After menopause, women take hormone therapies, which are often a combination of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sequencing of frog genome may offer new insights into human diseases

WASHINGTON – An international team of researchers has cracked the genetic code of an amphibian, the African clawed frog Xenopus tropicali – the latest research aimed at understanding how genes work for potential applications in human health.

The genome …. Original article  : Sequencing of frog genome may offer new insights into human diseases.

1000 ancient hieroglyphic rock paintings found in east-central China

NEW DELHI – Ma Baoguang, a Chinese archaeologist, recently found 1,000 hieroglyphic rock paintings in Yangce Town, Biyang County of east-central China’s Henan province.

Ma and a group of students were there on a dig and found the paintings over an area of 5 square kilometres.

One of …. Source  : 1000 ancient hieroglyphic rock paintings found in east-central China.

Creators of .xxx porn web domain seek decision on site’s fate

LONDON – The group that created a web domain solely for adult content has demanded for a decision to be made about the fate of their .xxx address.

Net regulator Icann (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers), which oversees web addresses, had given the domain the go-ahead in 2005.

But … Read more »».

Cosmic ‘dandruff’ could have brought carbon to Earth

LONDON – Cosmic ‘dandruff’- fluffy specks of carbon-rich dust found in Antarctic snow seem to be relics from the dawn of the solar system, when the planets were still forming- could help explain how the carbon needed for life wound up on Earth.

Researchers led by Jean Duprat of the University of … Read more : Cosmic ‘dandruff’ could have brought carbon to Earth.

Poplars, just like humans, also feel stressed

WASHINGTON – Just like humans, trees too, feel stressed. And scientists have now claimed that hormone suppression could help common poplars- cottonwoods and aspens-deal with stress.

Trees’ stress can come from a lack of water or too …. Source article  : Poplars, just like humans, also feel stressed.

Now, 3D fantasy game to help treat depressed teens

WELLINGTON – A 3D fantasy game, called Sparx, could soon act as a counsellor to gloomy teens.

Developed by New Zealand researchers, the game lets players choose an avatar, or character, which can roam around a virtual world, interact with non-playing characters … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Now, 3D fantasy game to help treat depressed teens.

Study finds Midwest could profit by growing fruit, vegetables to meet demand for local food

Study: Growing more veggies could profit Midwest

DES MOINES, Iowa – The Midwest is known more for growing corn than cauliflower, but if its farmers raised the fruit and vegetables eaten in the Heartland, they could create thousands of jobs and millions of dollars in income, according to a recent study.
The study from Iowa State University …. Source article  : Study finds Midwest could profit by growing fruit, vegetables to meet demand for local food.

Rescue mission robots just got smarter

WASHINGTON – University of Missouri researchers have developed software for a robot with a laser sensor that can enter dangerous structures to assess the structure’s stability and locate any remaining people.

This technology could lead to safer and more efficient rescue missions, say the scientists.

“We …. Source  : Rescue mission robots just got smarter.

Consumers often plan for unplanned purchases

WASHINGTON – Shoppers often expect to buy a certain number of unplanned items, and most have a fairly accurate estimate as to how much they will spend on them, according to researchers.

The study’s coauthors use the term “in-store slack” to describe …. Read the original article  : Consumers often plan for unplanned purchases.

New atherosclerosis vaccine shows promise

WASHINGTON – In a new study, researchers at the Swedish medical university Karolinska Institutet have shown that the immune defence’s T cells can attack the “bad” LDL cholesterol and thereby cause an inflammation that leads to atherosclerosis.

By producing a vaccine against the T … Read : New atherosclerosis vaccine shows promise.

Scientists identify genes involved in human eye color

WASHINGTON – Boffins have identified three new genetic loci which are involved in the subtle and quantitative variation of human eye colour.

The study, led by Manfred Kayser of the Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, The Netherlands, is published May 6 … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Scientists identify genes involved in human eye color.

Raised blood fat levels tied to heart disease

LONDON – Raised levels of triglycerides, a type of blood fat, may be an important cause of heart disease, new genetic research suggests.

To reach the conclusion, Cambridge University boffins looked at the role of triglycerides, which is produced in the liver …. Source article  : Raised blood fat levels tied to heart disease.

Radio tags may help save lives after earthquakes

WASHINGTON – A new study claims that radio frequency identification, RFID, could be used in the immediate aftermath of a major earthquake to save lives.

The study has been published in the International Journal of Innovation and Sustainable Development.

Yen-Chun Jim Wu of the National Sun Yat-Sen University and Ching-Yuan Hung, of the National Kaohsiung First University …. Source article  : Radio tags may help save lives after earthquakes.

Washing hands ‘can help dispel doubts’

WASHINGTON – The next time you wash your hands, you might be removing doubts about recent choices.

That’s the conclusion of a new study.

To experiment this new theory, scientists Spike W. S. Lee and Norbert Schwarz, affiliated with the U-M Institute for Social Research (ISR) and the Ross School of Business in addition to the Department …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Genome study shows there’s a Neanderthal in all of us

WASHINGTON – There’s a Neanderthal in all of us, as according to a study, some of our ancestors interbred with the thick-browed cavemen.

Boffins have produced the first whole genome sequence of the 3 billion letters in the Neanderthal genome, and the initial analysis suggests that up to 2 percent of the DNA in the genome …. Read the original article  : Genome study shows there’s a Neanderthal in all of us.

Hot day ahead in Delhi

NEW DELHI – The national capital is expected to witness a hot day Friday with the maximum temperature likely to hover around 39 degrees Celsius. Weather officials, however, said there was a possibility of thunderstorms by evening.

Delhi Friday recorded a minimum of 28.6 degrees Celsius, four notches above the normal for this time of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Hot day ahead in Delhi.

Einstein’s manuscript displayed at Shanghai expo

BEIJING – Two pages of the original manuscript of Albert Einstein’s landmark theory of relativity are on display at the Israeli pavilion in the Shanghai World Expo.

Israeli Minister of Finance Yuval Steinitz announced the display of the pages at a ceremony marking the Jewish state’s National Pavilion Day Thursday.
The two pages, selected from a …. Read the original article  : Einstein’s manuscript displayed at Shanghai expo.

Korean automaker announces plans to build electric car facility in Hawaii

Electric car plant to be built in Hawaii
HONOLULU – South Korean electric car manufacturer CT&T announced plans Thursday to build an assembly plant in Hawaii that will eventually produce up to 10,000 vehicles a year and employ as many as 400 people.

The plant would make small two-seaters that reach speeds up to 40 mph and …. Source article  : Korean automaker announces plans to build electric car facility in Hawaii.

Conservationists urge states to take actions to prevent spread of deadly bat disease

Group aims to stop spread of deadly bat disease

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – A mysterious disease that has ravaged bat populations in the northeastern United States is threatening to spread West, potentially triggering a mass die-off of the flying mammals, which help control populations of insects that can damage agricultural crops, a conservation group said.
The Center for …. Read the original article  : Conservationists urge states to take actions to prevent spread of deadly bat disease.

Cuddly ’social robots’ that make social networks child-safe developed

LONDON – Scientists have come up with small, cute and furry interactive “social robots” called Petimos to help protect children when they make friends on social networks.

Petimos, which work in conjunction with an online social network called Petimo-World in which they are represented by avatars, are due …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Cuddly ’social robots’ that make social networks child-safe developed.

Gravitational force in the Himalayas being determined

WASHINGTON – ESA’s GOCE satellite is determining the gravitational force in the Himalayas.

The satellite’s, which has been orbiting the Earth for more than a year and surveying its gravitational field more accurately than any instrument previously, main goal is to determine the gravitational force … Original source on Gaea Times at : Gravitational force in the Himalayas being determined.

Here’s how ice flows

WASHINGTON – Scientists from the Alfred Wegener Institute have presented first results of a new measurement method in Antarctica.

Dr. Olaf Eisen from the German Alfred Wegener Institute has presented results from an environmentally friendly measurement method that … Original article on : Here’s how ice flows.

Soon, prescription tattoos to monitor glucose levels

WASHINGTON – Medical tattoos would soon replace needle sticks needed to monitor glucose levels, say scientists.

Scientists from Microsoft and The Draper Laboratory are developing medical tattoos that would stop hackers from messing with pacemakers and would do away with …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Soon, prescription tattoos to monitor glucose levels.

Erectile dysfunction drug could enhance delivery of herceptin to brain tumours

WASHINGTON – A drug currently approved to treat erectile dysfunction could significantly improve the delivery of the anti-cancer drug Herceptin to certain hard-to-treat brain tumours, according to a new study at Cedars-Sinai’s Maxine Dunitz Neurosurgical Institute.

The research could help doctors improve treatments for lung and [..] Read the original article: here.

Algae the ‘green’ alternative for improving water quality

WASHINGTON – According to an Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientist, algae could be put to use right away to remove nitrogen and phosphorus in livestock manure runoff.

That could give resource managers a new eco-friendly option for reducing the level of agricultural pollutants that contaminate water quality in the … Original article on : Algae the ‘green’ alternative for improving water quality.

Central, unifying characteristics of wisdom identified

WASHINGTON – What exactly is wisdom? Scientists have now delved deeper to find the exact definition of what constitutes the widely treasured virtue.

In 2009, Dr. Dilip V. Jeste, and Dr. Thomas W. Meeks, both professors in …. Source article  : Central, unifying characteristics of wisdom identified.

Crease-resistant toxin in nurses’ uniform cause ‘can cause cancer’

LONDON – Nurses in several hospitals across Wales and Scotland have reported skin rashes due to allergic reaction to the fabric of their uniforms, which contain potentially carcinogenic formaldehyde.

A leading toxin expert from Government’s Advisory Committee on Hazardous Substances until recently, …. Source article  : Crease-resistant toxin in nurses’ uniform cause ‘can cause cancer’.

New protein involved in longevity identified

Washington, May 8 (ANI): The level of a single protein in the tiny roundworm C. elegans determines how long it lives, researchers in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Thomas Jefferson University have found.

Worms … Original source on Gaea Times at : New protein involved in longevity identified.

High-pitched women most attracted to men with deep voices

WASHINGTON – Women with high-pitched voices are most attracted to deep-voiced, manly men, according to a new study.

“People obviously prefer to marry and date people they consider attractive, but also are more likely to cooperate with attractive individuals, prefer to hire attractive people and even prefer to vote for those … Read more >>.

Wikimedia slammed for pornographic content on website

WASHINGTON – Wikimedia, Wikipedia’s parent company, has started an online purging activity to get rid of sexually explicit content on the website following a report by an American TV news network.

The move followed a report by FoxNews.com, which asked a dozen donor companies, including Google, Microsoft’s Bing, Yahoo!, Open Society Institute, Ford Foundation, Best Buy, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Google Inc. investing nearly $40 million in 2 North Dakota wind farms

Google invests in North Dakota wind farms
BISMARCK, N.D. – Google Inc. has bought a $38.8 million stake in two North Dakota wind farms – an investment that a state regulator believes will spur more interest in the state’s growing wind energy industry.

Google spokesman Jamie Yood said it was the Mountain View, Calif.-based Internet company’s first [..] Read the original article: here.

Light showers expected in Delhi

NEW DELHI – The national capital could see pleasant weather Saturday with met officials forecasting cloudy skies and light rain by evening.

The maximum temperature is likely to hover around 37 degrees Celsius, four notches below the average for this time of the year.
The skies could turn cloudy with the possibility of thunderstorms and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Light showers expected in Delhi.

Congressmen vow to fight against abandonment of plans for nuke waste repository in Nevada

Fight looms on plan to abandon nuke waste facility

RICHLAND, Wash. – U.S. Reps. Doc Hastings and Jay Inslee say they will fight to keep the federal government from abandoning a proposed nuclear waste repository in Nevada.
In a visit to the Northwest’s lone commercial nuclear plant, the congressmen said the Yucca Mountain repository 90 miles northwest …. Original article  : Congressmen vow to fight against abandonment of plans for nuke waste repository in Nevada.

Ecologist says beavers have created world’s largest dam in northwest Canada

Canada’s eager beavers have built largest dam

TORONTO – A Canadian-based ecologist says he has located the world’s largest beaver dam in northwestern Canada using Google satellite technology.
Ecologist Jean Thie said Friday that he found the dam using Google Earth and NASA technology in 2007 while researching the rate of melting permafrost in the country’s wetlands.
Thie …. Original article  : Ecologist says beavers have created world’s largest dam in northwest Canada.

Montana could nearly triple wolf hunt quota; Idaho, too, considering increase

Montana, Idaho consider increased wolf hunt quotas

BILLINGS, Mont. – Hunters in Montana would be allowed to kill nearly three times as many gray wolves this fall compared with last year’s inaugural hunt, under a proposal announced Friday by state wildlife officials.
Wolves in neighboring Idaho also face a potentially higher quota. And hunters there could be …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Reggie the celebrity alligator and Cajun Kate are hottest new item at Los Angeles Zoo

Reggie the gator gets new mate at Los Angeles Zoo

LOS ANGELES – Reggie the celebrity alligator is getting some female companionship at the Los Angeles Zoo.
The 7??-foot gator, who became famous after his owner dumped him in a lake several years ago, is now sharing a space with Cajun Kate.
The female gator moved in with …. Original article  : Reggie the celebrity alligator and Cajun Kate are hottest new item at Los Angeles Zoo.

Ecologist says beavers have created world’s largest dam in northwestern Canada

Canada’s eager beavers build world’s largest dam

TORONTO – A Canadian-based ecologist said Friday that he has located the world’s largest beaver dam in northwestern Canada using Google satellite technology.
Ecologist Jean Thie located the 2,788-foot (850-meter) dam using Google Earth and NASA technology while researching the rate of melting permafrost in the country’s far north.
Situated in … Read more : Ecologist says beavers have created world’s largest dam in northwestern Canada.

Isaac Newton’s famous apple tree breaking loose from gravity on shuttle Atlantis’ last flight

Newton’s apple tree bound for gravity-free orbit

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Sir Isaac Newton’s famous apple tree is about to leave gravity behind.
Flying aboard space shuttle Atlantis next week will be a 4-inch sliver of the tree from which an apple fell nearly 350 years ago and inspired Newton to discover the law of gravity.
British-born astronaut … Read more : Isaac Newton’s famous apple tree breaking loose from gravity on shuttle Atlantis’ last flight.

Even silent videos excite the brain

LONDON – If a new study is to be believed, then watching even silent videos can excite the listening brain.

The study, by Kaspar Meyer at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles and colleagues, has shown that silent videos that merely imply sound – such as of someone playing a musical instrument – …. Source article  : Even silent videos excite the brain.

Australia’s Victoria sitting on $20 billion-worth of gold?

LONDON – Up to 20 billion-dollar-worth of undiscovered gold could be lying underground in the Australian state of Victoria, say scientists.

In 1851, Victoria experienced its first gold rush – a grain of gold was discovered in a waterhole near Bathurst.

Within two years, the state’s population had doubled to 222,000, one-quarter of whom worked in … Read more : Australia’s Victoria sitting on $20 billion-worth of gold?.

Global climate change talks at a ‘dead end’ because of US, China reluctance: Indian minister

Expect no climate deal this year: Indian minister
BEIJING – The chance of a climate change agreement this year is remote because the United States and China are unwilling to make more commitments during the talks, India’s environment minister said Sunday.
The last U.N. conference on climate change in Copenhagen last December was seen as … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Global climate change talks at a ‘dead end’ because of US, China reluctance: Indian minister.

Panna reserve celebrates with three new tiger cubs

BHOPAL – In cheering news for wildlife enthusiasts, a tigress brought to Madhya Pradesh’s Panna National Park last year has given birth to three cubs, officials said Sunday.

The good news comes exactly a year after the reserve was declared without any tigers.
“The state government’s tiger rehabilitation programme in Panna has proved to be a … Read more : Panna reserve celebrates with three new tiger cubs.

New biomaterial that mimics muscle elasticity may aid muscle generation

LONDON – A group of researchers has cast artificial proteins into a new solid biomaterial that very closely mimics the elasticity of muscle.

The approach, detailed in the current issue of the journal Nature, opens new avenues to creating solid biomaterials from smaller engineered proteins, and has potential applications in material sciences and tissue engineering.

Hongbin Li …. Original source  : New biomaterial that mimics muscle elasticity may aid muscle generation.

Girl who doesn’t age may hold key to ageing

LONDON – American scientists are keenly studying the DNA of a 17-year-old girl who still has the body and behaviour of a baby, hoping to gain new insights into the mysteries of ageing.

At 16lb in weight and just 30in tall, Brooke Greenberg is still the size of a one-year-old.

According to a preliminary study of her … Read more : Girl who doesn’t age may hold key to ageing.

Kids as young as six months old can tell good from evil

LONDON – Contrary to the Freudian theory that humans start their lives with a moral ‘blank slate’, children may be born with the ability to tell good from bad, according to a new research.

Newly born babies apparently start making moral judgments by the time they are six …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Kids as young as six months old can tell good from evil.

Sensitive persons’ cognitive responses not influenced by culture

WASHINGTON – Highly sensitive individuals have cognitive responses that appear to not be influenced by culture at all, researchers have found.

The finding by Dr. Arthur Aron, Professor of Psychology at Stony Brook University, and colleagues, came after previous brain imaging research that revealed … Original article on : Sensitive persons’ cognitive responses not influenced by culture.

Researcher verifies brain’s master switch

WASHINGTON – A researcher at Iowa State University has verified the protein that has long been suspected by scientists of being the master switch that allows brains to function.

Yeon-Kyun Shin, professor of biochemistry, … Read : Researcher verifies brain’s master switch.

Over 30,000 cats sterilised in Beijing

BEIJING – Over 30,000 stray cats have been sterilised in Beijing, after the rapidly increasing feline population started threatening survival of birds and smaller animals like squirrels.

The government-backed Trap Neuter Return (TNR) project, which was launched in July 2006, has been implemented in more than 100 animal hospitals and clinics, and conducts more than 1,000 …. Original article  : Over 30,000 cats sterilised in Beijing.

Hot, humid day ahead in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Delhiites can expect a hot and humid day Sunday with met officials forecasting a rise in the mercury level.

The maximum temperature will hover around 39 degrees Celsius, one notch below the average for this time of the year and the minimum should be around 27 degrees, a weather official said.
The humidity …. Original source  : Hot, humid day ahead in Delhi.

Iran ready to send six satellites into space

TEHRAN – Iran is preparing to launch five to six satellites into the space as part of its aerospace development programme.

“We are currently carrying out a project which will see the design, production and launch of 5 to 6 satellites. We hope to send one satellite into space in the first half of the coming …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

China no longer top source of spam mail

BEIJING – China has come down the rankings of countries that are major sources of global spam mail, a latest report has said.

China, which was ranked second in 2006, now ranks 15th in the world, and the amount of spam mail originating from China is only 1.9 percent of the global spam.
The US tops … Read more : China no longer top source of spam mail.

Alaskans mourn death of Walter Hickel, former governor and Nixon Cabinet member, at age 90

Alaskans mourn death of former Gov. Walter Hickel
SITKA, Alaska – Alaskans on Saturday mourned the loss of former Gov. Walter J. Hickel and remembered him as a visionary and a maverick.
Alaska Democrats, meeting for their convention in Sitka, had a moment of silence in honor of Hickel, who served as Interior secretary under … Read more »»».

Utah Democrats send incumbent US Rep. Jim Matheson to primary against political newcomer

Utah US Rep. Matheson forced into Dem primary
SALT LAKE CITY – U.S. Rep. Jim Matheson has been forced into a Democratic primary next month by Utah party delegates upset that he voted against President Barack Obama’s health care reforms.
Matheson’s rival is a retired school teacher who has never run for public office.
Claudia Wright …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Utah Democrats send incumbent US Rep. Jim Matheson to primary against political newcomer.

Laura Chinchilla sworn in as Costa Rica’s 1st female president, replaces Nobel laureate Arias

Costa Rica inaugurates new President Chinchilla

SAN JOSE, Costa Rica – Adios, peace prize winner. Hola, first female president.
Costa Rica inaugurated Laura Chinchilla as its first woman leader on Saturday, replacing Nobel laureate Oscar Arias with his former vice president and protege.
Chinchilla promised to rule with “humility, honesty and firmness” and said she’ll pursue the same …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Laura Chinchilla sworn in as Costa Rica’s 1st female president, replaces Nobel laureate Arias.

Denver’s water chief, dead at age 66, praised as a ‘great mind’ on Western water

Denver’s water chief praised as ‘great mind’

DENVER – Denver’s vast and powerful water empire, once seen as a Western bully bent on expansion at any cost, was reeling from defeats and beset by rivals when Hamlet “Chips” Barry took over as manager in 1991.
Barry, who died May 2 just four weeks away from retiring, guided … Original source on Gaea Times at : Denver’s water chief, dead at age 66, praised as a ‘great mind’ on Western water.

Mercury rises in capital

NEW DELHI – Delhi Saturday witnessed a humid day with the mercury hovering around 38 degrees Celsius, the Met Office said.

The maximum temperature settled at 38.3 degrees Celsius, two degrees below the average, while the minimum temperature was recorded at 23.6 degrees Celsius, one notch below the average for this time of the year. … Read : Mercury rises in capital.

Scientists warn robots with knives could accidentally attack humans

LONDON – Scientists have warned that robots helping around the house could be dangerous, as they could accidentally inflict deadly wounds on humans.

Homes of the future are often depicted as efficient spaces in which robots are programmed to carry out mundane domestic tasks, from cleaning to …. Read the original article  : Scientists warn robots with knives could accidentally attack humans.

Global warming? Family log of 114 years tells all

WASHINGTON – Every day since Jan 1, 1896, an observer has hiked to a spot at the Mohonk Preserve, a resort and nature area, some 145 km north of New York City, to record daily temperature and other conditions.

The weather station is the rarest of the rare: one that has never missed a day of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Global warming? Family log of 114 years tells all.