Beetle inspires water collection in driest desert

SYDNEY – In the barren landscape of Namib desert, water is scarce and the few forms of life that survive are highly adaptable — none more so than the Namib Desert Beetle, an insect that has developed a unique method of harvesting water.

The Namib desert, stretching along the Atlantic coast of south west Africa, is … Read : Beetle inspires water collection in driest desert.

Estrogen may reduce airway constriction in asthmatic women

WASHINGTON – A new Mayo Clinic research suggests that female sex hormones may work with beta-agonists in reducing airway constriction in women patients with asthma.

After puberty, women tend to have worse asthma symptoms and exacerbations than men. Women also experience changes in airway reactivity throughout their menstrual cycle, with pregnancy, and at the onset of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Estrogen may reduce airway constriction in asthmatic women.

Asthma patients should stay away from high-fat meals

WASHINGTON – Asthma patients should keep their hands away from heavy, high-fat meals, suggests a new study.

People with asthma who consumed a high-fat meal showed increased airway inflammation just hours after the binge, according to Australian researchers who conducted the study.

The high fat meal … Read more >>>.

All modern life on Earth originated from common ancestor

WASHINGTON – All life on earth in today’s date must have stemmed from a common ancestor rather than multiple sources, suggests a new statistical analysis.

Scenarios featuring a universal common ancestor won hands down against even the best-performing multi-ancestor models.

The idea that life forms share a common ancestor is “a …. Read the original article  : All modern life on Earth originated from common ancestor.

World’s smallest pump powered by glass electrode created

LONDON – Using an electrode made from glass- a non-conducting material-engineers have created the world’s smallest pump, which is similar in size to a human red blood cell.

Alan Hunt from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor and his colleagues used a laser to hollow out a bent pipe inside … Read more : World’s smallest pump powered by glass electrode created.

Soon, rocket-assisted pills to help ailing human gut

LONDON – It may soon be possible to fire drugs into the human gut using tiny rocket motors.

Radio-controlled capsules, which help direct drugs to particular sites in the digestive tract to test their effectiveness, are already common.

However, in most cases the drugs do not completely release from the …. Original article  : Soon, rocket-assisted pills to help ailing human gut.

Active lifestyle may help improve COPD patients’ day-to-day function

WASHINGTON – An active lifestyle is crucial for day-to-day function in chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) patients, says a new study.

Inactivity is known to be associated with a decrease in exercise tolerance, but it was unknown whether the reduced amount of physical activity alone was responsible for the reduction in … Read more >>.

Yet another hot week expected in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Delhiites should brace themselves for another hot week with heat wave conditions continuing, the weather office warned Monday.

“There will be no respite from the heat Monday. The heat wave conditions will prevail for the next few days. The level of humidity will be high,” an official of the India Meteorological Department …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

With environmental challenges, what does the next century hold for Glacier National Park?

Glacier Park: The next 100 years
GLACIER NATIONAL PARK, Mont. – Glacier National Park just marked 100 years as crown jewel of the parks system, but questions dot its spectacular landscape as its next century begins.

Will the park’s 2 million tourists still come when the glaciers are gone? Is the nation willing to spend $200 million … Read : With environmental challenges, what does the next century hold for Glacier National Park?.

UN study: Link between cell phone use and brain cancer inconclusive

Study: Cell phone-brain cancer link inconclusive

GENEVA – Cell phone users worried about getting brain cancer aren’t off the hook yet.
A major international study into the link between cell phone use and two types of brain cancer has proved inconclusive, according to a report due to be published in a medical journal Tuesday.
A 10-year survey of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : UN study: Link between cell phone use and brain cancer inconclusive.

Panel says PSF technology meets odor mandate; opponents urge state to stand firm on deadline

Hog giant PSF passes smell test, but clock ticking

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Hog processing giant Premium Standard Farms LLC spent $40 million over the last decade developing technology after a court ordered it to sharply reduce odors at its Missouri farms, but a looming deadline is threatening another costly lawsuit.
A panel of experts recently approved … Original source on Gaea Times at : Panel says PSF technology meets odor mandate; opponents urge state to stand firm on deadline.

Hog giant Premium Standard Farms says technology not yet ready as deadline nears to cut smell

Hog giant PSF nearing deadline for reducing smell

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Hog processing giant Premium Standard Farms has spent $40 million to develop technology to reduce the smell from its hog farms in Missouri but still hasn’t met a court-imposed deadline for doing so.
If Premium Standard doesn’t implement the technology and fix the problem by …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Hog giant Premium Standard Farms says technology not yet ready as deadline nears to cut smell.

Israel dedicates huge sea-water purification plant to counter chronic fresh water shortage

Israel dedicates huge sea-water purification plant

HADERA, Israel – A huge new desalination facility on Israel’s Mediterranean seashore, with a network of pipes beneath the beach reaching far into the ocean, could help solve Israel’s chronic fresh water shortage, officials said Sunday.
The plant, one of the largest in the world, turns sea water into drinking water. [..] Read the original article: here.

Major industry-funded study on link between cell phone use and brain cancers is inconclusive

Major study on cell phones and cancer inconclusive

GENEVA – A major international study into the link between cell phone use and two types of brain cancer has proved inconclusive, according to a report in a medical journal due to be published later this week.
The survey of almost 13,000 participants found cell phone use didn’t increase … Read : Major industry-funded study on link between cell phone use and brain cancers is inconclusive.

Atlantis docks for last time at space station

WASHINGTON – The Atlantis shuttle docked Sunday on its last mission to the space station after some tense hours about dodging a piece of orbiting debris.

NASA officials debated through Saturday about whether to reposition the International Space Station (ISS) to avoid a speeding piece of space junk.
But they ultimately decided that updated tracking information …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Atlantis docks for last time at space station.

Atlantis arrives at space station, astronauts may try to fix pinched cable in spacewalk

Shuttle Atlantis arrives at space station
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Atlantis arrived at the International Space Station on Sunday for what could be its last visit, delivering fresh batteries and other equipment to help keep the outpost running long after the shuttle program ends.

For now, Atlantis’ dance card is empty after this flight, and NASA has … Original source on Gaea Times at : Atlantis arrives at space station, astronauts may try to fix pinched cable in spacewalk.

Huge collection of dead snakes, spiders, scorpions lost in fire at Brazil research institute

Huge Brazil collection of snakes, spiders burned

SAO PAULO – Officials say fire has destroyed what may be the world’s largest scientific collection of dead snakes, spiders and scorpions.
Members of the Instituto Butantan say the collection of nearly 80,000 specimens was the main source for research on thousands of species.
Institute curator Francisco Franco says Saturday’s fire …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Huge collection of dead snakes, spiders, scorpions lost in fire at Brazil research institute.

Shuttle Atlantis closing in for space station docking, astronauts may try to fix pinched cable

Shuttle closing in for space station docking

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Space shuttle Atlantis drew closer to the International Space Station for a Sunday morning linkup, as the astronauts – all 12 of them – excitedly awaited the 215-mile-high reunion.
“We’re chasing you down,” shuttle commander Kenneth Ham radioed from several miles out.
“Yee-haw!” replied the space station’s …. Source  : Shuttle Atlantis closing in for space station docking, astronauts may try to fix pinched cable.

Metro upgrades cooling in coaches as Delhi sizzles

NEW DELHI – As the capital experiences scorching summer heat, the Delhi Metro has upgraded the air-conditioning in some trains on its elevated corridors, including the Mundka-Inderlok route, an official said Sunday.

The air-conditioning has already been upgraded in the standard gauge trains introduced on the Mundaka-Inderlok route and new coaches of other trains supplied by … Read more : Metro upgrades cooling in coaches as Delhi sizzles.

Experts decontaminate Delhi’s radiation hotspots

NEW DELHI – A team of experts from the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) and the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) Sunday started the process of decontamination of radiation hotspots in Mayapuri area of west Delhi, officials said.

The team has visited Mayapuri following reports that radiation exposure was still high in the area.
“The team … Original source on Gaea Times at : Experts decontaminate Delhi’s radiation hotspots.

Poacher gang consisting of former forest guards busted

GUWAHATI – Wildlife rangers in Assam have arrested seven poachers, of whom two are former forest guards, close to the famed Kaziranga National Park, officials said Tuesday.

The poachers were arrested early Tuesday while they were in the process of selling a rhino horn to an international animal organ smuggling syndicate.
“The surprise element is that … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Poacher gang consisting of former forest guards busted.

Delhi’s highest minimum temperature in May in five years

NEW DELHI – At 32 degrees Celsius, Delhi Tuesday recorded the highest minimum temperature in May in the last five years, the weather office said.

“The minimum recorded temperature for Tuesday was 32 degrees, which was five notches above normal this time of the year,” an India Meteorological Department official told IANS.
The record came a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Delhi’s highest minimum temperature in May in five years.

People think their skin is darker than it is

SYDNEY – People tend to overestimate the darkness of their natural, non-tanned skin.

The researchers identifying the pattern have called it “the dark shift” and believe it may have important implications for how well skin cancer risk messages are heeded.
The findings are based on a study involving nearly 300 University of Otago students.
Study …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : People think their skin is darker than it is.

Storm warning in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – A storm warning has been issued in all port areas of Orissa after a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal intensified into a storm, officials said Tuesday.

The Bhubaneswar meteorological centre said the depression was centred in the sea about 875 km south of Gopalpur in Ganjam district.
“This is likely …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Storm warning in Orissa.

World’s oldest sex toy, a siltstone phallus, was used to light fire!

NEW YORK – The world’s oldest sex toy, a 30,000-year-old pre-historic siltstone phallus, was also used as a tool to ignite fires.

The relic, discovered in a cave in Germany, has marks suggesting it was used for striking against flints.

Experts at the University of Tubingen insist the purpose of the …. Read the original article  : here.

Heavy rain in Jammu and Kashmir

SRINAGAR – A western disturbance has led to a wet summer in Jammu and Kashmir, with experts predicting more rains in the next 24 hours.

On May 6, Srinagar recorded 19.6 mm of rain. So far, 29.6 mm of rain has been recorded this month.
“A western disturbance still persists over Jammu and Kashmir. There will … Read more >>.

Sri Lanka storms leave eight dead, 200,000 displaced

COLOMBO – Torrential rains and lightning in Sri Lanka have caused the deaths of at least eight people and driven more than 200,000 from their homes, officials said Tuesday as the weather worsened.

At least four people have been killed in the flooding and another four by lightning since Saturday, government officials said.
More than 50 … Read more >>.

Ancient mass extinction of fish paved way for modern vertebrates

WASHINGTON – A new study says that modern-day lizards, snakes, frogs and mammals – including humans – owe their existence to a mass extinction of fish 360 million years ago.

According to the study, the prehistoric fish extinction hit the reset button on Earth’s life, setting the …. Read the original article  : here.

How kids understand the relationship between human and other animals

WASHINGTON – It has long been believed that as children begin reasoning about the biological world, they adopt an ‘anthropocentric’ stance, favouring humans over non-human animals when it comes to learning about properties of animals. Now, a new study … Read : How kids understand the relationship between human and other animals.

Temple of Tut’s grandad could be home to ancient statues

WASHINGTON – The funerary temple of Tutankhamun’s grandfather Amenhotep III could be home to several colossal granite statues representing an ancient deity, say reserachers.

Egyptian archaeologists led by Dr. Zahi Hawass, head of Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities, have unearthed one of …. Original source  : Temple of Tut’s grandad could be home to ancient statues.

YouTube marks 5th b’day with 2 billion hits everyday

LONDON – It has been 5 years since the inception of YouTube, the video sharing website, and it is still going strong – with an astounding 2 billion hits per day.

According to Google – its owner – that’s nearly double the number of people who tune into the US’s three prime time …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : YouTube marks 5th b’day with 2 billion hits everyday.

Solar Sail spacecraft can travel ten times faster than conventional rockets

WASHINGTON – Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) was set to launch its solar sail hybrid spacecraft which can not only negate the need for on board fuel, but also travel 5 to 10 times faster than conventional spacecrafts in space.

However, the launch was delayed due to bad weather at the [..] Read the original article: here.

Bacterial growth could reveal Earth’s origins

WASHINGTON – For years, geologists have analyzed modern microbial mats to decipher how cells functioned as far back as 3 billion years.

Now, researchers have found a way to garner new information from cells by linking the even spacing between the thousands of tiny cones …. Original article  : Bacterial growth could reveal Earth’s origins.

20th-century warming in Lake Tanganyika endangers fish, livelihoods

LONDON – Lake Tanganyika, the second-oldest and second-deepest lake in the world, has recorded unprecedented high temperatures during the last 100 years.

Situated in East Africa, the lake’s surface waters are the warmest on record, according to geologists.

This will inevitably affect fish stock and consequently, … Read : 20th-century warming in Lake Tanganyika endangers fish, livelihoods.

Delhi records highest minimum temperature in 5 years

NEW DELHI – Delhi Tuesday recorded the highest minimum temperature in the last five years at 32 degrees Celsius, the weather office said.

“The minimum recorded temperature for Tuesday stood at 32 degree Celsius, which was five notches above normal for this time of the year,” an official of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) told IANS. … Read more : Delhi records highest minimum temperature in 5 years.

Fish dislike their own reflections

WASHINGTON – When facing themselves in a mirror, fish become feisty but fearful, say two Stanford biologists.

“It seems like something they don’t understand,” said Julie Desjardins, a post-doctoral researcher in biology and lead author of a paper to be published in Biology Letters … Read more »».

Newborns learn while asleep

WASHINGTON – Sleeping newborn infants are better learners than previously thought, according to a University of Florida researcher.

The boffin’s study could lead to identifying those at risk for developmental disorders such as autism and dyslexia.

“We found a basic form of learning in sleeping newborns, a … Read : Newborns learn while asleep.

“Pinocchio” frog’s nose grows when it calls others

LONDON – A frog with a Pinocchio-like nose is among the new species discovered in Indonesia’s remote Foja Mountains, say scientists.

Scientists have called it the “Pinocchio” frog because of its long nose which grows when the animal calls to others, reports The Telegraph.

During an expedition to the Foja mountains of western New Guinea, a [..] Read the original article: here.

Atlantis astronauts, in high spirits, work overtime

WASHINGTON – Two astronauts grappled with an unruly cable and struggled with an antenna Monday during the first spacewalk of shuttle Atlantis’ final scheduled mission.

Astronauts Steve Bowen and Garrett Reisman had to pause mid-walk because a power outage shut down the external video cameras needed for the spacewalk.
In the end, they spent 45 minutes …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

China launches electric taxis for city commuters

BEIJING – China has launched a fleet of electric taxis in booming Shenzhen and is aiming to add more battery-operated vehicles in order to check the impact of global warming.

With the launch of 40 electric taxis Monday, Shenzhen city of southern Guangdong province has become the country’s first city to have environment-friendly transport in operation, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : China launches electric taxis for city commuters.

Cloned fighting bull born in Spain

Valladolid (Spain), May 19 (IANS/EFE) A cloned fighting bull was born in Spain’s central province of Palencia.

The birth took place in the early hours Tuesday on a ranch near the town of Fromista, said sources close to the research team.
The scientific landmark was made possible by a project led by the director of the …. Read the original article  : here.

Now, a tool to help fit prosthetic limbs painlessly

WASHINGTON – A biomedical engineer has developed a new tool to help prosthetic developers fit artificial limbs almost painlessly.

One of its versions also tells medical workers when bed-ridden patients need to be moved to avoid bedsores and other problems.
Amit Gefen, professor at the Tel Aviv University’s (TAU) department of biomedical engineering, has developed … Original source on Gaea Times at : Now, a tool to help fit prosthetic limbs painlessly.

Oldest known Central American pyramid tomb holds royal burials, jewels

WASHINGTON – Archaeologists have discovered the oldest known Mesoamerican pyramid tomb, around 2,700 years old, in Chiapa de Corzo, Mexico.

The discovery may help settle a debate as to when and how the mysterious Zoque civilization arose, according to excavation leader Bruce Bachand, an archaeologist at Brigham Young University.

“We are trying to distill from the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Oldest known Central American pyramid tomb holds royal burials, jewels.

Fathers experience prenatal, postpartum depression too

WASHINGTON – A an analysis of previous research has revealed that about 10 percent of fathers experience prenatal or postpartum depression, with rates being highest in the 3 to 6 month postpartum period.

Maternal prenatal and postpartum depression is a well accepted phenomena, but the prevalence, risk factors and effects of depression among new fathers is … Read more >>.

‘Binge listening’ in clubs causes hearing loss

SYDNEY – Forget about binge drinking, it is ‘binge listening’ that’s harming the youngsters who go clubbing.

Youngsters in Australians are apparently showing early signs of hearing loss due to night outs at pubs and clubs, where they get exposed to three weeks’ worth of noise in one night.

In a new survey, Harvey Dillon, the director …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Binge listening’ in clubs causes hearing loss.

Addiction to tanning can be extremely dangerous

WASHINGTON – Tanorexia, or an addiction to tanning, can be harmful, according to experts.

Dermatologists at Loyola University Health System claim tanning addictions, among young, white females, are a legitimate health problem.

According to a study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, approximately 20 percent of 18 – 29 year-olds use indoor tanning … Read more >>.

Ancestor of all hammerhead sharks appeared about 20 million years ago

WASHINGTON – The ancestor of all hammerhead sharks probably appeared abruptly in Earth’s oceans about 20 million years ago and was as big as some contemporary hammerheads, according to a new study led by the University of Colorado at Boulder.

But once the hammerhead evolved, it underwent divergent evolution in different directions, with some species becoming … Original source on Gaea Times at : Ancestor of all hammerhead sharks appeared about 20 million years ago.

The 10 most viewed YouTube videos

MELBOURNE – Video sharing website YouTube has released the list of its 10 most viewed videos.

The site marked its fifth birthday by announcing that viewers now watch more than two billion videos a day from the video-sharing site.

“That’s nearly double the prime-time audience of all three major US television networks combined,” News.com.au quoted a YouTube …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : The 10 most viewed YouTube videos.

Animals can be gay: Study

LONDON – New research suggests that animals can be gau too, defying Darwin’s theory that the sexual impulses of animals are designed to cause reproduction and are therefore necessarily heterosexual.

The research, conducted on an albatross colony in the University of Hawaii, showed that one third of the ‘pairs’ who commit to each other for life …. Original source  : Animals can be gay: Study.

Warning for Facebook users: ‘Sexiest video’ message contains malware

LONDON – Facebook users are being warned not to click on a message that promises to deliver the ’sexiest video ever’, as when opened it leads to the download of a programme that fills the computer with junk.

The video link appears in newsfeed together with a picture of a pneumatic model or a woman on … Read more : Warning for Facebook users: ‘Sexiest video’ message contains malware.

Social network history can reveal your identity

LONDON – When you enrol yourself as a member on a social networking site, may be revealing more than you bargained for, an experimental website has proved.

The website has managed to identify the names of people who visit it, by harvesting information about the groups they belong to.

And the trick could act as the … Read more »»».

How deep is the ocean?

WASHINGTON – For the romantics, love is as deep as the ocean. And now, researchers at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) have actually tried to quantify the age-old query- How deep is the ocean?

They’re also tackling an even more intriguing-if less romantic-question- What is the volume of the Earth’s oceans?

And the answer … Read : How deep is the ocean?.

Mobile phones may help partially sighted ’see’ better

WASHINGTON – Mobile phones or hand-held games consoles can be used to provide training course for partially-sighted people, helping them become more self-reliable, according to a new study.

The new research has found that a computer-based technique developed and assessed by Durham University improved partially-sighted people’s ability to ’see’ better. It may eventually improve and … Original source on Gaea Times at : Mobile phones may help partially sighted ’see’ better.

New research paves way for drugs to treat age-related memory loss

WASHINGTON – Researchers at Princeton University have shown that two methods of extending life span have very different effects on memory performance and decline with age.

While the nematode C. elegans is already well known for its utility in longevity research, previously it was not known how the memory of C. elegans compares with that of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Study shows ‘female Viagra’ works

Washington, May 19 (ANI): A pill called Flibanserin can boost sex drive in women. It’s being called ‘female Viagra.’

A new paper from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists reports that after a 6-month treatment with the pill, women found improvement in their decreased sexual desire.

The FDA has not yet approved the drug, which … Read : Study shows ‘female Viagra’ works.

Microsoft’s Hotmail gets a makeover

London, May 19 (ANI): IT giant Microsoft has decided to give Hotmail, its free email service, a makeover, in an attempt to retain its market share over rivals Google’s Gmail and Yahoo! Mail.

The makeover goes live in either July or August of this year and will allow users to view or edit sent documents using … Original article on : Microsoft’s Hotmail gets a makeover.

Scientists discover infection-inducing mechanism in bacteria

London, May 19 (ANI): A new study has shown that bacteria have a surprising mechanism to transfer virulent genes causing infections.

The research describes an unprecedented evolutionary adaptation and could contribute to finding new ways of treating and preventing bacterial infections.

Pathogenic genes are responsible for making bacteria capable of causing diseases. These genes cause bacteria … Original article on : Scientists discover infection-inducing mechanism in bacteria.

Ice melt shows alarming land rise in Greenland

WASHINGTON – Greenland’s ice is melting so quickly that the land underneath is rising at a rapid pace, according to latest research.

Greenland is situated in the Atlantic Ocean to the northeast of Canada. It has a dense icecap up to two kilometers thick that covers much of the island.
Some coastal areas are going up …. Source article  : Ice melt shows alarming land rise in Greenland.

Climate change caused mass extinction of mammals 50,000 years ago

WASHINGTON – Climate change played a major role in causing mass extinction of mammals in the late quaternary era, 50,000 years ago, an international team of scientists have discovered.

Their study takes a new approach to this hotly debated topic by using global data modelling to build continental ‘climate footprints.’

“Between 50,000 and 3,000 years before present … Original source on Gaea Times at : Climate change caused mass extinction of mammals 50,000 years ago.

Antibiotic resistance lasts up to 12 months

LONDON – Patients who take prescribed antibiotics in primary care can go on to develop a resistance lasting up to a year, according to a study.

It is known that resistance to antibiotics is a major threat to public health.

However, researchers aid that this is not seen by most clinicians or patients as a reason …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Antibiotic resistance lasts up to 12 months.

New method to make DNA sequencing faster and cheaper

WASHINGTON – Boston University biomedical engineers have developed a new method to make DNA sequencing a lot faster and cheaper – and thus closer to routine use in clinical diagnostics.

The team has demonstrated the first use of solid state nanopores – tiny holes in silicon chips that detect DNA molecules as they pass through the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : New method to make DNA sequencing faster and cheaper.

Headless Egypt king statue could give clues to Cleopatra’s tomb

WASHINGTON – A massive, headless statue of a Greek king has been found in the ruins of an ancient Egyptian temple, indicating that the structure could be the final resting place of Marc Antony and Cleopatra, experts say.

Archaeologists have been excavating around the temple of Taposiris Magna in hopes of finding the couple’s graves.

The black … Read more >>>.

Yogurt-like drink DanActive cuts rate of common infections in daycare kids

WASHINGTON – The probiotic yoghurt-like drink DanActive can cut the rate of common sicknesses such as ear infections, sinusitis, the flu and diarrhoea in day-care children, according to researchers.

An additional finding, however, showed no reduction in the number school days missed.

Led by Daniel Merenstein of Georgetown University School of Medicine (GUSOM), the researchers studied … Original source on Gaea Times at : Yogurt-like drink DanActive cuts rate of common infections in daycare kids.

Malaria control to overcome disease spread as climate warms

LONDON – Opposing a widespread assumption, two University of Florida researchers have found that global warming is unlikely to expand the range of malaria because of malaria control, development and other factors that are at work to corral the disease.

Scientists and public policy makers have been concerned that warming temperatures would create conditions that … Original source on Gaea Times at : Malaria control to overcome disease spread as climate warms.

Scientists succeed in flying, filming replica butterfly

LONDON – Japanese researchers have built a fully functional replica of a swallowtail butterfly or ornithopter and they have filmed it in flight.

Among the various types of butterflies, swallowtails are unique as their wing area is very large in relation to their body mass.
This combined with their overlapping fore wings means that their …. Source  : Scientists succeed in flying, filming replica butterfly.

‘Avatars’ to help breed the ideal body

SYDNEY – Thousands of men and women from around the globe are participating in an experimental Sydney-based sex project that seeks to “breed” the ideal body.

For the study, volunteers rate the attractiveness of computer-generated avatars representing male and female bodies of every shape …. Original article  : ‘Avatars’ to help breed the ideal body.

Cosmic link to calcium in our bones discovered

LONDON – The calcium in our bones has a cosmic link, according to a new study.

Astronomers have come across a new type of supernova, which they believe may be the chief source of calcium in the universe, including the Earth.

According to scientists, …. Original article  : Cosmic link to calcium in our bones discovered.

Facebook considers simplifying complicated privacy settings

LONDON – Social networking site Facebook has been noting the complaints about its privacy settings being too complex and is considering simplifying them.

It has decided to take up the matter after criticism of its privacy policy came from US … Read more »»».

Over 60pc teachers suffer from voice problems: Spanish study

WASHINGTON – A new Spanish study has found that more than 60 percent of male and female teachers suffer from voice problems.

Researchers at the University of Malaga (UMA) analysed the presence of voice disorders in teachers, in order to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Advance made in TB treatment

LONDON – A new report appearing in an eminent medical journal has highlighted the progress in the development of the global tuberculosis (TB) drug pipeline.

The paper published in the Lancet is written by a team of renowned international experts …. Source article  : Advance made in TB treatment.

Early detection of depression in preschool children important

WASHINGTON – A new American study has highlighted the importance of early detection of depression in young children.

Child psychiatrist/researcher Joan Luby from Washington University in St. Louis examined depression in …. Original article  : Early detection of depression in preschool children important.

NASA’s Mars rovers set new longevity record

WASHINGTON – NASA’s Mars Exploration Rover Project has set a longevity record on the Red Planet.

The Opportunity rover will surpass the duration record set by NASA’s Viking 1 Lander, which operated on Martian soil for six years and 116 days.

Although Spirit began working …. Source  : NASA’s Mars rovers set new longevity record.

Oldest mammalian hair found in France

LONDON – The oldest sample of mammalian hair has been found in a 100 million-year-old lump of amber.

The scales on the hair are similar to those found on the hairs of today’s mammals.

This may signify that the structure of mammalian hair has not changed for much of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Oldest mammalian hair found in France.

American scientists ‘hack’ into Indian voting machines

LONDON – India’s voting machines – considered to be among the world’s most tamperproof – can be hacked, American scientists claim.

Researchers at the University of Michigan connected a home-made device to a voting machine and successfully changed results by sending text messages from a mobile. … Read more »»».

Spanish scientists clone fighting bull

LONDON – Spanish scientists have unveiled the first-ever cloned fighting bull.

According to Vicente Torrent, a specialist in veterinary genetics, the newborn calf, named Got, is an exact replica of the muscular, horned bull that takes on matadors … Read more »»».

Cyclone Laila to weaken by Thursday afternoon: IMD

NEW DELHI – Cyclone Laila, which has hit the southern parts of the country and claimed 10 lives, will weaken by Thursday afternoon, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.

“The intensity of cyclone Laila has reduced in the last 12 hours and it will further weaken in the next couple of hours. But it will … Read more : Cyclone Laila to weaken by Thursday afternoon: IMD.

Having a child with autism doesn’t put stress on parents’ marriage: Study

WASHINGTON – A new study has debunked the myth that having a child with autism can put stress on the parents’ marriage.

The study by researchers from Kennedy Krieger Institute in Baltimore found that a child’s autism has no effect on the family structure.

Brian Freedman, lead author of the study and clinical director of the Center … Original article on : Having a child with autism doesn’t put stress on parents’ marriage: Study.

Belly fat ‘increases dementia risk’

WASHINGTON – People with fat stomachs could be at a greater risk of developing dementia, scientists from Boston University School of Medicine have warned.

For the study, Sudha Seshadri, and colleagues recruited participants from the Framingham Heart Study Offspring Cohort.

The sample included 733 community participants who had a mean age of 60 years with roughly …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

China to build center where pandas will be trained to survive in wild

China to train pandas to survive in wild
BEIJING – China plans to build a center where giant pandas born in captivity will be trained to survive in the wild, state media reported Thursday.

The $8.8 million (60 million yuan) center will be located in Sichuan province’s Dujiangyan city, according to Zhang Zhihe, the head of the … Read more >>.

How beetroot juice boosts stamina

LONDON – Scientists from the University of Exeter’s School of Sport and Health Sciences have discovered that beetroot juice boosts stamina by making muscles more fuel-efficient.

In 2009, the same researchers found that the juice can increase physical endurance. The study focused on men aged 19 to 38 cycling on exercise bikes. Drinking 500ml of beetroot …. Read the original article  : How beetroot juice boosts stamina.

First genomic collection of human microbes published

WASHINGTON – Researchers at the Human Microbiome Project (HMP) have released an analysis of 178 genomes from microbes that live in or on the human body, with many newly discovered genes and proteins making it to the list.

The researchers …. Read the original article  : here.

Books at home boost kids’ educational levels

WASHINGTON – A new study has shoawn that parents who have books in the home increase the level of education their children will attain.

The 20-year study was led by Mariah Evans, University of Nevada, Reno associate professor of sociology and resource economics.

For years, educators have thought the strongest …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Books at home boost kids’ educational levels.

World’s most ancient frogs face extinction

WASHINGTON – The New Zealand government’s plans to throw open a conservation area to mining may result in the extinction of the world’s most ancient frogs.

The primitive Archey’s frog (Leiopelma archeyi) and Hochstetter’s frog (Leiopelma hochstetteri) are two of the species that inhabit the area … Read this article on Gaea Times at : World’s most ancient frogs face extinction.

New sharkskin paint to lower planes’ fuel costs

WASHINGTON – German scientists have taken inspiration from sharkskin to develop a paint for airplanes and ships that not only lowers fuel costs but also brings down CO2 emissions.

Scientists know that the scales of fast-swimming sharks have evolved in …. Read the original article  : New sharkskin paint to lower planes’ fuel costs.

First drug to demonstrate therapeutic effect in a type of autism identified

WASHINGTON – American researchers have identified a drug that improves communication between nerve cells in a mouse model of Phelan-McDermid Syndrome (PMS).

Previous research has shown that a gene mutation in the brain called SHANK3 can cause absent or severely delayed language abilities, … Original source on Gaea Times at : First drug to demonstrate therapeutic effect in a type of autism identified.

New hope for patients at high risk of recurrences of heart disease

WASHINGTON – Canadian researchers have confirmed the potential of a medication to reduce inflammation in patients with atherosclerosis.

The results of the clinical study, directed by Dr. Jean-Claude Tardif of the Montreal Heart Institute (MHI), have appeared in the journal Circulation Cardiovascular Imaging.

The promising findings of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Glistening galaxies tend to cluster in busiest parts of universe

WASHINGTON – Glistening galaxies preferentially occupy regions of the universe containing more dark matter, astronomers have found.

Using a super-sensitive camera/spectrometer on the Herschel Space Observatory, astronomers, including a UC Irvine team led by Asantha Cooray, have mapped the skies as … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Glistening galaxies tend to cluster in busiest parts of universe.

Pacemaker reuse cost-effective alternative in Third World countries

WASHINGTON – A new research has suggested that pacemaker reuse may be a safe, effective and ethical alternative to address the medical needs for people in Third World countries who couldn’t otherwise afford therapy.

Researchers examined pacemaker reuse compared with a control population of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Physicists prove Einstein wrong by measuring speed in Brownian particles

WASHINGTON – Even a genius like Einstein could go wrong – physicists have proved that with the observation of instantaneous velocity in Brownian particles.

Mark Raizen, the Sid W. Richardson Foundation Regents Chair and professor of physics at The University of Texas at Austin, said: This … Read more >>.

Now, chocolate bar that keeps wrinkles at bay

LONDON – Good news for chocolate lovers: A new kind of chocolate has been created that apparently slows the ageing process and fights wrinkles.ade by the world’s largest chocolate manufacturer, Acticoa is packed with natural antioxidants, which can protect the skin from damage by harmful free radicals.

Studies …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Now, chocolate bar that keeps wrinkles at bay.

Atlantis astronauts gear up for 3rd and final spacewalk as space station visit winds down

Astronauts gear up for 3rd and final spacewalk

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Atlantis astronauts have one more big job before leaving the International Space Station.
On Friday morning, two of the crew will venture out on the third and final spacewalk of their mission.
Astronauts Garrett Reisman and Michael Good will finish installing new space station batteries. … Read more »».

Obama plans higher fuel efficiency, emissions standards for years to come

Obama aims for better mileage years into future
WASHINGTON – Looking to a day when cars and trucks use far less gasoline or none at all, President Barack Obama plans to order the government to prepare fuel efficiency standards for many years from now and renew its focus on electric-powered vehicles.
Obama is … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Obama plans higher fuel efficiency, emissions standards for years to come.

Lowering voice is the secret to seduction

WASHINGTON – Flirtation not just involves preening or coy eye contact, voice too plays a major role in seduction, suggests a new study.

Lowering voice may be means of signaling attraction, Susan Hughes, assistant professor of psychology at Albright College in Reading, Pa, found …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Locke calls on Beijing to give US clean-energy companies greater market access

US presses Beijing on clean-energy market access
BEIJING – Commerce Secretary Gary Locke called on Beijing to give U.S. clean-energy companies greater access to its market to help combat climate change.
Washington is looking to sales of clean-energy technology to China to help fulfill President Barack Obama’s pledge to double exports and create 2 million … Read more : Locke calls on Beijing to give US clean-energy companies greater market access.

First synthetic bacterial genome created

WASHINGTON – In the third meeting of Hastings Center workshop examining moral issues in synthetic biology, the J. Craig Venter Group have announced the creation of the first synthetic bacterial genome.

The Hastings Center has been at …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Hubble observes star eating a planet

Washington, May 21 (ANI): A new instrument on NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope, called the Cosmic Origins Spectrograph (COS), has observed that the hottest known planet in the Milky Way galaxy being eaten by its parent star.

The planet may only have another …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Hubble observes star eating a planet.

Feds change rules so farmers can kill non-migrating Canada geese faster, avoid loss of crops

Feds change rules so farmers can kill geese faster

CHARLES CITY, Va. – For a farmer, few things are more frustrating than Canada geese descending like a biblical plague of locusts upon a freshly planted field to feast on soybean or corn shoots.
Grower Dave Black, who farms more than 1,200 acres of corn, wheat and soybeans …. Original article  : Feds change rules so farmers can kill non-migrating Canada geese faster, avoid loss of crops.

Vt. moose, who became cause celebre in battle for life, gets reprieve _ and shot at fatherhood

Targeted for death, Vt. moose gets a reprieve

IRASBURG, Vt. – Pete the Moose munched on apples, bananas and a Snickers candy bar – he won’t eat a Milky Way – blissfully unaware of his near-demise, a fate averted by lawmakers and helped along by thousands of fans online.
Vermont’s favorite animal, who had been ordered last …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Vt. moose, who became cause celebre in battle for life, gets reprieve _ and shot at fatherhood.

Turtles use ’super tongue’ to survive underwater

WASHINGTON – Scientists have discovered that the common musk turtle possesses an extraordinary organ that allows it to breathe underwater and stay submerged for many months – a tiny tongue lined with specialised buds.

Rather than using the tongue for eating, the turtle use it to …. Source  : Turtles use ’super tongue’ to survive underwater.

Google launches ’smart’ TV

LONDON – Google has launched ’smart’ TV, a service that integrates Internet and television.

The company has collaborated with Sony Corp., Intel Corp. and Logitech International to turn televisions into giant monitors for Internet browsing so it can make more money selling ads.

It generated nearly 24 …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Google launches ’smart’ TV.

3-D, fly-through movies to explore Medieval Nottingham Caves

WASHINGTON – Archaeologists have struck upon a brilliant technology to explore the unseen network of nearly 500 tunnels and caves, in a layer of rock called Sherwood Sandstone beneath the Nottingham Castle.

These manmade labyrinths were used for everything from brewing ale to mining and even imprisoning the famous bandit Robin Hood.

Although some are still … Read more »».

World’s largest oceanography library digitized

WASHINGTON – As part of a partnership between Google, the University of California and the UC San Diego Libraries, the 100,000 volumes from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography Library, the world’s largest oceanography library, have been digitized and are being made accessible to public.

Since 2008, approximately 300,000 volumes and other materials have been digitized from … Original article on : World’s largest oceanography library digitized.

Baldness in women tied to genes

MELBOURNE – A gene variant that apparently causes female baldness has been discovered by researchers.

After studying the DNA of almost 500 women who had lost at least 50 per cent of the hair on top of their scalp, scientists from the University of Melbourne and St Vincent’s Hospital made the discovery, reports The Age.

All the …. Original article  : Baldness in women tied to genes.

Scientific American columnist Martin Gardner, prolific math and science writer, dies at 95

Martin Gardner, 95, math and science writer, dies

NORMAN, Okla. – Prolific mathematics and science writer Martin Gardner, known for popularizing recreational mathematics and debunking paranormal claims, died Saturday. He was 95.
Gardner died Saturday after a brief illness at Norman Regional Hospital, said his son James Gardner. He had been living at an assisted living facility … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Scientific American columnist Martin Gardner, prolific math and science writer, dies at 95.

Delhi to sizzle at 45 degrees

NEW DELHI – Think twice before stepping out in the sun to enjoy your Sunday as the weather office says the temperature is likely to touch a sizzling 45 degrees Celsius in the national capital.

“The maximum temperature today (Sunday) may touch 45 degrees. The minimum temperature, which was recorded early in the day, was also …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Delhi to sizzle at 45 degrees.

Martin Gardner, mathematics and science writer, dies at 95 in Oklahoma

Martin Gardner, math and science writer, dies

NORMAN, Okla. – Prolific mathematics and science writer Martin Gardner, known for popularizing recreational mathematics and debunking paranormal claims, has died.
James Gardner said his father died unexpectedly Saturday at Norman Regional Hospital. He was 95. He had been living at an assisted living facility in Norman.
Martin Gardner wrote features … Read : Martin Gardner, mathematics and science writer, dies at 95 in Oklahoma.

Another hot day for Delhi Sunday

NEW DELHI – Delhi sweated Saturday with the maximum temperature at 44.5 degrees Celsius, four notches above average, weather officials said. The temperature Sunday is expected to hover around 45 degrees.

“The national capital recorded a maximum temperature of 44.5 degrees Celsius which was four degree above normal (average) for this time of the year,” an … Read more >>.

Texas may become nuclear waste dumping ground for 36 other states, alarming environmentalists

Texas may get nuclear waste from dozens of states
ANDREWS, Texas – Texas was all set to be part of an agreement with Vermont to dump nuclear waste in a remote region of the Lone Star state, and for the most part people living near the site were OK with it.
Now, though, that compact … Read more : Texas may become nuclear waste dumping ground for 36 other states, alarming environmentalists.

Will the Chevy Volt recharge GM, autoworkers, Michigan: ‘It’s either do or die’

Will the Volt recharge GM and US auto industry?

WARREN, Mich. – He stands all day, bent over noisy machines, cutting giant sheets of steel and feeding them into monster-sized presses so powerful the concrete floor rumbles beneath his size-16 feet.
This is how Steve Prucnell builds cars. In 22 years, the parts haven’t changed much. A …. Source  : Will the Chevy Volt recharge GM, autoworkers, Michigan: ‘It’s either do or die’.

35 years after war, most Vietnamese believe US should do more to help victims of Agent Orange

Vietnam, US still in conflict over Agent Orange

CAM TUYEN, Vietnam – Her children are 21 and 16 years old, but they still cry through the night, tossing and turning in pain, sucking their thumbs for comfort.
Tran Thi Gai, who rarely gets any sleep herself, sings them a mournful lullaby. “Can you feel my love for …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 35 years after war, most Vietnamese believe US should do more to help victims of Agent Orange.

Heavy rains lash Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – Heavy rains triggered by a low pressure area over the Bay Bengal lashed many parts of Orissa Saturday, affecting normal life in some places, officials said.

People stayed indoors and movement of vehicles came to a grinding halt for few hours at Gopalpur, Berhampur and Chatrapur towns in the southern Ganjam district, which recorded … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Heavy rains lash Orissa.

Hisar sizzles at 48 degrees

CHANDIGARH – A high of 48 degrees Celsius, the second highest temperature ever recorded, had Hisar town in Haryana sizzling on Saturday.

Temperatures across Punjab and Haryana remained at over 40 degrees at all places. Some of the cities and towns recorded individual highs of over 44 degrees.
The highest temperature ever recorded in Hisar was …. Read the original article  : here.

3,000 endangered antelopes dead

Astana, May 22 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Some 3,200 saiga antelopes have died of unknown causes in Kazakhstan, the emergencies ministry said Saturday.

“As of Friday evening it was established that 3,200 saiga antelopes had died in an area of 4,500 hectares,” a ministry statement said.
It said there was no indication of an outbreak of any disease …. Original source  : 3,000 endangered antelopes dead.

Indian psychic looks for British cat

LONDON – A British woman has sought the help of a psychic based in India to look for her cat that went missing seven months ago.

Sarita Gupta, who is based in Bangalore, has been told to conjure up an image of where the cat was likely to turn up, the Daily Mail reported Saturday. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Indian psychic looks for British cat.

Now, website that helps college-goers find love in book stacks

LONDON – A new website, developed by a Brit Computer Science undergrad, helps college-goers find love in the book stacks.

The FitFinder was founded by UCL undergrad student Rich Martell.

The site, with the tagline “witness the fitness”, is a hybrid personal ads …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Roles of U.S. Air Force secret space plane

WASHINGTON – The speculations over the true mission of the US Air Force X-37B secret space plane may finally come to rest – the Secure World Foundation (SWF) has made available a X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle Fact Sheet that details the reusable vehicle’s likely uses.

The informative fact …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Roles of U.S. Air Force secret space plane.

New blood test may help predict newborns’ allergy risk

WASHINGTON – Thanks to a new research involving the University of Adelaide, a simple blood test can now predict whether newborn babies are at high risk of developing allergies as they grow older.

Professor Tony Ferrante, an immunologist from SA Pathology and the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : New blood test may help predict newborns’ allergy risk.

New security threat for wireless networks in Internet cafe- Typhoid adware

WASHINGTON – Your internet cafe might be housing a potential security threat-called the Typhoid adware, it works in similar fashion to Typhoid Mary, the first identified healthy carrier of typhoid fever who spread the disease to dozens of people in the New York area … Read more : New security threat for wireless networks in Internet cafe- Typhoid adware.

Discovery of new type of supernova may shed light on mysteries of universe

LONDON – Scientists at Weizmann Institute of Science, in collaboration with others around the world, have identified a new type of exploding star, called supernova-a feat that could shed Light on the mysteries of the Universe.

Until now, scientists had only observed …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Discovery of new type of supernova may shed light on mysteries of universe.

Now, a leaf-like car that absorbs CO2 and spews oxygen

NEW DELHI – Taking cue from the plants’ ability to photosynthesise, Chinese automaker Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation has developed a new concept car that could take in carbon dioxide and produce oxygen.

SAIC, which has a partnership wtih General Motors in China, showed designs …. Original article  : Now, a leaf-like car that absorbs CO2 and spews oxygen.