Thousands protest against mining in New Zealand

WELLINGTON – An estimated 50,000 people marched through central Auckland Saturday in a mass protest against the government’s proposal to open up some national parks for mining minerals.

Conservationists claim the move would ruin the “100-per-cent Pure” slogan New Zealand uses to promote its scenery and foodstuffs in advertisements to tourists and consumers around the world. [..] Read the original article: here.

Blood test could identify lung cancer patients likely to respond to drug erlotinib

WASHINGTON – A simple blood test could identify lung cancer patients who will respond positively to the drug erlotinib, reveals a new study.

The researchers found that testing for the presence of specific cancer protein ‘fingerprints’ in the blood of lung cancer patients may be a useful means of identifying a subgroup whose tumours are more … Read more : Blood test could identify lung cancer patients likely to respond to drug erlotinib.

World’s first prostate cancer ‘vaccine’ to be used in patients

LONDON – Provenge, the world’s first prostate cancer ‘vaccine’ which works by boosting the body’s immune system to fight tumours, is to be used in patients.

The vaccine helps those already in an advanced stage of the disease.

According to medical tests, it can prolong the life of terminal patients by around four months, one month longer …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : World’s first prostate cancer ‘vaccine’ to be used in patients.

Seamounts are treasure troves of marine biodiversity

WASHINGTON – Seamounts, mountains that rise from the seafloor, rank as some of the most common ocean habitats in the world, scientists have found.

The finding by scientists from NOAA and Texas A and M University-Corpus Christi is published in a new study and reverse previous beliefs about the prevalence of seamounts, which are treasure troves … Original article on : Seamounts are treasure troves of marine biodiversity.

Explorers stand by Noah’s Ark Turkey claim

WASHINGTON – Some of the members of the search team that claims to have found Noah’s Ark on Mount Ararat in Turkey rebutted skepticism over their claims of locating the fabled biblical boat.

According to many Christians, Noah’s ark came to rest somewhere in Turkey. In the Bible, the ark protected Noah, his family, and a … Read more »».

Himachal hills turn into tinderbox

SHIMLA – Summer fires in the wooded areas and grasslands of Himachal Pradesh are nothing new, but long dry spells often turn the hills into a tinderbox. This year priceless forest wealth has been destroyed in more than 400 fire incidents in April alone.

Officials of the forest department say the prolonged dry summer, particularly in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Light showers in store for Delhi

NEW DELHI – Delhiites are likely to experience a slightly cooler day Saturday with the possibility of light showers towards the evening, a weather official said.

“The national capital can expect a partly cloudy sky with possibility of thunderstorm in some areas in the city. Rainfall of around 1.4 mm is expected,” said an official of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Light showers in store for Delhi.

Chinese electric car company BYD will locate North American headquarters in Los Angeles

China carmaker puts N. American headquarters in LA

LOS ANGELES – A rapidly expanding manufacturer of all-electric cars, solar panels and other green products from China announced Friday it will open a North American headquarters in Los Angeles, with plans to begin selling autos in the U.S. by the end of the year.
City officials said the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Chinese electric car company BYD will locate North American headquarters in Los Angeles.

APNewsBreak: GE says Hudson River PCB dredging has cost $561 million through end of phase 1

APNewsBreak: GE says Hudson dredging cost $561M

ALBANY, N.Y. – General Electric Co. estimated the first phase of its PCB dredging project on the Hudson River cost $561 million, providing first-time cost details of the massive cleanup.
The company provided the planning and performance cost estimate to a panel of experts reviewing the project in response to …. Read the original article  : here.

Balloons with a view: Army tests of high-tech dirigibles in Utah to use drones, jets, missiles

Tests of Army dirigibles to use drones, missiles

SALT LAKE CITY – Proving the capability of high-tech military balloons will require buzzing drones, jets and an occasional unarmed surface-to-air missile.
Most of the tests will be conducted in military air space above the Snake Valley in Utah during the next several years. Some test flights are scheduled … Read : Balloons with a view: Army tests of high-tech dirigibles in Utah to use drones, jets, missiles.

Lion cub triplets born at NYC zoo are king and queens of cuteness but so far nameless

Lion cub triplets at NYC zoo are cuteness royalty

NEW YORK – The newest lion king and queens of New York City won’t be found on Broadway. You can find them at the Bronx Zoo.
The Wildlife Conservation Society introduced the spirited triplet cubs Friday at its African Plains habitat. Favorite activities include wrestling with one another … Read : Lion cub triplets born at NYC zoo are king and queens of cuteness but so far nameless.

EPA proposes new limits on emissions of cancer-causing pollutants from boilers, incinerators

New federal rule targets harmful mercury emissions

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration says 5,000 deaths could be prevented each year under new rules announced Friday to limit the amount of mercury and other harmful pollutants released by industrial boilers and solid waste incinerators.
The planned rules would reduce mercury emissions more than 50 percent by requiring steep …. Original source  : EPA proposes new limits on emissions of cancer-causing pollutants from boilers, incinerators.

More rain expected in Delhi Saturday (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – Light showers Friday evening brought respite to Delhiites from intense heat and the weatherman forecast cloudy sky and a possibility of rain in some areas of the national capital Saturday.

“The national capital can expect a partly cloudy sky with possibility of thunderstorm in some areas on Saturday,” said an official … Read more >>.

Halted development projects creating hazards for waterways as runoff clogs streams with silt

Halted construction filling US waterways with silt

INDIAN LAND, S.C. – Residents in a subdivision of two-story brick homes near the North Carolina state line say they were promised roads and ball fields and tennis courts. But the developer has vanished and the neighbors never came so, when the rains do, the ground crumbles.
The potholes at … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Halted development projects creating hazards for waterways as runoff clogs streams with silt.

Some New England fishermen see hope, others ruin in switch to new catch regulations

New catch rules to shake up NE fishing industry

BOSTON – New England’s centuries-old fishing industry is going to change dramatically under new rules that promise autonomy for fishermen and better protection for fish but have so far mainly inspired uncertainty.
The new regulations go into effect Saturday. They replace a system that was broadly unpopular and …. Source article  : Some New England fishermen see hope, others ruin in switch to new catch regulations.

Rain expected in Delhi Saturday

NEW DELHI – A cloudy sky is expected in Delhi Saturday with a possibility of thunderstorm in some areas, the weather office said Friday.

“The national capital can expect a partly cloudy sky with possibility of thunderstorm in some areas on Saturday,” said an official of the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
The maximum temperature is expected … Read more »».

Documentary films violate animals’ right to privacy

Washington, April 30 (ANI): Wildlife documentary filmmakers may be denying animals their right to privacy, claims a new research.

Dr Brett Mills from the University of East Anglia in his study ‘Television wildlife documentaries and animals’ right to privacy’ analyses the ‘making of’ documentaries that accompanied the BBC wildlife series … Read : Documentary films violate animals’ right to privacy.

Soon, laser ‘tractor beams’ to clear up space junk

London, Apr 30 (ANI): Now a tractor beam could prevent the accumulation of space debris-including all the dead satellites, discarded rocket boosters and other junk-in the Earth’s orbit, suggests an expert.

Space-flight engineer John Sinko of Nagoya University, Japan, has put forward his idea … Read more »»».

China’s growing cyberculture doesn’t guarantee political freedom

WASHINGTON – China’s rapidly growing cyberculture doesn’t guarantee political freedom and open speech, conclude researchers from an American university.

The study, conducted by communication researchers at the University of Buffalo (UB), responds to claims that widespread use of blogs threatens Chinese government control over democratic discourse, free speech and civil rights in China’s traditionally closed society. … Read : China’s growing cyberculture doesn’t guarantee political freedom.

World leaders ‘fail to stem biodiversity loss’

LONDON – A major study has confirmed that the world’s governments will not be able to meet their internationally agreed target of curbing the loss of species and nature by 2010.

The 2010 target had been adopted … Read : World leaders ‘fail to stem biodiversity loss’.

Temperature on the higher side in Himachal

SHIMLA – Mercury levels remained high across Himachal Pradesh Sunday with the temperature being recorded two to six degrees above the average, the weatherman said, adding that state capital Shimla saw a high of 25.9 degrees Celsius.

“Temperatures across the state remained on the higher side due to absence of rain in the past few … Original article on : Temperature on the higher side in Himachal.

Pleasant Sunday for Delhiites

NEW DELHI – Delhiites had a pleasant day as the maximum temperature dropped to 36.7 degrees Celsius due to light showers and a thunderstorm in some parts in the wee hours Sunday caused by a western disturbance.

“The maximum recorded temperature in Delhi was 36.7 degrees, which is two degrees below normal for this time of … Read more >>.

Blazing May ahead in Delhi but not hotter than usual

NEW DELHI – With fresh rains and pleasant weather bringing in the month, the weatherman has predicted for the capital a less severe May than the scorcher that April was.

According to the India Meteorological Department, the temperatures in May will be normal “depending upon the local weather systems”.
“Western disturbances will weaken and the …. Original article  : Blazing May ahead in Delhi but not hotter than usual.

Smartphones may soon have battery life extended by up to 20pc

London, May 2 (ANI): If you’re tired of your smartphone’s battery draining out a little too fast, you may soon find a reason to smile – manufacturers are planning to change the memory type of smartphones, extending their battery life by up …. Original article  : Smartphones may soon have battery life extended by up to 20pc.

Black man living in medieval Britain found

London, May 2 (ANI): The discovery of a skeleton in a friary’s ruins is the first physical evidence of a black person living in medieval Britain.

The man’s skeleton, uncovered in the friary in Ipswich, Suffolk, which was destroyed by Henry VIII, is said to date back … Original article on : Black man living in medieval Britain found.

Asiatic lion population rises to 411

GANDHINAGAR – The population of the Asiatic lion in Gujarat – its lone abode across the globe – has risen to 411, registering a growth of over 13 per cent from the last census in 2005, Chief Minister Narendra Modi announced here Sunday.

“This is Gujarat’s gift to the globe as we celebrate our golden jubilee,” … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Asiatic lion population rises to 411.

Earth Hours should become part of our daily lives (Comment)

I am convinced that the Right to Energy should be declared a Fundamental Right. Or, at best, energy should be added to the list of Directive Principles of State Policy. After all, how can a society be just if 40 percent of people have no power? Are they supposed to languish away their lives in …. Original article  : Earth Hours should become part of our daily lives (Comment).

It rains male buffaloes when it rains

WASHINGTON – Rainfall is linked to skewed sex ratios, according to a study on buffaloes.

Scientists noted that an increased proportion of male African buffalo are born during the rainy season.

Researchers collected data from more than 200 calves and 3000 foetuses, finding …. Original source  : It rains male buffaloes when it rains.

Women ‘better navigators’ than men

LONDON – Men might be good at reading maps, but when it comes to recalling routes, it’s the ladies who walk away with crown, according to a new study.

According to the research, women can be better navigators than men if they have visited a place before.

And according to researchers, it all … Original article on : Women ‘better navigators’ than men.

Soon, online remedy for stuttering

SYDNEY – An online system would be able to provide relief to millions of people around the world who stutter, claim Australian experts.

After winning a federal grant of nearly 5 million dollars, the Australian Stuttering Research Centre in Sydney is all set to develop a system that sufferers can access via the internet.

The simple …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

A beautiful stranger’s company can send men’s stress hormones soaring

LONDON – A beautiful stranger can send a man’s stress hormones soaring so much so that the stress may be bad for the heart -especially if he thinks he’s not in the same league.

That’s the conclusion of a new study which was conducted by experts at the University of Valencia in Spain.

According to boffins, the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : A beautiful stranger’s company can send men’s stress hormones soaring.

Now, an online tool that calculates heart’s exact age

WELLINGTON – Scientists have developed an online tool that calculates the exact age of your heart and when you’re most likely to have a heart attack or stroke.

The heart forecaster “Know Your Numbers” has been created by the Heart Foundation and Auckland University.

In it, all a person needs to do is answer a few … Read more >>>.

Britain’s New Tories: More women, more minorities _ and maybe _ more troublemakers?

Young Tories: diverse, but still Thatcherite
PENRITH, England – There’s a feisty chick lit author, the Muslim son of a bus driver and a swashbuckling ex-diplomat who braved the Taliban to hike across Afghanistan alone.
Conservative Party leader David Cameron ’s crop of new candidates are a group of young, multiethnic professionals who … Original article on : Britain’s New Tories: More women, more minorities _ and maybe _ more troublemakers?.

In Bhutan, development is in pursuit of happiness (Letter from Thimphu)

THIMPHU – Where on the earth would you find farmers who willingly vacate their homes and hearths to let rare birds have a shot at life? In environment-conscious Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, also called Drug Yul or “The Land of the Thunder Dragon”.

In the Buddhist country where happiness, not material success, is a way to …. Read the original article  : In Bhutan, development is in pursuit of happiness (Letter from Thimphu).

20 dolphins die of poisoning

Lima, May 2 (IANS/EFE) Some 20 pink dolphins were apparently poisoned and killed by poachers in Bazagan Lagoon in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon, the Lima press said.

According to the daily La Republica, these pink dolphins (Inia geoffrensis) are believed to have been poisoned by fishermen to keep them from damaging their fishing nets. … Read more »»».

New tool allows precise targeting of radiotherapy for cancer radiation therapy

WASHINGTON – A new tool allows precise targeting of radiotherapy for cancer radiation therapy.

Dr Corina Udrescu, from Centre Hospitalier Lyon Sud, said: “With this study we show that it is possible and very important to have a precise system that can give information at any time before or during treatment in terms …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : New tool allows precise targeting of radiotherapy for cancer radiation therapy.

Benefits of endovascular stent repair for traumatic aortic injury

WASHINGTON – American cardiovascular specialists have shown the benefits of endovascular stent repair over open-chest surgery for traumatic aortic injury.

Royce Calhoun, a cardiothoracic surgeon and principal investigator of the research, said: “We are always looking for … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Benefits of endovascular stent repair for traumatic aortic injury.

Leptin action in brain associated with sepsis survival

WASHINGTON – The hormone leptin works within the central nervous system (CNS) aiding the body’s defence mechanism to keep sepsis at bay, a new American research has found.

Sepsis is a life-threatening medical condition in which the entire body is overwhelmed by infection.

The study led …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Leptin action in brain associated with sepsis survival.

Plastic made from algae ensures a greener environment

Washington, May 2 (ANI): The world around us would have been a lot more greener if all the plastic- like car parts, bottles, containers, and even keyboards-were made from algae.

And now a California-based company is doing just that.

Bioplastic maker Cereplast is putting their … Read more : Plastic made from algae ensures a greener environment.

‘Snowball Earth’ might have triggered giant change in carbon cycle

Washington, May 2 (ANI): An episode called “snowball Earth,” which may have covered the continents and oceans in a thick sheet of ice, produced a dramatic change in the carbon cycle, which in turn might have triggered future ice ages, according to … Read more >>.

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.

Kids deaf in one ear fall behind in language skills

WASHINGTON – Hearing loss in a single ear of a child hurts his ability to comprehend and use language, says a new study.

“For many years, paediatricians and educators thought that as long as children have one normal hearing ear, their speech and language would develop normally,” says study leader Judith EC Lieu, ear, nose and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Kids deaf in one ear fall behind in language skills.

BP spends big in Washington, but will that help it survive during Gulf oil spill crisis?

Will BP’s Washington connections help it now?
WASHINGTON – With millions of dollars invested in campaign donations and an all-star lobbying team, BP executives could give an advanced class in how to build influence in Washington. But with millions of gallons of leaking oil bearing down Gulf Coast beaches and bayous, they could also … Read more >>.

Ageing alone doesn’t cause poor sleep in elderly

MELBOURNE – It’s not just ageing that cause poor sleep in older adults, says a Chinese study with the largest-ever cohort of the very elderly.

Centenarians in China were 70 percent more likely to report good quality sleep than younger seniors age 65 to 79, according to Danan …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ageing alone doesn’t cause poor sleep in elderly.

Soon, an early warning test for breast cancer

LONDON – An early warning test could soon be able to detect breast cancer.

British scientists have come closer to developing such a test, which could save the lives of millions of women.

They have discovered five more cancer-causing genetic mutations on top of the 13 already known.

“By finding … Original source on Gaea Times at : Soon, an early warning test for breast cancer.

Soy beans negatively affect sperm production

LONDON – Scientists in China have found that a naturally-occurring ingredient of soy beans, increasingly sold as substitutes for dairy-based food, interferes with a part of the male reproductive system involved in sperm production.

There is already evidence to suggest that soy beans contain natural … Read more : Soy beans negatively affect sperm production.

Now, software boss to hire and pay workers

LONDON – Have you ever joked that your boss works like a robot? Well, it could soon be a reality, for a web service has been launched that software algorithms to automatically recruit, hire and pay workers to do a wide variety of tasks.

The website normally provides …. Read the original article  : here.

Mice show pain via facial expressions, just like humans

LONDON – Just like humans, mice too express pain through facial expressions, revealed a new study by researchers from McGill University and the University of British Columbia.

McGill Psychology Prof. Jeffrey Mogil, UBC Psychology Prof. Kenneth Craig and their respective teams have [..] Read the original article: here.

Now, software that can turn blurry snaps into pics worth keeping

LONDON – A team of engineers has developed software that can transform blurry photographs into clear pictures.

Computer vision engineer Neel Joshi at the University of California, San Diego, and his colleagues studied home photo collections and saw that many pictures of faces were blurry.

“Precious moments were often lost due to blur induced by camera shake … Read more »».

Hot and humid days ahead

NEW DELHI – Delhiites need to buckle up for hot and humid days ahead, the weather office warned Monday with no rains expected and the next two days likely to be very hot.

The maximum temperature will hover around 39 degrees Celsius and minimum around 26.2 degree Celsius, the weather department predicted.
“There would be …. Source article  : Hot and humid days ahead.

Sariska to get two more tigers

JAIPUR – The Sariska tiger reserve in Rajasthan is all set to get a tiger and a tigress from the Ranthambore national park, to add to the three big cats it acquired earlier. Wildlife officials are hoping the move will help in their tiger breeding plans.

“A team of experts is in Ranthambore now trying … Original source on Gaea Times at : Sariska to get two more tigers.

Toyota ropes in loyalists and bargain-hunters, but what will happen without incentives?

Toyota faces skeptics as incentive luster fades

DETROIT – Buyers were willing to overlook Toyota’s safety troubles the last few months thanks to zero-percent financing and other deals, but as the lure of incentives fades, Toyota has a tough job: Winning over consumers who no longer trust the brand.
Toyota Motor Corp. hasn’t had to face the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Hawaii’s last sugar plantation, Native Hawaiians in emotional struggle over water, way of life

Sugar plantation, Native Hawaiians in water battle

HAIKU, Hawaii – Lyn Scott’s family has fished in Honopou stream for centuries and tapped its water to farm the Hawaiian staple taro on stone-lined terraces built by her ancestors.
Up the road, Leonard Pagan helps run irrigation systems at Hawaii’s last sugar plantation. He’s the fourth generation of his …. Read the original article  : Hawaii’s last sugar plantation, Native Hawaiians in emotional struggle over water, way of life.

Delhi hot at 39 degrees Celsius

NEW DELHI – The national capital experienced a hot day Sunday with the maximum temperature at 39 degrees Celsius, the weather office said.

“Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 39 degrees Celsius, (one degree below the average for this time of the year),” an Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) official said.
The minimum temperature was 27.5 …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Delhi hot at 39 degrees Celsius.

Friendly people ‘are more attractive’

WASHINGTON – Friendly or outgoing people are more attractive, a new study suggests.

In the study, Gettysburg College psychology professor Brian Meier and his research team found that people who were high in the personality traits of agreeableness or extraversion were rated by strangers as being more attractive.

Meier’s team … Original source on Gaea Times at : Friendly people ‘are more attractive’.

Japanese in village known for dolphin hunts have dangerous high mercury levels, but no illness

Mercury high in Japanese town that hunts dolphins

TAIJI, Japan – Residents of the dolphin-hunting village depicted in Oscar documentary “The Cove” have dangerously high mercury levels, likely because of their fondness for dolphin and whale meat, a government lab said Sunday.
The levels of mercury detected in Taiji residents were above the national average, but follow-up …. Source article  : Japanese in village known for dolphin hunts have dangerous high mercury levels, but no illness.

World’s rising consumption killing off third of all plants and animals

LONDON – With human populations surging and people consuming more, animal and plant species are being killed off faster than ever before, says a United Nations report.

The report, which has been prepared using research from 120 nations, warns that the development of countries …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Generations of family log temperature for 114 years

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 … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Generations of family log temperature for 114 years.

Scientists identify new longevity protein

WASHINGTON – The level of a single protein found in the tiny roundworm C. elegans determines how long it lives, says a new study.

Worms born without this protein, called arrestin, lived about one-third longer than normal, while worms that had triple the amount of arrestin lived one-third less.
The research also showed that arrestin …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Scientists identify new longevity protein.

Post-transplant patients off steroids have fewer cardiovascular events

WASHINGTON – Post-transplant patients, who have given up corticosteroid regimen, have fewer cardiovascular events than those on steroids, increasing their graft survival rates and reducing early mortality, University of Cincinnati (UC) transplantation researchers have found. orticosteroids are commonly given to post-transplant patients …. Original source  : Post-transplant patients off steroids have fewer cardiovascular events.

Transplanted adult stem cells could heal injured hearts

WASHINGTON – In a study on mouse model, scientists found that human adult stem cells injected around the damage caused by a heart attack survived in the heart and improved its pumping efficiency for a year.

The study, by researchers at The University of Texas MD Anderson …. Source article  : Transplanted adult stem cells could heal injured hearts.

Wikimedia still hosting some pornographic images of children

WASHINGTON – Despite starting a purging operation to remove pornographic images of children on its website, Wikimedia hasn’t managed to remove all the pictures.

Last week, after FoxNews.com asked dozens of Wikimedia Foundation’s corporate …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Wikimedia still hosting some pornographic images of children.

Fly gut bacteria may help fight sleeping sickness

WASHINGTON – Scientists in France have discovered a new bacterial species in the gut of the fly that transmits African sleeping sickness. They say that the bacteria could be engineered to kill the parasite that causes the disease.
According to researchers from IRD, the French …. Read the original article  : Fly gut bacteria may help fight sleeping sickness.

Power of touch helps paternal mice to bond with offspring

LONDON – Scientists have shown that paternal mice bond with their offspring through the power of touch.

In the study, it was shown that paternal mice that physically interact with their babies grow new brain cells and form lasting memories of their babies.

The researchers found that when paternal mice [..] Read the original article: here.

Differences in brain’s language circuits linked to dyslexia

WASHINGTON – Despite getting an appropriate education and demonstrating intellectual ability in other areas, kids children with dyslexia often struggle with reading, writing, and spelling. Now, scientists have found the reason behind it.

They have found that these children’s difficulties with written language may be … Read : Differences in brain’s language circuits linked to dyslexia.

Study sheds light on bats’ ability to ’see’ in the dark

WASHINGTON – A team of British researchers has shed new light on bats’ remarkable ability to ’see’ in the dark.

They have found that bats use the echoes from their own calls to decipher the shape of their dark surroundings.

This process, known as echolocation, allows bats to perceive their … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Study sheds light on bats’ ability to ’see’ in the dark.

Father, son re-united after 37 years by Facebook

LONDON – A man in Britain was united with his long-lost father after 37 years with the help of the social networking site Facebook.

Andy Spiers-Corbett, 39, who had lost contact with his father Graham Corbett when his parents separated, typed his father’s name into Facebook and instantly picked out his photo from a long list … Original source on Gaea Times at : Father, son re-united after 37 years by Facebook.

Soon, cleaner and more eco-friendly air travel

LONDON – Future air travel is expected to be quieter, cleaner and more eco-friendly.

Experts from the Advisory Council for Aeronautics Research in Europe (ACARE) are calling for a 50 percent cut in carbon dioxide and noise emissions by 2020 and a reduction in nitrogen oxide output by 80 percent.
The goals are ambitious, said …. Original article  : Soon, cleaner and more eco-friendly air travel.

Mum’s voice ‘can spur recovery from a coma’

WASHINGTON – Mother’s voice can spur recovery from a coma, suggests a new American study.

In January 2009, Ryan, 21, a college student from Huntley, Ill., was in a coma after he had been flung from his snowmobile into a tree during an ice storm.

He had a traumatic brain injury; …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Obama’s pick for Supreme Court wins Democratic praise and a mild Republican response, so far

Kagan has presumption of court confirmation
WASHINGTON – Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan embarks on her quest for Senate confirmation with a strong presumption of success, drawing praise from majority Democrats and nary the threat of an all-out election-year battle from Republicans.
GOP critics laid down a series of markers, though, making clear … Read more : Obama’s pick for Supreme Court wins Democratic praise and a mild Republican response, so far.

150 million-year-old ‘dinobird’ fossil key to animal’s original chemistry

WASHINGTON – An international team of paleontologists, geochemists and physicists has found that a 150 million year old “dinobird” fossil has been hiding remnants of the animal’s original chemistry.

Using light source technology of the Stanford …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Listening to Mozart ‘doesn’t make you brainier’

LONDON – People, who were listening to Mozart in the hope of boosting their intelligence, can stop now – as according to scientists the Austrian composer’s creations won’t make you smart.

For over 15 years, scientists have been discussing …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Atomic layers of graphene could keep electronics cool

LONDON – Taking another step toward new technology that could keep laptops and other electronic devices from overheating, scientists have found that multiple layers of graphene, which are easier to make, have … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Atomic layers of graphene could keep electronics cool.

Study sheds light on metabolic vulnerability in TB and potential drug target

WASHINGTON – Scientists at Weill Cornell Medical College have shed light on a previously unrecognised aspect of fatty acid metabolism in tuberculosis (TB) that could potentially lead to new targets for drug therapy.

Led by Dr. Sabine Ehrt, the researchers said that Mtb-a slow-growing aerobic …. Source  : Study sheds light on metabolic vulnerability in TB and potential drug target.

Parkinson’s disease therapy linked to compulsive behaviours

WASHINGTON – People who take dopamine agonist medications for Parkinson’s disease tend to display traits of compulsive behaviour- like pathological gambling, compulsive shopping, binge eating and other impulse control disorders.

These behaviours have been reported previously in patients with Parkinson’s disease, say …. Source article  : Parkinson’s disease therapy linked to compulsive behaviours.

Brain scanners ‘can be used as lie detectors’

LONDON – Brain scanners can also be used as lie detectors, according to US researchers.

Scientists at Stanford University claim it can help to know if a witness is lying when identifying a suspect in a crime investigation.

The experts … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Brain scanners ‘can be used as lie detectors’.

Sighing keeps our breathing systems flexible

WASHINGTON – Here’s why we sigh: it is critical for keeping our breathing systems flexible, says a research.

Scientists have found that sighing resets breathing patterns that are getting out of whack and keep our respiratory system flexible.

The study by researchers at the University of Leuven …. Original article  : Sighing keeps our breathing systems flexible.

Chemicals from seaweeds damage coral on contact

WASHINGTON – Researchers have offered first proof that several common species of seaweeds in both the Pacific and Caribbean Oceans can kill corals upon contact using chemical means.

While competition between seaweed and coral is just one of many factors affecting the decline of …. Read the original article  : here.

Physicist corrects 99-year-old error in Oxford English Dictionary!

SYDNEY – A physicist has discovered an error in the Oxford Dictionary that went unnoticed for 99 years.

Queensland University of Technology physicist Dr Stephen Hughes claims he has discovered that the dictionary’s definition of the word “siphon” has been incorrect since 1911.

While the dictionary mentions that a siphon works due to atmospheric pressure, the actual …. Original source  : Physicist corrects 99-year-old error in Oxford English Dictionary!.

Samsung plans to invest $20.6 bln in developing new products over next decade to boost sales

Samsung outlines $20.6 billion investment plan

SEOUL, South Korea – Samsung said Tuesday it plans to invest 23.3 trillion won ($20.6 billion) over the next decade in technologies including solar cells and medical devices, aiming to boost sales and increase its work force by tens of thousands.
The plan was agreed at a meeting Monday of top …. Read the original article  : here.

Report: Cambodia destroying coastal ecology by sand exports to Singapore

Report: Sand for Singapore devastating ecology

BANGKOK – Cambodia is devastating its coast by dredging vast quantities of sand to sell to tiny Singapore for expansion projects, with multimillion-dollar profits going to tycoons close to the Cambodian prime minister, a watchdog group said Tuesday.
Impoverished Cambodia has become the new prime source of the masses of sand … Read more : Report: Cambodia destroying coastal ecology by sand exports to Singapore.

“Ancient city of ‘modern’ galaxies” discovered

WASHINGTON – Astronomers led by Texas A and M scientists have identified what may be called the “ancient city of ‘modern’ galaxies”.

The group of roughly 60 galaxies, called CLG J02182-05102, is nearly 10 billion years old, and possibly the … Original source on Gaea Times at : “Ancient city of ‘modern’ galaxies” discovered.

NASA technology detects ruins under rainforest

WASHINGTON – A flyover of Belize’s thick jungles, employing NASA technology, has revolutionised archaeology by detecting ancient Mayan ruins through impenetrable jungles.

University of Central Florida (UCF) researchers led a NASA-funded research project in April 2009 that collected the equivalent of 25 years worth of data in four days.
Aboard a Cessna 337, LiDAR (Light Detection …. Read the original article  : NASA technology detects ruins under rainforest.

Space technology helps understand Maya urban centres better

WASHINGTON – Space technology has greatly revolutionized the archaeological understanding of urban centres built by the Maya.

University of Central Florida researchers led a NASA-funded research project in April 2009 that collected the equivalent of 25 years worth of data in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Space technology helps understand Maya urban centres better.

Hyderabad records 45 degrees, highest in 20 years

HYDERABAD – Hyderabad is in the grip of an intense heat wave, with temperature Wednesday shooting up to 45 degrees, a record in 20 years.

According to the Hyderabad met office, the mercury soared to 45 degrees a day after crossing 44.5 degrees, which was the highest in 11 years.
For the third consecutive day, the … Read : Hyderabad records 45 degrees, highest in 20 years.

Remains of church, ‘nilometer’ discovered on Egypt’s Avenue of Sphinxes

WASHINGTON – The remains of a 5th century Egyptian Christian church and a “nilometer,” a structure used to gauge the level of the Nile during floods, are the latest finds at the “Avenue of Sphinxes”.

The Avenue of Sphinx project involves the restoration of a 2.7km ancient processional …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Jurassic fast food key to gigantic dinosaurs

LONDON – Why were the sauropod dinosaurs able to grow so much larger than today’s terrestrial animals?

A research group led by the University of Bonn (UB) seems to have solved this puzzle — that Jurassic fast food culture was a key to gigantism.
The giant dinosaurs did not chew their food — they … Original source on Gaea Times at : Jurassic fast food key to gigantic dinosaurs.

Few high-quality studies on food allergies, say researchers

Washington, May 12 (ANI): There are few high-quality studies on food allergies, with limited uniform criteria for making a diagnosis and determining prevalence and effective treatments, according to a review of previous research.

The research looked at allergies to cow’s milk, …. Source article  : Few high-quality studies on food allergies, say researchers.

Discovery pinpoints location of missing matter in universe

WASHINGTON – Astronomers have announced a robust detection of a vast reservoir of intergalactic gas about 400 million light years from earth.

This discovery is the strongest evidence yet that the “missing matter” in the nearby Universe is located in an enormous web of hot, diffuse gas.
This missing matter — which is different from dark …. Source article  : Discovery pinpoints location of missing matter in universe.

DNA could form backbone of next generation chips

WASHINGTON – In a single day, a solitary graduate student at a lab bench can produce more simple logic circuits than the world’s entire output of silicon chips in a month.

So says a Duke University engineer who believes that the next generation of these logic circuits at the heart of computers will be produced cheaply … Read more >>.

North Korea claims its scientists have succeeded in elusive nuclear fusion reaction

NKorea claims to achieve elusive nuclear fusion

SEOUL, South Korea – North Korea claimed Wednesday that its scientists succeeded in creating a nuclear fusion reaction, but experts doubted the isolated communist country actually had made the breakthrough in the elusive clean-energy technology.
Fusion nuclear reactions produce little radioactive waste – unlike fission, which powers conventional nuclear power …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : North Korea claims its scientists have succeeded in elusive nuclear fusion reaction.

Stem cells have GPS to generate proper nerve cells

Washington, May 12 (ANI): Swedish researchers have discovered an unknown GPS function that regulates how stem cells produce different types of cells in different parts of the nervous system.

The discovery by Stefan Thor, professor of Developmental Biology, and graduate students … Read : Stem cells have GPS to generate proper nerve cells.

‘Missing matter’ in nearby Universe located?

WASHINGTON – Astronomers have announced the discovery of a vast reservoir of intergalactic gas nearly 400 million light-years from the Earth.

Scientists used observations of NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory and ESA’s XMM-Newton to come up with the finding.

The find is the strongest evidence yet … Original article on : ‘Missing matter’ in nearby Universe located?.

Woman’s touch can make you financially reckless

WASHINGTON – A woman’s touch is all it takes for people to throw caution to the wind, says a new study.

If a female experimenter patted a participant on the back, they’d risk more money than if she just talked to them, or if a man did the patting.
The researchers think this comes from … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Woman’s touch can make you financially reckless.

Most high school students resort to cheating

WASHINGTON – Most high-school students admitted cheating during tests and, in some cases, considered it normal.

The study by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) gauged both the prevalence and perceptions of cheating among high-school students.
It found that the practice is widespread and many students carry misperceptions about academic dishonesty, and also identified patterns among …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Most high school students resort to cheating.

‘Fast food’ behind long neck dinosaurs’ gigantism

Washington, May 12 (ANI): Gulping down food just like fast food to satisfy their huge appetite may well have been the reason behind the gigantism of long-necked dinosaurs, according to a new German research.

Researchers led by Professor Martin Sander from the University of Bonn have explained why today’s … Original article on : ‘Fast food’ behind long neck dinosaurs’ gigantism.

Sickle cell disease ‘affects brain function in adults’

WASHINGTON – In a new study, adults with sickle cell disease scored worse on memory function tests than healthy adults, suggesting that the blood disorder may affect brain function.

As pert of the research, funded by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute …. Read the original article  : here.

Secret of playing the perfect pool

London, May 12 (ANI): A usual day at a local bar’s pool table inspired a Louisiana State University mathematician to come with a proof on the difficulty of certain shots in pool.

The incident took place when Rick Mabry was shooting pool with colleagues one midweek afternoon in the …. Source article  : Secret of playing the perfect pool.

Palaeontologists unearth previously undocumented primate in Egypt

Washington, May 12 (ANI): An odd mosaic of dental features discovered in northern Egypt has brought to light a hitherto undocumented primate.

The highly-specialized primate called Nosmips aenigmaticus is believed to have lived in Africa about 37 million years ago.

Because it … Original source on Gaea Times at : Palaeontologists unearth previously undocumented primate in Egypt.

Mum’s phone call as comforting as a hug during stressful times

Washington, May 12 (ANI): A simple phone call from your mum or a warm hug has often brightened your gloomy moments, and now this has been scientifically proven by a new American research.

The findings of the study, conducted by researchers at the University … Original source on Gaea Times at : Mum’s phone call as comforting as a hug during stressful times.

Ancient water bridge found in Jerusalem

Jerusalem, May 12 (ANI): Archaeologists have found an ancient water bridge in Jerusalem that brought water to the Temple Mount near the Sultan’s Pool across from Mt. Zion.

The Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) experts said that they have found a “spectacular arched bridge” that … Read : Ancient water bridge found in Jerusalem.

How eavesdropping on sexual signals helps young male crickets

WASHINGTON – Sexual signals do more than just attract mates – in the case of crickets, says a new study.

Adult male crickets produce loud song to lure females, but the song can be overheard also by unintended receivers – such as young males unable …. Source  : How eavesdropping on sexual signals helps young male crickets.

How spiders spin their silk

LONDON – Spider silk is a fascinating material. It is stronger than steel and any available man-made fiber, and scientists have long puzzled over how to develop a material with such strength and flexibility. They might be one step closer.

Researchers have just figured out one step … Read : How spiders spin their silk.

Nanotube transistor may help humans bond with machines

London, May 13 (ANI): Scientists in the U.S. have taken a big step toward bridging the gap between the mind and the machine.

Using ATP – adenosine triphosphate, the molecular medium of energy exchange present in nearly all living cells – Aleksandr Noy [..] Read the original article: here.

Hearing sexual signals helps male crickets grow larger

WASHINGTON – Male crickets growing in the presence of loud songs used as sexual signals tend to be larger than those growing up in a silent environment, research says.

Adult male crickets produce a loud song to attract females. The song, which permeates the air, can be overheard also by unintended receivers – such as young …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Hearing sexual signals helps male crickets grow larger.

Srinagar’s sanitation may be outsourced

SRINAGAR – Shaken by the union urban development ministry rating Srinagar as “the fourth dirtiest city in the country”, the authorities here are considering outsourcing sanitation services in the city.

The rating raised questions about the working of the Srinagar municipal corporation which is responsible for sanitation in this 1.2 million-strong summer capital of Jammu and …. Original article  : Srinagar’s sanitation may be outsourced.

Prime minister wants Ramesh to continue as environment minister

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has turned down Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh’s offer to step down because of the latter’s remarks on Chinese imports, and asked him not to speak out against other ministries.

“Yes, the minister (Ramesh) had clarified his position to the PM (prime minister). He had also offered to quit. But … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Prime minister wants Ramesh to continue as environment minister.

Music helps Alzheimer’s sufferers in remembering new information

WASHINGTON – Patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are better able to remember new verbal information when it is provided in the context of music even when compared to healthy, older adults, claim researchers from Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM).

The findings, which currently appear on-line in Neuropsychologia, offer …. Original source  : Music helps Alzheimer’s sufferers in remembering new information.

Novel technology helps in prostate cancer treatment

WASHINGTON – Queen’s University scientists have created a new way of performing lab tests that could improve the way doctors manage prostate cancer treatment.

It will allow them to identify with unprecedented accuracy losses of a gene called PTEN that is associated with an aggressive group of prostate cancers.

The improved Fluorescence … Read more >>.

Record $32.3M in Wyo. oil-gas leases auctioned off amid talk of oil play in eastern region

Amid talk of oil play, Wyo. nets record lease sale

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – The U.S. Bureau of Land Management auctioned off a record $32.3 million in federal oil and gas rights in Wyoming amid speculation that a major oil play could be in the offing in the eastern part of the state.
Tuesday’s quarterly lease sale in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Record $32.3M in Wyo. oil-gas leases auctioned off amid talk of oil play in eastern region.

SeaWorld team in California removes ropes tangling gray whale that has returned to sea

SeaWorld team cuts ropes off distressed whale

DANA POINT, Calif. – Officials in California say a SeaWorld team has cut off two ropes and removed more than 100 pounds of fishing net and other gear tangled around a gray whale that has now returned to the Pacific Ocean.
Wildlife biologist Joe Cordaro with the National Marine Fisheries … Read more >>>.

Denver company creates space-age smart windows that can tint themselves to conserve energy

CO company’s high-tech windows can tint themselves

DENVER – A Denver-based technology company has developed a “smart” window that can transform itself to maximize energy efficiency.
RavenBrick LLC’s Raven Window Filter responds to sunlight and temperature to change the tint of the window and allow more or less light into a building.
RavenBrick CEO Alex Burney said the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Denver company creates space-age smart windows that can tint themselves to conserve energy.

Have aliens taken over Voyager 2 spacecraft?

Melbourne, May 13 (ANI): After leaving Earth’s surface 33 years ago, the Voyager 2 spacecraft may have been hijacked by aliens, it has been claimed.

Scientists had installed a 12-inch disk containing music and greetings in 55 languages in case intelligent extraterrestrial life ever …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Have aliens taken over Voyager 2 spacecraft?.

At 42 degrees, Delhiites to swelter Thursday

NEW DELHI – The national capital is likely to witness a hot and humid day Thursday with the day temperature hovering around 42 degrees Celsius.

Delhi recorded a minimum of 25.9 degrees Celsius, normal for this time of the season.
“Skies will mainly remain clear and the maximum temperature is likely to settle …. Read the original article  : At 42 degrees, Delhiites to swelter Thursday.

Walgreen says won’t stock genetic test kits pending talks between the FDA and manufacturer

Walgreen to hold off selling genetic test kits

WASHINGTON – The largest U.S. drugstore chain, Walgreen Co., said Wednesday it will hold off selling what was poised to be the first over-the-counter genetic test, after the Food and Drug Administration said the kit has not been proven effective.
Pathway Genomics announced Tuesday that its saliva swab would … Original source on Gaea Times at : Walgreen says won’t stock genetic test kits pending talks between the FDA and manufacturer.

Kerry, Lieberman say climate bill would reduce oil imports, create jobs, stem global warming

Bill aimed at stemming global warming, create jobs
WASHINGTON – Sens. John Kerry and Joe Lieberman unveiled a long-awaited bill Wednesday that aims to curtail pollution blamed for global warming, reduce oil imports and create millions of energy-related jobs.
The 987-page bill, the product of more than seven months of negotiations and tweaked … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Kerry, Lieberman say climate bill would reduce oil imports, create jobs, stem global warming.

UN’s Ban urges Canadian PM to put environment, global poverty on G20 agenda

Ban urges Canada to put environment on G20 agenda

TORONTO – United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon on Wednesday urged Canada’s Conservative government to champion climate change and the world’s poor at next month’s G-20 and G-8 summits.
Ban said he wants Canada to make climate change a priority when the country hosts the G-20 – the …. Read the original article  : here.

Scientists find ‘modern’ galaxies amongst ancient galaxy clusters

Washington, May 13 (ANI): A team of astronomers has discovered a young cluster, born just 2.8 billion years after the Big Bang, that appears very similar to the much older present-day galaxy clusters.

“We were looking for clusters of galaxies when the Universe was still very young,” says Carnegie’s Ivelina Momcheva, who did the spectroscopic analysis …. Original article  : Scientists find ‘modern’ galaxies amongst ancient galaxy clusters.

Dolphin ‘mitras’, a helping hand for Ganges river dolphins

PATNA – The endangered Ganges river dolphin in Bihar will now have new ‘mitras’ or friends, who will create awareness for conservation of the species that is India’s national aquatic animal but frequently falls prey to poachers.

The Bihar government took the decision in the wake of the killings of four of the animals a fortnight …. Read the original article  : here.

Space center abuzz over shuttle Atlantis’ last launch, astronauts only ones not making fuss

Space center abuzz over Atlantis’ last launch

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – NASA is getting hit up for extra launch passes, and mission stickers and pins are flying off the shelf. Another Twittering crowd is descending on the space center. Even science fiction writers want in on the action.
Welcome to space shuttle Atlantis’ 32nd and final voyage.
When …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Armstrong, other former astronauts criticize Obama plan for human space flight

Former astronauts unhappy with Obama space plan
WASHINGTON – The first man to walk on the moon said Wednesday that President Barack Obama’s plans to revamp the human space program would cede America’s longtime leadership in space to other nations.
Neil Armstrong and Eugene Cernan, the last astronaut on the moon, told a Senate Commerce … Read more : Armstrong, other former astronauts criticize Obama plan for human space flight.

Molecules that behave like robots created

LONDON – In a breakthrough study, researchers have created and programmed robots the size of single molecule that can move independently across a nano-scale track.

The development, by Researchers from Columbia University, Arizona State University, the University of Michigan and the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), marks an important advancement … Read more >>.

Smoking, obesity, alcohol affect survival of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma patients

WASHINGTON – People with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma-who smoked, consumed alcohol or were obese before their cancer diagnosis-had poorer overall survival, as compared to patients who did not have these risk factors, a new study found.

The finding by researchers from Mayo Clinic in collaboration with six … Read : Smoking, obesity, alcohol affect survival of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma patients.

Virtual humans ‘influence ethical decisions in gender-specific ways’

WASHINGTON – Researchers at the Indiana University School of Informatics have discovered that virtual humans are increasingly taking on roles that were once reserved for real humans.

The study explores how appearance, motion quality and other characteristics of computer-generated …. Read the original article  : Virtual humans ‘influence ethical decisions in gender-specific ways’.

Sniff of local anesthetic may replace dentist’s needle

WASHINGTON – A new discovery may replace the needle used to give local anesthetic in the dentist’s chair for many procedures.

Boffins have reported that a common local anesthetic, when administered to the nose as nose drops or a nasal spray, travels through … Read more >>>.

How fruitflies’ brains decide what to eat

WASHINGTON – Researchers in Portugal and Austria have shown how food intake is modulated in fruit flies.

In the study just published in the journal Current Biology, Carlos Ribeiro, group leader in the Champalimaud Neuroscience Programme at the Instituto Gulbenkian de Cijncia (Portugal), …. Source article  : How fruitflies’ brains decide what to eat.

Water was present during Earth’s birth

WASHINGTON – Volatile elements – most likely to include water – were present during the violent process of the Earth’s birth between 30 and 100 million years after the solar system was created – a minute period in geological …. Source  : Water was present during Earth’s birth.

Bangladesh to sign n-power pact with Russia

DHAKA – Bangladesh will sign an agreement with Russia on peaceful use of nuclear technology, including the setting up of a nuclear power plant, Foreign Minister Dipu Moni has said.

“On May 21, Yeafesh Osman (state minister for science and information and communication technology) will sign with Russia a framework agreement on peaceful use of nuclear … Read more »».

Mayapuri residents at high radiation risk: Greenpeace

NEW DELHI – West Delhi’s Mayapuri area is “not a safe zone for human beings”, environment body Greenpeace said Friday after a visit to the scrapyard where a person died after exposure to radiation last month.

“The investigation has identified hotspots with more than 5,000 times natural background radiation,” a Greenpeace expert said after the team’s … Read : Mayapuri residents at high radiation risk: Greenpeace.

Tibetans have unique genes to survive on heights

WASHINGTON – How do Tibetans easily survive at heights where some humans fall critically ill? A new study credits this to 10 unique oxygen processing genes that Tibetans have embraced over the years.

Researchers from the University of Utah School of Medicine report that thousands of years ago Tibetan highlanders began to genetically adapt to conditions …. Original source  : Tibetans have unique genes to survive on heights.

How dangerous food-borne pathogen evades body’s defenses

WASHINGTON – Stanford University School of Medicine investigators have deciphered how Listeria monocytogenes, a dangerous food-borne pathogen, slips through the intestine’s defenses and causes disease.

This bacterial strain thrives in salty or cold environments where prissier pests might perish: cold cuts, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : How dangerous food-borne pathogen evades body’s defenses.

Finally, 140-year-old Boltzmann Equation solved

WASHINGTON – Two mathematicians from University of Pennsylvania have solved a 140-year-old, 7-dimensional Boltzmann equation, which remained a puzzle for more than a century despite its widespread use in modelling the behaviour of gases.

Philip T. Gressman and Robert M. Strain of Penn’s Department of athematics conducted the study

The solutions [..] Read the original article: here.

Non-invasive respiratory stress test to detect significant coronary artery disease

WASHINGTON – A non-invasive Respiratory Stress Response (RSR) can quickly and accurately measure the presence of significant coronary artery disease (sCAD), the leading cause of cardiovascular death worldwide, according to newly published data.

Patients in the study with sCAD had a lower RSR … Read : Non-invasive respiratory stress test to detect significant coronary artery disease.

Why a whiff of cats scares the hell out of a mouse

WASHINGTON – If you were a mouse, a mere whiff of a cat, rat or snake would be enough to scare you away.

Your stress hormone levels would go up and you’d begin to take extra precautions, hugging the ground as you …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Why a whiff of cats scares the hell out of a mouse.

Recipe for making sensory hair cells from stem cells found

WASHINGTON – A ten year long research has led scientists to discover the recipe for hearing- a way to coax embryonic stem cells as well as reprogrammed adult cells to develop into sensory cells that normally reside in the mammalian …. Read the original article  : Recipe for making sensory hair cells from stem cells found.

Silver reveals volatile story of Earth’s origin

WASHINGTON – Miniscule variations in the isotopic composition of silver found in meteorites and Earth rocks is giving scientists clues about how Earth began assembling 4.568 billion years ago.

The study suggests that water and other key volatiles may have been already present on …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Silver reveals volatile story of Earth’s origin.

World’s lizards disappearing due to rise in global temperatures

WASHINGTON – Rising temperature is adversely affecting the lizard population, so much so, that a full 20 percent of all lizard species could be extinct by the year 2080, a new study claims.

An international research team, which surveyed Sceloporus lizard populations in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : World’s lizards disappearing due to rise in global temperatures.

‘Nose-like’ technology may allow cellphones to map airborne toxins in real time

WASHINGTON – A tiny silicon chip that works a bit like a nose may one day detect dangerous airborne chemicals and alert emergency responders through the cell phone network.

“Cell phones are everywhere people are.

“This technology could map a chemical accident as it unfolds,” said Michael Sailor, professor of … Read more »».

Greenpeace probe reveals radiation risk in Mayapuri

NEW DELHI – An investigation by environment body Greenpeace has revealed immediate radiation risk to people at a scrapyard in west Delhi’s Mayapuri area where a person died after exposure to radiation last month.

“The investigation has identified hotspots more than 5,000 times natural background radiation,” an expert said after a Greenpeace team visited Mayapuri Friday …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

New, inexpensive pouch could reduce mother-to-infant HIV infection

WASHINGTON – Duke University biomedical engineers have developed an inexpensive and easy-to-use system that allows mothers to give their newborns a potentially life-saving dose of an anti-HIV medication shortly after birth.

This is especially important since such drugs can only be found in clinics or hospitals, which can be days away from an expectant mother.

In order [..] Read the original article: here.

Remembering Tagore, the early environmentalist

KOLKATA – Environmental issues like river erosion and deforestation may be hot topics today, but Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore had been eloquent about the exploitation of environment even a century ago.

Tagore churned out poems, plays and short stories emphasising the need to protect nature. With India beginning year-long celebrations to mark his 150th birth anniversary, … Read more : Remembering Tagore, the early environmentalist.

Trials begin on potent new Hepatitis C drug

LONDON – Clinical trials have begun on a potent new drug which is being developed to treat infections caused by the Hepatitis C virus.

Approximately 170 million people worldwide are affected with Hepatitis C, which can lead to liver cancer, cirrhosis and death. It is the leading cause of liver transplantation in western countries. …. Original source  : Trials begin on potent new Hepatitis C drug.

Astronomical wonder: Star Regulus joins Moon and Mars on May 19-22

WASHINGTON – The world is set to witness a spectacular planetary wonder between May 19 and 22nd, when the bright star Regulus joins the Moon and the planet Mars to form a beautiful line-up high in the southern sky.

According to the editors of StarDate … Original source on Gaea Times at : Astronomical wonder: Star Regulus joins Moon and Mars on May 19-22.

Protein that makes local bladder cancer invasive found

WASHINGTON – Researchers at the Kimmel Cancer Center at Jefferson have identified a protein, which, according to them, is involved in pushing tumours to become invasive – and deadly.

It is known that bladder cancer often becomes aggressive and spreads in patients despite treatment.

“We have found that IGF-IR is a critical regulator of motility and invasion … Read more »»».

Trials start on potent new hepatitis C drug

WASHINGTON – Scientists have launched the first clinical trials on a new investigational drug, discovered by researchers at Cardiff University, which is being developed to treat infections caused by Hepatitis C virus.

Approximately 170 million people worldwide are affected with Hepatitis C, which can lead to liver cancer, cirrhosis and death. It is the leading cause … Original article on : Trials start on potent new hepatitis C drug.

Now, impact sensor to generate electricity, reveal impact forces for athletes

WASHINGTON – A new type of wearable impact sensor, developed by New Zealand researchers, could soon provide much needed information about the stresses and strains on limbs for rugby players, high jumpers, and runners.

The new sensor could help athletes striving for perfection.

Kean Aw and colleagues in the department of Mechanical Engineering, at The University of …. Source article  : Now, impact sensor to generate electricity, reveal impact forces for athletes.

Baby corals use sound cues to reach home

WASHINGTON – Coral larvae, just like their older counterparts, can use sound as a cue to find coral reefs, found researchers.

Many years ago, Dr Steve Simpson, Senior Researcher in the University of Bristol’s School of Biological Sciences discovered this behaviour in baby reef fish.

However, their Dutch collaborators in Curacao started finding that coral larvae – …. Source  : Baby corals use sound cues to reach home.

Doc develops ’skin’ helmet that protects brain

LONDON – A type of helmet that, in the event of an accident, can reduce the damaging effect of head rotation that often leads to brain injury has been developed by a British doctor.

Dr Ken Phillips decided to design a helmet that replicated the head’s natural defenses. The skin’s ability to slip slightly over the …. Original source  : Doc develops ’skin’ helmet that protects brain.

Fat lipped fish evolving at record speed

LONDON – In what could be called one of the fastest evolutionary change in an organism, fish in a remote crater lake in Nicaragua are developing a new physical feature- very fat lips.

It has taken the lake cichlids just 100 generations and as many years to evolve … Original source on Gaea Times at : Fat lipped fish evolving at record speed.

‘Experienced’ female lizards more likely to be courted by males

WASHINGTON – Female sagebrush lizards with greater courtship experience tend to attract greater attention from their male counterparts, according to a recent study.

For the study, Mayte Ruiz, Zachary M. Beals, and Emilia P. Martins, collected 13 male and 26 female sagebrush lizards from the …. Read the original article  : ‘Experienced’ female lizards more likely to be courted by males.

Spaceflight compromises immune system of astronauts

WASHINGTON – Spaceflight takes a toll on the genes controlling immune and stress response, which apparently leads to more sickness among astronauts, according to a new study.

Astronauts are known to have a higher risk of getting sick compared to their Earth-bound peers.

The stresses that go with … Read more »».

Innate oral bacteria’s unhealthy patterns ‘behind bad breath’

WASHINGTON – According to researchers in Japan, bad breath can be due to unhealthy patterns of bacterial populations inherent to the mouth, apart from poor oral hygiene.

Poor oral hygiene resulting in bacterial overgrowth is a known cause of bad breath and while treatment with antibacterials … Read more »»».

Chaos at Wikipedia in wake of porn purging activity

WASHINGTON – A massive re-organization appears to be taking place at Wikipedia, as co-founder Jimmy Wales has relinquished his top-level control over the encyclopaedia’s content, as well as all of its parent company’s projects.

The shake-up followed the … Read more : Chaos at Wikipedia in wake of porn purging activity.

A warm sensor maintains skin barrier to prevent dehydration

WASHINGTON – The TRPV4 ion channel in skin keratinocytes is important for formation and maintenance of barrier function to prevent dehydration, a new research has said.

Japanese research group led by Prof. Makoto Tominaga and Dr. akaaki Sokabe …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : A warm sensor maintains skin barrier to prevent dehydration.

How to boost cancer-preventive phytochemicals in broccoli, tomatoes

WASHINGTON – Agronomic practices can substantially increase the cancer-preventive phytochemicals in broccoli and tomatoes, as per a new study.

A University of Illinois study has suggested that improvements in agronomic methods can be instrumental in boosting benefits of tomatoes and broccoli.

“We enriched preharvest …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Shuttle Atlantis races to space station on last trip; NASA keeps cautious eye on orbiting junk

Shuttle Atlantis races to space station
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Space shuttle Atlantis is speeding after the International Space Station for a Sunday morning hookup.

NASA says the docking will not be delayed, even if the space station needs to dodge space junk. Flight controllers have been monitoring an unidentified piece of debris for at least a … Original source on Gaea Times at : Shuttle Atlantis races to space station on last trip; NASA keeps cautious eye on orbiting junk.

Atlantis takes off for final flight to space station

WASHINGTON – NASA’s space shuttle Atlantis took off from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, carrying six astronauts, for its final voyage to the International Space Station on Friday.

The mission will deliver cargo, critical …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Atlantis takes off for final flight to space station.

Yeast owes its brewing capacity to chromosome duplication

WASHINGTON – Yeast cells’ ability to convert sugar to alcohol, the key process in the production of beer and wine, can be attributed to a remarkable evolutionary process- called chromosome duplication.

The genes that allow yeast to digest sugars in fruits and grains have been duplicated several …. Original source  : Yeast owes its brewing capacity to chromosome duplication.

Google confesses collecting private data from unprotected wi-fi networks

LONDON – Google has confessed that it has wrongly collected people’s data sent via unencrypted wi-fi networks in the past three years.

Google’s privacy breach came to the fore after German authorities asked to audit the data the company’s Street View cars gathered as they took photos viewed on Google … Read : Google confesses collecting private data from unprotected wi-fi networks.

Boffins create artificial skin graft that promises to make you sweat

LONDON – Scientists have produced artificial skin containing sweat glands.

The researchers, who tested it in mice, hope that, unlike conventional skin substitutes, the new skin will allow patients with large grafts to sweat to keep their bodies cool, reports New Scientist.

“This system promises to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Boffins create artificial skin graft that promises to make you sweat.

Bonding hormone-based nasal spray helps men recognise emotions

LONDON – A nasal spray made of the hormone vasopressin can help boost men’s ability to recognise the emotions of both happy and angry, say scientists.

However, the spray doesn’t improve males’ ability to detect emotions …. Source article  : Bonding hormone-based nasal spray helps men recognise emotions.

Transforming waste plastic into an alternative fuel

WASHINGTON – Northeastern University student researchers have come up with an apparatus to convert plastic waste into clean energy without releasing harmful emissions.

Under the leadership of Yiannis Levendis, distinguished professor of mechanical and industrial engineering, a team of undergraduate and graduate engineering students developed a waste combustor, which breaks down non-biodegradable plastics to create an …. Source article  : Transforming waste plastic into an alternative fuel.

New method paints clearer picture of brain’s language areas

WASHINGTON – MIT neuroscientists have reported on a new method to analyze brain imaging data – one that may paint a clearer picture of how our brain produces and understands language.

The boffins explained their finding in the Journal of Neurophysiology.

Research with patients who developed specific language deficits (such as the inability to comprehend passive sentences) …. Original source  : New method paints clearer picture of brain’s language areas.

Telescope to watch ‘dancing’ stars

WASHINGTON – After spending billion of years twinkling and shining, some stars in the heavens appear to “dance” as they wind down.

Now, for the next 14 days, the Whole Earth Telescope, an international network of cooperating astronomical observatories led by the University of Delaware, will be continuously monitoring three of these stars to try …. Original article  : Telescope to watch ‘dancing’ stars.

Dementia ‘can take away meaning of flavors’

WASHINGTON – Dementia sufferers can lose their capacity to understand sights, sounds and words. And in some cases, researchers say, they have a harder time identifying flavors and determining whether a certain flavor combination would generally … Read : Dementia ‘can take away meaning of flavors’.

Homeopathy is witchcraft, according to Brit docs

LONDON – The British Medical Association has likened homoeopathy to “witchcraft”, and declared that the National Health Service should not pay for it.

Denouncing the use of the alternative medicine, hundreds of members of the BMA said taxpayers … Original article on : Homeopathy is witchcraft, according to Brit docs.

New fire-fighter system to prevent tunnel fire

LONDON – Experts are set to test a system that picks out cars and trucks at risk of catching fire before they enter a tunnel.

Engineers at Siemens in Germany will install their experimental system at Aubinger road tunnel near Munich this month.

Tunnel fires, in most cases, …. Source article  : New fire-fighter system to prevent tunnel fire.

Space shuttle Atlantis closing in for space station docking, astronauts may try to fix cable

Space shuttle closing in for space station docking

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Space shuttle Atlantis is catching up to the International Space Station.
Atlantis and its six astronauts are due at the space station Sunday morning. They will spend a week at the orbiting complex, installing a new Russian compartment and six fresh batteries. They also will …. Original source  : Space shuttle Atlantis closing in for space station docking, astronauts may try to fix cable.

US, Europe look to China for clean energy sales, but Beijing wants to create own competitors

US, Europe look to China for clean energy sales
BEIJING – U.S. leaders want China’s clean energy boom to drive technology exports and are sending a sales mission to Beijing this week. But Beijing wants to create its own suppliers of wind, solar and other equipment and is limiting access to its market, setting … Read more »»».

The ‘garbage girl’ of the mountains (Feature with image)

DHARAMSALA – Every morning, along with a handful of volunteers, including some foreigners, British national Jodie Underhill sets out to collect non-biodegradable waste dumped carelessly in the mountains surrounding McLeodganj, the seat of the Tibetan government-in-exile in Himachal Pradesh.

She is a follower of Buddhist spiritual leader Dalai Lama and also a believer in Gandhian … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : The ‘garbage girl’ of the mountains (Feature with image).

Genes that let you live to 100 discovered

LONDON – The secret to longevity probably lies in having the right ’suite’ of genes, according to new studies of centenarians and their families.

Scientists have identified the ‘Methuselah’ genes whose carriers have a much-improved chance of living to 100 despite indulging in an unhealthy lifestyle.

The so-called Methuselah genes- named after the biblical patriarch who … Original source on Gaea Times at : Genes that let you live to 100 discovered.

Telling fibs a sign of future success in children

LONDON – There is no need to worry if a child is lying, claim experts, as it proves the kid has reached an important step in his or her mental development.

What’s more, it’s a sign of future success.fter studying 1,200 children, researchers from the Institute of Child Study at Toronto University, who carried out … Read : Telling fibs a sign of future success in children.

Hollywood film to portray Facebook boss as ‘ruthless, untrustworthy sex maniac’

LONDON – Facebook boss Mark Zuckerberg is to be portrayed in a Hollywood film as a ruthless and untrustworthy sex maniac, it has emerged.

Adapted from The Accidental Billionaires by Ben Mezrich, with a screenplay by Aaron Sorkin, creator of The West Wing, the 40m-pound black comedy is called The Social Network.

The film is a highly …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Scientific breakthrough could offer melanoma cure

LONDON – A long-awaited jab, being hailed as a scientific breakthrough which could offer a cure for cancer, is to be tested on the first British patients within weeks.

According to researchers, it can reverse and even cure melanoma, one of the deadliest forms of the disease, most commonly associated with skin cancer, reports The Daily … Original source on Gaea Times at : Scientific breakthrough could offer melanoma cure.

Experts visit radiation hotspots in Delhi’s Mayapuri

NEW DELHI – A team of experts from the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) and the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) has visited Mayapuri here following reports that radiation exposure was still high in the area, an official said Sunday.

The experts held a meeting late Saturday with the scrap dealers of Mayapuri where the … Original article on : Experts visit radiation hotspots in Delhi’s Mayapuri.

Delhi to swelter at 44 degrees

NEW DELHI – Delhi is set to witness another hot day Sunday with the maximum temperature expected to hover around 44 degrees Celsius. However, there is a possibility of thunderstorm towards the night, an official said.

The capital recorded a minimum of 25.6 degrees, a notch below the average for this time of the season. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Delhi to swelter at 44 degrees.

Astronauts forced into shorter safety survey due to pinched cord; NASA keeps eye on space junk

Astronauts forced into shorter shuttle survey

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A snagged cable forced Atlantis’ astronauts to resort to a more inconvenient and less comprehensive method of inspecting their space shuttle Saturday as they sped toward a weekend rendezvous with the International Space Station.
Mission Control, meanwhile, decided there was no need to move the space station …. Read the original article  : Astronauts forced into shorter safety survey due to pinched cord; NASA keeps eye on space junk.

Puerto Rico struggles to address its premature birth rate, one of the highest in the world

Puerto Rico struggles with high preterm birth rate

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – The first thing Dr. Marta Valcarcel notices on a walk through a nursery full of tiny, heavily bandaged babies is the empty incubator in the corner.
She calls out to a nurse who only shakes her head. The infant who came in days earlier …. Source article  : Puerto Rico struggles to address its premature birth rate, one of the highest in the world.

Another hot day in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Delhi residents experienced yet another hot and humid day Saturday as the day temperature hovered two notches above average at 43.3 degrees Celsius.

The minimum temperature was five degrees above average at 31.3 degrees.
“Saturday was a hot day and the maximum temperature remained around 43.3 degrees,” said an official of … Original article on : Another hot day in Delhi.

Space shuttle survey stalled by camera troubles; NASA keeps eye on dangerous orbiting junk

Shuttle survey stalled as NASA watches space junk

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Atlantis’ astronauts ran into trouble with a camera system Saturday and had to temporarily put off a safety survey of their ship as they sped toward a weekend rendezvous with the International Space Station.
Flight controllers, meanwhile, were monitoring some space junk that was threatening …. Source article  : Space shuttle survey stalled by camera troubles; NASA keeps eye on dangerous orbiting junk.

Hackers can attack car control systems, warn experts

LONDON – A technological hazard is looming over auto industry. Scientists have warned that, in the future, hackers could be able to take over the control systems of car, disable the brakes and turn off the engine while the vehicle is … Original article on : Hackers can attack car control systems, warn experts.

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.

‘Quantum dot’ promises super-fast, super-powerful computing

MELBOURNE – Australian scientists have developed a new transistor in a computer chip that is 10 times smaller than those currently in use.

The invention marks the start of a new age of super-fast, super-powerful computing, has been described in the journal Nature Nanotechnology.

At the [..] Read the original article: here.

Organic solids in soil may accelerate bacterial breathing

LONDON – Organic solids in soil may speed up bacterial breathing, a new study has found.

Led by University of Wisconsin-Madison geoscientist Eric Roden, the new research shows that iron oxide-breathing bacteria can also ‘mineral-breathe’ with insoluble organic substances, formed when plants and other … Read more : Organic solids in soil may accelerate bacterial breathing.

Advance made towards stopping plaque-like formations in Huntington’s disease

WASHINGTON – Scientists have identified gene candidates likely to be responsible for plaque-like formations that cause neurological decline, as is the case in Huntington’s Disease.

The study has appeared in the journal GENETICS.

A laboratory test allowed scientists to evaluate large numbers of fruit fly genes …. Source  : Advance made towards stopping plaque-like formations in Huntington’s disease.

Giant asteroid collision created 50 km wide undersea dome

SYDNEY – Scientists have identified a dome, rather than a crater, at least 50 km across, buried under the Timor Sea.

It was created by a giant asteroid smashing into the Earth around 35 million years ago — a period of heavy extraterrestrial bombardment.
These findings by Australian National University (ANU) geologists could suggest a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Giant asteroid collision created 50 km wide undersea dome.

Moon craters may be electrified

WASHINGTON – Astronauts who would step on the moon in future will have to endure more than dust and frigid temperatures-the moon’s electrified poles.

According to an analysis, potentially hazardous electrical fields exist in the moon’s polar regions.

The phenomenon may be responsible for levitating dust from the moon’s surface.

The finding is applicable to other …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Moon craters may be electrified.

‘Viagra’ for women to hit the shelves soon

WASHINGTON – Good news for women who want to perk up the action in their bedroom-the Food and Drug Administration committee is thinking of endorsing the first pill designed to do for women what Viagra does for men-boost their sex lives.

A German pharmaceutical giant wants to sell a drug with the decidedly unsexy name [..] Read the original article: here.

New quantum process delivers tamper-proof e-messages

SYDNEY – A new quantum communication process can deliver unprecedented security, cutting down risks of sensitive information falling into wrong hands.

The University of New South Wales’ telecommunications researcher Robert Malaney has developed the process called “unconditional location verification”.
It ensures that even if an encryption password has fallen into the wrong hands, a secure … Read more : New quantum process delivers tamper-proof e-messages.

‘Immune evasion’ uncommon in M. tuberculosis

LONDON – The strategy of “immune evasion”, which is common to many viruses, bacteria and parasites, is uncommon to M. tuberculosis where the antigens remain strikingly unchanged and homogenous, found scientists at NYU Langone Medical Center.

The study suggests that M. tuberculosis antigens do not mutate because they hope to be recognized by the body’s immune … Original source on Gaea Times at : ‘Immune evasion’ uncommon in M. tuberculosis.

Vaginal gel could offer protection against HIV

WASHINGTON – In a test on monkeys, a vaginal microbicide based on a new type of anti-HIV drug could offer significant protection against infection with a virus similar to HIV, researchers have found.

The study is the first of a gel with an integrase inhibitor, one of the latest additions to the arsenal of drugs [..] Read the original article: here.

Diamonds travel at 60 km per hour inside Earth

LONDON – Diamond infused magma travel to the surface of the earth from deep within the planet at a blistering 60 kilometres per hour.

Rising magma in Earth’s mantle is thought to ascend at just a few centimetres per year.

It was known that kimberlite, which often contains diamonds, can rise more quickly near the surface, … Original article on : Diamonds travel at 60 km per hour inside Earth.

‘Human Lego’ paves way for artificial organs

LONDON – Hope to build artificial organs for human implantation has been boosted with the creation of Lego-like blocks made of human cells.

Javier Fernandez and Ali Khademhosseini at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have built a variety of living 3D shapes on a cell-by-cell basis, such as tubes and solid spheres.

Now, the experts anticipate constructing … Read more »»».

Measuring methane may give clue to size of Gulf oil spill

WASHINGTON – A geochemist has said that the extent of oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico can be measured by determining the dissolved methane gas drifting around it.

David Valentine of the University of California, Santa Barbara, called for “a concerted community effort” by scientists, federal officials and British Petroleum to devote at least two …. Read the original article  : Measuring methane may give clue to size of Gulf oil spill.

World’s GPS to get faster, more accurate as US begins upgrade

LOS ANGELES – The world’s GPS, or Global Positioning System, is getting a major upgrade which will enable it to pinpoint targets within an arm’s length, compared with a margin of error of 20 feet or more now.

The system which guides ATM and Wall Street to time-stamp transactions, US drones to target Taliban hideouts, courier … Read : World’s GPS to get faster, more accurate as US begins upgrade.

Indonesian worker punches Komodo dragon to free his hand from bite

Indonesian worker bitten by Komodo dragon
JAKARTA, Indonesia – An Indonesian worker freed himself from an attacking Komodo dragon by punching the reptile’s snout until it released him and ran away, a national park official said Monday.

Agustinus Jenaru, 20, was working inside an unfinished wooden bungalow on Rinca island when the 6.5-foot (two meter) lizard entered …. Read the original article  : Indonesian worker punches Komodo dragon to free his hand from bite.

Delhi to swelter at 43 degrees

NEW DELHI – People in the capital continued to swelter in the oppressive heat as met officials predicted a hot and humid Monday with the day temperature likely to be at 43 degrees Celsius.

The minimum temperature settled at 30.2 degrees Celsius, three notches above the normal for this time of the year.
“Skies will … Read more >>.

The good news is San Francisco’s flock of wild parrots is bigger; the bad, it needs more help

San Francisco’s famous parrots face rough times

SAN FRANCISCO – The wild parrots that call San Francisco home have become a given of city life, squawking their way to their favorite spots, delighting tourists. The famous flock is now about 300 strong, more than triple what it was 10 years ago.
But that, it turns out, is …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : The good news is San Francisco’s flock of wild parrots is bigger; the bad, it needs more help.

Atlantis starts home journey

WASHINGTON – The US space shuttle Atlantis separated from the International Space Station (ISS) Sunday to prepare for its home journey on the shuttle’s last-ever mission before being retired.

The Shuttle with its crew of six astronauts eased away from the ISS at 1522 GMT for the return flight and its scheduled landing in Cape Canaveral, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Atlantis starts home journey.

Shuttle Atlantis undocks from space station after week together to deliver supplies, batteries

Shuttle Atlantis undocks from space station

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – After a week of flying together, shuttle Atlantis undocked from a larger and virtually completed International Space Station on Sunday and headed for home on its final voyage.
“Have a safe trip back and godspeed to you,” radioed the space station’s skipper, Oleg Kotov.
Atlantis isn’t due to …. Original article  : Shuttle Atlantis undocks from space station after week together to deliver supplies, batteries.

Two space crews say goodbye after week together; shuttle Atlantis set to undock from station

Space shuttle, station crews say goodbye
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – After a week together in space, the shuttle and station crews shared some final laughs Sunday as they bid one another farewell and sealed the hatches just a few hours ahead of Atlantis’ departure.

Atlantis was set to undock late Sunday morning and, with its six astronauts, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Two space crews say goodbye after week together; shuttle Atlantis set to undock from station.

Iran to launch communications satellites

TEHRAN – Iran Sunday unveiled its plans to launch two homemade communications satellites into orbit by March next year.

Mohammad Ali Forghani, head of Iran’s space agency, said the satellites would be displayed to public by mid this year, Iranian Fars news agency reported.
“These two satellites, which will be tasked with taking photos … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Iran to launch communications satellites.

Carbon dioxide frost consigns Phoenix Mars Lander to history

WASHINGTON – NASA’s Phoenix Mars Lander has ended operations after carbon dioxide frost damaged the spacecraft’s solar panels.

Repeated attempts to contact the spacecraft were unsuccessful and a new image transmitted by NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, or MRO, shows signs of severe ice damage to the lander’s solar panels.

An image of Phoenix taken this month by …. Original source  : Carbon dioxide frost consigns Phoenix Mars Lander to history.

Patent-run for synthetic life form could be ‘damaging’, says Brit scientist

LONDON – Efforts to patent the first synthetic life form would give its creator a monopoly on a range of genetic engineering, said a top UK scientist who helped sequence the human genome.

Professor John Sulston said that the run for patent would inhibit important research.

US-based Dr Craig Venter led the artificial life form research, details … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Patent-run for synthetic life form could be ‘damaging’, says Brit scientist.

How poverty shapes the brain

TORONTO – Using a number of imaging techniques, a Canadian researcher will compare the structure and function of brains of young adults from families with low socioeconomic status to those who are middle-class.

James Swain, from University of Michigan, is part of a new generation of neuroscientists investigating how poverty shapes the brain.

He knows that the … Original source on Gaea Times at : How poverty shapes the brain.

Silver and gold nanowires to improve touch screens

WASHINGTON – Silver and gold nanowires can improve touch screen flexibility and durability, say scientists from Stanford University.

Rather than the protective glass that shatters when dropped, wires can be embedded in flexible plastics, which can reduce the weight and increase the … Read : Silver and gold nanowires to improve touch screens.

New method ‘to determine if dinosaurs were warm or cold-blooded’

WASHINGTON – Scientists have introduced the first method to directly measure body temperatures of extinct vertebrates and help reconstruct temperatures of ancient environments.

The study, by researchers from five institutions including the University …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : New method ‘to determine if dinosaurs were warm or cold-blooded’.

Erratic orbits of neighbouring planets may make life sustenance difficult

WASHINGTON – Astronomers have found that fluctuating orbits of surrounding planets around a seemingly habitable planet could render life impossible on it.

New findings from computer modelling show that the forces exerted by giant neighbours with eccentric orbits could cause extreme … Read more >>>.

Dose of testosterone ‘makes women less trusting’

LONDON – A dose of sex hormone testosterone can make women less trusting of men, claims a study.

But, according to the study’s researchers, the effect only seems to be true for the more trusting members of society.

Tied to aggression and competitive behaviour, testosterone is produced by both sexes, although in much smaller quantities in women.

In … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Dose of testosterone ‘makes women less trusting’.

Premature birth risk ‘genetic’

LONDON – Premature birth risk is genetic, according to a group of researchers.

In the University of Aberdeen study, which was published in Obstetrics and Gynecology journal, boffins found that early births tend to run in families.

The study, based on maternity records of 22,343 Scottish mothers and their daughters, found that women born prematurely or who … Read more : Premature birth risk ‘genetic’.

New DNA-cancer vaccine starves tumours of blood

WASHINGTON – Scientists at the Karolinska Institutet have developed a DNA-vaccine that restricts the supply of blood to tumours.

The vaccine slows the growth of breast cancer tumours in mice.

If a cancer tumour is to become larger than a few millimetres it must be able to stimulate the formation of new blood vessels, in order to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : New DNA-cancer vaccine starves tumours of blood.

NASA ends effort to contact silent Phoenix Mars Lander near north pole; ice damage possible

NASA ends effort to contact Phoenix Mars Lander

LOS ANGELES – NASA has ended efforts to regain contact with its Phoenix Mars Lander near the red planet’s north pole.
Jet Propulsion Laboratory said Monday that repeated attempts to contact the lander were unsuccessful and an image taken by an orbiting spacecraft suggests severe ice damage to its …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : NASA ends effort to contact silent Phoenix Mars Lander near north pole; ice damage possible.

‘Stress’ protein may stop aging process

WASHINGTON – Excessive amounts of HSP10 (Heat Shock Protein) inside mitochondria – ‘organs’ that act as energy generators in cells – can halt the body’s ageing process by preserving muscle strength, scientists have found.

HSP10 helps monitor and organise protein interactions in the body, and responds to environmental stresses, such as exercise and infection, by increasing …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Stress’ protein may stop aging process.

Officials say poisoning mission in Chicago-area river kills many fish, but no Asian carp found

Chicago poisoning operation finds no Asian carp

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. – A poisoning operation aimed at rooting out the voracious Asian carp in a Chicago-area river before they make their way into the Great Lake didn’t turn up any of the unwanted fish, Illinois officials said Monday.
Officials said more than 100,000 pounds of dead fish had …. Read the original article  : Officials say poisoning mission in Chicago-area river kills many fish, but no Asian carp found.

Playing in the dirt can make you smarter

Washington, May 25 (ANI): Exposure to a natural soil bacterium, which people likely ingest or breathe in when they spend time in nature, could increase learning behavior, claim researchers.

The finding will be presented at the 110th General Meeting of the American Society for Microbiology in San Diego.
“Mycobacterium vaccae is a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Playing in the dirt can make you smarter.

Boffins develop model that demonstrates infectious cause of asthma

Washington, May 25 (ANI): An animal model that shows how an early childhood lung infection can cause asthma later in life has been developed by scientists from the University of Massachusetts.

The boffins present their data …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Boffins develop model that demonstrates infectious cause of asthma.

Folate could prevent alcohol-induced congenital heart defects in mice

WASHINGTON – High levels of the B-vitamin folate (folic acid) could prevent heart birth defects induced by alcohol exposure in early pregnancy, a condition known as foetal alcohol syndrome, according to a new animal study.

Researchers at the University of South Florida College of Medicine …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Folate could prevent alcohol-induced congenital heart defects in mice.

Early umbilical cord clamping may interrupt ‘nature’s first stem cell transplant’

WASHINGTON – The practice of clamping the umbilical cord just after birth should be delayed just a few minutes longer, urge researchers at the University of South Florida’s Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair.

Delaying clamping the umbilical cord for a slightly longer …. Source  : Early umbilical cord clamping may interrupt ‘nature’s first stem cell transplant’.

Darwin-inspired spacecraft engine with double life expectancy
created

LONDON – Inspired by Charles Darwin, scientists have doubled the life expectancy of a popular type of ion engineMovie Camera using software that mimics the way natural selection evolves ever-fitter designs.

Electrostatic ion engines are becoming popular in space missions.

Instead …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Darwin-inspired spacecraft engine with double life expectancy
created.

Scientists capture collision of a comet and Sun

Washington, May 25 (ANI): For the first time, solar physicists at the University of California, Berkeley, have captured the collision of a comet with the Sun.

Using instruments aboard NASA’s twin STEREO spacecraft, four post-doctoral fellows at UC Berkeley’s Space Sciences Laboratory tracked the comet as it approached the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Scientists capture collision of a comet and Sun.

Pollution dispersion study key to understanding 2002 Antarctic ozone hole break-up

WASHINGTON – The eruption of the volcano in Iceland wreaked havoc as particles from the natural disaster travelled over Europe, forcing closures of major airports. But now, the seemingly random flow of particles can be analyzed to understand and control global phenomena such as this.

According to … Read more : Pollution dispersion study key to understanding 2002 Antarctic ozone hole break-up.

Rajasthan to dig ponds in water-starved sanctuaries

JAIPUR – Rajasthan will construct small dams and ponds in its water-starved wildlife sanctuaries – a move that could also stop animals from straying into nearby villages in search of the precious resource.

“In the first phase we would spend Rs.410 million (Rs.41 crore) on the construction of 85 such waterbodies inside Sariska, Ranthambore and Sawai … Read more >>.

New method to create field-effect transistors

WASHINGTON – Scientists in the U.S. say they have made thin films of nanotubes with ink-jet printers to create field-effect transistors – the basic element in integrated circuits.

While the scientists admitted their technique doesn’t exactly scale down to the levels required for modern microprocessors, the Rice University researchers said it would be useful to inventors … Read more >>>.

Better synchronization helps fish when under predator threat

WASHINGTON – A new research headed by scientists at the University of York has revealed that fish alter their movements when under threat from predators to help them to blend into the crowd.

Researchers in the York Centre for Complex Systems Analysis (YCCSA), based in the University’s Department of Biology, used a combined computer simulation … Read : Better synchronization helps fish when under predator threat.

Chinese Lunar Calendar method of predicting baby’s sex ‘not trustworthy’

WASHINGTON – The so-called Chinese Lunar Calendar method of predicting a baby’s sex is no more accurate than flipping a coin, a University of Michigan epidemiologist suggests.

Dr. Eduardo Villamor of the U-M School of Public Health and colleagues in Sweden and Boston reviewed records of 2.8 million Swedish births, between 1973 and 2006, to test … Read more »»».

Silicon chips with errors could help boost computer power

LONDON – An Indian researcher has said that to ensure perfect operation of silicon chips, manufacturers are running them at a higher power than actually needed.

Researchers are saying now that silicon chips that have errors in them could actually help in boosting the performance of computers.

As components shrink, chipmakers struggle to get more performance out [..] Read the original article: here.

Spanish researchers create 3D Romanesque monuments

WASHINGTON – Researchers have created virtual, full colour plans in 3D of five churches in the Merindad de Aguilar de Campoo, a region between Cantabria, Palencia and Burgos which boasts the highest number of Romanesque monuments in the world.

Spanish researchers from the Cartif Foundation and the University of Valladolid, created three-dimensional plans with colour images …. Source article  : Spanish researchers create 3D Romanesque monuments.

Asteroid ended the age of dinosaurs

WASHINGTON – A team of scientists claim to have finally concluded what ended the age of the dinosaurs – an asteroid.

The discovery of a massive crater at Chicxulub in Mexico’s Yucat???n Peninsula in 1991 strengthened that hypothesis.

The Chicxulub crater is more than 120 miles wide – about the distance from Fairbanks to the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Now browse Facebook on your mobile for free

Dubai, May 26 (IANS/WAM) The Emirates’ new integrated telecommunications service provider, Du, and social networking website Facebook have announced free mobile browsing of the new 0.facebook.com website for its customers.

The 0.facebook.com website is a faster, lightweight version of Facebook’s mobile site m.facebook.com. The new site does not have graphics or photos and the pages have … Original source on Gaea Times at : Now browse Facebook on your mobile for free.

Swarming ’swells’ brains of desert locusts

WASHINGTON – Scientists in Cambridge have discovered that the locust swarm has extraordinary effects on the insect’s brains.

Although desert locusts are infamous for their swarming behaviour – when they migrate en masse and consume everything in their path they usually occur in a solitary form, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Swarming ’swells’ brains of desert locusts.

Mutant gum disease bacteria offer clue to Alzheimer’s treatment

WASHINGTON – Researchers from the University of Florida College of Dentistry claim that a defective, mutant strain of the bacterium that causes gum disease could provide a clue to potential treatments for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and a number of other diseases.

The boffins report …. Read the original article  : here.

Device to predict diabetic wound healing developed

WASHINGTON – Researchers at Drexel University’s chool of
Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems have developed a breakthrough device that can change the current landscape of chronic wound management.

There are currently no established methods for early detection of wound healing, or for precise identification of healing progress. Wound size is the only accepted … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Device to predict diabetic wound healing developed.

Bacteria could help predict chances of colon cancer

WASHINGTON – Bacteria residing in the human intestinal tract may be associated with an individual’s risk of developing colon cancer, new research suggests.cientists from the University of Florida presented their research at the 110th General Meeting of the American Society …. Source  : Bacteria could help predict chances of colon cancer.

Termite, not the lion or elephant, could be king of Africa’s savanna

WASHINGTON – Always associated African savanna with fierce lions, massive elephantsand towering giraffes? Well, it’s not these big animals, but the humble termite, that appears to be the king of these jungles, according to scientists.

Ecologists have found that these termites contribute mightily to grassland productivity in central Kenya …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Butchers say business has grown as more people want to meet the people who provide their meat

Local food movement boost local butchers’ business

DES MOINES, Iowa – Interest in buying locally produced food has helped butchers’ business as consumers who want to know more about the steaks or chops they eat crowd counters at shops nationwide.
“I could say that in the past five years, my business has doubled,” said John Brooks Jr., …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Some sharks can make themselves invisible

WASHINGTON – Scientists have discovered that some sharks can become invisible to both prey and predators using an optical trick.

Lead author Julien Claes, a researcher in the Laboratory of Marine Biology, Earth and Life Institute at the …. Read the original article  : Some sharks can make themselves invisible.

Ghosn says growing demand helps convince Nissan it’s on track with electric Leaf

Ghosn says US demand growing for electric Leaf

DETROIT – Nissan Motor Co. CEO Carlos Ghosn (GOHN) says thousands of orders for the Leaf electric vehicle have convinced Nissan of consumers’ demand for it.
Ghosn said Tuesday after a speech to the Detroit Economic Club that Nissan feels very comfortable with what it has undertaken.
The president of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ghosn says growing demand helps convince Nissan it’s on track with electric Leaf.

‘Nature’s batteries’ could have been an energy source for early life

Washington, May 26 (ANI): Researchers may have stumbled upon new clues to the origin of early life on Earth.

The team at the University of Leeds found that a compound known as pyrophosphite might have been an important energy source for primitive lifeforms.

“It’s a chicken and egg question,” said Dr Terry Kee of the University of … Read more >>.

Melting glaciers making Mount Everest ‘more dangerous to climb’

LONDON – Mount Everest has become a treacherous climb due to glaciers melting along its slopes, according to a Nepalese Sherpa who has conquered the world’s highest summit 20 times.

Apa, a 49-year-old Sherpa, said that rising temperatures have melted much of the ice on the steep trail to the summit and climbers are struggling to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Melting glaciers making Mount Everest ‘more dangerous to climb’.

UN climate chief reminds rich countries of promised billions in help for poor nations

UN reminds rich countries of climate promises

BERLIN – As another difficult round of climate talks approached, the United Nations urged rich countries Tuesday to live up to their promises of help for poor nations in the fight against global warming.
Outgoing U.N. climate chief Yvo de Boer said that, to make headway toward a global climate …. Original source  : UN climate chief reminds rich countries of promised billions in help for poor nations.

UN fish stocks review conference opens with dire outlook for high seas species

UN fish stocks review opens with dire outlook

UNITED NATIONS – Environmentalists and scientists warned of collapsing fish stocks and tiny Pacific nation Palau sounded the alarm for sharks as diplomats Monday launched a weeklong review of high seas fisheries.
The international conference will “take a hard look” at how to put some teeth in a 1995 …. Original source  : UN fish stocks review conference opens with dire outlook for high seas species.

In unprecedented move, EPA bars Texas from giving refinery operating permit, will block more

EPA bars Texas’ operating permit to refinery

HOUSTON – The federal government has removed Texas’ authority to issue an operating permit to a southeast Texas refinery, saying the state is violating the federal Clean Air Act in dozens of cases.
Al Armendariz, the regional head of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, says the EPA objected to 40 …. Original article  : In unprecedented move, EPA bars Texas from giving refinery operating permit, will block more.

International meeting to enact deforestation measures opens in Oslo

Int’l conference to save forests opens in Oslo

OSLO, Norway – Last December, an international conference on climate change approved global plans prevent deforestation. But those plans have not been implemented, and now a smaller meeting of nations in Oslo will try Thursday to find ways to start to put them in place – even if … Read more : International meeting to enact deforestation measures opens in Oslo.

Smarter robots set to replace clumsier ones

WASHINGTON – Scientists are developing faster and smarter robots that would not only replace their clumsier counterparts, but also use much less energy, says a new study.

The goal eventually is to design the first robot that can move 10 km within 10,000 seconds, through and over obstacles, using less energy than it would take a … Read : Smarter robots set to replace clumsier ones.

Protein switch that kills deadly water-based pathogens discovered

TORONTO – Scientists have discovered a protein switch that will help kill deadly water-based pathogens like E. coli and make for safer drinking water.

Zongchao Jia, a professor of biochemistry at Queen’s University, and post-doctoral student Jimin Zheng, discovered exactly how the AceK protein acts as a switch in some bacteria to bypass the energy-producing …. Read the original article  : Protein switch that kills deadly water-based pathogens discovered.

New oral drug promises treatment for aggressive lymphoma

WASHINGTON – A new oral drug called lenalidomide promises positive results in patients with transformed lymphoma with few side effects, suggests a new study.

45 per cent patients responded positively when treated with immunomodulatory medication, which kills lymphoma cells by activating the body’s natural killer cells and by interrupting cancer cell signaling that leads to cell …. Original source  : New oral drug promises treatment for aggressive lymphoma.

Why horror movie music is so scary

NEW YORK – UCLA researchers claimed to have solved the mystery of why horror-flick music causes goosebumps.

According to the boffins, freak-out film scores, from the screeching violins to the two thundering notes have one thing in common: they ape the cries that wild animals in distress have used for millions of years.

Scientifically speaking, these cries, … Read more : Why horror movie music is so scary.

Retina from human embryonic stem cells created

WASHINGTON – An eight-layer, early stage retina from human embryonic stem cells has been created by UC Irvine scientists.

The scientific breakthrough is the first three-dimensional tissue structure to be made from stem cells.

It also marks the first step toward the development of transplant-ready retinas to treat eye disorders such as retinitis pigmentosa and macular degeneration … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Retina from human embryonic stem cells created.

Novel mechanism for clearing blockages from smallest blood vessels found

LONDON – A previously unknown protective mechanism by which the smallest blood vessels remove blood clots and other blockages from the brain has been discovered in mice by researchers at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

The findings, described in the May 27 issue of Nature by Jaime Grutzendler, M.D., and colleagues, provide insights into mechanisms …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Novel mechanism for clearing blockages from smallest blood vessels found.

Why we can’t get a song out of our head

WASHINGTON – You must have at some point been “infected” with a song, which you just can’t shake off. Scientists have now revealed how earworms can linger on for days at a stretch in some people.

Andreane McNally-Gagnon, a PhD student at the University of Montreal Department of Psychology, said that mostly earworms would disappear after …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Why we can’t get a song out of our head.

New species of invertebrates discovered in the Antarctic

WASHINGTON – Scientists have discovered two new species of invertebrates – polyps of the new gorgonia in the region of Austasen and and Isla Nueve.

Called Tauroprimnoa austasensis and Digitogorgia kuekenthali, both species are small and elongated, and stand out for the number, shape and layout of the scales of calcium carbonate that cover the polyps, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : New species of invertebrates discovered in the Antarctic.

New vaccine may offer skin cancer cure

WASHINGTON – Scientists in the UK have been given the go-ahead to test a vaccine, which they believe, could be used as a powerful weapon in the fight against malignant melanoma, the most deadly type of skin cancer.

Lead author Professor Lindy Durrant of Nottingham University, and colleagues hope that the new vaccine, which targets tumour [..] Read the original article: here.

How auditory memories are formed

WASHINGTON – In a new study, researchers used “noise”- sound waves formed from many thousands of completely unpredictable random numbers played as a sound-to probe how the human brain acquires auditory memories.

And the study revealed that learning new sounds is quick, robust, and long lasting, resembling a sudden insight.

Auditory perception requires the listener to …. Read the original article  : How auditory memories are formed.

‘Smoking gun’ of black hole activation found

WASHINGTON – NASA’s Swift satellite has provided astronomers the answer to the long standing puzzle about why a small percentage of black holes emit vast amounts of energy.

The findings suggest that black holes “light up” when galaxies collide, and the data may offer insight into the future … Read more : ‘Smoking gun’ of black hole activation found.

After 40 years, Nasa spacecraft solves Martian ice caps mystery

LONDON – After 40 years, scientists claim to have solved mysteries of climate change on Mars – using data from NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO).

The Shallow Radar, or SHARAD, instrument aboard MRO revealed sub-surface geology allowing scientists to reconstruct the formation of a large chasm and a … Read more »»».

Soon: High tech, low cost machines to improve election voting process

WASHINGTON – Ballot boxes and manual vote counting may soon be history, as computer scientists are building a new high tech but low cost system to improve the voting process in elections.

Computer scientists at the Universities of Surrey and Birmingham are developing the system, with funding from …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Opioid-blocking med reduces brain’s response to alcoholism cues

WASHINGTON – Opioid blocker extended-release injectable naltrexone (XR-NTX) is able to reduce the brain’s response to cues that may cause alcoholics to relapse, researchers at Harvard-affiliated McLean Hospital have reported.

In data presented …. Original article  : Opioid-blocking med reduces brain’s response to alcoholism cues.

Lions, crocodiles and bears, oh my! Iraq’s trade in exotic pets largely unregulated

Baghdad’s trade in wildlife anything but tame

BAGHDAD – A dozen fluffy white kittens with piercing blue eyes frolic in a wire cage, perched perilously atop a pen containing two African lion cubs. Neighborhood schoolchildren stop to feed sunflower seeds to a chained monkey, while three red foxes cower in their curbside enclosure from the street … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Lions, crocodiles and bears, oh my! Iraq’s trade in exotic pets largely unregulated.

Discovery paves way for safer drinking water, cheaper medicine

WASHINGTON – Queen’s University scientists have made a new discovery that not only may pave the way to helping reduce health hazards such as E. coli in water, but could also make chemicals and drugs such as insulin cheaper to produce and their production more …. Original source  : Discovery paves way for safer drinking water, cheaper medicine.

‘Law-like’ patterns in human preference behaviour found

WASHINGTON – Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) scientists have found mathematical patterns underlying the way individuals unconsciously distribute their preferences regarding approaching or avoiding objects in their environment.

These patterns appear to meet the strict criteria used to determine whether something is a … Read more >>>.

Dwarfed horned dinos may have migrated from Asia to Europe

LONDON – Scientists have discovered that horned dinosaurs, which were thought to belong only to Asia and North America, may have roamed in Europe too.

Palaeontologists have announced the discovery of fossils belonging to a horned creature called Ajkaceratops kozmai, in the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Dwarfed horned dinos may have migrated from Asia to Europe.

Coming closer to walking and running robots

WASHINGTON – Making an important fundamental advancement in robotics, researchers at Oregon State University have come closer to robots that not only can walk and run effectively, but use little energy in the process.

Studies are moving closer to robots that … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Coming closer to walking and running robots.

Was Ardi, the oldest hominid skeleton, a human or an ape?

LONDON – A debate has erupted over the classification of Ardipithecus ramidus – popularly called Ardi – as to whether it was more human or an ape.

Researchers are questioning the classification of the oldest hominid skeleton – dated … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Was Ardi, the oldest hominid skeleton, a human or an ape?.

Srinagar-Leh highway closed after snowfall

SRINAGAR – The Srinagar-Leh highway was closed Saturday following heavy rains and fresh snowfall in the Zojilla Pass area of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said.

The 475-km long highway connects the cold desert Ladakh region with the rest of India, an official from the north Kashmir Ganderbal district told IANS.
According to reports reaching here, two …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Srinagar-Leh highway closed after snowfall.

Rivers swell in Kashmir Valley after rains

SRINAGAR – Incessant rains have left the Kashmir Valley’s rivers and streams swollen, prompting authorities to issue a flood alert for Friday.

“There will be rain and thundershowers across the valley in the next 12 hours. The weather will only show signs of improvement by tomorrow (Saturday) evening,” said an official of the weather office here. …. Read the original article  : here.

Successful bionic eye implants Down Under by 2014

MELBOURNE – By 2014, see the emergence of a successful bionic eye in Australia, say scientists.

Experts from Australia’s ICT Research Centre of Excellence, National ICT Australia (NICTA) have showcased a prototype of the 98 electrode eye’s processing system at the CeBit Exhibition.

Senior Research … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Successful bionic eye implants Down Under by 2014.

Two new frog species discovered in Panama

PANAMA CITY – Scientists have discovered two new frog species in Panama’s rainforests at a time when many of the amphibians are threatened by a fungal disease driving them toward extinction.

Pristimantis educatoris was discovered in the Omar Torrijos nature reserve in Cocle province, scientists from the US Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute said Thursday.
The …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Two new frog species discovered in Panama.

Facebook in discussions to install ‘panic button’ link

LONDON – Social networking site Facebook has confirmed that it is in discussion to install a “panic button” on its pages that would link users directly to the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre.

Richard Allan, Facebook’s director of … Read more : Facebook in discussions to install ‘panic button’ link.

Rain in Himachal brings cheer to tourists

SHIMLA – Widespread rain in Himachal Pradesh Friday brought cheer to tourists who have thronged the hill stations to escape the heat wave in the northern plains.

Most of the prominent tourist places in mid and high hills saw a good spell of showers early morning Friday, giving a relief from unusually high temperatures.
“Shimla and … Read more : Rain in Himachal brings cheer to tourists.

It’s official: Indoor tanning linked to melanoma risk

WASHINGTON – Using indoor tanning devices certainly increases a person’s risk of developing melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, say researchers at the University of Minnesota’s School of Public Health and Masonic Cancer Center.

The study, involving 2,268 Minnesotans, is the largest of … Read more : It’s official: Indoor tanning linked to melanoma risk.

Ultrasound could improve tissue implant success

Washington, May 28 (ANI): Ultrasound could help tissue grafts to survive and thrive following surgery, according to a new study.

While it is known that ultrasound imaging typically requires frequencies that are 50 to 2500 times higher than those human ear can detect, recent increasing evidence indicates that ultrasound at … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Ultrasound could improve tissue implant success.

Corkscrew shape key to gut bug’s survival

Washington, May 28 (ANI): The shape of the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, which lives in the human stomach and is associated with ulcers and gastric cancer, is critical in its ability to colonise the stomach.

For …. Source  : Corkscrew shape key to gut bug’s survival.

Bursting ‘bubbles’ behind the origin of ‘halo’ gas clouds in our Galaxy

Washington, May 28 (ANI): By using CSIRO’s Parkes telescope, scientists have observed that just like bubbles burst on the surface of a glass of champagne, ‘bubbles’ in our Galaxy burst and leave flecks of material in the form of clouds of … Original article on : Bursting ‘bubbles’ behind the origin of ‘halo’ gas clouds in our Galaxy.

Racial bias kills natural tendency to pity

Washington, May 28 (ANI): Witnessing the suffering and pain of another person makes people’s nervous system respond in the same way it would if they were feeling that pain themselves. Now, researchers claim that this kind of empathy is diminished when people (black …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Next generation HazMat boots to be more comfy

Washington, May 28 (ANI): When responding to situations where hazardous materials (HazMat) are present, the rubber boots that emergency personnel wear may be functional, but they’re not very comfortable, Now, a new study from North Carolina State University …. Read the original article  : here.

New discovery may explain how certain cancers develop

Washington, May 28 (ANI): A new discovery made by a Florida State University College of Medicine researcher may help explain how certain cancers develop.

Yoichi Kato, an assistant professor in the Department of Biomedical Sciences, and his lab team …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : New discovery may explain how certain cancers develop.

Novel sperm stem-cell technique helps produce genetically modified rats

London, May 28 (ANI): Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have used a novel sperm stem-cell technique to produce genetically modified rats.

For 20 years, the laboratory mouse has been the workhorse of biomedical studies and the only mammal whose … Read : Novel sperm stem-cell technique helps produce genetically modified rats.

Why winds on Venus blow faster than the planet’s rotation

Melbourne, May 28 (ANI): Scientists may have found the answer to the long time puzzle – why do winds on the planet Venus blow faster than the planet’s rotation.

Venus rotates once every 243 Earth days, but it takes just 4 Earth days for clouds … Read more »»».

Duststorm brings down mercury level in Delhi

NEW DELHI – A dust haze since early Friday spelt good news for the capital’s residents as it brought down the mercury and paved way for a relatively pleasant day ahead compared to the sweltering heat of the past few weeks.

According to an official of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the minimum temperature recorded early … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Duststorm brings down mercury level in Delhi.

Marine bacteria pitch in to help clean Deepwater Horizon spill

London, May 28 (ANI): Researchers have found that dozens of different kinds of marine bacteria are hard at work to help clean the oil spill in Gulf of Mexico.

Jay Grimes of the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg reported …. Read the original article  : Marine bacteria pitch in to help clean Deepwater Horizon spill.

Early humans lived in Savannas, not forests

Washington, May 28 (ANI): Pre-humans living in East Africa 4.4 million years ago inhabited savannas, grassy plains dotted with trees and shrubs, according to a team of researchers.

This theory opposes another theory – that of Berkeley researcher Tim D. White – who said that early humans occupied … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Early humans lived in Savannas, not forests.

Increasing urine BPA level tied to worsening male sexual function

Washington, May 28 (ANI): Raising Bisphenol-A levels in urine is linked to worsening male sexual function, according to a study.

The Kaiser Permanente research has been published online in the Journal of Andrology.

Increasing urine BPA level is tied to decreased sexual desire, more difficulty having an erection, lower ejaculation strength and lower level of overall satisfaction … Original source on Gaea Times at : Increasing urine BPA level tied to worsening male sexual function.

Bitter-blocking ingredient in artificial sweeteners found

Washington, May 28 (ANI): The chemical that specifically blocks people’s ability to detect the bitter aftertaste that comes with artificial sweeteners such as saccharin has been discovered by researchers.

According to a report published online in Current Biology, a Cell Press publication, the key is a molecule known only as GIV3727 that specifically targets and inhibits …. Source  : Bitter-blocking ingredient in artificial sweeteners found.

Huge carbon ‘burp’ that helped end last ice age detected

Washington, May 28 (ANI): The possible source of a huge carbon dioxide ‘burp’ that happened some 18,000 years ago and which helped to end the last ice age has been discovered by scientists.

The study’s results offer the first concrete proof that carbon dioxide (CO2) was more efficiently locked away in the deep ocean during the …. Original source  : Huge carbon ‘burp’ that helped end last ice age detected.

Space junk may crash earth’s communication networks

WASHINGTON/LONDON – Junk of abandoned rockets, shattered satellites and missile shrapnel in space may cause collision between satellites, destroying communication facilities on earth, the US defence department has warned.

According to scientists, the debris scattered in the earth’s orbit is reaching a “tipping point” and pose a threat to the $250 billion space services industry.
A …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Chief Joseph Dam gets new turbine as feds replace aging hydropower technology nationwide

Upgrades under way at Columbia River dams
BRIDGEPORT, Wash. – Workers are preparing to install a new 45-ton turbine at the second-largest hydropower producing dam in the United States, part of a multiyear upgrade that will generate power for an additional 30,000 Northwest homes.

The $120 million project at Chief Joseph Dam on the Columbia River is … Original article on : Chief Joseph Dam gets new turbine as feds replace aging hydropower technology nationwide.

Cloudy sky brings relief from heat in Bihar

PATNA – An overcast sky brought much sought after relief from the scorching heat for millions of people in Bihar Friday.

After weeks of searing heat, people in Patna and adjoining districts, enjoyed the cloudy sky that brought the mercury down. Similar reports were received from other districts in northern Bihar.
According to met officials, the …. Original source  : Cloudy sky brings relief from heat in Bihar.

Record-breaking Everest climber says global warming is making scaling the peak harder

Everest sherpa: Global warming makes climbing hard

KATMANDU, Nepal – A Nepalese Sherpa who climbed Mount Everest for a record 20th time said Tuesday that the melting of glacier ice along its slopes due to global warming is making it increasingly difficult to climb the peak.
“The rising temperature on the mountains has melted much ice and … Read : Record-breaking Everest climber says global warming is making scaling the peak harder.

IWC chief optimistic nations can settle whaling deal; US says difficult negotiations remain

Head of IWC optimistic on whaling deal
WASHINGTON – The head of the International Whaling Commission on Thursday expressed optimism that nations gathering in Morocco next month can settle a long-running dispute over the hunting of whales.

But a senior U.S. official signaled difficult negotiations ahead over a contentious IWC proposal that would effectively allow commercial whaling … Read more »».

4 lions freed under Bolivia circus ban fly to Bob Barker-financed refuge in California

Bolivia lions freed to Bob Barker-funded refuge

LA PAZ, Bolivia – Four lion cubs freed under Bolivia’s circus-animal ban took off for California on Thursday, heading to a new life in a refuge built with the help of television personality Bob Barker.
The cubs were rescued under a Bolivian law set to take effect in July that … Read more : 4 lions freed under Bolivia circus ban fly to Bob Barker-financed refuge in California.

Federal wildlife agency says high-altitude white-tailed prairie dogs not endangered

Feds say white-tailed prairie dogs not endangered

DENVER – The high-altitude cousin of the black-tailed prairie dog has also been denied federal protection.
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service announced Thursday that the white-tailed prairie dog does not merit protection under the Endangered Species Act.
The agency reached the same conclusion in December for the species’ better-known cousin, …. Read the original article  : Federal wildlife agency says high-altitude white-tailed prairie dogs not endangered.

Feds announce program in Alaska’s Tongass National Forest to help struggling timber industry

Feds announce timber program for Tongass forest

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – The U.S. Forest Service on Wednesday announced a program to open up economic opportunities and spare the remaining old-growth trees in the country’s largest national forest.
The forest service said the approach in Tongass National Forest will move timber harvesting into roaded areas of previously clear-cut sections …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

APNewsBreak: EPA may take over regulating air quality in Texas if state does not improve

APNewsBreak: EPA may federalize Texas air program

HOUSTON – The Environmental Protection Agency may take over the entire job of regulating air quality in Texas if the state keeps violating the Clean Air Act, an EPA official told The Associated Press on Wednesday – intensifying a dispute over regulating pollution from the largest U.S. refineries and … Read : APNewsBreak: EPA may take over regulating air quality in Texas if state does not improve.

Atlantis lands for final time after 25-year career; engineers say shuttle still in great shape

Shuttle Atlantis completes 32nd and final flight
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – How would you look after 120 million miles?
Atlantis might appear a little scuffed up to outsiders as it heads into retirement after a quarter-century of spaceflight.
But to the trained eyes of NASA engineers, the ship is still in its prime – a fact … Read more >>.

Consumers Energy says it will delay plans to build Bay County power plant

Consumers Energy delays Bay County power plant

HAMPTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. – Consumers Energy on Thursday put on hold its plans to build a new coal-fired power plant in Michigan’s Bay County.
Utility officials said the indefinite delay is caused by a number of factors including reduced customer demand for electricity and expected lower prices for natural gas … Read more : Consumers Energy says it will delay plans to build Bay County power plant.

Questions arise about ‘Ardi’s possible place on human family tree and where it lived

Questions raised about ‘Ardi’ as man’s ancestor

NEW YORK – Last fall, a fossil skeleton named “Ardi” shook up the field of human evolution. Now, some scientists are raising doubts about what exactly the creature from Ethiopia was and what kind of landscape it inhabited.
New critiques question whether Ardi really belongs on the human branch of …. Original source  : Questions arise about ‘Ardi’s possible place on human family tree and where it lived.

Obama urges Americans to vacation at Gulf beaches; almost all clean, open despite oil spill

Obama: Go to Gulf beaches; most still open, clean
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama is encouraging Americans to visit the Gulf Coast despite the huge offshore oil spill.
At a White House news conference Thursday, Obama said while three beaches in Louisiana have been fouled by oil, the rest of the region’s beaches are clean …. Read the original article  : here.

2010 is big year in bald eagle recovery effort: 15 chicks born on Calif’s Channel Islands

15 bald eagles born this year on Channel Islands

CHANNEL ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK, Calif. – Efforts to bring bald eagles back to Southern California’s Channel Islands have taken a giant step this year with the birth of at least 15 chicks on three islands.
National Park Service officials say that brings to 36 the number of chicks …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 2010 is big year in bald eagle recovery effort: 15 chicks born on Calif’s Channel Islands.

7.4-magnitude quake strikes off Vanuatu

WASHINGTON – A powerful earthquake measuring 7.4 on the Richter scale struck 214 km northwest of Vanuatu, near Australia, in the south Pacific, the US Geological Survey (USGS) reported Thursday.

The quake occurred at about 1714 GMT at a depth of 36.1 km, Xinhua reported.
There was no report of any casualty.
…. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 7.4-magnitude quake strikes off Vanuatu.

Scientists: Gulf oil spill surpasses Exxon Valdez as worst in US history; plug try going well

Gulf oil spill now bigger than Exxon Valdez
COVINGTON, La. – An untested procedure to plug the blown-out oil well in the Gulf of Mexico seemed to be working, officials said Thursday, but new estimates showed the spill has already surpassed the Exxon Valdez as the worst in U.S. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Scientists: Gulf oil spill surpasses Exxon Valdez as worst in US history; plug try going well.

FAA gives airlines, other aircraft owners the go-ahead to equip for new air traffic system

Go-ahead given to equip for new air traffic system

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration gave airlines and other aircraft owners the go-ahead Thursday to begin installing the equipment necessary to switch to a GPS-based air traffic control system.
The Federal Aviation Administration issued performance requirements for aircraft tracking equipment that all planes must have on board by … Read more >>.

Rich countries pledge $4B to stop deforestation in developing world

Rich countries pledge $4B to stop deforestation

OSLO, Norway – Developed nations pledged more than $4 billion Thursday to finance a program meant to help poor countries protect their forests and slow global warming.
An agency monitoring the aid will be up and running before U.N. climate talks start in Cancun, Mexico, later this year, the European [..] Read the original article: here.

NASA launches SOFIA

WASHINGTON – NASA has launched The Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) jetliner in collaboration with the German Aerospace Center.

The program achieved major milestone on May 26, with its first in-flight night observations.

Jon Morse, Astrophysics Division director in the Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington, said: “With this flight, SOFIA begins a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : NASA launches SOFIA.

‘Horniest’ ever dino discovered

WASHINGTON – The discovery of a new horned dinosaur, Medusaceratops lokii, has been announced by a scientist at The Cleveland Museum of Natural History.

The newly identified plant-eating dinosaur, approximately 20 feet long and weighing more than 2 tons, lived nearly 78 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous period … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘Horniest’ ever dino discovered.

Reforestation may lower climate change mitigation potential of forests

WASHINGTON – Reforestation and afforestation, the creation of new forests, may lower the potential of forests for climate change lessening, scientists at the University of Oklahoma and the Fudan University in Shanghai, China, have found.

Yiqi Luo, professor of ecology in the OU …. Read the original article  : Reforestation may lower climate change mitigation potential of forests.

Test to identify ‘best’ sperm developed

WASHINGTON – A method to select sperm with the highest DNA integrity in a bid to improve male fertility has been created by Yale researchers.

The method is comparable to that of the egg’s natural selection abilities, according to the study published in the June/July issue …. Read the original article  : Test to identify ‘best’ sperm developed.

Two die of heat stroke in Punjab

CHANDIGARH – An 18-year-old rickshaw puller and a middle-aged police constable died from heat stroke in Punjab, health officials said here Saturday.

The rickshaw puller died in Zirakpur town, around 10 km from here, Friday while the Punjab Police head constable died in Hoshiarpur town, about 120 km from the state capital.
On Saturday, there was … Read more »»».

2010 is big year in bald eagle recovery effort: 15 chicks born on California’s Channel Islands

15 bald eagles born this year on Calif. islands

LOS ANGELES – There haven’t been so many bald eagle chicks on the Channel Islands in 50 years – since chemicals contaminated their food supply and destroyed all of the majestic birds on the island chain off the Southern California coast.
Fifteen chicks have hatched this year on … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 2010 is big year in bald eagle recovery effort: 15 chicks born on California’s Channel Islands.

US, Japan strike accord on contentious US military air base in Okinawa, sticking to 2006 plan

US, Japan to keep US military air base on Okinawa
TOKYO – Washington and Tokyo agreed Friday to keep a contentious U.S. Marine base in the southern island of Okinawa, reaffirming the importance of their security alliance amid heightened tensions on the Korean peninsula.
In a joint statement, the two allies agreed to move the … Original source on Gaea Times at : US, Japan strike accord on contentious US military air base in Okinawa, sticking to 2006 plan.

Australia says it will take Japan to International Court of Justice to stop whaling

Australia to take Japan to court over whaling

CANBERRA, Australia – Australia announced on Friday it will take Japan to the International Court of Justice in a major escalation of its campaign to prevent whaling in the Antarctic Ocean.
The decision to take legal action against Australia’s important trading partner underlines the government’s “commitment to bring to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Australia says it will take Japan to International Court of Justice to stop whaling.

Efficient nitrogen management results in more cow milk production

WASHINGTON – Dairy farmers can make their cows produce more milk by efficiently managing nitrogen, researchers have found.

Agricultural Research Service scientists and cooperators have come up with efficiency ratings to help dairy farmers make better use of their nitrogen in the face …. Read the original article  : Efficient nitrogen management results in more cow milk production.

200km deep subduction of Indian continent under Asia

WASHINGTON – The continental crust of the Indian tectonic plate was forced down under the Asian plate by around 200 kilometres some 90 million years ago, when the Indian subcontinent clashed with Asia, a research has revealed.

“The subduction of continental crust to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 200km deep subduction of Indian continent under Asia.

Obama to learn about difficult, dirty job of cleaning oily beaches and marshlands in Louisiana

Obama to see tough job of cleaning oily beaches

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama will get a look at how hard it is to clean up beaches and marshes fouled by oil in Louisiana.
Coast Guard Adm. Thad Allen says he thinks that’s the most important thing for the president to see Friday on his trip to … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Obama to learn about difficult, dirty job of cleaning oily beaches and marshlands in Louisiana.

Rival’s deep, masculine voice not enough to challenge a man’s dominance

WASHINGTON – Men with a deep, masculine voice are considered more dominant by other men, but a man’s own dominance perceived or actual – does not affect how attentive he is to his rivals’ voices, according to a new study.
However, his own dominance does influence how … Read : Rival’s deep, masculine voice not enough to challenge a man’s dominance.

Secret behind Rembrandt’s ‘magic’ uncovered

WASHINGTON – A University of British Columbia researcher has found the secret behind what makes Rembrandt’s masterful portraits so appealing.

In the study, Steve DiPaola has argued that Rembrandt may have pioneered a technique that guides the viewer’s gaze around … Read more : Secret behind Rembrandt’s ‘magic’ uncovered.

Novel stem cells source can form heart muscle cells, repair damage

WASHINGTON – Japanese scientists have found a new and non-controversial source of stem cells that can form heart muscle cells and help repair heart damage.

In preliminary lab tests, researchers used the amniotic membrane the inner lining of the sac in which an embryo develops – to obtain … Read : Novel stem cells source can form heart muscle cells, repair damage.

Video shows oil plume significantly darker; expert says that means heavier, more-polluting oil

Gulf oil plume darker; not good news, expert says

WASHINGTON – Live video of the Gulf of Mexico oil spill shows the underwater plume getting significantly darker. A top oil engineering expert says that suggests heavier, more-polluting oil is spewing out.
The color of the oil gushing from the main pipe has changed in color from medium … Read more »».

Coopers Beach in Southampton, NY tops 10 best beaches; 2 Fla. sites on list

Dr. Beach: NY’s Southampton beach tops list

SOUTHAMPTON, N.Y. – Hamptons hoi polloi probably assumed it was always No. 1.
Coopers Beach, with pristine white sand gently sloping toward a shoreline of lapping waves, convenient parking and amenities and nary a gum wrapper in sight, has been selected as America’s best beach in an annual survey released … Original article on : Coopers Beach in Southampton, NY tops 10 best beaches; 2 Fla. sites on list.

Congress proposes federal funding to build recharging network, tax credits for electric cars

Congress offers grants, credits for electric cars

WASHINGTON – The federal government would provide grants to help cities build the infrastructure needed to support electric vehicles and to offer new tax credits for buyers of those cars under legislation introduced Thursday in Congress.
The bills in the House and Senate are designed to smooth the way for …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Congress proposes federal funding to build recharging network, tax credits for electric cars.

Pleasant weather in Delhi, thunderstorm likely

NEW DELHI – Delhi saw pleasant weather Saturday morning and the met office said there was a possibility of a thunderstorm by evening.

The minimum temperature was a notch above average at 29.1 degrees Celsius.
“The skies will remain clear today (Saturday) and there is a possibility of a thunderstorm towards the evening. The maximum temperature …. Source  : Pleasant weather in Delhi, thunderstorm likely.

Australia takes Japan to international court to stop whaling; Tokyo cites scientific research

Australia takes Japan to court over whaling

CANBERRA, Australia – Australia said Friday it will challenge Japan’s whale hunting in the Antarctic at the International Court of Justice, a major legal escalation in its campaign to ban the practice despite Tokyo’s insistence on the right to so-called scientific whaling.
Japan’s Foreign Ministry called the action regrettable at … Original article on : Australia takes Japan to international court to stop whaling; Tokyo cites scientific research.

New US-German airborne infrared telescope makes first in-flight observations

US-German flying observatory sees ‘first light’

PALMDALE, Calif. – A new U.S.-German infrared observatory mounted in a jumbo jet has made its first in-flight night observations.
NASA said Friday that the highly modified Boeing 747SP jetliner carrying the 100-inch-diameter telescope achieved the milestone on May 26 during a six-hour flight from its base in Palmdale, Calif.
The joint …. Read the original article  : here.

Bloody-thirsty midges ‘prefer fat and tall people’

LONDON – This may not come as a surprise, but still: Scientists have found that fat and tall people are more likely to be bitten by midges – because they present a bigger target.

Also, according to the study that … Read : Bloody-thirsty midges ‘prefer fat and tall people’.

Near-death experiences ’caused by cascade of electrical activity in dying brain’

LONDON – The mystery of why people “brought back from the dead” report powerful spiritual experiences may have been solved by scientists.

In the study, researchers, who studied brainwaves of dying patients, found a surge of electrical activity in …. Source  : Near-death experiences ’caused by cascade of electrical activity in dying brain’.

Flashfloods in Himachal snap road link with Kashmir

SHIMLA – Flashfloods in the higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh’s Chamba district due to thawing of glaciers and incessant rains have snapped road connectivity with neighbouring Jammu and Kashmir, an official said Sunday. There was no report of loss of life.

“Flashfloods due to melting of glaciers and rains in the past two days have destroyed …. Original article  : Flashfloods in Himachal snap road link with Kashmir.

Underwater robot to collect information about Deepwater Horizon spill

WASHINGTON – The Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) in the US has sent an underwater robot to the Gulf of Mexico to gather information about the Deepwater Horizon spill.

This information will be passed on to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Although satellites and aircraft …. Source article  : Underwater robot to collect information about Deepwater Horizon spill.

British engineer invents pedal powered water pump

WASHINGTON – A British engineering student has invented an innovative bicycle-powered water pump.

Jon Leary, 24, a MEng student in the University of Sheffield’s Department of Mechanical Engineering, took his bicycle machine design from a Steel City drawing board to the heart of Guatemala as … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : British engineer invents pedal powered water pump.

For kids and adults ‘being fair’ could mean different things

WASHINGTON – Our perspective towards what is fair changes as we age, claims a new study.

Young children like all things to be equal, but older adolescents are more likely to consider merit when it comes to dividing up wealth, said the researchers.

As part of a research study in experimental economics in … Read more >>.

Interfering genes protect monkeys from lethal Ebola virus post-exposure

LONDON – By using tiny particles of genetic material to interfere in the replication process of the deadly Ebola virus, scientists have successfully prevented monkeys exposed to that virus from dying of hemorrhagic fever.he proof-of-concept study suggests that such … Read more >>>.

‘VI Fit’ to help blind children exercise via video games

WASHINGTON – A new video game research project, called VI Fit, at the University of Nevada, Reno, could help children who are blind become more physically active and healthy.

The human-computer interaction research team has developed a motion-sensing-based tennis and bowling exergame …. Original source  : ‘VI Fit’ to help blind children exercise via video games.

Preoperative chemo response could predict survival in pancreatic cancer patients

WASHINGTON – Patients with pancreatic cancer whose tumours respond most to preoperative chemotherapy and radiation survive four times as long, on average, as those whose tumours respond least, researchers from Fox Chase Cancer Center have found.

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma is rarely detected in … Original article on : Preoperative chemo response could predict survival in pancreatic cancer patients.

How whales have changed over 35 million years

WASHINGTON – Using molecular and computational techniques, UCLA evolutionary biologists and a colleague, have reported how in the last 35 million years-since the ancestor of all living whales appeared-have fast whales changed their shape and body size.

Analysing the evolutionary tempo of modern whale [..] Read the original article: here.

No more eating shark fin in Hawaii: 50th state becomes first in nation to ban shark fin

No more eating shark fin in Hawaii after new law

HONOLULU – The $48-a-plate shark fin has been a favorite dish to celebrate 80th birthdays and fete out of town VIPs since Vienna Hou’s Chinese restaurant opened 25 years ago.
But Kirin Restaurant customers won’t be dining in that style starting July 1, 2011, when Hawaii becomes … Original source on Gaea Times at : No more eating shark fin in Hawaii: 50th state becomes first in nation to ban shark fin.

We may all be holograms: NYC science festival brings exciting, wild science to the masses

At NYC sci fest, asking ‘What if we’re holograms?’

NEW YORK – Brian Greene works in a world where scientific reasoning rules all and imagination leads to the most unlikely truths.
Greene and other “string theorists” are exploring a possible scenario in which people and the world around us are actually a 3-D holographic projection of two-dimensional … Read more >>.

Barmer hottest as Rajasthan sizzles

JAIPUR – Heat wave conditions continued to prevail in Rajasthan Saturday with the mercury hovering between 41-44 degrees Celsius in many parts of the state.

Barmer was the hottest city in the state Saturday with the day temperature touching 44.6 degrees Celsius. Churu at 43.8 and Kota at 43.6 degree Celsius were the next two hot … Read : Barmer hottest as Rajasthan sizzles.

Light showers in parts of Delhi

NEW DELHI – Some parts of the national capital experienced light showers Saturday evening, bringing relief from the heat wave sweeping the city.

The showers were all the more welcome after the maximum temperature was recorded at 41.2 degrees Celsius from Friday’s 37.7 degrees Celsius, an India Meteorological Department (IMD) official said.
“Some parts of … Read more »».

Rains bring respite from scorching heat in north India (Roundup)

NEW DELHI – Overcast skies and rains brought much needed respite from the blistering heat in several parts of northern India Saturday. However, heat wave conditions continued in most states, including Rajasthan and Orissa, from where many deaths have been reported in the last one month.

The national capital saw pleasant weather with an overcast sky …. Source article  : Rains bring respite from scorching heat in north India (Roundup).

‘Indian rockets to use atmospheric oxygen as fuel by year-end’

CHENNAI – In an attempt to make its rockets lighter and carry heavier satellites, the Indian space agency is planning to flight test by the end of this year its own air-breathing engine that will use atmospheric oxygen as fuel.

Air-breathing engines use atmospheric oxygen and burn it with the stored on-board fuel to generate the … Original article on : ‘Indian rockets to use atmospheric oxygen as fuel by year-end’.

Copper surfaces can kill hospital microbes to maintain sterility

TORONTO – Researchers have theorized that covering frequently covered surfaces with copper can reduce the risk of harmful bugs spreading from one person to another in hospitals.

“It is a simple, elegant solution,” Globe and Mail quoted Michael Schmidt, a professor at the Medical University of South Carolina, as saying.

In a … Read more »».

Scientists conduct ‘post-mortem of comet’ to find origins of solar system

WASHINGTON – Leicester University researchers are putting extraterrestrial material from the Comet Wild 2 under the microscope to find the origins of our Solar System.

By developing micro manipulation techniques, researchers at the University of Leicester have further dissected the tiny samples to study the comet to atomic …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pagan burial altar unearthed in Israel

WASHINGTON – A 2,000-year-old altar has been found in an Israeli cemetery, according to archaeologists.

The 24-inch-high granite structure, decorated with carvings of three bull heads, ribbons, and laurel wreaths, was discovered May 17 while salvage excavations were being carried out for a new hospital emergency room in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pagan burial altar unearthed in Israel.

Fossil of 95-million-year-old pterosaur that fed on baby dinos found

WASHINGTON – Scientists have uncovered the fossil of a new species of a giant flying reptile in the Sahara desert.

However, it seems the 95-million-year-old pterosaur was not too fond of flying as it spent its time looking for prey in the once lush Sahara.

The Alanqa saharicafrom, discovered two years ago … Read more »».

What is the secret of ancient Chinese super-strong mortar?

WASHINGTON – What is the secret of an ancient Chinese super-strong mortar made from sticky rice?

Scientists have concluded that the mortar – a paste used to bind and fill gaps between bricks, stone blocks and other construction materials – remains the best available material for restoring ancient buildings.
Bingjian Zhang, professor of physical chemistry …. Read the original article  : What is the secret of ancient Chinese super-strong mortar?.

Hilarious web addresses revealed

LONDON – A new book has revealed some of the Internet’s most inadvertently amusing web addresses.

The home page for celebrity agent database Who Represents, is addressed www.whorepresents.com, the book titled “Slurls: They Called Their Website What?” reveals.

The volume compiles over 150 of these …. Read the original article  : here.

Miscarrying women can also have successful pregnancy

WASHINGTON – There’s good news for women who have gone through multiple miscarriages and all the pain it entails.

Even among the more than 80 percent who’ve had two or more miscarriages will eventually have a successful pregnancy with supportive care.
Although miscarriage is common — 30 percent of all women will experience at least …. Original source  : Miscarrying women can also have successful pregnancy.

Gene linked to birth defects identified

LONDON – An international team of scientists has identified a gene linked to birth defects.

The work, co-led by geneticists at the University of Leeds, together with colleagues from institutes and universities in Paris, Rome and San Diego, has appeared in the journal Nature Genetics.

The findings should allow couples at risk of conceiving babies with the [..] Read the original article: here.

3,300-year-old tomb of army chief discovered in ‘City of the Dead’

LONDON – Archeologists have discovered a 3,300-year-old tomb of a high-profile army commander in Egypt.

The tomb, which belongs to Ptahmes, 19th Dynasty army leader and royal scribe, was discovered at Saqqara, reports HeritageKey.com

Saqqara, located 40 kilometres south of Cairo is one of Egypt’s oldest burial sites, also known as the ‘City of the Dead’.

The discovery …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 3,300-year-old tomb of army chief discovered in ‘City of the Dead’.

1200 flint stones dating back to 250, 000 years unearthed in Syria

NEW DELHI – Around 1200 pieces of flint stones dating back to 250, 000 years ago were discovered at al-Sharar Valley near Daraa, Southern Syria.

The pieces were discovered by the expedition of Damascus University in cooperation with the Directorate …. Original article  : 1200 flint stones dating back to 250, 000 years unearthed in Syria.

New discovery may lead to more effective spinal-cord injury treatments

LONDON – Scientists have made an important discovery that could lead to more effective treatments for spinal-cord injuries.

Karim Fouad and David Bennett from the University of Alberta have identified one of the body’s natural self-repair mechanisms that kick in after …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : New discovery may lead to more effective spinal-cord injury treatments.

How acupuncture eases pain

LONDON – Scientists at the University of Rochester Medical Center have offered new insights into how acupuncture alleviates pain.

The researchers identified the molecule adenosine as a central player in parlaying some of the effects of acupuncture in the body.

Building on that …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Facebook malware attack spreading quickly

SYDNEY – Social networking site Facebook faced a third phishing attack on the weekend, with a malware, which steals login credentials and even gets home addresses, being downloaded through a video.

According to WebSense, the malware is spread via a … Original article on : Facebook malware attack spreading quickly.

Colours on butterflies’ wings may help fight banknote forgery

WASHINGTON – Researchers have deciphered a way to produce elusive colours found on the wings of tropical butterflies. The security printing industry can gain by using these colours, as it will make it harder to forge bank notes … Read more >>.

Soon, traffic lights to control cars for better fuel management

WASHINGTON – In the future, you might not have to worry about wasting fuel while waiting at traffic lights. A new technology will equip traffic lights to control your vehicle’s engine and improve its fuel efficiency.

IBM has already filed a patent on the system that … Read more »».

Vivid colours of butterflies could help cut bank fraud

LONDON – Scientists have discovered a way of mimicking the stunningly bright and beautiful colours found on the wings of tropical butterflies. The findings could help make bank notes and credit cards harder to forge.

Mathias Kolle, working with Ullrich Steiner Jeremy Baumberg, both professors at the University of Cambridge, studied the Indonesian peacock or Swallowtail …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Vivid colours of butterflies could help cut bank fraud.

Panasonic aims for top Japan market share in newly acquired solar-panel business

Panasonic aims to be Japan No. 1 in solar business

TOKYO – Panasonic Corp. is banking on the solar-panel business that it gained by acquiring domestic rival Sanyo, aiming for top market share of at least 35 percent in Japan by 2012.
New solar generation products, being offered in Japan starting next month, combine Sanyo Electric Co.’s …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Panasonic aims for top Japan market share in newly acquired solar-panel business.

Muggy day ahead for Delhiites

NEW DELHI – The temperatures may have dipped a little, but the humidity level will remain high for some time and Monday is likely to be a muggy day, the weatherman said.

“The relative humidity level is 65 percent while the minimum is 25 percent, and this will continue for a few more days,” said an …. Original source  : Muggy day ahead for Delhiites.

Malaysian minister sees no harm in animal test lab, says God made monkeys for experiments

Malaysia minister: God made animals for testing

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – A Malaysian minister defended an Indian company’s plans to build an animal testing medicine lab in his state, saying Monday that God created monkeys and rats for experiments to benefit humans.
The plans by India’s Vivo BioTech Ltd. to set up a biotechnology center in southern … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Malaysian minister sees no harm in animal test lab, says God made monkeys for experiments.

China develops fastest super computer

BEIJING – China has developed a super computer that runs at more than one quadrillion (one thousand million million) calculations per second, making it the fastest one in the country, experts have said.

The super computer named “Xingyun”, has been developed in Tianjin, and works at double the speed of “Tianhe-1″, the previous fastest machine in … Original article on : China develops fastest super computer.

Brooms up! NYC’s Central Park hosts Muggle Quidditch games for college, high school teams

Muggles take to broomsticks for Quidditch in NYC

NEW YORK – The seeker from the Bronx High School of Science had to jump a fence and follow the snitch down Fifth Avenue. He caught the snitch but it didn’t count because his broom wasn’t between his legs.
Bronx Science lost 50-30 to Lenox High School in Lenox, …. Original article  : Brooms up! NYC’s Central Park hosts Muggle Quidditch games for college, high school teams.

Bones believed to be remains of Mexican independence heroes removed from crypt for exams

Mexico removes heroes bones from crypt for study

MEXICO CITY – In a somber military ceremony, President Felipe Calderon of Mexico escorted skulls and bones believed to be the 200-year-old remains of 12 independence heroes from downtown crypts to a historic hilltop castle where they will be examined for authenticity.
The remains, deposited in crypts under the …. Original source  : Bones believed to be remains of Mexican independence heroes removed from crypt for exams.

“More is needed” to protect privacy on Facebook, says group

LONDON – Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg has said the settings on the site to protect privacy have been enhanced, but the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) claims that “more is needed” to resolve the problems related to privacy.

In the new privacy options, the site allows users to either select one setting to cover all information or … Read this article on Gaea Times at : “More is needed” to protect privacy on Facebook, says group.

Maximum temperature dips in Delhi

NEW DELHI – The national capital Sunday recorded a maximum temperature of 39.2 degrees Celsius which was two notches below normal for this time of the year, an Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) official said.

“The drop in temperature came due to the thunderstorm and light rains which some parts of the capital received Saturday,” the official … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Maximum temperature dips in Delhi.