Scientist reveals changing biodiversity trends over space and time

WASHINGTON – The distribution of species in space and time changes continually across the globe, according to a new study.

Janne Soininen of the University of Helsinki explores a number of recent studies on the topic, synthesizing conclusions from thousands of observations.

The study explains how … Read more : Scientist reveals changing biodiversity trends over space and time.

Large Hadron Collider recovering from general power cut

LONDON – The Large Hadron Collider (LHC) is running again, recovering from a recent power cut that affected its machine systems.

Cern (the European Organization for Nuclear Research), the body that operates the LHC, said power was cut to …. Source article  : Large Hadron Collider recovering from general power cut.

Sunless tanning spray may help heal post-surgery wounds

WASHINGTON – A compound found in sunless tanning spray may help heal post-operative tissue, according to a new American research.

A team of plastic surgeons from NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Sunless tanning spray may help heal post-surgery wounds.

High magnitude earthquake risk on American west coast increases by 37pc

LONDON – In the next 50 years, America’s Pacific Northwest has a 37 per cent chance of being hit by a magnitude 8 or larger earthquake, a new study shows.

Chris Goldfinger, a marine geologist at Oregon State University in Corvallis, along with his colleagues, examined more than … Read more : High magnitude earthquake risk on American west coast increases by 37pc.

Self-driven cars come closer to reality

WASHINGTON – Advancing towards cars that drive on their own, Volvo Car Corp. has tested its new S60 model, which has the first in-car system that can sense an imminent collision with pedestrians and brake automatically if the driver doesn’t.

The system is the latest in a line of developments made …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Self-driven cars come closer to reality.

Far-off stellar explosion behind shrapnel coming towards earth

LONDON – A scientist at the University of Wisconsin in Madison has said that the excess of high-energy particles hitting Earth could be shrapnel from a stellar explosion 800 light years away.

In the 1930s, it was suggested that supernovae could accelerate galactic cosmic … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Far-off stellar explosion behind shrapnel coming towards earth.

What happens when bubbles collide?

MELBOURNE – University of Melbourne have burst the secret behind what happens when bubbles collide-a discovery that has wide-ranging implications across many industries.

Bubbles hold the key to improving everything from ice cream to champagne to mining – even living body cells.

Using nano-fabrication facilities and the Atomic Force Microscope, the team of chemical engineers, chemists …. Source  : What happens when bubbles collide?.

Apple has sold 2m iPads in 60 days

LONDON – Apple has sold over two million iPads in the last 60 days since the video-playing tablet computer was put up for sale.

The iPad, which debuted in the US April 3, became available in countries including Japan, France and Canada on May 28.

And there are plans to launch the iPad in more countries …. Original source  : Apple has sold 2m iPads in 60 days.

Japanese spacecraft headed to Earth after asteroid probe

LONDON – Hayabusa, an unmanned Japanese spacecraft designed to return samples from an asteroid, has completed an important step on its journey back to Earth.

According to BBC News, it has achieved the second and largest of four engine firings designed to guide the probe back home.

The probe, which was designed to probe the asteroid Itokawa … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Japanese spacecraft headed to Earth after asteroid probe.

China ramping efforts to become supercomputer superpower

LONDON – China is all set to become the world’s supercomputing superpower- its Nebulae machine at the National Super Computer Centre in Shenzhen, was ranked second on the biannual Top 500 supercomputer list.

This is the second Chinese supercomputer that appears in the list of the top ten fastest machines.

However, the US still dominates the list …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : China ramping efforts to become supercomputer superpower.

New target for antidepressants revealed

WASHINGTON – Researchers at University of Michigan have provided the most detailed picture yet of a key receptor in the brain that influences the effectiveness of serotonin-related antidepressants, such as Prozac.he finding paves the way for a more targeted treatment of depression and anxiety with fewer side effects.

Depressive disorders change a person’s mood, emotions and … Original source on Gaea Times at : New target for antidepressants revealed.

Structure of nature’s ‘light switch’ deciphered

WASHINGTON – Scientists have deciphered the structure of a molecular ’switch’ much like the one plants use to sense light.

According to researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Brookhaven National Laboratory and collaborators at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, the findings may help explain how the switch works and could be used to design …. Original article  : Structure of nature’s ‘light switch’ deciphered.

Soon, spray to help treat premature ejaculation

WASHINGTON – An investigational new drug PSD502 has been found highly effective in treating primary premature ejaculation (PE).

Shionogi Pharma, Inc., a U.S.-based group company of Shionogi and Co., Ltd., has presented data summarizing the results of two pivotal studies of PSD502, a topical metered dose spray being developed for the treatment of PE. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Soon, spray to help treat premature ejaculation.

Study on flies may help offer insight into human metabolic disease

WASHINGTON – Commonalities between flies and humans can help offer a valuable new model for galactosemia, a metabolic disease resulting from an inherited defect that prevents the proper metabolism of galactose, a sugar commonly found in dairy products, like milk, say scientists.

The ability to study the disease is limited by a lack of animal models. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Study on flies may help offer insight into human metabolic disease.

Simple blood test for early cancer detection created

LONDON – British scientists have developed a simple blood test that can detect a cancer before a tumour has taken shape.

Described as offering a “paradigm shift” in cancer diagnosis, the test – due to be introduced in Britain by early next year – is the first to identify accurately the signals sent out by a …. Read the original article  : Simple blood test for early cancer detection created.

New discovery may help explain how cancer cells spread

WASHINGTON – Scientists at the University of California, San Diego have identified a novel enzyme that they believe plays a major role in the progression or metastasis of cancer cells.

The have discovered a previously unknown kinase that regulates cell proliferation, shape and migration.

According to researchers, the discovery could provide new target for future anticancer therapies.

Richard …. Read the original article  : New discovery may help explain how cancer cells spread.

Our brains store ‘templates’ for our own ringtones

LONDON – It looks like the human brain is wired to hear familiar sounds, such as a person’s name or phone tone, faster than others.

As part of the research, Anja Roye of the University of Leipzig in Germany and colleagues recorded the text-alert tones of 12 volunteers, then played them all the tones, at the …. Source  : Our brains store ‘templates’ for our own ringtones.

Risky alcohol-related driving behavior becomes worse at age 21

WASHINGTON – Alcohol-related driving-risk behaviours among college students become worse at the age of 21, according to a new study.

“Drinking and driving endangers the safety of not only the drinking driver and passengers, but also other individuals on the road,” said Amelia M. Arria, director of the Center on Young Adult Health and Development at … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Risky alcohol-related driving behavior becomes worse at age 21.

Seafood diet ‘led to evolution of big brains’

WASHINGTON – Our love of seafood goes way back. Archaeologists have found crocodiles, turtles and fish were eaten by early humans almost 2 million years ago.

According to the study’s researchers, this is the oldest evidence for a diet containing aquatic animals. And the nutrients they provided could … Read : Seafood diet ‘led to evolution of big brains’.

Google mapped Britain’s all WiFi networks

LONDON – Britain’s entire wireless network has been mapped by Google’s street view car fitted with radio aerials in order to use the database for commercial purposes through its internet search engine.

Every WiFi wireless router, the device that links a computer with the internet, has been entered into a Google database. The information was collected …. Read the original article  : Google mapped Britain’s all WiFi networks.

Squirrels show softer side by adopting orphaned pups

TORONTO – The squirrels you often see fighting over scraps may not seem

altruistic, but they have a softer side too — seen occasionally when they adopt orphaned kin.
The study by Andrew McAdam, professor at Guelph University, along with researchers
from the University of Alberta and McGill University, revealed that red squirrels … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Squirrels show softer side by adopting orphaned pups.

Tropical storm Agatha pours over Guatemala and El Salvador

WASHINGTON – Tropical Storm Agatha – the first tropical storm of the Eastern Pacific hurricane season, took an inland route, drenching El Salvador and Guatemala last weekend.

On May 30th, the heavy rains caused by the storms had left more than 100 people dead in Guatemala and El … Read more »».

A celestial menagerie on display in the Large Magellanic Cloud

WASHINGTON – In a spectacular new image from the Wide Field Imager (WFI) at ESO’s La Silla Observatory in Chile, astronomers have discovered a celestial menagerie of vast globular clusters and the remains left by brilliant supernova explosions in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : A celestial menagerie on display in the Large Magellanic Cloud.

Losing temper could actually be good for you

WASHINGTON – Have you ever wondered what really goes on in the body and the brain when we get angry? Well, a research has provided an insight.

When we get angry, the heart rate, arterial tension and testosterone production … Read more >>>.

‘Little brown balls’ link malaria and algae to common ancestor

WASHINGTON – Inconspicuous “little brown balls” in the ocean have linked malaria and the algae responsible for toxic red tides to a common ancestor, according to a study by University of British Columbia researchers.

In the study, UBC Botany Prof. Patrick Keeling has described … Read more »»».

Lazy crows pitch in when hardworking birds become handicapped

LONDON – Scrounging crows start contributing to group efforts when hardworking birds become handicapped, according to a study.

Carrion crows (Corvus corone) form stable groups that share the responsibilities of breeding and caring for the young.

Dominant breeders rely on helpers to …. Read the original article  : Lazy crows pitch in when hardworking birds become handicapped.

Driving under stress dangerous

SYDNEY – Never drive while you are stressed. It can be distracting and dangerous, says a new study.

Ides Wong from the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety studied 75 drivers aged 17-47 to investigate the negative impact anxiety had on drivers.
“Being anxious makes drivers unable to fully focus …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Driving under stress dangerous.

Age doesn’t dent one’s ability to make sound decisions

WASHINGTON – Just because your mom has turned 85, you shouldn’t assume you’ll have to take over her financial matters. She may be just as good or better than you at making quick, sound, money-making decisions, according to researchers at the Duke University Medical Centre (DUMC).

“It’s not age, it’s cognition that makes the difference in …. Read the original article  : Age doesn’t dent one’s ability to make sound decisions.

Crabs spy on competitors to detect female mates

MELBOURNE – Male fiddler crabs keep a check on other males waving their ‘love claw’ to detect the presence of a female, Australian researchers have found.

Male fiddler crabs have a large specialised claw that they use to fight and wave around to attract mates.

And thus, crabs spy on their competitors … Read more : Crabs spy on competitors to detect female mates.

Why lung cancer rates are increasing in non-smoking women

WASHINGTON – Scientists have found why lung cancer rates are increasing in women, particularly in non-smoking women.

Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center, led by Dr. Margie Clapper, worked in a mouse model of smoking-induced lung cancer.

They found that smoke triggers rapid changes in gene … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Why lung cancer rates are increasing in non-smoking women.

Jumping genes provide extensive “raw material” for evolution

WASHINGTON – Jumping genes provide extensive ‘raw material’ for evolution, an American study has shown.

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that any two peoples’ genomes differ at roughly 285 sites out of the 1139 sites studied.

These results were found by … Read more : Jumping genes provide extensive “raw material” for evolution.

Rare carnivorous plant makes it to top 10 list of new species

WASHINGTON – A rare carnivorous plant has made it to the top 10 list of newly discovered species.

Every year the International Institute for Species Exploration at Arizona State University names the Top 10 new species described in the previous calendar year.

The list for 2009 was published May 23 to coincide with … Read : Rare carnivorous plant makes it to top 10 list of new species.

Readers recall native language while learning second one

WASHINGTON – Research suggests that Chinese-speaking adults reading English recall the sound of Chinese translations.

The study, conducted by Yan Jing Wu, PhD, and Guillaume Thierry, PhD, of Bangor University in the United Kingdom, suggests that people who learn a second language … Read more >>.

Nanotechnology set to make computers faster

WASHINGTON – Scientists are looking at the possibility of replacing silicon transistors in computers with carbon nanotubes.

Johannes Svensson from the Department of Physics at the University of Gothenburg has investigated the manufacture and use of carbon … Read more »»».

Scientists suggest solutions for poisonous well water crisis in South Asia

WASHINGTON – Over 100 million people in rural southern Asia drink water contaminated with unsafe levels of arsenic – sourced by well water.

These people face double the risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and inhibition of mental development of children, among …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Antarctica may have been formed by asteroid strike: Study

LONDON – According to a new study, a massive asteroid that hit the Timor Sea around 35 million years ago may have contributed to the formation of the Antarctic ice sheets.

Andrew Glikson, a specialist in the study of extraterrestrial impacts, from the Planetary Science … Original article on : Antarctica may have been formed by asteroid strike: Study.

‘Anti-grooming’ software that detects paedophiles on the net created

LONDON – Scientists have developed “anti-grooming” software, which can detect whether kids may be chatting with an adult posing as a child or a teenager on the Internet.

The program, which has been developed by Lancaster University, uses language analysis technique to detect fraudsters.

The key is that … Original article on : ‘Anti-grooming’ software that detects paedophiles on the net created.

Monsoon likely to hit Bihar soon

PATNA – Holding out relief to the people, particularly farmers, of drought-prone Bihar, the weather office said Wednesday that the much-awaited monsoon is likely to hit the state between June 11 and 15.

Meteorological department officials here said monsoon clouds would hit the state after June 10.
“Monsoon is set to enter the state before … Original article on : Monsoon likely to hit Bihar soon.

Synthetic peptide may repair, regenerate stroke-injured brain tissue

WASHINGTON – A synthetic version of a naturally occurring peptide may be able to create new blood vessels and repair damaged nerve cells in lab animals, according to researchers.

“This successful experiment holds promise for treating clot-induced strokes in humans,” says study lead author Daniel C. Morris, M.D., senior staff physician in the Department of Emergency …. Original article  : Synthetic peptide may repair, regenerate stroke-injured brain tissue.

Boffins offer quick fix for queues

WASHINGTON – Scientists in Taiwan may have found the answer to a long standing problem – queues – in the theatre, cafes or post offices.

Business management professor Pen-Yuan Liao of the National United University in Miaoli, Taiwan, has devised a scientific formula he refers to as the “balking index”, which is referred to by the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Boffins offer quick fix for queues.

Guatemala sinkhole not a sinkhole, says expert

WASHINGTON – The giant sinkhole in Guatemala City that has caught attention of the world shouldn’t be called a sinkhole, according to an expert.

Geologist Sam Bonis claims “sinkholes” mean areas where bedrock is solid but has been eaten away by groundwater.

However, the situation beneath the Republic of Guatemala’s capital, according to Bonis, is far …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Model to calculate earthquake risks goes global

LONDON – Scientists are working towards developing a global model that will calculate seismic risks and help them reduce vulnerability to seismic shocks.

The Global Earthquake Model (GEM) will calculate seismic risk based on the geological characteristics of an area, as well as the types of building and the building regulations in place.

So far, the project … Original source on Gaea Times at : Model to calculate earthquake risks goes global.

US military develops ‘green’ decontaminants for terrorist attack sites

WASHINGTON – Chemists with the United States military have developed a set of ultra-strength cleaners that can get rid of nerve gas, mustard gas, radioactive isotopes, and anthrax, after a terrorist attack.

They are also non-toxic, based on ingredients found in foods, cosmetics, and other consumer products, unlike chlorine- and lye-based products that can react with …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : US military develops ‘green’ decontaminants for terrorist attack sites.

‘Brain pacemaker’ – effective treatment for Parkinson’s disease

LONDON – New studies show that a “brain pacemaker” called deep brain stimulation (DBS) is successful in treating Parkinson’s disease.

The study also puts an age-old debate to rest of which region of the brain to stimulate-the globus pallidus interna or the subthalamic nucleus. It says that stimulating either region resulted in similar improvements in motor …. Read the original article  : ‘Brain pacemaker’ – effective treatment for Parkinson’s disease.

Nanosponge drug treatment 3-5 times more effective than jabs

WASHINGTON – Scientists have found that a delivery system based on a technique called nanosponge is three to five times more effective at reducing tumor growth than direct injection.

“Effective targeted drug delivery systems have been a dream for a long time now but it has been largely frustrated by the complex chemistry that is involved,” …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Nanosponge drug treatment 3-5 times more effective than jabs.

Mars expedition starts in Moscow

Moscow, June 3 (IANS/RIA Novosti) A team in a simulated Mars expedition will “take off” for a 520-day “space trip” Thursday, an official said.

Six people will take part in the experiment in the Mars-500 module, which will simulate all aspects of a journey to the red planet, with a 250-day trip there, a 30-day stay …. Original source  : Mars expedition starts in Moscow.

Now, paper ‘dipstick’ test to determine blood type

WASHINGTON – Scientists have developed the first “dipstick” test for instantly determining a person’s blood type at a cost of just a few pennies.

Appearing in ACS’ semi-monthly journal Analytical Chemistry, the study explains the test which involves placing a drop of blood on a specially treated paper strip.

Gil Garnier and colleagues explain that determining …. Source  : Now, paper ‘dipstick’ test to determine blood type.

Monsoon may hit Orissa June 10

BHUBANESWAR – The south-west monsoon may arrive in Orissa as per schedule by June 10, an official said Thursday.

“We are expecting a normal monsoon. It may arrive in Orissa by June 10,” S.C. Sahu, director of the Bhubaneswar meteorological centre, told IANS.
The monsoon, which reached the Andamans three days ahead of its normal …. Source  : Monsoon may hit Orissa June 10.

Insulin pills for diabetics may make painful jabs history

WASHINGTON – Good news for diabetics on insulin: After years of research, insulin pills that could make it easier for patients to manage diabetes are finally moving ahead in clinical trials.

The new development may soon make painful insulin jabs a thing of the past.

The topic has been highlighted in the current issue of Chemical … Read more >>>.

Peaches, plums can help fight breast cancer

WASHINGTON – Peach and plum extracts can help fight breast cancer cells, according to lab tests at Texas AgriLife Research.

AgriLife Research scientists say two phenolic compounds are responsible for the cancer cell deaths in the study, which was published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry. The phenols are organic compounds that occur in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Peaches, plums can help fight breast cancer.

Bone drug may help fight breast cancer

LONDON – Zoledronic acid (Zometa), the bone strengthening drug, can help fight metastatic breast cancer when given before surgery, suggests a new research by Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.

In the study, when the drug was given along with chemotherapy for three months before breast cancer surgery, it reduced the number of women … Read more : Bone drug may help fight breast cancer.

Scientists devise part-human, part-machine transistor

WASHINGTON – Scientists have implanted a nano-sized transistor inside a cell-like membrane and powered it using the cell’s own fuel, paving way for new types of man-machine interactions.

The experiment is believed to be the most intimate linking between man and machine till date.

The technology may help experts learn the inner workings of disease-related proteins inside …. Source  : Scientists devise part-human, part-machine transistor.

Soon, ‘green’ cars that could run on CO2 and sunlight

LONDON – A team at Sandia National Laboratories is working on creating building blocks for synthetic liquid fuels that could reduce carbon dioxide emissions significantly.

Their cerium-oxide-based system can convert CO2 into carbon monoxide, and can also turn water into hydrogen.

The machine, called the Counter Rotating Ring Receiver Reactor Recuperator (CR5) consists of two chambers separated …. Source  : Soon, ‘green’ cars that could run on CO2 and sunlight.

Official: China faces challenge on cutting pollution emissions, ‘not optimistic’ about efforts

China ‘not optimistic’ on emissions cuts
BEIJING – China, the world’s biggest emitter of greenhouse gases, faces serious challenges to its efforts to cut environmental pollution, with one key pollutant increasing for the first time in three years, a senior Chinese official said Thursday.

Sulfur dioxide emissions increased by 1.2 percent year-on-year in the first quarter of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Official: China faces challenge on cutting pollution emissions, ‘not optimistic’ about efforts.

Eat less meat to tackle climate change: UN panel

LONDON – Eating meat causes environmental degradation and the world population needs to become vegetarian to tackle climate change, says a UN panel.

Experts believe that the greatest cause of greenhouse gas emissions is food production and the use of fossil fuels.
“A substantial reduction of impacts would only be possible with a substantial …. Original source  : Eat less meat to tackle climate change: UN panel.

Thursday brings dust, haze and heat in Delhi

NEW DELHI – The national capital was unusually warmer Thursday with a dust haze clouding everything and the minimum temperature at 34.7 degrees Celsius, seven notches above the average for this time of the year.

The low was higher than Wednesday’s 34 degrees when it broke a five-year record.
“Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 34.7 …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Coast Guard: BP engineers turn to giant shears to saw off leaking pipe spewing oil into Gulf

Giant shears to try to cut pipe leaking Gulf oil
COVINGTON, La. – The Coast Guard says BP engineers will try to use a pair of giant shears to slice off a leaking pipe spewing millions of gallons of oil into the Gulf of Mexico after a diamond-tipped saw became stuck.
The saw had sliced …. Original source  : Coast Guard: BP engineers turn to giant shears to saw off leaking pipe spewing oil into Gulf.

Calif. moves to ban plastic bags at grocery stores, encourages shoppers to bring own bags

Calif. moves to ban plastic bags at grocery stores

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – It could soon cost California shoppers at the checkout aisle if they forget to bring their own bags to the store under what would be the nation’s first statewide plastic bag ban.
The California Assembly on Wednesday passed legislation prohibiting pharmacies and grocery, liquor and …. Source article  : Calif. moves to ban plastic bags at grocery stores, encourages shoppers to bring own bags.

British physicist Stephen Hawking, black hole theorist, honored at celebrity-filled gala in NY

Stephen Hawking honored at NYC science, arts gala

NEW YORK – Luminaries from the fields of physics, opera, poetry, theater, music and dance gathered to pay tribute to British physicist Stephen Hawking on Wednesday, with performances and speeches at a gala in his honor.
After outliving his predicted death from his degenerative disease by more than 40 … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : British physicist Stephen Hawking, black hole theorist, honored at celebrity-filled gala in NY.

DOE report on Hanford workers’ protection from beryllium finds improvements but weaknesses

Report: Hanford beryllium program has weaknesses

RICHLAND, Wash. – A program to protect workers from a toxic metal at the nation’s most contaminated nuclear site has a number of weaknesses and could have been implemented more quickly, but it’s an improvement over past practices, a federal report concluded Wednesday.
The U.S. Department of Energy initiated an independent … Read more >>>.

Scientists seek former students in toxic Montana town to learn scope of asbestos illnesses

Scientists seek former students in toxic MT town

SPOKANE, Wash. – Researchers have embarked on an ambitious study to track the health of thousands of high school graduates over a half century in a Montana town where a toxic mine has killed hundreds of people and made it the deadliest Superfund site in the nation.
People who … Read more : Scientists seek former students in toxic Montana town to learn scope of asbestos illnesses.

Teens’ brains hardwired to take risks

LONDON – Adolescent brains are biologically wired to engage in risky behavior, according to a new study.

“Our results raise the hypothesis that these risky behaviors, such as experimenting with drugs or having unsafe sex, are actually driven by over activity …. Source  : Teens’ brains hardwired to take risks.

Hints of life on Saturn’s moon Titan

LONDON – Cassini orbiter has discovered hints of life on Saturn’s moon Titan.

Titan is too cold to support liquid water on its surface, but some scientists suggest exotic life-forms could exist in the lakes of liquid methane or ethane that dot the moon’s surface.

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

Molecular changes that helped Tamiflu resistance explained

WASHINGTON – American biologists have come up with a molecular explanation for the evolution of Tamiflu resistance.

The study, led by David Baltimore, California Institute of Technology’s Robert Andrews Millikan Professor of Biology and postdoctoral scholar Jesse D. Bloom, appears …. Source article  : Molecular changes that helped Tamiflu resistance explained.

Low cardio fitness levels foreshadow stroke risk

WASHINGTON – Lower levels of cardio-respiratory fitness in men can increase the risk of death due to stroke by sixty percent, a new study has found.

The study was conducted at the University of South Carolina’s (USC) Arnold School of Public Health (ASPH).
A stroke is a condition where a blood clot or ruptured artery … Original source on Gaea Times at : Low cardio fitness levels foreshadow stroke risk.

Successful islet isolation process makes diabetics insulin independent

WASHINGTON – A team of researchers has found a way to isolate pancreatic islet cells from brain dead donors. These cells when received by three type 1-diabetes patients made them insulin independent.

“Inconsistent islet isolation is one of the important issues in clinical islet transplantation,” said Dr. …. Source  : Successful islet isolation process makes diabetics insulin independent.

Early Earth haze similar to Titan may have been UV shield for planet

WASHINGTON – A new study shows a thick organic haze that covered the Earth several billion years ago, similar to that on Saturn’s largest moon, Titan, may have provided ultraviolet shield for planet.

The University of Colorado at Boulder scientists believe the haze was made up primarily of methane and nitrogen chemical byproducts … Original article on : Early Earth haze similar to Titan may have been UV shield for planet.

Device to help blind manoeuvre around obstacles developed

WASHINGTON – An innovative optical radar system has been developed by Ben-Gurion University of the Negev students that helps blind people manoeuvre around obstacles.

The radar system incorporates a computer, two video cameras and a scanning light source to warn the blind of obstacles with audible alerts.

The system detects obstacles – … Read more »».

Seizure drug could help treat severe genetic liver disease

WASHINGTON – According to new research, a drug used in treating seizures can prove effective in treating genetic liver disease – for which many children undergo liver transplantation.

The liver scarring of a1-antitrypsin (AT) deficiency, the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Seizure drug could help treat severe genetic liver disease.

How did higher life on Earth evolve?

LONDON – An international research team has for the first time decoded the complete genome of a brown alga, opening a new door to the understanding the evolution of two key prerequisites for higher life on Earth – multicellularity and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : How did higher life on Earth evolve?.

Like humans, mongooses too pass on traditions to their young

WASHINGTON – Just like humans, mongooses too carry out traditions that are passed down from one generation to the next, a new study has found.

Mongooses do have some features that made them ideal for a study like this one as a result of peculiarities of …. Source article  : Like humans, mongooses too pass on traditions to their young.

Anti-fear drug may help erase painful memories

LONDON – It is possible to overcome bad memories of painful situations with the help of a chemical that works on the brain, say scientists.

Researchers suggest that anti-fear medication could help soldiers deal with post-traumatic stress disorder.he new study was carried out on laboratory rats.

According to boffins, instead of working in the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Anti-fear drug may help erase painful memories.

Low-dose HRT skin patches ’safer than tablets’

LONDON – A new study by researchers in Canada and Germany suggests that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) skin patches containing low doses of oestrogen carry less risk of stroke than oral therapy and may represent a safer alternative to tablets.

However, the risk increases significantly …. Read the original article  : here.

Is Saturn’s moon Titan home to some kind of exotic life form?

WASHINGTON – Complex chemical activity on the surface of Saturn’s moon Titan has baffled scientists. While some think it’s non-biological chemistry, others believe there might exist some primitive, exotic form of life.

Astro-biologists theorize that the signatures fulfil two important conditions necessary …. Original article  : Is Saturn’s moon Titan home to some kind of exotic life form?.

Patients can “regrow their knee” in lab

LONDON – In a revolutionary approach, British medics have found a novel way to “re-grow” knees in patients whose knee cartilages have been damaged.

Because the body cannot regenerate shock-absorbing cartilage, thousands of patients have to undergo multiple knee replacement operations. But … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Patients can “regrow their knee” in lab.

China’s Yangtze River 40 million years older than previously thought

WASHINGTON – A new research has clarified that the Yangtze River in China is 40 million years older than previously thought.

A study of minerals by a team led by Durham University reveals that the Yangtze River began to cut the Three Gorges area around 45 million years ago.

Findings …. Original source  : China’s Yangtze River 40 million years older than previously thought.

Report: Myanmar beginning a nuclear weapons program

Report: Myanmar seeking nuclear weapons
BANGKOK – Documents smuggled out of Myanmar by an army defector indicate its military regime is trying to develop nuclear weapons and long-range missiles, and North Korea is probably assisting the program, an expatriate media group said Friday.

The Norway-based Democratic Voice of Burma said the defector had been involved in the …. Source  : Report: Myanmar beginning a nuclear weapons program.

Massive decline in butterflies in Himalayas (June 5 is World Environment Day)

SHIMLA – The lofty western Himalayas are being slowly robbed of their butterflies, with at least 50 percent of the species showing a massive decline in less than a decade due to human interference.

Studies conducted by the high altitude zoology field station of the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) based in Solan town of Himachal …. Source  : Massive decline in butterflies in Himalayas (June 5 is World Environment Day).

Mercury in Delhi records sharp drop after rains

NEW DELHI – A day after the minimum temperature soared to its highest in over 40 years, Delhiites Friday woke up to a pleasant morning with thundershowers, reported in some parts of the capital, bringing down the mercury sharply.

Residents of the capital got some respite from the scorching summer as the minimum temperature …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Mercury in Delhi records sharp drop after rains.

Amateur astronomer who discovered collision scar on Jupiter spots another hit

Amateur astronomer spots another Jupiter strike

LOS ANGELES – Jupiter has gotten whacked again.
An amateur astronomer in Australia peering at the giant gas planet Thursday reported witnessing a bright flash from an object hitting Jupiter and apparently burning up in the atmosphere.
“When I saw the flash, I couldn’t believe it,” said amateur astronomer Anthony Wesley. “The …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Amateur astronomer who discovered collision scar on Jupiter spots another hit.

Aging-related gene plays role in stem cell differentiation

WASHINGTON – Researchers from the Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine and the Department of Medicine at Thomas Jefferson University claim that a gene shown to play a role in the aging process appears to play a role in the regulation of the differentiation of embryonic stem cells.

In the study, published online in …. Original source  : Aging-related gene plays role in stem cell differentiation.

Global warming not the only cause behind Great Aletsch Glacier’s illness

LONDON – Man-made global warming may not be the only reason behind the receding of the Great Aletsch Glacier, which is the largest Alpine glacier, in Valais, Switzerland.

The glacier has receded by more than two kilometers during the twentieth century.

However, Matthias Huss, a glaciologist at the University of Fribourg in Switzerland, claims that about … Read more >>>.

Boffins approaching universal treatment for all influenza strains

WASHINGTON – A novel component of the influenza virus has been discovered by researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine which may be the key to disabling the virus’s ability to replicate itself and to developing a universal anti-viral treatment.

The finding has been published June 1 online in Proceedings of the National Academy of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Life possible on Mars’

WASHINGTON – Researchers have discovered that methanogenic bacteria that produce methane at a spring in Canada could be similar to earlier or present springs on Mars – suggesting possibility of life sustenance.

Dr. Lyle Whyte, McGill University microbiologist, doubted the possibility of life in such a hypersaline subzero environment. But big bubbles of methane that come … Original source on Gaea Times at : ‘Life possible on Mars’.

Can otters ’sniff-out’ their prey underwater?

LONDON – Scientists may be close to solving the mystery – whether otters can really smell their prey underwater or not.

The mystery may be solved by a wildlife expert who conducted an experiment on camera for a BBC programme.

Now Charlie Hamilton James, a wildlife photographer who has watched otters for 20 years, believes he …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Can otters ’sniff-out’ their prey underwater?.

1,000-year-old revamped frescoes unveiled in China

NEW DELHI – A group of 1,000-year-old frescoes have been revamped by cultural experts in central China’s Hunan Province and nveiled to the public for the first time.

Kept at Yuelu Academy in the provincial capital Changsha, the revamped frescoes have the personified images of the 12 animals representing China’s birth signs, namely, rat, ox, tiger, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 1,000-year-old revamped frescoes unveiled in China.

Cockroaches know where to find the best food sources

LONDON – Ever wondered how cockroaches seem to know the best place to grab a meal?

New research at Queen Mary, University of London, suggests that just like humans the cockroaches share their local knowledge of the best food sources and follow ‘recommendations’ from others.
This work shows how groups of the insects seem to [..] Read the original article: here.

Rains in Punjab, Haryana push down temperature

CHANDIGARH – People of Punjab and Haryana finally got some respite from the sweltering heat Saturday as the minimum temperature fell below average in most areas after rains and thunderstorm.

Strong winds also felled trees and disrupted electricity supply.
Amritsar in Punjab recorded a minimum temperature of 20 degrees Celsius Saturday after 24.8 mm …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Rains in Punjab, Haryana push down temperature.

Researchers crack open secret of superbug’s resistance

TORONTO – Scientists have stumbled upon a central processing unit (CPU) of a superbug’s weaponry which will provide new options to fight back and disable the virulent bacteria.

A team from the McMaster University’s Institute for Infectious Disease Research has revealed that a small chemical, made by the superbug Staphylococcus aureus and its drug-resistant forms, determines …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Researchers crack open secret of superbug’s resistance.

Papyrus featuring Cleopatra’s handwriting goes on display

LONDON – Two fragments of papyrus, which feature the handwriting of Cleopatra, have gone on display.

The document has the Greek inscription, “make it happen” which refers to a tax break for a friend of her husband Mark Antony.

It is one of 150 artifacts in the exhibition, reports The Telegraph.

Some of the items in “Cleopatra …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Rains in store for Delhi

NEW DELHI – Delhiites can look forward to pleasant weather Saturday as met officials predicted partly cloudy skies, rain in some parts of the city and a dip in the maximum temperature.

“The sky will be partly cloudy. There is a possibility of rain in some parts,” said an official of the India Meteorological Department (IMD). …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Goa’s underwater relics under threat: Marine scientists

PANAJI – A combination of scuba gear equipped treasure hunters and government apathy is gnawing away at Goa’s underwater heritage, according to scientists from the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), a central marine research institute.

NIO scientists, who have discovered three centuries-old shipwrecks in the seas off Goa, have warned that amateur treasure seekers were …. Original source  : Goa’s underwater relics under threat: Marine scientists.

Briton becomes 1st woman to row solo across Pacific, receives warm welcome in Papua New Guinea

Briton is 1st woman to row solo across Pacific

SYDNEY – A British environmentalist has become the first woman to row alone across the Pacific Ocean, receiving a rock star welcome in Papua New Guinea after finishing a nearly 8,000-mile (13,000-kilometer) journey.
Thousands turned out to welcome Roz Savage, 42, as she rowed her 23-foot (7-meter) boat [..] Read the original article: here.

Clinton aide Kagan pursued liberal agenda with strong dose of legal, political practicality

Kagan pushed liberal policies with pragmatism
WASHINGTON – Newly released documents from her days as an aide to former President Bill Clinton portray Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan as a person of strong opinions and sometimes overtly liberal views, but above all a pragmatist who pursued …. Source article  : Clinton aide Kagan pursued liberal agenda with strong dose of legal, political practicality.

Feds settle lawsuit seeking Endangered Species Act protections for 7 penguin species

Feds settle lawsuit over protection for penguins

SAN FRANCISCO – Several species of penguins will get special protection after a federal judge in San Francisco approved a legal settlement involving the Endangered Species Act.
Under the agreement approved Thursday by U.S. District Judge Samuel Conti, the U.S. Department of the Interior Department will finalize protections for seven … Read : Feds settle lawsuit seeking Endangered Species Act protections for 7 penguin species.

PayPal millionaire’s test rocket reaches orbit on 1st try, draws praise from NASA, White House

Millionaire’s test rocket reaches orbit on 1st try
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A multimillionaire’s test rocket blasted off on its maiden voyage Friday and successfully reached orbit in a dry run for NASA’s push to go commercial.
SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket achieved Earth orbit nine minutes into the flight as planned, drawing praise from NASA, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : PayPal millionaire’s test rocket reaches orbit on 1st try, draws praise from NASA, White House.

Federal appeals court: Critical habitat for Mexican spotted owl in 4 Western states to stand

Mexican spotted owl habitat protection upheld

PHOENIX – An appeals court says a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service decision to designate 8.6 million acres in four Western states as critical habitat for an endangered owl will stand.
Friday’s decision by a panel of the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals upholds a 2008 ruling by a federal judge … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Federal appeals court: Critical habitat for Mexican spotted owl in 4 Western states to stand.

Grizzlies listed as threatened in Alberta even as bears rebound elsewhere

Alberta grizzlies listed as threatened
Grizzly bears have been listed as threatened in the Canadian province of Alberta, and a ban on hunting has been extended by officials who say the animals are suffering from habitat loss and low reproductive success.

While bears elsewhere in the Northern Rockies have been rebounding from near-extermination last century, fewer than … Read more »».

Alaska sues federal government to overturn listing of Cook Inlet beluga whales as endangered

Alaska sues to overturn beluga whale listing

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – The state of Alaska sued Friday to overturn the listing of beluga whales in Cook Inlet, home to the Port of Anchorage, as an endangered species.
The lawsuit, filed in Washington, D.C., claims the federal government overreached and did not follow its own laws two years ago … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Alaska sues federal government to overturn listing of Cook Inlet beluga whales as endangered.

PayPal millionaire’s rocket blasts off on 1st test flight, headed to space on tryout for NASA

Millionaire’s rocket blasts off on 1st test flight
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A multimillionaire’s test rocket blasted off on its maiden voyage Friday and successfully reached orbit in a dry run for NASA’s push to go commercial.
SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket achieved Earth orbit nine minutes into the flight as planned, drawing praise from NASA, …. Source article  : PayPal millionaire’s rocket blasts off on 1st test flight, headed to space on tryout for NASA.

Combination treatment ineffective for advanced melanoma patients

WASHINGTON – The combination of two different chemotherapies and a previously approved treatment for kidney and liver cancers is not effective against advanced melanoma, a rare form of skin cancer, according to a new study.

The research was presented at the 46th annual meeting of the American …. Read the original article  : Combination treatment ineffective for advanced melanoma patients.

Chemo-Vandetanib combo effective for lung cancer treatment: Study

LONDON – Oral targeted therapy Vandetanib shows clinical benefit when combined with standard chemotherapy for lung cancer, a new international Phase III trial has shown.

The research from The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center has appeared in the Lancet Oncology.

The findings mark the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chemo-Vandetanib combo effective for lung cancer treatment: Study.

Google doodle celebrates Dennis Gabor’s birth

LONDON – Google has honoured holograph inventor Dennis Gabor.

The Google doodle marked the 110th anniversary of the Nobel Prize winner’s birth.

He won the Nobel Prize for Physics in 1971, for his creation of a system of lensless, three-dimensional photography.

The Hungarian-born electrical engineer worked with the firm Siemens and Halske in Berlin from 1927.

Gabor, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Why boozers enjoy a drag with their drinks

LONDON – People who drink are often those who smoke because the centre in the brain that derives pleasure from both these actions is the same, claim researchers.

Traute Flatscher-Bader at the University of Queensland in Brisbane, Australia, and colleagues did a post-mortem analysis of gene expression in the brains of smokers, alcoholics and those who …. Read the original article  : Why boozers enjoy a drag with their drinks.

Potential genetic factor in eating disorders discovered

WASHINGTON – A possible biological culprit in the development of eating disorders during puberty has been discovered by scientists.

The groundbreaking pilot study led by Michigan State University found that influence of one’s genes on eating disorder symptoms was much greater in pubertal girls with higher levels of estradiol than pubertal girls with lower levels of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Potential genetic factor in eating disorders discovered.

Darth Vader’s psychology revealed

WASHINGTON – A study on the transformation of lead character Anakin Skywalker into Darth Vader in ‘Star Wars’ has been hinted by researchers as being due to a borderline personality disorder.

According to French psychiatrists and psychologists, the tragic hero of the ‘Star Wars’ prequels displays patterns of instability and impulsivity in the second and third …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Darth Vader’s psychology revealed.

Protein that thwarts tumor invasion uncovered

WASHINGTON – Cancer cells lacking a key protein are more invasive and more likely to metastasize, providing a possible drug target to combat certain tumor types, scientists at UT Southwestern Medical Center have determined.

“Further down the line we could create a drug that would bring COMMD1 protein levels back to normal, or even above normal, … Read : Protein that thwarts tumor invasion uncovered.

‘Religion made us human’

WASHINGTON – A psychologist has in a new book stressed that religion played a very important role in the grim struggles of prehistory, providing humans with a way to relate to each other and the world around them.

Matt Rossano, professor and head of the Department of Psychology at Southeastern and author of the book “Supernatural … Read more : ‘Religion made us human’.

One-shot radiotherapy ‘effective against breast cancer’

LONDON – A new study, led by a UK research team, has suggested that a single dose of radiation during surgery is just as effective as a prolonged course of radiotherapy for breast cancer.

The technique, which involves a single shot of radiotherapy to a tumour site, has been tested in more than 2,000 patients.

The researchers … Read : One-shot radiotherapy ‘effective against breast cancer’.

Oral appliance therapy may benefit sleep apnea patients

WASHINGTON – A new study has backed the use of oral appliance therapy for patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

According to the new research, between 31 and 53 months after beginning oral appliance therapy, the sleep apnea treatment remained effective. Subjective daytime sleepiness, fatigue severity, and quality of life also remained improved.

Mandibular advancement appliances (MAA) … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Oral appliance therapy may benefit sleep apnea patients.

Don’t count on selenium to prevent lung cancer, suggests study

WASHINGTON – A new study has shown that taking the popular mineral supplement selenium doesn’t reduce the likelihood of lung cancer recurrence.

Lead author Daniel D. Karp, a professor in the department of thoracic/head and neck medical oncology at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, presented the finding at the American Society of Clinical …. Source article  : Don’t count on selenium to prevent lung cancer, suggests study.

Promising treatment for headache, dizziness, caused by traumatic brain injury

WASHINGTON – Symptoms of headache, dizziness and anxiety in some patients with traumatic brain injury potentially could be alleviated or even eliminated with specialized eyeglass lenses containing prisms, says a new study.

The investigators included doctors from three southeast Michigan hospitals and one in private practice, and involved 43 patients with TBI.

“This represents a new approach …. Source article  : Promising treatment for headache, dizziness, caused by traumatic brain injury.

BP CEO’s ads apologizing for the Gulf oil spill earn more criticism than sympathy

Apologetic BP ads get criticism, not sympathy
MIAMI – An apologetic advertising campaign by BP for causing the biggest oil spill in U.S. history has earned the company more criticism than sympathy as the pollution spreads across the Gulf Coast from Louisiana into Alabama and Florida.
The …. Source article  : BP CEO’s ads apologizing for the Gulf oil spill earn more criticism than sympathy.

Master your Windows 7 desktop

WASHINGTON – Who’s in control of your Windows 7 desktop – you or the operating system?

With applications and icons scattered all over the place, constant pop-up notifications, and programmes hidden deep within the Start menu, you might feel like Microsoft has done its best to hinder your productivity rather than enhance it.
But … Original source on Gaea Times at : Master your Windows 7 desktop.

Aliens exist on Saturn’s moon: NASA

LONDON – Scientists at US space agency NASA have found vital clues that primitive aliens could be living on Titan, one of Saturn’s biggest moons.

On the basis of chemical composition found on Titan’s surface, the experts believe that life forms have been breathing in the planet’s atmosphere and also feeding on its surface’s fuel.
The … Read more : Aliens exist on Saturn’s moon: NASA.

Seals’ bodies switch fuel usage as they begin diving

WASHINGTON – The Weddell seal’s body switches fuel usage as the animal turns into a diver from a non-diving pup, a new American research shows.

The study, conducted by Baylor University biologists, is the first to show that an animal has the ability to switch what type of fuels they burn in their muscles.

The … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Seals’ bodies switch fuel usage as they begin diving.

Badge, bill colour of house sparrow signal testosterone levels

WASHINGTON – A team of scientists has found that the colour of a house sparrow’s badge and bill is indicative of its testosterone – and hence – its dominance and quality.

According to scientists at Max Planck Institute for Ornithology in Seewiesen, Germany, the size of the badge was independent of hormone levels and the levels … Read : Badge, bill colour of house sparrow signal testosterone levels.

Now get your own ’space-pad’ and a taxi to ‘drive’ you there!

WASHINGTON – For those who feel that the Earth is too small a place to live, a company has started building ’space-pads’ – not just that – it will arrange a taxi for you to get there too.

“We’re coming closer than ever before to having a space transportation system,” Discovery News quoted Mike Gold, chief … Original article on : Now get your own ’space-pad’ and a taxi to ‘drive’ you there!.

Mercury drops in Delhi after rains

NEW DELHI – Delhi recorded a sharp drop in temperature Sunday, a day after traces of rain accompanied by a cool breeze lifted away the dust haze blanketing the capital’s skies.

Residents of the capital got some respite from the scorching heat as the minimum temperature settled at 25.4 degrees Celsius, three notches below normal …. Source article  : Mercury drops in Delhi after rains.

Traces of rain in Delhi, pleasant weekend in store (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – Traces of rain were recorded in some parts of Delhi Saturday evening as a dust haze during the day shielded the city from the sun and a cool breeze pulled down the maximum temperature, promising a pleasant weekend.

According the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the capital Saturday recorded a maximum temperature …. Read the original article  : Traces of rain in Delhi, pleasant weekend in store (Second Lead).

Daily breathing exercise ensures more oxygen for muscles

WASHINGTON – Daily breathing exercises for six weeks freed more oxygen for other muscles by cutting down on the amount required by breathing or inspiratory muscles during exercise.

Louise Turner, researcher in kinesiology at the Indiana University, said just the act of breathing during an endurance activity such as running, swimming or cycling, performed at maximum …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

One in ten web users putting personal info at risk

LONDON – One in ten Internet users browses the web without sufficient safety thereby putting their personal information at risk, a new study has revealed.

The survey, conducted by anti-virus software provider AVG, also found that 718 million pounds worth of downloaded music is at risk because people storing their music online have not used adequate … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : One in ten web users putting personal info at risk.

Sex casts its spell on sleeping people too

TORONTO – Sexsomnia, which involves initiating sex with a bed partner while asleep, afflicts nearly eight percent of sleep disorder patients, says a new research.

The disorder was found to be more common in men than women. Results indicate that 7.6 percent of patients (63 of 832) at a sleep disorder centre reported that they had …. Read the original article  : Sex casts its spell on sleeping people too.

Promising step toward generating new source of clean energy

MELBOURNE – Researchers may have found a new alternative for producing clean energy – by using a silver compound to ’split water’ into oxygen and hydrogen.

Dr Zhiguo Yi from the Australian National University (ANU) and collaborators in Australia, China and …. Source  : Promising step toward generating new source of clean energy.

58000-year-old glue and paint factory found in Africa

WASHINGTON – Archaeologists have stumbled upon a once-thriving ochre powder production site in South Africa.

The colour and glue trade could have been a blossoming industry some 58,000 years ago. The find also indicates first time evidence for ochre powder processing on cemented hearths … Read more : 58000-year-old glue and paint factory found in Africa.

Laser-like sensors could sniff out hidden explosives

LONDON – A physicist has developed a device capable of sniffing out hidden explosives such as TNT.

Graham Turnbull, a physicist at the University of St Andrew’s in Fife, UK, and colleagues have developed a device that uses a film of polyfluorene, a plastic that emits laser light when bathed in photons.

Additionally, its …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Laser-like sensors could sniff out hidden explosives.

Regular bedtime makes children smarter

WASHINGTON – Children in households with bedtime rules turn out to be more intelligent, according to new study.

The study, conducted by scientists at SRI International, an independent, non-profit research institute in California, has shown that youngsters who had regular bedtimes were better at languages, reading and maths than those than did not.

Those who went … Original article on : Regular bedtime makes children smarter.

NASA Rover finds clue to Mars past

WASHINGTON – Rocks examined by NASA’s Spirit Mars Rover hold evidence of a wet, non-acidic ancient environment that may have been favourable for life.

Confirming this mineral clue took four years of analysis by several scientists.
An outcrop that Spirit examined in late 2005 revealed high concentrations of carbonate, which originates in wet, near-neutral conditions, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : NASA Rover finds clue to Mars past.

Paper industry to plant test forests of genetically altered eucalyptus in 7 Southern states

Paper industry tests genetically altered trees

TAMPA, Fla. – The commercial paper industry’s plans to plant forests of genetically altered eucalyptus trees in seven Southern states has generated more cries from critics worried that such a large introduction of a bioengineered nonnative plant could throw natural ecosystems out of whack.
ArborGen, a biotechnology venture affiliated with three …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Plans to make artificial clouds to fight global warming may backfire

LONDON – Making artificial clouds to fight global warming could make things worse, according to experts.

Scientists had come up with the idea of man-made clouds to reflect sunlight and heat back into space almost twenty years ago.

It was proposed men can form clouds over the oceans by injecting salt spray into the air from … Read : Plans to make artificial clouds to fight global warming may backfire.

Scientists find cholesterol regulating ‘remote-control’ in brain

LONDON – Researchers have found a potential new target for pharmacologic control of cholesterol levels – a hormone called ghrelin in the brain that signals hunger pangs and regulates cholesterol circulation.

The animal study was led by Matthias Tschop, professor in the University of Cincinnati (UC) endocrinology division.

“We have long thought that cholesterol is exclusively regulated … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Scientists find cholesterol regulating ‘remote-control’ in brain.

Archaeologists discover Roman gladiator cemetery near York city centre

LONDON – Archaeologists have discovered what they believe is an ancient Roman gladiator cemetery near York city centre.

About 80 remains have been unearthed since the investigation began in 2004, with more than half of them decapitated.

“The skulls were literally found somewhere else in the grave – not on top of the shoulders,” The Times … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Archaeologists discover Roman gladiator cemetery near York city centre.

Schizophrenia drug ’shrinks brain’

LONDON – Researchers have found that haloperidol, a commonly-prescribed antipsychotic drug, temporarily reduces the size of a part in brain linked to movement and coordination within two hours of intake.

However, it causes side effects such as shaking, drooling and restless leg syndrome.

In the experiment healthy volunteers experienced impaired motor abilities that coincided with diminished grey-matter … Original source on Gaea Times at : Schizophrenia drug ’shrinks brain’.

Poisonous elements found in popular protein drinks

WASHINGTON – Protein drinks contain poisonous elements, according to a new report. monthly review of consumer products and services, the Consumer Reports, has found that three such drinks available in the market had harmful content.

EAS Myoplex Original Dark Chocolate Shake and two versions of Muscle Milk chocolate drinks, the report claims, had high levels …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Poisonous elements found in popular protein drinks.

Malaysia rescues 2 baby pygmy elephants on Borneo island in 1st cases of parental abandonment

2 abandoned baby pygmy elephants saved in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Malaysian wildlife authorities rescued two starving pygmy elephant calves on Borneo island in the first known cases of the endangered animals being apparently abandoned by their mothers, an official said Monday.
Plantation workers discovered a 2-year-old female elephant stuck in a moat Friday, two weeks …. Read the original article  : here.

Famed swallows of Calif.’s Mission San Juan Capistrano now choosing to nest at country club

Famed swallows of Capistrano nest in country club

CHINO HILLS, Calif. – The famous cliff swallows of Mission San Juan Capistrano have made a new home at a ritzy new country club.
The migratory birds that annually return to the historic Southern California church flew right past it this spring, choosing to make their nests at the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Famed swallows of Calif.’s Mission San Juan Capistrano now choosing to nest at country club.

Rain expected in Delhi

NEW DELHI – It was a pleasant start to the week Monday with an overcast sky and met officials predicting rain in some parts of the national capital.

“Skies will be partly cloudy. There is a possibility of thunderstorm and squall later during the day,” said an official of the India Meteorological Department (IMD). …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Rain expected in Delhi.

Radiation plus hormones boosts prostate cancer survival; new breast cancer drug shows promise

Study: Radiation boosts prostate cancer survival

CHICAGO – Doctors are reporting a key advance in treating men with cancer that has started to spread beyond the prostate: survival is significantly better if radiation is added to standard hormone treatments.
Results of the study were given Sunday at a cancer conference, where other research showed that an experimental … Original source on Gaea Times at : Radiation plus hormones boosts prostate cancer survival; new breast cancer drug shows promise.

World Environment Day observed in Dubai

Dubai, June 6 (IANS/WAM) The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has observed World Environment Day as part of the UN effort to mitigate global warming.

DEWA, on the occasion of World Environment Day June 5, organised various activities in the city Saturday to promote best electricity and water consumption practices.
An exhibition was held … Read more »»».

US defense secretary backs longtime associate as Obama’s pick to oversee national intelligence

Gates: New US intelligence chief the right choice
BAKU, Azerbaijan – U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates said Sunday that his Pentagon intelligence chief, in line to oversee all American spy agencies, has the ability to forge consensus among that sprawling network.
Retired Air Force Lt. Gen. James R. Clapper, nominated by President Barack Obama on …. Source article  : US defense secretary backs longtime associate as Obama’s pick to oversee national intelligence.

Balanced protein diet can cut nitrogen build up on dairy farms

WASHINGTON – Up to 35 percent of the accumulated nitrogen on dairy cattle farms can be reduced with a balanced diet in protein content without reducing milk production, suggests a new research.

Improving the nutrition of dairy cattle is a key instrument for reducing the environmental problems caused by the accumulation of nitrogen on dairy farms. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Novel mechanism may help turn off cancer growth in humans

WASHINGTON – Despite being different organisms, plants and animals share a surprising number of biological mechanisms. Now, a plant biologist at Tel Aviv University says that one of these mechanisms may be the answer for turning off cancer growth in humans.

Shaul Yalovsky, of the Molecular Biology and Ecology of Plants Department at Tel Aviv University, … Read more : Novel mechanism may help turn off cancer growth in humans.

Simple polymer-based filter cleans water, recovers oil

WASHINGTON – A University of Pittsburgh engineering professor has developed a technique for separating oil from water via a cotton filter coated in a chemical polymer that blocks oil while allowing water to pass through.

Di Gao, an assistant professor and William Kepler Whiteford Faculty Fellow in the Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Mosquito saliva on honey-soaked cards may signal infection outbreaks

LONDON – Scientists are analysing saliva samples containing viral RNA, from mosquitoes, to determine the possibility of infection.

Scientists earlier used traps baited with carbon dioxide or light to attract the insects but they were unable to distinguish between viruses that are safely confined to the mosquitoes’ gut and those that have migrated to their salivary … Read more >>.

New method to detect tumours faster

WASHINGTON – Scientists at the Fraunhofer Institute for Photonic Microsystems IPMS in Dresden are working to considerably speed up cancer diagnosis.

They have developed a microscope head with a diameter of just eight millimetres, which can optically resolve and magnify tissue cells measuring just 10 to 20 micrometers. Fitted in the tip of an endoscope it …. Source article  : New method to detect tumours faster.

Diabetes, obesity drugs may help treat hepatitis C

WASHINGTON – A new research led by the University of Leeds has found that common drugs used to treat conditions such as diabetes and obesity can be used to successfully treat hepatitis C virus infection.

Drugs such as anti-diabetic drug Metformin and AICAR, used to combat obesity, can prevent the hepatitis C virus from replicating in …. Read the original article  : Diabetes, obesity drugs may help treat hepatitis C.

Mining responsible for TB epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa: Study

WASHINGTON – Researchers have said that there may be a link between the mining activities and spread of tuberculosis in sub-Saharan Africa.

The study analyzed data from 44 sub-Saharan African countries, to find that the rate of mining was proportional to the country’s incidence of TB.

“We have long known that the conditions on the mines – …. Source article  : Mining responsible for TB epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa: Study.

Indirect medication the best way to stop seizures?

WASHINGTON – A new study says indirect, or non-IV medication may be the best way to stop seizures in a patient immediately.

UC emergency medicine assistant professor Jason McMullan, MD, compared two seizure medications, diazepam and non-intravenous midazolam, in a study of 774 patients.

Both medications are in a class of drugs called benzodiapines, with diazepam the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Indirect medication the best way to stop seizures?.

‘Psychedelic’ maize may boost crop and bio-fuel yields

WASHINGTON – Scientists have identified new genes in maize, which promote carbohydrate export from leaves. These genes could increase crop yields and the amount of bio-fuel that can be derived from each plant.

“This study shows that there is still a lot to learn about genes that control carbohydrate distribution in plants,” said David Braun, Ph.D, … Read more »».

Low-allergy peanuts on the anvil

LONDON – Scientists in the US are developing ‘low-allergy’ peanuts, offering hope to thousands of people with allergies associated with the popular seed.

Peanut allergies are relatively common and usually cause breathing problems.

But at their most serious, they can lead to a potentially life-threatening anaphylactic shock.

The US team has managed to remove or reduce key proteins …. Read the original article  : Low-allergy peanuts on the anvil.

Genetic factors tied to gambling disorders in both sexes

WASHINGTON – Genetic factors may be associated with development of gambling disorders in men and women, a new study.

To investigate potential genetic and environmental risk factors for development of disordered gambling, Wendy S. Slutske, of University of Missouri-Columbia, and colleagues studied 4,764 individuals from 2,889 Australian twin pairs (age 32 to 43 years, 57 percent …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Genetic factors tied to gambling disorders in both sexes.

Female spiders fight ‘like sumo wrestlers’

WASHINGTON – A new research has shown that while the males of a jumping spider species merely threaten and posture instead of actually fighting each other, fights among females are often fatal.

In most animals the bigger, better fighter usually wins. But the new study of the jumping spider Phidippus clarus suggests that size and skill …. Source  : Female spiders fight ‘like sumo wrestlers’.

Coming soon: vegetarian chicken that tastes just like chicken!

WASHINGTON – Scientists at the University of Missouri may have finally cracked the code to realistic tasting fake chicken with the first soy product.

Lots of meat substitutes are on the market right now, such as the ever-popular Tofurky. But there isn’t one that tastes like chicken or, more importantly to these researchers, has the texture … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Coming soon: vegetarian chicken that tastes just like chicken!.

Existence of historic lakes on Mars confirmed

WASHINGTON – A geologic mapping project using NASA spacecraft data offers new evidence that expansive lakes did exist long ago on Mars.

A series of sedimentary deposits indicates the presence of large standing bodies of water in Hellas Planitia located in the southern hemisphere of Mars, said by Dr. Leslie Bleamaster, research scientist at the Planetary … Original article on : Existence of historic lakes on Mars confirmed.

Man-made aurora could help in predicting space weather

WASHINGTON – New research published today describes how scientists from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) at the California Institute of Technology have fired electrons of differing energies through a cloud of nitrogen gas to measure the ultraviolet light emitted by this collision.

In the study, published in IOP Publishing’s Journal of Physics B: Atomic, Molecular and … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Man-made aurora could help in predicting space weather.

Boffins find protein that lets brain repair damage from multiple sclerosis

WASHINGTON – Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have found that a protein – which helps build the brain in infants and children – may aid efforts to restore damage from multiple sclerosis (MS) and other neurodegenerative diseases.

In a mouse model of MS, researchers found that the protein, CXCR4, is essential … Read : Boffins find protein that lets brain repair damage from multiple sclerosis.

Soon, crash helmets that ‘raise stink’ when they need to be changed

WASHINGTON – A typical cycling crash helmet would now smell as soon as it starts developing cracks, thanks to a new process developed by German scientists.

The technique has been developed by research scientists at the Fraunhofer Institute for Mechanics of Materials IWM in Freiburg in cooperation with the Fraunhofer Institute for Environmental, Safety and …. Source article  : Soon, crash helmets that ‘raise stink’ when they need to be changed.

Neanderthals feasted on lions

WASHINGTON – Looks like our ancestors could boast of the proverbial nerves of steel – Neanderthal cavemen hunted and feasted on lions, according to a new Spanish research.he study appears in the Journal of Archaeological Science.

A team led by Ruth Blasco of the Universitat Rovira i Virgili in Tarragona, Spain, found lion bones at the …. Source article  : Neanderthals feasted on lions.

Rains lash north India, mercury scales down

NEW DELHI/CHANDIGARH – Most parts of northern India revelled in moderate to heavy rainfall Tuesday that brought temperatures down considerably and a much-needed respite for people from the sweltering heat.

“The maximum temperature would fall by 2-3 degrees Celsius over parts of north India during the next 24 hours and increase thereafter,” an official of the … Read more >>.

Tiger kills man in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – A tiger killed a man and mauled two others in Uttar Pradesh’s Pilibhit district, an official said Tuesday.

The partially eaten body of Ved Prakash, 50, was found Monday evening lying in the fields of Banda village, which is on the periphery of the Pilibhit forest reserve. Those injured are being treated at …. Original article  : Tiger kills man in Uttar Pradesh.

New rules for aquarium owners

NEW DELHI – The union environment ministry Wednesday drafted new rules for breeding, selling and display of fish in aquariums in the country.

The Rules for the Housing and Breeding of aquarium fish apply to shop keepers and aquarium keepers as well as anyone who keeps fish for public display. They do not apply to … Original article on : New rules for aquarium owners.

With clear sky, maximum temperature rises in Delhi

NEW DELHI – With a clear sky and no rain, the national capital recorded a maximum temperature of 36.3 degrees Celsius, four degrees below normal, an India Meteorological Department (IMD) official said Wednesday.

“Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 36.3 degrees Celsius which was four degrees below normal for this time of the year,” IMD official … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : With clear sky, maximum temperature rises in Delhi.

3-G solar cells inventor Gratzel wins Millennium Technology Prize

HELSINKI – He is known as the father of third generation dye-sensitised solar cells, which offer much promise in the search for affordable, renewable energy technologies.

Michael Gratzel, after whom the relatively low cost/high performance “Gratzel cells” have been named, was Wednesday named winner of the prestigious Millennium Technology Prize at a ceremony here.
The … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 3-G solar cells inventor Gratzel wins Millennium Technology Prize.

Meat-eating dinos used at least four distinct chomping methods

WASHINGTON – Carnivorous dinosaurs munched their food using at least four distinct biting methods, according to a new research.

The findings of the study, by British palaeontologist Dr Manabu Sakamoto from the University of Bristol, have been published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B.

Sakamoto compared 41 … Read more »»».

Only 250 of world’s most endangered marine mammal now exist

London, June 9 (ANI): The vaquita – found only in the waters of the northern end of the Gulf of California, where the Baja peninsula joins the rest of Mexico – is losing the race against time. The rare porpoise, the world’s … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Only 250 of world’s most endangered marine mammal now exist.

Easy to manipulate human stem cell developed

WASHINGTON – American researchers have developed a new type of human stem cell that may be easier to manipulate.

Researchers from the Massachusetts General Hospital Center for Regenerative Medicine (MGH-CRM) and the Harvard Stem Cell Institute describe the development in the June 4 Cell … Read more »»».

Climate treaty virtually written off this year

BONN – Delegates from many of the 194 countries gathered here to prepare for the next climate summit in Mexico this November Wednesday virtually wrote off the chances of a legally binding treaty to combat global warming this year, but emphasised that their “frustratingly slow but important” talks were going well and were “rebuilding trust” …. Read the original article  : Climate treaty virtually written off this year.

Dogs have turned dumb due to years of domestication: Study

Washington, June 9 (ANI): Owing to thousands of years of domestication, dogs have lost some of their problem-solving skills, according to new research.

Dogs are now so dependent upon people that they fail certain basic intelligence tests …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Dogs have turned dumb due to years of domestication: Study.

Why common drugs can lead to broken bones

Washington, June 9 (ANI): Scientists have explained why some commonly used drugs can up your odds of breaking a bone.

The drugs-glucocorticoids (e.g. cortisone and prednisone) and the insulin sensitizer rosiglitazone-work through entirely different mechanisms as therapies for inflammatory diseases and diabetes respectively.

And now two studies …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sleep restores colour perception

WASHINGTON – Sleep corrects the drift in color perception that occurs during wakefulness, says a new study.

Results indicate that prior wakefulness caused the color gray to be classified as having a slightly but significantly greenish tint.

Overnight sleep restored perception to achromatic equilibrium so that gray …. Source article  : Sleep restores colour perception.

First born babies put strain on parents’ relationship

WASHINGTON – A new study has suggested that having your first baby can seriously strain your relationship due to lack of sleep.

First-time parents’ relationship satisfaction is related to the amount of sleep they get while caring for an infant, according to the research.

Results indicate that self-reported … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : First born babies put strain on parents’ relationship.

Wildlife institute to monitor Olive Ridley Turtles in Orissa

NEW DELHI – Alarmed by the dwindling population of Olive Ridley Turtles in Orissa, the Dehradun-based Wildlife Institute of India has set up a temporary study camp at Ganjam district of the state to monitor their nesting, breeding and migration.

The forest department in Orissa has also taken several measures to protect the endangered sea turtles … Original source on Gaea Times at : Wildlife institute to monitor Olive Ridley Turtles in Orissa.

Ongoing Gulf oil spill wreaking havoc for marine ecology

London, June 9 (ANI): The continuing oil spill disaster in Gulf of Mexico is becoming a reason for serious worries as researchers are beginning to collect data on how it is changing marine life in the Gulf.

Samantha Joye of the University of Georgia in Athens said that methane concentrations … Original article on : Ongoing Gulf oil spill wreaking havoc for marine ecology.

New stage fright treatment shows promising results

Washington, June 9 (ANI): Scientists may have found a new treatment for stage fright – a process called biofeedback training.

Musical Performance Anxiety (MPA) is a severe form of stage fright marked by high anxiety … Read more >>>.

Psychological intervention benefits breast cancer patients

Washington, June 9 (ANI): According to a new study, stress-reducing psychological intervention boosts survival and quality of life for women with recurrent breast cancer over the long-term.

“Patients in the intervention arm evidenced significant emotional improvement and more favorable immune responses [..] Read the original article: here.

School based sex education classes have little effect: Study

Washington, June 9 (ANI): Researchers have revealed that school based sex education classes have had little effect on reported sexual behaviours among African adolescents and no effect on the prevalence of HIV and genital herpes 9 years after the start of the intervention.

Researchers from the London School of … Read more : School based sex education classes have little effect: Study.

Fakelakegate: Canada accused of not living up to its claim of fiscal prudence for summits

Canada derided for plan to build costly fake lake

TORONTO – Canada’s recent announcement that it is spending a mind-boggling $900 million to protect the two global summits it’s hosting this month was bad enough.
Now, planners of the 72-hour diplomatic jamboree – the G-8 summit of industrialized democracies and the broader G-20 that includes major advanced …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Fakelakegate: Canada accused of not living up to its claim of fiscal prudence for summits.

Training in eye movement can reduce road accidents

WASHINGTON – Thousands of people are killed and maimed in road accidents every year, all because of distracted drivers. These incidents can be reduced with the right application of motion information and appropriate eye movements, say studies.

Two studies conducted at Vanderbilt University found that these factors can be beneficial in teaching people how to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Training in eye movement can reduce road accidents.

Breakthrough could protect people at risk from pain of shingles

London, June 9 (ANI): Scientists at a Scottish University may have found a solution to the acute pain of shingles – a vaccine for people who have had chicken pox and are at risk of developing the condition.

Shingles is a reactivation of the virus infection that …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Breakthrough could protect people at risk from pain of shingles.

Music that NASA plays to entertain astronauts on space mission revealed

London, June 9 (ANI): NASA has revealed that it plays different music to its spacemen to keep them cheerful during the lonely days on a mission.

The US space agency plays everything from The Beatles’ Here Comes the Sun as the spacemen wake up and Sinatra’s Fly Me To The … Original source on Gaea Times at : Music that NASA plays to entertain astronauts on space mission revealed.

Online self-management tool for asthmatics

WASHINGTON – An online self-management tool may benefit people suffering from asthma.

In a study, it has been shown to significantly improve asthmatics ability to reduce their symptoms.

Researchers tested the system in 200 adults with asthma, finding significant effects in those whose asthma was either partly controlled or uncontrolled at the beginning of the trial.

Victor …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Online self-management tool for asthmatics.

Now, multicoloured dayglo glove for gesture-based computing

LONDON – An American researcher has come up with a new system that could allow users to control their computers with hand gestures, using a pair of multicoloured latex gloves, a webcam and a laptop.

“Really accurate gloves cost up to $20,000 and are a little unwieldy to wear,” The New Scientist quoted Robert Wang, a …. Original article  : Now, multicoloured dayglo glove for gesture-based computing.

Brain scans reveal unconscious shopping urges

LONDON – Whether you are in a mood to shop or not, you always spend more time window-shopping than you may realise, says a new study.

The study claimed that brain scans could reveal whether someone intends to buy a product or not even when they are not consciously pondering their choices.

The ability to predict from …. Source  : Brain scans reveal unconscious shopping urges.

Global biodiversity much less than previously thought

LONDON – Scientists have discovered that the count of species that share the planet with us is only 5.5 million, and not more than 30 million, as an earlier study quoted.

The error is attributed to arthropods, a phylum that includes insects and spiders. The global figure of over 30 million species was suggested in 1982 …. Read the original article  : Global biodiversity much less than previously thought.

Scientists cite mutation as cause of inherited pain disorder

WASHINGTON – Scientists have made a new discovery that could pave way for a new treatment for a rare inherited pain disorder and could lead to a better understanding of chronic pain in humans.

The scientists have identified a mutation that enhances the function of a specific ion channel and causes a rare inherited pain disorder … Original article on : Scientists cite mutation as cause of inherited pain disorder.

Increased use of intrauterine device may reduce unwanted pregnancies

WASHINGTON – A study has shown that increased use of an intrauterine device at a younger age would reduce the number of unwanted pregnancies.

“We found that 98 per cent of women had at one time or another used some form of contraceptive and that 95 per cent of women had used the pill. The pill … Read more >>.

South Korea launches rocket

SEOUL – South Korea launched a homemade rocket Thursday, but communication with the satellite-carrier was lost a few minutes after the blast-off, Xinhua reported.

The two-stage satellite-carrier Naro-1, or the Korea Space Launch Vehicle-1 (KSLV-1), lifted off from the Naro Space Centre in South Jeolla province, some 485 km south of Seoul.
The launch of the … Original source on Gaea Times at : South Korea launches rocket.

Reports: South Korea loses communications with rocket

Reports: SKorea loses communications with rocket

SEOUL, South Korea – South Korean media say communications with a rocket launched by the country has been lost following liftoff.
The rocket is carrying a satellite meant to study climate change. It was launched Thursday, a day after the ambitious project was delayed due to malfunctioning firefighting equipment.
Yonhap news agency …. Source article  : Reports: South Korea loses communications with rocket.

Charles blames consumerism and Galileo for environment problems

LONDON – Prince Charles has blamed “de-souled” consumerism for the world’s population and environmental problems and apportioned part of the blame to 17th century astronomer Galileo.

Addressing a gathering at the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies to mark its 25th anniversary Wednesday, the prince said it was “baffling” that so many scientists professed a faith …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Charles blames consumerism and Galileo for environment problems.

Facebook addicts ‘can’t relate’

MELBOURNE – A leading neuroscientist has said that youths addicted to social networking sites are struggling to relate.

The fact that they have hundreds of friends on such sites leads to one questioning the type of relationship they have.

Baroness Susan Greenfield says more research is needed to establish a possible link between Facebook and a lack … Original source on Gaea Times at : Facebook addicts ‘can’t relate’.

Plastics may soon grow on trees!

WASHINGTON – Money sure doesn’t grow on trees, but the day isn’t far when gasoline, computers, and tennis shoes might actually grow on trees, all thanks to new advances in biotechnology that could allow manufacturers to produce fuel, plastics, and other chemicals from plants instead of petroleum.

C AND EN Senior Business Editor Melody Voith has … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Plastics may soon grow on trees!.

How red wine and green tea can prevent prostate cancer growth

WASHINGTON – Polyphenols, present in red wine and green tea inhibit cancer growth- a discovery that could lead to a major advance in the treatment of prostate cancer.

Researchers have explained how antioxidants in red wine and green tea produce a combined effect to disrupt an important cell signaling pathway necessary for prostate cancer growth.

The finding …. Source  : How red wine and green tea can prevent prostate cancer growth.

Four gene variants that affect vitamin D levels identified

LONDON – Scientists have traced four common gene variants linked with blood levels of vitamin D and with an increased risk of vitamin D deficiency.

An international research consortium-SUNLIGHT- involving investigators from six countries, have made the above discovery.

“We identified four common variants that contributed to the risk for vitamin D deficiency. Individuals inheriting several of …. Original article  : Four gene variants that affect vitamin D levels identified.

Stress, anxiety can make it harder for wounds to heal: Study

LONDON – A new research has claimed that stress and anxiety can make it harder for wounds to heal.

The more anxious patients are, the longer their wounds take to heal, according to health psychologist Professor John Weinman, from the Institute of Psychiatry at King’s College London

As part of the study, Weinman and colleagues inflicted small … Read more >>>.

Senate to vote on GOP-led move to stop EPA from regulating greenhouse gases

Senate to vote on blocking EPA greenhouse gas regs
WASHINGTON – The Senate is heading toward a much-watched vote on whether the Obama administration should charge ahead with regulations curtailing greenhouse gas emissions from power plants and other major polluters.
The Republican-led measure comes up for a vote late Thursday. It would stop the Environmental …. Original source  : Senate to vote on GOP-led move to stop EPA from regulating greenhouse gases.

Successful Ebola cure in monkeys offers hope to humans

WASHINGTON – In what could be called as a breakthrough study, monkeys infected with the deadly Ebola virus have been treated successfully-a feat that could possibly bring humans a step closer to a cure.

According to a new study, a team of scientists used special gene-silencing drugs to selectively “knock out” viral proteins in …. Source  : Successful Ebola cure in monkeys offers hope to humans.

World’s oldest leather shoe found in Armenia after 5500 years

WASHINGTON – Researchers have stumbled upon the world’s oldest leather shoe – a perfectly preserved foot wear in an Armenian cave.

A team of international archaeologists discovered the 5,500-year-old cow-hide shoe that dates back to 3,500 BC and contained grass – possible to keep feet warm. Apart from the shoe, the team found many other objects … Original source on Gaea Times at : World’s oldest leather shoe found in Armenia after 5500 years.

Conservation success: endangered Siamese crocodiles hatched in Cambodia

Endangered crocodiles hatched in Cambodia
PHNOM PENH, Cambodia – Conservationists in Cambodia are celebrating the hatching of a clutch of eggs from one of the world’s most critically endangered animals.

Thirteen baby Siamese crocodiles crawled out of their shells over the weekend in a remote part of the Cardamom Mountains in southwestern Cambodia, following a weekslong vigil … Original source on Gaea Times at : Conservation success: endangered Siamese crocodiles hatched in Cambodia.

Scientists edge towards mass production of silicon substitute

LONDON – Scientists have leaped over a major hurdle in efforts to begin commercial production of a form of carbon that could rival silicon in its potential for revolutionising electronic devices ranging from supercomputers to cell phones.

Called graphene, the material consists of a layer of graphite 50,000 times thinner than a human hair with unique … Original source on Gaea Times at : Scientists edge towards mass production of silicon substitute.

Denmark asks Google to destroy sensitive data

COPENHAGEN – Denmark has asked Google to destroy all sensitive data collected illegally in the country and “is waiting impatiently” for the final confirmation from the internet giant.

Denmark’s Data Protection Agency has asked Google to provide a written notice confirming its deletion of all illegal data. Google has, however, not yet confirmed to the data … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Denmark asks Google to destroy sensitive data.

Next-gen graphene set to revolutionize nanocircuitry

WASHINGTON – Scientists have made an advance towards replacing silicon with graphene on nanocircuitry.

A simple and quick one-step process based on thermochemical nanolithography (TCNL) has been devised for creating nanowires, tuning the electronic properties of reduced graphene oxide on the nanoscale and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sony’s ’super-smart’ TV blurs if kids sit too near

LONDON – Worried that your kids will end up with poor eyesight by sitting too close to the TV? Well, now take a sigh of relief for a new super-smart TV will turn its picture fuzzy if it senses a youngster is too near to the sceen

And …. Source article  : Sony’s ’super-smart’ TV blurs if kids sit too near.

Storm elves and sprites recorded on video

WASHINGTON – Spanish researchers have made a high-speed recording of elves and sprites — fleeting and luminous electric phenomena produced in the upper layers of the atmosphere — during storms.

“This is the first time in Europe that we have been able to use high-speed video to detect transitory luminous phenomena taking place in the … Read more >>.

Matter falling into super-massive black hole observed

WASHINGTON – An astronomer has for the first time observed matter falling into a super-massive black hole – one of the universe’s brightest objects.

Anglo-Australian Observatory astronomer David Floyd has for the first time been able to probe so close to a super-massive black hole, a region inaccessible to telescopes until now.
Material in the … Original article on : Matter falling into super-massive black hole observed.

Potential new target for Alzheimer’s treatment identified

WASHINGTON – Scientists have discovered how mutations in the presenilin 1 gene cause early-onset Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

The finding opens the door to developing novel treatments for this form of the mind-robbing disease and for the more common, late-onset form that develops later in life and affects millions of people worldwide.

The presenilin gene is most … Original source on Gaea Times at : Potential new target for Alzheimer’s treatment identified.

New system for early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s developed

WASHINGTON – A new computer program has been developed that allows early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease through processed images.

This new system, developed by researchers of the University of Granada, has enhanced successful early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease up to 90 percent, which is an important progress within this area of study.

To test this new …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : New system for early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s developed.

Scientists waiting in Australian Outback for Japanese space capsule that visited asteroid

Scientists wait in Outback for Japanese spacecraft

ADELAIDE, Australia – Scientists camping out in the Australian Outback this weekend will be eagerly scanning the night sky for the long-delayed return of the first spacecraft to complete a round-trip journey to an asteroid.
The Hayabusa capsule has traveled 1.24 billion miles (2 billion kilometers) in seven years and …. Read the original article  : Scientists waiting in Australian Outback for Japanese space capsule that visited asteroid.

Arabic bloggers to compete for best blogging award

Dubai, June 11 (IANS/WAM) Arabic language blogs have invaded the internet over the last few years, and now outstanding bloggers from the Gulf region will compete for the ‘Arab Blogging Award’.

There are around 75 million active blogs in various languages worldwide, and an estimated 120,000 blogs are created daily, Ibrahim Said Al Dhahiri, director general …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Arabic bloggers to compete for best blogging award.

The secret behind sharks sniffing out their prey

WASHINGTON – It’s no secret that sharks have a keen sense of smell and a remarkable ability to follow their noses through the ocean, right to their next meal.

Now, researchers have figured out how the sharks manage to keep themselves on course.
It turns out that sharks can detect small delays, no more than half …. Source article  : The secret behind sharks sniffing out their prey.

High meat consumption ‘linked to early periods’

LONDON – A new study by UK scientists suggests that girls who eat a lot of meat during childhood tend to start their periods earlier than others.

As part of the research, scientists compared the diets of more than 3,000 12-year-old girls.

They found high meat consumption at age three (over eight portions a week) … Original article on : High meat consumption ‘linked to early periods’.

Mechanism limiting scar formation discovered

LONDON – American researchers have found that a cellular mechanism plays a key role in breaking down and inhibiting excess scar tissue formation in wound healing.

The study, conducted by researchers from the University of Illinois at Chicago, appears online in Nature Cell Biology.

When an organism suffers severe injury, specialized cells are “recruited” to the wound …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

How sharks sniff out their prey

WASHINGTON – Sharks have a keen sense of smell and a remarkable ability to follow their noses through the ocean, right to their next meal. Now, scientists have discovered how the sharks manage to keep themselves on course.

Researchers found that sharks can detect small delays, no more than half a second long, in the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : How sharks sniff out their prey.

Bipolar patients may be at risk for high BP

WASHINGTON – A recent Michigan State University study has found that nearly half of patients hospitalized with bipolar disorder may suffer from hypertension, and the younger a person is diagnosed with the psychiatric condition the more likely they are to develop high blood pressure.

The study, led by MSU psychiatrist Dale D’Mello, analyzed 99 patients … Read more »»».

Many comets evolved in other solar systems

WASHINGTON – Many well-known comets such as Halley and Hale-Bopp originally formed in other solar systems, according to a Queen’s University researcher.

The study, by Queen’s University astronomy professor Martin Duncan and an international team of astronomers, appears in the online journal Science Express.

Prof Duncan said: “Anyone who has seen a long tail comet … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Many comets evolved in other solar systems.

The social roach loves to dine in groups

WASHINGTON – Cockroaches are social insects and like to swarm on food than to dine alone, a new study reveals.

Mathieu Lihoreau of Queen Mary, University of London, and his colleagues discovered that the lone cockroach is a myth.

For the experiment, two piles of identical food were placed before roaches.

Surprisingly, the insects packed themselves on one … Read more >>.

Calif. farmer sells rice directly to consumers, giving identity to usually nameless item

Calif. farmer creating identity for his rice

OLIVEHURST, Calif. – Great sushi depends on rice that is just right – grains that are glossy and yielding after cooking, sticky with a touch of sweetness, but able to retain their color, aroma and shape.
Nearly all sushi rice used in the United States is grown in the Sacramento …. Source  : Calif. farmer sells rice directly to consumers, giving identity to usually nameless item.

Toddlers pick up gender roles during play

WASHINGTON – Parental interaction with their children, particularly in play situations, may predispose toddlers to link specific behaviours with male and female genders.

Context, gender of the parent and gender of the child combine in a complex pattern to shape parent-child interaction, say Eric Lindsey and his colleagues from Penn State University (PSU).
The …. Original article  : Toddlers pick up gender roles during play.

Botox found to alleviate excruciating nerve pain

WASHINGTON – Botox – popular for its ability to smooth wrinkles when injected into the face, may have another use that goes beyond the cosmetic, say Johns Hopkins researchers.

Botox is a toxin that works by weakening or paralyzing certain nerves and muscles.

In the new study, the researchers found that patients with a painful and debilitating …. Original source  : Botox found to alleviate excruciating nerve pain.

Blue fin tuna is one step closer to extinction: Greenpeace

BRUSSELS – Bluefin tuna is one step closer to extinction as the EU prepares to close this year’s Mediterranean bluefin season – which should not have been opened in the first place, said Greenpeace.

The closure will become effective at the latest as of midnight on Wednesday, the European Commission said in a statement.

The Commission …. Original article  : Blue fin tuna is one step closer to extinction: Greenpeace.

Here’s what makes humans sex addicts

WASHINGTON – A brain region, called the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), is responsible for sex ‘addiction’ in a person, according to a study.

People with addictive or compulsive disorders frequently display an inability to inhibit behaviours once they become maladaptive, despite adverse consequences of their behaviour.

The mPFC is a brain region involved in decision-making and … Read : Here’s what makes humans sex addicts.

‘Ominous’ Atlantic conditions could bring Katrina-like hurricane season

WASHINGTON – The 2010 Atlantic hurricane season could be a replay of 2005-the year that spawned Hurricane Katrina.

Scientists have recorded warm ocean temperatures and weak winds in May, which are similar to those of May 2005-the most active and destructive Atlantic basin hurricane season in history.

Such patterns are “definitely ominous and foreboding,” said Chris Hebert, …. Original article  : ‘Ominous’ Atlantic conditions could bring Katrina-like hurricane season.

World’s first cloned horse delivered

WASHINGTON – In what could be called as another first in cloning, researchers at Texas AnM University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences have successfully delivered a foal using oocytes from a live mare.

The delivery of the foal is the first such clone in the world and it highlights, the researchers’ long tradition of …. Source article  : World’s first cloned horse delivered.

New technology could turn ground heat into cheap alternative to fossil fuels

WASHINGTON – Researchers and entrepreneurs in Slovenia and Serbia are developing a heat pump technology that would make ground-source heat a cost-effective alternative to fossil fuels-a feat that could cut CO2 emissions and improve energy security.

Across Europe, there are plentiful sources of geothermal energy- heat stored in the ground which can be tapped to provide … Original article on : New technology could turn ground heat into cheap alternative to fossil fuels.

New DNA study may offer insights into several diseases

WASHINGTON – A new study is examining a sequence of DNA- known as telomeres – that varies in length between individual.

This follows evidence that these structures shrink in length over an individual’s lifetime and that this may contribute to several diseases including those commonly associated with ageing and, perhaps most importantly, the development of cancer.

Now … Read more »»».

Sense of smell test key to tackling Parkinson’s disease

WASHINGTON – Scientists have warned that losing the sense of smell could be an early sign of Parkinson’s disease.

Dr. Silke Nuber, from the Department of Medical Genetics, University of Tubingen, Germany, has, therefore, suggested that a fast, simple and non invasive test of the ability to smell may be an important tool to screen people … Original article on : Sense of smell test key to tackling Parkinson’s disease.

Why saliva forms beads when stretched

LONDON – Scientists have solved a long-standing mystery about why some fluids containing polymers – including saliva – form beads when they are stretched and others do not.

The findings by researchers at Rice University, Purdue University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology are published online this week in the journal Nature Physics.

Study co-author Matteo Pasquali, … Read : Why saliva forms beads when stretched.

Insects extremely clever despite tiny brains: Study

WASHINGTON – Insects are extremely intelligent despite their tiny brains, says a new study.

For the first time, researchers from the University of Adelaide have worked out how insects judge the speed of moving objects.

It appears that insect brain cells have additional mechanisms, which can calculate how to make a controlled landing on a flower or …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Insects extremely clever despite tiny brains: Study.

Prehistoric shark Carcharodon megalodon’s bite biggest of all dinos

NEW YORK – Scientists claim that the prehistoric shark Carcharodon megalodon had the deadliest bite of all dinosaurs.

Aptly nicknamed “Big Tooth,” the shark’s bite is 30 times stronger than today’s great whites, with a force of 18.2 tons. According to Stephen Roe of the University of South Wales, there are four basic bite techniques amongst … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Prehistoric shark Carcharodon megalodon’s bite biggest of all dinos.

Modified yellow fever vaccine may help fight malaria

WASHINGTON – Researchers at The Rockefeller University have genetically transformed the yellow fever vaccine to prime the immune system to fend off the mosquito borne parasites that cause malaria.

The researchers found that the modified vaccine, along with a booster, provided mice with immunity to the deadly disease.

Malaria is one of the most pressing health … Original article on : Modified yellow fever vaccine may help fight malaria.

Reducing deforestation results in more fires: Study

LONDON – A new study has claimed that reducing the rate of deforestation might just cause more forests to be depleted.

According to New Scientist, the study included analysis of satellite images, which found that 59 per cent of forest areas where deforestation rates dropped between 2000 and 2007 have more fires than they did before. … Read more >>.

New computer game to spot how blind to change are you

LONDON – Do you often fail to notice a friend’s radical new haircut or miss a road sign showing a change in the speed limit? Well, then such ignorance to what should be apparent is something we all go through, and it is called change blindness.

And now, researchers at Queen Mary, University of London, have …. Source article  : New computer game to spot how blind to change are you.

Why humans have no fur

WASHINGTON – Atmospheric heat might explain why humans lost their fur and developed an upright and slim posture.

A theory suggests that if our ancestors lived somewhere really hot, it would have made sense for us to lose body hair, start sweating more, become slender and even walk upright- to create distance between our bodies and …. Original source  : Why humans have no fur.

Love hormone could also trigger war

WASHINGTON – Oxytocin, the so-called love hormone, which fosters the bond between mothers and kids, can instil both self-sacrifice and defensive aggression among warriors, according to a study.

Researchers have claimed that oxytocin can goad soldiers to launch preemptive strikes in defence of their comrades.

Oxytocin has received much [..] Read the original article: here.

It’s official: Men look at women’s breasts first

MELBOURNE – Women often say that men tend to ogle at their breasts and their face is the last thing they notice, and now a scientific study has found evidence to prove them right.

Scientists have found that almost half – 47 per cent … Read this article on Gaea Times at : It’s official: Men look at women’s breasts first.

‘Female viagra’ could be approved next week by the FDA

WASHINGTON – Next week, the FDA will vote on whether the female libido enhancing drug Flibanserin should be voted in or out.

If in, it could mean a business of 2 million dollars in US markets alone.

The Food and Drug Administration will vote on what’s being called ‘female viagra’, a drug that could be a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Female viagra’ could be approved next week by the FDA.

Scientists discover bacteria that can clean oil spill

LOS ANGELES – Scientists have discovered a bacteria that can help in cleaning up of the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

The “NY3″ bacteria has an “extraordinary capacity” to produce rhamnolipids that can help break down oil and then degrade some of its most serious toxic compounds.
The rhamnolipids, which is non-toxic to microbial …. Original article  : Scientists discover bacteria that can clean oil spill.

2 mountain goats die after being struck by tranquilizer darts in Glacier park study

2 mountain goats killed in Glacier study
HELENA, Mont. – Glacier National Park officials have suspended a study of mountain goats after two animals struck by tranquilizer darts died.

Amy Vanderbilt of the National Park Service says a dart punctured the rib cage of one mountain goat Tuesday, causing respiratory arrest.
Researchers met with park officials Wednesday and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

In trip through 4 Gulf coast states, anxiety spreads with oil

Along Gulf coast highway, anxiety spreads with oil

ALONG THE GULF COAST – It’s barely 5 a.m., and last night’s sliver of moon still hangs in a charcoal sky as Dave Marino eases the 24-foot bayboat from the dock and into the flat, dark waters of the canal leading toward the Gulf of Mexico.
The air hangs …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : In trip through 4 Gulf coast states, anxiety spreads with oil.

FDA cites 5 companies for marketing unapproved personal genetic tests

FDA takes issue with genetic tests from 5 firms

WASHINGTON – The Food and Drug Administration has put five genetic test makers on notice that they must get federal approval before marketing their products for use by consumers.
The regulatory letters posted online Friday are the first sign that the government agency plans to crack down on …. Original source  : FDA cites 5 companies for marketing unapproved personal genetic tests.

Massey Energy denies Sierra Club legal claims that subsidiaries violated Clean Water Act

Massey denies Sierra Club lawsuit claims on water

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Five Massey Energy subsidiaries contend a 2008 settlement with the Environmental Protection Agency bars a lawsuit by the Sierra Club and three other environmental groups.
The federal lawsuit filed in April alleges more than 3,000 violations of the Clean Water Act and surface mining laws. Among … Read more : Massey Energy denies Sierra Club legal claims that subsidiaries violated Clean Water Act.

Success of hepatitis C treatment may depend on genetic variant

WASHINGTON – Scientists have found that a small genetic change can help predict how people infected with hepatitis C react to treatment, paving the way to personalised therapy for this difficult to treat disease.

Dr. Zoltan Kutalik, from the Department of Medical Genetics, University of Lausanne, Switzerland, said that individuals with this change, in a … Read more »»».

Puberty for girls begins at 9 now

LONDON – A large number of girls are now reaching puberty before the age of 10, say scientists who believe the phenomenon could be linked to obesity or exposure to chemicals in the food chain.

A study has revealed that breast development in a sample of 1,000 girls started at an average age of nine …. Source article  : Puberty for girls begins at 9 now.

Russian rocket in place at Central Asia launching pad for space station mission

Russian rocket primed for space station mission

BAIKONUR, Kazakhstan – A Russian rocket set to carry a three-person U.S.-Russian crew to the international space station has been moved to a launch pad in preparation for blastoff.
The rocket will carry U.S. astronauts Douglas Wheelock and Shannon Walker and Russia’s Fyodor Yurchikhin to the international orbiting laboratory on …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Russian rocket in place at Central Asia launching pad for space station mission.

‘Natural’ new pill could boost women’s sex drive

SYDNEY – Australian institutions are taking part in a worldwide trial to find out whether a new contraceptive pill – the first to contain a natural form of oestrogen – can also boost women’s sex drive.

Family Planning NSW’s research centre, the Royal Hospital for Women at Randwick and the University of Adelaide are among …. Source  : ‘Natural’ new pill could boost women’s sex drive.

‘Saturated’ human brain incapable of uncovering greatest mysteries of universe

LONDON – The human brain is incapable of resolving some of the greatest mysteries of the universe, says Lord Rees, the president of the UK’s Royal Society.

Rees believes our inherent intellectual limitations will never allow us to find the answerers to questions such as the existence of parallel universes, the cause of the big bang, … Read more »».

Melting Himalayan glaciers to have varying impact on river basins

LONDON – The melting of glaciers in the Himalayas will have varying impact on the waters of the Indus, Ganges, Brahmaputra, Yangtze and Yellow rivers, according to a new Dutch research.

Scientists believe that the changes to the flow of meltwater due to global warming may have a “severe” impact on food security in some areas.

However, … Read more : Melting Himalayan glaciers to have varying impact on river basins.

A hot day ahead for Delhiites

NEW DELHI – Delhiites will experience a hot day Sunday with the weather office predicting rise in the maximum temperature — but the capital can look forward to rain in the next few days.

The temperature is likely to go up to 44 degrees Celsius, above average for this time of the season, said an …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : A hot day ahead for Delhiites.

Study shows IVF doubles risk of abnormal babies

LONDON – Here’s a piece of information for people seeking fertility treatments: Babies conceived through IVF (In vitro fertilisation) are at sharply increased risk of serious congenital malformations.

The findings are based on a study, carried out in France.

Researchers examining the health of 15,162 babies born after assisted conceptions found that 4.24 percent had serious …. Source  : Study shows IVF doubles risk of abnormal babies.

A hot Saturday in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Delhiites experienced a hot day Saturday with the maximum temperature two notches above average at 42.3 degrees Celsius, a weather bureau official said.

According to the official of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the capital recorded a minimum temperature of 28.6 degrees, four degrees below average for this time of the year. … Read more : A hot Saturday in Delhi.

Porn site visitors ‘at risk of being exploited by cyber criminals’

LONDON – A study has suggested that visitors to porn sites are at serious risk of being exploited by cyber criminals, as many of the sites harboured malware to squeeze money out of their visitors.

By creating their own … Read more >>.

Extroverted men, neurotic women make for the most fertile combo

NEW YORK – A gregarious man and a neurotic women make up the perfect combo when it comes to making babies, revealed a study.

Researchers have said that extroverted men and needy, anxious women are the most fertile coupling.

For the …. Original source  : Extroverted men, neurotic women make for the most fertile combo.

Seals use whiskers to track faraway fish

WASHINGTON – A team of German scientists have found that harbour seals can track passing miniature submarines from 130 feet away by using their extraordinarily sensitive whiskers to follow the wakes the mini-subs leave behind in the water.

Previous studies with mini-subs and harbour seals (Phoca vitulina) revealed these agile hunters could prove remarkably perceptive. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Seals use whiskers to track faraway fish.

‘Blacker than black’ metamaterial created

LONDON – A “blacker than black” stuff has been created, which, according to scientists, is made of metamaterials that absorbs virtually all the light that hits it.

Metamaterials exhibit optical properties not normally found in nature.

They consist of a regular array of two or more tiny components, each smaller than the wavelengths of the light they … Original article on : ‘Blacker than black’ metamaterial created.

Virus infection can incite odd immune cells to attack nerves in multiple sclerosis

LONDON – In young adults afflicted with multiple sclerosis (MS), a virus infection can incite the body to attack its own nerve tissue by activating unusual, disease-fighting cells with receptors for both viral and nerve proteins.

The dual-receptor observation indicates how brain and spinal cord nerve damage could be triggered in susceptible young adults with MS.

University … Read : Virus infection can incite odd immune cells to attack nerves in multiple sclerosis.

New social networking technologies ‘destabilizing trust’

MELBOURNE – An information and technology researcher has revealed that applications that enable people to track each other’s location are destabilizing trust.

PhD researcher Roba Abbas from the University of Wollongong is presenting her research on “location based social networking” at two conferences this week.

“There are fundamental trust issues where this technology is concerned,” ABC Science …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : New social networking technologies ‘destabilizing trust’.

Scientists zoom in on infant solar system

WASHINGTON – A team led by University of Arizona astronomer Joshua Eisner has observed in unprecedented detail the processes giving rise to stars and planets in nascent solar systems.

The discoveries provide a better understanding of the way hydrogen gas from the protoplanetary disk is incorporated into the star.
They are swirling clouds of gas and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Scientists zoom in on infant solar system.

Researchers discover mechanism that limits scar formation

WASHINGTON – Researchers have discovered that an unexpected cellular response plays an important role in breaking down and inhibiting the formation of excess scar tissue in wound healing.

When an organism suffers severe injury, specialised cells are “recruited” to the wound site that rapidly produce extracellular matrix proteins such as collagen to provide structural support … Read more »»».

Chhattisgarh to plant six crore saplings this monsoon

RAIPUR – The Chhattisgarh government Saturday announced a mega drive of planting over six crore saplings across the state during the monsoon season.

“The state government will lead a major environment drive with industrial houses and non-government organizations (NGOs) to boost greenery in all 18 districts of the state with a target to plant …. Original article  : Chhattisgarh to plant six crore saplings this monsoon.

Cosmetic surgery in women increasingly becoming more pervasive

WASHINGTON – Experts cite reasons for concern as cosmetic surgery in women has become more pervasive – from external body parts to now female genital mutilation.

The study mentions that cosmetic surgery as well as female genitalia surgery is increasingly … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Cosmetic surgery in women increasingly becoming more pervasive.

Novel way to prevent blindness caused by retinitis pigmentosa

WASHINGTON – Scientists have discovered a novel way to use a radical new type of gene therapy to prevent blindness caused by retinitis pigmentosa.

The research, led by Muna Naash, at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, … Read more >>>.

Study provides insights into how marine microbes live

WASHINGTON – A new study by a team of microbiologists is proving insights into how marine microbes live in the region just beneath the deep ocean floor.

Beth Orcutt, a post-doctoral fellow at Aarhus University in Denmark and the University of Southern California, presented the study’s findings at the annual Goldschmidt Conference at the University …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Study provides insights into how marine microbes live.

People want say in debate over synthetic life

WASHINGTON – People are becoming increasingly comfortable with the idea of ’synthetically creating life’ but only if the procedure is properly regulated, concluded a report.

The dialogue on synthetic life began in late 2009 and was commissioned by the two UK research councils responsible for funding what has been dubbed “synthetic biology”.

Apart from understanding how …. Source article  : People want say in debate over synthetic life.

Scientists hunt for Japanese space probe with possible asteroid clues to solar system creation

Hunt on for asteroid dust and solar system secrets

ADELAIDE, Australia – A team of eager scientists flew into the Australian Outback on Monday to recover a Japanese space capsule they hope contains the first-ever asteroid samples that could provide clues into the evolution of the solar system.
The Hayabusa explorer returned to Earth overnight after a … Read more >>>.

Hayabusa asteroid mission returns to Earth

LONDON – The Japanese Hayabusa container, believed to be carrying the first samples of an asteroid’s surface, has returned to Earth.

According to a recovery team, the capsule landed in the Woomera Prohibited Range, south Australia.

“We just had a spectacular display out over the Outback skies of South Australia,” The BBC quoted Prof Trevor Ireland, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Hayabusa asteroid mission returns to Earth.

Windscreen water ups Legionnaires’ disease risk

LONDON – People who don’t use screenwash to clean their car’s windscreen wipers risk contracting Legionnaires’ disease.

According to the UK’s Health Protection Agency, windscreen wiper water could be the cause of nearly 20 per cent of Legionnaires’ disease cases in England and Wales.

Stagnant, warm water is a breeding ground for the Legionella bacterium, which causes … Read more >>.

Nine tourists airlifted in Himachal

MANALI – Nine more tourists from Maharashtra stranded in Lahaul and Spiti in Himachal Pradesh were airlifted Monday after snowfall and landslides blocked the road leading to the region, police said.

“Seven people are still stranded there. We are trying to rescue them,” Superintendent of Police S.R. Rana told IANS on telephone from Keylong town.
He …. Read the original article  : Nine tourists airlifted in Himachal.

Martian ocean key to unlocking planet’s biological past

LONDON – The possible presence of a vast ocean on Mars may be the key to unlocking the mystery behind the existence of life on the Red Planet, say scientists.

A recent study, conducted by researchers at the University of Colorado at Boulder, strongly suggests that a massive ocean likely covered one-third of the Martian … Original source on Gaea Times at : Martian ocean key to unlocking planet’s biological past.

Blood pressure medications linked to higher cancer risk

LONDON – Researchers have discovered that there is a high risk of cancer associated with a group of blood pressure medications.

University Hospitals Case Medical Center cardiologists have said that a drug group called angiotensin-receptor blockers (ARBs) used by millions for high blood pressure, heart failure, cardiovascular risk reduction and diabetic kidney disease patients has “significantly … Read more : Blood pressure medications linked to higher cancer risk.

Mystery of million mummies buried near Snefu’s Seila pyramid

TORONTO – Researchers from Brigham Young University, in Utah, are trying to find why a million mummies are buried near Pharaoh Snefru ’s Seila pyramid.

About 4,600 years ago, Snefru initiated one of the greatest construction projects in human history.

For reasons yet unknown, he decided to build four pyramids scattered at different places across Egypt.

Two … Original article on : Mystery of million mummies buried near Snefu’s Seila pyramid.

Advance made towards development of transplantable replacement livers

LONDON – A team led by researchers from the Center for Engineering in Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) has developed functional, transplantable rat liver grafts.

The technique may someday allow the growth of transplantable replacement livers for humans.

The researchers used the structural tissue of rat livers as scaffolding for the growth of tissue regenerated … Read more : Advance made towards development of transplantable replacement livers.

Another hot day for Delhi

NEW DELHI – Monday will be another hot day in the Indian capital.
The maximum temperature is predicted to be three notches above average at 43 degrees Celsius. The weather office said there was a possibility of light showers.

The minimum temperature was 26.1 degrees, three degrees below average for this time of the season, said …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Another hot day for Delhi.

Virgin space tourists could be launched by 2015

LONDON – A Royal Air Force (RAF) base in Scotland could be launching tourists into space by 2015.

Sir Richard Branson’s UK Space Agency has identified Lossiemouth as the ideal location from where a spaceflight would take off, reports dailymail.co.uk.
Virgin Galactic president Will Whitehorn said the company is pressing for changes to legislation in Britain …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Virgin space tourists could be launched by 2015.

Japanese space probe returns to Earth after 7-year journey to collect asteroid material

Space probe returns to Earth from trip to asteroid

ADELAIDE, Australia – A team of eager scientists flew into the Australian Outback on Monday to recover a Japanese space capsule they hope contains the first-ever asteroid samples that could provide clues into the evolution of the solar system.
The Hayabusa explorer returned to Earth overnight after a [..] Read the original article: here.

NGO to plant one crore seeds along Maharashtra highway

THANE – One crore seeds of various trees will be planted during a three-day drive along a 350 km stretch of National Highway No.3 (Agra-Mumbai) between Maharashtra’s Thane and Dhule districts, an NGO said Sunday.

Thane-based Hariyali’s “Maha Beejaropan Abhiyan” is intended at increasing the green cover in the rural parts of the state, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : NGO to plant one crore seeds along Maharashtra highway.

Monsoon hits Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – The monsoon Sunday hit Orissa, bringing rains to 11 of the 30 districts in the state, an official said.

The monsoon has covered five districts fully and six districts partially, an official of the Bhubaneswar meteorological department told IANS.
“The monsoon has covered fully the districts of Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Bhadrak, Balasore,” he said. …. Original article  : Monsoon hits Orissa.

Dust storm, light rain in parts of Delhi (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – Some parts of the capital experienced a dust storm followed by light showers Sunday afternoon, the weatherman said, adding that the city recorded a maximum temperature of 43 degrees Celsius which was three notches above the average.

“Some parts of the national capital experienced a dust storm and light showers Sunday afternoon. This …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bihar, Tripura zoos to exchange rare animals

AGARTALA – Bihar’s Patna Zoo and Tripura’s Sepahijala Zoo will soon exchange rare animals, officials said here Sunday.

The 41-year-old Patna Zoo, also known as the Sanjay Gandhi Botanical and Zoological Garden, will take clouded leopards, pigtailed macaques and spectacled langoors from Tripura zoo, officials said.
“In exchange, Patna Zoo would provide one female rhino or …. Source article  : Bihar, Tripura zoos to exchange rare animals.

Dust storm, light rain in parts of Delhi

NEW DELHI – Some parts of the capital experienced a dust storm followed by light showers Sunday afternoon, the weatherman said.

“Some parts of the national capital experienced dust storm and light showers Sunday afternoon. This is a direct result of western disturbances,” an India Meteorological Department (IMD) official said.
According to the met department, the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Now, voice-based stress detector to tell who will perform under pressure

LONDON – Scientists in Australia have developed a voice-based stress detector that they claim can help identify which job candidates will perform better under pressure.

Bo Yin at National Information and Communications Technology Australia, in Sydney, said that normally we have full control over our vocal muscles and change their position to create different intonations, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Now, voice-based stress detector to tell who will perform under pressure.

Facebook wants info about Australia’s registered sex offenders

MELBOURNE – Social networking site Facebook wants all the information about Australia’s registered sex offenders.

The idea behind it is to keep pedophiles and sex predators off.

And Victorian Police Minister Bob Cameron says he is happy to discuss the idea, sending departmental officials to meet Facebook.

“I have asked my department to meet online social networking representatives …. Read the original article  : here.

Environment does have bearing on our physical activities

WASHINGTON – The environment can influence our physical activities, especially when it comes to where people live.

“We are not just measuring physical activity, but we are linking it to a location using small activity monitors and global positioning system (GPS) devices,” said Philip J. Troped.
Troped, assistant professor of health and kinesiology at the Purdue [..] Read the original article: here.

Now, simple, non-invasive diagnostic tool for coronary artery disease

WASHINGTON – A simple, non-invasive carotid artery ultrasound of the neck is an effective alternative to expensive coronary angiography for diagnosing coronary artery disease (CAD), according to a new American study.

The ultrasound test can also be used to rule out the diagnosis of CAD in patients with reduced heart pump function.

The research, conducted at …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Our brains have distorted model of our own bodies

WASHINGTON – Our brains have a highly distorted model of our own bodies, researchers at University College London (UCL) have revealed.

In a study, which focussed on the brain’s representation of the hand, it was found that our model of our bodies is out of sync with reality – with a strong tendency to think that … Read more »».

Advances in agriculture help environment

WASHINGTON – Advances in high-yield agriculture have prevented the equivalent of 590 billion metric tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) from escaping into the air, say two Stanford University Earth scientists.

The yield improvements reduced the need to convert forests to farmland, a process that typically involves burning of trees and other plants, which generates CO2 and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Nature invented the wheel movement, not humans

WASHINGTON – Wheel, which has evolved from Stone Age to today’s time of racing bikes, also represents how animals, including humans, have come to move more efficiently and quicker over millions of years on Earth, according to a Duke University engineer.

Adrian Bejan, professor of mechanical engineering at Duke’s Pratt School of Engineering, argues that just … Read more »»».

Female endurance sports athletes may be at risk for fertility issues

WASHINGTON – Physicians at Loyola University Health System say that female endurance sports athletes may be at risk for serious health issues.

They say that excessive exercise and inadequate nutrition can lead to problems such as low energy, menstrual irregularity, fertility issues, stress fractures and osteoporosis.

“Marathons and triathlons have become increasingly popular in recent years,” …. Original article  : Female endurance sports athletes may be at risk for fertility issues.

NASA successfully demonstrates prototype tsunami prediction system

WASHINGTON – A NASA team has successfully demonstrated a prototype tsunami prediction system that will help researchers gauge large earthquakes and estimates the size of resulting tsunamis accurately.

A team led by Y. Tony Song of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, Calif., used real-time data from the agency’s Global Differential GPS (GDGPS) network to successfully … Original article on : NASA successfully demonstrates prototype tsunami prediction system.

Jet aircraft blow holes in clouds to cause snow or rain

WASHINGTON – Jet aircraft make odd-shaped holes in clouds and cause rain or snow as they climb or descend in the skies under certain atmospheric conditions, according to a new American study.

The key ingredient for developing these holes in the clouds – water droplets at subfreezing temperatures, below about 5 degrees Fahrenheit (-15 … Read more : Jet aircraft blow holes in clouds to cause snow or rain.

Water content of moon interior underestimated: Study

WASHINGTON – The volume of water molecules locked inside minerals in the Moon’s interior could exceed the amount of water in the Great Lakes here on Earth, NASA-funded scientists claim.

The finding suggests that water may be native to the Moon and not that it has been dry all this while, as the researchers earlier thought.

“For … Original source on Gaea Times at : Water content of moon interior underestimated: Study.

Conical shape primarily responsible for Vuvuzela’annoying loudness: Expert

LONDON – A British acoustic expert has opined that the conical shape of the popular Vuvuzela, which is making its presence felt at this year’s FIFA World Cup in South Africa, is primarily responsible for its ear-splitting loudness.

Trevor Cox, president of the UK Institute of Acoustics and an acoustic engineer at the University of Salford, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Conical shape primarily responsible for Vuvuzela’annoying loudness: Expert.

Potential cancer drug developed from Australian rainforest plant

MELBOURNE – A potential cancer drug derived from an Australian rainforest plant has successfully cleared inoperable tumours in pets, and is thus being promoted to human trials, according to its makers.

Queensland firm QBiotics Ltd said its drug EBC-46, derived from the seeds of a tropical rainforest shrub, was ready to be tested on humans … Read more >>>.

Himachal road reopens after six months

SHIMLA – The Saach Pass, the gateway to the Pangi Valley in Himachal Pradesh, has reopened to traffic after six long months, an official said Tuesday.

“The snow clearing operation on the Saach Pass has been completed,” Resident Commissioner Gopal Chand said on telephone from Killar town. The pass was closed in December owning to heavy … Read more >>.

American research suggests existence of ‘multiple God particles’

LONDON – The elusive “God particle” or Higgs boson could have multiple versions, says a new study.

The Higgs boson is the sub-atomic particle which explains why all other particles have mass.

Finding the Higgs is the primary objective of the 6billion pound Large Hadron Collider (LHC) experiment near Geneva.

But recent results gathered by the … Read more : American research suggests existence of ‘multiple God particles’.

Soon, living skin that reduces pain, scarring associated with skin grafts

SYDNEY – Burns experts at the University of Sydney and Concord Hospital are carrying out animal trails of a living skin that is completely functional when grafted onto a body.

Researchers hope the full thickness artificial skin, grown outside the body, would significantly reduce the pain and scarring associated with skin grafts.

While traditional skin … Original article on : Soon, living skin that reduces pain, scarring associated with skin grafts.

Apple juice ‘can enhance Alzheimer’s patients’ mood’

WASHINGTON – Scientists have found that those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease (AD) can enhance their mood with apple juice.

In the study, after institutionalized AD patients consumed two 4-oz glasses of apple juice a day for a month, their caregivers reported no change in the patients’ Dementia Rating Scale or their day-to-day abilities.

What did change, … Read more >>>.

Rain expected in Delhi Tuesday

NEW DELHI – Rain and thundershowers are expected in parts of the capital Tuesday, the weather office said.

“Because of a western disturbance over Jammu and Kashmir, rain and thundershowers accompanied by squall is expected in parts of Delhi today (Tuesday),” said an official of the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
The day temperature is predicted to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Captive breeding of rare pheasant hit by bacterial infection

SHIMLA – A highly-endangered pheasant species, the brilliantly plumaged western tragopan that is being bred in captivity in a Himachal Pradesh pheasantry, has been hit by a bacterial infection which has put the brakes on breeding efforts this year.

The western tragopan is being bred at the Saharan pheasantry, located 160 km from Shimla, the only [..] Read the original article: here.

Moon has more water than Great Lakes, Chandrayaan data shows

WASHINGTON – Scientists have found Moon’s minerals may have at least 100 times more water than previously indicated by remote sensing data from the Indian spacecraft Chandrayaan-1 and other lunar sample analysis.

In March 2010, a US space agency NASA radar experiment aboard Chandrayaan-1, India’s first lunar spacecraft launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation in … Read more >>>.

Texas asks federal court to intervene in fight with EPA over air pollution from oil refineries

Texas asks court to intervene in fight with EPA

HOUSTON – Texas asked a federal court on Monday to intervene in its fight with the Environmental Protection Agency over how the state regulates emissions from oil refineries and other petrochemicals plants.
Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott asked the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Texas asks federal court to intervene in fight with EPA over air pollution from oil refineries.

Huge obstacles seen in exploiting vast Afghan mineral resources

Huge obstacles seen in exploiting Afghan minerals

KABUL, Afghanistan – It could take years and possibly even a peace settlement for Afghanistan to reap profits from nearly $1 trillion in mineral resources that U.S. geologists say lie beneath its rugged terrain – some in areas currently controlled by Taliban insurgents or warlords.
Geologists have known for decades … Read more : Huge obstacles seen in exploiting vast Afghan mineral resources.

One of universe’s biggest, brightest comets to paint skies green this week

WASHINGTON – Comet McNaught’s green glow is set to light the early morning skies most visibly this week before it gets too close to the sun to see, according to experts.

One of the universe’s biggest and brightest, Comet McNaught last made a spectacular appearance in January 2007.

This week …. Read the original article  : One of universe’s biggest, brightest comets to paint skies green this week.

UK MPs told Apple iPhone not safe from snooping

LONDON – The British Government has advised against the issue Apple iPhones to staff Ministers because they are not safe safe from electronic snooping.

According to The Telegraph, government information security experts told MPs that while the devices were fashionable, their drawback …. Read the original article  : UK MPs told Apple iPhone not safe from snooping.

Simple shot can save lives in accidents

LONDON – Tens of thousands of accident victims can be saved worldwide every year if they are administered a cheap, widely available and easily administered drug to help their blood clot, according to a new study.

The results from the trial show that early administration of tranexamic acid (TXA) to patients with recent, severe bleeding injuries … Read more : Simple shot can save lives in accidents.

Babies are a lot smarter than we think

WASHINGTON – Babies are a lot smarter than we can think of, says a new study.

It suggests that even before they learn to babble, babies are organising information about numbers, space and time in more complex ways than previously realised.
“We’ve shown that nine-month-olds are sensitive to ‘more than’ or ‘less than’ relations … Read more »»».

500 African penguins killed due to cold snap

JOHANNESBURG – The cold snap that has swept across South Africa in the first week of the World Cup has killed nearly 500 African penguin chicks, South Africa’s national parks authority said.

The dead chicks represent half the young penguin population at Algoa Bay in Eastern Cape province, SANParks said late Tuesday.
“The chicks, aged between …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 500 African penguins killed due to cold snap.

One third of Kiwi kids have seen violent, nude images online

WELLINGTON – A survey has found that almost a third of kids in New Zealand have viewed violent or nude images online, despite their parents being the most alert where safe online habits are concerned.

The findings are based on a survey of the online habits of families from 14 countries, including New Zealand, the United … Read more : One third of Kiwi kids have seen violent, nude images online.

‘Flower’ power among cells marks winners, losers

LONDON – A protein called ‘Flower’, which marks weaker cells for elimination in favour of fitter ones, could help scientists understand how conflict resolution works at the microscopic level, says a new study of the Spanish National Cancer Centre (SNCC) in Madrid.

The research further adds to scientists’ understanding of a developmental process of “cell competition” …. Source article  : ‘Flower’ power among cells marks winners, losers.

Crayfish brain offers new insight into human decision-making

WASHINGTON – Crayfish, just like organisms of higher complexity, observe their environment, and then make value-based decisions- a trait that could offer new insights into human decision making.

According to a University of Maryland study, crayfish make surprisingly complex, cost-benefit calculations.

The researchers concluded that crayfish make an excellent, practical model for identifying the specific neural circuitry … Original source on Gaea Times at : Crayfish brain offers new insight into human decision-making.

Researcher in Mass. says he has ID’d 7 MIAs from WWII by matching descriptions of unknowns

Mass. researcher says he has ID’d 7 MIAs from WWII

SUITLAND, Md. – A private researcher who has labored for years to identify the remains of U.S. service members declared missing in action during World War II says he has matched seven MIAs with the remains of unknowns and he expects to match as many as …. Source article  : Researcher in Mass. says he has ID’d 7 MIAs from WWII by matching descriptions of unknowns.

451mn clinical cases of malaria worldwide in 2007: Experts

WASHINGTON – A new study concludes that there were an estimated 451 million clinical cases of Plasmodium falciparum malaria worldwide in 2007.

Global clinical burden of malaria (how many people become ill because of malaria and where they live) is required to direct resources where it will have most impact. However, using surveillance date in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 451mn clinical cases of malaria worldwide in 2007: Experts.

Prehistoric mammal hair discovered in Cretaceous amber

LONDON – Palaeontologists have discovered two mammal hairs encased in amber that is a 100 million years old.

The oldest 3D specimens, found alongside a fly pupa in amber uncovered in southwest France, are remarkably similar to hair found on modern mammals, implying that the shape and structure of mammal hair has remained unchanged over the …. Original article  : Prehistoric mammal hair discovered in Cretaceous amber.

Adult brain is continually modified by experience, finds study

WASHINGTON – Experience shapes the brain’s circuitry throughout adulthood, according to a new American study.

The research, conducted by Rockefeller University scientists, will be published next week in the online, open access journal PLoS Biology.

The researchers, led by Charles D. Gilbert, Arthur and Janet Ross Professor and head of the Laboratory of Neurobiology, observed how neurons … Original article on : Adult brain is continually modified by experience, finds study.

Petroleum group, Alaska official objects to proposed federal critical habitat for polar bears

Alaska state official objects to polar bear plan

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – The federal plan for designating more than 187,000 square miles as polar bear critical habitat is too large and will lead to huge, unnecessary costs for Alaska’s petroleum industry, opponents of the proposal told the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Tuesday night.
Critical habitat by definition … Read more »».

Oil spill could have powered 68,000 cars

WASHINGTON – The oil leaking in the Gulf of Mexico could have powered 68,000 cars, 6,100 trucks or 3,100 ships for a year.

James J. Corbett, a professor of marine policy at the University of Delaware, updates the numbers on his website based on the daily average estimated spill rate of 30,000 barrels.
The science …. Read the original article  : Oil spill could have powered 68,000 cars.

Blood sugar-regulating hormone also influences sensitivity to sweetness

WASHINGTON – Scientists have discovered that a blood sugar-regulating hormone may also alter a person’s sensitivity to sweet-tasting foods.

Scientists from University of Maryland School of Medicine found that changing the actions of the hormone glucagon could control how foods taste.

“An interesting possibility resulting from our research is that the development of new food additives could …. Read the original article  : Blood sugar-regulating hormone also influences sensitivity to sweetness.

Diabetes tattoo could make finger-pricking history

LONDON – Diabetics could be spared the routine of daily finger pricking, as engineers talk about replacing the process with a tattoo that detects their blood sugar levels.

Chemical engineers at MIT are developing the new sensing system, which according to them can measure sugar levels more accurately and less painfully.

The tattoo consists of nano-particles, … Read more >>.

Being superstitious can actually boost your performance

WASHINGTON – If a new research is to be believed, then believing in luck is enough to boost performance.

Scientists from the University of Cologne designed four experiments to test the effectiveness of belief in good-luck superstitions.

According to PhysOrg.com, the superstitions were tested to see whether or not they improved subsequent performance in motor dexterity, memory, … Read more »»».

Vodka taste lies in the tongue of the tippler

WASHINGTON – Vodka drinkers often display a preference for one brand of vodka over another. Now, scientists have found the reason behind it.

Researchers are reporting the first identification of a chemical basis for people’s preference for certain brands of vodka, which outsells rum, gin, whiskey, and tequila.

They found vodka differs from simple water-ethanol solutions in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Vodka taste lies in the tongue of the tippler.

Cell phone use while driving can put close relationships in jeopardy

WASHINGTON – Here’s one more reason not to use phone while driving: Cell phone use behind the wheel can put family relationships in jeopardy, says University of Minnesota professor Paul Rosenblatt.

The same factors that make using a cell phone while driving more hazardous-longer reaction times and impaired attention-can also make family communication in that situation …. Read the original article  : Cell phone use while driving can put close relationships in jeopardy.

Now, view 3-D delights sans the pesky specs

WASHINGTON – Microsoft’s Applied Sciences Group has unveiled a new lens that could soon revolutionize glasses-free 3-D displays.

The lens, thinner at the bottom than at the top, steers light to a viewer’s eyes by switching light-emitting diodes along its bottom edge on and off.

Coupled with a backlight, this makes it possible to present different …. Source  : Now, view 3-D delights sans the pesky specs.

Loved ones key to prevention of suicides among men: Study

Washington, June 17 (ANI): University of British Columbia researchers suggest that masculine ideals of strength coupled with strong family ties can help men combat depression and overcome thoughts of suicide.

UBC researchers John Oliffe and John Ogrodniczuk …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Loved ones key to prevention of suicides among men: Study.

Website offering water CO2 calculator for UK homes launched

LONDON – A new website has been launched that would help people gauge how much CO2 is being emitted to heat water in their homes.

Produced by the Energy Saving Trust (EST), it also suggests ways for users to save water and energy, as well … Read more »»».

Fossil evidence challenges Younger Dryas Impact theory

WASHINGTON – A new study has found evidence against a theory, which claimed that a meteor explosion or impact thousands of years ago caused catastrophic fires over much of North America and Europe and triggered an abrupt global cooling period, called the Younger Dryas.

In … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Fossil evidence challenges Younger Dryas Impact theory.

Enzyme behind baby blues found

WASHINGTON – Other than loss of estrogen, an increase in levels of enzyme, called monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) in the female brain after giving birth, is what causes baby blues or postpartum depression.

It is known that in the first three to four days after giving birth, estrogen … Read : Enzyme behind baby blues found.

Genetically modified ’sick pigs’ created to cure human diseases

LONDON – Scottish scientists, who created Dolly the cloned sheep, have now produced pigs that are genetically modified to suffer from incurable human diseases – so they can be used by drug companies to test new therapies for human diseases.

The team of researchers is trying to … Original article on : Genetically modified ’sick pigs’ created to cure human diseases.

Delayed monsoon in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – Monsoon has been delayed by a few days in Uttar Pradesh where it normally arrives by June 15, an official said Thursday.

“Monsoon might arrive in the state by June 19-20 because of climatic conditions generated due to cyclone Phet in the Arabian sea,” the director of the state meteorology department, J.P. Gupta told … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Delayed monsoon in Uttar Pradesh.

75 mn yr oldest tooth-marks reveal mammals feasted on dino-bones

WASHINGTON – Palaeontologists have discovered tooth marks gouged in the rib bone of a large dinosaur by a mammal that lived 75 million years ago.

Researchers Nicholas Longrich of Yale University and Michael J. Ryan of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History think …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 75 mn yr oldest tooth-marks reveal mammals feasted on dino-bones.

Effect of alcohol on foetus development not clear, say researchers

WASHINGTON – According to a review, there has been little progress in understanding the effects of alcohol on foetal development during pregnancy.

Four first-year medical students at Georgetown University School of Medicine conducted a review of literature on FAS (Foetal Alcohol Syndrome) and found that there have been little … Read more : Effect of alcohol on foetus development not clear, say researchers.

Malaria cases increase when Amazon forests are cut

WASHINGTON – Scientists have found a link between increased incidence of malaria and land-use practices in the Amazon.

Scientists from the University of Wisconsin-Madison have compiled a report, which combines detailed information on the incidence of malaria in 54 Brazilian health districts and high-resolution satellite …. Source  : Malaria cases increase when Amazon forests are cut.

Gene mutation ups blood-clot risk in women taking breast cancer treatment

WASHINGTON – A gene mutation can dramatically increase the risk of blood clots in women undergoing breast cancer therapy.

In the study, researchers found that women taking tamoxifen for early-stage breast cancer who developed blood clots were more likely to … Read more : Gene mutation ups blood-clot risk in women taking breast cancer treatment.

Bones found in Italian church ‘belong to Caravaggio’

LONDON – Italian researchers have come across bones of a human in a Tuscany church that they believe mostly belong to Renaissance artist Caravaggio.

The remains were found in an ossuary in a church crypt in Porto Ercole and the researchers used DNA and carbon dating … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Bones found in Italian church ‘belong to Caravaggio’.

AIDS drugs block 99pc of HIV transmission to breastfed babies

LONDON – AIDS-fighting antiretroviral drug combinations given to pregnant and breastfeeding women in Botswana, Africa, prevented 99 percent of the mothers from transmitting the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) to their infants, … Original source on Gaea Times at : AIDS drugs block 99pc of HIV transmission to breastfed babies.

Why some people find it harder to give up salt

WASHINGTON – Struggling to cut salt out of your diet? Well, blame your genes then, says a new study.

Scientists suggest that some people are genetically predisposed to have a harder time cutting salt out of their diets.

According to the study, low-sodium foods can taste …. Source article  : Why some people find it harder to give up salt.

BP chairman sorry for referring to ’small people’ hit by Gulf oil spill; says spoke ‘clumsily’

BP chair: Sorry for ’small people’ remark on Gulf
VENICE, La. – BP’s chairman has apologized for saying the company cares about the “small people” of the Gulf Coast hit by the oil disaster – a comment met with anger by those who say they are tired of the company’s executives making insensitive remarks.
On …. Original article  : BP chairman sorry for referring to ’small people’ hit by Gulf oil spill; says spoke ‘clumsily’.

Jute’s genome sequencing opens new prospects: Bangladesh PM

DHAKA – Bangladeshi scientists have successfully sequenced genomes of jute, creating new potentials for its production, conservation and characterisation, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said.

The discovery, she told parliament Wednesday, would help improve production quality of jute and its fibre as well as climate resilient varieties.
The discovery of genome sequencing of jute would, she … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Jute’s genome sequencing opens new prospects: Bangladesh PM.

Symptoms of ‘male menopause’ identified

LONDON – A team of researchers has for the first identified the symptoms linked to what has been termed late-onset hypogonadism or ‘male menopause’ caused by a reduction in testosterone production in ageing men.

However, the researchers say that unlike the female menopause, which …. Original article  : Symptoms of ‘male menopause’ identified.

Peptide that triggers diabetes in mice identified

WASHINGTON – The precise protein fragment, or peptide, that can trigger diabetes in mice has been identified, thanks to researchers at National Jewish Health and the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus.

The finding supports an emerging theory about the origins of autoimmunity, and may lead to new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in humans.

“Our findings … Original article on : Peptide that triggers diabetes in mice identified.

Triple-punch gene therapy offers hope to AIDS patients

LONDON – A triple-punch gene therapy, which endows human stem cells with three ways to resist HIV, has successfully cleared its first safety test in humans.

Four patients with AIDS who were infused with these cells tolerated the treatment, and the cells produced their anti-HIV weapons for up to two years.

While not many cells were … Read : Triple-punch gene therapy offers hope to AIDS patients.

Space shuttle’s rudders may harbour silent aircraft secrets

LONDON – Aircrafts could be turned less noisy, if only designers make some changes in space shuttle rudders.

In a US patent filed last week, Airbus notes that the space shuttle’s rudder – the hinged steering surface on the rear of the tail fin – splits to present two … Original article on : Space shuttle’s rudders may harbour silent aircraft secrets.

Hot day ahead for Delhiites

NEW DELHI – It would be yet another hot day in Delhi Thursday with the maximum temperature likely to touch 40 degrees Celsius.

The capital recorded a minimum of 28.8 degrees, normal for this time of the season.
“The sky will turn partly cloudy towards the afternoon but no rains are expected. The maximum … Read more >>>.

Why autoimmune diseases go into remission during pregnancy

WASHINGTON – A biological mechanism that affects the immune system is what makes many women experience remission of autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis and uveitis during pregnancy, revealed a study.

The expression of an enzyme known as pyruvate kinase is reduced in immune cells in pregnant women compared to non-pregnant women, according to Dr. Howard R. …. Original article  : Why autoimmune diseases go into remission during pregnancy.

How mum’s kiss can protect newborns from infections

WELLINGTON – Mum’s kiss could give newborn babies lifelong protection against sore throats and ear infections, found a world-first study in New Zealand.

The University of Otago study aims to determine if newborns can receive, and establish, good bacteria that have been introduced to their mother’s mouths.

Pregnant women will suck a probiotic lozenge each day of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : How mum’s kiss can protect newborns from infections.

Pro-eating disorder websites classify anorexia and bulimia as diseases

WASHINGTON – Websites promoting eating disorders, like anorexia and bulimia, give users a platform to encourage each other, but, on the other hand, recognize eating disorders as a disease, says a study from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and the Stanford University School of Medicine.

The study, the first large-scale analysis of pro-eating …. Original source  : Pro-eating disorder websites classify anorexia and bulimia as diseases.

Carbon dioxide dictates global climate pattern

WASHINGTON – Scientists have found the apparent role of carbon dioxide in the intensification of the Ice Ages and corresponding temperature changes in the tropical oceans.

The research, led by a team of Brown University, has established that the climate in the tropics over the last 2.7 million years changed with the cyclical spread and retreat …. Original source  : Carbon dioxide dictates global climate pattern.

Stargazers’ delight meteor shower to wreck Hubble Space Telescope, ISS

LONDON – The Hubble Space Telescope and the International Space Station could suffer heavy damage from the worst meteor storm in over a decade, NASA has warned.

Even as the seven-hour bombardment from the comet debris – due around October 2011 – would be a visual treat for star gazers, astronomers fear that it … Original article on : Stargazers’ delight meteor shower to wreck Hubble Space Telescope, ISS.

Fabled Bigfoot on verge of discovery, claims expert

WASHINGTON – Bigfoot expert Billy Willard says he is on the verge of discovering the most fabled of cryptozoic beasts.

According to Willard, the last decade has witnessed 14 Bigfoot sightings in Spotsylvania County, in the forests around Lake Anna.

The elusive apelike creature, also known as Sasquatch, was seen by three people from this area – …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Climate change will imperil food supply in Asia

LONDON – Climate change will drastically reduce the flow of snow and ice meltwater in the Himalayas, threatening the food security of more than 60 million Asians, warn ecological researchers.

The Indus and Brahmaputra basins are expected to be the most adversely affected, while in the Yellow River basin the availability of irrigation water will … Read : Climate change will imperil food supply in Asia.

Mississippi river could fight Gulf oil spill

WASHINGTON – There is finally a saviour for coastal wetlands of Louisiana, currently threatened by the Gulf oil spill – the Mississippi river.

Louisiana wetlands “play a vital role in protecting New Orleans from hurricane damage, providing habitat for wildlife, supporting economically important fisheries, and maintaining water quality,” says Efi Foufoula-Georgiou, director of NCED.

Scientists believe that …. Source  : Mississippi river could fight Gulf oil spill.

Rise in greenhouse gases linked to changes in ocean currents

WASHINGTON – A scientist has linked an increase in carbon dioxide in Earth’s atmosphere to changes in the circulation and biological activity of the oceanic waters surrounding Antarctica.

French scientist Jerome Chappellaz has studied the interconnecting air spaces of old snow-or firn air inside the polar ice caps of Greenland and Antarctica.

When living organisms in the …. Read the original article  : here.

How lithium treats bipolar disorder

WASHINGTON – Scientists have identified a possible mechanism for how lithium treats bipolar disorder.

Lithium has been established for more than 50 years as one of the most effective treatments for manic depression, clinically termed bipolar disorder.

However, scientists have never been entirely sure exactly why it is beneficial.

Now, new research from Cardiff University scientists suggests … Original article on : How lithium treats bipolar disorder.

CO2 dictated global climate pattern

WASHINGTON – Carbon dioxide levels explain why temperatures in tropical oceans and arctic waters have changed together for the past 2.7 million years, says a study.

The findings led by a research team of Brown University appear to cement the link between the Ice Ages and temperature changes in tropical oceans.
The research has established …. Read the original article  : here.

As interest in homegrown food grows, more companies develop technology for rooftop gardens

More companies create tools for rooftop gardening

TRENTON, Mich. – Using heat from a forge that turns orange-hot metal into everything from car parts to hand tools, a Michigan manufacturer is developing an energy-efficient way to warm a year-round greenhouse on the company’s roof.
Trenton Forging President David Moxlow started growing fruit and vegetables atop the plant … Read more »».

Gut bug might trigger arthritis

WASHINGTON – A new study on mice suggests that bacteria living in the gut may trigger the immune response that can result in rheumatoid arthritis.

Our gut, like that of most mammals, is filled with thousands of species of bacteria, many of which are helpful and aid in the development of a normal, healthy immune system. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Gut bug might trigger arthritis.

New discovery paves way for effective malaria vaccine

WASHINGTON – An international team of researchers has made a novel discovery that offers new hope for an effective vaccine against malaria in the future.

Plasmodium falciparum, a blood parasite that causes malaria by invading and multiplying in the red blood cells, kills 1 to 2 million people annually.

“How the parasite invades red blood cells is … Read more >>>.

Father involvement in pregnancy ‘reduces infant deaths’

WASHINGTON – Paternal involvement in pregnancy can reduce infant mortality, according to a new study.

Previous studies have shown that fathers who are active in their children’s upbringing can significantly benefit their children’s early development, academic achievement and well being.

Now, a new study by University of South Florida researchers suggests that a father’s involvement before …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Father involvement in pregnancy ‘reduces infant deaths’.

Telescope with world’s most powerful digi cam to reveal universe’s mysteries

WASHINGTON – Scientists are more optimistic about unravelling the hidden mysteries of the universe as the Pan-STARRS sky survey telescope (PS1) beings observing the night sky.

PS1, equipped with the world’s most powerful digital camera, will enable scientists to better understand the complexities of dark matter and dark energy, the material that is thought to account …. Source article  : Telescope with world’s most powerful digi cam to reveal universe’s mysteries.

Pregnant women who drink a glass of wine daily ‘have better kids’

WELLINGTON – A new study claims that pregnant women who indulge in one glass of wine a day in their first trimester may have better behaved children than those who abstain from alcohol or drink heavily.

But study leader Dr Monique Robinson advised pregnant women to stick to national guidelines, which recommend expectant mothers abstain …. Read the original article  : Pregnant women who drink a glass of wine daily ‘have better kids’.

Largest bed of dinosaur bones discovered

TORONTO – Alberta scientists have discovered the largest bed of dinosaur bones near Hilda, 50 km north of Medicine Hat.

The discovery also indicates that the beasts were routinely wiped out by ‘catastrophic’ tropical storms.

The site contains thousands of bones from the plant-eating dinosaur Centrosaurus apertus – a type of horned dinosaur distantly related to … Read more »»».

Newborns possess innate sense of direction

WASHINGTON – Newborn rats have an innate sense of direction, a new British research has revealed.

The study, conducted by scientists at University College London UCL), demonstrates that the brain’s representations of the sense of place and direction appear extremely early in the animal’s development – within two weeks of being born – and seemingly independently … Original article on : Newborns possess innate sense of direction.

Alzheimer’s drug not as harmful as believed

WASHINGTON – In the first trial of a new model for testing Alzheimer’s treatments, scientists have found that a promising class of drugs does not exacerbate the disease if treatment is interrupted.

Scientists at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and Merck n Co. Inc studied the effects of a class of drugs known …. Original article  : Alzheimer’s drug not as harmful as believed.

Here’s how Father’s Day began 100 years ago

WASHINGTON – As sons and daughters across the world celebrate Father’s Day this Sunday few know dad’s special day hits its centennial on June 20, 2010. Still, fewer know how it all began.

In 1909, a Mother’s Day sermon at church inspired …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Brit study to identify reasons behind increased aneurysms risk in men

Washington, June 19 (ANI): A new research currently underway at the University of Leicester, UK, may identify reasons behind an increased risk of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAA) in men.

In her doctoral study, Cardiovascular Sciences student Lisa Bloomer is looking into the causes of the male …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Brit study to identify reasons behind increased aneurysms risk in men.

Corals evolving to fend off effects of climate change

SYDNEY – Corals living on the fringes may hold a key clue to the survival of their ecosystems that are facing intensifying pressure from human activities and climate change.

John Pandolfi of the ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies and Ann Budd of the University of Iowa, both professors, have released new evidence showing … Read more : Corals evolving to fend off effects of climate change.

How much vitamin D do you actually need?

WASHINGTON – Scientists have developed a model that predicts an individual’s vitamin D needs.

It has been known since the early 20th century that our bodies are stimulated to make vitamin D when ultraviolet rays from the sun reach our skin.

But the amount of direct …. Source  : How much vitamin D do you actually need?.

Conscious sedation for brain surgery may shorten hospital stay

Washington, June 19 (ANI): A new study has suggested that the recovery time and cost of brain-tumor surgery might both be reduced if surgery is performed while patients are awake during part of the procedure.

The study, conducted at The Ohio State University … Read more »».

Competition affects evolution in island lizards

WASHINGTON – Millions of years before human beings began battling it out over beachfront property, a similar phenomenon was unfolding in a diverse group of island lizards.

Often mistaken for chameleons or geckos, Anolis lizards fight fiercely for resources, responding to rivals by doing push-ups and puffing out their throat pouches.
But anoles also compete …. Original source  : Competition affects evolution in island lizards.

Seventh grade students discover cave on the Red Planet

Washington, June 19 (ANI): A group of 16 seventh-grade students have found a cave on Mars using the Thermal Emission Imaging System (THEMIS) camera aboard NASA’s Mars Odyssey orbiter.

The schoolgoers were using the THEMIS to find lava tubes on the red Plant when they came across a small black feature straddling one of the tubes.

The …. Original source  : Seventh grade students discover cave on the Red Planet.

Girls are serious, boys take the anti-social route

LONDON – Teenaged boys often prefer the anti-social route to popularity while teenaged girls are more keen on their education and academics, says a new study on teen behaviour and goals conducted in Spain.

The objective was to study how teenagers’ goals were structured and the relationship between these goals and antisocial behaviour.
“Girls … Read more »»».

Breast implants may need to be rechecked

LONDON – A number of women, who have undergone breast enlargement surgeries, have been advised to contact their surgeon amid safety concerns about a certain type of implant.

A French inquiry found that Poly Implant Protheses – or PIPs – are filled with an unapproved gel and are missing protective barriers.

The body for plastic surgeons have …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Female viagra’ fails to win approval

NEW YORK – A drug that claimed to treat female sexual desire disorder failed to win approval from a federal advisory panel on Friday.

However, its failure to win votes encouraged the company to continue its research.he panel’s opposition followed an F.D.A. staff report earlier this week that also recommended against approval.

Such advisory votes do …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Day-59: Oil Spill could have powered 115,000 cars for a year

WASHINGTON – The oil wasted due to the Deepwater Horizon spill, could have fuelled all of the 100,000-120,000 cars for a year in any one of these cities- Buffalo, Las Vegas, Pasadena, Hartford, or Topeka-as of June 17, day 59 of the catastrophe.

Prof. James J. Corbett’s website at the University of Delaware features the full … Original article on : Day-59: Oil Spill could have powered 115,000 cars for a year.

Circadian clock found in pancreas linked to diabetes

LONDON – For the first time, researchers at Northwestern University have found that there also exists a circadian clock in the pancreas, which regulates the production of insulin, and that a fault in this clock could eventually cause diabetes.

The researchers show that insulin-secreting islet cells in the pancreas, called beta-cells, have their own dedicated …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Circadian clock found in pancreas linked to diabetes.

Play a love song to win a date

WASHINGTON – Having trouble getting a date for the weekend bash? Well, then here’s a trick-ask a girl out when a mushy song is playing in the background.

French researchers have said that women were more prepared to give their number to an ‘average’ young man after listening to romantic background music,

Researchers Nicolas Gueguen and … Original article on : Play a love song to win a date.

Rheumatoid arthritis can dampen sex life

WASHINGTON – Sex lives of patients are negatively affected by rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a new study has found.

Results of a French study of 1,271 patients (average age 64, 98 percent receiving treatment) showed that 66 percent of patients reported that their RA symptoms had negatively impacted their sexual relationships, and 40 percent reported RA was … Original article on : Rheumatoid arthritis can dampen sex life.

10 risk factors trigger 90pct of strokes

TORONTO – Ten common risk factors trigger more than 90 per cent of strokes, a new research reveals.

The Canadian-led study appears in The Lancet.

The researchers, led by Salim Yusuf of the Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine at McMaster University in Hamilton, found that high blood pressure was the greatest risk factor …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 10 risk factors trigger 90pct of strokes.

SpermCheck technology to let men test sperm count from home

WASHINGTON – Men could soon be able to test their sperm count from the comfort and privacy of their homes, all thanks to a new technology from the University of Virginia.

Just 10 minutes and few drips of semen will offer men with a more accurate and affordable way to test their sperm count.alled SpermCheck Fertility, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : SpermCheck technology to let men test sperm count from home.

Grizzly kills man near Wyoming’s Yellowstone, apparently after being tranquilized for study

Grizzly kills man near Wyoming’s Yellowstone park

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – A grizzly bear killed a Wyoming man outside Yellowstone National Park, apparently just hours after researchers trapped and tranquilized the animal.
The attack happened Thursday in the same place where two researchers with the Interagency Grizzly Bear Study Team had examined a large adult male grizzly earlier … Original source on Gaea Times at : Grizzly kills man near Wyoming’s Yellowstone, apparently after being tranquilized for study.

Grizzly kills man outside Yellowstone, apparently soon after being tranquilized for study

Grizzly kills man near Yellowstone
CHEYENNE, Wyo. – A grizzly bear killed a man just outside Yellowstone National Park, apparently just hours after researchers had trapped and tranquilized the animal.

The Park County Sheriff’s Office says the attack happened Thursday after members of the Interagency Grizzly Bear Study Team finished examining a large adult male grizzly.
The victim … Read more »»».

Scientists use airport body scanners to scan mummies

WASHINGTON – An international team of scientists are trying out a new technique of using airport body scanners to conduct tests on ancient mummies.

The chemically preserved bodies are usually investigated with conventional X-rays or computer tomography scans, which provide the clearest images, reports discoverynews.com.
However, ionizing radiation used by X-rays and CT scans can destroy …. Original source  : Scientists use airport body scanners to scan mummies.

Fiorina slams stimulus as failure for private sector, while her former company takes in $22M

Fiorina’s former company benefits from stimulus

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Republican Senate candidate Carly Fiorina is kicking off her general election campaign against Democrat Barbara Boxer by criticizing the $862 billion federal stimulus package as doing little for private businesses.
Yet there was at least one California business that benefited from the stimulus plan, one close to Fiorina’s …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Fiorina slams stimulus as failure for private sector, while her former company takes in $22M.

Fisherman arrested for killing crocodile

BHUBANESWAR – A fisherman was arrested Sunday for killing an endangered salt water crocodile in Orissa’s Kendrapada district, an official said.

Bhimasen Pradhan, 55, of Rahiasasan village, was arrested after a four-foot-long crocodile got entangled in his fishing net in the Gobari river, suffocating it to death, forest officer P.K. Behera told IANS.
Kendrapada district …. Source  : Fisherman arrested for killing crocodile.

Soon, ‘magic lotion’ to restore greying hair’s black sheen

MELBOURNE – A French scientist is developing a ‘magic lotion’ that could restore the lost natural sheen to grey hair.

At a recently held international conference in Cairns, Dr Bruno Bernard revealed he was working on a lotion that could brick back the natural colour to greying hair, without the need for dyes, tints or harsh …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Soon, ‘magic lotion’ to restore greying hair’s black sheen.

‘Man flu’ really does exist

LONDON – Ladies who complain that their men are notorious moaners when they are sick have been proven right, as a new study has claimed that “Man flu” may indeed exist.

In the study of 3,000 people, one in two men admits he exaggerates how ill he feels to get sympathy from his partner.

Apart from …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Man flu’ really does exist.

New test to detect lyme disease rapidly developed

WASHINGTON – A more sensitive test for Lyme disease that may offer earlier detection and lower cost has been developed by scientists at the National Institutes of Health.

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection transmitted to animals and humans by deer ticks.

A skin lesion at the site of the bite is one of the first … Read more >>.

Bacteria in mouth may offer probiotic potential against upper respiratory infections

WASHINGTON – A new research has suggested that oral bacteria can offer probiotic potential against upper respiratory tract infections.

The study has been carried out by researchers from the Universita degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy, and Tampere University of Technology, Tampere, Finland.

Although internal communication between human hosts and their microbes is only minimally understood, …. Read the original article  : Bacteria in mouth may offer probiotic potential against upper respiratory infections.

Kids, elderly most vulnerable to rising summer temperatures

WASHINGTON – With the arrival of summer, physicians are urging everyone to take special precautions to protect those who are most vulnerable to the dangers posed by this season’s heat and humidity – children and elderly.

“It’s always dangerous to leave a child in a parked car, even for a few minutes,” said Dr. Martin …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Blue-green bacteria may help generate ‘green’ electricity

WASHINGTON – Using blue-green bacteria, researchers have for the first time developed a way to convert sun light directly into electricity in a CO2-free manner.

The study illustrates that electrogenic workings of cyanobacteria is an important conduit of solar energy into the biosphere, says associate professor Ilia Baskakov, PhD. Center for Biomedical Engineering and Technology at …. Read the original article  : Blue-green bacteria may help generate ‘green’ electricity.

How spiderweb glue makes it difficult for prey to escape

LONDON – Apart from being sticky, spiderweb glue has elasticity like chewing gum, which makes it difficult for the prey to escape.

The finding is based on a research conducted by Ali Dhinojwala of the University of Akron in Ohio, reports New Scientist.

He used microscopic probes to test beads of glue on an orb spider’s web … Read this article on Gaea Times at : How spiderweb glue makes it difficult for prey to escape.

Brain circuits behind hearing develop without sensory experience

LONDON – Applying a new technique, researchers have found that brain circuits that enable hearing develop without sensory experience.

Researchers at the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California (USC) reached surprising findings about the role of nature versus nurture in the development of the neural circuits in the auditory cortex- the area …. Read the original article  : Brain circuits behind hearing develop without sensory experience.

How climate change and pollution affect ocean chemistry

WASHINGTON – In a new study, researchers have evaluated the total impact of climate change, carbon dioxide, pollution and other human-related phenomena on the world’s oceans.

The study, led by a marine geochemist at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI), has also predicted what the future might hold for oceans.

“What we do on land-agriculture, fossil …. Original article  : How climate change and pollution affect ocean chemistry.

Delhi to sizzle at 44 degrees

NEW DELHI – Delhiites will have to brave another hot day Sunday with the maximum temperature likely to hover around 44 degrees Celsius, five degrees above normal for this time of the year, a weather official said.

Residents of the city would also have to wait a while to see some rain.
“Skies will mainly … Read more »».

Madagascar bird declared extinct

LONDON – The Alaotra Grebe, a diving bird native to Madagascar, has been officially classified as extinct by an international bird conservation organisation.

BirdLife International has said in a report that the species, once found on Lake Alaotra, the largest lake in Madagascar, declined rapidly due to carnivorous fish being introduced to the lake and the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

For wildlife’s sake, Peruvian officials ban use helicopters at Machu Picchu tourist site

Peru helicopter ban at Machu Picchu protects fauna

LIMA, Peru – Helicopters have been banned from the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu in an effort to protect local wildlife.
Cusco province has published regulations banning choppers at Machu Picchu and the surrounding 125 square miles (323 square kilometers).
In January, thousands of tourists were evacuated by helicopters from …. Source article  : For wildlife’s sake, Peruvian officials ban use helicopters at Machu Picchu tourist site.

Himachal hills get warmer with rising temperatures

SHIMLA – The mercury continued to rise across the hills of Himachal Pradesh Saturday, recording temperatures two to six degrees above normal. In some areas it crossed 42 degrees Celsius.

Shimla, situated at an altitude of 2,130 metres, was warm at 28.5 degrees Celsius, 5.3 notches above average. It recorded a high of 27.3 degrees Celsius …. Original source  : Himachal hills get warmer with rising temperatures.

No respite from heat for Delhi

NEW DELHI – There was no respite from the sweltering heat for Delhiites Saturday as the maximum temperature touched 43.2 degrees Celsius, the weatherman said, adding that the mercury is expected to rise further over the weekend.

While the maximum temperature was four degrees above the average, the minimum dipped a notch to settle at …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : No respite from heat for Delhi.

Practise won’t make you perfect when it comes to sight-reading music

WASHINGTON – Practice makes a man perfect except sight-reading music, if new research is to be believed.

The ability to play sheet music on an instrument with little or no preparation is known as sight-reading.

Any piano player who practices sight-reading regularly will get pretty good at it, according to study co-authors …. Original article  : Practise won’t make you perfect when it comes to sight-reading music.

Argonne’s supercomputer crosses two billion processor-hour mark

WASHINGTON – The Argonne Leadership Computing Facility (ALCF), located at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Argonne National Laboratory, has run over two billion processor-hours of computations at a speed of over 557 trillion calculations a second allowing scientists to conduct new research in just weeks or months rather than years.

Pete Beckman, director of the …. Source article  : Argonne’s supercomputer crosses two billion processor-hour mark.

Like fireflies, earthquakes too can fire in synchrony

WASHINGTON – Just like fireflies flashing sporadically in early evening soon flash together in harmony, big earthquakes can trigger other big quakes by transferring stress along a single fault, according to scientists.

The phenomenon was seen in successive earthquakes in Turkey and Indonesia.

In fact, some powerful quakes can set off other big quakes on faults tens … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Like fireflies, earthquakes too can fire in synchrony.

Scientists observe one of the most distant objects in solar system

LONDON – Scientists have revealed the character of one of the most distant objects in the solar system.

The scientists, including Jay Pasachoff, Bryce Babcock, and Steven Souza at Williams College, observed the object named 2002 TX300 October 9, 2009, as it passed in front of a distant … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Scientists observe one of the most distant objects in solar system.

Smart 3-D simulation robots developed for Robocup 2010

WASHINGTON – American scientists have designed intelligent 3-D simulation robots to compete in the Robocup 2010.

Ubbo Visser, research associate professor of computer science at University of Miami (UM) College of Arts and Sciences and team leader for the UM robotics team RoboCanes, will present his work on … Original source on Gaea Times at : Smart 3-D simulation robots developed for Robocup 2010.

How ants maintain stability while carrying heavy loads

LONDON – The use of high-speed video cameras has enabled scientists to understand how the ants use controlled head movements to maintain their stability as their carry heavy loads.

The study, which appears in the Journal of Comparative Physiology A, also demonstrated that an ant’s neck plays a key critical part in balancing the …. Read the original article  : How ants maintain stability while carrying heavy loads.

Now, Swype software that predicts words as you glide across your keypad

NEW YORK – Tapping on your touch screen phones would soon be a thing of past, all thanks to new software-Swype-which predicts words as you slide your fingers on the keypad.

Seattle-based Cliff Kushler, who invented the T9 software for quick typing on cell phones, has created Swype with …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Now, Swype software that predicts words as you glide across your keypad.

Soon, monster wind turbines to generate green power

LONDON – Gigantic wind turbines with blade spans more expansive than the London Eye could soon be generating green power, according to a British clean energy expert.

An offshore turbine over 500ft tall with a diameter of 475ft is already set to make an appearance in the UK’s waters by 2012.

But the 10 megawatt machine, dubbed … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Soon, monster wind turbines to generate green power.

Why music is ‘music to our ears’

LONDON – A British professor is explaining why most of us tend to enjoy music.

According to Dr John Powell, a Visiting Professor of Materials Science at the University of Nottingham, our ears are part of a “warning system” that makes sure we stay away from dangerous situations.

However, “we can quickly recognise that … Read more : Why music is ‘music to our ears’.

How complex genetic variations determine our height

MELBOURNE – The combined effect of numerous minute genetic variations in many of our genes determines our height, according to a new Australian study.

Researchers from the Queensland Institute of Medical Research (QIMR) analysed the genes and height of almost 4,000 Australians, to come up with the study’s findings.

“This finding helps us understand the underlying genetic … Original source on Gaea Times at : How complex genetic variations determine our height.

As Roundup resistant weeds develop, farmers face return to tilling, use of harsher chemicals

Roundup resistant weeds pose environmental threat

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – When the weed killer Roundup was introduced in the 1970s, it proved it could kill nearly any plant while still being safer than many other herbicides, and it allowed farmers to give up harsher chemicals and reduce tilling that can contribute to erosion.
But 24 years later, a … Original source on Gaea Times at : As Roundup resistant weeds develop, farmers face return to tilling, use of harsher chemicals.

Facebook risky for adopted children, warns charity

LONDON – Networking sites like Facebook can be risky for adopted children since birth relatives can easily track them down even when the kids are not ready for a reunion, charities have warned.

There is no such information on the number of children who have been reached out in this manner but according to chief executive … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Facebook risky for adopted children, warns charity.

Moving clocks forward could reduce CO2 emissions

LONDON – A new study has revealed that keeping the clocks one hour ahead of time would save half a million tonnes of carbon dioxide every year.

A study at the Cambridge University has revealed that moving the clocks one hour ahead of the GMT during winters could save hundreds of thousands of tonnes of carbon … Original source on Gaea Times at : Moving clocks forward could reduce CO2 emissions.

Pine Island Glacier behind thinning ice in Antarctica

LONDON – Scientists have identified Pine Island Glacier (PIG) as a major source for thinning ice in West Antarctica, which has contributed nearly 10 per cent of global sea level rise.

Researchers from the British Antarctic Survey (BAS), Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory (LDEO) and the National Oceanography Centre, have reported new results from an investigation into Antarctica’s … Read more »».

Semi-portable powerhouses: Laptops to replace the PC

HANOVER – Laptops long ago usurped desktop PCs in terms of sales figures. Yet not all laptops are used on the go. Many are intended as a replacement for desktop computers.

Such notebooks often include powerful processors, beefy graphics and displays that measure 16 inches or more diagonally.
They approach standard desktop PCs in terms of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Semi-portable powerhouses: Laptops to replace the PC.

Israel to build world’s biggest seawater desalination plant

JERUSALEM – Israel is planning to build the world’s largest seawater desalination plant, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said.

The 300,000-sq-metre Sorek desalination facility, to be constructed near the coastal city of Ashkelon, will supply 150 million cubic metres annually, a quarter of the country’s needs, Xinhua reported citing a statement released by Netanyahu’s office Sunday. … Read more »»».

Lieberman says climate bill still remains short of 60 votes needed to advance in Senate

Senator says votes still short for climate bill
WASHINGTON – A Senate sponsor of a climate and energy bill says supporters are still short of the 60 votes they need to advance the legislation.
Independent Sen. Joe Lieberman of Connecticut says about 50 senators support the bill while 30 …. Read the original article  : Lieberman says climate bill still remains short of 60 votes needed to advance in Senate.

A war at the shore over who gets to stand on the sand; NJ wants communities to decide

This sand’s not your sand; this sand is my sand

MANTOLOKING, N.J. – Some Jersey shore beach towns have plenty of ways to keep outsiders off their sand: Limit on-street parking, prohibit food and drink, and have no public bathrooms.
One town literally walls off the public from much of the ocean with a protective stone seawall, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : A war at the shore over who gets to stand on the sand; NJ wants communities to decide.

Oz American scientists spooked by underground bio-terror threat in Darwin

LONDON – The U.S. Government believes tropical disease, caused by soil-dwelling bacteria, could become the next anthrax-style bio-terrorism threat.

The natural occurring bacteria called Melioidosis has caught the attention of the US Government because of its potential to be used as biological weapon.

Australian and American scientists are now on the verge of a breakthrough in the … Read more »».

Delhi simmers at 44.8, hot week lies ahead (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – The national capital simmered Sunday with the maximum temperature at 44.8 degrees Celsius – six degrees above average. With no respite in sight, residents need to buckle up for a hot week ahead, to go by what weather officials said.

“The mercury levels will see a rise and no rains are expected for … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Delhi simmers at 44.8, hot week lies ahead (Second Lead).

Hot weather to continue in Himachal hills, rain unlikely

SHIMLA – The hills of Himachal Pradesh will continue experiencing unusually high temperatures as there are no chances of rain in the next few days, a met official said here Sunday.

“Temperatures continued to remain on the higher side in the state due to lack of rainfall and such conditions would continue for the next few … Read more >>.

Holding babies key to male bonding

LONDON – Males have a better chance of bonding with each other when carrying an infant, suggests a new study.

The research, carried out among Barbary macaque monkeys, revealed that baby’s presence immediately breaks down barriers.

This study is among the first to show that babies serve as social tools and could explain why human fathers proudly …. Original source  : Holding babies key to male bonding.

Boffins record sun’s eerie musical harmonies

LONDON – Sheffield University astronomers have broken new ground by recording the music produced by our sun.

The researchers discovered that huge magnetic loops which have been observed coiling away from the outer layer of the sun’s atmosphere, known as coronal loops, vibrate like strings on a musical instrument.

At times they behave more … Read more »»».

Engineers learn architectural techniques to design safer electrical systems

WASHINGTON – British engineers are taking a novel route to design safer electrical systems for homes – they are learning from architecture. doctoral project at the University of Leicester, by Pakistani student Farah Lakhani, is examining the development of software for embedded processors (”silicon chips”) … Original source on Gaea Times at : Engineers learn architectural techniques to design safer electrical systems.

Why brown-eyed men appear more dominant than blue-eyed counterparts

WASHINGTON – Faces of brown-eyed white men make them appear more dominant than their blue-eyed counterparts even when the former’s eye colour is changed, a new Czech study reveals.

For the research, a group of 62 people were asked to look at photos of 80 faces – 40 men and 40 women – …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Why brown-eyed men appear more dominant than blue-eyed counterparts.

German expert working to tame the Brahmaputra

GUWAHATI – A German hydrologist has been entrusted by the Assam government to tame the great Asian river Brahmaputra that causes catastrophic flooding and erosion, causing destruction across the region.

“The German expert has drafted a concept paper detailing the methods he would be using to mitigate the woes caused by the flooding and massive erosion … Read : German expert working to tame the Brahmaputra.

Progesterone could replace estrogen to treat hot flashes in

WASHINGTON – For postmenopausal women, who experience bothersome hot flashes or night sweats, oral micronized progesterone could be an alternative treatment to estrogen.

Available only by prescription and sold under the brand name Prometrium in the United States and Canada, this form of progesterone is manufactured from a steroid in yams.

“This is the first evidence that …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Progesterone could replace estrogen to treat hot flashes in.

Language evolves following a ‘bumpy ride’ not straightforward path

WASHINGTON – A recent analysis of an ancient language demonstrates that linguistic change does not follow a straightforward path toward a simpler system but takes a rather “bumpy ride” to its destination.

The study entitled “Dvandvas, Blocking, and the Associative: The Bumpy Ride from Phrase to Word,” has been authored by Paul Kiparsky of Stanford University. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Language evolves following a ‘bumpy ride’ not straightforward path.

Insight into make-up of cells could help in development of new medicines

WASHINGTON – The discovery that proteins communicate by a complex network of chemical messages could lead to the development of new medicines, suggests a new study.

Drugs could have a greater effect on cell function by targeting groups of proteins working together, rather than individual proteins.

Results were obtained by studying yeast, which has many corresponding …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

High fructose levels make maturing fat cells fatter, less insulin-sensitive

WASHINGTON – Fructose- the sugar widely used as high-fructose corn syrup in soft drinks and processed foods-when present in high levels throughout childhood could make maturing human fat cells fatter and less insulin-sensitive.

The researchers, led by Dr. Georgina Coade at the University of Bristol in the U.K., found that when fructose is present as children’s … Read more >>>.

Riding a bike is extremely complicated, say scientists

LONDON – Learnt to ride a bike at a young age? Well, then give a pat on your shoulder, for scientists have said that it is actually far more complicated than it was thought.

Researchers from three different countries took more than three years to come up with a mathematical formula to mimic what most children … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Riding a bike is extremely complicated, say scientists.

‘Life-extending’ dietary supplement helps lemurs lose weight

WASHINGTON – In a study on lemurs, researchers found that resveratrol-known as dietary supplement for its supposed life-extending effects-could result in significant weight loss in these primates.

This is the first time that the anti-obesity properties of resveratrol have been demonstrated in a primate.

The compound is generated naturally by plants to ward off pathogens.

Fabienne … Original article on : ‘Life-extending’ dietary supplement helps lemurs lose weight.

World’s first plastic antibodies created

WASHINGTON – In what could be called a breakthrough study, researchers at UC Irvine have developed the first “plastic antibodies” successfully employed in live organisms, which could block spread of bee venom through the bloodstream of mice.

Tiny polymeric particles – just 1/50,000th the width of a human hair – were designed to match and encase …. Source  : World’s first plastic antibodies created.

Now, a device that releases stink bomb when you swear online!

NEW YORK – Those who can’t enough of dropping F-bombs online, a nasty dose of Pepper Mouth may curb your habit.

The device, invented by the Ultra-Modern-Life Training Lab, is plugged into a computer’s USB port. It is a stink bomb canister that emits foul smells when swear words are used.

The main motive of Pepper … Read : Now, a device that releases stink bomb when you swear online!.

Human body louse genome sequenced

WASHINGTON – Scientists have successfully sequenced the genome of the human body louse.

The achievement is expected to yield new insights into louse – and human – biology and evolution.

The research also sequenced the genome of a microbe that lives inside the body louse.

The tiny, blood-sucking body louse Pediculus humanus humanus L. seems to appear out … Read more >>.

Dumb women ‘more likely to go after rich guys’

NEW YORK – Women with low IQs are more likely than smarter women to go after rich men, according to a new research.

Experts say that it’s not that women with a low IQ are naturally greedy, but they may instinctively be trying to line up financial security for their future kids.

Study author Dr. Christine …. Original article  : Dumb women ‘more likely to go after rich guys’.

Early homonids walked on twos 400,000 years earlier than believed

WASHINGTON – The discovery and the consequent analysis of an early hominid skeleton – 400,000 years older than the famous “Lucy” skeleton – suggests that advanced human-like, upright walking occurred much earlier than previously thought.

The Cleveland Museum of Natural History, Kent State University, Case Western Reserve University, Addis Ababa University and Berkeley Geochronology Center were …. Source  : Early homonids walked on twos 400,000 years earlier than believed.

Gene therapy may help cure diabetes

WASHINGTON – Scientists from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston have developed an experimental cure for Type 1 diabetes.
sing gene therapy, the team tried to counter the two defects that cause Type 1 diabetes: autoimmune attack and destruction of the insulin-producing beta cells.

They used non-obese diabetic mice, which spontaneously develop diabetes due to autoimmunity, …. Read the original article  : Gene therapy may help cure diabetes.

‘Hunger’ hormone ups desire for high-calorie foods

WASHINGTON – A new study has found that the stomach hormone ghrelin, which acts in the brain to stimulate hunger and increase food intake, heightens the appeal of high-calorie foods over low-calorie foods.

“It raises the possibility that drugs that block the action of ghrelin may help reduce cravings for high-calorie foods and so help …. Source  : ‘Hunger’ hormone ups desire for high-calorie foods.

‘Earliest evolutionary history’ of Milky Way revealed

WASHINGTON – German astronomers have been successful in investigating for the first time the “earliest evolutionary history” of the Milky Way.

According to the scientists from the Argelander Institute for Astronomy at Bonn University and the Max-Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy in Bonn, the early Galaxy went from smooth to clumpy in just …. Read the original article  : here.

HEALTHBEAT: Researchers take a closer look at 40-somethings who survive cystic fibrosis

Cystic Fibrosis: More patients live into adulthood

WASHINGTON – Doctors always said allergies and asthma were behind Laura Mentch’s repeated lung and sinus infections. Only when she turned 50 did she discover the real culprit – a disease notorious for destroying children’s lungs.
Mentch is part of the gradual graying of cystic fibrosis: More and more patients … Read more >>>.

Punjab zoo to have toy train

CHANDIGARH – The Chhatbir zoo near here will soon have a toy train.

It will be the second zoo after Patna to have such a train, its director T.K. Behera said. “The train track will cover the entire zoo.”
Chhatbir zoo, some 15 km from Chandigarh, is one of the largest zoos in the country. It …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Punjab zoo to have toy train.

Early signs of schizophrenia found in brains of infants

WASHINGTON – Scientists have identified what they believe may the early signs of schizophrenia in the brains of children shortly after birth.

According to researchers, the discovery could lead to earlier detection of the mental disorder and enable better prevention and treatment. ost cases of schizophrenia aren’t detected until a person starts experiencing symptoms like delusions …. Original source  : Early signs of schizophrenia found in brains of infants.

Plastics chemical BPA linked to PCOS

WASHINGTON – A new research has found that women with the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the most common hormone imbalance in women of reproductive age, have higher BPA blood levels.

BPA, or bisphenol A, is a chemical inside some plastics and most canned foods we eat.

In the study, researchers also found that BPA, a known hormone …. Original source  : Plastics chemical BPA linked to PCOS.

Chimps kill neighbours to expand territory

Washington, June 22 (ANI): It has long been known that chimpanzees kill their neighbouring groups, but a motive has largely escaped researchers, until now. A new study has, however, found that chimps, and especially small packs of males on patrol, kill one another to gain territory.

“The take-home is clear and simple. Chimpanzees kill each …. Source article  : Chimps kill neighbours to expand territory.

Software can sense ‘depression’ in blogs

LONDON – Researchers have developed a software programme that can detect depression in blogs and online texts. The software is capable of identifying language that can indicate a writer’s psychological state, which could serve as a screening tool.

Developed by a team headed by Yair Neuman, associate professor of education at Ben-Gurion University (BGU) of …. Read the original article  : here.

Tool manipulation similar among blind and sighted

LONDON – Blind people think about manipulating tools in the same regions of the brain as do the people who can see, says a study.

The researchers say this adds to the evidence that the brain has a fairly defined organisation, while still being able to adapt to unusual conditions, such as not having any …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Tool manipulation similar among blind and sighted.

Parenting style can prevent heavy drinking

LONDON – Parenting style strongly and directly affects teenagers when it comes to heavy drinking — defined as having five or more drinks in a row, says a new Brigham Young University (BYU) study.

The researchers surveyed nearly 5,000 adolescents between the age of 12 and 19 about their drinking habits and relationship with their parents. … Read more »»».

No proof of Jesus’ crucifixion, claims scholar

LONDON – The episode of Jesus’ crucifixion is based more on traditions of the Christian church and artistic illustrations than antique texts, says a Swedish researcher.

“The problem is that descriptions of crucifixions are remarkably absent in the antique literature,” Gunnar Samuelsson, of the University of Gothenburg, Sweden, who recently finished his doctoral thesis on the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : No proof of Jesus’ crucifixion, claims scholar.

Magnets can improve language ability in Alzheimer’s patients

WASHINGTON – Scientists have demonstrated that a brain stimulation technique, known as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, boosts the language ability of patients with Alzheimer’s disease.

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, or rTMS for short, is a non-invasive technique that involves the delivery of a rapid succession of magnetic pulses in frequencies of up to 100 Hz.

Previous research …. Original source  : Magnets can improve language ability in Alzheimer’s patients.

Saliva holds bed bugs’ blood-sucking secrets

WASHINGTON – Scientists are reporting the first preliminary description of the bed bug saliva proteins – a finding that could be used in diagnosing bed bug bites and preventing the itch.

The saliva proteins give the bug its ability to suck blood from its human victims and escape to bite again with risking a lethal slap. … Read more »».

Neuroscientists can predict your plans even before you haven’t!

WASHINGTON – A new American study has demonstrated that neuroscientists can predict your behaviour better than you can.

The research, by neuroscientists from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), has shown brain scanning can be used to predict whether people will use sunscreen during a one-week period even better than the people themselves can.

“There … Original source on Gaea Times at : Neuroscientists can predict your plans even before you haven’t!.

Recovering addicts could succumb to cravings if they ignore stress

WASHINGTON – If you are a recovering addict, ignoring stress could lead you to succumb to cravings, says a new research.

“Cravings are a strong predictor of relapse. The goal of this study is to predict the variation in substance craving in a person on a within-day basis. Because recovery must be maintained ‘one day at …. Original source  : Recovering addicts could succumb to cravings if they ignore stress.

Going barefoot in home may contribute to falls among elderly

WASHINGTON – A new research has suggested that elderly people should avoid going barefoot, or wearing slippers or socks with no shoes to prevent serious injuries, including fractures, sprains, dislocations, and pulled or torn muscles, ligaments or tendons, as a result of their fall.

Prevention of falls among older adults is a major clinical and …. Read the original article  : Going barefoot in home may contribute to falls among elderly.

Gene loss could help explain evolution of limbs from fins

LONDON – The loss of genes guiding fin development may help reveal how fish evolved into four-limbed vertebrates, according to new research.

In the late Devonian period, some 365 million years ago, fish-like creatures began venturing onto land from shallow waters using eight-fingered limbs.

The limbs had evolved from fins; during the transition, … Read more : Gene loss could help explain evolution of limbs from fins.

Now, follow your Facebook friends automatically from Twitter

SYDNEY – Now you can follow your Facebook friends directly from Twitter, all thanks to the micro-blogging site’s latest applications.

Twitter has declared that it is launching major upgrades to its Facebook and LinkedIn applications, bringing added functionality and integration between Twitter and two of the world’s largest social networks.

The new application for Facebook is now …. Read the original article  : Now, follow your Facebook friends automatically from Twitter.

Nanoparticles in sunscreens could be toxic if accidentally eaten

WASHINGTON – Nanoparticles in sunscreens could be toxic if accidentally eaten, according to scientists.

Philip Moos and colleagues have said that particle size affects the toxicity of zinc oxide, a material widely used in sunscreens.

Particles smaller than 100 nanometers are slightly more toxic to colon cells than conventional zinc oxide.

Solid zinc oxide was more … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Nanoparticles in sunscreens could be toxic if accidentally eaten.

Neanderthal, Homo sapiens split 500,000yrs older than believed

WASHINGTON – DNA-based analyses has revealed that the separation of Neanderthal and Homo sapiens might have occurred at least one million years ago-at least 500, 000 years earlier than previously thought.

A doctoral thesis conducted at the National Center for Research on Human Evolution (Centro Nacional de Investigacion sobre la Evolucion Humana) -associated with the University …. Original source  : Neanderthal, Homo sapiens split 500,000yrs older than believed.

Indian origin scientist’s smartphone app for home eye tests

LONDON – Going to an eye clinic for a simple eye test may soon become pass???, thanks to the efforts of an Indian-origin American scientist, who has developed a simple method of testing eyes by using a smartphone and a specially designed eyepiece.

The application, a brainchild of Ramesh Raskar of the Camera Culture group at …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Indian origin scientist’s smartphone app for home eye tests.

AP INTERVIEW: Leader of Argentine grandmothers rights group vows to pursue DNA fight

Argentine rights leader defends DNA database

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina – Argentina’s leading newspaper publisher must pay the consequences if genetic tests show the children she adopted three decades ago were stolen from prisoners of the dictatorship, a leading human rights activist says.
Estela de Carlotto, president of the Grandmothers of the Plaza de Mayo, spoke with The …. Original source  : AP INTERVIEW: Leader of Argentine grandmothers rights group vows to pursue DNA fight.

1 in 5 deaths in Bangladesh linked to arsenic in drinking water

LONDON – Exposure to arsenic in drinking water – even at low levels – increases the risk of death from any cause, suggests a new study conducted on Bangladeshis.

Arsenic is known to be a potent carcinogen and toxic to organs such as the liver, skin, kidney and the cardiovascular system.

But previous studies assessing the effects …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 1 in 5 deaths in Bangladesh linked to arsenic in drinking water.

Ginkgo biloba extract cuts Alzheimer’s risk by 47pc

MELBOURNE – A new study has suggested that long-term use of a ginkgo biloba extract can decrease the risk of Alzheimer’s disease by 47 percent.

In the French GuidAge study, groups of elderly people with memory complaints were randomly assigned 240 milligrams per day of ginkgo extract, or a placebo, to be taken daily.

Researchers found …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Neural mechanisms of courage uncovered

WASHINGTON – Scientists have unravelled the neural mechanisms in the brain that are linked with “courage.”

The study provides fascinating insight into what happens in the brain when an individual voluntarily performs an action opposite to that promoted by ongoing fear.

In fact, the results may even lead to new treatment strategies for those who exhibit a …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Neural mechanisms of courage uncovered.

Soon, cheap and durable touch screen for your phone

WASHINGTON – Looking for touch screen phone but not willing to spend big bucks on something that could be easily breakable? Well, here’s a solution to your dilemma- a new type of touch screen that could be less expensive and more durable.

Researchers in South Korea and Japan have claimed that they can make large pieces …. Read the original article  : Soon, cheap and durable touch screen for your phone.

Delhi to be hot, though light rains expected

NEW DELHI – The national capital may witness light rains in some areas Thursday but the weather will be hot with the minimum temperature being recorded at 31.6 degrees Celsius, three degrees above the average, the met office said.

“Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 31.6 degrees Celsius, which was three degrees above normal for this …. Read the original article  : Delhi to be hot, though light rains expected.

Drugs and alcohol can fuel creativity is a myth, says psychiatrist

LONDON – Psychiatrists have claimed that drinking and taking drugs does not enhance a person’s creative quotient.

While there are many artists and writers famous for drug abuse, most of them created their greatest works when they were not intoxicated, according to psychiatrist Iain Smith.

In fact, alcohol and drugs are more likely to hamper creativity, he …. Source article  : Drugs and alcohol can fuel creativity is a myth, says psychiatrist.

Bariatric surgery can resolve sexual dysfunction in obese women

WASHINGTON – A new research has revealed that bariatric surgery could prove useful in improving female sexual dysfunction (FSD) apart from helping people lose weight.

As many as 54 sexually active women, with an average body mass index (BMI) of 45, were studied before and after having either laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) or Roux-en-Y gastric … Read more >>>.

Why drug users become addicts

WASHINGTON – A typical drug user’s transition to addiction could result from a persistent impairment of synaptic plasticity in a key structure of the brain, suggests a new French study.

The research, by the teams of Pier Vincenzo Piazza and Olivier Manzoni, at the Neurocentre Magendie in Bordeaux, appears in the journal Science.

This study is …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Massive algae outbreak growing bigger off China’s east coast

Big algae bloom expanding off China’s east coast

BEIJING – A huge bright green algae bloom is blanketing the sea off China’s east coast and wind is driving it closer to land, an official said Friday.
Cui Wenlin, an official with the State Oceanic Administration, said the slimy bloom is the biggest China has seen since a …. Source article  : Massive algae outbreak growing bigger off China’s east coast.

Even workers can produce queen bees!

LONDON – Cape honeybee workers can produce a new queen at any time, new Australian research reveals.

While in most bee species, the eggs laid by workers always grow into males, Apis mellifera capensis workers can produce females.

However, these workers tend to lay eggs only after their queen dies.

Madeleine Beekman and Ben Oldroyd of …. Read the original article  : Even workers can produce queen bees!.

Replace your hard chair with a soft seat to experience a change of heart

WASHINGTON – Our sense of touch has a significant bearing on our thoughts, behaviour and our overall perception of the world, new research reveals.

For the study, a Yale-led team of psychologists conducted a series of six experiments that have been documented in the June 25 issue of the journal Science.

Interviewers holding a heavy clipboard, compared … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Replace your hard chair with a soft seat to experience a change of heart.

Heavy rains hit normal life in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – Heavy rains, triggered by the southwest monsoon, hit normal life in some parts of Orissa Friday.

The highest 130 mm of rainfall was recorded at Soro in Bhadrak district followed by Ambabhona town in the same district which witnessed 110 mm of rainfall in the last 24 hours, he said.
In Bhubaneswar … Read more »».

Scientists provide insight into jet lag

LONDON – Everyone hates jet lag – insomnia, loss of appetite, decreased alertness and depressed mood – that accompanies travel to locations in different time zones.

The symptoms of jet lag are caused by misalignment of a person’s internal body clock and external time.
Now, Gregor Eichele and colleagues at the Max Planck Institute for … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Scientists provide insight into jet lag.

Partial lunar eclipse to grace sky on June 26

WASHINGTON – A partial lunar eclipse will be visible across much of North America early Saturday morning.

According to the editors of StarDate magazine, as Earth’s long shadow falls across the Moon, the part in the shadow will turn dark. It will look as though a chunk were missing from the Moon.

The entire eclipse is visible … Original source on Gaea Times at : Partial lunar eclipse to grace sky on June 26.

System that controls sleep in humans may be same for most mammals

WASHINGTON – An international team of researchers has shown that the neural circuitry that controls the sleep/wake cycle in humans may also control the sleep patterns of 17 different mammalian species.

These findings, reported by researchers from Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH), the University of Sydney, and the Center for Integrated Research and Understanding of …. Original article  : System that controls sleep in humans may be same for most mammals.

Humans will be extinct within 100 years, says Oz scientist

WASHINGTON – A 95-year-old Australian microbiologist has declared that humans will be extinct in another 100 years or so.

“We’re going to become extinct. Whatever we do now is too late,” Discovery News quoted Frank Fenner as telling The Australian in an interview.

“A lot of other animals will, too. It’s an irreversible situation. I think it’s …. Original source  : Humans will be extinct within 100 years, says Oz scientist.

Lower BP may be unhealthy for kidney patients, say expert

WASHINGTON – An expert is suggesting that lower blood pressure could be unhealthy for patients with chronic kidney disease.

Recent guidelines by The National Kidney Foundation Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (NKF KDOQI) call for lower target blood pressure levels in patients with CKD.

But in the absence of high-quality scientific evidence, there’s a chance this recommendation … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Lower BP may be unhealthy for kidney patients, say expert.

Moms’ favouritism negatively affects kids in adulthood

WASHINGTON – A mother showing favouritism to one child can have lasting effects – her children can show depressive symptoms in middle-age, says a new study

The recent survey of 275 Boston-area families is the first to show that such harmful effects persist long into adulthood.

Prior research has shown that parental favouritism negatively affects mental … Read more >>.

Rat lungs renovated in lab using stem cells

WASHINGTON – Scientists from Yale University have discovered a novel technique that uses stem cells to build better lungs.

According to the researchers, ‘reseeding’ lungs with a patient’s own stem cells before a transplant could save millions of lives.

The researchers have come up with a technique to remove all cells from a lung and then reseed … Read more »»».

Sex for 10 minutes is ‘ideal’

LONDON – It may come as a surprise to many people, but the most desirable length for sex is just 10 minutes, a survey of has revealed.

A survey of 50 members of the Society for Sex Threapy and Research, who counsel and treat couples with sexual problems, said that between one and two minutes was … Original source on Gaea Times at : Sex for 10 minutes is ‘ideal’.

Feds invest millions to keep groceries open as many rural residents face long drives for food

Grocery closings leave rural residents few options

TURKEY, Texas – Craig Chancellor tried everything he could, but last November he finally closed the Turkey General Store, leaving the small Texas Panhandle town without a grocery.
Although Chancellor tried to trim overhead and relocated a small cafe he owned into the store, he couldn’t make it work. He … Original source on Gaea Times at : Feds invest millions to keep groceries open as many rural residents face long drives for food.

Indian origin scientist develops software to make PCs ’sleep-work’

WASHINGTON – Personal computers in offices can now save energy and money by “sleep-working,” thanks to new software SleepServer developed by a team led by an Indian-origin American scientist.

Sleep-working enterprise PCs are accessible via remote connections and maintain their presence on voice over IP, instant messaging, and peer-to-peer networks even though the PCs are [..] Read the original article: here.

Bilingualism can check decline, extinction of languages

WASHINGTON – Spanish researchers claim to have found a way to check the decline and the ultimate extinction of languages.

There are about 6000 different languages in the world, but only a handful, including English, dominate.

Some mathematical models have demonstrated how dominating languages can cause the decline and extinction of less popular languages.

Such models seem to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Bilingualism can check decline, extinction of languages.

Now, living, breathing human lung-on-a-chip

WASHINGTON – American scientists have used a microchip to develop a device that mimics a living, breathing human lung.

Researchers from the Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Harvard Medical School and Children’s Hospital Boston collaborated to come up with the device.

About the size of a rubber eraser, it acts much like a …. Original article  : Now, living, breathing human lung-on-a-chip.

Showers cool Delhi

NEW DELHI – Pre-monsoon showers cooled Delhi Friday, bringing down the temperature by several notches. The weatherman said more rains were in store.

The minimum temperature settled at 27.4 degrees Celsius, down from 31.6 Thursday. The minimum temperature Friday was two notches below the normal for this time of the year.
The capital has received …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Showers cool Delhi.

India to witness partial lunar eclipse

NEW DELHI – A partial lunar eclipse will be visible from northeastern parts of the country Saturday as moon will be covered by the earth’s shadow.

The eclipse in India will start at 2.27 p.m. and end at 7.50 p.m. The partial phase of the eclipse will last for 2 hour 43 minutes. This eclipse …. Read the original article  : here.

Activists blame Hong Kong’s ‘dysfunctional’ political system for failing to clean up dirty air

Hong Kong air pollution blamed on political system

HONG KONG – Democracy activists are not the only ones unhappy with a slow pace of electoral reform in Hong Kong.
Environmentalists blame the city’s political setup – which guarantees a strong voice for business – for stymieing efforts to clean up Hong Kong’s increasingly dirty air.
“The city’s dysfunctional … Read more : Activists blame Hong Kong’s ‘dysfunctional’ political system for failing to clean up dirty air.

Friendships, family ties get better with age

WASHINGTON – Relationships get better with age as older adults are more willing to forgive and are less prone to conflicts with children and siblings, a new study says.

“Older adults report better marriages, more supportive friendships and less conflict with children and siblings,” said Karen Fingerman, professor in gerontology in Purdue University.
“While physical and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Friendships, family ties get better with age.

Witnessing arrests may increase stress risk in kids

WASHINGTON – Witnessing the arrest of a household member can traumatize kids psychologically, a University of Illinois at Chicago has found.

Susan D. Phillips, assistant professor of social work and the study’s lead author, found that children who saw the arrest of a household member had elevated symptoms of posttraumatic stress or PTS-a psychological response to … Read more : Witnessing arrests may increase stress risk in kids.

Why losing a loved one can be fatal

LONDON – Ever wondered why the risk of dying increases among widows and widowers following their spouses’ death. Well, it seems scientists have found the answer.

They believe that the so-called widowhood effect could be caused by the combined effects of stress and age-related changes in the immune system.

Janet Lord, an immunologist at the University of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Why losing a loved one can be fatal.

Adding antioxidants to anti-malarial treatment may prevent learning impairment

WASHINGTON – Scientists have discovered that adding antioxidant therapy to traditional anti-malarial treatment may prevent long-lasting cognitive impairment in cerebral malaria.

Recent studies of children with cerebral malaria indicate that cognitive deficits, which may impair memory, learning, language, and mathematical abilities, persist in many survivors even after the infection itself is cured.

“This complication may impose [..] Read the original article: here.

Deep Impact Spacecraft to fly past Earth for the last time

WASHINGTON – NASA’s historic Deep Impact spacecraft, which is on its current University of Maryland-led EPOXI mission, will fly past Earth for the fifth and last time on Sunday, June 27th.

At time of closest approach to Earth, the spacecraft will be about 30,400 kilometers (18,900 miles) above the South Atlantic.

Mission navigators have tailored this trajectory [..] Read the original article: here.

New mechanism of bird flu virus transmission discovered

WASHINGTON – American researchers have discovered new way of avian influenza circulation and transmission.

Led by Mauro Delogu, virologist from the Veterinary Faculty of the Bologna University and researchers from the Istituto Superiore di Sanita, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (Memphis, Tennessee), the study offers new insights into … Original source on Gaea Times at : New mechanism of bird flu virus transmission discovered.

Scientists figure out what ended last ice age

WASHINGTON – The answer to what ended the last ice age, an event that ushered in a warmer climate and the birth of human civilisation, may be blowing in the winds.

In the geological blink of an eye, ice sheets in the northern hemisphere began to collapse and warming spread quickly to the south, says a … Read more »»».

King Tut died from sickle-cell disease, not malaria: Experts

LONDON – King Tutankhamun’s death was a result of sickle-cell disease, and not malaria – according to experts.

A team from Hamburg’s Bernhard Noct Institute for Tropical Medicine (BNI) claims that King Tut suffered from Kohler’s disease – a bone disorder prohibiting blood flow, before succumbing to malaria.

Despite segments of a malarial parasite found via … Read this article on Gaea Times at : King Tut died from sickle-cell disease, not malaria: Experts.

Lucknow kids fund green mission with pocket money

LUCKNOW – Children of their age usually prefer spending pocket money on junk food, enjoying a joyride in an amusement park, or buying a DVD of their favourite cartoons. But here’s a group that uses the pocket money to fund a green drive in the city.

A group of 15 children in the Telibagh area of … Read more >>.

Thunderstorm likely but Delhi to be hot

NEW DELHI – Delhiites can look forward to thunderstorms and light rains Saturday but the city might not get much respite from the heat thanks to the humidity, a weather official said.

“The capital will experience thunderly developments towards evening or night with a possibility of duststorm and thunderstorm followed by light rains in some areas,” … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Thunderstorm likely but Delhi to be hot.

Cheers! Red wine could help prevent some eye diseases

WASHINGTON – Here’s another reason why red wine could be good for you – it contains an ingredient that has the potential to prevent some blinding diseases, according to a new study.

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis found that Resveratrol – found in red wine, grapes, blueberries, peanuts and other plants …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Cheers! Red wine could help prevent some eye diseases.

Chinese island shrinks due to illegal sand collection

BEIJING – Villagers on a small island in China’s Guangdong province are worried about the threat to their lives and economic activity with the island having shrunk by nearly half in 10 years due to illegal sand collecting.

The villagers of Luodousha or Xinsha island said the sand had once been a natural barrier protecting them … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chinese island shrinks due to illegal sand collection.

Flamingoes descend on Agra: Is this a global-warming phenomenon?

AGRA – What are flamingoes doing in Agra at this time of the year? This is the question plaguing environmentalists here after nearly 500 of the gregarious wading birds descended on Agra’s Keitham lake last week.

“I think the flamingoes have lost their way. This is the first time that so many of them have come … Read more »»».

Comment deadline nears for EPA proposal limiting mercury air emissions at gold mines

Deadline nears for comments on mercury emissions

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Federal rules limiting mercury emissions at gold mines are long overdue but aren’t nearly tough enough, environmental groups said Friday.
The Environmental Protection Agency is proposing for the first time to regulate mercury air emissions from gold mining under the Clean Air Act. The deadline for comments …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Skygazing treat: Partial lunar eclipse visible in western skies, Pacific and eastern Asia

Partial lunar eclipse to dominate sky
LOS ANGELES – Attention skygazers: A portion of the moon will cross into the Earth’s shadow Saturday during a partial lunar eclipse visible in the western United States and Canada, the Pacific and eastern Asia.

For West Coast viewers, the eclipse will occur in the pre-dawn hours. It will begin at …. Source article  : Skygazing treat: Partial lunar eclipse visible in western skies, Pacific and eastern Asia.

Canadian oil sands company guilty in death of 1,600 ducks in toxic waste pond

Oil sands company guilty in duck deaths
ST. ALBERT, Alberta – Canadian oil-sands company Syncrude has been found guilty of causing the death of 1,600 ducks in a toxic waste pond at its mine in Alberta.

The deaths of the mallards two years ago drew widespread attention and prompted Prime Minister Stephen Harper to lament that Canada’s …. Source article  : Canadian oil sands company guilty in death of 1,600 ducks in toxic waste pond.

1st lawsuit since approval of Cape Cod wind farm claims science ignored, law violated

1st lawsuit filed over Cape Cod wind farm plans

BOSTON – Environmental and watchdog groups on Friday filed the first legal challenge to a wind farm off Cape Cod since federal agencies gave final approval to the project, alleging that the 130 turbines planned for Nantucket Sound will endanger protected migratory birds and whales.
A lawsuit filed … Read more >>.

Lawsuit filed against feds claims science ignored, law violated in Cape Cod wind farm approval

Coalition sues feds over Cape Cod wind farm

BOSTON – Environmental and watchdog groups have filed the first legal challenge to a wind farm off Cape Cod since federal agencies gave final approval to the project two months ago.
A lawsuit filed Friday in federal court in Washington, D.C., alleges that the 130-turbine project in Nantucket Sound …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Lawsuit filed against feds claims science ignored, law violated in Cape Cod wind farm approval.

Botox paralyzes your emotions, too

LONDON – A well-known side effect of Botox is the inability to fully express emotions. Now, a new research has revealed another side effect of the anti-wrinkle jabs: the inability to fully feel emotions.

The jab effectively ‘freezes’ the facial muscles around wrinkles, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Botox paralyzes your emotions, too.

Now, simple blood test to reveal women’s menopause age

MELBOURNE – A simple blood test that could tell young women the precise age at which they will no longer be fertile is set to be unveiled.

The test works by measuring levels of a hormone produced by the ovaries.

The procedure, to be launched in … Read : Now, simple blood test to reveal women’s menopause age.

Mobile phones ‘too dangerous’ for kids

MELBOURNE – In wake of studies linking mobile phone use to increased risk of brain tumours, kids have been urged to text, rather than talk, on their cell phones.

The Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency issued the official caution last week, … Original article on : Mobile phones ‘too dangerous’ for kids.

Fat and muscle turned into bone, cartilage in rodents

LONDON – In what is being considered as a major breakthrough, scientists at Harvard Medical School, Boston, have regrown bone and cartilage from fat cells and muscle tissue and then implanting them at the site of the injury.

The researchers achieved the feat of converting muscle and fat …. Original source  : Fat and muscle turned into bone, cartilage in rodents.

Football replay used to fight dementia

LONDON – Football can help stimulate the recollections of dementia sufferers, a project has found.

In a study, researchers at Glasgow Caledonian University found that showing football memorabilia to men with the condition stimulated their memories in a ‘remarkable’ way.

The study … Read more »».

Now, contraceptive pill for men!

LONDON – Israeli scientists have come up with the male alternative to the female contraceptive pill.

The formula works by removing vital protein in sperm required for a woman to conceive.

The pill needs to be taken once every three months, says scientists behind the breakthrough.

So … Original article on : Now, contraceptive pill for men!.

Genetic links to kidney disease, kidney failure identified

WASHINGTON – Researchers at the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) have identified genetic links to kidney disease and kidney failure.

The scientists have described their research in two presentations at this week’s 70th Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association, June 25-29, in Orlando, Florida.

One presentation describes a DNA … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Genetic links to kidney disease, kidney failure identified.

Hot day ahead but thundershowers likely

NEW DELHI – Delhiites are likely to see a hot and humid day Sunday, though it could get cooler by night as the weatherman has predicted thundershowers.

The city witnessed a drop in the minimum temperature following light showers early Sunday. The minimum temperature settled at 27.4 degrees Celsius, two notches below the normal … Original article on : Hot day ahead but thundershowers likely.

Baby killed, mother injured by falling tree branch in NYC’s Central Park Zoo

Falling branch kills baby in NYC’s Central Park

NEW YORK – Police say a 6-month-old baby has been killed and her mother injured by a falling tree branch at the Central Park Zoo in New York City.
The 33-year-old New Jersey woman and her baby were struck Saturday by the falling branch.
Police said the two were taken [..] Read the original article: here.

US polar bear regulator acknowledges there’s little to do to stop loss of animals’ ice habitat

Polar bear overseer: few tools to stop melting ice

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Polar bear policy in America can be summed up succinctly: The iconic bears are threatened with extinction, and so far nothing much is being done.
Two years after they were listed under the Endangered Species Act, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has taken no … Original source on Gaea Times at : US polar bear regulator acknowledges there’s little to do to stop loss of animals’ ice habitat.

Chimpanzee dies in Alipore zoo

KOLKATA – A 24-year-old male chimpanzee housed in the Alipore zoo here died Saturday after a prolonged illness, an official said.

“It was due to prolonged illness that the chimpanzee – Tuzo – died today (Saturday),” said Alipore Zoological Garden director Raju Das.
The chimpanzee was suffering from a liver infection and was not eating …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Chimpanzee dies in Alipore zoo.

Documents show vast cleanup of Plum Island labs, land; some environmentalists are dubious

Documents show vast cleanup of Plum Island land

GARDEN CITY, N.Y. – Government documents obtained by The Associated Press show extensive efforts since 2000 to remove vast amounts of waste and contaminants from Plum Island, site of top-secret Army germ warfare research and decades of studies of dangerous animal diseases.
Yet some environmentalists remain concerned about the … Read more : Documents show vast cleanup of Plum Island labs, land; some environmentalists are dubious.

After showers, Delhi burns again

NEW DELHI – A day after it got the first spell of pre-monsoon showers, Delhi experienced another warm day Saturday, recording a maximum temperature of 41.6 degrees Celsius, the weatherman said.

While the minimum temperature was two degree below the average at 27.4 degrees, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) expects this figure to hover around …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : After showers, Delhi burns again.

Power-from-waste project launched in Delhi

NEW DELHI – In a little over a year from now, some homes in the capital will be lit up with power generated from household waste. The Delhi government Saturday launched a project to generate clean power from waste.

The project will be run in the public-private partnership mode by the government and … Read more : Power-from-waste project launched in Delhi.

‘Doubters of human-caused climate change lack expertise’

WASHINGTON – Scientists who are not convinced that human beings have contributed significantly to climate change have far less expertise and prominence in climate research than peers who are convinced, says a new study.

In a quantitative assessment – the first of its kind to address this issue – a Stanford University team analysed the number … Read more >>>.

Geoscientists call for reducing soot emissions

WASHINGTON – More aggressive action is required to reduce soot emissions in a bid to achieve climate policy goals such as those set forth in last December’s Copenhagen Accord, says a study.

The Princeton University researchers assessed the climatic contribution of “carbonaceous aerosols,” fine particulates emitted into the air, known as soot.
Soot is a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Geoscientists call for reducing soot emissions.

ISRO to launch university-built nano satellite

CHENNAI – The Indian space agency will be launching a nano satellite being built by the SRM University here after testing, an official Saturday said.

“The satellite is being built by the students. It has to be tested before it can be included as a payload. Perhaps in September, the satellite may be launched,” V.S. Hegde, …. Read the original article  : ISRO to launch university-built nano satellite.

New iPhone not that ‘gripping’ for left-handers

LONDON – If you are a left-hander and planning to buy the new Apple iPhone 4, then think again-many new owners of the must-have mobile have said that it is not that good for left-handed people.

Since its launch, many people have complained that the gadget loses network signal …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Extracted wisdom teeth could be new stem cell reservoirs

WASHINGTON – The wisdom teeth that you get removed might just prove to be a treasure trove for stem cell researchers-as extracted teeth could provide a non-controversial source of stem cells, according to a new Japanese study.

Like cells from embryos, the soft … Read more »».

Tiny micro-needles hold great promise for fighting chronic diseases

WASHINGTON – Tiny needles- much smaller than conventional hypodermic needles- hold great promise for use in portable medical devices for patients with chronic conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease or diabetes.hese microneedles cause less pain, tissue damage and skin inflammation … Original article on : Tiny micro-needles hold great promise for fighting chronic diseases.

Life in Kolkata goes haywire after monsoon rains

KOLKATA – Traffic snarls and waterlogging threw normal life out of gear in this West Bengal capital following heavy monsoon rains for over an hour Monday.

Several schools declared a holiday as the skies opened up in the morning flooding large parts of the eastern metropolis under ankle- to knee-deep water.
The weatherman said the city … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Life in Kolkata goes haywire after monsoon rains.

Showers cool down Chandigarh, Punjab and Haryana

CHANDIGARH – Moderate rainfall Monday in Chandigarh and parts of Punjab and Haryana brought much needed respite from the scorching heat and made the weather pleasant as the temperature fell by two to four degrees, a met official here said.

“This rainfall has lowered down the temperature in Chandigarh and in most parts of Punjab and …. Original source  : Showers cool down Chandigarh, Punjab and Haryana.

Delhi to miss its date with monsoon

NEW DELHI – Delhiites can look forward to thundershowers Monday, but will have to wait for a few more days for the monsoon as it would miss its June 29 date with the capital, a weather official said.

“The monsoon (usually) reaches Delhi on June 29 but this time it will hit the capital by early … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Delhi to miss its date with monsoon.

Arsenic in drinking water of millions in Bangladesh, called worst mass poisoning in history

Arsenic water killing 1 in 5 exposed in Bangladesh

CHANDIPUR, Bangladesh – Hanufa Bibi stoops in a worn sari and mismatched flip-flops to work the hand pump on her backyard well. Spurts of clear water wash grains of rice from her hands, but she can never get them clean.
Thick black warts tattoo her palms and fingers, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Despite light rains, another hot day for Delhi

NEW DELHI – Delhi remained hot and muggy Sunday with the mercury above 40 degrees Celsius and the humidity levels high, despite light showers early in the day. Monday is expected to be the same, though light rains or thundershowers are forecast, weather officials said.

The maximum temperature was 41.1 degrees Celsius, one degree above the …. Read the original article  : Despite light rains, another hot day for Delhi.

Amputee cat gets prosthetic legs

LONDON – In a first-of-its-kind surgery, a cat that had its hind feet severed by a harvester has been given two prosthetic limbs by a British vet.

The new custom-made implants, which joined the cat’s ankles to the feet, were surgically attached by Noel Fitzpatrick, a veterinary surgeon based in Surrey, the BBC reported.
The … Read : Amputee cat gets prosthetic legs.

Another hot day in Himachal Pradesh

SHIMLA – The hills of Himachal Pradesh experienced another hot day Sunday with the state capital Shimla recording a maximum temperature of 26.5 degrees Celsius, a met official said.

The high temperature in Shimla, situated at an altitude of 2,130 metre, was 3.2 notches above average. It had recorded a high of 26.4 degrees Celsius Saturday. … Read more : Another hot day in Himachal Pradesh.

Oprah Winfrey embroiled in vote-rigging scandal

MELBOURNE – Oprah Winfrey, known for reporting others’ scandals, is now embroiled in a vote-rigging scandal in her search for the next great TV star.

The talk-show queen’s website is accused of fixing results against a disabled contestant in a competition to find the next great TV star.

People are contending for a chance at …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Oprah Winfrey embroiled in vote-rigging scandal.

Universal grammar rule that applies to all languages

LONDON – People who have tried learning a new language know how difficult it is to learn a different grammar. But now, experts have said that there are some grammatical rules that can be applied to all languages.

Norvin Richards of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology has proposed a universal rule linking intonation with where …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Wikipedia becomes home base for paedophiles

WASHINGTON – An investigation has revealed that Wikipedia has become a home base for a worldwide network of paedophiles.

According to the investigation, paedophiles are campaigning on the famous online encyclopaedia and are trying to lure more and more people.

Chat room posts on Wikipedia are used by pedophiles to further their agenda.

Message board posts often include … Read more »»».

Global wind-shift caused Earth’s last ice age to end

WASHINGTON – A global shift in winds is what led to the end of Earth’s last ice age- an event that ushered in a warmer climate and the birth of human civilization.

It is believed that, in the geological blink of an eye, ice sheets …. Original source  : Global wind-shift caused Earth’s last ice age to end.

Gene behind four-leaf clover discovered

WASHINGTON – The gene that turns ordinary three-leaf clovers into the coveted and ‘lucky’ four-leaved ones has been found.

Masked by the three-leaf gene and strongly influenced by environmental condition, molecular markers now make it possible to detect …. Read the original article  : here.

Plants too show intelligence in capturing nutrients

TORONTO – Researchers have discovered that a plant’s strategy to capture nutrients in the soil is the outcome of integrating different types of information.

University of Alberta ecologist J.C. Cahill says that the plant’s strategy mirrors the daily risk-versus-reward dilemmas that animals experience in their quest for food.
Biologists established long ago that an animal uses …. Source  : Plants too show intelligence in capturing nutrients.

How our inner clock copes up with jet lag

WASHINGTON – In a rodent study, researchers have shown how individual “clock” genes and the internal clocks of the different organs synchronise with the new external time in the case of jet lag.

Travelling across different time zones makes our internal body clocks go haywire.

Scientists at the Max …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : How our inner clock copes up with jet lag.

‘Doubters’ of climate change lack expertise: Study

WASHINGTON – Scientists who doubt that human beings have contributed significantly to climate change have far less expertise and prominence in climate research as compared to scientists who are convinced, according to a study led by Stanford researchers.

In a quantitative …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Doubters’ of climate change lack expertise: Study.

Now, lizard-like robot that ’swims’ through sand

LONDON – Scientists have designed a lizard-like robot that can ’swim’ through sand.

The robot, which could help find people trapped in the loose debris resulting from an earthquake, is being called Scincus scincus by Daniel Goldman and Ryan Maladen’s team at the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta.

Once the 35-centimetre-long sandfish is submerged, it tucks … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Now, lizard-like robot that ’swims’ through sand.

New protein complex that regulates 4000 genes in fruit fly identified

WASHINGTON – Scientists have identified a novel protein complex that regulates around 4000 genes in the fruit fly Drosophila and likely plays an important role in mammals, too.

“This new complex seems to be one of the major regulatory complexes both in Drosophila and in mammals,” says Asifa Akhtar, former EMBL group leader and now at … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : New protein complex that regulates 4000 genes in fruit fly identified.

Mechanism that may trigger degenerative disease discovered

WASHINGTON – Scientists say that a mechanism, which regulates stem-cell differentiation in mice testes, suggests a similar process that may trigger degenerative disease in humans.

By manipulating STAT3 – a protein that signals stem cells to decide differentiation – researchers identified a key regulator of spermatogonial stem cell self-renewal.

STAT3 protein regulates genes that are involved …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Mechanism that may trigger degenerative disease discovered.

New test for bladder cancer diagnosis

WASHINGTON – Scientists have developed a novel assay to test for multiple tumor markers in bladder cancer.

Methylation specific-multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplication (MS-MLPA) can be used to screen multiple target sequences simultaneously in a single reaction, allowing … Read more »».

Vitamin D vital for cognitive function

WASHINGTON – Scientists have contributed to a limited but growing body of evidence of a link between vitamin D and cognitive function.

The study was led by epidemiologist Katherine Tucker with the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging (HNRCA) at Tufts University in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Vitamin D vital for cognitive function.

Even midnight sun won’t convince bees to work nights

LONDON – Bees observe a strict working day, even in conditions of 24-hour sunlight, research shows.

Researchers tagged worker bumblebees with a radio identifier, similar to an Oyster Card, which was used to monitor their movements during the constant light of the Arctic summer.
Ralph Stelzer and Lars Chittka from Queen Mary University of London, …. Original article  : Even midnight sun won’t convince bees to work nights.

How fast can you gauge when she is looking at you?

LONDON – How fast you can judge whether a person of the opposite sex is looking at you depends on how masculine or feminine they look, according to a new study.

The researchers speculate that there may be an evolutionary advantage to quickly noticing when a hottie is looking at you.
Psychologists have debated how …. Original article  : How fast can you gauge when she is looking at you?.

New formula determines accurate peak heart rate for women

WASHINGTON – A new formula, based on a large study, provides a more accurate estimate of the peak heart rate a healthy woman should attain during exercise.

It also will more accurately predict the risk of heart-related death during a stress test.
“Now we know for the first time what is normal for women, …. Source article  : New formula determines accurate peak heart rate for women.

Surgery not a treatment option for every patient with herniated disk

WASHINGTON – A herniated disk is one of the most frequent causes of low back and leg pain in adults, but not everyone needs to go for surgery, according to a literature review.

Led by Joseph Lee, the review claimed that … Original article on : Surgery not a treatment option for every patient with herniated disk.

‘Copy-and-paste DNA’ more common than previously believed

WASHINGTON – Movable sequences of DNA-also known as ‘Copy-and-paste DNA’-which give rise to genetic variability and sometimes cause specific diseases, are far more common than previously thought, according to researchers at the University of Leicester.

For the study, Dr Richard Badge and his collaborators examined L1 (or LINE-1) retrotransposons- …. Original article  : ‘Copy-and-paste DNA’ more common than previously believed.

Hidden secrets of world-famous paintings revealed via science

WASHINGTON – The hidden secrets of some of the world’s most famous paintings have been revealed, and the credit for the feat goes to a partnership between EPSRC (Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council) and the National Gallery.

Culminating in the first major exhibition of its kind in summer 2010, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Hidden secrets of world-famous paintings revealed via science.

Endometriosis compromises women’s work productivity

WASHINGTON – In the first of its kind study of the societal impact of endometriosis, researchers have found a significant loss of work productivity among those women who suffer from the condition.

Dr. Kelechi Nnoaham, from the Department … Original article on : Endometriosis compromises women’s work productivity.

Yawning ‘reveals sexual desire’

WASHINGTON – The next time you yawn, beware – you could be sending out an erotic message to someone sitting close to you – say experts.

Academics from Europe, the U.S., India and the Middle East attended the first ever International Conference on Yawning …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Soon, a ‘pacemaker’ for the brain

WASHINGTON – Israeli scientists are trying to develop a chip that will allow doctors to wire computer applications and sensors to the brain, aiding the treatment of disorders such as depression or Parkinson’s disease.

The … Read more >>>.

Heart risks linked to diabetes drug

WASHINGTON – A recent study has revealed that the use of diabetes drug rosiglitazone is associated with an increased risk for heart attack.

Rosiglitazone was approved in 1999 to treat hyperglycemia (high blood glucose levels) among patients with type …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Government hikes compensation amid elephant menace

RAIPUR – Amid rising cases of killings of forested residents by wild elephants, Chhattisgarh Tuesday increased the compensation amount for families in three worst man-elephant conflict districts.

“The amount has been increased to Rs.150,000 from Rs.100,000 to the family if a member is killed in elephant attacks in Jashpur, Koria and Surguja districts,” an official statement … Read more : Government hikes compensation amid elephant menace.

Gene leads to longer shelf life for tomatoes, other fruits

WASHINGTON – A researcher has found a gene that slows down the ageing process in tomatoes and extends their shelf life by a week.

Avtar Handa, professor of horticulture, Purdue University, found that adding a yeast gene increases production of a compound that slows ageing and delays microbial decay in tomatoes.
“We can inhibit the … Read : Gene leads to longer shelf life for tomatoes, other fruits.

Elders watch more TV than younger people

WASHINGTON – Contrary to popular belief, older adults watch more TV than children or teenagers and it is not good for them either, a study has revealed.

Researchers at the Stein Institute for Research on Ageing, University of California, San Diego (UCSD) examined TV use in a large, nationally representative sample that was collected by … Read more »».

Scientists breed world’s most perfect prawn

WASHINGTON – After a decade of painstaking research and breeding, scientists at the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) and the Australian prawn industry have successfully bred what may be called the world’s most perfect prawn.

The new, improved Black Tiger prawns have bagged five gold medals at the Sydney Royal Easter Show in the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Scientists breed world’s most perfect prawn.

New discovery paves way for early detection of Alzheimer’s

WASHINGTON – Scientists have discovered changes in the brains of normal individuals at high risk for Alzheimer’s disease that could prove important for early detection of the disease.

The research team at the University of Kentucky’s College of Medicine, led by Brian Gold, associate professor of anatomy and neurobiology, focused on the brain’s white matter, which …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Ancient Mayans were master rubber makers 3500 years ago

WASHINGTON – Mesoamericans were the first polymer scientists – they made rubber from latex nearly 3,500 years long before modern vulcanisation was invented.

According to a new research, by a team at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), pre-Hispanic peoples not only invented rubber, but also perfected techniques of chemical processing to enhance its properties.

They …. Source  : Ancient Mayans were master rubber makers 3500 years ago.

Gulf ‘dead zone’ area over 6500 sq miles, oil spill impact unclear: Experts

WASHINGTON – Experts claim that the Gulf of Mexico ‘dead zone’ is expected to be between 6,500 and 7,800 square miles, an area roughly the size of Lake Ontario.

The 2010 forecast, released today by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), would make it the Gulf’s 10th-largest oxygen-starved, or hypoxic, region on record.

It is …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Gulf ‘dead zone’ area over 6500 sq miles, oil spill impact unclear: Experts.

Underwater creatures may hold key to malaria cure

WASHINGTON – A research team, including an Indian-origin boffin, has revealed that sponges, sea worms and other underwater creatures may hold the key to cure for malaria.

University of Central Florida scientist Debopam Chakrabarti is analyzing more than 2,500 samples from marine organisms collected off deep sea near Florida’s coast. Some of them could hold the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Underwater creatures may hold key to malaria cure.

Here’s how memories are made

WASHINGTON – A new study, led by researchers at the University of Leicester, has uncovered for the first time the mechanism by which memories are formed.

The study in the Department of Cell Physiology and Pharmacology identified one of the key proteins involved in the process of memory and learning. The research has potential to impact …. Read the original article  : here.

Tooth regeneration gel could make painful fillings history

WASHINGTON – A new gel that encourages growth of cells inside teeth that have cavities could replace the painful procedure of fillings.

The new gel or thin film could eliminate the need to fill painful cavities or drill deep into the root canal of an infected tooth. Instead of a drill, the gel against an infected … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Tooth regeneration gel could make painful fillings history.

Age doesn’t always affect decision-making

WASHINGTON – When it comes to making intuitive decisions, older adults fare as well as their juniors, a new study shows.

Researchers from North Carolina State University (NCSU) tested groups of young adults (aged 17-28) and community-dwelling older adults (aged 60-86) to see how they fared when making decisions based on intuitive evaluation.
Participants were …. Source  : Age doesn’t always affect decision-making.

Excess oxygen could slow formation of wrinkles

WASHINGTON – An overdose of oxygen could help reduce wrinkle formation by lessening tissue damage due to UVB rays, according to a Japanese study.

In the study, mice that were placed in an oxygen chamber after exposure to UVB radiation developed fewer wrinkles and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Excess oxygen could slow formation of wrinkles.

Ten millennia old hunting weapon discovered in melting ice patch

WASHINGTON – A University of Colorado at Boulder researcher has discovered a 10,000-year-old wooden hunting weapon in a melting ice patch in the Rocky Mountains close to Yellowstone National Park, US.

According to Craig Lee, a research associate with CU-Boulder’s Institute …. Read the original article  : Ten millennia old hunting weapon discovered in melting ice patch.

One side of your brain can be more motivated than the other

WASHINGTON – When it comes to rewards, one side of your brain can be motivated more than the other, according to a study.

Psychologists used to think that motivation was a conscious process-You know you want something, so you try to get it.

But in a previous … Original source on Gaea Times at : One side of your brain can be more motivated than the other.

Advance made towards identifying organic molecules on Titan

WASHINGTON – An experiment, conducted by researchers at the University of Arizona, is helping scientists identify the organic molecules that might exist on Saturn’s moon Titan.

Earth and Titan are the only known planetary-sized bodies that have thick, predominantly nitrogen atmospheres, … Original article on : Advance made towards identifying organic molecules on Titan.

Dental patterns as accurate as DNA

LONDON – A person’s dental patterns can identify a person as accurately as DNA testing in forensics.

Researchers from the University of Granada (UGR) in Spain came to this conclusion after analysing the dental patterns of more than 3,000 people.
“There is sufficient dental diversity between people to enable a scientifically-based human identification method to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Dental patterns as accurate as DNA.

A frog’s vibes attracts mates

SYDNEY – Unlike his peers, the red-eyed tree frog does not croak the loudest or make pretty sounds to attract mates but generates vibes to improve its romantic prospects.

The discovery has been made by Flinders University (Australia) senior lecturer and conservation biologist Gregory Johnston and colleagues from Boston University in the US.
They discovered …. Original source  : A frog’s vibes attracts mates.

Why we can’t resist a sinful, dark chocolate cake

WASHINGTON – Scientists have revealed why is it that despite being on a strict diet, some of us can’t help taking a bite of that sinful, dark chocolate cake.

Professor Ray Dolan and his colleagues have shown that increased levels of dopamine – a chemical in the brain involved in mediating reward, motivation, and learning through … Read more : Why we can’t resist a sinful, dark chocolate cake.

In i-Pad era, typewriters still go clickety clack

NEW DELHI – Ravi Robinson has been in love with his rusty but dependable typewriter for 40 long years and the bonds still go strong. In the era of the futuristic i-Pad and compact and high-speed laptop computers, Robinson has no intention of letting go the rickety machine that is his sole source of … Read more »»».

Textaphrenia, textiety, are just a few disorders text addicts suffer

MELBOURNE – A study has revealed that Australian teenagers who are “text addicts” are suffering from a range of serious mental and physical disorders.

The study into youth communication habits identified the risks teens face from texting excessively every day, and the symptoms included anxiety, insecurity, depression, low self-esteem and “repetitive thumb syndrome”.

According to figures …. Original source  : Textaphrenia, textiety, are just a few disorders text addicts suffer.

Soon, a Hawaii-sized eco island made entirely from plastic bottles

LONDON – A team of Dutch scientists are planning to make an island the size of Hawaii entirely from 44million kg of plastic waste.

Recycled island, which is part of an environmental vision for the future, will be made from plastic waste currently bobbing around in the Pacific Ocean.

Solar and wave energy will be used to … Read more >>>.

Did small size prompt the theft of King Tut’s penis?

NEW YORK – Tutankhamun’s penis could have been stolen because the Egyptian boy king was allegedly less-than-endowed.

According to Time magazine, a report in The New Scientist presents the possibility of an anatomical conspiracy.

However, what happened to Tut’s member isn’t the only mystery enshrouding the 19-year-old royal.

Scientists are still debating the cause of his death, …. Source article  : Did small size prompt the theft of King Tut’s penis?.

What helps plants go green?

WASHINGTON – Researchers have found a central part in the machinery that turns plants green when they sense light.

Plants, according to Meng Chen, an assistant professor of biology at Duke, have two different systems to take advantage of light.

The first one is chloroplasts that turn sunlight into fuel via photosynthesis.

The other is a system …. Read the original article  : here.

High doses of caffeine boost performance: Study

WASHINGTON – Scientists have shown that high doses of caffeine directly increase muscle power and endurance during relatively low-intensity activities.

Scientists from Coventry University believe that the findings may lead to the use of caffeine in sport to improve performance.

Currently, caffeine is not considered as a banned substance at any concentration in blood or urine samples.

A … Original article on : High doses of caffeine boost performance: Study.

Genetically defective mice to help understand human depression

WASHINGTON – A new study has revealed that the strain of genetically defective mice is a useful animal model for laboratory studies that could be useful for understanding human depression.

A unique strain of laboratory mice could have behavioural, hormonal, and neurochemical characteristics that are similar to those of human patients with drug-resistant forms of depression. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Genetically defective mice to help understand human depression.

Why some plants flower in spring while others in summer

WASHINGTON – Scientists have found out that why some plants flower in spring/autumn and some in summer.

A team of researchers from Warwick have isolated a gene responsible for regulating the expression of ‘Constans’, an important inducer of flowering, in Arabidopsis.

‘Being able to understand and ultimately control seasonal flowering will enable more predictable flowering, better …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Why some plants flower in spring while others in summer.

Study shows utility of floating wind turbines

WASHINGTON – The scientists have invented floating ocean-based wind turbines, which could be the next big thing in the renewable energy solutions.

While offshore turbines already have been constructed, they’ve traditionally been situated in shallow waters, where the tower extends directly into the seabed.

This restricts the turbines to near-shore waters with depths no greater than … Original article on : Study shows utility of floating wind turbines.

Canada geese that forced plane’s Hudson River landing still flying near NY airport runways

Geese behind plane’s NY river landing still around

NEW YORK – Canada geese are still free to take off around New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport more than a year after they collided with an airliner and forced it to land in the nearby Hudson River. They’re at the center of a government vs. government … Read more : Canada geese that forced plane’s Hudson River landing still flying near NY airport runways.

Original HIV infection holds its sway despite numerous changes

WASHINGTON – Viruses like the HIV undergo several changes in a bid to evade the body’s immune system but even months later the original version that caused the infection still maintains a presence in the host’s body, new research reveals.

The study, conducted by scientists at the University of Rochester Medical Center, is based on … Read : Original HIV infection holds its sway despite numerous changes.

Drizzle expected in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Drizzle is expected Wednesday, but Delhiites will have to wait for another two to three days for the monsoon rains, the weatherman said.

“Duststorm is expected. Even drizzle can occur towards the end of the day. Pre-monsoon showers can come, but monsoon rains will arrive after two to three days,” said an official …. Source article  : Drizzle expected in Delhi.