Boffins identify critical genes for Down syndrome

LONDON – Scientists have identified critical genes responsible for some aspects of Down syndrome, a well known cause of mental retardation and diseases like Alzheimer’s.

A team of scientists from the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USU) and Children’s National Medical Center (CNMC), led by Zygmunt Galdzicki, associate professor of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, …. Original source  : Boffins identify critical genes for Down syndrome.

Now, a drug to fight sweet cravings

SYDNEY – Researchers from Australia have invented a new drug that will help people to curb their sweet cravings.

The new drug is expected to fight overeating by making sweet food less pleasurable.

Food stimulated the same reward pathways in the brain as drugs of addiction such as heroin and cocaine, said Michael Cowley, director of the … Read more »».

In US cities, AIDS virus is linked more to poverty than race, study finds

In US cities, HIV linked more to poverty than race

ATLANTA – Poverty is perhaps the most important factor in whether inner-city heterosexuals are infected with the AIDS virus, according to the first government study of its kind.
The study, released Monday, suggests that HIV is epidemic in certain poverty-stricken urban neighborhoods. And, more significantly, poor heterosexuals … Read more »».

‘Aerosols can only temporary fix global warming’

LONDON – Injecting aerosols in the upper atmosphere is believed to be a method that can quickly counter global warming. However, this is not the case, new research reveals.

In a paper appearing in Nature Geoscience, Kate Ricke, a climate physicist at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and her team show, by modelling, that solar-radiation … Original source on Gaea Times at : ‘Aerosols can only temporary fix global warming’.

‘Conan the Bacterium’ could have been the origin of life on Earth

MELBOURNE – Brazilian scientists have suggested that organisms like a microbe dubbed ‘Conan the Bacterium’ could have been the origin of life on Earth, after they found that it could withstand space travel.

Researchers subjected the bug, Deinococcus radiodurans, to powerful radiation, freezing temperatures and a vacuum chamber, all designed to simulate conditions found on meteorites … Read more : ‘Conan the Bacterium’ could have been the origin of life on Earth.

Prickly patch set to make painful jabs history

LONDON – If you’ve always hated painful jabs here’s some good news for you. A prickly skin patch, which delivers medicine painlessly under the skin, could soon replace injections, according to scientists.

Patches containing micron-scale needles that carry vaccine with them as they dissolve into the skin could simplify immunization programs. Applied easily to the skin, …. Source  : Prickly patch set to make painful jabs history.

Poor people more often infected by AIDS virus than those with more money, study finds

Study: Poverty, more than race, tied to HIV

ATLANTA – Poverty is perhaps the most important factor in whether inner-city heterosexuals are infected with the AIDS virus, according to the first government study of its kind.
The study, released Monday, suggests that HIV is epidemic in certain poverty-stricken urban neighborhoods. And, more significantly, poor heterosexuals in those … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Poor people more often infected by AIDS virus than those with more money, study finds.

Day cloudy in Delhi, rains likely by evening

NEW DELHI – It was a cloudy Monday in Delhi with the weather office forecasting rains later in the day.

“The skies will remain clouded. There are chances for rain towards the evening,” said an official of the India Meteorological Department.
The minimum temperature was 28.8 degrees Celsius, two notches above average, the official said … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Day cloudy in Delhi, rains likely by evening.

Failure to deliver electricity highlights setbacks in effort to repair war-ravaged Afghanistan

After years of rebuilding, most Afghans lack power
KABUL, Afghanistan – The goal is to transform Afghanistan into a modern nation, fueled by a U.S.-led effort pouring $60 billion into bringing electricity, clean water, jobs, roads and education to this crippled country. But the results so far – …. Original source  : Failure to deliver electricity highlights setbacks in effort to repair war-ravaged Afghanistan.

Scientists to use lasers, planes, software to assemble detailed map of California coastline

Scientists to make detailed map of Calif. coast

SAN JOSE, Calif. – Scientists will be using laser beams, computer software and airplanes to piece together what they say will be the most detailed map ever assembled of the California coastline.
State and federal scientists are set to begin work next month on a map of the state’s …. Original source  : Scientists to use lasers, planes, software to assemble detailed map of California coastline.

NASA telescope made in Utah State University lab set to finish sky survey

NASA telescope made in Utah set to finish survey

SALT LAKE CITY – A telescope made by Utah State University’s Space Dynamics Lab for NASA is on track to complete its first sky survey.
So far, the Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer – or WISE – project has discovered 25,000 asteroids.
The lab’s WISE program manager John Elwell says …. Read the original article  : NASA telescope made in Utah State University lab set to finish sky survey.

Soon, solar-powered camera straps to charge batteries

LONDON – Photographers will soon be able to charge their camera batteries with the rays of the sun.

A team of Chinese researchers are developing solar panels to straps that would make the charging easy. Inventor Weng Jie’s idea, of which a prototype may be ready in months, could spell the end of wall-socket charging, reports …. Original source  : Soon, solar-powered camera straps to charge batteries.

Flu shot in the mail? Microneedles may make that possible, or just buy it at a drug store

Microneedles may make getting flu shots easier

WASHINGTON – One day your annual flu shot could come in the mail.
At least that’s the hope of researchers developing a new method of vaccine delivery that people could even use at home: a patch with microneedles.
Microneedles?
That’s right, tiny little needles so small you don’t even feel them. Attached … Read : Flu shot in the mail? Microneedles may make that possible, or just buy it at a drug store.

Fun along the Maine coast ends for Obamas after weekend of hiking, biking in national park

First family wraps up packed Maine holiday
BAR HARBOR, Maine – President Barack Obama and the first family are headed home to Washington after their weekend vacation on the coast of Maine.
The president, first lady Michelle Obama and daughters Malia and Sasha boarded a small military jet serving as Air Force One and took …. Source article  : Fun along the Maine coast ends for Obamas after weekend of hiking, biking in national park.

Hot and humid Sunday in Delhi as rains keep away

NEW DELHI – With the rains eluding Delhi for another day, hot and humid weather spoiled a Sunday outing for many. Weather officials however forecast some rainfall on Monday.

“We had to stay at home for the whole day as the weather was too muggy to go anywhere,” said Shweta Arya, who works with ICICI Infra. …. Read the original article  : Hot and humid Sunday in Delhi as rains keep away.

Boffins developing ’smart’ metal to help you save on electric bills

WASHINGTON – Researchers at the University of Maryland are developing a new “smart” metal that could help cool homes or refrigerate food 175 per cent more efficiently than current technology, allowing users to save a great deal on electric bills.

The new “thermally elastic” metal alloy also promises far greater efficiency and reductions in greenhouse gas …. Source  : Boffins developing ’smart’ metal to help you save on electric bills.

Women in their 30s, 40s are new breed of anorexia sufferers: Study

SYDNEY – A new study conducted by the University of Sydney has shown that women in their 30s, 40s and even older suffer from anorexia.

The study, therefore, suggests that the disease is not only a condition of the young.

Stephen Touyz, professor of clinical psychology, conducted the first study of its kind in the world, … Read more »».

Incorporating Twitter in academics ‘can make teaching effective’

WASHINGTON – A new research has suggested that incorporating social media in classes can be an attention-grabbing and effective teaching method.

Dr. Mia Moody, an assistant professor of journalism and media arts at Baylor University, said that social media in lectures, textbooks and traditional discussion groups not only prepares students for current and future communication trends, …. Source  : Incorporating Twitter in academics ‘can make teaching effective’.

Unhealthy family relationships lead to behavior problems in kids

WASHINGTON – A new psychology study has found that unhappy families, are unhappy in two distinct ways, and the dual pattern of such unhealthy relationships lead to a host of specific difficulties for children during their early school years.

The three-year study examined relationship patterns in 234 families with six-year-old children.

“Families can be a support and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Unhealthy family relationships lead to behavior problems in kids.

‘Cool’ imagery lowers hot flashes in women nearing menopause

WASHINGTON – Women who specifically pictured images associated with coolness during hypnotherapy tend to have a dramatic decrease in hot flashes that are experienced just before menopause, a new American study has found.

“This is an interesting finding because it begins to shed light on what is it, specifically, about hypnotic relaxation therapy that reduces …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Misinformed’ women fear the ‘morning after’ pill

SYDNEY – Women fear using the “morning after” pill, owing to misinformation about how it works and where they can get it, revealed reproductive health experts.

In the first national study of women’s use of emergency contraception since it was made available over the counter, it has been found that majority of women do not know …. Read the original article  : here.

New technology reveals autism’s unique vocal signature

WASHINGTON – A new automated vocal analysis technology could revolutionize the screening for autism spectrum disorders and language delay, according to a new study.

The LENA (Language Environment Analysis) system automatically labelled infant and child vocalizations from recordings and thereafter an automatic acoustic analysis designed by the researchers showed that pre-verbal vocalizations of very young children … Original source on Gaea Times at : New technology reveals autism’s unique vocal signature.

Cool roofs and pavements may help fight global warming

WASHINGTON – Light-coloured cool rooftops and roads can curb carbon emissions and combat global climate change, found a new study by searchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.

The study is the first to use a global model to study the idea.

And the researchers have found that implementing cool roofs and cool pavements in cities around the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Cool roofs and pavements may help fight global warming.

Kazakh archaeologists discover grave of ‘The Sun Lord’

ASTANA – Archaeologists have discovered the grave of a gold-clad ancient Scythian warrior, also known as “The Sun Lord.”

The grave was discovered in Karaganda Region east of the capital, Astana.

“He was probably a ruler and a warrior simultaneously,” Eurasia.net quoted expedition leader Arman Beysenov as saying.

“The person’s torso was entirely covered with gold. The figure …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Did Michelangelo hide anatomy lesson in Sistine Chapel?

WASHINGTON – Could it be that Michelangelo hid an anatomy lesson in the Sistine Chapel frescoes painted by him? The answerer is yes, if new research is to be believed.

The master painter-sculptor concealed an image of the human brainstem in a panel showing God at the beginning of Creation, according to an article in the …. Original article  : Did Michelangelo hide anatomy lesson in Sistine Chapel?.

Speakers with foreign accents seem less truthful to listeners

WASHINGTON – People with foreign accents appear less credible to listeners, revealed a study at the University of Chicago.

The study said that foreign accent undermine a person’s credibility in ways that the speaker and the listener don’t consciously realize.

Because an accent makes a person harder to understand, listeners are less likely to find what … Read more »».

English ivy nanoparticles better sunscreens than off the shelf prescriptions

WASHINGTON – Inspired by English ivy’s amazing clinging power, a researcher has discovered that the tiny particles secreted from ivy rootlets could hold the key to making sunscreen safer and more effective.

Mingjun Zhang an associate professor of biomedical engineering at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, found that ivy nanoparticles might protect skin from UV radiation … Original source on Gaea Times at : English ivy nanoparticles better sunscreens than off the shelf prescriptions.

Point-of-sale tobacco ads major cause of teen smoking: Study

WASHINGTON – Marketing of tobacco products at convenience stores, gas stations and small groceries is a major contributor to teen smoking, says a new study.

The study conducted by Lisa Henriksen, PhD, senior research scientist at the Stanford Prevention Research Center, says that students who visited these stores on a regular basis were at least twice …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Point-of-sale tobacco ads major cause of teen smoking: Study.

New strategy could increase antiviral drugs’ effectiveness

WASHINGTON – Scientists are now targeting the conditions, which viruses need to survive and multiply, in order to increase the effectiveness of antiviral drugs, instead of directly attacking the virus itself.

University of Edinburgh researchers devised a new strategy wherein if the site of infection is made less hospitable for the virus, the virus becomes less … Read more »».

Arthroscopic hip surgery may fully restore function in athletes: Study

WASHINGTON – Scientists claim that the minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery could help athletes with hip problems recover fully and resume their sport back at their pre-injury level of competition.

Hip arthroscopy is a less invasive outpatient procedure compared to traditional open hip surgery.

The researchers at Rush found that 78 percent of athletes suffering from hip labral … Read more »»».

Cash reward with counselling may help fight STIs

WASHINGTON – Giving cash rewards along with counselling might prove effective in combating sexually transmitted infections in rural Africa, according to a new study.

Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, the Development Research Group at the World Bank and the Ifakara Health Institute in Tanzania found that people who were offered up to 60 dollars … Read : Cash reward with counselling may help fight STIs.

Gut bacteria affect multiple sclerosis: Study

WASHINGTON – Biologists have discovered a connection between multiple sclerosis (MS)-an autoimmune disorder that affects the brain and spinal cord-and gut bacteria.

California Institute of Technology (Caltech) researchers Sarkis K. Mazmanian, an assistant professor of biology at Caltech, and postdoctoral scholar Yun Kyung Lee led the study.

Mazmanian and his colleagues tried to induce MS in [..] Read the original article: here.

Honda says it will sell electric vehicle, plug-in hybrid in 2012

Honda plans electric vehicle, plug-in in 2012

WAKO, Japan – Honda will start selling an electric vehicle as well as a plug-in hybrid in 2012 in the U.S. and Japan, joining the race to manufacture green cars in which rivals have already taken slight leads.
The plans were disclosed by Honda Motor Co. President Takanobu Ito at … Read more »»».

Rockmelons originated in Asia, not Africa

MELBOURNE – A recent study has revealed that that the cultivated rockmelon originated in Asia, not Africa, as previously thought.

The research compared the DNA of melons around the world and also found new species that could provide plant breeders with a goldmine of new traits.

Until now, scientists have thought the cultivated rockmelon (Cucumis melo) originated … Read more »»».

Disease wiping out amphibians in Panama before they can be identified

LONDON – A park in Panama has lost 40 percent of its amphibian species in the past decade, and some wiped out even before being discovered.

Biologists discovered 11 new species, only to find that five of them are already extinct in the area.

A fungal disease causes amphibians to develop skin several times thicker than normal, …. Source article  : Disease wiping out amphibians in Panama before they can be identified.

Computer program resurrects ‘lost’ languages

WASHINGTON – A new computer program has successfully decoded a written language last used in Biblical times.

The success could lead to “resurrecting” ancient texts that are no longer understood.

Created by an MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) team led by Regina Barzilay, the program translates written Ugaritic, which consists of dots and wedge-shaped stylus marks on …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Computer program resurrects ‘lost’ languages.

Vaginal gel ‘can cut HIV risk by 39pct in women’

WASHINGTON – Using a vaginal microbicide gel with an antiretroviral (ARV) drug called tenofovir before and after sex can reduce HIV risk by 39 percent in women, says a new study, known as CAPRISA 004.

Researchers found that the gel was significantly more protective against HIV infection than a placebo gel among women at high risk …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Delhi wakes up to rainy Tuesday

NEW DELHI – It was a cool Tuesday in Delhi with rains lashing many parts of the city and the weather office predicting thundershowers through the day.

Delhi received 14.4 mm of rainfall from Monday to 8.30 a.m. Tuesday, said an official of the India Meteorological Department.
“Skies will remain cloudy with the possibility …. Read the original article  : Delhi wakes up to rainy Tuesday.

Report: Bear warning signs removed at mauling site near Yellowstone, but victim knew danger

Report: Warning signs removed at griz mauling site

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – An investigation has found that researchers who tranquilized and studied a grizzly bear hours before the animal killed a hiker near Yellowstone National Park removed warning signs as they left the site.
An investigation report released Monday also says the victim knew the researchers were studying …. Original source  : Report: Bear warning signs removed at mauling site near Yellowstone, but victim knew danger.

Dozens busted for illegal hunting in southern Mo. in sting involving undercover taxidermist

Undercover taxidermist busts illegal Mo. hunters

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The sign on the storefront said “Craig’s Taxidermy,” and the hunters who brought in their prized deer, turkey and fish got them back stuffed and mounted.
But they also got secretly recorded. And ultimately, many of them were busted for allegedly breaking Missouri wildlife laws.
The Department of … Read more >>.

Iran says its nuclear scientist brought back ‘valuable’ information on the CIA

Iran says scientist provided information on CIA

TEHRAN, Iran – A semiofficial news agency is quoting an “informed source” as claiming that an Iranian nuclear scientist who returned home last week from the United States provided “very valuable” information” about the Central Intelligence Agency, the CIA.
American authorities have claimed that Shahram Amiri willingly defected to the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Iran says its nuclear scientist brought back ‘valuable’ information on the CIA.

Dead Sea scrolls’ parchment was made locally

WASHINGTON – Proton beam analysis of a Dead Sea scroll reveals its chemistry matches that of the water in the area where the ancient document was found, suggesting its parchment was manufactured locally.

New research carried out at the labs of the Italian National Institute of Nuclear Physics (INFN) in Catania, Sicily, suggests that the 28-foot-long … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Dead Sea scrolls’ parchment was made locally.

I-Dosing: ‘digitally high’ from downloaded music

LONDON – They put on their headphones, drape a hood over their head and drift off into the world of ‘digital highs’.

Videos posted on YouTube show a young girl freaking out and leaping up in fear, a teenager shaking violently and a young boy in extreme distress.
This is the world of ‘I-Dosing’, the new …. Read the original article  : I-Dosing: ‘digitally high’ from downloaded music.

Black box inventor dies

SYDNEY – David Warren, the Australian who invented the black box flight-data recorder 54 years ago, has died at the age of 85, Defence Force officials said Wednesday.

He started working on the idea of recording pilots’ voices and instrument readings after investigating the crash of a Comet in 1953. The Comet was the first commercial … Original source on Gaea Times at : Black box inventor dies.

Why the world looks dull and gray when you are blue

LONDON – The whole world seems to be dull and gloomy if you are depressed-this is because the ability to perceive contrast is impaired, say experts.
The researchers ran an electrode along one eye in each of 40 people with depression, and 40 people without.

The electrodes measured activity in the nerves connecting photoreceptors – which detect … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Why the world looks dull and gray when you are blue.

Inside the mind of a suicide bomber

LONDON – Ariel Merari is a psychologist who has spoken to suicide bombers and those who organise their attacks, and found they are very different kinds of people.

According to Merari, these Palestinian bombers have certain personality characteristics that make them more likely to be recruited to or to volunteer for suicide-bombing missions.

He elaborates in an … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Inside the mind of a suicide bomber.

Overweight, obese mums ‘at higher risk of premature births’

LONDON – Being overweight and obese could up your risk of giving birth to a premature baby, says a new study.

The babies could also suffer from numerous health problems due to preterm birth.

Dr. Sarah McDonald, associate professor in the Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology found that overweight or obese … Read more >>.

Rapid growth in adolescence leads to fewer offspring: Study

WASHINGTON – A study on guppies – fresh water fishes – has revealed that female guppies that grew rapidly as juveniles produced fewer offspring than usual.

“When food levels increase after a period of low availability, many organisms – including humans – undergo what is called ‘catch-up’ or compensatory growth,” explained Sonya Auer, the first author …. Read the original article  : Rapid growth in adolescence leads to fewer offspring: Study.

Did Michelangelo paint human brain stem in God?

WASHINGTON – Could it be that Michelangelo hid an anatomy lesson in the Sistine Chapel frescoes painted by him? The answerer is yes, if new research is to be believed.

The master painter-sculptor concealed an image of the human brainstem in a panel showing God at the beginning of Creation, according to an article in the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Did Michelangelo paint human brain stem in God?.

Engineered stem cells may improve cardiac function after heart attack

WASHINGTON – Genetically engineered stem cells have been shown to reduce organ damage and improve cardiac function after a heart attack, according to a new animal study.

The study was led by Matthias Siepe, assistant professor and staff surgeon at the Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Medical University Center in Freiburg, Germany and his colleagues.

The team aimed …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Engineered stem cells may improve cardiac function after heart attack.

Blood spatter 3D model to make crime scene investigation easier

LONDON – Reconstructing the course of events leading up to a murder could become easier and more accurate, thanks to a new system for making a high-resolution 3D map of a crime scene.

Scientists have developed a system that more realistically reconstructs the ballistics of blood droplets at a crime scene.

Bloodstain pattern analysis involves studying blood …. Original article  : Blood spatter 3D model to make crime scene investigation easier.

Beach umbrellas fail to block 34pc of UV rays

WASHINGTON – Researchers from the University of Valencia (UV) have found that 34 percent of ultraviolet radiation filters through under beach umbrellas.

The researchers also claimed that umbrellas intercept the full direct flow that comes from the Sun, but not the diffused radiation that penetrates through from the sides.

“We have proven that irradiance (radiation incidence … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Beach umbrellas fail to block 34pc of UV rays.

How people from different cultures react to anger during negotiations

WASHINGTON – Getting angry while negotiating with European Americans might just get you your way, but the same is not true with East Asians, according to a study.

The study has claimed that cultural reactions to anger expression can affect negotiation outcomes.

Hajo Adam, of INSEAD in France, coauthored the new study with William Maddux of INSEAD …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

How music training boosts learning

LONDON – Musical training prompts neural connections in the brain, which in turn prime people for other aspects of human communication like language, speech, memory, attention and even vocal emotion, revealed a scientific review.

The data-driven review by Northwestern University researchers pulls together converging research from the scientific literature linking musical training to learning that spills …. Read the original article  : here.

2000-year-old wooden ‘Stonehenge’ discovered in Ohio

WASHINGTON – Archaeologists are slowly uncovering evidence of a 2,000-year-old ceremonial site that resembles a wooden ‘Stonehenge’ near Cincinnati, Ohio.

Laid out in a peculiar pattern of concentric, but incomplete, rings, the site is about 200 feet (57 meters) wide.

The site, formally called Moorehead Circle but nicknamed ‘Woodhenge’, now contains only rock-filled postholes remain, surrounded by … Read : 2000-year-old wooden ‘Stonehenge’ discovered in Ohio.

Healthy family relationships ‘can lower teens’ risk for drug involvement’

WASHINGTON – Positive family relationships and religious affiliation can lower teenagers’ risk for drug involvement, says a new study.

“Healthy relationships protect adolescents against exposure to violence and negative social environments, and therefore, may lower their risk for drug involvement,” said ManSoo Yu, assistant professor in the MU School of Social Work and Public Health Program.

“Practitioners … Read more : Healthy family relationships ‘can lower teens’ risk for drug involvement’.

Genes that caused Silk Route disease identified

LONDON – Scientists have identified key genes that caused a severe inflammatory disease that has spread along the old silk trading routes from the Far East to the edge of Europe.

University of Manchester researchers have revealed some of the genetic mutations that lead to Behcet’s disease, also called the Silk Route disease.

Behcet’s disease makes the … Read more >>.

How human laughter is different from that of apes

LONDON – Scientists have unveiled how human laughter is different from that of apes.

Human laughter, as we know, is unique and different than other animals-this is down to our unique status as an ape that has learned to stand on its own two feet.

“Bipedalism was the breakthrough,” New Scientist quoted Robert Provine, the doyen [..] Read the original article: here.

Male foetuses ignore stressed mums – unlike sensitive females

LONDON – Scientists at the University of Adelaide in South Australia have discovered that male foetuses ignore their mothers’ response to stress – unlike females, which are very sensitive to it.

According to the researchers, the finding could lead to better treatments for male foetuses at risk of premature birth.

Vicki Clifton and colleagues at the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Male foetuses ignore stressed mums – unlike sensitive females.

More rains forecast for Delhi Wednesday

NEW DELHI – A day after heavy rains lashed Delhi causing waterlogging and traffic snarls, commuters had an easier time getting to work Wednesday though traffic snarls were reported from some areas. The weather office predicted more showers during the day.

Delhi has received 28.4 mm of rainfall since Tuesday, taking the total so far …. Read the original article  : More rains forecast for Delhi Wednesday.

How apes leap huge distances

LONDON – It is well-known that gibbons are capable of leaping prodigious distances between trees, crossing gaps of more than 10m at a time. Now scientists have discovered just how they do it.

Along with colleagues at the University of Liverpool and University of Antwerp, Belgium, Anthony Channon studied the biomechanics of leaping among a group …. Original article  : How apes leap huge distances.

Link between obesity, insulin resistance paves way for safer diabetes drugs

LONDON – Researchers have found a new molecular link between obesity and the action of diabetes drugs such as Avandia and Actos, which could pave the way for improved medications that are more selective and safer.

Scientists from Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and The Scripps Research Institute, led by Dr. Bruce Spiegelman, conducted the above study.

“Our findings … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Link between obesity, insulin resistance paves way for safer diabetes drugs.

Childhood sexual abuse linked to greater risk for HIV in gay men

WASHINGTON – A new study has found that gay and bisexual men who experienced sexual abuse and social shaming in childhood, experience psychosocial health problems later in life, which could put them at greater risk for HIV.

The study included more than 1,000 HIV-positive and negative gay and bisexual men enrolled in the Multicenter AIDS Cohort …. Original article  : Childhood sexual abuse linked to greater risk for HIV in gay men.

Is 8000-year-old ‘dildo’ world’s oldest sex toy?

WASHINGTON – If you thought sex toys were a product of modern day life, think again – an excavation in Sweden has turned up what may be an ancient dilo.

Carved out of antler bone, the object is about 4 inches long and 0.8 inches in diameter.

“Your mind and my mind wanders away to make …. Source  : Is 8000-year-old ‘dildo’ world’s oldest sex toy?.

China holds ‘green’ funeral

BEIJING – In a first-of its-kind, China organised a mass environment-friendly funeral where the ashes of over 250 people were put in bio-degradable urns and buried or immersed in a pool.

The mass funeral was held in Tianjin city, where 251 urns filled with ashes were buried in special holes dug in the cemetery lawn, while …. Original article  : China holds ‘green’ funeral.

Human settlement on the moon not so far-fetched

LONDON – The day is not far when humans would start building homes on the moon-thanks to researchers at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, who have discovered “lunar dew” on the moon’s surface-absorbed “water” in the uppermost layers of lunar soil.

The discovery of … Read more >>.

Poplar tree protein could boost computers’ memory capacity

LONDON – Protein molecules obtained from the poplar tree in combination with memory units based on silica nanoparticles could greatly expand the memory capacity of future computers, according to scientists from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.

For showing this, the researchers have developed an … Read more >>.

Twitter mood maps reveal happiness quotient of America

LONDON – A twitter mood map developed by a computer scientist has revealed the emotional state of hundreds of millions of Americans.

Computer scientist Alan Mislove at Northeastern University in Boston and his colleagues have found that these “tweets” suggest that the west coast is happier than the east coast.

Also, the country seems happiest on Sundays …. Read the original article  : here.

Summer reading benefits students

WASHINGTON J – Encourage your children to read good books even during the summer break, and their reading skills will definitely improve, suggest researchers.

University of Tennessee, Knoxville, faculty members Richard Allington and Anne McGill-Franzen conducted a study to show a significantly higher level of reading achievement in students who received books for summer reading at … Read : Summer reading benefits students.

Gulf oil dispersants don’t seem to disrupt marine life, say scientists

WASHINGTON – Scientists have claimed that eight of the most commonly used oil dispersants used to fight oil spills appear unlikely to act as endocrine disruptors – hormone-like substances that can interfere with reproduction, development, and other biological processes.

The tested dispersants also have relatively low cell toxicity, say scientists with the U. S. Environmental Protection … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Gulf oil dispersants don’t seem to disrupt marine life, say scientists.

Brain scans could help you choose a career

WASHINGTON – Researchers are questioning the possibility of brain scans guiding a person in his/her choice of career.

General aptitude tests and specific mental ability tests are important tools for vocational guidance. And if performance on such tests is based on differences in brain structure, maybe brain scans can reveal to a person his choice of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Brain scans could help you choose a career.

Archaeologists discover sculpture of Diana, Goddess of hunt in Serbia

BELGRADE – Archaeologists have discovered a sensational sculpture, which they think is of Diana, the Goddess of the hunt, in Serbia.

According to Blic, the sculpture was uncovered at the site of the ‘Felix Romuliana’, an imperial palace near the Town of Zajecar, Serbia by German experts of the Archaeology Institute in Frankfurt, together with the … Read more >>>.

‘Aliens could be using cosmic Twitter to contact us’

LONDON – Aliens may have been trying to contact humans by communicating in a manner similar to Twitter, believe two American researchers.

For almost half a decade, the SETI project has unsuccessfully searched for extraterrestrial life. However, SETI may be looking for the wrong kind of signals from aliens, claim University of California, Irvine, astrophysicist Gregory …. Source article  : ‘Aliens could be using cosmic Twitter to contact us’.

Mystery of gut disease finally cracked

LONDON – Scientists have cracked the mystery of coeliac disease – a feat that could pave the way for treatments for the condition that blights the lives of millions of people.

Coeliac disease is caused by intolerance to gluten found in foods like bread, pasta and biscuits.

The intolerance to gluten, the main protein in wheat, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mystery of gut disease finally cracked.

Soon, invisibility cloak made of glass

WASHINGTON – Ever dreamt of donning an invisibility cloak? The work of a Michigan Technological University scientist could soon help you own one.

Elena Semouchkina, an associate professor of electrical and computer engineering at Michigan Tech, has found ways to use magnetic resonance to capture rays of visible light and route them around objects, rendering those … Original article on : Soon, invisibility cloak made of glass.

Isosceles Triangle in the Sky: A new planetary phenomenon in July

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — On July 31, all Americans are going to have a royal treat of a rare celestial event. On that day, Mars, Venus and Saturn are going to form an Isosceles Triangle. Even Mercury is reported to make a cameo!
On July 4th, all of America was busy viewing the fireworks in the …. Source  : Isosceles Triangle in the Sky: A new planetary phenomenon in July.

1,000-year-old sea creatures found

TORONTO – Canadian and Spanish scientists have discovered rare species of marine life, with some creatures more than 1,000 years old.

According to the scientists, these creatures found off the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador hold clues to the secrets of ancient underwater ecosystems.
These rare marine creatures have been spotted by researchers from Fisheries and … Original article on : 1,000-year-old sea creatures found.

Marriage patterns influence fertility decline in old age

WASHINGTON – Marriage can influence the evolution of age-patterns of fertility, according to researchers at the University of Sheffield.

The scientists reached the above conclusion after applying an evolutionary ‘use it or lose it??? principle while studying past marriage patterns.

Researchers Duncan Gillespie, Dr Virpi Lummaa and Dr Andrew Russell, from the University???s Department of Animal and … Original article on : Marriage patterns influence fertility decline in old age.

3,000 years old monkey fossil found in underwater cave

LONDON – Fossilised remains of a tiny, extinct monkey have been retrieved from an underwater cave in the Dominican Republic.

On examination, scientists said that the fossil could be around 3,000 years old, but believe the species itself could be very ancient.

This reveals clues about the origin of primates in the region.

It also suggests … Read more »»».

China’s new n-reactor to be more fuel efficient

BEIJING – The development of China’s new nuclear reactor which could increase utilisation of fuel up to 70 percent succeeded in a critical test Wednesday.

The experimental fast reactors that run on mostly domestically-designed fourth-generation technology differ from others in that they are able to utilise uranium fuel in a more optimal way so as to …. Read the original article  : here.

Oldest footprint fossil could offer insights into ancient human gait

Washington, July 23 (ANI): After discovering fossil remains of what is believed to be the oldest footprints that look like those made by modern humans, scientists are trying to understand how walking evolved in humans.

Created around 1.5 million years ago, these are the oldest footprints that look like those made by modern humans.

A team … Read more »».

Caterpillars’ gut movements inspire soft-body robot design

Washington, July 23 (ANI): “Weird movements” in the guts of freely crawling caterpillars could improve the design and development of soft material robots, according to researchers at Virginia Tech.

The interdisciplinary research team, led by Michael Simon of Tufts University’s Department of Biology and Jake Socha, used a type of powerful X-ray imaging to discover internal …. Source  : Caterpillars’ gut movements inspire soft-body robot design.

Kids with celiac disease should go for vitamins to stave off bone disease: Study

Washington, July 23 (ANI): Kids suffering from celiac disease should include certain must-have vitamins in their diets to prevent weak bones and osteoporosis, according to researchers at the University of Alberta.

A study of 43 children and teens from three to 18 years of age diagnosed with celiac disease showed that they also tended to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Kids with celiac disease should go for vitamins to stave off bone disease: Study.

Bones may have bigger role in diabetes than believed

Washington, July 23 (ANI): Two new studies have analysed the interplay between bone and blood sugar, suggesting that bones play a more important role in the onset of diabetes than previously thought.

Mice whose bones can’t respond to insulin develop high blood sugar and insulin resistance, both hallmarks of diabetes, the researchers found. Those symptoms are … Read : Bones may have bigger role in diabetes than believed.

Black hole at the center of Milky Way powers galaxy’s fastest stars

Washington, July 23 (ANI): Astronomers have found that a black hole at the centre of the Milky Way is shooting “hypervelocity stars” out of the galaxy at up to 1.8 million miles per hour.

“It’s an example of a very violent interaction that happens as a direct consequence of the black hole there.

“We had theorized that …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Black hole at the center of Milky Way powers galaxy’s fastest stars.

Detector technology ‘to help NASA find earth-like exoplanets’

Washington, July 23 (ANI): A new detector technology could help NASA directly image and characterize exoplanets.

Rochester Institute of Technology scientist Don Figer is developing technology that can withstand the radiation in space, and count individual photons or light pulses – thereby eliminating noise that could obscure the faint signal – and characterize exoplanets in one-third …. Original article  : Detector technology ‘to help NASA find earth-like exoplanets’.

Boffins successfully test plane that perches on wire like a bird

WASHINGTON – Tomorrow’s planes might be able to land gracefully onto a narrow perch just like birds, a team from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have demostrated.

The researchers came up with a control system that allows a foam glider with a single motor on its tail to land on a perch, reports Discovery News.

They …. Original article  : Boffins successfully test plane that perches on wire like a bird.

Scientists spot largest molecules in space

LONDON – Scientists in Canada have spotted the largest molecules existing in space called buckyballs.

The roughly spherical molecules consist of a “third type of carbon”, after graphite and diamond, which occur widely on earth.
Buckyballs, on the other hand, have only been created in labs and have never before been proven to exist …. Original article  : Scientists spot largest molecules in space.

‘Toaster on legs’ sets new world record by walking 14.3 miles in 11hrs!

London, July 23 (ANI): A robot billed as a ‘toaster on legs’ has set a new world record – by walking 14.3 miles in 11 hours.

Built by US scientists, the Ranger set the record for ‘untethered robotic walking’ earlier in July.

The odd-looking robot walked 108.5 times around a 212m indoor track while bring guided …. Source  : ‘Toaster on legs’ sets new world record by walking 14.3 miles in 11hrs!.

EPA feels tug-of-war between angry Pa. residents, gas companies over its new drilling study

EPA hears from gas drillers, angry Pa. residents

CANONSBURG, Pa. – Federal researchers studying a natural gas drilling technique that involves blasting chemical-laced water into the ground got an earful from residents who say it’s poisoning them and killing their animals and from industry experts who say it’s being unfairly demonized.
People who make a living from …. Source  : EPA feels tug-of-war between angry Pa. residents, gas companies over its new drilling study.

Blood test for depression closer to reality

Washington, July 23 (ANI): A team of Dutch researchers have identified a set of seven genes in whole blood that helped them to distinguish un-medicated major depressive disorder (MDD) patients from healthy controls. The work throws up the possibility of a blood test for depression in the near future.

The study appears in the journal Biological … Read : Blood test for depression closer to reality.

Gene ‘makes kids more vulnerable to bullying’s effects’

Washington, July 23 (ANI): It’s well-known that children victimized by bullies face physical and emotional distress, and now researchers have discovered a genetic variation that moderates whether victims of bullying will go on to develop emotional problems.

Not all children who are bullied go on to develop such problems.

In the study conducted by Dr. Sugden …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Gene ‘makes kids more vulnerable to bullying’s effects’.

Genes make some hit the bottle when other boozers are around

Washington, July 23 (ANI): If your friend, sitting next to you at a bar, orders a drink, would you too? Researchers say your genes decide.

Psychological scientist Helle Larsen from Radboud University in The Netherlands and her colleagues say that genetics may determine the extent to which you are influenced by social drinking cues – signals … Original source on Gaea Times at : Genes make some hit the bottle when other boozers are around.

Gene involved in aging also linked to Alzheimer’s

Washington, July 23 (ANI): A gene previously implicated in the aging process has now been linked to Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

MIT biology professor Leonard Guarente and his colleagues showed that in mice engineered to develop Alzheimer’s plaques and symptoms, learning and memory deficits were improved when SIRT1 was overproduced in the brain, and exacerbated when SIRT1 …. Read the original article  : Gene involved in aging also linked to Alzheimer’s.

Circumcision would do little to prevent HIV in gay men: Study

WASHINGTON – Circumcision in gay men would have little effect on reducing HIV incidence, according to a new US study.

Circumcision is thought to reduce the risk of HIV transmission by removing cells in the foreskin that are most susceptible to infection by the virus.

Clinical trials conducted in Africa have found it reduces the risk … Original source on Gaea Times at : Circumcision would do little to prevent HIV in gay men: Study.

Why laughter is contagious

LONDON – How many times has it happened that when one person starts laughing, it takes no time till everybody else in the group starts rolling too? And now, researchers have found clues behind this common phenomenon and have explained why laughter is so contagious.

Sophie Scott at University College London measured the brain activity of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Why laughter is contagious.

Muggy weather in Delhi, rains expected

NEW DELHI – Delhi saw muggy weather Friday morning with the minimum temperature a notch above average at 27.6 degrees Celsius. The weather office said rains were expected later in the day.

“Skies will remain partly cloudy with possibility of thunder and rains later in the day. The maximum temperature is expected to hover around 33 … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Muggy weather in Delhi, rains expected.

Amazon losing 1,500 sq km each year

Lima, July 23 (IANS/EFE) Around 1,500 sq km (579 sq miles) of the Amazon forest is lost each year due to deforestation and environmental degradation in Peru.

Peru has 68 million hectares (262,550 sq miles) of Amazon rainforest, and it is “absolutely unacceptable” that an expanse 10 times the size of Callao, a leading port city …. Original article  : Amazon losing 1,500 sq km each year.

Residents at Pa. hearing tell EPA natural gas drilling technique is poisoning their water

Residents tell EPA Pa. gas drilling poisons water

CANONSBURG, Pa. – People who make a living from a natural gas drilling technique that involves pumping chemical-laced water into the earth and others who believe it has poisoned them or their well water packed into a hotel ballroom in southwestern Pennsylvania on Thursday night to make an … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Residents at Pa. hearing tell EPA natural gas drilling technique is poisoning their water.

Kodiak processor will tout green energy connection _ wind power _ on its salmon labels

Kodiak plant to tout sustainable energy tie

KODIAK, Alaska – Salmon processed at a Kodiak plant will be getting a new label touting is connection to sustainable energy.
Island Seafoods hopes to attract customers by noting that its fish were processed with power from Kodiak Electric Association’s Pillar Mountain wind turbines.
“We’re going to have a green label … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Kodiak processor will tout green energy connection _ wind power _ on its salmon labels.

Rare tornado seen in Haryana village

FATEHABAD – Water from the fields rising in a streak hundreds of feet up in the air. This was a rare sight seen by a youth in Haryana’s Fatehabad district. And Met officials say it was a rare tornado he had witnessed.

Ahlisdar village, nearly 280 km from Chandigarh, had never seen such a phenomena of … Read more : Rare tornado seen in Haryana village.

Iran to send man into space by 2019

TEHRAN – Iran has plans to launch its first manned mission into the space by 2019, President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has said.

The president said the project was originally planned to take place in 2035, but it has been preponed in response to the pressure from the US and the West against its nuclear programme, according to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Iran to send man into space by 2019.

Green group asks Ramesh not challenge power plant quash order

HYDERABAD – An environmental group fighting against a proposed thermal power project in the wetlands of Srikakulam district in Andhra Pradesh has urged the environment and forests ministry not to challenge quashing of environmental clearance to it.

Forum for Better Visakha has appealed to Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh not to contest the order by the National … Read more »».

Soon, t-shirts to power your cell phone as you jog

WASHINGTON – The day could be near when you would be able to recharge your phone or music player while jogging, according to a new study.

A team from University of Southern California has produced flexible transparent carbon atom films that the researchers … Read more >>.

Study examines gene that may hold key to reducing spread of oral cancer

WASHINGTON – A new research at the University of Illinois at Chicago has suggested that the spread of cancer cells in the tongue may be reduced if a gene that regulates cancer cell migration can be controlled.

Xiaofeng “Charles” Zhou, assistant professor in the UIC Center for Molecular Biology of Oral Diseases … Read : Study examines gene that may hold key to reducing spread of oral cancer.

Forests really do have healing touch

WASHINGTON – The next time someone says “hug a tree”, go ahead and do it, as forests – and other natural, green settings – certainly have some healing effects on health and mind.

Researchers have claimed that forests can reduce stress, improve moods, reduce anger …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Forests really do have healing touch.

‘Sleep control’ receptors help blind mice see

LONDON – When blind mice are made to run, they can identify objects using receptors in the eye, also called ’sleep control’ cells, that were previously thought to have no role in forming images, found researchers at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland.

Since humans possess the same receptors, the finding … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘Sleep control’ receptors help blind mice see.

iPhone voted ‘Coolest Thing on the Planet’

LONDON – Apple’s iPhone has been voted the coolest thing on the planet.

A poll of 3,000 Brits saw the iPhone just ahead of its maker Apple, which was at the second place.

The Internet was the third coolest thing according to the Costa Coffee study.

At the … Original article on : iPhone voted ‘Coolest Thing on the Planet’.

NASA astronaut sends first message in sign language from space station

WASHINGTON – For the first time, NASA astronaut Tracy Caldwell Dyson has sent a message in American Sign Language (ASL) from the International Space Station to the deaf community.

In the video, Caldwell Dyson answered several questions about living and working aboard the station … Read more >>.

Why we can’t sit idle

WASHINGTON – We fiddle, or start tidying up, or take something apart like a clock just to put it back again – just so that we don’t get bored.

Such work is a better alternative than engaging in busy, yet destructive activity, such as crimes, …. Read the original article  : Why we can’t sit idle.

‘Eternal plane’ Zephyr returns to Earth after record 2 weeks

LONDON – The UK-built Zephyr unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is officially the first ‘eternal plane’ in aviation history.

The solar powered craft has flown unmanned for two weeks before being commanded to land.

Zephyr will be credited with a new world endurance record (336 hours, 24 minutes) for an … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘Eternal plane’ Zephyr returns to Earth after record 2 weeks.

How babies draw their first breath

LONDON – Scientists may have found the answer to the long-standing mystery – how newborn mammals draw their first breath after life in a fluid-filled womb.

The find could help them understand why this mechanism fatally fails in some individuals causing sudden infant death syndrome and sleep apnoea.

Xavier …. Source  : How babies draw their first breath.

Giant comet ’smacked Neptune 200 years ago’

WASHINGTON – A new research has revealed that Neptune was struck by a giant comet about two centuries ago.

The discovery suggests that comet collisions with gas giant planets may be more frequent than astronomers thought.

Gas giants like Jupiter, Uranus, and Neptune … Read more »».

NASA spacecraft provides most accurate Martian map ever

WASHINGTON – A camera aboard NASA’s Mars Odyssey spacecraft has helped develop the most accurate global Martian map ever.

The map was constructed using nearly 21,000 images from the Thermal Emission Imaging System, or THEMIS, a multi-band infrared camera on Odyssey.

The pictures …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Rains expected in Delhi

NEW DELHI – It will be a humid day in Delhi Saturday but light showers are expected in the evening, the met office said.

“Delhi will experience partly cloudy sky with the possibility of thundershowers in some areas towards the evening. The maximum temperature is expected to hover around 36 degrees Celsius,” said the official of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Rains expected in Delhi.

Greenpeace founder Dorothy Stowe is dead

VANCOUVER – Greenpeace founder Dorothy Stowe died here Friday. She was 89.

She and her husband founded the environmental movement here in 1971 along with Jim Bohlen who also died just three weeks ago.Stowe was suffering from kidney disease, leukemia and diabetes and died at the University of British Columbia hospital here.
A Rhode Island … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Greenpeace founder Dorothy Stowe is dead.

Not just the Gulf: Environmentalists tell Congress onshore drilling also needs more oversight

Environmentalists: Don’t overlook onshore drilling

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – Dozens of environmental groups large and small are urging congressional leaders not to overlook onshore drilling amid debate over how to prevent another oil spill like the Gulf of Mexico disaster.
Drilling for oil and gas often occurs in residential areas, yet it uses large volumes of toxic chemicals …. Read the original article  : Not just the Gulf: Environmentalists tell Congress onshore drilling also needs more oversight.

Invasive fungus threatening Colorado’s oldest trees, which can live longer than 2,000 years

Invasive fungus threatening Colo.’s oldest trees

DENVER – Federal scientists say an exotic fungus spreading through Rocky Mountain forests is threatening Colorado’s oldest trees – the gnarled limber and bristlecone pines that can live longer than 2,000 years.
The white pine blister rust fungus, which spread from Asia, has attacked hundreds of those trees on national forest … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Invasive fungus threatening Colorado’s oldest trees, which can live longer than 2,000 years.

Medical journal expresses concern about cancer research by Duke scientist put on leave

Duke scientist’s cancer research is questioned

Concerns are being raised about the validity of research done by a Duke University cancer scientist who recently was placed on leave while the school investigates whether he falsely claimed to be a Rhodes scholar.
The editor of a British journal, Lancet Oncology, issued an “expression of concern” Friday, citing a …. Read the original article  : here.

NASA camera yields most accurate Mars map ever

WASHINGTON – The NASA Friday said a camera aboard its Mars Odyssey spacecraft has helped develop the most accurate global Martian map ever.

Researchers and the public can access the map via several websites and explore and survey the entire surface of the red planet, Xinhua reported.
The map was constructed using nearly 21,000 images from … Original article on : NASA camera yields most accurate Mars map ever.

Wonder paper that wards off harmful bacteria

WASHINGTON – Scientists have created a new form of paper that wards off harmful bacteria. It could have applications ranging from anti-bacterial bandages to food packaging that keeps food fresh longer to shoes that ward off foot odour.

The new material comprises the thinnest possible sheets of carbon, called graphene, first discovered by scientists in Britain …. Source article  : Wonder paper that wards off harmful bacteria.

World’s largest, smelliest flower blooms

HOUSTON – This is one flower you may not like to receive in a bouquet. The world’s largest and smelliest flower, which grows up to 10 feet, has bloomed here, attracting hundreds of curious onlookers.

Almost six feet tall, the flower – Lois the corpse – may not even bloom once in a lifetime of 40 … Read more >>.

Users ‘not willing to pay for Twitter’

Washington, July 25 (ANI): A new study has revealed that Internet users would not like to pay for online services like Twitter.

The study of the Internet on Americans by the Center for the Digital Future found that 49 percent of Internet users said they have used free micro-blogs such as Twitter.

But when asked if … Read more »»».

Youngsters come together to clean Delhi

NEW DELHI – Young Delhiites hanging out in a crowded market on a Sunday is a common sight. But the West Patel Nagar market in the capital saw the unusual sight of youngsters in their vibrant attire cleaning the market with brooms in their hands and masks on their faces.

Numerous other crowded markets were also … Original source on Gaea Times at : Youngsters come together to clean Delhi.

New study negates stereotype image of adolescent sex offenders

Washington, July 25 (ANI): Countering the stereotype image of adolescent sex offenders, who are often considered socially inept, a new study has found that they are more likely to be characterized by atypical sexual interests – such as desire for prepubescent children, coercive sex with peers and adults, and exposing their genitals to strangers.

Adolescent sex …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : New study negates stereotype image of adolescent sex offenders.

Now, bring history to life with your digicam

London, July 25 (ANI): Technology allows the superimposition of a historic photo on an up-to-date snap of the same scene. But this new pic must be clicked from the same spot and the same zoom level or else the combined image looks disjointed. However, a unique new software can now help you get your shot-framing …. Original source  : Now, bring history to life with your digicam.

Church minister set to ‘tweet’ Holy Communion

London, July 25 (ANI): Christianity is trying to keep pace with the advancements in technology or so it seems – a church minister is set to conduct the first communion service on the micro-blogging site Twitter.

Rev Tim Ross, a Methodist minister, will send out a prayer in a series of Tweets.

Believers are asked to read … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Church minister set to ‘tweet’ Holy Communion.

Anti-ageing hormone pill ‘boosts chances of conceiving by 300pc’

LONDON – An anti-ageing hormone pill can significantly boost a woman’s chances of becoming pregnant, according to new research.

Israeli doctors have discovered that taking the pill increases the chances of conceiving by 300 percent.

DHEA is produced in the brain, ovaries and testes and is the most common hormone in the human body. Its levels peak …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Anti-ageing hormone pill ‘boosts chances of conceiving by 300pc’.

Remains of 2,000 year-old monster rodent found

SYDNEY – The remains of a giant rodent, believed to be the biggest among the species ever to have scurried on the earth nearly 2,000 years ago, have been found in East Timor.

Bones found during cave excavations in East Timor in Southeast Asia showed the rat would have weighed about six kg. Thirteen other rodent …. Read the original article  : Remains of 2,000 year-old monster rodent found.

Muggy day in Delhi, rains expected

NEW DELHI – It was a muggy day in the capital Sunday, with dark clouds holding out hope of rain. However, the clouds soon dispersed. The weather office said rains were expected later in the day.

The minimum temperature was a notch above average at 27.6 degrees Celsius.
“Skies will remain partly cloudy with possibility …. Original source  : Muggy day in Delhi, rains expected.

Face of ancient human skeleton reconstructed

Mexico City, July 25 (IANS/EFE) Scientists have reconstructed the face and the probable appearance of the Las Palmas Woman, one of the most ancient skeletons in the Americas, found in a cave in Mexico.

The National Institute of Anthropology and History said the reconstructed features of the woman, found in a cave in Quintana Roo state, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Wet Sunday expected in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Delhiites can expect spells of rain or thundershowers Sunday, the met office said Saturday, a day during which the sky remained cloudy and sporadic showers were received in some areas.

“The maximum temperature was recorded at 35.6 degrees Celsius and the minimum temperature was around 28.8 degrees Celsius,” said an official of India … Original source on Gaea Times at : Wet Sunday expected in Delhi.

Scientists inspect Haryana’s rare tornado site

FATEHABAD – Scientists Saturday inspected the site of a rare occurrence of water being lifted several hundred feet in the air from water-logged fields in a village in Haryana’s Fatehabad district in what experts said was a low-intensity tornado.

Director Meteorological Department, Chandigarh, Surender Pal and scientist Vivek Dhawan inspected the site near village Ahlisadar in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Scientists inspect Haryana’s rare tornado site.

Iran launches nuclear fusion research

TEHRAN – Iran Saturday launched a fusion research programme that will help build its first homemade nuclear reactor to generate electricity, the state-run Press TV reported.

Head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), Ali-Akbar Salehi said some 50 scientists will work on the project at the AEOI headquarters in Tehran.
Nuclear fusion is …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Iran launches nuclear fusion research.

Driving over potholes may cut fuel consumption in the future

LONDON – Bumpy rides couldn’t get more energy-efficient-driving over potholes would actually save fuel in the future, all thanks to a revolutionary new shock absorber.

With the contraptions, called GenShocks, motorists will no longer just worry about their suspension, but regard every jolt as potentially cutting the cost of a visit to the filling station.

This …. Original source  : Driving over potholes may cut fuel consumption in the future.

Now, tweet hands-free while driving!

LONDON – British motorists may soon be able to tweet while driving with new hands-free technology from car company Ford.

A new voice-controlled application on iPhones and BlackBerries, called AppLink, will allow you to do just that.

It reads ‘tweet’ updates out loud while the car is on the move – but does not allow … Original source on Gaea Times at : Now, tweet hands-free while driving!.

Holidays ‘can help you live longer’

LONDON – Taking that much needed break from work can do more than relax you – it can increase the number of years you live.

The new study shows that taking a holiday can also make you a lot happier.

Dr Sebastian Filep, an expert in travel and wellbeing at Victoria University, found that motivations for …. Original source  : Holidays ‘can help you live longer’.

Adults, not children, make worse witnesses to emotional events

WASHINGTON – A new research has revealed that emotions, particularly those provoked by negative events, can trigger inaccurate memories – and the effect is worse, not better, when the witness is an adult.

The findings contradict prevailing legal and psychological thinking and have implications for the criminal justice system, said Valerie Reyna and Charles Brainerd of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Adults, not children, make worse witnesses to emotional events.

2,500 women audition on Facebook to be in musician’s video

LONDON – An unknown musician looking for beautiful women to appear in the video for his debut single has been besieged by 2500 of them on Facebook after he set up a group on the networking site.

Jonathan Haselden, 28, who was looking for women to appear in the promo for pop song ‘Miss Pretty’, was …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Australia’s earliest contact rock art found

WASHINGTON – Scientists have found evidence of Southeast Asian sailing vessels visiting Australia in the mid-1600s-the oldest contact rock art in Australia.

The team taking part in the Picturing Change fieldwork project in the Wellington Range, Arnhem Land, made the discovery.

The researchers are studying at Djulirri, which has nearly 1200 individual paintings and beeswax …. Source  : Gaea News Network.