Scientists develop new strategy that may improve cognition

WASHINGTON – US scientists have developed a new strategy that has the potential to improve cognition.

For the first time, scientists at the University of Maryland School of Medicine have linked a brain compound called kynurenic acid to cognition, possibly open doors for new ways to enhance memory function and treat catastrophic brain diseases.

When researchers decreased … Original source on Gaea Times at : Scientists develop new strategy that may improve cognition.

Global warming started with ancient hunters: Study

WASHINGTON – Man made global warming is not a recent phenomenon, but one that started when ancient hunters roamed the planet, suggests a new study.

The study claims that massive killings of mammoths lent to the planet’s warming.

According to Doughty, Adam Wolf, and Chris Field-all at Carnegie Institution for Science – normally, mammoths would have grazed …. Source article  : Global warming started with ancient hunters: Study.

Fasting curbs production of fat, cholesterol

WASHINGTON – Researchers have found that fasting causes a an enzyme to stop generating fats and cholesterol.

The study describes how SIRT1, one of a group of enzymes called sirtuins, suppresses the activity of a family of proteins called SREBPs, which control the body’s synthesis and handling of fats and cholesterol.

The research by investigators at Massachusetts … Read more »»».

Beverages can help track location

WASHINGTON – Consuming beverages may leave a chemical imprint in your hair that could be used to track your travels over time, says a study.

The findings are believed to be the first concerted effort to describe the use of beverages as a potential tool in investigating the geographic location of people.
Lesley Chesson …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Beverages can help track location.

‘Plug the oil leak in the Gulf of Mexico with magnets’

WASHINGTON – A Palm Bay company has suggested ‘plugging’ the oil leakage pipe with magnets in Gulf of Mexico to stop the spill.

Chief Scientist Rainer Meinke of Advanced Magnet Lab demonstrated his idea through a miniature model of the Gulf oil spill, by using a koi pond, a pump, some two-by-fours, clamps, tubing, and a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Worker ants can lay eggs in queen’s absence

WASHINGTON – Worker ants separated from the queen develop large ovaries in preparation for laying eggs, Danish researchers have demonstrated.

For the study, researchers from the Centre for Social Evolution at the University of Copenhagen identified a candidate queen pheromone in the black garden ant.

Thereafter, they made a synthetic copy of the pheromone … Read : Worker ants can lay eggs in queen’s absence.

Archaeologists fail to find secret burial site at Seti I tunnel’s end

LONDON – The four decade long wait finally ended as archaeologists reached the end of the mysterious tunnel in the tomb of Seti I. But hopes that the advance would lead to the pharaoh’s secret burial site shattered, when the seemingly unfinished tunnel suddenly came to an end after 174m.

Giovanni Belzoni discovered the tomb, …. Original source  : Archaeologists fail to find secret burial site at Seti I tunnel’s end.

Experiencing different cultures boosts creativity

WASHINGTON – Experiencing cultures different from one’s own can enhance creativity, according to a new research.

Three studies looked at students who had lived abroad and those who hadn’t, testing them on different aspects of creativity.

Relative to a control group, which hadn’t experienced a different culture, participants in the different culture group provided more evidence …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

How honey kills bacteria

WASHINGTON – Scientists have identified a secret ingredient in honey that kills bacteria.

They have found that bees make a protein that they add to the honey, called defensin-1, which could one day be used to treat
burns and skin infections and to develop new drugs that could combat antibiotic-resistant infections.

“We have completely elucidated the molecular [..] Read the original article: here.

Fearsome Moby Dick whale packed a mean bite 13 mln years ago

LONDON – Researchers have discovered the fossilised skull of a mighty whale with a killer bite. According to the team, the beast could have shared the Miocene oceans with a giant shark.

Klaas Post of the Natuurhistorisch Museum Rotterdam, the Netherlands, came across the sea monster’s bones in Peru’s Ica desert. These bones are nearly 12 …. Read the original article  : here.

Now, a device that rocks insomniacs to sleep

MELBOURNE – A device, which can simulate the same rocking motion that parents use to put babies to sleep, has been developed in Australia to help insomniacs get their required rest.

The device, Philips Sleepwave, is attached to the mastoid bone behind the ear using a sensor cable and it works by sending electric pulses …. Source  : Now, a device that rocks insomniacs to sleep.

Scientists stumble on complex life form

LONDON – The discovery in Gabon of more than 250 fossils in an excellent state of conservation has provided proof, for the first time, of the existence of multicellular organisms 2.1 billion years ago.

This finding represents a major breakthrough: until now, the first complex life forms (made up of several cells) dated from around …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Scientists stumble on complex life form.

Grab 40 winks to remember better

WASHINGTON – Think of your to-do list and then ’sleep on it’ to remember better, suggests a new study.

Psychologists at Washington University in St. Louis said that people who sleep after processing and storing a memory carry out their intentions much better than people who try to execute their plan before getting to sleep.

Researchers Michael … Read : Grab 40 winks to remember better.

Now, you can go ‘green’ even after your death

WASHINGTON – People who care for the environment can contribute after their death too – by opting for eco-friendly method of burial or cremation.

Entrepreneurs in Europe have developed two new and unusual methods of body disposal – including a low-heat cremation method and a corpse compost method that turns bodies into soil – both safe …. Read the original article  : here.

Software that automatically deciphers ancient language developed

WASHINGTON – A computer successfully deciphered an ancient language Ugaritic in just a couple of hours.

Regina Barzilay, an associate professor in MIT’s Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Lab, Ben Snyder, a grad student in her lab, and the University of Southern California’s Kevin Knight are the creators.

Her work could not only help archaeologists translate other … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Software that automatically deciphers ancient language developed.

New Zealand greenhouse gas pricing system takes effect, immediately lifts gas, power prices

NZ carbon price system hikes household costs

WELLINGTON, New Zealand – New carbon-trading laws intended to reduce climate-changing pollution emissions took effect Thursday in New Zealand, immediately sending gas prices higher.
Under the scheme, companies are given a pollution allowance, an amount of greenhouse gases they can emit without penalty. If they emit more than allowed, they … Read more >>.

Ostriches’ flying technique provides clues to dino moves

WASHINGTON – The way ostriches use their limbs and wings may provide clues about how its dinosaur ancestors moved, say researchers.

German scientists said that wing-use and hind limb function in ostriches might help palaeontologists in their quest to reconstruct locomotor techniques in bipedal (two-legged) dinosaurs.

Their study shows that these giant birds consistently use their wings …. Source  : Ostriches’ flying technique provides clues to dino moves.

Why some apples grow larger than others

WASHINGTON – A variety of apples grow larger than others because of the absence of cell division, a new American study reveals.

The research by Peter Hirst, a Purdue University associate professor of horticulture, established that a new variety, called Grand Gala, is about 38 percent heavier and has a diameter 15 percent larger than regular … Original article on : Why some apples grow larger than others.

Subtle mutations in immune gene may increase asthma risk

WASHINGTON – A gene responsible for determining whether certain immune cells live or die shows subtle differences in some people with asthma, as per a new study.

The gene encodes a protein called Siglec-8 present on the surfaces of a few types of immune cells. Usually they protect the body and keep it healthy, but can …. Read the original article  : Subtle mutations in immune gene may increase asthma risk.

Delhiites to sweat it out yet again

NEW DELHI – Delhi will remain hot and muggy Thursday with the mercury expected to touch 42 degrees Celsius and the humidity levels high despite light showers the day before.

“Even though light rains or thundershowers are predicted in some areas of the capital later in day, the weather will remain hot and humid,” an …. Read the original article  : Delhiites to sweat it out yet again.

Why killer whales and human females stop breeding early?

LONDON – The evolutionary mystery of menopause is a step closer to being solved, thanks to new research on killer whales.

A study by the Universities of Exeter and Cambridge has found a link between killer whales, pilot whales and humans – the only three known species where females stop breeding relatively early in their lifespan. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Why killer whales and human females stop breeding early?.

How do we recognise people at first glance?

LONDON – Scientists have tried to explain how human beings recognise faces of their own kind at first glance — be it a nice waitress in the coffee shop around the corner, the bus driver or colleagues at the office — but not those of other species.

Monkeys also possess the remarkable ability to differentiate faces …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : How do we recognise people at first glance?.

Anti-aging pill shows hope in female infertility

WASHINGTON – Taking anti-aging pills could improve the chances of conception in infertile women, says a study.

Adrian Shulman, professor of Tel Aviv University’s Sackler Faculty of Medicine, has found a connection between the vitamin supplement DHEA, used to counter the effects of aging, and successful pregnancy rates in women.
DHEA is a naturally-occurring steroid found [..] Read the original article: here.

Tibetans underwent ‘fastest genetic change’ in human history to thrive at high altitude

WASHINGTON – Tibetans split off from the Han Chinese some 3,000 years ago and since then rapidly developed a unique ability to thrive at high altitudes and low oxygen levels, researchers have ascertained after comparing the genomes of 50 Tibetans and 40 Han Chinese.

The genome-wide comparison, carried out by evolutionary biologists at the University of …. Original article  : Tibetans underwent ‘fastest genetic change’ in human history to thrive at high altitude.

IPads, TVs could soon be rolled up like newspapers

MELBOURNE – New-age gadgets like Apple’s iPads and televisions could soon be rolled up like newspapers, thanks to a new technology being developed by researchers in Australia and Italy.

Researchers at Australia’s Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Melbourne University and Italy’s University of Padua were using laser technology to make products – including televisions, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Having BFFs helps female baboons live longer

WASHINGTON – A new study has found that female baboons that maintain closer ties with other members of their troop live substantially longer than do those whose social bonds are less stable.

The researchers say that the findings add to evidence in animals from mice to humans that social bonds have real adaptive value.

“Our results suggest … Original source on Gaea Times at : Having BFFs helps female baboons live longer.

Man in the moon has ‘graphite whiskers’

WASHINGTON – Scientists have established the presence of graphite, a form of carbon, in a lunar sample collected by Apollo 17. The new analysis also revealed that graphite has existed on the Moon from around 3.8 billion years ago, when the lunar surface came under heavy bombarded by meteorites.

The research appears in the journal Science.

Until …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Man in the moon has ‘graphite whiskers’.

Scientists identify gene regulating human brain development

WASHINGTON – Scientists from the University of Wisconsin-Madison have identified a single gene that seems to be a master regulator of human brain development, guiding undifferentiated stem cells down tightly defined pathways to becoming all of the many types of cells that make up the brain.

The new finding is important because it reveals the main [..] Read the original article: here.

Essence Music Fest, educators and cleanup crews fill New Orleans over the 4th of July holiday

Essence Fest helps sustain New Orleans amid spill

NEW ORLEANS – For all the talk of the BP oil spill scaring tourists away from Louisiana and the beaches of Mississippi, Alabama and western Florida, one city in the region has stayed full of visitors since the crisis began.
New Orleans has seen steady convention traffic and a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Anaesthetic agent major contributor to global warming: Study

WASHINGTON – Inhaled anaesthetics widely used for surgery-particularly the anaesthetic desflurane – are a major contributor to global warming, according to a new study.

Dr. Susan M. Ryan of University of California and computer scientist Claus J. Nielsen of University of Oslo said that sevoflurane, isoflurane, and desflurane are recognized greenhouse gases.

Using desflurane for one hour …. Original article  : Anaesthetic agent major contributor to global warming: Study.

Killer whales shed new light on human menopause

WASHINGTON – A new research on killer whales could help solve the evolutionary mystery of menopause.

Scientists at the Universities of Exeter and Cambridge have found that killer whales, pilot whales and humans are the only three known species where females experience menopause.

The study cites the reason as increasing genetic relations with those they live, in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Killer whales shed new light on human menopause.

Acupuncture boosts exercise tolerance in heart patients

WASHINGTON – A new study indicates that acupuncture can improve exercise tolerance in patients suffering from chronic heart failure.

Dr. Johannes Backs, physician and study director at the Department of Internal Medicine III (Cardiology, Angiology, and Pneumology – Medical Director: Professor Dr. Hugo Katus) of Heidelberg University Hospital conducted the clinical pilot study.

Patients with this disease … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Acupuncture boosts exercise tolerance in heart patients.

Russia builds world’s largest telescope in Antarctica

Moscow, July 2 (IANS/RIA Novosti) The construction of the world’s largest telescope, worth $271 million, will be completed in 2011, Russian space agency Roscosmos said.

“The telescope’s size exceeds the overall height of the Empire State Building, the Sears Tower in Chicago and the Shanghai World Financial Centre,” Roscosmos said.
The IceCube telescope designed by researchers … Original source on Gaea Times at : Russia builds world’s largest telescope in Antarctica.

Hepatitis C-related virus in Asian bats could cut human infections

WASHINGTON – A virus related to hepatitis C, found in Asian bats, could offer insights into the origins of the hepatitis C virus and into the mechanisms by which infectious diseases move from other species to humans, according to researchers.

Transmitted by blood transfusion or sexual intercourse, hepatitis C is a common cause of liver failure. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Hepatitis C-related virus in Asian bats could cut human infections.

Genes behind whether you’ll live till 100 discovered

LONDON – A mix of around 150 variations in DNA sequence could act as an effective predictor of whether a person has the genetic artillery to live up to 100 years, researchers have found.

The finding is the result of a trawl through the genomes of more than 1,000 centenarians, scouring about 300,000 sequence variations for … Read more »».

Anti-aging supplement a fountain of hope for wannabe mums

WASHINGTON – An over-the-counter anti-aging supplement could be a fountain of hope for women who want to become mothers, revealed a Tel Aviv University study.

Prof. Adrian Shulman of Tel Aviv University’s Sackler Faculty of Medicine and the Meir Medical Center has found a statistical connection between the over-the-counter vitamin supplement DHEA, used to counter the … Original article on : Anti-aging supplement a fountain of hope for wannabe mums.

Highways, roads to go green in Himachal

SHIMLA – Highways in Himachal Pradesh are all set to go green with the government planning to start a massive plantation drive this month along the major roads, an official said here Friday.

“To make the roads in the state commuter’s delight, we are going to introduce the concept of blooming highways,” a government spokesperson told …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Marijuana derivative may ease neuropathic pain sans side effects

WASHINGTON – Scientists have found that a new compound similar to the active component of marijuana (cannabis) can provide effective pain relief without the mental and physical side effects of cannabis.

The synthetic cannabinoid (cannabis-related) compound, called MDA19, seems to avoid the side effects by acting mainly on one specific subtype of the cannabinoid receptor.

“MDA19 … Read more »».

Genetic discovery could lead to baldness cure

WASHINGTON – Baldness, a trauma for men and women alike, could finally be cured – thanks to a new discovery by researchers.

Researchers have linked alopecia areata, an autoimmune disease that causes hair thinning and hair loss, to eight genes, which are also related to other autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and typ-1 diabetes, Health Day …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Wait for monsoon continues in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Delhiites will have to wait a few more days to enjoy monsoon showers. The capital is expected to receive light showers Friday but the day temperature will remain high, a weather official said.

The city Friday recorded a minimum of 27.7 degrees Celsius – normal for this time of the season. …. Source article  : Wait for monsoon continues in Delhi.

Anger triggers people’s support for wartime presidents

WASHINGTON – Anger, not anxiety, is what makes people supportive of a president when a nation is going to war-a phenomenon known as the “rally ’round the flag effect”, according to a study based in US.

For the first time, a new experimental psychology research from Washington University in St. Louis, has offered compelling evidence …. Source  : Anger triggers people’s support for wartime presidents.

Sabertooth tigers were powerful animals

WASHINGTON – Saber-toothed tigers, which existed 10,000 years ago, had exceptionally strong forelimbs to pin down their prey compared to the present day cat family.

The now extinct cat roamed North and South America preying on large mammals such as bison, camels, mastodons and mammoths.
Telltale clues from bones and teeth suggest they relied on …. Original article  : Sabertooth tigers were powerful animals.

Soon, insect-like robots that crawl into creeks and carry heavy loads

WASHINGTON – An insect-like robot with hundreds of tiny legs could soon crawl through cracks to explore collapsed structures, collect environmental samples and do other tasks where its small size is a benefit.

The past few years have given rise to a growing number of microrobots, miniaturized mobile machines designed to perform specific tasks.

But … Read more : Soon, insect-like robots that crawl into creeks and carry heavy loads.

Our brains much more similar to birds’ than we thought

WASHINGTON – It has long been believed that the brains of humans and other mammals differed from the brains of other animals, such as birds. But a new study has found that a comparable region in the brains of chickens concerned … Read : Our brains much more similar to birds’ than we thought.

Men ‘like women with small feet’

LONDON – Men prefer women with small feet – though they might not be aware of it, says a new study.

Jeremy Atkinson, an evolutionary psychologist at the University at Albany, New York, and his colleague Michelle Rowe measured hand length, foot length, thigh length and hip width on … Read : Men ‘like women with small feet’.

What do astronauts eat in space?

WASHINGTON – Fascinated by space and the astronauts? Then you would be happy to know what exactly they eat for survival when in space.

According to NASA’s Vickie Kloeris, the menu for astronauts is expansive, provided food items can survive microbe-killing heat treatment or complete dehydration.

“We’re able to provide a wide variety of products in thermal-stabilized …. Original source  : What do astronauts eat in space?.

Air pollution doesn’t increase risk of preterm delivery

WASHINGTON – Exposure to carbon monoxide and fine particles in the air during pregnancy does not increase the risk of preterm delivery or preeclampsia, according to a new study.

The research was conducted in the region around Seattle, Wash., using data from 3,675 women who were enrolled in the Omega Study, an investigation of the effects … Read : Air pollution doesn’t increase risk of preterm delivery.

Divorce ‘may be better for kids’

WASHINGTON – A new study has suggested that parents shouldn’t stay in a bad marriage for the sake of their children.

In marriages with a lot of conflict, ’staying together for the kids’ does more harm than good, say researchers.

Their study showed that children of parents who fight a lot yet stay married experience more conflict [..] Read the original article: here.

Even a USB coffee-cup warmer ‘can steal your data’

LONDON – A USB coffee cup warmer could be a potential thief and steal personal data from your computer, say engineers.

A glitch in how the Universal Serial Bus (USB) works, could make many of the devices attached to your computer, like mouse, keyboard and even the printer, vulnerable to what is called the “hardware trojan”.

Until … Original article on : Even a USB coffee-cup warmer ‘can steal your data’.

Classical music stirs vegetative patients’ souls just as healthy people

LONDON – It is said ‘music pulls the heartstrings of listeners’, and a new study has proven it right by claiming that playing classical music to vegetative patients could change their heart rate in the same way as that of healthy controls.
It suggests that music can affect the neural systems of emotion even when conscious … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Classical music stirs vegetative patients’ souls just as healthy people.

Males who can shed tears really can drive females wild

WASHINGTON – Shedding a tear really can help males attract females – at least when it comes to mice.

A new study has shown that male mouse tears contain a sex pheromone called ESP1, which makes female mice more receptive to mounting, reports National Geographic.

Study co-author Kazushige Touhara of the University of Tokyo, said that while …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Males who can shed tears really can drive females wild.

A car for the blind by next year

LONDON – A car which can be driven by the people without eyesight could be available by next year, The Telegraph newspaper said here quoting US researchers.

Experts at the National Federation of the Blind and Virginia Tech are working on a prototype equipped with technology that will help a sightless person sit behind the wheel …. Source  : A car for the blind by next year.

Heat still on, Delhi eagerly awaits monsoon

NEW DELHI – Delhi is set for another sweltering day Saturday with the maximum temperature likely to hover around 40 degrees Celsius. While the city still eagerly awaits the monsoon, a thunderstorm is likely in some areas, a weather official said.

The capital recorded a minimum temperature of 30.5 degrees Saturday – three notches above normal … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Heat still on, Delhi eagerly awaits monsoon.

Daniel Patrick Moynihan, as Nixon adviser, warned of global warming in 1969 memo

Moynihan, as Nixon aide, warned of global warming

YORBA LINDA, Calif. – Documents released Friday by the Nixon Presidential Library show members of President Richard Nixon’s inner circle discussing the possibilities of global warming more than 30 years ago.
Adviser Daniel Patrick Moynihan, notable as a Democrat in the administration, urged the administration to initiate a worldwide … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Daniel Patrick Moynihan, as Nixon adviser, warned of global warming in 1969 memo.

Russian cargo spaceship fails to dock with ISS

MOSCOW – Russian cargo spaceship Progress M-06M, which blasted off two days ago from the Baikonur cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, failed to dock with the International Space Station (ISS) Friday night, the Mission Control Centre said.

The centre said there was “uncontrollable rotation” during the docking attempt, but there was no emergency situation on board the spacecraft. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Russian cargo spaceship fails to dock with ISS.

Stinky, slimy algae makes water unsafe at Ohio’s ‘other Great Lake,’ harming fish, tourism

Ohio lake’s algae dangerous to swimmers, economy

ST. MARYS, Ohio – Patches of green and turquoise slime floated like thick paint in the channel behind Kyle Biesel’s home. His pontoon boat sat covered up, unused for weeks, on a wooden lift stained by the algae.
A foul smell enveloped the backyard where he used to fish and …. Original article  : Stinky, slimy algae makes water unsafe at Ohio’s ‘other Great Lake,’ harming fish, tourism.

On the oil-stained Gulf Coast, July Fourth will come and go with a whimper and not a bang

Gulf Coast is expecting a glum Fourth of July

DAUPHIN ISLAND, Ala. – Fireworks displays have been canceled. White-sand beaches that should be crowded with sunbathers are instead dotted with cleanup workers, booms and sand-sifting equipment. Normally packed hotels are trying to fill rooms ahead of what is a crucial weekend for beach businesses.
Across the oil-stained …. Read the original article  : On the oil-stained Gulf Coast, July Fourth will come and go with a whimper and not a bang.

Never drag a bag of old clothes through the subway again, bins to be provided

New York to implement clothing recycling program

NEW YORK – Here’s the truth about fashion: It changes quickly. So what do you do when you’re stuck with a closet full of barely worn shirts, dresses and shoes?
Starting in September, New York City will launch one of the largest textile recycling initiatives in the nation. The aim …. Read the original article  : Never drag a bag of old clothes through the subway again, bins to be provided.

EPA says no federal water permit needed for Kennecott nickel, copper mine in Upper Peninsula

EPA: No fed permit needed for Upper Peninsula mine

MARQUETTE, Mich. – Kennecott Eagle Minerals Co. doesn’t need a federal permit to build a nickel and copper mine in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency said in a letter to the company made public Friday.
EPA previously said that federal approval was required for the … Original article on : EPA says no federal water permit needed for Kennecott nickel, copper mine in Upper Peninsula.

Unmanned Russian supply ship fails to dock with International Space Station

Supply ship fails to dock with space station

MOSCOW – An unmanned Russian space capsule carrying supplies to the International Space Station failed in a docking attempt, Russian Mission Control and NASA said Friday.
The Progress space capsule is carrying more than two tons of food, water and other supplies for the orbiting laboratory. Three Russian and … Read more >>>.

Coming soon: Smart cars that will report accidents to authorities

LONDON – Scientists are developing intelligent cars that can alert and send useful information to authorities during an accident.

The cars, fitted with aircraft-style black boxes, can send video footage and information about driving behaviour during accidents to the police and insurance companies.

The car, being developed at Intel, will record information about the vehicle … Original article on : Coming soon: Smart cars that will report accidents to authorities.

Smart cars with black boxes

LONDON – Computer scientists in the US are developing technology that will transform cars into intelligent vehicles fitted with aircraft-style black boxes that can record information about driving behaviour during accidents.

The car, which is being developed by researchers at computer chip giant Intel, will record information about the vehicle speed, steering and braking along … Read more >>>.

Bangladesh needs tougher law to save Royal Bengal tigers

DHAKA – Wildlife enthusiasts here have mooted tougher laws, like the ones India proposes to have, to save between 300 and 500 Royal Bengal tigers in the Sundarbans.

The punishment provided in the Bangladesh Wildlife Act is a maximum of two years imprisonment with a maximum fine of Tk 2,000 ($28.8). This needs to be revised [..] Read the original article: here.

Pregnant women ’should routinely take vitamin D supplements’

LONDON – Pregnant women should take vitamin D supplements on a daily basis, say researchers in the UK.

According to the team at University College London Institute of Child Health, official bodies currently offer conflicting advice.

The Department of Health in the UK suggests pregnant women to ensure they receive a certain level of vitamin D …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pregnant women ’should routinely take vitamin D supplements’.

Rains cool Delhi, monsoon not far away

NEW DELHI – A light drizzle cooled Delhi down by several notches Sunday morning. The weatherman forecast more showers, adding that the monsoon wasn’t too far away.

The light drizzle was due to low pressure building up over Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh and it is gradually moving towards the capital, an official of the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Rains cool Delhi, monsoon not far away.

TV signals caused Russian rocket to miss ISS: NASA

MOSCOW/WASHINGTON – Television signals caused a Russian cargo rocket to miss its rendezvous with the International Space Station (ISS), NASA officials said Saturday.

The engineers indicated they would avoid activating the system during Sunday’s second attempt to dock, NASA officials said.
The Progress 38 cargo rocket missed its rendezvous with the ISS by three km late … Read more »»».

New US Air Force satellite will monitor increasing number of satellites, debris in Earth orbit

New satellite will monitor debris in Earth orbit

DENVER – A new U.S. Air Force satellite will provide better surveillance of hundreds of satellites and thousands of pieces of space debris that could crash into American assets circling the Earth.
If all goes as planned, the $500 million Space-Based Space Surveillance satellite will have an unobstructed view …. Read the original article  : here.

Deep in Congo forest, exploding bushmeat trade threatens Pygmies’ way of life

In Congo forest, bushmeat trade threatens Pygmies
THE ITURI FOREST, Congo – They emerge from the stillness of the rainforest like a lost tribe of prehistoric warriors forgotten by time – a barefoot band of Mbuti Pygmies wielding iron-tipped spears.
The men come first, cloaked head to toe in coiled …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Deep in Congo forest, exploding bushmeat trade threatens Pygmies’ way of life.

Sultry Saturday for Delhi, monsoon likely next week

NEW DELHI – Delhi experienced a hot and humid day Saturday, with the maximum and minimum temperatures two and three notches, respectively, above average, weather officials said. Respite is in sight, however, with the monsoon expected to hit the capital next week.

While the minimum settled at 30.5 degrees Celsius, the maximum temperature … Original source on Gaea Times at : Sultry Saturday for Delhi, monsoon likely next week.

High altitude mice make efficient use of little oxygen

TORONTO – Mice make optimum use of little oxygen at high altitudes during exercise, according to Canadian and Peruvian scientists, who are keen to establish whether a similar strategy exists in humans that have evolved at high altitudes.

“Andean mouse species have independently evolved a strategy to maximise energy yield when little oxygen is available,” explain …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : High altitude mice make efficient use of little oxygen.

Russian spaceship ready to dock with ISS again

Moscow, July 3 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Russian cargo spaceship Progress M-06M which failed to dock with the International Space Station (ISS) Friday is ready for yet another attempt Sunday.

The orbit of the spaceship will be adjusted twice to ensure a successful docking, a source at the Mission Control Center said.
Friday’s docking for the Progress M-06M, …. Original source  : Russian spaceship ready to dock with ISS again.

New iPhone apps for ‘Twilight’ fans to sink their teeth into

NEW YORK – ‘Twilight’ fans, who have not had enough of the franchise, can now satiate their appetite with a few new iPhone applications.

According to MTV Mulitplayer, GameHouse has released two apps – just in time for Twi-hards to play while waiting on line for the newest film.

‘The Twilight Saga: Eclipse Movie Game’ lets users … Read more : New iPhone apps for ‘Twilight’ fans to sink their teeth into.

Humans as predators led to the extinction of woolly mammoths

WASHINGTON – Life scientists have found what led to the extinction of woolly mammoths and other large mammals more than 10,000 years ago- entry of humans as predators.

Researchers have said that the same type of cascade of ecosystem disruption that is being caused today by the global decline of predators such as wolves, cougars and … Read more : Humans as predators led to the extinction of woolly mammoths.

Halting carbon dioxide emissions cannot avert climate change

WASHINGTON – With carbon dioxide (CO2) in the air approaching alarming levels, even halting emissions altogether may not be enough to avert catastrophic climate change. Could scrubbing carbon dioxide from the air be a viable solution?

A new study by Carnegie Institution scientists suggests that while removing excess CO2 would cool the planet, carbon cycle complexities …. Source  : Halting carbon dioxide emissions cannot avert climate change.

Cellphones are as good forensic tools as fingerprints

WASHINGTON – Cellphones and other mobile devices are as much reliable as fingerprints for criminal investigations, according to a study.

Clues to crimes today are as likely to be found by examining the data stored in a cellphone or other mobile device as they are by dusting a crime scene for fingerprints. …. Source article  : Cellphones are as good forensic tools as fingerprints.

New discovery takes scientists a step closer to quantum computers

LONDON – Taking a step nearer to quantum computers, University of Maryland researchers have used a unique hybrid nanostructure to show a new type of light-matter interaction.

They also demonstrated the first full quantum control of qubit spin within very tiny colloidal … Original source on Gaea Times at : New discovery takes scientists a step closer to quantum computers.

Wallabies, bats harbour ‘fossil’ genes from deadly human viruses

WASHINGTON – Modern marsupials, like wallabies and bats, harbour a “fossil” copy of a gene that codes for filoviruses, which cause Ebola and Marburg hemorrhagic fevers and are the most lethal viruses known to humans, revealed University at Buffalo biologists.

The study … Read more : Wallabies, bats harbour ‘fossil’ genes from deadly human viruses.

Why one should never arm-wrestle a saber-toothed tiger

WASHINGTON – Researchers have found why saber-toothed tigers were a force to reckon with when it came to arm wrestling.

A new study has revealed that saber-toothed cats-best known for their supersized canines- also had exceptionally strong forelimbs for pinning prey before delivering the fatal bite.

Commonly called …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Why one should never arm-wrestle a saber-toothed tiger.

Beware of Internet-based medicine info

WASHINGTON – A new study has found that the quality of online information about the most common sports medicine diagnoses varies widely.

Therefore, patients who use the Internet to help make medical decisions need to know that the web may not be giving the whole picture, suggests the study.

“The reason that we decided to undertake this …. Source  : Beware of Internet-based medicine info.

World must expect more oil spills, says scientist

WASHINGTON – The world should expect more disasters like the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico as the days of easy oil are over, a scientist says.

“BP and other oil companies have tried to portray this spill as an accident or an aberration, but in fact there are spills on off-shore and on-shore sites …. Source article  : World must expect more oil spills, says scientist.

Pre-monsoon showers lash Punjab, Haryana

CHANDIGARH – Pre-monsoon showers overnight and early Monday brought respite from the sweltering heat in Chandigarh and parts of Punjab and Haryana.

However, officials have said monsoon will hit the region in two-three days. In 2009, it reached Punjab and Haryana June 30.
“The southwest monsoon is approaching this part of northern India and we are … Read more : Pre-monsoon showers lash Punjab, Haryana.

BP oil spill cost rises to over $3 bn

LONDON – The cost of clearing up the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico has exceeded $3 billion, oil giant BP said in London Monday.

The company said the cost had reached $3.12 billion since the explosion of the Deepwater Horizon platform April 20.
The figure includes $147 million paid out in compensation to residents … Original article on : BP oil spill cost rises to over $3 bn.

Monsoon arrives in Delhi

NEW DELHI – The long-awaited monsoon reached the capital Monday after a six-day delay with the met office predicting that the rainfall this season “will be good”.

“The monsoon reached the city today (Monday). Even though the city missed its usual monsoon date June 29, the rainfall for this season will be good,” B.P. Yadav, director … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Monsoon arrives in Delhi.

Conservationists slam plan for coal power plant on environmentally delicate Borneo island

Conservationists protest Malaysia coal plant plan

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Conservationists criticized a plan Monday to build a coal-fired power plant in an environmentally fragile state on Borneo island, but energy officials said the project will provide a much-needed electricity supply boost.
Energy projects have often generated protests in Malaysia’s two states in Borneo, with activists alleging … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Conservationists slam plan for coal power plant on environmentally delicate Borneo island.

Soon, drug ’smart bomb’ to destroy cancer

SYDNEY – Aussie researchers along with Indian scientists are developing “smart bomb” drug delivery system which will search and destroy cancer cells within the body.

It will also have fewer side-effects than conventional chemotherapy, says Deakin University’s Associate Professor Wei Duan, who heads the project in collaboration with scientists in India.

“Cancer cells are particularly difficult to …. Original source  : Soon, drug ’smart bomb’ to destroy cancer.

Why couples ‘divorce’ after 40 years of togetherness?

WASHINGTON – As the shocking news of Former US Vice President Al Gore’s divorce with wife Tipper hit headlines, researchers wondered how can a couple part ways after 40 years of living together.

Even Robert Levenson, a psychologist at the University of California, Berkeley, delved deeper into couples’ psyche to know the answer.

“It’s striking when a …. Original source  : Why couples ‘divorce’ after 40 years of togetherness?.

Blacks are 5 times more often hospitalised than whites

WASHINGTON – Blacks are more prone to get hospitalised than whites, revealed the latest News and Numbers from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.

In 2006, the hospitalization rate for Blacks with hypertension was 161 per 100,000 people, which was nearly 5 times that of Whites (33 admissions per 100,000), according to the study.

Hypertension, which … Read more : Blacks are 5 times more often hospitalised than whites.

Soon, brain chip that could herald the end of paralysis

LONDON – British engineers are developing new technology that would soon allow paralysed patients to operate bionic limbs with the aid of implanted brain transmitters.

The technology uses tiny microchips to sense nerve messages, decode the signals, and turn thought into movement.

Scientists believe within the next five years patients with damaged spinal cords would be using … Original source on Gaea Times at : Soon, brain chip that could herald the end of paralysis.

Rain continues in Delhi

NEW DELHI J – Delhi remained cool Monday as rain continued to lash the city, the weather office said, adding that it could not yet say whether the monsoon had arrived.

The minimum temperature was 25.5 degrees Celsius, three notches below average. The maximum temperature is expected to hover around 33 degrees Celsius, said an official …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Rain continues in Delhi.

Hong Kong reduces plastic bags by 90 percent

HONG KONG – Use of plastic bags in Hong Kong has come down drastically – by nearly 90 percent – in the past 12 months thanks to a “plastic-bags-fine” scheme launched by the government.

Registered retailers in Hong Kong distributed 90 percent fewer plastic bags in the past 12 months in comparison to the situation before … Read more : Hong Kong reduces plastic bags by 90 percent.

EPA’s “Energy Star” label graces churches as congregations practice stewardship they preach

“Energy Star” label graces churches for efficiency

NEEDHAM, Mass. – Old and new intersect at First Parish Church in Massachusetts, which holds 18th-century timber in its walls and displays proof of its 21st-century energy efficiency with an “Energy Star” plaque by the door.
“Energy Star” status, more commonly associated with dishwashers and refrigerators, is now available to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : EPA’s “Energy Star” label graces churches as congregations practice stewardship they preach.

Russian spaceship docks with ISS

Moscow, July 4 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Russian cargo spaceship Progress M-06M successfully docked with the International Space Station (ISS) Sunday, two days after missing its first attempt, the mission control said.

The space freighter docked to the port of the Russian Zvezda in automotive mode in its second attempt after Friday’s docking was aborted due to a … Read : Russian spaceship docks with ISS.

‘Twilight’ rises to $161 million but falls sharply from huge opening day

‘Twilight’ falls sharply but makes it to $161M

LOS ANGELES – “The Twilight Saga: Eclipse” is waning at the box office but still has gotten off to a blockbuster start with $161 million in its first five days, according to studio estimates Sunday.
The third chapter in Summit Entertainment’s vampire romance fell off sharply after debuting last …. Read the original article  : ‘Twilight’ rises to $161 million but falls sharply from huge opening day.

Monsoon on way, showers cool Delhi (Night lead)

NEW DELHI – While the monsoon is still a couple of days away for Delhi, spells of rain Sunday brought down the temperature by three notches in the capital, bringing relief for the residents.

Delhi recorded a total of 1.4 mm of rain between 8.30 a.m and 8.30 p.m. Sunday which brought both maximum and minimum … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Monsoon on way, showers cool Delhi (Night lead).

Cargo ship docks with International Space Station 2 days after first attempt failed

Cargo ships docks with space station on 2nd try

MOSCOW – An unmanned Russian space capsule carrying tons of food, water and supplies to the International Space Station docked with the orbiting laboratory Sunday, two days after the first attempt went awry.
A video feed from Russian mission control just outside Moscow reported the docking took place …. Source article  : Cargo ship docks with International Space Station 2 days after first attempt failed.

At abandoned US cemeteries, respect for the dead at odds with financial worries of the living

Towns grapple with tidying forsaken cemeteries

MONTVILLE, Conn. – Almost 125 years ago, 15-month-old Emma Wheeler was laid to rest within sight of her family’s church near a stone wall in a New England cemetery.
The church is now long gone, and the cemetery is abandoned. Over time, the toddler’s grave and the rest of the Montville … Original article on : At abandoned US cemeteries, respect for the dead at odds with financial worries of the living.

Wyoming gambit to force swap with feds could put prime Grand Teton Park land on auction block

Wyoming threatens to sell prime Grand Teton land

MOOSE, Wyo. – For Sale: Two square miles of Grand Teton National Park.
Majestic views of the Teton Range. Prime location for luxury resort, home development. Pristine habitat for moose, elk, wolves, grizzlies.
Price: $125 million. Call: Gov. Dave Freudenthal.
Wyoming is trying to force the Interior Department to trade land, …. Original article  : Wyoming gambit to force swap with feds could put prime Grand Teton Park land on auction block.

Heavy rain predicted in Himachal

SHIMLA – The hills of Himachal Pradesh may experience heavy rainfall in the next two days, a weather official said Sunday.

“There are chances of heavy spells of rain across the state till Tuesday,” Manmohan Singh, the meteorological office director, told IANS.
He said Shimla, Solan, Bilaspur, Una, Hamirpur, Sirmaur and Kangra districts would experience heavy …. Read the original article  : Heavy rain predicted in Himachal.

Silence isn’t golden: Carmakers add sounds to hybrids, electric cars; pedestrian safety eyed

Quiet hybrids: An end to their sounds of silence?

WASHINGTON – The age of the silent hybrid may be coming to an end.
Gas-electric hybrids, propelled by electric motors at low speeds, are well-known for their quiet ride and great mileage. But their silence isn’t always golden.
Some researchers and safety groups say that quiet operation – “hybrid …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Silence isn’t golden: Carmakers add sounds to hybrids, electric cars; pedestrian safety eyed.

Three-millennia-old bronze tablet is battle chariot linchpin

WASHINGTON – A 3,200-year-old round bronze tablet with a carved face of a woman, found at the El-ahwat excavation site near Katzir in central Israel, has been identified as a part of a linchpin that held the wheel of a battle chariot in place.

The revelation was made by Oren Cohen of the Zinman Institute of … Original article on : Three-millennia-old bronze tablet is battle chariot linchpin.

New drug olaparib may hold promise for women with genetic breast cancer

WASHINGTON – A new drug called olaparib may help thousands of women suffering from genetic breast cancer, if results of the first tests on patients are to be believed.

The researchers behind the study tested the drug on 54 women with advanced genetic breast cancer, and found that the drug olaparib could stop the growth of … Read : New drug olaparib may hold promise for women with genetic breast cancer.

Abused kids likely to have mental disorders as young adults

WASHINGTON – Kids who suffer abuse are likely to have mental disorders later in life, revealed a study.

Most studies of child maltreatment and later mental health outcomes have relied on reports of past abuse, according to background information in the article.

Doubts have been raised about the reliability and validity of these reports, given that … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Abused kids likely to have mental disorders as young adults.

Italian farmers unveil anti-aging square ’super tomato’

MELBOURNE – Italian farmers have unveiled a square “super tomato”, which, they say, actually slows the aging process.

Farmers said the new variety of the salad favourite contained high concentrations of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that combats the effects of aging.

According to ANSA news agency, farmers claim that the tomato was produced by natural methods without … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Italian farmers unveil anti-aging square ’super tomato’.

Winning on home turf makes one crave for future fights

LONDON – Winning a fight on home turf instils desire for more fights in the future, revealed a brain study on mice.

The researchers found that winning a fight causes brain changes that enhance fighting ability and the desire to seek out additional contests, particularly if the fight is on familiar ground.

Matthew Fuxjager and colleagues at … Read more >>>.

Cyberbullies and their victims face physical, mental health problems

WASHINGTON – Adolescent cyberbullies and their victims may have physical and mental health problems, suggests new research.

Cyberbullying is an aggressive, intentional, repeated act using mobile phones, computers or other electronic forms of contact against victims who cannot easily defend themselves, according to background information in the article appearing in the June issue of Archives of …. Original source  : Cyberbullies and their victims face physical, mental health problems.

Dutch review supports key warnings of IPCC report

LONDON – A Dutch review of the work of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) brings to light a number of mistakes – some of them trivial, others more glaring – suggesting ways to minimize errors in the future.

The assessment focused on the contribution of Working Group II – on impacts, adaptation …. Original article  : Dutch review supports key warnings of IPCC report.

Depression ‘doubles dementia risk’

WASHINGTON – Having depression may nearly double your risk of developing dementia later in life, according to a new study.

To reach the conclusion, researchers examined research data on 949 people with an average age of 79 from the Framingham Heart Study.

At the start of the study, participants were free of dementia and were tested …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Depression ‘doubles dementia risk’.

Delayed school start time linked to improved adolescent behaviours

WASHINGTON – A slight delay in school start time is likely to be associated with significant improvements in adolescent alertness, mood and health, according to a new study.

“Beginning at the onset of puberty, adolescents develop as much as a two-hour sleep-wake phase delay (later sleep onset and wake times) relative to sleep-wake cycles in middle …. Source article  : Delayed school start time linked to improved adolescent behaviours.

Coming soon: A football that powers cell phone!

LONDON – A football that generates electricity to charge a cell phone or power a light from a short kick is set for trial at the 2010 FIFA World Cup host South Africa.

Four female undergraduate students, from Harvard University, who wanted to find a solution to the developing world’s chronic power shortages, designed the ball …. Source article  : Coming soon: A football that powers cell phone!.

Viagra users more likely to have STDs

WASHINGTON – Men, who use erectile dysfunction drugs like viagra, are more likely to have sexually transmitted diseases as compared to non-users, revealed a study.

The findings indicate that physicians who prescribe erectile dysfunction drugs for their male patients should be sure to discuss the importance of safer sex practices, even with older patients.

For the … Read more : Viagra users more likely to have STDs.

Sassanid fire temple found in central Iran

TEHRAN – Ruins of a fire temple dating back to the Sassanid era have recently been discovered by archaeologists.

The discovery was made during the latest season of excavations in the Vigol region near Kashan in central Iran.

The cruciform temple has four entrances leading to the ruins of a fireplace embellished with unique stucco designs.

Its …. Source article  : Sassanid fire temple found in central Iran.

Horses could be men’s next best friends after dogs

WASHINGTON – Horses inherently understand humans better than most other animals do, displaying tremendous sensitivity to even the most subtle eye and body movements, says a new study.

The research found that horses are able to decipher certain types of human-given visual and auditory cues.

It’s already known that dogs are more adept at on related studies, …. Original source  : Horses could be men’s next best friends after dogs.

Warm habitats boost bird bill size

WASHINGTON – The evolution of bird bills is linked to climate. Birds with larger beaks are usually found in hot habitats, while birds in colder environments have evolved smaller peckers, according to a new study.

The study led by Dr Matt Symonds of the Department of Zoology at the University of Melbourne, Australia, and Dr Glenn … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Warm habitats boost bird bill size.

Revolutionary therapy shows promise for breast cancer patients: Lancet

LONDON – A novel therapy has the potential to slow tumour growth in advanced breast cancer, revealed researchers at Penn State University.

Researchers found that the revolutionary therapy, designed to attack tumours in patients with a genetic mutation in either BRCA1 or BRCA2, slowed tumour growth in 85 percent of advanced breast cancer patients treated in … Original article on : Revolutionary therapy shows promise for breast cancer patients: Lancet.

Ambitious project to lift a generation of sea turtles out of oil spill’s way

LONDON – In another ten days time eggs from nearly 800 sea-turtle nests in Alabama and the Florida ‘panhandle’ will be lifted out of the oil spill’s way.

The plan’s objective is to save a generation of already endangered sea turtles from the effects of immersion in oil from the Deepwater Horizon blowout. These effects could … Original source on Gaea Times at : Ambitious project to lift a generation of sea turtles out of oil spill’s way.

‘Holy grail’ blood test to predict Alzheimer’s disease on the anvil

LONDON – A simple blood test could soon be developed to predict Alzheimer’s disease up to ten years before the appearance of symptoms-all thanks to the discovery of a protein, called clusterin, which could be an early sign of the condition.

Scientists have suggested that levels of clusterin rise ‘many years’ before symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease …. Original article  : ‘Holy grail’ blood test to predict Alzheimer’s disease on the anvil.

Depression is a risk factor, not an early sign of Alzheimer’s

WASHINGTON – Symptoms of depression show little change during the development and progression of Alzheimer’s disease, according to a study.

Researchers at Rush University Medical Center tracked symptoms of depression during the transition from no cognitive impairment to dementia and found that depression is a risk factor and not an early sign of Alzheimer’s disease.

“Our … Read : Depression is a risk factor, not an early sign of Alzheimer’s.

Good looks make you an ‘extrovert’

LONDON – If you are an attractive man or a woman, chances are that you are quite an extrovert.

Evolutionary psychologist Aaron Lukaszewski of the University of California at Santa Barbara asked 85 male and 89 female students to rate their own attractiveness relative to their peers.

The results showed that stronger and more attractive men, and …. Original source  : Good looks make you an ‘extrovert’.

New campaign to green Delhi, NCR

NEW DELHI – The Coimbatore-based NGO Isha Foundation and the New Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC) will plant 100,000 saplings in the capital in a week as part of a new green project launched by the environment wing of the Planning Commission.

The campaign, “Initiative for Greening Delhi NCR” launched Monday, aims to spread awareness about protecting … Read more >>.

Widespread rainfall in Chandigarh, Punjab and Haryana

CHANDIGARH – Moderate to heavy rainfall lashed most parts of Punjab, Haryana and joint capital Chandigarh Tuesday morning, paralysing normal life. The weather office said rains would continue for the next two to three days in the region.

“The rains started Monday night and continued without a break. We are expecting more rains in the … Read : Widespread rainfall in Chandigarh, Punjab and Haryana.

Monkeys flee, lured back with peanuts

LONDON – Over a dozen monkeys used tree branches to escape from a Japanese laboratory surrounded with a 17 feet high electric fence, only to be lured back in by scientists armed with peanuts.

The 15 monkeys escaped from Kyoto University’s primate research institute in Aichi Prefecture.
After escaping, the monkeys seemed unsure about what to [..] Read the original article: here.

“Optical tweezers” to help development of advanced quantum computers

WASHINGTON – Israeli scientists have developed a new tool that uses holographic technology to manipulate up to 300 nanoparticles at a time, such as beads of glass or polymer, that are too small and delicate to be handled with traditional laboratory instruments.

“Optical tweezers,” the technology behind Tel Aviv University’s Holographic Optical Tweezers (HOTs), could … Read more >>>.

‘Recreational drugs and sex don’t mix’

WASHINGTON – Use of ‘recreational drugs’ reduces sexual performance, a new Canadian study reveals.

The findings of the Concordia University study, which evaluated the effect of a wide range of drugs, including alcohol, on sexual behaviour, appear in the journal Hormones and Behaviour.

Concordia psychology researcher, Dr. James Pfaus, said: “We reviewed data from more than 100 …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Recreational drugs and sex don’t mix’.

Break-ups make women poorer while men lonelier

SYDNEY – Break-ups leave women much poorer financially while men become much poorer socially, says a new study.

The study, by researchers at the University of Queensland, the Australian Institute of Family Studies and the Australian National University, revealed that women become much poorer than men after a marriage breakdown but men become much lonelier, sadder …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Break-ups make women poorer while men lonelier.

Independent inquiry into climate e-mails leaked from British research center to release report

Leaked climate e-mail inquiry to release report

LONDON – An independent report into the leak of hundreds of e-mails from one of the world’s leading climate research centers is being published Wednesday, with many scientists hoping it will help calm the global uproar kicked up by their publication online.
Muir Russell’s inquiry is the third major investigation …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Fish ‘grunt, growl and pop’ at each other!

WELLINGTON – Fish ‘grunt, growl and pop’ at each other, says a Kiwi marine scientist.

Shahriman Ghazali, of the University of Auckland, is currently making underwater recordings at Leigh Marine Reserve to find out which fish talk and why.

“All fish can hear, but not all can make sound – pops and other sounds made by vibrating …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Fish ‘grunt, growl and pop’ at each other!.

Breast cancer gene may increase men’s risk, too

LONDON – If a new research is to be believed, then men who carry a faulty gene have a one in 15 chance of developing breast cancer by the time they are 70.

A faulty copy of the gene – called BRCA2 – can be passed on to both sexes through the generations.

Now, scientists …. Read the original article  : Breast cancer gene may increase men’s risk, too.

Neanderthal males had Popeye-like arms

WASHINGTON – Neanderthal males had unusually strong upper arms, just like Popeye, particularly on the right side, revealed a research.

Remains of an early Neanderthal with a super strong arm suggest that Neanderthal fellows were heavily pumped up on male hormones, possessing a hormonal status unlike anything that exists in humans today, the study suggested.

Researchers said …. Source  : Neanderthal males had Popeye-like arms.

Why heartbreaks hit you so hard

WASHINGTON – Being rejected by a romantic partner triggers brain activity linked with motivation, reward and addiction cravings, revealed a new study.

Led by Dr. Lucy Brown, Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University, the study is the third from her team to demonstrate that primitive reward and survival systems are activated in people who …. Source  : Why heartbreaks hit you so hard.

Water increases alertness, regulates blood pressure

WASHINGTON – Water doesn’t just quench thirst – it can keep you alert and regulate your blood pressure too, says a new study.

David Robertson, and colleagues at Vanderbilt University Medical Center first observed this property about 10 years ago, in patients who had lost their baroreflexes – the system that keeps blood pressure within a … Original source on Gaea Times at : Water increases alertness, regulates blood pressure.

Like humans, whales ’shout louder’ to overcome noise

WASHINGTON – Just like humans, North American right whales increasing the volume of their calls as environmental noise increases – a trend that scientists say could endanger the species further.

This noise might affect the whales’ communication range for feeding or mating will shrink and stress levels on individual animals may rise.

“Right whale upcalls are used … Read : Like humans, whales ’shout louder’ to overcome noise.

NASA launches free online video game about lunar adventure

WASHINGTON – NASA has launched Moonbase Alpha – an exciting new, free online video game about lunar adventure.

Players can step into the role of an exploration team member in a futuristic 3-D lunar settlement.

The objective is to restore critical systems and oxygen flow after a meteor strike cripples a solar array and life support … Read more »».

Competition leads to depression among teenage girls: Study

WASHINGTON – Competing to win can be damaging to girls’ social relationships and can even lead to severe depression, according to a new study.

Dr. David Hibbard from California State University and Dr. Duane Buhrmester from the University of Texas, US, focussed on two types of competitiveness – to win and to excel, in their study.

The …. Read the original article  : here.

New species discovered in Atlantic Ocean

LONDON – In a major breakthrough, scientists have found over 10 new species under the Atlantic Ocean, including creatures close to the missing evolutionary link between backboned and invertebrate animals.

The bizarre creatures, oddly-shaped, brightly-coloured or even transparent, that scientists have uncovered during a new study has “revolutionised” thinking about deep-sea life.
Scientists believe they have … Original article on : New species discovered in Atlantic Ocean.

Now, 3D technology to determine sex of skeletal remains

WASHINGTON – Researchers will now use three-dimensional imaging technology on human pelvic remains to determine the sex of the skeleton.

The new technique is far more superior to traditional visual inspections.

Dr. Ann Ross, associate professor of sociology and anthropology at NC State and her colleague Dr. Joan Bytheway were able to find more than 20 anatomical …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sun shines in Delhi but rains not far away

NEW DELHI – It was a sunny morning in Delhi Wednesday after two days of heavy showers. However, weather officials forecast thundershowers towards the evening.

Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 28 degrees Celsius, which is normal for this time of the season. The humidity was recorded at 81 percent.
“Skies will … Original article on : Sun shines in Delhi but rains not far away.

America sizzles as heat wave hits East Coast

WASHINGTON – America is sizzling with temperatures breaking records in at least four cities as the season’s first heat wave swept across much of the East Coast reminding Indians of summer back home.

New York, Baltimore, Philadelphia and Providence, Rhode Island, broke records Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service.
In New York’s Central Park, …. Original article  : America sizzles as heat wave hits East Coast.

Calif.’s largest utility opposes proposition to suspend state’s landmark global warming law

PG&E opposes CA prop. to halt global warming law

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – California’s largest utility says it will oppose Proposition 23, the initiative that seeks to suspend the state’s landmark global warming law.
Pacific Gas & Electric Company Chairman and CEO Peter Darbee said in a statement Tuesday that climate change could cost California’s economy tens of … Read more >>.

Peru declares environmental emergency over mine waste water

LIMA – The Peruvian government Tuesday declared a state of environmental emergency in a central Peruvian mining district after a wastewater storage dam collapsed and leaked poisonous chemicals into the local rivers.

The declaration by the Peruvian Department of the Environment was to apply for 90 days, the ministry said.
The measure was intended to support … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Peru declares environmental emergency over mine waste water.

US heat wave crashes power systems

NEW YORK – The US East Coast and parts of the Mid-West and Canada sweltered Tuesday in temperatures of 38 degrees Celsius and higher amidst power outages from record demand and rising health concerns.

Temperatures peaked at 41.1 degrees in Frederick, Maryland, about 50 km north of Washington, DC, and reached 39.44 degrees in New York …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Why giraffes have long necks

LONDON – The giraffe’s long neck may have evolved to help the male compete for mates, suggests new research.

Nearly 15 million years ago the giraffes were antelope-like animals roaming the dry grasslands of Africa. They had no distinguishing characteristics, except that some their necks were a bit long.

But within 6 million years, they had evolved … Read more »».

New proteins that regulate blood pressure, flow identified

WASHINGTON – Scientists have identified key players in a little-known biochemical pathway that appears to regulate blood pressure.

The findings have evolved from studies conducted by Jeffrey S. Isenberg, Eileen M. Bauer, and their colleagues at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.

“Identifying and unravelling this important pathway for blood pressure regulation could lead to a … Original article on : New proteins that regulate blood pressure, flow identified.

Punjab, Haryana see dip in rainfall

CHANDIGARH – After experiencing incessant showers over the last few days, Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh saw a dip in rainfall.

“This has again led to an increase in the day temperature that had fallen sharply by five to six degrees,” a Met department official said.
“But we expect isolated spells of rain in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Punjab, Haryana see dip in rainfall.

Solar plane lands after first night flight (Lead, changing dateline)

GENEVA – A solar-powered plane landed Thursday morning in western Switzerland after staying in the air for 26 hours straight and successfully completing its first night flight.

The plane, part of the project Solar Impulse run by Swiss entrepreneur Bertrand Piccard, gathered enough solar energy at high altitudes during the daylight hours of the first half …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Solar plane lands after first night flight (Lead, changing dateline).

Shared parenting ‘can be traumatic for kids’

MELBOURNE – Shared care arrangements may work well for separated parents, but it does more harm than good to children, especially infants.

A new research shows that infants under two who spend one night a week or more away from their primary carer show significantly more signs of irritability and separation anxiety, are more fretful, tearful …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Shared parenting ‘can be traumatic for kids’.

Extinction threatens thousands of undiscovered plant species

WASHINGTON – Thousands of plant species, threatened with habitat loss and climate change, may become extinct before scientists can discover them, according to a three American and British researchers.

“Scientists have estimated that, overall, there could be between 5 million and 50 million species, but fewer than 2 million of these species have been discovered to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Male menopause really does exist

NEW YORK – Menopause is not limited to women, it hits men too, a new study has found.

The study, reported in the Daily Mail, has found that some men experience a decrease in hormones when they hit middle age.

And reduced levels of testosterone can lead to everything from lowered libido to fatigue, just like menopause … Read : Male menopause really does exist.

New clue into cellular aging identified

LONDON – Researchers at the University of Massachusetts Medical School have found a new clue about the molecular and cellular processes governing aging.

The discovery could help delay the onset of some age-related diseases, such as cancer and diabetes.

In the search to understand these molecular processes, researchers uncovered an important new DAF-16 isoform – DAF-16d/f …. Source  : New clue into cellular aging identified.

Previously unknown natural mechanism behind cocaine addiction uncovered

LONDON – A specific type of genetic material plays a key role in determining vulnerability to cocaine addiction and may offer an entirely new direction for the development of anti-addiction therapies, according to a study.

In animal studies, scientists from The Scripps Research Institute have found that a molecule called microRNA-212 was increased in the brains … Read more >>.

Antidepressants ‘taking toll on sea life’

LONDON – Scientists have revealed that antidepressants threaten sea’s ecosystem.

They warned that rising levels of antidepressants in coastal waters could change sea life behaviour and potentially damage the food chain.

A study into the behaviour of shrimps exposed to the antidepressant fluoxetine showed that their behaviour was dramatically affected.

Researchers found that shrimps are five times more … Read more >>.

Vitamin E ‘cuts Alzheimer’s risk’

WASHINGTON – A Swedish study has revealed that high levels of several vitamin E components in the blood are associated with a decreased risk for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in advanced age.

The research has suggested that vitamin E may help prevent cognitive deterioration in elderly people.

“Vitamin E is a family of eight natural components, but … Read more »»».

Words ‘can help predict whether your romantic relationship will last’

WASHINGTON – The kind of words you link to your partner indicate whether your relationship is on the rocks, says a new study.

“A lot of people don’t want to tell you if they’re starting to feel less happy in their relationship,” says Ronald D. Rogge, of the University of Rochester.

In the study, the researchers asked … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Words ‘can help predict whether your romantic relationship will last’.

High-protein diet may lower bone density in postmenopausal women

WASHINGTON – A high protein diet for obese menopausal women may help in weight loss, but it could also lower bone density, says a new research.

Wayne W. Campbell and doctoral student Minghua Tang found in their study that all of the women who ate the energy-reduced diets successfully lost weight, but the groups that consumed …. Source  : High-protein diet may lower bone density in postmenopausal women.

Humans ‘arrived in Britain 250,000 years earlier than thought’

LONDON – Archaeologists have uncovered stone tools that indicate that first humans arrived in Britain much earlier than previously thought.

A discovery of 78 pieces of razor-sharp primitive cutting and piercing tools, from a beach in Norfolk, shows that humans occupied Britain 250,000 years earlier than thought.

“These tools from Happisburgh are absolutely mint-fresh. They are exceptionally …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Humans ‘arrived in Britain 250,000 years earlier than thought’.

Alien object disrupts air traffic in China

BEIJING – An unidentified flying object (UFO) disrupted air traffic over Hangzhou, capital of east China’s Zhejiang province, authorities said Thursday.

Xiaoshan Airport was closed after the UFO was detected late Wednesday and some flights were rerouted to airports in Ningbo and Wuxi cities, Xinhua quoted an airport spokesman as saying.
The airport had resumed operations, …. Read the original article  : here.

Rains to continue in Delhi

NEW DELHI – After three days of incessant rains, Delhi woke up to a sunny morning Thursday. However, more rains have been forecast for the day.

Wednesday’s heavy downpour had caused miles of traffic jams, bringing the capital to a standstill.
“Though we were waiting for the rains, but I am happy that it did … Read more »»».

Carcass found believed to be New Zealand’s friendly dolphin, Moko

New Zealand celebrity dolphin believed dead

WELLINGTON, New Zealand – A teenage bottlenose dolphin that thrilled – and sometimes annoyed – New Zealand swimmers and beach-goers with his boisterous antics is believed to be dead, officials said Thursday.
Rangers found a dolphin carcass Wednesday on a northern beach where the animal nicknamed “Moko” was last seen about … Original article on : Carcass found believed to be New Zealand’s friendly dolphin, Moko.

American East Coast roasts for second day

WASHINGTON – America roasted for another day as temperatures approached or surpassed the 100-degree Fahrenheit (37.77 degrees Celsius) mark for a second consecutive day in many East Coast states with a deadly heat wave sweeping over the region.

Richmond, Virginia; Raleigh, North Carolina; Philadelphia International Airport in Pennsylvania; Mount Holly, New Jersey; and Newark International Airport … Read more »».

Solar plane takes off for test flight

LONDON – A solar-powered plane which can fly without fuel has taken off for its first 24-hour test flight before embarking on circumnavigation of the earth.

The plane, named Solar Impulse, left Payerne airfield in Switzerland Wednesday. Its pilot, Andre Borschberg, will take the prototype to an altitude of 27,900 feet by evening, when a decision … Read : Solar plane takes off for test flight.

Scientists say Japanese spacecraft may have collected first samples from asteroid

Japanese spacecraft may have dust from asteroid

TOKYO – Japanese scientists say they have detected tiny particles collected by the first spacecraft to return to Earth after landing on an asteroid. But determining if the dust came from the asteroid or was picked up by the spacecraft on its return trip could take months.
Material found in … Read : Scientists say Japanese spacecraft may have collected first samples from asteroid.

Who is likely to become bully, victim or both?

WASHINGTON – Research shows that children and adolescents who lack skills to solve social problems tend to become bullies, victims or both.

It was also found that boys bully more than girls and children who face academic troubles are also likely to become bullies.
“This is the first time we have overviewed the research to see …. Source  : Who is likely to become bully, victim or both?.

Knocking out a gene makes female mice masculine

WASHINGTON – Knocking out a gene called fucose mutarotase (FucM) from female mice, actually makes them masculine-they refuse to males mount them, and will attempt copulation with other female mice.

The mammalian fucose mutarotase enzyme is known to be involved in incorporating the sugar fucose into protein.

Researchers created the FucM mouse mutants in order to … Read : Knocking out a gene makes female mice masculine.

Prevention of mental decline in aging rats offers hope to patients with Alzheimer’s

WASHINGTON – A compound, called P7C3, could restore the capacity to form new memories in aging rats, likely by improving the survival of newborn neurons in the brain’s memory hub, revealed scientists at University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas.

The research has turned up clues to a neuroprotective mechanism that could lead to a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Prevention of mental decline in aging rats offers hope to patients with Alzheimer’s.

Male fireflies ‘flash’ in unison to attract mates

WASHINGTON – Scientists claim that male fireflies exhibit synchronous flashing to preserve female fireflies’ recognition of suitable mates.

Fireflies produce bioluminescence as a mating tool, in which males display a species-specific pattern of flashes while “cruising” through the air, looking for females, says lead author Andrew Moiseff of the University of Connecticut.

In an experiment conducted with … Read more : Male fireflies ‘flash’ in unison to attract mates.

DNA discovery paves way for new therapies for hereditary cancers

WASHINGTON – Researchers have revealed new avenues to develop assessment tools and alternative treatments for people living with hereditary colorectal cancers.

The research team was led by Alba Guarne, an associate professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences at McMaster, and involved researchers in Europe and the United States. The lead author of the …. Source  : DNA discovery paves way for new therapies for hereditary cancers.

‘Heat waves could be commonplace in US by 2039???

WASHINGTON – A new study has claimed that heat waves in the United States could become very frequent in the next 30 years.

“In the next 30 years, we could see an increase in heat waves like the one now occurring in the eastern United States or the kind that swept across Europe in 2003 that …. Read the original article  : ‘Heat waves could be commonplace in US by 2039′.

Green peppers, chamomile tea may protect against inflammation

WASHINGTON – Natural compounds, known as phytochemicals, in green peppers, chamomile tea may offer protection against inflammation, found a new study.

Studies led by Agricultural Research Service (ARS) molecular biologist Daniel H. Hwang are providing some of the missing details, how these compounds accomplish this feat.

Certain kinds of inflammation can increase risk of cancer and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Green peppers, chamomile tea may protect against inflammation.

‘Magical thinking’ about islands ‘just an illusion’

WASHINGTON – The perception that islands have different and ‘magical’ evolutionary processes is nothing but an illusion, say scientists.

Conventional wisdom has it that creatures like Komodo dragons, dwarf elephants, Hobbit-sized humans and a horde of monster-sized insects – are all products of island evolution.

Dr. Shai Meiri of Tel Aviv University’s Department of Zoology says “yes,” …. Source  : ‘Magical thinking’ about islands ‘just an illusion’.

Power supply snag hits Indian communication satellite

CHENNAI – Scientists of the Indian space agency are working to fix a power snag that switched off 12 transponders of the INSAT-4B comunication satellite Wednesday night, affecting services of some television channels and telecom operators.

“An expert team is looking at the possibilities of partial utilisation of some of the transponders that were …. Source  : Power supply snag hits Indian communication satellite.

1 in 5 US preschoolers displays mental health issues when starting kindergarten

WASHINGTON – A study has found that 1 in 5 preschoolers in the US display mental health issues when transition from preschool to formal schooling takes place.

Dr. Alice S. Carter and colleagues conducted the study on 1,329 healthy children born between July 1995 and September 1997 in the New Haven-Meriden Standard Metropolitan Statistical Area of …. Source  : 1 in 5 US preschoolers displays mental health issues when starting kindergarten.

Pregnant teen mums ‘at higher preterm birth risk’

WASHINGTON – Pregnant teenagers are more likely to give birth prematurely and have a small baby than women in their 20s, says a new study.

Ali Khashan, from University College Cork, Ireland, worked with a team of researchers to study all 14-29 year-old women who had a live baby in the North West of England between [..] Read the original article: here.

Past post-glacial warming changed North Pacific circulation

WASHINGTON – A new study could provide valuable insights into what drives glacial and interglacial cycles.

The article, titled, “Deep Water Formation in the North Pacific during the Last Glacial Termination” is by Axel Timmermann of the University of Hawaii, Honolulu, and his colleagues.

In a video interview, Timmermann explains the implications for our understanding of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Past post-glacial warming changed North Pacific circulation.

New dino species christened ‘Mojoceratops’ for its ‘magic charm’

WASHINGTON – It has a heart shaped frill on its head, and a flamboyant appearance too – so Mojoceratops seemed like an apt name for the new dino species.

“I discovered that ‘mojo’ is an early 20th-century African-American term meaning a magic charm or talisman, often used to attract members of the opposite sex,” said Longrich, …. Original article  : New dino species christened ‘Mojoceratops’ for its ‘magic charm’.

Express your emotions to make more friends

NEW YORK – Poker-faced people who stay emotionally guarded no matter what situation they face have trouble making friends, say experts.

According to The New York Times, psychologists found that students who were best at suppressing their emotions also were the ones who had the most difficult time making friends.

“An individual who responds to the college …. Source  : Express your emotions to make more friends.

Why kids confuse letters ‘b’ and ‘d’ while learning to write

LONDON – A new study shows why kids confuse letters such as ‘b’ with ‘d’ – mirror images – while learning how to write.

Stanislas Dehaene of INSERM, the National Institute of Health and Medical Research in Saclay, France, says that the phenomenon occurs because of children “recycling” an area of the brain that recognises shapes … Original source on Gaea Times at : Why kids confuse letters ‘b’ and ‘d’ while learning to write.

30-minute massage ‘enough to ease chronic tension headache’

WASHINGTON – Scientists have proved that the psychological and physiological state of patients with tension headache improves within 24 hours after receiving a 30-minute massage.

Researcher Cristina Toro Velasco and Professor Manuel Arroyo Morales showed that a 30-minute massage on cervical trigger points improves autonomic nervous system regulation in these patients.

Similarly, patients report a perceived relief … Original article on : 30-minute massage ‘enough to ease chronic tension headache’.

Tiny RNA molecule could prevent cocaine addiction

LONDON – Researchers have found that a specific and remarkably small fragment of RNA appears to protect rats against cocaine addiction – and may also protect humans.

The discovery could lead to better ways of predicting drug abuse risk and treating addictions

In the study, researchers at The Scripps Research Institute in Jupiter, Florida found that cocaine …. Source article  : Tiny RNA molecule could prevent cocaine addiction.

Practice, as well as working memory capacity, makes musicians perfect

WASHINGTON – Practice along with working memory capacity enhances piano players’ ability to sight read a new piece of music- an important and complex skill for musicians, found researchers.

Scientists have debated the role of practice in developing expertise for over a century.

In 2007, researchers proposed that it takes a decade of intense practice to … Read more »».

California boosts enforcement of organic rules in effort to fight fraud at farmers markets

Calif. aims to boost enforcement of organic rules

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – It’s been barely a year since Luis Miranda began selling organic produce at farmers markets near his home in California’s Central Valley, but he’s already seen every trick in the book.
Scanning the stands recently at a market in downtown Sacramento, Miranda pointed out a half-dozen …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : California boosts enforcement of organic rules in effort to fight fraud at farmers markets.

Antibodies that prevent 90pct of HIV strains from infecting humans discovered

WASHINGTON – In a breakthrough study, researchers have discovered two potent human antibodies that can stop more than 90 percent of known global HIV strains from infecting human cells in the laboratory.

The researchers have also demonstrated how one of these disease-fighting proteins accomplishes this feat.

According to the scientists, these antibodies could be used to … Read more : Antibodies that prevent 90pct of HIV strains from infecting humans discovered.

Fireflies blink in sync to attract females

WASHINGTON – Why do large groups of fireflies produce rhythmic, repeated flashes in unison – sometimes lighting up a whole forest at once. Believe it or not, it is to attract the females!

Fireflies – a type of beetle – produce bioluminescence as mating tool. Males display a species-specific pattern of flashes while cruising through …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Fireflies blink in sync to attract females.

Early Alzheimer’s identification method found

WASHINGTON – A study by researchers at UC Davis has found that abnormal brain images combined with examination of the composition of the fluid that surrounds the spine may offer the earliest signs identifying healthy older adults at risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

“Our findings indicate that a … Read more >>.

Nanoparticles used to shrink tumors in mice

WASHINGTON – Scientists have demonstrated that that mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs), tiny particles with thousands of pores, can store and deliver chemotherapeutic drugs in vivo and effectively suppress tumors in mice.

Researchers at UCLA’s California NanoSystems Institute and Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center also showed that MSNs accumulate almost exclusively in tumors after administration and that …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nanoparticles used to shrink tumors in mice.

Campaigning with Texas Democratic gubernatorial hopeful Bill White: A run through Pecos

Democrat Bill White charms West Texas for votes
PECOS, Texas – Bill White’s got the monogrammed cowboy boots, the worn jeans and the ability to appear at ease connecting with Texans he doesn’t know but dearly needs in his race to be governor.
The campaign crisis this day, though, is the hat.
Actually, the lack of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Campaigning with Texas Democratic gubernatorial hopeful Bill White: A run through Pecos.

Officials tout value of skimming ships in oil cleanup, but can’t measure their worth

Value of oil skimming Gulf flotilla is uncertain

NEW ORLEANS – The value of one highly touted facet of the Gulf of Mexico oil spill cleanup – the small navy of vessels skimming oil from the surface – has proven all but impossible to measure, which could make it difficult to figure out how much damage …. Source article  : Officials tout value of skimming ships in oil cleanup, but can’t measure their worth.

Mathematical formula that predicts ‘phantom’ traffic jams developed

LONDON – Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have devised a model that can predict traffic jams.

The have come up with a formula of ‘phantom’ jams, based on the equations that describe detonation waves caused by explosions.

‘Phantom’ jams are those that occur for no apparent reason, in the absence of an accident …. Original source  : Mathematical formula that predicts ‘phantom’ traffic jams developed.

‘Self medicating’ nanoparticle bandage could detect, treat infection

LONDON – A ’self medicating’ bandage laced with nanoparticles can detect harmful bacteria in a burn wound and respond by secreting antibiotics.

“Fifty per cent of all people who die as a result of burn injuries do so as a direct consequence of infection, which is why this research is so important,” New Scientist quoted Toby … Original source on Gaea Times at : ‘Self medicating’ nanoparticle bandage could detect, treat infection.

Now, chewing gum that can be washed off with water!

LONDON – A UK company has invented a chewing gum, which can be easily removed by using water.

Pioneering Flintshire-based company Revolymer said that its product adds a new polymer to the mix which makes it far easier to remove and quicker to degrade.

Some 9,000 tonnes of chewing gum is disposed of in Britain each …. Read the original article  : Now, chewing gum that can be washed off with water!.

What came first the chicken or the egg?

WASHINGTON – British researchers may have uncovered a partial answer to the age-old question, “what came first the chicken or the egg?”

According to a team, comprising researchers from the University of Warwick and the University of Sheffield, the answer is “chicken” or at least a particular chicken protein.

There is, however, a further twist … Original article on : What came first the chicken or the egg?.

Antibody cuts brain damage by 70pc in strokes

LONDON – Scientists have developed an antibody that could reduce the side effects of a common stroke drug.

The traditional treatment for ischaemic stroke, in which a blood clot cuts off the blood supply to brain tissue, is a drug called rtPA, which dissolves the clot.

However, people with haemorrhagic stroke, in which a blood vessel … Read : Antibody cuts brain damage by 70pc in strokes.

New research adds to evidence of lunar ice

WASHINGTON – A significant amount of hydrogen on the moon is likely to exist as water ice, new research suggests.

To map the lunar polar hydrogen distribution, L.F.A. Teodoro at Eloret Corporation and colleagues used an image reconstruction algorithm applied to existing data from the Lunar Prospector, which detected low energy neutrons-an indication of the presence …. Source article  : New research adds to evidence of lunar ice.

India capable of producing lower-cost HPV vaccine

LONDON – Vaccine manufacturers in India and other developing nations can produce a lower-cost HPV vaccine despite the complicated array of patent protections on the technology, according to an Indian-origin scientist at the Duke Institute for Genome Sciences and Policy.

At a cost of at least 300dollars for the three-dose regimen, the blockbuster HPV … Read more : India capable of producing lower-cost HPV vaccine.

Now, armour made from ‘bullet proof custard’!

LONDON – Scientists have designed a new kind of armour that they are calling “bullet-proof custard”.

Researchers at BAE systems claim that the lightweight material would eventually replace thick and heavy armours.

Not only would it be bullet proof, but also reduce soldiers’ fatigue in lugging around the vest.

The armour is made from a combination of “shear-thickening” …. Original article  : Now, armour made from ‘bullet proof custard’!.

YouTube introduces new HTML5 Mobile site

WASHINGTON – YouTube’s mobile version has launched new features, including high-quality video playback in the browser using HTML5.

According to Wired News, the whole mobile YouTube site has been optimised for the small screen, and the experience on the phone is now much tighter.

Not only is the video quality improved, the web-app’s interface is much better …. Source article  : YouTube introduces new HTML5 Mobile site.

Perfectionists at risk for postpartum blues

WASHINGTON – A new study has suggested that new mothers who think they should be perfect parents might be at risk for postpartum depression.

The research involved 100 first-time mothers in Toronto, Canada, who filled out questionnaires to assess their level and type of perfectionism as well as feelings of depression.

The results showed that a … Read : Perfectionists at risk for postpartum blues.

Hot humid weather back in Delhi after rains

NEW DELHI – Delhi will remain hot Saturday, but it could rain in the evening, the weather office said.

The maximum temperature will soar a notch above average at 36 degrees Celsius, said an official of the India Meteorological Department. The minimum was four notches above average at 30.5 degrees.
No rains were witnessed in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Hot humid weather back in Delhi after rains.

Sunita Williams headed for the stars again

WASHINGTON – Indian American astronaut Sunita Williams, who holds the record of the longest spaceflight (195 days) for female space travellers, will head for the stars once again in June 2012.

Williams, 44, would take over as station commander at the International Space Station that was her home in the sky from Dec 9, 2006 to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Sunita Williams headed for the stars again.

Interior Dept. offers oil, gas leases in Alaska reserve; lands around sensitive lake protected

1.8M acres of Alaska drilling leases go up for bid

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – The Interior Department is offering oil and gas leases on 1.8 million acres of Alaska’s National Petroleum Reserve while promising to protect critical migratory bird and caribou habitat.
Interior Secretary Ken Salazar said Friday that the Bureau of Land Management will offer 190 tracts, … Read : Interior Dept. offers oil, gas leases in Alaska reserve; lands around sensitive lake protected.

Alaska governor: Polar bear critical habitat may cost state hundreds of millions of dollars

AK renews objection to polar bear critical habitat

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Alaska Gov. Sean Parnell says an independent economic analysis shows the federal government has dramatically underestimated the potential effect of designating critical habitat for polar bears.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed 187,166 square miles as critical habitat for polar bears. Nearly 95 percent …. Read the original article  : Alaska governor: Polar bear critical habitat may cost state hundreds of millions of dollars.

Obama family to vacation in Maine’s Acadia National Park

First family to vacation in Maine
WASHINGTON – The first family’s summer vacation plans will include a trip to Maine.

The White House says the Obamas will travel next Friday to Mount Desert Island, which is home to Acadia National Park. There will be no public events for the president during the three-day trip.
The Obamas also spent … Read : Obama family to vacation in Maine’s Acadia National Park.

Morning rainfall greets Chandigarh, surrounding areas

CHANDIGARH – Moderate to heavy rainfall greeted Chandigarh and its surrounding areas Sunday morning, making the weather somewhat cool and pleasant.

However, it was soon followed by bright sunshine.
Weathermen have predicted more rainfall in various parts of Punjab and Haryana.
“We are expecting light to moderate showers in various parts of this region till …. Source  : Morning rainfall greets Chandigarh, surrounding areas.

Global warming-induced water changes to continue for decades

WASHINGTON – A reversal of human-induced temperature changes will not quickly return the hydrological cycle to its prewarming state, contrary to popular belief, according to a new study.

Peili Wu and colleagues used climate model simulations to show how the hydrological cycle could react to changes in future amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) in [..] Read the original article: here.

Robot helping boffins to determine how we decide to trust strangers

WASHINGTON – American researchers are using a robot to find out how humans decide to trust strangers and if those decisions are accurate.

Northeastern University psychology professor David DeSteno is collaborating with Cynthia Breazeal, director of the MIT Media Lab’s Personal Robots Group, Robert Frank, an economist, and David Pizarro, a psychologist, both from Cornell, for …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Robot helping boffins to determine how we decide to trust strangers.

‘Fake’ blood could soon be used to treat wounded soldiers in battle

LONDON – Scientists in the US have created ‘artificial’ blood that could soon be used on the battlefield to treat wounded soldiers.

The blood is developed by using hematopoietic cells taken from umbilical cords in a process called ‘pharming’ – using genetically engineered plants or animals to create mass quantities of useful substances.

One umbilical cord can … Read more : ‘Fake’ blood could soon be used to treat wounded soldiers in battle.

‘315bn pounds of plastic in oceans right now’

WASHINGTON – An ocean conservationist has claimed that there is approximately 315 billion pounds of plastic in the oceans as of today.

Stiv Wilson of the ocean conservation group 5 Gyres has made the first attempt to tally how much plastic is in the global ocean.

According to him, if one visualizes a ’super tanker’ that … Read : ‘315bn pounds of plastic in oceans right now’.

Early malnutrition linked to arthritis in moose

WASHINGTON – Scientists have described a link between malnutrition early in a moose’s life and osteoarthritis as the animal ages.

“I’ve long thought that there was a nutritional link to the increase in osteoarthritis in moose on Isle Royale-a wilderness island national park in northwestern Lake Superior-as the population of the animals grew in the 1960s … Read : Early malnutrition linked to arthritis in moose.

Scientists explain record low atmospheric density during solar minima

WASHINGTON – Scientists have explained the reason for the record low mass density of the upper thermosphere during the 2008 solar minimum.

During a solar minimum, EUV (extreme ultraviolet) irradiance is lower than it is during more active times in the solar cycle, producing a cooler, contracted thermosphere and decreased density at a given altitude.

Solar EUV … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Scientists explain record low atmospheric density during solar minima.

Female toads ‘grow fat’ to thwart unwanted mates!

WASHINGTON – A new study has revealed that female toads can thwart unwanted suitors by simply inflating their bodies.

The female toad, when grasped by its unwanted male counterpart, inflates itself so that the rival males can throw off the unwanted one, scientists found.

“Our study shows that females can exert mate choice by inflating their …. Source  : Female toads ‘grow fat’ to thwart unwanted mates!.

Oxygen therapy helps fight wrinkles caused by UVB radiation in mice

LONDON – A new study showed that mice placed in an oxygen chamber following prolonged exposure to ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation had fewer wrinkles and less skin thickening than mice that did not receive the oxygen treatment.

As part of the study, Shigeo Kawada and colleagues from the University of Tokyo, Japan, exposed mice to UVB …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Oxygen therapy helps fight wrinkles caused by UVB radiation in mice.

‘Cell phone ban at petrol stations is based on urban mythology’

SYDNEY – The ban on the use of cell phones at petrol pumps is nothing more than an ‘urban myth’, according to a top industry body representing Australia’s mobile telecoms sector.

The myth that mobile phones and petrol are an explosive combination surfaced in the 1990s and has since been perpetuated through warning signs at gas … Original source on Gaea Times at : ‘Cell phone ban at petrol stations is based on urban mythology’.

Rosetta flies by asteroid Lutetia

LONDON – ESA’s Rosetta spacecraft has flown past asteroid Lutetia, providing valuable data to scientists.

Lutetia – nearly 120km in its longest dimension – is the biggest asteroid yet visited by a space probe.

Images show Lutetia is quite irregular in shape, its surface scarred by numerous wide impact craters and even some intriguing grooves.

“It’s a new …. Read the original article  : Rosetta flies by asteroid Lutetia.

Muggy weather in store for Delhi

NEW DELHI – The national capital was set for a hot and humid day Sunday though the met office forecast a partly cloudy sky.

The day temperature is expected to stay above normal at 38 degrees Celsius. The minimum was 28 degrees, a notch above normal for this time of the year.
The humidity recorded was …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Activists buy 172 horses at Nevada auction to keep them from slaughterhouse

Activists keep Nev. horses from going to slaughter

RENO, Nev. – With the financial backing of a California winery owner, activists on Saturday purchased almost all 174 horses up for sale at a state-sanctioned auction in Nevada to keep the horses from going to the slaughterhouse.
Stephanie Hoefener of the Lancaster, Calif.-based Livesavers Wild Horse Rescue group … Original source on Gaea Times at : Activists buy 172 horses at Nevada auction to keep them from slaughterhouse.

Researchers: Population of Amazon river dolphins dropping as they’re slaughtered for fish bait

Amazon river dolphins being slaughtered for bait

RIO DE JANEIRO – The bright pink color gives them a striking appearance in the muddy jungle waters. That Amazon river dolphins are also gentle and curious makes them easy targets for nets and harpoons as they swim fearlessly up to fishing boats.
Now, their carcasses are showing up in … Read more »»».

Scientists roll out rubber mats on bottom of Lake Tahoe to thwart invasive clam infestation

Scientists roll out mats to kill Lake Tahoe clams

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – Scuba-diving scientists are unrolling long rubber mats across the bottom of Lake Tahoe coves in an attempt to quell a clam invasion that could cloud the world-reknown cobalt waters.
The half-acre mats are designed to smother dime-sized nonnative Asian clams that can reach …. Source article  : Scientists roll out rubber mats on bottom of Lake Tahoe to thwart invasive clam infestation.

European Space Agency taking a close look at asteroid Lutetia far out in space

European Space Agency looking closely at asteroid

BERLIN – The European Space Agency has taken the closest look yet at asteroid Lutetia in an extraordinary quest some 280 million miles in outer space between Mars and Jupiter.
The comet-chaser Rosetta transmitted its first pictures from the largest asteroid ever visited by a satellite Saturday night after it … Read more >>>.

Cleanliness drive launched in Delhi

NEW DELHI – A cleanliness drive — Let’s do it Delhi — was launched Saturday by the capital’s Health Minister Kiran Walia, who asked people to take a pledge to make the city clean and green.

“We ourselves have to take the initiative and also ask others to change their habits and perspective,” she said after … Read more : Cleanliness drive launched in Delhi.

Hot, humid weather as rains elude Delhi

NEW DELHI – High humidity, coupled with a rise in the maximum and minimum temperatures to three to four notches above average, made Delhiites sweat Saturday as rains eluded the city after lashing it two days ago.

The maximum temperature settled three notches above average at 38.7 degrees Celsius, an India Meteorological Department official said. …. Read the original article  : Hot, humid weather as rains elude Delhi.

European Space Agency preparing for close look at asteroid Lutetia far out in space

ESA preparing for close look at asteroid
BERLIN – The European Space Agency is preparing to take the closest look yet at asteroid Lutetia in an extraordinary quest some 280 million miles in outer space between Mars and Jupiter.

ESA says its comet-chaser Rosetta will fly by Lutetia as close as 1,900 miles (3,200 kilometers) Saturday and …. Original source  : European Space Agency preparing for close look at asteroid Lutetia far out in space.

Boffins discover enhanced delivery method of DNA payloads into cells

WASHINGTON – Chemical engineers at Virginia Tech have discovered an enhanced delivery method of DNA payloads into cells.

The work, by Chang Lu and his colleagues, appears in the journal Lab on a Chip and Nature.

Lu’s ultimate goal is to apply this technique to create genetically modified cells for cancer immunotherapy, stem cell therapy and tissue … Original source on Gaea Times at : Boffins discover enhanced delivery method of DNA payloads into cells.

Iran says missing nuclear scientist has taken refuge in Pakistani embassy in Washington

Iran: Missing scientist surfaces in Washington

TEHRAN, Iran – Iran says a missing Iranian nuclear scientist has taken refuge at the Pakistani embassy in Washington and is asking to return to his homeland.
The state TV says the scientist, Shahram Amiri, entered the embassy’s office representing Iranian interests in the U.S. and demanded an “immediate return” to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Apathy, depression may increase dementia risk

WASHINGTON – A new study says that apathy and depression significantly predict an individual’s progression from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia.

Depression causes changes in mood, thinking, physical well-being and behavior, while apathy is loss of motivation without associated feelings of being depressed or blue.

Yonas E. Geda, M.D., …. Source  : Apathy, depression may increase dementia risk.

New radiation device paves way for improved breast cancer treatment

WASHINGTON – A new study has found that the radiation given with the Strut-Adjusted Volume Implant (SAVI(tm)) controls the rate of cancer and may reduce the complications seen with alternate types of brachytherapy.

The device concentrates dosage to the target tissue with minimum exposure of healthy surrounding tissue and organs.

“After almost two years, the patients …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Dogs could help curtail Chagas disease

LONDON – A new study says that although dogs are the one of the main carriers of the Chagas disease parasite, they can also help health officials monitor the disease.

The parasite Trypanosoma cruzi is the triatomine insect, or “kissing bug,” which sucks the blood of mammals – cats, dogs and humans.

“One of our most significant … Read : Dogs could help curtail Chagas disease.

Gene mutation that leads to mental retardation in boys identified

LONDON – Researchers have found that a subtle mutation affecting the epigenome – a set of dynamic factors that influence gene activity – may lead to an inherited form of mental retardation that affects boys.

The findings may help scientists further understand why X-linked disorders cause cognitive impairment and develop new therapies to treat or prevent … Original article on : Gene mutation that leads to mental retardation in boys identified.

Calls hold clues to a male’s paternal potential

WASHINGTON – A new study has shown that courtship calls help females penguin decide which males are likely to be devoted dads.

Penguin calls may not be music to our ears, but to penguin females they hold clues to a male’s paternal potential, author Emma Marks of the University of Auckland and colleagues reported.

To find out, … Read more »»».

Archaeologists discover oldest written document ever found in Jerusalem

WASHINGTON – Researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem have discovered a tiny clay fragment dating from the 14th century B.C.E. Found in excavations outside Jerusalem’s Old City walls, the tablet contains the oldest written document ever found in the Israeli capital.

The find further testifies to the importance of Jerusalem as a major city in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Archaeologists discover oldest written document ever found in Jerusalem.

NASA, Microsoft collaborate to ‘bring Mars to life’

WASHINGTON – NASA and Microsoft Research have joined hands in a bid to bring Mars to life with new features in the WorldWide Telescope software that provide viewers with a high-resolution 3-D map of the Red Planet.

Microsoft’s online virtual telescope explores the universe using images NASA spacecraft return from other worlds. Teams at NASA’s Ames …. Read the original article  : NASA, Microsoft collaborate to ‘bring Mars to life’.

Greenland glacier breaks up, retreats nearly 1.5km in a day

WASHINGTON – A seven square kilometre section of Greenland’s Jakobshavn Isbrae glacier broke up on July 6 and 7.

The calving front – where the ice sheet meets the ocean – retreated nearly 1.5 kilometres in a day and is now further inland than at any time previously observed. The chunk of lost ice is roughly [..] Read the original article: here.

Asthma warning for expecting mums

WASHINGTON – A new research has revealed that asthma is the most common complication of pregnancy in Australia with harmful effects on babies, but many of these could be prevented.

Asthma affects 16 percent of pregnancies in South Australia but women are often not identified as asthmatic, says Associate Professor Vicki Clifton from the University of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Mixed practice’ makes a man perfect

LONDON – A new American study explains why variable practice improves the brain’s memory of most skills better than practice focused on a single task.

The research, by cognitive neuroscientists at the University of South Carolina and the University of California, Los Angeles, appears in Nature Neuroscience.

The researchers split 59 volunteers into six groups: three …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Mixed practice’ makes a man perfect.

Trick the mind into satisfying the belly

WASHINGTON – The key to weight loss could lie in tricking our mind into thinking about how filling the food will be before we eat it.

Test subjects were more satisfied for longer periods after consuming varying quantities of food for which they were led to believe that portion sizes were larger than they actually were. … Read more >>.

Chunk of Greenland glacier breaks up overnight

WASHINGTON – A seven square kilometre section of a Greenland’s Jakobshavn Isbrae glacier broke up July 6 and 7.

The chunk of lost ice is roughly one-eighth the size of Manhattan Island, New York.
The calving front – where the ice sheet meets the ocean – retreated nearly 1.5 km in one day and is …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Dozen villages inundated in Haryana floods

CHANDIGARH – Large swathes of agriculture land were inundated and nearly a dozen villages submerged in flood waters in Haryana’s Sirsa and Fatehabad districts due to breaches in the Ghaggar river, officials said Tuesday. However, flood waters have begun receding in Punjab.

The water level in the Ghaggar river in Sirsa district was flowing above the … Read : Dozen villages inundated in Haryana floods.

Has Large Hadron Collider rival Tevatron found elusive ‘God particle’?

WASHINGTON – The Tevatron, the most powerful huge particle accelerator in the world after the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) – housed at the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory in Batavia, Illinois – is rumoured to have discovered the Higgs boson, or so-called “God particle”.

Tommaso Dorigo, a physicist at the University of Padua, writes about the speculation …. Original source  : Has Large Hadron Collider rival Tevatron found elusive ‘God particle’?.

Weight loss program improves hot flushes in obese menopausal women

WASHINGTON – An intensive weight loss intervention program could bring improvements in bothersome hot flushes during menopause among overweight and obese women, according to a study.

Alison J. Huang, M.D., from the University of California, San Francisco, and colleagues in a six-month randomized controlled trial, used self-administered questionnaires to assess bothersome hot flushes.

“Hot flushes are …. Original article  : Weight loss program improves hot flushes in obese menopausal women.

Low vitamin D levels lead to Parkinson’s disease

WASHINGTON – For the first time, researchers have shown that low vitamin D levels can help predict whether someone will later develop Parkinson’s disease, according to an editorial.

The study on vitamin D levels and Parkinson’s disease risk points to the need for further research on whether vitamin D supplements can protect against the movement disorder, … Read more : Low vitamin D levels lead to Parkinson’s disease.

Coming soon: Clothes that can hear and speak!

LONDON – A team of MIT researchers has developed fibres that can detect and produce sound.

Shunji Egusa, a former postdoc in Fink’s lab, and current lab members No???mie Chocat and Zheng Wang developed the fibre in the lab with a plastic commonly used in microphones.

“If you connected them to a power supply and applied a … Original source on Gaea Times at : Coming soon: Clothes that can hear and speak!.

Arsenic could be a potential cancer treatment

WASHINGTON – A form of arsenic-the notorious poison-could be useful in treating a variety of cancers, according to a study by researchers at the Stanford University School of Medicine.

Arsenic trioxide has been used as a therapy for a particular type of leukemia for more than 10 years.

Combining arsenic with other therapies may give doctors … Original source on Gaea Times at : Arsenic could be a potential cancer treatment.

New method to help nerves grow after trauma or injury found

WASHINGTON – Scientists have discovered a new method to enhance nerve regeneration in the peripheral nervous system.

The find could lead to new treatments for nerve damage caused by diabetes or traumatic injuries.

Peripheral nerve damage can lead to pain, tingling, numbness or difficulty coordinating hands, feet, arms or legs.

Dr. Douglas Zochodne, a neurologist and professor …. Source article  : New method to help nerves grow after trauma or injury found.

People flee homes as floodwater enters Bihar villages

PATNA – Thousands of people in Bihar fled their homes Wednesday as floodwaters entered over 100 villages and threatened to inundate many others.

Nearly 100 villages in Aurai, Katra and Gaighat blocks of Muzaffarpur have been inundated since Monday. Water also entered dozens of villages in Bagaha district after levels rose in all the major …. Original article  : People flee homes as floodwater enters Bihar villages.

Rising Indian Ocean levels may worsen flooding in India

WASHINGTON – Rising levels in parts of the Indian Ocean may worsen monsoon flooding in India and Bangladesh.

According to a study led by Weiqing Han, the associate professor in atmospheric and oceanic sciences at the University of Colorado, Boulder, US, this is attributed to warming caused by manmade increases of greenhouse gases.
The parts affected … Read more >>>.

The chicken may have come before the egg, sort of

WASHINGTON – British researchers may have uncovered a partial answer to the age-old question, “what came first the chicken or the egg?”

According to a team, comprising researchers from the University of Warwick and the University of Sheffield, the answer is “chicken” or at least a particular chicken protein.

There is, however, a further twist … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : The chicken may have come before the egg, sort of.

Gay couples set sexual agreements to build trust, not for HIV protection

WASHINGTON – In a study on gay male couples, researchers have found that partners in a relationship set “sexual agreements”-rules about whether sex with outside partners is allowed-primarily because they want to strengthen and improve their relationship rather than for protection against HIV.

The study explores how sexual agreements affect both HIV risk and a relationship’s … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Gay couples set sexual agreements to build trust, not for HIV protection.

Odds of finding ET is ‘1 in 10 million’

MELBOURNE – There is 1 in 10 million chance of successfully eavesdropping on the daily radio traffic of extraterrestrial life forms, calculated a pair of UK scientists.

Duncan Forgan, from the University of Edinburgh and Professor Bob Nichol from the Institute of Cosmology and Gravitation, used a computer modelling technique, called Monte Carlo Realisation, to simulate … Read more »».

Biomarker for early detection of oral cancer discovered

WASHINGTON – Researchers have discovered a biomarker called human beta defensin-3 (hBD-3), which may help in early detection of oral cancer.

Oral cancer first appears as white or red lesions in the mouth, the same as non-cancerous lesions.

Early detection is difficult to detect, until it spreads to other organs.

HBD-3 is only found in the basal …. Read the original article  : Biomarker for early detection of oral cancer discovered.

Google ‘to launch Facebook competitor ‘Google Me’

LONDON – Rumour has it that Google might launch its own social networking site ‘Google Me’.

According to The Telegraph, Kevin Rose, the founder of Digg, tweeted, “Ok, umm, huge rumour: Google to launch Facebook competitor very soon “Google Me,” very credible source” on June 28.

Google has reportedly been researching social networking patterns in order … Original source on Gaea Times at : Google ‘to launch Facebook competitor ‘Google Me’.

Why our brains ‘light up’ over celebrity endorsements

LONDON – If you were to watch Charlize Theron selling a pair of Jimmy Choos, chances are you would remember it for a longer time because she is a celebrity.

A new study from Erasmus University found heightened activity in a certain part of the brain of volunteers when confronted with a celebrity, reports the BBC.

The …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Why our brains ‘light up’ over celebrity endorsements.

Sea levels rising in parts of Indian Ocean: Experts

LONDON – Humans-induced greenhouse gases are increasing sea levels in parts of the Indian Ocean, say experts.

The climate change is amplifying regional sea rise changes in Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea, Sri Lanka, Sumatra and Java.

The rise could threaten lives in Bangladesh and India, causing massive floods in monsoons.

An enormous area of the tropical …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Sea levels rising in parts of Indian Ocean: Experts.

Ciggie cravings result from habit, not addiction

WASHINGTON – A new study has shown that cravings from cigarettes arise from habit, and not addiction.

This may be the reason why nicotine patches and gum are often ineffective in curbing smoking.

Dr. Reuven Dar of Tel Aviv University’s Department of Psychology found that the intensity of cravings for cigarettes had more to do with the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Ciggie cravings result from habit, not addiction.

No rain forecast for Delhi Wednesday

NEW DELHI – The mercury will remain on the higher side in the national capital Wednesday with little or no chance of rain, the weather office said.

“The sky will be partly cloudy with possibility of thunder towards the evening and night. There are little or no chances of rains,” said an official of the India … Read this article on Gaea Times at : No rain forecast for Delhi Wednesday.

Scientists: Rare dark jellyfish, the black sea nettle, showing up in San Diego Bay

Rare dark jellyfish showing up in San Diego Bay

SAN DIEGO – Scientists say a rare species of dark purple jellyfish is showing up in San Diego Bay and washing ashore on beaches.
Dr. Nigella Hillgarth of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography said Tuesday the Birch Aquarium has four of the jellies for display.
Hillgarth says the black …. Original article  : Scientists: Rare dark jellyfish, the black sea nettle, showing up in San Diego Bay.

Natural gas groups seek limit to EPA fracking study as Colo. residents question water quality

EPA seeks comment in Denver on fracking study

DENVER – Natural gas industry groups on Tuesday urged the Environmental Protection Agency to limit the scope of an upcoming study on the effects of a natural gas extraction process known as fracking.
Some environmental groups want the federal agency to also examine eventual effects on air quality. The … Original article on : Natural gas groups seek limit to EPA fracking study as Colo. residents question water quality.

UN panel sees private help key to fulfill $100 billion climate pledge

UN eyes private help in $100 billion climate aid
UNITED NATIONS – A pledge by rich nations in Copenhagen to provide as much as $100 billion a year of climate-related aid to developing countries by 2020 may depend in part on the generosity of private donors and other non-governmental sources.
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said Tuesday …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : UN panel sees private help key to fulfill $100 billion climate pledge.

Colorado Republican running for gov apologizes for plagiarism, calls it ’serious mistake’

Colo. governor candidate apologizes for plagiarism

DENVER – Republican Scott McInnis apologized to voters Tuesday for lifting part of a judge’s work for a series of essays on water rights that the gubernatorial candidate had passed off as his own.
“It’s unacceptable, it’s inexcusable, but it was also unintentional,” McInnis said in a statement. “I made a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

EPA holding public meeting in Denver to take comment on upcoming fracking study

EPA public meeting in Denver focuses on fracking

DENVER – The Environmental Protection Agency on Tuesday was holding the second of four public meetings to gather comments about an upcoming study of how drinking water might be affected by a method of extracting natural gas.
The decades-old process – called hydraulic fracturing, or fracking – pumps water …. Read the original article  : EPA holding public meeting in Denver to take comment on upcoming fracking study.

Illinois governor floats plan to control Asian carp by harvesting, shipping to China for food

Ill. governor floats plan to catch, eat Asian carp

CHICAGO – Diners in China could soon help control the Asian carp that are infesting Illinois waterways and threatening the Great Lakes.
Gov. Pat Quinn announced an agreement Tuesday between a Chinese meat processing plant and an Illinois fish company that is expected to pull 30 million pounds …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Federal agency approves $3 billion gas pipeline running from Wyoming to Oregon

$3B gas pipeline from Wyo. to. Ore. gets feds’ OK

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – A $3 billion gas pipeline from Wyoming to Oregon has cleared its last major regulatory hurdle, and its builder is optimistic that work could begin soon.
El Paso Corp. has begun staging equipment and pipe sections near the 675-mile route, company spokesman Richard Wheatley … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Federal agency approves $3 billion gas pipeline running from Wyoming to Oregon.

Judge dismisses federal terror charges against animal rights activists accused in CA protests

Terror charges dismissed against animal activists

SAN JOSE, Calif. – A federal judge has dismissed charges against four animal rights activists accused of violating a rarely enforced anti-terrorism law while protesting at University of California scientists’ homes.
U.S. District Judge Ronald M. Whyte on Monday tossed out the indictments against Maryam Khajavi, of Pinole; Joseph Buddenberg, of … Read : Judge dismisses federal terror charges against animal rights activists accused in CA protests.

Salazar defends decision to scrap Utah oil-lease sale in last days of Bush administration

Salazar defends pulling oil-lease parcels in Utah
SALT LAKE CITY – Interior Secretary Ken Salazar on Tuesday defended his decision to scrap much of the Bush administration’s final oil-lease sale in Utah even though his inspector general found no evidence of department pressure to rush the auction.
Salazar spokeswoman Kendra Barkoff told The … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Salazar defends decision to scrap Utah oil-lease sale in last days of Bush administration.

Behavioural economic analysis may help understand craving for booze

WASHINGTON – Behavioural economic analysis may lead to an improved understanding of craving for alcohol and other drugs, suggests new research.

This method of studying how craving alters the way a person values a drug is fairly new, but according … Read more >>.

Triceratops, Torsaurus same dino at different stages of growth

WASHINGTON – A new American study has debunked over a 100 years of thought regarding the dinosaurs known as Triceratops and Torosaurus. Both the reptiles are actually the same dinosaur at different stages of growth, according to the research.

Since … Original article on : Triceratops, Torsaurus same dino at different stages of growth.

Key Alzheimer’s risk gene causes alterations in shapes of brain protein deposits

WASHINGTON – Using a newly discovered class of biomarkers, researchers have found that the shape of brain protein deposits is different in people with Alzheimer’s who have the highest-risk gene type than in those with the condition who have a neutral risk gene type.

Researchers …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Key Alzheimer’s risk gene causes alterations in shapes of brain protein deposits.

What makes a bee grow up to be a queen?

WASHINGTON – Putting a new piece into the puzzle of what makes a bee grow up to be a queen, researchers have found that a key protein in the insulin signaling pathway plays a strong role in caste development among bees.

The study by researchers in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Massive stars are born the same way as their smaller counterparts

LONDON – Researchers have managed to obtain the first infrared image of a compact disc closely encircling a massive young star-a strong evidence that massive stars form in the same way as their smaller brothers.

The international research team led by Stefan Kraus … Read more : Massive stars are born the same way as their smaller counterparts.

Salsa may help elderly dance their way to better health

WASHINGTON – A University of Illinois at Chicago researcher is conducting a pilot study to find out if salsa can improve the health of elderly Latinos who have limited mobility and face elevated risks of disability.

David Xavier Marquez, assistant professor of kinesiology and nutrition, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Salsa may help elderly dance their way to better health.

New text ‘app’ could make typing on touchscreen mobiles 50pc faster

LONDON – Typing on touchscreen mobiles could soon get fifty percent faster, thanks to a new text and email programme for smartphones.

Mobile technology firm TouchType, has introduced SwiftKey, a text prediction “app”, which could save time for smartphone users.

The innovation works by using language technology that predicts whole words as a person types on the …. Read the original article  : New text ‘app’ could make typing on touchscreen mobiles 50pc faster.

Individuals with alcohol problems find comfort in speaking to clergy

WASHINGTON – A new study indicates that individuals find comfort in confessing their alcohol problems to the clergy.

University of Michigan Health System and Saint Louis University researchers also found that majority of those who used services from clergy also used professional services at some point.

The study revealed that clergy services are an important part of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Individuals with alcohol problems find comfort in speaking to clergy.

Brain fitness program improves visual memory in older adults

WASHINGTON – A commercial brain fitness program has been shown to improve memory in older adults, at least in the period soon after training.

The UCSF research shows that simple visual tasks can improve the accuracy of short-term, or “working” visual memory.

Working memory is essential to accomplish immediate tasks, such as engaging in conversation with several … Read : Brain fitness program improves visual memory in older adults.

Dementia in diabetics differs from dementia in nondiabetics: Study

WASHINGTON – Researchers say that the cause of dementia in diabetic patients is different from that in non-diabetics.

Dementia in some diabetics appears to be caused often by vascular disease in the brain, while in people without diabetes it is more likely associated with deposition of the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Dementia in diabetics differs from dementia in nondiabetics: Study.

Here’s why we dream

MELBOURNE – Scientists may have finally uncovered why we dream – it could be a crucial tool for sorting and filing information and discarding mental trash, says an Australian researcher.

“One theory is that it’s a way of allowing your brain to recover and consolidate all …. Original source  : Here’s why we dream.

Fossil find puts face on last common ancestor of apes and monkeys

LONDON – The discovery of a skull in Saudi Arabia is providing new insights into what the last common ancestor of apes and monkeys may have looked like and when the two lineages went their separate ways.

Iyad Zalmout and colleagues at the University of Michigan and the Saudi Geological …. Source  : Fossil find puts face on last common ancestor of apes and monkeys.

Special retinal cells allow blind mice to ’see’

WASHINGTON – Mice can see light as well as patterns and images without rod and cone cells, thanks to special photosensitive cells in their retinas, new research reveals.

For long it has been believed that eyesight would not exist but for the presence of rod … Original source on Gaea Times at : Special retinal cells allow blind mice to ’see’.

Obama to promote electric vehicles as jobs creator in Michigan

Obama to promote electric vehicles in Michigan
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama is attending the groundbreaking for a new battery manufacturing facility in Michigan on Thursday to promote his administration’s investments in advanced battery and electric vehicle technology.
The Compact Power plant in Holland, Mich., will produce advanced batteries for Chevrolet and Ford electric cars. … Read more : Obama to promote electric vehicles as jobs creator in Michigan.

Obama’s Maine vacation destination known as summer retreat for the well-heeled and well-known

Obama’s Maine island long visited by rich, famous
BAR HARBOR, Maine – Serving as a summer retreat for Rockefellers, Vanderbilts and Morgans, this town and the surrounding area have long been known as a place where well-heeled and well-known visitors could beat the heat – and have their privacy respected.
President Barack Obama is the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Obama’s Maine vacation destination known as summer retreat for the well-heeled and well-known.

Boffins discover plants’”nervous system”

LONDON – Plants “remember” and “react” to information encrypted in light as well as transmit information about light intensity and quality from leaf to leaf, a process that is strikingly similar to the human nervous system.

These “electro-chemical signals” are carried by cells, which act as plant “nerves”.

Led by Professor Stanislaw Karpinski, from the Warsaw University … Original article on : Boffins discover plants’ “nervous system”.

Artificial lungs offers hope to transplant patients

LONDON – Scientists have been able to grow artificial lungs that function in rats.

They hope that a similar technique could one day engineer donor organs for humans.

Currently, donor organs are in short supply, and rejection is likely even if a lung becomes available.

Teams from Harvard Medical School in Boston and Yale University first removed lungs … Read more »»».

Non-toxic, recyclable oil recovery agent could ease Gulf spill mess

WASHINGTON – A team of chemists have developed a non-toxic, recyclable agent that can solidify oil on salt water so that it can be scooped up like the fat that forms on the top of a pot of chilled chicken soup.

The agent could potentially be used to recover oil lost in the British Petroleum … Read more >>.

Archaeologists discover late-Roman cemetery in Lincolnshire

LONDON – Archaeologists have found 46 human skeletons at what is thought to be an ancient Roman cemetery, in a county village.

The discovery was made during a five-week dig taking place as part of the development of a derelict pub in Caistor, near Market Rasen.

“The graves are orientated from east to west, with the heads …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Archaeologists discover late-Roman cemetery in Lincolnshire.

Obesity ‘impairs’ women’s memory

WASHINGTON – A new research from Northwestern Medicine has shown that obesity harms women’s memory and brain function.

The research also revealed that the effect is more pronounced in women who carry excess weight around their hips, known as pear shapes, than women who carry it around their waists, called apple shapes.

The study of 8,745 …. Source article  : Obesity ‘impairs’ women’s memory.

Your longevity depends on your brain size!

LONDON – Mammals with larger brains in relation to body size tend to have longer lives.

This finding is based on an analysis of about 500 mammal species by the Centre for Ecological Research and Forestry Applications (CREAF), affiliated to Universitat Aut??noma de Barcelona.
The brain size of some mammals like chimps, gorillas, whales, dolphins … Read more »»».

A third of the Chinese population uses internet

BEIJING – The number of Chinese people who use the internet has gone up to 420 million – about a third of the populaton – boosted by the rising number of cell phone connections.

This number recorded at the end of June 2010 shows an increase of 36 million from the number of internet users in …. Source article  : A third of the Chinese population uses internet.

New theory on why some mountains form, crumble

MELBOURNE – Scientists in Australia have come up with a new theory about the movement of tectonic plates that can help explain why and when some mountains form and crumble.

Geophysicist Dr Wouter Schellart, of Monash University in Melbourne, and colleagues, studied the comings and goings of mountains at subduction zones.

Ever since plate tectonic theory …. Original source  : New theory on why some mountains form, crumble.

NASA’s Messenger probe reveals new information about Mercury

WASHINGTON – The Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging (MESSENGER), the first spacecraft designed by NASA to orbit Mercury is providing new insights on the planet’s atmosphere and evolution.

Launched in August 2004, the MESSENGER, conducted a third and final flyby of Mercury last September. The probe completed a critical manoeuvre using the planet’s gravity … Read more : NASA’s Messenger probe reveals new information about Mercury.

Under fire, ethanol industry scrambles to keep billions of dollars in incentives

Ethanol industry scrambles to keep incentives

WASHINGTON – The once-popular ethanol industry is scrambling to hold onto billions of dollars in government subsidies, fighting an increasing public skepticism of the corn-based fuel and wariness from lawmakers who may divert the money to other priorities.
The industry itself can’t agree on how to persuade Congress to keep the … Read more : Under fire, ethanol industry scrambles to keep billions of dollars in incentives.

Blame your serotonin levels for being a crybaby

WASHINGTON – Always end up crying while watching a movie high on emotional quotient? Well, blame your serotonin levels for it, says a new study.

Frederick van der Veen of the Erasmus Medical Centre and colleagues have found that due to the differences in the neurotransmitter some people are more likely to cry in emotional situations …. Original source  : Blame your serotonin levels for being a crybaby.

Egypt Ramesses II temple found in Upper Egypt

ROME – The remains of a 3,000 year old temple dating from the reign of ancient Egyptian pharaoh Rameses II have been unearthed in the excavations in Upper Egypt’s Ehnasia archaeological area.

Ramesses II ruled Egypt from 1279-1213 BC and was the son of Seti I, whose secret ‘tomb within a tomb’ was uncovered in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Egypt Ramesses II temple found in Upper Egypt.

Titan lake-levels change due to Earth-like seasonal evaporation

WASHINGTON – The water level of lakes on Earth rises and falls with the seasons and with longer-term climate changes, as precipitation, evaporation, and runoff add and remove liquid. Now scientists have, for the first time, found compelling evidence for similar lake-level changes on Saturn’s largest moon, Titan.

Using data gathered by NASA’s Cassini spacecraft over …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Titan lake-levels change due to Earth-like seasonal evaporation.

Now radiation can track cancer, oil spills and terrorism

WASHINGTON – A study has found that a new radiation mechanism could more directly target cancer, and may someday help clean up environmental disasters such as the Gulf oil spill and detect explosive powder hidden underneath clothing.

University of Central Florida physicist Richard Klemm and a team of scientists in Japan, who developed the mechanism, reckon … Read more »».

How mice sniff out whether food is safe to eat

WASHINGTON – Scientists have revealed how mice sniff out scent of food on the breath of their fellow mice to decide whether it’s safe to eat or not.

Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine in Baltimore knew how mice pair a particular odour with a chemical ingredient found in mouse breath.

And now they … Read more »».

Human sperm gene is 600 million years old

WASHINGTON – Mammals’ ability to produce sperm is very ancient, probably originating as early as 600 million years ago, according to new evidence found by researchers at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

The researchers have found that there is one sex-specific gene so vital that its function has remained unaltered throughout evolution and is found … Original source on Gaea Times at : Human sperm gene is 600 million years old.

NASA confirms presence of ‘baked cometary planet’

WASHINGTON – NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope has enabled scientists to confirm the existence of a super hot “cometary planet.” The gas giant planet, named HD 209458b, is orbiting so close to its star that its heated atmosphere is escaping into space.

Observations taken with Hubble’s Cosmic Origins Spectrograph (COS) suggest powerful stellar winds are sweeping the … Original article on : NASA confirms presence of ‘baked cometary planet’.

Calif. dairy owners promote benefits of camel milk despite federal sales ban

Dairy owners promote camel milk benefits
LOS ANGELES – To milk a camel, you need warm hands, a gentle touch and quick timing – camels give milk only in 90-second bursts.

Gil and Nancy Riegler, owners of the nation’s largest camel dairy near San Diego, said the extra work pays off with milk that is therapeutic, nutritious [..] Read the original article: here.

Australian scientists find cave of marsupial fossils in Outback; some similarities to kangaroo

Cave of marsupial fossils discovered in Outback

SYDNEY – Scientists have discovered a cave filled with 15-million-year-old fossils of prehistoric marsupials in the Outback, a rare find that has revealed some surprising similarities between the creatures and modern-day kangaroos and koalas.
Researchers have unearthed a treasure trove of beautifully preserved fossils from the cave, including 26 skulls … Read more >>.

Why walking flat-footed hurts habitual high-heel wearers

WASHINGTON – One would think wearing a pair of high-heeled Jimmy Choos was painful for your ankles, but many a time, habitual stiletto wearers feel discomfort while walking flat footed.

In a study, Marco Narici from Manchester Metropolitan University and Robert Csapo, from the University of Vienna, Austria, compared two groups of women – one regular … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Why walking flat-footed hurts habitual high-heel wearers.

Mammals with larger brain sizes live longer: Study

WASHINGTON – A new study claims that mammals with larger brains in relation to body size tend to live longer.

One existing hypothesis suggests that a larger brain provides more flexibility in behaviour when facing changes in the environment and makes learning easier making ecological challenges easier.

CREAF researchers Cesar Gonzalez-Lagos and Daniel Sol, together with Simon … Read : Mammals with larger brain sizes live longer: Study.

Why Leonardo Da Vinci’s faces were so perfect

WASHINGTON – Scientists may have unlocked the mystery behind Leonardo Da Vinci’s perfect faces, like the Mona Lisa.

Philippe Walter, of the Laboratoire du Centre de Recherche et de Restauration des Musees de France and his colleagues conducted a first time quantitative chemical analysis on seven paintings from the Louvre Museum.

Da Vinci’s paintings are especially fascinating …. Original source  : Why Leonardo Da Vinci’s faces were so perfect.

Now, a ‘universal’ vaccine that could fend off all types of flu

LONDON – A ‘universal’ flu vaccine could be the ‘one fits all’ jab – a new two-step approach to immunisation.

Working with mice, ferrets and monkeys, the US team ‘primed’ the immune system with a ‘base’ of influenza DNA.

They added a ‘booster’ consisting of a regular seasonal flu vaccine, which increased and broadened its immunity.

According to [..] Read the original article: here.

Boffins create malaria-proof mosquito

WASHINGTON – American scientists have broken new ground by creating genetically altered mosquitoes that cannot infect humans with malaria.

Led by Michael Riehle, University of Arizona entomologists introduced genetic modifications in mosquitoes in a way that renders them completely immune to the parasite, a single-celled organism called Plasmodium. Someday researchers hope to replace wild mosquitoes …. Source  : Boffins create malaria-proof mosquito.

Scientists create nano-materials to trap record amounts of CO2

WASHINGTON – Scientists have achieved world records for creating both porosity and carbon dioxide storage capacity in an important class of materials known as MOFs, or metal-organic frameworks.

MOFs are crystal sponges with pores that can store gases that are usually difficult to store and transport.

Porosity is crucial for compacting large amounts of gases into …. Source  : Scientists create nano-materials to trap record amounts of CO2.

One tiny satellite in space, whiz kids plan two more

BANGALORE – Ignited by their maiden success in placing a tiny satellite in the polar orbit early this week, its young pioneers are raring to launch two more satellites into space.

“The successful launch and placing of our first pico-satellite (StudSat) in the earth’s lower orbit has inspired us to build two similar satellites for the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

New discovery paves way for treatment of incurable blood cancer

WASHINGTON – Researchers from Uppsala University have now presented a conceptually new model for the development and progression of multiple myeloma- one of the most common blood cancers, and at present considered to be incurable.

Using large cohorts of myeloma patients, the researchers have identified a profile of genes that are silenced by epigenetic mechanisms in … Read more >>>.

Mice cages alter brains, affect scientific research

WASHINGTON – In a breakthrough study, researchers at the University of Colorado’s Anschutz Medical Campus have found that the brains of mice used in laboratories worldwide can be profoundly affected by the type of cage they are kept in.

The feat could require scientists to re-evaluate the way they conduct future experiments.

“We assume that mice used …. Source article  : Mice cages alter brains, affect scientific research.

Probability of other sun-like stars higher than previously believed

LONDON – Turning previous theories on their head, an Indian-origin researcher has claimed that there are many solitary sun-like stars in the universe, which exist without any stellar companion.

The finding by Deepak Raghavan of Georgia State University in Atlanta and colleagues boosts the likelihood that there are other life-friendly solar systems in the universe.

Previous surveys … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Probability of other sun-like stars higher than previously believed.

Silicon chip speed record shattered on electron ‘racetrack’

LONDON – A “racetrack” that can shuttle electrons around at high speeds has set a new record for silicon chips.

Electrons travelling through silicon have a strict speed limit due to electrical resistance. In a bid to shatter this limit, computer scientists are considering replacing silicon with carbon, as atom-thick sheets of carbon, or graphene, can …. Source article  : Silicon chip speed record shattered on electron ‘racetrack’.

Toxic bacteria killed Alexander the Great?

WASHINGTON – Scientists are claiming that a deadly bacterium in the The Styx River, the legendary portal to the underworld, may have ended Alexander’s life.

An extraordinarily toxic bacterium harboured by the “infernal” Styx River might have been the fabled poison rumoured to have killed Alexander the Great (356 -323 B.C.) more than 2,000 years ago, … Read more : Toxic bacteria killed Alexander the Great?.

Soon, eye movement-based lie detector test

WASHINGTON – Our eye movements have long been thought to reveal whether we are telling the truth or lying. Now a group of University of Utah researchers are using eye-tracking technology to pioneer a promising alternative to the polygraph for lie detection.

Educational psychologists John Kircher, Doug Hacker, Anne Cook, Dan Woltz and David Raskin were … Read more : Soon, eye movement-based lie detector test.

Bearded ’super’ fish helps salvage ocean dead zone

LONDON – Scientists have discovered that a resilient fish, thriving in an inhospitable, jellyfish-infested region off Africa’s south-west coast, is helping to keep the local ecosystem going, and preserving an important fishery.

The Benguela ecosystem, off the coast of Namibia, was once rich in sardines, but overfishing and environmental factors caused the population to crash, … Read more : Bearded ’super’ fish helps salvage ocean dead zone.

Drugs rescue fruit flies from Alzheimer’s

WASHINGTON – Researchers have successfully prevented age-related cognitive decline in fruit flies with Alzheimer’s gene mutation by treating them with drugs such as lithium, or by genetic manipulations that reduced nerve-cell signalling.

Researchers, led by Dr.Thomas A. Jongens associate professor of Genetics at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, worked with the familial form of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Drugs rescue fruit flies from Alzheimer’s.

Eco-friendly insect repellents identified

WASHINGTON – Paving way for new environmental-friendly insect repellents, researchers have identified two compounds emitted by mosquito predators that make the mosquitoes less inclined to lay eggs in pools of water.

Called kairomones, the compounds emitted by insect predators are detected by their prey, and can even trigger adaptations, such a change in body size or … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Eco-friendly insect repellents identified.

Organisms with large brains live longer and reproduce more

WASHINGTON – Confirming the protective brain hypothesis, researchers have claimed that species, which have developed large brains, live for longer than those with small brains and hence reproduce more times.

According to this hypothesis, the brain would adopt a “protective” role which would help to reduce mortality and lengthen the reproductive live of the individuals, thereby …. Original source  : Organisms with large brains live longer and reproduce more.

Soon, Google to ‘predict your desires’

LONDON – Google may soon be able to deliver search results to its users even before they know that they want the information.

Amit Singhal, one of Google’s veteran search algorithm engineers, wants to develop a search engine that second-guesses users’ needs well ahead of time.

“I call it searching without searching,” New Scientist quoted him … Read more : Soon, Google to ‘predict your desires’.

Cooked food helped humans evolve bigger brains: Study

LONDON – Scientists have suggested that cooked food is the reason behind humans’ big brains.

According to one controversial evolutionary theory, early humans developed a taste for cooked food around 2 million years ago, and this set in motion a series of changes that made us utterly different from any other animal.

Now, scientists have …. Read the original article  : Cooked food helped humans evolve bigger brains: Study.

1600-year-old Mayan King’s tomb discovered in Guatemala

WASHINGTON – Archaeologists have discovered a tomb of an ancient Mayan king in Guatemala, filled with materials that have been preserved for approximately 1,600 years.

Brown University’s Stephen Houston and his colleagues uncovered the tomb, which dates from about 350 to 400 A.D. The tomb is packed with of carvings, ceramics, textiles, and the bones …. Read the original article  : here.

Riding with the whale sharks in India

NEW DELHI – The giant whale shark – a gentle specie of the deep sea about which very little is known – will soon be a tourist attraction off the Gujarat coastline even as it is tagged for genetic analysis and conservation.

Tourism officials are hoping to start the “whale shark tours” soon along the Gujarat …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Riding with the whale sharks in India.

Now, a quick and affordable microfluidic HIV test

WASHINGTON – A researcher at UC Davis has developed a “lab on a chip” device for HIV testing, which is quick and pocket friendly.

Biomedical engineer Prof. Alexander Revzin’s microfluidic device uses antibodies to “capture” white blood cells called T cells that are affected by HIV.

In addition to physically binding these cells the test … Original source on Gaea Times at : Now, a quick and affordable microfluidic HIV test.

Vitamin deficiency after weight loss op ‘can cause vision loss in infants’

WASHINGTON – A new study has found that vitamin deficiency after weight loss surgery can cause vision loss in newborns.

Researchers documented the case of a woman who had undergone biliopancreatic diversion surgery for obesity seven years before the birth of her child.

At nine weeks gestation, the mother was diagnosed with severe deficiencies of Vitamins … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Vitamin deficiency after weight loss op ‘can cause vision loss in infants’.

Australia’s first woman Prime Minister Julia Gillard announces Aug 21 general elections

Australian PM Gillard announces Aug 21 elections

CANBERRA, Australia – Australia’s first female Prime Minister Julia Gillard will attempt to win a second term for her center-left government at Aug. 21 elections, with battle lines drawn on climate change, asylum seekers, and record-high public debt.
Buoyed by opinion polls endorsing her new leadership, Gillard called the election …. Original source  : Australia’s first woman Prime Minister Julia Gillard announces Aug 21 general elections.

Pill ‘less effective in obese women’

WASHINGTON – Some birth control methods, such as the pill, might be less effective in obese women, while others, such as those given using a shot, might work just as well, according to a recent review article.

The review examined the results of seven studies on the success of hormonal contraceptives in obese and overweight women. …. Source  : Pill ‘less effective in obese women’.

‘Cuddle chemical’ could help schizophrenics

LONDON – Nasal sprays with the hormone oxytocin, nicknamed the “cuddle chemical”, could ease the symptoms of schizophrenia.

Oxytocin is called the cuddle chemical because it helps mothers bond with their babies.

In the study, 15 participants used the sprays for three weeks only.

And most reported measurable improvements in their symptoms in the first trial to test … Read more »».

Facebook, Twitter ‘making kids dumber’

MELBOURNE – Social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter are making teen web surfers dumber, says a study of Australian parents.

New cyber-safety research commissioned by Telstra also revealed that parents believe the sites are affecting their kids’ health and wellbeing.

The research revealed that 65 per cent of parents with children using social media say it …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Mimicking natural selection could make brain implants more efficient

LONDON – Brain implants designed in accordance with the principles of natural selection could prove more efficient, requiring a battery change less often.

Implants stimulating nerve clusters deep within the brain can help control epilepsy and Parkinson’s disease. The shape, or waveform, of the electrical pulse used is crucial.

Warren Grill and his team at Duke … Read more >>.

Lunar surface may be dotted with hidden, habitable tunnels

MELBOURNE – NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) has taken a series of pictures, which may establish the presence of a vast network of tunnels on the Moon.

Scientists have had a theory about lunar tunnels since the 1960s.

And if they exist, such tunnels could become home to human settlements on the Moon.

“They could be entrances to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Women better at multitasking than men’

LONDON – Psychologists have proven that women are much better than men at multitasking.

Keith Laws, professor and psychologist at the University of Hertfordshire, who led the research, said: “We have all heard stories that either men can’t multitask or that women are exceptionally good at multitasking,” reports the Telegraph.
His team found that when … Original source on Gaea Times at : ‘Women better at multitasking than men’.

Australian election campaign begins with focus on immigration; Labor holds a slight lead: poll

Australia’s election campaigning kicks off

SYDNEY – Australia’s prime minister and her conservative opponent kicked off campaigning Sunday by touching on the key issue of immigration, a day after Julia Gillard called elections a mere three weeks after becoming premier.
Gillard, the nation’s first female prime minister, on Saturday scheduled elections for Aug. 21 amid strong support … Read more »»».

Cages affect mice brain

WASHINGTON – The type of cage that mice are kept in worldwide can profoundly alter their brains and greatly affect the accuracy of research.

“This could explain some of the failures to replicate findings in different laboratories,” said study author Diego Restrepo, professor of cell and developmental biology at the University of Colorado, reports the [..] Read the original article: here.

Women really are better at multitasking than men

LONDON – An age-old belief that men are incapable of doing more than one thing at once may be true after all – a new study has shown that that men really are worse at multitasking than women, although it does depend on the task.

During the study, Professor Keith Laws, a psychologist at the …. Read the original article  : Women really are better at multitasking than men.

Cyber warfare: Indian Army boosts its defences

NEW DELHI – The Indian Army is fighting attacks in the cyber world with electronic warfare capability of the “highest standard”, say officials pointing out that virtual strikes have shot up from hostile quarters in both sophistication and frequency.

“The army is cognisant of the threat to its cyber space from various state and non-state actors. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Cyber warfare: Indian Army boosts its defences.

Thundershowers ahead in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Delhi continued to be high on humidity Sunday morning with a few areas seeing traces of rainfall. The met office forecast cloudy skies and thundershowers towards the evening.

“The sky will generally be cloudy with one or two spells of thundershowers towards evening. Some areas could see heavy rains,” said an official of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sharks near US beaches create panic

NEW YORK – Reports of the appearance of two, five-foot-long sharks near three beaches in New Jersey have created panic among the people.

The two sharks were seen Thursday about 50 feet from the shore at the South Seaside Park Beach in Berkeley township, which forced lifeguards to close the beach for about two hours, Fox … Read more : Sharks near US beaches create panic.

Feds gather 150 more wild horses suffering from dehydration after judge approves Nev. roundup

Federal officials resume Nevada wild horse roundup

RENO, Nev. – Federal land managers have removed about 250 more wild horses from a Nevada range after a judge allowed a controversial roundup of the animals to resume.
U.S. Bureau of Land Management spokesman Doran Sanchez said the roundup in northern Elko County began again shortly after U.S. District …. Original article  : Feds gather 150 more wild horses suffering from dehydration after judge approves Nev. roundup.

Tennis, pool and harborside lunch in Maine for first family as Obamas enjoy quick getaway

First family enjoys tennis, sights on Maine coast
BAR HARBOR, Maine – President Barack Obama and the first family played tennis and took in the sights around a Maine resort Saturday even as he contemplated a new struggle over jobless benefits with his GOP foes.
After a first vacation day packed with … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Tennis, pool and harborside lunch in Maine for first family as Obamas enjoy quick getaway.

Dayton Air Show 2010 Details

New York (GaeaTimes.com) The Dayton Air Show starts today amidst nice weather for the show today at the Dayton International Airport. The Gates have opened at 9 a.m. and the show will continue till 6 pm. The main show is due to start at 11 am.

The feature performance of the show will be from …. Source article  : Dayton Air Show 2010 Details.

South Korea develops new long-range missile: Report

SEOUL – South Korea has developed a new medium-range cruise missile capable of hitting sites in North Korea and also parts of China, Japan and Russia, unconfirmed reports said Saturday.

The Hyunmu-3C missile could strike any potential nuclear site in North Korea, according to broadcaster KBS and the Yonhap news agency, citing unnamed defence officials.
Tensions …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Hibernating bears avoid heart problems, may offer insight into human heart health

Hibernating bears have healthy hearts
PULLMAN, Wash. – Grizzly bears love pastries, can be 50 percent body fat and spend nearly half the year sleeping.

Yet the hibernating bears don’t suffer heart attacks, have no hardening of the arteries, no fatty deposits or any circulation issues, said Charles Robbins, director of the Washington State University bear research …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Hibernating bears avoid heart problems, may offer insight into human heart health.

Australian PM, only 3 weeks on the job but already polling well, calls August elections

Australian PM, 3 weeks on job, calls Aug elections

CANBERRA, Australia – Prime Minister Julia Gillard, who called elections Saturday just three weeks after taking power, was once considered too far left to win a national vote. But polls and analysts say she has as good a chance of wooing the Australian public as her opponent: …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Australian PM, only 3 weeks on the job but already polling well, calls August elections.

Family workout for first family, then Obamas eye sights in Maine’s Acadia National Park

Good time in Maine for Obama, good news on spill
BAR HARBOR, Maine – Good news for President Barack Obama from the Gulf of Mexico and a good time for the first family on vacation in Maine.
The focus for the Obamas – the president, along with first lady Michelle and daughters Malia and Sasha … Read : Family workout for first family, then Obamas eye sights in Maine’s Acadia National Park.

High humidity, little rain in Delhi

NEW DELHI – High humidity coupled with above-average maximum temperature forced Delhiites sweat it out Saturday. The weatherman said a light drizzle was reported in some parts of the capital but it brought scarce relief from the sweltering heat.

According to an official of the India Meteorological Department, the mercury Sunday will hover around a … Read : High humidity, little rain in Delhi.

Himachal may get heavy rains

SHIMLA – The hills of Himachal Pradesh may experience heavy rainfall in the next two days, a weather official said here Saturday.

“The entire state is likely to experience heavy spells of rainfall in the next two days (Sunday and Monday),” Manmohan Singh, the meteorological department director, told IANS.
He said the monsoon that was undergoing … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Himachal may get heavy rains.

Cancer drugs may help battle parasite Leishmania

WASHINGTON – A parasite afflicting nearly 12 million people across the world relies on a family of genes that should make it vulnerable to compounds developed to treat cancer and other disorders, new research by scientists at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis reveals.

The …. Read the original article  : here.

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.

NVVN to Lead Solar Power Sales

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) — Mr Farooq Abdullah, the minister for New and Renewable energy along with the Minister of Power Sushil Kumar Shinde has announced that India will generate more than 1000MW of solar power by 2013.
Both the ministry has released the guidelines for selection of New Grid Connected Solar Power Projects under the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : NVVN to Lead Solar Power Sales.

Ancient skull unravels early head reshaping practice

MELBOURNE – An ancient misshapen skull found near Swan Hill on the Murray River suggests that the inhabitants practiced body modification.

The skull, belonging to a tall and solidly built Aboriginal man, has a misshapen cranium.

Also, his bones reveal he had multiple breaks in both forearms, a fractured ankle so severe his shinbones fused together and … Read more »»».

Research reduces odds of Earth being hit by asteroids by 10-fold

WASHINGTON – The risk of being hit by an asteroid is 10 times less than it was, thanks to a NASA initiative that has increased researchers’ knowledge about these flying rocks in space.

While our planet absorbs asteroid impacts like a truck grille eats bugs, NASA’s Dr. Donald K. Yeomans has said that most of them …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

How hackers can ’snoop on private web sessions too’

LONDON – Experts have identified how their web browser’s ‘private mode’ setting is also vulnerable to hackers.

Most web browsers offer a private mode, intended to leave no trace of surfing history on the computer.

But Collin Jackson at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and colleagues, have found ways to detect which sites were visited with …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : How hackers can ’snoop on private web sessions too’.

Rare genes behind high triglyceride levels in blood identified

LONDON – Scientists have identified genetic variations that increase the risk of developing a disease called hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) – which can in turn increase risk for heart disease and stroke.

HTG is also associated with obesity, diabetes and pancreatitis.

Understanding the genes that make patients susceptible to HTG could provide clues to newer, better treatments.

Dr. Robert …. Original article  : Rare genes behind high triglyceride levels in blood identified.

Sighting of rare hairy-nosed otter in Borneo forest proves creature still alive in Malaysia

Hopes alive for near-extinct otter seen in Borneo

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – A photograph snapped on Borneo island of an otter once thought to be extinct in Malaysia has raised hopes that there’s still time to save the creature, an official said Monday.
The image of the hairy-nosed otter – sometimes called Asia’s rarest – was captured …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sun shines in Delhi, rains likely

NEW DELHI – It was a bright sunny morning in Delhi Monday, but the weather office said thundershowers were expected later in the day.

“Skies will remain partly cloudy with possibility of thundershowers in some parts of the city later in the day. The maximum temperature is expected to hover around 35 degrees Celsius,” said an …. Source article  : Sun shines in Delhi, rains likely.

China releases pregnant pandas into the wild

BEIJING – A panda research centre in China has released four “well-selected” pregnant giant pandas into the wild, expecting them to deliver their cubs out of captivity.

The Wolong China Giant Panda Protection and Research Centre, in Sichuan Province, has returned the four giant pandas – Zi Zhu, Ying Ping, Cao Cao and Zhang Ka – … Read : China releases pregnant pandas into the wild.

Boat made of 12,500 plastic bottles arrives in Sydney after 4-month journey across Pacific

Boat made of plastic bottles arrives in Sydney

SYDNEY – A sailboat largely constructed from 12,500 recycled plastic bottles docked in Sydney Harbour on Monday, after four difficult months crossing the Pacific Ocean on a journey meant to raise awareness about the perils of plastic waste.
The crew of the Plastiki, a 60-foot (18-meter) catamaran that weathered …. Original article  : Boat made of 12,500 plastic bottles arrives in Sydney after 4-month journey across Pacific.

BP’s Tony Hayward might be gone, but Gulf oil spill and angry public haven’t disappeared

Hayward leaving behind daunting tasks at BP

NEW YORK – For BP, removing Tony Hayward is just the beginning.
The departure of the man who became the vilified public face of the Gulf oil spill changes very little for BP. His successor still faces what could be decades of cleaning up and paying for one of the [..] Read the original article: here.

In midst of cleanup of contaminated New England river, supporters are split on how to continue

In midst of river cleanup, supporters are divided

LENOX, Mass. – Once a dumping ground for chemicals, a stretch of the Housatonic River that winds near this Berkshires hamlet is being scoured in a lengthy, expensive cleanup. Now, dredging other parts of the riverbed is under consideration, but the fishers, bird watchers and swimmers who would …. Source  : In midst of cleanup of contaminated New England river, supporters are split on how to continue.

Hands-free technology for twiteratti while driving

LONDON – British motorists would soon be able to use online blogging network Twitter while driving with new hands-free technology from car company Ford.

The system, called AppLink, allows applications on iPhones and BlackBerries to be voice-controlled, reports dailymail.co.uk.
It reads ‘tweet’ updates out loud while the car is on the move – but does not [..] Read the original article: here.

‘Already out of juice?’ As more electric cars debut, some drivers worry about enough chargers

More roadside chargers needed for electric cars
NEW YORK – The auto industry calls it range anxiety: Drivers want electric cars but worry they won’t have enough juice to make long trips. After all, what good is going green if you get stranded with a dead battery?
It’s a fear that automakers must overcome as …. Read the original article  : ‘Already out of juice?’ As more electric cars debut, some drivers worry about enough chargers.

Without funding, Montana-Saskatchewan climate project shelved; would have stored CO2 from coal

Montana-Saskatchewan climate project shelved

BILLINGS, Mont. – Money troubles have stalled indefinitely a proposal to capture carbon dioxide emissions from a Canadian coal plant and store the gas underground in Montana – a largely unproven concept considered key for addressing climate change.
Montana and Saskatchewan’s elected leaders had sought $100 million from each of their federal governments …. Source  : Without funding, Montana-Saskatchewan climate project shelved; would have stored CO2 from coal.

President’s Estate recognised for green effort

NEW DELHI – The President’s Estate has become the first urban habitat in India to be accorded a ISO 14001:2004 certificate for environmental management, including pollution control and energy conservation, under its in-house Roshni project.

At a function attended by President Pratibha Patil here Sunday, the Bureau Veritas India handed over the ISO 14001:2004 certificate. “This …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : President’s Estate recognised for green effort.

Dogs became man’s best friends 14,000 years ago

WASHINGTON – The friendship between humans and dogs might date as far back as 14,000 years, as scientists have discovered a jaw fragment in a Swiss cave, which is believed to have come from the earliest known canine, according to scientists who analyzed and radiocarbon-dated the fossil.

However, dog origins remain poorly understood, and some researchers …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Dogs became man’s best friends 14,000 years ago.

77 mn years old dino claw prints found in Utah

LONDON – An ancient ‘crime scene’ in Utah has revealed evidence of a dinosaur in the act of preying on a small mammal.

A 77-million-year-old dinosaur claw mark and scratched-out digging traces were discovered next to a series of mammal burrows in Dixie National Forest by Edward Simpson, a geologist at Kutztown University in Pennsylvania, and …. Source article  : 77 mn years old dino claw prints found in Utah.

Roman neighbourhood ruins unearthed in France

LYON – Experts have uncovered ruins of a Roman neighbourhood in of Lyon, which was founded in 43 BC during the Roman Empire.

Lyon was born with the name Lugdunum, after the Gaulish word ‘dunum’, which meant ‘hill fort’ and was conquered by Julius Caesar between 58 and 53 BC.

Enter Jules Ramona, an archaeologist with Swiss-based …. Source  : Roman neighbourhood ruins unearthed in France.

Now, ‘filter socks’ for protection against water runoff containing pollutants

WASHINGTON – A team of scientists has developed a method for removing contaminants from storm water runoff.

These findings could provide surface waters additional protection against runoff containing pollutants from point sources such as construction sites, storm waters and other urban landscapes.

Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists Eton Codling, microbiologist Dan Shelton and soil scientists Yakov … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Now, ‘filter socks’ for protection against water runoff containing pollutants.

Diabetes monitoring device may benefit your pet dog

WASHINGTON – A researcher is using a continuous glucose-monitoring device – commonly used in humans with diabetes – to help treat dogs and other animals.

“Our research has found that continuous glucose monitoring devices can be used in dogs, cats, cows and horses,” said University of Missouri researcher Charles Wiedmeyer.

Wiedmeyer is the assistant professor of clinical …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Diabetes monitoring device may benefit your pet dog.

How brains help people ‘click’ in conversations

LONDON – When two people “click” in a conversation, they are said to have a meeting of minds. Now science has proven the same.

The evidence comes from fMRI scans of 11 people’s brains as they listened to a woman recounting a story. The scans showed that the listeners’ brain patterns tracked those of the storyteller …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : How brains help people ‘click’ in conversations.

MySpace to “rock n roll” with site for younger audience

Sydney, July 27 (ANI): News Corp, the owner of MySpace, has announced plans to relaunch the social networking site to a target a younger audience.

After Facebook eclipsed MySpace as the leading social networking site, the latter has worked to position itself as a platform for musicians and their fans and News Corp’s chief digital officer, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Infectious prions can suddenly erupt from normal brain tissue

Washington, July 27 (ANI): Researchers have, for the first time, shown that abnormal prions – bits of infectious protein devoid of DNA or RNA that can cause fatal neurodegenerative disease – can suddenly erupt from healthy brain tissue.

The catalyst in the study, conducted by scientists at The Scripps Research Institute, Florida, and the University College … Read more : Infectious prions can suddenly erupt from normal brain tissue.

Researchers tap into Antarctic octopus venom

Washington, July 27 (ANI): Scientists have, for the first time, collected venom from octopuses in Antarctica, making a huge leap forward in our understanding of the properties of venom as a potential resource for drug-development.

The research, by an international team of researchers from the University of Melbourne, the Norwegian University of Technology and Science and …. Original article  : Researchers tap into Antarctic octopus venom.

How Wikileaks became an effective whistle-blowing site

LONDON – It has just released thousands of confidential documents that shed light on the war in Afghanistan, including on alleged involvement of Pakistan’s spy agency in terror activities in that country and India. But how has Wikileaks become one of the most important whistle-blowing sites on the web?

The news that the largest leak in … Read more >>.

Nasal spray vaccine for meningitis on the anvil

LONDON – A nasal spray vaccine, which could offer protection against meningitis and pneumonia, is being developed by scientists.

The research team, being led by Dr Qibo Zhang, from the University of Liverpool, believes kids could benefit from the spray, which is based on tackling the bacteria pneumococcus.

There are more than 90 known pneumococcal types, which …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Nasal spray vaccine for meningitis on the anvil.

In spring, extended daylight disrupts teens’ sleep patterns

WASHINGTON – Teenagers tend to delay bedtimes during Spring, thanks to the later sunset and extended daylight exposure in the season, say researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute’s Lighting Research Center (LRC).

“Biologically, this increased exposure to early evening light in the spring delays the onset of nocturnal melatonin, a hormone that indicates to the body when …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Neurological process behind recognition of letters and numbers uncovered

WASHINGTON – Researchers have unravelled the neurological process for the recognition of letters and numbers.

The results of the study show that the linguistic context given by a word impacts the way in which single abstract representations of the letters that make it up are accessed, and that such access is partially independent from the physical … Read : Neurological process behind recognition of letters and numbers uncovered.

Science behind ‘once bitten, twice shy’ unravelled

WASHINGTON – The first time you burn your fingers by touching a hot stove you get the lesson to avoid doing it in the future. And now scientists are trying to know what exactly goes on in the brain that triggers such avoidance behaviour in a study on fruit flies.

Scientists at the Max Planck Institute …. Source article  : Science behind ‘once bitten, twice shy’ unravelled.

Remembering distant events can help ward current disturbing thoughts

WASHINGTON – Want to forget something disturbing? Well, then try remembering about an overseas vacation instead of a domestic trip, for example, or a memory in the more distant past, says a study.

It is known that when you are daydreaming, it becomes difficult to remember what was going on before you stopped paying attention.

Psychologists … Read more >>.

Babies with affectionate mums cope better with stress as adults

WASHINGTON – Researchers have found that mothers who shower their infants with affection equip them to cope well with life stressors as adults.

They base their findings on 482 people, who were part of the US Providence Rhode Island birth cohort of the National Collaborative Perinatal Project.

The quality of their interactions with their mothers …. Source article  : Babies with affectionate mums cope better with stress as adults.

Man needs 300 stitches after shark attack

LONDON – A shark attacked a surfer at a beach in the US, leaving him with an injury that required 300 stitches.

Clayton Schultz was surfing at Jacksonville Beach in North Florida, when he was attacked by the shark that caught hold of his jaw around his foot.
“All I really felt was teeth and tearing. … Read : Man needs 300 stitches after shark attack.

New expedition to Titanic site will create detailed 3D ‘map’ of wreck, gauge deterioration

New Titanic expedition will create 3D map of wreck

RICHMOND, Va. – A team of scientists will launch an expedition to the Titanic next month to assess the deteriorating condition of the world’s most famous shipwreck and create a detailed three-dimensional map that will “virtually raise the Titanic” for the public.
The expedition to the site 2?? …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Lucky charms really do work

NEW YORK – Want to succeed in an upcoming job interview? Well, then don’t forget to wear your lucky charm, suggests a new study.

In a German study, when volunteers used their key chain, special stone or sentimental jewelry, they did better at a computer memory game than those who didn’t have anything special to … Read more »»».

Kids with brain injuries have difficulty developing story-telling skills

WASHINGTON – A new study has shown that kids with brain injuries have difficulty developing story-telling skills even though other language abilities, such as vocabulary, tend to catch up with other children as they mature.

“Our findings suggest that there may be limitations to the remarkable flexibility for language functions displayed by children with brain injuries,” …. Original article  : Kids with brain injuries have difficulty developing story-telling skills.

New sniffing-based device to help disabled people to communicate

WASHINGTON – Israeli scientists have come up with a unique device based on sniffing, that could allow several disabled people to navigate wheelchairs or communicate with their loved ones.

Sniffing technology might even be used in the future to create a sort of ‘third hand,’ to assist healthy surgeons or pilots.

Developed by Prof. Noam Sobel, … Original article on : New sniffing-based device to help disabled people to communicate.

Soon, iPhone to replace car key

SYDNEY – Ever thought about opening the door of your car from your phone just like James Bond does? Well, General Motors, Holden’s parent company has now launched a new iPhone app that could replace the car key.

It can already warn of parking officers, order your groceries and boost your share portfolio.

General Motors is working …. Source  : Soon, iPhone to replace car key.

Now, HD body scanner that can spot heart problems in time

LONDON – With a new high-definition body scanner, doctors can now get the clearest ever view inside the human body, thereby helping them to spot problems that could cause heart attacks.

The HD body scanner, manufactured by GE Healthcare, generates pictures of diseased arteries in the heart that are twice as clear as older machines.

It means …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Avatars’ mirror individual’s true personality

WASHINGTON – Avatars can portray a very lifelike and accurate depiction of a person’s true personality, within the virtual world, according to a new study.

Dr. H. Onur Bodur of Concordia University and a former graduate student, Jean-Francois Belisle used the sophisticated avatar-based community Second Life as their model for the study, which has its own … Original article on : ‘Avatars’ mirror individual’s true personality.

Boffins ‘reprogram’ adult mouse fat cells into stem cells

WASHINGTON – Scientists at the Monash Institute of Medical Research, Australia, have successfully “reprogrammed” adult mouse fat cells and neural cells into clinically useful stem cells that can differentiate into a variety of different cells (pluripotency).

The cells, called “induced pluripotent stem cells” (iPS), are nearly identical to the naturally occurring pluripotent stems cells, such …. Original source  : Boffins ‘reprogram’ adult mouse fat cells into stem cells.

‘Bad day’ may be all in your head

NEW YORK – Woke up feeling blue? Does it feel like a ‘bad day’ today? Hold that thought – for it’s all probably just in your head – says a new study.

There’s an actual science behind why a bad day happens, according to Peter J. Bentley, Ph.D., author of “Why Sh*t Happens: The Science of … Read : ‘Bad day’ may be all in your head.

Panda diplomacy: China to send 2 prized creatures to Japan in bid to improve countries’ ties

China to send 2 pandas to Japan in diplomatic move

BEIJING – China has announced plans to send two of its prized giant pandas to Japan, the latest installment of panda diplomacy aimed at warming the two countries’ often-strained relations.
The official Xinhua News Agency reported Wednesday that China will send Bi Li and Xian Nu, both …. Read the original article  : Panda diplomacy: China to send 2 prized creatures to Japan in bid to improve countries’ ties.

Now, ‘Trojan Horse’ delivery system to attack cancer cells from inside

WASHINGTON – Israeli researchers have come up with a tiny “Trojan Horse” system for delivering cancer-fighting drugs.

With this system – developed by scientists at the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology – drugs are delivered once they are inside the cancerous cells, so there is no damage to the healthy cells in the surrounding area.

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

Decision-aid program increases safety for abused women

WASHINGTON – University of Missouri researchers have come up with a new Web-based program to help women experiencing abuse develop individualized safety plans and better assess the severity of their situations.

Unlike current Internet resources, the decision-aid program provides women with personalized assessments of the danger of their situations.

The program generates a series of initial …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Decision-aid program increases safety for abused women.

Cleopatra’s pearl dissolving trick is no fiction

WASHINGTON – The legend has it that in a bid to win a bet, Cleopatra quaffed a vinegar martini made with a dissolved pearl, “the largest in the whole of history.” And now, a researcher has claimed that the Egyptian beauty’s canny chemistry trick -doubted by scholars-might actually have come off.

Classicist Prudence Jones of Montclair … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Cleopatra’s pearl dissolving trick is no fiction.

How the neck helped evolution of human brain

LONDON – The neck gave humans so much freedom of movement that it played a major role in the evolution of the human brain, according to new research.

The study, conducted by neuroscientists at New York University and Cornell University, appears online in the journal Nature Communications.

Scientists had assumed the pectoral fins in fish and …. Read the original article  : How the neck helped evolution of human brain.

Dogs imitate owners ‘automatically’

WASHINGTON – A new study claims that dogs instinctively copy their owners’ behaviours and movements.

“This suggests that, like humans, dogs are subject to ‘automatic imitation;’ they cannot inhibit online, the tendency to imitate head use and/or paw use,” Discovery News quoted lead author Friederike Range and her colleagues from University of Vienna, as saying.

For the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Dogs imitate owners ‘automatically’.

Waste vegetable oils could be used to make fuel of the future: Study

WASHINGTON – The vegetable oil that is often discarded as waste by restaurants and pubs could be a vital source of hydrogen, and therefore, fuel – says a new study.

Although it’s a greener fuel, making hydrogen may consume vast amounts of energy, use scarce natural resources, or spew out high levels of greenhouse gas.

Researchers … Read more : Waste vegetable oils could be used to make fuel of the future: Study.

Potentially hazardous asteroid ‘has 1 in 1000 chance of hitting Earth in 2182???

WASHINGTON – A study claims that Earth could be a target for a possibly dangerous collision with an asteroid in the year 2182.

“The total impact probability of asteroid ‘(101955) 1999 RQ36′ can be estimated in 0.00092 -approximately one-in-a-thousand chance-, but what is most surprising is that over half of this chance (0.00054) corresponds to 2182,” … Original source on Gaea Times at : Potentially hazardous asteroid ‘has 1 in 1000 chance of hitting Earth in 2182′.

Mobiles have 18 times more bacteria than toilet handle

LONDON – The average mobile phone carries 18 times more potentially harmful germs than a flush handle in a men’s toilet, tests have revealed.

One of the phones in the test had such high levels of bacteria that it could have given its owner a serious stomach upset.
The findings from a sample of dozens of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Mobiles have 18 times more bacteria than toilet handle.

Delirium in elderly patients linked to greater risk of death, dementia

WASHINGTON – Review and analysis of previous research has indicated that delirium in elderly patients is associated with an increased risk of death, dementia, and institutionalisation.

“Delirium is a syndrome of acutely altered mental status characterized by inattention and a fluctuating course. With occurrence rates of up to half of older patients postoperatively, and even higher … Original source on Gaea Times at : Delirium in elderly patients linked to greater risk of death, dementia.

Moon’s craters can help improve Solar System surface-dating methods

LONDON – Images of the Moon’s surface, sent by NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO), are shedding new light into the mechanics of asteroid and comet impacts and how frequently they occur-information that could improve estimates of the age of geological formations on other planets.

The work, said planetary geologist Peter Schultz of Brown University in Providence, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Moon’s craters can help improve Solar System surface-dating methods.

Birds may boost offspring’s survival through infidelity

WASHINGTON – A 10-year study has revealed that female birds may increase their offspring’s survival through infidelity.

The University of East Anglia study has shown that the extra-pair fertilisations can result in a higher diversity of specific genes, which detect disease and trigger an immune response in offspring.

As a consequence, the offspring survive longer probably … Read more >>.

Japanese solar sail uses smart glass to steer only via sunlight

LONDON – In what could be called a first in solar sailing, Japan’s Ikaros spacecraft has used “smart glass” technology to steer using only the pressure of sunlight.

Launched in May, Ikaros has become the first solar sail to be fully propelled by sunlight.

Now liquid crystal devices along the outer edge of the sail have … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Japanese solar sail uses smart glass to steer only via sunlight.

Researchers set to unravel Otzi’s secrets

WASHINGTON – European scientists have made a new advance in the study of Otzi – they now have access to the complete gene profile of the mummy.

Experts from three institutions pooled their skills to map Otzi’s entire genetic make-up: Albert Zink, Head of the EURAC Institute for Mummies and the iceman, …. Original article  : Researchers set to unravel Otzi’s secrets.

Project uses kelp, fish guts to improve Alaska’s rocky soil, help far-north gardeners

Project helps Alaskans spice up soil
PALMER, Alaska – While Alaska has abundant natural resources, soil that’s good for gardening isn’t among them.

To help residents create better dirt and grow vegetables to supplement their hunting, fishing and gathering, the University of Alaska at Fairbanks was given a federal grant to create demonstration gardens where soil will …. Source article  : Project uses kelp, fish guts to improve Alaska’s rocky soil, help far-north gardeners.

Rakesh Sharma to attend Malaysian astronaut’s wedding

KUALA LUMPUR – India’s Rakesh Sharma will be among the 100 astronauts converging here to attend the wedding of Malaysian astronaut Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor.

Shukor’s wedding with Halina Mohammed Yunos is slated for Oct 10, which will be the last day of the Association of Space Explorers’ 23rd Planetary Congress.
Besides Sharma, who undertook … Read : Rakesh Sharma to attend Malaysian astronaut’s wedding.

Listening to music ‘can impair performance’

WASHINGTON – Doing math sums while listening to your favourite songs may not help you focus better – in fact it could cut down your performance in the exam.

A new study shows that listening to music that one likes whilst performing a serial recall task does not help performance any more than listening to music … Read more »».

Relationships ‘improve our odds of survival by 50pc’

WASHINGTON – Friends and family are crucial in predicting our survival – in fact they can better our odds of living by 50 percent – says a new study.

Brigham Young University professors Julianne Holt-Lunstad and Timothy Smith report that low social interactions are as bad as – smoking 15 cigarettes a day, being an alcoholic, …. Source  : Relationships ‘improve our odds of survival by 50pc’.

Sultry morning for Delhi, but rains expected

NEW DELHI – A day after rains lashed the capital, it was a sultry morning in the city Wednesday with the weather office predicting more thundershowers.

“The skies will remain cloudy with one or two spells of thunderstorms in some pockets of the city,” said an official of the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
The minimum temperature …. Read the original article  : Sultry morning for Delhi, but rains expected.

Massive asteroid could hit Earth in 2182

LONDON – A massive asteroid might crash into Earth in 2182, scientists have warned.

The asteroid, called 1999 RQ36, has a one-in-thousand chance of actually hitting the Earth at some point before the year 2200, but is most likely to hit on Sep 24, 2182.
The asteroid was first discovered in the year 1999 and …. Original source  : Massive asteroid could hit Earth in 2182.

Now, ‘intelligent’ pot that lights up when plant needs water

LONDON – A new ‘intelligent’ pot, invented by a young Brit, sends out a distress signal whenever the plant needs some help.

Natalie King’s ‘Tulipe’ pot glows bright red at the base when its sensors detect that temperature, light or moisture are not at optimum levels.

Although the pot has not the hit the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Now, ‘intelligent’ pot that lights up when plant needs water.

Factfile on deflecting asteroids (To go with Massive asteroid could hit Earth in 2182)

LONDON – Three ways of deflecting an asteroid:
* Nuclear blast: A large nuclear explosion on an asteroid might be enough to deflect an asteroid but has significant political and ethical problems. And what if we just blew it into smaller pieces?

* Using mirrors: A fleet of spacecraft carrying light-reflecting mirrors …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Factfile on deflecting asteroids (To go with Massive asteroid could hit Earth in 2182).

Soon, ‘grow your own’ hip and knee replacements with full movement

LONDON – People who have knee or hip problems will soon be able to ‘grow’ new replacement joints and that too with full range of movement.

Researchers have shown that it is possible to grow properly working joints inside the body using a patient’s own stem cells, after damaged bone has been removed.

They say the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Soon, ‘grow your own’ hip and knee replacements with full movement.

Electronic ciggies need stronger puffs than conventional brands

WASHINGTON – The so-called “electronic cigarettes”- marketed as tobacco-free nicotine delivery systems- require more suction than conventional brands, which in turn has adverse effects on human health, according to University of California, Riverside.

The researchers used a smoking machine to compare the smoking properties of eight conventional cigarettes with five e-cigarette brands.

They examined the vacuum …. Original source  : Electronic ciggies need stronger puffs than conventional brands.

1800 years old Roman bronze tweezers and manicure rasp found in Turkey

ANKARA – Archaeologists have uncovered an ancient Roman personal care set at Myra-Andriake in Antalya’s district of Demre, Turkey.

Professor Nevzat Cevi, an academic from Akdeniz University’s Archeology Department and colleagues excavated an 1800-year-old pair of bronze tweezers and a manicure rasp at Andriake Port.

“Now, we are aware that the Lycian women of the Roman period [..] Read the original article: here.

Sea snail saliva could revolutionize severe pain treatment

WASHINGTON – Scientists have developed what they claim could be the most potent treatment for severe pain – as potent as morphine.

A sea snail’s saliva contains chemicals that help the slow-moving creatures catch prey.

These chemicals are injected into passing prey with hypodermic-needle-like teeth that shoot from their mouths like harpoons.

Scientists already have transformed one of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Migrating birds sleep less, become more impulsive: Study

WASHINGTON – Sparrows and other birds sleep very less and become highly impulsive in migratory seasons, says a new study.

University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers said that despite the behaviour, sleep loss itself was not entirely to blame for their impulsivity.

“In the wild, despite marked reductions in apparent opportunity to sleep, birds continue to successfully engage in … Read more >>>.

Did Michelangelo paint brain in God’s throat in Sistine Chapel fresco?

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 …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Iconic Aussie kangaroo actually descended from South America!

MELBOURNE – The kangaroo and all other Aussie marsupials, such as wombats and Tassie devils, have a common South American ancestor, suggests new research.

According to previous research, the marsupial family tree began in what is now Australia some 120 million years ago with some migrating to South America while it, Australia and Antarctica were one … Read more : Iconic Aussie kangaroo actually descended from South America!.

Bear rampage starts with screams, ends in silence as 1 killed, 2 injured in Montana campground

Bear attack in Montana leaves 1 dead, 2 injured

COOKE CITY, Mont. – When he heard the first scream in a campground outside Yellowstone National Park, Don Wilhelm thought it was just teenagers, maybe a domestic dispute in the middlle of the night.
The wildlife biologist from Texas tried to go back to sleep, stifling thoughts that …. Read the original article  : here.

Molecular pathway responsible for Parkinson’s disease identified

LONDON – Scientists have identified a molecular pathway responsible for the death of key nerve cells whose loss causes Parkinson’s disease.

The researchers in Lu’s lab conducted their experiments in Drosophila, the fruit fly, to show that the mutation results in impaired activity of recently discovered molecules called microRNAs, which fine-tune protein production in cells.

This …. Read the original article  : Molecular pathway responsible for Parkinson’s disease identified.

Morphine may block tumour growth

WASHINGTON – Taking morphine can block new blood vessel and tumour growth, according to a new research.

Using a clinically relevant morphine dose in a mouse model of Lewis lung carcinoma, researchers led by Dr. Sabita Roy of the University of Minnesota Medical School in Minneapolis, MN examined the effect of morphine use on new blood …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Morphine may block tumour growth.

Soot emissions key factor in global warming, says expert

WASHINGTON – A new study has found that the quickest, best way to slow the rapid melting of Arctic sea ice is to reduce soot emissions from the burning of fossil fuel, wood and dung.

According to Stanford researcher Mark Z. Jacobson analysis, soot is second only to carbon dioxide in contributing to global warming. But, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Soot emissions key factor in global warming, says expert.

Butter could be the new raw material to make eco-friendly diesel fuel

WASHINGTON – In the search for new raw materials for making biodiesel fuel, scientists have now closed in on an unlikely farm product – butter.

In a new study, researchers have claimed that butter could be used as an eco-friendly feedstock, or raw material, for making diesel fuel.

Michael Haas and colleagues cite rising global demand for … Read : Butter could be the new raw material to make eco-friendly diesel fuel.

CPR without mouth-to-mouth breathing ‘better for cardiac arrest victims’

LONDON – Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) without mouth-to-mouth rescue breathing could be a better option to save victims of cardiac arrest, according to a study.

A leading CPR expert has said that two new studies from U.S. and European researchers support the case for dropping mouth-to-mouth by bystanders and using “hands-only” chest compressions during the life-saving practice.

The …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : CPR without mouth-to-mouth breathing ‘better for cardiac arrest victims’.

New tests effectively predict patients’ risk of attempting suicide: Study

WASHINGTON – Two potent tests newly developed by scientists can predict a patient’s risk of attempting suicide, says a new study.

Developed by Harvard University psychologists, they can be easily administered on computers to provide insights into how patients are thinking about suicide, as well as their inclination to attempt suicide in the near future.

These tests, …. Source article  : New tests effectively predict patients’ risk of attempting suicide: Study.

Scientists uncover ‘green’ way of decomposing BPA-containing plastic

WASHINGTON – BPA (bisphenol A) containing plastic is a huge environmental hazard but scientists have found an eco-friendly way of decomposing the plastic waste.

Mukesh Doble and Trishul Artham pre-treated polycarbonate with ultraviolet light and heat and exposed it to three kinds of fungi.

The scientists found that fungi grew better on pre-treated plastic, using its BPA …. Original article  : Scientists uncover ‘green’ way of decomposing BPA-containing plastic.

Sleep disorder may help predict Parkinson’s disease decades earlier

WASHINGTON – Sleep disorder may be a sign of dementia or Parkinson’s disease up to 50 years before the disorders are diagnosed, says a new study.

Mayo Clinic scientists found identified 27 people who experienced rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder for at least 15 years before developing one of three conditions: Parkinson’s disease, dementia … Read more >>>.

Bt cotton farming revolutionizes women’s employment in India: Study

LONDON – One of the first genetically modified crops, Bt cotton, has been the source of increasing employment for Indian women, says a new study.

Dr Arjunan Subramanian of WMG (Warwick Manufacturing Group) in the University of Warwick said that the crop generated not only higher income for rural workers but also more employment, especially for … Original source on Gaea Times at : Bt cotton farming revolutionizes women’s employment in India: Study.

Politicians’ hands could tell voters what’s on their mind

WASHINGTON – Watching politicians’ hands could help voters know their minds, says a new study, which found that politicians use their dominant hand to state something good, and the other hand when they want to say something bad.

Daniel Casasanto of the Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics in Nijmegen, Netherlands, and -author Kyle Jasmin examined spontaneous … Read : Politicians’ hands could tell voters what’s on their mind.

Male modesty a turn off for both men and women

WASHINGTON – Modesty in males is a big turn off for both women and men alike, according to a study.

Corinne A. Moss-Racusin, a doctoral candidate in Rutgers’ Department of Psychology, explored the consequences for men (and women) when they acted modestly in job interviews.

She said that the applicants in the staged interviews were judged [..] Read the original article: here.

Silk fibres could pave way for “edible optics” in future

WASHINGTON – Silk, spun by spiders and silk worms, could some day find use in degradable and flexible electronic displays for sensors and implantable optical systems for diagnosis and treatment, according to scientists.

In the July 30, 2010, issue of the journal Science, Tufts biomedical engineering researchers Fiorenzo Omenetto, and David Kaplan, report that “Silk-based materials … Read more >>>.

Soon, vaccinations at the speed of light – courtesy lasers

WASHINGTON – It may soon be possible to deliver drugs and vaccines into the body at the speed of light – thanks to scientists from Georgia Tech, who can now blast a hole in a cell, place a molecule inside and seal it back up a split second later using a laser pulse.

The new method … Original article on : Soon, vaccinations at the speed of light – courtesy lasers.

‘Most ancient’ animal species on Earth discovered in Scotland

LONDON – A rare shrimp, believed to be the most ancient animal species on Earth, is alive and well in Scotland, discovered scientists.

Two colonies of the tadpole shrimp, Triops cancriformis, were found at Caerlaverock on the Solway Coast of Dumfriesshire, reports the Independent.

According to experts, there could be more “hidden” populations of the crustacean – …. Source article  : ‘Most ancient’ animal species on Earth discovered in Scotland.

Memory’s master switch found

WASHINGTON – Researchers at Tel Aviv University have found memory’s master switch- GABA (?-Aminobutyric acid), a natural molecule that occurs in the brain, which could be the main factor in regulating how many new memories we can generate.

The new study by Dr. Inna Slutsky of the Sackler School of Medicine at Tel Aviv University describes …. Original article  : Memory’s master switch found.

iPhone 4’s FaceTime video chat feature spawning new industry – iPorn

NEW YORK – The adult industry is tapping on to the iPhone 4’s FaceTime video chat feature by offering iPorn- nude models for steamy sex talk with iPhone owners.

Apple has tried its best to keep iPhones porn-free by blocking users from downloading adult apps.

But by using the phone’s existing videophone, X-rated entrepreneurs sidestep the company … Read more »».

New find may help make wrinkles history

WASHINGTON – Researchers have found how folds and other creases disappear on their own-a feat that could shed light on how human tissue folds and grows.

In a pair of papers, scientists report how sharp folds can transition into smoother wrinkles, and how wrinkles themselves vanish toward the edges.

On a fundamental level, the research describes the … Read more : New find may help make wrinkles history.

‘Secret location’ of dino skeletons found in South Dakota Badlands

WASHINGTON – A palaeontology team is hoping to find a Triceratops skeleton from a ’secret location’ they’ve found in the South Dakota Badlands.

Phil Manning, from the University of Manchester, and his team believes there are at least three skeletons of this iconic dinosaur gently weathering in 65-million-year-old rocks at the undisclosed site.

“We have been working …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Secret location’ of dino skeletons found in South Dakota Badlands.

Belly button surgery to simplify and improve kidney ops

WASHINGTON – Surgeons have been able to simplify and improve minimally invasive surgery for cancer patients by reducing the number of abdominal incisions – by limiting it to the belly button.

“For advanced as well as localized kidney cancer, our surgical team has been able to reduce and consolidate the number of incisions to one port [..] Read the original article: here.

Chemicals behind rise of ‘gender-bending’ fish in southern Alberta

WASHINGTON – Chemicals in two rivers in southern Alberta are likely causing feminisation of fish, say researchers.

“The situation for native fish will likely get worse as the concentration of organic contaminants will become more concentrated as a response to climate change and the increase in human and animal populations,” said Lee Jackson, executive director of …. Read the original article  : here.

Graphene under strain produces massive pseudo-magnetic fields

WASHINGTON – Putting the right kind of strain onto a patch of graphene leads to the creation of pseudo-magnetic fields far stronger than the strongest magnetic fields ever sustained in a laboratory, scientists have revealed.

The research, by a multi-institutional team of researchers headed by Michael Crommie, a faculty senior scientist in the Materials Sciences Division …. Source  : Graphene under strain produces massive pseudo-magnetic fields.

New study provides insight into how pain occurs

WASHINGTON – The first direct evidence of linkage between elevated intrinsic (resting-state) brain connectivity and spontaneous pain intensity in patients with fibromyalgia (FM) has been provided by a recent study.

The study by researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital and University of Michigan shows an interaction of multiple brain networks, offering greater understanding of how pain … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : New study provides insight into how pain occurs.

Cell that could be ‘mother’ of all prostate tumours identified

WASHINGTON – New studies have revealed that a type of prostate cell that has been largely ignored by cancer researchers can, in fact, trigger malignant prostate cancer.

Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) researcher Owen N. Witte and his colleagues at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) found that the somewhat overlooked prostate basal cell could …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Cell that could be ‘mother’ of all prostate tumours identified.

World’s oldest surviving creature found in Britain

LONDON – A rare shrimp that may be the most ancient animal species on earth is alive and well in Britain, scientists have discovered.

Two colonies of the tadpole shrimp, triops cancriformis, were found at Caerlaverock on the Solway Coast of Dumfriesshire in Britain, researchers from the University of Glasgow announced.
Experts think there …. Source article  : World’s oldest surviving creature found in Britain.

No rules to regulate depth of mining pits: Kamat

PANAJI – Goa Chief Minister Digambar Kamat Friday disclosed that the state mining department has no rules in place to regulate the depth of mining pits.

“There are no norms/restrictions laid down regarding allowable depths of any mine,” Kamat, also a minister for mines, said in a written reply tabled during the monsoon session of … Read more >>>.

Soon, used electric car batteries to generate cheap household power

SYDNEY – Owners of electric cars might soon be able to use their old car battery to run their household electricity, according to a leading Japanese automaker.

Nissan’s senior vice-president of product planning, Andy Palmer, said the company – which is set to launch its Leaf electric small car in Australia in 2012 – is …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Soon, used electric car batteries to generate cheap household power.

Popular diabetes drugs ‘increase risk for fractures in patients’

WASHINGTON – A new study has revealed that postmenopausal women with diabetes taking thiazolidinediones (TZDS), including rosiglitazone and pioglitazone, may be at increased risk for fractures.

Men with diabetes taking both loop diuretics and TZDs may also be at increased risk of fractures, according to the research.

“Our study shows that increased fracture risk is associated with …. Original article  : Popular diabetes drugs ‘increase risk for fractures in patients’.

Junk food linked to ADHD in teens

WASHINGTON – A ‘Western style’ diet, which typically consists of processed, fried, and sugary foods, has been linked to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adolescents by scientists.

Associate Professor Wendy Oddy at Perth’s Telethon Institute for Child Health Research and colleagues examined the dietary patterns of 1800 adolescents from the long-term Raine Study and classified … Read more >>>.

1.5 km wide asteroid on collision course with Earth in 50 years

MELBOURNE – Scientists are warning that we need to start blasting asteroids before they collide with Earth – the latest threat being asteroid 1999 RQ36 – set to hit the Earth in 50 years.

The asteroid is more than half-a-kilometre wide is heading for the Earth – and we’ve got just 50 years to knock it … Original article on : 1.5 km wide asteroid on collision course with Earth in 50 years.

Keeping busy is the key to happiness

WASHINGTON – People who constantly have something to do, even something pointless, are happier than people who sit idly, says a new study.

Christopher K. Hsee and Adelle X. Yang, of the University of Chicago and and Liangyan Wang, of Shanghai Jiaotong University conducted the study.

The obvious reasons are to make a living, earn money or …. Original source  : Keeping busy is the key to happiness.

Creating power from pee may end the world of its energy woes!

NEW YORK – Portable urinals could one day create power from pee, for researchers at the Bristol Robotics Lab are testing urine as potential energy source.

If researchers are successful, urinals could offer a solution to the world’s energy crisis.

Dr. Loannis Leropoulos, who is heading up the research, says that although the research on urine …. Read the original article  : Creating power from pee may end the world of its energy woes!.

Trojan asteroids around Neptune could turn into comets that might hit Earth

LONDON – Material from the Trojan asteroids that exist around the orbit of Neptune could go on to become comets that could strike our planet, according to a new study.

Many comets swing into the inner solar system every 200 to 300 years.

The origin of such so-called “short-period comets” is unknown but the immediate source …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Trojan asteroids around Neptune could turn into comets that might hit Earth.

‘Crippled’ NASA Spirit Mars Rover may never call home ever again

WASHINGTON – Mars Exploration Rover Spirit has not contacted NASA mission controllers since March 22, and the rover is facing its toughest challenge yet – trying to survive the harsh Martian winter.

The rover team anticipated Spirit would go into a low-power “hibernation” mode since the rover was not able to get to a favourable slope … Read : ‘Crippled’ NASA Spirit Mars Rover may never call home ever again.

Reading terrorists’ minds about imminent attack may soon be possible

WASHINGTON – Ever thought about a technology that allows you to get inside the mind of a terrorist to know how, when and where the next attack will occur? Well, this is not nearly as far-fetched as it seems, says a new Northwestern University study.

The researchers claim that if the test conducted in the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Reading terrorists’ minds about imminent attack may soon be possible.

Sea squirt study offers insight into early development of human embryos

WASHINGTON – In a study on model organism Ciona intestinalis, commonly known as the sea squirt, researchers have uncovered the origin of the heart-jaw connection in vertebrates – a discovery that could provide insight into the early development of human embryos.

Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, have discovered the origins of second heart field …. Original article  : Sea squirt study offers insight into early development of human embryos.

NASA’s Spirit Mars Rover may not call home

WASHINGTON – Mars Exploration Rover Spirit has not contacted NASA mission controllers since March 22, and the rover is facing its toughest challenge yet – trying to survive the harsh Martian winter.

The rover team anticipated Spirit would go into a low-power “hibernation” mode since the rover was not able to get to a favourable slope … Read : NASA’s Spirit Mars Rover may not call home.

Sex is good for your brain

WASHINGTON – A study on rats has suggested that sex apparently can help the brain grow.

The research also showed that sexually active rodents were less anxious than virgins.

The study by Princeton scientists was conducted to see if pleasant but stressful experiences could have an opposite effect, Live Science reported.

Scientists played matchmaker by giving adult … Original source on Gaea Times at : Sex is good for your brain.

Post-traumatic stress disorder lingers even 20 yrs after war

WASHINGTON – In a study focusing on a region of Liberia, researchers found that the prevalence of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) remains high nearly two decades after the principal conflict there and five years after war in Liberia ended entirely.

Researchers at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health assessed the geographical distribution of the long-term …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Post-traumatic stress disorder lingers even 20 yrs after war.

US troops to get translation devices to break language barrier on foreign shores

WASHINGTON – US soldiers working on foreign lands would soon not face any problems in communicating with locals, thanks to new language translation devices being tested by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

For the past four years, scientists at NIST have been conducting detailed performance evaluations of speech translation systems for the [..] Read the original article: here.

Genetic changes linked to diet, alcohol could predict breast cancer severity

WASHINGTON – Epigenetic changes to DNA in breast cancers are directly linked with diet, alcohol, and tumour size, and could hence give a glimpse of the severity of the disease, according to researchers from Brown University and the University of California San Francisco.

The findings point to the emergence of new biomarkers that researchers hope will … Original source on Gaea Times at : Genetic changes linked to diet, alcohol could predict breast cancer severity.

Babies raised by working mums don’t necessarily suffer cognitive setbacks

WASHINGTON – Working mothers are not necessarily harmful to child development, according to a new study.

Researchers at Columbia University say they are among the first to measure the full effect of maternal employment on child development.

In a 113-page monograph, released this week, the authors conclude “that the overall effect of 1st-year maternal employment on child …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Texting may increase medication compliance in teen diabetics

WASHINGTON – Scientists have tapped into teen texting habits to increase medication compliance in adolescent diabetes patients.

Jennifer Dyer, MD, MPH, an endocrinologist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, has developed and completed a pilot study that uses weekly, customized text messages to remind adolescent diabetes patients about their personal treatment activities.

At the conclusion of the study, … Original article on : Texting may increase medication compliance in teen diabetics.

Heavy rains lash Delhi, bring back traffic woes

NEW DELHI – Heavy rains lashed Delhi Saturday morning, bringing with it flooded streets and traffic snarls. Commuters had a harrowing time reaching their destinations with long jams reported on most city roads.

Water-logging was reported in Model Town, Lajpat Nagar, Janpat Crossing, Ashram, Mahipalpur Chowk, Dhaula Kuan, Rajpath, Greater Kailash, Mehrauli Badarpur Road and August … Read : Heavy rains lash Delhi, bring back traffic woes.

Maths lays bare sperms’ swimming secrets

MELBOURNE – Why do sperm cells move like tiny, surface-seeking missiles? Well, scientists in the UK may have now found a solution to this long time mystery of human fertility.

The answer may have implications in resolving fertility issues.

UK mathematicians Dr David Smith and Professor John Blake at the University of Birmingham said that multiple …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Orion Nebula provides clues to origin of life on Earth

WASHINGTON – An international team of astronomers investigated the Orion Nebula and found a process that may have played a role in the development of life on Earth.

Fukue and Tamura of the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan conducted the research on the properties of light in a massive star-forming region (BN/KL nebula) of the Orion …. Original source  : Orion Nebula provides clues to origin of life on Earth.

Reforestation captures more carbon than industrial plantations: Study

WASHINGTON – Reforestation of damaged forests captures more carbon than controversial softwood monoculture plantations, says new research.

The new find by Australian scientists challenges traditional views on the efficiency of industrial monoculture plantations.

Dr John Kanowski from the Australian Wildlife Conservancy said that reforestation could drive biodiversity unlike single species monoculture plantations.

“We found that restoration planting stored … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Reforestation captures more carbon than industrial plantations: Study.

Increasing number of teens going under the knife – thanks to reality TV

WASHINGTON – It’s not unusual for teenagers to follow fads they see on TV, but a new trend is taking this phenomenon a bit too far, says a new study.

Some reality TV shows tout happiness as just a nip/tuck away – and teens fond of these kinds of programs are more likely to join the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Increasing number of teens going under the knife – thanks to reality TV.

Now, an ‘armour’ to avoid infection from AIDS virus

WASHINGTON – Scientists have developed a new method that creates ‘armour’ in the body – a system that may help fight AIDS infection in its initial stages.

A study by the Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cient???ficas (CSIC) and led by Mr F???lix Go???i, director of the Biophysics Unit at the CSIC-University of the Basque Country Mixed …. Source  : Now, an ‘armour’ to avoid infection from AIDS virus.

Heavy rains in Delhi, traffic woes again

NEW DELHI – Heavy rains lashed Delhi Saturday morning, bringing much-needed relief to residents from the high humidity. But commuters had a tough time as waterlogging in many areas led to traffic snarls.

“We have received reports of rains in various parts of the capital. There are heavy clouds in the sky. We expect 90 percent … Read more : Heavy rains in Delhi, traffic woes again.