Telescope captures galactic super volcanic explosion

LONDON – A spectacular “super volcano” that erupted trillions of miles away from earth has been clicked by a NASA telescope.

The staggering eruption was filmed by NASA’s Chandra X-Ray Observatory and the National Science Foundation’s Very Large Array.
Astronomers said shock waves between a giant black hole and cooling gas, caused the mind …. Original source  : Telescope captures galactic super volcanic explosion.

Brit woman is world’s fastest texter typing 26-word message in 25 secs

LONDON – A British woman has become the world’s fastest texter after she sent a tongue-twisting 26-word message in just 25 seconds.

Melissa Thompson, 27, wrote the message- “The razor-toothed piranhas of the genera Serrasalmus and Pygocentrus are the most ferocious freshwater fish in the world. In reality they seldom attack a human” in just 25.94 … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Brit woman is world’s fastest texter typing 26-word message in 25 secs.

Malaysia closes parks, warns public after up to 10 die from disease spread by rats

Malaysia warns of waterborne disease after deaths

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Malaysia has closed parks and warned the public about swimming and dumping trash in rivers after up to 10 people died from a disease spread by rats.
The latest reported death from the bacterial disease leptospirosis was Saturday. The 17-year-old boy in northern Kedah state had … Read more : Malaysia closes parks, warns public after up to 10 die from disease spread by rats.

Oil hovers below $74 in Asia amid growth uncertainty, hurricane risks in Gulf of Mexico

Oil hovers below $74 amid growth uncertainty

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Oil prices hovered below $74 a barrel Monday in Asia as uncertainty about the global economy’s prospects outweighed possible production disruptions in the Gulf of Mexico due to hurricane season.
Benchmark crude for October delivery was down 7 cents to $73.75 a barrel at late afternoon …. Original article  : Oil hovers below $74 in Asia amid growth uncertainty, hurricane risks in Gulf of Mexico.

NGO wants oil spills on Maharashtra coast probed

MUMBAI – The Awaaz Foundation, a prominent NGO working in the area of pollution, Monday demanded a full-fledged inquiry into the number and extent of oil spills along the Maharashtra coast in the past few years.

The issue has suddenly come to the limelight after the recent oil spill following collision of two foreign ships Aug … Read more : NGO wants oil spills on Maharashtra coast probed.

Flood threat looms over Punjab, Haryana towns

CHANDIGARH – District administrations in Punjab and Haryana Monday alerted the Indian Army and asked it to remain geared up for rescue operations as the threat of floods loomed large over many towns in the two states.

The release of water from the Bhakra Dam into the Satluj river has posed an immediate threat to the … Read more »»».

Rheumatoid arthritis may protect against Alzheimer’s disease

WASHINGTON – In a recent experiment, a protein released during rheumatoid arthritis lessened the intensity of Alzheimer’s disease in mice.

University of South Florida researchers found that the protein, GM-CSF, likely stimulates the body’s natural scavenger cells to attack and remove Alzheimer’s amyloid deposits in the brain.

The USF researchers are among the first to look at …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Gulf War veterans experience severe muscle pain

WASHINGTON – Some 100,000 veterans who returned from the Gulf War have reported chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP) similar to fibromyalgia.

A new study from Middleton Memorial Hospital in Madison and the University of Wisconsin showed that acute exercise can exacerbate the pain but long-term exercise has the opposite outcome and reduces it.

Researchers reported that vets with …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Zapping potatoes can boost their antioxidant content

WASHINGTON – Zapping potatoes with ultrasound, high frequency sound waves or giving spuds an electric shock could boost the amounts of healthful antioxidant substances in the vegetables, found scientists.

According to the scientists, these are the two simple, inexpensive ways of boosting the amounts of healthful antioxidant substances in potatoes.

“We found that treating the potatoes with …. Original article  : Zapping potatoes can boost their antioxidant content.

Scientists unlock secret behind Mona Lisa’s mystic smile

SYDNEY – For years and years, Mona Lisa’s mysterious smile has baffled experts. But not any more.

Leonardo Da Vinci was a genius in many ways, and his technique of sfumato was just one such example.

Sfumato is a range of subtle optical effects that blur outlines, soften transitions and blend shadows like smoke. It’s a …. Read the original article  : Scientists unlock secret behind Mona Lisa’s mystic smile.

Mars ‘will be as big as the moon’ hoax doing the rounds again

WASHINGTON – It’s a tradition that comes on the same day, year after year – an email, which claims that planet Mars is going to come so close to the Earth, it will appear as big as the moon.

First, a little bit of background information on the phenomenon – planets in the solar system revolve …. Original source  : Mars ‘will be as big as the moon’ hoax doing the rounds again.

Yamuna above danger mark, many evacuated in Delhi

NEW DELHI – People were evacuated from low lying areas in Delhi Monday as the Yamuna river flowed over the danger mark for the third consecutive day and the fear of floods loomed large over the city.

The water level in Yamuna touched 205.19 metres, 36 cm above the danger level, flooding areas of Usmanpur, Yamuna …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Yamuna above danger mark, many evacuated in Delhi.

Solar System is older than previously thought

LONDON – A meteor discovered in the Saharan desert has indicated that the age of our Solar system is much older than previously thought.

Analyses of the meteorite indicate that the Solar system is at least 0.3-1.9 million years older than some previous studies projected – making it 4.568 billion years old.

The small difference means that …. Read the original article  : here.

New ’self-dusting solar panels’ inspired by Mars mission

WASHINGTON – Scientists have discovered a new technology of ’self-dusting solar panels’ that could increase the efficiency of producing electricity from sunlight and reduce maintenance costs for large-scale solar installations.

The technology is the one that was developed for space missions to Mars.

“We think our self-cleaning panels used in areas of high dust and particulate pollutant …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : New ’self-dusting solar panels’ inspired by Mars mission.

Breast-cancer protein purified

LONDON – Scientists have purified the protein produced by the breast cancer susceptibility gene BRCA2 and used it to study the oncogene’s role in DNA repair.

The research by two teams of scientists at the University of California, Davis, could pave way for understanding, diagnosing and perhaps treating familial breast cancer.

Stephen Kowalczykowski’s group has purified the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Malaysia closes parks, warns public after 10 die from disease spread by rats in waterways

Malaysia warns of waterborne disease after 10 die

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Malaysia has closed parks and warned the public about swimming and dumping trash in rivers after 10 people died from a disease spread by rats.
The latest reported death from the bacterial disease leptospirosis was Saturday. The 17-year-old boy in northern Kedah state had swam …. Source article  : Malaysia closes parks, warns public after 10 die from disease spread by rats in waterways.

Gr8: Briton smashes world texting record

LONDON – A British woman has smashed the world record for typing the fastest text message.

Melissa Thompson, 27, wrote a passage in just under 26 seconds, shaving off nearly 10 seconds from previous record holder.
She texted: “The razor-toothed piranhas of the genera Serrasalmus and Pygocentrus are the most ferocious freshwater fish in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Gr8: Briton smashes world texting record.

Soon, facial recognition software to identify people from online pics

LONDON – Netizens could soon be able to identify people from photographs posted on the internet, all thanks to a revolutionary software being developed by Face.com.

Face.com, the software company produced technology that can identify individuals on social networking sites and online galleries by comparing their image against a known picture of them.

This would mean that … Read : Soon, facial recognition software to identify people from online pics.

Rescuers get out first 2 of 9 freshwater dolphins trapped by low water in Bolivia river

2 of 9 trapped dolphins rescued in Bolivia river

RIO PAILA, Bolivia – Dozens of biologists and environmental activists rescued two freshwater dolphins Sunday among nine that have been trapped in a river by low water levels for more than a month.
The two dolphins were caught in nets and brought to shore. They were put in … Read more : Rescuers get out first 2 of 9 freshwater dolphins trapped by low water in Bolivia river.

Scientists monitoring coral in Northwestern Hawaiian Islands for bleaching that can harm reefs

Researchers monitoring Hawaii coral for bleaching

PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii – Scientists plan to monitor corals in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands next month for signs of bleaching that could harm the reefs.
Corals become stressed and expel the algae that live inside them when temperatures are warmer than normal. This causes corals to lose their color and appear …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Jupiter under ‘asteroid’ attack for 3rd time in 13 months

LONDON – Two Japanese amateur astronomers have discovered a comet or asteroid strike on Jupiter -the third time the giant planet has been bombarded in 13 months.

The observations show that impacts on the giant planet occur more frequently than previously thought.

The last two attacks occurred in June 2010 and July 2009.

Before these three events were …. Read the original article  : Jupiter under ‘asteroid’ attack for 3rd time in 13 months.

Vitamin D deficiency linked to wide array of diseases

WASHINGTON – Researchers have mapped the points at which vitamin D interacts with our DNA – and identified over two hundred genes that it directly influences.

The study highlights the extent to which vitamin D deficiency may increase susceptibility to a wide range of diseases.

Now, researchers at the University of Oxford have shown the extent … Original source on Gaea Times at : Vitamin D deficiency linked to wide array of diseases.

‘Aliens’ more likely to be AI robots than biological beings: Expert

LONDON – A senior astronomer has said that the hunt for alien life should take into account artificial intelligence, and not evolution of biological life.

According to BBC News, Seti astronomer Seth Shostak said that there is a greater chance of finding alien AI rather than ‘biological’ life.

Seti searchers have mostly still worked under the assumption … Original article on : ‘Aliens’ more likely to be AI robots than biological beings: Expert.

Drinking water before meals is the best way to lose weight

WASHINGTON – Have you tried out every trick in the book to lose weight – crash diets, gyms, or simply starving yourself? Now, try a simple trick – drink a glass or two of water before meals, as that’s the best way to curb appetite and shed those pounds – says a new research.

Scientists have … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Drinking water before meals is the best way to lose weight.

Bhakra water level rises, flood threatens Punjab, Haryana

CHANDIGARH – With the water level in the Bhakra Dam reservoir increasing steadily, Punjab and Haryana areas adjoining the Satluj river continued to be under the threat of floods for the fourth consecutive day.

Water level in Himachal Pradesh’s 225-metre-high Bhakra Dam reservoir reached 1,673.46 feet by late Monday evening and it was rising at an …. Original article  : Bhakra water level rises, flood threatens Punjab, Haryana.

Environment may make Pakistan more bellicose towards India: US report

WASHINGTON – Environmental factors – like the present floods – could further weaken an already weak Pakistani state and add impetus to a return to military rule or a more bellicose posture towards India, warns a new US Congressional report.

“Environmental stresses, when combined with the other socio-economic and political stresses on Pakistan, have the potential …. Original article  : Environment may make Pakistan more bellicose towards India: US report.

A unique fish is caught in China

BEIJING – A unique one-feet-long crocodile-like fish was caught in a rivulet in China’s Sichuan province, a media report said.

Fisherman Chen Wu, who netted the fish in Juexi town in Yibin county, told reporters that he never saw that type of fish before, People’s Daily reported Monday.
He alerted the water resources department after villagers …. Source article  : A unique fish is caught in China.

Heavy downpour in Delhi, chaos on roads

NEW DELHI – Incessant heavy rains Tuesday morning caused waterlogging at many places in Delhi, leading to traffic jams. Many Delhiites had a tough time navigating through flooded roads as they headed out to meet relatives on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan.

Traffic snarls worsened as the downpour increased, slowed the movement of vehicles to a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Heavy downpour in Delhi, chaos on roads.

Here’s what humans ate 10,000 years ago

WASHINGTON – If you thought the early locals ate only roots and berries for dinner, you may quite well be wrong. They dined quite lavishly too, according to findings of a new excavation in Utah.

Brigham Young University archaeologists found that locals occupying the North Creek Shelter in the southern half of Utah ate mush cooked …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Here’s what humans ate 10,000 years ago.

Sign language speakers use hands and mouth separately

WASHINGTON – When a person uses sign language to communicate, they use their hands as well as mouth – but now a study has found out whether the two are used in unison or separately.

Researchers David P. Vinson and colleagues at University College London found that the hand and lip movements are separate in the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Sign language speakers use hands and mouth separately.

Are you an early riser or late sleeper? It’s all in the hair, says study

WASHINGTON – Are you an early riser or do you prefer waking up when the sun is overhead? Your hair may be an indicator – says a new study.

According to National Geographic News, that’s because the genes that regulate our body clocks can be found in hair-follicle cells, researchers have discovered.

Makoto Akashi, of the Research …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Are you an early riser or late sleeper? It’s all in the hair, says study.

Brain can act as a haven for HIV virus: Study

WASHINGTON – The HIV virus can hide in the brain of the human body according to a new study.

A thesis from University of Gothenburg, Sweden revealed that 10 percent patients showed traces of the virus in their spinal fluid but not in their blood.

Although current anti-HIV drugs are able to stop the multiplication of the …. Original source  : Brain can act as a haven for HIV virus: Study.

CAPITAL CULTURE: Obama official driving push for expansion of electric vehicles

CAPITAL CULTURE: Obama’s electric car champion
WASHINGTON – David Sandalow starts his five-mile commute each day by unplugging an orange extension cord connecting his Toyota Prius hybrid to an outlet in his brick carport.
His Prius, which was converted two years ago to allow him to recharge the battery from an electric outlet, …. Source  : CAPITAL CULTURE: Obama official driving push for expansion of electric vehicles.

Sebelius and Baucus rebuffed in Mont. after touting health care coverage for asbestos victims

Sebelius, Baucus rebuked in Mont. over health care

LIBBY, Mont. – Instead of saying thanks, some residents rebuked Health Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and Sen. Max Baucus on Monday for the very law that could help potentially thousands of asbestos victims here.
The health care reform law passed last year expands Medicare coverage for the sick residents of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Nevada OKs alternative fuel for fleets that combines natural gas with low-sulfur diesel

Nevada OKs natural gas-diesel alt fuel combination

RENO, Nev. – A Sparks refinery that produces a cleaner-burning, more efficient fuel made from a combination of low-sulfur diesel and natural gas has become the first of its kind in Nevada to win approval from state environmental regulators.
GDiesel, produced by the Reno-based Advanced Refining Concepts, received formal certification … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Nevada OKs alternative fuel for fleets that combines natural gas with low-sulfur diesel.

Lawmakers say more air monitors in north Texas will increase data from gas drilling area

More air monitors planned for Texas drilling area

FORT WORTH, Texas – Eight new air monitors are planned for one of the nation’s largest natural gas fields, where drilling has raised questions about emissions effects, state lawmakers said Monday.
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has not determined sites or funding sources for the monitors and does … Read more »».

Study finds mouse viruses in some chronic fatigue patients, but link not proven

Mouse virus link to chronic fatigue is studied

WASHINGTON – A U.S. government study has uncovered a family of mouse viruses in some people with chronic fatigue syndrome, raising still more questions about whether an infection may play a role in the complicated illness.
Monday’s study does not prove that having any of these viruses causes harm, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Study finds mouse viruses in some chronic fatigue patients, but link not proven.

Judge temporarily blocks Obama administration stem cell regulations

Obama stem cell regulations temporarily blocked

WASHINGTON – A federal judge on Monday temporarily blocked government rules expanding stem cell research, a blow to the Obama administration that could stall potentially lifesaving research.
The nonprofit group Nightlight Christian Adoptions contends that the government’s new guidelines will decrease the number of human embryos available for adoption and implantation. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Judge temporarily blocks Obama administration stem cell regulations.

SeaWorld Orlando fined $75,000 for violations leading to trainer’s death by killer whale

SeaWorld fined $75,000 for whale trainer’s death

ORLANDO, Fla. – The federal job safety agency fined SeaWorld Orlando $75,000 on Monday for three violations uncovered while investigating the February death of a trainer who was grabbed by a killer whale and dragged underwater.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration categorized the most serious violation as “willful,” or … Read more : SeaWorld Orlando fined $75,000 for violations leading to trainer’s death by killer whale.

Giant rakhi to be tied to tree for environment protection

LUCKNOW – A special 8 feet high rakhi, made of various discarded household materials, will be tied to an old tree in the Uttar Pradesh capital on Raksha Bandhan Tuesday to sensitise the public on various environmental issues, an activist said Monday.

Under the aegis of Mahanagar Vyapar Mandal, people from different walks of life have …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Cognitive behavioral therapy plus medication may help adults with ADHD

WASHINGTON – A new study has found that adding cognitive behavioral therapy – an approach that teaches skills for handling life challenges and revising negative thought patterns – to pharmaceutical treatment for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) could help adult patients.

“Medications are very effective in ‘turning down the volume’ on ADHD symptoms, but they do … Original source on Gaea Times at : Cognitive behavioral therapy plus medication may help adults with ADHD.

‘Grandmother hypothesis’ that helps us live longer may be a myth

LONDON – Shattering the so-called ‘grandmother hypothesis’, researchers have claimed that grandma may not be as important as we thought – at least when it comes to evolution.

In a new model, researchers have questioned the popular ‘grandmother hypothesis’, which says that human females, unlike those of the other great apes, survive well past their reproductive … Read more : ‘Grandmother hypothesis’ that helps us live longer may be a myth.

Looking like eye-popping Lady Gaga could make you go blind

NEW YORK – Impressed with how Lady Gaga looked in her eye-popping “Bad Romance” video? Well, here’s some bad news-imitating the singer could actually cause you to go blind.

While Gaga used computer animation enhance her eyes in the video, ‘Circle lense-which make eyes look bigger by covering not only the iris but part of … Read more : Looking like eye-popping Lady Gaga could make you go blind.

Lightning claims eight lives in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Lightning claimed the lives of eight people, including two women, in two districts of Jharkhand, police said Wednesday.

Three farmers died while sowing paddy in fields when lightning struck them Wednesday morning at Kenamkathi village of Deoghar district, around 375 km from Ranchi, police said.
In the other incident at Madhupur of … Read more >>.

Solar, wind power ‘could become Earth’s dominant contributor of energy’

WASHINGTON – Wind and solar power could become the world’s main sources of energy, a Nobel-prize winning scientist suggests.

Walter Kohn, Ph.D., who shared the 1998 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, said at a special symposium at the American Chemical Society’s 240th National Meeting that continuous research and development of alternative energy could soon lead to a … Read : Solar, wind power ‘could become Earth’s dominant contributor of energy’.

Perfect sports bras don’t exist, say experts

WASHINGTON – If you have been looking for the perfect sports bra for that gym class next week, you may have to keep looking, as scientists have claimed that there’s no perfect design for a supportive bra – yet.

“It’s massively important because sports bra design is quite far behind other apparel,” ABC News quoted Jenny … Read more »»».

Molecular approach could be the key to understanding male infertility

WASHINGTON – Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine are beginning to identify the molecular signals that could help experts understand the issue of male infertility better than before.

Shelley Berger of the Daniel S. Och University, Jerome Govin and colleague Saadi Khochbin of INSERM in France, screened yeast to find mutants that were …. Read the original article  : here.

How giant tortoises, alligators thrived in High Arctic 50m years ago

WASHINGTON – University of Colorado researchers have conducted a study that explains how ancient alligators and giant tortoises were able to thrive on Ellesmere Island well above the Arctic Circle, despite six months of darkness each year.

The study has implications for the impacts of future climate change as Arctic temperatures continue to rise, said Professor … Read more >>.

Is new species of microbe consuming Gulf oil plume?

WASHINGTON – A new species of microbe may be consuming the oil spilled in the Gulf, says a new study.

Depending on how fast microbes consume oil, the results could be useful in helping scientists to determine what happened to the oil and how the oil could affect marine life.

In addition, the results also suggest that …. Source  : Is new species of microbe consuming Gulf oil plume?.

Why users willingly share personal info on shady-looking websites

WASHINGTON – Why is it that Internet users don’t care about sharing their most personal details on a shady, unprofessional-looking website or don’t mind answering questions on a pop quiz that reads ‘How BAD Are U??’

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University – Leslie K. John, Alessandro Acquisti, and George Loewenstein – said that many consumers need …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Why users willingly share personal info on shady-looking websites.

New nuclear breast imaging technologies linked to higher cancer risks

WASHINGTON – A new study has revealed that some nuclear-based breast imaging exams may increase a woman’s risk of developing radiation-induced cancer.

However, the radiation dose and risk from mammography are very low.

“A single breast-specific gamma imaging (BSGI) or positron emission mammography (PEM) examination carries a lifetime risk of inducing fatal cancer greater than or comparable …. Source article  : New nuclear breast imaging technologies linked to higher cancer risks.

Fluoride in water good for dental health

WASHINGTON – A new study has found that children drinking water with added fluoride helps dental health in adulthood decades later.

“Your fluoridation exposure at birth is affecting your tooth loss in your 40s and 50s, regardless of what your fluoridation exposure was like when you were 20 and 30 years old,” said Matthew Neidell, a [..] Read the original article: here.

Picture of Darwin’s family tree discovered

WASHINGTON – A photograph of the Charles Darwin’s family tree-the Galton-Darwin-Wedgwood pedigree-first exhibited in 1932, has been found in the archives of Truman State University.

A poster of the pedigree was prepared by Harry Hamilton Laughlin, Director of the Eugenics Record Office of the Carnegie Institute, and exhibited at the Third International Congress of Eugenics in … Original article on : Picture of Darwin’s family tree discovered.

Chronic drinking can disrupt body clock

WASHINGTON – A study has found a link between dysregulation of circadian clock genes and chronic drinking in humans.

Circadian rhythmicity is regulated by circadian clock genes, and animal studies have shown that chronic drinking can alter expressions in these genes.

The new study has found that significantly lower levels of messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) – … Read more >>>.

Scientists discover richest planetary system

WASHINGTON – Scientists have discovered a planetary system containing at least five planets, orbiting the Sun-like star HD 10180 using ESO’s world-leading HARPS instrument

There’s evidence of two more planets in the same system, which would make it similar to our Solar System in terms of the number of planets.

“We have found what is most … Read more : Scientists discover richest planetary system.

Greek archaeologists discover ‘Odysseus’ palace’

ITHACA – Greek archaeologists have claimed that they have found the palace of Odysseus after 16 years of excavation.

The discovery was reportedly made on the Ithaca Island in the Ionian Sea.

“We found the ruins of a three-level palace with a staircase carved into the rock,” Noinvite.com quoted Thanasis Papadopulos as saying

He added that they also …. Source  : Greek archaeologists discover ‘Odysseus’ palace’.

New study sheds light on painkilling system in brain

LONDON – Repeated boosting of brain levels of one natural painkiller results in shutting down the brain cell receptors that respond to it, thereby killing its painkilling effect, according to a surprising new study led by Scripps Research Institute and Virginia Commonwealth University scientists.

The study has important implications for drug development.

The natural painkiller, 2-AG, … Read more »»».

Why some find it easier to lose weight while others don’t

WASHINGTON – Using MRI and magnetic resonance (MR) spectroscopy, German researchers have found why some people lose weight and body fat when they exercise and eat less and others don’t.

The study can now help predict who will benefit from lifestyle changes.

“You may have two individuals who weigh the same and have the same body … Read more : Why some find it easier to lose weight while others don’t.

‘Love hormone’ makes people trusting, but not gullible

WASHINGTON – The so-called love hormone Oxytocin (OT) fosters trust in people, but doesn’t make them gullible, according to a new study.

Increased levels of OT have been associated with greater caring, generosity, and trust.

But researchers wanted to find out if OT increases people’s trust in just anybody or if it act more …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Love hormone’ makes people trusting, but not gullible.

Some stem cell studies stop as researchers await Obama administration appeal of court ruling

Obama appeals stem cell ruling; some work to stop
WASHINGTON – Promising medical research is in disarray as scientists await an appeal by the Obama administration of a judge’s ruling that undercuts taxpayer-funded research using human embryonic stem cells.
The Justice Department said Tuesday it will appeal later this week a federal judge’s [..] Read the original article: here.

Caloric drinks show different effects on energy intake among men and women

WASHINGTON – Having caloric beverages like fizzy colas and packaged juices has different affects on short-term total energy intake in men and women, according to a new scientific study from Oxford Brookes University.

The study, conducted by Viren Ranawana … Read : Caloric drinks show different effects on energy intake among men and women.

India, US come together to promote women in science

NEW DELHI – More needs to be done to attract women to the fields of science and technology, US Assistant Secretary of State for Scientific Affairs Kerri Ann Jones said here Thursday.

“Women are under-represented on the top level in the field of science and technology, this needs to be addressed,” said Jones as the … Read more >>>.

New mechanism of memory formation discovered

WASHINGTON – Scientists have discovered a novel mechanism that plays a critical role in the formation of long-term memory.

The findings from researchers at the Florida campus of The Scripps Research Institute shed substantial new light on aspects of how memory …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : New mechanism of memory formation discovered.

How the first super-massive black holes were born

LONDON – Astronomers believe they have discovered how the first super-massive black holes were born.

The discovery about the origin of our universe’s first super-massive black holes, which formed some 13 billion years ago, fills in a missing chapter of our universe’s early history, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : How the first super-massive black holes were born.

Biosynthetic corneas restore vision in humans for the first time

WASHINGTON – Biosynthetic corneas can help regenerate and repair damaged eye tissue and improve vision in humans, according to a new study.

“This study is important because it is the first to show that an artificially fabricated cornea can integrate with the human eye and stimulate regeneration,” said senior author Dr. May Griffith of the Ottawa … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Biosynthetic corneas restore vision in humans for the first time.

Scientists create liver cells from patients’ skin

WASHINGTON – Scientists at Cambridge University have created liver cells in a lab for the first time by reprogramming stem cells taken from human skin, paving the way for potential new treatments for liver diseases that kill thousands each year.

The new research has demonstrated how to create diseased liver-like cells from patients suffering from a … Read more : Scientists create liver cells from patients’ skin.

Men’s perfect lovers come with a waist-to-hip ratio of 0.7

LONDON – Math has solved many a complex equations over the years, and now it can also find you the perfect answer to who might be the best lover for you.

Anthropologist Barnaby Dixson studied what the sexes found attractive in a partner across cultures.

Dixson said the same formula for what men favoured in women came …. Source  : Men’s perfect lovers come with a waist-to-hip ratio of 0.7.

Ancient bakery discovered in Egyptian Desert

WASHINGTON – Archaeologists have found the remains of what appears to be an ancient bakery town that existed in Egypt’s western desert more than 3,500 years ago.

A team of Egyptian and US archaeologists from Yale University made the above discovery during excavation work for the Theban Desert Road Survey, a project to map the ancient … Read : Ancient bakery discovered in Egyptian Desert.

Massive solar storm to hit Earth in 2012 with ‘force of 100m bombs’

MELBOURNE – Astronomers are predicting that a massive solar storm, much bigger in potential than the one that caused spectacular light shows on Earth earlier this month, is to strike our planet in 2012 with a force of 100 million hydrogen bombs.

Several US media outlets have reported that NASA was warning the massive flare this … Read : Massive solar storm to hit Earth in 2012 with ‘force of 100m bombs’.

Himachal to get moderate to mild rains

SHIMLA – Himachal Pradesh is likely to receive moderate to mild rainfall in the next three days, the weather office here said Thursday, a day after heavy rains lashed various parts of the state.

“After witnessing heavy to very heavy rainfall in the past few days, the monsoon is likely to remain in dormancy in the … Read more : Himachal to get moderate to mild rains.

FACT CHECK: White House claims for stimulus rely on rosy assumptions, best-case scenarios

FACT CHECK: Stimulus assessments overly optimistic

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration claimed this week that $100 billion invested in innovative technologies under the economic stimulus law is “transforming the American economy” by putting the nation on track for technological breakthroughs in health care, energy and transportation.
But an examination of details in the 50-page report unveiled Tuesday …. Read the original article  : FACT CHECK: White House claims for stimulus rely on rosy assumptions, best-case scenarios.

Skin cancer pill showing ‘remarkable’ results, say researchers

LONDON – Researchers say that a pill that helps slow the spread of advanced skin cancer is showing ‘remarkable’ results in early trials.

The drug, PLX4032, works by inhibiting a ‘faulty’ gene that constantly activates a protein which drives cell division and hence tumour growth.

Of 48 patients treated in the American and Australian study who … Read : Skin cancer pill showing ‘remarkable’ results, say researchers.

Oetzi, the 5,000-year-old ‘Iceman’ may have had ceremonial burial

LONDON – Archaeologists have claimed that Oetzi, the 5,000-year-old “Iceman” found in the Italian Alps, may have been buried in a ceremony.

An autopsy suggested that an arrow wound to the shoulder had killed Oetzi, reports the BBC.

While this is not disputed, a new study suggests that months after his death, Oetzi’s corpse was carried to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Oetzi, the 5,000-year-old ‘Iceman’ may have had ceremonial burial.

Neural switch that controls fear discovered

WASHINGTON – Researchers at the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) in Monterotondo, Italy and GlaxoSmithKline in Verona, Italy, have discovered the neural switch that controls fear.

The researchers have identified not only the part of the brain but the specific type of neurons that determine how mice react to a frightening stimulus.

In the study, they … Read more >>.

Sad mothers give birth to smaller babies: Study

WASHINGTON – A new research has revealed that clinical depression and anxiety during pregnancy results in smaller babies who are more likely to die in infancy.

The study, which focused on women living in rural Bangladesh, provides the first finding of its kind in a non-Western population.

The research indicated that mental health issues are …. Original article  : Sad mothers give birth to smaller babies: Study.

Soon, recharge laptops and cell phones with soda pop, vegetable oil

WASHINGTON – Ever thought of “recharging” your cell phones, laptops and other portable electronics with a sugar fix from a shared sip of soda pop or even a dose of vegetable oil? Well, this could soon be reality, all thanks to a newly developed battery-like device.

Researchers have described the device as the first fuel cell …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Soon, recharge laptops and cell phones with soda pop, vegetable oil.

Facebook is now a $33 billion entity

LONDON – Facebook is now worth a whopping 33.7 billion dollars, after investors paid up to 76 dollars for a share in the company ahead of its much-hyped flotation on the stock market, according to a report.

The Financial Times has said that the implied valuation means that Facebook is now has a higher valuation than …. Original source  : Facebook is now a $33 billion entity.

Spouses don’t grow more alike over time: Study

WASHINGTON – Contrary to popular notion, spouses do not become more similar over time, according to a team of researchers led by Michigan State University. Instead, people choose their mates based on shared personality traits.

“Existing research shows that spouses are more similar than random people. This could reflect spouses’ influence on each other over time, … Original article on : Spouses don’t grow more alike over time: Study.

Scientists discover one of world’s tiniest frogs breeding in carnivorous plants in Borneo

Pea-sized frogs found in Borneo carnivorous plants

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – One of the world’s tiniest frogs – barely larger than a pea – has been found living in and around carnivorous plants on Borneo island, one of the scientists who made the accidental discovery said Thursday.
Indraneil Das, a scientist at University Malaysia Sarawak, said he … Original article on : Scientists discover one of world’s tiniest frogs breeding in carnivorous plants in Borneo.

Cloudy morning, another rainy day expected

NEW DELHI – After seven consecutive days of rain, Delhiites woke up to a cloudy morning Thursday with the weather office predicting showers later in the day and commuters hoping that they would be spared the agony of endless traffic snarls.

“The sky will remain cloudy. There is a possibility of heavy rains and thundershowers … Original source on Gaea Times at : Cloudy morning, another rainy day expected.

Second-hand smoke ‘triggers inflammatory response in lungs’

WASHINGTON – Researchers at the University of Colorado-Denver have found that second-hand smoke triggers a complex inflammatory response in rat lungs.

The team found that two months of exposure to second-hand smoke were enough to cause significant changes in the rats’ lung tissue, and the results were even more profound in rats exposed for four months.

The …. Source  : Second-hand smoke ‘triggers inflammatory response in lungs’.

Decoding wheat genome key to tackling global food shortage

WASHINGTON – Scientists at Liverpool, University of Bristol and the John Innes Centre, have sequenced the entire wheat genome that will help crop breeders select key agricultural traits for breeding – a move that could be the answer to global food shortage.

Scientists have analysed the wheat genome, which is five times larger than the human …. Original source  : Decoding wheat genome key to tackling global food shortage.

Macho men’s unique smell attracts women like magnets!

LONDON – A new research by German psychologists has revealed that macho men have a different type of body odour to others.

It is believed that the phenomenon helps women sniff out alpha males, in the belief they will provide them with healthy kids.

The scented signal may also provide wimps with a subtle warning that there … Read : Macho men’s unique smell attracts women like magnets!.

World’s first known cannibals ate each other for extra nutrition

WASHINGTON – A new study has revealed that the world’s first known cannibals ate each other to satisfy their nutritional needs.

The humans-as-food determination negates other possibilities, such as cannibalism for ritual’s sake, or cannibalism due to starvation.

In this oldest known case of humans eating humans, other food was available to the diners, but human … Read : World’s first known cannibals ate each other for extra nutrition.

Frog skin may offer ‘kiss of death’ for antibiotic-resistant germs

WASHINGTON – Kissing a frog won’t turn it into a prince – except in fairy tales – but frog’s skin can actually provide a ‘kiss of death’ for antibiotic-resistant germs.

Scientists have claimed that frog skin contains natural substances that could be the basis for a powerful new genre of antibiotics.

In a new study, the team … Read : Frog skin may offer ‘kiss of death’ for antibiotic-resistant germs.

Urine-powered fuel cells to offer pee power to people

WASHINGTON – This could literally be called pee power to the people-researchers have figured out a way to make the world’s first urine-powered fuel cells.

Chemistry postdocs Shanwen Tao and Rong Lan at Heriot-Watt University’s School of Engineering and Physical Sciences in Edinburgh are turning pee into electricity and clean water with a prototype fuel cell … Read : Urine-powered fuel cells to offer pee power to people.

Distant star’s sound waves have cycle similar to the Sun’s

WASHINGTON – In an effort to unravel the mysteries of the Sun, including the impacts on Earth of its 11-year cycle, an international team of scientists has successfully probed a distant star and on monitoring the star’s sound waves, they have observed a magnetic cycle analogous to the Sun’s solar cycle.

In the study, scientists at …. Source  : Distant star’s sound waves have cycle similar to the Sun’s.

Walking ‘boosts brain function’

WASHINGTON – Even moderate exercise – like walking – can enhance the connectivity of important brain circuits, combat declines in brain function associated with aging and increase performance on cognitive tasks, say researchers.

In the study, researchers found that moderate walking three times per week for a year increased brain connectivity and brain function in older … Read : Walking ‘boosts brain function’.

Two heads ‘may be better than one’

WASHINGTON – Two heads are better than one, but only when your partner is competent and communicative, according to a new study.

Chris Frith of the Wellcome Trust Centre for Neuroimaging at UCL (University College London) and Niels Bohr, Professor in the University of Aarhus, conducted the study to find if two people can combine their … Original source on Gaea Times at : Two heads ‘may be better than one’.

Average-looking female sparrows find good-looking males ‘out of their league’

WASHINGTON – Female house sparrows that are mediocre in the looks department prefer choosing average looking male sparrows for mating, rather than the attractive ones, says a new study.

Researchers from the Konrad Lorenz Institute for Ethology in Vienna, Matteo Griggio and Herbert Hoi have found that unattractive females dare not dream of mating with males …. Source  : Average-looking female sparrows find good-looking males ‘out of their league’.

Mars hoax: ‘No two moons’ on Friday night

WASHINGTON – Scientists are continuously trying to debunk the Mars hoax email that spreads like wildfire every year, an email that says ‘Mars will appear to be as big as the moon on August 27.’

“The possibility of seeing Mars as large as the moon strikes the imagination,” National Geographic News quoted Marc Jobin, staff astronomer … Original source on Gaea Times at : Mars hoax: ‘No two moons’ on Friday night.

Victimized kids exposed to disasters ‘face mental health issues’

WASHINGTON – A new research has found that children who had experienced maltreatment, domestic abuse or peer violence on top of exposure to disaster had more anxiety, depression, and aggression than children who only experienced a disaster.

This study makes it clear that, for some children, those problems may also be related to other stress events … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Victimized kids exposed to disasters ‘face mental health issues’.

Like humans, bacteria make thrift a habit

WASHINGTON – Just as humans sometimes prefer to spend on recyclable materials over use-and-throw items, bacteria too ’spend’ more on proteins that will be used and recycled internally than on proteins that are secreted from the cell and lost to the environment, says a new study.

The bacterium Escherichia coli prefers recyclable proteins over those that …. Read the original article  : Like humans, bacteria make thrift a habit.

Now, excess water dispute between India and Pakistan

FEROZEPUR – They have fought three wars and have been involved in bitter disputes over water sharing. But India and Pakistan are now fighting a battle on a different turf – to get rid of excess water.

With heavy rainfall in the last few weeks in both the countries leading to flooding of several areas – …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Now, excess water dispute between India and Pakistan.

China acquires deep-diving technology

BEIJING – A homemade submersible has reached a depth of 3,759 metres, making China the fifth country to acquire deep-diving technology, a media report said Friday.

The Jiaolong, which is 8.2 metres long and weighs nearly 22 tonnes, was designed to reach a depth of 7,000 metrse and operate in most of the world’s oceans, China …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Antibiotics from frog skin may help fight superbugs

LONDON – Powerful new antibiotics developed from the skin of frogs could take the fight against superbugs to a higher level.

Frog skin is known to have plenty of potent germ-fighting compounds because of the hostile surroundings they inhabit. But these substances are often poisonous to humans.
Now a team at the United Arab …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Antibiotics from frog skin may help fight superbugs.

Bangladesh census to be digitised

DHAKA – Bangladesh, one of the world’s most densely populated nations, will conduct its census next March and the process will be implemented using digital methods for more accuracy.

Planning Minister A.K. Khandker Thursday said the population and housing census, an exercise undertaken every 10 years, will be held across the country in March.
It will … Read more >>.

‘Dry water’ that soaks up carbon faster

LONDON – Scientists have created ‘dry water’ that soaks carbon three times better than water, and hence help combat global warming.

Each particle of dry water, a substance that looks like powdered sugar, contains a water droplet surrounded by a sandy silica coating.
Ben Carter from the University of Liverpool who presented his research at …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Dry water’ that soaks up carbon faster.

Federal judge: Port of Los Angeles’ clean trucks program can proceed

Judge: LA Port’s clean trucks program can proceed

LOS ANGELES – A federal judge ruled Thursday that the Port of Los Angeles can regulate trucks that haul goods in and out of its property to reduce air pollution around the country’s busiest port complex.
U.S. District Court Judge Christina Snyder ruled that the port’s Clean Trucks Program …. Read the original article  : Federal judge: Port of Los Angeles’ clean trucks program can proceed.

Thunderstorm, light rain likely in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Delhi was cloudy Friday morning and the weatherman said parts of the city could experience a thunderstorm and light rains.

“The skies will be partly cloudy and some parts of the national capital will experience a thunder storm and light showers later in the day,” an India Meteorological Department (IMD) official said.
The …. Source  : Thunderstorm, light rain likely in Delhi.

Vaccine reduces child cases of bacterial pneumonia: Study

WASHINGTON – A new study has shown that the number of children admitted to English hospitals with bacterial pneumonia decreased by a fifth in the 2 years following the introduction of a vaccine to combat the disease.

Bacterial pneumonia is a serious illness caused by … Read : Vaccine reduces child cases of bacterial pneumonia: Study.

Martian ‘enigmatic elliptical depression’ baffles scientists

WASHINGTON – Scientists have long been baffled by Orcus Patera, an enigmatic elliptical depression near Mars’s equator, in the eastern hemisphere of the planet.

The term ‘patera’ is used for deep, complex or irregularly shaped volcanic craters such as the Hadriaca Patera and Tyrrhena Patera. However, despite its name …. Source  : Martian ‘enigmatic elliptical depression’ baffles scientists.

New hope for restoring hearing loss in adults

WASHINGTON – Scientists are exploring new avenues for restoring hearing loss in adults.

Researchers have tracked a cell-to-cell signalling pathway that designates the future location of the ear’s sensory organs in embryonic mice. The scientists succeeded in activating this signal more widely …. Read the original article  : New hope for restoring hearing loss in adults.

Fertilizer chemicals harm reproductive functions of water organisms

WASHINGTON – North Carolina State University toxicologists have found that fertilizer chemicals pose danger to creatures that live in water.

The NC State researchers show that water fleas take up nitrates and nitrites and convert those chemicals into nitric oxide, which in turn causes developmental and reproductive problems – even at low concentrations.

“There’s only limited evidence … Original article on : Fertilizer chemicals harm reproductive functions of water organisms.

Tiny Gulf sea creature could shed light on impact of oil spill

WASHINGTON – A University of Alabama molecular biologist plans to collect sea anemones that live in Gulf Coast waters back to his lab in order to better understand the impact of the oil spill on marine life.

Dr. Matthew Jenny will be analysing the tiny creatures, which are related to the corals that build ocean reefs.

“We … Read more >>>.

Facebook alternative Diaspora to be launched on Sept 15

LONDON – Diaspora, an open alternative to Facebook, is set to be launched, say developers of the project.

Diaspora, which describes itself, as a “privacy-aware, personally-controlled” social network will be launched on 15 September.

The open-source project came into the limelight earlier this year when Facebook was forced to simplify its privacy settings, after they were criticised … Read more »»».

Revolutionary new way to treat eye cancer may prevent blindness

WASHINGTON – Treating eye cancer often requires radiation that leaves half of all patients partially blind. But a revolutionary new technique may change all that.

Scott Oliver from the University of Colorado School of Medicine Oliver has discovered that silicone oil applied inside the eye can block up to 55 percent of harmful radiation, enough to …. Source  : Revolutionary new way to treat eye cancer may prevent blindness.

WikiLeaks founder’s son says his dad is awful with women

NEW YORK – Australian WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange’s son posted on Facebook that his father has a lot of women who are his enemies.

Daniel Assange, 21, made the comment after two Swedish women came forward with allegations that led to rape and molestation charges against his dad.

“That man does have a way of making a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : WikiLeaks founder’s son says his dad is awful with women.

Mars Close To Earth Tonight Was A Hoax

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- Mars coming close to Earth and appearing as big as moon on Friday night was just another hoax that went viral on the web. The Mars close to Earth hoax, that claimed that the Red planet will be coming so close to earth that it will appear just like yet another … Read more »»».

Bharatpur bird sanctuary to get water – finally

JAIPUR – The famous Bharatpur bird sanctuary, which has been losing its winged visitors due to an acute shortage of water, is set to get a new lease of life, with the Rajasthan government finally releasing water from a dam.

Moved by the gravity of the situation, the government Friday released water from the Panchna Dam … Original source on Gaea Times at : Bharatpur bird sanctuary to get water – finally.

Solar max ‘gloom and doom’ claims overstated: Expert

MELBOURNE – All the hype about how disastrous the solar max could be for the entire power grid of Earth is unnecessary, a leading astronomer from Australia has said.

But Dr Phil Wilkinson, assistant director with the Australian Bureau of Meteorology’s Ionospheric Prediction Service, said that the claims that this coming solar maximum will be the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Solar max ‘gloom and doom’ claims overstated: Expert.

Soon, solar-power ‘Seaswarm’ robots to clean up oil spills in 30 days

WASHINGTON – Scientists may soon bring in a swarm of solar-powered robots to clean up Gulf oil-type spills in a record time of 30 days.

The robots, named ‘Seaswarm’, are being developed at MIT and incorporate oil-absorbing nanomaterial created by MIT professor Francesco Stellacci.

The Seaswarm robot prototype is 16 feet long by 7 feet wide and … Read : Soon, solar-power ‘Seaswarm’ robots to clean up oil spills in 30 days.

Soon, plant-based sunscreens that may prevent skin cancer

WASHINGTON – Scientists are exploring natural, plant-based agents that could be used in manufacturing skin cancer-preventing sunscreens.

Scientists at The University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio report that certain plant substances, which occur naturally in grapes, berries, walnuts and a number of other plant-based foods, were tested on mice.

These mice had been genetically manipulated … Read more »».

Double meteorite strike ‘led to dinosaur extinction’

LONDON – A new study has suggested that dinosaurs were killed 65 million years ago by at least two meteorite impacts, rather than a single strike.

Previously, it was thought that the Chicxulub Crater in the Gulf of Mexico lead to the extinction of dinosaurs from the earth. But now evidence for a second impact in …. Source  : Double meteorite strike ‘led to dinosaur extinction’.

Bigger dogs may be smarter than their smaller counterparts

WASHINGTON – Size might matter after all, for a new study shows that bigger dogs may be smarter than their smaller counterparts.

According to Discovery News, researchers in New Zealand have hypothesized that a wider set of eyes in big canines gives them better depth perception. As a result, they can more easily discern the direction …. Read the original article  : Bigger dogs may be smarter than their smaller counterparts.

400-year-old letter reveals ‘lost’ native Peruvian language

WASHINGTON – A 400 year-old letter found in the ruins of an ancient Spanish colonial church in 2008 has revealed a previously unknown Peruvian native language.

The letter was found during excavations of the Magdalena de Cao Viejo church at the El Brujo Archaeological Complex in northern Peru.

It showed that an early 17th-century Spanish author …. Source article  : 400-year-old letter reveals ‘lost’ native Peruvian language.

Cloudy day ahead in Delhi, rains likely

NEW DELHI – Cloudy skies and rains in some parts of the city — that’s what Saturday is likely to see in Delhi, a weather official said.

“The skies will be partly cloudy and some parts of the capital will experience thunderstorm and rains,” an India Meteorological Department (IMD) official said.
Delhi recorded a …. Read the original article  : Cloudy day ahead in Delhi, rains likely.

Shimla’s historic Ridge develops cracks

SHIMLA – The historic Ridge, which was the only promenade for the British colonial rulers when Shimla was their summer capital and rests on the city’s water supply system, is buckling under human pressure and heavy rains.

Around 40 metres of the Ridge in front of the famous Gaiety Theatre has caved in. The portion … Original article on : Shimla’s historic Ridge develops cracks.

EPA denies environmental groups’ petition to ban lead in hunting ammunition

EPA denies bid to ban lead in hunting ammunition

WASHINGTON – The Environmental Protection Agency on Friday denied a petition by five environmental groups to ban lead in hunting ammunition, saying the issue is not within the agency’s jurisdiction.
The EPA said it did not have the authority to enact the ban, aimed at protecting wildlife, under … Read : EPA denies environmental groups’ petition to ban lead in hunting ammunition.

Trucking group to appeal court ruling permitting Los Angeles port to enforce anti-smog policy

Truckers to appeal ruling for LA anti-smog program

LOS ANGELES – Environmentalists on Friday hailed a federal judge’s ruling that allows the nation’s largest port to enforce anti-smog rules on big rigs that haul goods in and out.
The case involving the Port of Los Angeles is being watched by ports around the nation that are implementing … Read more : Trucking group to appeal court ruling permitting Los Angeles port to enforce anti-smog policy.

Female tree frogs look for males with longer, more frequent mating calls

WASHINGTON – The mating call of the male red-eyed tree frog tells the female everything she needs to know, and it’s the rate, frequency, and duration of these calls that determines who the mate would be, according to a new study.

The author recorded 575 mating calls from 30 male tree frogs in the Cayo District … Read more >>>.

Novel test may lead to custom-tailored quitting approaches for smokers

WASHINGTON – A new test being developed could now pinpoint smoke deliveries of select chemicals that an individual smoker consumes on a per cigarette basis.

Scientists said that it provides a much more accurate estimate of exposure than using automated cigarette smoking machines to estimate mainstream smoke deliveries, which traditionally have been used.

“Historically, our knowledge … Read more : Novel test may lead to custom-tailored quitting approaches for smokers.

Tweens find Internet ‘a source of happiness’

SYDNEY – Tweens are a lot more adept at using Internet and find it a source of happiness, new research has shown.

The Tween Tracker survey showed that almost half of the 1200 children interviewed have Facebook profiles.

Social media expert Laurel Papworth describes Facebook as the online equivalent of a “keep out, I mean it!” sign … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Tweens find Internet ‘a source of happiness’.

Groundbreaking surgery lets Scottish man live pain-free

LONDON – A Scottish patient suffering from both multiple sclerosis (MS) and dystonia for the last 15 years has been given a new lease of life with a groundbreaking surgery that will now let him live pain free.

Sandick Hanson has spent the last 15 years living with both multiple sclerosis (MS) and dystonia, leaving him … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Groundbreaking surgery lets Scottish man live pain-free.

Yamuna receding but still above danger mark

NEW DELHI – A respite from the rains brought down the water level of the Yamuna river Sunday, though it is still flowing above the danger mark.

“The water level in the Yamuna has come down by 18 cm to 205.76 metres from Saturday’s 205.94 metres,” an Irrigation and Flood Control Department official told IANS. … Read more >>>.

Surgery ‘ups Alzheimer’s risk’

LONDON – A new study, conducted at Imperial College London, has revealed that patients who undergo major hospital operations could be at greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

Experiments conducted on mice revealed changes in their brains, similar to those observed in humans with dementia, when the animals are operated on.

The researchers suspect the same … Read more : Surgery ‘ups Alzheimer’s risk’.

Now, a test to predict Caesarean need

LONDON – Researchers in Sweden has developed a new test which could stop women labouring for hours in the hope of a “normal” birth only to end up with a Caesarean section.

They have established that when high levels of lactic acid are measured in the amniotic fluid, it is unlikely the mother will deliver vaginally.

Measuring …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Now, a test to predict Caesarean need.

Oz scientists’ theory brings invisibility cloaks closer to reality

LONDON – University of Sydney researchers have combined techniques used to produce light-bending metamaterials with those used to make optical fibres to try and create real invisible threads.

Alessandro Tuniz is interested in the optical metamaterials that are being fashioned into “invisibility cloaks” in labs across the world.

According to the New Scientist, these metamaterials can …. Source  : Oz scientists’ theory brings invisibility cloaks closer to reality.

Over nine million Britons never use internet

LONDON – More than nine million adults in Britain have never used the internet, says a survey.

The elderly, widowed and people in lower economic strata were less likely to be net savvy, says the the survey by the Office of National Statistics (ONS).
A ‘digital divide’ in the country is being feared if millions … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Over nine million Britons never use internet.

Eating more omega-3 fats doesn’t help heart attack patients who get good care, study finds

Study: More omega-3 fats didn’t aid heart patients

NEW YORK – Eating more heart-healthy omega-3 fats provided no additional benefit in a study of heart attack survivors who were already getting good care, Dutch researchers report.
After nearly 3 1/2 years, there was no difference in deaths, heart attacks and other heart problems between those who ate …. Original source  : Eating more omega-3 fats doesn’t help heart attack patients who get good care, study finds.

‘Good’ bacteria in yoghurt may end your bed bug woes

LONDON – If there’s one thing that absolutely kills off a good sleep, it’s bed bugs, but now scientists have found a new way of getting rid of them – by using yoghurt.

Probiotic yoghurt has ‘friendly’ bacteria. So now scientists say that bed bugs can be wiped out by loading these good bacteria into the …. Source article  : ‘Good’ bacteria in yoghurt may end your bed bug woes.

Japan urges China to adopt better labor laws after widespread strikes, says more talks needed

Japan calls for transparent labor rules in China

BEIJING – Japan called for “transparent policies” governing workers in China, saying labor disputes that halted operations at dozens of factories this year were troubling to Japanese companies.
Foreign Minister Katsuya Okada brought up the issue at a high-level economic meeting between China and Japan – the world’s second …. Source  : Japan urges China to adopt better labor laws after widespread strikes, says more talks needed.

Humid day in Delhi, rains likely

NEW DELHI – Delhi experienced a muggy Sunday morning as the humidity levels were high. The weatherman said parts of the city could see some showers later in the day.

“The skies will be cloudy with one or two spells of rain or thundershowers in some parts of the city,” said an official of the Indian … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Humid day in Delhi, rains likely.

Venezuelans protest rampant violence, some liken bloodshed to ‘undeclared war’

Venezuelans protest against unchecked violence

CARACAS, Venezuela – Opponents of President Hugo Chavez marched through Caracas on Saturday to protest rampant violence that claims thousands of lives each year in Venezuela and has been worsening in the past decade.
Protesters beat on drums and held signs with images of skulls and crossbones and slogans such as “Enough” …. Source  : Venezuelans protest rampant violence, some liken bloodshed to ‘undeclared war’.

Cash-strapped state parks eye corporate sponsorships; NH hooks up with outdoor apparel company

State parks explore corporate sponsorship
CONCORD, N.H. – Not every state park in New Hampshire includes a mountain, but all staffers might be wearing pictures of little peaks on their uniforms next summer thanks to a corporate sponsorship the state is exploring with Eastern Mountain Sports.

Faced with widening budget gaps, numerous states are reaching out to …. Read the original article  : here.

Younger activists help older generation change tactics to fight new nuclear power push

Older activists, younger crowd team to fight nukes
DES MOINES, Iowa – It’s been 33 years since Raye Fleming’s arrest outside Southern California’s Diablo Canyon nuclear plant, near the height of the anti-nuclear power furor.
That was the first arrest of many and, Fleming believed, such actions paid off as a generation of Americans turned …. Original article  : Younger activists help older generation change tactics to fight new nuclear power push.

Companies clamor for Congress to extend grant that propped up renewable power in recession

Cash grant that propped up alt power due to expire
BOISE, Idaho – The wind always seems to blow on the Snake River plain, keeping this high-desert landscape of sage, potatoes and sugarbeet plants forever in motion.
Still, General Electric Co. executives said the consistent gusts weren’t enough for them to take a majority stake …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Companies clamor for Congress to extend grant that propped up renewable power in recession.

No rain in cloudy Delhi

NEW DELHI – A cloud cover remained over Delhi throughout Saturday, a day on which the maximum temperature remained a notch above the average and high humidity led to sticky and uncomfortable conditions.

“It was cloudy the whole day,” said an official of the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
According to a met official, the … Original article on : No rain in cloudy Delhi.

‘Man-killer’ tiger to be tranquilised

LUCKNOW – A male tiger, which is believed to be responsible for eight human killings in Uttar Pradesh since May, has been formally declared “man-killer” and will be tranquilised soon, an official said Saturday.

Taking into account the pattern of the six human killings in the Deoria forest range in Pilibhit district, some 250 km from …. Source  : ‘Man-killer’ tiger to be tranquilised.

Sodium MRI offers new insights into detecting osteoarthritis

WASHINGTON – Scientists have offered a non-invasive method to diagnose osteoarthritis in its very early stages.

Researchers at New York University have developed an innovative way to look at the development of osteoarthritis in the knee joint-one that relies on the examination of sodium … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Sodium MRI offers new insights into detecting osteoarthritis.