Science News – Weekly Newsletter for February 14-21, 2011

Study sheds light on RNA ‘on/off switches’

LONDON – A recent study has shed new light on a molecular switch that turns genes on or off in response to a cell’s energy needs.

Scientists from The Scripps Research Institute show these recently discovered RNA “riboswitches” are capable of more complex functions than originally thought.

In addition, because riboswitches so far have been found …. Source  : Study sheds light on RNA ‘on/off switches’.

Forget search engines, try the new ‘answer engines’

LONDON – Computer wizards have claimed that by using a ‘cutting-edge’ technology they have created a clever website that gives direct answers to direct questions.

According to creators, “trueknowledge.com” site is an Internet “answer engine” which breaks new ground by giving direct answers to questions.

Co-founder William Tunstall-Pedoe, who is based in Cambridge, said the website is …. Original article  : Forget search engines, try the new ‘answer engines’.

‘Anti-social’ attitude in boozy fish may explain alcoholism impact in humans

WASHINGTON – Even small amounts of alcohol at an early age can have a long-lasting impact on fish and humans alike, according to a new study.

It found that alcohol exposure makes fish anti-social, reports the Discovery News.

Robert Gerlai, a professor of psychology at the University of Toronto, Mississauga, and colleagues examined the neurological effects of …. Read the original article  : ‘Anti-social’ attitude in boozy fish may explain alcoholism impact in humans.

Japanese satellite Hinode spots 2 huge holes in Sun

WASHINGTON – A Japanese spacecraft has spotted two huge holes in the sun’s magnetic field – which are blasting solar material into space.

The images, taken by Japan’s sun-watching satellite Hinode on February 1, clearly show two large dark holes at the top and the bottom of the sun, reports the Discovery News.

Known as ‘coronal holes’, … Read more : Japanese satellite Hinode spots 2 huge holes in Sun.

Internet IP addresses not exhausted: ITU official

NEW DELHI – An ITU official has denied that Internet addresses running out worldwide.

Zhao Houlin, a senior official of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), said that the IP address stock is not declining and resources allocated to some regional internet registries are far from exhausted.

The in-use IP addresses still have potentials that can be tapped, … Read more : Internet IP addresses not exhausted: ITU official.

New addition to solar system may be bigger than Jupiter

LONDON – A new planet in our solar system’s outer reaches could be four times as large as Jupiter, the biggest planet in the system, scientists believe.

Its orbit would be thousands of times further from the Sun than the Earth’s – which explains its obscurity.
The data which could prove the existence of Tyche, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

600 mn-year-old plant fossils found in China

BEIJING – Paleontologists in China have unearthed thousands of pieces of plant fossils dating back to about 600 million years, officials said.

A spokesman with the government of Xiuning county in Anhui province said the fossils were from the Sinian period (825 million to 570 million years ago), Xinhua reported.
The plants lived in the …. Read the original article  : 600 mn-year-old plant fossils found in China.

A wind-powered car that covered 5,000 km in barely $16

SYDNEY – It’s a car that travelled a distance of 5,000 km in Australia at a cost of just $16. Wondering how? Well, it was powered by the wind.

The Wind Explorer, touted as the world’s first car that runs on wind-generated energy, arrived here Monday after travelling from Perth via Adelaide and Melbourne. It …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Eighth wonder of the world’ found under a New Zealand lake

WELLINGTON – New Zealand’s first tourist attraction, dubbed the “eighth wonder of the world” by international travellers in the late 19th century, has been rediscovered 125 years after it was buried by one of the biggest-ever volcanic eruptions.

New Zealand and US scientists said they found the Pink and White Terraces, 60 metres below Lake … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘Eighth wonder of the world’ found under a New Zealand lake.

For rural homes, a lamp that’s also a stove!

BANGALORE – Is it a stove or a lamp? “It is actually both,” says engineer-inventor Anil Rajvanshi, developer of a dual purpose device that simultaneously solves the twin problem of cooking and lighting in rural homes that do not have electricity.

A lantern, which burns kerosene to produce bright light and also doubles up as … Read more >>.

Two genes key to wiring brain’s nerve cells

LONDON – Scientists have now been able to show that growing nerve cells realise when they’ve reached their target area in the brain — thanks to the interaction of two genes.

Each of the nerve cells — of which there are about 100 billion in the human brain — is programmed to connect … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Two genes key to wiring brain’s nerve cells.

Moon has deep core – similar to earth

WASHINGTON – The moon possesses an iron-rich core with a solid inner ball nearly 150 miles in radius, which is similar to that of the earth, according to a new study.

A team of NASA-led researchers applied new technology to seismic data from the Apollo mission and detected what many scientists have predicted: the moon …. Read the original article  : here.

In a galaxy far away, Indian-origin scientist finds her calling

CHICAGO – US-based Indian origin astrophysicist Sukanya Charkrabarti has found her calling 260,000 light years away in a galaxy that can barely, if at all, be seen. Galaxy X, at a distance which is modest on the cosmic scale, is where she is perfecting her theoretical skills.

Dealing with structures of the Milky Way that …. Read the original article  : here.

China issues warning on Valentine’s Day computer viruses

BEIJING – Technology experts in China have warned internet users to be alert against computer viruses based on the Valentine’s Day theme.

The China National Computer Virus Emergency Response Centre issued a circular Monday warning computer users not to open spam mail with Valentine’s Day messages in the subject line.
Such mails may contain worms [..] Read the original article: here.

For some, music gives the same high as sex

LONDON – A new study from the McGill University has revealed that listening to music is just as pleasurable as food, drugs and sex.

Listening to music releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter in the brain important for more tangible pleasures associated with sex or great food.

The study found that dopamine release in response to music elicited …. Read the original article  : here.

Mummies’ toes may be world’s earliest prosthetic body parts

WASHINGTON – Scientists say they have found the world’s earliest prosthetic body parts.

According to the experts, who tested replicas on volunteers, two artificial big toes – one found attached to the foot of an ancient Egyptian mummy, may have been used as artificial body parts in earlier times.

University of Manchester researcher, Dr Jacky Finch, has … Read : Mummies’ toes may be world’s earliest prosthetic body parts.

Indian inventor claims to have made ‘flying car’

LONDON – An Indian inventor, A.K. Vishwanath, has claimed that he has made a flying car with the help of India’s first small car, Maruti.

Made out of a seemingly ordinary 800cc Maruti car, it has rotor blades affixed to the roof with extended wheelarches creating a “vacuum section”, and has been one of the star …. Original source  : Indian inventor claims to have made ‘flying car’.

Cloudy morning, rain likely in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Delhi saw a cloudy yet warm morning Monday and the weatherman said showers were likely later in the day.

“The skies have been overcast since morning and thundershowers are expected in some parts of the city,” an official of the India meteorological Department (IMD) said.
The minimum temperature was five notches above …. Original source  : Cloudy morning, rain likely in Delhi.

Research must focus on sustainability: Experts

AGARTALA – Very little money is spent on research on the sustainable use of natural resources compared to what is spent on studies for their exploitation, experts said here Sunday, adding that identification of research priorities is the key to long-term development.

Worldwide, about 6,000 times more expenditure is made on research …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Research must focus on sustainability: Experts.

Showers expected in Delhi Monday

NEW DELHI – Weather officials have forecast light showers in some parts of Delhi Monday.

“Delhi will experience a partly cloudy sky with the possibility of a thunderstorm in some areas,” an official at the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said Sunday.
According to him, Monday’s maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to hover around …. Source  : Showers expected in Delhi Monday.

Scientists isolate molecule that helps produce proteins

WASHINGTON – Scientists have isolated a molecular assistant called Spy that helps bugs produce proteins for medical and industrial purposes.

Bacteria are widely used to manufacture proteins used in medicine and industry, but the bugs often bungle the job.
Many proteins fall apart and get cut up inside the bacteria before they can be …. Read the original article  : Scientists isolate molecule that helps produce proteins.

Radiation would nix sex in space: NASA

LONDON – Cosmic radiation hitting human bodies would nix sex in space, NASA scientists assert.

Researchers at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s Ames Research Centre found that without effective shielding, powerful proton particles would probably sterilise any female embryo conceived in deep space, the Journal of Cosmology reports.
They also concluded that …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Radiation would nix sex in space: NASA.

A wireless radio that is twice as fast

WASHINGTON – Researchers, several of them of Indian origin, have developed the first wireless radio that can send and receive signals at the same time. This makes them twice as fast as existing technology.

“Textbooks say you can’t do it,” said Philip Levis, assistant professor of computer science and electrical engineering at Stanford University. “The … Read : A wireless radio that is twice as fast.

Hand movements may give clues to ADHD severity

WASHINGTON – Two studies have found markers for measuring the ability of children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) to control impulsive movements, which may reveal insights into the neurobiology of ADHD, inform prognosis and guide treatments.

“Despite its prevalence, there is a lack of understanding about the neurobiological basis of ADHD,” said Dr. Stewart Mostofsky, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Hand movements may give clues to ADHD severity.

Internet playing cupid for middle-aged people: Study

LONDON – A new study has revealed that middle-aged people are most likely to look for love online – dispelling the myth that Internet dating is primarily for the young.

The international poll of 12,000 couples between 18 and 70 years by the University of Oxford found that 36 percent people aged 40-69 who had [..] Read the original article: here.

Here’s why consumers pay for celebrity possessions

WASHINGTON – A new study has offered insights into why someone would pay 48,875 dollars for a tape measure that had belonged to Jackie Kennedy or 3,300 dollars for Bernie Madoff’s footstool.

The authors, George E. Newman (Yale University), Gil Diesendruck (Bar-Ilan University), and Paul Bloom (Yale University) delved into the concept of “contagion,” the belief … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Here’s why consumers pay for celebrity possessions.

Secondary task may ‘improve driver’s attention, stability on road’

WASHINGTON – New research by human factors/ergonomics researchers at the University of Kansas suggests that drivers who lose focus on the road because of boredom can actually increase their attention by engaging in a secondary task, particularly during the last leg of their journey.

In a driving simulator, 45 participants drove for 30 minutes while talking … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Secondary task may ‘improve driver’s attention, stability on road’.

IBM’s supercomputer to be pitted against humans in TV quiz

LONDON – IBM’s supercomputer Watson will compete against two humans in a TV quiz for the prize of a million dollars.

Jeopardy tests a player’s knowledge of trivia in a range of categories, from geography and politics to history and entertainment.

It is seen as the greatest challenge for Watson because of the show’s rapid-fire format and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : IBM’s supercomputer to be pitted against humans in TV quiz.

Soft, inward-folding car bonnet could save lives, cut head trauma ‘by 60 pc’

LONDON – Scientists at Cellbond in collaboration with Ruskin University in Cambridge have designed a ‘pedestrian friendly bonnet’ that folds inward on impact.

They claim it could save thousands of lives and reduce head trauma by 60 per cent for those hit by cars.

“During an impact the pedestrian exerts a dynamic force on the car bonnet. …. Read the original article  : Soft, inward-folding car bonnet could save lives, cut head trauma ‘by 60 pc’.

Obese women may be less likely to develop chronic eye disease

WASHINGTON – A new study has found that obesity may be associated with higher eye pressure and a decreased risk of open-angle glaucoma in women.

“Open-angle glaucoma is a chronic eye disease characterized by glaucomatous optic neuropathy and corresponding glaucomatous visual field loss,” the authors said.

Wishal D. Ramdas, of the Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, …. Original source  : Obese women may be less likely to develop chronic eye disease.

New device to help confirm Kepler’s planetary candidates

WASHINGTON – The Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics (CfA) is part of an international collaboration building a new instrument called HARPS-North, which will complement Kepler by helping to confirm and characterize Kepler’s planetary candidates.

HARPS stands for High-Accuracy Radial velocity Planet Searcher and is designed to detect the tiny radial-velocity signal induced by planets as small as …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Why budding guitarists have a fetish for rock hero instruments

WASHINGTON – Most guitarists have a desire to own an instrument just like the one their rock idol owns, or something similar to that – now a new study explains why.

“Like people from the Middle Ages who sought saints’ relics, modern consumers like the budding rock guitarist desire fetishes (objects perceived as magical and possessing … Original source on Gaea Times at : Why budding guitarists have a fetish for rock hero instruments.

Gene that controls immune system linked to preeclampsia

WASHINGTON – Scientists have found that the placentas of women who suffer preeclampsia during pregnancy have an overabundance of a gene associated with the regulation of the body’s immune system.

The discovery by researchers at North Carolina State University may lead to improved screening and prenatal care for these patients and their babies.

Preeclampsia, a disorder is … Read more : Gene that controls immune system linked to preeclampsia.

Blood glucose levels indicator of retinopathy risk

WASHINGTON – A new study has found that individuals who have higher blood glucose levels and poorer control of those levels over time are more likely to develop eye-related complications 10 years later.

Pascale Massin, of Hopital Lariboisiere, Paris, and colleagues in the Data From an Epidemiological Study on the Insulin Resistance Syndrome (DESIR) Study Group … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Blood glucose levels indicator of retinopathy risk.

Parasites’ struggle for ‘long-term survival’ makes malaria ‘deadly’

LONDON – Malaria is particularly deadly because the parasites that carry it battle other infections for survival, Edinburgh University scientists have claimed.

They found, when malaria parasites enter the bloodstream, they alter their plan of attack if they face competition from other strains of the infection.

However, it means they have less resources left to spread the … Read : Parasites’ struggle for ‘long-term survival’ makes malaria ‘deadly’.

X-rays reveal why van Gogh paintings are losing their shine

WASHINGTON – Scientists have discovered why some paintings of Vincent van Gogh and other artists of the late 19th century are losing their shine.

Using sophisticated X-rays, they have identified a complex chemical reaction responsible for the degradation of the works.

They found that the Dutch master’s decision to use yellow paint mixed with white is responsible … Read more »»».

Lavender oil shows potent anti-fungal effect

WASHINGTON – Scientists have suggested that lavender oil could be used to fight the increasing incidence of antifungal-resistant infections.

The essential oil shows a potent antifungal effect against strains of fungi responsible for common skin and nail infections.

Researchers from the University of Coimbra in Portugal distilled lavender oil from the Lavandula viridis L’Her shrub that … Original source on Gaea Times at : Lavender oil shows potent anti-fungal effect.

Cigarette smoking may increase risk of muscle-wasting disease

WASHINGTON – Scientists have found that cigarette smoking may be associated with an increased risk of developing the muscle-wasting disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

To examine the association between cigarette smoking and ALS, Hao Wang, of the Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, and colleagues analyzed data from five different long-term studies involving a total of … Read more >>>.

Hearing loss linked to development of dementia

WASHINGTON – A new study has revealed that older adults with hearing loss may be more likely to develop dementia, and their risk increases as hearing loss becomes more severe.

Frank R. Lin, of Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, and colleagues studied 639 individuals age 36 to 90 without dementia. Participants initially underwent cognitive and hearing …. Read the original article  : Hearing loss linked to development of dementia.

Fiber intake linked to reduced risk of death

WASHINGTON – A new study has found that dietary fiber may be associated with a reduced risk of death from cardiovascular, infectious and respiratory diseases, as well as a reduced risk of death from any cause over a nine-year period.

Yikyung Park, Sc.D., of the National Cancer Institute, Rockville, Md., and colleagues analyzed data from …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

A helpful partner isn’t always helpful

WASHINGTON – A loving partner may or may not help you keep on track — say when you want to stick to your jogging or your studies.

According to a new study, sometimes, the support a significant other offers in pursuing goals can weaken the resolve to work towards those goals and cause procrastination … Read more >>>.

Rising seas to affect major US coastal cities by 2100

WASHINGTON – Rising sea levels could threaten an average nine percent of the land within 180 US coastal cities by 2100, a new study says.

The research, led by University of Arizona scientists, is the first analysis of the vulnerability of US coastal cities to rising sea levels.
The latest scientific projections indicate that by … Original source on Gaea Times at : Rising seas to affect major US coastal cities by 2100.

A helpful partner may not that helpful when it comes to achieving goals

WASHINGTON – If you think that a loving partner helps keep you on track when it comes to achieving goals, you could be wrong.

A new study has suggested that thinking about the support a significant other offers in pursuing goals can undermine the motivation to work toward those goals-and can increase procrastination before getting down … Read : A helpful partner may not that helpful when it comes to achieving goals.

Ecstasy use does not decrease mental ability: Study

WASHINGTON – In contrast to many prior studies, ecstasy users in a new study showed no signs of cognitive impairment attributable to drug use.

Lead author John Halpern of the McLean Hospital in Belmont, said, “Researchers have known for a long time that earlier studies of ecstasy use had problems that later studies should try to …. Read the original article  : Ecstasy use does not decrease mental ability: Study.

Scientists create device that remotely blasts improvised land mines

WASHINGTON – Scientists at EPFL in Switzerland have created a new device that enables the remote explosion of land mines using energy from their electromagnetic impulses.

This type of mine is often used by guerrillas or terrorist groups in conflict zones and can kill or mutilate hundreds of thousands of people every year, mainly civilians.

Felix Vega …. Original source  : Scientists create device that remotely blasts improvised land mines.

How video games can reveal a child’s core competencies

WASHINGTON – A researcher from Florida State University has presented an approach wherein a learning experience can be made more enjoyable by creating video games into which educational content and assessment tools have been surreptitiously added – and to incorporate such games into school curricula.

Valerie J. Shute believes that this would not only remain a … Read more »»».

Why problem drinking during adolescence is never ‘just a phase’

WASHINGTON – A new study of Rutgers Alcohol Problem Index (RAPI) has found that problem drinking during adolescence is never just a phase.

Researchers used adolescent RAPI scores to examine diagnoses of alcohol dependence during young adulthood and found that more drinking-related problems experienced at age 18 were associated with a diagnosis of alcohol dependence at …. Original source  : Why problem drinking during adolescence is never ‘just a phase’.

Gene study uncovers clues to memory and learning

WASHINGTON – Scientists have explored the function of a single gene that governs how neurons form new connections.

The study has not only uncovered clues to memory and learning, but has also provided insights into a form of mental retardation.

Scientists at the Duke University Medical Centre explored the gene WRP’s functions in the brain cell … Original source on Gaea Times at : Gene study uncovers clues to memory and learning.

How diets high in fish oil fight Alzheimer’s

WASHINGTON – Scientists have found how diets high in Omega 3 oils and low in cholesterol fight Alzheimer’s.

Daniel Michaelson of Tel Aviv University’s Department of Neurobiology at the George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences found that APOE-one of the five molecules that are known to affect or cause Alzheimer’s disease and created by the … Read more »»».

Halting emissions would still make earth warmer

WASHINGTON – If greenhouse gas emissions stopped now, the earth would still likely get warmer.

While governments debate about potential policies that might curb the emission of greenhouse gases, new research shows that the world is already committed to a warmer climate because of emissions that have occurred till now.
Temperatures would continue to escalate … Read more >>>.

What’s your computing style? Know from smartphone

WASHINGTON – The applications you add to your smartphone can define you as a specific “appitypes”, says a technology expert.

Trevor Pinch, professor of science and technology studies at the Cornell University in US, used survey data on applications usage from 5,000 smartphone users in 10 countries to create appitypes to help define user …. Original source  : What’s your computing style? Know from smartphone.

Peer support shows promise in the fight against depression

WASHINGTON – A new study has found that peer support offers promise as an effective, low-cost tool for fighting depression.

In the research, programs in which patients and volunteers share information were found to reduce depression symptoms better than traditional care alone and were about as effective as cognitive behavioral therapy.

The study performed by the VA …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Peer support shows promise in the fight against depression.

Poor sleep quality linked to greater disability in rheumatoid arthritis patients

WASHINGTON – Researchers have found that poor sleep quality is associated with higher levels of depressive symptoms, greater pain severity, increased fatigue, and greater functional disability in patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA).

The study at the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing suggests that addressing sleep problems via pharmacological or behavioral interventions may have a …. Read the original article  : Poor sleep quality linked to greater disability in rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Turning mosquito bites into anti-malarial shots

WASHINGTON – Researchers could be turning the mosquito bite into a tool to wipe out the deadly disease malaria.

PATH Malaria Vaccine Initiative (MVI), established with a grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, will be collaborating with Tulane University in the US to produce and test a novel vaccine that aims to inoculate … Read more >>>.

Heart’s response to early beat can predict cardiac death risk

WASHINGTON – A new study from Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis has found that the manner in which the heart responds to an early beat is predictive of cardiac death, even in seemingly healthy people.

Doctors are in a constant search for better ways to identify patients at risk of cardiac death because … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Heart’s response to early beat can predict cardiac death risk.

Novo-G world’s fastest reconfigurable supercomputer

WASHINGTON – University of Florida’s supercomputer Novo-G is the world’s fastest reconfigurable supercomputer and outperforms the Chinese supercomputer touted as the world’s most powerful.

Novo-G is about the size of two home refrigerators and consumes less than 8,000 watts, unlike conventional supercomputers that can consume up to millions of watts of electrical power, generating massive … Read more »»».

More snowfall, rain in Himachal

SHIMLA – Snowfall in the higher reaches and intermittent rain in low and mid hills of Himachal Pradesh continued for the fourth day Wednesday, intensifying a cold wave.

Incessant rain across the state partially hampered the air traffic. “Flights from Delhi to Shimla and Dharamsala were as per schedule but could not be operational at …. Source  : More snowfall, rain in Himachal.

Now, access Facebook on your mobile phone at the touch of a button!

LONDON – Now, just press a button on your mobile phone and it will connect you to your Facebook account.

Mobile phone giant HTC has launched two handsets that will allow owners to access the social networking site at the touch of a button, reports the Daily Mail.

By pressing the ‘F’ logo, users will be able … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Now, access Facebook on your mobile phone at the touch of a button!.

Thick disc of older stars discovered in nearby Andromeda galaxy

WASHINGTON – Scientists have identified for the first time a thick stellar disc in the Andromeda galaxy, the nearest large spiral galaxy to our own Milky Way.

According to an international team of astronomers, who conducted the study, the finding will lead to better understanding of the processes involved in the formation and evolution of large …. Original source  : Thick disc of older stars discovered in nearby Andromeda galaxy.

Taps run dry for third day in parts of Delhi

NEW DELHI – People in parts of the capital suffered from a water crunch for the third consecutive day Wednesday as supplies remained affected due to a high level of ammonia in the Yamuna waters.

The water supply was hit in north, north west, central and parts of west and south Delhi as two … Read : Taps run dry for third day in parts of Delhi.

Statins may help fight HIV

WASHINGTON – Scientists have found that statins may slow down the progression of HIV infection.

In a recent multicenter clinical trial of atorvastatin, a type of cholesterol-lowering drug, the researchers found that although the drug did not inhibit plasma HIV RNA levels, it did inhibit expression of cellular markers of immune activation and inflammation in patients …. Read the original article  : Statins may help fight HIV.

1 in 5 homeless people with TB die within a year of their diagnosis: Toronto study

WASHINGTON – A new study in Toronto has found that one in five homeless people with tuberculosis die within a year of their diagnosis.

And that number remains unchanged over the last decade despite recommendations calling for greater improvements in prevention and control of tuberculosis in homeless shelters.

The 10-year study, led by St. Michael’s Hospital’s Kamran …. Read the original article  : here.

Water softeners ‘do not bring relief for kids with eczema’

WASHINGTON – Scientists have shown that installing a water softener for three months brings no additional relief for eczema sufferers.

The study involving 336 children aged between six months and 16 years old was carried out by The University of Nottingham.

Up to one fifth of all children of school age have eczema, along with about one … Read more >>>.

Kids as young as 5 can learn to use computer mouse

WASHINGTON – A new study has revealed that children as young as 5 years old can learn how to use a computer mouse.

While age is an important component in determining how well a child controls a mouse, the study also found that how frequently a child practices may be even more important.

“Learning how to use …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Two thirds of permafrost likely to melt by 2200

WASHINGTON – Two-thirds of permafrost is likely to melt by 2200, thanks to global warming which will loft vast quantities of carbon into the air.

“The carbon resides in permanently frozen ground that is beginning to thaw at high latitudes, will impact not only the climate but also strategies to reduce fossil fuel emissions,” … Original source on Gaea Times at : Two thirds of permafrost likely to melt by 2200.

New alloy to boost energy conversion by 25 percent

WASHINGTON – Automobiles, and even large-scale power generating facilities may someday operate far more efficiently thanks to a new alloy that enables a 25 percent improvement in the ability of a key material to convert heat into electrical energy.

The alloy was developed by US Department of Energy’s Ames Lab.
“What happened here … Original article on : New alloy to boost energy conversion by 25 percent.

Babies can count from 18 months of age: Study

MELBOURNE – A new research has revealed that kids begin to learn to count earlier than previously thought.

For the study, Professor Virginia Slaughter of the University of Queensland, and colleagues from Japan and the United Kingdom, assessed how babies responded to videos of counting, and found a dramatic cognitive shift by the time they reached … Read : Babies can count from 18 months of age: Study.

‘Promiscuous’ chimps produce more sperm

LONDON – Scientists based in Japan have revealed that chimpanzees produce 200 times more sperm than gorillas, the world’s largest primates, and 14 times more than orangutans.

Promiscuous ape species have bigger testicles, and the new finding provides evidence that they also produce more sperm.

Earlier, scientists proposed that chimps have large testicles because several males mate [..] Read the original article: here.

Humans and dolphins ‘talk’ using primitive language in new study

LONDON – In a first, behavioural biologists were able to ‘talk’ with dolphins through a primitive form of language using sounds.

“Many studies communicate with dolphins, especially in captivity, using fish as a reward. But it’s rare to ask dolphins to communicate with us,” the Daily Mail quoted Dr Denise Herzing as telling Wired.com.

The experiment revolved …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Humans and dolphins ‘talk’ using primitive language in new study.

Twitter, Facebook leave people ‘more lonely’

LONDON – Social media leaves many people feeling lonely, alienated and dissatisfied with life, according to American author Sherry Turkle.

In her new book ‘Alone Together’, Prof Turkle from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) argues that despite the advent of social networking sites and text messaging our intimate relationship with technology has not translated into closer …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Twitter, Facebook leave people ‘more lonely’.

Being pessimistic may lower painkiller’s effectiveness: Study

LONDON – A patient’s attitude may affect how well his/ her pain medication works, according to a new study.

It found that being optimistic might boost their effectiveness in blocking pain, while being pessimistic may lower their effectiveness, reports the BBC.

The study also identified the brain regions that are associated with pain.

The researchers used [..] Read the original article: here.

Finding a way to extend tomato shelf life

WASHINGTON – Scientists at U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) are working with colleagues at Purdue University to extend the shelf life of tomatoes.

The research also may lead to tomatoes that taste better and are more nutritious.

Tomatoes spend so much time on shelves and in refrigerators that an estimated 20 percent are lost to spoilage, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Finding a way to extend tomato shelf life.

‘Killer paper’ could improve food safety

WASHINGTON – Scientists have developed and successfully tested a new food packaging material that has the ability to preserve food by fighting the bacteria that cause spoilage.

The ‘killer paper’ contains a coating of silver nanoparticles that kills E. coli and S. aureus, two causes of bacterial food poisoning, in just three hours.

This suggests its potential …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Killer paper’ could improve food safety.

Why some people find it difficult to wake up in the morning

LONDON – Scientists at Northwestern University have found a new mechanism in the core gears of the circadian clock.

They have discovered that the loss of a certain gene, dubbed “twenty-four,” messes up the rhythm of the common fruit fly’s sleep-wake cycle, making it harder for the flies to awaken.

The circadian clock drives, among other things, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Why some people find it difficult to wake up in the morning.

Why males have a higher incidence of autism than females

WASHINGTON – Scientists have found that male and female sex hormones regulate expression of an important gene in neuronal cell culture through a mechanism that could explain not only higher levels of testosterone observed in some individuals with autism, but also why males have a higher incidence of autism than females.

The gene, RORA, encodes a … Original article on : Why males have a higher incidence of autism than females.

Japanese embassy in China launches micro blog

BEIJING – The Japanese embassy in Beijing has launched a micro blog that has attracted over 5,000 fans in just two days.

Japanese Ambassador Uichiro Niwa said the micro blog will give details about his schedule as well as activities related to Sino-Japanese ties.
“The general public is the important part of the bilateral relationship, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Japanese embassy in China launches micro blog.

Fresh snow freezes Shimla at 0.6 degrees

SHIMLA – The season’s third snowfall here in Himachal Pradesh froze the “Queen of Hills’, as Shimla was fondly called by the British, at a minimum of 0.6 degrees Celsius Thursday.

Shimla had recorded 4.8 cm of snow Wednesday evening and the minimum temperature was 2.4 degrees.
Keylong, the headquarters of Lahaul and Spiti district, …. Original source  : Fresh snow freezes Shimla at 0.6 degrees.

Herschel reveals how much dark matter it takes to form new galaxy

WASHINGTON – The Herschel Space Observatory has measured how much dark matter is required in order to form a new galaxy.

“If you start with too little dark matter, then a developing galaxy would peter out. If you have too much, then gas doesn’t cool efficiently to form one large galaxy, and you end up with …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Facebook friends ‘can stress you out’

LONDON – The more Facebook ‘friends’ you have, the more likely you are to feel stressed out by the social networking site, according to a new study.

Researchers at Edinburgh Napier University have found a significant minority of users suffered “considerable Facebook-related anxiety”.

However, they only received very modest rewards.

More than one in 10 said Facebook made … Original source on Gaea Times at : Facebook friends ‘can stress you out’.

Greenhouse emissions led to increase in extreme rains, says study

WASHINGTON – A new study has revealed that high greenhouse gas emissions have contributed to increase in extreme rain events seen in North America over the second half of the 20th century.

Another study reported that human greenhouse gas emissions likely contributed to the floods that inundated England and Wales in the fall of 2000.

How does [..] Read the original article: here.

Indian defence scientists develop bio-toilets for soldiers

BANGALORE – Indian defence scientists have recruited a small army of bacteria and harnessed solar power to build bio-toilets for managing the human waste of soldiers stationed at glaciers and other low temperature areas.

“Human waste disposal in high altitude and low temperature areas is a burning problem,” a spokesman for the Defence Research and …. Original source  : Indian defence scientists develop bio-toilets for soldiers.

Asthma linked to bacterial communities in the airway

WASHINGTON – A new UCSF-led study has found that asthma may have a surprising relationship with the composition of the species of bacteria that inhabit bronchial airways.

This finding could suggest new treatment or even potential cures for the common inflammatory disease.

Using new detection methods, researchers learned that the diversity of microbes inside the respiratory tract … Read more : Asthma linked to bacterial communities in the airway.

BP oil spill’s psychological effects go beyond residents of impacted areas

WASHINGTON – A new study has found that the psychological effects of the BP oil spill, the largest recorded environmental disaster in human history, extend far beyond people living around the areas of the Gulf of Mexico that were directly impacted by the spill.

The researchers reported that even in areas that did not have oil … Original article on : BP oil spill’s psychological effects go beyond residents of impacted areas.

Preterm mums’ milk has less antioxidants

WASHINGTON – A new study has revealed that preterm mother’s milk contains lower concentrations of coenzyme Q10-an important antioxidant and a vital component of the electron transport chain.

Researchers at the University of Granada and at the University Hospital San Cecilio took a sample of 30 nursing mothers, of which 15 had completed their gestation and … Read more >>.

Exercise, helping others can be as effective as drugs to treat mental illnesses

WASHINGTON – A new study has suggested that lifestyle changes-such as getting more exercise, time in nature, or helping others-can be as effective as drugs or counseling to treat an array of mental illnesses.

Roger Walsh of the University of California, Irvine’s College of Medicine said that multiple mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety, could … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Exercise, helping others can be as effective as drugs to treat mental illnesses.

New study reinforces belly fat, high-fat meals and heart disease link

WASHINGTON – A new UC Davis study has suggested that the effect of a high-fat meal on blood vessel walls varies among individuals depending on factors such as their waist size and triglyceride levels.

The new research reinforces the link between belly fat, inflammation and thickening of the arterial linings that can lead to heart disease …. Original article  : New study reinforces belly fat, high-fat meals and heart disease link.

Now, brain-powered machines to become more intelligent, user-friendly

|Cheryl Cole’s pictures used to promote Russian bride business, porn|Entertainment[London {LONDON - Girls Aloud member Cheryl Cole is said to be furious after a Russian website used pictures of hers to promote their mail order bride business.

Cheryl, 27, has been featured as one of the many women seeking a husband on website RussianBrides.org, and in .... Source  : Gaea News Network.

Focus on how, not why, to increase physical activity

WASHINGTON - In a new study, University of Missouri researchers found that healthy adults who received interventions focused on behavior-changing strategies significantly increased their physical activity levels.

However, interventions based on cognitive approaches, which try to change knowledge and attitudes, did not improve physical activity.

“The focus needs to shift from increasing knowledge about the benefits of ... Read more »»».

Meet the man who cooks nitrogen-dipped burgers, ultrasonic French fries!

WASHINGTON - Nathan Myhrvold believes that cooking is not just an art, but a science too - meet the man who cooks nitrogen-dipped burgers and ultrasonic French fries.

Author of 2,400-page, 625-dollar self-published book, ‘Modernist Cuisine: The Art and Science of Cooking’, Myhrvold, a former technology chief for Microsoft, combines science and his culinary skills to ... Read : Meet the man who cooks nitrogen-dipped burgers, ultrasonic French fries!.

New green, cheap hydrogen cartridges to fuel laptops, phones

WASHINGTON - SiGNa Chemistry Inc. has created new hydrogen cartridges - a cheap, eco-friendly and portable solution to produce electric power for laptops and phones.

The source of these cartridges is called sodium silicide.

“In our lab, we were able to produce alkali metal silicides, which basically are made from sodium and silicon, which, in turn, are ... Read more >>.

Out of body experiences are just tricks of a confused mind, say experts

LONDON - A new study has revealed that out of body experiences are nothing but tricks of a confused mind.

The study was able to ‘fool’ the brains of volunteers into temporarily believing they occupied a 3D computer-generated character.

“Instead of it being a spiritual thing, it is the brain being confused,” the Daily Mail quoted .... Original source  : Out of body experiences are just tricks of a confused mind, say experts.

Statins may prevent diabetic-related blindness

WASHINGTON - Researchers at the University of Georgia have found that a statin drug that is often known by the brand-name Lipitor may help prevent blindness in people with diabetes.

In a study using diabetic rats, lead author Azza El-Remessy, assistant professor in the University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, and her colleagues found that statins ... Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Statins may prevent diabetic-related blindness.

Higher levels of social activity cut the risk of developing disability in old age

WASHINGTON - Higher levels of social activity decrease the risk of developing disability in old age, according to a new study at Rush University Medical Center.

“Social activity has long been recognized as an essential component of healthy aging, but now we have strong evidence that it is also related to better everyday functioning and less ... Original source on Gaea Times at : Higher levels of social activity cut the risk of developing disability in old age.

Archaeologists solve tower of Jericho puzzle?

LONDON - Discovered by archaeologists in 1952, a 28-foot-high stone tower on the edge of the town of Jericho has puzzled scientists since. But now, a team of archaeologists have shed light on who built the structure and why.

Tel Jericho, located in modern day Jericho in the West Bank, is one of the .... Original article on Gaea Times at  : Archaeologists solve tower of Jericho puzzle?.

Emotional response could predict how your body responds to stress

WASHINGTON - A new research has suggested that your emotional response to challenging situations could predict how your body responds to stress.

“People who reported high levels of anger and anxiety after performing a laboratory-based stress task showed greater increases in a marker of inflammation, than those who remained relatively calm,” said Dr Judith Carroll, who ... Read more »».

Yale University scientists build world's first anti-laser

WASHINGTON - Yale University scientists have developed the world’s first anti-laser, in which incoming beams of light interfere with one another in such a way as to perfectly cancel each other out.

The discovery could pave the way for a number of novel technologies with applications in everything from optical computing to radiology.

Conventional lasers, which were .... Source article on Gaea Times at  : Yale University scientists build world’s first anti-laser.

Chronically ill kids '88pc more likely to suffer physical abuse'

WASHINGTON - A new study has found that children with chronic health conditions are 88 percent more likely to suffer physical abuse than healthy children.

They are also 154 percent more likely to suffer a combination of physical abuse and exposure to intimate partner violence than their healthy school friends.

Researchers from Karlstad University, Sweden, analysed 2,510 ... Original article on : Chronically ill kids ‘88pc more likely to suffer physical abuse’.

Sherlock Holmes book goes digital on iPhone, iPad

LONDON - Sherlock Holmes is back in the digital form, thanks to a French company, which has created a ‘Byook’ application for the iPhone and iPad, an ebook hybrid mixing text and effects.

‘The Adventure of the Speckled Band,’ one of the most-read Arthur Conan Doyle stories, has now been turned into an e-book that combines .... Original article on Gaea Times at  : Sherlock Holmes book goes digital on iPhone, iPad.

Male fertility is in the bones, shows mice study

WASHINGTON - A new study has discovered that the skeleton acts as a regulator of fertility in male mice through a hormone released by bone-osteocalcin.

Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center, led by Gerard Karsenty, found their first clue to an answer in the reproductive success of their lab mice. Previously, the researchers had observed that .... Source  : Male fertility is in the bones, shows mice study.

What makes Justin Beiber sound so unique?

WASHINGTON - Artists like Justin Beiber and Usher owe their unique sounding voices to the large social circles of their ancestors, says a new study from the University of California, Los Angeles.

According to Kimberly Pollard, the size of an animal’s social group helps to determine the uniqueness of that individual’s voice.

“Group size definitely matters here. ... Read more »»».

Only 1 in 1900 met AHA's definition of ideal heart health: Study

WASHINGTON - A new study has revealed that only one in more than 1900 people met the American Heart Association (AHA) definition of ideal cardiovascular health.

University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine researchers conducted the study.

Ideal cardiovascular health is the combination of seven factors: nonsmoking, a body mass index less than 25, goal-level physical activity and ... Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Only 1 in 1900 met AHA’s definition of ideal heart health: Study.

Study explores link between hypoxia and inflammation in athletes

LONDON - A new study from the University of Colorado School of Medicine has explored the link between lack of oxygen, called hypoxia, and the inflammation that can injure or kill some athletes who undergo surgery.

Lack of oxygen during a surgery can injure kidneys, lungs or heart muscles and this can lead to inflammation. However, .... Original article on Gaea Times at  : Study explores link between hypoxia and inflammation in athletes.

Genes linked to hereditary breast and ovary cancer identified

WASHINGTON - A thesis from University of Malaga has identified two genes linked to hereditary breast and ovary cancer.

Biologist Elena Beristain found that few of the mutations found in BRCA1 and BRCA2 could be clearly identified as pathological. The fact is that the mutations found were numerous; their variation even depending on the population.

Beristain has .... Original source  : Genes linked to hereditary breast and ovary cancer identified.

Women are better at forgiving than men: Study

WASHINGTON - Parents forgive more than children, while women are better at forgiving than men, according to a new study.

The study into the emotional differences between the sexes and generations in terms of forgiveness was conducted by the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU).

“This study has great application for teaching values, because it shows us .... Source article  : Women are better at forgiving than men: Study.

Deep brain stimulation 'can treat severe OCD'

WASHINGTON - Scientists have found that an electrical treatment which zaps away symptoms of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) can help extreme sufferers unable to cope with everyday life.

By inserting a thin electrode deep into the brain, doctors can precisely deliver an electrical current to a cord of the brain’s wiring and soften the severity ... Read more >>.

Brain function linked to birth size in new study

WASHINGTON - Scientists in UK have found the first evidence linking brain function variations between the left and right sides of the brain to size at birth and the weight of the placenta.

The finding could shed new light on the causes of mental health problems in later life.

The research, conducted at the University of Southampton ... Original source on Gaea Times at : Brain function linked to birth size in new study.

Boys get greater rush, more energy from caffeine than girls

WASHINGTON - A new study has found that boys get a greater rush and more energy from caffeine than girls.

Results of a double-blind, placebo-controlled, dose-response study of the response of youth also showed that boys felt that caffeine had a positive effect on their athletic performance. Girls didn’t report on this issue.

It is the first .... Original article on Gaea Times at  : Boys get greater rush, more energy from caffeine than girls.

Low levels of anti-aging hormone may be an indicator of kidney disease

WASHINGTON - UT Southwestern Medical Center researchers have found that low levels of the anti-aging hormone Klotho may serve as an early warning sign of the presence of kidney disease and its deadly cardiovascular complications.

Using mice, investigators found that soft-tissue calcification, a common and serious side effect of chronic kidney disease (CKD), improves when Klotho .... Source article on Gaea Times at  : Low levels of anti-aging hormone may be an indicator of kidney disease.

Scheduled deliveries increase risks for mums, do not benefit newborns

WASHINGTON - A new study has suggested that inducing labor without a medical reason is linked with negative outcomes for mothers, including high rates of cesarean delivery, greater blood loss and longer stay in the hospital, and it has no benefit for the newborns too.

As the number of scheduled deliveries continues to climb, it is .... Source article on Gaea Times at  : Scheduled deliveries increase risks for mums, do not benefit newborns.

Powerful solar flare disrupts ground communications on Earth

WASHINGTON - An internationally known space weather expert has said that a powerful solar flare that has triggered one of the largest space weather storms in at least four years has disrupted some ground communications on Earth.

Classified as a Class X flare, the Feb. 15 event also spewed billions of tons of charged particles toward ... Read more »»».

What rat whiskers can tell us about the sense of touch

WASHINGTON - Scientists are studying how rats use their whiskers to sense the environment around them to convert the sense of touch with movement.

Rats, using their whiskers, can determine all of an object’s spatial properties, including size, shape, orientation and texture.

“The big question our laboratory is interested in is how do animals, including humans, actively ... Original article on : What rat whiskers can tell us about the sense of touch.

Scientists find proteins that reverse learning problems in Down's mice

LONDON - In a new study, scientists were able to reverse developmental problems in mice that had Down’s syndrome by injecting their mothers with two proteins while they were still in the womb.

However, the treatment would carry many risks for humans, so the team wondered whether the proteins might also help adult mice.

The mice had ... Read this article on Gaea Times at : Scientists find proteins that reverse learning problems in Down’s mice.

How couples recover after argument depends on their infant relationships

WASHINGTON - A University of Minnesota research has suggested that couples’ ability to bounce back from a fight may depend on what both partners were like as infants.

The researchers have been following a cohort of people since before they were born, in the mid-1970s. When the subjects were about 20 years old, they visited the .... Source article on Gaea Times at  : How couples recover after argument depends on their infant relationships.

Being multilingual sharpens the brain

WASHINGTON - According to researchers, being able to speak more than one language sharpens the brain.

The study indicates that bilingual speakers can outperform monolinguals in prioritising tasks and working on multiple projects at one time.

“We would probably refer to most of these cognitive advantages as multi-tasking. Bilinguals seem to be better at this type of .... Original article on Gaea Times at  : Being multilingual sharpens the brain.

190mn-yr-old bird-hipped dino fossils found in Antarctic mountains

WASHINGTON - Palaeontologists have discovered the fossil remains of fabrosaur, about 190 million years old in the Antarctic mountains.

William Hammer of Augustana College found the fossils belonging to ornithischian or bird-hipped dinosaur that he believes is related to the fabrosaur or heterodontosaur.

The remains came from a site on Mt. Kirkpatrick, in the Central Trans-Antarctic Mountains, .... Read the original article  : here.

Dogs' human-like social skills make them man's best friend

LONDON - A new study has found out that dogs possess certain human-like social skills that even chimpanzees, our closest relatives, do not, and maybe that’s why they are termed man’s best friend.

Researchers at the University of Porto, in Portugal, explained that dogs have a quality called ‘emotional contagion,’ which allows them to respond even ... Read this article on Gaea Times at : Dogs’ human-like social skills make them man’s best friend.

NASA sets launch date for space shuttle Discovery mission - Feb 24

WASHINGTON - NASA has announced the launch of space shuttle Discovery yet again - the shuttle will begin an 11-day mission to the International Space Station with a launch at 4:50 p.m. EST on Thursday, Feb. 24, from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

Senior NASA and contractor managers said the shuttle and station’s equipment, support ... Read more »».

How lithium in ordinary tap water increases lifespan in humans

WASHINGTON - A new study has found that lithium, which is found in vegetables and drinking water, can increase life expectancy in humans.

Professor Dr. Michael Ristow’s team along with Japanese colleagues from universities in Oita and Hiroshima demonstrated the physiological function of lithium.

To test their theory, the scientists examined the impact of lithium in a ... Read this article on Gaea Times at : How lithium in ordinary tap water increases lifespan in humans.

Cold, misty morning in Delhi

NEW DELHI - It was a cold and misty morning in the capital Saturday with the minimum temperature settling at a notch below the normal at 10 degrees Celsius.

The weather office has forecast partly cloudy sky later during the day with the maximum temperature expected to settle around 24 degrees Celsius.
The humidity levels .... Source  : Cold, misty morning in Delhi.

NASA to launch shuttle Discovery Feb 24

WASHINGTON - The space shuttle Discovery is scheduled to begin its final flight to the International Space Station Feb 24. It will carry a human-like robot to the permanent station, NASA said.

The Discovery’s 11-day mission will start at 2050 GMT, the US space agency said Friday.
Discovery’s launch date was announced at the conclusion .... Original source  : NASA to launch shuttle Discovery Feb 24.

Energy drinks linked to psychotic episodes in people with mental illness

SYDNEY - An expert has warned that caffeinated energy drinks may trigger a psychotic episode in people with mental illness.

The warning was issued after a 27-year-old schizophrenic Maori man had two separate psychotic events a week apart following his intake of the drink ‘Demon Shot’.

Professor David Menkes said these events took place at a time ... Original source on Gaea Times at : Energy drinks linked to psychotic episodes in people with mental illness.

Health warning for kids over new 3D games console

LONDON - Experts have raised health concerns over the new 3D games console that creates 3D images without the need for glasses and goes on sale in Japan this week.

The Nintendo 3DS promises unique ‘eye-popping’ entertainment, but ends up giving nausea, sore eyes and dizzying headaches, reports the Independent.

Already it carries a list of health ... Read more >>>.

Kepler space telescope listens to 'music of the stars'

LONDON - The Kepler space telescope is significantly better at measuring the sizes and ages of stars - when it ‘listens’ to the sounds they make.

Bill Chaplin of the University of Birmingham told the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science that Kepler was an exquisite tool for what is called ... Read more : Kepler space telescope listens to ‘music of the stars’.

'Man boobs' much more common than previously thought: Study

SYDNEY - Man boobs are every man’s worst nightmare. And the condition that causes it may be occurring more frequently than previously thought, according to a new study.

Researchers from Andrology Australia and the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute said that up to half of those afflicted by Klinefelter syndrome - a genetic condition caused by an ... Read : ‘Man boobs’ much more common than previously thought: Study.

Drinking a glass of wine daily 'helps ward off dementia'

LONDON - Scientists have found that a daily cocktail or glass of wine could help delay dementia.

Their research has shown that alcohol is an anti-inflammatory (inflammation promotes Alzheimer’s) and raises good HDL cholesterol, which helps ward off dementia.

Researchers at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Centre in North Carolina found that older people who ... Read more »»».

Forget taking appointments, an online GP is just a click away

LONDON - In future, you may not need to take an appointment to see your doctor at the hospital. ritain’s first online GP service DrThom surgery in Central London is responding to hundreds of medical queries, which flood into their email inboxes daily, reports the Daily Mail.

It offers a remote diagnosis service for a .... Read the original article  : Forget taking appointments, an online GP is just a click away.

10 ways to keep your mind sharp revealed

WASHINGTON - If you don’t want your brain to lose its prowess as you age, better follow these tips.

Do something

Scientists are starting to think that regular aerobic exercise may be the single most important thing you can do for the long-term health of your brain. For mental fitness, aim for at least 30 minutes .... Source  : Gaea News Network.

Misty morning in Delhi, showers likely

NEW DELHI - A cold morning greeted Delhiites Sunday while a veil of mist covered parts of the city as the minimum temperature settled at 10.3 degrees Celsius, a notch below the average for the season. The weatherman forecast rain towards the evening.

“The sky was partly cloudy, and misty in the morning. The temperature ... Read this article on Gaea Times at : Misty morning in Delhi, showers likely.

What users should know about new internet protocols

BERLIN - Many web surfers don’t know it, but the introduction of new internet address standards might change the way they get online.

Since the supply of usable addresses governed by the IPv4 standard (internet protocol, version 4) has been exhausted, IPv6 has now been introduced. This will allow a previously impossible variety of addresses, .... Original article  : What users should know about new internet protocols.

New satellites to be able to predict earthquakes

LONDON - A team of British and Russian scientists have launched a project that could predict when and where earthquakes will occur, and thus save thousands of lives.

An agreement to work together on the project, that was signed in Moscow, says the TwinSat project involves the launch of two satellites - one is about .... Source article on Gaea Times at  : New satellites to be able to predict earthquakes.

Retire old monkeys, urges Anderson; animals fine, says AIIMS

NEW DELHI - With Hollywood celebrity Pamela Anderson taking up the cause of the ageing monkeys kept caged at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), the premier health institute Saturday insisted the animals are kept in upgraded and humane conditions.

Firstly, we are yet to ascertain the .... Original article  : Retire old monkeys, urges Anderson; animals fine, says AIIMS.

Scientists enhance efficacy of TB vaccine

WASHINGTON - Researchers have improved the efficacy of the vaccine for tuberculosis.

The work was done by Nele Festjens and Nico Callewaert of VIB and Ghent University.

The new vaccine affords - as already proven in mice - better protection against the disease.

“Our vaccine is more effective because it is more quickly recognized by the immune .... Read the original article  : Scientists enhance efficacy of TB vaccine.

Infants raised in bilingual households can distinguish unfamiliar languages

WASHINGTON - A psychologist at the University of British Columbia has revealed that infants raised in households where Spanish and Catalan are spoken can discriminate between English and French just by watching people speak, even though they have never been exposed to these new languages before.

Janet Werker’s latest findings provide further evidence that exposure to ... Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Infants raised in bilingual households can distinguish unfamiliar languages.

8 in 10 web browsers vulnerable to hackers, criminals

LONDON - A research has found that as many as 8 in 10 web browsers are vulnerable to hackers and criminals because they are not kept up-to-date.

The vast majority of users are not following the basic precaution of installing patches for known security holes, making them a relatively easy prey for identity thieves and other ... Read : 8 in 10 web browsers vulnerable to hackers, criminals.

How misfolded protein spreads from cell to cell, potentially spreading disease

WASHINGTON - A new study has found that one misfolded protein may be all that’s necessary to corrupt other proteins, forming large aggregations linked to several incurable neurodegenerative diseases such as Huntington’s, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.

Stanford biology Professor Ron Kopito has shown that the mutant, misfolded protein responsible for Huntington’s disease can move from cell to ... Read more »»».

Why innocent suspects may confess to a crime

WASHINGTON - A new Iowa State University study has examined why innocent suspects may confess to a crime.

In two experiments simulating choices suspects face in police interrogations, undergraduate subjects altered their behavior to confess to illegal activities in order to relieve short-term distress (the proximal consequence) while discounting potential long-term (distal) consequences.

“The thing about these .... Original source  : Why innocent suspects may confess to a crime.

Multiple approaches needed to solve world's food problems

WASHINGTON - A Penn State biologist has said that researchers need to use all available resources in an integrated approach to put agriculture on a path to solve the world’s food problems while reducing pollution.

“Using resources more efficiently is what it will take to put agriculture on a path to feed the expected future population .... Source article on Gaea Times at  : Multiple approaches needed to solve world’s food problems.

Africa's SKA telescope to shed light on the'dark ages'

WASHINGTON - With significant scientific breakthroughs, Africa’s bid to build the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) telescope - which will for the first time provide mankind with detailed pictures of the ‘dark ages’ 13.7 billion years back in time - is gaining momentum.

An important milestone was reached with the ‘detection of fringes’ in a joint very ... Original source on Gaea Times at : Africa’s SKA telescope to shed light on the’dark ages’.

Depression increases over time for addiction-prone women

WASHINGTON - A new study led by University of Michigan Health System researchers has found that unlike alcohol problems and antisocial behavior, depression doesn’t decline with age in addiction-prone women in their 30s and 40s - it continues to increase.

The longitudinal analysis examined the influences of the women’s histories, family life and neighborhood instability [..] Read the original article: here.

New device to detect lung pathogens causing pneumonia

LONDON – Scientists at the Georgia Institute of Technology have developed a new sampling device that could prevent thousands of people worldwide from dying of pneumonia each year.

The new device called PneumoniaCheck is a solution to the problem of diagnosing pneumonia.

Pneumonia, an inflammation of the lungs, kills about 2.4 million people each year. The problem … Read more »»».