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Archive for August, 2007
Why Being Yourself Matters
August 27th, 2007
There will never be anyone else like you in the future of the universe. There has never been anyone exactly like you since human life began. That
’s why being yourself is more important than anything else; certainly more than the fear that traps people into conforming….
Study Links Diabetes and High Fructose Corn Syrup Found in Soda
August 27th, 2007
A new study released Thursday suggests sodas sweetened with high fructose corn syrup may contribute to the development of diabetes. The study from researchers at Rutgers University, shows sodas sweetened with high fructose corn syrup contain high levels of compounds that previous research suggests may play a role in the development of diabetes.
50% drop in Americans’ interest in science and tech in past 20 years
August 26th, 2007
Pew has released an extensive analysis of three decades of its news consumption data. Among the key findings, since the 1980s, the percentage of the public who say they follow news about science and technology “very closely” has dropped by half. Meanwhile, the percentage of Americans who say they follow personalities and entertainment has doubled.
Just How Bloody Smart Are These Dolphins Anyway?
August 26th, 2007
At the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies in Mississippi, Kelly the dolphin has quite a reputation. All the institute’s dolphins are trained to hold onto any litter that falls into their pools until they see a trainer, when they can trade the litter for fish. Kelly took this task one step further. When people drop paper into the water she hides it under a rock at the bottom of the pool.
The Fear Factor: When the Brain Decides It’s Time to Scram
August 26th, 2007
New study shows different regions of the brain kick into action depending on the perceived threat level
By Nikhil Swaminathan
William James, the late 19th- through early 20th-century philosopher, once proposed that people do not fear a bear when they see it but, rather, become frightened when running from it.
One hundred years later, a new brain-imaging study proves James may have been right. Using a Pac-Man–like video game and functional magnetic resonance (fMRI) scans, scientists showed that when a fear-provoking stimulus (say, a bear) is detected in the distance, the human brain switches on circuitry that analyzes the threat level and ways to avoid the animal or harm. Should the bear move closer—increasing the threat—other, more reactive regions of the brain jump into action, triggering an immediate protective response, whether it be to fight, flee or freeze in one’s tracks.
71 Year-Old Woman Arrested Growing Marijuana
August 25th, 2007
A 71-year-old woman was arrested on drug charges after a chest-high marijuana plant was found in her yard, a plant she said was meant to keep animals away from her garden.
Bees can reverse the aging process
August 25th, 2007
Some bees go through a process that increases their life expectancy tenfold. A powerful antioxidant revitalizes the bees.
Your Social Network Can Make You Skinny!
August 24th, 2007
Harvard researchers prove that being part of a social network of people getting in shape can help you lose weight. A groundbreaking study released by the New England Journal of Medicine revealed that weight loss can spread from person to person through social networks of friends and families.
10 Habits of Highly Effective Brains
August 23rd, 2007
The LA Times just completed a wonderful 4-part series on how learning and memory work. The NYT re-emphasized the importance of physical exercise for neurogenesis (the creation of new neurons). To put this news in better perspective, let’s review some good lifestyle options we can follow to maintain, and improve, our vibrant brains.
Guerilla Gardening: A Subversive Way to Help Save the Planet [pics]
August 22nd, 2007
Accused at times of everything from vandalism to terrorism, guerilla gardeners continue skirt the law (often acting under the cover of night). Their mission: convert dead public places into useful growing spaces in cities around the world. Who would have thought that gardening could be not only subversive but even illegal?
Second Thoughts Are Real
August 22nd, 2007
The a little voice in your head that warns you not to do something you were just about to do is real, brain researchers say.
U.S.-funded herbicides damage human DNA
August 22nd, 2007
U.S.-funded aerial sprayings of coca plantations in Colombia near the Ecuador border has severely damaged the DNA of local residents, according to a new study.
Green Roofs: An Introduction with Pretty Pictures
August 22nd, 2007
It’s not just for hobbits anymore. The logic of green roofs is becoming more apparent. We can minimize our bills while maximizing the beauty of the urban landscape. And every day it’s becoming a little easier to live in a house that just happens to have plants growing on it.
How much extra does green building cost? A lot less than people think!
August 22nd, 2007
Construction and real estate professionals often misjudge the costs and benefits of “green” buildings, creating a major barrier to more energy efficiency in the building sector. Respondents estimated costs at 17% higher than conventional construction — more than 3 times the actual rate of about 5% higher.
11 Unconventional Sleep Tips: How to Get to Sleep and Stay Asleep
August 21st, 2007
From the article: “I call these sleep tips unconventional because I haven’t seen them in the typical sources — in fact, I often see the just the opposite recommended.”
The Truth About Recycling
August 20th, 2007
As the importance of recycling becomes more apparent, questions about it linger. Is it worth the effort? How does it work? Is recycling waste just going into a landfill in China? Here are some answers
Scientists hail ‘frozen smoke’ as material that will change world
August 19th, 2007
A MIRACLE material for the 21st century could protect your home against bomb blasts, mop up oil spillages and even help man to fly to Mars.
Are artists born or taught?
August 19th, 2007
What creates a great artist like Gentileschi, Van Gogh or Manet? Talent or training?
Tip: Listening to Music Helps You Sleep
August 19th, 2007
Researchers have shown just 45 minutes of relaxing music before bedtime can make for a restful night. People who listened to about 45 minutes of relaxing music before going to bed reported a 35% percent improvement “including better and longer night-time sleep and less dysfunction during the day” over those who did not.
The Secret to a Healthy Body
August 16th, 2007
The secret to a healthy body is simple and actually not too difficult, but all the same it does take daily discipline. In addition, it doesn’t need to cost you a lot of money. There are five areas of focus that will keep your body in shape, healthy, flexible, and strong.