In the science news this week: why pot bellies are bad but buttock fat could actually be beneficial, pollution spells bad news for balding men, and the job opportunity of a lifetime...

In the science news this week: how the human line almost 'split in two', Italian researchers claim to be the first to find dark matter, and the ability to predict mistakes before we make them...

In the science news this week: Neanderthals speak out, scientists follow flu's journey around the globe, and why John McEnroe was probably wrong to challenge the umpire about that line call...

In the science news this week: an excavation that could unlock the mystery of Stonehenge, creation of the first human-animal cybrids, and discovery of a baby planet. Plus, some monkey medicine...

In the science news this week: stress is bad for your memory, drinking a cuppa could help combat anthrax, and shape-changing robots that team up and save lives. Plus, the dophin that carried out a rescue operation to save beached whales...

In the science news as National Science and Engineering Week begins: A frog provides a key to treating type 2 diabetes, city-dwelling plants show speedy evolution of seed distribution, and cyborg insects become a reality. But first, should we let sleeping astronomers lie?

In the science news this week: a leap forward in understanding motor neurone disease, our eyes hold the key to revealing our date of birth and the 'toddlerbot' that will be taught to talk. Plus, the colour-blind artist who uses sound to paint in colour...

In the science news this week: the self-healing rubber that could mean the end to laddered tights, major disease outbreaks are becoming more common and a dinosaur-munching 'frog from hell'. Plus, why it pays to keep your temper...

In the science news this Valentine's week: The secret to finding the perfect partner, how shape matters just as much as size (to barnacles) and gorillas found mating in the missionary position. Plus, new ocean map charting the path of human destruction.

In the news this week: Space shuttle Atlantis blasts off, sleep can help obese children to lose weight and the MoD reveals how goats were used in experiments by the navy. Plus, how the global trend towards city living could help curb population growth.

In the science news this week: sperm cells created from female stem cells, a memory restoration breakthrough and the ancestor that turned brown eyes blue. Plus, a worldwide happiness study reveals the misery of middle-age...

In the science news this week: a significant step towards creating artificial life, the benefits of relaxing your brain and why it's a mistake not to wait for the bus...

In the science news this week: scientists rebuild a beating heart, a fossil of a rat the size of a car is unearthed and experts blame Columbus for bringing syphilis to Europe. Plus, why we're suckers for expensive wine...

In the science news this week: the mass of the biggest known black hole in the Universe is measured, we're advised to enjoy a little sunshine to help fight cancer and the blood-red glow of the 'cursed' Hope Diamond is explained...

In the news this week: Biofuel powered aeroplanes to be tested next year, 50,000 year old hair is used to extract mammoth DNA and Nasa launches new space probe.

This week's Science News Digest may contain ice, Hobbits and Velociraptors. All will be explained...

From chocolate cravings to the UK's future in space, the BA Festival of Science featured heavily in the news. Read on for some of the week's big stories.

In the news this week: human-animal hybrid embryos, the physical effects of depression, new antibiotics could lead to superdrugs and a mystery virus attacks bees.

In the news this week: the earth faces a close shave, evidence that chocolate truly is addictive, Pac Man used to investigate stress and the quest for mighty mouse.

In the news this week: A virtual dinosaur race, noise pollution increases the risk of heart attacks and Google looks to the Sky. Plus, the evolutionary origins of the pink/ blue gender divide...

In the news this week: the next generation of batteries, the first vaccine to target an autoimmune disease and a cream that may help curb the transmission of MRSA. Plus, the advanced problem solving skills of the humble crow...

In the news this week: the foot and mouth outbreak, the gas giant that could float on water and the demise of the Yangtze river dolphin. Plus, what the next generation of astronauts will be wearing...

In the news this week: a new technique offers hope for "untreatable" brain injuries, the first genetically modified mentally ill mouse and a left handedness gene linked to schizophrenia. Plus, do great apes communicate using charades?

In the news this week: Lazy gardeners make the best bee keepers, mapping memory formation, a gel that can mop up toxic heavy metals and is mobile phone malaise all in the mind? Plus, the accidental discovery of the itchy gene...

In the news this week: tumour paint from scorpions, how a megaflood shaped Britain, the world's first household eco-computer and is listening to music really as good as sex?

In the news this week: Boeing proudly reveals its latest jumbo, common genetic link to bowel cancer found and planet-hunters get excited. Plus why cows are the latest adversary of the climate campaigners...

In the news this week: fertility treatment breakthroughs offer young cancer patients a chance of motherhood, piranhas show their nervous disposition and Cassini reveals Saturn's spongy satellite. Plus, men are 'just as chatty as women'...

In the news this week: the new PM shakes up the science and education arena, a mystery mummy is identified as Egypt's missing female pharaoh, and evidence suggests cats, not dogs, are our oldest friends...

In the news this week: scientists create a powerful fuel from sugar and icebergs are found to be ecological hotspots. Plus, wanted: volunteers to take 18-month 'trip' to Mars...

In the science news this week: scientists discover a tiny 'roadrunner' dinosaur and a scary version of Big Bird, and there's drama on the International Space Station. Plus, paying your taxes can make you feel good...

In the news this week: genetic secrets of diseases afflicting millions are revealed, wireless electricity shows promise and modern technology uncovers a 5,000 year old murder...

In the science news this week: scientists reconsider how the way we walk evolved, DNA catches cheating cheetahs and new breast cancer genes are identified. Plus, the cow that delivers skimmed milk straight from her udders and the race for human 'hibernation'...

In the science news this week: the mystery of a virgin shark birth is solved, healing 'super-water' and the mobile phone call from the top of the world...

In the news this week the government reconsiders human-animal embryos, hope for people with hair loss and the Taj Mahal gets a makeover.

In the science news this week: an ambitious plan to catalogue all life, the lonely albatross looking for love, and the best star-show ever. Plus, Australia puts its love of beer to good use...

In the science news this week: the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change meet to discuss strategies to mitigate climate change, a genetic clue to longevity is revealed and pioneering gene therapy to restore sight gets underway. Plus, the electronic nose that's not to be sniffed at...

In the science news this week: the drug that could treat 2,000 hereditary disorders, DVD discord and a real-life Kryptonite. Plus, could extraterrestrial life exist on the newly discovered 'super-Earth'?

In the science news this week: the 'caterpillar robot' that could transform cardiac surgery, Star Trek-style shields proposed for space missions and the underwater survival quest of a marine biologist...

In the science news this week: protein points to chicken as T. rex's closest living relative, the first common genetic risk factor found for obesity and how to spot an extraterrestrial plant...

In the news this week: the dinosaurs' demise didn't cause mammalian success, the government is warned about failing nanoscience and pizza gets a nutrition makeover...

In the news this week: burrowing, nurturing dinosaurs, GM mosquitos that could combat malaria and evidence that ugly defendants suffer for their looks...

In the news this week: ocean ice warnings, shrinking sheep and a potential cause of teenage mood swings. Plus, rats experience doubt and uncertainty...

In the news this week: a genetic test for lung cancer, an indication that subliminal advertising may work (if you're paying attention) and rose-scented memories aid recall...

In the news this week: scientists unveil both the thinnest and the blackest materials ever, impulsive rats shed light on drug addiction and International Polar Year is launched. Plus, snails aren't as slow as they look...

In the news this week: self-driving cars, robotic twitchers and spear-wielding chimps. Plus, the largest ever calamari...

Revealed in the news this week: the promise of a bionic eye, new neurons for the human brain and an Antarctic water world. Plus, the ancient condiment of choice...

A deal is reached at the UN climate change conference but there are dramatic predictions for Arctic sea ice and coral reefs. Plus, magnetic ropes that connect the Earth to the Sun, video footage of the Mickey Mouse of the desert and how subliminal scents influence us...

Britain's first ever live kidney transplant, carrots to be used as a new eco-friendly material and scientists can now read your mind. Plus, men take note this Valentine's Day: women actually 'shun' the men who have it all...

In the science news this week: the new stem technique proves its mettle, a breakthrough 3D cell image, and the dark stars that could litter the cosmos. Plus, the amazing memory feats of chimps and elephants...

Humans are blamed for climate change, the first bionic arm shows promise and the secret life of seahorses is revealed...

In the science news this week: a protein that rejuvenates skin (at least in mice), an explanation for Venus's inhospitable climate and flying foxes fall foul of climate change on Earth. Plus, female African antelopes tire out their men...

In the news this week: sciencehorizons is launched to encourage debate about future science and technology. Plus, giant kangaroos, heat-ray guns and the worst sound in the world...

In the science news this week: a revolution in stem cell research, the surfer with a 'theory of everything' and wormholes that could speed up computers. Plus, how relative wealth makes us happier...

In the news this week: GM eggs hold promise for new method of drug production, a natural appetite suppressant could help fight obesity and the 'Doomsday Clock' hands are moved closer to midnight. Plus, how to become more attractive...

In the science news this week: successful creation of a cloned monkey embryo prompts hopes and fears for human cloning. Plus, the buzz that helps build up bone, a toothsome dino and our lengthy love affair with chocolate drinks...

In the news this week: hybrid embryos hit the headlines, dark matter is mapped and the common cold gets some good publicity...

In the news this week: researchers come closer to understanding the obesity gene, the source of mystery cosmic rays is solved and a 'generosity hormone' is revealed...

In the science news this week: a colourful 'brainbow', a rodent Lance Armstrong that loves running and a bulletproof yarn that repels bullets. Plus, Ming the 405 year old mollusc...

In the news this week: humanity's survival at risk, the genetic influence on food choices, and a cold spot in space sheds light on the Big Bang. Plus, flame-haired Neanderthals...

In the science news this week: our African ancestors who enjoyed a shellfish meal 164,000 years ago, the discovery by amateur stargazers that our universe could be 'lopsided', and 'space diving', the latest extreme sport...

In the news this week: Nobel Prizes announced, ants use drugs to subdue aphids, bees bother elephants and a potential T. rex print found at Hell Creek...

In the news this week: It has been 50 years since Sputnik was first launched, a bad winter could kill off bluetongue and a future where robots will be keeping us as pets.

Science stories in the news this week: new figures report dramatic increases in cases of breast cancer and diabetes, a genetic 'search engine' will let doctors match drugs to diseases and a new stem cell breakthrough uses dead embryos. Plus, athletically gifted women could be identified by their fingers, Richard Branson unveils the new Virgin Galactic flagship and why promiscuous queens make healthier hives.

Stories on climate change have dominated the news again this week: the destruction of some of the world’s leading holiday destinations may be the end result of global warming and California sues carmakers. Plus, the remains of the earliest known child from humanity’s family tree have been discovered in Ethiopia and a British company wins the top AI prize.

Climate change features heavily in the news this week: 'drastic' shrinkages in Arctic sea ice have been observed by NASA satellites and new research suggests that increases in hurricane intensity are due to greenhouse gas emissions. Plus, a nationwide shortage of sperm donors, and hallucinogenic drugs may offer a new solution for headache sufferers.

In the news this week: genetically engineered immune cells target cancer, Conservatives propose a British bullet train and Schwarzenegger sets an emissions cap. Plus, a top American scientist issues a warning on climate change and finding God in the brain.

In the news this week: overcoming the stem cell taboo, healing the hole in the ozone layer and the British obesity epidemic. Plus, dark matter, why you should drink tea rather than water and meet the battlefield robo-surgeon.

In the news this week: the genes that make us human, Britain faces a scientist shortage and a new plan for picking planets. Plus, NASA’s missing moon tapes, a weird whale and how to bring frozen mammoths back from the dead.

In the news this week: snip for victory in the fight against HIV, the drought disrupts wildlife and why floods are no problem for GM rice. Plus: an algorithm for enhanced beauty and why science and the arts do mix.

In the news this week: climate change porn, global warming despair and environmental disaster. But things aren’t all bad, there’s also extraordinary new treatments for cancer and obesity, a Japanese moon base and eggs that let you know when they’re cooked.

In the news this week: the EU funds stem cell research, stem cell research funds IVF treatment and online shopping funds a trip into space. Plus, electricity speeds up healing, extreme sports tire the heart and why elephants hate hills.

In the news this week: the global extinction crisis, Bush faces a backlash over stem cells and virtual worlds test telepathy. Plus, parting the Red Sea, plants that warn of volcanic eruptions and fighting asteroids with asteroids.

In the news this week, nuclear power gets the go-ahead, bionic brain implants expand the mind and there are revolutionary developments for IVF treatment. Plus dying frogs, flying spiders, inflatable spacecraft and how to get drunk without getting a hangover.

In the news this week, sky rockets in flight, reactor crack fright and a horse that’s white. Plus stem cells, bionic limbs and renewable energy.

In the news this week, having more older brothers can affect your sexual orientation and being watched can make you more honest. Plus, emotionally aware computers, invisibility, recording smells and a giant asteroid.

In the Science News Digest this week, we expose the Mummy Villains of yester years; Giant Panda numbers double and a "Noah's ark" for the world's most important plants is launched.

This week we look at creating new species, the robot world cup and the discovery that some fats are fatter than others.

This week we look at allergy-free cats, robots getting touchy-feely. and the science of football...

David Attenborough speaks out, cancer drug is to be available on the NHS, and the laziest way to combat those pounds...

Britons could be facing the worst drought since 1975 and a return mission to the moon may be the key to uncovering the secrets of life on earth. Plus your love life only gets better with age.......

GM yeast cells provide hope for malaria treatment, and a probe assessing Venus could advance our understanding of climate change. Plus an eggcellent experiment has been uncovered...

The government misses its target on carbon dioxide emissions and Scotland goes smoke free. Plus, the science of hiding behind the sofa.

The Chancellor’s “green” budget, the Archbishop of Canterbury’s thoughts on creationism and the dangers of watching Davina.

Volunteers critically ill as drug trial does wrong. Scientists report that atmospheric carbon dioxide levels rise sharply. Plus, meerkats exposed...

A special environmental edition of the Science News Digest to tie in with the start of National Science Week and the launch of Click for the Climate.

Pro-vivisectionists go on the offensive in Oxford, a German cat dies of bird flu and Jeremy Clarkson does his bit to help climate change.

This week, how far would you go for climate change? Which is the most carbon-friendly place in the UK? Plus, Tony Blair and Lionel Blair – separated at birth?

Avian flu makes headway into Europe, insurers seek to increase policies for women susceptible to cancer and MPs ban smoking in pubs and bars. Plus, beware – an elephant NEVER forgets!

In the news this week: 2006 is on course to become the UK's hottest year on record, a hay fever vaccine pill will soon be launched and scientific experts report on the use of non-human primates in research. Plus, the shirt that can transmit a hug...

Calories galore in the Snickers Pie, paradise found in Indonesia and trouble with trollibags in the North East.

In the news this week: photographs suggest water flowed recently on Mars, Brazilian rainforest gets protected status and Ebola coupled with hunting threatens western gorillas with extinction. Plus, bio-bling takes personalised jewellery to a whole other level...

The government releases a pessimistic report on climate change, George Bush warns of Americans’ addiction to oil, and we report on some research you may have heard about before.

In the science news this week: the monster that really could munch, a 2,000-year-old mechanical computer and a 'global heating' prediction from Professor James Lovelock...

A whale causes a storm in the Thames, Intelligent Design finds a surprising level of support in the UK, and why we could soon be seeing "green van man".

In the science news this week: humans are not so genetically similar after all, an ambitious nuclear fusion project gains international support and experts call for improved flu pandemic plans. Plus, wasps commit chemical warfare and it's not 'fruitless' when flies fight...

In the science news this week: neanderthals yield their genetic secrets, key avian influenza virus mutations are identified and Hubble hints at dark energy's long history. Plus, the smell of filthy lucre is revealed...

Are drugs, food and kids bad for your mental health? What will it take for us to accept nuclear power? Plus, why we all might be moving up North (to the Pole, that is).

Bird flu appears to be mutating, UK levels of winter flu are at an all-time low and South Korea's cloning scandal has unexpected consequences. Plus, why you may have been better staying in bed.

In the science news this week: the need to help poorer nations adapt to climate change, a new breed of silent aircraft is revealed and the Prime Minister encourages young people to engage with science. Plus, pigeons are not so bird-brained after all...

The detox "myth" is debunked, Russia cuts off the gas supply to the Ukraine and scientists ask the question 'Does my bum look big in this?'

This week: the UK gets a Stern warning over global warming, the pioneer of DNA testing expresses his concerns and a key cot death contributor is revealed. Plus, the Hubble telescope gets a reprieve and the footie fans were right all along...

In the news this week: the world’s first full-face transplant gets the go-ahead, our future fertility may be at risk, and Europe’s worst energy waster is named and shamed. Plus, bees created a buzz and martian life remains possible.

This week, Darwin’s entire works became available online, evidence was published indicating facial expressions are hereditary and another reason to keep our weight down became apparent. Plus, element 118 made a brief appearance and other scientists used an invisibility cloak to make things disappear.

Science stories in the news this week: A new DNA technology is launched to catch criminals, fighting flu with flu and a good “cuppa” really can help to relieve stress.

In the news this week: the world moves into ecological overdraft, our wobbly orbit is blamed for cycles of mass extinction and a new species of mouse is discovered. Plus, software that can help expose forged paintings, and the search for the home of Odysseus.