New Gene Studies Uncover Why Autism Symptoms Vary Widely

Autism, or autistic disorder, is a wide range of problems that occur when the brain develops differently. Such abnormal development results in a struggle for autistic children to perceive the world in the same way that other people do. Our brain is responsible for deciphering what we see, hear, breath, touch, taste, and experience. It then uses that information to send nerve signals to the appropriate muscles and organs, with instructions on how to respond. But with autism, the brain struggles to fulfill this vital role, and as such, it becomes very difficult to listen, talk, learn, and play. However, though 1 out every 88 kids is diagnosed with 'autism', their symptoms vary significantly in character and severity....

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Alaska's Iditarod Gets Off To A Rocky Start - Literally!

On Sunday, March 2nd, 69 Mushers and their team of 12-16 experienced sled dogs set off from Willow, Alaska, ready to tackle the below freezing temperatures, mounds of snow and ice, as well as, the dangerous terrain that they normally encounter in the Iditarod - an annual 1,000-mile sledge dog race from Anchorage to Nome. What they were not prepared for however, was spring-like temperatures which had transformed the normally snow-packed trail into a minefield of rocks and ice....

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How 3D Printing Will Change Medicine

The struggle to recreate human tissues in the laboratory is nearly as old as the medical profession itself. The cell as you all know, is the structural, functional and biological unit of all organisms, whether it is a single celled-bacteria or a 90 trillion-celled human! While these microscopic units appear simple, they are actually quite complex and almost impossible to build from scratch, which is why for the longest time 'growing' new human body parts in the laboratory seemed like an impossible task. That perception seems to be changing somewhat, thanks to the recent advent of 3-D printing....

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Researcher Enlists Robots To Find Missing WWII Aircraft And Airmen

Advances in robotics have impacted almost every aspect of science - From building new liver tissues to making more advanced remote controlled helicopters. Now, these futuristic robots are even providing a window to our past, by aiding in the discovery of World War II airplanes along with remains to their occupants, the brave soldiers that fought so valiantly for their countries....

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A Tribute To Pioneers In Entertainment

With summer approaching, most of you are probably preoccupied with how you are going to entertain yourselves when school's out - Whether you laze around watching television, visit theme parks or go to the movies, be sure to take a moment to thank all the amazing men and women who came up with these ideas. Here are two whose brilliant creations are still providing you hours of sheer joy....

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What Would Life Be Without Artists And Musicians?

Ever wondered what life would be like if we did not have artists or musicians? There would be no art galleries to stroll into on slow summer days or concerts to look forward to, on hot summer nights. While we all have our favorites, there are some that have garnered universal appeal, probably because they were all pioneers in their respective art forms. Here are a handful that you have probably heard of, but may know very little about....

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May Is National Inventors Month

May is National Inventors Month, which means it's time to celebrate the innovators, tinkerers and creative thinkers that have enhanced our quality of life with their brilliant ideas. We would like to pay homage to each and everyone of them but alas, there are simply too many. So here are a few, whose inventions, ideas and vision impact most of us, on a daily basis....

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Earth Day 2013 - Remembering Early Environmentalists

On April 22nd, people all over the world will celebrate the 43rd anniversary of Earth Day. Besides conducting environmentally friendly projects within their communities, over one billion people are also expected to participate in rallies to voice their concern about the dire effects of global warming on our planet and vow to take actions to help reverse the trends....

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Defining Moments In American History

The freedom, equality and prosperity that Americans enjoy today, can be attributed to some key historical events or turning points. Here are a few that make for interesting reading and may also provide some help in preparing for those pesky Social Studies State tests....

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Celebrating Women's History Month

American historian Laurel Ulrich once said 'Well-behaved women rarely make history' - And she was right! Harriet Tubman, Rosa Parks, and others did not help win the war against slavery and apartheid by following the rules. Today in honor of Women's History Month, we present a few more women and a teenager, whose bold behavior and courage to break conventional wisdom helped pave the way for the respect and equality enjoyed by their counterparts today....

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Presidents Are Just Like Us!

If you live in the USA, chances are you are enjoying a three-day weekend or better still, a week-long 'ski' break, thanks to President's Day, a holiday to honor all the brave men that have led our country and in some cases, even sacrificed their lives....

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Celebrating Black History Month

Observed annually during the month of February, Black History Month is an important American tradition that dates all the way back to 1926. It was established by historian Carter G. Woodson to ensure that contributions made by African American men and women throughout history, would not be forgotten....

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Who Was . . . . Martin Luther King Jr.?

Minister, saint, hero, civil rights activist - These are the words often used to describe Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. - However, in light of President Barack Obama's second-term inauguration ceremony this morning, the word that seems to fit the bill perfectly, is visionary - The man who had the foresight to see that America could one day transform into a nation where everyone is equal, regardless of race, color or creed. So who was this amazing man that single handedly spearheaded America's civil rights movement?...

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It's A Wrap! The 30th Olympic Games Comes To A Successful Rock 'N' Rollin End!

On Sunday night, millions of people all around the world were once again glued to the television as London put on a lively Rock 'n' Roll concert to celebrate the end of the 2012 Summer Olympics. Over the last 17 days we have all shared the victories and disappointments of the numerous athletes that had amalgamated in London with one mission - To make their country proud, by bringing home a medal. Here, is a recap of some of moments that will forever be etched in our memories....

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President Obama's Letter To Sasha And Malia

Today, was Mr. Barack Obama's first day as President of the United States of America. While his new job is important to him, what is even more important is being a good father - something he has never forgotten throughout his historic journey to the White House....

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