Our Times: June 2006

Methane Cowed

British scientists claim to have developed a diet to decrease the methane emissions of cow belches and flatulence, a non insignificant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions worldwide. A supplement based on a naturally occurring chemical, fumic acid, is added to their food. With 14 per cent of the world's methane pollution coming from farm animals, the process will be beneficial in the fight against global warming.

The Love Molecule

Scientists are warning that feelings associated with falling in love don't last more than a year. The accelerated heartbeat, the butterflies in the stomach and euphoric and silly feeling is triggered by a molecule known as nerve growth factor (NGF), according to Pavia University researchers.

They found those in “love” have higher quantities of NGF in their blood for a short time, but after about a year it decreases to a more normal level.

Limbo Lost

Pope Benedict has asked Catholic theologians for a more reasonable doctrine than limbo for what happens to the souls of unbaptised babies who die. Limbo has been taught by the Catholic Church for hundreds of years.