Washington, Nov 5 : What was earlier considered to be "junk" DNA has now been found to be an important ingredient distinguishing humans from other species, say scientists at the Genome Institute of Singapore (GIS).

Over 50 percent of human DNA is designated as "junk" as it consists of copies of nearly identical sequences, the major source of which is internal viruses that have inserted themselves throughout the genome at various times during mammalian evolution.

By using the latest sequencing technologies, scientists proved that a large number of transcription factors—master proteins that control the expression of other genes—bind specific repeat elements.

Washington, Nov 5 : In a new study on mice, researchers have found that Nicotinamide, a form of Vitamin B3, in high doses may prevent lesions and symptoms associated with Alzheimer''s disease.

UC Irvine scientists are now conducting a clinical trial to determine its effect in humans.

Nicotinamide, was found to reduce the levels of a protein called phosphorylated tau that leads to the development of tangles, one of two brain lesions linked with Alzheimer''s.

The researchers found that the vitamin also strengthened scaffolding along which information travels in brain cells.

London, Nov 5 : Cheryl Cole’s pet dog has developed a rather bizarre hobby—it picks up the singer’s lacy underwear and buries them in her back garden!

The stunning X Factor judge recently caught her Chihuahua, Buster, digging a hole in her lawn with a thong hanging from his mouth.

“My dog digs holes and puts my knickers in the ground — but then I shouldn’t be telling you that,” The Sun quoted her as saying.

She added: “It’s disgusting, I have no idea why he would do that.”

London, Nov 5 : The original owners of a pirated video will now be able to make profit when the copied content will be broadcasted online, all thanks to a new technology developed by California-based company Auditude.

The new system will simply overlay copyright-infringing footage with advertising designed to generate revenue from the video sharing websites like MySpace and YouTube.

Such sites have often been asked to remove content like music videos and TV shows uploaded without permission from the copyright holders.

The sites have been accused of profiting from such activity, which is considered to be a major block in making profit from providing free video online.

London, Nov. 5 : Former Wimbledon champion John McEnroe believes that Britain’s Andy Murray is a serious contender for the end-of-season Masters Cup in Shanghai.

Washington, November 5 : Rihanna has been signed as the new face for Gucci’s recent campaign for The United Nations Children''s Fund (UNICEF).

The 20-year-old, whose hit single ‘Umbrella’ has been polled as the ‘catchiest song of all time’, will be seen posing for the iconic Italian fashion house for its ‘Tattoo Heart’ collection of products.

A quarter of proceeds earned from the collection will donated to the children''s charity, reports Contactmusic.