postive: pain relief, more gas

U.S., Israeli Pain Relief Scientists Win Top Spanish Prize
Two U.S. biochemists and an Israeli colleague leading research into pain relief were awarded Spain's prestigious Prince of Asturias prize for scientific and technical research on Wednesday, Agence France Presse reported. David Julius and Linda Watkins from the United States and Baruch Minke from Israel were praised for in uncovering "the causes and mechanisms via which pain is produced and perceived, as well as other sensations such as cold, heat and taste," according the jury. "The findings of these scientists open up new and hopeful avenues for the rational design of specific therapies and drugs for the selective treatment of the different types of pain, one of the great medical challenges of all times." Minke said he was "deeply honored and grateful" to receive the award along with his two colleagues.

Israel Discovers Major Natural Gas Field off Haifa
The Leviathan natural-gas site off the Haifa shore could position Israel as a gas exporter in coming years, The Jerusalem Post reported Friday. "I am thrilled that today's announcement substantiates the potential of a new and significant energy basin in the eastern Mediterranean, which, if successful, could position Israel as a potential energy exporter in future years," said Noble Energy chairman and CEO Charles Davidson. "I would like to congratulate the State of Israel on the discoveries of the last year and a half, which have the potential to strengthen the economy and security of Israel." Noble Energy's discoveries could provide about 35 years of Israel's natural-gas needs at projected 2012 demand rates.