From today's UK papers

The Independent

Deflecting an asteroid approaching Earth could be more complex than just blowing it up, research suggests.

Scientists at Hammersmith Hospital in London have found that Viagra may boost the oxygen-absorbing capacity of the lungs in climbers, preventing mountain sickness.

Clever students in search of a hot social life are rejecting Oxford and Cambridge in favour of newer universities.

The Daily Telegraph

More than seven out of 10 women in Britain now survive breast cancer, compared with a little over half of those diagnosed 30 years ago.

Scientists have found an enviromentally friendly alternative to cremation and burial. They freeze-dry corpses and then shatter the remains to create a soil-enriching dust.

Turkey's parliament has voted to repeal longstanding bans on broadcasting and education in Kurdish, as part of renewed efforts by the country to join the European Union.

The Times

Oxford University will eventually be forced to charge fees of up to £15,000 a year for some courses if it is to remain a world-class institution, the bursar of a leading college has predicted.

Two machines that Romans used to lift water on an industrial scale have been unearthed by Museum of London archaeologists working in the City of London. 

Students who stay at home with their parents are happier than those living in university halls, a survey by Leeds University psychologists has found.

Financial Times

Economists have attempted to put a price on the misery caused to people during an economic recession: and the answer is £200.

House prices in university towns and cities have soared as families buy property for undergraduate children, according to Halifax, Britain largest mortgage lender.