Herbal medicines may hinder IVF treatment, says study

LONDON: Infertile women who supplement their fertility treatment with alternative medicines may be harming their chances of becoming pregnant, according to controversial research by psychologists.

IN BRIEF (Page 19)

Life Culture

Brushing up on tradition

In 1856, Lady Yehenara was confronted with the question of what to give Qing Emperor Xianfeng for his 25th birthday. So, the learned and ambitious concubine, who would later be known as Empress Dowager Cixi, ordered the creation of a top-quality writing brush.

Tale of the goat, rabbit and hair

The Helianqing writing brush belongs to the broad category of hubi - a type of writing brush produced in Huzhou of East China's Zhejiang Province, says Lin Zhenyu, who strives to revive the ancient tradition.

Look who's tipping the scales in favor of skinny suits

Among Beijing University of Clothing Technology's immense collection of ethnic costumes, one outfit stands out.

Life Expat

Global village

What's in a name

Little brother sees life through red-tinted glasses

Having lived the privileged life of an American expat in Fuzhou, Fujian Province, Ben Ross wanted to know what life was like on the other side. So, the 27-year-old from Kansas City, Missouri, took an entry-level job at a local barbershop last month.

Face off

In a sprawling office-turned-showroom in downtown Guangzhou, auburn-haired Eloisa parades in front of a group of fashion directors and production assistants striking a variety of poses before exiting the room. Carol, another long-legged Brazilian, shows off another of the Ecico fashion company's designs.

Life Travel

Getting there

Sanganer Airport is 10 kilometers from the city and is well connected to all other tourist and business centers, such as Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai. There are international flights to and from Dubai.