Jeff Bezos completes pilot space flight aboard Blue Origin's New Shepard

Just minutes after logging into social media accounts, children are potentially bombarded with a host of dangerous content that could lead to self-harm,&nbsp;sexualisation, misleading diets and wrong concepts on weight loss, a disturbing study has revealed.

Through the "endless scroll"&nbsp;features, kids are sucked into a vortex&nbsp;of "targeted"&nbsp;content.

Now a study has shed light on the extent of this dangerous practice.

Social media giants like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter have come under the radar of governments across the globe with new regulation drives.

Many administrations are increasingly growing wary of the role played by these companies in dissemination of content on their platforms, especially in terms of "targeted content".

Targeted content may be defined as that which is created especially for a niche audience in mind to elicit a specific response. Easiest example? Perhaps the little advertisements you see every time on Instagram that weirdly pitch&nbsp;products you may be looking to buy on other portals. You become the target, and the purchase of the advertised product is the expected response.

With each positive response to such target advertisements, the algorithms that pitch personalised content to users become refined and stronger. While adults may be able to successfully understand that they're targets of a marketplace strategy, children may be inadvertently exposed to dangerous products and content.

<img alt="social media" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="baf56a74-91dd-4908-be46-3f060c753eef" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_73.jpg" />

Graphic online content 
 
A new research sheds light on the disturbing content targeting designed especially for children. According to researchers at "Revealing Reality" who undertook the project, accounts of minors and children are being fed inappropriate material soon after joining any social media platform.

What is "inappropriate material", you wonder? In this case, it refers to images of self-harm including razors and cuts.&nbsp;

The researchers&nbsp;set up social media accounts that would essentially resemble the online avatar of a child based on information from kids aged between 13-17. They took into account the kind of profiles generally followed by kids and the nature of content they're expected to "like" across platforms.

Just hours into the creation of accounts on social media, these fake accounts representing kids were fed content about diets and sexualisation. In addition, pornography and other explicit content was easily accessible through these accounts.

<img alt="social" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ad03b99f-5819-4152-837f-65f836f713f4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_59.jpg" />

Worryingly, just hours after signing up, the accounts were approached by unknown adults, positing that a part of this targeted content attempted to link kids to adults on social media. This experiment was commissioned by 5Rights Foundation and the Children's Commissioner for England, who are urging governments to formulate rules to regulate the design and models of online platforms.

Researchers believe that such content is dangerous especially for kids who are grappling with body image issues, for they're constantly fed unrealistic ideas of an ideal body type.

A 14-year-old girl, Molly Russell took her own life after viewing graphic self-harm and suicidal content online. Her father, Ian Russell told SkyNews that social media companies prioritise profit over safety and is urging governments to bring online content in line with what kids are shown in the physical world.

Facebook, Instagram and TikTok were named explicitly in the report. In response, both Facebook (which also owns Instagram) and TikTok commissioned the same staple response, claiming they have robust models to ensure kids are safe on their platforms.&nbsp;

<img alt="social" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aa5e249b-d93a-42da-8e25-3fcd225e2f50" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/4_18.jpg" />

Weight-loss frenzy 
 
The same research also revealed how&nbsp;Instagram is flooding the feeds of teenagers with weight-loss content. While accounts created for girls were receiving more content about dieting and losing weight, ghost accounts for boys were constantly fed images of models with unrealistic body types.

In one instance, an account set up for a 17-year-old girl liked a post about dieting which Instagram fed to the account in its "Explore" tab&nbsp;where people discover new content from users they may not be "following". Soon, suggestions in the "Explore" section radically changed to focus on weight loss, with amplification&nbsp;of&nbsp;"distorted body shapes". Similar patterns were noted for accounts created for girls.

Instagram claims that the study only represents a fraction of the teenage experience on its platform, claiming the content shown in the research&nbsp;is the kind which shows up when actively searched by users.

<img alt="social" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9680ef00-6f76-4f09-83c1-475738ee304d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/3_48.jpg" />

United Kingdom has taken the need to protect children from harmful content extremely seriously.

Six weeks from now, social media companies will be required to follow a strict set of rules for age-appropriate content on social media, which the county's Information Commissioner's Office is calling the pursuit of a "child-safe internet".

Starting September, companies will be expected to curate child-friendly content on their platforms by default, instead of the current model which operates under the assumption that every user on their portal is an adult until they state otherwise. With this, the United Kingdom is&nbsp;setting a precedent for other countries where there are no safeguards for children in the online sphere.&nbsp;

Just minutes after logging into social media accounts, children are potentially bombarded with a host of dangerous content that could lead to self-harm, sexualisation, misleading diets and wrong concepts on weight loss, a disturbing study has revealed.

Just minutes after logging into social media accounts, children are potentially bombarded with a host of dangerous content that could lead to self-harm, sexualisation, misleading diets and wrong concepts on weight loss, a disturbing study has revealed. Through the "endless scroll" features, kids are sucked into a vortex of "targeted" content. Now a study has shed light on the extent of this dangerous practice. Social media giants like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter have come under the radar of governments across the globe with new regulation drives. Many administrations are increasingly growing wary of the role played by these companies in dissemination of content on their platforms, especially in terms of "targeted content". Targeted content may be defined as that which is created especially for a niche audience in mind to elicit a specific response. Easiest example? Perhaps the little advertisements you see every time on Instagram that weirdly pitch products you may be looking to buy on other portals. You become the target, and the purchase of the advertised product is the expected response. With each positive response to such target advertisements, the algorithms that pitch personalised content to users become refined and stronger. While adults may be able to successfully understand that they're targets of a marketplace strategy, children may be inadvertently exposed to dangerous products and content. Graphic online content A new research sheds light on the disturbing content targeting designed especially for children. According to researchers at "Revealing Reality" who undertook the project, accounts of minors and children are being fed inappropriate material soon after joining any social media platform. What is "inappropriate material", you wonder? In this case, it refers to images of self-harm including razors and cuts. The researchers set up social media accounts that would essentially resemble the online avatar of a child based on information from kids aged between 13-17. They took into account the kind of profiles generally followed by kids and the nature of content they're expected to "like" across platforms. Just hours into the creation of accounts on social media, these fake accounts representing kids were fed content about diets and sexualisation. In addition, pornography and other explicit content was easily accessible through these accounts. Worryingly, just hours after signing up, the accounts were approached by unknown adults, positing that a part of this targeted content attempted to link kids to adults on social media. This experiment was commissioned by 5Rights Foundation and the Children's Commissioner for England, who are urging governments to formulate rules to regulate the design and models of online platforms. Researchers believe that such content is dangerous especially for kids who are grappling with body image issues, for they're constantly fed unrealistic ideas of an ideal body type. A 14-year-old girl, Molly Russell took her own life after viewing graphic self-harm and suicidal content online. Her father, Ian Russell told SkyNews that social media companies prioritise profit over safety and is urging governments to bring online content in line with what kids are shown in the physical world. Facebook, Instagram and TikTok were named explicitly in the report. In response, both Facebook (which also owns Instagram) and TikTok commissioned the same staple response, claiming they have robust models to ensure kids are safe on their platforms. Weight-loss frenzy The same research also revealed how Instagram is flooding the feeds of teenagers with weight-loss content. While accounts created for girls were receiving more content about dieting and losing weight, ghost accounts for boys were constantly fed images of models with unrealistic body types. In one instance, an account set up for a 17-year-old girl liked a post about dieting which Instagram fed to the account in its "Explore" tab where people discover new content from users they may not be "following". Soon, suggestions in the "Explore" section radically changed to focus on weight loss, with amplification of "distorted body shapes". Similar patterns were noted for accounts created for girls. Instagram claims that the study only represents a fraction of the teenage experience on its platform, claiming the content shown in the research is the kind which shows up when actively searched by users. United Kingdom has taken the need to protect children from harmful content extremely seriously. Six weeks from now, social media companies will be required to follow a strict set of rules for age-appropriate content on social media, which the county's Information Commissioner's Office is calling the pursuit of a "child-safe internet". Starting September, companies will be expected to curate child-friendly content on their platforms by default, instead of the current model which operates under the assumption that every user on their portal is an adult until they state otherwise. With this, the United Kingdom is setting a precedent for other countries where there are no safeguards for children in the online sphere.

This is how social media giants are feeding dangerous content to children

Israel responded to Ben &amp; Jerry's decision to stop selling ice cream in Israel-occupied territories.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Naftali Bennett's office claimed that he spoke with Unilever CEO Alan Jope about the "glaring anti-Israel measure" by the ice cream maker with its&nbsp;refusal to continue operations in Palestinian areas.

"From Israel's standpoint, this action has severe consequences, legal and otherwise, and it will move aggressively against any boycott measure targeting civilians," Bennett reportedly told Jope.

On Tuesday, Israel warned Unilever of "severe consequences" and urged US states to invoke anti-boycott laws.

The announcement by Ben &amp; Jerry's came in on Monday after the company faced increasing pressure over its business with Israel and Jewish settlements in the West Bank, which was handled through a licensee partner since 1987.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/israeli-companies-aided-saudi-spying-despite-khashoggi-killing-398935" hreflang="en">Israeli companies aided Saudi spying despite Khashoggi killing</a>

The ice cream maker had announced plans to not renew the license once it expires at the end of 2022. Additionally, the company hopes to stay in Israel under a new arrangement which bars sales in West Bank where Palestinians seek statehood.

Israel's settlements are seen as illegal by many governments around the world. But Israel disputes the notion based on historical links to the land and the security situation. The country has penalised anti-settlement measures under Israeli law while getting legal protection in many US states.

Unilever, a British company, has not responded to Israel's statement yet.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/technology/israeli-company-is-behind-malware-that-affected-windows-pcs-microsoft-398381" hreflang="en">Israeli company is behind malware that affected Windows PCs: Microsoft</a>

35 states in the US legislated against boycotting Israel. The country's ambassador to US , Gilad Erdan said that he has raised the matter of ice cream with governors of these states in a letter.

"Rapid and determined action must be taken to counter such discriminatory and anti-semitic actions," the letter read.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel responded to Ben & Jerry's decision to stop selling ice cream in Israel-occupied territories. Prime Minister Naftali Bennett's office claimed that he spoke with Unilever CEO Alan Jope about the "glaring anti-Israel measure" by the ice cream maker with its refusal to continue operations in Palestinian areas.

Israel responded to Ben & Jerry's decision to stop selling ice cream in Israel-occupied territories. Prime Minister Naftali Bennett's office claimed that he spoke with Unilever CEO Alan Jope about the "glaring anti-Israel measure" by the ice cream maker with its refusal to continue operations in Palestinian areas. "From Israel's standpoint, this action has severe consequences, legal and otherwise, and it will move aggressively against any boycott measure targeting civilians," Bennett reportedly told Jope. On Tuesday, Israel warned Unilever of "severe consequences" and urged US states to invoke anti-boycott laws. The announcement by Ben & Jerry's came in on Monday after the company faced increasing pressure over its business with Israel and Jewish settlements in the West Bank, which was handled through a licensee partner since 1987. Also read: Israeli companies aided Saudi spying despite Khashoggi killing The ice cream maker had announced plans to not renew the license once it expires at the end of 2022. Additionally, the company hopes to stay in Israel under a new arrangement which bars sales in West Bank where Palestinians seek statehood. Israel's settlements are seen as illegal by many governments around the world. But Israel disputes the notion based on historical links to the land and the security situation. The country has penalised anti-settlement measures under Israeli law while getting legal protection in many US states. Unilever, a British company, has not responded to Israel's statement yet. Also read: Israeli company is behind malware that affected Windows PCs: Microsoft 35 states in the US legislated against boycotting Israel. The country's ambassador to US , Gilad Erdan said that he has raised the matter of ice cream with governors of these states in a letter. "Rapid and determined action must be taken to counter such discriminatory and anti-semitic actions," the letter read. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel calls Ben & Jerry's decision to stop selling ice cream in Palestine 'anti-Semitic'

Japan has become the first country to grant approval to Ronapreve antibody treatment for COVID-19.

The antibody treatment was created by Swiss pharmaceutical company Roche and is intended for treating patients with mild to moderate coronavirus symptoms.

Phase 3 trials of the treatment revealed that the cocktail dramatically decreased the risk of developing serious illness from COVID-19 requiring hospitalisation.

What is Ronapreve?

Ronapreve was developed by Roche in collaboration with US biotech firm Regeneron. It was approved by Japan's ministry of health, labour and welfare, according to a statement by Roche. Japan was confirmed as the "first country" to grant approval to Ronapreve.

"Ronapreve has been shown to improve survival in high-risk, non-hospitalised COVID-19 patients by reducing the risk of hospitalisation and death," AFP cited Roche chief medical officer and product development chief Levi Garraway as saying.

What do Ronapreve trials show?

According to Garraway, the cocktail retained "activity" against new variants including the more infectious and lethal Delta during preclinical studies.

In addition, Roche claims that Phase 3 trials of Ronapreve revealed that patients with high risk of serious illness who received the antibody cocktail witnessed 70 per cent reduction in hospitalisation and death.

Ronapreve also helped in shortening the length of symptomatic illness by at least 4 days. Based on Phase 1 trials, scientists found that the drug was safely tolerated among the Japanese population. 
 
Roche claims the antibody combination has received authorisation for emergency use especially in hard hit countries including United States, India, the European Union, Canada, and Switzerland.

(With inputs from agencies)

Japan has become the first country to grant approval to Ronapreve antibody treatment for COVID-19. The antibody treatment was created by Swiss pharmaceutical company Roche and is intended for treating patients with mild to moderate coronavirus symptoms.

Japan has become the first country to grant approval to Ronapreve antibody treatment for COVID-19. The antibody treatment was created by Swiss pharmaceutical company Roche and is intended for treating patients with mild to moderate coronavirus symptoms. Phase 3 trials of the treatment revealed that the cocktail dramatically decreased the risk of developing serious illness from COVID-19 requiring hospitalisation. What is Ronapreve? Ronapreve was developed by Roche in collaboration with US biotech firm Regeneron. It was approved by Japan's ministry of health, labour and welfare, according to a statement by Roche. Japan was confirmed as the "first country" to grant approval to Ronapreve. "Ronapreve has been shown to improve survival in high-risk, non-hospitalised COVID-19 patients by reducing the risk of hospitalisation and death," AFP cited Roche chief medical officer and product development chief Levi Garraway as saying. What do Ronapreve trials show? According to Garraway, the cocktail retained "activity" against new variants including the more infectious and lethal Delta during preclinical studies. In addition, Roche claims that Phase 3 trials of Ronapreve revealed that patients with high risk of serious illness who received the antibody cocktail witnessed 70 per cent reduction in hospitalisation and death. Ronapreve also helped in shortening the length of symptomatic illness by at least 4 days. Based on Phase 1 trials, scientists found that the drug was safely tolerated among the Japanese population. Roche claims the antibody combination has received authorisation for emergency use especially in hard hit countries including United States, India, the European Union, Canada, and Switzerland. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: Japan becomes first country to approve Roche's antibody cocktail treatment

Journey of Jeff Bezos: How Amazon's 'garage inventor' became interested in space

Astronomers recently discovered four teenage exoplanets situated 130 light-years away from Earth.

The quartet was was found using data from NASA's TESS mission. Exoplanets are essentially planets that orbit a star outside a solar system, for which reason they're also called extrasolar planets.

The planets orbit two orange dwarf stars, both smaller our Sun and named TOI 2076 and TOI 1808, wherein TOI stands for "TESS Object of Interest".

The two dwarf stars are about 30 light-years apart from each other and are continuously moving in the same direction. They're also about the same age, suggesting that the dwarf stars emerged at the same place and from a single process.

"The planets in both systems are in a transitional, or teenage, phase of their life cycle," Christina Hedges from the Bay Area Environmental Research Institute and NASA's Ames Research Center in California, claimed in a statement.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-posts-mesmerising-video-of-jupiters-moon-398894" hreflang="en">NASA posts mesmerising video of Jupiter's moon</a>

Hedges hopes to get a better understanding of older planets spread across systems by learning more about the teenage exoplanets. "They're not newborns, but they're also not settled down", Hedges added.

NASA's TESS (Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite) telescope has been mapping 75 per cent of the visible sky from Earth since 2018. It looks for changes in light emission from stars, which could point to a planet passing in front of the stars.

The telescope's initial survey was finished in July 2020, but its mission has now been extended up to 2022. Since its launch, the telescope has helped astronomers navigate and pinpoint over 2,000 exoplanet candidates.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earth-was-engulfed-by-solar-wind-for-a-few-hours-noaa-398321" hreflang="en">Earth was engulfed by solar wind for a few hours: NOAA</a>

TOI 2076 has three planets around it, sized between those of Earth and Neptune. On the other hand, TOI 1807 has only one planet orbiting it, which is twice the Earth's size. This planet orbits the sun dangerously close, and scientists believe a a there is equal to 13 hours on Earth. Usually, planets don't form so close to their suns, which is why the interest surrounding it has risen.

The study was published in the July 12 issue of the Astronomical Journal.

Astronomers recently discovered four teenage exoplanets situated 130 light-years away from Earth. The quartet was was found using data from NASA's TESS mission. Exoplanets are essentially planets that orbit a star outside a solar system, for which reason they're also called extrasolar planets.

Astronomers recently discovered four teenage exoplanets situated 130 light-years away from Earth. The quartet was was found using data from NASA's TESS mission. Exoplanets are essentially planets that orbit a star outside a solar system, for which reason they're also called extrasolar planets. The planets orbit two orange dwarf stars, both smaller our Sun and named TOI 2076 and TOI 1808, wherein TOI stands for "TESS Object of Interest". The two dwarf stars are about 30 light-years apart from each other and are continuously moving in the same direction. They're also about the same age, suggesting that the dwarf stars emerged at the same place and from a single process. "The planets in both systems are in a transitional, or teenage, phase of their life cycle," Christina Hedges from the Bay Area Environmental Research Institute and NASA's Ames Research Center in California, claimed in a statement. Also read: NASA posts mesmerising video of Jupiter's moon Hedges hopes to get a better understanding of older planets spread across systems by learning more about the teenage exoplanets. "They're not newborns, but they're also not settled down", Hedges added. NASA's TESS (Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite) telescope has been mapping 75 per cent of the visible sky from Earth since 2018. It looks for changes in light emission from stars, which could point to a planet passing in front of the stars. The telescope's initial survey was finished in July 2020, but its mission has now been extended up to 2022. Since its launch, the telescope has helped astronomers navigate and pinpoint over 2,000 exoplanet candidates. Also read: Earth was engulfed by solar wind for a few hours: NOAA TOI 2076 has three planets around it, sized between those of Earth and Neptune. On the other hand, TOI 1807 has only one planet orbiting it, which is twice the Earth's size. This planet orbits the sun dangerously close, and scientists believe a a there is equal to 13 hours on Earth. Usually, planets don't form so close to their suns, which is why the interest surrounding it has risen. The study was published in the July 12 issue of the Astronomical Journal.

Scientists find four 'teenage' exoplanets. One of them is really special.

Some refer to it as magic, while others are more likely to call it a menace, but marijuana has remained a topic of political and social contention for decades now. Its supporters claim that the plant’s classification as a drug is misleading, while law enforcement agencies continue to perceive it as a “gateway drug”. 
 
In the midst of this debate about its consumption, a lot of the plant’s benefits and drawbacks are buried. Marijuana is known by an array of terms that vary from culture to culture. Pot, weed, greens, ganja, Mary Jane, grass are among many unofficial designations given to the plant. Most people consume it by rolling the dried plant into a cigarette and smoking it, which causes a “high”.

<img alt="marijuana" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="448b58ec-f2d3-4379-baf8-83c5814c3b99" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/3_47.jpg" />

What's with marijuana? 
 
Smoking isn’t the only way to consume the plant. In countries that have legalised it, marijuana is now consumed in food items such as brownies and chocolates, effectively taking away the serious dangers associated with smoking, including lung cancer. For those who fixate on the habit of smoking, vaping alternatives have flooded the markets. 
 
The intoxicating agent in marijuana is known as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol. The plant can hold up to 500 other chemicals which include over 100 compounds that share their chemical make-up with THC and are known as “cannabinoids”.&nbsp;

Where do countries stand on marijuana? 
 
Recently, Mexico moved forward with the pilot step to legalising marijuana – making the country the largest market for pot. Over the last decade, many countries have made radical changes to legalise marijuana. Even then, a lot of misinformation – both positive and negative, continues to plague the limited knowledge about the “drug”. In Mexico, the legalisation could help with not only regulation of the plant and its derivatives but could also facilitate in limiting the control drug cartels currently hold over the growth and selling of marijuana.

<img alt="pot" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e9dbe0e6-1f56-44c3-a371-382a2fc08a9e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_72.jpg" /> 
 
In the neighbouring United States, the situation is extremely complex. While many states have relaxed marijuana penalties, others continue to view it along the same lines as lethal drugs like cocaine, crystal meth, and crack – which are known to put people’s lives in dangers. Marijuana, on the other hand, has recorded zero deaths from its use. In the US, majority of the&nbsp;penalties associated with pot use are witnessed among Black and Brown communities, something acknowledged by US President Joe Biden, who has also shown interest in a sweeping national decriminalisation bill. But many within the country are now seeking long-term reforms instead of simple legalisations, which could help those who were imprisoned under anti-marijuana laws.

Panic is attributed as the worst-case scenario in terms of overconsumption of marijuana, but it has never been recorded to have caused serious harm to a person’s health. An overdose of marijuana is scientifically not possible, which has compelled many to back recent calls for its decriminalisation. Now, many countries allow medical use of marijuana while prohibiting recreational use. 
 
According to the United Nations 1961 treaty called “Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs”, pot is classified as a Schedule 1 drug, implying it is an addictive drug with serious risks of abuse.

Where is marijuana legal? 
 
A handful of countries where recreational use of marijuana is permitted are Canada, Georgia, South Africa, Mexico, Uruguay, along with 18 US states and the Australian Capital Territory. 
 
In the Netherlands, the usage of marijuana is allowed in licensed coffee shops that have become the face of country’s tourism. But in the absence of any legal regulations, it’ll always be unclear where the dried plant is sourced from. Essentially, even in countries that allow recreational usage but do not permit growth, the sources still remain largely illegal due to which no quality control can be enforced. For long, activists have asked for marijuana to be marketed and regulated like alcohol, which they also claim is way more dangerous than pot.

<img alt="marijjuana" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="29b6a139-207e-4363-b515-f6c819ff92f4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_58.jpg" />

What's India's take on cannabis? 
 
In India, the use of marijuana is deeply embedded in culture. “Bhaang”, a drink made from marijuana is a yearly favourite when the festival of Holi kicks in even though recreational usage of pot remains illegal. Another form of consumption is through “resins” or “charas” wherein the plant is rubbed until it resembles a black sticky gum-like substance.&nbsp;

India’s Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, which was passed in 1985 allows the consumption of “bhaang” for it is whipped up using leaves instead of the flowery tops.

<img alt="Marijuana" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a1e74f7b-c2f9-4f5f-b185-2192588f702b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/4_17.jpg" /> 
 
A lot of countries are now attempting to scientifically understand the long-term effects of marijuana use. Some studies claim it can lead to higher risks of dementia, while others claim that it’s highly effective in regulation of anxiety. In many cases, cannabis has been able to neutralise cancer cells. Even then, not enough expansive data is available to reach concrete conclusions. But as countries continue to embrace the plant, more details about marijuana’s long-term benefits and risks will come to light. 
 
Until then, puff puff pass (or not)!

Some refer to it as magic, while others are more likely to call it a menace, but marijuana has remained a topic of political and social contention for decades now.

Some refer to it as magic, while others are more likely to call it a menace, but marijuana has remained a topic of political and social contention for decades now. Its supporters claim that the plant’s classification as a drug is misleading, while law enforcement agencies continue to perceive it as a “gateway drug”. In the midst of this debate about its consumption, a lot of the plant’s benefits and drawbacks are buried. Marijuana is known by an array of terms that vary from culture to culture. Pot, weed, greens, ganja, Mary Jane, grass are among many unofficial designations given to the plant. Most people consume it by rolling the dried plant into a cigarette and smoking it, which causes a “high”. What's with marijuana? Smoking isn’t the only way to consume the plant. In countries that have legalised it, marijuana is now consumed in food items such as brownies and chocolates, effectively taking away the serious dangers associated with smoking, including lung cancer. For those who fixate on the habit of smoking, vaping alternatives have flooded the markets. The intoxicating agent in marijuana is known as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol. The plant can hold up to 500 other chemicals which include over 100 compounds that share their chemical make-up with THC and are known as “cannabinoids”. Where do countries stand on marijuana? Recently, Mexico moved forward with the pilot step to legalising marijuana – making the country the largest market for pot. Over the last decade, many countries have made radical changes to legalise marijuana. Even then, a lot of misinformation – both positive and negative, continues to plague the limited knowledge about the “drug”. In Mexico, the legalisation could help with not only regulation of the plant and its derivatives but could also facilitate in limiting the control drug cartels currently hold over the growth and selling of marijuana. In the neighbouring United States, the situation is extremely complex. While many states have relaxed marijuana penalties, others continue to view it along the same lines as lethal drugs like cocaine, crystal meth, and crack – which are known to put people’s lives in dangers. Marijuana, on the other hand, has recorded zero deaths from its use. In the US, majority of the penalties associated with pot use are witnessed among Black and Brown communities, something acknowledged by US President Joe Biden, who has also shown interest in a sweeping national decriminalisation bill. But many within the country are now seeking long-term reforms instead of simple legalisations, which could help those who were imprisoned under anti-marijuana laws. Panic is attributed as the worst-case scenario in terms of overconsumption of marijuana, but it has never been recorded to have caused serious harm to a person’s health. An overdose of marijuana is scientifically not possible, which has compelled many to back recent calls for its decriminalisation. Now, many countries allow medical use of marijuana while prohibiting recreational use. According to the United Nations 1961 treaty called “Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs”, pot is classified as a Schedule 1 drug, implying it is an addictive drug with serious risks of abuse. Where is marijuana legal? A handful of countries where recreational use of marijuana is permitted are Canada, Georgia, South Africa, Mexico, Uruguay, along with 18 US states and the Australian Capital Territory. In the Netherlands, the usage of marijuana is allowed in licensed coffee shops that have become the face of country’s tourism. But in the absence of any legal regulations, it’ll always be unclear where the dried plant is sourced from. Essentially, even in countries that allow recreational usage but do not permit growth, the sources still remain largely illegal due to which no quality control can be enforced. For long, activists have asked for marijuana to be marketed and regulated like alcohol, which they also claim is way more dangerous than pot. What's India's take on cannabis? In India, the use of marijuana is deeply embedded in culture. “Bhaang”, a drink made from marijuana is a yearly favourite when the festival of Holi kicks in even though recreational usage of pot remains illegal. Another form of consumption is through “resins” or “charas” wherein the plant is rubbed until it resembles a black sticky gum-like substance. India’s Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, which was passed in 1985 allows the consumption of “bhaang” for it is whipped up using leaves instead of the flowery tops. A lot of countries are now attempting to scientifically understand the long-term effects of marijuana use. Some studies claim it can lead to higher risks of dementia, while others claim that it’s highly effective in regulation of anxiety. In many cases, cannabis has been able to neutralise cancer cells. Even then, not enough expansive data is available to reach concrete conclusions. But as countries continue to embrace the plant, more details about marijuana’s long-term benefits and risks will come to light. Until then, puff puff pass (or not)!

Marijuana: Magic plant or menacing drug, legal or illegal? It's a 'highly' complex issue

The Great Barrier Reef is not out of the water yet! Although the coral recovery in the reef had improved over the past year, the outlook for the reef's survival remains "very poor", scientists said on Monday.

Last month, UNESCO recommended that The Great Barrier Reef be put on the "endangered" list owing to the damage sustained by corals, largely attributed to climate change.

According to the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS), the corals are currently in a "recovery window" after a decade of intense heat and cyclones.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-great-barrier-reef-downgraded-australia-blames-china-393216/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The institute added that such windows that could help the reef recover are becoming rare owing to the effects of climate change. The government agency has monitored the reef for 35 years, as stated in its annual report on Monday.

"The increasing prominence of climate-related extreme weather events and crown-of-thorns starfish outbreaks is causing more severe and frequent pressures, giving the reef fewer opportunities like this to recover," AFP quoted CEO Paul Hardisty as saying.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/china-denies-politics-behind-great-barrier-reefs-addition-to-endangered-list-398870" hreflang="en">China denies politics behind Great Barrier Reef's addition to endangered list</a>

In 2021, scientists surveyed 127 coral reef sites. They found that the hard coral cover had increased at 69 out of the 81 sites that were assessed in the last two years. Fast-growing Acropora corals have been credited for the spur in growth.

Another research undertaken last October revealed that the reef, which spans over 2,300 kilometres (1,400 miles) had lost half of its corals since 1995. Ocean heatwaves also caused major coral bleaching.

According to Britta Schaffelke, the research programme director at AIMS, the new growth points to the resilience of the reef, calling it a "glimmer of hope".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/australia-to-take-ambassadors-snorkelling-to-save-great-barrier-reef-status-398073" hreflang="en">Australia to take ambassadors snorkelling to save Great Barrier Reef status</a>

Even then, Schaffelke added that the "outlook into the future is still very poor because of the dangers of climate change and other factors that are impacting on the organisms that make up the reef."

To avoid a World Heritage Site downgrade, Australia has launched lobbying efforts to save the reef. UNESCO has urged Australia to pursue ambitious climate goals, like committing to net zero emissions by 2050 - something the country has shied from pursuing.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Great Barrier Reef is not out of the water yet! Although the coral recovery in the reef had improved over the past year, the outlook for the reef's survival remains "very poor", scientists said on Monday.

The Great Barrier Reef is not out of the water yet! Although the coral recovery in the reef had improved over the past year, the outlook for the reef's survival remains "very poor", scientists said on Monday. Last month, UNESCO recommended that The Great Barrier Reef be put on the "endangered" list owing to the damage sustained by corals, largely attributed to climate change. According to the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS), the corals are currently in a "recovery window" after a decade of intense heat and cyclones. The institute added that such windows that could help the reef recover are becoming rare owing to the effects of climate change. The government agency has monitored the reef for 35 years, as stated in its annual report on Monday. "The increasing prominence of climate-related extreme weather events and crown-of-thorns starfish outbreaks is causing more severe and frequent pressures, giving the reef fewer opportunities like this to recover," AFP quoted CEO Paul Hardisty as saying. Also read: China denies politics behind Great Barrier Reef's addition to endangered list In 2021, scientists surveyed 127 coral reef sites. They found that the hard coral cover had increased at 69 out of the 81 sites that were assessed in the last two years. Fast-growing Acropora corals have been credited for the spur in growth. Another research undertaken last October revealed that the reef, which spans over 2,300 kilometres (1,400 miles) had lost half of its corals since 1995. Ocean heatwaves also caused major coral bleaching. According to Britta Schaffelke, the research programme director at AIMS, the new growth points to the resilience of the reef, calling it a "glimmer of hope". Also read: Australia to take ambassadors snorkelling to save Great Barrier Reef status Even then, Schaffelke added that the "outlook into the future is still very poor because of the dangers of climate change and other factors that are impacting on the organisms that make up the reef." To avoid a World Heritage Site downgrade, Australia has launched lobbying efforts to save the reef. UNESCO has urged Australia to pursue ambitious climate goals, like committing to net zero emissions by 2050 - something the country has shied from pursuing. (With inputs from agencies)

Despite recent recovery, Great Barrier Reef may not be able to survive climate change

China has reported the first human infection and death from a new virus called "Monkey B Virus". The first person to be infected was a veterinary surgeon and caught the virus after dissecting two dead monkeys in March, according to China CDC Weekly.

A month after being exposed, the 53-year-old veterinarian started experiencing virus-like symptoms including nausea and vomiting. Another month later, the man began experiencing neurological symptoms and fever.

After visiting several hospitals seeking treatment, the doctor died on May 27, as per details made public in China CDC Weekly on Saturday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/wearing-masks-only-sure-way-to-help-slow-spread-of-coronavirus-scientists-398897" hreflang="en">Wearing masks only sure way to help slow spread of coronavirus: Scientists</a> 
 
In the middle of April, researchers collected samples from the dead patient to ascertain the cause of symptoms. To this end, they collected cerebrospinal fluid from the patient to conduct next-generation sequencing. The reading suggested a potential alphaherpesvirus infection.

In addition, Chinese scientists also collected several samples including blood, nasal and throat swab, plasma, blister fluid, etc to understand the etiological agent responsible for the development of the virus.

After collection, the samples were forwarded to the National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention (IVDC) of China's CDC. The institute detected BV, aricella-zoster virus (VZV), monkeypox virus and orthopoxvirus. Even then, the sample tested positive only for BV, based on a series of RT-PCR tests.

China CDC warned that the virus poses a threat to primate veterinarians, laboratory researchers and people professionally involved in animal care.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/philippines-warns-virus-surge-possible-after-delta-strain-detected-398519" hreflang="en">Philippines warns virus 'surge' possible after Delta strain detected</a>

The journal added that the focus should be eliminate the virus in its initial phase, when "specific pathogen-free rhesus colonies" emerge. It also advised to improve surveillance in labs and animal care workers.

Currently, the world is battling the COVID-19 pandemic, which also first emerged in China in the city of Wuhan - spreading to all parts of the world since. While many countries struggle to contain COVID-19, the Monkey Virus sounds like bad news.

China has reported the first human infection and death from a new virus called "Monkey B Virus". The first person to be infected was a veterinary surgeon and caught the virus after dissecting two dead monkeys in March, according to China CDC Weekly.

China has reported the first human infection and death from a new virus called "Monkey B Virus". The first person to be infected was a veterinary surgeon and caught the virus after dissecting two dead monkeys in March, according to China CDC Weekly. A month after being exposed, the 53-year-old veterinarian started experiencing virus-like symptoms including nausea and vomiting. Another month later, the man began experiencing neurological symptoms and fever. After visiting several hospitals seeking treatment, the doctor died on May 27, as per details made public in China CDC Weekly on Saturday. Also read: Wearing masks only sure way to help slow spread of coronavirus: Scientists In the middle of April, researchers collected samples from the dead patient to ascertain the cause of symptoms. To this end, they collected cerebrospinal fluid from the patient to conduct next-generation sequencing. The reading suggested a potential alphaherpesvirus infection. In addition, Chinese scientists also collected several samples including blood, nasal and throat swab, plasma, blister fluid, etc to understand the etiological agent responsible for the development of the virus. After collection, the samples were forwarded to the National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention (IVDC) of China's CDC. The institute detected BV, aricella-zoster virus (VZV), monkeypox virus and orthopoxvirus. Even then, the sample tested positive only for BV, based on a series of RT-PCR tests. China CDC warned that the virus poses a threat to primate veterinarians, laboratory researchers and people professionally involved in animal care. Also read: Philippines warns virus 'surge' possible after Delta strain detected The journal added that the focus should be eliminate the virus in its initial phase, when "specific pathogen-free rhesus colonies" emerge. It also advised to improve surveillance in labs and animal care workers. Currently, the world is battling the COVID-19 pandemic, which also first emerged in China in the city of Wuhan - spreading to all parts of the world since. While many countries struggle to contain COVID-19, the Monkey Virus sounds like bad news.

China reports first human death caused by 'Monkey B Virus'

Researchers in Japan's National Institute of Information and Communications Technology recently set a new world record for the world's fastest internet speed at 319 Terabytes &nbsp;per second (Tbps).

The long-haul transfer of data took place over 3,001 kilometres.

This record marks speeds twice as fast as the previous one set by researchers from the University College of London with 178 Tbps.

319 Tbps&nbsp;is a remarkably fast speed for transfer of data online. One terabyte (TB) contains 1,000 gigabytes (GB). Most home connections are based on megabits per second (Mbps). A 1 GBPS internet connection is 10 times faster than Mbps&nbsp;connectivity and equal to at least 1,000 Mbps.

What can you do with 319 Tbps?

What 319 terabytes per second mean: Forget downloading Netflix's whole catalogue. This speed is too quick for even the platform's vast offerings, which could download everything as soon you as tap the download button. With the previous record of 178 Tbps, all of Netflix could be downloaded in less than a second. You can only imagine the speeds!

319 Tbps&nbsp;is an extraordinary speed for internet. It means that 57,000 full-length films can be downloaded in less than a second. This is just in theory. In practice, no single user would be able to download 57,000 films in one go per second.

All of Spotify's catalogue can be downloaded in less than three seconds with 319 Tbps!&nbsp;But these speeds are not commercially available and need supporting infrastructure.&nbsp;

Which countries offer high internet connectivity?

A 2020 report claims that the fastest mobile broadband speed recorded in the world is 100 Mbps&nbsp;- in South Korea. The same report claimed that Singapore has the fastest fixed-line broadband speed with a whopping 2015 Mbps!

Hong Kong and Romania came in close with speeds of 210.73 Mbps&nbsp;and 194.47 Mbps&nbsp;respectively. Internet speed in India is rather unimpressive with 38.19 Mbps&nbsp;for fixed broadband and 12.16 Mbps&nbsp;for mobile connections, the same report added.

With this, researchers hope the mechanism&nbsp;can be employed to upgrade existing models of data transmission and support the speeds claimed by 5G, which is not available everywhere yet.

Researchers in Japan's National Institute of Information and Communications Technology recently set a new world record for the world's fastest internet speed at 319 Terabytes per second (Tbps).

Researchers in Japan's National Institute of Information and Communications Technology recently set a new world record for the world's fastest internet speed at 319 Terabytes per second (Tbps). The long-haul transfer of data took place over 3,001 kilometres. This record marks speeds twice as fast as the previous one set by researchers from the University College of London with 178 Tbps. 319 Tbps is a remarkably fast speed for transfer of data online. One terabyte (TB) contains 1,000 gigabytes (GB). Most home connections are based on megabits per second (Mbps). A 1 GBPS internet connection is 10 times faster than Mbps connectivity and equal to at least 1,000 Mbps. What can you do with 319 Tbps? What 319 terabytes per second mean: Forget downloading Netflix's whole catalogue. This speed is too quick for even the platform's vast offerings, which could download everything as soon you as tap the download button. With the previous record of 178 Tbps, all of Netflix could be downloaded in less than a second. You can only imagine the speeds! 319 Tbps is an extraordinary speed for internet. It means that 57,000 full-length films can be downloaded in less than a second. This is just in theory. In practice, no single user would be able to download 57,000 films in one go per second. All of Spotify's catalogue can be downloaded in less than three seconds with 319 Tbps! But these speeds are not commercially available and need supporting infrastructure. Which countries offer high internet connectivity? A 2020 report claims that the fastest mobile broadband speed recorded in the world is 100 Mbps - in South Korea. The same report claimed that Singapore has the fastest fixed-line broadband speed with a whopping 2015 Mbps! Hong Kong and Romania came in close with speeds of 210.73 Mbps and 194.47 Mbps respectively. Internet speed in India is rather unimpressive with 38.19 Mbps for fixed broadband and 12.16 Mbps for mobile connections, the same report added. With this, researchers hope the mechanism can be employed to upgrade existing models of data transmission and support the speeds claimed by 5G, which is not available everywhere yet.

With 319 Terabytes  per second, Japan sets new world record for internet speed. What does this mean?

A new investigation has revealed that thousands of former racehorses which were in training in Ireland are being killed every year.

The report will air on BBC1's Panorama on Monday evening, claiming that "thousands" of ex-racers - "most, but not all" are being butchered every year.

The programme is called "The Dark Side of Horse Racing" and is based on footage provided by Animal Aid, an animal rights group, The Guardian reported. Animal Aid advocates ending slaughter of animals and wants a complete ban on horse racing.

Multiple media reports claim that cameras were planed by Animal Aid in a slaughterhouse run by F Drury &amp; Sons, which captured "dozens" of ex-racehorses, most of which came from Ireland. 
 
Three of these horses reportedly belong to trainer Gordon Elliott, who was recently banned from racing for sitting on a dead horse. Elliott told the programme that he wasn't involved in the slaughtering business. 
 
He did name two horses - High Expectations and Kiss Me Kayf, who were shipped to a horse dealer to be sent to an appropriate home. In the worst-case scenario, he urged them to euthanise the horses humanely.

According to the report, serious breaches of regulations took place while dealing with horses. The cameras recorded 91 occasions when a worker shot horses from a distance instead of from a close location.

The investigation also revealed that many of the horses were brought from Ireland via road and sea, many of which had sustained serious injuries that end careers. In addition, the report mentions 26 instances of the horses being killed within sight of other horses, a clear violation of slaughtering policies.

Since the start of 2019, at least 4,000 racehorses have been slaughtered in such conditions, according to the report.

A new investigation has revealed that thousands of former racehorses which were in training in Ireland are being killed every year. The report will air on BBC1's Panorama on Monday evening, claiming that "thousands" of ex-racers - "most, but not all" are being butchered every year.

A new investigation has revealed that thousands of former racehorses which were in training in Ireland are being killed every year. The report will air on BBC1's Panorama on Monday evening, claiming that "thousands" of ex-racers - "most, but not all" are being butchered every year. The programme is called "The Dark Side of Horse Racing" and is based on footage provided by Animal Aid, an animal rights group, The Guardian reported. Animal Aid advocates ending slaughter of animals and wants a complete ban on horse racing. Multiple media reports claim that cameras were planed by Animal Aid in a slaughterhouse run by F Drury & Sons, which captured "dozens" of ex-racehorses, most of which came from Ireland. Three of these horses reportedly belong to trainer Gordon Elliott, who was recently banned from racing for sitting on a dead horse. Elliott told the programme that he wasn't involved in the slaughtering business. He did name two horses - High Expectations and Kiss Me Kayf, who were shipped to a horse dealer to be sent to an appropriate home. In the worst-case scenario, he urged them to euthanise the horses humanely. According to the report, serious breaches of regulations took place while dealing with horses. The cameras recorded 91 occasions when a worker shot horses from a distance instead of from a close location. The investigation also revealed that many of the horses were brought from Ireland via road and sea, many of which had sustained serious injuries that end careers. In addition, the report mentions 26 instances of the horses being killed within sight of other horses, a clear violation of slaughtering policies. Since the start of 2019, at least 4,000 racehorses have been slaughtered in such conditions, according to the report.

'Thousands' of former racehorses are slaughtered in British abattoirs every year: Report

China on Saturday reported the first human infection and death caused by "Monkey B Virus". According to the journal "China CDC Weekly", a veterinary surgeon caught the virus after dissecting two dead monkeys in March.

The "Monkey B Virus" is found among macaque monkeys. It is largely present in the saliva, feces, urine, brain or the spinal cord tissue of the monkeys. The virus can survive on surfaces for hours, especially in moist conditions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/china-reports-first-human-death-caused-by-monkey-b-virus-398994" hreflang="en">China reports first human death caused by 'Monkey B Virus'</a>

The risk of transmission for the general population remains extremely low. But laboratory workers, veterinarians and others involved in animal care specifically involving monkeys are at high risk.

The veterinarian who died was 53 and started showing virus-like symptoms including nausea and vomiting a month after coming in contact. Another month later, the person began experiencing fever and neurological symptoms.

According to details made public in China CDC Weekly, the veterinarian succumbed to the virus on May 27.

Symptoms of Monkey B Virus 
 
Just like COVID-19, the "Monkey B Virus" exhibits flu-like symptoms like fever, muscle ache, chills, fatigue, headache. After catching the virus, the person may develop blisters on the wound. Other serious symptoms include shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and hiccups.

When the disease advances, a person may experience adverse reactions like swelling of the brain and spinal cord. This results in neurological disturbances and causes inflammation, which in turn triggers muscle coordination issues and potential brain damage.

How does Monkey B Virus spread?

Monkey B Virus was initially isolated in 1932 after being spotted in macaques. According to China CDC Weekly, the virus is usually transmitted through direct contact and exchange of bodily fluids.

In case the virus jumps from monkeys to humans, the fatality rate is between 70-80%.&nbsp;

The US National Library of Medicine claims that B Virus can attack the central nervous system if transmitted to humans. According to CDC, a person with Monkey B Virus shows symptoms between one day and three weeks after the first contact.

The only way to treat the virus is through timely antiviral intervention. Otherwise, there is no vaccine available to fight the virus. The United States Centers for Disease Controls&nbsp;and Prevention (CDC) claims that the Monkey B Virus has infected only 50 people since 1932. Out of these, 21 died. The agency claims it's an extremely rare disease.

China on Saturday reported the first human infection and death caused by "Monkey B Virus". According to the journal "China CDC Weekly", a veterinary surgeon caught the virus after dissecting two dead monkeys in March.

China on Saturday reported the first human infection and death caused by "Monkey B Virus". According to the journal "China CDC Weekly", a veterinary surgeon caught the virus after dissecting two dead monkeys in March. The "Monkey B Virus" is found among macaque monkeys. It is largely present in the saliva, feces, urine, brain or the spinal cord tissue of the monkeys. The virus can survive on surfaces for hours, especially in moist conditions. Also read: China reports first human death caused by 'Monkey B Virus' The risk of transmission for the general population remains extremely low. But laboratory workers, veterinarians and others involved in animal care specifically involving monkeys are at high risk. The veterinarian who died was 53 and started showing virus-like symptoms including nausea and vomiting a month after coming in contact. Another month later, the person began experiencing fever and neurological symptoms. According to details made public in China CDC Weekly, the veterinarian succumbed to the virus on May 27. Symptoms of Monkey B Virus Just like COVID-19, the "Monkey B Virus" exhibits flu-like symptoms like fever, muscle ache, chills, fatigue, headache. After catching the virus, the person may develop blisters on the wound. Other serious symptoms include shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and hiccups. When the disease advances, a person may experience adverse reactions like swelling of the brain and spinal cord. This results in neurological disturbances and causes inflammation, which in turn triggers muscle coordination issues and potential brain damage. How does Monkey B Virus spread? Monkey B Virus was initially isolated in 1932 after being spotted in macaques. According to China CDC Weekly, the virus is usually transmitted through direct contact and exchange of bodily fluids. In case the virus jumps from monkeys to humans, the fatality rate is between 70-80%. The US National Library of Medicine claims that B Virus can attack the central nervous system if transmitted to humans. According to CDC, a person with Monkey B Virus shows symptoms between one day and three weeks after the first contact. The only way to treat the virus is through timely antiviral intervention. Otherwise, there is no vaccine available to fight the virus. The United States Centers for Disease Controls and Prevention (CDC) claims that the Monkey B Virus has infected only 50 people since 1932. Out of these, 21 died. The agency claims it's an extremely rare disease.

China reports first 'Monkey B Virus' death. How does it spread? What are its symptoms?

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Bharat Sharma

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