The Green Anaconda is found in South America and is one of the heaviest and longest snakes. It can cover lengths of nearly 20 feet and has an impressive girth.


Reticulated Pythons live in Southeast Asia and are among the longest snake species found till now. It has been reported by some individuals to exceed the length of 23 feet.

Burmese Pythons are also native to Southeast Asia and is among the largest snakes. It is more than 18 feet in length.

African Rock Python is found in sub-Saharan Africa and is among the largest snake species. It is more than 20 feet in length.


It is also known as Indian Rock Python and is found in South Asia. It has a length of more than 20 feet.


5 Biggest Snakes Which Exist On Earth


6 Animals Which Have A Life Span Of More Than 100 years


The average lifespan of a tortoise is nearly 100 years. Jonathan was an 187-year-old tortoise which was recognised by the Guinness World Records as the oldest living land animal.


The Bowhead Whale, which is also called the 'Arctic Whale', has been given the title of the longest-living mammal on Earth and can live up to 200 years.

Greenland Sharks are considered as the longest-living vertebrates on Earth and can survive for 270 to 300 years.


The Immortal Jellyfish is known for having an eternal life cycle. It is capable of transitioning from a mature adult to an immature polyp stage and growing back again to an adult.

These are round and small invertebrates are covered in spines. They are found in shallow coastal waters off North America and have been found to live more than 100 years.

It is one of the longest-living fish and is said to maximum life span of nearly 205 years, as per the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.


6 Animals Which Have A Life Span Of More Than 100 years

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesday (Dec 20) said that there has been a 'tonal shift' from India since an Indian government employee was accused by the United States of assigning an individual with the task of hiring an assassin to kill separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. 
 
Speaking in an interview with CBC, Trudeau said that there was an understanding that "they can't bluster their way through this". 
 
As per Trudeau, some unidentified Indian agents were involved in plotting the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June in Canada. The claim has been outrightly rejected by the Indian government and they have demanded evidence from Ottawa.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-sikh-driver-flees-to-india-after-being-convicted-for-smuggling-cocaine-669769">Canada: Sikh driver flees to India after being convicted for smuggling cocaine</a>

"I think there is a beginning of an understanding that they can't bluster their way through this and there is an openness to collaborating in a way that perhaps they were less open before," said Trudeau, speaking in an interview with the Canadian Broadcasting Corp. 
 
"There's an understanding that maybe, maybe just churning out attacks against Canada isn't going to make this problem go away," he said.

<h2>Canada doesn't wish to fight with India: Trudeau</h2>

In a US indictment, it was alleged that $100,000 was offered to a man, called Nikhil Gupta, by Indian officials for hiring an assassin to kill Pannun in New York. Although the claim of Canada was rejected by India, it added that they were taking the indictment seriously. 
 
Trudeau further added that Canada is not willing to fight with India even though China has continued to assert its dominance in the Indo-Pacific region. 
 
"We don't want to be in a situation of having a fight with India right now over this. We want to be working on that trade deal. We want to be advancing the Indo-Pacific strategy," Trudeau said.

Watch:&nbsp;Jaishankar clears the air on diplomatic rows with US and Canada

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jaishankar-clears-the-air-on-diplomatic-rows-with-us-and-canada-670832/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while speaking in an interview with Financial Times,&nbsp;expressed his deep concern over the activities carried out by some extremist groups based overseas. “These elements, under the guise of freedom of expression, have engaged in intimidation and incited violence,” Modi said.&nbsp;

PM Modi said that the country is committed to the rule of law. However, he said that a few incidents will not derail the US-India ties. 
 
“If someone gives us any information, we would definitely look into it. If a citizen of ours has done anything good or bad, we are ready to look into it. Our commitment is to the rule of law,” Modi said. 
 
With inputs from agencies)

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesday (Dec 20) said that there has been a 'tonal shift' from India since an Indian government employee was accused by the United States of assigning an individual with the task of hiring an assassin to kill separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesday (Dec 20) said that there has been a 'tonal shift' from India since an Indian government employee was accused by the United States of assigning an individual with the task of hiring an assassin to kill separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Speaking in an interview with CBC, Trudeau said that there was an understanding that "they can't bluster their way through this". As per Trudeau, some unidentified Indian agents were involved in plotting the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June in Canada. The claim has been outrightly rejected by the Indian government and they have demanded evidence from Ottawa. Also read: Canada: Sikh driver flees to India after being convicted for smuggling cocaine "I think there is a beginning of an understanding that they can't bluster their way through this and there is an openness to collaborating in a way that perhaps they were less open before," said Trudeau, speaking in an interview with the Canadian Broadcasting Corp. "There's an understanding that maybe, maybe just churning out attacks against Canada isn't going to make this problem go away," he said. Canada doesn't wish to fight with India: Trudeau In a US indictment, it was alleged that $100,000 was offered to a man, called Nikhil Gupta, by Indian officials for hiring an assassin to kill Pannun in New York. Although the claim of Canada was rejected by India, it added that they were taking the indictment seriously. Trudeau further added that Canada is not willing to fight with India even though China has continued to assert its dominance in the Indo-Pacific region. "We don't want to be in a situation of having a fight with India right now over this. We want to be working on that trade deal. We want to be advancing the Indo-Pacific strategy," Trudeau said. Watch: Jaishankar clears the air on diplomatic rows with US and Canada Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while speaking in an interview with Financial Times, expressed his deep concern over the activities carried out by some extremist groups based overseas. “These elements, under the guise of freedom of expression, have engaged in intimidation and incited violence,” Modi said. PM Modi said that the country is committed to the rule of law. However, he said that a few incidents will not derail the US-India ties. “If someone gives us any information, we would definitely look into it. If a citizen of ours has done anything good or bad, we are ready to look into it. Our commitment is to the rule of law,” Modi said. With inputs from agencies)

‘Attacks against Canada won’t make problem go away’, says Trudeau, cites 'tonal shift' on India’s part

After a five-year dig in the side of Rome’s Palatine Hill, the archaeologists excavated a deluxe banquet room, which is estimated to date back to around the first or second century BC. The room had a sizable, brightly coloured wall mosaic. 
 
The work, which is estimated to be around 2,300 years old, was part of the larger aristocratic mansion which is near the Roman Forum that has been excavated since 2018. 
 
The mosaic scene, which is five meters long and features depictions of vines, lotus leaves, tridents, trumpets, helmets and mythological marine creatures, was created by using shells, corals, mother of pearl, flecks of marble and shards of precious glass. 
 
The piece was framed using spongy travertine, polychrome crystals and ancient Egyptian blue tiles.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rewind-2023-seven-most-significant-discoveries-which-left-world-awe-struck-672195">Rewind 2023: Seven most significant discoveries which left world 'awe-struck'</a>

Speaking to CNN, head of the Colosseum Archaeological Park in charge of the site archaeologist Alfonsina Russo said that this discovery is “unmatched” not just because the mosaic has been found completely intact but also because it has celebratory scenes of naval and land battles carved on it. 
 
The intricacy of the carvings of victory on the mosaic has left the team working on the project surprised. Archaeologists have been making efforts to figure out if the delicate and expensive coral branches, which have been used in the display, belonged to the area near the Mediterranean or the Red Sea. 
 
As per the team, a rare bluish glass paste – which has also been used in the design – is likely to belong to the ancient Egyptian city of Alexandria.

<h2>Extremely rare find, says archaeologist</h2>

“This banquet hall, which measures 25 square meters (270 square feet), is just one space within a ‘domus’ (the Latin word for house) spread on several floors,” said Russo, while speaking to CNN in an interview. 
 
“In ancient times, when powerful noble families inhabited the Palatine Hill, it was customary to use rich decorative elements as a symbol to show off opulence and high social rank,” he added. 
 
The chamber, which has been called a “jewel” by Russo, earlier existed as an outdoor banquet hall overlooking a garden, which most probably was used for entertaining guests during summer.

Watch: Peru archaeologists unearth 1,000-year-old mummies of children in Lima

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/peru-archaeologists-unearth-1000-year-old-mummies-of-children-in-lima-661772/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“We have found lead pipes embedded within the decorated walls, built to carry water inside basins or to make fountains spout to create water games,” Russo said. 
 
Meanwhile, professor of Roman antiquities and head of the mosaic lab at Rome’s Università degli Studi di Roma Marco Rossi said, “Mosaics are usually found on floors, but this runs across the entire front wall and has been incredibly well-preserved. It’s not been ruined by the weight of debris — as can happen to some mosaics on the ground — and despite being delicate, it hasn’t so much as chipped across the centuries.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

After a five-year dig in the side of Rome’s Palatine Hill, the archaeologists excavated a deluxe banquet room, which is estimated to date back to around the first or second century BC.

After a five-year dig in the side of Rome’s Palatine Hill, the archaeologists excavated a deluxe banquet room, which is estimated to date back to around the first or second century BC. The room had a sizable, brightly coloured wall mosaic. The work, which is estimated to be around 2,300 years old, was part of the larger aristocratic mansion which is near the Roman Forum that has been excavated since 2018. The mosaic scene, which is five meters long and features depictions of vines, lotus leaves, tridents, trumpets, helmets and mythological marine creatures, was created by using shells, corals, mother of pearl, flecks of marble and shards of precious glass. The piece was framed using spongy travertine, polychrome crystals and ancient Egyptian blue tiles. Also read: Rewind 2023: Seven most significant discoveries which left world 'awe-struck' Speaking to CNN, head of the Colosseum Archaeological Park in charge of the site archaeologist Alfonsina Russo said that this discovery is “unmatched” not just because the mosaic has been found completely intact but also because it has celebratory scenes of naval and land battles carved on it. The intricacy of the carvings of victory on the mosaic has left the team working on the project surprised. Archaeologists have been making efforts to figure out if the delicate and expensive coral branches, which have been used in the display, belonged to the area near the Mediterranean or the Red Sea. As per the team, a rare bluish glass paste – which has also been used in the design – is likely to belong to the ancient Egyptian city of Alexandria. Extremely rare find, says archaeologist “This banquet hall, which measures 25 square meters (270 square feet), is just one space within a ‘domus’ (the Latin word for house) spread on several floors,” said Russo, while speaking to CNN in an interview. “In ancient times, when powerful noble families inhabited the Palatine Hill, it was customary to use rich decorative elements as a symbol to show off opulence and high social rank,” he added. The chamber, which has been called a “jewel” by Russo, earlier existed as an outdoor banquet hall overlooking a garden, which most probably was used for entertaining guests during summer. Watch: Peru archaeologists unearth 1,000-year-old mummies of children in Lima “We have found lead pipes embedded within the decorated walls, built to carry water inside basins or to make fountains spout to create water games,” Russo said. Meanwhile, professor of Roman antiquities and head of the mosaic lab at Rome’s Università degli Studi di Roma Marco Rossi said, “Mosaics are usually found on floors, but this runs across the entire front wall and has been incredibly well-preserved. It’s not been ruined by the weight of debris — as can happen to some mosaics on the ground — and despite being delicate, it hasn’t so much as chipped across the centuries.” (With inputs from agencies)

2,300-year-old mosaic, made of coral and shells, emerge from Rome after five-year dig

Researchers have discovered scraps of leather from Scythian burial sites spread across southern Ukraine. While analysing those scraps, they found that some of the samples from quivers actually had a human origin. 
 
"Our results demonstrate that Scythians primarily used domesticated species such as sheep, goat, cattle, and horse for the production of leather, while the furs were made of wild animals such as fox, squirrel and feline species," said a team of archaeologists, headed by Luise Orsted Brandt of the University of Copenhagen, Science Alert reported. 
 
"The surprise discovery is the presence of two human skin samples, which for the first time provide direct evidence of the ancient Greek historian Herodotus' claim that Scythians used the skin of their dead enemies to manufacture leather trophy items,” he added.

<h2>Scythian warriors used skin of foe</h2>

As per ancient Greek historian Herodotus, the ferocious Scythian warriors&nbsp;were bloodthirsty and terrifying people who used the skin of slain corpses of foes. He describes their hides were tanned into leather and used in covering quivers which contained Scythian arrows. 
 
The Scythians have remained as mysterious people, who were famous for their warlike, nomadic lifestyle and ruled the Eurasian steppe between the time period of 700 BCE and 300 BCE. 
 
An entire book was devoted by Herodotus in documenting the Scythians, which includes their customs and history. In one of the chapters, he spoke about how the enemies were decapitated by the Scythian warriors and their heads were used to prove their deeds to their kings.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com//world/rewind-2023-seven-most-significant-discoveries-which-left-world-awe-struck-672195">Rewind 2023: Seven most significant discoveries which left world 'awe-struck'</a>

The historian said that once the heads were shown to the kings, their scalp was stripped by the Scythian warriors and the leather was used as a hand towel which was hung from the bridle of their steed. Depending on the number of hand towels possessed by a warrior, the status was granted to them. 
 
"Many Scythians even make garments to wear out of these scalps, sewing them together like coats of skin," wrote Herodotus. 
 
"Many too take off the skin, nails and all, from their dead enemies' right hands, and make coverings for their quivers; the human skin was, as it turned out, thick and shining, the brightest and whitest skin of all, one might say. Many flay the skin from the whole body, too, and carry it about on horseback stretched on a wooden frame,” he added. 
 
With the recent discovery, claims made by Herodotus regarding Scythians appear pretty accurate.

<h2>Researchers study 45 scraps of leather</h2>

The team, led by Orsted Brandt, conducted the study on 45 scraps of leather which were excavated from 14 burial sites. In the past years, scientists used to depend on&nbsp;analysis of the grain of the leather because the DNA got destroyed during the tanning of leather.

Watch:&nbsp;Pope Francis decides to simplify Papal funeral rites

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pope-francis-decides-to-simplify-papal-funeral-rites-669435/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, now scientists have developed techniques which help in analysing the proteins in leather and the&nbsp;information is used for identifying the contributing species. 
 
The researchers found that the entire quiver was not made of human skin. As per the study, most of the skin belonged to several animals, the human leather was present only on the top part of the quiver. 
 
"We also identified up to two quivers composed at least partially from human-derived skin, supporting Herodotus' claim that certain parts of some Scythian quivers were actually made with human skin, perhaps from defeated foes,” wrote the researchers.

(With inputs from agencies)

Researchers have discovered scraps of leather from Scythian burial sites spread across southern Ukraine. While analysing those scraps, they found that some of the samples from quivers actually had a human origin.

Researchers have discovered scraps of leather from Scythian burial sites spread across southern Ukraine. While analysing those scraps, they found that some of the samples from quivers actually had a human origin. "Our results demonstrate that Scythians primarily used domesticated species such as sheep, goat, cattle, and horse for the production of leather, while the furs were made of wild animals such as fox, squirrel and feline species," said a team of archaeologists, headed by Luise Orsted Brandt of the University of Copenhagen, Science Alert reported. "The surprise discovery is the presence of two human skin samples, which for the first time provide direct evidence of the ancient Greek historian Herodotus' claim that Scythians used the skin of their dead enemies to manufacture leather trophy items,” he added. Scythian warriors used skin of foe As per ancient Greek historian Herodotus, the ferocious Scythian warriors were bloodthirsty and terrifying people who used the skin of slain corpses of foes. He describes their hides were tanned into leather and used in covering quivers which contained Scythian arrows. The Scythians have remained as mysterious people, who were famous for their warlike, nomadic lifestyle and ruled the Eurasian steppe between the time period of 700 BCE and 300 BCE. An entire book was devoted by Herodotus in documenting the Scythians, which includes their customs and history. In one of the chapters, he spoke about how the enemies were decapitated by the Scythian warriors and their heads were used to prove their deeds to their kings. Also read: Rewind 2023: Seven most significant discoveries which left world 'awe-struck' The historian said that once the heads were shown to the kings, their scalp was stripped by the Scythian warriors and the leather was used as a hand towel which was hung from the bridle of their steed. Depending on the number of hand towels possessed by a warrior, the status was granted to them. "Many Scythians even make garments to wear out of these scalps, sewing them together like coats of skin," wrote Herodotus. "Many too take off the skin, nails and all, from their dead enemies' right hands, and make coverings for their quivers; the human skin was, as it turned out, thick and shining, the brightest and whitest skin of all, one might say. Many flay the skin from the whole body, too, and carry it about on horseback stretched on a wooden frame,” he added. With the recent discovery, claims made by Herodotus regarding Scythians appear pretty accurate. Researchers study 45 scraps of leather The team, led by Orsted Brandt, conducted the study on 45 scraps of leather which were excavated from 14 burial sites. In the past years, scientists used to depend on analysis of the grain of the leather because the DNA got destroyed during the tanning of leather. Watch: Pope Francis decides to simplify Papal funeral rites However, now scientists have developed techniques which help in analysing the proteins in leather and the information is used for identifying the contributing species. The researchers found that the entire quiver was not made of human skin. As per the study, most of the skin belonged to several animals, the human leather was present only on the top part of the quiver. "We also identified up to two quivers composed at least partially from human-derived skin, supporting Herodotus' claim that certain parts of some Scythian quivers were actually made with human skin, perhaps from defeated foes,” wrote the researchers. (With inputs from agencies)

Ferocious Scythians used human skin to make leather: Researchers

In 2023, the world got acquainted with some of the most astonishing discoveries in the field of arts, archaeology and literature. A still-glimmering sword to the oldest shoes ever found in Europe to the emergence of the name of the author of a 17th-century Spanish play – many discoveries kept the world engaged as well as 'awe-struck' as they hoped for more. 
 
Here are some of the most significant discoveries made in the year 2023.

<h2>Sword that 'still shines'</h2>

<h2><img alt="sword" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8baeb625-1aa4-4aee-95e7-3bd6bc421aff" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-12-21T184056.116.png" /></h2>

A sword, made of bronze and estimated to be more than 3,000 years old, was unearthed in southern Germany in such a well-preserved state that it “almost still shines”. There was an octagonal hilt on the sword and it was found in a grave in which three people were buried in quick succession - a man, a woman and a boy.

<h2>6,000-year-old sandals in Spanish bat cave</h2>

<img alt="sandals" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7a440d0c-3938-4662-8ad0-4c86f33b44b5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-12-21T184107.832.png" />

Scientists said that the sandals found buried in a bat cave in southern Spain are likely to be the oldest footwear ever found in Europe, adding that they appeared to be 6,200 years old. The sandals, tools and baskets, which belonged to the 19th century, were found at a hunter-gatherer burial site in the Cueva de los Murciélagos, also known as the “cave of the bats,” close to the southern city of Granada.

<h2>AI helps discovery author</h2>

After remaining a mystery for centuries, the name of the author of a 17th-century Spanish play emerged. It turned out to be the work of the&nbsp;famous author&nbsp;Felix Lope de Vega. The researchers were able to recognise the author using the AI technology, which was helping them transcribe some 1,300 anonymous manuscripts and books and cross check them against works by known authors.

<h2>A royal lavatory</h2>

<img alt="l" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f0eb8375-7c93-4546-8363-ceeadb0c63af" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-12-21T184121.540.png" />

Archaeologists in February found the oldest known flush toilet in the world. The lavatory and bent pipe, which is estimated to be 2,400-year-old, may have been a status symbol among China’s elite. It was found in the ruins of a palace located at the Yueyang archaeological site in the city of Xi’an.

<h2>Hidden hallway in the Great Pyramid of Giza</h2>

A 30-foot hidden and mysterious corridor was discovered in the Great Pyramid of Giza, as part of the Scan Pyramids project which had used technology including cosmic-ray imaging and infrared thermography for a better understanding of its architectural intricacies and unknown areas.

<h2>Lost necklace in ocean bed</h2>

<img alt="necklace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="76eededc-009d-4768-8f60-77109c0c2545" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-12-21T184130.954.png" />

A new necklace, which had a tooth of the prehistoric shark Megalodon, was found in the wreckage of the ocean liner by the deep-water investigation company Magellan, which had undertaken an ambitious project for producing a full-size scan of the ship that was discovered sitting some 13,000 feet deep in the Atlantic Ocean after the infamous disaster in 1912.

<h2>4,000-year-old Stonehenge-like sanctuary</h2>

<img alt="stonehenge" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="453d1aee-36a1-40ee-83a8-928e0891b4a3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-12-21T184140.965.png" />

A 4,000-year-old sanctuary was unearthed in the town east of Rotterdam, which appeared to be similar to Stonehenge. The site in Tiel was being excavated by the archaeologists since 2017 and finally, they were able to find a 4,000-year-old sanctuary which they believe was designed in a way so that it aligns with the sun on solstices.

(With inputs from agencies)

In 2023, the world got acquainted with some of the most astonishing discoveries in the field of arts, archaeology and literature. A still-glimmering sword to the oldest shoes ever found in Europe to the emergence of the name of the author of a 17th-century Spanish play – many discoveries kept the world engaged as well as 'awe-struck' as they hoped for more.

In 2023, the world got acquainted with some of the most astonishing discoveries in the field of arts, archaeology and literature. A still-glimmering sword to the oldest shoes ever found in Europe to the emergence of the name of the author of a 17th-century Spanish play – many discoveries kept the world engaged as well as 'awe-struck' as they hoped for more. Here are some of the most significant discoveries made in the year 2023. Sword that 'still shines' A sword, made of bronze and estimated to be more than 3,000 years old, was unearthed in southern Germany in such a well-preserved state that it “almost still shines”. There was an octagonal hilt on the sword and it was found in a grave in which three people were buried in quick succession - a man, a woman and a boy. 6,000-year-old sandals in Spanish bat cave Scientists said that the sandals found buried in a bat cave in southern Spain are likely to be the oldest footwear ever found in Europe, adding that they appeared to be 6,200 years old. The sandals, tools and baskets, which belonged to the 19th century, were found at a hunter-gatherer burial site in the Cueva de los Murciélagos, also known as the “cave of the bats,” close to the southern city of Granada. AI helps discovery author After remaining a mystery for centuries, the name of the author of a 17th-century Spanish play emerged. It turned out to be the work of the famous author Felix Lope de Vega. The researchers were able to recognise the author using the AI technology, which was helping them transcribe some 1,300 anonymous manuscripts and books and cross check them against works by known authors. A royal lavatory Archaeologists in February found the oldest known flush toilet in the world. The lavatory and bent pipe, which is estimated to be 2,400-year-old, may have been a status symbol among China’s elite. It was found in the ruins of a palace located at the Yueyang archaeological site in the city of Xi’an. Hidden hallway in the Great Pyramid of Giza A 30-foot hidden and mysterious corridor was discovered in the Great Pyramid of Giza, as part of the Scan Pyramids project which had used technology including cosmic-ray imaging and infrared thermography for a better understanding of its architectural intricacies and unknown areas. Lost necklace in ocean bed A new necklace, which had a tooth of the prehistoric shark Megalodon, was found in the wreckage of the ocean liner by the deep-water investigation company Magellan, which had undertaken an ambitious project for producing a full-size scan of the ship that was discovered sitting some 13,000 feet deep in the Atlantic Ocean after the infamous disaster in 1912. 4,000-year-old Stonehenge-like sanctuary A 4,000-year-old sanctuary was unearthed in the town east of Rotterdam, which appeared to be similar to Stonehenge. The site in Tiel was being excavated by the archaeologists since 2017 and finally, they were able to find a 4,000-year-old sanctuary which they believe was designed in a way so that it aligns with the sun on solstices. (With inputs from agencies)

Rewind 2023: Seven most significant discoveries which left world 'awe-struck'

In a rare case, a healthy teenage girl suddenly complained about facing trouble breathing, days after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. As per doctors, the girl's vocal cords were paralysed by the COVID-19. 
 
After the diagnosis, the girl had to undergo a surgical tracheostomy – in which an opening was made in her windpipe which was below her voice box – to support her breath.

As per the event's new case report, the impact of COVID-19 on the nervous system may lead to paralysis of the vocal cord in rare cases. The authors said that this is the first case of a teenager suffering vocal cord paralysis after she was diagnosed with COVID-19, although there were reports of adults suffering from similar conditions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-scare-returns-with-jn1-rearing-its-head-do-you-need-to-worry-experts-speak-671776">Covid scare returns: With JN.1 spreading fast, do you need to worry? Experts speak</a>

"The virus has known neurologic complications, including headache, seizure, and peripheral neuropathy," said otolaryngologists Danielle Larrow and Christopher Hartnick from Mass Eye and Ear at Harvard Medical School. 
 
"The current case reveals that vocal cord paralysis may be an additional neuropathic sequela of the virus,” he added.

<h2>Doctors investigate girl's symptoms</h2>

Thirteen days after the 15-year-old girl tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, she was taken to the hospital emergency department. Her initial symptoms were fever, congestion and fatigue, which improved after five days. However, after nine days of getting tested, she said that she is facing trouble breathing, especially when she is active. 
 
It was noted by emergency department doctors that her breathing was rapid and noisy while inhaling, which indicated obstructed airflow, although her oxygen levels remained normal. Tests for respiratory infections, including SARS-CoV-2, came negative. 
 
The girl, who had a history of anxiety and asthma, was given bronchodilators and steroids for a suspected asthma attack, however, that didn't help.

Watch:&nbsp;Covid-19 makes global comeback; new Omicron sub-variant JN.1 causes global concern&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-makes-global-comeback-new-omicron-sub-variant-jn1-causes-global-concern-wion-671372/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Her vocal cords were examined by the otolaryngologists and she was diagnosed with paradoxical vocal fold motion (PVFM), in which the vocal cords close instead of opening when a person tries to breathe. 
 
The girl started undergoing speech therapy to treat the involuntary closure, however, there were no improvements in her symptoms and it became clear that they failed to match the typical signs of PVFM. 
 
Her vocal cords were examined again by the otolaryngologists and this time, the girl was diagnosed with bilateral vocal cord paralysis, which meant both her vocal cords were not moving. 
 
On the basis of their findings, the doctors said that the previous COVID-19 infection of the teenager may have weakened her vocal cords and may have also led to numbness and weakness on one side.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a rare case, a healthy teenage girl suddenly complained about facing trouble breathing, days after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. As per doctors, the girl's vocal cords were paralysed by the COVID-19.

In a rare case, a healthy teenage girl suddenly complained about facing trouble breathing, days after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. As per doctors, the girl's vocal cords were paralysed by the COVID-19. After the diagnosis, the girl had to undergo a surgical tracheostomy – in which an opening was made in her windpipe which was below her voice box – to support her breath. As per the event's new case report, the impact of COVID-19 on the nervous system may lead to paralysis of the vocal cord in rare cases. The authors said that this is the first case of a teenager suffering vocal cord paralysis after she was diagnosed with COVID-19, although there were reports of adults suffering from similar conditions. Also read: Covid scare returns: With JN.1 spreading fast, do you need to worry? Experts speak "The virus has known neurologic complications, including headache, seizure, and peripheral neuropathy," said otolaryngologists Danielle Larrow and Christopher Hartnick from Mass Eye and Ear at Harvard Medical School. "The current case reveals that vocal cord paralysis may be an additional neuropathic sequela of the virus,” he added. Doctors investigate girl's symptoms Thirteen days after the 15-year-old girl tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, she was taken to the hospital emergency department. Her initial symptoms were fever, congestion and fatigue, which improved after five days. However, after nine days of getting tested, she said that she is facing trouble breathing, especially when she is active. It was noted by emergency department doctors that her breathing was rapid and noisy while inhaling, which indicated obstructed airflow, although her oxygen levels remained normal. Tests for respiratory infections, including SARS-CoV-2, came negative. The girl, who had a history of anxiety and asthma, was given bronchodilators and steroids for a suspected asthma attack, however, that didn't help. Watch: Covid-19 makes global comeback; new Omicron sub-variant JN.1 causes global concern Her vocal cords were examined by the otolaryngologists and she was diagnosed with paradoxical vocal fold motion (PVFM), in which the vocal cords close instead of opening when a person tries to breathe. The girl started undergoing speech therapy to treat the involuntary closure, however, there were no improvements in her symptoms and it became clear that they failed to match the typical signs of PVFM. Her vocal cords were examined again by the otolaryngologists and this time, the girl was diagnosed with bilateral vocal cord paralysis, which meant both her vocal cords were not moving. On the basis of their findings, the doctors said that the previous COVID-19 infection of the teenager may have weakened her vocal cords and may have also led to numbness and weakness on one side. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19 infection paralyses vocal cords of teenager, first such case to be reported in world

The secret space plane of China is likely to be sending signals to maybe a ship or a hidden ground station near the west coast of North America, said amateur astronomer Scott Tilley, who has kept track of the craft since it entered the orbit of Earth last week. 
 
The astronomer claimed that strong emissions, which were at the frequency of 2280 megahertz, were detected at a time when the uncrewed reusable plane flew over British Columbia in Canada, as reported by the South China Morning Post. 
 
“I’m seeing a pattern in its radio emissions while over me and it appears to favour low-elevation western passes,” said Tilley, who has earlier worked with NASA in finding its long-lost IMAGE satellite in 2018. 
 
“This could indicate a clandestine ground station on the west coast of North America or on a ship off the coast,” he added while clarifying that he was speculating.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/amateur-trackers-claim-china-has-deployed-6-mysterious-unidentified-objects-in-earth-orbit-671239">Chinese space plane deployed 6 mysterious 'wingmen' in Earth's orbit: Reports</a>

China's secret plane, which has been seen as the US military space plane X-37B's counterpart, has been closely followed by satellite trackers from across the world since it took off from the Gobi Desert.

<h2>Six objects now flying in Earth's lower orbit: Tilley</h2>

As per Tilley and his team in Switzerland, which has specialised in optical-band space surveillance, because of the secret plane's launch, at least six objects are now flying in the lower orbit of the Earth. 
 
Tilley added that the six objects also included the space plane, which was designated by him as object A and looked very bright with a stable altitude control. 
 
He added that probably there was a pair of satellites (objects D and E) which were released by the plane and emitted radio signals which were similar to object A, “but without any form of data, just idle filler”.

Watch:&nbsp;China rocked by 6.2-magnitude earthquake

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-china-rocked-by-62-magnitude-earthquake-671498/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Tilley added that although both the satellite's purpose remains unknown, there is a possibility that they were being used to “test rendezvous and retrieval operations”. 
 
Taking to social media platform X, the European team wrote that object B was “very bright” and its light curve was pointing to a rocket upper stage. Tilley said that Objects C and F also appeared to be rocket debris since they were tumbling and dim. 
 
It is the third mission of the Chinese plane after their two-day maiden flight in 2020 followed by a second flight which lasted only for nine months. As per reports, the plane released mysterious objects during the two previous missions.

(With inputs from agencies)

The secret space plane of China is likely to be sending signals to maybe a ship or a hidden ground station near the west coast of North America, said amateur astronomer Scott Tilley, who has kept track of the craft since it entered the orbit of Earth last week.

The secret space plane of China is likely to be sending signals to maybe a ship or a hidden ground station near the west coast of North America, said amateur astronomer Scott Tilley, who has kept track of the craft since it entered the orbit of Earth last week. The astronomer claimed that strong emissions, which were at the frequency of 2280 megahertz, were detected at a time when the uncrewed reusable plane flew over British Columbia in Canada, as reported by the South China Morning Post. “I’m seeing a pattern in its radio emissions while over me and it appears to favour low-elevation western passes,” said Tilley, who has earlier worked with NASA in finding its long-lost IMAGE satellite in 2018. “This could indicate a clandestine ground station on the west coast of North America or on a ship off the coast,” he added while clarifying that he was speculating. Also read: Chinese space plane deployed 6 mysterious 'wingmen' in Earth's orbit: Reports China's secret plane, which has been seen as the US military space plane X-37B's counterpart, has been closely followed by satellite trackers from across the world since it took off from the Gobi Desert. Six objects now flying in Earth's lower orbit: Tilley As per Tilley and his team in Switzerland, which has specialised in optical-band space surveillance, because of the secret plane's launch, at least six objects are now flying in the lower orbit of the Earth. Tilley added that the six objects also included the space plane, which was designated by him as object A and looked very bright with a stable altitude control. He added that probably there was a pair of satellites (objects D and E) which were released by the plane and emitted radio signals which were similar to object A, “but without any form of data, just idle filler”. Watch: China rocked by 6.2-magnitude earthquake Tilley added that although both the satellite's purpose remains unknown, there is a possibility that they were being used to “test rendezvous and retrieval operations”. Taking to social media platform X, the European team wrote that object B was “very bright” and its light curve was pointing to a rocket upper stage. Tilley said that Objects C and F also appeared to be rocket debris since they were tumbling and dim. It is the third mission of the Chinese plane after their two-day maiden flight in 2020 followed by a second flight which lasted only for nine months. As per reports, the plane released mysterious objects during the two previous missions. (With inputs from agencies)

China's secret aircraft sending signals to hidden station in US? Satellite tracker says 'maybe'

A woman, taking to TikTok, made a strange claim that she was sacked by her company for her mysterious antics at their Christmas party, after making a promise that she would ‘behave’. 
 
The woman said that she was thrown from her job after she attended the party and shared the termination letter, which was sent by her boss, on TikTok. 
 
The woman, whose name is Molly, shared a music clip from the famous movie “The Hangover” as well as Flo Rida’s “Right Round” as she made the promise that she would “behave at the staff party.” 
 
After this, a note appeared on the right side of her selfie which panned out as a letter sent by her boss to inform her that she had been sacked.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-enjoy-these-heartwarming-christmas-favorites-with-your-family-671738">Enjoy these heartwarming Christmas favourites with your family</a>

“Dear Molly, It is with regret that I must confirm the outcome of my investigation into the events that took place at the staff Christmas party on Saturday evening,” reads the letter at the start.

<h2>Gross misconduct, says Molly's boss</h2>

The former employee of Molly, who did not speak about her occupation, informed the girl that she “risked putting the reputation of the nursery into disrepute” 
 
“This amounts to gross misconduct. As you are still on your probationary period, I had no option but to terminate your contract of employment with immediate effect,” the letter stated. 
 
However, the letter did not specifically detail what Molly did or the reason behind her firing. 
 
“You will be paid any holiday that you have accrued along with your hours for this month in your final pay packet on 7th January,” stated the letter.

Watch:&nbsp;Christmas nativity scene craft kept alive in Naples

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/christmas-nativity-scene-craft-kept-alive-in-naples-670496/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In another video, Molly said that she could not speak over the incident even though she was offered money to speak about it by people across social media. She accepted that allegedly there was involvement of somebody else and mentioned that they “played an equal part in what happened,” even though that person did not leave their job. 
 
“Unfortunately, without her permission, I can’t actually upload a story time [explain what happened] again but I mean if she one day says ‘you know what, go ahead with it, just don’t use my name, whatever,’ then I will post it,” said Molly. 
 
The comments by Molly on the original video were removed. The video has now more than 2.5 million views even though many curious users have been asking how this happened. 
 
“How come she kept her job but you got sacked when you both did the same?,” commented one person, replying to which Molly said, “She’s been there over 2 years, whereas I was fairly new.” 
 
“You can’t call it a story time and not tell us the story,” said another frustrated user. “If you both had a part to play, she [the friend] should have lost her job, too. Doesn’t matter how long she’s worked there,” told a third person.

(With inputs from agencies)

A woman, taking to TikTok, made a strange claim that she was sacked by her company for her mysterious antics at their Christmas party, after making a promise that she would ‘behave’.

A woman, taking to TikTok, made a strange claim that she was sacked by her company for her mysterious antics at their Christmas party, after making a promise that she would ‘behave’. The woman said that she was thrown from her job after she attended the party and shared the termination letter, which was sent by her boss, on TikTok. The woman, whose name is Molly, shared a music clip from the famous movie “The Hangover” as well as Flo Rida’s “Right Round” as she made the promise that she would “behave at the staff party.” After this, a note appeared on the right side of her selfie which panned out as a letter sent by her boss to inform her that she had been sacked. Also read: Enjoy these heartwarming Christmas favourites with your family “Dear Molly, It is with regret that I must confirm the outcome of my investigation into the events that took place at the staff Christmas party on Saturday evening,” reads the letter at the start. Gross misconduct, says Molly's boss The former employee of Molly, who did not speak about her occupation, informed the girl that she “risked putting the reputation of the nursery into disrepute” “This amounts to gross misconduct. As you are still on your probationary period, I had no option but to terminate your contract of employment with immediate effect,” the letter stated. However, the letter did not specifically detail what Molly did or the reason behind her firing. “You will be paid any holiday that you have accrued along with your hours for this month in your final pay packet on 7th January,” stated the letter. Watch: Christmas nativity scene craft kept alive in Naples In another video, Molly said that she could not speak over the incident even though she was offered money to speak about it by people across social media. She accepted that allegedly there was involvement of somebody else and mentioned that they “played an equal part in what happened,” even though that person did not leave their job. “Unfortunately, without her permission, I can’t actually upload a story time [explain what happened] again but I mean if she one day says ‘you know what, go ahead with it, just don’t use my name, whatever,’ then I will post it,” said Molly. The comments by Molly on the original video were removed. The video has now more than 2.5 million views even though many curious users have been asking how this happened. “How come she kept her job but you got sacked when you both did the same?,” commented one person, replying to which Molly said, “She’s been there over 2 years, whereas I was fairly new.” “You can’t call it a story time and not tell us the story,” said another frustrated user. “If you both had a part to play, she [the friend] should have lost her job, too. Doesn’t matter how long she’s worked there,” told a third person. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Gross misconduct’: Woman fails to 'behave' at company's Christmas party, loses job

India's Lok Sabha on Thursday (Dec 21), with most of the Opposition members suspended from the House, passed a Bill which established a new mechanism for the Chief Election Commissioners and Election Commissioners' appointment. 
 
The Rajya Sabha had earlier approved the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023. The legislation has now been cleared by the both the houses of the&nbsp;parliament. 
 
The bill will now be presented to Indian President Droupadi Murmu for her assent. Amid the discussion on the legislation in Lok Sabha on Wednesday, Indian Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal said that the 1991 Act on the top poll officer's service conditions was a half-baked attempt and the current Bill has covered all the aspects which were left out by the previous legislation. With a voice vote, the Bill was then passed.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wion-explains-behind-the-chaos-exploring-the-dynamics-of-mp-suspensions-in-indian-parliament-670013">Indian Parliament security breach: Exploring the dynamics of suspension of MPs</a>

After objections from various quarters, the legislation underwent many important changes.

<h2>Opposition criticises legislation</h2>

However, the opposition parties are not happy with the changes and said that the new mechanism would compromise the poll panel's independence. 
 
India's Supreme Court, earlier this year, ruled that election commissioners should be appointed after taking advice from a panel comprising the Leader of the Opposition, the Prime Minister and the Chief Justice of India. 
 
The landmark judgment was aimed at insulating the top election body from political interference. However, the court said that the judgment will hold good till a new law is introduced by the government. 
 
The government, in the new legislation, replaced the chief justice with a union minister. The Opposition has alleged that this will give greater power to the government on the appointment of top poll officers and will also compromise the poll body's autonomy. 
 
Amid the discussion over the Bill in Rajya Sabha, Congress MP Randeep Surjewala stated that the fearlessness, autonomy and fairness of electoral machinery and democracy in India has been&nbsp;crushed.

Watch:&nbsp;Indian Parliament: Record suspension of 141 MPs in a single day

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indian-parliament-record-suspension-of-141-mps-in-a-single-day-671483/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Modi government has attacked the democracy of India. The autonomy, fearlessness and fairness of India's democracy and electoral machinery have been crushed by a bulldozer," he added. 
 
The former poll officers had also protested over the proposal of&nbsp;stripping the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners of the status of Supreme Court judges and making their rank and salary on par with an officer of Cabinet Secretary-rank. Later, the government decided to undo this change.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Lok Sabha on Thursday (Dec 21), with most of the Opposition members suspended from the House, passed a Bill which established a new mechanism for the Chief Election Commissioners and Election Commissioners' appointment.

India's Lok Sabha on Thursday (Dec 21), with most of the Opposition members suspended from the House, passed a Bill which established a new mechanism for the Chief Election Commissioners and Election Commissioners' appointment. The Rajya Sabha had earlier approved the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023. The legislation has now been cleared by the both the houses of the parliament. The bill will now be presented to Indian President Droupadi Murmu for her assent. Amid the discussion on the legislation in Lok Sabha on Wednesday, Indian Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal said that the 1991 Act on the top poll officer's service conditions was a half-baked attempt and the current Bill has covered all the aspects which were left out by the previous legislation. With a voice vote, the Bill was then passed. Also read: Indian Parliament security breach: Exploring the dynamics of suspension of MPs After objections from various quarters, the legislation underwent many important changes. Opposition criticises legislation However, the opposition parties are not happy with the changes and said that the new mechanism would compromise the poll panel's independence. India's Supreme Court, earlier this year, ruled that election commissioners should be appointed after taking advice from a panel comprising the Leader of the Opposition, the Prime Minister and the Chief Justice of India. The landmark judgment was aimed at insulating the top election body from political interference. However, the court said that the judgment will hold good till a new law is introduced by the government. The government, in the new legislation, replaced the chief justice with a union minister. The Opposition has alleged that this will give greater power to the government on the appointment of top poll officers and will also compromise the poll body's autonomy. Amid the discussion over the Bill in Rajya Sabha, Congress MP Randeep Surjewala stated that the fearlessness, autonomy and fairness of electoral machinery and democracy in India has been crushed. Watch: Indian Parliament: Record suspension of 141 MPs in a single day "Modi government has attacked the democracy of India. The autonomy, fearlessness and fairness of India's democracy and electoral machinery have been crushed by a bulldozer," he added. The former poll officers had also protested over the proposal of stripping the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners of the status of Supreme Court judges and making their rank and salary on par with an officer of Cabinet Secretary-rank. Later, the government decided to undo this change. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Parliament clears bill to appoint three poll officers in elections

7 Animals Who Hardly Sleep Their Entire Life


Giraffes can survive by sleeping for just five minutes in the entire day.


Dolphins remain conscious of their surroundings all the time to stop themselves from drowning. This is called “conscious breathing”.

The elephants have brief periods of deep sleep and generally lean against a tree for support. But, they can manage to stay awake for an entire week.

Bullfrogs continue to react to stimuli in a similar manner all the time, which means they do not sleep. They slip into brumation which is a form of binge sleeping after no sleep.


A lot of shark species sleep by slowing down one part of their brain and keeping the other one active and remaining in constant motion to facilitate oxygen uptake.

In an ant colony, the worker ants take turns to rest, which totals 250 minutes of sleep every day.


Horses, on average, sleep for three hours every day and they mostly doze off while standing on their feet.

7 Animals Who Hardly Sleep Their Entire Life

Crackers and bread have been banned in space since they float around and can get into the eyes of the astronauts and cause damage.


Cookies are likely to turn soggy and also float in space which can prove troublesome for astronauts.


According to reports, carbonated drinks fail to fizz in space and remain flat and it is difficult to gulp them.


Salt, pepper or any other seasonings cannot be sprinkled in space as they float and may get into someone's eyes and cause irritation.


Milk requires refrigeration for a longer shelf life and this facility is missing in space. Hence, astronauts prefer dehydrated milk.


Since there are no freezers, ice creams cannot be part of the pantry in space and hence, have been banned.

Although pizza can be carried to space, crispy crust pizza is not allowed because it will turn soggy due to varied temperatures.

According to reports, alcohol can destroy any equipment inside the space station and can also lead to safety risks.


8 Common Food Items Banned In Space


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