<p>One of the 50 men who are alleged to have taken part in the years-long drugging and raping of French woman Gisele Pelicot has admitted to his guilt, saying he was "part of this nightmare."</p>

<p>The man, identified in court documents as 44-year-old Lionel R, was speaking at the trial on a macabre case that shocked France. Apologising to Pelicot, he said in court on Thursday (Sep 19): "I have no choice but to accept the facts."</p>

<h2><strong>What is the case about?</strong></h2>

<p>Between 2011 and 2020, Pelicot was drugged by her now-former husband Dominique Pelicot into a 'deep coma' state. He then invited men to rape her in her bedroom in southern France.&nbsp;The accused, 50 men in total, are aged 26 to 74 and include a fireman, jailor, nurse and journalist.</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dominique Pelicot had earlier admitted to connecting with strangers on online chatrooms and inviting them to rape her.&nbsp;He told the court he was “a rapist”, while claiming that all the men knew they were raping his unconscious wife.</p>

<p>Gisèle Pelicot wanted an open trial&nbsp;to raise awareness on use of drugs in rape and sexual abuse. Hundreds of women came out in support of her outside the court where the trial will continue into December.</p>

<p>While some of the accused told the court they were told the woman was drugged and unconcious, some others said they thought they were part of a sex game oragnised by&nbsp;the husband.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drugged-and-raped-for-decades-hundreds-gather-in-support-of-gisele-pelicot-in-france-758730">Also read:&nbsp;'Drugged and raped for decades,' Hundreds gather in support of Gisele Pelicot in France</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>What did the accused man tell court?</strong></h2>

<p>“Since I never obtained Mrs Pélicot’s consent, I have no choice but to accept the facts,” Lionel R, a fireman, told the court, admitting that the raped her on 2 December 2018.</p>

<p>“I am sorry, I can only imagine the nightmare you’ve lived through … and I am part of this nightmare," the father of three said, addressing Gisele.</p>

<p>"I know my apologies won’t change what happened, but I wanted to tell you that. If I had known she wasn’t aware ...I wouldn’t have gone there," The Guardian newspaper quoted him as saying.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sexomnia-case-uk-woman-whose-rape-trial-was-dropped-over-rare-sleep-disorder-wins-huge-payout-750318"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;'Sexomnia' case: UK woman whose rape trial was dropped over rare sleep disorder wins huge payout</strong></a></p>

<p>“I should have checked that she was OK with it. I didn’t talk to her, so I could not get her consent. I feel guilty for what I did.</p>

<p>“I never told myself: ‘I will rape that woman'," he said while admitting he was guilty of rape.</p>

<p>Lionel said he didn't ask too many questions, while there were mentions about medical drugs either taken by the woman herself, or administered by the then husband.</p>

<p>“I never imagined that she might not be part of this game. That was my first huge error, he added.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


One of the 50 men who are alleged to have taken part in the years-long drugging and raping of French woman Gisele Pelicot has admitted to his guilt, saying he was "part of this nightmare.

One of the 50 men who are alleged to have taken part in the years-long drugging and raping of French woman Gisele Pelicot has admitted to his guilt, saying he was "part of this nightmare." The man, identified in court documents as 44-year-old Lionel R, was speaking at the trial on a macabre case that shocked France. Apologising to Pelicot, he said in court on Thursday (Sep 19): "I have no choice but to accept the facts." What is the case about? Between 2011 and 2020, Pelicot was drugged by her now-former husband Dominique Pelicot into a 'deep coma' state. He then invited men to rape her in her bedroom in southern France. The accused, 50 men in total, are aged 26 to 74 and include a fireman, jailor, nurse and journalist. × Dominique Pelicot had earlier admitted to connecting with strangers on online chatrooms and inviting them to rape her. He told the court he was “a rapist”, while claiming that all the men knew they were raping his unconscious wife. Gisèle Pelicot wanted an open trial to raise awareness on use of drugs in rape and sexual abuse. Hundreds of women came out in support of her outside the court where the trial will continue into December. While some of the accused told the court they were told the woman was drugged and unconcious, some others said they thought they were part of a sex game oragnised by the husband. Also read: 'Drugged and raped for decades,' Hundreds gather in support of Gisele Pelicot in France What did the accused man tell court? “Since I never obtained Mrs Pélicot’s consent, I have no choice but to accept the facts,” Lionel R, a fireman, told the court, admitting that the raped her on 2 December 2018. “I am sorry, I can only imagine the nightmare you’ve lived through … and I am part of this nightmare," the father of three said, addressing Gisele. "I know my apologies won’t change what happened, but I wanted to tell you that. If I had known she wasn’t aware ...I wouldn’t have gone there," The Guardian newspaper quoted him as saying. Also read: 'Sexomnia' case: UK woman whose rape trial was dropped over rare sleep disorder wins huge payout “I should have checked that she was OK with it. I didn’t talk to her, so I could not get her consent. I feel guilty for what I did. “I never told myself: ‘I will rape that woman'," he said while admitting he was guilty of rape. Lionel said he didn't ask too many questions, while there were mentions about medical drugs either taken by the woman herself, or administered by the then husband. “I never imagined that she might not be part of this game. That was my first huge error, he added.” (With inputs from agencies)

France mass rape case: Accused man, a father of three, admits to sexual assault of Gisele Pelicot

<p>Canada has abruptly ended a policy of allowing work permits to those on visitor visas from within the county, in yet another blow to thousands of migrants, many of them from India. Canada is rolling back or limiting several liberal immigration schemes introduced in the wake of the Covid pandemic. India is reportedly the second highest source country of temporary workers to Canada, behind only Mexico.</p>

<p>The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada or IRCC, the country's immigration agency, said in a release, "Canada has ended the policy allowing visitors on temporary visas to apply for work permits from within the country, initially introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The change will be effective immediately, the agency said on Wednesday (Aug 28). It will continue to process applications submitted before that date.</p>

<p><strong>Indians protest against changes in Canada's immigration policy</strong></p>

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<p>The temporary work permits were introduced in August 2020 to help visitors who were unable to leave the country due to the pandemic-related travel restrictions. Under this scheme,&nbsp;visitors in Canada could apply for a work permit without having to leave the country. Foreigners who had held a work permit in the previous 12 months but who changed their status in Canada to “visitor” could also apply to work legally in Canada while waiting for a decision on their new work permit application.</p>

<p>This 'temporary policy' was set to expire on February 28, 2025, but now it has been stopped abruptly.</p>

<p>The agency said that some fraudsters were misusing this provision to lure foreigners into working in Canada without authorisation.</p>

<p>"IRCC is ending the policy as part of our overall efforts to recalibrate the number of temporary residents in Canada and preserve the integrity of the immigration system. IRCC is also aware that some bad actors were using the policy to mislead foreign nationals into working in Canada without authorisation," said the release.</p>

<h2><strong>Canada cracks down on temporary residents, Indian students protest</strong></h2>

<p>The stopping of work permits for visitors is the latest in a string of immigration reforms being undertaken by the Justin Trudeau administration to roll back the number of temporary residents in the country.</p>

<p>It came even as hundreds of Indian graduates and students have started protests amid fears of deportation due to several overnight changes to immigration policies.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unfair-to-indians-canada-witnesses-massive-protests-as-70000-students-face-deportation-753788">Also read: ‘Unfair to Indians,’ Canada witnesses massive protests as 70,000 students face deportation</a></strong><br />
<br />
Among the issues of contention is a policy set to be implemented in September that would set limits on employers on how many temporary residents they could give jobs to.</p>

<p>It is common practice for international students to work part-time, often for very low wages, to meet some of their expenses. Their hope is to eventually find jobs in Canada, and gain permanent residency.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/foreign-student-receiving-study-permits-soar-in-canada-despite-government-restrictions-739914">Canada sees rise in number of foreign students receiving study permit despite government restrictions</a></strong></p>

<p>One of the policies that would face some caps is the PEI PNP, or Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program. This was one of the so-called 'express entry' routes for many foreigners to enter, live and work in Canada. It gave pathways to permanent residency for skilled workers and recent graduates.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rollback of several&nbsp;policies is mainly aimed at reducing the temporary resident population in the country, which includes some 70,000 student graduates who now face uncertain futures. The government's contention is that the presence of temporary residents is stressing out the housing market and infrastructure of the country.</p>

<p>Immigration minister Marc Miller had said in March that Canada's temporary resident population "had grown rapidly, reaching up to 2.5 million or 6.2 per cent of the total population.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Canada has abruptly ended a policy of allowing work permits to those on visitor visas from within the county, in yet another blow to thousands of migrants, many of them from India.

Canada has abruptly ended a policy of allowing work permits to those on visitor visas from within the county, in yet another blow to thousands of migrants, many of them from India. Canada is rolling back or limiting several liberal immigration schemes introduced in the wake of the Covid pandemic. India is reportedly the second highest source country of temporary workers to Canada, behind only Mexico. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada or IRCC, the country's immigration agency, said in a release, "Canada has ended the policy allowing visitors on temporary visas to apply for work permits from within the country, initially introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic." The change will be effective immediately, the agency said on Wednesday (Aug 28). It will continue to process applications submitted before that date. Indians protest against changes in Canada's immigration policy × The temporary work permits were introduced in August 2020 to help visitors who were unable to leave the country due to the pandemic-related travel restrictions. Under this scheme, visitors in Canada could apply for a work permit without having to leave the country. Foreigners who had held a work permit in the previous 12 months but who changed their status in Canada to “visitor” could also apply to work legally in Canada while waiting for a decision on their new work permit application. This 'temporary policy' was set to expire on February 28, 2025, but now it has been stopped abruptly. The agency said that some fraudsters were misusing this provision to lure foreigners into working in Canada without authorisation. "IRCC is ending the policy as part of our overall efforts to recalibrate the number of temporary residents in Canada and preserve the integrity of the immigration system. IRCC is also aware that some bad actors were using the policy to mislead foreign nationals into working in Canada without authorisation," said the release. Canada cracks down on temporary residents, Indian students protest The stopping of work permits for visitors is the latest in a string of immigration reforms being undertaken by the Justin Trudeau administration to roll back the number of temporary residents in the country. It came even as hundreds of Indian graduates and students have started protests amid fears of deportation due to several overnight changes to immigration policies. Also read: ‘Unfair to Indians,’ Canada witnesses massive protests as 70,000 students face deportation Among the issues of contention is a policy set to be implemented in September that would set limits on employers on how many temporary residents they could give jobs to. It is common practice for international students to work part-time, often for very low wages, to meet some of their expenses. Their hope is to eventually find jobs in Canada, and gain permanent residency. Also read: Canada sees rise in number of foreign students receiving study permit despite government restrictions One of the policies that would face some caps is the PEI PNP, or Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program. This was one of the so-called 'express entry' routes for many foreigners to enter, live and work in Canada. It gave pathways to permanent residency for skilled workers and recent graduates. The rollback of several policies is mainly aimed at reducing the temporary resident population in the country, which includes some 70,000 student graduates who now face uncertain futures. The government's contention is that the presence of temporary residents is stressing out the housing market and infrastructure of the country. Immigration minister Marc Miller had said in March that Canada's temporary resident population "had grown rapidly, reaching up to 2.5 million or 6.2 per cent of the total population. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada ends work permits to those on visitor visas in yet another blow that could affect Indians

<p>Indian Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi shared a video showcasing his martial arts skills on Thursday (Aug 29), on the occasion of India's National Sports Day.</p>

<p>National Sports Day marks the birthday of Major Dhyan Chand, the Indian hockey legend who brought three Olympic gold medals to the country.</p>

<p>Rahul Gandhi shared the video along with a post on X, saying, "During the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, as we journeyed across thousands of kilometres, we had a daily routine of practicing jiu-jitsu every evening at our campsite."</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-slams-pm-modi-for-anti-constitutional-upsc-lateral-entry-move-751139">Also read: Rahul Gandhi slams PM Modi for ‘anti-constitutional’ UPSC lateral entry</a></strong><br />
<br />
Jiu-jitsu is a ground-based martial art originating mainly in Brazil.</p>

<p>The Congress leader is a black belt in Aikido, a Japanese martial art, and a blue belt in jiu-jitsu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"What began as a simple&nbsp;way to stay fit quickly evolved into a community activity, bringing together fellow yatris and young martial arts students from the towns where we stayed," said Gandhi in the post, referring to his long march across India ahead of this summer's general elections.</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">During the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, as we journeyed across thousands of kilometers, we had a daily routine of practicing jiu-jitsu every evening at our campsite. What began as a simple way to stay fit quickly evolved into a community activity, bringing together fellow yatris and… <a href="https://t.co/Zvmw78ShDX">pic.twitter.com/Zvmw78ShDX</a></p>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1829038570402701566?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Our goal was to introduce these young minds to the beauty of the ‘Gentle Art’—a harmonious blend of meditation, jiu-jitsu, Aikido, and non-violent conflict resolution techniques," he said about the martial arts session held with a group of children and youngsters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/freedom-our-biggest-shield-rahul-gandhi-issues-i-day-message-congress-releases-report-card-as-lop-750434">Also Read: ‘Freedom our biggest shield,’ says Rahul Gandhi in I-Day message; Congress Releases LoP's report card</a></strong><br />
<br />
"We aimed to instill in them the value of transforming violence into gentleness, giving them the tools to build a more compassionate and safer society."</p>

<p>"On National Sports Day, I want to share our experience with all of you, hoping to inspire some of you to take up the practice of the ‘Gentle Art’," wrote Gandhi, adding, "P.S.: Bharat Dojo Yatra is coming soon."</p>

<p><strong>Watch: BJP seeks action against Rahul Gandhi, accuses Congress MP of violating house rules</strong></p>

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<p>Dojo refers to a school for training in various self-defence arts such as judo or karate.</p>

<p>During the Bharat Jodo Yatra, Gandhi engaged in various physical activities, from jogging and running to meeting and interacting with wrestlers.</p>

<p>Those with whom he interacted and sparred included some of the wrestlers who were protesting against the Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan Singh who had been accused of sexual harassment.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi shared a video showcasing his martial arts skills on Thursday (Aug 29), on the occasion of India's National Sports Day. National Sports Day marks the birthday of Major Dhyan Chand, the Indian hockey legend who brought three Olympic gold medals to the country.

Indian Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi shared a video showcasing his martial arts skills on Thursday (Aug 29), on the occasion of India's National Sports Day. National Sports Day marks the birthday of Major Dhyan Chand, the Indian hockey legend who brought three Olympic gold medals to the country. Rahul Gandhi shared the video along with a post on X, saying, "During the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, as we journeyed across thousands of kilometres, we had a daily routine of practicing jiu-jitsu every evening at our campsite." Also read: Rahul Gandhi slams PM Modi for ‘anti-constitutional’ UPSC lateral entry Jiu-jitsu is a ground-based martial art originating mainly in Brazil. The Congress leader is a black belt in Aikido, a Japanese martial art, and a blue belt in jiu-jitsu. "What began as a simple way to stay fit quickly evolved into a community activity, bringing together fellow yatris and young martial arts students from the towns where we stayed," said Gandhi in the post, referring to his long march across India ahead of this summer's general elections. Watch the video here: During the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, as we journeyed across thousands of kilometers, we had a daily routine of practicing jiu-jitsu every evening at our campsite. What began as a simple way to stay fit quickly evolved into a community activity, bringing together fellow yatris and… pic.twitter.com/Zvmw78ShDX — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) August 29, 2024 × "Our goal was to introduce these young minds to the beauty of the ‘Gentle Art’—a harmonious blend of meditation, jiu-jitsu, Aikido, and non-violent conflict resolution techniques," he said about the martial arts session held with a group of children and youngsters. Also Read: ‘Freedom our biggest shield,’ says Rahul Gandhi in I-Day message; Congress Releases LoP's report card "We aimed to instill in them the value of transforming violence into gentleness, giving them the tools to build a more compassionate and safer society." "On National Sports Day, I want to share our experience with all of you, hoping to inspire some of you to take up the practice of the ‘Gentle Art’," wrote Gandhi, adding, "P.S.: Bharat Dojo Yatra is coming soon." Watch: BJP seeks action against Rahul Gandhi, accuses Congress MP of violating house rules × Dojo refers to a school for training in various self-defence arts such as judo or karate. During the Bharat Jodo Yatra, Gandhi engaged in various physical activities, from jogging and running to meeting and interacting with wrestlers. Those with whom he interacted and sparred included some of the wrestlers who were protesting against the Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan Singh who had been accused of sexual harassment. (With inputs from agencies)

Rahul Gandhi showcases his martial arts skills on India's sports day: 'Dojo Yatra coming soon'

<p><strong><em>Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised.&nbsp;</em></strong><br />
<br />
Jeremy Skibicki, a white supremacist serial killer, was given four life sentences by a Canadian court for murdering four native women in 2022 and abusing their corpses. The murders had shocked the First Nation community in Winnipeg region and the nation.</p>

<p>As the sentence was pronounced on Wednesday (Aug 28), Skibicki, who had pleaded not guilty citing a mental disorder, showed no emotion.</p>

<p>"Make no mistake Mr Skibicki, because of the current state of the law, the only available sentence that I can impose today will regrettably not adequately reflect the gravity of these offences," said Judge Glen Joyal while pronouncing the sentence after family members of the women made impact statements.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The women were "preyed upon and targeted" by a white supremacist who was acting upon his homicidal necrophilia, said the judge.</p>

<p>“The heinous crimes committed by Mr Skibicki have left a deep scar on First Nations people and the reverberations of his actions will be felt for generations,” said Grand Chief Cathy Merrick of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Jeremy Skibicki? A far-right monster with extreme racist views</strong></h2>

<p>Jeremy Skibicki is a 37-year-old man accused of carrying out the calculated, racially motivated murders of four First Nation women in Canada's Winnipeg.</p>

<p>In the years leading up to the murders, Skibicki had a social media presence, expressing racist and white supremacist views. His social media profiles contained antisemitic, misogynistic material.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Canada introduces new bill to fight online abuse with severe penalties for hate crimes</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The murders of Jeremy Skibicki</strong></h2>

<p>Jeremy Skibicki, whose online presence showed him leaning towards far-right views, killed the indegenuos women between March and May of 2022.</p>

<p>Skibicki met two of the victims in homeless shelters, according to court documents.</p>

<p>He killed Morgan Harris, 39, Marcedes Myran, 26, Rebecca Contois, 24 and a fourth unidentified woman. That victim was named Mashkode Bizhiki’ikwe, or Buffalo Woman, by Indigenous elders. A buffalo head was placed on a red cloth on a table near the prosecutors in the court during the trial as a tribute to her.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/robert-pickton-canadian-serial-killer-who-took-victims-to-pig-farm-dies-after-prison-attack-727638">Also read: Robert Pickton, Canadian serial killer who fed his victims to pigs, dies after prison attack</a></strong><br />
<br />
He assaulted and killed the women by either strangling or drowning, the court was told. Before disposing off the bodies in trash bins, Skibicki allegedly sexually assaulted and dismembered the corpses.</p>

<p>The murders came to light after a man informed police about finding human remains while searching for scrap metal in a bin near Skibicki's residence.</p>

<p>Skibicki eventually confessed to having killed four women.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-man-admits-killing-four-indigenous-women-718916">Also read: Canada: Man admits killing four indigenous women</a></strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>Skibicki reportedly suffered from schizophrenia, an alibi used by his lawyers to explain out his gruesome crimes.</p>

<p>They said he 'heard voiced from God' to commit the killings.</p>

<p>The victims' remains are yet to be found and a search is to be conducted later this year on a landfill site in Winnipeg.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. Jeremy Skibicki, a white supremacist serial killer, was given four life sentences by a Canadian court for murdering four native women in 2022 and abusing their corpses.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. Jeremy Skibicki, a white supremacist serial killer, was given four life sentences by a Canadian court for murdering four native women in 2022 and abusing their corpses. The murders had shocked the First Nation community in Winnipeg region and the nation. As the sentence was pronounced on Wednesday (Aug 28), Skibicki, who had pleaded not guilty citing a mental disorder, showed no emotion. "Make no mistake Mr Skibicki, because of the current state of the law, the only available sentence that I can impose today will regrettably not adequately reflect the gravity of these offences," said Judge Glen Joyal while pronouncing the sentence after family members of the women made impact statements. The women were "preyed upon and targeted" by a white supremacist who was acting upon his homicidal necrophilia, said the judge. “The heinous crimes committed by Mr Skibicki have left a deep scar on First Nations people and the reverberations of his actions will be felt for generations,” said Grand Chief Cathy Merrick of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs. Who is Jeremy Skibicki? A far-right monster with extreme racist views Jeremy Skibicki is a 37-year-old man accused of carrying out the calculated, racially motivated murders of four First Nation women in Canada's Winnipeg. In the years leading up to the murders, Skibicki had a social media presence, expressing racist and white supremacist views. His social media profiles contained antisemitic, misogynistic material. Watch: Canada introduces new bill to fight online abuse with severe penalties for hate crimes × The murders of Jeremy Skibicki Jeremy Skibicki, whose online presence showed him leaning towards far-right views, killed the indegenuos women between March and May of 2022. Skibicki met two of the victims in homeless shelters, according to court documents. He killed Morgan Harris, 39, Marcedes Myran, 26, Rebecca Contois, 24 and a fourth unidentified woman. That victim was named Mashkode Bizhiki’ikwe, or Buffalo Woman, by Indigenous elders. A buffalo head was placed on a red cloth on a table near the prosecutors in the court during the trial as a tribute to her. Also read: Robert Pickton, Canadian serial killer who fed his victims to pigs, dies after prison attack He assaulted and killed the women by either strangling or drowning, the court was told. Before disposing off the bodies in trash bins, Skibicki allegedly sexually assaulted and dismembered the corpses. The murders came to light after a man informed police about finding human remains while searching for scrap metal in a bin near Skibicki's residence. Skibicki eventually confessed to having killed four women. Also read: Canada: Man admits killing four indigenous women Skibicki reportedly suffered from schizophrenia, an alibi used by his lawyers to explain out his gruesome crimes. They said he 'heard voiced from God' to commit the killings. The victims' remains are yet to be found and a search is to be conducted later this year on a landfill site in Winnipeg. (With inputs from agencies)

TRIGGER WARNING: Who is Canadian serial killer Jeremy Skibicki, sentenced for murdering 4 indigenous women?

<p>A wolf thought to be behind at least eight killings of people in India's Uttar Pradesh has been caught, said authorities in the northern state on Thursday (Aug 29). It was captured after at least nine people were killed in alleged wolf attacks in the past 45 days in the Bahraich district. Earlier reports attributed the killing to a lone wolf, but recent sightings suggested that a pack of wolves may be involved in the attacks.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Forest officials catch the wolf that killed 8 people in Uttar Pradesh's Bahraich<br />
.<br />
.<br />
.<br />
.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bahraich?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bahraich</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UttarPradesh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UttarPradesh</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wolf?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wolf</a> <a href="https://t.co/XtPc2z1DWy">pic.twitter.com/XtPc2z1DWy</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1829043618922791076?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Those who were mauled to death include six children and a woman. At least 30 others were injured in different villages of Mehasi tehsil in the district</p>

<p>Earlier, the Uttar Pradesh forest department said it had caught the presence of two wolves through late-night infrared drone imagery.</p>

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Source: State Forest Department <a href="https://t.co/22mwZJs9f6">https://t.co/22mwZJs9f6</a> <a href="https://t.co/31qgI5Uzac">pic.twitter.com/31qgI5Uzac</a>

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— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1828902350142210152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2024</a> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<p>"Our drones have captured the movement near the village. We have alerted our people in the village... We have spotted two wolves in our drone nearly 100 metres away from our location. We went to the spot and noticed footsteps and hence it was confirmed that two wolves have passed from here," said forest officer Ajeet Pratap Singh, as quoted by ANI news agency.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Walking with wolves in Southern Spain</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>'Operation Bhediya' launched</strong></h2>

<p>The government agencies and local residents are looking for the wolves in an operation codenamed 'Operation Bhediya'. Bhediya is the Hindi word for wolf.</p>

<p>A government statement said three wolves have been captured, though it is not clear how many are in the area.</p>

<p>"We have deployed 16 teams to capture the wolves, and 12 district-level officers are also stationed here. Additional Principal Chief Forest Conservator Renu Singh will remain on-site until the remaining wolves are captured," said Principal Chief Forest Conservator (Wildlife) Sanjay Srivastava.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wolves-in-ukraines-chernobyl-area-developing-resilience-to-cancer-report-689664">Also read: Wolves in Ukraine's Chernobyl area developing resilience to cancer: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Wielding a gun, the local MLA from Mehasi Sureshwar Singh said "...This is my fundamental right. Wolf is taking away the children and villagers are scared. If their MLA, MP, District administration stand by them, it will increase their confidence...when people are confident, the society will be confident."</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tourists-walk-in-the-woods-with-wolves-through-spanish-mountains-494477">Also read: Watch | Tourists walk in the woods with wolves through Spanish mountains</a></strong></p>

<p>Forest official Rupendra Gaur said drones, nets and cages are being used to catch the wolves. "We are continuously trying to catch the wolves...We are ensuring that no untoward incident takes place anywhere," he said while speaking to ANI.</p>

<p>The district administration has provided an ex-gratia payment of 500,000 each to the kin of four who were killed by wolves, said the government statement, adding other victims' kin would also be paid.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A wolf thought to be behind at least eight killings of people in India's Uttar Pradesh has been caught, said authorities in the northern state on Thursday (Aug 29).

A wolf thought to be behind at least eight killings of people in India's Uttar Pradesh has been caught, said authorities in the northern state on Thursday (Aug 29). It was captured after at least nine people were killed in alleged wolf attacks in the past 45 days in the Bahraich district. Earlier reports attributed the killing to a lone wolf, but recent sightings suggested that a pack of wolves may be involved in the attacks. Forest officials catch the wolf that killed 8 people in Uttar Pradesh's Bahraich . . . .#Bahraich #UttarPradesh #Wolf pic.twitter.com/XtPc2z1DWy — WION (@WIONews) August 29, 2024 × Those who were mauled to death include six children and a woman. At least 30 others were injured in different villages of Mehasi tehsil in the district Earlier, the Uttar Pradesh forest department said it had caught the presence of two wolves through late-night infrared drone imagery. Source: State Forest Department https://t.co/22mwZJs9f6 pic.twitter.com/31qgI5Uzac — ANI (@ANI) August 28, 2024 × "Our drones have captured the movement near the village. We have alerted our people in the village... We have spotted two wolves in our drone nearly 100 metres away from our location. We went to the spot and noticed footsteps and hence it was confirmed that two wolves have passed from here," said forest officer Ajeet Pratap Singh, as quoted by ANI news agency. Watch: Walking with wolves in Southern Spain × 'Operation Bhediya' launched The government agencies and local residents are looking for the wolves in an operation codenamed 'Operation Bhediya'. Bhediya is the Hindi word for wolf. A government statement said three wolves have been captured, though it is not clear how many are in the area. "We have deployed 16 teams to capture the wolves, and 12 district-level officers are also stationed here. Additional Principal Chief Forest Conservator Renu Singh will remain on-site until the remaining wolves are captured," said Principal Chief Forest Conservator (Wildlife) Sanjay Srivastava. Also read: Wolves in Ukraine's Chernobyl area developing resilience to cancer: Report Wielding a gun, the local MLA from Mehasi Sureshwar Singh said "...This is my fundamental right. Wolf is taking away the children and villagers are scared. If their MLA, MP, District administration stand by them, it will increase their confidence...when people are confident, the society will be confident." Also read: Watch | Tourists walk in the woods with wolves through Spanish mountains Forest official Rupendra Gaur said drones, nets and cages are being used to catch the wolves. "We are continuously trying to catch the wolves...We are ensuring that no untoward incident takes place anywhere," he said while speaking to ANI. The district administration has provided an ex-gratia payment of 500,000 each to the kin of four who were killed by wolves, said the government statement, adding other victims' kin would also be paid. (With inputs from agencies)

Wolf caught after attacks kill 9 people in India's Uttar Pradesh in 45 days. What is 'Operation Bhediya?'

<p>Reunion announcement of Oasis, the iconic British band of the 1990s led by brothers Liam Gallagher and Noel Gallagher, set the music world ablaze this week. What may have led the brothers to reconcile after their bitter feud and go on tour after a gap of nearly two decades? Money could be one cause, as an analysis has found that the band&nbsp;will rake in more moolah than it did at the peak of its career in the '90s.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/gallagher-brothers-announce-reunion-shows-for-oasis-in-2025-753640">Also read: Gallagher brothers announce reunion shows for Oasis in 2025</a></strong><br />
<br />
The Guardian, citing an estimate from Birmingham City University, said the reunion tour could earn the brothers £400 million in ticket sales and add-ons. Liam and Noel will each earn £50 million.</p>

<p>Oasis confirmed the reunion on Tuesday (Aug 28), with tours spanning 14 days planned in Britain and Ireland, in an announcement that made their hardcore fans rejoice.</p>

<p>The tour,&nbsp;which will include a four-show run at Wembley Stadium,&nbsp;could be one of the most lucrative gigs ever.</p>

<p>After their bitter feud and split in 2009, the brothers had gone on to have solo careers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Gravitas | How Taylor Swift prepared for Eras Tour</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the estimate by Birmingham City University, the 14 days of concerts could make the Gallagher brothers double their net worth.</p>

<p>The figure of 400 million pounds is from UK and Ireland alone.</p>

<p>The band could tour rest of the world and earn more too, as their fan base spans continents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“They’re considering going into Europe as well, so they stand to make even more,” The Guardian quoted Dr Matt Grimes, course director of the music business BA at Birmingham City University, as saying.</p>

<p>Tickets for their 1995 UK tour cost £14, which will go up 10 times this year, as per estimates.</p>

<p>Oasis fan base cuts across generations, as their private lives have been tabloid fodder in Britain, and nostalgia and new interest is generated through anniversary releases and documentaries about the band and the brothers.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-justin"><strong>Also read: Justin Timberlake thanks fans at concert post arrest: I've grown up with you</strong></a></p>

<p>“They were ever present in the culture. You can almost compare them to Abba or the Beatles, there’s always something happening to remind and draw in new listeners,” The Guardian quoted business writer Eamonn Forde as saying.</p>

<p>“They’ve never monetised that nostalgia on this scale. They’ll probably make more money from these gigs than they did in the entire 90s.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Reunion announcement of Oasis, the iconic British band of the 1990s led by brothers Liam Gallagher and Noel Gallagher, set the music world ablaze this week. What may have led the brothers to reconcile after their bitter feud and go on tour after a gap of nearly two decades?

Reunion announcement of Oasis, the iconic British band of the 1990s led by brothers Liam Gallagher and Noel Gallagher, set the music world ablaze this week. What may have led the brothers to reconcile after their bitter feud and go on tour after a gap of nearly two decades? Money could be one cause, as an analysis has found that the band will rake in more moolah than it did at the peak of its career in the '90s. Also read: Gallagher brothers announce reunion shows for Oasis in 2025 The Guardian, citing an estimate from Birmingham City University, said the reunion tour could earn the brothers £400 million in ticket sales and add-ons. Liam and Noel will each earn £50 million. Oasis confirmed the reunion on Tuesday (Aug 28), with tours spanning 14 days planned in Britain and Ireland, in an announcement that made their hardcore fans rejoice. The tour, which will include a four-show run at Wembley Stadium, could be one of the most lucrative gigs ever. After their bitter feud and split in 2009, the brothers had gone on to have solo careers. Watch: Gravitas | How Taylor Swift prepared for Eras Tour × As per the estimate by Birmingham City University, the 14 days of concerts could make the Gallagher brothers double their net worth. The figure of 400 million pounds is from UK and Ireland alone. The band could tour rest of the world and earn more too, as their fan base spans continents. “They’re considering going into Europe as well, so they stand to make even more,” The Guardian quoted Dr Matt Grimes, course director of the music business BA at Birmingham City University, as saying. Tickets for their 1995 UK tour cost £14, which will go up 10 times this year, as per estimates. Oasis fan base cuts across generations, as their private lives have been tabloid fodder in Britain, and nostalgia and new interest is generated through anniversary releases and documentaries about the band and the brothers. Also read: Justin Timberlake thanks fans at concert post arrest: I've grown up with you “They were ever present in the culture. You can almost compare them to Abba or the Beatles, there’s always something happening to remind and draw in new listeners,” The Guardian quoted business writer Eamonn Forde as saying. “They’ve never monetised that nostalgia on this scale. They’ll probably make more money from these gigs than they did in the entire 90s.” (With inputs from agencies)

Oasis reunion: It's the money, honey - Gallagher brothers will make more from tour than in entire 1990s

<p>Can cannabis reduce the ageing of brain? As per new research done on mice, long-term, low-dose use of the active ingredient of cannabis has an anti-ageing effect.</p>

<p>The study done by Bonn University in Germany has found that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main therapeutic ingredient in cannabis, restores cognitive abilities and synapse density in old mice.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have now been able to show that treatment with THC has a tissue-dependent and dual effect on mTOR signaling and the metabolome," said Dr Andras Bilkei-Gorzo a researcher who conducted the study along with an international team of scientists.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Gravitas: Medical use of Cannabis now legal in Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p><br />
To understand what it means, it's important to know about two specific processes of the brain that affect ageing.</p>

<p>One is synaptic plasticity, which is the ability of the brain to change neuronal connections. Less synaptic plasticity is a sign of ageing.</p>

<p>The other is mTOR, or Mechanistic target of rapamycin, signalling. The mTOR signalling pathways regulate growth and metabolism in animal cells. The mTOR activity can be reduced through a low-calorie diet, intensive physical activity or pharmacological treatment.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/daily-marijuana-use-surpasses-daily-drinking-in-the-us-says-study-724533"><strong>Also read: Daily marijuana use surpasses daily drinking in the US, says study</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>How the study was done</strong></h2>

<p>Two groups of mice were used in the study,&nbsp;young ones around four months old, and older ones aged around 18 months.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some mice in each age group received a daily low dose of THC across a period of 28 days, and the effects were compared to age-matched controls.</p>

<p>The mice treated with THC showed a boost in mTOR activity in the brain and the production of more of the proteins necessary to form new synapses between neurons.</p>

<p>The mTOR activity in fat tissue dropped in the same way that it does with a calorie-controlled diet: In other words, the body starts to dial down some of its production processes in ways that have previously been shown to slow down biological ageing too, said a release on the study.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/us-man-gets-high-on-edibles-attempts-sex-with-flight-attendant-opens-door-mid-air-746543">Also read: US man gets high on edibles, attempts sex with flight attendant, opens door mid-air</a></strong></p>

<p>"We concluded that long-term THC treatment initially has a cognition-enhancing effect by increasing energy and synaptic protein production in the brain, followed by an anti-ageing effect by decreasing mTOR activity and metabolic processes in the periphery," said Bilkei-Gorzo.</p>

<p>He suggested that the findings of the study could potentially pave the way for future anti-ageing treatments. "Our study suggests that a dual effect on mTOR activity and the metabolome could be the basis for an effective anti-ageing and cognition-enhancing drug."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Can cannabis reduce the ageing of brain? As per new research done on mice, long-term, low-dose use of the active ingredient of cannabis has an anti-ageing effect.

Can cannabis reduce the ageing of brain? As per new research done on mice, long-term, low-dose use of the active ingredient of cannabis has an anti-ageing effect. The study done by Bonn University in Germany has found that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main therapeutic ingredient in cannabis, restores cognitive abilities and synapse density in old mice. "We have now been able to show that treatment with THC has a tissue-dependent and dual effect on mTOR signaling and the metabolome," said Dr Andras Bilkei-Gorzo a researcher who conducted the study along with an international team of scientists. Watch: Gravitas: Medical use of Cannabis now legal in Ukraine × To understand what it means, it's important to know about two specific processes of the brain that affect ageing. One is synaptic plasticity, which is the ability of the brain to change neuronal connections. Less synaptic plasticity is a sign of ageing. The other is mTOR, or Mechanistic target of rapamycin, signalling. The mTOR signalling pathways regulate growth and metabolism in animal cells. The mTOR activity can be reduced through a low-calorie diet, intensive physical activity or pharmacological treatment. Also read: Daily marijuana use surpasses daily drinking in the US, says study How the study was done Two groups of mice were used in the study, young ones around four months old, and older ones aged around 18 months. Some mice in each age group received a daily low dose of THC across a period of 28 days, and the effects were compared to age-matched controls. The mice treated with THC showed a boost in mTOR activity in the brain and the production of more of the proteins necessary to form new synapses between neurons. The mTOR activity in fat tissue dropped in the same way that it does with a calorie-controlled diet: In other words, the body starts to dial down some of its production processes in ways that have previously been shown to slow down biological ageing too, said a release on the study. Also read: US man gets high on edibles, attempts sex with flight attendant, opens door mid-air "We concluded that long-term THC treatment initially has a cognition-enhancing effect by increasing energy and synaptic protein production in the brain, followed by an anti-ageing effect by decreasing mTOR activity and metabolic processes in the periphery," said Bilkei-Gorzo. He suggested that the findings of the study could potentially pave the way for future anti-ageing treatments. "Our study suggests that a dual effect on mTOR activity and the metabolome could be the basis for an effective anti-ageing and cognition-enhancing drug." (With inputs from agencies)

Cannabis found to have anti-ageing effect on brains of mice. So can pot make you younger?

<p>Los Alamos, where the American atomic bomb was born under the Manhattan Project led by Robert Oppenheimer, currently has plutonium levels similar to the site of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, researchers have warned.</p>

<p>“Extreme concentrations” of the radioactive material plutonium&nbsp;were found in soil, plants and water in the area, located in New Mexico state, said a study by North Arizona University researchers.</p>

<p>After years of redevelopment to make it safe, the land around Los Alamos had been turned into a dirt trail popular with bikers, hikers and runners, The Guardian newspaper said in a report.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH: WION reports from the world's first-ever floating nuclear power plant in Russia's Far East</strong></p>

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<p><br />
In the area known as 'Acid Canyon', Northern Arizona University scientist Michael Ketterer found plutonium levels to be "among the highest" he had ever seen in a publicly accessible area in the US, and similar to Chernobyl in Ukraine, the site of the nuclear spillage disaster.</p>

<p>“This is one of the most shocking things I’ve ever stumbled across in my life,” said Ketterer, who led the study,&nbsp;pointing out that the radioactive isotopes are “hiding in plain sight”.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the US Department of Energy said the plutonium levels were “very low and well within the safe exposure range,” said the report.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-use-weapons-never-used-before-iran-issues-threat-as-israel-mulls-over-retaliation-711898">Also read: ‘Will use weapons never used before’: Iran issues threat as Israel mulls over retaliation</a></strong></p>

<p>Ketterer agreed that immediate danger is low, but said the environmental risk is still worrying.</p>

<p>Plutonium can contaminate water supplies that eventually flow into the Rio Grande River. It can get into plants and eventually the&nbsp;food chain, or can be dispersed widely in ash in the event of a wildfire, he warned.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hiroshima-nagasaki-at-78-nolans-oppenheimer-has-put-atomic-focus-on-safe-use-of-nuclear-energy-623922">Also read: Hiroshima-Nagasaki at 78: Nolan's Oppenheimer has put 'atomic' focus on safe use of nuclear energy</a></strong></p>

<p>Until 1963, the Los Alamos National Laboratory sent radioactive waste into a canyon that became so saturated in toxic waste that it was dubbed 'Acid Canyon,' said the report.</p>

<p>The Guardian report&nbsp;said the study comes at a time when the US Department of Defense plans to increase production of plutonium pits, a core component of nuclear weapons, at Los Alamos.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Los Alamos was excluded from a defence bill that expanded funds for those exposed to the government’s radioactive waste.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Los Alamos, where the American atomic bomb was born under the Manhattan Project led by Robert Oppenheimer, currently has plutonium levels similar to the site of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, researchers have warned.

Los Alamos, where the American atomic bomb was born under the Manhattan Project led by Robert Oppenheimer, currently has plutonium levels similar to the site of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, researchers have warned. “Extreme concentrations” of the radioactive material plutonium were found in soil, plants and water in the area, located in New Mexico state, said a study by North Arizona University researchers. After years of redevelopment to make it safe, the land around Los Alamos had been turned into a dirt trail popular with bikers, hikers and runners, The Guardian newspaper said in a report. WATCH: WION reports from the world's first-ever floating nuclear power plant in Russia's Far East × In the area known as 'Acid Canyon', Northern Arizona University scientist Michael Ketterer found plutonium levels to be "among the highest" he had ever seen in a publicly accessible area in the US, and similar to Chernobyl in Ukraine, the site of the nuclear spillage disaster. “This is one of the most shocking things I’ve ever stumbled across in my life,” said Ketterer, who led the study, pointing out that the radioactive isotopes are “hiding in plain sight”. Meanwhile, the US Department of Energy said the plutonium levels were “very low and well within the safe exposure range,” said the report. Also read: ‘Will use weapons never used before’: Iran issues threat as Israel mulls over retaliation Ketterer agreed that immediate danger is low, but said the environmental risk is still worrying. Plutonium can contaminate water supplies that eventually flow into the Rio Grande River. It can get into plants and eventually the food chain, or can be dispersed widely in ash in the event of a wildfire, he warned. Also read: Hiroshima-Nagasaki at 78: Nolan's Oppenheimer has put 'atomic' focus on safe use of nuclear energy Until 1963, the Los Alamos National Laboratory sent radioactive waste into a canyon that became so saturated in toxic waste that it was dubbed 'Acid Canyon,' said the report. The Guardian report said the study comes at a time when the US Department of Defense plans to increase production of plutonium pits, a core component of nuclear weapons, at Los Alamos. Meanwhile, Los Alamos was excluded from a defence bill that expanded funds for those exposed to the government’s radioactive waste. (With inputs from agencies)

This American nuclear site has as much plutonium levels as Chernobyl disaster area in Ukraine

<p><strong>Alien probe:</strong> Are we alone? Is there any alien life or 'super civilisations' outside Earth? The premier institute in the US searching for alien life and intelligence has launched a new project that will look for low frequencies in intergalactic space, in the first probe of its kind.</p>

<p>SETI Institute - full form the Berkeley SETI Research Center and the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research - is going for an intergalactic search for 'technosignatures,' or signs of alien technology, at low radio frequencies - those at or under 100 MHz.</p>

<p>SETI stands for Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH: Black hole 'moons' may signal advanced alien life</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The low frequency probe will cover 2,800 galaxies in one search, "of which 1,300 we know the distance to," said a release from the institute.</p>

<p>The study will use the Murchison Widefield Array (MWA), a low-frequency radio telescope located at the CSIRO Murchison Radio-astronomy Observatory in Western Australia.</p>

<p>"Usually, the search for extraterrestrial intelligence has focused on signals within our galaxy. This new approach goes further, looking at distant galaxies, looks at distant galaxies, making it one of the most detailed searches for super civilisations—those more advanced than ours," said the SETI release.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/alien-life-may-be-hiding-in-purple-hue-of-universe-scientists-712945">Also read: Alien life may be hiding in purple hue of universe: Scientists</a></strong></p>

<p>"This work represents a significant step forward in our efforts to detect signals from advanced extraterrestrial civilisations. The large field of view and low-frequency range of the MWA makes it an ideal tool for this kind of research," said Dr Chenoa Tremblay of the SETI Institute, who is leading the study.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-to-install-nuclear-powered-ufo-detectors-in-space-to-lure-aliens-to-earth-claims-expert-723913">Also read: Scientists to install nuclear-powered UFO detectors in space to lure aliens to Earth, claims expert</a></strong></p>

<p>"The MWA continues to open up new ways of exploring the Universe for intelligent civilizations and technosignatures, while using the same data to study the astrophysics of stars and galaxies. This work is new and novel, but also paves the way for future observations with even more powerful telescopes,” said Prof Steven Tingay of Curtin University who is also the Director of the MWA leading the study.</p>

<p>This research highlights the importance of working together internationally and using advanced technology to expand our understanding of the Universe.</p>

<p>The SETI Institute, founded in 1984, describes itself as an institution leading humanity’s quest to understand the origins and prevalence of life and intelligence in the universe and to share that knowledge with the world.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Alien probe: Are we alone? Is there any alien life or 'super civilisations' outside Earth? The premier institute in the US searching for alien life and intelligence has launched a new project that will look for low frequencies in intergalactic space, in the first probe of its kind.

Alien probe: Are we alone? Is there any alien life or 'super civilisations' outside Earth? The premier institute in the US searching for alien life and intelligence has launched a new project that will look for low frequencies in intergalactic space, in the first probe of its kind. SETI Institute - full form the Berkeley SETI Research Center and the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research - is going for an intergalactic search for 'technosignatures,' or signs of alien technology, at low radio frequencies - those at or under 100 MHz. SETI stands for Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence. WATCH: Black hole 'moons' may signal advanced alien life × The low frequency probe will cover 2,800 galaxies in one search, "of which 1,300 we know the distance to," said a release from the institute. The study will use the Murchison Widefield Array (MWA), a low-frequency radio telescope located at the CSIRO Murchison Radio-astronomy Observatory in Western Australia. "Usually, the search for extraterrestrial intelligence has focused on signals within our galaxy. This new approach goes further, looking at distant galaxies, looks at distant galaxies, making it one of the most detailed searches for super civilisations—those more advanced than ours," said the SETI release. Also read: Alien life may be hiding in purple hue of universe: Scientists "This work represents a significant step forward in our efforts to detect signals from advanced extraterrestrial civilisations. The large field of view and low-frequency range of the MWA makes it an ideal tool for this kind of research," said Dr Chenoa Tremblay of the SETI Institute, who is leading the study. Also read: Scientists to install nuclear-powered UFO detectors in space to lure aliens to Earth, claims expert "The MWA continues to open up new ways of exploring the Universe for intelligent civilizations and technosignatures, while using the same data to study the astrophysics of stars and galaxies. This work is new and novel, but also paves the way for future observations with even more powerful telescopes,” said Prof Steven Tingay of Curtin University who is also the Director of the MWA leading the study. This research highlights the importance of working together internationally and using advanced technology to expand our understanding of the Universe. The SETI Institute, founded in 1984, describes itself as an institution leading humanity’s quest to understand the origins and prevalence of life and intelligence in the universe and to share that knowledge with the world. (With inputs from agencies)

Alien search: SETI Institute launches probe for low frequencies across galaxies in first study of its kind

<p>It's a general notion that some children are born brilliant and excel at studies, while others 'with less intelligence' lag behind in academic performance. A large new study seeks to bust this myth, having found that motivation, self-regulation, grit and perseverance help children become better at studies.</p>

<p>These non-cognitive skills that are part of emotional intelligence and also include academic interest and value attributed to learning, are as important as intelligence- a largely genetic attribute- in determining academic success, found the study.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: AI is spying on students</strong><br />
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<p>The researchers followed the development of 10,000 children in the UK, including siblings, to reach the conclusions.</p>

<p>Fostering non-cognitive skills alongside cognitive abilities could significantly improve educational outcomes, said the authors of the study published in the journal Nature Human Behaviour.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/autistic-11-year-old-girl-beats-albert-einstein-stephen-hawkings-iq-scores-590778">Also Read: Autistic 11-year-old girl beats IQ scores of Albert Einstein, Stephen Hawking</a></strong><br />
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<p>"Our research challenges the long-held assumption that intelligence is the primary driver of academic achievement," said Dr Margherita Malanchini at Queen Mary University of London, who did the study along with Dr Andrea Allegrini at University College London.</p>

<h2><strong>Non-cognitive skills vs genetic factors</strong></h2>

<p>The findings challenge the traditional view of educational achievement as determined largely by intelligence, which is largely a genetic attribute.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Instead, it suggests that a child's "emotional and behavioural makeup, influenced by both genes and environment, plays a crucial role in their educational journey," said the release.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How the study was done</strong></h2>

<p>The study followed 10,000 children from age seven to 16 in England and Wales, using "a combination of twin studies and DNA-based analyses to examine the interplay between genes, environment, and academic performance," said the release.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/inheritance-of-attraction-study-claims-children-of-attractive-parents-earn-more-687432">Also Read: Inheritance of attraction? 'Hot parents' study claims children of attractive people earn more</a></strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>By analysing DNA of study participants, researchers constructed a "polygenic score" for non-cognitive skills, essentially a genetic snapshot of a child's predisposition towards these skills, it said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We discovered that genetic effects associated with non-cognitive skills become increasingly predictive of academic achievement over the school years, in fact their effect nearly doubles between the ages of 7 and 16," Dr Allegrini said.</p>

<p>"By the end of compulsory education, genetic dispositions towards non-cognitive skills were equally as important as those related to cognitive abilities in predicting academic success."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Children in same families differ in approach to studies</strong></h2>

<p>Children within the family may shape their own learning experiences based on their personality, dispositions and abilities.</p>

<p>"We found that while family-wide processes play a significant role, the increasing influence of non-cognitive genetics on academic achievement remained evident even within families," said Allegrini.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Our education system has traditionally focused on cognitive development," said Dr Malanchini.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


It's a general notion that some children are born brilliant and excel at studies, while others 'with less intelligence' lag behind in academic performance. A large new study seeks to bust this myth, having found that motivation, self-regulation, grit and perseverance help children become better at studies.

It's a general notion that some children are born brilliant and excel at studies, while others 'with less intelligence' lag behind in academic performance. A large new study seeks to bust this myth, having found that motivation, self-regulation, grit and perseverance help children become better at studies. These non-cognitive skills that are part of emotional intelligence and also include academic interest and value attributed to learning, are as important as intelligence- a largely genetic attribute- in determining academic success, found the study. Watch: AI is spying on students × The researchers followed the development of 10,000 children in the UK, including siblings, to reach the conclusions. Fostering non-cognitive skills alongside cognitive abilities could significantly improve educational outcomes, said the authors of the study published in the journal Nature Human Behaviour. Also Read: Autistic 11-year-old girl beats IQ scores of Albert Einstein, Stephen Hawking "Our research challenges the long-held assumption that intelligence is the primary driver of academic achievement," said Dr Margherita Malanchini at Queen Mary University of London, who did the study along with Dr Andrea Allegrini at University College London. Non-cognitive skills vs genetic factors The findings challenge the traditional view of educational achievement as determined largely by intelligence, which is largely a genetic attribute. Instead, it suggests that a child's "emotional and behavioural makeup, influenced by both genes and environment, plays a crucial role in their educational journey," said the release. How the study was done The study followed 10,000 children from age seven to 16 in England and Wales, using "a combination of twin studies and DNA-based analyses to examine the interplay between genes, environment, and academic performance," said the release. Also Read: Inheritance of attraction? 'Hot parents' study claims children of attractive people earn more By analysing DNA of study participants, researchers constructed a "polygenic score" for non-cognitive skills, essentially a genetic snapshot of a child's predisposition towards these skills, it said. "We discovered that genetic effects associated with non-cognitive skills become increasingly predictive of academic achievement over the school years, in fact their effect nearly doubles between the ages of 7 and 16," Dr Allegrini said. "By the end of compulsory education, genetic dispositions towards non-cognitive skills were equally as important as those related to cognitive abilities in predicting academic success." Children in same families differ in approach to studies Children within the family may shape their own learning experiences based on their personality, dispositions and abilities. "We found that while family-wide processes play a significant role, the increasing influence of non-cognitive genetics on academic achievement remained evident even within families," said Allegrini. "Our education system has traditionally focused on cognitive development," said Dr Malanchini. (With inputs from agencies)

Intelligence alone doesn't make children excel at studies; it takes grit and perseverance too: Study

<p>A new, nasally administered Covid vaccine candidate could be a game changer as it offers broad protection against the deadly virus and its variants, while also vaccinating those who are averse to needles, its developers have said.</p>

<p>Administered through the nasal passage, the dose has been licensed to the vaccine maker, Indian Immunologicals Ltd, and is expected to go into clinical trials soon.</p>

<p>The dose, called CDO-7N-1, is an intranasal live-attenuated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, which uses a method known as codon deoptimisation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: What reasons did AstraZeneca give while withdrawing its COVID-19 vaccine globally?</strong></p>

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<p>With just one shot, CDO-7N-1 was found to induce robust immune response in mice, hamsters and macaques, said its developers, who published their findings in Nature Communications journal on Monday (Aug 26).</p>

<p>The lab test animals were protected from SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, as well as its variants like beta, delta and omicron XBB.1.5, said the researchers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-faces-rising-claims-for-covid-19-vaccine-damages-over-14000-seek-compensation-751001">Also read: UK faces rising claims for COVID-19 vaccine damages; over 14,000 seek compensation</a></strong></p>

<p>“This is a live attenuated intranasal vaccine, inducing potential mucosal immunity as well as systemic immunity with just a single dose,” said Prof &nbsp;Suresh Mahalingam from Griffith’s Institute for Biomedicine and Glycomics, who has been working on the vaccine for four years.</p>

<p>“The vaccine induces strong memory responses in the nasal mucosa, offering long-term protection for up to a year or more. It’s been designed to be administered as single dose, ideally as a booster vaccine, as a safe alternative to needles with no adverse reactions in the short or long term,” he said.</p>

<p>This is a live-attenuated vaccine, meaning it contains the entire virus, thereby providing broad immunity, in contrast to a single antigen, which is used in many other vaccine platforms.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/plea-filed-in-indias-top-court-seeking-investigation-into-covishield-side-effects-717027">Also read: Plea filed in India’s top court seeking investigation into Covid vaccine Covishield's side effects</a></strong></p>

<p>The vaccine provides cross-protection against all variants of concern, and has neutralising capacity against SARS-CoV-1, said Dr Xiang Liu, the lead author of the study, adding it protects against transmission, prevents reinfection and the spread of the virus, while also reducing the generation of new variants.</p>

<p>“Unlike the mRNA vaccine, which targets only the spike protein, CDO-7N-1 induces immunity to all major SARS-CoV-2 proteins and is highly effective against all major variants to date," said Liu.</p>

<p>“Importantly, the vaccine remains stable at 4°C for seven months, making it ideal for low- and middle-income countries.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A new, nasally administered Covid vaccine candidate could be a game changer as it offers broad protection against the deadly virus and its variants, while also vaccinating those who are averse to needles, its developers have said.

A new, nasally administered Covid vaccine candidate could be a game changer as it offers broad protection against the deadly virus and its variants, while also vaccinating those who are averse to needles, its developers have said. Administered through the nasal passage, the dose has been licensed to the vaccine maker, Indian Immunologicals Ltd, and is expected to go into clinical trials soon. The dose, called CDO-7N-1, is an intranasal live-attenuated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, which uses a method known as codon deoptimisation. Watch: What reasons did AstraZeneca give while withdrawing its COVID-19 vaccine globally? × With just one shot, CDO-7N-1 was found to induce robust immune response in mice, hamsters and macaques, said its developers, who published their findings in Nature Communications journal on Monday (Aug 26). The lab test animals were protected from SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, as well as its variants like beta, delta and omicron XBB.1.5, said the researchers. Also read: UK faces rising claims for COVID-19 vaccine damages; over 14,000 seek compensation “This is a live attenuated intranasal vaccine, inducing potential mucosal immunity as well as systemic immunity with just a single dose,” said Prof Suresh Mahalingam from Griffith’s Institute for Biomedicine and Glycomics, who has been working on the vaccine for four years. “The vaccine induces strong memory responses in the nasal mucosa, offering long-term protection for up to a year or more. It’s been designed to be administered as single dose, ideally as a booster vaccine, as a safe alternative to needles with no adverse reactions in the short or long term,” he said. This is a live-attenuated vaccine, meaning it contains the entire virus, thereby providing broad immunity, in contrast to a single antigen, which is used in many other vaccine platforms. Also read: Plea filed in India’s top court seeking investigation into Covid vaccine Covishield's side effects The vaccine provides cross-protection against all variants of concern, and has neutralising capacity against SARS-CoV-1, said Dr Xiang Liu, the lead author of the study, adding it protects against transmission, prevents reinfection and the spread of the virus, while also reducing the generation of new variants. “Unlike the mRNA vaccine, which targets only the spike protein, CDO-7N-1 induces immunity to all major SARS-CoV-2 proteins and is highly effective against all major variants to date," said Liu. “Importantly, the vaccine remains stable at 4°C for seven months, making it ideal for low- and middle-income countries.” (With inputs from agencies)

Covid vaccine: Single-dose nasal drop protects against virus and variants, can be a gamechanger

<p>More than half the world does not trust its drinking water, and expects to be harmed by it in the next two years, a new global survey has found.</p>

<p>The study was done using nationally representative data from 148,585 adults in 141 countries from the 2019 Lloyd’s Register Foundation World Risk Poll, according to a release.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
<strong>Watch: Water security threat amidst low snow on Himalayas, says report</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
The fear over drinking water was highest in Zambia, and lowest in Singapore while the overall mean was 52.3%, according to the study published in the journal Nature Communications on Monday (Aug 26).</p>

<p>In the US, 39%&nbsp;anticipated serious harm from drinking water in the short term, said the study by Northwestern University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-threatened-maldives-receives-tibetan-glacier-water-from-china-705369">Also read: Climate change-threatened Maldives receives Tibetan glacier water from China</a></strong><br />
<br />
Those who are worried about their drinking water are mainly women, city dwellers, individuals with more education, and those struggling with their current income were more likely to anticipate being harmed by their drinking water, said the release on the study.</p>

<p>Interestingly, it found a correlation between higher corruption perception index scores and expected harm from drinking water</p>

<p>And even in countries like the US, where water access is consistent, doubts about safety were widespread, found the study.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happens when people don't trust their drinking water?</strong></h2>

<p>Sera Young, professor of anthropology and global health at Northwestern and senior author of the new study said,&nbsp;“When we mistrust our tap water, we buy packaged water, which is wildly expensive and hard on the environment; drink soda or other sugar-sweetened beverages, which is hard on the teeth and the waistline; and consume highly processed prepared foods or go to restaurants to avoid cooking at home, which is less healthy and more expensive."</p>

<p>"Individuals exposed to unsafe water also experience greater psychological stress and are at greater risk of depression.”</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earths-groundwater-to-turn-undrinkable-for-half-a-billion-people-by-2100-study-740031">Also read:&nbsp;Earth's groundwater to turn 'undrinkable' for half a billion people by 2100: Study</a></strong><br />
<br />
It is difficult for consumers to judge the hazards and safety of their water supply because many contaminants are invisible, odourless and tasteless, noted the authors of the study.</p>

<p>Without adequate information, many are left to evaluate the safety of their water based on prior experiences, media reports, and personal values and beliefs, they said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


More than half the world does not trust its drinking water, and expects to be harmed by it in the next two years, a new global survey has found. The study was done using nationally representative data from 148,585 adults in 141 countries from the 2019 Lloyd’s Register Foundation World Risk Poll, according to a release.

More than half the world does not trust its drinking water, and expects to be harmed by it in the next two years, a new global survey has found. The study was done using nationally representative data from 148,585 adults in 141 countries from the 2019 Lloyd’s Register Foundation World Risk Poll, according to a release. Watch: Water security threat amidst low snow on Himalayas, says report × The fear over drinking water was highest in Zambia, and lowest in Singapore while the overall mean was 52.3%, according to the study published in the journal Nature Communications on Monday (Aug 26). In the US, 39% anticipated serious harm from drinking water in the short term, said the study by Northwestern University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Also read: Climate change-threatened Maldives receives Tibetan glacier water from China Those who are worried about their drinking water are mainly women, city dwellers, individuals with more education, and those struggling with their current income were more likely to anticipate being harmed by their drinking water, said the release on the study. Interestingly, it found a correlation between higher corruption perception index scores and expected harm from drinking water And even in countries like the US, where water access is consistent, doubts about safety were widespread, found the study. What happens when people don't trust their drinking water? Sera Young, professor of anthropology and global health at Northwestern and senior author of the new study said, “When we mistrust our tap water, we buy packaged water, which is wildly expensive and hard on the environment; drink soda or other sugar-sweetened beverages, which is hard on the teeth and the waistline; and consume highly processed prepared foods or go to restaurants to avoid cooking at home, which is less healthy and more expensive." "Individuals exposed to unsafe water also experience greater psychological stress and are at greater risk of depression.” Also read: Earth's groundwater to turn 'undrinkable' for half a billion people by 2100: Study It is difficult for consumers to judge the hazards and safety of their water supply because many contaminants are invisible, odourless and tasteless, noted the authors of the study. Without adequate information, many are left to evaluate the safety of their water based on prior experiences, media reports, and personal values and beliefs, they said. (With inputs from agencies)

More than half of the world does not trust its drinking water and expects to be harmed by it: Study

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