Students may get "credits" for knowing&nbsp;the Puranas, the Vedas, and other components of the Indian knowledge system, according to the new National Credit Framework (NCrF) that the University Grants Commission unveiled on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The NCrF will incorporate learning across a variety of axes, including academics, career-related skills, and even experiential learning, involving relevant experiences and proficiency/professional levels achieved.&nbsp;

Even online, digital, and hybrid learning could soon be "creditised" and accumulated, according to the proposal, as reported by PTI.&nbsp;

The NCrF document, which was released on Monday evening, lists 64 "kalas," or applied sciences, as well as 18 key "vidyas," or theoretical areas, that can be taken into account for credit accumulation.

The UGC released the draft of the framework for feedback from the public in October of last year with the goal of placing the school education system under a credit system. Every learning subject can be "creditised" to its assessment according to the framework.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/ugc-launches-national-credit-framework-allowing-students-to-earn-credits-for-expertise-in-indian-knowledge-system-iks-including-vedas-and-puranas-101681238324725.html">Exclusive: India-Russia discuss tech transfer, making of 'RD-191' semi-cryo rocket engine</a>

The NCrF has split the learning ecosystem into eight levels and assigned credits based on learning hours from class 5 up to PhD level, encompassing school education for the first time under a credit structure.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;India pitches itself as a world's factory, China still remains number 1

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"Nothing is left unmeasured. Outside of classroom learning, sports and games, yoga, physical activities, performing arts, handicrafts, bagless days will also be part of the evaluation framework," the report said.

The Indian knowledge system is listed in the final report as well, and is included under the "special achievers" category. The draft of the document&nbsp;that was published in October lacked any mention of this.

Sports and games, personalised arts, master craftsmen of heritage and traditional skills, social work in high-impact fields like education, health care, and anti-drugs, as well as innovation and start-up, are some of the other fields that are eligible for 'creditisation' alongside the Indian knowledge system.

However, the text emphasised that credits must be given in accordance with standards for exceptional achievements in addition to pre-established learning outcomes.

"The total credit points earned by a student will be the multiplication of total credits earned at a level of study or skilling and NCrF level assigned to that level of skilling and academic class. The framework also envisions taking into account cases wherein the student opts out of the education ecosystem and gains employment," it said.

"At any point in time, the overall credit points accumulated by a student shall be calculated as 'total credit points earned' multiplied by the 'weightage assigned to the relevant experience acquired by the student'. Credits accumulated by any student shall be stored through Academic Bank of Credit," it added.

As per the document, credits can only be transferred when they have been approved by the appropriate awarding bodies and there is mutual agreement between the body giving out credits and the body receiving them.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Students may get "credits" for knowing the Puranas, the Vedas, and other components of the Indian knowledge system, according to the new National Credit Framework (NCrF) that the University Grants Commission unveiled on Tuesday.

Students may get "credits" for knowing the Puranas, the Vedas, and other components of the Indian knowledge system, according to the new National Credit Framework (NCrF) that the University Grants Commission unveiled on Tuesday. The NCrF will incorporate learning across a variety of axes, including academics, career-related skills, and even experiential learning, involving relevant experiences and proficiency/professional levels achieved. Even online, digital, and hybrid learning could soon be "creditised" and accumulated, according to the proposal, as reported by PTI. The NCrF document, which was released on Monday evening, lists 64 "kalas," or applied sciences, as well as 18 key "vidyas," or theoretical areas, that can be taken into account for credit accumulation. The UGC released the draft of the framework for feedback from the public in October of last year with the goal of placing the school education system under a credit system. Every learning subject can be "creditised" to its assessment according to the framework. ALSO READ | Exclusive: India-Russia discuss tech transfer, making of 'RD-191' semi-cryo rocket engine The NCrF has split the learning ecosystem into eight levels and assigned credits based on learning hours from class 5 up to PhD level, encompassing school education for the first time under a credit structure. ALSO WATCH | India pitches itself as a world's factory, China still remains number 1 "Nothing is left unmeasured. Outside of classroom learning, sports and games, yoga, physical activities, performing arts, handicrafts, bagless days will also be part of the evaluation framework," the report said. The Indian knowledge system is listed in the final report as well, and is included under the "special achievers" category. The draft of the document that was published in October lacked any mention of this. Sports and games, personalised arts, master craftsmen of heritage and traditional skills, social work in high-impact fields like education, health care, and anti-drugs, as well as innovation and start-up, are some of the other fields that are eligible for 'creditisation' alongside the Indian knowledge system. However, the text emphasised that credits must be given in accordance with standards for exceptional achievements in addition to pre-established learning outcomes. "The total credit points earned by a student will be the multiplication of total credits earned at a level of study or skilling and NCrF level assigned to that level of skilling and academic class. The framework also envisions taking into account cases wherein the student opts out of the education ecosystem and gains employment," it said. "At any point in time, the overall credit points accumulated by a student shall be calculated as 'total credit points earned' multiplied by the 'weightage assigned to the relevant experience acquired by the student'. Credits accumulated by any student shall be stored through Academic Bank of Credit," it added. As per the document, credits can only be transferred when they have been approved by the appropriate awarding bodies and there is mutual agreement between the body giving out credits and the body receiving them. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Students to now get credits for knowing Vedas, Puranas under new framework

An American archeological mission has uncovered the remnants of what is believed to be a 5,000-year-old restaurant in the ancient city of Lagash in southern Iraq.

An ancient restaurant unearthed by archaeologists in Iraq

Researchers might have discovered the earliest form of writing in the history of humankind. According to research published in Cambridge Archaeological Journal, a proto-type writing system engraved in cave paintings dating back to 20,000 years is the oldest written script ever.

The research says upper Palaeolithic era hunters used symbols smeared on cave walls to communicate essential information. It suggests that it records animal mating seasons as per lunar months. The recent discovery might push back the most ancient form of writing by homo sapiens to around 14,000 years.

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The researchers have referred to the symbols as a complete unit of meaning.' They skimmed through 800 sequences of different shapes in cave paintings across Europe from the last Ice Age. As per their observations, the symbols were generally next to animal figures, a crucial; cue that helped them during the decoding process.&nbsp;

"The meaning of the markings within these drawings has always intrigued me. So I set about trying to decode them, using a similar approach that others took to understanding an early form of the Greek text," says independent researcher Ben Bacon.

Watch|&nbsp;269 Chinese tourists land in Thailand after Beijing drops border curbs

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The frequently appearing symbol Y represented 'giving birth' for the animals, and the other altogether pointed towards mating. It also implies that the Ice Age hunters were visionary enough to record past plans to help them in future.&nbsp;

The research, a result of guessing and interpretation, revealed multiple facts about the paintings that might be potentially correct. It gave the Ice Age people a sense of the calendar.&nbsp;

As we know today, the oldest writing dates back to around 3,330 BCE from Sumer region in Mesopotamia. It was a compilation of pictographic shapes and symbols.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Researchers might have discovered the earliest form of writing in the history of humankind. According to research published in Cambridge Archaeological Journal, a proto-type writing system engraved in cave paintings dating back to 20,000 years is the oldest written script ever.

Researchers might have discovered the earliest form of writing in the history of humankind. According to research published in Cambridge Archaeological Journal, a proto-type writing system engraved in cave paintings dating back to 20,000 years is the oldest written script ever. The research says upper Palaeolithic era hunters used symbols smeared on cave walls to communicate essential information. It suggests that it records animal mating seasons as per lunar months. The recent discovery might push back the most ancient form of writing by homo sapiens to around 14,000 years. Also Read| Chinese researchers dig out fossil of bizarre creature that has bird’s body and dinosaur’s head The researchers have referred to the symbols as a complete unit of meaning.' They skimmed through 800 sequences of different shapes in cave paintings across Europe from the last Ice Age. As per their observations, the symbols were generally next to animal figures, a crucial; cue that helped them during the decoding process. "The meaning of the markings within these drawings has always intrigued me. So I set about trying to decode them, using a similar approach that others took to understanding an early form of the Greek text," says independent researcher Ben Bacon. Watch| 269 Chinese tourists land in Thailand after Beijing drops border curbs The frequently appearing symbol Y represented 'giving birth' for the animals, and the other altogether pointed towards mating. It also implies that the Ice Age hunters were visionary enough to record past plans to help them in future. The research, a result of guessing and interpretation, revealed multiple facts about the paintings that might be potentially correct. It gave the Ice Age people a sense of the calendar. As we know today, the oldest writing dates back to around 3,330 BCE from Sumer region in Mesopotamia. It was a compilation of pictographic shapes and symbols. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Mysterious marks on cave paintings could be earliest form of script, says research

According to recent research, ancient microbes may be dozing beneath the surface of Mars, protected from the harsh radiation of space for millions of years.&nbsp;

Although there hasn't been any proof of life on Mars, scientists recreated its environment in a lab to explore if bacteria and fungi could survive. The researchers were shocked to learn that bacteria could probably live for 280 million years if they were buried and shielded from the solar radiation and ionising radiation that constantly pummelled the Martian surface.&nbsp;

The results suggested that if life had existed on Mars, the remnants of past life may still be present in the planet's subsurface, where future expeditions may drill into the Martian soil.

Mars was probably more habitable for life billions of years ago when it had an atmosphere and water on its surface, but now it resembles a frozen desert. Average temperatures in the planet's arid midlatitudes are minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 62 degrees Celsius). And because Mars' atmosphere is so thin, radiation is another persistent danger.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/bees-order-numbers-in-increasing-size-from-left-to-right-study-reveals-528769">Bees 'count' numbers in increasing size from left to right, study reveals</a>

The limits of microbial life's ability to survive when subjected to the kind of ionising radiation that it would encounter on Mars have been established by researchers. The team then exposed six different kinds of Earth-based bacteria and fungi to a model Martian surface environment while bombarding them with protons or gamma rays to replicate space radiation.

Deinococcus radiodurans emerged as the winner without a doubt. The hardy bacteria, known as "Conan the Bacterium" because of this, appeared to be ideal for life on Mars.&nbsp;

The bacteria is polyextremophile, which means it can withstand extreme temperatures, acidity, and dehydration. One of the most radiation-resistant species known to science is the hardy bacterium.

(with inputs from agencies)

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According to recent research, ancient microbes may be dozing beneath the surface of Mars, protected from the harsh radiation of space for millions of years. Although there hasn't been any proof of life on Mars, scientists recreated its environment in a lab to explore if bacteria and fungi could survive.

According to recent research, ancient microbes may be dozing beneath the surface of Mars, protected from the harsh radiation of space for millions of years. Although there hasn't been any proof of life on Mars, scientists recreated its environment in a lab to explore if bacteria and fungi could survive. The researchers were shocked to learn that bacteria could probably live for 280 million years if they were buried and shielded from the solar radiation and ionising radiation that constantly pummelled the Martian surface. The results suggested that if life had existed on Mars, the remnants of past life may still be present in the planet's subsurface, where future expeditions may drill into the Martian soil. Mars was probably more habitable for life billions of years ago when it had an atmosphere and water on its surface, but now it resembles a frozen desert. Average temperatures in the planet's arid midlatitudes are minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 62 degrees Celsius). And because Mars' atmosphere is so thin, radiation is another persistent danger. Also Read: Bees 'count' numbers in increasing size from left to right, study reveals The limits of microbial life's ability to survive when subjected to the kind of ionising radiation that it would encounter on Mars have been established by researchers. The team then exposed six different kinds of Earth-based bacteria and fungi to a model Martian surface environment while bombarding them with protons or gamma rays to replicate space radiation. Deinococcus radiodurans emerged as the winner without a doubt. The hardy bacteria, known as "Conan the Bacterium" because of this, appeared to be ideal for life on Mars. The bacteria is polyextremophile, which means it can withstand extreme temperatures, acidity, and dehydration. One of the most radiation-resistant species known to science is the hardy bacterium. (with inputs from agencies)

Ancient bacteria, shielded from harsh space radiation, might be sleeping on Martian surface

An ancient shipwreck loaded with cargo from all over mediterranean has been found off the shore of Israel. This is the largest shipwreck of its kind that shows traders from the West visited the ports even after the Islamic conquest of the holy land.

Ancient shipwreck loaded with cargo from all over mediterranean found off the shore of Israel

The floods in Pakistan have already done a lot of damage and it currently poses a major threat to the famous archaeological site of&nbsp;Mohenjo-Daro which dates&nbsp;back almost 4,500 years. The ruins, which are situated in the Sindh province, have already seen some damage from the floods in nearby regions and any more rainfall can result in the structures collapsing due to the waterlogging around the site.&nbsp;

Ahsan Abbasi, the site’s curator, told Associated Press that they are trying their best to protect the site but a few walls have already been damaged by the record amounts of rain. “Several big walls which were built nearly 5,000 years ago have collapsed because of the monsoon rains,” he said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-antibody-that-can-neutralize-all-known-covid-19-variants-513640" hreflang="en">Scientists discover antibody that can neutralize all known COVID-19 variants</a>

The ruins, which were first found in 1922, are considered to be one of the earliest urban settlements in South Asia and most experts believe that it existed at the time of ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia.&nbsp;

The province of Sindh, along with the river Indus, has been one of the worst affected areas in Pakistan due to the floods and a huge amount of people have been displaced as a reason. Abbasi said that the ruins will need a lot of repair work once the situation gets better but did not provide an estimated cost.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/elon-musk-attacks-twitter-once-again-says-90-per-cent-of-comments-on-his-account-are-fake-513634" hreflang="en">Musk attacks Twitter once again, says 90 per cent of comments on his account are fake</a>

Along with the big walls on the outside, the walls separating the various rooms and also the legendary “Buddhist Stupa” were also damaged by the rain, and according to Abbasi, a team of researchers and archaeologists will be visiting the site next month to supervise the renovation process.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The floods in Pakistan have already done a lot of damage and it currently poses a major threat to the famous archaeological site of Mohenjo-Daro which dates back almost 4,500 years.

The floods in Pakistan have already done a lot of damage and it currently poses a major threat to the famous archaeological site of Mohenjo-Daro which dates back almost 4,500 years. The ruins, which are situated in the Sindh province, have already seen some damage from the floods in nearby regions and any more rainfall can result in the structures collapsing due to the waterlogging around the site. Ahsan Abbasi, the site’s curator, told Associated Press that they are trying their best to protect the site but a few walls have already been damaged by the record amounts of rain. “Several big walls which were built nearly 5,000 years ago have collapsed because of the monsoon rains,” he said. Also read | Scientists discover antibody that can neutralize all known COVID-19 variants The ruins, which were first found in 1922, are considered to be one of the earliest urban settlements in South Asia and most experts believe that it existed at the time of ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. The province of Sindh, along with the river Indus, has been one of the worst affected areas in Pakistan due to the floods and a huge amount of people have been displaced as a reason. Abbasi said that the ruins will need a lot of repair work once the situation gets better but did not provide an estimated cost. Also read | Musk attacks Twitter once again, says 90 per cent of comments on his account are fake Along with the big walls on the outside, the walls separating the various rooms and also the legendary “Buddhist Stupa” were also damaged by the rain, and according to Abbasi, a team of researchers and archaeologists will be visiting the site next month to supervise the renovation process. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan floods pose serious threat to 4500-year-old site of Mohenjo-daro

According to scientists, a skeleton found in a remote area of Borneo rewrites the history of ancient medicine and provides evidence that amputation surgery was successfully performed some 31,000 years ago.&nbsp;

The earliest known amputation, a 7,000-year-old skeleton discovered in France, was previously thought to have only occurred in developed agricultural communities.&nbsp;

The discovery also implies that East Kalimantan in Indonesia's modern province of the Stone Age hunter-gatherers had extensive medical knowledge of anatomy and wound care.&nbsp;

Tim Maloney, a research fellow at Australia's Griffith University and the project's principal investigator, said the findings "rewrite&nbsp;our understanding of the development of this medical knowledge."

The skeleton was discovered in 2020 in the massive Liang Tebo cave, which is famous for its 40,000-year-old wall paintings.&nbsp;

Scientists painstakingly excavated sand to reveal an astonishingly well-preserved skeleton, which they did while being surrounded by bats, terns, and swiftlets and occasionally interrupted by scorpions.&nbsp;

Only one conspicuous feature was absent: its left ankle and foot.&nbsp;

The ankle and foot were likely purposefully removed because the base of the leg bone had an unusual form with knobbly regrowth over an apparent clean break.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/matrimonycom-launches-matchmaking-platform-for-lgbtqia-community-513774">&nbsp;Matchmaking website launches first-ever platform for LGBTQIA+ in India</a>

A fall, animal assault, or injury from crushing would have resulted in bone fractures and healing that were different from what was observed in the skeleton's leg.&nbsp;

The skeleton is at least 31,000 years old and belonged to a human who passed away at roughly 20 years of age, according to a tooth and the surrounding silt.&nbsp;

Based on the recovery of the leg bone, they appear to have survived the terrible trauma of amputation six to nine years after the procedure and did not experience any significant post-operative infections.

(with inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

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According to scientists, a skeleton found in a remote area of Borneo rewrites the history of ancient medicine and provides evidence that amputation surgery was successfully performed some 31,000 years ago.

According to scientists, a skeleton found in a remote area of Borneo rewrites the history of ancient medicine and provides evidence that amputation surgery was successfully performed some 31,000 years ago. The earliest known amputation, a 7,000-year-old skeleton discovered in France, was previously thought to have only occurred in developed agricultural communities. The discovery also implies that East Kalimantan in Indonesia's modern province of the Stone Age hunter-gatherers had extensive medical knowledge of anatomy and wound care. Tim Maloney, a research fellow at Australia's Griffith University and the project's principal investigator, said the findings "rewrite our understanding of the development of this medical knowledge." The skeleton was discovered in 2020 in the massive Liang Tebo cave, which is famous for its 40,000-year-old wall paintings. Scientists painstakingly excavated sand to reveal an astonishingly well-preserved skeleton, which they did while being surrounded by bats, terns, and swiftlets and occasionally interrupted by scorpions. Only one conspicuous feature was absent: its left ankle and foot. The ankle and foot were likely purposefully removed because the base of the leg bone had an unusual form with knobbly regrowth over an apparent clean break. Also Read: Matchmaking website launches first-ever platform for LGBTQIA+ in India A fall, animal assault, or injury from crushing would have resulted in bone fractures and healing that were different from what was observed in the skeleton's leg. The skeleton is at least 31,000 years old and belonged to a human who passed away at roughly 20 years of age, according to a tooth and the surrounding silt. Based on the recovery of the leg bone, they appear to have survived the terrible trauma of amputation six to nine years after the procedure and did not experience any significant post-operative infections. (with inputs from agencies)

Ancient Borneo skeleton indicates amputation surgery 31,000 years ago

A number of ivory plaques dating back to around eighth or seventh century BC were discovered by archaeologists in an Iron Age residence in Jerusalem. The discovery was one of its kind and it provided an insight into the wealth and social status of the people who lived in the historical residence.&nbsp;

The ruins of the building, which was found below the Old City in east Jerusalem, were likely destroyed during the Babylonian destruction in 586 BC. The team of researchers, under the leadership of Reli Avisar from&nbsp;Tel Aviv University, said that they have already found over 1500 artifacts from the spot.&nbsp;

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"This is a large collection, and when we took it to restoration, we discovered there was a finite number of motifs. Objects like these are usually discovered in royal palaces, so it shows the great wealth and abundance of the place, but also the ability of a Jerusalem elite to conduct long-distance trade, the financial ability to buy it," Avisar said while explaining their findings according to AFP.&nbsp;

The archaeologists also have another theory when it comes to the ivory plaques. Avisar told AFP that they can also be gifts given to powerful vassals from the region of Judah as it has similar motifs.&nbsp;

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"It also shows their taste, their desire to be part of a high class that began as imperialistic with the Assyrian empire, but was part of all of the ancient East," she said.&nbsp;

"These are fancy items that can be found in all of the area, very sparsely, but it shows an internationalism," Avisar added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A number of ivory plaques dating back to around eighth or seventh century BC were discovered by archaeologists in an Iron Age residence in Jerusalem. The discovery was one of its kind and it provided an insight into the wealth and social status of the people who lived in the historical residence.

A number of ivory plaques dating back to around eighth or seventh century BC were discovered by archaeologists in an Iron Age residence in Jerusalem. The discovery was one of its kind and it provided an insight into the wealth and social status of the people who lived in the historical residence. The ruins of the building, which was found below the Old City in east Jerusalem, were likely destroyed during the Babylonian destruction in 586 BC. The team of researchers, under the leadership of Reli Avisar from Tel Aviv University, said that they have already found over 1500 artifacts from the spot. Also read | Watch | Satellite images show how the historic drought turned lush Europe brown "This is a large collection, and when we took it to restoration, we discovered there was a finite number of motifs. Objects like these are usually discovered in royal palaces, so it shows the great wealth and abundance of the place, but also the ability of a Jerusalem elite to conduct long-distance trade, the financial ability to buy it," Avisar said while explaining their findings according to AFP. The archaeologists also have another theory when it comes to the ivory plaques. Avisar told AFP that they can also be gifts given to powerful vassals from the region of Judah as it has similar motifs. Also read | NASA's 'certified space technology' helps menopausal women "It also shows their taste, their desire to be part of a high class that began as imperialistic with the Assyrian empire, but was part of all of the ancient East," she said. "These are fancy items that can be found in all of the area, very sparsely, but it shows an internationalism," Avisar added. (With inputs from agencies)

Ivory plaques dating back to eighth or seventh century BC found in Jerusalem

In pics - Rare elephant tusk dating back around 500,000 years found in Israel

In pics - Gladiator tombs discovered in ancient city in southern Turkiye

In pics - 12,000-year-old human footprints found in Utah desert

In pics - Tomb of ancient Egyptian commander dating back to 500 BC found in Egypt

In Pics: Ancient Inca-era tomb found below under-construction home in Peru's capital Lima

Tiny remnants of microorganisms were found trapped inside salt crystals from Central Australia, dating back to 830 million years. And there’s a slim chance that some of the microbes might still be alive.&nbsp;

A team of geologists discovered the single-celled organisms inside tiny fluid pockets in halite, or salt, from a formation of sedimentary rocks.

The researchers were unable to determine the precise species of these microorganisms, but Live Science reported quoting the researchers that it looks a lot like Dunaliella, a very common salt-loving algae found in both ancient and modern salty environments.

The organisms are tiny, ranging from half a micron to 5 microns in diameter—which is smaller than human hair.

The discovery is touted to be significant as it has implications for the search for ancient life in both terrestrial and extra-terrestrial chemical sedimentary rocks, especially on Mars where large salt deposits have been identified as evidence of ancient, large-scale liquid water reservoirs.

According to the scientists, the microorganisms lived nearly 1 billion years ago in what was either a shallow, salty marine environment or a shallow, salty lake.

The researchers discovered this ancient life by peering into the salt crystals using light microscopy, meaning they didn’t disturb the fluid pockets.

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But it begs the question of how these microorganisms managed to stay alive for billions of years.

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Explaining the mystery, the study’s co-author Sara Schreder-Gomes, who conducted the research while at West Virginia University, said these salt-loving microorganisms are survivors, capable of going dormant or otherwise altering their metabolisms to stay alive during times when the water around them dries up.

“The findings could be used to search for ancient aliens,” she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Tiny remnants of microorganisms were found trapped inside salt crystals from Central Australia, dating back to 830 million years. And there’s a slim chance that some of the microbes might still be alive.

Tiny remnants of microorganisms were found trapped inside salt crystals from Central Australia, dating back to 830 million years. And there’s a slim chance that some of the microbes might still be alive. A team of geologists discovered the single-celled organisms inside tiny fluid pockets in halite, or salt, from a formation of sedimentary rocks. The researchers were unable to determine the precise species of these microorganisms, but Live Science reported quoting the researchers that it looks a lot like Dunaliella, a very common salt-loving algae found in both ancient and modern salty environments. The organisms are tiny, ranging from half a micron to 5 microns in diameter—which is smaller than human hair. The discovery is touted to be significant as it has implications for the search for ancient life in both terrestrial and extra-terrestrial chemical sedimentary rocks, especially on Mars where large salt deposits have been identified as evidence of ancient, large-scale liquid water reservoirs. According to the scientists, the microorganisms lived nearly 1 billion years ago in what was either a shallow, salty marine environment or a shallow, salty lake. The researchers discovered this ancient life by peering into the salt crystals using light microscopy, meaning they didn’t disturb the fluid pockets. Also read | Scientists discover new enzyme that can chomp off plastic in record 16 hours But it begs the question of how these microorganisms managed to stay alive for billions of years. Also read | Voyager 1 sending weird signals from beyond solar system, engineers on edge Explaining the mystery, the study’s co-author Sara Schreder-Gomes, who conducted the research while at West Virginia University, said these salt-loving microorganisms are survivors, capable of going dormant or otherwise altering their metabolisms to stay alive during times when the water around them dries up. “The findings could be used to search for ancient aliens,” she said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Key to study ancient life: Scientists find potentially alive 830-million-year-old microorganisms

WION took a field trip with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to Rakhigarhi ancient site. Antiques discovered will be displayed in Rakhigarhi's upcoming museum.

WION takes a field trip with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to Rakhigarhi ancient site

At the Saqqara archaeological site, five ancient Pharaonic tombs have been unveiled in Egypt on Saturday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The site of tombs is located south of Cairo. It is the latest in the series of landmark discoveries made in the area. &nbsp;

Saqqara, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a vast necropolis of the ancient Egyptian capital Memphis. It is home to many pyramids, animal burial sites and ancient Coptic Christian monasteries. &nbsp;

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These five tombs are located northeast of the pyramid of King Merenre I. He ruled Egypt around 2270 BC. &nbsp;

Mostafa Waziri, head, Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities, said that the five tombs, which are in good condition, belonged to senior royal officials. &nbsp;

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A tomb belonged to a top official called Iry, the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities said. A limestone sarcophagus and colourful decorations were also found in it. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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The remaining tombs had belonged to other royal court members, which included a "steward of the royal house" and a priestess "responsible for the king's beautification". &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;5 Ancient tombs discovered at a UNESCO heritage site in Egypt

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Egypt had also unveiled ancient treasures found at Saqqara in January 2021. It had included more than 50 wooden sarcophagi, which dated back to the New Kingdom (16th to 11th centuries BC). &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

At the Saqqara archaeological site, five ancient Pharaonic tombs have been unveiled in Egypt on Saturday. The site of tombs is located south of Cairo. It is the latest in the series of landmark discoveries made in the area.

At the Saqqara archaeological site, five ancient Pharaonic tombs have been unveiled in Egypt on Saturday. The site of tombs is located south of Cairo. It is the latest in the series of landmark discoveries made in the area. Saqqara, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a vast necropolis of the ancient Egyptian capital Memphis. It is home to many pyramids, animal burial sites and ancient Coptic Christian monasteries. Also Read: Forgotten lottery ticket helps US man win $8.9 million jackpot These five tombs are located northeast of the pyramid of King Merenre I. He ruled Egypt around 2270 BC. Mostafa Waziri, head, Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities, said that the five tombs, which are in good condition, belonged to senior royal officials. A tomb belonged to a top official called Iry, the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities said. A limestone sarcophagus and colourful decorations were also found in it. Also Read: Recycled plastic bottles pass more harmful chemicals into contents than new ones, warn researchers The remaining tombs had belonged to other royal court members, which included a "steward of the royal house" and a priestess "responsible for the king's beautification". Watch: 5 Ancient tombs discovered at a UNESCO heritage site in Egypt × Egypt had also unveiled ancient treasures found at Saqqara in January 2021. It had included more than 50 wooden sarcophagi, which dated back to the New Kingdom (16th to 11th centuries BC). (With inputs from agencies)

Five ancient Pharaonic tombs unveiled in Egypt at Saqqara archaeological site

Finally, the 3,500-year-old Gilgamesh Dream Tablet, which was handed over to the Iraqi embassy by US authorities in September, has been put up on display. &nbsp;&nbsp;

At a ceremony in Baghdad, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, said, "This day, represent a victory in the face of the desperate attempts of those why try to steal our great history and our ancient civilisation." &nbsp;

As per Hussein, it is one of 17,926 artefacts, which has been recovered by Iraq from the UK, Japan, Italy, the US and the Netherlands in the past year. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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The Gilgamesh Dream Tablet was of "great importance" as it is "one of the oldest literary texts of Iraq's history", Culture and Antiquities Minister Hassan Nazim told AFP news agency. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Gilgamesh Tablet, which is made of clay, is priceless. It features inscriptions in Sumerian, a civilisation of ancient Mesopotamia. After the start of the Gulf War in August 1990, the treasure was taken from a museum in Iraq.&nbsp;

In 2007, it was introduced fraudulently into the US art market. In 2014, the artefact was acquired by the craft retail chain, Hobby Lobby, for display at the Museum of the Bible, in Washington DC, which is funded by the family of Hobby Lobby’s owner, as per news reports. &nbsp; &nbsp;

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In July, the US Department of Justice announced that it was ordering the official handing over of the tablet, as it had entered the US “contrary to federal law”, noting that federal agents had seized the tablet from the museum, in September 2019. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

At a ceremony at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington DC, it was formally returned to Iraq. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Finally, the 3,500-year-old Gilgamesh Dream Tablet, which was handed over to the Iraqi embassy by US authorities in September, has been put up on display. At a ceremony in Baghdad, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, said, "This day, represent a victory in the face of the desperate attempts of those why try to steal our great history and our ancient civilisation.

Finally, the 3,500-year-old Gilgamesh Dream Tablet, which was handed over to the Iraqi embassy by US authorities in September, has been put up on display. At a ceremony in Baghdad, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, said, "This day, represent a victory in the face of the desperate attempts of those why try to steal our great history and our ancient civilisation." As per Hussein, it is one of 17,926 artefacts, which has been recovered by Iraq from the UK, Japan, Italy, the US and the Netherlands in the past year. Also Read: Old letters of couple reveal underground network set up to help Jewish families escape Nazi rule The Gilgamesh Dream Tablet was of "great importance" as it is "one of the oldest literary texts of Iraq's history", Culture and Antiquities Minister Hassan Nazim told AFP news agency. The Gilgamesh Tablet, which is made of clay, is priceless. It features inscriptions in Sumerian, a civilisation of ancient Mesopotamia. After the start of the Gulf War in August 1990, the treasure was taken from a museum in Iraq. In 2007, it was introduced fraudulently into the US art market. In 2014, the artefact was acquired by the craft retail chain, Hobby Lobby, for display at the Museum of the Bible, in Washington DC, which is funded by the family of Hobby Lobby’s owner, as per news reports. Also Read: Surprise choice? Allyship is Dictionary.com's ‘word of the year’ for 2021 In July, the US Department of Justice announced that it was ordering the official handing over of the tablet, as it had entered the US “contrary to federal law”, noting that federal agents had seized the tablet from the museum, in September 2019. At a ceremony at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington DC, it was formally returned to Iraq. (With inputs from agencies)

3,500-year-old Gilgamesh Dream Tablet goes on display in Iraq

An antique gold ring decorated with a semiprecious stone and may be used as a convenient hangover cure was recently unearthed during an excavation in Yavne, in the country's central area, according to the Israel Antiquities Authority on Tuesday.

The ring, which weighs 5.11 grammes (0.18 ounces) and has a purple stone placed on top, was discovered at a location that also houses the world's biggest known Byzantine-era winepress, according to the IAA.

According to the IAA, it dates back to at least the 7th century, although it might be up to four centuries older.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | Israel: New early human discovered in 130,000-year-old fossils

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"The person who owned the ring was affluent, and the wearing of the jewel indicated their status and wealth. Such rings could be worn by both men and women," said Dr Amir Golani, an expert on ancient jewellery at the IAA.

"A semi-precious stone called amethyst was placed in the ring."

"Amethysts are mentioned in the Bible as one of the 12 precious stones worn by the high priest of the Temple on his ceremonial breastplate."

"Many virtues have been attached to this gem, including the prevention of the side effect of drinking, the hangover."

The ring was discovered only 150 metres (492 feet) away from the ruins of a warehouse housing amphora, a type of wine vessel.

The excavation site has been dated to the 7th century, at the end of the Byzantine era and the beginning of the Early Islamic period, while experts believe the ring might be earlier.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

An antique gold ring decorated with a semiprecious stone and may be used as a convenient hangover cure was recently unearthed during an excavation in Yavne, in the country's central area, according to the Israel Antiquities Authority on Tuesday.

An antique gold ring decorated with a semiprecious stone and may be used as a convenient hangover cure was recently unearthed during an excavation in Yavne, in the country's central area, according to the Israel Antiquities Authority on Tuesday. The ring, which weighs 5.11 grammes (0.18 ounces) and has a purple stone placed on top, was discovered at a location that also houses the world's biggest known Byzantine-era winepress, according to the IAA. According to the IAA, it dates back to at least the 7th century, although it might be up to four centuries older. Watch | Israel: New early human discovered in 130,000-year-old fossils "The person who owned the ring was affluent, and the wearing of the jewel indicated their status and wealth. Such rings could be worn by both men and women," said Dr Amir Golani, an expert on ancient jewellery at the IAA. "A semi-precious stone called amethyst was placed in the ring." "Amethysts are mentioned in the Bible as one of the 12 precious stones worn by the high priest of the Temple on his ceremonial breastplate." "Many virtues have been attached to this gem, including the prevention of the side effect of drinking, the hangover." The ring was discovered only 150 metres (492 feet) away from the ruins of a warehouse housing amphora, a type of wine vessel. The excavation site has been dated to the 7th century, at the end of the Byzantine era and the beginning of the Early Islamic period, while experts believe the ring might be earlier. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel: Ancient ‘hangover cure’ ring found at Yavne excavation

The world's oldest ghost drawing of a ghost on an ancient Babylonian clay tablet was recently discovered at the British Museum.

A lonely bearded spirit being led into the afterlife and eternal bliss by a lover has been identified on an ancient Babylonian clay tablet created about 3,500 years ago was recently identified by the researchers.

According to the Guardian, the Babylonian clay tablet had been sitting idle in the museum vaults since the 19th century.

Dr Irving Finkel, curator of the Middle Eastern department at the British Museum, told the Guardian that the “absolutely spectacular object from antiquity” had been overlooked until now.

“It’s obviously a male ghost and he’s miserable. You can imagine a tall, thin, bearded ghost hanging about the house did get on people’s nerves. The final analysis was that what this ghost needed was a lover,” he was quoted as saying.

“You can’t help but imagine what happened before. ‘Oh God, Uncle Henry’s back.’ Maybe Uncle Henry’s lost three wives. Something that everybody knew was that the way to get rid of the old bugger was to marry him off. It’s not fanciful to read this into it. It’s a kind of explicit message. There’s very high-quality writing there and immaculate draughtsmanship.

“That somebody thinks they can get rid of a ghost by giving them a bedfellow is quite comic.”

The drawing depicts an exorcist’s guide to getting rid of unwanted ghosts by addressing the particular malaise that brought them back to the world of the living – in this case, a ghost in desperate need of a companion.

He is shown walking with his arms outstretched, his wrists tied by a rope held by the female, while an accompanying text details a ritual that would to dispatch them happily to the underworld.

Finkel said he believes the tablet was part of a “library of magic in the house of an exorcist or in a temple.”

The tablet has never been publicly displayed by the museum, but Finkel told the Guardian he hopes to change that. “I want people to know about this culture. Egypt always wins in Hollywood. If the Babylonian underworld is anything like it was described, then they’re all still there. So just remember that,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The world's oldest ghost drawing of a ghost on an ancient Babylonian clay tablet was recently discovered at the British Museum. A lonely bearded spirit being led into the afterlife and eternal bliss by a lover has been identified on an ancient Babylonian clay tablet created about 3,500 years ago was recently identified by the researchers.

The world's oldest ghost drawing of a ghost on an ancient Babylonian clay tablet was recently discovered at the British Museum. A lonely bearded spirit being led into the afterlife and eternal bliss by a lover has been identified on an ancient Babylonian clay tablet created about 3,500 years ago was recently identified by the researchers. According to the Guardian, the Babylonian clay tablet had been sitting idle in the museum vaults since the 19th century. Dr Irving Finkel, curator of the Middle Eastern department at the British Museum, told the Guardian that the “absolutely spectacular object from antiquity” had been overlooked until now. “It’s obviously a male ghost and he’s miserable. You can imagine a tall, thin, bearded ghost hanging about the house did get on people’s nerves. The final analysis was that what this ghost needed was a lover,” he was quoted as saying. “You can’t help but imagine what happened before. ‘Oh God, Uncle Henry’s back.’ Maybe Uncle Henry’s lost three wives. Something that everybody knew was that the way to get rid of the old bugger was to marry him off. It’s not fanciful to read this into it. It’s a kind of explicit message. There’s very high-quality writing there and immaculate draughtsmanship. “That somebody thinks they can get rid of a ghost by giving them a bedfellow is quite comic.” The drawing depicts an exorcist’s guide to getting rid of unwanted ghosts by addressing the particular malaise that brought them back to the world of the living – in this case, a ghost in desperate need of a companion. He is shown walking with his arms outstretched, his wrists tied by a rope held by the female, while an accompanying text details a ritual that would to dispatch them happily to the underworld. Finkel said he believes the tablet was part of a “library of magic in the house of an exorcist or in a temple.” The tablet has never been publicly displayed by the museum, but Finkel told the Guardian he hopes to change that. “I want people to know about this culture. Egypt always wins in Hollywood. If the Babylonian underworld is anything like it was described, then they’re all still there. So just remember that,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Lonely, desperate spirit: Oldest ever drawing of ghost found in British Museum

Around 12,500 to 12,000 years ago, ancient North Americans started using tobacco. This is roughly 9,000 years before the oldest indications that they smoked the plant in pipes, said a new study. &nbsp;

The new discovery replaces the pipe-smoking report as the oldest evidence for the human use of tobacco across the world. &nbsp;

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At the Wishbone site in Utah’s Great Salt Lake Desert, excavations uncovered four charred seeds of wild tobacco plants in a small fireplace, said archaeologist Daron Duke from Far Western Anthropological Research Group in Henderson, Nevada and colleagues. &nbsp;

It is highly likely that the seeds came from plants gathered on foothills or mountains located 13 kilometers or more from the Wishbone area. Three of these seeds were radiocarbon dated by the scientists, the team reported on October 11 in ‘Nature Human Behavior’. &nbsp;

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At the time of its occupation, the site was located in a sprawling marshland. It’s still unclear how ancient North American hunter-gatherers used the tobacco, said Duke. &nbsp;

Wads of tobacco leaves, stems and other plant fibers are likely to have been converted into balls and chewed or sucked, and seeds were finally discarded. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Around 12,500 to 12,000 years ago, ancient North Americans started using tobacco. This is roughly 9,000 years before the oldest indications that they smoked the plant in pipes, said a new study.

Around 12,500 to 12,000 years ago, ancient North Americans started using tobacco. This is roughly 9,000 years before the oldest indications that they smoked the plant in pipes, said a new study. The new discovery replaces the pipe-smoking report as the oldest evidence for the human use of tobacco across the world. Also Read: 1.97 billion years old Moon rocks set new record for youngest lunar material At the Wishbone site in Utah’s Great Salt Lake Desert, excavations uncovered four charred seeds of wild tobacco plants in a small fireplace, said archaeologist Daron Duke from Far Western Anthropological Research Group in Henderson, Nevada and colleagues. It is highly likely that the seeds came from plants gathered on foothills or mountains located 13 kilometers or more from the Wishbone area. Three of these seeds were radiocarbon dated by the scientists, the team reported on October 11 in ‘Nature Human Behavior’. Also Read: Astronomers unearth secret of no star formation in some early galaxies At the time of its occupation, the site was located in a sprawling marshland. It’s still unclear how ancient North American hunter-gatherers used the tobacco, said Duke. Wads of tobacco leaves, stems and other plant fibers are likely to have been converted into balls and chewed or sucked, and seeds were finally discarded. (With inputs from agencies)

Ancient North Americans used tobacco over 12,000 years ago, says study

Tales of kings and queens having tigers and leopards as pets are dime a dozen. But to know that commoners reared a literally murderous bird even before chickens were domesticated by humans is something.

The birds in question are called cassowaries. Adults of this type are 5 to 6 feet tall. They have a sharp, sword-like toe that can easily sever human arm or mortally stab the abdomen. These flightless birds are found in Papua New Guinea (PNG) near Australia and have a record of killing humans.

But a new study has found that people on the island reared cassowaries in ancient times before domesticating chickens was a thing. Humans domesticated chickens about 9500 years ago. But the study suggests that cassowaries were being reared about 18,000 years ago. Researchers at Penn State University have carried out the research.

The researchers studied remains of cassowary eggshells, determined their exact age and found evidence that the eggs were being harvested by early humans. There was evidence of eggs being cooked and eaten. As per the study, these birds were used for their meat as well.

Researchers have been quoted as saying that while human domestication of animals like dogs in ancient times is well documented, the study on cassowaries underlines the need for early humans' interaction with avian species.

This research has been released in journal PNAS.

Tales of kings and queens having tigers and leopards as pets are dime a dozen. But to know that commoners reared a literally murderous bird even before chickens were domesticated by humans is something.

Tales of kings and queens having tigers and leopards as pets are dime a dozen. But to know that commoners reared a literally murderous bird even before chickens were domesticated by humans is something. The birds in question are called cassowaries. Adults of this type are 5 to 6 feet tall. They have a sharp, sword-like toe that can easily sever human arm or mortally stab the abdomen. These flightless birds are found in Papua New Guinea (PNG) near Australia and have a record of killing humans. But a new study has found that people on the island reared cassowaries in ancient times before domesticating chickens was a thing. Humans domesticated chickens about 9500 years ago. But the study suggests that cassowaries were being reared about 18,000 years ago. Researchers at Penn State University have carried out the research. The researchers studied remains of cassowary eggshells, determined their exact age and found evidence that the eggs were being harvested by early humans. There was evidence of eggs being cooked and eaten. As per the study, these birds were used for their meat as well. Researchers have been quoted as saying that while human domestication of animals like dogs in ancient times is well documented, the study on cassowaries underlines the need for early humans' interaction with avian species. This research has been released in journal PNAS.

Before chickens, early humans reared one of the most dangerous birds: Study

About 2,500-year-old Persian carpet, one of the world's oldest, has become a mystery for researchers.

Fineprint: One of the world's oldest carpet become mystery for researchers

Egypt's Tourism and Antiquities Ministry has announced the discovery of a number of ancient churches and rooms in the Bahariya Oasis, southwest of Cairo.&nbsp;

In a statement, the Ministry said on Saturday that a Norwegian-French archaeological mission working at the Tal site in the Bahariya Oasis discovered a number of buildings constructed of basalt stone and carved into the rocks, as well as other buildings constructed of mud bricks, reports Xinhua news agency.&nbsp;

The buildings made of mud bricks date back from the fourth to the seventh century AD, the statement said, adding that the remains are parts of three churches and rooms for monks.&nbsp;

This discovery is important as it led the mission to know the planning of buildings as well as understanding the formation of the early monastic congregations in this region, according to the statement.&nbsp;

The North African country has witnessed several large-scale archaeological discoveries in recent years in different parts of the country, including Pharaonic tombs, statues, coffins and mummies.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Egypt's Tourism and Antiquities Ministry has announced the discovery of a number of ancient churches and rooms in the Bahariya Oasis, southwest of Cairo. In a statement, the Ministry said on Saturday that a Norwegian-French archaeological mission working at the Tal site in the Bahariya Oasis discovered a number of buildings constructed of basalt stone and carved into the rocks, as well as other buildings constructed of mud bricks, reports Xinhua news agency.

Egypt's Tourism and Antiquities Ministry has announced the discovery of a number of ancient churches and rooms in the Bahariya Oasis, southwest of Cairo. In a statement, the Ministry said on Saturday that a Norwegian-French archaeological mission working at the Tal site in the Bahariya Oasis discovered a number of buildings constructed of basalt stone and carved into the rocks, as well as other buildings constructed of mud bricks, reports Xinhua news agency. The buildings made of mud bricks date back from the fourth to the seventh century AD, the statement said, adding that the remains are parts of three churches and rooms for monks. This discovery is important as it led the mission to know the planning of buildings as well as understanding the formation of the early monastic congregations in this region, according to the statement. The North African country has witnessed several large-scale archaeological discoveries in recent years in different parts of the country, including Pharaonic tombs, statues, coffins and mummies. (With inputs from agencies)

In another archaeological discovery, ancient churches, rooms found in Egypt

As the world observes the International Day for Monuments and Sites, also known as World Heritage Day on 18 April, we bring you top 5 breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are worth visiting.

Top 5 World Heritage Sites to Visit

We know what Neanderthals looked like. Now, thanks to ancient DNA, Israeli scientists have unveiled the appearance of another of our ancient relatives.

Very few clues exist about the lives of the Denisovans cousins of Neanderthals who went extinct around 50,000 years ago: three teeth, a pinky bone, and a lower jaw.

But that was enough for researchers at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem to draw conclusions on their appearance.

The mission was challenging, according to Professor Liran Carmel, one of two scientists leading the study.

"It is very difficult to start from DNA sequences and end up with an anatomical profile," he said.

If it were that easy, police around the world would be pulling DNA from crime scenes and drawing up profiles of the suspects, he added.

Instead, he and his team reconstructed the appearance of the Denisovans after three years of examining the patterns of chemical changes in their ancient DNA.

They then compared these motifs to those of the DNA of Neanderthals and modern man.

Using knowledge of human disorders in which genes lose their function for anatomical features, they explored what those differences might mean.

Using this method which Carmel described as "85 per cent reliable" they highlighted 56 differences between the Denisovan and modern man and/or Neanderthals.

"The Denisovan is more similar to Neanderthal than to us because they are evolutionarily closer," he said.

Denisovan skulls were likely wider than those of modern humans or Neanderthals, the study found, and they probably had no chins.

Scientists hope the new technique will allow them to identify skulls discovered in China a few years ago and whose width seems to indicate they might be Denisovans.

Ancient human hybrid

Contemporaries of the Neanderthals, the Denisovans first came to light a decade ago.

A finger bone was unearthed a decade ago in a cave called Denisova in southern Siberia near the Mongolian border.

The tiny bone "belonged to a 13-year-old Denisovan girl, who died in the cave" around&nbsp;70,000 years ago, Carmel explained.

"That pinky bone reopened a whole new chapter in the evolution of man," he said.

Denisovans and Neanderthals branched off some 400,000 to 500,000 years ago into two distinct branches, separate from the Homo Sapiens branch of modern humans.

While Neanderthals travelled from Africa to Europe and West Asia, Denisovans were present in east Asia.

Scientists don't know why these human relatives became extinct, but believe they left some of their genomes to some modern-day men.

Up to six per cent of present-day Melanesians and Aboriginal Australians have Denisovan DNA, according to the Hebrew University.

They are also thought to have transmitted a gene to the Tibetans allowing them to breathe at high altitude.

The fossilised jawbone of a Denisovan found in the mountains of Tibet proves they adapted to live at high altitude at least 160,000 years ago.

The Denisovans may have made tools and even jewellery, new research published in January showed.

Neanderthals migrated into regions where Denisovans lived, said Erella Hovers, a prehistoric archaeology professor at the Hebrew University.

Scientists even found a bone fragment from a young girl born to a Denisovan father and Neanderthal mother, she said.

But, she added, the cultural relationships between the branches of the human family remain unclear.

We know what Neanderthals looked like. Now, thanks to ancient DNA, Israeli scientists have unveiled the appearance of another of our ancient relatives. Very few clues exist about the lives of the Denisovans cousins of Neanderthals who went extinct around 50,000 years ago: three teeth, a pinky bone, and a lower jaw.

We know what Neanderthals looked like. Now, thanks to ancient DNA, Israeli scientists have unveiled the appearance of another of our ancient relatives. Very few clues exist about the lives of the Denisovans cousins of Neanderthals who went extinct around 50,000 years ago: three teeth, a pinky bone, and a lower jaw. But that was enough for researchers at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem to draw conclusions on their appearance. The mission was challenging, according to Professor Liran Carmel, one of two scientists leading the study. "It is very difficult to start from DNA sequences and end up with an anatomical profile," he said. If it were that easy, police around the world would be pulling DNA from crime scenes and drawing up profiles of the suspects, he added. Instead, he and his team reconstructed the appearance of the Denisovans after three years of examining the patterns of chemical changes in their ancient DNA. They then compared these motifs to those of the DNA of Neanderthals and modern man. Using knowledge of human disorders in which genes lose their function for anatomical features, they explored what those differences might mean. Using this method which Carmel described as "85 per cent reliable" they highlighted 56 differences between the Denisovan and modern man and/or Neanderthals. "The Denisovan is more similar to Neanderthal than to us because they are evolutionarily closer," he said. Denisovan skulls were likely wider than those of modern humans or Neanderthals, the study found, and they probably had no chins. Scientists hope the new technique will allow them to identify skulls discovered in China a few years ago and whose width seems to indicate they might be Denisovans. Ancient human hybrid Contemporaries of the Neanderthals, the Denisovans first came to light a decade ago. A finger bone was unearthed a decade ago in a cave called Denisova in southern Siberia near the Mongolian border. The tiny bone "belonged to a 13-year-old Denisovan girl, who died in the cave" around 70,000 years ago, Carmel explained. "That pinky bone reopened a whole new chapter in the evolution of man," he said. Denisovans and Neanderthals branched off some 400,000 to 500,000 years ago into two distinct branches, separate from the Homo Sapiens branch of modern humans. While Neanderthals travelled from Africa to Europe and West Asia, Denisovans were present in east Asia. Scientists don't know why these human relatives became extinct, but believe they left some of their genomes to some modern-day men. Up to six per cent of present-day Melanesians and Aboriginal Australians have Denisovan DNA, according to the Hebrew University. They are also thought to have transmitted a gene to the Tibetans allowing them to breathe at high altitude. The fossilised jawbone of a Denisovan found in the mountains of Tibet proves they adapted to live at high altitude at least 160,000 years ago. The Denisovans may have made tools and even jewellery, new research published in January showed. Neanderthals migrated into regions where Denisovans lived, said Erella Hovers, a prehistoric archaeology professor at the Hebrew University. Scientists even found a bone fragment from a young girl born to a Denisovan father and Neanderthal mother, she said. But, she added, the cultural relationships between the branches of the human family remain unclear.

Israel scientists unveil the appearance of ancient human relative

In pics: Egypt unearths tomb of ancient high priest

A northern Indian state will soon begin a multi-million dollar search in the Himalayas for a mythical plant believed to hold life-saving properties, a local minister said today. 
 
Uttarakhand will spend 250 million Rupees ($37 million) of state money hunting the herb Sanjeevani Booti, which is credited in the ancient Hindu text Ramayana with restoring life to the brother of a god. 
 
While many wild plants with medicinal properties grow in the Himalayas, there is scant evidence that the plant ever existed, with sages and modern researchers failing for centuries to find it. 
 
&quot;We have to try and it will never go to waste. If we are determined we will certainly find it,&quot; Surendra Singh Negi, the state&#39;s minister for alternative medicine, told AFP. 
 
The minister said the search will focus on the Dronagiri range of Himalayas near the Chinese border, one mountain of which is mentioned in the epic Ramayana as being the site where the magical herb grows. 
 
&quot;We have set an initial budget of 250 million Rupees ($37 million) for the project,&quot; Negi said. 
 
Scientists will start work in August, the minister said, adding that the central government has refused to fund the project. 
 
Ancient texts say the plant has life-restoring properties, grows in the high mountains of the Himalayas and glows in the dark. 
 
According to Ramayana, the monkey god Hanuman was tasked by the god Rama with fetching the herb after a healer said it would cure his dying brother Laxman. 
 
But Hanuman failed to identity the plant, instead uprooting the entire mountain and carrying it thousands of miles to treat the mortally injured prince during a war with demons in what is now Sri Lanka. 
 
India&#39;s 5,000-year-old medicine system Ayurveda uses herbs to cure ailments and has seen a revival under Prime Minister Narendra Modi&#39;s government. 
 
(AFP)

The herb Sanjeevani Booti is credited in the ancient Hindu text Ramayana with restoring life, but there's scant evidence it exists

A northern Indian state will soon begin a multi-million dollar search in the Himalayas for a mythical plant believed to hold life-saving properties, a local minister said today. Uttarakhand will spend 250 million Rupees ($37 million) of state money hunting the herb Sanjeevani Booti, which is credited in the ancient Hindu text Ramayana with restoring life to the brother of a god. While many wild plants with medicinal properties grow in the Himalayas, there is scant evidence that the plant ever existed, with sages and modern researchers failing for centuries to find it. "We have to try and it will never go to waste. If we are determined we will certainly find it," Surendra Singh Negi, the state's minister for alternative medicine, told AFP. The minister said the search will focus on the Dronagiri range of Himalayas near the Chinese border, one mountain of which is mentioned in the epic Ramayana as being the site where the magical herb grows. "We have set an initial budget of 250 million Rupees ($37 million) for the project," Negi said. Scientists will start work in August, the minister said, adding that the central government has refused to fund the project. Ancient texts say the plant has life-restoring properties, grows in the high mountains of the Himalayas and glows in the dark. According to Ramayana, the monkey god Hanuman was tasked by the god Rama with fetching the herb after a healer said it would cure his dying brother Laxman. But Hanuman failed to identity the plant, instead uprooting the entire mountain and carrying it thousands of miles to treat the mortally injured prince during a war with demons in what is now Sri Lanka. India's 5,000-year-old medicine system Ayurveda uses herbs to cure ailments and has seen a revival under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. (AFP)

Indian state to spend $37 million hunting mythical 'life-saving' plant

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