The United States has reported Monkeypox infection in children for the first time. Nearly 2900 monkeypox cases were found across the US so far.

US: Monkeypox confirmed in children for the first time

A British study has found that one-in-four children are on weight loss diets in the UK. 13% of them are cutting down on food despite being in the 'healthy' weight category. Palki Sharma tells you why this diet obsession is more about body image issues than health goals.

Gravitas: Study finds more children on weight loss diets

Democratic republic of Congo and Rwanda have created a joint road map to de-escalate tensions in the eastern region. This comes after years of conflict and bloodshed. The long-standing violence and region fueled by rebels have displaced tens of thousands of people.

Dr Congo & Rwanda agree to curb violence | Hundreds of children left with no caretakers

There is a sharp increase in average screen time by children during the pandemic. But it has a harmful impact on Children's health. Spending more time online increases the risk of depression.

Increased screen time for children has a harmful impact on Children's health

Experts in Chile are trying to make edible food using 3D printers and a type of seaweed for children’s consumption. Experts hope that the expensive technology can be used to provide a nutritious diet to people, especially kids.

Experts try to make edible food in Pokémon, animal figures using3D printers

Japan is the home of judo but a brutal win-at-all-costs mentality, corporal punishment and pressure to lose weight are driving large numbers of children to quit, raising fears for the sport's future in its traditional powerhouse.

Underlining the scale of the problem, the All Japan Judo Federation cancelled a prestigious nationwide tournament for children as young as 10, warning they were being pushed too hard.

A pressure group dedicated to those injured or killed while practising the martial art says that 121 judo-related deaths were reported in Japanese schools between 1983 and 2016.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-covid-cases-fall-japan-allows-school-kids-to-talk-during-lunch-489208">As Covid cases fall, Japanese school kids allowed to talk during lunch</a>

Japan regularly dominates the Olympics judo medal table but federation president Yasuhiro Yamashita told AFP that the values of the sport are being lost as parents and coaches chase short-term glory.

"Judo is a sport that emphasises humanity," said Yamashita, who is also the president of the Japanese Olympic Committee and won gold at the 1984 Los Angeles Games.

"If you see no worth in anything but winning, and the result is all that matters, that gets distorted."

The number of people taking part in judo in Japan has plummeted by almost half since 2004 to about 120,000, according to the federation's figures.

Children account for the steepest decline in numbers.

Reports have emerged of primary school children being forced to lose weight -- sometimes up to six kilogrammes (13 pounds) -- so they can compete in a lighter division.

Young children are taught the same dangerous moves as Olympic athletes and intense training regimes can leave them injured or burnt out.

Parents and coaches have been known to berate referees during matches and corporal punishment still exists, despite reforms in a sport that has been plagued by abuse and bullying scandals over the years.

Watch |&nbsp;Japan announces one-year long jail term for online insults

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The All Japan Judo Federation decided to take action in March by cancelling a national tournament for elite children aged between 10 and 12, planning to replace it with events such as lectures and practice sessions.

The backlash was fierce with angry parents and coaches accusing the federation of dashing children's dreams and jeopardising Japan's status as the bastion of judo.

Violence, not words&nbsp;

Junior high school student Rion Fukuo, 13, a regional champion last year, told AFP at her judo club in the central Shizuoka region that she "feels sorry" for this year's primary school children who have no tournament to aim for.

Kosuke Moroi, whose 12-year-old daughter attends the same club, said he was "disappointed" when he first heard the news but concluded it was "a good decision" after learning more about the reasons.

Yamashita said scrapping the competition had put a spotlight on "a problem that involves Japanese society".

"It's been two-and-a-half months since we decided to cancel the competition and people are still debating it on TV and in newspapers," he said, adding that most opinions "have been in favour".

Judo and other martial arts were used for military training in Japan before World War II and servicemen would visit schools to give lessons.

Martial arts were banned during the post-war US occupation but they later were recognised as sports, with judo making its Olympic debut at the 1964 Tokyo Games.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bank-of-japan-keeps-easing-despite-global-rate-hikes-489112">Also read | Bank of Japan keeps monetary easing despite global rate hikes</a>

Noriko Mizoguchi, a Japanese judoka who won silver at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, said a belief that corporal punishment makes children stronger was still common in Japan.

"One thing that has stuck to coaching in Japanese sports is that it doesn't use words, it uses violence," she said.

"There's a co-dependence, like with domestic violence, as if being hit is like being shown affection."

Problem parents

Coaches who use corporal punishment can be stripped of their licences but parents are harder to control.

Hisako Kurata, a representative of the Japan Judo Accident Victims Association, said most parents "don't think about the danger and just want their child to win".

"Parents think that if their child wins a title, they'll be happy, they think they're doing it for their child," said Kurata, whose 15-year-old son died in 2011 as a result of a head injury sustained at his high-school judo club.

"The parents end up having the same win-at-all-costs mentality as the judo club and they contribute to it."

Mizoguchi, who has coached in France, said judo was "not fun" for Japanese children and that the "macho culture" surrounding the sport has had its day.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-airline-ditches-pro-russia-logo-letter-z-associated-with-russias-invasion-of-ukraine-488744">Japanese airline ditches letter 'Z' logo, which may seem pro-Russia</a>

"You have to treat each kid with care and have a long-term vision for the future, otherwise Japanese judo has reached its limit," she said.

"Old-school coaches are scared that if we do away with the kids' competitions, Japanese judo will lose its strength.

"I think it will actually become stronger."

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Japan is the home of judo but a brutal win-at-all-costs mentality, corporal punishment and pressure to lose weight are driving large numbers of children to quit, raising fears for the sport's future in its traditional powerhouse.

Japan is the home of judo but a brutal win-at-all-costs mentality, corporal punishment and pressure to lose weight are driving large numbers of children to quit, raising fears for the sport's future in its traditional powerhouse. Underlining the scale of the problem, the All Japan Judo Federation cancelled a prestigious nationwide tournament for children as young as 10, warning they were being pushed too hard. A pressure group dedicated to those injured or killed while practising the martial art says that 121 judo-related deaths were reported in Japanese schools between 1983 and 2016. Also read | As Covid cases fall, Japanese school kids allowed to talk during lunch Japan regularly dominates the Olympics judo medal table but federation president Yasuhiro Yamashita told AFP that the values of the sport are being lost as parents and coaches chase short-term glory. "Judo is a sport that emphasises humanity," said Yamashita, who is also the president of the Japanese Olympic Committee and won gold at the 1984 Los Angeles Games. "If you see no worth in anything but winning, and the result is all that matters, that gets distorted." The number of people taking part in judo in Japan has plummeted by almost half since 2004 to about 120,000, according to the federation's figures. Children account for the steepest decline in numbers. Reports have emerged of primary school children being forced to lose weight -- sometimes up to six kilogrammes (13 pounds) -- so they can compete in a lighter division. Young children are taught the same dangerous moves as Olympic athletes and intense training regimes can leave them injured or burnt out. Parents and coaches have been known to berate referees during matches and corporal punishment still exists, despite reforms in a sport that has been plagued by abuse and bullying scandals over the years. Watch | Japan announces one-year long jail term for online insults The All Japan Judo Federation decided to take action in March by cancelling a national tournament for elite children aged between 10 and 12, planning to replace it with events such as lectures and practice sessions. The backlash was fierce with angry parents and coaches accusing the federation of dashing children's dreams and jeopardising Japan's status as the bastion of judo. Violence, not words Junior high school student Rion Fukuo, 13, a regional champion last year, told AFP at her judo club in the central Shizuoka region that she "feels sorry" for this year's primary school children who have no tournament to aim for. Kosuke Moroi, whose 12-year-old daughter attends the same club, said he was "disappointed" when he first heard the news but concluded it was "a good decision" after learning more about the reasons. Yamashita said scrapping the competition had put a spotlight on "a problem that involves Japanese society". "It's been two-and-a-half months since we decided to cancel the competition and people are still debating it on TV and in newspapers," he said, adding that most opinions "have been in favour". Judo and other martial arts were used for military training in Japan before World War II and servicemen would visit schools to give lessons. Martial arts were banned during the post-war US occupation but they later were recognised as sports, with judo making its Olympic debut at the 1964 Tokyo Games. Also read | Bank of Japan keeps monetary easing despite global rate hikes Noriko Mizoguchi, a Japanese judoka who won silver at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, said a belief that corporal punishment makes children stronger was still common in Japan. "One thing that has stuck to coaching in Japanese sports is that it doesn't use words, it uses violence," she said. "There's a co-dependence, like with domestic violence, as if being hit is like being shown affection." Problem parents Coaches who use corporal punishment can be stripped of their licences but parents are harder to control. Hisako Kurata, a representative of the Japan Judo Accident Victims Association, said most parents "don't think about the danger and just want their child to win". "Parents think that if their child wins a title, they'll be happy, they think they're doing it for their child," said Kurata, whose 15-year-old son died in 2011 as a result of a head injury sustained at his high-school judo club. "The parents end up having the same win-at-all-costs mentality as the judo club and they contribute to it." Mizoguchi, who has coached in France, said judo was "not fun" for Japanese children and that the "macho culture" surrounding the sport has had its day. Also read | Japanese airline ditches letter 'Z' logo, which may seem pro-Russia "You have to treat each kid with care and have a long-term vision for the future, otherwise Japanese judo has reached its limit," she said. "Old-school coaches are scared that if we do away with the kids' competitions, Japanese judo will lose its strength. "I think it will actually become stronger." 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.

Japan judo hits crisis point as bullied, burnt-out children quit

Children aged 6 months to 5 years are now eligible in the US to get a jab against COVID-19. Pfizer & Moderna vaccines have been authorised by the FDA.

Pfizer & Moderna vaccines authorised by FDA & CDC as US approves COVID vaccines for children

According to new research, children who learn to play well with others at a young age have better mental health as they grow older.

The findings of the research were published in the journal `Child Psychiatry and Human Development`.

The findings provide the first clear evidence that `peer play ability`, the capacity to play successfully with other children, has a protective effect on mental health.

Researchers at the University of Cambridge analysed data from almost 1,700 children, collected when they were aged three and seven. Those with better peer play ability at age three consistently showed fewer signs of poor mental health four years later. They tended to have lower hyperactivity, parents and teachers reported fewer conduct and emotional problems, and they were less likely to get into fights or disagreements with other children.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/taller-people-likely-at-risk-for-skin-infection-and-nerve-disorders-study-484782">Tall people face more health risks than short people, claims study</a>

Importantly, this connection generally held true even when the researchers focused on subgroups of children who were particularly at risk of mental health problems. It also applied when they considered other risk factors for mental health - such as poverty levels, or cases in which the mother had experienced serious psychological distress during or immediately after pregnancy.

The findings suggest that giving young children who might be vulnerable to mental health issues access to well-supported opportunities to play with peers - for example, at playgroups run by early years specialists - could be a way to significantly benefit their long-term mental health.

Dr Jenny Gibson, from the Play in Education, Development and Learning (PEDAL) Centre at the Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge, said: "We think this connection exists because through playing with others, children acquire the skills to build strong friendships as they get older and start school. Even if they are at risk of poor mental health, those friendship networks will often get them through."

Watch |&nbsp;A dinosaur that lived 125 million years ago: Europe's largest dinosaur unearthed

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Vicky Yiran Zhao, a PhD Student in PEDAL and the first author of the study added: "What matters is the quality, rather than the quantity, of peer play. Games with peers that encourage children to collaborate, for example, or activities that promote sharing, will have positive knock-on benefits."

The researchers used data from 1,676 children in the Growing up in Australia study, which is tracking the development of children born in Australia between March 2003 and February 2004. It includes a record, provided by parents and carers, of how well the children played in different situations at age three. These covered different types of peer play, including simple games; imaginative pretend play; goal-directed activities (such as building a tower from blocks); and collaborative games like hide-and-seek.

These four peer play indicators were used to create a measure of `peer play ability` - the underlying ability of a child to engage with peers in a playful way. The researchers calculated the strength of the relationship between that measure and reported symptoms of possible mental health problems - hyperactivity, conduct, emotional and peer problems - at age seven.

The study then analysed two subgroups of children within the overall cohort. These were children with high `reactivity` (children who were very easily upset and difficult to soothe in infancy), and those with low `persistence` (children who struggled to persevere when encountering a challenging task). Both these traits are linked to poor mental health outcomes.

Across the entire dataset, children with a higher peer play ability score at age three consistently showed fewer signs of mental health difficulties at age seven. For every unit increase in peer play ability at age three, children`s measured score for hyperactivity problems at age seven fell by 8.4 per cent, conduct problems by 8 per cent, emotional problems by 9.8 per cent&nbsp;and peer problems by 14 per cent. This applied regardless of potential confounding factors such as poverty levels and maternal distress, and whether or not they had plentiful opportunities to play with siblings and parents.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/diabetes-drug-helps-people-with-obesity-to-lose-weight-significantly-says-study-485412">Diabetes drug helps people with obesity to lose weight significantly, says study</a>

The effect was evident even among the at-risk groups. In particular, among the 270 children in the `low persistence` category, those who were better at playing with peers at age three consistently had lower hyperactivity, and fewer emotional and peer problems, at age seven. This may be because peer play often forces children to problem-solve and confront unexpected challenges, and therefore directly addresses low persistence.

The benefits of peer play were weaker for the high reactivity sub-group, possibly because such children are often anxious and withdrawn, and less inclined to play with others. Even among this group, however, better peer play at age three was linked to lower hyperactivity at age seven.

The consistent link between peer play and mental health probably exists because playing with others supports the development of emotional self-control and socio-cognitive skills, such as the ability to understand and respond to other people`s feelings. These are fundamental to building stable, reciprocal friendships. There is already good evidence that the better a person`s social connections, the better their mental health tends to be. For children, more social connections also create a virtuous cycle, as they usually lead to more opportunities for peer play.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/believe-it-or-not-even-an-eye-test-may-be-able-to-predict-risk-of-heart-attack-says-study-487635">Even an eye test may be able to predict risk of heart attack, says study</a>

The researchers suggest that assessing children`s access to peer play at an early age could be used to screen for those potentially at risk of future mental health problems. They also argue that giving the families of at-risk children access to environments which promote high-quality peer play, such as playgroups or small-group care with professional childminders, could be an easily deliverable and low-cost way to reduce the chances of mental health problems later.

"The standard offer at the moment is to put the parents on a parenting course," Gibson said. "We could be focusing much more on giving children better opportunities to meet and play with their peers. There are already fantastic initiatives up and down the country, run by professionals who provide exactly that service to a very high standard. Our findings show how crucial their work is, especially given that the other risk factors jeopardising children`s mental health could often be down to circumstances beyond their parents` control."

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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According to new research, children who learn to play well with others at a young age have better mental health as they grow older. The findings of the research were published in the journal `Child Psychiatry and Human Development`.

According to new research, children who learn to play well with others at a young age have better mental health as they grow older. The findings of the research were published in the journal `Child Psychiatry and Human Development`. The findings provide the first clear evidence that `peer play ability`, the capacity to play successfully with other children, has a protective effect on mental health. Researchers at the University of Cambridge analysed data from almost 1,700 children, collected when they were aged three and seven. Those with better peer play ability at age three consistently showed fewer signs of poor mental health four years later. They tended to have lower hyperactivity, parents and teachers reported fewer conduct and emotional problems, and they were less likely to get into fights or disagreements with other children. Also read | Tall people face more health risks than short people, claims study Importantly, this connection generally held true even when the researchers focused on subgroups of children who were particularly at risk of mental health problems. It also applied when they considered other risk factors for mental health - such as poverty levels, or cases in which the mother had experienced serious psychological distress during or immediately after pregnancy. The findings suggest that giving young children who might be vulnerable to mental health issues access to well-supported opportunities to play with peers - for example, at playgroups run by early years specialists - could be a way to significantly benefit their long-term mental health. Dr Jenny Gibson, from the Play in Education, Development and Learning (PEDAL) Centre at the Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge, said: "We think this connection exists because through playing with others, children acquire the skills to build strong friendships as they get older and start school. Even if they are at risk of poor mental health, those friendship networks will often get them through." Watch | A dinosaur that lived 125 million years ago: Europe's largest dinosaur unearthed Vicky Yiran Zhao, a PhD Student in PEDAL and the first author of the study added: "What matters is the quality, rather than the quantity, of peer play. Games with peers that encourage children to collaborate, for example, or activities that promote sharing, will have positive knock-on benefits." The researchers used data from 1,676 children in the Growing up in Australia study, which is tracking the development of children born in Australia between March 2003 and February 2004. It includes a record, provided by parents and carers, of how well the children played in different situations at age three. These covered different types of peer play, including simple games; imaginative pretend play; goal-directed activities (such as building a tower from blocks); and collaborative games like hide-and-seek. These four peer play indicators were used to create a measure of `peer play ability` - the underlying ability of a child to engage with peers in a playful way. The researchers calculated the strength of the relationship between that measure and reported symptoms of possible mental health problems - hyperactivity, conduct, emotional and peer problems - at age seven. The study then analysed two subgroups of children within the overall cohort. These were children with high `reactivity` (children who were very easily upset and difficult to soothe in infancy), and those with low `persistence` (children who struggled to persevere when encountering a challenging task). Both these traits are linked to poor mental health outcomes. Across the entire dataset, children with a higher peer play ability score at age three consistently showed fewer signs of mental health difficulties at age seven. For every unit increase in peer play ability at age three, children`s measured score for hyperactivity problems at age seven fell by 8.4 per cent, conduct problems by 8 per cent, emotional problems by 9.8 per cent and peer problems by 14 per cent. This applied regardless of potential confounding factors such as poverty levels and maternal distress, and whether or not they had plentiful opportunities to play with siblings and parents. Also read | Diabetes drug helps people with obesity to lose weight significantly, says study The effect was evident even among the at-risk groups. In particular, among the 270 children in the `low persistence` category, those who were better at playing with peers at age three consistently had lower hyperactivity, and fewer emotional and peer problems, at age seven. This may be because peer play often forces children to problem-solve and confront unexpected challenges, and therefore directly addresses low persistence. The benefits of peer play were weaker for the high reactivity sub-group, possibly because such children are often anxious and withdrawn, and less inclined to play with others. Even among this group, however, better peer play at age three was linked to lower hyperactivity at age seven. The consistent link between peer play and mental health probably exists because playing with others supports the development of emotional self-control and socio-cognitive skills, such as the ability to understand and respond to other people`s feelings. These are fundamental to building stable, reciprocal friendships. There is already good evidence that the better a person`s social connections, the better their mental health tends to be. For children, more social connections also create a virtuous cycle, as they usually lead to more opportunities for peer play. Also read | Even an eye test may be able to predict risk of heart attack, says study The researchers suggest that assessing children`s access to peer play at an early age could be used to screen for those potentially at risk of future mental health problems. They also argue that giving the families of at-risk children access to environments which promote high-quality peer play, such as playgroups or small-group care with professional childminders, could be an easily deliverable and low-cost way to reduce the chances of mental health problems later. "The standard offer at the moment is to put the parents on a parenting course," Gibson said. "We could be focusing much more on giving children better opportunities to meet and play with their peers. There are already fantastic initiatives up and down the country, run by professionals who provide exactly that service to a very high standard. Our findings show how crucial their work is, especially given that the other risk factors jeopardising children`s mental health could often be down to circumstances beyond their parents` control." 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.

Research reveals playing with pre-school friends reduces risk of developing mental health problems

Staff reviewers of US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said on Sunday that Pfizer-BioNTech's COVID vaccines were safe and effective for children from ages 6 months to 4 years. &nbsp;

The FDA reviewers said in briefing documents published on Sunday evening that their evaluation did not reveal any new safety concerns related to the use of the vaccine in young children.

The FDA analysis of data from Pfizer's trial was published ahead of a June 15 meeting of its outside advisers. Recommendations from these external advisers will determine the FDA's decision on the vaccines.

"Available data support the effectiveness of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine 3-dose primary series in preventing COVID-19 in the age group of 6 months through 4 years," FDA staff said in the review.

An early analysis of data from Pfizer-BioNTech's vaccine based on 10 symptomatic COVID-19 cases identified when the Omicron coronavirus variant was dominant suggested a vaccine efficacy of 80.3% in the under-5 age group.

COVID vaccines for children under the age of 6 are not yet approved in most countries. Due to low demand for vaccines in for kids aged 5 to 11, it is also not known how many parents would get their young ones vaccinated.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Staff reviewers of US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said on Sunday that Pfizer-BioNTech's COVID vaccines were safe and effective for children from ages 6 months to 4 years.

Staff reviewers of US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said on Sunday that Pfizer-BioNTech's COVID vaccines were safe and effective for children from ages 6 months to 4 years. The FDA reviewers said in briefing documents published on Sunday evening that their evaluation did not reveal any new safety concerns related to the use of the vaccine in young children. The FDA analysis of data from Pfizer's trial was published ahead of a June 15 meeting of its outside advisers. Recommendations from these external advisers will determine the FDA's decision on the vaccines. "Available data support the effectiveness of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine 3-dose primary series in preventing COVID-19 in the age group of 6 months through 4 years," FDA staff said in the review. An early analysis of data from Pfizer-BioNTech's vaccine based on 10 symptomatic COVID-19 cases identified when the Omicron coronavirus variant was dominant suggested a vaccine efficacy of 80.3% in the under-5 age group. COVID vaccines for children under the age of 6 are not yet approved in most countries. Due to low demand for vaccines in for kids aged 5 to 11, it is also not known how many parents would get their young ones vaccinated. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Pfizer COVID vaccines are safe for small children, says FDA staff

The UN has warned that more than 1 million children in Afghanistan are staring at some form of malnutrition. Last year, aid agencies were able to narrowly thwart a famine. Will they succeed this year? Mariam Wardak tells you.

1 million Afghan children face malnutrition

Road traffic noise outside schools can harm primary school children’s attention span and stunt their cognitive development, a new study has shown.

The study, which forms part of the BREATHE project, included 2,680 children between 7 and 10 years of age across 38 schools in Barcelona.

They based their research by measuring the noise coming from the outside before lessons began. This was repeated six months later to calculate an average baseline level of noise pollution at each site.

Using online cognitive tests, the team tested the children’s short-term memory and attentiveness every three months for a year.

The study found that these children with higher average indoor noise levels – defined as above 30 decibels,&nbsp;about the volume of whispering&nbsp;– saw a slower improvement in attentiveness, measured by comparing their performance on tests at the start of the year with those at the end of the year.

It was further found that children exposed to higher average classroom noise levels over the course of the year performed worse than students in quieter classrooms only on the attention test, but not on the working memory tests.

"This finding suggests that noise peaks inside the classroom may be more disruptive to neurodevelopment than average decibel level," said lead researcher Maria Foraster, from the Barcelona Institute for Global Health.

"This is important because it supports the hypothesis that noise characteristics may be more influential than average noise levels, despite the fact that current policies are based solely on average decibels."

"Our study supports the hypothesis that childhood is a vulnerable period during which external stimuli such as noise can affect the rapid process of cognitive development that takes place before adolescence," said co-author Jordi Sunyer.

Watch WION's live TV here:

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Road traffic noise outside schools can harm primary school children’s attention span and stunt their cognitive development, a new study has shown. The study, which forms part of the BREATHE project, included 2,680 children between 7 and 10 years of age across 38 schools in Barcelona.

Road traffic noise outside schools can harm primary school children’s attention span and stunt their cognitive development, a new study has shown. The study, which forms part of the BREATHE project, included 2,680 children between 7 and 10 years of age across 38 schools in Barcelona. They based their research by measuring the noise coming from the outside before lessons began. This was repeated six months later to calculate an average baseline level of noise pollution at each site. Using online cognitive tests, the team tested the children’s short-term memory and attentiveness every three months for a year. The study found that these children with higher average indoor noise levels – defined as above 30 decibels, about the volume of whispering – saw a slower improvement in attentiveness, measured by comparing their performance on tests at the start of the year with those at the end of the year. It was further found that children exposed to higher average classroom noise levels over the course of the year performed worse than students in quieter classrooms only on the attention test, but not on the working memory tests. "This finding suggests that noise peaks inside the classroom may be more disruptive to neurodevelopment than average decibel level," said lead researcher Maria Foraster, from the Barcelona Institute for Global Health. "This is important because it supports the hypothesis that noise characteristics may be more influential than average noise levels, despite the fact that current policies are based solely on average decibels." "Our study supports the hypothesis that childhood is a vulnerable period during which external stimuli such as noise can affect the rapid process of cognitive development that takes place before adolescence," said co-author Jordi Sunyer. Watch WION's live TV here:

Road traffic noise can stunt cognitive development, reduce attention span of kids, says study

If you are a parent, you would understand how difficult it is to protect your child in a digital world. Social Media addiction is becoming more commonplace now, teenagers are among the biggest consumers of social media while it is also consuming them, however, if you live in California there is help at hand.

Social media addiction in Children: Who is responsible?

Gun terror continues to claim lives in the US. In the latest incident, an 18-year-old gunman killed at least 19 school children in Texas. This is being called the deadliest incident of gun terror in a decade. Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Gun Terror claims lives of 19 innocent children

A mysterious liver disease has caused the death of three children in Indonesia, the health ministry of the country said. &nbsp;

The deaths have taken the global toll to at least four. &nbsp;

In recent weeks, a severe type of acute hepatitis has been found in around 170 children across 11 countries, media reports said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised concerns over this ailment of “unknown origin”. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-sparks-panic-deadly-hypersonic-missile-launched-to-deter-foreign-ships-475890" hreflang="en">China sparks panic: Deadly hypersonic missile launched to deter foreign ships</a>

Before signs of liver inflammation, the symptoms include vomiting, nausea, diarrhoea and abdominal pain. &nbsp;

Earlier, one death was reported. &nbsp;

Last month, three children died in hospitals in Jakarta after displaying some symptoms, said health ministry of Indonesia. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Unconfirmed reports link Jack Ma to government probe, Alibaba's shares fall 9% in Hong Kong&nbsp;

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Aged two, eight and 11, these children experienced jaundice, fever, convulsions and loss of consciousness, said ministry’s spokesperson Siti Nadia Tarmizi. &nbsp;

“At the moment, we suspect the cases as acute hepatitis, but we need to confirm that they are not due to known hepatitis viruses A, B, C, D, and Rb,” Tarmizi said. &nbsp;

The health ministry is also investigating the cause of the disease by carrying out several virus tests, she added. &nbsp;

The parents have been asked by the ministry to head to hospital immediately if a&nbsp;child shows any of these symptoms. &nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A mysterious liver disease has caused the death of three children in Indonesia, the health ministry of the country said. The deaths have taken the global toll to at least four.

A mysterious liver disease has caused the death of three children in Indonesia, the health ministry of the country said. The deaths have taken the global toll to at least four. In recent weeks, a severe type of acute hepatitis has been found in around 170 children across 11 countries, media reports said. The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised concerns over this ailment of “unknown origin”. Also Read | China sparks panic: Deadly hypersonic missile launched to deter foreign ships Before signs of liver inflammation, the symptoms include vomiting, nausea, diarrhoea and abdominal pain. Earlier, one death was reported. Last month, three children died in hospitals in Jakarta after displaying some symptoms, said health ministry of Indonesia. Watch: Unconfirmed reports link Jack Ma to government probe, Alibaba's shares fall 9% in Hong Kong × Aged two, eight and 11, these children experienced jaundice, fever, convulsions and loss of consciousness, said ministry’s spokesperson Siti Nadia Tarmizi. “At the moment, we suspect the cases as acute hepatitis, but we need to confirm that they are not due to known hepatitis viruses A, B, C, D, and Rb,” Tarmizi said. The health ministry is also investigating the cause of the disease by carrying out several virus tests, she added. The parents have been asked by the ministry to head to hospital immediately if a child shows any of these symptoms. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies)

“Unknown origin”: Mysterious liver disease causes deaths of three children in Indonesia  

Even while the coronavirus wreaked devastation on the world, there was one minor fact that gave some consolation to people all across the world: it didn't have a particularly adverse effect&nbsp;on children.

However, doctors were soon&nbsp;perplexed by uncommon and severe responses to the virus in certain children. Symptoms included lung disease, blood clotting, heart damage, inflammation of the brain and acute respiratory distress syndrome, a type of lung disease.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/claims-of-an-ancient-human-in-the-modern-era-shake-the-scientific-community-heres-what-you-need-to-know-475313" hreflang="en">Claims of an ancient human in the modern era shake the scientific community. Here's what you need to know</a>

Now, a study published in the journal Nature Communications claims to have discovered pathways that are activated in these severe cases in children.

This advancement has the potential of leading to an earlier diagnosis and can also enable targeted treatments.

As per the researchers, the main triggers were blood-clotting and the immune system protein's reaction to the virus.

"Children are in general less susceptible to COVID-19 and present with milder symptoms, but it remained unclear what caused some to develop very severe disease,"&nbsp;said Conor McCafferty, a PhD student at the Australia's University of Melbourne.

Watch |&nbsp;Covid-19 in China: Authorities in Beijing impose strict covid curbs

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According to PTI,&nbsp;McCafferty also claims, that their study was the first to identify the exact blood clotting and immunological protein pathways damaged in youngsters.

Blood samples from 20 healthy children and 33 SARS-CoV-2 infected children with multisystem inflammatory syndrome or acute respiratory distress syndrome were collected for the study.

It discovered that 85 proteins were unique to multisystem inflammatory disease and 52 proteins were unique to acute respiratory distress syndrome, respectively. Severe COVID-19 has the potential to cause both disorders.

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ccording to Professor Vera Ignjatovic of Australia's Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI),"the results provided an understanding of the processes that underly severe COVID-19 in children, which would help in the development of diagnostic tests for early identification of children at risk, as well as therapeutic targets to improve the outcomes for those with severe cases."&nbsp;

"Knowing the mechanisms associated with severe COVID-19 in children and how the blood clotting and immune systems in children react to the virus will help diagnose and detect acute COVID-19 cases and allow us to develop targeted treatment," Ignjatovic added.

Watch WION LIVE HERE:

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(With inputs from agencies)

Even while the coronavirus wreaked devastation on the world, there was one minor fact that gave some consolation to people all across the world: it didn't have a particularly adverse effect on children.

Even while the coronavirus wreaked devastation on the world, there was one minor fact that gave some consolation to people all across the world: it didn't have a particularly adverse effect on children. However, doctors were soon perplexed by uncommon and severe responses to the virus in certain children. Symptoms included lung disease, blood clotting, heart damage, inflammation of the brain and acute respiratory distress syndrome, a type of lung disease. Also read | Claims of an ancient human in the modern era shake the scientific community. Here's what you need to know Now, a study published in the journal Nature Communications claims to have discovered pathways that are activated in these severe cases in children. This advancement has the potential of leading to an earlier diagnosis and can also enable targeted treatments. As per the researchers, the main triggers were blood-clotting and the immune system protein's reaction to the virus. "Children are in general less susceptible to COVID-19 and present with milder symptoms, but it remained unclear what caused some to develop very severe disease," said Conor McCafferty, a PhD student at the Australia's University of Melbourne. Watch | Covid-19 in China: Authorities in Beijing impose strict covid curbs According to PTI, McCafferty also claims, that their study was the first to identify the exact blood clotting and immunological protein pathways damaged in youngsters. Blood samples from 20 healthy children and 33 SARS-CoV-2 infected children with multisystem inflammatory syndrome or acute respiratory distress syndrome were collected for the study. It discovered that 85 proteins were unique to multisystem inflammatory disease and 52 proteins were unique to acute respiratory distress syndrome, respectively. Severe COVID-19 has the potential to cause both disorders. Also read | Omicron Covid subvariants can overcome natural immunity, trigger new wave: Study ccording to Professor Vera Ignjatovic of Australia's Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI),"the results provided an understanding of the processes that underly severe COVID-19 in children, which would help in the development of diagnostic tests for early identification of children at risk, as well as therapeutic targets to improve the outcomes for those with severe cases." "Knowing the mechanisms associated with severe COVID-19 in children and how the blood clotting and immune systems in children react to the virus will help diagnose and detect acute COVID-19 cases and allow us to develop targeted treatment," Ignjatovic added. Watch WION LIVE HERE: (With inputs from agencies)

Study discovers why Covid impacted some children more than others

An Ethiopian hospital is flooded with children, these children are suffering from malnutrition. The situation continues to worsen as Ethiopia witnesses the worst drought in four decades.

Horn of Africa: Children are the worst victims of drought in Ethiopia

A man has been sentenced to life in jail on Friday for sexually abusing children, filming the act and then, distributing the footage on the dark web, the prosecutors said. &nbsp;

The 28-year-old accused, who is from Fresno, belonged to a child exploitation ring in California. The members have abused more than 20 children in this way, media reports said. &nbsp;

The court has termed the abuse as ‘evil’. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/child-dies-of-acute-hepatitis-as-12-countries-report-increase-in-cases-473380" hreflang="en">Child dies of acute hepatitis as 12 countries report increase in cases</a>

In Los Angeles federal court, Judge André Birotte Jr said that what John Richard Brinson Jr did to those children was 'evil’. "I don't know how else to say it," Birotte said. &nbsp;

In a statement, US Attorney Tracy L Wilkison said, “The life sentence imposed in this case is warranted by the defendant's callous and violent abuse of children, some of whom were filmed while screaming in pain. The child exploitation enterprise impacted more than 20 victims - children who were sexually assaulted, sometimes repeatedly, solely for the pleasure of this defendant and his cohorts." &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;United States airline bookings roar back

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The accused had also pleaded guilty earlier to one count of engaging in child exploitation ring and four counts of child pornography’s production. Each count had represented a different victim. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A man has been sentenced to life in jail on Friday for sexually abusing children, filming the act and then, distributing the footage on the dark web, the prosecutors said.

A man has been sentenced to life in jail on Friday for sexually abusing children, filming the act and then, distributing the footage on the dark web, the prosecutors said. The 28-year-old accused, who is from Fresno, belonged to a child exploitation ring in California. The members have abused more than 20 children in this way, media reports said. The court has termed the abuse as ‘evil’. Also Read: Child dies of acute hepatitis as 12 countries report increase in cases In Los Angeles federal court, Judge André Birotte Jr said that what John Richard Brinson Jr did to those children was 'evil’. "I don't know how else to say it," Birotte said. In a statement, US Attorney Tracy L Wilkison said, “The life sentence imposed in this case is warranted by the defendant's callous and violent abuse of children, some of whom were filmed while screaming in pain. The child exploitation enterprise impacted more than 20 victims - children who were sexually assaulted, sometimes repeatedly, solely for the pleasure of this defendant and his cohorts." Watch: United States airline bookings roar back × The accused had also pleaded guilty earlier to one count of engaging in child exploitation ring and four counts of child pornography’s production. Each count had represented a different victim. (With inputs from agencies)

For 'evil' child sex abuse, US judge sends 28-year-old man to jail for life  

It's a journey like no other. This shocking viral video shows how this woman is using a precarious zipline to get to another village on the other side of a deep canyon.

This is how children go to school here

On Saturday, the United Nations said it was aware of 169 unusual occurrences of acute hepatitis, a liver infection which is mostly infecting young children from the age group of one month old to 16 years old.

According to the World Health Organisation, at least one child has died from a mysterious strain of acute hepatitis that has now been recorded in 12 nations.

The majority of this infections have been reported in the UK with 114 cases, followed by Spain with 13 cases and the Israel with 12 cases. In addition to this the pandemic has expanded to United States, Denmark, Ireland, Italy, France, Norway, Romania and Belgium.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-is-here-to-stay-and-it-affects-women-worse-than-men-says-study-473318">Covid is here to stay and it affects women worse than men, says study</a>

These cases are are even more unusual because they aren't linked to any of the virus's five common strains: hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E.

Some of the hepatitis symptoms include dark urine, yellowing of skin and eyes, sickness, fatigue, fever, nausea, joint pains and loss of appetite.

According to WHO, the vast majority of children who were not vaccinated, therefore any link to Covid-19 vaccinations has been ruled out.

Watch |&nbsp;Is it too early to go back to pre-COVID life?

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Parents are being advised to be on the lookout for these signs and seek medical help if necessary. The British Health Agency has recommended Handwashing and “thorough respiratory hygiene” like covering mouth while sneezing.

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Scientists suspect that an adenovirus, a common type of virus that causes cold, is to be blamed for the recent surge in acute hepatitis cases. Adenovirus infection has been detected in at least 74 of the children afflicted. However, while adenovirus 41 has been related to hepatitis in immunocompromised children, it has never been connected to the disease in otherwise healthy children.&nbsp;

According to some scientists’ weak immunity as a result if reduced social mixing during the epidemic.&nbsp;

On Saturday, the United Nations said it was aware of 169 unusual occurrences of acute hepatitis, a liver infection which is mostly infecting young children from the age group of one month old to 16 years old.

On Saturday, the United Nations said it was aware of 169 unusual occurrences of acute hepatitis, a liver infection which is mostly infecting young children from the age group of one month old to 16 years old. According to the World Health Organisation, at least one child has died from a mysterious strain of acute hepatitis that has now been recorded in 12 nations. The majority of this infections have been reported in the UK with 114 cases, followed by Spain with 13 cases and the Israel with 12 cases. In addition to this the pandemic has expanded to United States, Denmark, Ireland, Italy, France, Norway, Romania and Belgium. Also read | Covid is here to stay and it affects women worse than men, says study These cases are are even more unusual because they aren't linked to any of the virus's five common strains: hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Some of the hepatitis symptoms include dark urine, yellowing of skin and eyes, sickness, fatigue, fever, nausea, joint pains and loss of appetite. According to WHO, the vast majority of children who were not vaccinated, therefore any link to Covid-19 vaccinations has been ruled out. Watch | Is it too early to go back to pre-COVID life? Parents are being advised to be on the lookout for these signs and seek medical help if necessary. The British Health Agency has recommended Handwashing and “thorough respiratory hygiene” like covering mouth while sneezing. Also read | Invasive descendants of Callery pears found in over 30 states in US Scientists suspect that an adenovirus, a common type of virus that causes cold, is to be blamed for the recent surge in acute hepatitis cases. Adenovirus infection has been detected in at least 74 of the children afflicted. However, while adenovirus 41 has been related to hepatitis in immunocompromised children, it has never been connected to the disease in otherwise healthy children. According to some scientists’ weak immunity as a result if reduced social mixing during the epidemic.

WHO confirms death of at least one child from mysterious acute hepatitis

This is how children go to school here...

More than 4.7 million Ukrainians have fled their country in the 50 days since Russia invaded, the United Nations said Thursday, in Europe's fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War II.

The&nbsp;UN&nbsp;refugee agency UNHCR said 4,736,471 Ukrainians had fled since Russia's assault began on February 24 -- a figure up 79,962 on Wednesday's update.

Women and children account for 90 per cent of those who have left Ukraine, with men aged 18 to 60 eligible for military call-up and unable to leave.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-hope-the-world-comes-back-to-its-senses-world-treats-black-and-white-lives-unequally-says-who-chief-470945">'I hope the world comes back to its senses': World treats 'black and white lives' unequally, says WHO chief</a>

Nearly two-thirds of all Ukrainian children have been forced from their homes, including those still inside the country.

Beyond the refugees, the&nbsp;UN's International Organization for Migration (IOM) estimates 7.1 million people have fled their homes but are still in Ukraine.

"The humanitarian needs of people internally displaced in Ukraine continue to grow," the IOM said.

The agency says in addition to Ukrainian refugees, nearly 215,000 non-Ukrainians living, studying or working in the country have also left.

In total, more than a quarter of the population have been forced to flee their homes.

Before the invasion, Ukraine had a population of 37 million in the regions under government control, excluding Russia-annexed Crimea and the pro-Russian separatist regions in the east.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Finland prepares for a potential war with Russia

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Here is a breakdown of how many Ukrainian refugees have fled to neighbouring countries, according to UNHCR:

Poland

Nearly six out of 10 Ukrainian refugees -- 2,694,090 so far -- have crossed into Poland, according to the&nbsp;UN.

Many people who go to Ukraine's immediate western neighbours travel on to other states in Europe's Schengen open-borders zone.

Romania

A total of 716,797 Ukrainians entered the EU member state, including a large number who crossed over from Moldova, wedged between Romania and Ukraine.&nbsp;

The vast majority are thought to have gone on to other countries.&nbsp;

Russia

Another 471,014 refugees have sought shelter in Russia.

In addition, 113,000 people crossed into Russia from the separatist-held pro-Russian regions of Donetsk and Lugansk in eastern Ukraine between February 21 and 23.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-russias-tit-for-tat-move-slaps-sanctions-on-us-canada-470856">Russia-Ukraine conflict: Moscow’s tit-for-tat move;&nbsp;slaps sanctions on US, Canada</a>

Hungary

A total of 440,387 Ukrainians have entered Hungary.

Moldova

The Moldovan border is the closest to the major port city of Odessa.&nbsp;A total of 417,650 Ukrainians have crossed into the non-EU state, one of the poorest in Europe.

Most of those who have entered the former Soviet republic of 2.6 million people have moved on.

Slovakia

A total of 326,244 people crossed Ukraine's shortest border into Slovakia.

Belarus

Another 22,428 refugees have made it north to Russia's close ally Belarus.

More than 4.7 million Ukrainians have fled their country in the 50 days since Russia invaded, the United Nations said Thursday, in Europe's fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War II.

More than 4.7 million Ukrainians have fled their country in the 50 days since Russia invaded, the United Nations said Thursday, in Europe's fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War II. The UN refugee agency UNHCR said 4,736,471 Ukrainians had fled since Russia's assault began on February 24 -- a figure up 79,962 on Wednesday's update. Women and children account for 90 per cent of those who have left Ukraine, with men aged 18 to 60 eligible for military call-up and unable to leave. Also read | 'I hope the world comes back to its senses': World treats 'black and white lives' unequally, says WHO chief Nearly two-thirds of all Ukrainian children have been forced from their homes, including those still inside the country. Beyond the refugees, the UN's International Organization for Migration (IOM) estimates 7.1 million people have fled their homes but are still in Ukraine. "The humanitarian needs of people internally displaced in Ukraine continue to grow," the IOM said. The agency says in addition to Ukrainian refugees, nearly 215,000 non-Ukrainians living, studying or working in the country have also left. In total, more than a quarter of the population have been forced to flee their homes. Before the invasion, Ukraine had a population of 37 million in the regions under government control, excluding Russia-annexed Crimea and the pro-Russian separatist regions in the east. Watch | Gravitas: Finland prepares for a potential war with Russia Here is a breakdown of how many Ukrainian refugees have fled to neighbouring countries, according to UNHCR: Poland Nearly six out of 10 Ukrainian refugees -- 2,694,090 so far -- have crossed into Poland, according to the UN. Many people who go to Ukraine's immediate western neighbours travel on to other states in Europe's Schengen open-borders zone. Romania A total of 716,797 Ukrainians entered the EU member state, including a large number who crossed over from Moldova, wedged between Romania and Ukraine. The vast majority are thought to have gone on to other countries. Russia Another 471,014 refugees have sought shelter in Russia. In addition, 113,000 people crossed into Russia from the separatist-held pro-Russian regions of Donetsk and Lugansk in eastern Ukraine between February 21 and 23. Also read | Russia-Ukraine conflict: Moscow’s tit-for-tat move; slaps sanctions on US, Canada Hungary A total of 440,387 Ukrainians have entered Hungary. Moldova The Moldovan border is the closest to the major port city of Odessa. A total of 417,650 Ukrainians have crossed into the non-EU state, one of the poorest in Europe. Most of those who have entered the former Soviet republic of 2.6 million people have moved on. Slovakia A total of 326,244 people crossed Ukraine's shortest border into Slovakia. Belarus Another 22,428 refugees have made it north to Russia's close ally Belarus.

Russia-Ukraine war: More than 4.7 million Ukrainians flee in 50 days, says UN

UNICEF has claimed that 4.8 million out of 7.5 million Ukraine children have been displaced and 142 youngsters have lost their lives as a consequence to the Russian-Ukraine war that started on February 24.

The UN children’s agency further believes that the number of children leaving their homes could be higher than their estimate.

Manuel Fontaine, UNICEF’s emergency programs director who recently returned from Ukraine, said that he has never seen such humanitarian tragedy on this scale in such a short time.

“They have been forced to leave everything behind — their homes, their schools and, often, their family members,” he told the UN Security Council.

“I have heard stories of the desperate steps parents are taking to get their children to safety, and children saddened that they are unable to get back to school,” he was quoted as saying.

"As of yesterday, OHCHR has verified 142 children killed and 229 children injured.&nbsp; We know these numbers are likely much higher —and many of them were caused by crossfire or the use of explosive weapons in populated areas,” he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-for-some-russian-forces-surround-mariupol-470368">'Sadists, rapists': Russian forces using rape as punishing tactic in Ukraine, UN women's body voices concern</a>

According to AP news agency, Ukraine’s UN ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya has claimed that Russia has taken more than 121,000 children, both orphans&nbsp;and those with parents, out of Ukraine and planning to get them adopted in Russia.

He claimed that most of the children were removed from the besieged southern port city of Mariupol and taken to eastern Donetsk and then to the Russian city of Taganrog.

UNICEF’s Fontaine claimed that he, too, has heard similar reports, but added that “we don’t have yet the access that we need to have to be able to look and verify and see if we can assist.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/aerorozvidka-how-ukraines-elite-it-force-halted-russias-long-mechanised-brigade-eyeing-kyiv-467687">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;How Ukraine's elite IT force halted Russia's brigade eyeing Kyiv</a>

He said that of Ukraine’s displaced children, 2.8 million are in Ukraine and 2 million more are in other countries.

At the same time, he said, nearly half the estimated 3.2 million children still in their homes in Ukraine “may be at risk of not having enough food,” with those in besieged cities like Mariupol facing the most dire situation.

Also read |&nbsp;Russia poised to take Mariupol, where is military aid pledged by US, NATO?

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(With inputs from agencies)

UNICEF has claimed that 4.8 million out of 7.5 million Ukraine children have been displaced and 142 youngsters have lost their lives as a consequence to the Russian-Ukraine war that started on February 24.

UNICEF has claimed that 4.8 million out of 7.5 million Ukraine children have been displaced and 142 youngsters have lost their lives as a consequence to the Russian-Ukraine war that started on February 24. The UN children’s agency further believes that the number of children leaving their homes could be higher than their estimate. Manuel Fontaine, UNICEF’s emergency programs director who recently returned from Ukraine, said that he has never seen such humanitarian tragedy on this scale in such a short time. “They have been forced to leave everything behind — their homes, their schools and, often, their family members,” he told the UN Security Council. “I have heard stories of the desperate steps parents are taking to get their children to safety, and children saddened that they are unable to get back to school,” he was quoted as saying. "As of yesterday, OHCHR has verified 142 children killed and 229 children injured. We know these numbers are likely much higher —and many of them were caused by crossfire or the use of explosive weapons in populated areas,” he added. Also read | 'Sadists, rapists': Russian forces using rape as punishing tactic in Ukraine, UN women's body voices concern According to AP news agency, Ukraine’s UN ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya has claimed that Russia has taken more than 121,000 children, both orphans and those with parents, out of Ukraine and planning to get them adopted in Russia. He claimed that most of the children were removed from the besieged southern port city of Mariupol and taken to eastern Donetsk and then to the Russian city of Taganrog. UNICEF’s Fontaine claimed that he, too, has heard similar reports, but added that “we don’t have yet the access that we need to have to be able to look and verify and see if we can assist.” Also read | Also Read in Pics: How Ukraine's elite IT force halted Russia's brigade eyeing Kyiv He said that of Ukraine’s displaced children, 2.8 million are in Ukraine and 2 million more are in other countries. At the same time, he said, nearly half the estimated 3.2 million children still in their homes in Ukraine “may be at risk of not having enough food,” with those in besieged cities like Mariupol facing the most dire situation. Also read | Russia poised to take Mariupol, where is military aid pledged by US, NATO? (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine war: Nearly 4.8 million Ukrainian children displaced, 142 killed, claims UNICEF

Russia-Ukraine war: Young Ukrainians in Greece confront the trauma they've suffered

An Indonesian court on Monday sentenced a teacher to death for raping 13 girls at an Islamic school, upholding the prosecutor’s plea for death penalty.

The case of Herry Wirawan has stunned Indonesia and has drawn attention to the need to protect children from sexual violence in religious boarding schools.

Wirawan was initially sentenced to life in prison. However, the prosecutor who had requested the death penalty filed an appeal after Wirawan was sentenced to life in prison by court in Bandung in February.

The judge in a statement on Monday said that&nbsp;the defendant will now be&nbsp;punished with the death penalty. Herry’s lawyer, Ira Mambo, declined to comment on whether an appeal would be filed, citing the need to see the full court judgement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-greets-ramadan-with-mass-prayer-as-covid-curbs-ease-467961">Indonesia greets Ramadan with mass prayer as Covid curbs ease</a>

During the&nbsp;February trial, it was revealed that Herry sexually abused 13 girls between the years 2016 and 2021, his victims were between the ages of 12 to 16 and eight of them fell pregnant following the rape.

The uncle of one of Herry's victims, Hidmat Dijaya said that "we initially wanted punishments of life in prison and chemical castration so that he would feel the pain from his crime", but that they feel "the death sentence represents justice."

The rape case in Bandung has also brought attention to the issue of sexual abuse in Indonesian schools, with 14 of the 18 incidents reported to the Child Protection Commission last year occurring in Islamic boarding schools.

Officials in Indonesia, including the country’s child protection minister, have backed calls for the death sentence, despite the fact that the country’s human rights commission thinks the declared death penalty is not appropriate.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-new-hope-rare-sumatran-rhino-born-in-captivity-in-indonesia-467436">A new hope?&nbsp;Rare Sumatran rhino born in captivity in Indonesia</a>

Indonesia is the world’s largest Muslim majority country, includes tens of thousands of Islamic boarding schools and some other religious schools, which are often the only way for children from poor families to get&nbsp;educated.

(With inputs from agencies)

An Indonesian court on Monday sentenced a teacher to death for raping 13 girls at an Islamic school, upholding the prosecutor’s plea for death penalty. The case of Herry Wirawan has stunned Indonesia and has drawn attention to the need to protect children from sexual violence in religious boarding schools.

An Indonesian court on Monday sentenced a teacher to death for raping 13 girls at an Islamic school, upholding the prosecutor’s plea for death penalty. The case of Herry Wirawan has stunned Indonesia and has drawn attention to the need to protect children from sexual violence in religious boarding schools. Wirawan was initially sentenced to life in prison. However, the prosecutor who had requested the death penalty filed an appeal after Wirawan was sentenced to life in prison by court in Bandung in February. The judge in a statement on Monday said that the defendant will now be punished with the death penalty. Herry’s lawyer, Ira Mambo, declined to comment on whether an appeal would be filed, citing the need to see the full court judgement. Also read | Indonesia greets Ramadan with mass prayer as Covid curbs ease During the February trial, it was revealed that Herry sexually abused 13 girls between the years 2016 and 2021, his victims were between the ages of 12 to 16 and eight of them fell pregnant following the rape. The uncle of one of Herry's victims, Hidmat Dijaya said that "we initially wanted punishments of life in prison and chemical castration so that he would feel the pain from his crime", but that they feel "the death sentence represents justice." The rape case in Bandung has also brought attention to the issue of sexual abuse in Indonesian schools, with 14 of the 18 incidents reported to the Child Protection Commission last year occurring in Islamic boarding schools. Officials in Indonesia, including the country’s child protection minister, have backed calls for the death sentence, despite the fact that the country’s human rights commission thinks the declared death penalty is not appropriate. Also read | A new hope? Rare Sumatran rhino born in captivity in Indonesia Indonesia is the world’s largest Muslim majority country, includes tens of thousands of Islamic boarding schools and some other religious schools, which are often the only way for children from poor families to get educated. (With inputs from agencies)

Indonesian teacher condemned to death for raping 13 students

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