For almost 45 years, US authorities remained unaware of the name or life of the woman they found shot dead on the left side of a logging road in Massachusetts.

But now, advanced genetic testing has helped them solve the mystery. They recently found out that the victim was Patricia Ann Tucker, who was aged 28 and was a mother to a five-year-old son when she was murdered, without her family having any knowledge of the tragedy for decades.

The office of the district attorney in Massachusetts announced that the investigators had found out that the murder victim was Tucker, who was known to many as the “Granby girl”, a nickname given to her based on the area where her dead body was found.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lady-in-the-fridge-indentified-27-years-after-dead-bodys-discovery-using-dna-567621">‘Lady in the fridge’ case: Victim identified using DNA sample 27 years after body’s discovery</a>

As per the police information, the assailant shot Tucker in the temple after which she was dragged by her neck before her decomposed body, buried under a stump and leaves, was found by loggers on November 15, 1978.

Later, her body was buried in a grave marked “unknown”. Matthew Dale, Tucker’s son who is now 50 years old, said he spent his childhood in North Carolina without being sure about the reason for his mother's disappearance.

He added that, in his 30s, he had believed that she was dead, and hence, he had submitted his DNA to a database, if the authorities ever find her.

WATCH&nbsp;&nbsp;Hong Kong: Model Abby Choi's severed body found in fridge, head still missing

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Dale's assumption, about his mother being dead, started getting confirmed about two years ago. The local authorities were helped by the forensic laboratory in acquiring the Granby girl’s DNA profile, which led them eventually to a relative in Maryland, said a prosecutor with the north-western Massachusetts district attorney’s office.

The investigators were connected with Dale through that relative. Dale said that he handed a file with his digital DNA profile to the investigators, and in hours, he got a call from them, informing there was a clear genetic match between his DNA and the Granby girl, who they finally concluded was his mother.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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For almost 45 years, US authorities remained unaware of the name or life of the woman they found shot dead on the left side of a logging road in Massachusetts. But now, advanced genetic testing has helped them solve the mystery.

For almost 45 years, US authorities remained unaware of the name or life of the woman they found shot dead on the left side of a logging road in Massachusetts. But now, advanced genetic testing has helped them solve the mystery. They recently found out that the victim was Patricia Ann Tucker, who was aged 28 and was a mother to a five-year-old son when she was murdered, without her family having any knowledge of the tragedy for decades. The office of the district attorney in Massachusetts announced that the investigators had found out that the murder victim was Tucker, who was known to many as the “Granby girl”, a nickname given to her based on the area where her dead body was found. ALSO READ | ‘Lady in the fridge’ case: Victim identified using DNA sample 27 years after body’s discovery As per the police information, the assailant shot Tucker in the temple after which she was dragged by her neck before her decomposed body, buried under a stump and leaves, was found by loggers on November 15, 1978. Later, her body was buried in a grave marked “unknown”. Matthew Dale, Tucker’s son who is now 50 years old, said he spent his childhood in North Carolina without being sure about the reason for his mother's disappearance. He added that, in his 30s, he had believed that she was dead, and hence, he had submitted his DNA to a database, if the authorities ever find her. WATCH Hong Kong: Model Abby Choi's severed body found in fridge, head still missing Dale's assumption, about his mother being dead, started getting confirmed about two years ago. The local authorities were helped by the forensic laboratory in acquiring the Granby girl’s DNA profile, which led them eventually to a relative in Maryland, said a prosecutor with the north-western Massachusetts district attorney’s office. The investigators were connected with Dale through that relative. Dale said that he handed a file with his digital DNA profile to the investigators, and in hours, he got a call from them, informing there was a clear genetic match between his DNA and the Granby girl, who they finally concluded was his mother. (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

Massachusetts ‘Granby girl’ identified, 45 years after she was killed

Scientists have discovered the pieces of DNA which are said to act like “Bond villains” in helping cancers spread. The bits of genetic material known as extrachromosomal DNA or ecDNA were found by researchers working on an initiative known as the Cancer Grand Challenges, which is backed by Cancer Research in the United Kingdom and the United States National Cancer Institute. The team of researchers included chemists, biologists, geneticists, mathematicians, and immunologists based in London and California as well as other centres, reported the Guardian.&nbsp;

The scientists also said that this ecDNA can help tumours to develop resistance to anti-cancer drugs, therefore, its discovery can revolutionise treatments of some of the most aggressive tumours affecting people today. Speaking to the Guardian, Professor Paul Mischel of California’s Stanford University, called the discovery of how these microscopic agents behave inside the human body a “game changer.”&nbsp;

He added, that they believe that this ecDNA is responsible for a “large number of the more advanced, most serious cancers” that people are suffering from today and if they can “block their activities, we can block the spread of these cancers.” Notably, these small circular pieces of genetic information can enable cancer cells to evolve rapidly and become more resistant to existing cancer treatments.&nbsp;

Furthermore, researchers also found that the ecDNA act as cancer-causing genes as they are somehow able to separate themselves from a person’s chromosomes and “have started to behave in ways that circumvent the normal rules of genetics” said Stanford University geneticist Howard Chang, as per the Guardian. He added, “They behave like villains in a Bond film. At first, in a film, you see different explosions, killings and disasters occurring and you don’t know why they are happening or who is responsible. Then, at some point, you finally meet the villain who is revealed to be the agent of all this mayhem.”

While these genes, known as oncogenes, can be targeted by a range of drugs and therapies it is their resistance to these methods which allows cancer to return, Professor Mischel explained. Researchers also found that in some of the most aggressive forms of cancer, the oncogenes were “actually on extrachromosomal DNA.”

He added, “The vulnerable gene had quickly disappeared when threatened by cancer drugs and was hidden in ecDNA. Then it reappeared once it was safe for it to start causing damage again”. Therefore, the researchers are now “looking to pinpoint the achilles heel of ecDNA and have identified a protein that helps hold it together”, said Chang, reported the Guardian. He also spoke about how the team has found the drug which has a “promising effect” on the identified protein and in a few years with a lot more testing he is sure that they will find the best way to tackle ecDNA. &nbsp; 
 
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Scientists have discovered the pieces of DNA which are said to act like “Bond villains” in helping cancers spread. The bits of genetic material known as extrachromosomal DNA or ecDNA were found by researchers working on an initiative known as the Cancer Grand Challenges, which is backed by Cancer Research in the United Kingdom and the United States National Cancer Institute.

Scientists have discovered the pieces of DNA which are said to act like “Bond villains” in helping cancers spread. The bits of genetic material known as extrachromosomal DNA or ecDNA were found by researchers working on an initiative known as the Cancer Grand Challenges, which is backed by Cancer Research in the United Kingdom and the United States National Cancer Institute. The team of researchers included chemists, biologists, geneticists, mathematicians, and immunologists based in London and California as well as other centres, reported the Guardian. The scientists also said that this ecDNA can help tumours to develop resistance to anti-cancer drugs, therefore, its discovery can revolutionise treatments of some of the most aggressive tumours affecting people today. Speaking to the Guardian, Professor Paul Mischel of California’s Stanford University, called the discovery of how these microscopic agents behave inside the human body a “game changer.” He added, that they believe that this ecDNA is responsible for a “large number of the more advanced, most serious cancers” that people are suffering from today and if they can “block their activities, we can block the spread of these cancers.” Notably, these small circular pieces of genetic information can enable cancer cells to evolve rapidly and become more resistant to existing cancer treatments. Furthermore, researchers also found that the ecDNA act as cancer-causing genes as they are somehow able to separate themselves from a person’s chromosomes and “have started to behave in ways that circumvent the normal rules of genetics” said Stanford University geneticist Howard Chang, as per the Guardian. He added, “They behave like villains in a Bond film. At first, in a film, you see different explosions, killings and disasters occurring and you don’t know why they are happening or who is responsible. Then, at some point, you finally meet the villain who is revealed to be the agent of all this mayhem.” While these genes, known as oncogenes, can be targeted by a range of drugs and therapies it is their resistance to these methods which allows cancer to return, Professor Mischel explained. Researchers also found that in some of the most aggressive forms of cancer, the oncogenes were “actually on extrachromosomal DNA.” He added, “The vulnerable gene had quickly disappeared when threatened by cancer drugs and was hidden in ecDNA. Then it reappeared once it was safe for it to start causing damage again”. Therefore, the researchers are now “looking to pinpoint the achilles heel of ecDNA and have identified a protein that helps hold it together”, said Chang, reported the Guardian. He also spoke about how the team has found the drug which has a “promising effect” on the identified protein and in a few years with a lot more testing he is sure that they will find the best way to tackle ecDNA. 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.

Scientists discover ‘Bond villain’ DNA, say it is ‘game changer’ for cancer treatment

Researchers have found a new way to kill cancer cells by using artificial DNA which could pave the way for a cure of&nbsp;the disease in future. The existing methods of treating cancer have their limitations, however, scientists believe that RNA and DNA-based drugs could potentially help beat the deadly disease.&nbsp;The findings published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, last week, show that researchers at the University of Tokyo have used the chemically-synthesised, hairpin-shaped, cancer-killing DNA to target and kill human cervical cancer and breast cancer-derived cells. The DNA pairs were also used against malignant melanoma cells in mice.&nbsp;

The team of researchers at the University of Tokyo, led by Assistant Professor Kunihiko Morihiro and Professor Akimitsu Okamoto from the Graduate School of Engineering, indicated that they were inspired to move away from conventional anti-cancer drug treatments by using artificial DNA.&nbsp;

Notably, nucleic acids&nbsp;(namely DNA and RNA) drugs are not typically used for cancer treatment&nbsp;and have been challenging in the past given that it is difficult for them to distinguish between cancer cells and other healthy cells.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/revolutionary-gene-therapy-treats-patients-incurable-cancer-gives-hope-to-others-542264">Revolutionary gene therapy treats patient's incurable cancer, gives hope to others</a>

Therefore, there has been a risk of adversely affecting the patient’s immune system if the healthy cells are accidentally attacked. “We thought that if we can create new drugs that work by a different mechanism of action from that of conventional drugs, they may be effective against cancers that have been untreatable up to now,” said Okamoto.&nbsp;

This led the team of researchers, for the first time, to develop the&nbsp;hairpin-shaped DNA strand which can activate a natural immune response to target and kill specific cancerous cells.&nbsp;

How does it work?

Cancer cells can overexpress, which means creating too many copies of a protein like RNA, DNA or other substance, causing them not to function normally and potentially contributing to cancer development. Therefore, to mitigate this growth as well as prevent it, the team from Tokyo created something called artificial oncolytic which are the aforementioned DNA pairs called oHPs.

The hairpin-shaped DNA was injected into the cancer cell, subsequently, oHPs were triggered to form longer DNA strands when they encountered microRNA called miR-21, which is overproduced in certain cancers, these molecules then began to unravel and joined together creating an immune response. Furthermore, these long chains of DNA not only killed the cancer cells, but they were also able to prevent further growth of the cancerous tissue.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-how-music-can-help-cancer-patients-547161">WION Fineprint: How music can help cancer patients</a>

Typically, oHPs don't form longer strands due to their curved hairpin shape, but in this case, the artificial oHPs were able to overcome this limitation and opened up to combine with target microRNA and form a longer strand. According to the study, this causes the immune system to recognise the presence of the overexpressed miR-21 as dangerous and trigger its innate immune response which results in the death of the cancer cells.&nbsp;

What type of cancers was it effective against?

The study found that the test was effective against overexpressed miR-21 found in human cervical cancer-derived cells, human triple-negative breast cancer-derived cells, and mouse malignant melanoma-derived cells.&nbsp;

What next?

In a statement, Okamoto said that the formation of DNA strands due to interaction between short DNA oHPs and overexpressed miR-21 are the first examples of its use as a “selective immune amplification response which can target tumour regression”. &nbsp;

The researcher also noted how the interaction found by the research team provides, “a new class of nucleic acid drug candidates with a mechanism that is completely different from known nucleic acid drugs.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/uk-couple-battling-cancer-in-pregnancy-gives-birth-to-miracle-baby-545840">UK couple, battling cancer in pregnancy, gives birth to perfectly healthy ‘miracle’ baby</a>

Furthermore, the research is expected to transform the future of medicine through the use of a similar method to treat illnesses caused by viruses and genetic diseases. However, they still have a long way to go before the method can actually be used as a treatment and made available for the general public, but the team is confident about the benefits of nucleic acids for new drug discovery.&nbsp;

“The results of this study are good news for doctors, drug discovery researchers and cancer patients, as we believe it will give them new options for drug development and medication policies. Next, we will aim for drug discovery based on the results of this research, and examine in detail the drug efficacy, toxicity and potential administration methods,” Okamoto noted.&nbsp; 
 
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Researchers have found a new way to kill cancer cells by using artificial DNA which could pave the way for a cure of the disease in future. The existing methods of treating cancer have their limitations, however, scientists believe that RNA and DNA-based drugs could potentially help beat the deadly disease.

Researchers have found a new way to kill cancer cells by using artificial DNA which could pave the way for a cure of the disease in future. The existing methods of treating cancer have their limitations, however, scientists believe that RNA and DNA-based drugs could potentially help beat the deadly disease. The findings published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, last week, show that researchers at the University of Tokyo have used the chemically-synthesised, hairpin-shaped, cancer-killing DNA to target and kill human cervical cancer and breast cancer-derived cells. The DNA pairs were also used against malignant melanoma cells in mice. The team of researchers at the University of Tokyo, led by Assistant Professor Kunihiko Morihiro and Professor Akimitsu Okamoto from the Graduate School of Engineering, indicated that they were inspired to move away from conventional anti-cancer drug treatments by using artificial DNA. Notably, nucleic acids (namely DNA and RNA) drugs are not typically used for cancer treatment and have been challenging in the past given that it is difficult for them to distinguish between cancer cells and other healthy cells. ALSO READ | Revolutionary gene therapy treats patient's incurable cancer, gives hope to others Therefore, there has been a risk of adversely affecting the patient’s immune system if the healthy cells are accidentally attacked. “We thought that if we can create new drugs that work by a different mechanism of action from that of conventional drugs, they may be effective against cancers that have been untreatable up to now,” said Okamoto. This led the team of researchers, for the first time, to develop the hairpin-shaped DNA strand which can activate a natural immune response to target and kill specific cancerous cells. How does it work? Cancer cells can overexpress, which means creating too many copies of a protein like RNA, DNA or other substance, causing them not to function normally and potentially contributing to cancer development. Therefore, to mitigate this growth as well as prevent it, the team from Tokyo created something called artificial oncolytic which are the aforementioned DNA pairs called oHPs. The hairpin-shaped DNA was injected into the cancer cell, subsequently, oHPs were triggered to form longer DNA strands when they encountered microRNA called miR-21, which is overproduced in certain cancers, these molecules then began to unravel and joined together creating an immune response. Furthermore, these long chains of DNA not only killed the cancer cells, but they were also able to prevent further growth of the cancerous tissue. ALSO WATCH | WION Fineprint: How music can help cancer patients Typically, oHPs don't form longer strands due to their curved hairpin shape, but in this case, the artificial oHPs were able to overcome this limitation and opened up to combine with target microRNA and form a longer strand. According to the study, this causes the immune system to recognise the presence of the overexpressed miR-21 as dangerous and trigger its innate immune response which results in the death of the cancer cells. What type of cancers was it effective against? The study found that the test was effective against overexpressed miR-21 found in human cervical cancer-derived cells, human triple-negative breast cancer-derived cells, and mouse malignant melanoma-derived cells. What next? In a statement, Okamoto said that the formation of DNA strands due to interaction between short DNA oHPs and overexpressed miR-21 are the first examples of its use as a “selective immune amplification response which can target tumour regression”. The researcher also noted how the interaction found by the research team provides, “a new class of nucleic acid drug candidates with a mechanism that is completely different from known nucleic acid drugs.” ALSO READ | UK couple, battling cancer in pregnancy, gives birth to perfectly healthy ‘miracle’ baby Furthermore, the research is expected to transform the future of medicine through the use of a similar method to treat illnesses caused by viruses and genetic diseases. However, they still have a long way to go before the method can actually be used as a treatment and made available for the general public, but the team is confident about the benefits of nucleic acids for new drug discovery. “The results of this study are good news for doctors, drug discovery researchers and cancer patients, as we believe it will give them new options for drug development and medication policies. Next, we will aim for drug discovery based on the results of this research, and examine in detail the drug efficacy, toxicity and potential administration methods,” Okamoto noted. 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.

Explained: In a first, scientists use artificial DNA to kill cancer cells: Here’s what you need to know

Scientists in Greenland announced a discovery of DNA dating back two million years -- the oldest ever extracted -- in sediment from the Ice Age, opening a new chapter in paleogenetics.

Scientists discover two million-year-old DNA in Greenland

DNA testing has led Canadian police to solve two murder cases and arrest the suspect after 39 years. The suspect was not caught in 1983 as adequate technology was not available at that time. Advancement in science is being credited for cracking of unsolved cases.

One of the victims was daughter of a founder of Barrick, once the biggest gold mining company in the world.

Erin Gilmour, 22, and Susan Tice, 45, were found stabbed to death four months apart in late 1983 in their respective bedrooms after having been sexually assaulted.

Last week, Joseph George Sutherland, the suspect was taken into custody by the police. He was charged with two counts of first degree murder. Sutherland was nabbed after the police used DNA technology in the investigation.

Gilmour was an aspiring fashion designer and the daughter of David Gilmour, who co-founded Barrick, which was the world's biggest gold mining company before it was overtaken in 2019 by rival Newmont.

Tice was a family therapist and a mother of four.&nbsp;

The police said two women lived just few kilometres apart in Toronto but they did not know each other.

"The only way that this (case) was solved was advances in science," Toronto police detective Steve Smith told a news conference.

He said police in 2000 had linked the two murders through the suspect's DNA left at the scene.

Then recently, he said, "we were able to use investigative genetic genealogy to narrow down a suspect family. And from there we were able to narrow down a suspect."

Notably, Sutherland was not even a 'person of interest' in the killings when the original investigation took place 39 years ago.

On behalf of the victims' families, Erin's brother Sean McCowan shared their relief after 39 years: "Erin and Susan are finally getting their day."

"This is a day that I, and we, have been waiting almost an entire lifetime for," McCowan said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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DNA testing has led Canadian police to solve two murder cases and arrest the suspect after 39 years. The suspect was not caught in 1983 as adequate technology was not available at that time.

DNA testing has led Canadian police to solve two murder cases and arrest the suspect after 39 years. The suspect was not caught in 1983 as adequate technology was not available at that time. Advancement in science is being credited for cracking of unsolved cases. One of the victims was daughter of a founder of Barrick, once the biggest gold mining company in the world. Erin Gilmour, 22, and Susan Tice, 45, were found stabbed to death four months apart in late 1983 in their respective bedrooms after having been sexually assaulted. Last week, Joseph George Sutherland, the suspect was taken into custody by the police. He was charged with two counts of first degree murder. Sutherland was nabbed after the police used DNA technology in the investigation. Gilmour was an aspiring fashion designer and the daughter of David Gilmour, who co-founded Barrick, which was the world's biggest gold mining company before it was overtaken in 2019 by rival Newmont. Tice was a family therapist and a mother of four. The police said two women lived just few kilometres apart in Toronto but they did not know each other. "The only way that this (case) was solved was advances in science," Toronto police detective Steve Smith told a news conference. He said police in 2000 had linked the two murders through the suspect's DNA left at the scene. Then recently, he said, "we were able to use investigative genetic genealogy to narrow down a suspect family. And from there we were able to narrow down a suspect." Notably, Sutherland was not even a 'person of interest' in the killings when the original investigation took place 39 years ago. On behalf of the victims' families, Erin's brother Sean McCowan shared their relief after 39 years: "Erin and Susan are finally getting their day." "This is a day that I, and we, have been waiting almost an entire lifetime for," McCowan said. (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 ×

Canada: Murder cases, unsolved since 1983, cracked using DNA technology

The Balochistan Assembly has passed a resolution to make DNA tests mandatory for the issuance of national ID cards in Pakistan.&nbsp;According to ARY News, the resolution – seeking DNA test mandatory for the issuance of a Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) – was tabled by Parliamentary Secretary Bushra Rand.

The resolution was introduced by Balochistan Awami Party’s during the session presided by acting Speaker Sardar Babar Khan Musakhail.

It was adopted unanimously, with members agreeing that the resolution will help ensure strict security in the country.

The resolution stated that not having a database of DNA with National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) creates difficulties in identifying criminals. It claimed that DNA-based ID cards are essential to track anti-social elements.

MPA Bushra of the Balochistan Awami Party (BAP), who presented the motion during the session, urged the state government to request the federal government to introduce mandatory DNA tests for the CNIC.

<h2>Pakistan eyes to amend 1952 Army Act in a bid to retain officials</h2>

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The house adopted the resolution without any opposition.

The CNIC card is vital to vote, access government benefits including public schools and healthcare, open a bank account or apply for jobs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/dubai-based-businessman-says-toshakhana-gifts-given-to-ex-pm-imran-khan-sold-to-him-534670" hreflang="en">Businessman says Toshakhana gifts given to ex-PM Imran Khan sold to him</a>

Each card has a 13-digit unique ID, containing photograph&nbsp;of the person, their signature, and a microchip that contains their iris scans and fingerprints.

Yet millions in Pakistan are still without a CNIC. According to Trust for Democratic Education and Accountability, a non-profit organization, almost 2.6 million women in the bordering Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province do not have National ID cards.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-taliban-clash-after-afghan-kills-guard-at-border-crossing-closed-for-trade-534366" hreflang="en">Pakistan, Taliban clash after Afghan trader kills guard at border</a>

The situation is the same in other provinces and highlights how women are being deprived of equal identification in public life, reports to Daily Times newspaper.

In 2020, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) conducted a worrisome survey about the status of women.&nbsp;It highlighted the prevalent gender disparity and sociocultural norms that place restrictions on women due to which they do not possess or are unable to possess national ID cards.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Balochistan Assembly has passed a resolution to make DNA tests mandatory for the issuance of national ID cards in Pakistan. According to ARY News, the resolution – seeking DNA test mandatory for the issuance of a Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) – was tabled by Parliamentary Secretary Bushra Rand.

The Balochistan Assembly has passed a resolution to make DNA tests mandatory for the issuance of national ID cards in Pakistan. According to ARY News, the resolution – seeking DNA test mandatory for the issuance of a Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) – was tabled by Parliamentary Secretary Bushra Rand. The resolution was introduced by Balochistan Awami Party’s during the session presided by acting Speaker Sardar Babar Khan Musakhail. It was adopted unanimously, with members agreeing that the resolution will help ensure strict security in the country. The resolution stated that not having a database of DNA with National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) creates difficulties in identifying criminals. It claimed that DNA-based ID cards are essential to track anti-social elements. MPA Bushra of the Balochistan Awami Party (BAP), who presented the motion during the session, urged the state government to request the federal government to introduce mandatory DNA tests for the CNIC. Pakistan eyes to amend 1952 Army Act in a bid to retain officials The house adopted the resolution without any opposition. The CNIC card is vital to vote, access government benefits including public schools and healthcare, open a bank account or apply for jobs. Also read | Businessman says Toshakhana gifts given to ex-PM Imran Khan sold to him Each card has a 13-digit unique ID, containing photograph of the person, their signature, and a microchip that contains their iris scans and fingerprints. Yet millions in Pakistan are still without a CNIC. According to Trust for Democratic Education and Accountability, a non-profit organization, almost 2.6 million women in the bordering Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province do not have National ID cards. Also read | Pakistan, Taliban clash after Afghan trader kills guard at border The situation is the same in other provinces and highlights how women are being deprived of equal identification in public life, reports to Daily Times newspaper. In 2020, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) conducted a worrisome survey about the status of women. It highlighted the prevalent gender disparity and sociocultural norms that place restrictions on women due to which they do not possess or are unable to possess national ID cards. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pakistan: Balochistan Assembly passes resolution to make DNA test mandatory for national ID cards

A more than 40-year-old murder cold case could be solved after the authorities collected the DNA sample from under the fingernails of the murdered woman. The straight-out-of-a-fictional-book plot has transpired in reality in Las Vegas, USA where Sandra DiFelice, 25, was brutally raped and murdered on December 26, 1980.

A more than 40-year-old murder cold case could be solved after the authorities collected the DNA sample from under the fingernails of the murdered woman. The straight-out-of-a-fictional-book plot has transpired in reality in Las Vegas, USA where Sandra DiFelice, 25, was brutally raped and murdered on December 26, 1980. Reportedly, after officers at Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department took another look at the case, they decided to use modern technology to test the DNA collected from under the fingernails of murdered DiFelice. Consequently, earlier this week on Monday, the police announced that they had arrested Paul Nuttall, 64 on suspicion that he was responsible for the rape and murder of the woman. “After Paul Nuttall was taken into custody, my cold case investigators had the pleasure of making the one phone call that every cold case detective wants to make,” said Las Vegas Police Lt Jason Johansson in a press conference. “I am hopeful that in some way, shape or form this provides some sort of closure for the family,” added Johansson. Read more: 50 years on, FBI identifies 'Lady of the Dunes' murder victim using DNA analysis Notably, DiFelice, a new mother was found dead in a bed by her boyfriend after moving to Vegas from Boise with a childhood friend. DiFelice's daughter, who was only three at the time was at her grandparent's home when the murder took place. In February last year, she called cold case detectives at the department and asked for an update in the case. As reported by WION, earlier this week as well, it was DNA testing that helped a wrongfully convicted man receive true justice. WATCH | 1999 Baltimore murder case: Charges dropped against Adnan Syed × Maurice Hastings, 69, was released from a California prison having spent 38 years for a 1983 murder and two attempted murders, which, he, in fact, never committed. In 2000, he requested DNA testing of the material that was gathered by the coroner of the body of the murdered woman. The DA, however, refused his request. It was only last year that DA’s Conviction Integrity Unit tested the material and found that the semen on the murdered woman was not Hastings'. Read more: USA: Man wrongly incarcerated for 38 years released after DNA test (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

DNA fingernail testing leads to arrest of a suspect, 42 years after the murder

With the help of DNA analysis, historical records and genealogy research, the FBI has identified the alleged "Lady of the Dunes", nearly 50 years after her dismembered body was discovered on a Massachusetts beach.

The victim was Ruth Marie Terry, a 37-year-old native of Tennessee, killed in a 1974 crime that was never solved, the FBI announced Monday at a press conference outside Boston.

"Ruth was a daughter, sister, aunt, wife, and mother," FBI special agent Joe Bonavolonta told reporters, urging anyone with information about what he called an "infamous cold case" to come forward.

A new notice from the FBI asking for information regarding Terry's murder featured four images of the now-known victim.

"While we have identified Ruth as the victim of this horrific murder, it does not ease the pain for her family -- nothing can -- but hopefully it answers some questions while we continue to look for her killer," Bonavolonta said.

Since the murder in 1974, detectives have pursued leads ineffectively. They never knew who the victim was, despite having a number of suspects.&nbsp;

On July 26, 1974, Terry's body was discovered on a Cape Cod beach in Provincetown, Massachusetts.&nbsp;

She was likely struck in the head and killed several weeks prior. Bonavolonta revealed that her hands had been severed, perhaps to make her harder to recognise.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/movement-of-ships-in-black-sea-corridor-is-unacceptable-says-russia-530051">Movement of ships in Black Sea corridor is 'unacceptable', says Russia</a>

"And her head was nearly severed from her body," he added.

The body was not accompanied by any weapons.&nbsp;

The FBI reported that despite decades of work, including the analysis of thousands of reports of missing individuals, interrogation of locals, and attempts to reconstruct the victim's face using clay models, officials were unable to identify the victim.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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With the help of DNA analysis, historical records and genealogy research, the FBI has identified the alleged "Lady of the Dunes", nearly 50 years after her dismembered body was discovered on a Massachusetts beach.

With the help of DNA analysis, historical records and genealogy research, the FBI has identified the alleged "Lady of the Dunes", nearly 50 years after her dismembered body was discovered on a Massachusetts beach. The victim was Ruth Marie Terry, a 37-year-old native of Tennessee, killed in a 1974 crime that was never solved, the FBI announced Monday at a press conference outside Boston. "Ruth was a daughter, sister, aunt, wife, and mother," FBI special agent Joe Bonavolonta told reporters, urging anyone with information about what he called an "infamous cold case" to come forward. A new notice from the FBI asking for information regarding Terry's murder featured four images of the now-known victim. "While we have identified Ruth as the victim of this horrific murder, it does not ease the pain for her family -- nothing can -- but hopefully it answers some questions while we continue to look for her killer," Bonavolonta said. Since the murder in 1974, detectives have pursued leads ineffectively. They never knew who the victim was, despite having a number of suspects. On July 26, 1974, Terry's body was discovered on a Cape Cod beach in Provincetown, Massachusetts. She was likely struck in the head and killed several weeks prior. Bonavolonta revealed that her hands had been severed, perhaps to make her harder to recognise. Also Read: Movement of ships in Black Sea corridor is 'unacceptable', says Russia "And her head was nearly severed from her body," he added. The body was not accompanied by any weapons. The FBI reported that despite decades of work, including the analysis of thousands of reports of missing individuals, interrogation of locals, and attempts to reconstruct the victim's face using clay models, officials were unable to identify the victim. (with inputs from agencies)

50 years on, FBI identifies 'Lady of the Dunes' murder victim using DNA analysis

The largest genetic study of Neanderthals ever has given us unique insight into a Neanderthal family that included a father and his teenage daughter. Both lived in a cave in Siberia 54,00 years ago. The new study has been published in the journal Nature. The study has used DNA sequencing to look at social life of Neanderthal community. The study found that women were more likely to stray from the cave than men.

Previous archaeological excavations have shown that Neanderthals were more sophisticated than once thought, burying their dead and making elaborate tools and ornaments.&nbsp;

However little is known about their family structure or how their society was organised.

The sequencing of the first Neanderthal genome in 2010, which won Swedish paleogeneticist Svante Paabo the medicine Nobel prize earlier this month, offered a new way to discover more about our long extinct forerunners.

An international team of researchers put focus on multiple Neanderthal remains found in the Chagyrskaya and Okladnikov caves in southern Siberia.&nbsp; 
The scattered fragments of bones were mostly in a single layer in the earth, suggesting the Neanderthals lived around the same time.

"First we had to identify how many individuals we had," Stephane Peyregne, an evolutionary geneticist at Germany's Max Planck Institute and one of the study's co-authors, told AFP.

The team used new techniques to extract and isolate the ancient DNA from the remains.

By DNA sequencing, the researchers established that there were 13 Neanderthals, seven males and six females. It was found that five members of the group were children or early adolescents.

"Our study provides a concrete picture of what a Neandertal community may have looked like," Max Planck's Benjamin Peter, who supervised the research along with Paabo, said in a statement.

"It makes Neandertals seem much more human to me," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The largest genetic study of Neanderthals ever has given us unique insight into a Neanderthal family that included a father and his teenage daughter. Both lived in a cave in Siberia 54,00 years ago.

The largest genetic study of Neanderthals ever has given us unique insight into a Neanderthal family that included a father and his teenage daughter. Both lived in a cave in Siberia 54,00 years ago. The new study has been published in the journal Nature. The study has used DNA sequencing to look at social life of Neanderthal community. The study found that women were more likely to stray from the cave than men. Previous archaeological excavations have shown that Neanderthals were more sophisticated than once thought, burying their dead and making elaborate tools and ornaments. However little is known about their family structure or how their society was organised. The sequencing of the first Neanderthal genome in 2010, which won Swedish paleogeneticist Svante Paabo the medicine Nobel prize earlier this month, offered a new way to discover more about our long extinct forerunners. An international team of researchers put focus on multiple Neanderthal remains found in the Chagyrskaya and Okladnikov caves in southern Siberia. The scattered fragments of bones were mostly in a single layer in the earth, suggesting the Neanderthals lived around the same time. "First we had to identify how many individuals we had," Stephane Peyregne, an evolutionary geneticist at Germany's Max Planck Institute and one of the study's co-authors, told AFP. The team used new techniques to extract and isolate the ancient DNA from the remains. By DNA sequencing, the researchers established that there were 13 Neanderthals, seven males and six females. It was found that five members of the group were children or early adolescents. "Our study provides a concrete picture of what a Neandertal community may have looked like," Max Planck's Benjamin Peter, who supervised the research along with Paabo, said in a statement. "It makes Neandertals seem much more human to me," he added. (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 ×

DNA study reveals unprecedented snap-shot of Neanderthal family

Detectives from the Vermont State Police were able to make an arrest in the 1989 slaying of a Danby couple who were discovered stabbed to death in their home, thanks to a drop of blood that was exposed to cutting-edge DNA testing, according to police.

According to authorities, Michael Anthony Louise, 79, was detained on Thursday in Syracuse, New York, on two counts of second-degree murder in the deaths of George Peacock, 76, and Catherine Peacock, 73.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-indian-student-stabbed-repeatedly-in-sydney-one-arrested-525381">Australia: Indian student stabbed repeatedly in Sydney; one arrested</a> 
 
The Peacocks were discovered dead on September 17, 1989. There were no indications that the home had been broken into forcibly or that anything of value had been taken.

About two weeks later, Louise, who was married&nbsp;to one of the Peacocks' daughters, was named as a suspect. Circumstantial evidence was gathered at the time by investigators linking Louise to the murders, according to the police.

Until forensic tests in May 2020 established a DNA match to George Peacock in a spot of blood found inside Louise's car in October 1989, detectives were unable to make a solid connection.&nbsp; 
 
The blood sample had previously undergone <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-fires-ballistic-missile-from-ins-arihant-indias-first-home-made-nuclear-submarine-525573">testing</a>, but the results were inconclusive, according to the release. Advances in forensic technology over the past decades allowed investigators to match the blood to George, police said.

Authorities could not provide an explanation for why it took two years to make an arrest after a DNA match, but they did state that more details would be provided after Louise is arraigned.

If Louise has a lawyer, it was not immediately known. When he will be brought back to Vermont to answer the charges is also not yet known.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Detectives from the Vermont State Police were able to make an arrest in the 1989 slaying of a Danby couple who were discovered stabbed to death in their home, thanks to a drop of blood that was exposed to cutting-edge DNA testing, according to police.

Detectives from the Vermont State Police were able to make an arrest in the 1989 slaying of a Danby couple who were discovered stabbed to death in their home, thanks to a drop of blood that was exposed to cutting-edge DNA testing, according to police. According to authorities, Michael Anthony Louise, 79, was detained on Thursday in Syracuse, New York, on two counts of second-degree murder in the deaths of George Peacock, 76, and Catherine Peacock, 73. Also read | Australia: Indian student stabbed repeatedly in Sydney; one arrested The Peacocks were discovered dead on September 17, 1989. There were no indications that the home had been broken into forcibly or that anything of value had been taken. About two weeks later, Louise, who was married to one of the Peacocks' daughters, was named as a suspect. Circumstantial evidence was gathered at the time by investigators linking Louise to the murders, according to the police. Until forensic tests in May 2020 established a DNA match to George Peacock in a spot of blood found inside Louise's car in October 1989, detectives were unable to make a solid connection. The blood sample had previously undergone testing, but the results were inconclusive, according to the release. Advances in forensic technology over the past decades allowed investigators to match the blood to George, police said. Authorities could not provide an explanation for why it took two years to make an arrest after a DNA match, but they did state that more details would be provided after Louise is arraigned. If Louise has a lawyer, it was not immediately known. When he will be brought back to Vermont to answer the charges is also not yet known. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

How a 30-year-old drop of blood led to an arrest in the unsolved Vermont murder case?

Swedish geneticist Svante Paabo won the 2022 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. Paabo was honored for the work that created a new field of ancient DNA studies.

Svante Paabo wins Nobel medicine prize for decoding ancient DNA

Chinese officials in Tibet have launched a campaign to collect blood and DNA samples. Even children as young as five are not being spared. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Chinese officials are collecting DNA samples of Tibetans

It might come as a shock that doppelgängers do not only have similar faces, but their genetics may also be similar.&nbsp;

New research published on Tuesday (August 23) sheds light upon those with striking resemblances. It says they might share many genetic variants, beyond those that shape the appearance of the face and body.&nbsp;

As per the research, the lookalikes may even have similarities in other general aspects of their life and personality traits.&nbsp;

A paper titled "Look-alike humans identified by facial recognition algorithms show genetic similarities" is published in the journal Cell Reports. It mentions that doppelgängers tend to share some of the same genetic variants associated with both physical and behavioural or lifestyle traits.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/dangling-upside-down-some-spiders-may-sleep-and-dream-like-humans-study-suggests-508739">Dangling upside down, some spiders may sleep and dream like humans: Study</a>&nbsp;

A team of researchers characterised in detail a set of "look-alike" humans, who are defined by facial recognition algorithms, for their multi-omics landscape.&nbsp;

And after the analysis, they can report that these individuals share similar genotypes and differ in their DNA methylation and microbiome landscape.&nbsp;

Manel Esteller, a researcher from the Josep Carreras Leukemia Research Institute in Barcelona, Spain and his colleagues explored their interest to understand the other similarities these pairs might share.&nbsp;

To conduct the research, the team used images of 32 sets of doubles from Canadian artist François Brunelle, who has reportedly been documenting doppelgangers for years. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/dugongs-functional-extinction-in-china-due-to-habitat-destruction-a-wakeup-call-to-prioritise-efforts-509745">Dugong’s functional extinction in China due to habitat destruction, ‘a wakeup call’ to prioritise efforts</a>&nbsp;

The genes were then compared by the team. They also compared the behaviours of unrelated twins around the world.&nbsp;

Their images ran through facial recognition software in order to analyse the similarities between each pair.&nbsp;

Out of the total, 16 couples showed uncanny resemblance to each other, so much that they looked like real-life identical twins.&nbsp;

After that, the researcher tested the pairs with similarities using sophisticated DNA tests and lifestyle surveys. They yearned to find similarities other than their appearance. &nbsp;

"These results not only provide insights about the genetics that determine our face but also might have implications for the establishment of other human anthropometric properties and even personality characteristics," a part of the study read.&nbsp;

Esteller said: "This unique set of samples has allowed us to study how genomics, epigenomics, and microbiomics can contribute to human resemblance."&nbsp;

In an email to Gizmodo, Esteller said, "The results were that these lookalike humans had similar genetic sequences and are therefore like virtual twins, while their epigenetic and microorganism flora profiles differentiate them."&nbsp;

Gravitas: Breathtaking photos of Jupiter as captured by James Webb telescope

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The study mentioned that the doppelgangers were more likely to have similar levels of education, height, weight and even smoking history.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

For 100% accuracy in the results, the researchers also made sure that they check whether or not the doppelgangers were closely related.&nbsp;

The study noted that they might share the same origin, country or ethnic background but they were apparently not related. The team found that only one pair might have had a common ancestor but that too in the last several hundred years.&nbsp;

Esteller said, "We think that the generation of some genetic similarities between these couples occurred by random chance. There are so many people on the planet that the system is repeating itself—the combinations of the genome are no longer infinite."&nbsp;

He added, “Thus, nature is very strong, but nurture tunes up the genome a little bit."&nbsp;

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

It might come as a shock that doppelgängers do not only have similar faces, but their genetics may also be similar. New research published on Tuesday (August 23) sheds light upon those with striking resemblances.

It might come as a shock that doppelgängers do not only have similar faces, but their genetics may also be similar. New research published on Tuesday (August 23) sheds light upon those with striking resemblances. It says they might share many genetic variants, beyond those that shape the appearance of the face and body. As per the research, the lookalikes may even have similarities in other general aspects of their life and personality traits. A paper titled "Look-alike humans identified by facial recognition algorithms show genetic similarities" is published in the journal Cell Reports. It mentions that doppelgängers tend to share some of the same genetic variants associated with both physical and behavioural or lifestyle traits. ALSO READ | Dangling upside down, some spiders may sleep and dream like humans: Study A team of researchers characterised in detail a set of "look-alike" humans, who are defined by facial recognition algorithms, for their multi-omics landscape. And after the analysis, they can report that these individuals share similar genotypes and differ in their DNA methylation and microbiome landscape. Manel Esteller, a researcher from the Josep Carreras Leukemia Research Institute in Barcelona, Spain and his colleagues explored their interest to understand the other similarities these pairs might share. To conduct the research, the team used images of 32 sets of doubles from Canadian artist François Brunelle, who has reportedly been documenting doppelgangers for years. ALSO READ | Dugong’s functional extinction in China due to habitat destruction, ‘a wakeup call’ to prioritise efforts The genes were then compared by the team. They also compared the behaviours of unrelated twins around the world. Their images ran through facial recognition software in order to analyse the similarities between each pair. Out of the total, 16 couples showed uncanny resemblance to each other, so much that they looked like real-life identical twins. After that, the researcher tested the pairs with similarities using sophisticated DNA tests and lifestyle surveys. They yearned to find similarities other than their appearance. "These results not only provide insights about the genetics that determine our face but also might have implications for the establishment of other human anthropometric properties and even personality characteristics," a part of the study read. Esteller said: "This unique set of samples has allowed us to study how genomics, epigenomics, and microbiomics can contribute to human resemblance." In an email to Gizmodo, Esteller said, "The results were that these lookalike humans had similar genetic sequences and are therefore like virtual twins, while their epigenetic and microorganism flora profiles differentiate them." Gravitas: Breathtaking photos of Jupiter as captured by James Webb telescope × The study mentioned that the doppelgangers were more likely to have similar levels of education, height, weight and even smoking history. For 100% accuracy in the results, the researchers also made sure that they check whether or not the doppelgangers were closely related. The study noted that they might share the same origin, country or ethnic background but they were apparently not related. The team found that only one pair might have had a common ancestor but that too in the last several hundred years. Esteller said, "We think that the generation of some genetic similarities between these couples occurred by random chance. There are so many people on the planet that the system is repeating itself—the combinations of the genome are no longer infinite." He added, “Thus, nature is very strong, but nurture tunes up the genome a little bit." 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.

Just not the face, some doppelgängers might have same DNA also: Study

A U.S. House Intelligence Committee member cautioned that bioweapons using a target's DNA to kill only that individual are being created. US Representative Jason Crow of Colorado spoke on Friday at the Aspen Security Forum and cautioned Americans not to be too careless about sharing their DNA with private firms due to the impending arrival of the new type of weapon. "You can target a biological weapon that will kill that person or take them off the battlefield or make them inoperable," Crow said. "You can take someone's DNA, you know, take their medical profile," he added.

Given the prevalence of DNA testing services, where customers voluntarily share their genetic mapping with companies to learn more about their ancestry and health, the congressman said it is concerning that these weapons are being developed. Although 23andMe has maintained time and time again that it does not sell its customers' private information, it is one of many DNA companies that have done so when asked by the police.&nbsp;

As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, US Senator Joni Ernst of Iowa claimed that the US's adversaries may deploy such DNA bioweapons to attack food supply on a large scale. Ernst forewarned that specific animals relied upon by civilians, armies, or towns could be the target of biological weapons, resulting in scarcity and food poverty and weakening populations.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-claims-that-united-states-engaged-in-biological-warfare-in-ukraine-500254">North Korea claims that United States engaged in biological warfare in Ukraine</a>

The Washington Examiner published an article earlier this week detailing how simple it would be to create bioweapons similar to those promoted by Crow using privately owned datasets. The article described how a target's DNA, or the DNA of a target's close relative, might be taken and utilised to create a biological weapon that could only be used against that specific person. Technology like that could enable extremely targeted assassination programmes while simultaneously making it much more difficult to find murderers. By creating weapons that specifically target a certain type of farm animal or produce, similar technology may be used against US agriculture. That might cause starvation and bring down the US in the face of hostile actions from a rival like Russia or China.

(with inputs from agencies)

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A U.S. House Intelligence Committee member cautioned that bioweapons using a target's DNA to kill only that individual are being created. US Representative Jason Crow of Colorado spoke on Friday at the Aspen Security Forum and cautioned Americans not to be too careless about sharing their DNA with private firms due to the impending arrival of the new type of weapon.

A U.S. House Intelligence Committee member cautioned that bioweapons using a target's DNA to kill only that individual are being created. US Representative Jason Crow of Colorado spoke on Friday at the Aspen Security Forum and cautioned Americans not to be too careless about sharing their DNA with private firms due to the impending arrival of the new type of weapon. "You can target a biological weapon that will kill that person or take them off the battlefield or make them inoperable," Crow said. "You can take someone's DNA, you know, take their medical profile," he added. Given the prevalence of DNA testing services, where customers voluntarily share their genetic mapping with companies to learn more about their ancestry and health, the congressman said it is concerning that these weapons are being developed. Although 23andMe has maintained time and time again that it does not sell its customers' private information, it is one of many DNA companies that have done so when asked by the police. As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, US Senator Joni Ernst of Iowa claimed that the US's adversaries may deploy such DNA bioweapons to attack food supply on a large scale. Ernst forewarned that specific animals relied upon by civilians, armies, or towns could be the target of biological weapons, resulting in scarcity and food poverty and weakening populations. Also Read: North Korea claims that United States engaged in biological warfare in Ukraine The Washington Examiner published an article earlier this week detailing how simple it would be to create bioweapons similar to those promoted by Crow using privately owned datasets. The article described how a target's DNA, or the DNA of a target's close relative, might be taken and utilised to create a biological weapon that could only be used against that specific person. Technology like that could enable extremely targeted assassination programmes while simultaneously making it much more difficult to find murderers. By creating weapons that specifically target a certain type of farm animal or produce, similar technology may be used against US agriculture. That might cause starvation and bring down the US in the face of hostile actions from a rival like Russia or China. (with inputs from agencies)

Ever heard about bio-weapons that use DNA to kill specific person? They are reality now

We are literally made of star stuff. Each atom and element in our bodies was forged in huge processes that make stars in the cosmos. We know this for sure. But there are still many opinions about the origin of life on Earth. Some scientists say that it originated on Earth, while others say that life was ‘brought’ to Earth by celestial bodies like meteorites and comets.

Now, a study has put forth an interesting argument that DNA, the very building blocks of life, originated in outer space. The study has been published in the journal Nature Communications. The researchers have found presence of nucleobases, compounds that form the DNA, in meteorites.

The researchers examined material from three meteorites. One of them fell to Earth in the year 1950. It fell near the town of Murray in Kentucky, USA. The second meteorite they studied fell in 1969 near Murchison in Australia’s Victoria State. The third one fell in 2000 in Canada’s British Columbia province.

“There is still much to learn about the chemical steps that led to the origin of life on Earth — the first self-replicating system. This research certainly adds to the list of chemical compounds that would have been present in the early Earth’s prebiotic (existing before the emergence of life) soup,” Danny Glavin of NASA’s Goddard Space Flight and co-author of the study told Reuters.

The findings in this study have&nbsp;reinforced the argument that life’s building blocks are extra-terrestrial in origin.

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We are literally made of star stuff. Each atom and element in our bodies was forged in huge processes that make stars in the cosmos. We know this for sure. But there are still many opinions about the origin of life on Earth.

We are literally made of star stuff. Each atom and element in our bodies was forged in huge processes that make stars in the cosmos. We know this for sure. But there are still many opinions about the origin of life on Earth. Some scientists say that it originated on Earth, while others say that life was ‘brought’ to Earth by celestial bodies like meteorites and comets. Now, a study has put forth an interesting argument that DNA, the very building blocks of life, originated in outer space. The study has been published in the journal Nature Communications. The researchers have found presence of nucleobases, compounds that form the DNA, in meteorites. The researchers examined material from three meteorites. One of them fell to Earth in the year 1950. It fell near the town of Murray in Kentucky, USA. The second meteorite they studied fell in 1969 near Murchison in Australia’s Victoria State. The third one fell in 2000 in Canada’s British Columbia province. “There is still much to learn about the chemical steps that led to the origin of life on Earth — the first self-replicating system. This research certainly adds to the list of chemical compounds that would have been present in the early Earth’s prebiotic (existing before the emergence of life) soup,” Danny Glavin of NASA’s Goddard Space Flight and co-author of the study told Reuters. The findings in this study have reinforced the argument that life’s building blocks are extra-terrestrial in origin. 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 ×

Our DNA came from space, says a scientific study

The Black Death was one of history's bloodiest pandemics, but its cause has long been a mystery. The bacteria that started it all could now be discovered in three graves in modern-day Kyrgyzstan, in Central Asia.The Kyrgyzstan grave pathogens appear to be the most recent common ancestor of the other groups when a genomic family tree of plague germs from ancient graves and those infecting people and animals now is set up.&nbsp;

According to Johannes Krause of the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig, Germany, "They are the strains that gave rise to the bulk of the strains that are circulating throughout the world today." "It's like the pandemic exploded in a tremendous explosion."

Excavations of a pair of 14th-century graveyards near the Issyk-Kul lake in Kyrgyzstan uncovered a high number of tombs inscribed with the dates 1338 and 1339 – several years before the siege in Crimea – according to Krause's colleague Philip Slavin of the University of Stirling in the United Kingdom. The reason of death for several of them was "pestilence."

"If you have one or two years of increased mortality, it suggests something strange happened," Slavin explains.

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Krause and his team were able to retrieve DNA from three of the burials' human bones from the bacteria that causes plague, Yersinia pestis. They were able to create a family tree by sequencing this DNA and comparing it to other historical and present samples of plague bacterium DNA.

In several regions, the bacteria Yersinia pestis infects a variety of rodents. However, plague bacteria found in marmosets in the same Kyrgyzstan location are genetically the most similar to the old samples from the graves.

According to Krause, this shows that the epidemic may have spread from animals to humans in this area.

The disease, which is carried by rats and their fleas, is thought to have arrived at Messina, Sicily, in 1347 on trade ships arriving from the Black Sea. Bubonic plague causes swollen lymph nodes with blood and pus pouring out, with the illness spreading to the blood and lungs. It was untreatable at the time but is now curable with medications.

While the authors admit that the bacterium may possibly have originated elsewhere and moved to Central Asia without dramatically mutating, the evidence indicates that this was unlikely. 
&nbsp;

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The Black Death was one of history's bloodiest pandemics, but its cause has long been a mystery. The bacteria that started it all could now be discovered in three graves in modern-day Kyrgyzstan, in Central Asia.

The Black Death was one of history's bloodiest pandemics, but its cause has long been a mystery. The bacteria that started it all could now be discovered in three graves in modern-day Kyrgyzstan, in Central Asia.The Kyrgyzstan grave pathogens appear to be the most recent common ancestor of the other groups when a genomic family tree of plague germs from ancient graves and those infecting people and animals now is set up. According to Johannes Krause of the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig, Germany, "They are the strains that gave rise to the bulk of the strains that are circulating throughout the world today." "It's like the pandemic exploded in a tremendous explosion." Excavations of a pair of 14th-century graveyards near the Issyk-Kul lake in Kyrgyzstan uncovered a high number of tombs inscribed with the dates 1338 and 1339 – several years before the siege in Crimea – according to Krause's colleague Philip Slavin of the University of Stirling in the United Kingdom. The reason of death for several of them was "pestilence." "If you have one or two years of increased mortality, it suggests something strange happened," Slavin explains. Over the course of eight years, the Black Death killed up to 60% of the western Eurasian population, having a huge influence on the region's demography and socio-economic elements. Despite much research, the geographical origins of the second plague pandemic are unknown. × Krause and his team were able to retrieve DNA from three of the burials' human bones from the bacteria that causes plague, Yersinia pestis. They were able to create a family tree by sequencing this DNA and comparing it to other historical and present samples of plague bacterium DNA. In several regions, the bacteria Yersinia pestis infects a variety of rodents. However, plague bacteria found in marmosets in the same Kyrgyzstan location are genetically the most similar to the old samples from the graves. According to Krause, this shows that the epidemic may have spread from animals to humans in this area. The disease, which is carried by rats and their fleas, is thought to have arrived at Messina, Sicily, in 1347 on trade ships arriving from the Black Sea. Bubonic plague causes swollen lymph nodes with blood and pus pouring out, with the illness spreading to the blood and lungs. It was untreatable at the time but is now curable with medications. While the authors admit that the bacterium may possibly have originated elsewhere and moved to Central Asia without dramatically mutating, the evidence indicates that this was unlikely. 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.

'Black death' that killed over 20 million: Researchers find origins of largest pandemic

Research suggests that about one in 500 men could be carrying an extra sex chromosome as previously thought, putting them at greater risk of diseases such as type 2 diabetes, atherosclerosis and thrombosis.

The study further states that men who had an extra X or Y chromosome are less likely to be aware of their affliction.

In the study, published in Genetics in Medicine, the researchers analysed genetic data collected on over 200,000 UK men aged between 40 and 70 from UK Biobank, a biomedical database and research resource containing anonymised genetic, lifestyle and health information from half a million UK participants.

The researchers at the University of Exeter&nbsp;examined DNA from 207,067 men of European ancestry aged from 40 to 70 years old. They identified 231 men with an extra X chromosome and 143 men with an extra Y chromosome.&nbsp;

Sex chromosomes determine our biological sex. Men typically have one X and one Y chromosome. while women have two Xs. However, the study found out that some men also carry an extra X or Y chromosome —XXY or XYY—putting them at increased risk of health issues ranging from type 2 diabetes, blocked blood vessels and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)—a lung condition.

Yajie Zhao, a PhD student at the Medical Research Council (MRC) Epidemiology Unit at the University of Cambridge, the study's first author, said in a statement, "Even though a significant number of men carry an extra sex chromosome, very few of them are likely to be aware of this. This extra chromosome means that they have substantially higher risks of a number of common metabolic, vascular, and respiratory diseases -- diseases that may be preventable”

Previous studies have found that around one in 1,000 females has an additional X chromosome, which can result in delayed language development and accelerated growth until puberty, as well as lower IQ levels compared to their peers.

"We'd need more research to assess whether there is additional value in wider screening for unusual chromosomes in the general population, but this could potentially lead to early interventions to help them avoid the related diseases,” Professor Ken Ong, also from the MRC Epidemiology Unit at Cambridge and joint senior author,&nbsp;said in a statement.

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Research suggests that about one in 500 men could be carrying an extra sex chromosome as previously thought, putting them at greater risk of diseases such as type 2 diabetes, atherosclerosis and thrombosis.

Research suggests that about one in 500 men could be carrying an extra sex chromosome as previously thought, putting them at greater risk of diseases such as type 2 diabetes, atherosclerosis and thrombosis. The study further states that men who had an extra X or Y chromosome are less likely to be aware of their affliction. In the study, published in Genetics in Medicine, the researchers analysed genetic data collected on over 200,000 UK men aged between 40 and 70 from UK Biobank, a biomedical database and research resource containing anonymised genetic, lifestyle and health information from half a million UK participants. The researchers at the University of Exeter examined DNA from 207,067 men of European ancestry aged from 40 to 70 years old. They identified 231 men with an extra X chromosome and 143 men with an extra Y chromosome. Sex chromosomes determine our biological sex. Men typically have one X and one Y chromosome. while women have two Xs. However, the study found out that some men also carry an extra X or Y chromosome —XXY or XYY—putting them at increased risk of health issues ranging from type 2 diabetes, blocked blood vessels and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)—a lung condition. Yajie Zhao, a PhD student at the Medical Research Council (MRC) Epidemiology Unit at the University of Cambridge, the study's first author, said in a statement, "Even though a significant number of men carry an extra sex chromosome, very few of them are likely to be aware of this. This extra chromosome means that they have substantially higher risks of a number of common metabolic, vascular, and respiratory diseases -- diseases that may be preventable” Previous studies have found that around one in 1,000 females has an additional X chromosome, which can result in delayed language development and accelerated growth until puberty, as well as lower IQ levels compared to their peers. "We'd need more research to assess whether there is additional value in wider screening for unusual chromosomes in the general population, but this could potentially lead to early interventions to help them avoid the related diseases,” Professor Ken Ong, also from the MRC Epidemiology Unit at Cambridge and joint senior author, said in a statement. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

1 in 500 men carry extra sex chromosome, putting them at great risk for diseases: Study

Scientists claimed to have discovered the exact reason how dogs became man’s best friend—the answer lies in the genes.

It has historically been argued that the domestication of dogs was an evolutionary process that started with the wolves about 33,000 years ago somewhere in Southeast Asia.

But a study suggests that dogs have a special gene that lowers their stress, making them more relaxed around people. The research says that this enabled a special relationship to develop between a man and a dog.

The Japanese researchers said that dogs carry two mutations of a gene known as MC2R (melanocortin 2 receptor), Newsweek reported.

This gene produces the hormone cortisol, nature's built-in alarm system which is released during fear or anxiety.

Co-author of the&nbsp;study, Professor Miho Nagasawa of Azabu University, was quoted as saying, "These findings imply MC2R played a role in the domestication of dogs, perhaps by promoting lower levels of stress around humans."

Nagasawa and colleagues investigated the interactions of 624 domestic dogs using two tasks.

In the first, the dog had to decide which bowl had food hidden under it based on cues, such as gazing, pointing and tapping. This experiment tested the animal’s understanding of human gestures and communication.

While the second looked at the social attachment to humans.

The dogs were given a problem-solving test, which involved them attempting to open a container in order to access food. The main of the study was to measure how often and long the dog spent looking at the researchers.

The dogs were separated into two groups depending on their breed – the ancient group (consisting of breeds considered genetically closer to wolves such as the Akita and Siberian Husky) and the general group (all other breeds which are more genetically distant from wolves).

The study found out that the dogs in the ancient group looked at the researchers less often than other dogs during the problem-solving task, suggesting that they were less attached to humans.

The researchers found there were no significant differences between the breeds in the first task.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/now-india-can-safeguard-animals-against-covid-with-its-own-jab-anocovax-read-details-here-486836" hreflang="en">Now, India can safeguard animals against Covid with its own jab, Anocovax. Read details here</a>

They then looked for differences in genes associated with human-related cognitive abilities between the groups.

According to the findings, two changes to the melanocortin 2 receptor (MC2R) gene were associated with both correctly interpreting gestures in the first task and gazing at the scientists more often in the problem-solving task.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/giant-tortoise-believed-to-gone-extinct-century-ago-found-alive-on-galapagos-islands-486788" hreflang="en">Giant tortoise believed to be extinct 100 yrs ago found on Galapagos Islands</a>

The researchers say this suggests the gene may have played a role in the domestication of dogs, perhaps by promoting lower levels of stress around humans.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Scientists claimed to have discovered the exact reason how dogs became man’s best friend—the answer lies in the genes. It has historically been argued that the domestication of dogs was an evolutionary process that started with the wolves about 33,000 years ago somewhere in Southeast Asia.

Scientists claimed to have discovered the exact reason how dogs became man’s best friend—the answer lies in the genes. It has historically been argued that the domestication of dogs was an evolutionary process that started with the wolves about 33,000 years ago somewhere in Southeast Asia. But a study suggests that dogs have a special gene that lowers their stress, making them more relaxed around people. The research says that this enabled a special relationship to develop between a man and a dog. The Japanese researchers said that dogs carry two mutations of a gene known as MC2R (melanocortin 2 receptor), Newsweek reported. This gene produces the hormone cortisol, nature's built-in alarm system which is released during fear or anxiety. Co-author of the study, Professor Miho Nagasawa of Azabu University, was quoted as saying, "These findings imply MC2R played a role in the domestication of dogs, perhaps by promoting lower levels of stress around humans." Nagasawa and colleagues investigated the interactions of 624 domestic dogs using two tasks. In the first, the dog had to decide which bowl had food hidden under it based on cues, such as gazing, pointing and tapping. This experiment tested the animal’s understanding of human gestures and communication. While the second looked at the social attachment to humans. The dogs were given a problem-solving test, which involved them attempting to open a container in order to access food. The main of the study was to measure how often and long the dog spent looking at the researchers. The dogs were separated into two groups depending on their breed – the ancient group (consisting of breeds considered genetically closer to wolves such as the Akita and Siberian Husky) and the general group (all other breeds which are more genetically distant from wolves). The study found out that the dogs in the ancient group looked at the researchers less often than other dogs during the problem-solving task, suggesting that they were less attached to humans. The researchers found there were no significant differences between the breeds in the first task. Also read | Now, India can safeguard animals against Covid with its own jab, Anocovax. Read details here They then looked for differences in genes associated with human-related cognitive abilities between the groups. According to the findings, two changes to the melanocortin 2 receptor (MC2R) gene were associated with both correctly interpreting gestures in the first task and gazing at the scientists more often in the problem-solving task. Also read | Giant tortoise believed to be extinct 100 yrs ago found on Galapagos Islands The researchers say this suggests the gene may have played a role in the domestication of dogs, perhaps by promoting lower levels of stress around humans. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Scientists finally decode how dogs became man’s best friend

In a first, scientists have successfully sequenced the genome of Pompeii's victims from the remains of a man and woman buried who were buried when the Roman city was engulfed in volcanic ash.

The study, which has been published in the journal Scientific Reports, has analysed the first "Pompeian human genome".

Encased in time-hardened ash, the DNA was preserved in bodies that were first discovered in 1933 inside Casa del Fabbro, or 'The Craftsman's House.'

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Almost as though they were having lunch when the eruption occurred on 24 August 79AD, both bodies were slumped in the corner of the dining room.

Now scientists at the University of Copenhagen were only able to sequence the entire genome from the man’s remains due to gaps in the sequences obtained from the woman.

“Being charcoal, fragile and evanescent, which could not last a long time, it is more than likely that it was written in October 79 AD,” said Massimo Osanna, head of the Pompeii site.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/residents-of-pompeii-suffocated-within-15-minutes-after-volcanic-eruption-finds-study-372466">Also read |&nbsp;Residents of Pompeii suffocated within 15 minutes after volcanic eruption, finds study</a>

Gabriele Scorrano, from the Lundbeck GeoGenetics centre in Copenhagen, who led the study, "It was all about the preservation of the skeletons."

"It's the first thing we looked at, and it looked promising, so we decided to give [DNA extraction] a shot."

"New sequencing machines can [read] several whole genomes at the same time," he said.

According to Serena Viva, an anthropologist at the University in Salento who was on the study’s team, “This could have been the reason for which they waited for it all to finish, maybe in the security of their home, compared to other victims who were fleeing and whose remains were found in open spaces.”&nbsp;

“In the future many more genomes from Pompeii can be studied,” said Viva.&nbsp;

“The victims of Pompeii experienced a natural catastrophe, a thermal shock, and it was not known that you could preserve their genetic material. This study provides this confirmation, and that new technology on genetic analysis allows us to sequence genomes also on damaged material.” 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a first, scientists have successfully sequenced the genome of Pompeii's victims from the remains of a man and woman buried who were buried when the Roman city was engulfed in volcanic ash.

In a first, scientists have successfully sequenced the genome of Pompeii's victims from the remains of a man and woman buried who were buried when the Roman city was engulfed in volcanic ash. The study, which has been published in the journal Scientific Reports, has analysed the first "Pompeian human genome". Encased in time-hardened ash, the DNA was preserved in bodies that were first discovered in 1933 inside Casa del Fabbro, or 'The Craftsman's House.' Almost as though they were having lunch when the eruption occurred on 24 August 79AD, both bodies were slumped in the corner of the dining room. Now scientists at the University of Copenhagen were only able to sequence the entire genome from the man’s remains due to gaps in the sequences obtained from the woman. “Being charcoal, fragile and evanescent, which could not last a long time, it is more than likely that it was written in October 79 AD,” said Massimo Osanna, head of the Pompeii site. Also read | Residents of Pompeii suffocated within 15 minutes after volcanic eruption, finds study Gabriele Scorrano, from the Lundbeck GeoGenetics centre in Copenhagen, who led the study, "It was all about the preservation of the skeletons." "It's the first thing we looked at, and it looked promising, so we decided to give [DNA extraction] a shot." "New sequencing machines can [read] several whole genomes at the same time," he said. According to Serena Viva, an anthropologist at the University in Salento who was on the study’s team, “This could have been the reason for which they waited for it all to finish, maybe in the security of their home, compared to other victims who were fleeing and whose remains were found in open spaces.” “In the future many more genomes from Pompeii can be studied,” said Viva. “The victims of Pompeii experienced a natural catastrophe, a thermal shock, and it was not known that you could preserve their genetic material. This study provides this confirmation, and that new technology on genetic analysis allows us to sequence genomes also on damaged material.” (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Scientists successfully sequence genome of Pompeii's victims for the first time

The tropics are a paradise for everyone but a skeleton. Humidity keeps rainforests green but does little to preserve bodies, leading to a dearth of ancient skeletal remains in neotropical regions such as Central America.

But deep in the jungles of Belize, under the dry refuge of two rock shelters, the skeletons of people who died as many as 9,600 years ago have been exceptionally well preserved. Their bones offer a rare glimpse into the region’s ancient genetic history, which is largely unknown.

A group of scientists has extracted these ancient people’s DNA, offering new insight into the genetic history of people in the Maya region. The paper was published Tuesday in the journal Nature Communications. The researchers identified a previously unknown mass migration from the south more than 5,600 years ago that preceded the advent of intensive maize farming in the region. This migration of people, who are most closely related to present-day speakers of the Chibchan languages, contributed more than 50% of the ancestry of Mayan-speaking peoples today.

Lisa Lucero, an anthropologist at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign who specializes in the ancestral Maya and was not involved with the research, said the new results “have the potential to revise and rewrite the early history of the First Americans.”

Xavier Roca-Rada, a doctoral student at the University of Adelaide, said the results “fill a gap between the oldest previously studied individuals from the Maya region and the time before the settling of Mesoamerica.”

The new paper emerged from ongoing excavations led by authors Keith Prufer, an environmental archaeologist at the University of New Mexico, and Douglas Kennett, an archaeologist at the University of California, Santa Barbara. The researchers have been excavating two rock shelters in the Bladen Nature Reserve, a remote and protected area of Belize that kept the sites, which were used as cemeteries, undisturbed for thousands of years. “People just kept going back to them over and over and over again and burying the dead,” Prufer said.

The shelters were also occupied by the living, who made tools and cooked, evidenced by the buried bones of armadillos, deer and a type of rodent called a paca, Prufer said. The bottom of the excavated pit held a piece of a giant sloth, which may have even predated human occupation of the shelter, he said.

The excavations also revealed a secret, formerly slimy layer of protection underground. Around 5,000 to 6,000 years ago, before the classic period of the Maya, people harvested tiny Pachychilus snails for food. “They would boil them and lop off the end of the shell and eat the flesh out of them,” Prufer said. Whoever inhabited these shelters feasted on these snails, and their discarded shells shielded bodies buried below. “This layer of snails actually protected the lower burials from the Maya digging through them,” he said.

Kennett and Prufer study these early burials to understand how the region transitioned from hunting and gathering to the development of intensive agriculture of maize, chili peppers and manioc (also called cassava). In a 2020 paper, they described evidence of maize consumption in the bones of individuals who lived 4,000 to 4,700 years ago.

David Reich, a geneticist at Harvard Medical School, led the extraction of ancient DNA from 20 individuals buried in the shelters over the course of 6,000 years. The analysis revealed several human migrations into the Maya region, in what is now southeastern Mexico and northern Central America.

They found three distinct groups: one living 7,300 to 9,600 years ago, another living between 3,700 and 5,600 years ago and a third group of modern Maya people. The first group appears genetically linked to a southward migration through the Americas during the Pleistocene. But the second group was related genetically to the ancestors of Chibchan speakers living farther south.

The authors hypothesize that this population turnover came from a mass migration from the south. “That was the spectacular result,” Kennett said.

The finding overturns an old assumption that farming technology spread through the Americas by the diffusion of crops and practices — the spread of knowledge as opposed to the spread of people, Reich said. The new results suggest this migration was critical to spreading farming, such as a scenario in which Chibchan speakers migrated northward with varieties of maize, which they then cultivated and spread in local populations, the authors wrote.

“People were actually moving into the region from the south, carrying these domesticated plants and also the systems of knowledge about how to grow them,” Kennett said.

David Mora-Marín, a linguistic anthropologist at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and an author on the paper, conducted an analysis of early Chibchan and Mayan languages. He found that a term for maize had diffused from the Chibchan language into Mayan languages, further supporting the idea of a Chibchan origin of maize.

The field of ancient DNA has been criticized for a lack of ethics or appropriate engagement with communities that may be descended from the ancient humans being studied.

Kennett and Prufer conducted their archaeological research with the Ya’axché Conservation Trust, a Belizean nongovernmental organization that is largely staffed by descendants of Maya communities. The researchers consulted with these communities, presented results from studies and translated summaries of findings into the Mopan and Q’eqchi’ languages at the locals’ request. In the discussions, the communities expressed a desire to learn more about the diets and precolonial family units of the ancient people living in the cave. Because of these conversations, the authors placed a greater emphasis on these topics in the paper, Kennett said.

Krystal Tsosie, a genetics researcher at Vanderbilt University, said she wanted to see a more detailed description of how the community’s feedback influenced the paper. Tsosie added, “The process of proper engagement also means properly and transparently crediting the community members for informing and enriching the research.”

Ripan Malhi, a genetic anthropologist at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, noted that the authors uploaded the ancient DNA data to a public database “with no safeguards or limitations on use indicated.” Ancient DNA can offer a shortcut to the DNA of modern communities without their consent. “This may have implications for the present-day Maya in the region,” he said.

Lucero and Roca-Rada said that more data was needed to prove the researchers’ hypothesis that a southern migration had brought maize to the Maya region. To Lucero, the question is whether researchers should acquire that data. “Should we dig up ancestors?” he asked. “Would we want someone to dig up ours to answer interesting yet nonvital research questions?”

Kennett and Prufer last visited Belize in January 2020 to present the preliminary results from the new paper to Maya communities. The pandemic has since prohibited the researchers’ return, but Prufer said they hoped to go back this summer to continue excavating and “keep our promise to return each year that we work and update everybody.”

The tropics are a paradise for everyone but a skeleton. Humidity keeps rainforests green but does little to preserve bodies, leading to a dearth of ancient skeletal remains in neotropical regions such as Central America.

The tropics are a paradise for everyone but a skeleton. Humidity keeps rainforests green but does little to preserve bodies, leading to a dearth of ancient skeletal remains in neotropical regions such as Central America. But deep in the jungles of Belize, under the dry refuge of two rock shelters, the skeletons of people who died as many as 9,600 years ago have been exceptionally well preserved. Their bones offer a rare glimpse into the region’s ancient genetic history, which is largely unknown. A group of scientists has extracted these ancient people’s DNA, offering new insight into the genetic history of people in the Maya region. The paper was published Tuesday in the journal Nature Communications. The researchers identified a previously unknown mass migration from the south more than 5,600 years ago that preceded the advent of intensive maize farming in the region. This migration of people, who are most closely related to present-day speakers of the Chibchan languages, contributed more than 50% of the ancestry of Mayan-speaking peoples today. Lisa Lucero, an anthropologist at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign who specializes in the ancestral Maya and was not involved with the research, said the new results “have the potential to revise and rewrite the early history of the First Americans.” Xavier Roca-Rada, a doctoral student at the University of Adelaide, said the results “fill a gap between the oldest previously studied individuals from the Maya region and the time before the settling of Mesoamerica.” The new paper emerged from ongoing excavations led by authors Keith Prufer, an environmental archaeologist at the University of New Mexico, and Douglas Kennett, an archaeologist at the University of California, Santa Barbara. The researchers have been excavating two rock shelters in the Bladen Nature Reserve, a remote and protected area of Belize that kept the sites, which were used as cemeteries, undisturbed for thousands of years. “People just kept going back to them over and over and over again and burying the dead,” Prufer said. The shelters were also occupied by the living, who made tools and cooked, evidenced by the buried bones of armadillos, deer and a type of rodent called a paca, Prufer said. The bottom of the excavated pit held a piece of a giant sloth, which may have even predated human occupation of the shelter, he said. The excavations also revealed a secret, formerly slimy layer of protection underground. Around 5,000 to 6,000 years ago, before the classic period of the Maya, people harvested tiny Pachychilus snails for food. “They would boil them and lop off the end of the shell and eat the flesh out of them,” Prufer said. Whoever inhabited these shelters feasted on these snails, and their discarded shells shielded bodies buried below. “This layer of snails actually protected the lower burials from the Maya digging through them,” he said. Kennett and Prufer study these early burials to understand how the region transitioned from hunting and gathering to the development of intensive agriculture of maize, chili peppers and manioc (also called cassava). In a 2020 paper, they described evidence of maize consumption in the bones of individuals who lived 4,000 to 4,700 years ago. David Reich, a geneticist at Harvard Medical School, led the extraction of ancient DNA from 20 individuals buried in the shelters over the course of 6,000 years. The analysis revealed several human migrations into the Maya region, in what is now southeastern Mexico and northern Central America. They found three distinct groups: one living 7,300 to 9,600 years ago, another living between 3,700 and 5,600 years ago and a third group of modern Maya people. The first group appears genetically linked to a southward migration through the Americas during the Pleistocene. But the second group was related genetically to the ancestors of Chibchan speakers living farther south. The authors hypothesize that this population turnover came from a mass migration from the south. “That was the spectacular result,” Kennett said. The finding overturns an old assumption that farming technology spread through the Americas by the diffusion of crops and practices — the spread of knowledge as opposed to the spread of people, Reich said. The new results suggest this migration was critical to spreading farming, such as a scenario in which Chibchan speakers migrated northward with varieties of maize, which they then cultivated and spread in local populations, the authors wrote. “People were actually moving into the region from the south, carrying these domesticated plants and also the systems of knowledge about how to grow them,” Kennett said. David Mora-Marín, a linguistic anthropologist at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and an author on the paper, conducted an analysis of early Chibchan and Mayan languages. He found that a term for maize had diffused from the Chibchan language into Mayan languages, further supporting the idea of a Chibchan origin of maize. The field of ancient DNA has been criticized for a lack of ethics or appropriate engagement with communities that may be descended from the ancient humans being studied. Kennett and Prufer conducted their archaeological research with the Ya’axché Conservation Trust, a Belizean nongovernmental organization that is largely staffed by descendants of Maya communities. The researchers consulted with these communities, presented results from studies and translated summaries of findings into the Mopan and Q’eqchi’ languages at the locals’ request. In the discussions, the communities expressed a desire to learn more about the diets and precolonial family units of the ancient people living in the cave. Because of these conversations, the authors placed a greater emphasis on these topics in the paper, Kennett said. Krystal Tsosie, a genetics researcher at Vanderbilt University, said she wanted to see a more detailed description of how the community’s feedback influenced the paper. Tsosie added, “The process of proper engagement also means properly and transparently crediting the community members for informing and enriching the research.” Ripan Malhi, a genetic anthropologist at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, noted that the authors uploaded the ancient DNA data to a public database “with no safeguards or limitations on use indicated.” Ancient DNA can offer a shortcut to the DNA of modern communities without their consent. “This may have implications for the present-day Maya in the region,” he said. Lucero and Roca-Rada said that more data was needed to prove the researchers’ hypothesis that a southern migration had brought maize to the Maya region. To Lucero, the question is whether researchers should acquire that data. “Should we dig up ancestors?” he asked. “Would we want someone to dig up ours to answer interesting yet nonvital research questions?” Kennett and Prufer last visited Belize in January 2020 to present the preliminary results from the new paper to Maya communities. The pandemic has since prohibited the researchers’ return, but Prufer said they hoped to go back this summer to continue excavating and “keep our promise to return each year that we work and update everybody.”

Human migration brought maize to Maya region, study finds

A DNA study has revealed that endangered sharks have been found in cat and dog food. Several brands consisted of endangered species. However, they listed only vague ingredients such as “ocean fish."

The study used DNA barcoding. As a part of the analysis, the scientists tested 45 pet food products from 16 brands in Singapore.&nbsp;

Most products used generic terms such as “fish”, “ocean fish”, “whitebait” or “white fish” in the ingredients. Some others specified as they listed tuna or salmon. There were also a few brands that did not indicate fish at all.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-is-undergoing-sixth-mass-extinction-and-things-dont-look-good-for-humans-458842">Also read |&nbsp;World is undergoing sixth mass extinction and things don't look good for humans</a>

Study authors Ben Wainwright and Ian French, of Yale-NUS College, Singapore in a report by The Guardian said, "The majority of pet owners are likely lovers of nature, and we think most would be alarmed to discover that they could be unknowingly contributing to the overfishing of shark populations."

Shark populations are depleted all across the world. There has been a decline of over 70 per cent in the past 50 years.&nbsp;

It was concluded that out of the 144 samples sequenced, 45 contained shark DNA. The most frequently identified species were blue shark, silky shark and whitetip reef shark.

(With inputs from agencies)

A DNA study has revealed that endangered sharks have been found in cat and dog food. Several brands consisted of endangered species. However, they listed only vague ingredients such as “ocean fish.

A DNA study has revealed that endangered sharks have been found in cat and dog food. Several brands consisted of endangered species. However, they listed only vague ingredients such as “ocean fish." The study used DNA barcoding. As a part of the analysis, the scientists tested 45 pet food products from 16 brands in Singapore. Most products used generic terms such as “fish”, “ocean fish”, “whitebait” or “white fish” in the ingredients. Some others specified as they listed tuna or salmon. There were also a few brands that did not indicate fish at all. Also read | World is undergoing sixth mass extinction and things don't look good for humans Study authors Ben Wainwright and Ian French, of Yale-NUS College, Singapore in a report by The Guardian said, "The majority of pet owners are likely lovers of nature, and we think most would be alarmed to discover that they could be unknowingly contributing to the overfishing of shark populations." Shark populations are depleted all across the world. There has been a decline of over 70 per cent in the past 50 years. It was concluded that out of the 144 samples sequenced, 45 contained shark DNA. The most frequently identified species were blue shark, silky shark and whitetip reef shark. (With inputs from agencies)

DNA study shows endangered sharks found in cat and dog food

In the latest revelation, DNA reports have shown that the 500-pound black bear nicknamed Hank the Tank is not one single bear. They are at least three not-so-little bears who have damaged more than 30 properties.&nbsp;

According to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), the bear has caused extensive damage at 33 properties and forcefully entered at least 28 homes. The giant bear has eluded capture for more than seven months.

"The incidents primarily occurred during the summer and fall of 2021, when the bear was in hyperphagia, adding calories to survive the winter," said wildlife department spokesperson Peter Tira.

The Department of Fish and Wildlife has said that it would begin to trap bears in the South Lake Tahoe area.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/california-police-is-looking-for-this-500-pound-notorious-bear-for-breaking-into-homes-455771">Also read |&nbsp;California police is looking for this 500-pound notorious bear for breaking into homes</a>

This is being done to tag the animals and collect evidence for genetic analysis. The bears will soon be released in a 'suitable habitat.'

Hank the Tank bear is responsible for more than 150 incident reports in the region straddling Northern California and Nevada.

The bear smashed a window and squeezed into the house on Catalina Drive while the residents were at home. Police responded and banged on the outside of the house until Hank exited out the back door and disappeared into the woods.

Also known as Jake or Yogi or simply Big Guy, the bear is what Tira described as a “severely food habituated bear” that has “lost all fear of people” and thinks of them as a food source.

(With inputs from agencies)

In the latest revelation, DNA reports have shown that the 500-pound black bear nicknamed Hank the Tank is not one single bear. They are at least three not-so-little bears who have damaged more than 30 properties.

In the latest revelation, DNA reports have shown that the 500-pound black bear nicknamed Hank the Tank is not one single bear. They are at least three not-so-little bears who have damaged more than 30 properties. According to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), the bear has caused extensive damage at 33 properties and forcefully entered at least 28 homes. The giant bear has eluded capture for more than seven months. "The incidents primarily occurred during the summer and fall of 2021, when the bear was in hyperphagia, adding calories to survive the winter," said wildlife department spokesperson Peter Tira. The Department of Fish and Wildlife has said that it would begin to trap bears in the South Lake Tahoe area. Also read | California police is looking for this 500-pound notorious bear for breaking into homes This is being done to tag the animals and collect evidence for genetic analysis. The bears will soon be released in a 'suitable habitat.' Hank the Tank bear is responsible for more than 150 incident reports in the region straddling Northern California and Nevada. The bear smashed a window and squeezed into the house on Catalina Drive while the residents were at home. Police responded and banged on the outside of the house until Hank exited out the back door and disappeared into the woods. Also known as Jake or Yogi or simply Big Guy, the bear is what Tira described as a “severely food habituated bear” that has “lost all fear of people” and thinks of them as a food source. (With inputs from agencies)

DNA reveals that ‘Hank the Tank’ is not a single bear but three bears

In Africa, the population of Elephants has drastically declined due to poaching. They are the main targets of the illegal ivory trade in the country. But now, the DNA in their tusks could map the trafficking network pointing towards the very criminal groups that poached them.

Africa: Researchers tracing tusk DNA of Elephants to reveal trafficking networks

French President Emmanuel&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;refused&nbsp;a Kremlin request to take a&nbsp;Russian Covid test&nbsp;when he arrived to see President Vladimir&nbsp;Putin. There were many speculations as to why this was done. However, a Reuters report has now revealed that this was done to prevent Russia getting hold of&nbsp;Macron's&nbsp;DNA.&nbsp;

This is why Macron was kept at a distance from the&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;leader during the talks on the Ukraine crisis in Moscow.&nbsp;

"We knew very well that meant no handshake and that long table. But we could not accept that they get their hands on the president's&nbsp;DNA," one of the sources told Reuters.

"The&nbsp;Russians told us&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;needed to be kept in a strict health bubble," the second source said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/things-could-go-crazy-ukraine-accuses-russia-of-hybrid-war-amid-naval-drill-452265">Also read |&nbsp;'Things could go crazy': Ukraine accuses Russia of 'hybrid war' amid naval drill</a>

When asked specifically about&nbsp;DNA&nbsp;theft,&nbsp;Macron’s office,&nbsp;"The president has doctors who define with him the rules that are acceptable or not in terms of his own health protocol."

In an attempt to de-escalate the Ukraine standoff, Macron had met Putin in Moscow. &nbsp;

Ever since reports came out that Russia had amassed over 100,000 troops near the Ukraine borders, hectic diplomatic parlays have been taking place to defuse the tense situation. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

French President Emmanuel Macron refused a Kremlin request to take a Russian Covid test when he arrived to see President Vladimir Putin. There were many speculations as to why this was done.

French President Emmanuel Macron refused a Kremlin request to take a Russian Covid test when he arrived to see President Vladimir Putin. There were many speculations as to why this was done. However, a Reuters report has now revealed that this was done to prevent Russia getting hold of Macron's DNA. This is why Macron was kept at a distance from the Russian leader during the talks on the Ukraine crisis in Moscow. "We knew very well that meant no handshake and that long table. But we could not accept that they get their hands on the president's DNA," one of the sources told Reuters. "The Russians told us Putin needed to be kept in a strict health bubble," the second source said. Also read | 'Things could go crazy': Ukraine accuses Russia of 'hybrid war' amid naval drill When asked specifically about DNA theft, Macron’s office, "The president has doctors who define with him the rules that are acceptable or not in terms of his own health protocol." In an attempt to de-escalate the Ukraine standoff, Macron had met Putin in Moscow. Ever since reports came out that Russia had amassed over 100,000 troops near the Ukraine borders, hectic diplomatic parlays have been taking place to defuse the tense situation. (With inputs from agencies)

Macron refused Russian Covid test in Putin trip due to DNA theft fears: Report

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