<p>New Zealand, a country which is known for its lush green forests and wildlife, continues to be home to more sheep than people. The report by news agency AFP, citing official figures released on Monday (May 22), said sheep outnumber people by fewer than five to one, which is the lowest level in nearly two centuries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the recently&nbsp;released five-yearly census of agricultural production in New Zealand, the national flock fell by two per cent, which amounts to 400,000 sheep to 25.3 million people, as of June last year. This decline in national sheep figures has been attributed to the rise in farming costs and falling wool prices.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The ratio of sheep to people dropped below five to one in 2022, for the first time since the 1850s, when national sheep numbers were first recorded,” said Stats NZ, a government body, analyst Jason Attewell, as quoted by AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is worth noting that this isn’t the worst ratio in the country when it comes to the number of sheep to people, as there was a time in New Zealand when the number of sheep famously sat at 22 per person back in 1982 and around that time, the sheep figures stood at 72 million.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Attewell also noted that there has been a recent decline in the population of sheep in the country when compared to Australia which currently has three times as many sheep as New Zealand. However, the ratio in Canberra is only around three sheep to every Aussie, said the Stats NZ analyst.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2019, China topped the list with the most sheep in the world.&nbsp;But given their human-to-sheep population ratio, it does not raise many eyebrows. However,&nbsp;New Zealand is home to only 5.2 million people when compared to China’s 1.4 billion people, so&nbsp;the difference is much more prominent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports, back in the 1850s, sheep was starting to become a primary component of New Zealand’s economy and soon after wool became one of the country’s most important exports. This continues even today, as Wellington is one of the world’s main wool exporters. In 2022, it exported $284 million worth of wool overseas.&nbsp;<br />
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New Zealand, a country which is known for its lush green forests and wildlife, continues to be home to more sheep than people. The report by news agency AFP, citing official figures released on Monday (May 22), said sheep outnumber people by fewer than five to one, which is the lowest level in nearly two centuries.

New Zealand, a country which is known for its lush green forests and wildlife, continues to be home to more sheep than people. The report by news agency AFP, citing official figures released on Monday (May 22), said sheep outnumber people by fewer than five to one, which is the lowest level in nearly two centuries. According to the recently released five-yearly census of agricultural production in New Zealand, the national flock fell by two per cent, which amounts to 400,000 sheep to 25.3 million people, as of June last year. This decline in national sheep figures has been attributed to the rise in farming costs and falling wool prices. “The ratio of sheep to people dropped below five to one in 2022, for the first time since the 1850s, when national sheep numbers were first recorded,” said Stats NZ, a government body, analyst Jason Attewell, as quoted by AFP. It is worth noting that this isn’t the worst ratio in the country when it comes to the number of sheep to people, as there was a time in New Zealand when the number of sheep famously sat at 22 per person back in 1982 and around that time, the sheep figures stood at 72 million. Attewell also noted that there has been a recent decline in the population of sheep in the country when compared to Australia which currently has three times as many sheep as New Zealand. However, the ratio in Canberra is only around three sheep to every Aussie, said the Stats NZ analyst. In 2019, China topped the list with the most sheep in the world. But given their human-to-sheep population ratio, it does not raise many eyebrows. However, New Zealand is home to only 5.2 million people when compared to China’s 1.4 billion people, so the difference is much more prominent. According to reports, back in the 1850s, sheep was starting to become a primary component of New Zealand’s economy and soon after wool became one of the country’s most important exports. This continues even today, as Wellington is one of the world’s main wool exporters. In 2022, it exported $284 million worth of wool overseas. 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.

Did you know there are more sheep than people in New Zealand?

<p>As per controversial new research, between 54,000 and 42,000 years ago, modern people had to colonise Europe in three successive waves. That is the main finding of researchers who have been looking at caves in the Rhone valley.</p>

<p>They have found evidence that suggests Homo sapiens had to make three determined attempts to move from western Asia to the west and north before they could settle on the continent.</p>

<p>“The first two of these waves failed but the third succeeded around 42,000 years ago,” said Ludovic Slimak of the University of Toulouse who is leading the excavations in France.&nbsp;“After that, modern humans took over in Europe. The Neanderthals, who had evolved on the continent, died out.”</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/french-startup-will-take-to-take-people-to-space-in-a-balloon-heres-how-590070">French startup will take people to space in a balloon. Here's how</a></p>

<p>The origins of one of the important ancient stone tool industries that have been discovered in central France are also disputed in this controversial research. The lithic industry that produced these tools is called Châtelperronian, after the place where the first specimens were discovered in the nineteenth century.</p>

<p>These tools have now been attributed to Neanderthal toolmakers by many scientists. They are notable for their exquisite, narrow blades and technical manufacture.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-pm-sympathises-with-koreas-colonial-victims-stops-short-of-offering-apology-590066">Japanese PM ‘sympathises’ with Korea’s colonial victims, stops short of offering apology</a></p>

<p>But Slimak rejects this view. “The Châtelperronian tools are the handiwork of modern humans, and given their similarity to stone tools that were being made in the Middle East, we conclude they were brought there by Homo sapiens as they moved into Europe.”</p>

<p>Professor Chris Stringer of London’s Natural History Museum reportedly said, “This is a provocative and ambitious paper."</p>

<p>“In particular, it argues that the Châtelperronian stone industry, which is usually assumed to be the product of Neanderthals, was actually the work of Homo sapiens. Supposed associations of Neanderthal fossils with Châtelperronian tools must therefore be invalid, he is saying.”</p>

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<p>The tiny 54,000-year-old pointed stone tools that have been discovered in the Grotte Mandrin cave in the Rhône Valley resemble arrowheads and have led Slimak to argue that modern humans, who first emerged from Africa around 60,000 years ago, may have been equipped with bows and arrows.</p>

<p>The ability to kill prey from a distance without putting themselves at risk would have given the newcomers a significant edge over the native Neanderthals.</p>

<p>But after around 40 years, this initial population of modern humans that arrived at the site vanished from the fossil record, and Neanderthals later took over the area.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One answer is straightforward, says Slimak. Those early waves of humans simply lacked numbers. He believes there were up to 100 men, women and children in the Grotte Mandrin settlement.</p>

<p>“That may not have been sufficient to maintain their biological strength and perhaps they could not exchange genes with local Neanderthals because the fertility between them was poor,” he added.</p>

<p>He disagreed with the notion that modern people and Neanderthals did not get along well. In fact, all signs point to healthy relations between the two groups.</p>

<p>Then came the third wave, and this time it seems that our ancestors did have the numbers, Slimak added.</p>

<p>“The third time they came in, modern humans did so with a really huge wave of people and began to build social networks, not with Neanderthals but with individual small separate groups of Homo sapiens in order to build a huge network throughout Europe. And in the end, that is what started the decline of the Neanderthals in Europe.”</p>

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As per controversial new research, between 54,000 and 42,000 years ago, modern people had to colonise Europe in three successive waves. That is the main finding of researchers who have been looking at caves in the Rhone valley.

As per controversial new research, between 54,000 and 42,000 years ago, modern people had to colonise Europe in three successive waves. That is the main finding of researchers who have been looking at caves in the Rhone valley. They have found evidence that suggests Homo sapiens had to make three determined attempts to move from western Asia to the west and north before they could settle on the continent. “The first two of these waves failed but the third succeeded around 42,000 years ago,” said Ludovic Slimak of the University of Toulouse who is leading the excavations in France. “After that, modern humans took over in Europe. The Neanderthals, who had evolved on the continent, died out.” Also Read | French startup will take people to space in a balloon. Here's how The origins of one of the important ancient stone tool industries that have been discovered in central France are also disputed in this controversial research. The lithic industry that produced these tools is called Châtelperronian, after the place where the first specimens were discovered in the nineteenth century. These tools have now been attributed to Neanderthal toolmakers by many scientists. They are notable for their exquisite, narrow blades and technical manufacture. Also Read | Japanese PM ‘sympathises’ with Korea’s colonial victims, stops short of offering apology But Slimak rejects this view. “The Châtelperronian tools are the handiwork of modern humans, and given their similarity to stone tools that were being made in the Middle East, we conclude they were brought there by Homo sapiens as they moved into Europe.” Professor Chris Stringer of London’s Natural History Museum reportedly said, “This is a provocative and ambitious paper." “In particular, it argues that the Châtelperronian stone industry, which is usually assumed to be the product of Neanderthals, was actually the work of Homo sapiens. Supposed associations of Neanderthal fossils with Châtelperronian tools must therefore be invalid, he is saying.” Watch | India: 'Vegan leather' developed by Central Leather Research Institute | Sustainable Fashion × The tiny 54,000-year-old pointed stone tools that have been discovered in the Grotte Mandrin cave in the Rhône Valley resemble arrowheads and have led Slimak to argue that modern humans, who first emerged from Africa around 60,000 years ago, may have been equipped with bows and arrows. The ability to kill prey from a distance without putting themselves at risk would have given the newcomers a significant edge over the native Neanderthals. But after around 40 years, this initial population of modern humans that arrived at the site vanished from the fossil record, and Neanderthals later took over the area. One answer is straightforward, says Slimak. Those early waves of humans simply lacked numbers. He believes there were up to 100 men, women and children in the Grotte Mandrin settlement. “That may not have been sufficient to maintain their biological strength and perhaps they could not exchange genes with local Neanderthals because the fertility between them was poor,” he added. He disagreed with the notion that modern people and Neanderthals did not get along well. In fact, all signs point to healthy relations between the two groups. Then came the third wave, and this time it seems that our ancestors did have the numbers, Slimak added. “The third time they came in, modern humans did so with a really huge wave of people and began to build social networks, not with Neanderthals but with individual small separate groups of Homo sapiens in order to build a huge network throughout Europe. And in the end, that is what started the decline of the Neanderthals in Europe.” 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.

Human civilisation needed three attempts, 12,000 years to colonise Europe: Study

The expansion of modern humans over the planet is one of the most spectacular events of evolution. During millions of years, distinctive forms of homo sapiens evolved & coexisted in the same regions. However, it took 12,000 years for the ancient human species to colonise Europe. As per a study, it took three separate waves of modern humans to colonise Europe.

Ancient human civilisation needed three attempts & 12,000 years to colonise Europe: Study

<p>Scientists have cautioned that the widespread use of antibiotics in agriculture has resulted in the rise of bacteria that are more resistant to the human immune system.&nbsp;The study reveals that the antibacterial colistin, which was used for decades as a growth booster on pig and chicken farms in China, resulted in the creation of E coli strains that are more likely to bypass our immune system's first line of defence.</p>

<p>Although colistin has been banned as a livestock food additive in China and many other countries, the findings raise concerns about a new and serious threat posed by antibiotic misuse.</p>

<p>“This is potentially much more dangerous than resistance to antibiotics,” said Prof Craig MacLean, who led the research at the University of Oxford told The Guardian.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It highlights the danger of indiscriminate use of antimicrobials in agriculture. We’ve accidentally ended up compromising our own immune system to get fatter chickens,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The findings may also have ramifications for the development of novel antibiotic drugs in the same class as colistin, known as antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), which the researchers believe may offer a special danger of limiting innate immunity.</p>

<p>Most organisms produce AMPs as part of their innate immune response, which is the first line of defence against infection. Colistin is based on a bacterial AMP, which bacteria utilise to protect themselves from competitors, but it is chemically similar to other AMPs produced by the human immune system.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/french-fries-may-drive-anxiety-depression-new-research-suggests-585831">&nbsp;French fries may drive anxiety, depression, new research suggests</a></p>

<p>In the study, E coli bearing the MCR-1 resistance gene were exposed to AMPs known to play essential roles in innate immunity in chickens, pigs, and humans. The bacteria were additionally tested for their susceptibility to human blood serum.</p>

<h2><strong>Effects on human immune system</strong></h2>

<p>The researchers discovered that E coli bearing the MCR-1 gene were at least twice as resistant to being wiped out by human serum. In comparison to bacteria that did not have the gene, the gene improved resistance to human and animal AMPs by 62 per cent&nbsp;on average. The study, which was published in the journal <em>eLife</em>, also found that the resistant E coli strain was twice as likely as the control E coli strain to kill moth larvae that were injected with the infection.</p>

<p>MacLean stated that it was impossible to predict how this would transfer into real-world consequences, such as the probability of E coli infection leading to sepsis and death.&nbsp;The predominance of these E coli strains has reduced dramatically since China restricted the use of colistin as a growth promoter, implying that these genes have extra "fitness disadvantages" for the pathogens. However, the data reveal a basic vulnerability that has not yet been thoroughly examined.</p>

<p>“The danger is that if bacteria evolve resistance to [AMP-based drugs], it could also make bacteria resistant to one of the pillars of our immune system,” MacLean told The Guardian.&nbsp;</p>

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Scientists have cautioned that the widespread use of antibiotics in agriculture has resulted in the rise of bacteria that are more resistant to the human immune system.

Scientists have cautioned that the widespread use of antibiotics in agriculture has resulted in the rise of bacteria that are more resistant to the human immune system. The study reveals that the antibacterial colistin, which was used for decades as a growth booster on pig and chicken farms in China, resulted in the creation of E coli strains that are more likely to bypass our immune system's first line of defence. Although colistin has been banned as a livestock food additive in China and many other countries, the findings raise concerns about a new and serious threat posed by antibiotic misuse. “This is potentially much more dangerous than resistance to antibiotics,” said Prof Craig MacLean, who led the research at the University of Oxford told The Guardian. “It highlights the danger of indiscriminate use of antimicrobials in agriculture. We’ve accidentally ended up compromising our own immune system to get fatter chickens,” he added. The findings may also have ramifications for the development of novel antibiotic drugs in the same class as colistin, known as antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), which the researchers believe may offer a special danger of limiting innate immunity. Most organisms produce AMPs as part of their innate immune response, which is the first line of defence against infection. Colistin is based on a bacterial AMP, which bacteria utilise to protect themselves from competitors, but it is chemically similar to other AMPs produced by the human immune system. ALSO READ | French fries may drive anxiety, depression, new research suggests In the study, E coli bearing the MCR-1 resistance gene were exposed to AMPs known to play essential roles in innate immunity in chickens, pigs, and humans. The bacteria were additionally tested for their susceptibility to human blood serum. Effects on human immune system The researchers discovered that E coli bearing the MCR-1 gene were at least twice as resistant to being wiped out by human serum. In comparison to bacteria that did not have the gene, the gene improved resistance to human and animal AMPs by 62 per cent on average. The study, which was published in the journal eLife, also found that the resistant E coli strain was twice as likely as the control E coli strain to kill moth larvae that were injected with the infection. MacLean stated that it was impossible to predict how this would transfer into real-world consequences, such as the probability of E coli infection leading to sepsis and death. The predominance of these E coli strains has reduced dramatically since China restricted the use of colistin as a growth promoter, implying that these genes have extra "fitness disadvantages" for the pathogens. However, the data reveal a basic vulnerability that has not yet been thoroughly examined. “The danger is that if bacteria evolve resistance to [AMP-based drugs], it could also make bacteria resistant to one of the pillars of our immune system,” MacLean told The Guardian. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Study: Using antibiotics in agriculture can 'endanger human immune system’

<p>OpenAI, the San Francisco-based tech company that took the world by storm with its ChatGPT, on Tuesday announced that it is releasing a new version of artificial intelligence software which can see.</p>

<p>The new software called 'GPT-4' “can solve difficult problems with greater accuracy, thanks to its broader general knowledge and problem-solving abilities,” as per an announcement made on OpenAI’s website.</p>

<p>In the video shared by the company online, it stated that GPT-4 is armed with various capabilities which were not present in the previous iteration of the technology, like the ability to “reason” based on images which have been uploaded by the users.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/in-china-chatgpt-logins-being-sold-in-black-market-571510">In China, ChatGPT logins being sold in black market</a></p>

<p>"GPT-4 is a large multimodal model (accepting image and text inputs, emitting text outputs) that, while less capable than humans in many real-world scenarios, exhibits human-level performance on various professional and academic benchmarks," wrote OpenAI on its website.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Announcing GPT-4, a large multimodal model, with our best-ever results on capabilities and alignment: <a href="https://t.co/TwLFssyALF">https://t.co/TwLFssyALF</a> <a href="https://t.co/lYWwPjZbSg">pic.twitter.com/lYWwPjZbSg</a></p>
— OpenAI (@OpenAI) <a href="https://twitter.com/OpenAI/status/1635687373060317185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Andrej Karpathy, who is an employee of OpenAI, tweeted that the new feature means that the AI could "see”. So far, the new technology has not been made available for free.</p>

<p>OpenAI stated that GPT-4 can be tried by people on its subscription service ChatGPT Plus for which the user has to shell out $20 a month.</p>

<p>The latest technology of the startup in some cases reflects a major improvement in its earlier version “GPT-3.5”, the company said.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | ChatGPT is making waves, but can it trusted?</strong></p>

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<p>OpenAI stated that in the bar exam in which US law-school graduates appear before professional practice, the new version scored in the top 10 per cent of test takers, while the older version was ranked below 10 per cent.</p>

<p>Although the two versions appear similar to each other in casual conversation, "the difference comes out when the complexity of the task reaches a sufficient threshold," said OpenAI, noting that "GPT-4 is more reliable, creative, and able to handle much more nuanced instructions".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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OpenAI, the San Francisco-based tech company that took the world by storm with its ChatGPT, on Tuesday announced that it is releasing a new version of artificial intelligence software which can see.

OpenAI, the San Francisco-based tech company that took the world by storm with its ChatGPT, on Tuesday announced that it is releasing a new version of artificial intelligence software which can see. The new software called 'GPT-4' “can solve difficult problems with greater accuracy, thanks to its broader general knowledge and problem-solving abilities,” as per an announcement made on OpenAI’s website. In the video shared by the company online, it stated that GPT-4 is armed with various capabilities which were not present in the previous iteration of the technology, like the ability to “reason” based on images which have been uploaded by the users. ALSO READ | In China, ChatGPT logins being sold in black market "GPT-4 is a large multimodal model (accepting image and text inputs, emitting text outputs) that, while less capable than humans in many real-world scenarios, exhibits human-level performance on various professional and academic benchmarks," wrote OpenAI on its website. Announcing GPT-4, a large multimodal model, with our best-ever results on capabilities and alignment: https://t.co/TwLFssyALF pic.twitter.com/lYWwPjZbSg — OpenAI (@OpenAI) March 14, 2023 × Andrej Karpathy, who is an employee of OpenAI, tweeted that the new feature means that the AI could "see”. So far, the new technology has not been made available for free. OpenAI stated that GPT-4 can be tried by people on its subscription service ChatGPT Plus for which the user has to shell out $20 a month. The latest technology of the startup in some cases reflects a major improvement in its earlier version “GPT-3.5”, the company said. WATCH | ChatGPT is making waves, but can it trusted? OpenAI stated that in the bar exam in which US law-school graduates appear before professional practice, the new version scored in the top 10 per cent of test takers, while the older version was ranked below 10 per cent. Although the two versions appear similar to each other in casual conversation, "the difference comes out when the complexity of the task reaches a sufficient threshold," said OpenAI, noting that "GPT-4 is more reliable, creative, and able to handle much more nuanced instructions". (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

OpenAI takes artificial intelligence race to next level, launches GPT-4 that can 'see'

We often need Coffee not just to wake up but also to stay alert throughout the day. Surrounded by all kinds of innovations at a technology event, it's only fitting that we get a coffee-making robot to help us out. Watch for more.

Tech It Out: Robot barista brews coffee in less than a minute

Fascinated by the metabolism of bears, scientists are conducting studies to treat insulin resistance and diabetes in humans.

WION Fineprint | Bears: Fat, inactive yet healthy?

Spain's biggest human towers competition took place on Sunday, with some 11,000 spectators packing the bullring in the northeast city of Tarragona to watch the daring Catalan tradition.

Catalans compete to build the biggest human towers in Spain

The World Health Organization has now urged people infected with Monkepox to avoid exposing their pets to the virus, this comes following reports of the first case of human to dog transmission of Monkeypox.

Human-to-dog Monkeypox transmission reported, WHO urges infected people to isolate from pets

<p>Archaeologists in Spain said on Friday they had found an ancient jawbone which could help them look into the face of some of the earliest human ancestors in Europe. The surprise find, which could be about 1.4 million years old, could also give vital clues to the evolution of the human face over the millennia, the team from the Atapuerca Foundation said, as reported by Reuters.</p>

<p>"The first week of July 2022 will enter the history of human evolution," the team added in a statement.</p>

<p>The fossilised fragment of an upper jaw and cheekbone was found near caves in the Atapuerca Mountains in northern Spain's Burgos province, the site of other ancient remains. The scientists said they were still working on identifying the specific kind of human ancestor and determining the bone's age.</p>

<p>José María Bermúdez de Castro, one of the team's coordinators, said, "What we can say is that we have found a fossil that's very important and interesting that belongs to one of the first populations that arrived in Europe, maybe later we will find older ones, but at this moment it is a sample of a representative of one of the oldest populations that colonised the European continent."</p>

<p>"We have to continue our research for about at least a year, it's a long time, and this is logical because this takes lots of time, and we will be able to tell whether we are before a representative of homo antecessor, or homo erectus, or something else that we do not know," Maria added.</p>

<p><em>(with inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Archaeologists in Spain said on Friday they had found an ancient jawbone which could help them look into the face of some of the earliest human ancestors in Europe.

Archaeologists in Spain said on Friday they had found an ancient jawbone which could help them look into the face of some of the earliest human ancestors in Europe. The surprise find, which could be about 1.4 million years old, could also give vital clues to the evolution of the human face over the millennia, the team from the Atapuerca Foundation said, as reported by Reuters. "The first week of July 2022 will enter the history of human evolution," the team added in a statement. The fossilised fragment of an upper jaw and cheekbone was found near caves in the Atapuerca Mountains in northern Spain's Burgos province, the site of other ancient remains. The scientists said they were still working on identifying the specific kind of human ancestor and determining the bone's age. José María Bermúdez de Castro, one of the team's coordinators, said, "What we can say is that we have found a fossil that's very important and interesting that belongs to one of the first populations that arrived in Europe, maybe later we will find older ones, but at this moment it is a sample of a representative of one of the oldest populations that colonised the European continent." "We have to continue our research for about at least a year, it's a long time, and this is logical because this takes lots of time, and we will be able to tell whether we are before a representative of homo antecessor, or homo erectus, or something else that we do not know," Maria added. (with inputs from agencies)

Oldest human fossil found, could hold clues about Europe's earliest human ancestors

Reports say the US FDA may clear medical trials for transplant of pig organs. So far, people who've received pig heart or kidney have not survived, why then are experts betting big on pig organs? Palki Sharma brings you the story.

Gravitas: Will U.S. clear medical trials for transplanting organs from pigs to humans?

Researchers from Japan have developed a robotic ‘sixth finger’. Finger has been created by researchers studying how brains react to new body part.

Scientists in Japan develop robotic 'sixth finger' for human augmentation

Plastic is among biggest pollutants on our planet. WION tells you how it was once assumed to be the great boon for human life.

Plastic: Beauty and the beast; How can we solve plastic pollution?

<p>According to a recent study, the sense of smell of humans has been gradually diminishing. In other words, the noses are becoming less sensitive with time. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The study has found two scent receptors for musk and body odour with mutations, which make scents less or more intense. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Sijia Wang of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Joel Mainland of the Monell Chemical Senses Center have contributed to these findings. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-a-way-to-target-destroy-cancer-cells-heres-how-the-ground-breaking-therapy-works-450088" hreflang="en">Scientists discover a way to target &amp; destroy cancer cells: Here's how the ground-breaking therapy works</a></strong></p>

<p>In this research, around 1,000 Han Chinese people were asked to rate the intensity and pleasantness of 10 odours on a 100-point scale. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The odours tested included galaxolide, a synthetic musk and 3M2H, which is one of about 120 chemicals that comprise body odour, but also carries the “characteristic scent” by itself. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/how-life-began-study-explains-how-a-moon-helps-create-life-on-a-planet-450068" hreflang="en">'How life began': Study explains how a moon helps create life on a planet</a></strong></p>

<p>The results of the study confirmed associations discovered earlier between the perception, including intensity, and genetic variants for specific odour receptors for three out of four of the scents. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the first time, the scientists found genetic variants, which were linked to the perception of the musky scent of galaxolide and 3M2H, helping them to get identified by odour receptors of humans. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The findings of the research have been published in the journal Plos Genetics. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


According to a recent study, the sense of smell of humans has been gradually diminishing. In other words, the noses are becoming less sensitive with time. The study has found two scent receptors for musk and body odour with mutations, which make scents less or more intense.

According to a recent study, the sense of smell of humans has been gradually diminishing. In other words, the noses are becoming less sensitive with time. The study has found two scent receptors for musk and body odour with mutations, which make scents less or more intense. Sijia Wang of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Joel Mainland of the Monell Chemical Senses Center have contributed to these findings. Also Read | Scientists discover a way to target & destroy cancer cells: Here's how the ground-breaking therapy works In this research, around 1,000 Han Chinese people were asked to rate the intensity and pleasantness of 10 odours on a 100-point scale. The odours tested included galaxolide, a synthetic musk and 3M2H, which is one of about 120 chemicals that comprise body odour, but also carries the “characteristic scent” by itself. Also Read | 'How life began': Study explains how a moon helps create life on a planet The results of the study confirmed associations discovered earlier between the perception, including intensity, and genetic variants for specific odour receptors for three out of four of the scents. For the first time, the scientists found genetic variants, which were linked to the perception of the musky scent of galaxolide and 3M2H, helping them to get identified by odour receptors of humans. The findings of the research have been published in the journal Plos Genetics. (With inputs from agencies)

In evolution, humans’ noses have become less sensitive, finds study

<p>We all know that a direct impact from an asteroid brought about end of dinosaurs who ruled the planet millions of years ago. Humanity, fortunately, has not suffered such a globe-spanning fate but if researchers are to be believed, we have already got a taste of what such an event can bring about.</p>

<p>This celestial event took place about 1500 years ago. It was not an asteroid but a comet that is being thought to have brought an end to a local culture in the eastern USA. The near-Earth comet literally sent debris towards Earth which caused widespread fires in area spanning 9200 square miles.</p>

<p>Researchers are studying reasons behind decline of Hopewell Cuture in eastern USA. Though war and climate factors have been considered as reasons, they think that blast from the near-Earth comet may have played a huge role.</p>

<p>Researchers found unusual amounts of Iridium and Platinum at 11 Hopewell archaeological sites. These elements are tell-tale signs of meteorite fragments. A charcoal layer in sediments of the ground indicates a period of intense heat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The team of researchers comprising those from University of Cincinnati hypothesizes that the near-Earth comet may have sent the debris and may have caused a massive airburst that had profound effect on the existence of these tribes.</p>

<p>The hypothesis of a near-Earth comet is given strength by folk tales from that period that have been passed down orally to present day.</p>

<p>Tales in some tribes talk of a giant serpent slithering across the sky. A comet with a distinct tail may well have appeared as a serpent to members of the tribe who did not have a word for comet. Tales in few other tribes talk of a 'sky panther' having the power to tear down forests, probably a reference to widespread fires caused by the air blast.</p>

<p>Researchers maintain that more study was required to come to a definite conclusion but cultural and archaeological indications surely point towards a fascinating episode when humanity 'interacted' with the sky.</p>


We all know that a direct impact from an asteroid brought about end of dinosaurs who ruled the planet millions of years ago. Humanity, fortunately, has not suffered such a globe-spanning fate but if researchers are to be believed, we have already got a taste of what such an event can bring about.

We all know that a direct impact from an asteroid brought about end of dinosaurs who ruled the planet millions of years ago. Humanity, fortunately, has not suffered such a globe-spanning fate but if researchers are to be believed, we have already got a taste of what such an event can bring about. This celestial event took place about 1500 years ago. It was not an asteroid but a comet that is being thought to have brought an end to a local culture in the eastern USA. The near-Earth comet literally sent debris towards Earth which caused widespread fires in area spanning 9200 square miles. Researchers are studying reasons behind decline of Hopewell Cuture in eastern USA. Though war and climate factors have been considered as reasons, they think that blast from the near-Earth comet may have played a huge role. Researchers found unusual amounts of Iridium and Platinum at 11 Hopewell archaeological sites. These elements are tell-tale signs of meteorite fragments. A charcoal layer in sediments of the ground indicates a period of intense heat. The team of researchers comprising those from University of Cincinnati hypothesizes that the near-Earth comet may have sent the debris and may have caused a massive airburst that had profound effect on the existence of these tribes. The hypothesis of a near-Earth comet is given strength by folk tales from that period that have been passed down orally to present day. Tales in some tribes talk of a giant serpent slithering across the sky. A comet with a distinct tail may well have appeared as a serpent to members of the tribe who did not have a word for comet. Tales in few other tribes talk of a 'sky panther' having the power to tear down forests, probably a reference to widespread fires caused by the air blast. Researchers maintain that more study was required to come to a definite conclusion but cultural and archaeological indications surely point towards a fascinating episode when humanity 'interacted' with the sky.

Blast from a near-Earth comet may literally have destroyed this culture

<p>After two back-to-back OTT releases 'Aranyak' and 'Human' actor Indraneil&nbsp;Sengupta feels the times are extremely promising for anyone who is talented and is open to change.</p>

<p>On his stint with Netflix show 'Aranyak' that features Raveena Tandon as she makes her OTT debut, Indraneil said,&nbsp;"The best thing about her is that she is a lovely human being. She has no air of seniority or stardom and is a very hardworking actor on set. Director Vinay Waikul was very clear about what he wanted and would push his actors to give their best for every shot. And the result is there for everyone to see as Aranyak has been lauded for the performances of the entire cast."&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/the-fame-game-first-look-madhuri-dixit-all-set-to-make-her-ott-debut-448088" hreflang="en">'The Fame Game' first look: Madhuri Dixit all set to make her OTT debut</a></p>

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<p>As for 'Human' that recently debuted, Indraneil feels fortunate that everone has loved his work. He said,&nbsp;"I have got calls and messages from people I haven’t been in touch with for 10-12 years and that tells me the appreciation is genuine!" <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-meet-adhya-makers-unveil-shruti-haasans-first-look-from-prabhas-starrer-salaar-448349" hreflang="en">Makers unveil Shruti Haasan's first look from Prabhas starrer 'Salaar'</a></p>

<p>On how he prepped for the role in Human in which he plays a war photojournalist, he said,&nbsp;"I try to understand my director's vision and try to do my best to fit into that. I listen to my director, add a bit of my own understanding and feed off other actors. So it always helps to observe someone like Shefali and Kirti, understand their approach and their process and just react to them."</p>

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<h5><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-alia-bhatt-starrer-gangubai-kathiawadi-to-release-in-theatres-on-this-date-448309" hreflang="en">Alia Bhatt starrer 'Gangubai Kathiawadi' to release in theatres on this date</a></h5>


After two back-to-back OTT releases 'Aranyak' and 'Human' actor Indraneil Sengupta feels the times are extremely promising for anyone who is talented and is open to change.

After two back-to-back OTT releases 'Aranyak' and 'Human' actor Indraneil Sengupta feels the times are extremely promising for anyone who is talented and is open to change. On his stint with Netflix show 'Aranyak' that features Raveena Tandon as she makes her OTT debut, Indraneil said, "The best thing about her is that she is a lovely human being. She has no air of seniority or stardom and is a very hardworking actor on set. Director Vinay Waikul was very clear about what he wanted and would push his actors to give their best for every shot. And the result is there for everyone to see as Aranyak has been lauded for the performances of the entire cast." 'The Fame Game' first look: Madhuri Dixit all set to make her OTT debut View this post on Instagram A post shared by Indraneil Sengupta (@indraneilsengupta) × As for 'Human' that recently debuted, Indraneil feels fortunate that everone has loved his work. He said, "I have got calls and messages from people I haven’t been in touch with for 10-12 years and that tells me the appreciation is genuine!" Makers unveil Shruti Haasan's first look from Prabhas starrer 'Salaar' On how he prepped for the role in Human in which he plays a war photojournalist, he said, "I try to understand my director's vision and try to do my best to fit into that. I listen to my director, add a bit of my own understanding and feed off other actors. So it always helps to observe someone like Shefali and Kirti, understand their approach and their process and just react to them." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Indraneil Sengupta (@indraneilsengupta) × Alia Bhatt starrer 'Gangubai Kathiawadi' to release in theatres on this date

Indraneil Sengupta on playing prominent roles in web shows 'Aranyak' and 'Human'

The world is slowly coming to terms with covid despite the rising number of infections. A study from South Africa shows the extent of the spread not even Lions are spared from the virus, three of them were infected with covid-19.

Study: Human to animal transmission of covid-19 possible, three lions tested positive

<p>Shefali Shah has always carved her niche in whichever medium she’s been a part of. The actress has dabbled in TV shows, has been part of blockbuster Bollywood films and has also worked in art-house cinema. In the last few years, with the advent of OTT in India, Shefali has appeared in some memorable roles and characters on the digital space- creating an impact with each of her outings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an exclusive chat with WION, Shefali Shah opened up about her process of working, her new web series ‘Human’ and how digital has been a boon for an actor like her.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Produced by her husband, filmmaker Vipul Shah- who also serves as the co-director of the medical drama, ‘Human’ is a grim story of drug trials that are conducted on unsuspecting humans. Shefali plays Neuro-surgeon Gauri Nath head of a hospital chain in Bhopal. The show also features Kirti Kulhari, Ram Kapoor, Indraneil Sengupta and Vishal Jethwa in key roles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Known to play intense characters on screen, is it challenging to switch off from a character and take up something equally difficult in the next project, we ask. “Not difficult to switch off and on. The thing is I get obsessed with what I am doing. So when I am doing a project, I am completely submerged with it but at the same time when you are playing a character like Gauri Nath, you can't carry her back home with you. I can't disconnect as an actor. As a person I have to disconnect, I can’t carry these characters home.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>‘Human’ deals with drug trials that are conducted on humans and their side effects which often go unnoticed. Shefali admits that when she had first read the story she was shocked. “ I mean I have read about drug trials and have seen a couple of things regarding that online but I did not know the magnitude and the depth of it completely. What happens when a molecular composition is made and till the time it comes to the market- I didn’t know so much in detail. Did not know what extent people can go to in terms of power play and money and greed. So that was a shocker.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Will ‘Human’ make the audience uncomfortable? “Yes, a lot of people will get uncomfortable with the show,” admits the actress.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The web series has been directed by Vipul Shah and Mozez Singh who also serves as a writer along with Ishani. Considering there were two directors on board, was it difficult as an actor to work on this project?</p>

<p>“It was exciting to have both directors on board,” Shefali said and added that they were very different in their style of working because they are very different individuals but the two directors were in sync about the show and its script.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Any kind of show or project is a cumulative effort- no one can work individually. They were in sync with what they wanted, how they wanted the show to look like. As individuals they were very different,” said the actress.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;Shefali says that post the success of ‘Delhi Crimes’ many middle-aged actresses have aspired to do similar author-backed roles. In the International Emmy award-winning show, Shefali played ACP Vartika Chaturvedi who was investigating the infamous 16 December Delhi gang-rape case that took place in 2012. Shefali says she is fortunate to have got such a powerful role to play at her age.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I know after ‘Delhi Crimes’, people use Vartika Chaturvedi as an example. For an actor of my age - who wasn’t till recently given such opportunities- this was a major role and it has led to more people writing roles for middle-aged women on OTT.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shefali says the advent of OTT has opened doors for women of all ages. “Some of the top shows are women-centric- across the world, and it’s also changing in cinema,” points out the actress.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
“We are talking of full-fledged characters who do not have a shelf life or age limit, who can have detailed characters. OTT gives you time to explore and express so much that cannot be done in 2 hrs time on the big screen,” points out the actress who was last seen in Netflix special film ‘Ajeeb Dastans’.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The actress, who has worked in all mediums and earned accolades in each of these spaces, says she is a greedy actor. “So many amazing stories I want to be a part of I am a greedy actor.” The actress who has made two short films in 2021 is also keen to direct a feature film in the future.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I want to direct, but I take time to prep. So when I make a film, it will take quite a bit out of me. Right now enjoying this phase as an actor- finally doing the things I always wanted to do. But I will direct for sure.”&nbsp;</p>


Shefali Shah has always carved her niche in whichever medium she’s been a part of. The actress has dabbled in TV shows, has been part of blockbuster Bollywood films and has also worked in art-house cinema.

Shefali Shah has always carved her niche in whichever medium she’s been a part of. The actress has dabbled in TV shows, has been part of blockbuster Bollywood films and has also worked in art-house cinema. In the last few years, with the advent of OTT in India, Shefali has appeared in some memorable roles and characters on the digital space- creating an impact with each of her outings. In an exclusive chat with WION, Shefali Shah opened up about her process of working, her new web series ‘Human’ and how digital has been a boon for an actor like her. Produced by her husband, filmmaker Vipul Shah- who also serves as the co-director of the medical drama, ‘Human’ is a grim story of drug trials that are conducted on unsuspecting humans. Shefali plays Neuro-surgeon Gauri Nath head of a hospital chain in Bhopal. The show also features Kirti Kulhari, Ram Kapoor, Indraneil Sengupta and Vishal Jethwa in key roles. Known to play intense characters on screen, is it challenging to switch off from a character and take up something equally difficult in the next project, we ask. “Not difficult to switch off and on. The thing is I get obsessed with what I am doing. So when I am doing a project, I am completely submerged with it but at the same time when you are playing a character like Gauri Nath, you can't carry her back home with you. I can't disconnect as an actor. As a person I have to disconnect, I can’t carry these characters home.” ‘Human’ deals with drug trials that are conducted on humans and their side effects which often go unnoticed. Shefali admits that when she had first read the story she was shocked. “ I mean I have read about drug trials and have seen a couple of things regarding that online but I did not know the magnitude and the depth of it completely. What happens when a molecular composition is made and till the time it comes to the market- I didn’t know so much in detail. Did not know what extent people can go to in terms of power play and money and greed. So that was a shocker.” Will ‘Human’ make the audience uncomfortable? “Yes, a lot of people will get uncomfortable with the show,” admits the actress. The web series has been directed by Vipul Shah and Mozez Singh who also serves as a writer along with Ishani. Considering there were two directors on board, was it difficult as an actor to work on this project? “It was exciting to have both directors on board,” Shefali said and added that they were very different in their style of working because they are very different individuals but the two directors were in sync about the show and its script.” “Any kind of show or project is a cumulative effort- no one can work individually. They were in sync with what they wanted, how they wanted the show to look like. As individuals they were very different,” said the actress. Shefali says that post the success of ‘Delhi Crimes’ many middle-aged actresses have aspired to do similar author-backed roles. In the International Emmy award-winning show, Shefali played ACP Vartika Chaturvedi who was investigating the infamous 16 December Delhi gang-rape case that took place in 2012. Shefali says she is fortunate to have got such a powerful role to play at her age. “I know after ‘Delhi Crimes’, people use Vartika Chaturvedi as an example. For an actor of my age - who wasn’t till recently given such opportunities- this was a major role and it has led to more people writing roles for middle-aged women on OTT. Shefali says the advent of OTT has opened doors for women of all ages. “Some of the top shows are women-centric- across the world, and it’s also changing in cinema,” points out the actress. “We are talking of full-fledged characters who do not have a shelf life or age limit, who can have detailed characters. OTT gives you time to explore and express so much that cannot be done in 2 hrs time on the big screen,” points out the actress who was last seen in Netflix special film ‘Ajeeb Dastans’. The actress, who has worked in all mediums and earned accolades in each of these spaces, says she is a greedy actor. “So many amazing stories I want to be a part of I am a greedy actor.” The actress who has made two short films in 2021 is also keen to direct a feature film in the future. “I want to direct, but I take time to prep. So when I make a film, it will take quite a bit out of me. Right now enjoying this phase as an actor- finally doing the things I always wanted to do. But I will direct for sure.”

Exclusive! Shefali Shah on ‘Human’, ‘Delhi Crimes’ and more: Enjoying this phase as an actor

American doctors have successfully transplanted a pig's heart into a human. The surgery was performed on a 57-year-old patient who is good health. Why was it needed? How does it benefit science? Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Pig's heart transplanted into a human

A man in the United States has now become the first person in the world to get a heart transplant from a genetically modified pig. It was a bit of a do-or-die situation, that prompted the American medical regulator to grant permission for this experimental surgery.

United States: First pig to human heart transplant, a game-changer for organ transplants

<p>Disney+ Hotstar’s upcoming Hotstar Specials ‘Human’ has been creating waves all around!<br />
<br />
'Human' is a medical thriller based on Human drug trials in India. The series boasts of an absolutely stellar cast headlined by National award-winning actor Shefali Shah and versatile actor Kirti Kulhari along with Vishal Jethwa, Ram Kapoor, Seema Biswas, Aditya Srivastava and Mohan Agashe amongst others. The suspense thriller, Human, unravels unexpected secrets of the world of medicines and its effect on people with a gripping tale of murder, mystery, lust, and manipulation.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-indian-music-composer-vishal-dadlanis-father-passes-away-says-hes-completely-lost-443080" hreflang="en">Indian music composer Vishal Dadlani's father passes away; says he's completely lost</a><br />
<br />
Directed by Vipul Amrutlal Shah and Mozez Singh, the Disney+ Hotstar Specials series has been penned by Mozez Singh and Ishani Banerjee. Kirti Kulhari as an actor is known for her choice of roles that are perceived as serious at times.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Kirti Kulhari plays the role of a doctor in 'Human' and when asked about her choice of projects and her inclination towards drama, she shares, “There is so much more drama in drama as a genre, the characters are more complex and layered. I personally feel I like playing with complexity as a person hence portraying them on screen as well. It is a very challenging process as an actor and I truly enjoy that challenge. Also, I am an actor who likes to talk about different subjects when I touch a script. There is so much to talk about. It involves people, the drama has to be there. It's just something I love to do. It’s far tougher to get a good script in terms of comedy and others as compared to drama. I happen to be doing well with drama, and if it's categorized as serious stuff, sure, I would like to take every opportunity as an actor to take things that matter to me. ”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-watch-trailer-jason-bateman-returns-in-ozark-season-4-part-1-442994" hreflang="en">Watch trailer: Jason Bateman returns in Ozark season 4 part 1</a></p>

<p>Kirti is sure to impress viewers with her classic performance in 'Human'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A pharma giant is using India’s lax clinical trial rules to fast track the development of a new drug, despite lethal side effects. Meanwhile, 35-year-old Dr. Saira Sabharwal lands a dream job in Bhopal’s premier hospital under the mentorship of the iconic 45-year-old Dr. Gauri Nath. Saira grows under Gauri’s tutelage and as the two women start to form a deep bond over their commitment to the medical cause. However, a shocking discovery throws their life into chaos as their story becomes intertwined with that of a young migrant worker, Mangu (20 years), who is all set to wreak havoc on the medical system.</p>

<p>The fictional series enunciates the collateral damage due to fast-tracked drug trials for financial gains in a gripping tale that involves innocent lives lost to greed. Touching compelling themes like the value of human life, medical malpractice, class divide and ramifications of a fast-paced medical science, Human brings forth the greed to make money in a compelling tale of power struggles, secretive pasts, trauma and murders.</p>

<p>Starring actors Shefali Shah and Kirti Kulhari, Human will be available on Disney+ Hotstar from 14th January 2022 onwards</p>


Disney+ Hotstar’s upcoming Hotstar Specials ‘Human’ has been creating waves all around! 'Human' is a medical thriller based on Human drug trials in India. The series boasts of an absolutely stellar cast headlined by National award-winning actor Shefali Shah and versatile actor Kirti Kulhari along with Vishal Jethwa, Ram Kapoor, Seema Biswas, Aditya Srivastava and Mohan Agashe amongst others.

Disney+ Hotstar’s upcoming Hotstar Specials ‘Human’ has been creating waves all around! 'Human' is a medical thriller based on Human drug trials in India. The series boasts of an absolutely stellar cast headlined by National award-winning actor Shefali Shah and versatile actor Kirti Kulhari along with Vishal Jethwa, Ram Kapoor, Seema Biswas, Aditya Srivastava and Mohan Agashe amongst others. The suspense thriller, Human, unravels unexpected secrets of the world of medicines and its effect on people with a gripping tale of murder, mystery, lust, and manipulation. Indian music composer Vishal Dadlani's father passes away; says he's completely lost Directed by Vipul Amrutlal Shah and Mozez Singh, the Disney+ Hotstar Specials series has been penned by Mozez Singh and Ishani Banerjee. Kirti Kulhari as an actor is known for her choice of roles that are perceived as serious at times. Kirti Kulhari plays the role of a doctor in 'Human' and when asked about her choice of projects and her inclination towards drama, she shares, “There is so much more drama in drama as a genre, the characters are more complex and layered. I personally feel I like playing with complexity as a person hence portraying them on screen as well. It is a very challenging process as an actor and I truly enjoy that challenge. Also, I am an actor who likes to talk about different subjects when I touch a script. There is so much to talk about. It involves people, the drama has to be there. It's just something I love to do. It’s far tougher to get a good script in terms of comedy and others as compared to drama. I happen to be doing well with drama, and if it's categorized as serious stuff, sure, I would like to take every opportunity as an actor to take things that matter to me. ” Watch trailer: Jason Bateman returns in Ozark season 4 part 1 Kirti is sure to impress viewers with her classic performance in 'Human'. A pharma giant is using India’s lax clinical trial rules to fast track the development of a new drug, despite lethal side effects. Meanwhile, 35-year-old Dr. Saira Sabharwal lands a dream job in Bhopal’s premier hospital under the mentorship of the iconic 45-year-old Dr. Gauri Nath. Saira grows under Gauri’s tutelage and as the two women start to form a deep bond over their commitment to the medical cause. However, a shocking discovery throws their life into chaos as their story becomes intertwined with that of a young migrant worker, Mangu (20 years), who is all set to wreak havoc on the medical system. The fictional series enunciates the collateral damage due to fast-tracked drug trials for financial gains in a gripping tale that involves innocent lives lost to greed. Touching compelling themes like the value of human life, medical malpractice, class divide and ramifications of a fast-paced medical science, Human brings forth the greed to make money in a compelling tale of power struggles, secretive pasts, trauma and murders. Starring actors Shefali Shah and Kirti Kulhari, Human will be available on Disney+ Hotstar from 14th January 2022 onwards

'I am an actor who likes to talk about different subjects,' Kirti Kulhari on her show 'Human'

<p>An experiment named MicroAge can now help people live a longer and healthier life. As a part of the experiment, human cells will be launched to space. This will help in understanding what happens to the human cells and why. The study will be launched on SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from the Kennedy Space Centre in Florida to the International Space Station.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The cells have been put into small 3D&nbsp;holders and once they reach space they will be electrically stimulated to induce contractions in the muscle tissue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This will help scientists in closely examining the cells.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Researchers from the University of Liverpool, funded by the UK Space Agency, will analyse these cells.&nbsp;The UK Space Agency has provided £1.2 million in funds.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-japanese-billionaire-yusaku-maezawa-completes-12-days-at-iss-438418"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;In Pics | Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa completes 12 days at ISS</strong></a></p>

<p>Professor Malcolm Jackson, from the University of Liverpool while speaking to Sky News said, "We have known for a long time that astronauts in space can lose muscle rapidly. People have speculated whether that is an accelerated ageing phenomenon."</p>

<p>"We realised a little while ago that astronauts on the space station had an analogous problem, each astronaut that is on the space station exercises at least 2.5 hours each day and despite that, they lose quite a significant amount of muscle and in fact can't walk for a while after they get back on earth."</p>

<p>Regular updates regarding the experiment will be given on the MicroAge App.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


An experiment named MicroAge can now help people live a longer and healthier life. As a part of the experiment, human cells will be launched to space. This will help in understanding what happens to the human cells and why.

An experiment named MicroAge can now help people live a longer and healthier life. As a part of the experiment, human cells will be launched to space. This will help in understanding what happens to the human cells and why. The study will be launched on SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from the Kennedy Space Centre in Florida to the International Space Station. The cells have been put into small 3D holders and once they reach space they will be electrically stimulated to induce contractions in the muscle tissue. This will help scientists in closely examining the cells. Researchers from the University of Liverpool, funded by the UK Space Agency, will analyse these cells. The UK Space Agency has provided £1.2 million in funds. Also read | In Pics | Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa completes 12 days at ISS Professor Malcolm Jackson, from the University of Liverpool while speaking to Sky News said, "We have known for a long time that astronauts in space can lose muscle rapidly. People have speculated whether that is an accelerated ageing phenomenon." "We realised a little while ago that astronauts on the space station had an analogous problem, each astronaut that is on the space station exercises at least 2.5 hours each day and despite that, they lose quite a significant amount of muscle and in fact can't walk for a while after they get back on earth." Regular updates regarding the experiment will be given on the MicroAge App. (With inputs from agencies)

Human muscle cells will be sent to space to study ageing

Now in a move that can further worsen the already strained tasks between the United States and China the United States has now interestingly decided to impose human rights-related sanctions on China for its alleged atrocities in the Xinjiang province.

The U.S imposes human rights sanctions

<p>Global warming has always been a matter of concern for the entire globe. Amid the COP26 summit, a recent revelation by a new study states that the speed of human-caused&nbsp;global warming over the last 150 years is faster than anything&nbsp;since the last ice age as it is about 24,000 years ago. Published in the journal Nature, the study suggests that there is a general warming trend over the last 10,000 years.</p>

<p>"This reconstruction suggests that current temperatures are unprecedented in 24,000 years, and also suggests that the speed of human-caused global warming is faster than anything we've seen in that same time," said Jessica Tierney, an associate professor at the University of Arizona, and co-author of the study.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/global-warming-causes-uks-most-resilient-longest-standing-ice-patch-to-melt-426539"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Global warming causes UK's 'most resilient' longest-standing ice patch to melt</strong></a></p>

<p>As a part of the study, the scientists created maps which highlighted&nbsp;global temperature changes&nbsp;for every 200 years interval going back 24,000 years. Lead study author Matthew Osman said, "The fact that we're today so far out of bounds of what we might consider normal is cause for alarm and should be surprising to everybody."</p>

<p>Two independent datasets were combined. This included temperature data from marine sediments and computer simulations of climate. To obtain information about past temperatures, the scientists looked at the chemical signatures of marine sediments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"To forecast the weather, meteorologists start with a model that reflects current weather, then add in observations such as temperature, pressure, humidity, wind direction, and so on to create an updated forecast," Tierney said.</p>

<p>Currently, the team is working on using the method to know more about climate changes that happened in past.</p>

<p>The study further states that the main cause of climate change since the last ice age are the rising greenhouse gas concentrations and the retreat of the ice sheets.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/hell-heron-new-species-of-dinosaur-with-extremely-large-nose-discovered-428545"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;'Hell heron': New species of dinosaur with extremely large nose discovered</strong></a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, it has been reported that the UK's longest-lasting snow patch has melted away, for only the eighth time in 300 years. Nicknamed “the Sphinx”, the hardy piece of snow has survived countless summers on a remote mountainside in the Cairngorms.</p>

<p>The patch of resilient snow resides on Braeriach in Aviemore, Scotland's third highest mountain at 1,296 metres. After shrinking to the size of an A4 piece of paper in recent weeks, it finally disappeared in mild weather</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


Global warming has always been a matter of concern for the entire globe. Amid the COP26 summit, a recent revelation by a new study states that the speed of human-caused global warming over the last 150 years is faster than anything since the last ice age as it is about 24,000 years ago.

Global warming has always been a matter of concern for the entire globe. Amid the COP26 summit, a recent revelation by a new study states that the speed of human-caused global warming over the last 150 years is faster than anything since the last ice age as it is about 24,000 years ago. Published in the journal Nature, the study suggests that there is a general warming trend over the last 10,000 years. "This reconstruction suggests that current temperatures are unprecedented in 24,000 years, and also suggests that the speed of human-caused global warming is faster than anything we've seen in that same time," said Jessica Tierney, an associate professor at the University of Arizona, and co-author of the study. Also read | Global warming causes UK's 'most resilient' longest-standing ice patch to melt As a part of the study, the scientists created maps which highlighted global temperature changes for every 200 years interval going back 24,000 years. Lead study author Matthew Osman said, "The fact that we're today so far out of bounds of what we might consider normal is cause for alarm and should be surprising to everybody." Two independent datasets were combined. This included temperature data from marine sediments and computer simulations of climate. To obtain information about past temperatures, the scientists looked at the chemical signatures of marine sediments. "To forecast the weather, meteorologists start with a model that reflects current weather, then add in observations such as temperature, pressure, humidity, wind direction, and so on to create an updated forecast," Tierney said. Currently, the team is working on using the method to know more about climate changes that happened in past. The study further states that the main cause of climate change since the last ice age are the rising greenhouse gas concentrations and the retreat of the ice sheets. Also read | 'Hell heron': New species of dinosaur with extremely large nose discovered Meanwhile, it has been reported that the UK's longest-lasting snow patch has melted away, for only the eighth time in 300 years. Nicknamed “the Sphinx”, the hardy piece of snow has survived countless summers on a remote mountainside in the Cairngorms. The patch of resilient snow resides on Braeriach in Aviemore, Scotland's third highest mountain at 1,296 metres. After shrinking to the size of an A4 piece of paper in recent weeks, it finally disappeared in mild weather (With inputs from agencies)

'Unprecedented': Speed of global warming at its fastest pace since ice age

<p>Surgeons in New York have successfully attached a kidney grown in a genetically altered pig to a human patient and found that the organ worked normally, a scientific breakthrough that one day may yield a vast new supply of organs for severely ill patients.</p>

<p>Although many questions remain to be answered about the long-term consequences of the transplant, which involved a brain-dead patient followed only for 54 hours, experts in the field said the procedure represented a milestone.</p>

<p>“We need to know more about the longevity of the organ,” said Dr. Dorry Segev, professor of transplant surgery at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine who was not involved in the research. Nevertheless, he said: “This is a huge breakthrough. It’s a big, big deal.”</p>

<p>Researchers have long sought to grow organs in pigs suitable for transplantation into humans. A steady stream of organs — which could eventually include hearts, lungs and livers — would offer a lifeline to the more than 100,000 Americans on transplant waiting lists, including the 90,240 who need a kidney. Twelve people on the waiting lists die each day.</p>

<p>An even larger number of Americans with kidney failure — more than a half million — depend on grueling dialysis treatments to survive. In large part because of the scarcity of human organs, the vast majority of dialysis patients do not qualify for transplants, which are reserved for those most likely to thrive after the procedure.</p>

<p>The surgery, carried out at NYU Langone Health, was first reported by USA Today on Tuesday. The research has not yet been peer-reviewed nor published in a medical journal.</p>

<p>The transplanted kidney was obtained from a pig genetically engineered to grow an organ unlikely to be rejected by the human body. In a close approximation of an actual transplant procedure, the kidney was attached to a person who had suffered brain death and was maintained on a ventilator.</p>

<p>The kidney, attached to blood vessels in the upper leg outside the abdomen, started functioning normally, making urine and the waste product creatinine “almost immediately,” according to Dr. Robert Montgomery, the director of the NYU Langone Transplant Institute, who performed the procedure in September.</p>

<p>Although the organ was not implanted in the body, problems with so-called xenotransplants — from animals like primates and pigs — usually occur at the interface of the human blood supply and the organ, where human blood flows through pig vessels, experts said.</p>

<p>The fact that the organ functioned outside the body is a strong indication that it will work in the body, Montgomery said.</p>

<p>“It was better than I think we even expected,” he said. “It just looked like any transplant I’ve ever done from a living donor. A lot of kidneys from deceased people don’t work right away, and take days or weeks to start. This worked immediately.”</p>

<p>Last year, 39,717 residents of the United States received an organ transplant, the majority of them — 23,401 — receiving kidneys, according to the United Network for Organ Sharing, a nonprofit that coordinates the nation’s organ procurement efforts.</p>

<p>Genetically engineered pigs “could potentially be a sustainable, renewable source of organs — the solar and wind of organ availability,” Montgomery said.</p>

<p>Reactions to the news among transplantation experts ranged from cautiously optimistic to wildly effusive, though all acknowledged the procedure represented a sea change. The prospect of raising pigs in order to harvest their organs for humans is bound to raise questions about animal welfare and exploitation, though an estimated 100 million pigs already are killed in the United States each year for food.</p>

<p>While some surgeons speculated that it could be just months before genetically engineered pigs’ kidneys are transplanted into living human beings, others said there was still much work to be done.</p>

<p>“This is really cutting-edge translational surgery and transplantation that is on the brink of being able to do it in living human beings,” said Dr. Amy Friedman, a former transplant surgeon and chief medical officer of LiveOnNY, the organ procurement organization in the greater New York area.</p>

<p>The group was involved in the selection and identification of the brain-dead patient receiving the experimental procedure. The patient was a registered organ donor, and because the organs were not suitable for transplantation, the patient’s family agreed to permit research to test the experimental transplant procedure.</p>

<p>Friedman said she envisioned using hearts, livers and other organs grown in pigs, as well. “It’s truly mind-boggling to think of how many transplants we might be able to offer,” she said, adding, “You’d have to breed the pigs, of course.”</p>

<p>Other experts were more reserved, saying they wanted to see whether the results were reproducible and to review data collected by NYU Langone.</p>

<p>“There’s no question this is a tour de force, in that it’s hard to do and you have to jump through a lot of hoops,” said Dr. Jay A. Fishman, associate director of the transplantation center at Massachusetts General Hospital.</p>

<p>“Whether this particular study advances the field will depend on what data they collected and whether they share it, or whether it is a step just to show they can do it,” Fishman said. He urged humility “about what we know.”</p>

<p>Many hurdles remain before genetically engineered pigs’ organs can be used in living human beings, said Dr. David Klassen, chief medical officer of the United Network for Organ Sharing.</p>

<p>While he called the surgery “a watershed moment,” he warned that long-term rejection of organs occurs even when the donor kidney is well-matched, and “even when you’re not trying to cross species barriers.”</p>

<p>The kidney has functions in addition to clearing blood of toxins. And there are concerns about pig viruses infecting recipients, Klassen said: “It’s a complicated field, and to imagine that we know all of the things that are going to happen and all the problems that will arise is naive.”</p>

<p>Xenotransplantation, the process of grafting or transplanting organs or tissues between different species, has a long history. Efforts to use the blood and skin of animals in humans go back hundreds of years.</p>

<p>In the 1960s, chimpanzee kidneys were transplanted into a small number of human patients. Most died shortly afterward; the longest a patient lived was nine months. In 1983, a baboon heart was transplanted into an infant girl known as Baby Faye. She died 20 days later.</p>

<p>Pigs offered advantages over primates for organ procurement — they are easier to raise, reach maturation faster, and achieve adult human size in six months. Pig heart valves are routinely transplanted into humans, and some patients with diabetes have received pig pancreas cells. Pig skin has also been used as temporary grafts for burn patients.</p>

<p>The combination of two new technologies — gene editing and cloning — has yielded genetically altered pig organs. Pig hearts and kidneys have been transplanted successfully into monkeys and baboons, but safety concerns precluded their use in humans.</p>

<p>“The field up to now has been stuck in the preclinical primate stage, because going from primate to living human is perceived as a big jump,” Montgomery said.</p>

<p>The kidney used in the new procedure was obtained by knocking out a pig gene that encodes a sugar molecule that elicits an aggressive human rejection response. The pig was genetically engineered by Revivicor and approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use as a source for human therapeutics.</p>

<p>Montgomery and his team also transplanted the pig’s thymus, a gland that is involved in the immune system, in an effort to ward off immune reactions to the kidney.</p>

<p>After attaching the kidney to blood vessels in the upper leg, the surgeons covered it with a protective shield so they could observe it and take tissue samples over the 54-hour study period. Urine and creatinine levels were normal, Montgomery and his colleagues found, and no signs of rejection were detected during more than two days of observation.</p>

<p>“There didn’t seem to be any kind of incompatibility between the pig kidney and the human that would make it not work,” Montgomery said. “There wasn’t immediate rejection of the kidney.”</p>

<p>The long-term prospects are still unknown, he acknowledged. But “this allowed us to answer a really important question: Is there something that’s going to happen when we move this from a primate to a human that is going to be disastrous?”</p>


Surgeons in New York have successfully attached a kidney grown in a genetically altered pig to a human patient and found that the organ worked normally, a scientific breakthrough that one day may yield a vast new supply of organs for severely ill patients.

Surgeons in New York have successfully attached a kidney grown in a genetically altered pig to a human patient and found that the organ worked normally, a scientific breakthrough that one day may yield a vast new supply of organs for severely ill patients. Although many questions remain to be answered about the long-term consequences of the transplant, which involved a brain-dead patient followed only for 54 hours, experts in the field said the procedure represented a milestone. “We need to know more about the longevity of the organ,” said Dr. Dorry Segev, professor of transplant surgery at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine who was not involved in the research. Nevertheless, he said: “This is a huge breakthrough. It’s a big, big deal.” Researchers have long sought to grow organs in pigs suitable for transplantation into humans. A steady stream of organs — which could eventually include hearts, lungs and livers — would offer a lifeline to the more than 100,000 Americans on transplant waiting lists, including the 90,240 who need a kidney. Twelve people on the waiting lists die each day. An even larger number of Americans with kidney failure — more than a half million — depend on grueling dialysis treatments to survive. In large part because of the scarcity of human organs, the vast majority of dialysis patients do not qualify for transplants, which are reserved for those most likely to thrive after the procedure. The surgery, carried out at NYU Langone Health, was first reported by USA Today on Tuesday. The research has not yet been peer-reviewed nor published in a medical journal. The transplanted kidney was obtained from a pig genetically engineered to grow an organ unlikely to be rejected by the human body. In a close approximation of an actual transplant procedure, the kidney was attached to a person who had suffered brain death and was maintained on a ventilator. The kidney, attached to blood vessels in the upper leg outside the abdomen, started functioning normally, making urine and the waste product creatinine “almost immediately,” according to Dr. Robert Montgomery, the director of the NYU Langone Transplant Institute, who performed the procedure in September. Although the organ was not implanted in the body, problems with so-called xenotransplants — from animals like primates and pigs — usually occur at the interface of the human blood supply and the organ, where human blood flows through pig vessels, experts said. The fact that the organ functioned outside the body is a strong indication that it will work in the body, Montgomery said. “It was better than I think we even expected,” he said. “It just looked like any transplant I’ve ever done from a living donor. A lot of kidneys from deceased people don’t work right away, and take days or weeks to start. This worked immediately.” Last year, 39,717 residents of the United States received an organ transplant, the majority of them — 23,401 — receiving kidneys, according to the United Network for Organ Sharing, a nonprofit that coordinates the nation’s organ procurement efforts. Genetically engineered pigs “could potentially be a sustainable, renewable source of organs — the solar and wind of organ availability,” Montgomery said. Reactions to the news among transplantation experts ranged from cautiously optimistic to wildly effusive, though all acknowledged the procedure represented a sea change. The prospect of raising pigs in order to harvest their organs for humans is bound to raise questions about animal welfare and exploitation, though an estimated 100 million pigs already are killed in the United States each year for food. While some surgeons speculated that it could be just months before genetically engineered pigs’ kidneys are transplanted into living human beings, others said there was still much work to be done. “This is really cutting-edge translational surgery and transplantation that is on the brink of being able to do it in living human beings,” said Dr. Amy Friedman, a former transplant surgeon and chief medical officer of LiveOnNY, the organ procurement organization in the greater New York area. The group was involved in the selection and identification of the brain-dead patient receiving the experimental procedure. The patient was a registered organ donor, and because the organs were not suitable for transplantation, the patient’s family agreed to permit research to test the experimental transplant procedure. Friedman said she envisioned using hearts, livers and other organs grown in pigs, as well. “It’s truly mind-boggling to think of how many transplants we might be able to offer,” she said, adding, “You’d have to breed the pigs, of course.” Other experts were more reserved, saying they wanted to see whether the results were reproducible and to review data collected by NYU Langone. “There’s no question this is a tour de force, in that it’s hard to do and you have to jump through a lot of hoops,” said Dr. Jay A. Fishman, associate director of the transplantation center at Massachusetts General Hospital. “Whether this particular study advances the field will depend on what data they collected and whether they share it, or whether it is a step just to show they can do it,” Fishman said. He urged humility “about what we know.” Many hurdles remain before genetically engineered pigs’ organs can be used in living human beings, said Dr. David Klassen, chief medical officer of the United Network for Organ Sharing. While he called the surgery “a watershed moment,” he warned that long-term rejection of organs occurs even when the donor kidney is well-matched, and “even when you’re not trying to cross species barriers.” The kidney has functions in addition to clearing blood of toxins. And there are concerns about pig viruses infecting recipients, Klassen said: “It’s a complicated field, and to imagine that we know all of the things that are going to happen and all the problems that will arise is naive.” Xenotransplantation, the process of grafting or transplanting organs or tissues between different species, has a long history. Efforts to use the blood and skin of animals in humans go back hundreds of years. In the 1960s, chimpanzee kidneys were transplanted into a small number of human patients. Most died shortly afterward; the longest a patient lived was nine months. In 1983, a baboon heart was transplanted into an infant girl known as Baby Faye. She died 20 days later. Pigs offered advantages over primates for organ procurement — they are easier to raise, reach maturation faster, and achieve adult human size in six months. Pig heart valves are routinely transplanted into humans, and some patients with diabetes have received pig pancreas cells. Pig skin has also been used as temporary grafts for burn patients. The combination of two new technologies — gene editing and cloning — has yielded genetically altered pig organs. Pig hearts and kidneys have been transplanted successfully into monkeys and baboons, but safety concerns precluded their use in humans. “The field up to now has been stuck in the preclinical primate stage, because going from primate to living human is perceived as a big jump,” Montgomery said. The kidney used in the new procedure was obtained by knocking out a pig gene that encodes a sugar molecule that elicits an aggressive human rejection response. The pig was genetically engineered by Revivicor and approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use as a source for human therapeutics. Montgomery and his team also transplanted the pig’s thymus, a gland that is involved in the immune system, in an effort to ward off immune reactions to the kidney. After attaching the kidney to blood vessels in the upper leg, the surgeons covered it with a protective shield so they could observe it and take tissue samples over the 54-hour study period. Urine and creatinine levels were normal, Montgomery and his colleagues found, and no signs of rejection were detected during more than two days of observation. “There didn’t seem to be any kind of incompatibility between the pig kidney and the human that would make it not work,” Montgomery said. “There wasn’t immediate rejection of the kidney.” The long-term prospects are still unknown, he acknowledged. But “this allowed us to answer a really important question: Is there something that’s going to happen when we move this from a primate to a human that is going to be disastrous?”

In a first, surgeons attached a pig kidney to a human — and it worked

<p>The United States on Thursday announced $ 2 million rewards for information regarding Pakistani national and "human smuggler" Abid Ali Khan - one million USD for information leading to the arrest and another one million USD for information leading to the financial disruption of his network.</p>

<p>US State Department spokesperson said that Ali Khan allegedly operates a Pakistani-based smuggling network that facilitates the travel of undocumented individuals into the United States from the middle-east and southwest Asia in exchange for payment.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/top-us-naval-commander-hosts-senior-indian-navy-officers-aboard-uss-carl-vinson-420814">Top US naval commander hosts senior Indian Navy officers aboard USS Carl Vinson</a></strong></p>

<p>In addition to planning and coordinating the international travel from Pakistan through multiple countries, Ali Khan allegedly offered or provided false documents for foreign nationals to use for travel.</p>

<p>"Today, the Department of State is announcing two rewards for information regarding Pakistani national and human smuggler Abid Ali Khan.</p>

<p>The first reward of up to $1 million is offered for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of Ali Khan, while a second $1 million reward is offered for information leading to the financial disruption of Ali Khan's human smuggling network," the spokesperson said in a statement.</p>

<p>It said smuggling organizations like Ali Khan's take advantage of vulnerable populations, pose high risk, and gravely endanger the individuals being smuggled.</p>

<p>"Persons smuggled to the United States are often subject to perilous travel through South and Central America, which can involve many days of walking through difficult terrain with little food or water, with many falling victim to robbery and abuse during the journey."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/56-in-us-feel-cheating-affected-2020-presidential-election-outcome-says-poll-420060"><strong>56% in US feel cheating affected 2020 presidential election outcome, says poll</strong></a></p>

<p>On April 7, the US&nbsp;Department of Justice unsealed a federal indictment filed in the Eastern District of Virginia charging Ali Khan with Conspiracy to Encourage and Induce an Alien to Unlawfully Enter the United States, Encouraging and Inducing an Alien to Unlawfully Entering the United States, and Bringing an Alien to the United States.</p>

<p>On the same date, the Department of the Treasury imposed sanctions against Ali Khan and the Ali Khan Transnational Criminal Organization pursuant to Executive Order 13581 "Blocking Property of Transnational Criminal Organizations," stemming from the same criminal conduct.</p>

<p>The statement said these rewards are offered under the Department of State's Transnational Organized Crime Rewards Program (TOCRP).</p>

<p>More than 75 transnational criminals and major narcotics traffickers have been brought to justice under the TOCRP and the Narcotics Rewards Program (NRP) since 1986, with the Department paying more than $135 million in rewards to date.</p>

<p>The State Department's Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs manages the TOCRP in close coordination with the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, DHS/Homeland Security Investigations, and other US&nbsp;government agencies.</p>


The United States on Thursday announced $ 2 million rewards for information regarding Pakistani national and "human smuggler" Abid Ali Khan - one million USD for information leading to the arrest and another one million USD for information leading to the financial disruption of his network.

The United States on Thursday announced $ 2 million rewards for information regarding Pakistani national and "human smuggler" Abid Ali Khan - one million USD for information leading to the arrest and another one million USD for information leading to the financial disruption of his network. US State Department spokesperson said that Ali Khan allegedly operates a Pakistani-based smuggling network that facilitates the travel of undocumented individuals into the United States from the middle-east and southwest Asia in exchange for payment. Also Read | Top US naval commander hosts senior Indian Navy officers aboard USS Carl Vinson In addition to planning and coordinating the international travel from Pakistan through multiple countries, Ali Khan allegedly offered or provided false documents for foreign nationals to use for travel. "Today, the Department of State is announcing two rewards for information regarding Pakistani national and human smuggler Abid Ali Khan. The first reward of up to $1 million is offered for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of Ali Khan, while a second $1 million reward is offered for information leading to the financial disruption of Ali Khan's human smuggling network," the spokesperson said in a statement. It said smuggling organizations like Ali Khan's take advantage of vulnerable populations, pose high risk, and gravely endanger the individuals being smuggled. "Persons smuggled to the United States are often subject to perilous travel through South and Central America, which can involve many days of walking through difficult terrain with little food or water, with many falling victim to robbery and abuse during the journey." Also Read | 56% in US feel cheating affected 2020 presidential election outcome, says poll On April 7, the US Department of Justice unsealed a federal indictment filed in the Eastern District of Virginia charging Ali Khan with Conspiracy to Encourage and Induce an Alien to Unlawfully Enter the United States, Encouraging and Inducing an Alien to Unlawfully Entering the United States, and Bringing an Alien to the United States. On the same date, the Department of the Treasury imposed sanctions against Ali Khan and the Ali Khan Transnational Criminal Organization pursuant to Executive Order 13581 "Blocking Property of Transnational Criminal Organizations," stemming from the same criminal conduct. The statement said these rewards are offered under the Department of State's Transnational Organized Crime Rewards Program (TOCRP). More than 75 transnational criminals and major narcotics traffickers have been brought to justice under the TOCRP and the Narcotics Rewards Program (NRP) since 1986, with the Department paying more than $135 million in rewards to date. The State Department's Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs manages the TOCRP in close coordination with the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, DHS/Homeland Security Investigations, and other US government agencies.

US announces reward for arrest of Pakistani 'human smuggler'

<p>Researchers have found some of the earliest evidence of humans using clothing in a cave in Morocco, with the discovery of bone tools and bones from skinned animals suggesting the practice dates back at least 120,000 years.</p>

<p>Dr Emily Hallett of the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Human History in Germany, who also happens to be the first author of the study said that the work reinforced the view that early humans in Africa were innovative and resourceful.</p>

<p>She was quoted by The Guardian as saying, “Our study adds another piece to the long list of hallmark human behaviours that begin to appear in the archaeological record of Africa around 100,000 years ago".</p>

<p>Previous studies looking at the DNA of clothing lice have suggested clothes may have appeared as early as 170,000 years ago, probably sported by anatomically modern humans in Africa.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ozone-hole-over-the-south-pole-is-now-bigger-than-antarctica-413708"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Ozone hole over the South Pole is now bigger than Antarctica</strong></a></p>

<p>The latest study further adds that weight to the idea that early humans may have had something of a wardrobe.</p>

<p>Hallett and colleagues report how they analysed animal bones excavated in a series of digs spanning several decades at Contrebandiers Cave on the Atlantic coast of Morocco.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It has been revealed that the cave contains the remains of early humans.</p>

<p>Hallett said that she began studying the animal bones in 2012 because she was interested in reconstructing the diet of early humans and exploring whether there had been any changes in diet associated with changes in stone tool technology.</p>


Researchers have found some of the earliest evidence of humans using clothing in a cave in Morocco, with the discovery of bone tools and bones from skinned animals suggesting the practice dates back at least 120,000 years.

Researchers have found some of the earliest evidence of humans using clothing in a cave in Morocco, with the discovery of bone tools and bones from skinned animals suggesting the practice dates back at least 120,000 years. Dr Emily Hallett of the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Human History in Germany, who also happens to be the first author of the study said that the work reinforced the view that early humans in Africa were innovative and resourceful. She was quoted by The Guardian as saying, “Our study adds another piece to the long list of hallmark human behaviours that begin to appear in the archaeological record of Africa around 100,000 years ago". Previous studies looking at the DNA of clothing lice have suggested clothes may have appeared as early as 170,000 years ago, probably sported by anatomically modern humans in Africa. Also read | Ozone hole over the South Pole is now bigger than Antarctica The latest study further adds that weight to the idea that early humans may have had something of a wardrobe. Hallett and colleagues report how they analysed animal bones excavated in a series of digs spanning several decades at Contrebandiers Cave on the Atlantic coast of Morocco. It has been revealed that the cave contains the remains of early humans. Hallett said that she began studying the animal bones in 2012 because she was interested in reconstructing the diet of early humans and exploring whether there had been any changes in diet associated with changes in stone tool technology.

Scientists find evidence of humans making clothes 120,000 years ago

<p>Shutting the door on Congress for an alliance in Uttar Pradesh for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in May, &nbsp;Bahujan Samaj Party &nbsp;(BSP) supremo Mayawati on Saturday said Congress will not be a part of SP-BSP alliance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati were addressing a joint press conference in Lucknow on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''We won't gain anything by including Congress in our alliance. Both BSP and SP have experienced in the past that Congress's vote is not transferable,'' she said.</p>

<p>To defeat the arrogance of BJP, it was necessary for BSP and SP to come together, she said and added BJP can go to any extent to ''create differences in our workers we must be united and counter any such tactic''.</p>

<p>Accusing both Congress and the BJP of indulging in corruption, she said be it BJP or Congress, whoever rules, their policies are mostly the same. For example, we are seeing how both indulged in corruption in defence deals. Congress imposed declared emergency, today there is undeclared emergency, she said.</p>

<p>Attacking the BJP government at the Centre, she said SP-BSP alliance will give sleepless nights to Modi-Shah. &nbsp;</p>

<p>''SP-BSP have buried the hatchet and come together. BJP fears this alliance and this press briefing will give sleepless nights to Modi and Amit Shah,'' she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The alliance will herald a new political revolution, she said and added that grand alliance will trouble guru-chela, referring Modi and Amit Shah.&nbsp;</p>

<p>BSP-SP will leave no stone unturned to oust BJP, she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati to contest 38 each of Uttar Pradesh's 80 seats leaving two seats for other parties in the alliance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>SP-BSP alliance will not field any candidates in Amethi and Rae Bareli and will leave both the seats for the Congress, Mayawati said.&nbsp;</p>


Shutting the door on Congress for an alliance in Uttar Pradesh for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in May, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati on Saturday said Congress will not be a part of SP-BSP alliance.

Shutting the door on Congress for an alliance in Uttar Pradesh for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in May, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati on Saturday said Congress will not be a part of SP-BSP alliance. Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati were addressing a joint press conference in Lucknow on Saturday. ''We won't gain anything by including Congress in our alliance. Both BSP and SP have experienced in the past that Congress's vote is not transferable,'' she said. To defeat the arrogance of BJP, it was necessary for BSP and SP to come together, she said and added BJP can go to any extent to ''create differences in our workers we must be united and counter any such tactic''. Accusing both Congress and the BJP of indulging in corruption, she said be it BJP or Congress, whoever rules, their policies are mostly the same. For example, we are seeing how both indulged in corruption in defence deals. Congress imposed declared emergency, today there is undeclared emergency, she said. Attacking the BJP government at the Centre, she said SP-BSP alliance will give sleepless nights to Modi-Shah. ''SP-BSP have buried the hatchet and come together. BJP fears this alliance and this press briefing will give sleepless nights to Modi and Amit Shah,'' she said. The alliance will herald a new political revolution, she said and added that grand alliance will trouble guru-chela, referring Modi and Amit Shah. BSP-SP will leave no stone unturned to oust BJP, she added. Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati to contest 38 each of Uttar Pradesh's 80 seats leaving two seats for other parties in the alliance. SP-BSP alliance will not field any candidates in Amethi and Rae Bareli and will leave both the seats for the Congress, Mayawati said.

Human remains found in landing gear of military flight from Kabul: US Air Force

<p>Restrictions on civic space in Venezuela remain a cause for concern, UN&nbsp;High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet said on Monday.<br />
<br />
Bachelet's office said it documented 97 incidents of "stigmatisation, criminalisation and threats against dissenting voices, particularly towards civil society, media and members of the opposition" from June 2020 to May 2021.<br />
<br />
The vast majority of those incidents involved individuals criminally charged for "legitimate forms of civic engagement," Bachelet said.<br />
<br />
The arrest of three members of NGO FundaRedes was a 'worrying example'&nbsp;of this kind of criminalisation, she said.<br />
<br />
Javier Tarazona, the director of NGO FundaRedes, which has been the most active entity denouncing abuses and illicit activities by irregular Colombian armed groups in Venezuela, and two others were charged with instigation of hatred, treason and terrorism on Saturday.<br />
<br />
The report also raised concerns about conditions in detention centers, due process, and access to basic services, and called for vaccines to be available to all.<br />
<br />
"I call for all detained persons to be guaranteed access to adequate food, water, sanitation and sanitary care," said Bachelet.<br />
<br />
In response, Venezuela's foreign ministry released a statement on Twitter, saying "from a handful of alleged complaints of human rights violations, they made unverified accusations."<br />
<br />
It said the report is part of a "lie constructed to artificially feed a case before the International Criminal Court, with the political objective of destabilising the country's democratic institutions."<br />
<br />
The high commissioner did welcome some actions she saw as progress, including police and justice reforms, a downward trend in alleged deaths in protests and security operations, and some improvement in impunity, noting the conviction of a police officer who killed a protestor in 2017.<br />
<br />
She noted that Venezuela's top prosecutor had agreed to give her office access to case files of human rights violations.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Restrictions on civic space in Venezuela remain a cause for concern, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet said on Monday. Bachelet's office said it documented 97 incidents of "stigmatisation, criminalisation and threats against dissenting voices, particularly towards civil society, media and members of the opposition" from June 2020 to May 2021.

Restrictions on civic space in Venezuela remain a cause for concern, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet said on Monday. Bachelet's office said it documented 97 incidents of "stigmatisation, criminalisation and threats against dissenting voices, particularly towards civil society, media and members of the opposition" from June 2020 to May 2021. The vast majority of those incidents involved individuals criminally charged for "legitimate forms of civic engagement," Bachelet said. The arrest of three members of NGO FundaRedes was a 'worrying example' of this kind of criminalisation, she said. Javier Tarazona, the director of NGO FundaRedes, which has been the most active entity denouncing abuses and illicit activities by irregular Colombian armed groups in Venezuela, and two others were charged with instigation of hatred, treason and terrorism on Saturday. The report also raised concerns about conditions in detention centers, due process, and access to basic services, and called for vaccines to be available to all. "I call for all detained persons to be guaranteed access to adequate food, water, sanitation and sanitary care," said Bachelet. In response, Venezuela's foreign ministry released a statement on Twitter, saying "from a handful of alleged complaints of human rights violations, they made unverified accusations." It said the report is part of a "lie constructed to artificially feed a case before the International Criminal Court, with the political objective of destabilising the country's democratic institutions." The high commissioner did welcome some actions she saw as progress, including police and justice reforms, a downward trend in alleged deaths in protests and security operations, and some improvement in impunity, noting the conviction of a police officer who killed a protestor in 2017. She noted that Venezuela's top prosecutor had agreed to give her office access to case files of human rights violations. (With inputs from agencies)

Restriction of civic space in Venezuela is worrying, says UN human rights chief

<p>A Chinese spacecraft will blast off from the Gobi Desert on a Long March rocket in the coming days, ferrying three men to an orbiting space module for a three-month stay, the first time China has sent humans into space for nearly five years.<br />
<br />
Shenzhou-12, meaning 'Divine Vessel', will be the third of 11 missions needed to complete China's space station by 2022. Among them, four will be missions with people on board, potentially propelling up to 12 Chinese astronauts into space - more than the 11 men and women that China has sent since 2003.<br />
<br />
The craft will also carry into space the hopes of some in Earth's most populous nation.<br />
<br />
"The motherland is powerful," one person wrote on Chinese social media, which has lit up with well-wishes for the Shenzhou-12 crew. "The launch is a gift to the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party."<br />
<br />
Chinese astronauts have had a relatively low international profile. A US&nbsp;law banning NASA from any connection with China means its astronauts have not been to the more than two-decade-old International Space Station, visited by more than 240 men and women of various nationalities.<br />
<br />
China, which aims to become a major spacefaring power by 2030, in May became the second country to put a rover on Mars, two years after landing the first spacecraft on the far side of the moon.<br />
<br />
It also plans to put astronauts on the moon - the farthest celestial body that humans have travelled to.<br />
<br />
The Shenzhou-12 crew is to live on the Tianhe, 'Harmony of the Heavens', a cylinder 16.6 metres (55 feet) long and 4.2 metres (14 feet) in diameter.<br />
<br />
The planned three-month stay would break the country's record of 30 days, set by the 2016 mission - China's last crewed flight - of Chen Dong and Jing Haipeng to a prototype station.<br />
<br />
Three men from China's first and second batches of astronauts will be on this mission, Yang Liwei, director of the China Manned Space Engineering Office and China's first astronaut, told state tabloid Global Times last month.<br />
<br />
China's space bloggers speculate they will be Nie Haisheng - who at 56 would be China's oldest astronaut sent into space - Deng Qingming, 55, and Ye Guangfu, 40.<br />
<br />
The authorities typically do not announce a mission's crew until near or after the launch. China Manned Space did not respond to a fax request for comment.<br />
<br />
The oldest human in space was John Glenn, who flew on the space shuttle at age 77 in 1998 - after having been the first American to orbit the earth in 1962, a US&nbsp;senator and a presidential candidate.<br />
<br />
While no women are scheduled for the Shenzhou-12 mission, they are expected to participate in every following mission, Yang told Global Times.<br />
<br />
Two women, Liu Yang and Wang Yaping, were selected in 2011 among China's second cohort, after the first batch of 14 men in the mid-1990s. Liu was China's first woman in space in 2012, while Wang was the youngest, at 33, in 2013.<br />
<br />
China began building its space station in April with the launch of Tianhe, the first and largest of its three modules. This year, it aims to send a robotic cargo resupply spacecraft and three more astronauts, this time for a six-month stay.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A Chinese spacecraft will blast off from the Gobi Desert on a Long March rocket in the coming days, ferrying three men to an orbiting space module for a three-month stay, the first time China has sent humans into space for nearly five years.

A Chinese spacecraft will blast off from the Gobi Desert on a Long March rocket in the coming days, ferrying three men to an orbiting space module for a three-month stay, the first time China has sent humans into space for nearly five years. Shenzhou-12, meaning 'Divine Vessel', will be the third of 11 missions needed to complete China's space station by 2022. Among them, four will be missions with people on board, potentially propelling up to 12 Chinese astronauts into space - more than the 11 men and women that China has sent since 2003. The craft will also carry into space the hopes of some in Earth's most populous nation. "The motherland is powerful," one person wrote on Chinese social media, which has lit up with well-wishes for the Shenzhou-12 crew. "The launch is a gift to the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party." Chinese astronauts have had a relatively low international profile. A US law banning NASA from any connection with China means its astronauts have not been to the more than two-decade-old International Space Station, visited by more than 240 men and women of various nationalities. China, which aims to become a major spacefaring power by 2030, in May became the second country to put a rover on Mars, two years after landing the first spacecraft on the far side of the moon. It also plans to put astronauts on the moon - the farthest celestial body that humans have travelled to. The Shenzhou-12 crew is to live on the Tianhe, 'Harmony of the Heavens', a cylinder 16.6 metres (55 feet) long and 4.2 metres (14 feet) in diameter. The planned three-month stay would break the country's record of 30 days, set by the 2016 mission - China's last crewed flight - of Chen Dong and Jing Haipeng to a prototype station. Three men from China's first and second batches of astronauts will be on this mission, Yang Liwei, director of the China Manned Space Engineering Office and China's first astronaut, told state tabloid Global Times last month. China's space bloggers speculate they will be Nie Haisheng - who at 56 would be China's oldest astronaut sent into space - Deng Qingming, 55, and Ye Guangfu, 40. The authorities typically do not announce a mission's crew until near or after the launch. China Manned Space did not respond to a fax request for comment. The oldest human in space was John Glenn, who flew on the space shuttle at age 77 in 1998 - after having been the first American to orbit the earth in 1962, a US senator and a presidential candidate. While no women are scheduled for the Shenzhou-12 mission, they are expected to participate in every following mission, Yang told Global Times. Two women, Liu Yang and Wang Yaping, were selected in 2011 among China's second cohort, after the first batch of 14 men in the mid-1990s. Liu was China's first woman in space in 2012, while Wang was the youngest, at 33, in 2013. China began building its space station in April with the launch of Tianhe, the first and largest of its three modules. This year, it aims to send a robotic cargo resupply spacecraft and three more astronauts, this time for a six-month stay. (With inputs from agencies)

'Divine Vessel' to mark China's first human spaceflight since 2016

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