Authentic is the "word of the year" 2023, as per America's oldest dictionary, Merriam-Webster.

Driven by high traffic of stories and conversations around Artificial Intelligence, celebrity culture, identity and social media, the word 'Authentic' topped the charts.

<h2>What does 'authentic' mean?</h2>

As per Merriam-Webster, 'authentic' is the "term for something we're thinking about, writing about, aspiring to, and judging more than ever."

The dictionary describes authentic as a word with manifold meanings including "not false or imitation," a synonym of real and actual; and also "true to one's own personality, spirit, or character."

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However, a blog post announcing the word of the year also says that while authenticity is a "desirable quality", the word is "hard to define and subject to debate", these two reasons it said, "sends many people to the dictionary."

<h2>Why were people searching for 'authentic'?</h2>

In America, as per the US' oldest dictionary, the rise of artificial intelligence and its impact in terms of the increasingly common deep fake videos, actors' contracts, academic honesty, and a vast number of other topics drove the searches.&nbsp;

As "the line between 'real' and 'fake' has become increasingly blurred," brands, celebrities and social media influencers all aspire to be 'authentic', it says.

Pushing the search were celebrities like Taylor Swift and Elon Musk.

<h2>What other words were popular?</h2>

Other contenders for 'Word of the Year' included 'deepfake' — "an image or recording that has been convincingly altered and manipulated to misrepresent someone as doing or saying something that was not actually done or said."

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Also on the list was "indict" thanks to the indictment of former US President Donald Trump in four separate cases.

'Rizz' a trending internet-driven slang was one of the major runner-ups. The word that means "romantic appeal or charm" was added to the dictionary in September. 'Coronation' thanks to British King Charles III taking over as monarch also saw a spike. Furthermore, as record-high temperatures plagued the world, 'dystopian' also topped the search.

(With inputs from agencies)

Authentic is the "word of the year" 2023, as per America's oldest dictionary, Merriam-Webster. Driven by high traffic of stories and conversations around Artificial Intelligence, celebrity culture, identity and social media, the word 'Authentic' topped the charts.

Authentic is the "word of the year" 2023, as per America's oldest dictionary, Merriam-Webster. Driven by high traffic of stories and conversations around Artificial Intelligence, celebrity culture, identity and social media, the word 'Authentic' topped the charts. What does 'authentic' mean? As per Merriam-Webster, 'authentic' is the "term for something we're thinking about, writing about, aspiring to, and judging more than ever." The dictionary describes authentic as a word with manifold meanings including "not false or imitation," a synonym of real and actual; and also "true to one's own personality, spirit, or character." Also read | Artificial Intelligence dominates conversations in 2023, named 'Word of the Year' by Collins Dictionary However, a blog post announcing the word of the year also says that while authenticity is a "desirable quality", the word is "hard to define and subject to debate", these two reasons it said, "sends many people to the dictionary." Why were people searching for 'authentic'? In America, as per the US' oldest dictionary, the rise of artificial intelligence and its impact in terms of the increasingly common deep fake videos, actors' contracts, academic honesty, and a vast number of other topics drove the searches. As "the line between 'real' and 'fake' has become increasingly blurred," brands, celebrities and social media influencers all aspire to be 'authentic', it says. Pushing the search were celebrities like Taylor Swift and Elon Musk. What other words were popular? Other contenders for 'Word of the Year' included 'deepfake' — "an image or recording that has been convincingly altered and manipulated to misrepresent someone as doing or saying something that was not actually done or said." Also read | Bangladeshi couple's research paper cum wedding invitation leaves internet in splits Also on the list was "indict" thanks to the indictment of former US President Donald Trump in four separate cases. 'Rizz' a trending internet-driven slang was one of the major runner-ups. The word that means "romantic appeal or charm" was added to the dictionary in September. 'Coronation' thanks to British King Charles III taking over as monarch also saw a spike. Furthermore, as record-high temperatures plagued the world, 'dystopian' also topped the search. (With inputs from agencies)

Merriam-Webster selects 'authentic' as word of the year 2023

Amid the rising clamour over weight-loss drugs and their side effects, new experimental drugs that supposedly reduce bad cholesterol levels have shown promising effects.

Presented at Sunday's (Nov 12) annual meeting of the American Heart Association, two groundbreaking researches have reportedly showcased drugs that are both safe and effective.

<h2>Reducing cholesterol the medical way</h2>

These medications, as per NBC News, are not meant as a weight loss drug, rather, these are meant for people with certain genetic predisposition.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/found-some-real-use-for-passport-internet-left-in-splits-over-this-unusual-use-of-a-passport-watch-658486">'Found some real use for passport!' Internet left in splits over THIS unusual use of a passport. Watch!</a>

People that have a genetic predisposition to high cholesterol can make use of these drugs in combination with diet and exercise to manage their risk for heart attack and stroke.

<h2>How do these medications work?</h2>

One of the treatments makes use of gene-editing, while the other uses mRNA.

The first one, a medication from Verve Therapeutics, using an approach called base editing,&nbsp;targets the PCSK9 gene.

This gene is behind the production of LDL, often known as "bad" cholesterol.&nbsp;

As per Verve's co-founder and CEO Dr Sekar Kathiresan, the medication works like a permanent eraser, removing the gene's ability to raise cholesterol.

The second medication, as per NBC news report, is a novel therapy that could be the first treatment for lipoprotein(a) aka Lp(a) — a dangerous type of cholesterol.

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People with high levels of this cholesterol are extremely vulnerable to having fats build up in their arteries. This genetic condition is "essentially untreatable," says Dr Steven Nissen, the study's author.&nbsp;

"The only way to target such a genetic risk factor is to find a way to interfere with the product of the gene," adds Nissen, chief academic officer of the Heart, Vascular &amp; Thoracic Institute at Cleveland Clinic.

Nissen's team has developed a drug called lepodisiran, that like COVID-19 vaccines, targets mRNA, to prompt our body into developing antibodies.

<h2>When will these drugs be available for public use?</h2>

It may be some time before these are available for public use. Neither treatment has been tested in humans, and they require additional research and testing before they are even considered for approval by the Food and Drug Administration.

Despite that, experts at the meeting were impressed by the research findings. As Dr Hugh Cassiere, director of critical care services at South Shore University Hospital, Northwell Cardiovascular Institute in New York puts it, "There is no way to categorise this other than revolutionary". Cassiere was not a part of either research.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid the rising clamour over weight-loss drugs and their side effects, new experimental drugs that supposedly reduce bad cholesterol levels have shown promising effects.

Amid the rising clamour over weight-loss drugs and their side effects, new experimental drugs that supposedly reduce bad cholesterol levels have shown promising effects. Presented at Sunday's (Nov 12) annual meeting of the American Heart Association, two groundbreaking researches have reportedly showcased drugs that are both safe and effective. Reducing cholesterol the medical way These medications, as per NBC News, are not meant as a weight loss drug, rather, these are meant for people with certain genetic predisposition. Also read | 'Found some real use for passport!' Internet left in splits over THIS unusual use of a passport. Watch! People that have a genetic predisposition to high cholesterol can make use of these drugs in combination with diet and exercise to manage their risk for heart attack and stroke. How do these medications work? One of the treatments makes use of gene-editing, while the other uses mRNA. The first one, a medication from Verve Therapeutics, using an approach called base editing, targets the PCSK9 gene. This gene is behind the production of LDL, often known as "bad" cholesterol. As per Verve's co-founder and CEO Dr Sekar Kathiresan, the medication works like a permanent eraser, removing the gene's ability to raise cholesterol. The second medication, as per NBC news report, is a novel therapy that could be the first treatment for lipoprotein(a) aka Lp(a) — a dangerous type of cholesterol. Also read | Astronomers want to give space a socially conscious makeover, push for renaming Magellan galaxies People with high levels of this cholesterol are extremely vulnerable to having fats build up in their arteries. This genetic condition is "essentially untreatable," says Dr Steven Nissen, the study's author. "The only way to target such a genetic risk factor is to find a way to interfere with the product of the gene," adds Nissen, chief academic officer of the Heart, Vascular & Thoracic Institute at Cleveland Clinic. Nissen's team has developed a drug called lepodisiran, that like COVID-19 vaccines, targets mRNA, to prompt our body into developing antibodies. When will these drugs be available for public use? It may be some time before these are available for public use. Neither treatment has been tested in humans, and they require additional research and testing before they are even considered for approval by the Food and Drug Administration. Despite that, experts at the meeting were impressed by the research findings. As Dr Hugh Cassiere, director of critical care services at South Shore University Hospital, Northwell Cardiovascular Institute in New York puts it, "There is no way to categorise this other than revolutionary". Cassiere was not a part of either research. (With inputs from agencies)

'Revolutionary': Scientists have developed two promising medications for 'bad' cholesterol

Back in June of this year, a team of researchers made sensational claims about a small-brained ancient hominid known as Homo naledi. The alleged discovery by the research team led by Professor Lee Berger of the University of Witwatersrand excited the scientific community to no end.&nbsp;

The findings, if proven accurate, could overturn much of what we know about human evolution. However, a recent paper has ridiculed the "discovery".&nbsp;

<h2>What the team claimed to have discovered</h2>

Dr Berger and his team claimed to have found evidence that the long-extinct species buried its dead and decorated their graves with abstract markings.

Given that the species had a brain no larger than a chimpanzee's, this finding at the time suggested intelligence similar to modern humans.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/not-homo-sapiens-but-this-extinct-human-species-buried-their-dead-first-601963">Not homo sapiens but this extinct human species buried their dead first</a>

This could be the oldest evidence of burials by the human species. The discovery as reported by the team was made in South Africa's Rising Star Cave System.

<h2>New research rebuts Berger's findings</h2>

A new study has pooh-poohed the Homo naledi-mania and suggests that the small-brained human ancestors may have nothing to do with the burials or marking of graves.

The research which has been published in the Journal of Human Evolution suggests that instead of it being chalked up to a deliberate disposal of the dead, some natural processes may explain the findings better.

Researchers from Spain and Australia suggest that things like a natural death trap or the bones being transported inside the narrow cave via flowing or flood waters may be a better explanation. According to them, an ancient member of the species may also have carried the remains into the cave or they could be there because of carnivore activity.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/trouble-in-space-soaring-costs-of-nasas-mars-sample-return-mission-risks-other-projects-657819">Trouble in space: Soaring costs of NASA's Mars Sample Return Mission risk other significant projects</a>

To back their hypothesis, they cite geological, taphonomic and paleontological evidence.

They also say that the caves where the bones of more than 15 Homo naledi individuals representing all age groups were found were too unreachable. This meant that other researchers could not enter the caves and verify Berger's findings.

It also pours cold water on the alleged centuries-old engravings and says that Berger's teams have used any scientific methods to date them. They conclude that the Rising Star team has built a "persuasive discourse" which is "misleading" and that "they do not test their hypothesis but selectively report the evidence that supports their preferred scenario."

(With inputs from agencies)

Back in June of this year, a team of researchers made sensational claims about a small-brained ancient hominid known as Homo naledi. The alleged discovery by the research team led by Professor Lee Berger of the University of Witwatersrand excited the scientific community to no end.

Back in June of this year, a team of researchers made sensational claims about a small-brained ancient hominid known as Homo naledi. The alleged discovery by the research team led by Professor Lee Berger of the University of Witwatersrand excited the scientific community to no end. The findings, if proven accurate, could overturn much of what we know about human evolution. However, a recent paper has ridiculed the "discovery". What the team claimed to have discovered Dr Berger and his team claimed to have found evidence that the long-extinct species buried its dead and decorated their graves with abstract markings. Given that the species had a brain no larger than a chimpanzee's, this finding at the time suggested intelligence similar to modern humans. Also read | Not homo sapiens but this extinct human species buried their dead first This could be the oldest evidence of burials by the human species. The discovery as reported by the team was made in South Africa's Rising Star Cave System. New research rebuts Berger's findings A new study has pooh-poohed the Homo naledi-mania and suggests that the small-brained human ancestors may have nothing to do with the burials or marking of graves. The research which has been published in the Journal of Human Evolution suggests that instead of it being chalked up to a deliberate disposal of the dead, some natural processes may explain the findings better. Researchers from Spain and Australia suggest that things like a natural death trap or the bones being transported inside the narrow cave via flowing or flood waters may be a better explanation. According to them, an ancient member of the species may also have carried the remains into the cave or they could be there because of carnivore activity. Also read | Trouble in space: Soaring costs of NASA's Mars Sample Return Mission risk other significant projects To back their hypothesis, they cite geological, taphonomic and paleontological evidence. They also say that the caves where the bones of more than 15 Homo naledi individuals representing all age groups were found were too unreachable. This meant that other researchers could not enter the caves and verify Berger's findings. It also pours cold water on the alleged centuries-old engravings and says that Berger's teams have used any scientific methods to date them. They conclude that the Rising Star team has built a "persuasive discourse" which is "misleading" and that "they do not test their hypothesis but selectively report the evidence that supports their preferred scenario." (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists pooh-pooh claims that extinct ancient hominid 'Homo naledi' buried its dead

Is feeling "rich" a thing? Apparently so, and the feeling is getting elusive.&nbsp;

This may come as a surprise, but a recent study has found that 92 per cent of the millionaires actually consider themselves to be 'middle class'.&nbsp;

<h2>What it means to be wealthy</h2>

A recent survey of more than 3,500 wealthy Americans people found that only about eight per cent of people with wealth of $1 million or more said they consider themselves wealthy.&nbsp;

The survey by Ameriprise Financial found that 31 per cent of the millionaires say they are part of the middle class.&nbsp;

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A further six in ten or about 60 per cent of the millionaires conceded that they had wealth but limited the narrative to calling themselves part of the "upper middle class".&nbsp;

The survey which had a total of 3,518 participants also found that in comparison to the millionaires, two per cent of those with $25,000-$999,000 in assets 'felt' rich.

<h2>Feeling rich</h2>

As per Marcy Keckler, Senior Vice President of Financial Advice Strategy at Ameriprise, "There is no standard definition of what it means to be wealthy, but in general, investors associate it with having the means to live life on their terms."

People "feel squeezed," a private wealth adviser at Ameriprise told CNBC. Kim Maez, a certified financial planner, said that "Many people feel squeezed between higher prices and lower asset prices".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/trouble-in-space-soaring-costs-of-nasas-mars-sample-return-mission-risks-other-projects-657819">Trouble in space: Soaring costs of NASA's Mars Sample Return Mission risk other significant projects</a>

With persistent inflation, high interest rates and geopolitical and economic turbulence adding to the uncertainty, fewer Americans, even millionaires, said they feel confident about their standing. This is according to the recent Global Wealth Report from the Credit Suisse Research Institute.

Furthermore, as per a Natixis Investment Managers data, a whopping 36 per cent of American millionaires said that they worry retirement may not even be an option.

35 per cent of millionaires in the US — which has the highest number of millionaires — were worried that their ability to be financially secure in retirement is "going to take a miracle".

(With inputs from agencies)

Is feeling "rich" a thing? Apparently so, and the feeling is getting elusive. This may come as a surprise, but a recent study has found that 92 per cent of the millionaires actually consider themselves to be 'middle class'.

Is feeling "rich" a thing? Apparently so, and the feeling is getting elusive. This may come as a surprise, but a recent study has found that 92 per cent of the millionaires actually consider themselves to be 'middle class'. What it means to be wealthy A recent survey of more than 3,500 wealthy Americans people found that only about eight per cent of people with wealth of $1 million or more said they consider themselves wealthy. The survey by Ameriprise Financial found that 31 per cent of the millionaires say they are part of the middle class. Also read | Elon Musk claims 'world record' for SpaceX delivering over 1,000 tonnes to orbit in 2023 A further six in ten or about 60 per cent of the millionaires conceded that they had wealth but limited the narrative to calling themselves part of the "upper middle class". The survey which had a total of 3,518 participants also found that in comparison to the millionaires, two per cent of those with $25,000-$999,000 in assets 'felt' rich. Feeling rich As per Marcy Keckler, Senior Vice President of Financial Advice Strategy at Ameriprise, "There is no standard definition of what it means to be wealthy, but in general, investors associate it with having the means to live life on their terms." People "feel squeezed," a private wealth adviser at Ameriprise told CNBC. Kim Maez, a certified financial planner, said that "Many people feel squeezed between higher prices and lower asset prices". Also read | Trouble in space: Soaring costs of NASA's Mars Sample Return Mission risk other significant projects With persistent inflation, high interest rates and geopolitical and economic turbulence adding to the uncertainty, fewer Americans, even millionaires, said they feel confident about their standing. This is according to the recent Global Wealth Report from the Credit Suisse Research Institute. Furthermore, as per a Natixis Investment Managers data, a whopping 36 per cent of American millionaires said that they worry retirement may not even be an option. 35 per cent of millionaires in the US — which has the highest number of millionaires — were worried that their ability to be financially secure in retirement is "going to take a miracle". (With inputs from agencies)

Feeling of 'rich' getting elusive, survey finds 92% millionaires consider themselves 'middle class'

Artificial Intelligence is all the rage these days. It is in our phones, on our computers, and now you can even wear it on your lapel&nbsp;on your clothes.

Humane, a Silicon Valley startup firm, on Thursday released a device called the AI Pin that can be worn on clothing.

<h2>AI Pin</h2>

The device that is designed to be worn on clothing uses a virtual assistant that is powered by the GPT 4 technology from OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT.

In a market overrun by products boasting an AI-based system, what's unique about this device is that it has no traditional screen. Instead, it relies almost entirely on Artificial Intelligence to interact with the user.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/fluff-up-feathers-perform-a-dance-humans-also-engage-in-mating-calls-reveals-study-656536">Boys in all-male choirs lift up singing several notches when girls are in audience, finds study</a>

"Ai Pin is the embodiment of our vision to integrate AI into the fabric of daily life, enhancing our capabilities without overshadowing our humanity," said Humane co-founder and President Imran Chaudhri in a statement. Chaudhri has previously worked with Apple.&nbsp;

<h2>AI Pin features</h2>

The AI Pin has been priced at $699 (around 58,000 INR) and in the United States, it will be available for order starting November 16.

Designed to reduce dependency on smartphones, the AI pin offers a laser beam scanning projection system that beams content onto a user's palm.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexican-congress-deems-three-fingered-mummies-real-but-refrains-from-confirming-alien-origins-656555">Mexican congress deems three-fingered mummies 'real,' but refrains from confirming alien origins</a>

It comes with a 13-megapixel camera that offers a 120-degree field of view and an f/2.4 aperture, and comes with 4&nbsp;GB RAM and 32&nbsp;GB of eMMC storage.

For connectivity, it has 4G (eSIM technology), dual-band Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.1, and GPS.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Artificial Intelligence is all the rage these days. It is in our phones, on our computers, and now you can even wear it on your lapel on your clothes. Humane, a Silicon Valley startup firm, on Thursday released a device called the AI Pin that can be worn on clothing.

Artificial Intelligence is all the rage these days. It is in our phones, on our computers, and now you can even wear it on your lapel on your clothes. Humane, a Silicon Valley startup firm, on Thursday released a device called the AI Pin that can be worn on clothing. AI Pin The device that is designed to be worn on clothing uses a virtual assistant that is powered by the GPT 4 technology from OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT. In a market overrun by products boasting an AI-based system, what's unique about this device is that it has no traditional screen. Instead, it relies almost entirely on Artificial Intelligence to interact with the user. Also read | Boys in all-male choirs lift up singing several notches when girls are in audience, finds study "Ai Pin is the embodiment of our vision to integrate AI into the fabric of daily life, enhancing our capabilities without overshadowing our humanity," said Humane co-founder and President Imran Chaudhri in a statement. Chaudhri has previously worked with Apple. AI Pin features The AI Pin has been priced at $699 (around 58,000 INR) and in the United States, it will be available for order starting November 16. Designed to reduce dependency on smartphones, the AI pin offers a laser beam scanning projection system that beams content onto a user's palm. Also read | Mexican congress deems three-fingered mummies 'real,' but refrains from confirming alien origins It comes with a 13-megapixel camera that offers a 120-degree field of view and an f/2.4 aperture, and comes with 4 GB RAM and 32 GB of eMMC storage. For connectivity, it has 4G (eSIM technology), dual-band Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.1, and GPS. (With inputs from agencies)

Silicon Valley company launches AI pin that can beam content onto your palm

Saturn, the giant planet known for its rings, will soon lose its crowning glory. As per NASA, the gas planet's famous interstellar hoops will soon disappear — thankfully they are not going out of existence, we just won't be able to see them any more.

<h2>Why are Saturn's rings disappearing?</h2>

Saturn's rings will vanish from our planet's view because of its tilting within its axis of orbit. Basically, the planet, as it makes its way around the sun once more, will tilt and the face we are used to — the one with the famous rings, will go out of view.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/explained-nasa-to-send-nuclear-powered-dragonfly-to-saturns-moon-titan-heres-all-you-need-to-know-651572">Explained: NASA to send 'nuclear-powered' Dragonfly to Saturn's moon Titan. Here's all you need to know</a>

Saturn makes the journey around the sun in about 30 Earth years. Throughout this journey, based on the planet's tilt, its rings are more or less visible, according to NASA.

"For nearly half of Saturn's orbit, the sun shines on the south side of the rings. For the other half, it shines on the north side," notes a NASA transcript as quoted by USA Today.

<h2>When will Saturn's rings disappear?</h2>

Stargazers should try to enjoy the view while they can. As per NASA estimates, the rings will disappear in about 18 months, around March 2025.&nbsp;

Currently, Saturn's tilt is angled downwards at nine degrees and in 2024, this will decrease to a barely visible 3.7 degrees. Finally, in March 2025, it will hit zero degrees, which as per Earth.com will be akin to seeing "a sheet of paper edge-on when it’s positioned at the far end of a soccer field."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-curiosity-rover-finds-evidence-mars-was-once-a-planet-of-rivers-651444">Life on Mars? Curiosity rover discovers that it was once a 'planet of rivers'</a>

However, we need not worry, the rings will return soon. By 2032, Saturn's angle of tilt will once again be 27 degrees, which will offer the optimal view of its rings.

<h2>Do Saturn's rings vanish often?</h2>

They go out of view every few years, but experts estimate that they may eventually disappear out of existence. However, this won't happen in our lifetimes, or in our children's. It will actually take a few hundred million years.&nbsp;

Saturn has seven distinct rings, that are made up of ice, rocky debris and dust. As per NASA, it is believed that these are the remains of comets, asteroids and moons that were pulled apart by the planet's powerful gravitational pull. These celestial hoops extend some 70,000 to 140,000 kilometres — the equivalent of the width of 30 Earths. Yet, in most places they are very thin — only 90 metres.

(With inputs from agencies)

Saturn, the giant planet known for its rings, will soon lose its crowning glory. As per NASA, the gas planet's famous interstellar hoops will soon disappear — thankfully they are not going out of existence, we just won't be able to see them any more.

Saturn, the giant planet known for its rings, will soon lose its crowning glory. As per NASA, the gas planet's famous interstellar hoops will soon disappear — thankfully they are not going out of existence, we just won't be able to see them any more. Why are Saturn's rings disappearing? Saturn's rings will vanish from our planet's view because of its tilting within its axis of orbit. Basically, the planet, as it makes its way around the sun once more, will tilt and the face we are used to — the one with the famous rings, will go out of view. Also read | Explained: NASA to send 'nuclear-powered' Dragonfly to Saturn's moon Titan. Here's all you need to know Saturn makes the journey around the sun in about 30 Earth years. Throughout this journey, based on the planet's tilt, its rings are more or less visible, according to NASA. "For nearly half of Saturn's orbit, the sun shines on the south side of the rings. For the other half, it shines on the north side," notes a NASA transcript as quoted by USA Today. When will Saturn's rings disappear? Stargazers should try to enjoy the view while they can. As per NASA estimates, the rings will disappear in about 18 months, around March 2025. Currently, Saturn's tilt is angled downwards at nine degrees and in 2024, this will decrease to a barely visible 3.7 degrees. Finally, in March 2025, it will hit zero degrees, which as per Earth.com will be akin to seeing "a sheet of paper edge-on when it’s positioned at the far end of a soccer field." Also read | Life on Mars? Curiosity rover discovers that it was once a 'planet of rivers' However, we need not worry, the rings will return soon. By 2032, Saturn's angle of tilt will once again be 27 degrees, which will offer the optimal view of its rings. Do Saturn's rings vanish often? They go out of view every few years, but experts estimate that they may eventually disappear out of existence. However, this won't happen in our lifetimes, or in our children's. It will actually take a few hundred million years. Saturn has seven distinct rings, that are made up of ice, rocky debris and dust. As per NASA, it is believed that these are the remains of comets, asteroids and moons that were pulled apart by the planet's powerful gravitational pull. These celestial hoops extend some 70,000 to 140,000 kilometres — the equivalent of the width of 30 Earths. Yet, in most places they are very thin — only 90 metres. (With inputs from agencies)

Stargazers beware! Saturn's rings will vanish soon. Here's when

The Animal Kingdom is full of myriad mating practices, where the males of the species attempt to woo the females. We humans are hairless primates after all, and recent study has shown that our species too, in a matter of speaking, fluff out our feathers and perform a dance for the females.

As per a research article published in The Royal Society, boys in all-male choirs tend to boost their vocals when girls are in the audience.

<h2>Mating call&nbsp;</h2>

Researchers based their observation on a renowned boys' choir group. They noticed that the basses — the oldest boys with the deepest boys — "boosted their acoustic prominence by increasing energy in a high-frequency band of the vocal spectrum when girls were in an otherwise male audience".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/stargazers-beware-saturns-rings-will-vanish-soon-heres-when-656374">Stargazers beware! Saturn's rings will vanish soon. Here's when</a>

The effect, as per the report, was particularly seen in the oldest boys, aged between 16 and 19.&nbsp;

Researchers pose that this behaviour may be similar to that observed in "non-human animals" like flashing fireflies, chorusing crickets and frogs. In such species, the "simultaneous cooperation and competition is manifest in rhythmically coordinated communal displays produced by groups of males to attract female mates," write the researchers.

They further say that such displays "can be a side effect of sexually motivated competition, whereby individual males produce earlier or more intense signals that mask rival signals."

<h2>But do the girls like it?</h2>

Apparently they do. For the purpose of this research, male and female listeners were given recordings of an all-male choir. These recordings were from shows where the audience was all male, and another where female members were in the audience.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/hundreds-of-girls-fall-victim-to-ai-generated-deep-fake-porn-images-656492">'Hundreds' of girls fell victim to AI-generated deepfake porn images,&nbsp;says&nbsp;a victim's&nbsp;mother</a>

Listeners either reported which audio they believed had this mating call behaviour, or which one they preferred. It was found that while male listeners could "eavesdrop" on the behaviour, female listeners were both sensitive to it and also displayed a preference for it.

"It's really subtle and probably something that's subconscious," said Peter Keller, one of the authors behind this research while talking to The Guardian.

"The boys' singing sounds more brilliant and has a more attractive, ringing quality when girls are in the audience, but it is subtle," said Keller, a professor of neuroscience at Aarhus University in Denmark.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Animal Kingdom is full of myriad mating practices, where the males of the species attempt to woo the females. We humans are hairless primates after all, and recent study has shown that our species too, in a matter of speaking, fluff out our feathers and perform a dance for the females.

The Animal Kingdom is full of myriad mating practices, where the males of the species attempt to woo the females. We humans are hairless primates after all, and recent study has shown that our species too, in a matter of speaking, fluff out our feathers and perform a dance for the females. As per a research article published in The Royal Society, boys in all-male choirs tend to boost their vocals when girls are in the audience. Mating call Researchers based their observation on a renowned boys' choir group. They noticed that the basses — the oldest boys with the deepest boys — "boosted their acoustic prominence by increasing energy in a high-frequency band of the vocal spectrum when girls were in an otherwise male audience". Also read | Stargazers beware! Saturn's rings will vanish soon. Here's when The effect, as per the report, was particularly seen in the oldest boys, aged between 16 and 19. Researchers pose that this behaviour may be similar to that observed in "non-human animals" like flashing fireflies, chorusing crickets and frogs. In such species, the "simultaneous cooperation and competition is manifest in rhythmically coordinated communal displays produced by groups of males to attract female mates," write the researchers. They further say that such displays "can be a side effect of sexually motivated competition, whereby individual males produce earlier or more intense signals that mask rival signals." But do the girls like it? Apparently they do. For the purpose of this research, male and female listeners were given recordings of an all-male choir. These recordings were from shows where the audience was all male, and another where female members were in the audience. Also read | 'Hundreds' of girls fell victim to AI-generated deepfake porn images, says a victim's mother Listeners either reported which audio they believed had this mating call behaviour, or which one they preferred. It was found that while male listeners could "eavesdrop" on the behaviour, female listeners were both sensitive to it and also displayed a preference for it. "It's really subtle and probably something that's subconscious," said Peter Keller, one of the authors behind this research while talking to The Guardian. "The boys' singing sounds more brilliant and has a more attractive, ringing quality when girls are in the audience, but it is subtle," said Keller, a professor of neuroscience at Aarhus University in Denmark. (With inputs from agencies)

Boys in all-male choirs lift up singing several notches when girls are in audience, finds study

More than a month after the world was shocked by AI-generated images of schoolgirls from Spain making the rounds on the internet, the mother of one victim has spoken out.

Miriam Al Adib, whose daughter was one of the many underage victims of the fake nude images scandal, says hundreds of parents have told her their children were also victims.&nbsp;

<h2>AI a 'weapon of destruction'</h2>

Talking to Wales Live, Al Adib, said that the combination of access to social media, pornography, and artificial intelligence was a "weapon of destruction".

In September, Al Adib's hometown, the small Spanish village Almendralejo made news after more than 20 underage girls — aged 11 to 17, fell victim to a transgression involving indecent images. These images were shared online without their knowledge.

hese images were created using an Artificial Intelligence (AI) tool application using which users can 'take clothes off' of anyone they have a picture of, that too, for prices as low as&nbsp;€10.

You can read all about the deepfakes incident here.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/spain-minor-girls-fall-victim-to-deepfake-porn-ai-generated-nudes-shock-the-nation-638019">Spain: Minor girls fall victim to deepfake porn, AI-generated nudes shock the nation</a>

Al Adib, whose 14-year-old daughter was one of the victims at the time, had described how her distraught daughter told her about it.

"When I came home, one of my daughters, who was really upset, told me: 'look what they did'. It turns out they took a photo of her, and they made it seem as if she was naked with the aid of artificial intelligence."

<h2>Hundreds reach out</h2>

The mother had posted the whole incident on Instagram, where she has thousands of followers. Now, more than a month later, she has revealed that due to a support group, she and a few other parents had created, she got to know that such deepfake porn incidents are not that rare.&nbsp;

"Hundreds of people have written to me saying 'how lucky you have been (for the support she received) because this same thing has happened to us, it happened to my daughter, or it happened to me, and I haven't had any support'," she said talking to Wales Live.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/stargazers-beware-saturns-rings-will-vanish-soon-heres-when-656374">Stargazers beware! Saturn's rings will vanish soon. Here's when</a>

"If any girl is affected, please tell your parents."

She stated that the support group helped many other victims in Almendralejo come forward.&nbsp;

"This helped many girls to come forward to also say what had happened to them. It is important to know, because many girls are not able do not dare to talk about this with their parents."

<h2>AI a friend or foe?</h2>

AI has been making headlines for more than a year. While there are countless positives, there are some major negatives: Deepfakes top the list.

Recently, in India, popular actress Rashmika Mandanna became a victim of such AI-generated deepfakes. A morphed video in which Rashmika's face was imposed on another woman's video went viral. The original video shows the woman wearing an outfit with a plunging neckline and posing for a photo.

(With inputs from agencies)

More than a month after the world was shocked by AI-generated images of schoolgirls from Spain making the rounds on the internet, the mother of one victim has spoken out.

More than a month after the world was shocked by AI-generated images of schoolgirls from Spain making the rounds on the internet, the mother of one victim has spoken out. Miriam Al Adib, whose daughter was one of the many underage victims of the fake nude images scandal, says hundreds of parents have told her their children were also victims. AI a 'weapon of destruction' Talking to Wales Live, Al Adib, said that the combination of access to social media, pornography, and artificial intelligence was a "weapon of destruction". In September, Al Adib's hometown, the small Spanish village Almendralejo made news after more than 20 underage girls — aged 11 to 17, fell victim to a transgression involving indecent images. These images were shared online without their knowledge. hese images were created using an Artificial Intelligence (AI) tool application using which users can 'take clothes off' of anyone they have a picture of, that too, for prices as low as €10. You can read all about the deepfakes incident here. Also read | Spain: Minor girls fall victim to deepfake porn, AI-generated nudes shock the nation Al Adib, whose 14-year-old daughter was one of the victims at the time, had described how her distraught daughter told her about it. "When I came home, one of my daughters, who was really upset, told me: 'look what they did'. It turns out they took a photo of her, and they made it seem as if she was naked with the aid of artificial intelligence." Hundreds reach out The mother had posted the whole incident on Instagram, where she has thousands of followers. Now, more than a month later, she has revealed that due to a support group, she and a few other parents had created, she got to know that such deepfake porn incidents are not that rare. "Hundreds of people have written to me saying 'how lucky you have been (for the support she received) because this same thing has happened to us, it happened to my daughter, or it happened to me, and I haven't had any support'," she said talking to Wales Live. Also read | Stargazers beware! Saturn's rings will vanish soon. Here's when "If any girl is affected, please tell your parents." She stated that the support group helped many other victims in Almendralejo come forward. "This helped many girls to come forward to also say what had happened to them. It is important to know, because many girls are not able do not dare to talk about this with their parents." AI a friend or foe? AI has been making headlines for more than a year. While there are countless positives, there are some major negatives: Deepfakes top the list. Recently, in India, popular actress Rashmika Mandanna became a victim of such AI-generated deepfakes. A morphed video in which Rashmika's face was imposed on another woman's video went viral. The original video shows the woman wearing an outfit with a plunging neckline and posing for a photo. (With inputs from agencies)

'Hundreds' of girls fell victim to AI-generated deepfake porn images, says minor victim's mother

In Spain, authorities are currently looking into a distressing case that has sent shockwaves across the nation. Several underage girls have become the victims of a fake nude images scandal.

These images which were created using an Artificial Intelligence (AI) tool have caused distress to the victims, who in some cases found themselves facing bullying and/or distressing comments from their classmates.

<h2>Deepfake porn</h2>

In the town of Almendralejo which is situated in the southwestern reaches of Spain, local law enforcement is dealing with 11 complaints from victims, all of whom are minors.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-push-to-save-flower-that-smells-like-dead-bodies-heres-all-you-need-to-know-637981">Why are scientists pushing to save a flower that smells like dead bodies? Here's all you need to know</a>

Speaking to AFP, a spokesperson from the local police said that those responsible for these abhorrent deeds employed a sinister method. They "manipulated photos of underage girls", superimposing their innocent faces onto the "bodies of other people" in other images.&nbsp;

<h2>Small price, huge ramifications</h2>

As per EuroNews, these images were created using an Artificial Intelligence (AI) tool application using which users can 'take clothes off' of anyone they have a picture of, that too, for prices as low as&nbsp;€10.

The app boasts the capability of crafting eerily realistic photo montages, has the slogan "Undress anybody, undress girls for free," reports EuroNews.&nbsp;

As per reports from Spanish media outlets, an estimated 20 girls may have tragically become the victims of these deep fake porn images.

One concerned parent, Miriam Al Adib, a mother of a 14-year-old victim, underscored the gravity of the situation. Talking to the press, she said: "This is very serious."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/breakthrough-google-develops-ai-tool-capable-of-predicting-harmful-genetic-mutations-637699">Breakthrough? Google develops AI tool capable of predicting harmful genetic mutations</a>

Taking to Instagram, she recounted how her distraught daughter had showed her one such photo.

"When I came home, one of my daughters, who was really upset, told me: 'look what they did'. It turns out they took a photo of her, and they made it seem as if she was naked with the aid of artificial intelligence."

"Girls, don't be afraid to report such acts. Tell your mothers. Affected mothers, tell me, so that you can be in the group that we created," she added.

Another mother revealed that using these fake nude images, someone had attempted to extort her daughter. Allegedly, the creators of these images demanded monetary payment in exchange for their silence.

Furthermore, it has come to light that these manipulated images may have been disseminated on various platforms, including OnlyFans, an online subscription service notorious for adult content, and explicit websites.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In Spain, authorities are currently looking into a distressing case that has sent shockwaves across the nation. Several underage girls have become the victims of a fake nude images scandal.

In Spain, authorities are currently looking into a distressing case that has sent shockwaves across the nation. Several underage girls have become the victims of a fake nude images scandal. These images which were created using an Artificial Intelligence (AI) tool have caused distress to the victims, who in some cases found themselves facing bullying and/or distressing comments from their classmates. Deepfake porn In the town of Almendralejo which is situated in the southwestern reaches of Spain, local law enforcement is dealing with 11 complaints from victims, all of whom are minors. Also read | Why are scientists pushing to save a flower that smells like dead bodies? Here's all you need to know Speaking to AFP, a spokesperson from the local police said that those responsible for these abhorrent deeds employed a sinister method. They "manipulated photos of underage girls", superimposing their innocent faces onto the "bodies of other people" in other images. Small price, huge ramifications As per EuroNews, these images were created using an Artificial Intelligence (AI) tool application using which users can 'take clothes off' of anyone they have a picture of, that too, for prices as low as €10. The app boasts the capability of crafting eerily realistic photo montages, has the slogan "Undress anybody, undress girls for free," reports EuroNews. As per reports from Spanish media outlets, an estimated 20 girls may have tragically become the victims of these deep fake porn images. One concerned parent, Miriam Al Adib, a mother of a 14-year-old victim, underscored the gravity of the situation. Talking to the press, she said: "This is very serious." Also read | Breakthrough? Google develops AI tool capable of predicting harmful genetic mutations Taking to Instagram, she recounted how her distraught daughter had showed her one such photo. "When I came home, one of my daughters, who was really upset, told me: 'look what they did'. It turns out they took a photo of her, and they made it seem as if she was naked with the aid of artificial intelligence." "Girls, don't be afraid to report such acts. Tell your mothers. Affected mothers, tell me, so that you can be in the group that we created," she added. Another mother revealed that using these fake nude images, someone had attempted to extort her daughter. Allegedly, the creators of these images demanded monetary payment in exchange for their silence. Furthermore, it has come to light that these manipulated images may have been disseminated on various platforms, including OnlyFans, an online subscription service notorious for adult content, and explicit websites. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Spain: Minor girls fall victim to deepfake porn, AI-generated nudes shock the nation

You've heard of the glass ceiling, but do you know about the "glass cliff"? A new study has found that women may have been set up to fail, even in top-most roles like CEOs or heads of companies.

An analysis of companies listed in 12 stock exchanges globally found that since 2018, women have had an average of 5.2 years as chief executives, while men lasted an average of 8.1 years.

<h2>The findings</h2>

The analysis was conducted by Russell Reynolds, an executive search and leadership firm. It found that between men and women, there is a huge tenure gap.

Laura Sanderson, the UK head of Russell Reynolds, said that the tenure gap could partly be explained because some men have been in the chief executive chair for decades. One, she said, has been in the post for 39 years.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/obama-stirring-a-rebellion-against-biden-ex-prezs-senior-adviser-says-he-should-drop-out-of-election-race-655762">Obama stirring a rebellion against Biden? Ex-Prez's senior adviser says he should drop out of election race</a>

"While the sample size is too small to be significant, we also need to consider whether the data may support the glass cliff theory,"&nbsp;she said, as quoted by The Guardian.

<h2>What is the glass cliff theory?</h2>

The glass cliff theory poses that women are more likely to be appointed as leaders when an organisation or company is in a time of crisis. This is often so that the female executives' position is seen as more precarious than their male counterparts.

Previously, in 2005, research by Researchers at the University of Exeter found that women are more likely to be appointed as board members after a company's share price had performed badly.&nbsp;

Michelle Ryan, director of the Global Institute for Women's Leadership at the Australian National University in Canberra, who is one of the two researchers behind the 2005 research, said that Reynold's analysis was "robust and added to the work in this area".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/beam-me-up-scotty-scientists-to-use-sci-fi-beam-to-get-rid-of-real-space-junk-655715">'Beam me up, Scotty': Scientists to use sci-fi beam to get rid of real space junk</a>

"If women are more likely to take on leadership roles in times of crisis, then it follows that their time in office is likely to be stressful, more heavily scrutinised and shorter in tenure," she remarked.

She added that "this reduced tenure could be for a number of reasons – because there is often higher turnover in times of crisis, because they are judged as not performing well, even though poor performance was in train before their appointment, or because when things start to turn around, men come back into leadership roles."

(With inputs from agencies)

You've heard of the glass ceiling, but do you know about the "glass cliff"? A new study has found that women may have been set up to fail, even in top-most roles like CEOs or heads of companies.

You've heard of the glass ceiling, but do you know about the "glass cliff"? A new study has found that women may have been set up to fail, even in top-most roles like CEOs or heads of companies. An analysis of companies listed in 12 stock exchanges globally found that since 2018, women have had an average of 5.2 years as chief executives, while men lasted an average of 8.1 years. The findings The analysis was conducted by Russell Reynolds, an executive search and leadership firm. It found that between men and women, there is a huge tenure gap. Laura Sanderson, the UK head of Russell Reynolds, said that the tenure gap could partly be explained because some men have been in the chief executive chair for decades. One, she said, has been in the post for 39 years. Also read | Obama stirring a rebellion against Biden? Ex-Prez's senior adviser says he should drop out of election race "While the sample size is too small to be significant, we also need to consider whether the data may support the glass cliff theory," she said, as quoted by The Guardian. What is the glass cliff theory? The glass cliff theory poses that women are more likely to be appointed as leaders when an organisation or company is in a time of crisis. This is often so that the female executives' position is seen as more precarious than their male counterparts. Previously, in 2005, research by Researchers at the University of Exeter found that women are more likely to be appointed as board members after a company's share price had performed badly. Michelle Ryan, director of the Global Institute for Women's Leadership at the Australian National University in Canberra, who is one of the two researchers behind the 2005 research, said that Reynold's analysis was "robust and added to the work in this area". Also read | 'Beam me up, Scotty': Scientists to use sci-fi beam to get rid of real space junk "If women are more likely to take on leadership roles in times of crisis, then it follows that their time in office is likely to be stressful, more heavily scrutinised and shorter in tenure," she remarked. She added that "this reduced tenure could be for a number of reasons – because there is often higher turnover in times of crisis, because they are judged as not performing well, even though poor performance was in train before their appointment, or because when things start to turn around, men come back into leadership roles." (With inputs from agencies)

Forget 'glass ceiling,' new study finds women likely to be set up to fall off of 'glass cliff'

Scientists looking into the intricate world of sex differences have uncovered significant insights into how these evolve.

They found that in animals, sex differences differ very dramatically across species, organs and even developmental stages.&nbsp;

Additionally, they saw that the evolution of these differences at the gene level is more rapid, while at the level of cell types, it is gradual.

The study findings were published in the Journal Science on November 2.

<h2>Understanding sexual dimorphism</h2>

The study focused on examining sex-based disparities in multiple species, including humans, mice, rats, rabbits, opossums, and chickens. Their focus was on the development of five key organs: the brain, cerebellum, heart, kidney, and liver.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-gene-adapted-from-archaic-hominins-may-increase-mental-health-risk-in-modern-humans-says-study-654304">We can now blame our ancestors for our mental health issues, as per new study</a>

Notably, they highlighted contrasting patterns of sexual dimorphism in different species, with certain organs displaying more pronounced differences between the sexes than others.

<h2>Key findings</h2>

The researchers observed that while organs developed, few sex differences were apparent. However, around the time of sexual maturity, they observed that disparities intensified significantly.&nbsp;

"We found that the levels of sex-biased expression varied substantially across organs and species. Across mammals, sex-biased expression was rare during organ development. In organs with high levels of sex-biased expression, the differences between the sexes only appeared around the time of sexual maturity."

Moreover, the study revealed that only a few genes that are different between males and females are the same in all animals, and these&nbsp;are mostly on the sex chromosomes (X and Y).&nbsp;

Even though different animals have different genes that are different between males and females, the researchers noticed that the same kinds of cells show differences in all the animals.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/gods-of-chaos-jupiter-protects-us-but-similar-gas-giants-do-this-to-earth-like-planets-654247">'Gods of chaos': Jupiter protects us, but similar gas giants whack other Earth-like planets</a>

For example, even though mice and rats have different genes in their livers, the genes that are different are in the same kind of cell in the liver. This is important because it helps us understand how differences between males and females can affect things like how the body processes medicine.

"Sex-biased expression evolved quickly across species between orthologous genes. However, the cell types responsible for most sex-biased expression were the same across species."

Commenting on the findings, Leticia Rodríguez-Montes, a PhD student at Heidelberg University, noted the intriguing discovery that a small set of genes on the sex chromosomes are different between males and females in all the animals they looked at.&nbsp;This could potentially serve in the understanding of fundamental genetic triggers for sex-specific traits.

(With inputs from agencies)

Scientists looking into the intricate world of sex differences have uncovered significant insights into how these evolve. They found that in animals, sex differences differ very dramatically across species, organs and even developmental stages.

Scientists looking into the intricate world of sex differences have uncovered significant insights into how these evolve. They found that in animals, sex differences differ very dramatically across species, organs and even developmental stages. Additionally, they saw that the evolution of these differences at the gene level is more rapid, while at the level of cell types, it is gradual. The study findings were published in the Journal Science on November 2. Understanding sexual dimorphism The study focused on examining sex-based disparities in multiple species, including humans, mice, rats, rabbits, opossums, and chickens. Their focus was on the development of five key organs: the brain, cerebellum, heart, kidney, and liver. Also read | We can now blame our ancestors for our mental health issues, as per new study Notably, they highlighted contrasting patterns of sexual dimorphism in different species, with certain organs displaying more pronounced differences between the sexes than others. Key findings The researchers observed that while organs developed, few sex differences were apparent. However, around the time of sexual maturity, they observed that disparities intensified significantly. "We found that the levels of sex-biased expression varied substantially across organs and species. Across mammals, sex-biased expression was rare during organ development. In organs with high levels of sex-biased expression, the differences between the sexes only appeared around the time of sexual maturity." Moreover, the study revealed that only a few genes that are different between males and females are the same in all animals, and these are mostly on the sex chromosomes (X and Y). Even though different animals have different genes that are different between males and females, the researchers noticed that the same kinds of cells show differences in all the animals. Also read | 'Gods of chaos': Jupiter protects us, but similar gas giants whack other Earth-like planets For example, even though mice and rats have different genes in their livers, the genes that are different are in the same kind of cell in the liver. This is important because it helps us understand how differences between males and females can affect things like how the body processes medicine. "Sex-biased expression evolved quickly across species between orthologous genes. However, the cell types responsible for most sex-biased expression were the same across species." Commenting on the findings, Leticia Rodríguez-Montes, a PhD student at Heidelberg University, noted the intriguing discovery that a small set of genes on the sex chromosomes are different between males and females in all the animals they looked at. This could potentially serve in the understanding of fundamental genetic triggers for sex-specific traits. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists study how differences between sexes develop in animals

Baltic Sea, the largest expanse of brackish water in the world, as per German media reports, is on the verge of collapse.

The sea's ecosystem, as per reports, is reeling under the detrimental impact of environmental pollution and overfishing.&nbsp;

<h2>Dire situation</h2>

A recent report by the Baltic Marine Environment Protection Commission (HELCOM) about the state of the Baltic Sea paints a dire situation, reports German media.

The HELCOM study indicates that, despite conservation efforts by ecologists and experts alike&nbsp;over the last few years, there has been no improvement in the state of the Baltic Sea. In fact, the condition in certain areas has deteriorated, according to the report.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/gods-of-chaos-jupiter-protects-us-but-similar-gas-giants-do-this-to-earth-like-planets-654247">'Gods of chaos': Jupiter protects us, but similar gas giants whack other Earth-like planets</a>

"The health of the Baltic Sea ecosystem is under threat from the increasing effects of climate change and biodiversity degradation, catalysed by pollution, demands on land use, resource extraction and other pressures," says the report.

<h2>What are the primary challenges to the Baltic Sea?</h2>

As per the report, the Baltic Sea is primarily affected by human-induced activities like eutrophication — the over-enrichment of water, harmful substances and pollutants, oxygen depletion, and habitat destruction.

These human activities, as per the report, are "enhanced" by climate change.

"Climate change effects are already evident in the Baltic Sea, and global warming is expected to lead to further hydrological and ecological changes in the near future."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/this-is-what-earth-will-look-like-if-it-surpasses-the-climate-threshold-and-it-will-happen-soon-654355">New study paints a scary scenario for when Earth passes the 1.5 degree threshold</a>

Quoting the report, German news outlet Bild reports, "Specific species, such as water birds, are facing drastic hardship, particularly along the German coast of the Baltic Sea. The condition is especially serious in the Bay of Kiel, Mecklenburg Bay, and Arkona Basin, where Rugia Island is located. The local porpoise population is also in jeopardy."

This degradation not only affects marine and animal&nbsp;life but also impacts humans. "The degradation of the marine ecosystem also reduces its (Baltic Sea) ability to produce goods and services for the benefit of society, with effects on our well-being," says the report. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>The way forward</h2>

The report states that continued efforts to improve the environmental status of the Baltic Sea's biodiversity are of key importance.&nbsp;

It speculates that successfully limiting the amount of pressure human activities put on the environment should "show signs of improvement and support a sustainable marine region."

"Ultimately, the recovery of the Baltic Sea biodiversity is entirely dependent on how well we can manage our activities to ensure that they are truly sustainable, both in the near future and in the long term," it concludes.

Baltic Sea, the largest expanse of brackish water in the world, as per German media reports, is on the verge of collapse. The sea's ecosystem, as per reports, is reeling under the detrimental impact of environmental pollution and overfishing.

Baltic Sea, the largest expanse of brackish water in the world, as per German media reports, is on the verge of collapse. The sea's ecosystem, as per reports, is reeling under the detrimental impact of environmental pollution and overfishing. Dire situation A recent report by the Baltic Marine Environment Protection Commission (HELCOM) about the state of the Baltic Sea paints a dire situation, reports German media. The HELCOM study indicates that, despite conservation efforts by ecologists and experts alike over the last few years, there has been no improvement in the state of the Baltic Sea. In fact, the condition in certain areas has deteriorated, according to the report. Also read | 'Gods of chaos': Jupiter protects us, but similar gas giants whack other Earth-like planets "The health of the Baltic Sea ecosystem is under threat from the increasing effects of climate change and biodiversity degradation, catalysed by pollution, demands on land use, resource extraction and other pressures," says the report. What are the primary challenges to the Baltic Sea? As per the report, the Baltic Sea is primarily affected by human-induced activities like eutrophication — the over-enrichment of water, harmful substances and pollutants, oxygen depletion, and habitat destruction. These human activities, as per the report, are "enhanced" by climate change. "Climate change effects are already evident in the Baltic Sea, and global warming is expected to lead to further hydrological and ecological changes in the near future." Also read | New study paints a scary scenario for when Earth passes the 1.5 degree threshold Quoting the report, German news outlet Bild reports, "Specific species, such as water birds, are facing drastic hardship, particularly along the German coast of the Baltic Sea. The condition is especially serious in the Bay of Kiel, Mecklenburg Bay, and Arkona Basin, where Rugia Island is located. The local porpoise population is also in jeopardy." This degradation not only affects marine and animal life but also impacts humans. "The degradation of the marine ecosystem also reduces its (Baltic Sea) ability to produce goods and services for the benefit of society, with effects on our well-being," says the report. The way forward The report states that continued efforts to improve the environmental status of the Baltic Sea's biodiversity are of key importance. It speculates that successfully limiting the amount of pressure human activities put on the environment should "show signs of improvement and support a sustainable marine region." "Ultimately, the recovery of the Baltic Sea biodiversity is entirely dependent on how well we can manage our activities to ensure that they are truly sustainable, both in the near future and in the long term," it concludes.

Baltic Sea in 'dire' state due to human activities and global warming: Report

Artificial Intelligence has been in the spotlight throughout 2023. AI made headlines and was the focus of more and more conversations. Thanks to this rising visibility, the term 'Artificial Intelligence' has been named the "word of the year" by Collins Dictionary.

<h2>Conversations and more</h2>

As per Collins Dictionary, the use of AI, a term that describes "the modelling of human mental functions by computer programs", has quadrupled this year.

Alex Beecroft, the director of Collins Dictionary, as quoted by BBC, said that AI had been "the talking point of 2023".

"We know that AI has been a big focus this year in the way that it has developed and has quickly become as ubiquitous and embedded in our lives as email, streaming or any other once futuristic, now everyday technology," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/world-health-organization-issues-warning-says-ai-in-healthcare-poses-risks-593037">World Health Organization issues warning, says AI in healthcare poses risks, could be misused</a>

<h2>How AI made the conversations</h2>

Artificial Intelligence was all over the board; from suggesting recipes with leftover pantry ingredients to acting as a therapist...&nbsp;AI did it all.

Not only that, it also was a source of fear and anxiety for many. This was not limited to the usual reports of 'will computers take over humans', but also included warnings that artificial intelligence can be used to make chemical and biological weapons.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/godfather-of-ai-calls-for-action-before-ai-is-smarter-than-us-warns-looming-takeover-isnt-science-fiction-609899">Godfather of AI calls for action 'before AI is smarter than us', warns looming takeover isn't science fiction</a>

In March, more than 1,100 notable signatories, including Elon Musk, Steve Wozniak, and Tristan Harris of the Center for Humane Technology, signed an open letter calling on "all AI labs to immediately pause for at least 6 months the training of AI systems more powerful than GPT-4." They reasoned that as AI systems become more "human-competitive" at general tasks, humans need to ask, "Should we risk loss of control of our civilization?".&nbsp;

There were also concerns about copyrights, as AI "used" work made by artists to "create" its own art. AI-generated deepfakes were also a cause of concern, with reports of the technology being used for propaganda.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/england-based-prep-school-appoints-ai-robot-as-headmaster-647548">England-based prep school appoints AI robot as headmaster</a>

<h2>Other contenders for 'Word of the Year'</h2>

Artificial intelligence was not the only word on the list. Its contenders included de-influencing — where famous people use their notability to warn followers against harmful stuff, and Nepo baby — the word for people, mostly in the entertainment industry, whose rise to fame is based on having famous parents.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Artificial Intelligence has been in the spotlight throughout 2023. AI made headlines and was the focus of more and more conversations. Thanks to this rising visibility, the term 'Artificial Intelligence' has been named the "word of the year" by Collins Dictionary.

Artificial Intelligence has been in the spotlight throughout 2023. AI made headlines and was the focus of more and more conversations. Thanks to this rising visibility, the term 'Artificial Intelligence' has been named the "word of the year" by Collins Dictionary. Conversations and more As per Collins Dictionary, the use of AI, a term that describes "the modelling of human mental functions by computer programs", has quadrupled this year. Alex Beecroft, the director of Collins Dictionary, as quoted by BBC, said that AI had been "the talking point of 2023". "We know that AI has been a big focus this year in the way that it has developed and has quickly become as ubiquitous and embedded in our lives as email, streaming or any other once futuristic, now everyday technology," he added. Also read | World Health Organization issues warning, says AI in healthcare poses risks, could be misused How AI made the conversations Artificial Intelligence was all over the board; from suggesting recipes with leftover pantry ingredients to acting as a therapist... AI did it all. Not only that, it also was a source of fear and anxiety for many. This was not limited to the usual reports of 'will computers take over humans', but also included warnings that artificial intelligence can be used to make chemical and biological weapons. Also read | Godfather of AI calls for action 'before AI is smarter than us', warns looming takeover isn't science fiction In March, more than 1,100 notable signatories, including Elon Musk, Steve Wozniak, and Tristan Harris of the Center for Humane Technology, signed an open letter calling on "all AI labs to immediately pause for at least 6 months the training of AI systems more powerful than GPT-4." They reasoned that as AI systems become more "human-competitive" at general tasks, humans need to ask, "Should we risk loss of control of our civilization?". There were also concerns about copyrights, as AI "used" work made by artists to "create" its own art. AI-generated deepfakes were also a cause of concern, with reports of the technology being used for propaganda. Also read | England-based prep school appoints AI robot as headmaster Other contenders for 'Word of the Year' Artificial intelligence was not the only word on the list. Its contenders included de-influencing — where famous people use their notability to warn followers against harmful stuff, and Nepo baby — the word for people, mostly in the entertainment industry, whose rise to fame is based on having famous parents. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Artificial Intelligence dominates conversations in 2023, named 'Word of the Year' by Collins Dictionary

A panel of advisors of the Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday (Oct 31) held a day-long meeting grappling with potential risks posed by a novel therapy for sickle cell disease, a rare blood disorder that affects a significant population globally.

If green-lit by the FDA, it could be a groundbreaking solution for many individuals battling severe forms of the rare blood disorder.

<h2>A novel therapy</h2>

The therapy called exa-cel, which has been developed by Vertex Pharmaceuticals, harnesses CRISPR gene editing technology to potentially cure sickle cell disease.&nbsp;

As per a press release by Vertes, the FDA is expected to decide on exa-cel by December 8.

Documents released before Tuesday's meeting show that the FDA concurred with the company's portrayal of the therapy's trials, acknowledging the "strongly positive results".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/air-pollution-ups-risk-of-parkinsons-disease-by-56-study-653648">Air pollution ups risk of Parkinson's disease by 56%: Study</a>

Speaking at the meeting, Dr Nicole Verdun, head of the FDA's Office of Therapeutics Products, said: "It is an exciting time in cell and gene therapy that we are beginning to address some of this unmet need in a variety of diseases. Exa-cel has been studied for treatment of sickle cell disease with severe vaso-occlusive crises and has shown efficacy and safety."&nbsp;

Throughout the discussion, the FDA, as per CBS News, emphasised the importance of minimising unintended gene alterations, raising concerns about potential off-target editing and the associated risks.&nbsp;

"If the gene happens to play an essential role in cell function, then such unintended edits can be deleterious. These edits can also increase the risk of cancer," said the FDA's Komudi Singh, a bioinformatics reviewer for the agency.

However, experts underscored the absence of concrete evidence indicating adverse effects from unintended changes.

As per Dr Daniel Bauer, a researcher at Boston Children's Hospital, "Theoretically, could it? Yes. Is there evidence to suggest that it does? I would say no. But this hasn't really been done very much. We need to be humble and open to learning from these brave patients who are participating."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/his-own-body-attacked-it-second-person-to-get-pig-heart-transplant-dies-653843">‘His own body attacked it,’ Second person to get pig heart transplant dies</a>

Largely supporting the treatment, committee members advocated for continued vigilance and long-term monitoring to fully grasp the treatment's impact.

<h2>Sickle cell disease</h2>

In the USA alone, around 100,000 people, predominantly from Black communities, are affected by sickle cell disease, according to estimates by the CDC.

Currently, blood and bone marrow transplants are the only available cures for this disease.&nbsp;

These too, are accessible to only a small fraction of patients as they depend on finding close genetic matches to them.

Sickle cell disease causes a range of debilitating complications, including agonising vaso-occlusive crises — where blood flow is blocked in the body — described as "bone-crushing pain" by one patient.

(With inputs from agencies)

A panel of advisors of the Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday (Oct 31) held a day-long meeting grappling with potential risks posed by a novel therapy for sickle cell disease, a rare blood disorder that affects a significant population globally.

A panel of advisors of the Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday (Oct 31) held a day-long meeting grappling with potential risks posed by a novel therapy for sickle cell disease, a rare blood disorder that affects a significant population globally. If green-lit by the FDA, it could be a groundbreaking solution for many individuals battling severe forms of the rare blood disorder. A novel therapy The therapy called exa-cel, which has been developed by Vertex Pharmaceuticals, harnesses CRISPR gene editing technology to potentially cure sickle cell disease. As per a press release by Vertes, the FDA is expected to decide on exa-cel by December 8. Documents released before Tuesday's meeting show that the FDA concurred with the company's portrayal of the therapy's trials, acknowledging the "strongly positive results". Also read | Air pollution ups risk of Parkinson's disease by 56%: Study Speaking at the meeting, Dr Nicole Verdun, head of the FDA's Office of Therapeutics Products, said: "It is an exciting time in cell and gene therapy that we are beginning to address some of this unmet need in a variety of diseases. Exa-cel has been studied for treatment of sickle cell disease with severe vaso-occlusive crises and has shown efficacy and safety." Throughout the discussion, the FDA, as per CBS News, emphasised the importance of minimising unintended gene alterations, raising concerns about potential off-target editing and the associated risks. "If the gene happens to play an essential role in cell function, then such unintended edits can be deleterious. These edits can also increase the risk of cancer," said the FDA's Komudi Singh, a bioinformatics reviewer for the agency. However, experts underscored the absence of concrete evidence indicating adverse effects from unintended changes. As per Dr Daniel Bauer, a researcher at Boston Children's Hospital, "Theoretically, could it? Yes. Is there evidence to suggest that it does? I would say no. But this hasn't really been done very much. We need to be humble and open to learning from these brave patients who are participating." Also read | ‘His own body attacked it,’ Second person to get pig heart transplant dies Largely supporting the treatment, committee members advocated for continued vigilance and long-term monitoring to fully grasp the treatment's impact. Sickle cell disease In the USA alone, around 100,000 people, predominantly from Black communities, are affected by sickle cell disease, according to estimates by the CDC. Currently, blood and bone marrow transplants are the only available cures for this disease. These too, are accessible to only a small fraction of patients as they depend on finding close genetic matches to them. Sickle cell disease causes a range of debilitating complications, including agonising vaso-occlusive crises — where blood flow is blocked in the body — described as "bone-crushing pain" by one patient. (With inputs from agencies)

FDA weighs risks and benefits of CRISPR therapy for sickle cell disease

"Cackle, scratch, and more" might sum up what we think of when it comes to chickens, but apparently, these birds are capable of so much more.&nbsp;

In an astonishing breakthrough, a team of researchers from the Universities of Bonn and Bochum, in collaboration with the MSH Medical School Hamburg, have unveiled compelling evidence suggesting that roosters could possess the ability to recognise their own reflections in a mirror. While this may not seem like much to you, it is a big deal. Here's why.

<h2>Why does it matter?</h2>

The revelation, as per Science Daily, opens up a whole new avenue of inquiry that stretches far beyond these feathered creatures. It promises to redefine our understanding of self-awareness among a variety of animal species.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/explained-nasa-to-send-nuclear-powered-dragonfly-to-saturns-moon-titan-heres-all-you-need-to-know-651572">Explained: NASA to send 'nuclear-powered' Dragonfly to Saturn's moon Titan. Here's all you need to know</a>

Not only are these findings scientifically important, but they can also be a fundamental cornerstone for the discussions surrounding animal rights and welfare.

Findings from the study have been featured in the journal PLOS ONE.

The litmus test for self-recognition is the widely recognised "Mark Test," which involves applying a distinct colour mark to an animal's head that can only be seen in front of a mirror. If an animal starts to explore the body area that has the mark, it is considered a success.

While this method has often been the go-to approach, it's not always a reliable measure of self-awareness. Some creatures, despite their self-awareness, tend to stay away from the mirror, possibly due to the discomfort of the unnatural setting.

<h2>Adapting the experiment</h2>

To avoid this, the team decided to customise the mirror experiment to mirror ecologically relevant behaviours.&nbsp;

"Our goal was to conduct the mirror test in an environment that is better adapted to the ecologically relevant behaviour of the chickens," said Dr&nbsp;Inga Tiemann.&nbsp;

Prof Onur Güntürkün, from the Department of Biopsychology at the Ruhr University in Bochum proposed incorporating the roosters' innate alarm calls, often used to warn fellow chickens of looming predators like birds of prey or crafty foxes. However, when alone, they stay silent.

"The alarm call is the perfect behaviour to integrate into a more ecologically relevant test of self-awareness," said Güntürkün.

<h2>Research findings</h2>

58 roosters were used for the experiments, with each bird subjected to the trials — involving a lifelike image of a fearsome bird of prey — three times for statistical validation.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/need-to-have-dialogue-chinas-wang-yi-tells-us-as-he-lays-groundwork-for-xi-biden-meet-651753">‘Need to have dialogue,’ China’s Wang Yi tells US as he lays groundwork for Xi-Biden meet</a>

The collective findings were nothing short of astounding. There were 77 alarm calls in the presence of a fellow rooster. In stark contrast, when left to confront the virtual predator alone, only 17 solitary calls were emitted. This, as per scientists, highlights roosters' remarkable adaptability and responsiveness to their immediate environment.

Following this, scientists used a reflective mirror, eager to witness how the roosters would react to their own reflections in the face of the simulated threat. The results? Only 25 alarm calls were registered.

This remarkable finding suggests that the roosters, when faced with their mirror images and the looming bird of prey, didn't mistake their reflections for another rooster, hinting at the possibility of self-recognition.

(With inputs from agencies)

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"Cackle, scratch, and more" might sum up what we think of when it comes to chickens, but apparently, these birds are capable of so much more. In an astonishing breakthrough, a team of researchers from the Universities of Bonn and Bochum, in collaboration with the MSH Medical School Hamburg, have unveiled compelling evidence suggesting that roosters could possess the ability to recognise their own reflections in a mirror.

"Cackle, scratch, and more" might sum up what we think of when it comes to chickens, but apparently, these birds are capable of so much more. In an astonishing breakthrough, a team of researchers from the Universities of Bonn and Bochum, in collaboration with the MSH Medical School Hamburg, have unveiled compelling evidence suggesting that roosters could possess the ability to recognise their own reflections in a mirror. While this may not seem like much to you, it is a big deal. Here's why. Why does it matter? The revelation, as per Science Daily, opens up a whole new avenue of inquiry that stretches far beyond these feathered creatures. It promises to redefine our understanding of self-awareness among a variety of animal species. Also read | Explained: NASA to send 'nuclear-powered' Dragonfly to Saturn's moon Titan. Here's all you need to know Not only are these findings scientifically important, but they can also be a fundamental cornerstone for the discussions surrounding animal rights and welfare. Findings from the study have been featured in the journal PLOS ONE. The litmus test for self-recognition is the widely recognised "Mark Test," which involves applying a distinct colour mark to an animal's head that can only be seen in front of a mirror. If an animal starts to explore the body area that has the mark, it is considered a success. While this method has often been the go-to approach, it's not always a reliable measure of self-awareness. Some creatures, despite their self-awareness, tend to stay away from the mirror, possibly due to the discomfort of the unnatural setting. Adapting the experiment To avoid this, the team decided to customise the mirror experiment to mirror ecologically relevant behaviours. "Our goal was to conduct the mirror test in an environment that is better adapted to the ecologically relevant behaviour of the chickens," said Dr Inga Tiemann. Prof Onur Güntürkün, from the Department of Biopsychology at the Ruhr University in Bochum proposed incorporating the roosters' innate alarm calls, often used to warn fellow chickens of looming predators like birds of prey or crafty foxes. However, when alone, they stay silent. "The alarm call is the perfect behaviour to integrate into a more ecologically relevant test of self-awareness," said Güntürkün. Research findings 58 roosters were used for the experiments, with each bird subjected to the trials — involving a lifelike image of a fearsome bird of prey — three times for statistical validation. Also read | ‘Need to have dialogue,’ China’s Wang Yi tells US as he lays groundwork for Xi-Biden meet The collective findings were nothing short of astounding. There were 77 alarm calls in the presence of a fellow rooster. In stark contrast, when left to confront the virtual predator alone, only 17 solitary calls were emitted. This, as per scientists, highlights roosters' remarkable adaptability and responsiveness to their immediate environment. Following this, scientists used a reflective mirror, eager to witness how the roosters would react to their own reflections in the face of the simulated threat. The results? Only 25 alarm calls were registered. This remarkable finding suggests that the roosters, when faced with their mirror images and the looming bird of prey, didn't mistake their reflections for another rooster, hinting at the possibility of self-recognition. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Roosters can recognise themselves in mirror. Here's why it matters

Newton's third law of motion is one of the most well-known laws of physics, which states, "For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction." However, for biological swimmers such as sperm, this may not be the case.

The latest lawbreaker is human sperm, which according to scientists can swim by deforming their bodies in a way that does not elicit a response from their surroundings. Hence, it breaks Newton's third law of motion, they said in a recent study.

To reach this conclusion, they examined data on human sperm cells and Chlamydomonas algae to identify non-reciprocal mechanical interactions that defy Newton's third law. They refer to these interactions as "odd elasticity."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/how-old-is-the-moon-study-finds-its-40-million-years-older-than-believed-650419">How old is the Moon? Study finds it's 40 million years older than believed</a>

Hair-like appendages called flagella allow Chlamydomonas and sperm cells to move. These protrude from the cell, resembling a tail. These extend from the cell and help it move forward by changing shape in response to the surrounding fluid. They do so in a non-reciprocal manner, which violates Newton's third law because they do not elicit an equal and opposite reaction from their surroundings.

The elasticity of the flagellum alone does not fully explain how the cell can move. This is where the concept of odd elasticity comes into play. Odd elasticity basically allows the cells to move their flagella without expending a significant amount of energy in their environment, which would have typically hinder their movement.

The ability of a flagellum to wave without suffering significant energy loss increases with a cell's odd elasticity score (or odd elastic modulus), which improves the cell's ability to advance in a manner that defies physics.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-ancient-tectonic-plate-that-disappeared-20-million-years-ago-650437">Scientists discover ancient tectonic plate that disappeared 20 million years ago</a>

Sperm and algae are not the only cells possessing a flagellum; there are likely other rule-breakers out there waiting to be discovered.

Being able to understand and classify other cells or organisms capable of non-reciprocal movement could be very useful, the team behind the study told New Scientist Magazine.

Their approach could help in the design of small elastic robots with the ability to violate Newton's third law, according to one of the study's authors, Kenta Ishimoto of Kyoto University in Japan.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Newton's third law of motion is one of the most well-known laws of physics, which states, "For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction." However, for biological swimmers such as sperm, this may not be the case.

Newton's third law of motion is one of the most well-known laws of physics, which states, "For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction." However, for biological swimmers such as sperm, this may not be the case. The latest lawbreaker is human sperm, which according to scientists can swim by deforming their bodies in a way that does not elicit a response from their surroundings. Hence, it breaks Newton's third law of motion, they said in a recent study. To reach this conclusion, they examined data on human sperm cells and Chlamydomonas algae to identify non-reciprocal mechanical interactions that defy Newton's third law. They refer to these interactions as "odd elasticity." Also read: How old is the Moon? Study finds it's 40 million years older than believed Hair-like appendages called flagella allow Chlamydomonas and sperm cells to move. These protrude from the cell, resembling a tail. These extend from the cell and help it move forward by changing shape in response to the surrounding fluid. They do so in a non-reciprocal manner, which violates Newton's third law because they do not elicit an equal and opposite reaction from their surroundings. The elasticity of the flagellum alone does not fully explain how the cell can move. This is where the concept of odd elasticity comes into play. Odd elasticity basically allows the cells to move their flagella without expending a significant amount of energy in their environment, which would have typically hinder their movement. The ability of a flagellum to wave without suffering significant energy loss increases with a cell's odd elasticity score (or odd elastic modulus), which improves the cell's ability to advance in a manner that defies physics. Also read: Scientists discover ancient tectonic plate that disappeared 20 million years ago Sperm and algae are not the only cells possessing a flagellum; there are likely other rule-breakers out there waiting to be discovered. Being able to understand and classify other cells or organisms capable of non-reciprocal movement could be very useful, the team behind the study told New Scientist Magazine. Their approach could help in the design of small elastic robots with the ability to violate Newton's third law, according to one of the study's authors, Kenta Ishimoto of Kyoto University in Japan. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Human sperm is breaking one of Newton's laws of motion and the finding may be revolutionary

In the vast expanse of Utah lies the remarkable Pando, the "world's largest tree", and recent recordings have unearthed its hidden voices&nbsp;that resonate through the ground as a million leaves quiver with the wind, providing insights into its enduring existence.

<h2>What is Pando?</h2>

Pando is a singular quaking aspen with a colossal root system that has birthed an entire forest — 47,000 stems over a sprawling 100-acre landscape.&nbsp;

Aptly named Pando or "I spread" in Latin, this ancient male quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides) has silently flourished for an estimated 12,000 years, its towering tree-like stems reaching heights of up to 24 meters (80 feet).&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-shares-amazing-picture-of-solar-eclipse-clicked-from-space-648675">This picture of annular solar eclipse snapped from 260 miles above Earth is quite riveting</a>

<h2>Ancient organism Pando's haunting voice</h2>

Sound artist Jeff Rice, in his experimental pursuit, ingeniously positioned a hydrophone within a hollow at the tree's base, unravelling the hidden symphony within its roots, reports Live Science.&nbsp;

The device captured an enchanting chorus of vibrations reverberating through the branches and penetrating the earth. It even magnifies the faintest sound during a thunderstorm, as reported by The Guardian.

"Hydrophones don't just need water to work," said Rice.

"They can pick up vibrations from surfaces like roots as well, and when I put on my headphones, I was instantly surprised. Something was happening. There was a faint sound."

Through these captivating recordings, the interconnectedness of Pando's root system became evident, providing a glimpse into the mysteries of this enigmatic, natural wonder.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/natures-missing-law-scientists-propose-survival-of-fittest-like-law-for-non-living-things-648397">'Nature's missing law': Scientists propose 'survival of fittest' like law for non-living things</a>

"What you're hearing, I think, is the sound of millions of leaves in the forest, vibrating the tree and passing down through the branches, down into the earth," said Rice.

Despite the commonality of shared root systems in colonial quaking aspens, Pando's exceptional size and age distinguish it as a singular entity, making it a subject of extensive research and conservation efforts.

<h2>Tantalising findings</h2>

Initiated as an artistic endeavour, the project's significance swiftly extended beyond the realms of art, capturing the attention of the scientific community.&nbsp;

Lance Oditt, founder of Friends of Pando, emphasised the potential for this innovation to delve into the intricate hydraulic system of Pando without causing any harm.

"The findings are tantalising," said Oditt, back in May, when the project was unveiled.

"While it started as art, we see enormous potential for use in science. Wind, converted to vibration (sound) and travelling the root system, could also reveal the inner workings of Pando's vast hidden hydraulic system in a non-destructive manner."

The groundbreaking recordings were unveiled at the 184th Meeting of the Acoustical Society of America. They helped further cement Pando's significance in both the artistic and scientific spheres.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

In the vast expanse of Utah lies the remarkable Pando, the "world's largest tree", and recent recordings have unearthed its hidden voices that resonate through the ground as a million leaves quiver with the wind, providing insights into its enduring existence.

In the vast expanse of Utah lies the remarkable Pando, the "world's largest tree", and recent recordings have unearthed its hidden voices that resonate through the ground as a million leaves quiver with the wind, providing insights into its enduring existence. What is Pando? Pando is a singular quaking aspen with a colossal root system that has birthed an entire forest — 47,000 stems over a sprawling 100-acre landscape. Aptly named Pando or "I spread" in Latin, this ancient male quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides) has silently flourished for an estimated 12,000 years, its towering tree-like stems reaching heights of up to 24 meters (80 feet). Also read | This picture of annular solar eclipse snapped from 260 miles above Earth is quite riveting Ancient organism Pando's haunting voice Sound artist Jeff Rice, in his experimental pursuit, ingeniously positioned a hydrophone within a hollow at the tree's base, unravelling the hidden symphony within its roots, reports Live Science. The device captured an enchanting chorus of vibrations reverberating through the branches and penetrating the earth. It even magnifies the faintest sound during a thunderstorm, as reported by The Guardian. "Hydrophones don't just need water to work," said Rice. "They can pick up vibrations from surfaces like roots as well, and when I put on my headphones, I was instantly surprised. Something was happening. There was a faint sound." Through these captivating recordings, the interconnectedness of Pando's root system became evident, providing a glimpse into the mysteries of this enigmatic, natural wonder. Also read | 'Nature's missing law': Scientists propose 'survival of fittest' like law for non-living things "What you're hearing, I think, is the sound of millions of leaves in the forest, vibrating the tree and passing down through the branches, down into the earth," said Rice. Despite the commonality of shared root systems in colonial quaking aspens, Pando's exceptional size and age distinguish it as a singular entity, making it a subject of extensive research and conservation efforts. Tantalising findings Initiated as an artistic endeavour, the project's significance swiftly extended beyond the realms of art, capturing the attention of the scientific community. Lance Oditt, founder of Friends of Pando, emphasised the potential for this innovation to delve into the intricate hydraulic system of Pando without causing any harm. "The findings are tantalising," said Oditt, back in May, when the project was unveiled. "While it started as art, we see enormous potential for use in science. Wind, converted to vibration (sound) and travelling the root system, could also reveal the inner workings of Pando's vast hidden hydraulic system in a non-destructive manner." The groundbreaking recordings were unveiled at the 184th Meeting of the Acoustical Society of America. They helped further cement Pando's significance in both the artistic and scientific spheres. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ancient whispers: Scientists unveil hidden sounds of Pando, the world's largest tree

Darwin's 'survival of the fittest' is a popular law quoted by many. However, it has a limitation, it is only applicable to the living. However, as per new research, it may actually also be applicable to the non-living, like minerals, stars and hurricanes.&nbsp;

<h2>Nature's 'missing law'</h2>

Scientists and philosophers have proposed the existence of a fundamental law, which they speculate governs the non-living world, similar to the popular concept of "survival of the fittest" in Darwinian evolution.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amazon-river-falls-to-lowest-level-in-over-a-century-amid-brazil-drought-crisis-648175">Amazon river falls to lowest level in over a century amid Brazil drought crisis</a>

They've labelled this proposed law as nature's 'missing law,' and they suggest that various non-living systems, such as minerals, stars, and hurricanes, are composed of multiple components that can combine in diverse ways, with some configurations persisting or lasting longer, while others do not. This, they suggest, is dependent on a number of selection pressures.

<h2>Dynamic law</h2>

Dr Michael Wong, the lead author of the study from the Carnegie Institution for Science, highlighted the universality of this proposed law.

"Our proposal applies to static systems, like minerals, and also to dynamic systems, like hurricanes, stars and life," said Wong.

The research, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, introduced the concept of three distinct selection pressures that affects evolving systems: stability, novelty, and the ability to sustain fundamental processes.

"The functional information of a system will increase (i.e., the system will evolve) if many different configurations of the system are subjected to selection for one or more functions," write the researchers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/weakening-of-gulf-stream-99-per-cent-ramifications-to-be-global-study-648008">Weakening of Gulf Stream 99 per cent certain, ramifications to be global: Study</a>

This perspective, as per Wong, underscores the idea that the cosmos is rooted in function and emphasises the crucial relationship between emerging functions and their environmental context.

"After all, Earth’s biosphere is the most complex evolving system we know of so far. We ought to ask ourselves: what functions are we promoting (or damaging) in our own evolving biosphere? What features of our present-day society are conducive to not only long-term persistence but long-term thriving, and what aspects require changing?"&nbsp;

The team's work has significant implications, prompting important questions about how human activities influence the long-term sustainability and prosperity of our evolving biosphere and society.

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Darwin's 'survival of the fittest' is a popular law quoted by many. However, it has a limitation, it is only applicable to the living. However, as per new research, it may actually also be applicable to the non-living, like minerals, stars and hurricanes.

Darwin's 'survival of the fittest' is a popular law quoted by many. However, it has a limitation, it is only applicable to the living. However, as per new research, it may actually also be applicable to the non-living, like minerals, stars and hurricanes. Nature's 'missing law' Scientists and philosophers have proposed the existence of a fundamental law, which they speculate governs the non-living world, similar to the popular concept of "survival of the fittest" in Darwinian evolution. Also read | Amazon river falls to lowest level in over a century amid Brazil drought crisis They've labelled this proposed law as nature's 'missing law,' and they suggest that various non-living systems, such as minerals, stars, and hurricanes, are composed of multiple components that can combine in diverse ways, with some configurations persisting or lasting longer, while others do not. This, they suggest, is dependent on a number of selection pressures. Dynamic law Dr Michael Wong, the lead author of the study from the Carnegie Institution for Science, highlighted the universality of this proposed law. "Our proposal applies to static systems, like minerals, and also to dynamic systems, like hurricanes, stars and life," said Wong. The research, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, introduced the concept of three distinct selection pressures that affects evolving systems: stability, novelty, and the ability to sustain fundamental processes. "The functional information of a system will increase (i.e., the system will evolve) if many different configurations of the system are subjected to selection for one or more functions," write the researchers. Also read | Weakening of Gulf Stream 99 per cent certain, ramifications to be global: Study This perspective, as per Wong, underscores the idea that the cosmos is rooted in function and emphasises the crucial relationship between emerging functions and their environmental context. "After all, Earth’s biosphere is the most complex evolving system we know of so far. We ought to ask ourselves: what functions are we promoting (or damaging) in our own evolving biosphere? What features of our present-day society are conducive to not only long-term persistence but long-term thriving, and what aspects require changing?" The team's work has significant implications, prompting important questions about how human activities influence the long-term sustainability and prosperity of our evolving biosphere and society. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Nature's missing law': Scientists propose 'survival of fittest' like law for non-living things

Do robots help with productivity at work? While the popular notion is that machines make lives easier at work, new research has discovered that robots give way to "social loafing".

<h2>What is social loafing?</h2>

Social loafing is a term used to describe a scenario where people work less hard if they think their other team members or, in this case robots, will cover up for them.

Researchers at the Technical University of Berlin, as per the Guardian, found that people come to see robots as a part of their team. As per their research, in such cases, when people see that technology is performing particularly well, they tend to feel like their own contributions would not be appreciated and scientists suggest this often leads to them taking a more laid-back approach.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earth-swallowed-whole-sun-a-lifeless-white-giant-scientists-predict-what-galaxy-will-look-like-in-5bn-years-647990">Earth swallowed whole, sun a lifeless white giant; scientists predict what galaxy will look like in 5bn years</a> 
&nbsp; 
As Dietlind Helene Cymek, the study's lead author, puts it, "Teamwork is a mixed blessing."

"Working together can motivate people to perform well but it can also lead to a loss of motivation because the individual contribution is not as visible. We were interested in whether we could also find such motivational effects when the team partner is a robot," added Cymek.

The study has been published in the journal Frontiers in Robotics and AI.

<h2>Research methodology used by the scientists</h2>

The research team conducted an experiment to test this hypothesis. For this, they asked a group of workers to assess the quality of a series of tasks.&nbsp;

Half of the workers were told that the tasks had already been executed by a robot named Panda. Those workers didn't directly collaborate with the robot, but had heard it performing its operations and or could hear its operating sounds.

The workers were tasked with examining circuit boards for potential errors, and as they performed the task, researchers monitored their actions.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ai-based-chatbots-could-help-plan-bioweapon-attacks-report-648082">AI-based chatbots could help plan bioweapon attacks: Report</a>

Initially, the researchers noticed no significant difference in the time taken by the two groups—those who were informed they were working with a robot and those who were not—in inspecting the circuit boards or the areas they scrutinised for errors.

However, upon analysing the error rates of the participants, the researchers discovered that those working alongside Panda identified fewer defects, especially after witnessing the robot effectively flagging numerous errors.&nbsp;

This phenomenon was attributed to a potential "looking but not seeing" effect, suggesting that people tend to be careless when they perceive a colleague or resource as reliable.

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Do robots help with productivity at work? While the popular notion is that machines make lives easier at work, new research has discovered that robots give way to "social loafing".

Do robots help with productivity at work? While the popular notion is that machines make lives easier at work, new research has discovered that robots give way to "social loafing". What is social loafing? Social loafing is a term used to describe a scenario where people work less hard if they think their other team members or, in this case robots, will cover up for them. Researchers at the Technical University of Berlin, as per the Guardian, found that people come to see robots as a part of their team. As per their research, in such cases, when people see that technology is performing particularly well, they tend to feel like their own contributions would not be appreciated and scientists suggest this often leads to them taking a more laid-back approach. Also read | Earth swallowed whole, sun a lifeless white giant; scientists predict what galaxy will look like in 5bn years As Dietlind Helene Cymek, the study's lead author, puts it, "Teamwork is a mixed blessing." "Working together can motivate people to perform well but it can also lead to a loss of motivation because the individual contribution is not as visible. We were interested in whether we could also find such motivational effects when the team partner is a robot," added Cymek. The study has been published in the journal Frontiers in Robotics and AI. Research methodology used by the scientists The research team conducted an experiment to test this hypothesis. For this, they asked a group of workers to assess the quality of a series of tasks. Half of the workers were told that the tasks had already been executed by a robot named Panda. Those workers didn't directly collaborate with the robot, but had heard it performing its operations and or could hear its operating sounds. The workers were tasked with examining circuit boards for potential errors, and as they performed the task, researchers monitored their actions. Also read | AI-based chatbots could help plan bioweapon attacks: Report Initially, the researchers noticed no significant difference in the time taken by the two groups—those who were informed they were working with a robot and those who were not—in inspecting the circuit boards or the areas they scrutinised for errors. However, upon analysing the error rates of the participants, the researchers discovered that those working alongside Panda identified fewer defects, especially after witnessing the robot effectively flagging numerous errors. This phenomenon was attributed to a potential "looking but not seeing" effect, suggesting that people tend to be careless when they perceive a colleague or resource as reliable. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Working with robots makes people lazy. Here's what 'social loafing' means

The Sun is the driving force behind all life on earth. From the weather, ocean currents, climate, and seasons, all life depends on the star. What would happen if the star that provides our planet so much life dies?

For the first time, astronomers might have a clue. Here's what will happen.

<h2>A white dwarf</h2>

Scientists have, for the first time, studied a white dwarf - a star just like our sun that has exhausted its hydrogen reserves or nuclear fuel.

Our sun, as per National Geographic, is just an ordinary star; one of about 100 billion in our galaxy, the Milky Way.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/european-space-agency-shares-stunning-visualisation-of-mars-labyrinth-of-night-watch-here-647379">This stunning visualisation of Mars' gigantic 'Labyrinth of Night' will blow your mind</a>

Astronomers studied the stellar remnants that lie at the centre of a cloud of wreckage, gas and dust that astronomers call a planetary nebula.&nbsp;

It is located at around 4,500 light years from Earth, in the open star cluster Messier 37. Astronomers used Gran Telescopio Canarias on the island of La Palma in the Canary Islands to study the cosmic graveyard full of stars, some of them dead.&nbsp;

Studying this white dwarf has provided scientists with vital information on how the once red-hot star died, and also provided insights into how our own solar system could look like in around five billion years.

<h2>From sun to a white dwarf</h2>

A dying sun, as per space.com, runs out of fuel that is intrinsic to its nuclear fusion processes and slowly swells into a red giant. The puffed-out outer layers then swallow inner planets — Earth is an inner planet to the Milky Way's sun.&nbsp;

Then, the star's shell of stellar material spreads out and cools, after which the sun becomes a planetary nebula, and eventually, its core turns into a fading white dwarf.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/humanitys-next-big-catastrophe-could-lie-in-the-sun-predict-scientists-644862">Humanity's next big 'catastrophe' could lie in the Sun, predict scientists</a>

"The more massive a star is, the faster it consumes its nuclear fuel by fusing hydrogen into helium. So its life is shorter, and it evolves into a white dwarf faster," said Klaus Werner, the study team leader and a professor at the University of Tübingen in a statement.

The star they studied as per estimates had a mass equivalent to 2.8 times our Sun. It currently has only about 85 per cent of the mass of Earth's sun left, the rest, about 70 per cent of its original total mass, was lost during its lifetime.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Sun is the driving force behind all life on earth. From the weather, ocean currents, climate, and seasons, all life depends on the star. What would happen if the star that provides our planet so much life dies?

The Sun is the driving force behind all life on earth. From the weather, ocean currents, climate, and seasons, all life depends on the star. What would happen if the star that provides our planet so much life dies? For the first time, astronomers might have a clue. Here's what will happen. A white dwarf Scientists have, for the first time, studied a white dwarf - a star just like our sun that has exhausted its hydrogen reserves or nuclear fuel. Our sun, as per National Geographic, is just an ordinary star; one of about 100 billion in our galaxy, the Milky Way. Also read | This stunning visualisation of Mars' gigantic 'Labyrinth of Night' will blow your mind Astronomers studied the stellar remnants that lie at the centre of a cloud of wreckage, gas and dust that astronomers call a planetary nebula. It is located at around 4,500 light years from Earth, in the open star cluster Messier 37. Astronomers used Gran Telescopio Canarias on the island of La Palma in the Canary Islands to study the cosmic graveyard full of stars, some of them dead. Studying this white dwarf has provided scientists with vital information on how the once red-hot star died, and also provided insights into how our own solar system could look like in around five billion years. From sun to a white dwarf A dying sun, as per space.com, runs out of fuel that is intrinsic to its nuclear fusion processes and slowly swells into a red giant. The puffed-out outer layers then swallow inner planets — Earth is an inner planet to the Milky Way's sun. Then, the star's shell of stellar material spreads out and cools, after which the sun becomes a planetary nebula, and eventually, its core turns into a fading white dwarf. Also read | Humanity's next big 'catastrophe' could lie in the Sun, predict scientists "The more massive a star is, the faster it consumes its nuclear fuel by fusing hydrogen into helium. So its life is shorter, and it evolves into a white dwarf faster," said Klaus Werner, the study team leader and a professor at the University of Tübingen in a statement. The star they studied as per estimates had a mass equivalent to 2.8 times our Sun. It currently has only about 85 per cent of the mass of Earth's sun left, the rest, about 70 per cent of its original total mass, was lost during its lifetime. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Earth swallowed whole, sun a lifeless white giant; scientists predict what galaxy will look like in 5bn years

The European Space Agency has shared a stunning new video showing the vastness of Mars' gigantic 2,500 miles (4,023.36 km) long 'Labyrinth of Night' — a&nbsp;1190-kilometre-long valley (roughly the length of Italy).

<h2>'Labyrinth of Night'</h2>

The fascinating video visualises a flyover of the Mars Express' High Resolution Stereo Camera (HRSC). It has been created by using an image mosaic built over eight orbits.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gaganyaans-maiden-test-flight-tv-d1-on-oct-21-isro-chief-646869">Gaganyaan's maiden test flight 'TV-D1' on Oct 21: ISRO Chief</a>

The valley called Noctis Labyrinthus or the Labyrinth of Night, is nestled between the colossal Martian Valles Marineris — the red planet's equivalent of Earth's Grand Canyon, and the tallest volcano in the Solar System — located in the Tharsis region.

<h2>Martian terrain</h2>

The video, as per a statement by the European Space Agency, presents a "perspective view down and across this fascinating landscape, showing distinctive 'graben'—parts of the crust that have subsided in relation to their surroundings."

You can watch ESA's stunning Mars terrain video here:

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🛰🔴 Fly across Mars’s ‘labyrinth of night’ with us and Mars Express. 
 
Nestled between the colossal martian ‘Grand Canyon’ and the tallest volcanoes in the Solar System lies Noctis Labyrinthus – a vast system of deep and steep valleys that stretches out for roughly 1190 km, the… <a href="https://t.co/SdS4gu174E">pic.twitter.com/SdS4gu174E</a>
— ESA (@esa) <a href="https://twitter.com/esa/status/1712078877084844212?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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A graben, as per the space agency, is a type of crust that forms when a block of the planet's crust drops between two faults, due to extension, or pulling, of the crust.

<h2>How are these spectacular features formed?</h2>

The intense volcanism in the nearby Tharsis region is to blame for the formation of these features. ESA explains that due to volcanism, large areas of the Martian crust arch upwards and "become stretched and tectonically stressed, leading to it thinning out, faulting and subsiding."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/fast-radio-bursts-in-space-occur-due-to-starquakes-study-647154">Fast Radio Bursts in space occur due to 'starquakes': Study</a>

The high plateaus visible in the video represent the original surface level of the planet, which, due to volcanic activity, underwent changes. These valleys, as per ESA estimates, are up to 30 kilometres wide and six metres deep.

<h2>Mars Express</h2>

ESA mission Mars Express has been orbiting the barren planet for 20 years — since 2003. The mission objectives include mapping Mars' surface, and its minerals, a study of the tenuous atmosphere, probing what lies beneath the red planet's crust and exploring how various phenomena interact in the Martian environment.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The European Space Agency has shared a stunning new video showing the vastness of Mars' gigantic 2,500 miles (4,023.36 km) long 'Labyrinth of Night' — a 1190-kilometre-long valley (roughly the length of Italy).

The European Space Agency has shared a stunning new video showing the vastness of Mars' gigantic 2,500 miles (4,023.36 km) long 'Labyrinth of Night' — a 1190-kilometre-long valley (roughly the length of Italy). 'Labyrinth of Night' The fascinating video visualises a flyover of the Mars Express' High Resolution Stereo Camera (HRSC). It has been created by using an image mosaic built over eight orbits. Also read | Gaganyaan's maiden test flight 'TV-D1' on Oct 21: ISRO Chief The valley called Noctis Labyrinthus or the Labyrinth of Night, is nestled between the colossal Martian Valles Marineris — the red planet's equivalent of Earth's Grand Canyon, and the tallest volcano in the Solar System — located in the Tharsis region. Martian terrain The video, as per a statement by the European Space Agency, presents a "perspective view down and across this fascinating landscape, showing distinctive 'graben'—parts of the crust that have subsided in relation to their surroundings." You can watch ESA's stunning Mars terrain video here: 🛰🔴 Fly across Mars’s ‘labyrinth of night’ with us and Mars Express. Nestled between the colossal martian ‘Grand Canyon’ and the tallest volcanoes in the Solar System lies Noctis Labyrinthus – a vast system of deep and steep valleys that stretches out for roughly 1190 km, the… pic.twitter.com/SdS4gu174E — ESA (@esa) October 11, 2023 × A graben, as per the space agency, is a type of crust that forms when a block of the planet's crust drops between two faults, due to extension, or pulling, of the crust. How are these spectacular features formed? The intense volcanism in the nearby Tharsis region is to blame for the formation of these features. ESA explains that due to volcanism, large areas of the Martian crust arch upwards and "become stretched and tectonically stressed, leading to it thinning out, faulting and subsiding." Also read | Fast Radio Bursts in space occur due to 'starquakes': Study The high plateaus visible in the video represent the original surface level of the planet, which, due to volcanic activity, underwent changes. These valleys, as per ESA estimates, are up to 30 kilometres wide and six metres deep. Mars Express ESA mission Mars Express has been orbiting the barren planet for 20 years — since 2003. The mission objectives include mapping Mars' surface, and its minerals, a study of the tenuous atmosphere, probing what lies beneath the red planet's crust and exploring how various phenomena interact in the Martian environment. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

This stunning visualisation of Mars' gigantic 'Labyrinth of Night' will blow your mind

An England-based private boarding school has appointed a 'unique' headmaster — an AI robot named Abigail Bailey.

Cottesmore School in West Sussex worked with an artificial intelligence developer to create their new principal headteacher.

<h2>What will the AI headmaster do?</h2>

Abigail Bailey, as the AI robot is named, will primarily help the school's headmaster, Tom Rogerson.

Talking to the Telegraph, Rogerson detailed that Abigail with provide him with advice and insights on a variety of issues, ranging from how to support fellow teachers and staff members, to helping students with learning disabilities like ADHD and writing school policies.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/ai-can-help-detect-dementia-way-before-than-doctors-claims-oxford-professor-646330">AI can help detect dementia way before doctors do, claims Oxford professor</a>

The headmaster said that Abigail was developed to have a "wealth of knowledge in machine learning and education management. Furthermore, Abigail has the ability to analyse vast amounts of data.

<h2>Will the AI headmaster take precedence over human teachers?</h2>

No. Talking to Telegraph, Rogerson said that having the robot around doesn't mean you don't ever seek counsel from humans.

He said,&nbsp;"Sometimes having someone or something there to help you is a very calming influence."

As per the 'human' headmaster, the school has the highest number of teachers in its 130-year history and the robot will not replace human teachers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/european-space-agency-shares-stunning-visualisation-of-mars-labyrinth-of-night-watch-here-647379">This stunning visualisation of Mars' gigantic 'Labyrinth of Night' will blow your mind</a>

"It's nice to think that someone who is unbelievably well trained is there to help you make decisions," he added.

However, he clarified,&nbsp;"It doesn't mean you don't ever also seek counsel from humans. Of course you do. It's just very calming and reassuring knowing that you don't have to call anybody up, bother someone, you don't have to wait around for an answer."

"Being a school leader, a headmaster, is a very lonely job. Of course, we have head teacher’s groups...but just having somebody or something on tap that can help you in this lonely place is very reassuring," he added.

<h2>How will the AI headmaster work?</h2>

Abigail Bailey works similarly to the popular AI-based chatbot ChatGPT — users type questions and the AI answers using its algorithm.

Not only this, Cottesmore has another AI based robot among its staff. The robot called Jamie Rainer is "a highly trained adviser on generative AI" and has been hired to help embed technology into the curriculum and advise teachers on reducing their workload.

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An England-based private boarding school has appointed a 'unique' headmaster — an AI robot named Abigail Bailey. Cottesmore School in West Sussex worked with an artificial intelligence developer to create their new principal headteacher.

An England-based private boarding school has appointed a 'unique' headmaster — an AI robot named Abigail Bailey. Cottesmore School in West Sussex worked with an artificial intelligence developer to create their new principal headteacher. What will the AI headmaster do? Abigail Bailey, as the AI robot is named, will primarily help the school's headmaster, Tom Rogerson. Talking to the Telegraph, Rogerson detailed that Abigail with provide him with advice and insights on a variety of issues, ranging from how to support fellow teachers and staff members, to helping students with learning disabilities like ADHD and writing school policies. Also read | AI can help detect dementia way before doctors do, claims Oxford professor The headmaster said that Abigail was developed to have a "wealth of knowledge in machine learning and education management. Furthermore, Abigail has the ability to analyse vast amounts of data. Will the AI headmaster take precedence over human teachers? No. Talking to Telegraph, Rogerson said that having the robot around doesn't mean you don't ever seek counsel from humans. He said, "Sometimes having someone or something there to help you is a very calming influence." As per the 'human' headmaster, the school has the highest number of teachers in its 130-year history and the robot will not replace human teachers. Also read | This stunning visualisation of Mars' gigantic 'Labyrinth of Night' will blow your mind "It's nice to think that someone who is unbelievably well trained is there to help you make decisions," he added. However, he clarified, "It doesn't mean you don't ever also seek counsel from humans. Of course you do. It's just very calming and reassuring knowing that you don't have to call anybody up, bother someone, you don't have to wait around for an answer." "Being a school leader, a headmaster, is a very lonely job. Of course, we have head teacher’s groups...but just having somebody or something on tap that can help you in this lonely place is very reassuring," he added. How will the AI headmaster work? Abigail Bailey works similarly to the popular AI-based chatbot ChatGPT — users type questions and the AI answers using its algorithm. Not only this, Cottesmore has another AI based robot among its staff. The robot called Jamie Rainer is "a highly trained adviser on generative AI" and has been hired to help embed technology into the curriculum and advise teachers on reducing their workload. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

England-based prep school appoints AI robot as headmaster

Climate Change is dangerous, and this unfortunately is old news. Many of us care and try to incorporate so-called "green" or sustainable practices into our lives. Many continue to rebuff the climate change.&nbsp;

Whether you're part of the former group or the latter, this piece of information will interest and maybe even sadden you. Recent research has found that climate change will affect beer, making it expensive and potentially change the taste. Here's all you need to know.

<h2>Losing the taste</h2>

You may be wondering how can climate change affect the taste of beer.

Beer is the third-most popular drink after water and tea. The globally popular alcoholic drink gets its distinctive taste and smell from hops, a flower, whose quantity and quantity will be affected by climate change, reports The Guardian.

A study published in the journal Nature Communications predicts that until and unless farmers adapt to hotter and drier weather, hop yields in Europe's growing regions will fall by around 4 to 18 per cent by 2050. It also forecasts that the alpha acids in hops — responsible for the taste&nbsp; — will fall by 20-31 per cent.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-crisis-behind-extreme-heat-during-winters-in-south-america-says-study-645140">Climate crisis behind extreme heat during winters in South America, says study</a>

Study co-author Miroslav Trnka, a scientist at the Global Change Research Institute of the Czech Academy of Sciences, says: "Beer drinkers will definitely see the climate change, either in the price tag or the quality."

"That seems to be inevitable from our data," says Trnka, adding that "across the pubs of Europe, the most frequent debate except weather and politics is about the … beer".

<h2>Climate Change is not gender-neutral</h2>

As per the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), climate change, though harmful for everyone, affects people disproportionately.

Its report — the first to examine climate change and how it refers to reproductive health, found that only a third of the nations recognise the disproportionate impact of the climate crisis on women and girls.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/will-thawing-siberian-permafrost-bring-ancient-outbreaks-back-to-life-645121">Will thawing Siberian permafrost bring ancient outbreaks back to life?</a>

Research by UNFPA and Queen Mary University of London released on Tuesday found that of the 119 countries with published national plans on tackling the climate crisis, only 38 include access to contraception, and maternal and newborn health services and just 15 make any reference to violence against women.

"Climate is setting us back on the fight to gender equality. Our point would be to make sure that climate policy recognises the differential impact on women and takes it into account in the design of policy," said study co-author, UNFPA adviser on population and development Angela Baschieri.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Climate Change is dangerous, and this unfortunately is old news. Many of us care and try to incorporate so-called "green" or sustainable practices into our lives.

Climate Change is dangerous, and this unfortunately is old news. Many of us care and try to incorporate so-called "green" or sustainable practices into our lives. Many continue to rebuff the climate change. Whether you're part of the former group or the latter, this piece of information will interest and maybe even sadden you. Recent research has found that climate change will affect beer, making it expensive and potentially change the taste. Here's all you need to know. Losing the taste You may be wondering how can climate change affect the taste of beer. Beer is the third-most popular drink after water and tea. The globally popular alcoholic drink gets its distinctive taste and smell from hops, a flower, whose quantity and quantity will be affected by climate change, reports The Guardian. A study published in the journal Nature Communications predicts that until and unless farmers adapt to hotter and drier weather, hop yields in Europe's growing regions will fall by around 4 to 18 per cent by 2050. It also forecasts that the alpha acids in hops — responsible for the taste — will fall by 20-31 per cent. Also read | Climate crisis behind extreme heat during winters in South America, says study Study co-author Miroslav Trnka, a scientist at the Global Change Research Institute of the Czech Academy of Sciences, says: "Beer drinkers will definitely see the climate change, either in the price tag or the quality." "That seems to be inevitable from our data," says Trnka, adding that "across the pubs of Europe, the most frequent debate except weather and politics is about the … beer". Climate Change is not gender-neutral As per the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), climate change, though harmful for everyone, affects people disproportionately. Its report — the first to examine climate change and how it refers to reproductive health, found that only a third of the nations recognise the disproportionate impact of the climate crisis on women and girls. Also read | Will thawing Siberian permafrost bring ancient outbreaks back to life? Research by UNFPA and Queen Mary University of London released on Tuesday found that of the 119 countries with published national plans on tackling the climate crisis, only 38 include access to contraception, and maternal and newborn health services and just 15 make any reference to violence against women. "Climate is setting us back on the fight to gender equality. Our point would be to make sure that climate policy recognises the differential impact on women and takes it into account in the design of policy," said study co-author, UNFPA adviser on population and development Angela Baschieri. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Your favourite beer might not taste the same in the coming years. Thanks to climate change

How will the world end? A flood that drowns everyone? A fiery meteor that herds us to the same end that met the mighty dinosaurs? Or an air-born&nbsp;virus that destroys us from the inside?

Turns out, our end may lie in a solar storm. Scientists have found proof of a gargantuan storm that struck our Earth some 14,300 years ago, and which they say if happens today "could be catastrophic for society."

<h2>Largest-ever solar storm</h2>

Remains of a tree along the Drouzet River in the French Alps revealed fascinating evidence.

Annual growth rings of the stump of the Scots pine tree revealed radiocarbons, an isotope released by the sun during solar storms.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nearly-13000-years-ago-a-comet-impact-may-have-sparked-major-change-in-climate-644678">Nearly 13,000 years ago a comet impact may have sparked major change in climate</a>

This could be the largest solar storm ever, even trumping the Carrington Event, which in 1859 caused an unprecedented geomagnetic storm around the globe and created "a nighttime aurora so bright that birds sang as if the sun was rising".

In fact, as per estimates, this solar storm from more than 14,000 years ago was probably 10 times the late 1800s storm that caused telegraph systems to go haywire.

<h2>What if it happened today?</h2>

As per scientists, if such a solar storm struck Earth today, the effects would be "catastrophic."

One thing you should know about such storms is that they tend to knock out electronics, and as per Edouard Bard, a professor of climate and ocean evolution at the Collège de France and the research centre CEREGE, "if similar solar storms happened today, they could be catastrophic for society, as we are so reliant upon technology."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nearly-13000-years-ago-a-comet-impact-may-have-sparked-major-change-in-climate-644678">Nearly 13,000 years ago a comet impact may have sparked major change in climate</a>

"They could do enormous damage to our electricity grids, potentially causing nationwide blackouts lasting months, permanently putting satellites out of action with the huge bursts of energetic particles destroying their solar panels and stopping us communicating with them, and pose severe radiation risks to astronauts and aviation. In the worst-case scenario, the impact could cost us billions, or even trillions, of dollars in lost GDP," he said.

"This is the big question: will our communications, electricity grids and satellites mostly be able to withstand their impacts and just suffer temporary effects before quickly coming back online? Or will they catastrophically fail?" added Heaton.

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How will the world end? A flood that drowns everyone? A fiery meteor that herds us to the same end that met the mighty dinosaurs? Or an air-born virus that destroys us from the inside?

How will the world end? A flood that drowns everyone? A fiery meteor that herds us to the same end that met the mighty dinosaurs? Or an air-born virus that destroys us from the inside? Turns out, our end may lie in a solar storm. Scientists have found proof of a gargantuan storm that struck our Earth some 14,300 years ago, and which they say if happens today "could be catastrophic for society." Largest-ever solar storm Remains of a tree along the Drouzet River in the French Alps revealed fascinating evidence. Annual growth rings of the stump of the Scots pine tree revealed radiocarbons, an isotope released by the sun during solar storms. Also read | Nearly 13,000 years ago a comet impact may have sparked major change in climate This could be the largest solar storm ever, even trumping the Carrington Event, which in 1859 caused an unprecedented geomagnetic storm around the globe and created "a nighttime aurora so bright that birds sang as if the sun was rising". In fact, as per estimates, this solar storm from more than 14,000 years ago was probably 10 times the late 1800s storm that caused telegraph systems to go haywire. What if it happened today? As per scientists, if such a solar storm struck Earth today, the effects would be "catastrophic." One thing you should know about such storms is that they tend to knock out electronics, and as per Edouard Bard, a professor of climate and ocean evolution at the Collège de France and the research centre CEREGE, "if similar solar storms happened today, they could be catastrophic for society, as we are so reliant upon technology." Also read | Nearly 13,000 years ago a comet impact may have sparked major change in climate "They could do enormous damage to our electricity grids, potentially causing nationwide blackouts lasting months, permanently putting satellites out of action with the huge bursts of energetic particles destroying their solar panels and stopping us communicating with them, and pose severe radiation risks to astronauts and aviation. In the worst-case scenario, the impact could cost us billions, or even trillions, of dollars in lost GDP," he said. "This is the big question: will our communications, electricity grids and satellites mostly be able to withstand their impacts and just suffer temporary effects before quickly coming back online? Or will they catastrophically fail?" added Heaton. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Humanity's next big 'catastrophe' could lie in the Sun, predict scientists

Some 122 million years ago, Spain was home to a massive never-seen-before dinosaur, new fossils show. The newly described species has been named Garumbatitan morellensis, and it was found during excavations at the Sant Antoni de la Vespa fossil site near the city of Morella.

Researchers have described their findings in a new study published in the Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society on September 28.

<h2>A titan of yesterday</h2>

The sauropod fossil — dinosaurs with long necks, long tails, small heads, and four thick, pillar-like legs &nbsp;— was found during an excavation more than a decade ago, between 2005 and 2008.&nbsp;

Garumbatitan morellensis was a Titanosaur species, which is a subgroup of sauropods, and it was the only lineage to survive until the dinosaur-killing asteroid struck around 66 million years ago. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-2023-mission-to-moon-to-feature-prada-spacesuits-643229">NASA's 2023 Mission to Moon to feature Prada spacesuits</a>

During the excavation, researchers uncovered the remains of not just one, but three individuals. Remains include massive vertebrae, lengthy leg bones and two near-complete sets of foot bones, which reportedly is an extremely rare find for sauropods.&nbsp;

These massive fossils, as per estimates, date back to the Lower Cretaceous period (some 145 to 66 million years ago).

<h2>Titanosaurs</h2>

Garumbatitan morellensis, as per scientists, was a pretty average-sized Titanosaur, a subgroup used to classify the most massive sauropods.

While Titanosaurs were the heaviest sauropods, as per Live Science, they were not the longest. That title is reserved for Supersaurus, an as-of-yet unspecified sauropod species that stretched to 128 feet or 39 metres long.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/europeans-would-eat-not-bury-their-dead-15000-years-ago-study-643032">Europeans would eat, not bury, their dead 15,000 years ago: Study</a>

Garumbatitan morellensis's unusual bone shape, as per Live Science, suggests that the massive dinosaur was quite primitive. The discovery, as per the report, could help scientists better understand the evolution of these gigantic, long-necked dinosaurs.&nbsp;

These titans belonged to the sub-group Somphospondyli, whose fossils have been found on every modern-day continent. However, it is unclear where the Somphospondyli may have originated. The long-necked dinosaur discovery in Spain hints at the possibility that Europe may be where they first roamed.

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Some 122 million years ago, Spain was home to a massive never-seen-before dinosaur, new fossils show. The newly described species has been named Garumbatitan morellensis, and it was found during excavations at the Sant Antoni de la Vespa fossil site near the city of Morella.

Some 122 million years ago, Spain was home to a massive never-seen-before dinosaur, new fossils show. The newly described species has been named Garumbatitan morellensis, and it was found during excavations at the Sant Antoni de la Vespa fossil site near the city of Morella. Researchers have described their findings in a new study published in the Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society on September 28. A titan of yesterday The sauropod fossil — dinosaurs with long necks, long tails, small heads, and four thick, pillar-like legs — was found during an excavation more than a decade ago, between 2005 and 2008. Garumbatitan morellensis was a Titanosaur species, which is a subgroup of sauropods, and it was the only lineage to survive until the dinosaur-killing asteroid struck around 66 million years ago. Also read | NASA's 2023 Mission to Moon to feature Prada spacesuits During the excavation, researchers uncovered the remains of not just one, but three individuals. Remains include massive vertebrae, lengthy leg bones and two near-complete sets of foot bones, which reportedly is an extremely rare find for sauropods. These massive fossils, as per estimates, date back to the Lower Cretaceous period (some 145 to 66 million years ago). Titanosaurs Garumbatitan morellensis, as per scientists, was a pretty average-sized Titanosaur, a subgroup used to classify the most massive sauropods. While Titanosaurs were the heaviest sauropods, as per Live Science, they were not the longest. That title is reserved for Supersaurus, an as-of-yet unspecified sauropod species that stretched to 128 feet or 39 metres long. Also read | Europeans would eat, not bury, their dead 15,000 years ago: Study Garumbatitan morellensis's unusual bone shape, as per Live Science, suggests that the massive dinosaur was quite primitive. The discovery, as per the report, could help scientists better understand the evolution of these gigantic, long-necked dinosaurs. These titans belonged to the sub-group Somphospondyli, whose fossils have been found on every modern-day continent. However, it is unclear where the Somphospondyli may have originated. The long-necked dinosaur discovery in Spain hints at the possibility that Europe may be where they first roamed. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Scientists discover massive long-necked dinosaur 'titan' in Spain

Do you want to lose weight without working out? Science may have a solution for you. A new drug claims to&nbsp;have shown amazing results on mice, imbuing them with the benefits of exercise without the need for any actual physical activity.

<h2>No pain, no gain is a lie, proves drug</h2>

As per a University of Florida, the newly developed compound called SLU-PP-332 helped obese mice lose weight.&nbsp;

It apparently did this by speeding up their metabolism by convincing their bodies to go into marathon training mode. The compound also helps beef up their energy and endurance.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/from-sloppy-to-stylish-tiktoks-girlfriend-effect-show-women-really-make-men-look-hotter-640635">From sloppy to stylish: TikTok's 'girlfriend effect' show women really make men look hotter</a>

Thomas Burris, a University of Florida pharmacy professor who led the research, said: "This compound is basically telling skeletal muscle to make the same changes you see during endurance training."

The paper drugs like Ozempic, Moujnaro, and Wegovy, which it calls game-changers in obesity treatment. It says these products spurred on "a surge of interest, research, and funding for drugs that could treat these metabolic diseases through different biological pathways."&nbsp;

Burris suggests SLU-PP-332 will "keep people healthier as they age."

The research findings have been published in the Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics.

<h2>How does the drug do this?</h2>

The drug stimulates the EFF protein and activates the body's "energy-gobbling" tissues, such as the brain, the heart, and other muscles. EFF is typically released when an individual exercises.&nbsp;

Burris explains, "When you treat mice with the drug...you can see that their whole body metabolism turns to using fatty acids, which is very similar to what people use when they are fasting or exercising."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-at-least-20-per-cent-adults-in-all-us-states-are-obese-shows-new-survey-638691">Obesity on rise in US, at least 20% adults are obese, shows new survey</a>

As a result, "the animals start losing weight," he notes.

However, our (human) bodies and metabolism differ, and until human trials are held, there is no guarantee that this drug will even work on us.

These drugs, as per Futurism, previously have been touted as purportedly miraculous ways to lose weight without working.&nbsp;

Do you want to lose weight without working out? Science may have a solution for you. A new drug claims to have shown amazing results on mice, imbuing them with the benefits of exercise without the need for any actual physical activity.

Do you want to lose weight without working out? Science may have a solution for you. A new drug claims to have shown amazing results on mice, imbuing them with the benefits of exercise without the need for any actual physical activity. No pain, no gain is a lie, proves drug As per a University of Florida, the newly developed compound called SLU-PP-332 helped obese mice lose weight. It apparently did this by speeding up their metabolism by convincing their bodies to go into marathon training mode. The compound also helps beef up their energy and endurance. Also read | From sloppy to stylish: TikTok's 'girlfriend effect' show women really make men look hotter Thomas Burris, a University of Florida pharmacy professor who led the research, said: "This compound is basically telling skeletal muscle to make the same changes you see during endurance training." The paper drugs like Ozempic, Moujnaro, and Wegovy, which it calls game-changers in obesity treatment. It says these products spurred on "a surge of interest, research, and funding for drugs that could treat these metabolic diseases through different biological pathways." Burris suggests SLU-PP-332 will "keep people healthier as they age." The research findings have been published in the Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics. How does the drug do this? The drug stimulates the EFF protein and activates the body's "energy-gobbling" tissues, such as the brain, the heart, and other muscles. EFF is typically released when an individual exercises. Burris explains, "When you treat mice with the drug...you can see that their whole body metabolism turns to using fatty acids, which is very similar to what people use when they are fasting or exercising." Also read | Obesity on rise in US, at least 20% adults are obese, shows new survey As a result, "the animals start losing weight," he notes. However, our (human) bodies and metabolism differ, and until human trials are held, there is no guarantee that this drug will even work on us. These drugs, as per Futurism, previously have been touted as purportedly miraculous ways to lose weight without working.

No pain, no gain a lie? New drug claims it can make you lose weight without any exercise

The Earth is heating up, and soon it may reach temperatures&nbsp;and humidity that after a few hours of exposure could prove fatal for humans, even young ones. Based on recent research, scientists have identified the maximum mix of heat and humidity a human body can take.&nbsp;

<h2>Wet bulb temperature</h2>

Previously scientists thought that a young, healthy person will die after enduring around six hours of temperatures close to 35 degree&nbsp;Celsius (95 degree Fahrenheit), and 100 per cent humidity. However, new research argues that the actual threshold could be much lower.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ocean-temperatures-set-new-record-scientists-warn-were-in-hot-soup-622413">Ocean temperatures set new record, scientists warn we are in hot soup</a>

Researchers at United States' Pennsylvania State University decided to put the theorised "wet bulb temperature" to the test — the point at which sweat no longer evaporates off the skin, leading to heatstroke and eventually death. This was earlier measured using wet cloth and thermometers.

Measuring the core temperatures of healthy, young people inside a heat chamber, researchers found that the study participants reached their "critical environmental limit" at a wet bulb temperature of 30.6 degree&nbsp;Celsius, much lower than previously theorised.

Climate change and temperature rise

The previously thought heat, humidity-bearing capacity of humans (35 degrees Celsius) as per an AFP report has only been breached a few times, particularly in South Asia and the Persian Gulf.&nbsp;

Climate change, however, is leading to an increase in dangerous wet bulb events, with the frequency of such events doubling over the past 40 years, said Colin Raymond of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory while talking to AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/explained-pandemic-pushed-number-of-grey-divorces-in-us-heres-what-it-means-623892">Explained | Pandemic pushed number of 'grey divorces' in US, here's what it means</a>

Raymond's research indicates that if the world warms 2.5 degrees above pre-industrial levels, these wet bulb events will get even more frequent.

A recent report by&nbsp;European Union's climate change service Copernicus shows that oceans&nbsp;have hit their hottest-ever recorded temperature.&nbsp;Beating a 2016 record, the daily global sea surface temperatures have reached 20.96C, which is far above the average for this time of the year, reports BBC. In 2016, a record was set when the naturally occurring El Niño was in full swing.

Experts warn that extreme heat events, even below the 35-degree limit, can be deadly. They say that different people have different thresholds based on factors such as age, health, and even socioeconomic conditions.&nbsp;They point out that people least able to protect themselves from extreme heat will suffer the most.&nbsp;

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The Earth is heating up, and soon it may reach temperatures and humidity that after a few hours of exposure could prove fatal for humans, even young ones. Based on recent research, scientists have identified the maximum mix of heat and humidity a human body can take.

The Earth is heating up, and soon it may reach temperatures and humidity that after a few hours of exposure could prove fatal for humans, even young ones. Based on recent research, scientists have identified the maximum mix of heat and humidity a human body can take. Wet bulb temperature Previously scientists thought that a young, healthy person will die after enduring around six hours of temperatures close to 35 degree Celsius (95 degree Fahrenheit), and 100 per cent humidity. However, new research argues that the actual threshold could be much lower. Also read | Ocean temperatures set new record, scientists warn we are in hot soup Researchers at United States' Pennsylvania State University decided to put the theorised "wet bulb temperature" to the test — the point at which sweat no longer evaporates off the skin, leading to heatstroke and eventually death. This was earlier measured using wet cloth and thermometers. Measuring the core temperatures of healthy, young people inside a heat chamber, researchers found that the study participants reached their "critical environmental limit" at a wet bulb temperature of 30.6 degree Celsius, much lower than previously theorised. Climate change and temperature rise The previously thought heat, humidity-bearing capacity of humans (35 degrees Celsius) as per an AFP report has only been breached a few times, particularly in South Asia and the Persian Gulf. Climate change, however, is leading to an increase in dangerous wet bulb events, with the frequency of such events doubling over the past 40 years, said Colin Raymond of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory while talking to AFP. Also read | Explained | Pandemic pushed number of 'grey divorces' in US, here's what it means Raymond's research indicates that if the world warms 2.5 degrees above pre-industrial levels, these wet bulb events will get even more frequent. A recent report by European Union's climate change service Copernicus shows that oceans have hit their hottest-ever recorded temperature. Beating a 2016 record, the daily global sea surface temperatures have reached 20.96C, which is far above the average for this time of the year, reports BBC. In 2016, a record was set when the naturally occurring El Niño was in full swing. Experts warn that extreme heat events, even below the 35-degree limit, can be deadly. They say that different people have different thresholds based on factors such as age, health, and even socioeconomic conditions. They point out that people least able to protect themselves from extreme heat will suffer the most. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Survival and climate change: Scientists identify 'deadly' heat and humidity combo

Earthworms, as per new research, are the unsung heroes of food production, with contributions that match Russia, one of the top grain producers globally.

As per the new study evaluating the enormous role earthworms play in food production, these soil-dwelling invertebrate contribute to the harvest of around 140 million tonnes every year.

<h2>Fourth-largest producer worldwide</h2>

As per the Guardian, in 2022, Russia produced some 150 million tonnes. This year, the nation is expected to produce around 120 million tonnes.&nbsp;

Earthworms's contribution to the production of 140 million tonnes would've made them "the fourth-largest global producer if they were a country", reports the Guardian.

As per the study published in Nature Communications, the worm that is also known as 'night crawler' contributes to 6.5 per cent of all grain harvests globally. This includes crops like rice, maize, wheat and barley.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-rare-stunning-electric-blue-coloured-tarantula-species-in-thailands-lush-jungles-640279">Scientists discover rare, stunning electric blue-coloured Tarantula species in Thailand's lush jungles</a>

Furthermore, they also contribute to about 2.3 per cent or around 16 million metric tonnes of legume production. This includes crops like soybean, dry beans, peas, garbanzos, lentils, alfalfa, clover.

Their contribution is highest in the global south, where earthworms contribute to 10 per cent of production in Sub-Saharan Africa, and eight per cent in Latin America and Caribbean.

<h2>How do earthworms do this?</h2>

Scientists have long been aware of earthworms and their contribution to enhancing plant growth. Charles Darwin, a naturalist, wrote about this way back in 1881. However, this research is the first time that a number has been put to exactly how much they help.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/dangerous-rat-borne-disease-threatens-southeastern-us-warn-scientists-639873">Dangerous rat-borne disease threatens southeastern US, warn scientists</a>

The worms feed on organic materials in the soil, eating both fresh and decaying materials from the plant roots. They then mix their waste into the soil as they move, creating a moist, microbe-rich environment. Furthermore, the tunnels they create bring in oxygen, help drain excess water and create&nbsp;space for plant roots.

As amazing as the results are, the researchers caution that they "do not advocate for the widespread inoculation of earthworms to regions where they are not currently present, as this can have highly undesirable ecological consequences for adjacent natural areas." Instead, they suggest that continued research and promotion of agroecological management practices that and contribute to "long-term sustainability and resilience of agriculture".

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Earthworms, as per new research, are the unsung heroes of food production, with contributions that match Russia, one of the top grain producers globally. As per the new study evaluating the enormous role earthworms play in food production, these soil-dwelling invertebrate contribute to the harvest of around 140 million tonnes every year.

Earthworms, as per new research, are the unsung heroes of food production, with contributions that match Russia, one of the top grain producers globally. As per the new study evaluating the enormous role earthworms play in food production, these soil-dwelling invertebrate contribute to the harvest of around 140 million tonnes every year. Fourth-largest producer worldwide As per the Guardian, in 2022, Russia produced some 150 million tonnes. This year, the nation is expected to produce around 120 million tonnes. Earthworms's contribution to the production of 140 million tonnes would've made them "the fourth-largest global producer if they were a country", reports the Guardian. As per the study published in Nature Communications, the worm that is also known as 'night crawler' contributes to 6.5 per cent of all grain harvests globally. This includes crops like rice, maize, wheat and barley. Also read | Scientists discover rare, stunning electric blue-coloured Tarantula species in Thailand's lush jungles Furthermore, they also contribute to about 2.3 per cent or around 16 million metric tonnes of legume production. This includes crops like soybean, dry beans, peas, garbanzos, lentils, alfalfa, clover. Their contribution is highest in the global south, where earthworms contribute to 10 per cent of production in Sub-Saharan Africa, and eight per cent in Latin America and Caribbean. How do earthworms do this? Scientists have long been aware of earthworms and their contribution to enhancing plant growth. Charles Darwin, a naturalist, wrote about this way back in 1881. However, this research is the first time that a number has been put to exactly how much they help. Also read | Dangerous rat-borne disease threatens southeastern US, warn scientists The worms feed on organic materials in the soil, eating both fresh and decaying materials from the plant roots. They then mix their waste into the soil as they move, creating a moist, microbe-rich environment. Furthermore, the tunnels they create bring in oxygen, help drain excess water and create space for plant roots. As amazing as the results are, the researchers caution that they "do not advocate for the widespread inoculation of earthworms to regions where they are not currently present, as this can have highly undesirable ecological consequences for adjacent natural areas." Instead, they suggest that continued research and promotion of agroecological management practices that and contribute to "long-term sustainability and resilience of agriculture". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Earthworms emerge as the unsung heroes of global grain production, rivalling Russia's contribution

In the lush landscapes of Thailand's Phang-Nga province, a captivating discovery has surprised the scientific community – a mesmerising electric blue tarantula species.

The discovery was unveiled by researchers on an expedition&nbsp;into the Thailand's tarantula diversity and distribution. The extraordinary discovery was documented in the research journal ZooKeys on September 18.

<h2>Do you feel the 'spark'?</h2>

Narin Chomphuphuang, a researcher at Khon Kaen University’s Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, described the find as "a new species of tarantula that exhibits a mesmerising blue-violet hue, reminiscent of electric blue sparks."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/dangerous-rat-borne-disease-threatens-southeastern-us-warn-scientists-639873">Dangerous rat-borne disease threatens southeastern US, warn scientists</a>

The team, as per a CNN report, included not just researchers but also Thai wildlife YouTuber JoCho Sippawat, who is one of the authors of the paper published in ZooKeys.

<h2>Why is the blue colour important?</h2>

Blue is one of the rarest colours found in nature. This is due to the fact that achieving a blue colour in nature is challenging.&nbsp;

"Blue is one of the rarest colours to appear in nature, which makes blue colouration in animals particularly fascinating," said Chomphuphuang.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/explained-nasa-fetches-celestial-cargo-to-earth-heres-why-bennu-asteroid-samples-matter-639472">Explained | NASA sends Bennu asteroid samples to Earth. Here's why the celestial cargo matters</a>

"To appear blue, an object needs to absorb very small amounts of energy while reflecting high-energy blue light," he explained.

'Chilobrachys natanicharum,' derives its colours not from the presence of any blue pigmentation, but rather "the unique structure of their hair, which incorporates nanostructures that manipulate light to create this striking blue appearance."

<img alt="Chilobrachys natanicharum" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5c77b450-d8b5-4ecb-a4ba-f3163e4f28cf" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20wion%20-%202023-09-27T195303.093.jpg" />

Chilobrachys natanicharum. (Image: ZooKeys)

As per the research paper, the tarantula's distinct colouring arises from two types of hairs: metallic-blue and violet.&nbsp;

These hairs are present on various parts of the spider's body, including its legs, chelicera (pincer-like mouth appendages), and carapace (upper shell).&nbsp;

Interestingly, the colouring varies with sex and age, with females and young males displaying more violet coloured hairs than metallic blue in certain areas of their bodies, notes the study.

<h2>How did the tarantula get its name?</h2>

To raise awareness and support for the indigenous Lahu people of northern Thailand, the team actually auction off the privilege of naming the newfound species.&nbsp;

'Chilobrachys natanicharum' the moniker, draws inspiration from the names of two individuals who won the auction. 
&nbsp; 
The new species of tarantula is both terrestrial or arboreal - lives within tree hollows.

Researchers only managed to capture two specimens of the elusive tarantula.&nbsp;

"During our expedition, we walked in the evening and at night during low tide, managing to collect only two of them," said Chomphuphuang, as quoted by CNN.

However, the striking blue spider faces a grim reality as one of the world's rarest tarantulas due to the decline of mangrove forests, largely due to deforestation.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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In the lush landscapes of Thailand's Phang-Nga province, a captivating discovery has surprised the scientific community – a mesmerising electric blue tarantula species.

In the lush landscapes of Thailand's Phang-Nga province, a captivating discovery has surprised the scientific community – a mesmerising electric blue tarantula species. The discovery was unveiled by researchers on an expedition into the Thailand's tarantula diversity and distribution. The extraordinary discovery was documented in the research journal ZooKeys on September 18. Do you feel the 'spark'? Narin Chomphuphuang, a researcher at Khon Kaen University’s Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, described the find as "a new species of tarantula that exhibits a mesmerising blue-violet hue, reminiscent of electric blue sparks." Also read | Dangerous rat-borne disease threatens southeastern US, warn scientists The team, as per a CNN report, included not just researchers but also Thai wildlife YouTuber JoCho Sippawat, who is one of the authors of the paper published in ZooKeys. Why is the blue colour important? Blue is one of the rarest colours found in nature. This is due to the fact that achieving a blue colour in nature is challenging. "Blue is one of the rarest colours to appear in nature, which makes blue colouration in animals particularly fascinating," said Chomphuphuang. Also read | Explained | NASA sends Bennu asteroid samples to Earth. Here's why the celestial cargo matters "To appear blue, an object needs to absorb very small amounts of energy while reflecting high-energy blue light," he explained. 'Chilobrachys natanicharum,' derives its colours not from the presence of any blue pigmentation, but rather "the unique structure of their hair, which incorporates nanostructures that manipulate light to create this striking blue appearance." Chilobrachys natanicharum. (Image: ZooKeys) As per the research paper, the tarantula's distinct colouring arises from two types of hairs: metallic-blue and violet. These hairs are present on various parts of the spider's body, including its legs, chelicera (pincer-like mouth appendages), and carapace (upper shell). Interestingly, the colouring varies with sex and age, with females and young males displaying more violet coloured hairs than metallic blue in certain areas of their bodies, notes the study. How did the tarantula get its name? To raise awareness and support for the indigenous Lahu people of northern Thailand, the team actually auction off the privilege of naming the newfound species. 'Chilobrachys natanicharum' the moniker, draws inspiration from the names of two individuals who won the auction. The new species of tarantula is both terrestrial or arboreal - lives within tree hollows. Researchers only managed to capture two specimens of the elusive tarantula. "During our expedition, we walked in the evening and at night during low tide, managing to collect only two of them," said Chomphuphuang, as quoted by CNN. However, the striking blue spider faces a grim reality as one of the world's rarest tarantulas due to the decline of mangrove forests, largely due to deforestation. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Scientists discover rare, stunning electric blue-coloured Tarantula species in Thailand's lush jungles

In southeastern America, a parasitic worm that is typically found in rats is spreading. The worm can, in severe cases, cause coma or even death in humans, and can also infect pets.

Here's all you need to know:

<h2>Rat-borne danger</h2>

In a study published recently in the journal Emerging Infectious Diseases, researchers from Texas A&amp;M, Zoo Atlanta and Mississippi State University have warned that the microscopic rat lungworm, scientifically known as Angiostrongylus Cantonensis, now threatens a wide area of southeast US.

As per US News, the parasite can trigger dangerous brain encephalitis in both humans and their pets.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/next-supercontinent-formation-could-wipe-out-humans-make-earth-uninhabitable-study-639581">Next ‘supercontinent’ formation could wipe out humans: Study</a>

An analysis of tissue samples from 33 wild brown rats found dead on the grounds of a zoological facility in Atlanta from between 2019 and 2022, found that more than a fourth of the rodents appeared to have worm-like larvae in their tissues.

Four of these cases were confirmed as rat lungworm infections, the other three could to be confirmed but were likely Angiostrongylus cantonensis.

<h2>Infecting humans</h2>

Speaking to Newsweek, Nicole Gottdenker, a Professor of Pathology at the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, warned that the worm can infect humans.

"When the infective stage of the worm is accidentally ingested by a human, it can go to the brain or spinal cord and cause tremendous inflammation, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, neck stiffness, headaches, sometimes arm and leg tingling," said Gottdenker.

<img alt="Angiostrongylus cantonensis life cycle (Image:CDC:" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e774a5da-2b36-4145-a82e-6821d6a2c1a0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20wion%20-%202023-09-26T191033.685.jpg" />

Angiostrongylus cantonensis life cycle (Image:CDC)

While the number of confirmed cases remains low, the study demonstrates that this worm is a potential threat to human health.

<h2>Angiostrongylus Cantonensis or the rat lungworm</h2>

The parasitic worm is typically found in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, including Hawaii.

However, recently it has been identified in Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, Florida and most recently in Georgia.

It is spread through rat faeces and can infect humans and other animals through produce or other food items.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/explained-nasa-fetches-celestial-cargo-to-earth-heres-why-bennu-asteroid-samples-matter-639472">Explained | NASA sends Bennu asteroid samples to Earth. Here's why the celestial cargo matters</a>

Inside the human body, the parasitic worm migrates to the brain, eyes or lungs, and in severe cases can lead to coma and death. Furthermore, in pets, birds and other wild animals, it can cause fatal infections.

However, basic precautions like washing vegetables, fruits and other produce, and washing your hands can help protect you and your family from the dangerous worm.

"People can avoid infection by washing vegetables thoroughly, not eating raw or undercooked snails or slugs, crabs, freshwater shrimp, or frog legs—and wear gloves if handling snails or slugs. And, as always 'wash your veggies' and 'wash your hands!'," said Nicole Gottdenker.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In southeastern America, a parasitic worm that is typically found in rats is spreading. The worm can, in severe cases, cause coma or even death in humans, and can also infect pets.

In southeastern America, a parasitic worm that is typically found in rats is spreading. The worm can, in severe cases, cause coma or even death in humans, and can also infect pets. Here's all you need to know: Rat-borne danger In a study published recently in the journal Emerging Infectious Diseases, researchers from Texas A&M, Zoo Atlanta and Mississippi State University have warned that the microscopic rat lungworm, scientifically known as Angiostrongylus Cantonensis, now threatens a wide area of southeast US. As per US News, the parasite can trigger dangerous brain encephalitis in both humans and their pets. Also read | Next ‘supercontinent’ formation could wipe out humans: Study An analysis of tissue samples from 33 wild brown rats found dead on the grounds of a zoological facility in Atlanta from between 2019 and 2022, found that more than a fourth of the rodents appeared to have worm-like larvae in their tissues. Four of these cases were confirmed as rat lungworm infections, the other three could to be confirmed but were likely Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Infecting humans Speaking to Newsweek, Nicole Gottdenker, a Professor of Pathology at the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, warned that the worm can infect humans. "When the infective stage of the worm is accidentally ingested by a human, it can go to the brain or spinal cord and cause tremendous inflammation, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, neck stiffness, headaches, sometimes arm and leg tingling," said Gottdenker. Angiostrongylus cantonensis life cycle (Image:CDC) While the number of confirmed cases remains low, the study demonstrates that this worm is a potential threat to human health. Angiostrongylus Cantonensis or the rat lungworm The parasitic worm is typically found in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, including Hawaii. However, recently it has been identified in Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, Florida and most recently in Georgia. It is spread through rat faeces and can infect humans and other animals through produce or other food items. Also read | Explained | NASA sends Bennu asteroid samples to Earth. Here's why the celestial cargo matters Inside the human body, the parasitic worm migrates to the brain, eyes or lungs, and in severe cases can lead to coma and death. Furthermore, in pets, birds and other wild animals, it can cause fatal infections. However, basic precautions like washing vegetables, fruits and other produce, and washing your hands can help protect you and your family from the dangerous worm. "People can avoid infection by washing vegetables thoroughly, not eating raw or undercooked snails or slugs, crabs, freshwater shrimp, or frog legs—and wear gloves if handling snails or slugs. And, as always 'wash your veggies' and 'wash your hands!'," said Nicole Gottdenker. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Dangerous rat-borne disease threatens southeastern US, warn scientists

It is the age of equality. Women work, so do men;&nbsp;Women take care of the house, so do men... or do they?

A recent British Social Attitudes (BSA) survey has revealed that while the attitude surrounding stereotypical gender roles like housework have changed, the reality, to a large extent, hasn't.

<h2>Practice what you preach</h2>

The annual survey of public view in Britain as per BBC news revealed that over three-quarters of the 6,638 respondents say that domestic labour should be split.

Despite that, two-thirds accepted that women continue to do more than their fair share of washing and ironing around the house. A large majority also acknowledged that the women still do most of the cooking and cleaning.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/thailands-picturesque-emerald-hued-waters-hide-this-dark-secret-638029">Thailand's picturesque emerald-hued waters hide this dark secret</a>

This is in spite of a radical shift in ideas on gender roles.

In the mid-1980s, almost half the survey respondents, or 48 per cent, had agreed with the statement "a man's job is to earn money and a woman's to look after the home."

This year, only nine per cent said they agree to this. Yet, 63 per cent of the female respondents said that they did more than their fair share of work around the house.

<h2>The 'second shift'</h2>

Social scientists call this phenomenon the "second shift," where women not only continue to take care of domestic and childcare duties but also join the labour market.

In 1983, around half the survey respondents felt that household income is the responsibility of both the genders. In 2023, about 70 per cent, both men and women think that the two genders should contribute equally.

As per BBC, in 1983, when BSA started conducting the survey, the female employment rate was around 54 per cent for women between the ages 16 and 64 years. This year, this number has risen to 72 per cent, with the participation of mothers at a high.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/google-sued-after-us-man-died-as-he-drove-off-collapsed-bridge-while-following-map-638082">Google Maps led a man to a broken bridge who then drowned. His family is now suing Google</a>

Comparatively, in 1983, 78 per cent of men between 16 and 64 years had a paid job. Today, this figure has risen by mere one point and stands at 79 per cent.

However, as per the study authors, "there remains a chasm between attitudes and practice, with women continuing to take on more domestic labour relative to men."

This, as per the authors, is reinforced by both public policy and workplace norms, and that the UK is a "long way" from achieving "a complete gender-role revolution in the household."

It is the age of equality. Women work, so do men; Women take care of the house, so do men... or do they? A recent British Social Attitudes (BSA) survey has revealed that while the attitude surrounding stereotypical gender roles like housework have changed, the reality, to a large extent, hasn't.

It is the age of equality. Women work, so do men; Women take care of the house, so do men... or do they? A recent British Social Attitudes (BSA) survey has revealed that while the attitude surrounding stereotypical gender roles like housework have changed, the reality, to a large extent, hasn't. Practice what you preach The annual survey of public view in Britain as per BBC news revealed that over three-quarters of the 6,638 respondents say that domestic labour should be split. Despite that, two-thirds accepted that women continue to do more than their fair share of washing and ironing around the house. A large majority also acknowledged that the women still do most of the cooking and cleaning. Also read | Thailand's picturesque emerald-hued waters hide this dark secret This is in spite of a radical shift in ideas on gender roles. In the mid-1980s, almost half the survey respondents, or 48 per cent, had agreed with the statement "a man's job is to earn money and a woman's to look after the home." This year, only nine per cent said they agree to this. Yet, 63 per cent of the female respondents said that they did more than their fair share of work around the house. The 'second shift' Social scientists call this phenomenon the "second shift," where women not only continue to take care of domestic and childcare duties but also join the labour market. In 1983, around half the survey respondents felt that household income is the responsibility of both the genders. In 2023, about 70 per cent, both men and women think that the two genders should contribute equally. As per BBC, in 1983, when BSA started conducting the survey, the female employment rate was around 54 per cent for women between the ages 16 and 64 years. This year, this number has risen to 72 per cent, with the participation of mothers at a high. Also read | Google Maps led a man to a broken bridge who then drowned. His family is now suing Google Comparatively, in 1983, 78 per cent of men between 16 and 64 years had a paid job. Today, this figure has risen by mere one point and stands at 79 per cent. However, as per the study authors, "there remains a chasm between attitudes and practice, with women continuing to take on more domestic labour relative to men." This, as per the authors, is reinforced by both public policy and workplace norms, and that the UK is a "long way" from achieving "a complete gender-role revolution in the household."

'Practice what you preach': Even today, women continue to shoulder the burden of housework - Survey

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