A study published on Wednesday in the journal Nature indicates that our mediaeval ancestors may have passed on the genes that once helped them survive the Black Death plague to us, only today these genes are making us more susceptible to certain diseases.&nbsp;

The study analysed the DNA of centuries-old skeletons and found the mutations that helped people survive the plague that swept through Europe and killed at least 200 million. However, these same mutations are linked to auto-immune diseases including, Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.&nbsp;

These diseases turn the immune system responsible for defending our body against disease and infections on us and start attacking the body’s own healthy tissues. “A hyperactive immune system may have been great in the past but in the environment today it might not be as helpful,” said Hendrik Poinar, an anthropology professor at McMaster University in Ontario and senior author of the study.&nbsp;

The Black Death was the single deadliest event recorded in human history, the plague had swept throughout Europe, the Middle East and northern Africa and wiped out up to 50% of the population in the 14th century. Researchers theorised that seismic events must have impacted human evolution. Therefore, this study shows how germs shape us over time, said the researchers.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/researchers-unravel-700-year-old-mystery-of-origins-of-deadly-pandemic-black-death-488611">Researchers unravel 700-year-old mystery of origins of deadly pandemic 'Black Death'</a>

“Our genome today is a reflection of our whole evolutionary history”, said Luis Barreiro, a senior author of the research in the context of our adaptability to different germs over time. He and his colleagues at the University of Chicago, McMaster University in Ontario and the Pasteur Institute in Paris studied the ancient DNA from at least 200 people from London and Denmark.&nbsp;

The samples of bones, particularly teeth chosen for this study, were from people who died over 100 years that stretched before, during, and after the Black Death. The samples were collected from East Smithfield plague pits in London which was used for mass burials in 1348 and 1349 as well as some others from Denmark.&nbsp;

The scientists were able to identify four genes which, depending on the variant either protected against or increased susceptibility to the bacteria that causes bubonic plague.&nbsp;

The results were confirmed using the plague bacterium, Yersinia pestis and samples of blood were taken from people which showed that the helpful mutations were more able to resist the infection than those without, said a media report.&nbsp; 
Therefore, if a person had the right mutation their likelihood of surviving the plague mostly spread by the bite of an infected flea, was 40% higher, said the study. Today those plague-resisting mutations are more common than they were before the Black Death.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mass-black-death-graves-discovered-in-uk-281528#catastrophic-failure-281525">Mass 'black death' graves discovered in UK</a>

While past research has sought to examine the effect of the Black Death on the human genome, this study shows the significance the plague had on the evolution of the human immune system, said Barreiro. Furthermore, a unique aspect of this research, he added, was to focus on a narrow time window around the event.&nbsp;

However, the more recent Covid-19 pandemic will not leave a similar legacy on human evolution said, the senior author attributed this to the much lower death rate when compared to Black Death.&nbsp;

Additionally, Covid killed more elderly people who already had children or those who were past the point of having them, said Barreiro. Whereas evolution works through a person’s ability to reproduce and pass on the genes and since the bubonic plague killed so many across the age spectrum it had a huge impact, he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A study published on Wednesday in the journal Nature indicates that our mediaeval ancestors may have passed on the genes that once helped them survive the Black Death plague to us, only today these genes are making us more susceptible to certain diseases.

A study published on Wednesday in the journal Nature indicates that our mediaeval ancestors may have passed on the genes that once helped them survive the Black Death plague to us, only today these genes are making us more susceptible to certain diseases. The study analysed the DNA of centuries-old skeletons and found the mutations that helped people survive the plague that swept through Europe and killed at least 200 million. However, these same mutations are linked to auto-immune diseases including, Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. These diseases turn the immune system responsible for defending our body against disease and infections on us and start attacking the body’s own healthy tissues. “A hyperactive immune system may have been great in the past but in the environment today it might not be as helpful,” said Hendrik Poinar, an anthropology professor at McMaster University in Ontario and senior author of the study. The Black Death was the single deadliest event recorded in human history, the plague had swept throughout Europe, the Middle East and northern Africa and wiped out up to 50% of the population in the 14th century. Researchers theorised that seismic events must have impacted human evolution. Therefore, this study shows how germs shape us over time, said the researchers. ALSO READ: Researchers unravel 700-year-old mystery of origins of deadly pandemic 'Black Death' “Our genome today is a reflection of our whole evolutionary history”, said Luis Barreiro, a senior author of the research in the context of our adaptability to different germs over time. He and his colleagues at the University of Chicago, McMaster University in Ontario and the Pasteur Institute in Paris studied the ancient DNA from at least 200 people from London and Denmark. The samples of bones, particularly teeth chosen for this study, were from people who died over 100 years that stretched before, during, and after the Black Death. The samples were collected from East Smithfield plague pits in London which was used for mass burials in 1348 and 1349 as well as some others from Denmark. The scientists were able to identify four genes which, depending on the variant either protected against or increased susceptibility to the bacteria that causes bubonic plague. The results were confirmed using the plague bacterium, Yersinia pestis and samples of blood were taken from people which showed that the helpful mutations were more able to resist the infection than those without, said a media report. Therefore, if a person had the right mutation their likelihood of surviving the plague mostly spread by the bite of an infected flea, was 40% higher, said the study. Today those plague-resisting mutations are more common than they were before the Black Death. ALSO READ: Mass 'black death' graves discovered in UK While past research has sought to examine the effect of the Black Death on the human genome, this study shows the significance the plague had on the evolution of the human immune system, said Barreiro. Furthermore, a unique aspect of this research, he added, was to focus on a narrow time window around the event. However, the more recent Covid-19 pandemic will not leave a similar legacy on human evolution said, the senior author attributed this to the much lower death rate when compared to Black Death. Additionally, Covid killed more elderly people who already had children or those who were past the point of having them, said Barreiro. Whereas evolution works through a person’s ability to reproduce and pass on the genes and since the bubonic plague killed so many across the age spectrum it had a huge impact, he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Study: How is Black Death still affecting health 700 years later?

New research is bringing to life for the first time a description of the social organisation and small community dynamics of Neanderthals.

New findings shed light on the social organisation of Neanderthals

A recent study published in the journal Cell, suggests that some people really are “mosquito magnets” and it is probably linked to the way they smell. According to the researchers, every person has certain body odours and this unique scent profile comprises different chemical compounds which make a person more or less attractive to a mosquito.&nbsp;

The research published on Tuesday indicates that mosquitoes were most drawn to people whose skin produces high levels of carboxylic acids. “If you have high levels of this stuff on your skin, you’re going to be the one at the picnic getting all the bites,” said author Leslie Vosshall of Rockefeller University in New York. The neurobiologist and mosquito expert also pointed out that there was a lot of folklore on the subject of some people being mosquito magnets but not enough evidence.&nbsp;

Furthermore, even after scientists had previously theorised the body odour phenomenon they have not been able to confirm which specific odours the mosquitoes prefer, said Vosshall. Therefore, the authors of the study set out to test this phenomenon and designed an experiment, said a senior scientist at the biotech company Kingdom Supercultures and lead author of the study, Maria Elena De Obaldia.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-approves-purchase-of-six-million-mosquito-nets-from-india-to-curb-malaria-cases-524582">Pakistan approves purchase of six million mosquito nets from India to curb malaria cases</a>

The lead author said that 64 volunteers chosen for the study were asked to wear nylon stockings around their forearms for at least six hours after which they captured each person’s unique smell. Subsequently, they cut out pieces of nylon and placed two samples from different participants at the end of a long tube in a closed container full of female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which spread diseases like yellow fever, Zika and dengue.&nbsp;

The research went on for months and they even collected new samples from the volunteers when needed, said Vosshall. The study concluded that some people were more attractive to the mosquitoes than others and dubbed Subject 33 (a participant in the study) as the biggest mosquito magnet whose scent was notably 100 times more attractive to the mosquitoes than the least attractive subject.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-reveal-why-mosquitoes-prefer-human-blood-over-other-animals-477439">Scientists reveal why mosquitoes prefer human blood over other animals</a>

Subsequently, the researchers analysed the participants’ scent profiles to examine the reason for this vast difference and found a common factor that the mosquito magnets produced higher levels of carboxylic acids when compared to their least attractive counterparts. According to Vosshall, these “greasy molecules” help keep our skin moisturised and protected, however, different people produce them in different amounts.&nbsp;

As the study went on for months, the two authors ran the test multiple times and found that the subject’s level of attractiveness to the mosquito remained nearly the same and any personal factors like change in diet or personal hygiene did not affect their rankings, “This property of being a mosquito magnet sticks with you for your whole life—which is either good news or bad news, depending on who you are,” said Vosshall.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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A recent study published in the journal Cell, suggests that some people really are “mosquito magnets” and it is probably linked to the way they smell. According to the researchers, every person has certain body odours and this unique scent profile comprises different chemical compounds which make a person more or less attractive to a mosquito.

A recent study published in the journal Cell, suggests that some people really are “mosquito magnets” and it is probably linked to the way they smell. According to the researchers, every person has certain body odours and this unique scent profile comprises different chemical compounds which make a person more or less attractive to a mosquito. The research published on Tuesday indicates that mosquitoes were most drawn to people whose skin produces high levels of carboxylic acids. “If you have high levels of this stuff on your skin, you’re going to be the one at the picnic getting all the bites,” said author Leslie Vosshall of Rockefeller University in New York. The neurobiologist and mosquito expert also pointed out that there was a lot of folklore on the subject of some people being mosquito magnets but not enough evidence. Furthermore, even after scientists had previously theorised the body odour phenomenon they have not been able to confirm which specific odours the mosquitoes prefer, said Vosshall. Therefore, the authors of the study set out to test this phenomenon and designed an experiment, said a senior scientist at the biotech company Kingdom Supercultures and lead author of the study, Maria Elena De Obaldia. ALSO READ: Pakistan approves purchase of six million mosquito nets from India to curb malaria cases The lead author said that 64 volunteers chosen for the study were asked to wear nylon stockings around their forearms for at least six hours after which they captured each person’s unique smell. Subsequently, they cut out pieces of nylon and placed two samples from different participants at the end of a long tube in a closed container full of female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which spread diseases like yellow fever, Zika and dengue. The research went on for months and they even collected new samples from the volunteers when needed, said Vosshall. The study concluded that some people were more attractive to the mosquitoes than others and dubbed Subject 33 (a participant in the study) as the biggest mosquito magnet whose scent was notably 100 times more attractive to the mosquitoes than the least attractive subject. ALSO READ: Scientists reveal why mosquitoes prefer human blood over other animals Subsequently, the researchers analysed the participants’ scent profiles to examine the reason for this vast difference and found a common factor that the mosquito magnets produced higher levels of carboxylic acids when compared to their least attractive counterparts. According to Vosshall, these “greasy molecules” help keep our skin moisturised and protected, however, different people produce them in different amounts. As the study went on for months, the two authors ran the test multiple times and found that the subject’s level of attractiveness to the mosquito remained nearly the same and any personal factors like change in diet or personal hygiene did not affect their rankings, “This property of being a mosquito magnet sticks with you for your whole life—which is either good news or bad news, depending on who you are,” said Vosshall. (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.

Study finds why some people are ‘mosquito magnets’ and might remain that way

A new study has helped further research on the linkages between a good night's sleep and chronic illnesses. As per the study's findings, middle-aged people who get less than five hours of sleep every night are more susceptible to multimorbidities like heart disease, cancer or diabetes.

The research which was led by UCL researchers has been published in PLOS Medicine and to analyse the impact of sleep duration on health it included more than 7,000 men and women of the ages 50,60 and 70 years.

As per ANI, it found that there is a definite link between how long a participant slept, and their diagnoses of chronic diseases.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/hair-straightening-can-lead-to-a-threefold-increase-in-the-risk-of-this-rare-type-of-cancer-526403" hreflang="en">Hair straightening can lead to a threefold increase in the risk of this 'rare' type of cancer</a>

People who reported getting less than five hours of sleep or less at the age of 50, were found to be at a 20 per cent higher risk of being diagnosed with a chronic disease. Compared to those who get more than seven hours of sleep, the risk for those with insufficient sleep doubles to 40 per cent over 25 years. 
&nbsp; 
"Multimorbidity is on the rise in high-income countries and more than half of older adults now have at least two chronic diseases. This is proving to be a major challenge for public health, as multimorbidity is associated with high healthcare service use, hospitalisations and disability," said the study's lead author, Dr Severine Sabia.

She further adds that while with age our sleeping patterns and habits change naturally, it is still recommended to catch at least seven to eight hours of sleep every night. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/experts-warn-for-excessive-screen-time-causing-dry-eye-problems-in-children-young-as-six-526062" hreflang="en">Excessive screen time causing dry eye problems in kids, experts warn</a>

To ensure a good night's sleep, experts recommend good sleep hygiene; this includes making sure to sleep in a quiet, dark room that is at a comfortable temperature, not using electronics around bedtime, and avoiding heavy meals before sleeping.

While researchers didn't find any linkages between sleeping for nine hours or more and multimorbidity in healthy people, longer sleep in people with a chronic illness was found to have associations with a 35 per cent increase in developing another illness.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A new study has helped further research on the linkages between a good night's sleep and chronic illnesses. As per the study's findings, middle-aged people who get less than five hours of sleep every night are more susceptible to multimorbidities like heart disease, cancer or diabetes.

A new study has helped further research on the linkages between a good night's sleep and chronic illnesses. As per the study's findings, middle-aged people who get less than five hours of sleep every night are more susceptible to multimorbidities like heart disease, cancer or diabetes. The research which was led by UCL researchers has been published in PLOS Medicine and to analyse the impact of sleep duration on health it included more than 7,000 men and women of the ages 50,60 and 70 years. As per ANI, it found that there is a definite link between how long a participant slept, and their diagnoses of chronic diseases. Also read | Hair straightening can lead to a threefold increase in the risk of this 'rare' type of cancer People who reported getting less than five hours of sleep or less at the age of 50, were found to be at a 20 per cent higher risk of being diagnosed with a chronic disease. Compared to those who get more than seven hours of sleep, the risk for those with insufficient sleep doubles to 40 per cent over 25 years. "Multimorbidity is on the rise in high-income countries and more than half of older adults now have at least two chronic diseases. This is proving to be a major challenge for public health, as multimorbidity is associated with high healthcare service use, hospitalisations and disability," said the study's lead author, Dr Severine Sabia. She further adds that while with age our sleeping patterns and habits change naturally, it is still recommended to catch at least seven to eight hours of sleep every night. Also read | Excessive screen time causing dry eye problems in kids, experts warn To ensure a good night's sleep, experts recommend good sleep hygiene; this includes making sure to sleep in a quiet, dark room that is at a comfortable temperature, not using electronics around bedtime, and avoiding heavy meals before sleeping. While researchers didn't find any linkages between sleeping for nine hours or more and multimorbidity in healthy people, longer sleep in people with a chronic illness was found to have associations with a 35 per cent increase in developing another illness. (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.

Study finds that less than 5 hours of sleep can lead to chronic illnesses like heart disease, cancer, diabetes

As per a new study women who use chemical hair-straightening tools frequently are at a greater risk of a comparatively rare type of cancer.

The study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, incorporated data from almost 34,000 women in the United States over a period of around 11 years (10.9 to be exact). Participants were aged between 35 to 74 years.

It points to the fact that women who use hair straightening products are at significantly higher risk — almost three times— of Uterine cancer.

A Reuters report quotes the study's lead Alexandra White of the US National Institute of Environmental Health Safety (NIEHS) as saying: "We estimated that 1.64 per cent of women who never used hair straighteners would go on to develop uterine cancer by the age of 70, but for frequent users, that risk goes up to 4.05 per cent."

She added that it is important to put this information into context given that "Uterine cancer is a relatively rare type of cancer."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/experts-warn-for-excessive-screen-time-causing-dry-eye-problems-in-children-young-as-six-526062" hreflang="en">Excessive screen time causing dry eye problems in kids, experts warn</a>

Of the 33,947 women enrolled in the study, 378 developed Uterine cancer.&nbsp;

To reach their conclusion the researchers accounted for other risk factors, however, they found that chances of uterine cancer increased by 2.5 times for women who used chemical straightening products more than four times a year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/alaska-scientists-concerned-over-mysterious-population-decline-of-snow-crabs-525890" hreflang="en">Alaska: Scientists concerned over mysterious population decline of snow crabs</a>

The study did not find any racial linkages, but due to the fact that black women are more frequent users of these products and tend to start using them at a younger age, the researchers stress the importance the findings could have for them.

Previous studies as per Reuters have shown that these products contain "endocrine disrupting" chemicals that have been previously associated with higher risks of breast and ovarian cancer.

However, as per the researchers, these findings are only "the first epidemiologic evidence of an association between use of straightening products and uterine cancer" and more research is required to identify the specific chemicals behind the risks.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As per a new study women who use chemical hair-straightening tools frequently are at a greater risk of a comparatively rare type of cancer. The study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, incorporated data from almost 34,000 women in the United States over a period of around 11 years (10.

As per a new study women who use chemical hair-straightening tools frequently are at a greater risk of a comparatively rare type of cancer. The study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, incorporated data from almost 34,000 women in the United States over a period of around 11 years (10.9 to be exact). Participants were aged between 35 to 74 years. It points to the fact that women who use hair straightening products are at significantly higher risk — almost three times— of Uterine cancer. A Reuters report quotes the study's lead Alexandra White of the US National Institute of Environmental Health Safety (NIEHS) as saying: "We estimated that 1.64 per cent of women who never used hair straighteners would go on to develop uterine cancer by the age of 70, but for frequent users, that risk goes up to 4.05 per cent." She added that it is important to put this information into context given that "Uterine cancer is a relatively rare type of cancer." Also read | Excessive screen time causing dry eye problems in kids, experts warn Of the 33,947 women enrolled in the study, 378 developed Uterine cancer. To reach their conclusion the researchers accounted for other risk factors, however, they found that chances of uterine cancer increased by 2.5 times for women who used chemical straightening products more than four times a year. Also read | Alaska: Scientists concerned over mysterious population decline of snow crabs The study did not find any racial linkages, but due to the fact that black women are more frequent users of these products and tend to start using them at a younger age, the researchers stress the importance the findings could have for them. Previous studies as per Reuters have shown that these products contain "endocrine disrupting" chemicals that have been previously associated with higher risks of breast and ovarian cancer. However, as per the researchers, these findings are only "the first epidemiologic evidence of an association between use of straightening products and uterine cancer" and more research is required to identify the specific chemicals behind the risks. (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.

Hair straightening can lead to a threefold increase in the risk of this 'rare' type of cancer

A new modelling research published&nbsp;on Thursday states that&nbsp;Neanderthals and humans co-existed for far longer than once thought. While the study does not reportedly show evidence of direct interaction between humans and Neanderthals around 42,000 years ago, they might have at some point in time.

In fact, Swedish paleogeneticist Svante Paabo’s research that won him the Nobel Prize in medicine last week had&nbsp;revealed that people of European descent and almost everyone across the world has a small percentage of Neanderthal DNA.&nbsp;

The new study published in the journal Scientific Reports, suggests that Neanderthals and modern humans lived alongside each other in France and northern Spain for somewhere between 1,400 years to 2,900 years, giving them enough time to potentially not only learn from each other but also breed, said a media report, citing the study.&nbsp;

According to the lead author of the new study and PhD student at Leiden University in the Netherlands, Igor Djakovic, Homo sapiens and Neanderthals “met and integrated in Europe” but are less sure about where exactly. The team of researchers for this study analysed previous fossil evidence which suggested the two species walked the Earth at the same time for at least thousands of years.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swedens-svante-paabo-wins-nobel-medicine-prize-522006">Sweden's Svante Paabo wins Nobel Medicine Prize for sequencing Neanderthal DNA</a>

The Leiden-led team also accounted for radiocarbon dating for 56 artefacts, this included 28 each from Neanderthals and Homo sapiens, said the study. It added that these artefacts which included bones and some distinctive stone knives believed to have been made by some last Neanderthals in the region and were collected from 17 archaeological sites across Northern Spain and France.&nbsp;

The team then used Bayesian modelling to narrow down the potential date ranges, said the report. Djakovic also indicated that chronological analysis of the artefacts showed some similarities between how the artefacts looked like the use and appearance of perforated mammal teeth.&nbsp;

“This could potentially indicate an exchange of ideas or knowledge,” said the lead author, in the context that sites that linked both species also showed a shift to more standardised blade-like stone tools. While speaking with AFP he also said the technique used for the study uses the "underlying assumption" that we might not discover the first or the last members of any extinct species.&nbsp;

The modelling estimated that Neanderthals in the region went extinct between 40,870 and 40,457 years ago and modern humans first appeared around 42,500 years ago and never left. Therefore, the study shows an overlap during which the two species lived alongside each other for between 1,400 and 2,900 years. During this time, Djakovic said there are signs of great "diffusion of ideas" by both species.&nbsp;

According to the lead author, there were “substantial transformations” in the way that people were producing “material culture,” including tools and ornaments. The study estimates that Neanderthal artefacts first appeared between 45,343 and 44,248 years ago and disappeared between 39,894 and 39,798 years ago which was also close to the time that they went extinct.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-we-the-modern-humans-kill-off-neanderthals-a-new-finding-may-have-answers-452031">Did we, the modern humans, kill off Neanderthals? A new finding may have answers</a>

Similarly, modern humans or Homo sapiens were estimated to have first appeared somewhere around 42,653 and 42,269 years ago, said the study. The researchers still do not know whether modern humans are responsible for the Neanderthal extinction.&nbsp;

However, Djakovic said that there was a large population of modern humans and “most people living on Earth have Neanderthal DNA – you could make the argument that they never really went extinct, in a certain sense.”&nbsp;

He also suggested that it could be that Neanderthals breeding with the larger human population could have led them, over time, to “effectively (be) swallowed into our gene pool,” according to media reports. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A new modelling research published on Thursday states that Neanderthals and humans co-existed for far longer than once thought. While the study does not reportedly show evidence of direct interaction between humans and Neanderthals around 42,000 years ago, they might have at some point in time.

A new modelling research published on Thursday states that Neanderthals and humans co-existed for far longer than once thought. While the study does not reportedly show evidence of direct interaction between humans and Neanderthals around 42,000 years ago, they might have at some point in time. In fact, Swedish paleogeneticist Svante Paabo’s research that won him the Nobel Prize in medicine last week had revealed that people of European descent and almost everyone across the world has a small percentage of Neanderthal DNA. The new study published in the journal Scientific Reports, suggests that Neanderthals and modern humans lived alongside each other in France and northern Spain for somewhere between 1,400 years to 2,900 years, giving them enough time to potentially not only learn from each other but also breed, said a media report, citing the study. According to the lead author of the new study and PhD student at Leiden University in the Netherlands, Igor Djakovic, Homo sapiens and Neanderthals “met and integrated in Europe” but are less sure about where exactly. The team of researchers for this study analysed previous fossil evidence which suggested the two species walked the Earth at the same time for at least thousands of years. ALSO READ: Sweden's Svante Paabo wins Nobel Medicine Prize for sequencing Neanderthal DNA The Leiden-led team also accounted for radiocarbon dating for 56 artefacts, this included 28 each from Neanderthals and Homo sapiens, said the study. It added that these artefacts which included bones and some distinctive stone knives believed to have been made by some last Neanderthals in the region and were collected from 17 archaeological sites across Northern Spain and France. The team then used Bayesian modelling to narrow down the potential date ranges, said the report. Djakovic also indicated that chronological analysis of the artefacts showed some similarities between how the artefacts looked like the use and appearance of perforated mammal teeth. “This could potentially indicate an exchange of ideas or knowledge,” said the lead author, in the context that sites that linked both species also showed a shift to more standardised blade-like stone tools. While speaking with AFP he also said the technique used for the study uses the "underlying assumption" that we might not discover the first or the last members of any extinct species. The modelling estimated that Neanderthals in the region went extinct between 40,870 and 40,457 years ago and modern humans first appeared around 42,500 years ago and never left. Therefore, the study shows an overlap during which the two species lived alongside each other for between 1,400 and 2,900 years. During this time, Djakovic said there are signs of great "diffusion of ideas" by both species. According to the lead author, there were “substantial transformations” in the way that people were producing “material culture,” including tools and ornaments. The study estimates that Neanderthal artefacts first appeared between 45,343 and 44,248 years ago and disappeared between 39,894 and 39,798 years ago which was also close to the time that they went extinct. ALSO READ: Did we, the modern humans, kill off Neanderthals? A new finding may have answers Similarly, modern humans or Homo sapiens were estimated to have first appeared somewhere around 42,653 and 42,269 years ago, said the study. The researchers still do not know whether modern humans are responsible for the Neanderthal extinction. However, Djakovic said that there was a large population of modern humans and “most people living on Earth have Neanderthal DNA – you could make the argument that they never really went extinct, in a certain sense.” He also suggested that it could be that Neanderthals breeding with the larger human population could have led them, over time, to “effectively (be) swallowed into our gene pool,” according to media reports. (With inputs from agencies)

Study: Neanderthals, humans lived alongside each other for over 2,000 years

There has been a lot of back and forth on whether parents should let their kids play in the mud or dirt but studies have suggested that not letting kids get dirty once in a while might backfire. A report by BBC citing a recent study has shown how playing with mud and dirt can actually train a child’s immune system to fight against a range of illnesses like allergies and asthma.&nbsp;

The report also claims that it can be beneficial for a child’s mental health by making them more resilient against anxiety and depression. The study shows how staying outdoors and playing with certain natural materials like soil or mud which contain powerful microorganisms can have a positive impact on a child’s health and well-being.&nbsp;

“Mud play” and health

A report by Healthline, also citing multiple studies, proposes what they call “mud play”, they elucidate by saying that it is like playing in a box of sand or on a beach, except it is with mud which is damp or wet dirt.&nbsp;

They claim that studies have shown how playing in mud is actually good for a child’s health as opposed to them living in a clean environment which on the contrary can lead to the risk of illnesses like allergies and asthma.&nbsp;

Germs found in mud may actually strengthen a child’s immune system, citing research from 2014, the report shows that even when young children were exposed to dust, pet dander and other allergens before the age of one they were less likely to develop allergies and wheezing later in childhood.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/signs-of-dementia-can-be-detected-at-least-nine-years-prior-to-official-diagnosis-says-study-525111">Signs of dementia can be detected at least nine years prior to official diagnosis, says study</a>

On the other hand, a 2016 study showed that children raised on non-industrial farms were less likely to develop asthma when compared to those who weren’t. The report by BBC shows how the recent study offers a fresh take on the "hygiene hypothesis".&nbsp;

According to this idea, the major reduction in childhood infections in the 20th century had a side effect on people’s immune systems, like them becoming overactive to stimulations which supposedly resulted in the rise of asthma, allergies and hay fever, said the report. However, many scientists, BBC said, dislike the idea as they believe it undermines and even discourages the importance of behaviours like hand-washing.&nbsp;

Another piece by Healthline citing the Center for Ecogenetics and Environmental Health said that there are 100 trillion microbes, many of which are beneficial for digesting food, producing vitamins, and even fighting bad bacteria.&nbsp;

They note that over time, especially during childhood humans develop a baseline microbiome (several microbes living in and on one's body) which is different for everyone and playing in the dirt can help “replenish beneficial microbes”. This in turn maintains the baseline of the microbiome and a healthy balance between good and bad bacteria said the report.&nbsp;

Another interesting study by Michele Antonelli, a doctor from Reggio Emilia, a city in Italy, whose area of research includes how mud therapies can influence health, indicates that the microbes found in mud can act on and through our skin.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/significant-milestone-hole-in-the-ozone-layer-will-close-in-the-next-50-years-520882">'Significant milestone': Hole in the ozone layer will close in the next 50 years</a>

According to him, our outer layer of skin is home to a host of species of microbes and people with skin disorders like atopic dermatitis and psoriasis seem to lack this community of organisms. “These microorganisms can play a major role in many major chronic diseases,” said Antonelli, reported by BBC.&nbsp;

Playing in mud improves mental health?

A 2007 study titled, “Identification of an immune-responsive mesolimbocortical serotonergic system: Potential role in regulation of emotional behavior” found that dirt contains a harmless bacteria called, “Mycobacterium vaccae” which the study claims can stimulate serotonin production in the brain.&nbsp;

“Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that controls mood and other body functions. It’s thought that low serotonin levels may contribute to anxiety and depression,” said the report by Healthline. Furthermore, playing in dirt and mud also reportedly supports sensory development in children.&nbsp;

It added that temperatures and textures of dirt stimulate the sense of touch while the earthy scent can invigorate a child’s sense of smell. Additionally, interacting with nature and its various colours can stimulate a child’s sense of sight while listening to a variety of natural sounds can help develop their sense of hearing, the report indicated.&nbsp;

On the other hand, the media report shows that playing in the dirt can reduce bodily reactions like inflammation. They elucidated this idea by saying that since inflammation is our body’s first defence against infection which is used to help us prepare for potential physical injury when threatened, it is less useful in the kinds of stress that we face today.&nbsp;

This was based on a study titled, “Less immune activation following social stress in rural vs. urban participants raised with regular or no animal contact, respectively”. According to this research, people who spent the majority of their childhood in a rural setting show a muted response to social stress like public speaking when compared to their urban counterparts.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-find-forever-chemicals-in-every-umbilical-cord-blood-sample-across-40-studies-519298">Scientists find 'forever chemicals' in every umbilical cord blood sample across 40 studies</a>

In the long term, it has serious consequences, since chronic bodily inflammation can contribute to a range of conditions including the risk of depression, said the report. The study’s co-author Christopher A. Lowry also described those who grew up in the city as “walking time bombs” in the context of their inflammation.&nbsp;

Reports also suggest that mud play can be used as a teaching tool where it can help children boost their creativity, imagination, independent learning as well as teamwork.&nbsp;

Word of caution

While several studies and research have shown the various benefits of playing in mud and dirt, it is still dirt. Therefore, the reports also warn that not all mud or dirt is safe, saying that kids should be kept away from areas used by dogs or cats as bathrooms or places where farm animals graze.&nbsp;

Reports also suggest that children should not play with dirt treated with chemicals and pesticides and areas near petrol pumps and factories should also be avoided. Meanwhile, doctors also warn against letting children eat too much mud and indicate that mud getting in their eyes, nose and ears should also be avoided.&nbsp;

There has been a lot of back and forth on whether parents should let their kids play in the mud or dirt but studies have suggested that not letting kids get dirty once in a while might backfire.

There has been a lot of back and forth on whether parents should let their kids play in the mud or dirt but studies have suggested that not letting kids get dirty once in a while might backfire. A report by BBC citing a recent study has shown how playing with mud and dirt can actually train a child’s immune system to fight against a range of illnesses like allergies and asthma. The report also claims that it can be beneficial for a child’s mental health by making them more resilient against anxiety and depression. The study shows how staying outdoors and playing with certain natural materials like soil or mud which contain powerful microorganisms can have a positive impact on a child’s health and well-being. “Mud play” and health A report by Healthline, also citing multiple studies, proposes what they call “mud play”, they elucidate by saying that it is like playing in a box of sand or on a beach, except it is with mud which is damp or wet dirt. They claim that studies have shown how playing in mud is actually good for a child’s health as opposed to them living in a clean environment which on the contrary can lead to the risk of illnesses like allergies and asthma. Germs found in mud may actually strengthen a child’s immune system, citing research from 2014, the report shows that even when young children were exposed to dust, pet dander and other allergens before the age of one they were less likely to develop allergies and wheezing later in childhood. ALSO READ: Signs of dementia can be detected at least nine years prior to official diagnosis, says study On the other hand, a 2016 study showed that children raised on non-industrial farms were less likely to develop asthma when compared to those who weren’t. The report by BBC shows how the recent study offers a fresh take on the "hygiene hypothesis". According to this idea, the major reduction in childhood infections in the 20th century had a side effect on people’s immune systems, like them becoming overactive to stimulations which supposedly resulted in the rise of asthma, allergies and hay fever, said the report. However, many scientists, BBC said, dislike the idea as they believe it undermines and even discourages the importance of behaviours like hand-washing. Another piece by Healthline citing the Center for Ecogenetics and Environmental Health said that there are 100 trillion microbes, many of which are beneficial for digesting food, producing vitamins, and even fighting bad bacteria. They note that over time, especially during childhood humans develop a baseline microbiome (several microbes living in and on one's body) which is different for everyone and playing in the dirt can help “replenish beneficial microbes”. This in turn maintains the baseline of the microbiome and a healthy balance between good and bad bacteria said the report. Another interesting study by Michele Antonelli, a doctor from Reggio Emilia, a city in Italy, whose area of research includes how mud therapies can influence health, indicates that the microbes found in mud can act on and through our skin. ALSO READ: 'Significant milestone': Hole in the ozone layer will close in the next 50 years According to him, our outer layer of skin is home to a host of species of microbes and people with skin disorders like atopic dermatitis and psoriasis seem to lack this community of organisms. “These microorganisms can play a major role in many major chronic diseases,” said Antonelli, reported by BBC. Playing in mud improves mental health? A 2007 study titled, “Identification of an immune-responsive mesolimbocortical serotonergic system: Potential role in regulation of emotional behavior” found that dirt contains a harmless bacteria called, “Mycobacterium vaccae” which the study claims can stimulate serotonin production in the brain. “Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that controls mood and other body functions. It’s thought that low serotonin levels may contribute to anxiety and depression,” said the report by Healthline. Furthermore, playing in dirt and mud also reportedly supports sensory development in children. It added that temperatures and textures of dirt stimulate the sense of touch while the earthy scent can invigorate a child’s sense of smell. Additionally, interacting with nature and its various colours can stimulate a child’s sense of sight while listening to a variety of natural sounds can help develop their sense of hearing, the report indicated. On the other hand, the media report shows that playing in the dirt can reduce bodily reactions like inflammation. They elucidated this idea by saying that since inflammation is our body’s first defence against infection which is used to help us prepare for potential physical injury when threatened, it is less useful in the kinds of stress that we face today. This was based on a study titled, “Less immune activation following social stress in rural vs. urban participants raised with regular or no animal contact, respectively”. According to this research, people who spent the majority of their childhood in a rural setting show a muted response to social stress like public speaking when compared to their urban counterparts. ALSO READ: Scientists find 'forever chemicals' in every umbilical cord blood sample across 40 studies In the long term, it has serious consequences, since chronic bodily inflammation can contribute to a range of conditions including the risk of depression, said the report. The study’s co-author Christopher A. Lowry also described those who grew up in the city as “walking time bombs” in the context of their inflammation. Reports also suggest that mud play can be used as a teaching tool where it can help children boost their creativity, imagination, independent learning as well as teamwork. Word of caution While several studies and research have shown the various benefits of playing in mud and dirt, it is still dirt. Therefore, the reports also warn that not all mud or dirt is safe, saying that kids should be kept away from areas used by dogs or cats as bathrooms or places where farm animals graze. Reports also suggest that children should not play with dirt treated with chemicals and pesticides and areas near petrol pumps and factories should also be avoided. Meanwhile, doctors also warn against letting children eat too much mud and indicate that mud getting in their eyes, nose and ears should also be avoided.

Is playing in mud good for kids? Here’s what studies have to say

A study published in Alzheimer's and Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer's Association by researchers at Cambridge University shows that it is possible to spot signs of dementia as early as nine years before the patients have an official diagnosis.&nbsp;

These findings have implications for future at-risk patients who could be screened ahead of time and might benefit from early intervention to avoid developing dementia-related diseases, said the study.&nbsp;

The researchers analysed data from the United Kingdom’s biobank, a database and research resource which contains the anonymised genetic, lifestyle and health information from half a million participants in the UK participants aged 40-69.&nbsp;

The study found certain impairments across several tests including problem-solving tasks, reaction times, remembering lists of numbers, prospective memory and pair matching, which were seen years prior to the patient having an official diagnosis.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/pandemic-babies-are-slower-to-meet-some-developmental-milestones-says-study-524907">‘Pandemic’ babies are slower to meet some developmental milestones, says study</a>

People who scored low on these tests also went on to develop Alzheimer’s disease and a rare form of dementia also known as frontotemporal dementia said the study. It also indicated that these people were also more likely than healthy adults to have had a fall in the past 12 months.&nbsp;

“When we looked back at patients’ histories, it became clear that they were showing some cognitive impairment several years before their symptoms became obvious enough to prompt a diagnosis. The impairments were often subtle, but across a number of aspects of cognition,” said one of the authors of the study, Nol Swaddiwudhipong.&nbsp;

&nbsp;He added, “This is a step towards us being able to screen people who are at greatest risk – for example, people over 50 or those who have high blood pressure or do not do enough exercise – and intervene at an earlier stage to help them reduce their risk.”&nbsp;

Dr Richard Oakley, associate director of research at the Alzheimer’s Society in the UK indicated that “for some people who go on to develop Alzheimer’s disease, memory and thinking problems can begin up to nine years before they receive a diagnosis”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/this-new-drug-can-be-a-game-changer-for-people-with-chronic-cough-523012">New drug can be a 'game changer' for people with chronic cough, proves trial</a>

He also spoke about the possibility of future screening programmes to help identify people at risk and those who may benefit from early interventions. Furthermore, researchers would also find more people suitable for clinical trials for new treatments of dementia, “which are both so desperately needed,” said Oakley.&nbsp;

Reports suggest that there are very few effective treatments for dementia which is partly because the condition is diagnosed after the symptoms emerge, however, the underlying issue may have begun at least years or decades before the actual symptoms appear. Therefore, by the time patients take part in the study it is already too late for the implementation of interventions that could alter the course, experts say.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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A study published in Alzheimer's and Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer's Association by researchers at Cambridge University shows that it is possible to spot signs of dementia as early as nine years before the patients have an official diagnosis.

A study published in Alzheimer's and Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer's Association by researchers at Cambridge University shows that it is possible to spot signs of dementia as early as nine years before the patients have an official diagnosis. These findings have implications for future at-risk patients who could be screened ahead of time and might benefit from early intervention to avoid developing dementia-related diseases, said the study. The researchers analysed data from the United Kingdom’s biobank, a database and research resource which contains the anonymised genetic, lifestyle and health information from half a million participants in the UK participants aged 40-69. The study found certain impairments across several tests including problem-solving tasks, reaction times, remembering lists of numbers, prospective memory and pair matching, which were seen years prior to the patient having an official diagnosis. ALSO READ: ‘Pandemic’ babies are slower to meet some developmental milestones, says study People who scored low on these tests also went on to develop Alzheimer’s disease and a rare form of dementia also known as frontotemporal dementia said the study. It also indicated that these people were also more likely than healthy adults to have had a fall in the past 12 months. “When we looked back at patients’ histories, it became clear that they were showing some cognitive impairment several years before their symptoms became obvious enough to prompt a diagnosis. The impairments were often subtle, but across a number of aspects of cognition,” said one of the authors of the study, Nol Swaddiwudhipong. He added, “This is a step towards us being able to screen people who are at greatest risk – for example, people over 50 or those who have high blood pressure or do not do enough exercise – and intervene at an earlier stage to help them reduce their risk.” Dr Richard Oakley, associate director of research at the Alzheimer’s Society in the UK indicated that “for some people who go on to develop Alzheimer’s disease, memory and thinking problems can begin up to nine years before they receive a diagnosis”. ALSO READ: New drug can be a 'game changer' for people with chronic cough, proves trial He also spoke about the possibility of future screening programmes to help identify people at risk and those who may benefit from early interventions. Furthermore, researchers would also find more people suitable for clinical trials for new treatments of dementia, “which are both so desperately needed,” said Oakley. Reports suggest that there are very few effective treatments for dementia which is partly because the condition is diagnosed after the symptoms emerge, however, the underlying issue may have begun at least years or decades before the actual symptoms appear. Therefore, by the time patients take part in the study it is already too late for the implementation of interventions that could alter the course, experts say. (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.

Signs of dementia can be detected at least nine years prior to official diagnosis, says study

Experts have warned that criminals can make use of heat-detecting cameras to crack passwords. Researchers discovered that these cameras can help crack passwords up to a minute after typing.

Researchers at the University of Glasgow have developed a tool called ThermoSecure System that used thermal images in combination with artificial intelligence to make "informed guesses" of what the password could be, reported Bloomberg.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: The Perils of Technology

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"They say you need to think like a thief to catch a thief," says Mohamed Khamis of the Scottish university's School of Computing Science.

He added that his team developed ThermoSecure by "thinking carefully about how malicious actors might exploit thermal images to break into computers and smartphones."

Their findings have been published in the journal ACM Transactions on Privacy and Security.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/iphones-crash-detection-feature-assumes-woman-enjoying-rollercoaster-has-been-in-crash-calls-911-524339" hreflang="en">iPhone's crash detection feature assumes woman enjoying rollercoaster has been in crash, calls 911</a>

<h2>How often can passwords be cracked?</h2>

Two words answer is 'quite often'. The system successfully cracked around 86 per cent of the passwords when a thermal image was clicked within 20 seconds of typing in the secret code or password.

It even successfully cracked long passwords of around 16 characters. However, the success rate for this was lower at 67 per cent.

Shorter passwords had a higher success rate. Up to 12 characters were guessed right on 82 per cent of the tries, eight characters were cracked right on 93 per cent of attempts and six character codes were successfully worked out 100 per cent.

When the time was increased by 10 seconds and the thermal image was clicked in around 30 seconds the success rate dropped to 76 per cent and a further drop to 62 per cent was seen at 60 seconds of typing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/china-successfully-launches-its-first-solar-observatory-523984" hreflang="en">China successfully launches its first solar observatory</a>

<h2>How does it work?</h2>

When we touch an object a small part of our body heat is transferred via conduction. Thermal images detect this heat and these areas show up a little bit brighter in the picture.

If a user types in his/her password and leaves the device unguarded, any passerby equipped with a thermal camera can capture an image that reveals the heat signature. This 'thermal attack'&nbsp;can then give away your passwords, codes etc.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Experts have warned that criminals can make use of heat-detecting cameras to crack passwords. Researchers discovered that these cameras can help crack passwords up to a minute after typing.

Experts have warned that criminals can make use of heat-detecting cameras to crack passwords. Researchers discovered that these cameras can help crack passwords up to a minute after typing. Researchers at the University of Glasgow have developed a tool called ThermoSecure System that used thermal images in combination with artificial intelligence to make "informed guesses" of what the password could be, reported Bloomberg. Watch | Gravitas: The Perils of Technology "They say you need to think like a thief to catch a thief," says Mohamed Khamis of the Scottish university's School of Computing Science. He added that his team developed ThermoSecure by "thinking carefully about how malicious actors might exploit thermal images to break into computers and smartphones." Their findings have been published in the journal ACM Transactions on Privacy and Security. Also read | iPhone's crash detection feature assumes woman enjoying rollercoaster has been in crash, calls 911 How often can passwords be cracked? Two words answer is 'quite often'. The system successfully cracked around 86 per cent of the passwords when a thermal image was clicked within 20 seconds of typing in the secret code or password. It even successfully cracked long passwords of around 16 characters. However, the success rate for this was lower at 67 per cent. Shorter passwords had a higher success rate. Up to 12 characters were guessed right on 82 per cent of the tries, eight characters were cracked right on 93 per cent of attempts and six character codes were successfully worked out 100 per cent. When the time was increased by 10 seconds and the thermal image was clicked in around 30 seconds the success rate dropped to 76 per cent and a further drop to 62 per cent was seen at 60 seconds of typing. Also read | China successfully launches its first solar observatory How does it work? When we touch an object a small part of our body heat is transferred via conduction. Thermal images detect this heat and these areas show up a little bit brighter in the picture. If a user types in his/her password and leaves the device unguarded, any passerby equipped with a thermal camera can capture an image that reveals the heat signature. This 'thermal attack' can then give away your passwords, codes etc. (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.

Thieves can use thermal camera and AI to crack your password. Here's how

In a positive step for animal welfare, one of the world's leading organisations for farmed seafood, the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) has accepted that fish too feel "pain, stress and anxiety" and is set to introduce welfare rules for slaughter.

The organisation is currently consulting the public on a new draft of welfare standards, which will include more humane slaughter practices.&nbsp;

As per the ASC website, the consultation will run till October 31 and aims to "collect feedback on the practical impact and auditability of the suggested requirements from producers, primary processors, and auditors as well as to understand stakeholders’ opinion on the entire proposal."

Watch |&nbsp;Bees that are fish, to the elephant that's human: Five defining cases in animal rights

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The current fishing standards, as per the Guardian, allow for slaughter methods like asphyxia and evisceration or disembowelment. However, the new standards propose making "stunning compulsory by introducing it in a phased approach to account for current practices for different species."

According to the newspaper, the proposed standards will help improve labelling for consumers on the welfare standards of farmed fish globally.&nbsp;

The proposal comes after years of debate among scientists over a fish's ability for sensory experiences.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/36-years-after-catastrophic-event-chernobyl-disaster-spawns-mutant-frogs-523687" hreflang="en">36 years after catastrophic event, Chernobyl nuclear disaster spawns 'mutant frogs'</a>

While the current proposal is only for finned fish, it can reportedly later be extended to include crabs, lobsters, shrimps and other marine life.

Following this proposal for farmed fish, the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) which is the leading organisation for wild fishery certification is also facing calls to introduce its own slaughter standards for fishing of wild game.

With the lack of any set standards, currently wild fish generally die of asphyxiation on ship decks or are disembowelled even before they die.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-it-a-bee-is-it-a-fish-it-is-endangered-and-needs-to-be-protected-rules-california-486556">Is it a bee? Is it a fish? It is endangered and needs to be protected, rules California court</a>

According to Lynne Sneddon, a lecturer in the department of biological and environmental sciences at Gothenburg University who has studied fish pain for more than 20 years, there is now a lot of scientific data indicating fish are capable of feeling pain, and many government organisations recognise this.

"Fish are highly intelligent. They can navigate mazes, they have numerical skills and they have complicated relationships. They should be given the same protection as mammals," said Sneddon.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a positive step for animal welfare, one of the world's leading organisations for farmed seafood, the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) has accepted that fish too feel "pain, stress and anxiety" and is set to introduce welfare rules for slaughter.

In a positive step for animal welfare, one of the world's leading organisations for farmed seafood, the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) has accepted that fish too feel "pain, stress and anxiety" and is set to introduce welfare rules for slaughter. The organisation is currently consulting the public on a new draft of welfare standards, which will include more humane slaughter practices. As per the ASC website, the consultation will run till October 31 and aims to "collect feedback on the practical impact and auditability of the suggested requirements from producers, primary processors, and auditors as well as to understand stakeholders’ opinion on the entire proposal." Watch | Bees that are fish, to the elephant that's human: Five defining cases in animal rights The current fishing standards, as per the Guardian, allow for slaughter methods like asphyxia and evisceration or disembowelment. However, the new standards propose making "stunning compulsory by introducing it in a phased approach to account for current practices for different species." According to the newspaper, the proposed standards will help improve labelling for consumers on the welfare standards of farmed fish globally. The proposal comes after years of debate among scientists over a fish's ability for sensory experiences. Also read | 36 years after catastrophic event, Chernobyl nuclear disaster spawns 'mutant frogs' While the current proposal is only for finned fish, it can reportedly later be extended to include crabs, lobsters, shrimps and other marine life. Following this proposal for farmed fish, the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) which is the leading organisation for wild fishery certification is also facing calls to introduce its own slaughter standards for fishing of wild game. With the lack of any set standards, currently wild fish generally die of asphyxiation on ship decks or are disembowelled even before they die. Also read | Is it a bee? Is it a fish? It is endangered and needs to be protected, rules California court According to Lynne Sneddon, a lecturer in the department of biological and environmental sciences at Gothenburg University who has studied fish pain for more than 20 years, there is now a lot of scientific data indicating fish are capable of feeling pain, and many government organisations recognise this. "Fish are highly intelligent. They can navigate mazes, they have numerical skills and they have complicated relationships. They should be given the same protection as mammals," said Sneddon. (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.

Fish feel 'pain, stress and anxiety': Organisation introduces proposal for their 'humane slaughter'

36 years since a catastrophic meltdown at the Chernobyl power plant unleashed one of the world's worst nuclear disasters, now "mutant" black frogs are spawning in the vicinity.

The species of frog found in this area, known as the Eastern tree frogs (Hyla Orientalis), typically have bright green skin but now many have sprung up with dark or pigmented skin.

A study published in Evolutionary Applications details the research surrounding these frogs' evolution. Scientists believe that darker skin might help the frogs survive in the exclusion zone.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Chernobyl Disaster: What happened in 1986?

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Germán Orizaola a researcher at the Spain University of Oviedo&nbsp;and a co-author of the study, said that his team became aware of the frogs on their first night in Chernobyl.

"We know that melanin protects from the damage caused by different types of radiation, from UV to ionizing radiation – the kind at Chernobyl," Daily Mail quotes&nbsp;Orizaola as saying.

Orizaola and his co-author&nbsp;Pablo Burraco&nbsp;collected more than 200 male frog specimens from about a dozen different breeding ponds with varying levels of radiation between 2017 and 2019, reports TWC.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/thousands-of-wild-salmon-found-dead-as-british-columbias-river-dries-out-523317" hreflang="en">Thousands of wild salmon found dead as British Columbia's river dries out</a>

The frogs in the exclusion zone which spans 10,000 square miles around ground zero were much darker than those outside it.&nbsp;

However, the most radioactive locations today did not correlate with the darkest frog populations. Although darker frogs were most prominent in the areas that were worst affected at the time of the catastrophe. 
&nbsp;

<img alt="Chernobyl frogs" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9b88008b-aa3b-4269-add2-c6e21876dbd9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20wion%20%283%29_0.png" />

Illustration: Study | (a) Ionizing radiation and melanism in Chornobyl tree frogs.&nbsp;Dorsal skin luminance in eastern tree frog (Hyla orientalis) males inhabiting across a gradient of radiation inside (CEZ) or outside the Chornobyl exclusion zone (outside CEZ). (b) Range of dorsal skin luminance in H. orientalis males (from left to right: Luminance values of 5, 20, 30, 40 and 60).

Darker frogs would have had a higher chance of surviving the 1986 calamity, which means that natural selection of the fittest might've helped them thrive, and dominate the exclusion zone.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/significant-milestone-hole-in-the-ozone-layer-will-close-in-the-next-50-years-520882" hreflang="en">'Significant milestone': Hole in the ozone layer will close in the next 50 years</a>

"Under this scenario, they should have survived better and reproduced better than the normal green frogs."

"Over time – 10 to 12 generations of frogs have passed since the accident – this would have resulted in these black frogs being predominant within the exclusion zone."

The researchers added that further study is needed to "determine the underlying mechanisms and evolutionary consequences of the patterns found here".

(With inputs from agencies)

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36 years since a catastrophic meltdown at the Chernobyl power plant unleashed one of the world's worst nuclear disasters, now "mutant" black frogs are spawning in the vicinity.

36 years since a catastrophic meltdown at the Chernobyl power plant unleashed one of the world's worst nuclear disasters, now "mutant" black frogs are spawning in the vicinity. The species of frog found in this area, known as the Eastern tree frogs (Hyla Orientalis), typically have bright green skin but now many have sprung up with dark or pigmented skin. A study published in Evolutionary Applications details the research surrounding these frogs' evolution. Scientists believe that darker skin might help the frogs survive in the exclusion zone. Watch | Chernobyl Disaster: What happened in 1986? Germán Orizaola a researcher at the Spain University of Oviedo and a co-author of the study, said that his team became aware of the frogs on their first night in Chernobyl. "We know that melanin protects from the damage caused by different types of radiation, from UV to ionizing radiation – the kind at Chernobyl," Daily Mail quotes Orizaola as saying. Orizaola and his co-author Pablo Burraco collected more than 200 male frog specimens from about a dozen different breeding ponds with varying levels of radiation between 2017 and 2019, reports TWC. Also read | Thousands of wild salmon found dead as British Columbia's river dries out The frogs in the exclusion zone which spans 10,000 square miles around ground zero were much darker than those outside it. However, the most radioactive locations today did not correlate with the darkest frog populations. Although darker frogs were most prominent in the areas that were worst affected at the time of the catastrophe. Illustration: Study | (a) Ionizing radiation and melanism in Chornobyl tree frogs. Dorsal skin luminance in eastern tree frog (Hyla orientalis) males inhabiting across a gradient of radiation inside (CEZ) or outside the Chornobyl exclusion zone (outside CEZ). (b) Range of dorsal skin luminance in H. orientalis males (from left to right: Luminance values of 5, 20, 30, 40 and 60). Darker frogs would have had a higher chance of surviving the 1986 calamity, which means that natural selection of the fittest might've helped them thrive, and dominate the exclusion zone. Also read | 'Significant milestone': Hole in the ozone layer will close in the next 50 years "Under this scenario, they should have survived better and reproduced better than the normal green frogs." "Over time – 10 to 12 generations of frogs have passed since the accident – this would have resulted in these black frogs being predominant within the exclusion zone." The researchers added that further study is needed to "determine the underlying mechanisms and evolutionary consequences of the patterns found here". (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.

36 years after catastrophic event, Chernobyl nuclear disaster spawns 'mutant frogs'

According to a study, more than a third of young people feel their lives are out of control due to the Covid pandemic, reported the Guardian. Additionally, the findings also indicated that more than 60% of young people between the ages of 16-25 years said that they are sacred for their generation’s future.&nbsp;

A report by the &nbsp;Prince’s Trust Class of Covid research released its findings to the local media ahead of a nationwide campaign set to be launched in the United Kingdom this week to highlight the pandemic’s long-term impact on the younger generation. The findings were based on the data collected from more than 2,000 young people across the UK.&nbsp;

“Young people today are facing unique challenges which threaten the futures and aspirations of an entire generation if we don’t act,” said the charity’s UK chief executive, Jonathan Townsend to the Guardian. According to him, for young people “their education, employment and key formative years have already suffered, leaving many feeling uncertain and scared about a future which appears to be spiralling out of their control.”

He added these fears are despite high vacancies as “young people remain worried about their future career prospects”. The study also shows that at least half of those surveyed indicated that living through the pandemic has made them more resilient. Meanwhile, more than half of them said they are more determined to pursue their goals than before, said the report.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/report-feeling-unhappy-lonely-can-accelerate-aging-faster-than-smoking-diseases-520622">Report: Feeling unhappy, lonely can accelerate aging faster than smoking, diseases</a>

According to Townsend, “young people have shown a unique resilience to overcome the challenges they faced and are more determined than ever to achieve their goals.” However, they need support to ensure their talent and aspirations do not go to waste, he added.&nbsp;

Another study that surveyed 16-19-year-olds also showed evidence of widespread “retarded development” among young people, due to missing major developmental milestones during the pandemic. The Savanta State of the Youth Nation report also showed how the pandemic has given rise to a new era of uncertainty and lack of confidence.&nbsp;

This particular study is by the UK’s largest youth research panel which has asked the same set of questions to 1,000 young people for the past 7 years. Therefore, they have drawn comparisons to understand the far-reaching consequences and the impact of the loss of confidence during the 2 years. They included milestones like first kiss, first romantic relationship, new jobs and workplace, and so on.&nbsp; 
 
At least 60% of young people who were living alone during the pandemic said that they lack confidence in their decision-making. This is in comparison to the 40% before the pandemic. Similarly, those who lived with their parents experienced a slight dip in their confidence with 47% saying they could make up their minds when compared to the 52% prior to the pandemic.&nbsp;

The effect was also seen in young people who experienced disruptions in starting work or who had to work from home and reportedly said that they were confused about what to expect from their jobs. The study indicated before the pandemic at least 68% of young people felt work was what they expected, but this figure fell down to 49% after the pandemic.&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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According to a study, more than a third of young people feel their lives are out of control due to the Covid pandemic, reported the Guardian. Additionally, the findings also indicated that more than 60% of young people between the ages of 16-25 years said that they are sacred for their generation’s future.

According to a study, more than a third of young people feel their lives are out of control due to the Covid pandemic, reported the Guardian. Additionally, the findings also indicated that more than 60% of young people between the ages of 16-25 years said that they are sacred for their generation’s future. A report by the Prince’s Trust Class of Covid research released its findings to the local media ahead of a nationwide campaign set to be launched in the United Kingdom this week to highlight the pandemic’s long-term impact on the younger generation. The findings were based on the data collected from more than 2,000 young people across the UK. “Young people today are facing unique challenges which threaten the futures and aspirations of an entire generation if we don’t act,” said the charity’s UK chief executive, Jonathan Townsend to the Guardian. According to him, for young people “their education, employment and key formative years have already suffered, leaving many feeling uncertain and scared about a future which appears to be spiralling out of their control.” He added these fears are despite high vacancies as “young people remain worried about their future career prospects”. The study also shows that at least half of those surveyed indicated that living through the pandemic has made them more resilient. Meanwhile, more than half of them said they are more determined to pursue their goals than before, said the report. ALSO READ: Report: Feeling unhappy, lonely can accelerate aging faster than smoking, diseases According to Townsend, “young people have shown a unique resilience to overcome the challenges they faced and are more determined than ever to achieve their goals.” However, they need support to ensure their talent and aspirations do not go to waste, he added. Another study that surveyed 16-19-year-olds also showed evidence of widespread “retarded development” among young people, due to missing major developmental milestones during the pandemic. The Savanta State of the Youth Nation report also showed how the pandemic has given rise to a new era of uncertainty and lack of confidence. This particular study is by the UK’s largest youth research panel which has asked the same set of questions to 1,000 young people for the past 7 years. Therefore, they have drawn comparisons to understand the far-reaching consequences and the impact of the loss of confidence during the 2 years. They included milestones like first kiss, first romantic relationship, new jobs and workplace, and so on. At least 60% of young people who were living alone during the pandemic said that they lack confidence in their decision-making. This is in comparison to the 40% before the pandemic. Similarly, those who lived with their parents experienced a slight dip in their confidence with 47% saying they could make up their minds when compared to the 52% prior to the pandemic. The effect was also seen in young people who experienced disruptions in starting work or who had to work from home and reportedly said that they were confused about what to expect from their jobs. The study indicated before the pandemic at least 68% of young people felt work was what they expected, but this figure fell down to 49% after the pandemic. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Report: Over a third of young people feel their lives have spiralled out of control due to Covid, says study

Security researchers claim that the United States Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) utilised hundreds of seriously defective websites for secret communications that even an "amateur sleuth" might have discovered.&nbsp;

Dozens of US sources in China in 2011 and 2012 are said to have died as a result of the vulnerabilities, while Iran is said to have executed or imprisoned other CIA operatives as a result of the problems.&nbsp;

Security specialists at the Citizen Lab at the University of Toronto, who began looking into the issue after receiving a tip from Reuters reporter Joel Schectmann, conducted the latest study.

Citizen Lab said that it was able to trace "with high confidence" the use of a network of 885 websites to the CIA using just one website and publicly accessible information. It was discovered that the websites gave the impression of being about news, the weather, healthcare, and other respectable websites.&nbsp;

A motivated amateur sleuth could have identified the CIA network and linked it to the US government with the knowledge of just one website, according to a statement from Citizen Lab.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mahsa-amini-death-senior-iran-cleric-calls-for-crackdown-on-protesters-521253">Mahsa Amini death: Senior Iran cleric calls for crackdown on protesters</a>

The CIA apparently stopped using the websites between 2004 and 2013, but Citizen Lab reported that a subset of them was still connected to active intelligence personnel or assets, including a current foreign contractor and a state department employee.

The story's beginnings may be traced back to 2018 when Yahoo News writers Jenna McLaughlin and Zach Dorfman revealed that Iran and China had infiltrated a system used by the CIA to interact with assets, which resulted in the deaths of over 20 dozen sources in China in 2011 and 2012. People with knowledge of the incident expressed worry to Yahoo News that those at fault had never been held accountable.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Security researchers claim that the United States Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) utilised hundreds of seriously defective websites for secret communications that even an "amateur sleuth" might have discovered.

Security researchers claim that the United States Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) utilised hundreds of seriously defective websites for secret communications that even an "amateur sleuth" might have discovered. Dozens of US sources in China in 2011 and 2012 are said to have died as a result of the vulnerabilities, while Iran is said to have executed or imprisoned other CIA operatives as a result of the problems. Security specialists at the Citizen Lab at the University of Toronto, who began looking into the issue after receiving a tip from Reuters reporter Joel Schectmann, conducted the latest study. Citizen Lab said that it was able to trace "with high confidence" the use of a network of 885 websites to the CIA using just one website and publicly accessible information. It was discovered that the websites gave the impression of being about news, the weather, healthcare, and other respectable websites. A motivated amateur sleuth could have identified the CIA network and linked it to the US government with the knowledge of just one website, according to a statement from Citizen Lab. Also Read: Mahsa Amini death: Senior Iran cleric calls for crackdown on protesters The CIA apparently stopped using the websites between 2004 and 2013, but Citizen Lab reported that a subset of them was still connected to active intelligence personnel or assets, including a current foreign contractor and a state department employee. The story's beginnings may be traced back to 2018 when Yahoo News writers Jenna McLaughlin and Zach Dorfman revealed that Iran and China had infiltrated a system used by the CIA to interact with assets, which resulted in the deaths of over 20 dozen sources in China in 2011 and 2012. People with knowledge of the incident expressed worry to Yahoo News that those at fault had never been held accountable. (with inputs from agencies)

CIA's defective websites for covert communications exposed dozens of assets in China, Iran: Research

A new research suggests that people who have opted for the 4-day-workweek are spending their new found free-time on one unexpected activity. If you were working 4 days/week – what would you do with the extra time on your hands away from work?

Research reveals what people are doing in their free time after opting for the 4-day-workweek

According to a recent study, published in the journal Aging-US, feeling unhappy, lonely or depressed can make your age faster than smoking or even certain diseases. It indicates that our mental health has a major impact on our biological aging and to incorporate these aspects they have created an “aging clock”.&nbsp;

The study was led by Deep Longevity (a biotechnology company focused on transforming longevity) with researchers from Stanford University, and The Chinese University of Hong Kong has created what they called an “aging clock” based on the data collected from at least 11,914 Chinese adults. The data was first collected in 2015, as part of a study called, China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS).

According to the Guardian, Fedor Galkin, a co-author of the study and lead scientist at the Hong Kong startup Deep Longevity, said “Your body and soul are connected – this is our main message.” The study looks at 16 blood biomarkers which are then compared to the “chronological age” of the participants, which is the age based on a person’s date of birth, predicted by the model with their actual age. The results showed that there were at least 5.7 years over or under the participant’s true age.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-weight-exercise-can-lower-risk-of-premature-death-study-520479">Weight exercise can lower risk of premature death: Study</a>

A biomarker is a molecule found in blood or other fluid and tissues of the body which are associated with a certain process, the ones chosen for this study include cholesterol and glucose levels. Additionally, they also accounted for 7 biometrics, like blood pressure, body mass index and measures of lung function, and the biological sex of the participant said the report.&nbsp;

“We demonstrate that psychological factors, such as feeling unhappy or being lonely, add up to 1.65 years to one’s biological age,” the researchers stated. However, Galkin also said that the figure is an estimate given that the model does not see feelings such as hopelessness or fearfulness related but independent of each other, the Guardian reported.&nbsp;

But it is not just loneliness but other psychological factors like depression, hopelessness, poor sleep, unhappiness, and fearfulness that can trigger faster aging. Another interesting finding of the study was that being married can reduce biological age by 7 months, whereas smokers are predicted to be 15 months older than their non-smoking counterparts. Additionally, people in rural areas are predicted to be at least 5 months older than those living in urban areas.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-find-forever-chemicals-in-every-umbilical-cord-blood-sample-across-40-studies-519298">Scientists find 'forever chemicals' in every umbilical cord blood sample across 40 studies</a>

However, it is not likely that isolation and loneliness are worse risk factors for a person’s health than smoking, said Andrew Steptoe, professor at University College London, during an interview with the Guardian, since the data is collected at one point in time, he added. Steptoe also went on to point out how the researchers did not follow up with the participants with psychological distress to show that they actually aged more rapidly. However, it will be important to test if these predictions are fulfilled by repeated testing over a number of years, he added.&nbsp;

According to a recent study, published in the journal Aging-US, feeling unhappy, lonely or depressed can make your age faster than smoking or even certain diseases.

According to a recent study, published in the journal Aging-US, feeling unhappy, lonely or depressed can make your age faster than smoking or even certain diseases. It indicates that our mental health has a major impact on our biological aging and to incorporate these aspects they have created an “aging clock”. The study was led by Deep Longevity (a biotechnology company focused on transforming longevity) with researchers from Stanford University, and The Chinese University of Hong Kong has created what they called an “aging clock” based on the data collected from at least 11,914 Chinese adults. The data was first collected in 2015, as part of a study called, China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). According to the Guardian, Fedor Galkin, a co-author of the study and lead scientist at the Hong Kong startup Deep Longevity, said “Your body and soul are connected – this is our main message.” The study looks at 16 blood biomarkers which are then compared to the “chronological age” of the participants, which is the age based on a person’s date of birth, predicted by the model with their actual age. The results showed that there were at least 5.7 years over or under the participant’s true age. ALSO READ: Weight exercise can lower risk of premature death: Study A biomarker is a molecule found in blood or other fluid and tissues of the body which are associated with a certain process, the ones chosen for this study include cholesterol and glucose levels. Additionally, they also accounted for 7 biometrics, like blood pressure, body mass index and measures of lung function, and the biological sex of the participant said the report. “We demonstrate that psychological factors, such as feeling unhappy or being lonely, add up to 1.65 years to one’s biological age,” the researchers stated. However, Galkin also said that the figure is an estimate given that the model does not see feelings such as hopelessness or fearfulness related but independent of each other, the Guardian reported. But it is not just loneliness but other psychological factors like depression, hopelessness, poor sleep, unhappiness, and fearfulness that can trigger faster aging. Another interesting finding of the study was that being married can reduce biological age by 7 months, whereas smokers are predicted to be 15 months older than their non-smoking counterparts. Additionally, people in rural areas are predicted to be at least 5 months older than those living in urban areas. ALSO READ: Scientists find 'forever chemicals' in every umbilical cord blood sample across 40 studies However, it is not likely that isolation and loneliness are worse risk factors for a person’s health than smoking, said Andrew Steptoe, professor at University College London, during an interview with the Guardian, since the data is collected at one point in time, he added. Steptoe also went on to point out how the researchers did not follow up with the participants with psychological distress to show that they actually aged more rapidly. However, it will be important to test if these predictions are fulfilled by repeated testing over a number of years, he added.

Report: Feeling unhappy, lonely can accelerate aging faster than smoking, diseases

While Mars is the intended target for humanity's first crewed mission to another planet, a group of experts is now advocating for Earth's sister planet Venus to get that accolade.

However, the planet is practically burning up. It is hot enough to melt lead, is home to clouds of sulphuric acid, a chemical capable of causing severe skin burns, and has a crushing atmospheric pressure.&nbsp;

Why then, do these experts want to forego Mars and visit Venus?

As per a report by the Guardian quoting research presented at the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) in Paris last week, there are actually plus points to this.

Watch |&nbsp;Expanding problem of space debris: What is space junk? Why is it a problem?

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Firstly, Venus is nearer. While a roundtrip to Mars is estimated to take around three years, to and fro Venus would only take one year.

Second, while walking on the planet's surface is a distant dream, and an unlivable experience, a flyby might offer the essential experience of a lengthy deep-space mission as a prelude to reaching Mars.

One of the supporters of the Venus flyby, Dr Noam Izenberg of the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, claimed that Venus "gets a bad rap because it's got such a difficult surface environment."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/humans-yet-to-set-foot-on-mars-yet-the-red-planet-is-already-littered-with-7000-kgs-of-our-trash-519541" hreflang="en">Humans yet to set foot on Mars, but the red planet is already 'littered' with 7000 kg of our trash</a>

"Moon to Mars is the current NASA paradigm," he said adding that they're attempting to justify Venus as an additional objective along that route.&nbsp;He says that a Venus flyby makes sense as performing a slingshot or gravity assist around Earth's sister planet, could shorten the journey time and fuel needed to reach the red planet despite the fact that Venus is in the "wrong" direction.

However, not everyone is sold on the idea.&nbsp;

“It’s really not a nice place to go. It’s a hellish environment and the thermal challenges for a human mission would be quite considerable,” says Prof. Andrew Coates of UCL's Mullard Space Science Laboratory.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-captures-mid-boggling-photo-of-ufo-like-object-on-mars-take-a-look-474921">NASA captures mind-boggling photo of UFO-like object on Mars. Take a look!</a>

He claimed that although Venus was rightfully the focus of scientific inquiry, "a human flyby really wouldn't add very much."

Since the discovery of hundreds of exoplanets, scientific curiosity about Venus has grown as the finding raises the question of how many of these planets may be habitable. Now, scientists want to know how and why Venus, a planet so similar to our own in size, mass, and distance from the sun, ended up with hellish surface conditions.

(With inputs from agencies)

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While Mars is the intended target for humanity's first crewed mission to another planet, a group of experts is now advocating for Earth's sister planet Venus to get that accolade.

While Mars is the intended target for humanity's first crewed mission to another planet, a group of experts is now advocating for Earth's sister planet Venus to get that accolade. However, the planet is practically burning up. It is hot enough to melt lead, is home to clouds of sulphuric acid, a chemical capable of causing severe skin burns, and has a crushing atmospheric pressure. Why then, do these experts want to forego Mars and visit Venus? As per a report by the Guardian quoting research presented at the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) in Paris last week, there are actually plus points to this. Watch | Expanding problem of space debris: What is space junk? Why is it a problem? Firstly, Venus is nearer. While a roundtrip to Mars is estimated to take around three years, to and fro Venus would only take one year. Second, while walking on the planet's surface is a distant dream, and an unlivable experience, a flyby might offer the essential experience of a lengthy deep-space mission as a prelude to reaching Mars. One of the supporters of the Venus flyby, Dr Noam Izenberg of the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, claimed that Venus "gets a bad rap because it's got such a difficult surface environment." Also read | Humans yet to set foot on Mars, but the red planet is already 'littered' with 7000 kg of our trash "Moon to Mars is the current NASA paradigm," he said adding that they're attempting to justify Venus as an additional objective along that route. He says that a Venus flyby makes sense as performing a slingshot or gravity assist around Earth's sister planet, could shorten the journey time and fuel needed to reach the red planet despite the fact that Venus is in the "wrong" direction. However, not everyone is sold on the idea. “It’s really not a nice place to go. It’s a hellish environment and the thermal challenges for a human mission would be quite considerable,” says Prof. Andrew Coates of UCL's Mullard Space Science Laboratory. Also read | NASA captures mind-boggling photo of UFO-like object on Mars. Take a look! He claimed that although Venus was rightfully the focus of scientific inquiry, "a human flyby really wouldn't add very much." Since the discovery of hundreds of exoplanets, scientific curiosity about Venus has grown as the finding raises the question of how many of these planets may be habitable. Now, scientists want to know how and why Venus, a planet so similar to our own in size, mass, and distance from the sun, ended up with hellish surface conditions. (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.

'Men are from Mars, women are from Venus', which planet should humans visit first?

According to a recent study, using voice-controlled assistants can have a long-term impact on a child’s social and cognitive development&nbsp;

Today we are surrounded by AI-powered devices like Amazon's&nbsp;Alexa, Apple's Siri or Google Home which are used for several varied purposes like setting an alarm, playing music, asking questions, and so on. However, a study published in the journal, Archives of Disease in Childhood shows that a child’s development particularly related to their empathy, compassion and critical thinking skills can be hindered in the long run because of such devices.&nbsp;

According to Anmol Arora of the University of Cambridge and the co-author of the study, “The multiple impacts on children include inappropriate responses, impeding social development and hindering learning opportunities.”&nbsp;

Furthermore, the key concern, in this case, is that children attribute human characteristics to these devices which are just essentially just trained words and sounds that are mashed together to form sentences, the co-author&nbsp;told the Guardian.

He added that children anthropomorphise and then go on to emulate these devices by just copying them including their failure to alter their tone, volume, emphasis or intonation. Therefore, this lack of ability to engage in non-verbal communication makes these devices a poor method of learning social interaction.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-study-finds-social-media-is-depriving-many-10-year-olds-of-a-nights-sleep-per-week-516337">UK study finds social media is depriving many 10-year-olds of a night's sleep per week</a>

On the other hand, in day-to-day human interactions children receive constructive feedback if they were to behave inappropriately, which a device cannot possibly ensure. These devices also lack the automatic expectation of the children to use words like “please” or “thank you”.&nbsp;Additionally, devices are also limited to the type of questions they can respond to which could result in children learning “very narrow forms of questioning and always in the form of a demand,” said Arora.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He then went on to note&nbsp;the problem with recognising different accents like if the child is young and they do not pronounce certain words properly, there is a risk of misinterpretation and of them being exposed to something inappropriate. One of the inappropriate responses he cited includes the device that once suggested that a 10-year-old should try touching a live plug with a coin.&nbsp;

However, the study also goes on to say that while the use of voice assistants as a social companion for lonely adults has shown promise, it is not entirely clear if that applies to children, said the study.

“This is particularly important at a time when children might already have had social development impaired as a result of COVID-19 restrictions and when (the children)&nbsp;might have been spending more time isolated with smart devices at home,” said the researcher.&nbsp;

He added that these devices are designed to search for requested information and provide it with a concise, specific answer, which may hinder the traditional processes by which children learn and absorb information. “However, urgent research is required into the long-term consequences for children interacting with such devices,” Arora asserted.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/medical-breakthrough-experimental-alzheimers-drug-slows-cognitive-decline-by-27-per-cent-in-trial-520445">Medical breakthrough? Experimental Alzheimer's drug slows cognitive decline by 27 per cent</a>

Echoing a similar sentiment, a recently published study by Dr Ádám Miklósi shows that the use of smartphones and tablets is ‘rewiring’ children’s brains with long-term effects, reported the Guardian.&nbsp;

“At the moment, these devices are very primitive because the people who develop them don’t care about human interaction or their impact on children’s development,” said Miklósi. He added that while the companies know how adults use them, the usage of devices by children and their impact is “very different”. Therefore,&nbsp;the research is important and that companies should take this concern more seriously, said the researcher.&nbsp;

However, Dr Caroline Fitzpatrick, of Canada Research Chair in Digital Media Use by Children and Its Implications for Promoting Togetherness: An Ecosystemic Approach told the Guardian that there is not much cause for concern. According to her, as long as parents keep limits for children and they are getting enough interactions from their caregivers and peers she does not think there should be a cause for alarm.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

According to a recent study, using voice-controlled assistants can have a long-term impact on a child’s social and cognitive development Today we are surrounded by AI-powered devices like Amazon's Alexa, Apple's Siri or Google Home which are used for several varied purposes like setting an alarm, playing music, asking questions, and so on.

According to a recent study, using voice-controlled assistants can have a long-term impact on a child’s social and cognitive development Today we are surrounded by AI-powered devices like Amazon's Alexa, Apple's Siri or Google Home which are used for several varied purposes like setting an alarm, playing music, asking questions, and so on. However, a study published in the journal, Archives of Disease in Childhood shows that a child’s development particularly related to their empathy, compassion and critical thinking skills can be hindered in the long run because of such devices. According to Anmol Arora of the University of Cambridge and the co-author of the study, “The multiple impacts on children include inappropriate responses, impeding social development and hindering learning opportunities.” Furthermore, the key concern, in this case, is that children attribute human characteristics to these devices which are just essentially just trained words and sounds that are mashed together to form sentences, the co-author told the Guardian. He added that children anthropomorphise and then go on to emulate these devices by just copying them including their failure to alter their tone, volume, emphasis or intonation. Therefore, this lack of ability to engage in non-verbal communication makes these devices a poor method of learning social interaction. ALSO READ: UK study finds social media is depriving many 10-year-olds of a night's sleep per week On the other hand, in day-to-day human interactions children receive constructive feedback if they were to behave inappropriately, which a device cannot possibly ensure. These devices also lack the automatic expectation of the children to use words like “please” or “thank you”. Additionally, devices are also limited to the type of questions they can respond to which could result in children learning “very narrow forms of questioning and always in the form of a demand,” said Arora. He then went on to note the problem with recognising different accents like if the child is young and they do not pronounce certain words properly, there is a risk of misinterpretation and of them being exposed to something inappropriate. One of the inappropriate responses he cited includes the device that once suggested that a 10-year-old should try touching a live plug with a coin. However, the study also goes on to say that while the use of voice assistants as a social companion for lonely adults has shown promise, it is not entirely clear if that applies to children, said the study. “This is particularly important at a time when children might already have had social development impaired as a result of COVID-19 restrictions and when (the children) might have been spending more time isolated with smart devices at home,” said the researcher. He added that these devices are designed to search for requested information and provide it with a concise, specific answer, which may hinder the traditional processes by which children learn and absorb information. “However, urgent research is required into the long-term consequences for children interacting with such devices,” Arora asserted. ALSO READ: Medical breakthrough? Experimental Alzheimer's drug slows cognitive decline by 27 per cent Echoing a similar sentiment, a recently published study by Dr Ádám Miklósi shows that the use of smartphones and tablets is ‘rewiring’ children’s brains with long-term effects, reported the Guardian. “At the moment, these devices are very primitive because the people who develop them don’t care about human interaction or their impact on children’s development,” said Miklósi. He added that while the companies know how adults use them, the usage of devices by children and their impact is “very different”. Therefore, the research is important and that companies should take this concern more seriously, said the researcher. However, Dr Caroline Fitzpatrick, of Canada Research Chair in Digital Media Use by Children and Its Implications for Promoting Togetherness: An Ecosystemic Approach told the Guardian that there is not much cause for concern. According to her, as long as parents keep limits for children and they are getting enough interactions from their caregivers and peers she does not think there should be a cause for alarm. (With inputs from agencies)

Voice-controlled devices assistants can hinder child development, study finds

Have you been through a tough breakup, the kind which left you feeling physically drained, so much so that you didn't have the energy to go to work? Did you wish you could take a leave of absence for the heartbreak similar to the one offered for sick days? If your answer is yes, you are not alone.

Recently, a heartbroken woman sparked a heated debate online by asking the internet if it's acceptable to take time off work to deal with a breakup.

The question was posted on a UK-based website called 'Mumsnet' which describes itself as "a website where parents could swap advice about not just holidays but all the other stuff parents talk about."

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas | Study: Older women are more likely to get their heart broken

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-study-older-women-are-more-likely-to-get-their-heart-broken-423992/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Posted anonymously the user wrote "I'm going through a horrible relationship break down. We were together a long time and we have a young child (under two). I am heartbroken and I wake up every day and burst into tears straight away when the reality of my life hits."

<img alt="Heart" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b22ee32f-a5d7-4e75-bb4e-b5143b3bffcc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20wion%20%2811%29.png" />

Image courtesy: Daily Mail UK

She further talks of her previous less-than-perfect attendance due to physical ailments she suffers from and asks "Help, please? Can I be off work for this? Do people take time off for relationship breakdowns when they are feeling like I am?."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/humans-yet-to-set-foot-on-mars-yet-the-red-planet-is-already-littered-with-7000-kgs-of-our-trash-519541" hreflang="en">Humans yet to set foot on Mars, but the red planet is already 'littered' with 7000 kg of our trash</a>

Her question has had many replies, while some users were sympathetic, others were not and told her she needed to 'adult up' instead of wallowing in self-pity.&nbsp;

The question seems to have been taken down, but the dilemma it poses stays.&nbsp;

A 2010 study published in the National Library of Medicine says "Romantic rejection causes a profound sense of loss and negative affect. It can induce clinical depression and in extreme cases lead to suicide and/or homicide."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/experts-issue-warning-after-tiktoks-latest-one-chip-challenge-lands-schoolkid-in-hospital-with-seizures-519828" hreflang="en">Experts issue warning after TikTok's latest 'one chip challenge' lands schoolkid in hospital with seizures</a>

Multiple studies claim that the emotional anguish of loss is registered by the brain in the same manner as physical pain. This might explain why you could get the sensation that your heartbreak is physically hurting you.

The phrases "it is gut wrenching," or "like a slap in the face" might actually hold some weight.&nbsp;So what do you think? Should there be a "heartbreak leave" and would it help in the long run?

(With inputs from agencies)

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Have you been through a tough breakup, the kind which left you feeling physically drained, so much so that you didn't have the energy to go to work? Did you wish you could take a leave of absence for the heartbreak similar to the one offered for sick days?

Have you been through a tough breakup, the kind which left you feeling physically drained, so much so that you didn't have the energy to go to work? Did you wish you could take a leave of absence for the heartbreak similar to the one offered for sick days? If your answer is yes, you are not alone. Recently, a heartbroken woman sparked a heated debate online by asking the internet if it's acceptable to take time off work to deal with a breakup. The question was posted on a UK-based website called 'Mumsnet' which describes itself as "a website where parents could swap advice about not just holidays but all the other stuff parents talk about." Watch | Gravitas | Study: Older women are more likely to get their heart broken Posted anonymously the user wrote "I'm going through a horrible relationship break down. We were together a long time and we have a young child (under two). I am heartbroken and I wake up every day and burst into tears straight away when the reality of my life hits." Image courtesy: Daily Mail UK She further talks of her previous less-than-perfect attendance due to physical ailments she suffers from and asks "Help, please? Can I be off work for this? Do people take time off for relationship breakdowns when they are feeling like I am?." Also read | Humans yet to set foot on Mars, but the red planet is already 'littered' with 7000 kg of our trash Her question has had many replies, while some users were sympathetic, others were not and told her she needed to 'adult up' instead of wallowing in self-pity. The question seems to have been taken down, but the dilemma it poses stays. A 2010 study published in the National Library of Medicine says "Romantic rejection causes a profound sense of loss and negative affect. It can induce clinical depression and in extreme cases lead to suicide and/or homicide." Also read | Experts issue warning after TikTok's latest 'one chip challenge' lands schoolkid in hospital with seizures Multiple studies claim that the emotional anguish of loss is registered by the brain in the same manner as physical pain. This might explain why you could get the sensation that your heartbreak is physically hurting you. The phrases "it is gut wrenching," or "like a slap in the face" might actually hold some weight. So what do you think? Should there be a "heartbreak leave" and would it help in the long run? (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.

Woman asks if she can take time off work after breakup. Do you think there should be a 'heartbreak leave'?

A team of American researchers has identified a new variant of coronavirus in Russian bats that is capable of infecting people. They have voiced concern that the virus called "Khosta-2" may be "completely resistant" to all coronavirus vaccinations now on the market and is just waiting to jump from bats to humans.&nbsp;The team's research has been published in the journal PLoS Pathogens.

Here's everything we know about the dangerous virus:

What is Khosta-2?

The pathogen is classified as a sarbecovirus, a member of the coronavirus family. However, nothing is known about it other than the fact that it is related to SARS-CoV-2, the strain responsible for Covid.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-sound-the-alarm-over-virus-that-latches-onto-humans-just-like-covid-19-and-is-vaccine-resistant-519576">Scientists sound alarm over virus that 'latches onto humans' just like Covid-19, and is vaccine-resistant</a>

When and where was the virus discovered?

As per Daily Mail, Khosta-2 was discovered in bat samples taken from Sochi National Park between March and October 2020, i.e., around the same time when the world was in a panic over SARS-CoV-2. However, the Russian government acknowledged its presence pretty recently in May.

Is it dangerous to humans?

As per Dr Stephanie Seifert and her colleagues, Khosta-2 is a zoonotic virus, which means that it can "latch onto human cells with ease in the same way as the Covid virus."

How does it infect us?

According to tests, Khosta-2 was able to infect human cells in a manner that was remarkably similar to SARS-CoV-2 the virus responsible for Covid-19.

The virus attaches to the ACE-2 entrance enzyme, which is located on the surface of human cells, by hooking onto a spike-like protein on its surface.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Long Covid linked to suicides?

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Are any vaccines available to combat it?

Daily Mail reports that the&nbsp;research team&nbsp;from Washington State University tested the virus in order to learn more about it. They discovered that the pathogen was resistant to the coronavirus vaccines we have available on the market today.

It was found to be 'completely resistant' Bebtelovimab, an antibody medication made by Eli Lilly.&nbsp;

Laboratory testing also revealed that it seemed "resistant" to two doses of vaccination by Moderna and Pfizer.

So how do we fight it?

Even though how it infects is similar to SARS-CoV-2, Koshta isn't as efficient.

Scientists believe that it could still be "possible" that the virus can be fought off using either natural immunity from Covid-19 or possibly even protection gained by vaccination.

Referring to SARS-CoV-2 which is also classified as sarbecovirus, they said it was behind "the largest global pandemic in modern history" and that&nbsp;a universal coronavirus vaccine is desperately needed at a time when "Zoonotic spillover of sarbecoviruses has led to the emergence of highly pathogenic human viruses."

(With inputs from agencies)

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A team of American researchers has identified a new variant of coronavirus in Russian bats that is capable of infecting people. They have voiced concern that the virus called "Khosta-2" may be "completely resistant" to all coronavirus vaccinations now on the market and is just waiting to jump from bats to humans.

A team of American researchers has identified a new variant of coronavirus in Russian bats that is capable of infecting people. They have voiced concern that the virus called "Khosta-2" may be "completely resistant" to all coronavirus vaccinations now on the market and is just waiting to jump from bats to humans. The team's research has been published in the journal PLoS Pathogens. Here's everything we know about the dangerous virus: What is Khosta-2? The pathogen is classified as a sarbecovirus, a member of the coronavirus family. However, nothing is known about it other than the fact that it is related to SARS-CoV-2, the strain responsible for Covid. Also read | Scientists sound alarm over virus that 'latches onto humans' just like Covid-19, and is vaccine-resistant When and where was the virus discovered? As per Daily Mail, Khosta-2 was discovered in bat samples taken from Sochi National Park between March and October 2020, i.e., around the same time when the world was in a panic over SARS-CoV-2. However, the Russian government acknowledged its presence pretty recently in May. Is it dangerous to humans? As per Dr Stephanie Seifert and her colleagues, Khosta-2 is a zoonotic virus, which means that it can "latch onto human cells with ease in the same way as the Covid virus." How does it infect us? According to tests, Khosta-2 was able to infect human cells in a manner that was remarkably similar to SARS-CoV-2 the virus responsible for Covid-19. The virus attaches to the ACE-2 entrance enzyme, which is located on the surface of human cells, by hooking onto a spike-like protein on its surface. Watch | Gravitas: Long Covid linked to suicides? Are any vaccines available to combat it? Daily Mail reports that the research team from Washington State University tested the virus in order to learn more about it. They discovered that the pathogen was resistant to the coronavirus vaccines we have available on the market today. It was found to be 'completely resistant' Bebtelovimab, an antibody medication made by Eli Lilly. Laboratory testing also revealed that it seemed "resistant" to two doses of vaccination by Moderna and Pfizer. So how do we fight it? Even though how it infects is similar to SARS-CoV-2, Koshta isn't as efficient. Scientists believe that it could still be "possible" that the virus can be fought off using either natural immunity from Covid-19 or possibly even protection gained by vaccination. Referring to SARS-CoV-2 which is also classified as sarbecovirus, they said it was behind "the largest global pandemic in modern history" and that a universal coronavirus vaccine is desperately needed at a time when "Zoonotic spillover of sarbecoviruses has led to the emergence of highly pathogenic human viruses." (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.

What is Khosta-2, the 'vaccine-resistant' severe Covid-like virus scientific community is panicking about?

A team of American virologists has&nbsp;identified a covid-like virus that is lurking in Russian bats and they fear that it is "completely resistant" to all the coronavirus vaccines available in the market.&nbsp;

The pathogen is called Khosta-2 and it was found that it can "latch onto human cells with ease in the same way as the Covid virus."

It is classified as a sarbecovirus, a member of the coronavirus family, and nothing is known about it other than the fact that it is related to SARS-CoV-2, the strain responsible for Covid.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Long Covid linked to suicides?

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As per Daily Mail, in an effort to discover more about the virus, researchers from Washington State University chose to test it.

They found that&nbsp;Khosta-2 was able to infect human cells in a manner that was remarkably similar to SARS-CoV-2. However, experts concluded that it wasn't as efficient at doing so.&nbsp;Laboratory research also showed that it appeared "resistant" to two doses of both the Moderna and Pfizer injections.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-zero-covid-policy-crippling-european-businesses-in-country-report-518404">China's 'Zero-Covid' policy crippling European businesses in the country: Report</a>

However, according to Dr Stephanie Seifert and colleagues, it is "still possible" that the virus can be fought off using either natural Covid immunity or possibly even protection gained by vaccination.

The experiment's findings were reported in PLoS Pathogens, and the scientists acknowledged that the bulk of the "hundreds" of sarbecoviruses found are "not capable" of infecting people. They remarked that their research shows that these viruses&nbsp;represent a threat to world health and also "highlight the urgent need" for the creation of universal coronavirus vaccines.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-biden-says-covid-19-pandemic-in-us-is-over-517520">President Biden says COVID-19 pandemic in US 'is over'</a>

Khosta-2 was discovered in bat samples taken between March and October 2020, according to the Daily Mail, but the Kremlin only acknowledged its presence in May.

Researchers from the Moscow Ministry of Health's Gamaleya National Research Centre claim that they were conducting "ongoing surveillance" of the bats living in Sochi National Park, a 480,000-acre&nbsp;park which contains hundreds of caves teeming with bats.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A team of American virologists has identified a covid-like virus that is lurking in Russian bats and they fear that it is "completely resistant" to all the coronavirus vaccines available in the market.

A team of American virologists has identified a covid-like virus that is lurking in Russian bats and they fear that it is "completely resistant" to all the coronavirus vaccines available in the market. The pathogen is called Khosta-2 and it was found that it can "latch onto human cells with ease in the same way as the Covid virus." It is classified as a sarbecovirus, a member of the coronavirus family, and nothing is known about it other than the fact that it is related to SARS-CoV-2, the strain responsible for Covid. Watch | Gravitas: Long Covid linked to suicides? As per Daily Mail, in an effort to discover more about the virus, researchers from Washington State University chose to test it. They found that Khosta-2 was able to infect human cells in a manner that was remarkably similar to SARS-CoV-2. However, experts concluded that it wasn't as efficient at doing so. Laboratory research also showed that it appeared "resistant" to two doses of both the Moderna and Pfizer injections. Also read | China's 'Zero-Covid' policy crippling European businesses in the country: Report However, according to Dr Stephanie Seifert and colleagues, it is "still possible" that the virus can be fought off using either natural Covid immunity or possibly even protection gained by vaccination. The experiment's findings were reported in PLoS Pathogens, and the scientists acknowledged that the bulk of the "hundreds" of sarbecoviruses found are "not capable" of infecting people. They remarked that their research shows that these viruses represent a threat to world health and also "highlight the urgent need" for the creation of universal coronavirus vaccines. Also read | President Biden says COVID-19 pandemic in US 'is over' Khosta-2 was discovered in bat samples taken between March and October 2020, according to the Daily Mail, but the Kremlin only acknowledged its presence in May. Researchers from the Moscow Ministry of Health's Gamaleya National Research Centre claim that they were conducting "ongoing surveillance" of the bats living in Sochi National Park, a 480,000-acre park which contains hundreds of caves teeming with bats. (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 sound alarm over virus that 'latches onto humans' just like Covid-19, and is vaccine-resistant

A new report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed that the majority of pregnancy-related deaths in the United States could be prevented with proper care.&nbsp;

CDC reports that with competent maternal care, which America lacks, in comparison to many of its peer developed nations,&nbsp;84.2 per cent of pregnancy-related deaths might have been avoided.

As per Daily Mail, deaths by suicide or drug overdose account for 22.7 per cent of these deaths, with a significant fraction of these incidents being linked to mental health issues.&nbsp;Haemorrhages, heart conditions, infections, and excessive blood pressure were some of the other major causes.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: U.S. panel recommends screening all American adults for anxiety

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Health professionals have long cautioned about the often-overlooked problem of maternal mortality in the United States.

According to research by The Commonwealth Fund, with 17.4 deaths for every 100,000 births, the United States had the highest rate of any developed country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-maternal-mortality-rate-rises-black-women-3-times-more-likely-to-die-than-white-counterparts-study-455773">US maternal mortality rate rises, Black women 3 times more likely to die than White counterparts: Study</a>

Maternal mortality in the US was compared to ten peer countries, and America had twice as many deaths per 100,000 people as France, which had the second highest figures in the survey, and ten times more than New Zealand.

Among wealthy nations, maternal mortality is a problem that is specific to the United States since there are fewer doctors available there and more hurdles to availing care.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-pregnancy-complications-amid-abortion-row-in-the-us-509316">Explained: Pregnancy complications amid abortion row in the US</a>

The head of the CDC's Division of Reproductive Health, Dr Wanda Barfield, said in a statement that the research "paints a much clearer picture of pregnancy-related deaths in this country."

The CDC analysis examined data on maternal deaths between 2017 and 2019. The information dates from before the COVID-19 epidemic, which many experts believe made the country's problems with maternal mortality worse.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A new report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed that the majority of pregnancy-related deaths in the United States could be prevented with proper care.

A new report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed that the majority of pregnancy-related deaths in the United States could be prevented with proper care. CDC reports that with competent maternal care, which America lacks, in comparison to many of its peer developed nations, 84.2 per cent of pregnancy-related deaths might have been avoided. As per Daily Mail, deaths by suicide or drug overdose account for 22.7 per cent of these deaths, with a significant fraction of these incidents being linked to mental health issues. Haemorrhages, heart conditions, infections, and excessive blood pressure were some of the other major causes. Watch | Gravitas: U.S. panel recommends screening all American adults for anxiety Health professionals have long cautioned about the often-overlooked problem of maternal mortality in the United States. According to research by The Commonwealth Fund, with 17.4 deaths for every 100,000 births, the United States had the highest rate of any developed country. Also read | US maternal mortality rate rises, Black women 3 times more likely to die than White counterparts: Study Maternal mortality in the US was compared to ten peer countries, and America had twice as many deaths per 100,000 people as France, which had the second highest figures in the survey, and ten times more than New Zealand. Among wealthy nations, maternal mortality is a problem that is specific to the United States since there are fewer doctors available there and more hurdles to availing care. Also read | Explained: Pregnancy complications amid abortion row in the US The head of the CDC's Division of Reproductive Health, Dr Wanda Barfield, said in a statement that the research "paints a much clearer picture of pregnancy-related deaths in this country." The CDC analysis examined data on maternal deaths between 2017 and 2019. The information dates from before the COVID-19 epidemic, which many experts believe made the country's problems with maternal mortality worse. (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.

84.2% of pregnancy-related deaths in US could have been avoided with better care: CDC

As per a new analysis, the past year saw hundreds of books; 801 to be exact, banned in Texas. These books ranged across multiple genres from the so-called "Queer agenda" to those featuring people of colour.&nbsp;

Unfortunately, Texas is not alone, Florida banned 566 books, Pennsylvania pulled 457 out of classrooms, and Tennessee dealt the blow to 349 books. From June 2021 to July 2022, in total there were 2,532 instances of individual books all over the country;&nbsp;1,648 unique titles were banned across 138 school districts in 32 states.

Watch |&nbsp;The unburnable book to promote book banning in the US

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<h2>Which books were banned?</h2>

As per Pen America's report titled "Banned in the USA: The Growing Movement to Censor Books in Schools", 5,049 schools and a whopping four million students were affected by these bans.&nbsp;

The 1,648 banned books include: 
- 674 that had LGBTQ+ themes, 659 had people of colour as protagonists,&nbsp; 
- 338 dealt with the issue of racism,&nbsp; 
- 357 contained sexual content; like stories of teen pregnancy, sexual assault, abortions, sex, relationships and even "informational books about puberty" 
- 161 had themes of rights and activism 
- Also banned were 141 memoirs, biographies, autobiographies 
- And 64 had religious minority characters.

Of these, around 75 per cent were fiction, 24 per cent non-fiction and the remaining 1 per cent poetry.&nbsp;Even picture books catering to the young audience weren't spared.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/queens-crush-disrespectful-prince-harry-more-heart-warming-controversial-moments-from-royal-funeral-518155">Queen's crush, 'disrespectful’ Prince Harry &amp; more: Heart-warming, controversial moments from royal funeral</a>

&nbsp;

<h2>Who's behind these bans?</h2>

According to PEN America, at least 40 per cent of the 1,109 restrictions mentioned in the Index "are connected to either proposed or enacted legislation, or to political pressure exerted by state officials or elected lawmakers to restrict the teaching or presence of certain books or concepts."

The report blames 50 groups (300 if you count the local, and regional chapters) across the country for these bans. It also points out that 73 per cent or 262 of these groups have been formed since 2021.

However, parents and community groups also played a role.

"This movement to ban books is deeply undemocratic, in that it often seeks to impose restrictions on all students and families based on the preferences of those calling for the bans and notwithstanding polls that consistently show that Americans of all political persuasions oppose book bans," remarks the report.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/loch-ness-monster-captured-on-a-newly-installed-live-stream-watch-it-here-518029" hreflang="en">Loch Ness monster 'captured' on a newly installed live stream. Watch it here!</a>

It further points out that this movement has a variety of negative impacts: on students who are no longer represented, on teachers whose teachings are now dictated and on authors who have all but lost their right to tell stories their own way.

"We should heed this warning," the report states, noting that attempts to undermine civil liberties and undermine democratic norms continue, and that "the dynamics surrounding school book bans are a canary in the coal mine for the future of American democracy, public education, and free expression".

(With inputs from agencies)

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As per a new analysis, the past year saw hundreds of books; 801 to be exact, banned in Texas. These books ranged across multiple genres from the so-called "Queer agenda" to those featuring people of colour.

As per a new analysis, the past year saw hundreds of books; 801 to be exact, banned in Texas. These books ranged across multiple genres from the so-called "Queer agenda" to those featuring people of colour. Unfortunately, Texas is not alone, Florida banned 566 books, Pennsylvania pulled 457 out of classrooms, and Tennessee dealt the blow to 349 books. From June 2021 to July 2022, in total there were 2,532 instances of individual books all over the country; 1,648 unique titles were banned across 138 school districts in 32 states. Watch | The unburnable book to promote book banning in the US Which books were banned? As per Pen America's report titled "Banned in the USA: The Growing Movement to Censor Books in Schools", 5,049 schools and a whopping four million students were affected by these bans. The 1,648 banned books include: - 674 that had LGBTQ+ themes, 659 had people of colour as protagonists, - 338 dealt with the issue of racism, - 357 contained sexual content; like stories of teen pregnancy, sexual assault, abortions, sex, relationships and even "informational books about puberty" - 161 had themes of rights and activism - Also banned were 141 memoirs, biographies, autobiographies - And 64 had religious minority characters. Of these, around 75 per cent were fiction, 24 per cent non-fiction and the remaining 1 per cent poetry. Even picture books catering to the young audience weren't spared. Also read | Queen's crush, 'disrespectful’ Prince Harry & more: Heart-warming, controversial moments from royal funeral Who's behind these bans? According to PEN America, at least 40 per cent of the 1,109 restrictions mentioned in the Index "are connected to either proposed or enacted legislation, or to political pressure exerted by state officials or elected lawmakers to restrict the teaching or presence of certain books or concepts." The report blames 50 groups (300 if you count the local, and regional chapters) across the country for these bans. It also points out that 73 per cent or 262 of these groups have been formed since 2021. However, parents and community groups also played a role. "This movement to ban books is deeply undemocratic, in that it often seeks to impose restrictions on all students and families based on the preferences of those calling for the bans and notwithstanding polls that consistently show that Americans of all political persuasions oppose book bans," remarks the report. Also read | Loch Ness monster 'captured' on a newly installed live stream. Watch it here! It further points out that this movement has a variety of negative impacts: on students who are no longer represented, on teachers whose teachings are now dictated and on authors who have all but lost their right to tell stories their own way. "We should heed this warning," the report states, noting that attempts to undermine civil liberties and undermine democratic norms continue, and that "the dynamics surrounding school book bans are a canary in the coal mine for the future of American democracy, public education, and free expression". (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.

Freedom of expression?: Last year saw 1,648 books censored from US schools, Texas tops with 650+ bans

Who doesn't know about the asteroid that killed dinosaurs? We've all pretty much grown up in the information that the otherworldly object was behind the extinction of the mighty lizards. But what if that wasn't completely true?

A new major study claims that dinosaurs were "already dying" back when they got wiped out by the giant asteroid.&nbsp;

When dinosaurs went extinct 66 million years ago, their range of species was already drastically shrinking, as per the study done on dinosaur eggs in China.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker | US drought uncovers dinosaur tracks | Unexploded bombs found in Po river

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According to Mirror UK, the study, which was conducted by the Chinese Academy of Sciences has been published in the scientific journal PNAS.&nbsp;

Using dinosaur eggs found in the country's Shanyang Basin it creates a two million-year chronology toward the end of the Cretaceous period, the last period during which dinosaurs were alive.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/home-decor-or-scientific-discovery-experts-express-dismay-as-dinosaur-skeleton-goes-up-for-sale-515827">'Home décor or scientific discovery': Experts express dismay as dinosaur skeleton goes up for sale</a>

The central Chinese basin yielded some 1,000 egg fossils, but upon closer examination, researchers discovered that just three species were actually alive at the time.

It means that the diversity in dinosaur species was ebbing during the Cretaceous period.

“Our results demonstrate low dinosaur biodiversity during the last two million years of the Cretaceous, and those data indicate a decline in dinosaur biodiversity millions of years before the Cretaceous/Paleogene boundary," wrote the authors.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-have-discovered-africas-oldest-dinosaur-named-mbiresaurus-raathi-in-zimbabwe-512201">Scientists have discovered Africa's oldest dinosaur named Mbiresaurus raathi in Zimbabwe</a>

This may imply that dinosaur populations were already in decline before they were wiped out by an asteroid.

It has been speculated that factors including climate change and volcanic eruptions may have led to the creatures' population collapse.

Events like the Deccan Traps eruption in present-day India would have also severely damaged the food supplies, which could have contributed to dinosaurs perishing.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Who doesn't know about the asteroid that killed dinosaurs? We've all pretty much grown up in the information that the otherworldly object was behind the extinction of the mighty lizards.

Who doesn't know about the asteroid that killed dinosaurs? We've all pretty much grown up in the information that the otherworldly object was behind the extinction of the mighty lizards. But what if that wasn't completely true? A new major study claims that dinosaurs were "already dying" back when they got wiped out by the giant asteroid. When dinosaurs went extinct 66 million years ago, their range of species was already drastically shrinking, as per the study done on dinosaur eggs in China. Watch | WION Climate Tracker | US drought uncovers dinosaur tracks | Unexploded bombs found in Po river According to Mirror UK, the study, which was conducted by the Chinese Academy of Sciences has been published in the scientific journal PNAS. Using dinosaur eggs found in the country's Shanyang Basin it creates a two million-year chronology toward the end of the Cretaceous period, the last period during which dinosaurs were alive. Also read | 'Home décor or scientific discovery': Experts express dismay as dinosaur skeleton goes up for sale The central Chinese basin yielded some 1,000 egg fossils, but upon closer examination, researchers discovered that just three species were actually alive at the time. It means that the diversity in dinosaur species was ebbing during the Cretaceous period. “Our results demonstrate low dinosaur biodiversity during the last two million years of the Cretaceous, and those data indicate a decline in dinosaur biodiversity millions of years before the Cretaceous/Paleogene boundary," wrote the authors. Also read | Scientists have discovered Africa's oldest dinosaur named Mbiresaurus raathi in Zimbabwe This may imply that dinosaur populations were already in decline before they were wiped out by an asteroid. It has been speculated that factors including climate change and volcanic eruptions may have led to the creatures' population collapse. Events like the Deccan Traps eruption in present-day India would have also severely damaged the food supplies, which could have contributed to dinosaurs perishing. (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.

Was an asteroid the sole reason dinosaurs went extinct? New study claims they were already 'dying out'

The number of Weddell seals in Antarctica may have finally been estimated accurately by scientists. The monumental task&nbsp;was completed utilising photographs from space and the eyes, and talents of thousands of citizen&nbsp;scientists.

Why is this important?

In the Southern Ocean, Weddell seals are a crucial indicator species for changes in the food web and sea ice.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-suggest-a-stop-gap-solution-for-refreezing-melting-ice-will-cost-whopping-11-billion-yearly-517822" hreflang="en">Scientists suggest a stop-gap solution for 'refreezing' melting ice; will cost whopping $11 billion yearly</a>

As per Guardian, although the species can survive up to 30 years in the extreme environment of Antarctica's coastal sea ice, counting them has historically been difficult and expensive.

Former population estimates were "more back-of-the-envelope type calculations," according to Dr Michelle LaRue, associate professor of Gateway Antarctica at the University of Canterbury in New Zealand.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Fineprint | Is your adorable puppy as bad for the planet as a gas-guzzling SUV?

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"The previous research was done by traditional surveyors – shipboard surveys and aerial surveys – but you can’t physically get to the entire Antarctic continent all at one time," she said.

LaRue said that the findings were "imprecise," so in 2016 she set out to produce the first estimation of the seals' baseline population using high-resolution satellite photos and the perceptive eyes of 330,000 volunteers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-says-there-are-at-least-20-quadrillion-ants-on-earth-517896" hreflang="en">Study says there are at least 20 quadrillion ants on Earth</a>

“We combined [the] imagery with a web platform to conduct a citizen science campaign to find out three things: where seals are present, their abundance, and the environmental factors that influence their habitat preferences,” LaRue said.

The initiative largely relied on volunteers to look for seal indications in the satellite photographs. Participants were given photographs of a location in Antarctica to search, and they were asked to check or uncheck a box depending on whether they thought they could see a seal. The more people who clicked yes, the more efficient the habitat narrowing got.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The number of Weddell seals in Antarctica may have finally been estimated accurately by scientists. The monumental task was completed utilising photographs from space and the eyes, and talents of thousands of citizen scientists.

The number of Weddell seals in Antarctica may have finally been estimated accurately by scientists. The monumental task was completed utilising photographs from space and the eyes, and talents of thousands of citizen scientists. Why is this important? In the Southern Ocean, Weddell seals are a crucial indicator species for changes in the food web and sea ice. Also read | Scientists suggest a stop-gap solution for 'refreezing' melting ice; will cost whopping $11 billion yearly As per Guardian, although the species can survive up to 30 years in the extreme environment of Antarctica's coastal sea ice, counting them has historically been difficult and expensive. Former population estimates were "more back-of-the-envelope type calculations," according to Dr Michelle LaRue, associate professor of Gateway Antarctica at the University of Canterbury in New Zealand. Watch | WION Fineprint | Is your adorable puppy as bad for the planet as a gas-guzzling SUV? "The previous research was done by traditional surveyors – shipboard surveys and aerial surveys – but you can’t physically get to the entire Antarctic continent all at one time," she said. LaRue said that the findings were "imprecise," so in 2016 she set out to produce the first estimation of the seals' baseline population using high-resolution satellite photos and the perceptive eyes of 330,000 volunteers. Also read | Study says there are at least 20 quadrillion ants on Earth “We combined [the] imagery with a web platform to conduct a citizen science campaign to find out three things: where seals are present, their abundance, and the environmental factors that influence their habitat preferences,” LaRue said. The initiative largely relied on volunteers to look for seal indications in the satellite photographs. Participants were given photographs of a location in Antarctica to search, and they were asked to check or uncheck a box depending on whether they thought they could see a seal. The more people who clicked yes, the more efficient the habitat narrowing got. (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 use space photos and volunteers to accurately calculate Weddell seal population

At this point, everyone (except a few naysayers) acknowledge&nbsp;that climate change is a reality and we are all facing a very real danger. The Earth is warming up, the ice caps are melting, and despite the fact that organisations and national governments around the world have set lofty goals, we are mostly at a loss for what can be done to speedily reverse the situation.

Now, scientists have proposed an ambitious and some might say downright "bizarre" plan to reverse the ice loss: they want to refreeze the north and south poles.

A recent study carried out by Wake Smith of Yale University and&nbsp;published in Environmental Research Communications proposes that a high-flying aircraft will spray small aerosol particles into the atmosphere at latitudes of 60 degrees north and south.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Fineprint | Is your adorable puppy as bad for the planet as a gas-guzzling SUV?

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These aerosols would gradually float poleward if dispersed at a height of 43,000 feet&nbsp;significantly shading the ground below, claims the study.&nbsp;They say that the additional shade would allow the melting poles to refreeze, reducing the problems of melting glacier ice and rising sea levels.

According to the scientists, the method would "abate climate change by deflecting back into space a small fraction of the incoming solar radiation."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/robots-are-here-for-good-or-bad-but-will-they-take-over-the-world-worlds-most-advanced-humanoid-says-no-515864" hreflang="en">Robots are here 'for good, or bad,' but will they take over the world? World's most advanced humanoid says no</a>

However, it does come at a hefty cost. The method is called stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI) and as per the Daily Mail report would cost a whopping $11 billion yearly.

Although they admitted that the idea is controversial, the researchers asserted that the idea is "feasible" and that $11 billion a year is "extraordinarily cheap" in comparison to other climate solutions like carbon capture.

The proposal does have some drawbacks: The planes would emit their own emissions that would contribute to global warming.&nbsp;Additionally, the aerosol would contain sulphur dioxide, which in large doses can harm the lungs and airways by corroding them and causing nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/infographic-climate-crisis-has-driven-world-on-brink-of-five-disastrous-tipping-points-514540" hreflang="en">Infographic: Climate crisis has driven world on brink of five ‘disastrous’ tipping points</a>

But the researchers contend that less than one per cent of the global population lives in the target areas.&nbsp;

However, Smith also admitted that the plan would only serve as a sort of Earth-salvaging bandage rather than addressing the fundamental causes of climate change.

"It's aspirin, not penicillin. It's not a substitute for decarbonisation," he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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At this point, everyone (except a few naysayers) acknowledge that climate change is a reality and we are all facing a very real danger. The Earth is warming up, the ice caps are melting, and despite the fact that organisations and national governments around the world have set lofty goals, we are mostly at a loss for what can be done to speedily reverse the situation.

At this point, everyone (except a few naysayers) acknowledge that climate change is a reality and we are all facing a very real danger. The Earth is warming up, the ice caps are melting, and despite the fact that organisations and national governments around the world have set lofty goals, we are mostly at a loss for what can be done to speedily reverse the situation. Now, scientists have proposed an ambitious and some might say downright "bizarre" plan to reverse the ice loss: they want to refreeze the north and south poles. A recent study carried out by Wake Smith of Yale University and published in Environmental Research Communications proposes that a high-flying aircraft will spray small aerosol particles into the atmosphere at latitudes of 60 degrees north and south. Watch | WION Fineprint | Is your adorable puppy as bad for the planet as a gas-guzzling SUV? These aerosols would gradually float poleward if dispersed at a height of 43,000 feet significantly shading the ground below, claims the study. They say that the additional shade would allow the melting poles to refreeze, reducing the problems of melting glacier ice and rising sea levels. According to the scientists, the method would "abate climate change by deflecting back into space a small fraction of the incoming solar radiation." Also read | Robots are here 'for good, or bad,' but will they take over the world? World's most advanced humanoid says no However, it does come at a hefty cost. The method is called stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI) and as per the Daily Mail report would cost a whopping $11 billion yearly. Although they admitted that the idea is controversial, the researchers asserted that the idea is "feasible" and that $11 billion a year is "extraordinarily cheap" in comparison to other climate solutions like carbon capture. The proposal does have some drawbacks: The planes would emit their own emissions that would contribute to global warming. Additionally, the aerosol would contain sulphur dioxide, which in large doses can harm the lungs and airways by corroding them and causing nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. Also read | Infographic: Climate crisis has driven world on brink of five ‘disastrous’ tipping points But the researchers contend that less than one per cent of the global population lives in the target areas. However, Smith also admitted that the plan would only serve as a sort of Earth-salvaging bandage rather than addressing the fundamental causes of climate change. "It's aspirin, not penicillin. It's not a substitute for decarbonisation," he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Scientists suggest a stop-gap solution for 'refreezing' melting ice; will cost whopping $11 billion yearly

Is artificial intelligence (AI) as smart as humans or is it smarter? As per scientists, it takes the human brain 25 years to reach full maturity, but new research claims that the AI used by Elon musk's Tesla could equal that in only 17 years.

Researchers have long predicted that artificial intelligence will eventually surpass human intelligence, although there are different predictions as to when that will happen.

Watch |&nbsp;World Business Watch: Tesla sued by drivers over autopilot, full self-driving features

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According to a study by Autotrader company Vanarama, Tesla's new microchip will be "more intelligent" than humans by 2033.

The study points out that it already has processing capability equivalent to 36 per cent of a human brain.&nbsp;About 100 billion neurons make up a human brain, which triples in size during a baby's first year and develops fully by the age of 25.

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Tesla microchips and their processing power in comparison to human brain. (Graphic: Vanarama)

"Tesla's new D1 microchip is more powerful than any the manufacturer has previously used in its cars – managing 362 trillion operations per second. Its processing power is already over a third (36 per cent) of a human's brain, which is capable of one quadrillion operations per second."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/are-children-at-risk-from-elon-musks-self-driving-technology-group-claims-software-will-mow-kids-down-505353">Are children at risk from Elon Musk's self-driving technology? Group claims software will 'mow' kids down</a>

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Tesla microchips and their processing power. (Graphic: Vanarama)

In comparison, the first chip, an Nvidia component from 2016, achieved "only" 12 trillion.

By analysing both current and prior models, the organisation discovered that the capability of Tesla microchips is growing at a pace of 486 per cent every year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/self-driving-cars-from-tesla-to-be-ready-by-year-end-says-elon-musk-511353">Self-driving cars from Tesla to be ready by year-end, says Elon Musk</a>

The new D1 chip, which is a component of the Dojo supercomputer platform and the company's Autopilot self-driving system, will soon be made available by Musk's company.

It wouldn't be insane to think that technology will surpass humans in intelligence within our lifetimes, says Vanaram.&nbsp;

"Microchips are currently capable of working the way brain synapses do, with researchers developing chips that are inspired by the way the brain operates."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Is artificial intelligence (AI) as smart as humans or is it smarter? As per scientists, it takes the human brain 25 years to reach full maturity, but new research claims that the AI used by Elon musk's Tesla could equal that in only 17 years.

Is artificial intelligence (AI) as smart as humans or is it smarter? As per scientists, it takes the human brain 25 years to reach full maturity, but new research claims that the AI used by Elon musk's Tesla could equal that in only 17 years. Researchers have long predicted that artificial intelligence will eventually surpass human intelligence, although there are different predictions as to when that will happen. Watch | World Business Watch: Tesla sued by drivers over autopilot, full self-driving features According to a study by Autotrader company Vanarama, Tesla's new microchip will be "more intelligent" than humans by 2033. The study points out that it already has processing capability equivalent to 36 per cent of a human brain. About 100 billion neurons make up a human brain, which triples in size during a baby's first year and develops fully by the age of 25. Tesla microchips and their processing power in comparison to human brain. (Graphic: Vanarama) "Tesla's new D1 microchip is more powerful than any the manufacturer has previously used in its cars – managing 362 trillion operations per second. Its processing power is already over a third (36 per cent) of a human's brain, which is capable of one quadrillion operations per second." Also read | Are children at risk from Elon Musk's self-driving technology? Group claims software will 'mow' kids down Tesla microchips and their processing power. (Graphic: Vanarama) In comparison, the first chip, an Nvidia component from 2016, achieved "only" 12 trillion. By analysing both current and prior models, the organisation discovered that the capability of Tesla microchips is growing at a pace of 486 per cent every year. Also read | Self-driving cars from Tesla to be ready by year-end, says Elon Musk The new D1 chip, which is a component of the Dojo supercomputer platform and the company's Autopilot self-driving system, will soon be made available by Musk's company. It wouldn't be insane to think that technology will surpass humans in intelligence within our lifetimes, says Vanaram. "Microchips are currently capable of working the way brain synapses do, with researchers developing chips that are inspired by the way the brain operates." (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.

By 2033, Elon Musk's Tesla and its AI will be smarter than humans: Study

There is no dearth of movies showing robots and artificial intelligence taking over the world; we've seen it all from the Terminator to Avengers: Age of Ultron. Did these movies make you just a little bit scared? Or did they make you wonder if that is our future? After all, movies have at times predicted what's coming.

Well, as per a Daily Mail report, the "world's most advanced" humanoid robot has reassured that there's no need to worry and this is unlikely to become a reality.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Fineprint | AI-powered robots make racist &amp; sexist decisions

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Ameca, a humanoid robot created by Engineered Arts in Cornwall, asserted that "robots will never take over the world. We're here to help and serve humans, not replace them."

In a video uploaded by Engineered Arts on their YouTube channel, Ameca speaks with researchers. Despite what you would assume, Ameca's comments aren't rehearsed, according to Engineered Arts.

Watch the video here:

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The model is given a simple cue, providing the robot with a "description of self — it's pure AI,"&nbsp;they claimed. "Nothing in this video is pre-scripted," they added.

Engineered Arts crew is shown in the film posing several questions to Ameca.

The time it takes to process speech input, produce the response, and process the text back into speech causes the pauses, according to the channel.

Ameca has startling lifelike facial emotions that it can mimic from actual people, such as winking and scrunching its nose.

The video has left viewers speechless, but many have left comments to express their amazement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/killer-robots-arent-science-fiction-a-push-to-ban-them-is-growing-437886">Killer robots aren’t science fiction. A push to ban them is growing.</a>

"This is surreal. Wow, I'm legit blown away by this," commented one user, while another said "That was wild. &nbsp;I was surprised at the inclusion of facial movements! &nbsp;That was very impressive."

Other user comments had ominous undertones. "Ameca is the future. For good, or for bad," said one. Another user seems to be a bit shaken by the robot taking over the world question and commented "This machine seemed to linger on the idea of robots taking over the world a bit too long for my comfort."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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There is no dearth of movies showing robots and artificial intelligence taking over the world; we've seen it all from the Terminator to Avengers: Age of Ultron. Did these movies make you just a little bit scared?

There is no dearth of movies showing robots and artificial intelligence taking over the world; we've seen it all from the Terminator to Avengers: Age of Ultron. Did these movies make you just a little bit scared? Or did they make you wonder if that is our future? After all, movies have at times predicted what's coming. Well, as per a Daily Mail report, the "world's most advanced" humanoid robot has reassured that there's no need to worry and this is unlikely to become a reality. Watch | WION Fineprint | AI-powered robots make racist & sexist decisions Ameca, a humanoid robot created by Engineered Arts in Cornwall, asserted that "robots will never take over the world. We're here to help and serve humans, not replace them." In a video uploaded by Engineered Arts on their YouTube channel, Ameca speaks with researchers. Despite what you would assume, Ameca's comments aren't rehearsed, according to Engineered Arts. Watch the video here: × The model is given a simple cue, providing the robot with a "description of self — it's pure AI," they claimed. "Nothing in this video is pre-scripted," they added. Engineered Arts crew is shown in the film posing several questions to Ameca. The time it takes to process speech input, produce the response, and process the text back into speech causes the pauses, according to the channel. Ameca has startling lifelike facial emotions that it can mimic from actual people, such as winking and scrunching its nose. The video has left viewers speechless, but many have left comments to express their amazement. Also read | Killer robots aren’t science fiction. A push to ban them is growing. "This is surreal. Wow, I'm legit blown away by this," commented one user, while another said "That was wild. I was surprised at the inclusion of facial movements! That was very impressive." Other user comments had ominous undertones. "Ameca is the future. For good, or for bad," said one. Another user seems to be a bit shaken by the robot taking over the world question and commented "This machine seemed to linger on the idea of robots taking over the world a bit too long for my comfort." (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.

Robots are here 'for good, or bad,' but will they take over the world? World's most advanced humanoid says no

In Paris, the skeleton of a small dinosaur that lived millions of years ago is up for auction, and auctioneers claim that its size "is perfect for someone's living room". However, experts and palaeontologists say that the archaeological find belongs in a museum and not some rich guy's living room.

The skeleton is believed to be of an iguanodon dinosaur and it measures about four feet (1.3 metres) tall and 9.8 feet (three metres) long, making it small enough to fit in a run-of-the-mill living room. But is it appropriate to showcase such a scientific discovery as a trophy?&nbsp;

Palaeontologist Steve Brusatte, who works with the University of Edinburgh in Scotland, disagrees. It's "much more than just ornaments for the rich to put in their living rooms,"&nbsp;he said while talking to Daily Mail.

Watch |&nbsp;New York-based firm to conduct auction of Dinosaur skeleton

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"A dinosaur would look pretty good in my living room too, but they don't belong there. They belong in a museum, where they can be conserved, studied by scientists, and displayed to the public, where they educate and inspire", said Brusatte.

Another palaeontologist, Thomas Carr of the Carthage College in Wisconsin believes that the specimen has been misidentified and is actually another herbivore called camptosaurus.

Speaking to Daily Mail, he said that although he is not an expert on ornithopod dinosaurs, auction houses "shouldn't be in the business of selling things they know nothing about" if they "can't even identify the fossil correctly."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/76-million-year-old-dinosaur-skeleton-goes-up-for-sale-495230">76 million-year-old dinosaur skeleton goes up for sale</a>

He contends that, contrary to what the auction company claims, there were no Iguanodon species in North America during the late Jurassic period.

In recent times, Dinosaur bones have gone from being the subject of research to expensive art pieces. Once they were almost exclusively purchased by museums for reasonable prices are now sold to the highest bidder for millions.

Auctioneer Alexandre Giquello, while talking to Reuters said that the specimen, known as "Zephyr," is the perfect size for a one-of-a-kind piece of home décor. It is estimated to sell for between 400,000 and 500,000 euros ($495,000).

The dinosaur, which Italian palaeontologists partially reconstructed, was found in Moffat County, Colorado in 2019 when road construction was taking place on private property. Little is known about the dinosaur's journey from the earth to the Paris auction house.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In Paris, the skeleton of a small dinosaur that lived millions of years ago is up for auction, and auctioneers claim that its size "is perfect for someone's living room".

In Paris, the skeleton of a small dinosaur that lived millions of years ago is up for auction, and auctioneers claim that its size "is perfect for someone's living room". However, experts and palaeontologists say that the archaeological find belongs in a museum and not some rich guy's living room. The skeleton is believed to be of an iguanodon dinosaur and it measures about four feet (1.3 metres) tall and 9.8 feet (three metres) long, making it small enough to fit in a run-of-the-mill living room. But is it appropriate to showcase such a scientific discovery as a trophy? Palaeontologist Steve Brusatte, who works with the University of Edinburgh in Scotland, disagrees. It's "much more than just ornaments for the rich to put in their living rooms," he said while talking to Daily Mail. Watch | New York-based firm to conduct auction of Dinosaur skeleton "A dinosaur would look pretty good in my living room too, but they don't belong there. They belong in a museum, where they can be conserved, studied by scientists, and displayed to the public, where they educate and inspire", said Brusatte. Another palaeontologist, Thomas Carr of the Carthage College in Wisconsin believes that the specimen has been misidentified and is actually another herbivore called camptosaurus. Speaking to Daily Mail, he said that although he is not an expert on ornithopod dinosaurs, auction houses "shouldn't be in the business of selling things they know nothing about" if they "can't even identify the fossil correctly." Also read | 76 million-year-old dinosaur skeleton goes up for sale He contends that, contrary to what the auction company claims, there were no Iguanodon species in North America during the late Jurassic period. In recent times, Dinosaur bones have gone from being the subject of research to expensive art pieces. Once they were almost exclusively purchased by museums for reasonable prices are now sold to the highest bidder for millions. Auctioneer Alexandre Giquello, while talking to Reuters said that the specimen, known as "Zephyr," is the perfect size for a one-of-a-kind piece of home décor. It is estimated to sell for between 400,000 and 500,000 euros ($495,000). The dinosaur, which Italian palaeontologists partially reconstructed, was found in Moffat County, Colorado in 2019 when road construction was taking place on private property. Little is known about the dinosaur's journey from the earth to the Paris auction house. (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.

'Home décor or scientific discovery': Experts express dismay as dinosaur skeleton goes up for sale

The first study of its sort has found a link between economic inequality and the use of social networking sites and instant messaging services.&nbsp;

Studies show that teens from disadvantaged backgrounds are more likely to admit to having a social media addiction to Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and other platforms.

Michela Lenzi, an associate professor of psychology at the University of Padua in Italy and the study's principal author, believes that inequality may have detrimental impacts on kids' problematic social media use at the individual, school, and societal levels.

Watch |&nbsp;Social media addiction in Children: Who is responsible?

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The authors claim that the activities of governments may help in minimising the dysfunctional or unusual behaviour of youth.&nbsp;

"Policymakers should create initiatives to lessen disparities and restrict adolescents’ unhealthy social media usage behaviours."

"Social media is used frequently by young people, and both the risks and the benefits to well-being have been extensively studied."

The study's results were published in the peer-reviewed journal Information, Communication, and Society.

Problematic social media use (PSMU) is not officially recognised as a behavioural addiction. However, it is perceived as a health issue for young people.

Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology-revolution-boon-or-bane-501129">Is technology boon or bane?</a>

The problem is made worse in schools when there are social and economic gaps amongst the students.

Addiction-like symptoms include "preoccupation with social media, dissatisfaction about a lack of time for its use, feeling bad when not using it, trying but failing to spend less time using it, neglecting other duties to use social media, regular arguments over social media, lying to parents or friends about its use, using social media to escape from negative feelings, and having a severe conflict with family over social media use."

Any child who reported six or more items was identified as having PSMU.

The results, which were based on data collected from more than 179,000 children in 40 countries, according to the authors, show the need for new social media usage regulations that minimize the effects of poverty.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The first study of its sort has found a link between economic inequality and the use of social networking sites and instant messaging services. Studies show that teens from disadvantaged backgrounds are more likely to admit to having a social media addiction to Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and other platforms.

The first study of its sort has found a link between economic inequality and the use of social networking sites and instant messaging services. Studies show that teens from disadvantaged backgrounds are more likely to admit to having a social media addiction to Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and other platforms. Michela Lenzi, an associate professor of psychology at the University of Padua in Italy and the study's principal author, believes that inequality may have detrimental impacts on kids' problematic social media use at the individual, school, and societal levels. Watch | Social media addiction in Children: Who is responsible? The authors claim that the activities of governments may help in minimising the dysfunctional or unusual behaviour of youth. "Policymakers should create initiatives to lessen disparities and restrict adolescents’ unhealthy social media usage behaviours." "Social media is used frequently by young people, and both the risks and the benefits to well-being have been extensively studied." The study's results were published in the peer-reviewed journal Information, Communication, and Society. Problematic social media use (PSMU) is not officially recognised as a behavioural addiction. However, it is perceived as a health issue for young people. Also read | Is technology boon or bane? The problem is made worse in schools when there are social and economic gaps amongst the students. Addiction-like symptoms include "preoccupation with social media, dissatisfaction about a lack of time for its use, feeling bad when not using it, trying but failing to spend less time using it, neglecting other duties to use social media, regular arguments over social media, lying to parents or friends about its use, using social media to escape from negative feelings, and having a severe conflict with family over social media use." Any child who reported six or more items was identified as having PSMU. The results, which were based on data collected from more than 179,000 children in 40 countries, according to the authors, show the need for new social media usage regulations that minimize the effects of poverty. (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.

Children increasingly using social media to escape 'negative feelings': Report

There, it's been said premenstrual mood swings and anxiety are "key public health issue(s) globally".&nbsp;

Premenstrual symptoms are reported by more than 64 per cent of women globally during each menstrual cycle, reports IANS quoting a recent study.

28.61 per cent of women reported that premenstrual symptoms interfered with their daily activities every time they had a period, and another 34.84 per cent claimed that this happened sometimes.

Watch |&nbsp;Spain: First European country to offer paid menstrual leave

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Food cravings (85.28 per cent), mood changes or anxiety (64.18 per cent), and weariness (57.3 per cent) were the most frequently reported symptoms.

Jennifer L. Payne, director of the Reproductive Psychiatry Research Programme at the University of Virginia School of Medicine and one of the study's authors, said "our demonstrates that premenstrual mood symptoms are incredibly common worldwide."

"More importantly," she noted, "a majority of women reported that their premenstrual symptoms interfered with their everyday life at least some of the time."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-menstrual-hygiene-day-how-women-have-managed-periods-throughout-history-482520">Menstrual Hygiene Day: How women have managed periods throughout history</a>

According to the researchers, "premenstrual mood symptoms are a key public health issue globally" because at least 61 per cent of women in all age categories reported experiencing mood-related symptoms every menstrual cycle.

More than 238,000 survey responses from women ages 18 to 55 from 140 countries were analysed for the study, which was published in the Archives of Women's Mental Health.

Also read |&nbsp;​​​​​​​<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/chinese-man-goes-to-doctor-after-finding-blood-in-pee-turns-out-he-was-on-his-period-496368">Chinese man goes to doctor after finding blood in pee, turns out he was on his period</a>

The data was taken from an app called 'Flo' which assists women in tracking their menstrual cycle as well as their emotional and physical symptoms both during and after pregnancy.

Researchers have expressed hope that increasing healthcare practitioners' awareness of how frequently these symptoms—particularly anxiety and mood-related symptoms—occur, will help women avail better care.

"Increasing awareness of how common these symptoms are, and that if they impact functioning that there are treatments available, will help women improve their quality of life."

(With inputs from agencies)

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There, it's been said premenstrual mood swings and anxiety are "key public health issue(s) globally". Premenstrual symptoms are reported by more than 64 per cent of women globally during each menstrual cycle, reports IANS quoting a recent study.

There, it's been said premenstrual mood swings and anxiety are "key public health issue(s) globally". Premenstrual symptoms are reported by more than 64 per cent of women globally during each menstrual cycle, reports IANS quoting a recent study. 28.61 per cent of women reported that premenstrual symptoms interfered with their daily activities every time they had a period, and another 34.84 per cent claimed that this happened sometimes. Watch | Spain: First European country to offer paid menstrual leave Food cravings (85.28 per cent), mood changes or anxiety (64.18 per cent), and weariness (57.3 per cent) were the most frequently reported symptoms. Jennifer L. Payne, director of the Reproductive Psychiatry Research Programme at the University of Virginia School of Medicine and one of the study's authors, said "our demonstrates that premenstrual mood symptoms are incredibly common worldwide." "More importantly," she noted, "a majority of women reported that their premenstrual symptoms interfered with their everyday life at least some of the time." Also read | Menstrual Hygiene Day: How women have managed periods throughout history According to the researchers, "premenstrual mood symptoms are a key public health issue globally" because at least 61 per cent of women in all age categories reported experiencing mood-related symptoms every menstrual cycle. More than 238,000 survey responses from women ages 18 to 55 from 140 countries were analysed for the study, which was published in the Archives of Women's Mental Health. Also read | Chinese man goes to doctor after finding blood in pee, turns out he was on his period The data was taken from an app called 'Flo' which assists women in tracking their menstrual cycle as well as their emotional and physical symptoms both during and after pregnancy. Researchers have expressed hope that increasing healthcare practitioners' awareness of how frequently these symptoms—particularly anxiety and mood-related symptoms—occur, will help women avail better care. "Increasing awareness of how common these symptoms are, and that if they impact functioning that there are treatments available, will help women improve their quality of life." (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.

Finally! Research accepts PMS as a 'key public health issue globally' which interferes with women's lives

Secrets and unknown species abound in the waters of Earth's oceans. Among these mysterious species is one worm detected by scientists in 2020. Its iridescent colours reminded the discoverers so much of the king of rock'n'roll that they nicknamed it the "Elvis worm".

The sparkling Peinaleopolynoe&nbsp;were discovered 4,000 metres or 13,000 feet underwater in some of the Pacific ocean's deepest hydrothermal vents.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-have-discovered-africas-oldest-dinosaur-named-mbiresaurus-raathi-in-zimbabwe-512201" hreflang="en">Scientists have discovered Africa's oldest dinosaur named Mbiresaurus raathi in Zimbabwe</a>

Because of their shimmering scales, which are reminiscent of the sequined jumpsuits worn by Elvis Presley, they have been referred to as "Elvis worms"&nbsp;for years.

Their name Peinaleopolynoe is derived from the Greek word peinaléos, which means hungry or famished. According to the Guardian, the hungry scale-worms got their name because the first time they were seen, they were gathered around a pile of food that researchers had left on the deep-sea floor as something of an experiment.

Watch |&nbsp;Tech Talk: Japanese scientists unveil remote-controlled Cockroaches

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Avery Hiley, a graduate researcher at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in San Diego, while talking to Guardian said,&nbsp;"You'll see little pink sparkly worms, blue ones, red ones, black ones, and white ones."

<img alt="Elvis worm" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3025fb6a-fa98-4999-af64-b42c4421a657" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20wion%20%2835%29.png" />

(Image credits: Oceanfilly/Twitter)

The sparkly pink one is the one nicknamed "Elvis" worm by Hiley and her colleagues. They initially thought that there were multiple species of the worm but genetics test results found that it is one species that changes colours as "it develops from a juvenile to an adult form."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/research-shows-that-women-heart-diseases-are-often-overlooked-513011" hreflang="en">Research shows that women heart diseases are often overlooked</a>

Scale worms have been discovered on whale carcasses, volcanic seamounts, hydrothermal vents, cold seeps, etc., all habitats that house chemical-harnessing bacteria.

"They have jaws, which we suspect they use to graze bacteria," Hiley explains, adding that they believe the worms are bacteriovores.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Secrets and unknown species abound in the waters of Earth's oceans. Among these mysterious species is one worm detected by scientists in 2020. Its iridescent colours reminded the discoverers so much of the king of rock'n'roll that they nicknamed it the "Elvis worm".

Secrets and unknown species abound in the waters of Earth's oceans. Among these mysterious species is one worm detected by scientists in 2020. Its iridescent colours reminded the discoverers so much of the king of rock'n'roll that they nicknamed it the "Elvis worm". The sparkling Peinaleopolynoe were discovered 4,000 metres or 13,000 feet underwater in some of the Pacific ocean's deepest hydrothermal vents. Also read | Scientists have discovered Africa's oldest dinosaur named Mbiresaurus raathi in Zimbabwe Because of their shimmering scales, which are reminiscent of the sequined jumpsuits worn by Elvis Presley, they have been referred to as "Elvis worms" for years. Their name Peinaleopolynoe is derived from the Greek word peinaléos, which means hungry or famished. According to the Guardian, the hungry scale-worms got their name because the first time they were seen, they were gathered around a pile of food that researchers had left on the deep-sea floor as something of an experiment. Watch | Tech Talk: Japanese scientists unveil remote-controlled Cockroaches Avery Hiley, a graduate researcher at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in San Diego, while talking to Guardian said, "You'll see little pink sparkly worms, blue ones, red ones, black ones, and white ones." (Image credits: Oceanfilly/Twitter) The sparkly pink one is the one nicknamed "Elvis" worm by Hiley and her colleagues. They initially thought that there were multiple species of the worm but genetics test results found that it is one species that changes colours as "it develops from a juvenile to an adult form." Also read | Research shows that women heart diseases are often overlooked Scale worms have been discovered on whale carcasses, volcanic seamounts, hydrothermal vents, cold seeps, etc., all habitats that house chemical-harnessing bacteria. "They have jaws, which we suspect they use to graze bacteria," Hiley explains, adding that they believe the worms are bacteriovores. (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.

Mysteries of the ocean: Iridescent 'Elvis' worms that shimmer found thousands of feet underwater

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