Microorganisms' ability to adapt to the climate change can help reduce global warming by storing carbon in the soil, a recent study from Lund University in Sweden claims.

The researchers collected soil samples from across Europe in a wide range of temperatures, from minus 3.1 to 18.3 degrees Celsius. The samples unveiled microorganisms that are present in soil, such as bacteria and fungi, which are strongly adapted to their local climate for their growth and respiration.&nbsp;

The researchers also surprisingly demonstrated that the microorganisms can not only adapt to temperature changes but also benefit from them.

“Despite decades of scientific pondering, researchers have not been able to determine whether microorganisms can adapt to warming, and if they do. We can now confirm that this is the case, and that the organisms can actually mitigate climate warming,” says Carla Cruz Paredes, a biology researcher at Lund University.

<h2>Differences in microorganisms' temperature sensitivity can predict how global warming can affect soil</h2>

Published in the scientific journal Applied and Environmental Microbiology, the new study also reveals that the groups of microorganisms react differently to warming.

Bacteria and fungi react differently when it comes to temperature change as bacteria is more sensitive than fungi.

The differences in the temperature sensitivity hold significance for predicting the carbon losses that are likely to happen in the future and the way the soil can be affected by global warming.

“The outcome of these varying sensitivities to growth and respiration at different temperatures, and between bacteria and fungi, will impact the carbon balance between the soil and the atmosphere, and thus the soil’s feedback on climate warming,” says Carla Cruz Paredes.

The study also emphasizes on the importance of correctly representing microbial responses to climate warming in models of soil carbon content. The research also indicates that ecological responses from the Earth's microorganisms will play a key role in regulating the planet's climate.

"Climate warming is one of the biggest threats to our environment. To mitigate global warming, it is necessary to enhance the soil’s ability to store or sequester carbon and reduce carbon emissions into the atmosphere. This study is a step forward in providing better predictions for the assessments of the UN’s climate panel," says Carla Cruz Paredes.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Microorganisms' ability to adapt to the climate change can help reduce global warming by storing carbon in the soil, a recent study from Lund University in Sweden claims.

Microorganisms' ability to adapt to the climate change can help reduce global warming by storing carbon in the soil, a recent study from Lund University in Sweden claims. The researchers collected soil samples from across Europe in a wide range of temperatures, from minus 3.1 to 18.3 degrees Celsius. The samples unveiled microorganisms that are present in soil, such as bacteria and fungi, which are strongly adapted to their local climate for their growth and respiration. The researchers also surprisingly demonstrated that the microorganisms can not only adapt to temperature changes but also benefit from them. “Despite decades of scientific pondering, researchers have not been able to determine whether microorganisms can adapt to warming, and if they do. We can now confirm that this is the case, and that the organisms can actually mitigate climate warming,” says Carla Cruz Paredes, a biology researcher at Lund University. Differences in microorganisms' temperature sensitivity can predict how global warming can affect soil Published in the scientific journal Applied and Environmental Microbiology, the new study also reveals that the groups of microorganisms react differently to warming. Bacteria and fungi react differently when it comes to temperature change as bacteria is more sensitive than fungi. The differences in the temperature sensitivity hold significance for predicting the carbon losses that are likely to happen in the future and the way the soil can be affected by global warming. “The outcome of these varying sensitivities to growth and respiration at different temperatures, and between bacteria and fungi, will impact the carbon balance between the soil and the atmosphere, and thus the soil’s feedback on climate warming,” says Carla Cruz Paredes. The study also emphasizes on the importance of correctly representing microbial responses to climate warming in models of soil carbon content. The research also indicates that ecological responses from the Earth's microorganisms will play a key role in regulating the planet's climate. "Climate warming is one of the biggest threats to our environment. To mitigate global warming, it is necessary to enhance the soil’s ability to store or sequester carbon and reduce carbon emissions into the atmosphere. This study is a step forward in providing better predictions for the assessments of the UN’s climate panel," says Carla Cruz Paredes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Microorganisms' ability to adapt to climate change can help reduce global warming, claims study

Scientists have found what they think to be the origin of massive underwater landslides in Antarctica, which might have resulted in tsunami waves that swept throughout the southern hemisphere hundreds of thousands of years ago. The explanation is well-known: climate change.

But not today's climate change, but climatic change in the distant past. A team of researchers led by Jenny Gales, a lecturer at the University of Plymouth, identified layers of fragile, fossilised, environmentally rich sediments hundreds of metres beneath the seafloor.

According to a <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-38240-y">study</a> published earlier this month in Nature Communications by the researchers, these weak layers left the area susceptible to collapse when earthquakes or other seismic activity occurred.

Based on research, those thin layers originated when temperatures in Antarctica were up to 3 degrees Celsius hotter than they are now, and when sea levels were higher and ice sheets were considerably less than they are now.

If all of that sounds familiar, it's because our planet is already undergoing many similar changes, including rising sea levels, warmer oceans, and disappearing ice sheets. This suggests that such massive underwater landslides are likely to occur again if climate change continues unchecked.

“We need to better understand the extent of the weak layers that sit beneath the submarine landslides in Antarctica that make this area unstable. We also need to better understand exactly how climate is influencing the triggering of these submarine landslides. This will give us a better understanding of the future risks posed by these hazardous events,” Jenny Gales told the Indian Express.

<h2>Risks of underwater landslides</h2>

Underwater landslides, according to Gales, are a massive&nbsp;danger with the potential to create tsunamis that can result in large&nbsp;casualties. These landslides have the potential to harm infrastructure, including subsea cables. "The submarine landslides are dated to around 400,000 years ago, 1.72 million years ago, and 12.14 million years ago, and any tsunami associated with these submarine landslides would have happened directly after the submarine landslide events," Gales explained, referring to landslide evidence discovered in 2017 by an international team of scientists during the Italian Odyssea&nbsp;expedition.

The scientists revisited to the location in 2018 as part of an expedition that gathered sediment cores from hundreds of metres below the seafloor. They studied the materials to determine what the climate would have been like in the region millions of years ago and how it generated the weak layers beneath the ocean floor.&nbsp;

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Scientists have found what they think to be the origin of massive underwater landslides in Antarctica, which might have resulted in tsunami waves that swept throughout the southern hemisphere hundreds of thousands of years ago.

Scientists have found what they think to be the origin of massive underwater landslides in Antarctica, which might have resulted in tsunami waves that swept throughout the southern hemisphere hundreds of thousands of years ago. The explanation is well-known: climate change. But not today's climate change, but climatic change in the distant past. A team of researchers led by Jenny Gales, a lecturer at the University of Plymouth, identified layers of fragile, fossilised, environmentally rich sediments hundreds of metres beneath the seafloor. According to a study published earlier this month in Nature Communications by the researchers, these weak layers left the area susceptible to collapse when earthquakes or other seismic activity occurred. Based on research, those thin layers originated when temperatures in Antarctica were up to 3 degrees Celsius hotter than they are now, and when sea levels were higher and ice sheets were considerably less than they are now. If all of that sounds familiar, it's because our planet is already undergoing many similar changes, including rising sea levels, warmer oceans, and disappearing ice sheets. This suggests that such massive underwater landslides are likely to occur again if climate change continues unchecked. “We need to better understand the extent of the weak layers that sit beneath the submarine landslides in Antarctica that make this area unstable. We also need to better understand exactly how climate is influencing the triggering of these submarine landslides. This will give us a better understanding of the future risks posed by these hazardous events,” Jenny Gales told the Indian Express. Risks of underwater landslides Underwater landslides, according to Gales, are a massive danger with the potential to create tsunamis that can result in large casualties. These landslides have the potential to harm infrastructure, including subsea cables. "The submarine landslides are dated to around 400,000 years ago, 1.72 million years ago, and 12.14 million years ago, and any tsunami associated with these submarine landslides would have happened directly after the submarine landslide events," Gales explained, referring to landslide evidence discovered in 2017 by an international team of scientists during the Italian Odyssea expedition. The scientists revisited to the location in 2018 as part of an expedition that gathered sediment cores from hundreds of metres below the seafloor. They studied the materials to determine what the climate would have been like in the region millions of years ago and how it generated the weak layers beneath the ocean floor. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Massive underwater landslides in Antarctica triggered by past climate change: Study

A sunspot&nbsp;has grown large enough to be visible from earth without magnification—but only with proper eye protection.

Sunspot AR3310, a black area on the sun facing us, has grown large enough that it can be seen without a telescope, and is almost four times the size of earth. South Korean astronomer Bum-Suk Yeom shared a chart of the sunspot, comparing its size to that of earth.

"A giant sunspot is crossing the sun's disk, and I could see it clearly with solar glasses," said Yeom, per spaceweather.com, adding: "Caution! You must use eclipse glasses or solar filters to protect your eyes."

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Observers in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Nebraska were able to photograph the sunspot&nbsp;without the need of glasses on Monday, owing&nbsp;to smoke from neighbouring wildfires acting as a natural filter for the setting sun, according to spaceweather.com.

Looking directly at the sun without protective eyewear, on the other hand, is exceedingly harmful since UV rays from the sun may burn your retinas and cause irreversible&nbsp;damage.

<h2>Sunspot -&nbsp;AR3310: What exactly is it?</h2>

Experts have been keeping a close&nbsp;eye on this particular sunspot, called AR3310, as it&nbsp;faces&nbsp;the earth.

Sunspots are places where the magnetic fields of the sun are unusually active. As it travelled around the sun's limb, it emitted a significant solar flare, a massive explosion that shoots energy, light, and high-speed particles into space, as reported by the Business Insider.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ai-discovers-new-antibiotic-that-can-kill-deadly-hospital-superbug-596616">AI discovers new antibiotic that can kill deadly hospital superbug</a>

That flare was classified as a high-level M-flare, the second highest level on a scale that ranks the power of solar flares.

As noted by&nbsp;spaceweather.com, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which monitors space weather, there is a 20 per cent&nbsp;probability that the point will emit a massive X-class flare while still facing earth.

<h2>Can it trigger storms?</h2>

A flare of this scale might cause radio blackouts, which would have an impact on aviation, as well as long-lasting radiation storms.

These radiation storms can produce stunning auroras, but they can also disrupt electricity systems and pipelines if the flare is aimed directly at us.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-spacecraft-discovers-how-jupiters-lightning-shares-similarity-with-earths-596297">NASA spacecraft discovers how Jupiter's lightning shares similarity with Earth's</a>

This is the latest in a string of spectacular solar sightings in recent months. The sun is presently at the apex of its 11-year cycle, when sunspots like this one are more likely to form.

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A sunspot has grown large enough to be visible from earth without magnification—but only with proper eye protection. Sunspot AR3310, a black area on the sun facing us, has grown large enough that it can be seen without a telescope, and is almost four times the size of earth.

A sunspot has grown large enough to be visible from earth without magnification—but only with proper eye protection. Sunspot AR3310, a black area on the sun facing us, has grown large enough that it can be seen without a telescope, and is almost four times the size of earth. South Korean astronomer Bum-Suk Yeom shared a chart of the sunspot, comparing its size to that of earth. "A giant sunspot is crossing the sun's disk, and I could see it clearly with solar glasses," said Yeom, per spaceweather.com, adding: "Caution! You must use eclipse glasses or solar filters to protect your eyes." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bum-Suk Yeom (@bumsuk_yeom) × Observers in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Nebraska were able to photograph the sunspot without the need of glasses on Monday, owing to smoke from neighbouring wildfires acting as a natural filter for the setting sun, according to spaceweather.com. Looking directly at the sun without protective eyewear, on the other hand, is exceedingly harmful since UV rays from the sun may burn your retinas and cause irreversible damage. Sunspot - AR3310: What exactly is it? Experts have been keeping a close eye on this particular sunspot, called AR3310, as it faces the earth. Sunspots are places where the magnetic fields of the sun are unusually active. As it travelled around the sun's limb, it emitted a significant solar flare, a massive explosion that shoots energy, light, and high-speed particles into space, as reported by the Business Insider. ALSO READ | AI discovers new antibiotic that can kill deadly hospital superbug That flare was classified as a high-level M-flare, the second highest level on a scale that ranks the power of solar flares. As noted by spaceweather.com, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which monitors space weather, there is a 20 per cent probability that the point will emit a massive X-class flare while still facing earth. Can it trigger storms? A flare of this scale might cause radio blackouts, which would have an impact on aviation, as well as long-lasting radiation storms. These radiation storms can produce stunning auroras, but they can also disrupt electricity systems and pipelines if the flare is aimed directly at us. ALSO READ | NASA spacecraft discovers how Jupiter's lightning shares similarity with Earth's This is the latest in a string of spectacular solar sightings in recent months. The sun is presently at the apex of its 11-year cycle, when sunspots like this one are more likely to form. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Sunspot four times bigger than earth is visible right now. Here's how you can see it.

The plastics industry has championed recycling as a critical solution to the rising problem of plastic waste. However, new research has found that recycling itself may be producing massive amounts of microplastics.

An international team of experts collected wastewater from a cutting-edge recycling plant in an unknown site in the United Kingdom. They discovered that microplastics discharged into the water accounted for 13 per cent&nbsp;of all plastic processed, as reported by the Guardian.

Based to their estimates, the plant might be emitting up to 75 billion plastic particles every cubic metre of effluent.

“I was incredibly shocked,” said Erina Brown, the lead researcher of the study, conducted at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow.

“It’s scary because recycling has been designed in order to reduce the problem and to protect the environment. This is a huge problem we’re creating,” she told&nbsp;the Guardian.

The researchers analysed the water before and after the facility installed a water filtration system and discovered that the filter decreased microplastic concentrations from 13 per cent&nbsp;to 6 per cent&nbsp;of the plastic processed.

Brown stated that the bulk of the particles were less than 10 microns, or around the diameter of a human red blood cell, with more than 80 per cent&nbsp;being smaller than five microns.

<h2>Where else are&nbsp;microplastics found?</h2>

Microplastics, defined as any plastic particle less than 5mm in size, have been discovered everywhere: from freshly fallen snow in Antarctica to the depths of the ocean and inside human organs. They can be hazardous to animals and plants.

ALSO READ <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ocean-plastic-pollution-reaches-unprecedented-levels-since-15-years-570377">|&nbsp;Ocean plastic pollution reaches 'unprecedented levels' since 2005</a>

The findings also found a significant concentration of microplastics in the air near the recycling plant, with 61 per cent&nbsp;of the particles being smaller than 10 millimetres in size. Human illness has been connected to particulate matter smaller than 10 millimetres.

Brown described the facility as a "best case scenario" since it had taken attempts to incorporate water filtering, something many other recycling companies may not have done.&nbsp;According to the research, the recycling facility emitted up to 2,933 metric tonnes of microplastics per year before the filtering system was installed, and up to 1,366 metric tonnes thereafter.

“More than 90 per cent&nbsp;of the particles we found were under 10 microns and 80 per cent&nbsp;were under 5 microns,” said Brown.

“These are digestible by so many different organisms and found to be ingested by humans," she added.

Only around 9 per cent&nbsp;of the 370 million metric tonnes of plastic generated globally is recycled.

<h2>Defining microplastics</h2>

Microplastics, as the name suggests are&nbsp;small plastic particles. Officially, they are described as plastics with a diameter of less than five millimetres (0.2 inches) smaller in diameter than a normal pearl used in jewellery. Microplastics are classified into two types: the primary and secondary, as per&nbsp;National Geographic.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Western US states reach deal on colorado river conservation

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Microfibres shed from clothes and other fabrics, such as fishing nets, are examples of primary microplastics. Secondary microplastics are particles that form when bigger plastic products, such as water bottles, degrade. This disintegration is produced by exposure to environmental elements, including sunlight and ocean waves.

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The plastics industry has championed recycling as a critical solution to the rising problem of plastic waste. However, new research has found that recycling itself may be producing massive amounts of microplastics.

The plastics industry has championed recycling as a critical solution to the rising problem of plastic waste. However, new research has found that recycling itself may be producing massive amounts of microplastics. An international team of experts collected wastewater from a cutting-edge recycling plant in an unknown site in the United Kingdom. They discovered that microplastics discharged into the water accounted for 13 per cent of all plastic processed, as reported by the Guardian. Based to their estimates, the plant might be emitting up to 75 billion plastic particles every cubic metre of effluent. “I was incredibly shocked,” said Erina Brown, the lead researcher of the study, conducted at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow. “It’s scary because recycling has been designed in order to reduce the problem and to protect the environment. This is a huge problem we’re creating,” she told the Guardian. The researchers analysed the water before and after the facility installed a water filtration system and discovered that the filter decreased microplastic concentrations from 13 per cent to 6 per cent of the plastic processed. Brown stated that the bulk of the particles were less than 10 microns, or around the diameter of a human red blood cell, with more than 80 per cent being smaller than five microns. Where else are microplastics found? Microplastics, defined as any plastic particle less than 5mm in size, have been discovered everywhere: from freshly fallen snow in Antarctica to the depths of the ocean and inside human organs. They can be hazardous to animals and plants. ALSO READ | Ocean plastic pollution reaches 'unprecedented levels' since 2005 The findings also found a significant concentration of microplastics in the air near the recycling plant, with 61 per cent of the particles being smaller than 10 millimetres in size. Human illness has been connected to particulate matter smaller than 10 millimetres. Brown described the facility as a "best case scenario" since it had taken attempts to incorporate water filtering, something many other recycling companies may not have done. According to the research, the recycling facility emitted up to 2,933 metric tonnes of microplastics per year before the filtering system was installed, and up to 1,366 metric tonnes thereafter. “More than 90 per cent of the particles we found were under 10 microns and 80 per cent were under 5 microns,” said Brown. “These are digestible by so many different organisms and found to be ingested by humans," she added. Only around 9 per cent of the 370 million metric tonnes of plastic generated globally is recycled. Defining microplastics Microplastics, as the name suggests are small plastic particles. Officially, they are described as plastics with a diameter of less than five millimetres (0.2 inches) smaller in diameter than a normal pearl used in jewellery. Microplastics are classified into two types: the primary and secondary, as per National Geographic. ALSO WATCH | Western US states reach deal on colorado river conservation Microfibres shed from clothes and other fabrics, such as fishing nets, are examples of primary microplastics. Secondary microplastics are particles that form when bigger plastic products, such as water bottles, degrade. This disintegration is produced by exposure to environmental elements, including sunlight and ocean waves. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Recycling of plastics can generate large amounts of microplastics: Study

The human skin contains mechanoreceptors that can sense something as delicate as the weight of a butterfly, or&nbsp;heat or cold from a nearby object. It can also detect the delicate rhythm of a loved one's heartbeat and whether the hand raised at us is raised in a fist of aggression or a peace sign. But for people with prosthetic limbs these sensations, good or bad, are something they miss. Now, researchers have found a way that can help restore these sensations for amputees through electronic skin.

Stanford University's Bao Research Group has developed a soft, flexible electronic skin that can mimic the process that causes a finger or a toe to react and move away when poked, or when they touch a hot surface.

"This current e-skin really has all the attributes that we have been dreaming about," says chemical engineer Zhenan Bao of Stanford University.&nbsp;

"We have been talking about it for a long time."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/what-the-hell-gen-z-more-likely-to-believe-in-damnation-after-death-finds-study-594238">What the 'hell'? Gen Z more likely to believe in damnation after death, finds study</a>

This technology, as per Nature, could lead to the development of a covering for prosthetic limbs. The best part about this breakthrough soft "e-skin" is that it can directly transmit electrical signals to the wearer's brain to allow them to ‘feel’ pressure, strain or changes in temperature.

Unlike previous attempts, this new e-skin uses soft integrated circuits to convert sensory information, such as pressure and temperature, into electrical signals similar to nerve impulses.&nbsp;

The goal is to use this technology in prosthetic limbs to provide sensory feedback and improve control for amputees.&nbsp;

In an experiment, the newly developed electronic skin was tested on a rat. The e-skin was connected to the rat's somatosensory cortex, which is the region of the brain involved in processing physical sensations.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/wion-explains-new-york-the-city-that-never-sleeps-may-soon-lie-in-slumber-under-the-sea-594202">WION Explains | New York, the city that never sleeps, may soon lie in slumber under the sea</a>

When the electronic skin was stimulated by touch, it generated an electrical signal that was transmitted to the brain. From there, the signal passed through an artificial synapse to the rat's sciatic nerve located in its leg, resulting in a twitching motion of the limb.

Bao says that in the future, they hope to develop a less invasive system that won't have to be implanted into the brain.

"We envision that for people who lost their limbs, we don’t have to implant into the brain," she said as per Nature.&nbsp;

"We could have an implant in the peripheral nervous system."

The current version of the e-skin has to be wired to an external power source, but the researchers hope to ultimately develop a wireless device.&nbsp;"This new e-skin runs on just 5 volts and can detect stimuli similar to real skin," described Weichen Wang, a doctoral candidate in Bao's lab, the first author of the paper.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The human skin contains mechanoreceptors that can sense something as delicate as the weight of a butterfly, or heat or cold from a nearby object. It can also detect the delicate rhythm of a loved one's heartbeat and whether the hand raised at us is raised in a fist of aggression or a peace sign.

The human skin contains mechanoreceptors that can sense something as delicate as the weight of a butterfly, or heat or cold from a nearby object. It can also detect the delicate rhythm of a loved one's heartbeat and whether the hand raised at us is raised in a fist of aggression or a peace sign. But for people with prosthetic limbs these sensations, good or bad, are something they miss. Now, researchers have found a way that can help restore these sensations for amputees through electronic skin. Stanford University's Bao Research Group has developed a soft, flexible electronic skin that can mimic the process that causes a finger or a toe to react and move away when poked, or when they touch a hot surface. "This current e-skin really has all the attributes that we have been dreaming about," says chemical engineer Zhenan Bao of Stanford University. "We have been talking about it for a long time." Also read | What the 'hell'? Gen Z more likely to believe in damnation after death, finds study This technology, as per Nature, could lead to the development of a covering for prosthetic limbs. The best part about this breakthrough soft "e-skin" is that it can directly transmit electrical signals to the wearer's brain to allow them to ‘feel’ pressure, strain or changes in temperature. Unlike previous attempts, this new e-skin uses soft integrated circuits to convert sensory information, such as pressure and temperature, into electrical signals similar to nerve impulses. The goal is to use this technology in prosthetic limbs to provide sensory feedback and improve control for amputees. In an experiment, the newly developed electronic skin was tested on a rat. The e-skin was connected to the rat's somatosensory cortex, which is the region of the brain involved in processing physical sensations. Also read | WION Explains | New York, the city that never sleeps, may soon lie in slumber under the sea When the electronic skin was stimulated by touch, it generated an electrical signal that was transmitted to the brain. From there, the signal passed through an artificial synapse to the rat's sciatic nerve located in its leg, resulting in a twitching motion of the limb. Bao says that in the future, they hope to develop a less invasive system that won't have to be implanted into the brain. "We envision that for people who lost their limbs, we don’t have to implant into the brain," she said as per Nature. "We could have an implant in the peripheral nervous system." The current version of the e-skin has to be wired to an external power source, but the researchers hope to ultimately develop a wireless device. "This new e-skin runs on just 5 volts and can detect stimuli similar to real skin," described Weichen Wang, a doctoral candidate in Bao's lab, the first author of the paper. (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.

Stanford researchers develop 'e-skin' that can help amputees experience touch

Rising temperatures, heat waves, droughts and forest fires have all become a reality. With climate change steadily affecting the Earth's temperatures, the need to stay cool has become more pressing.&nbsp;As per a recent report, to combat the heat, billions of people are now opting for cheap, pocket-friendly air conditioners that are further adding to the rising temperatures.

In tropical countries,&nbsp;the rising temperatures have increasingly begun pushing normal summer temperatures into dangerous territory, and in temperate countries, heat waves that were previously unimaginable are becoming more common.

<h2>How are people dealing with the heat?</h2>

According to a report by Sustainable Energy for All, to deal with the rising temperatures, approximately 2.4 billion rural and urban poor individuals are on the verge of purchasing the most affordable cooling appliance available to them, regardless of its efficiency.

The report states that while the mass adoption of inexpensive air conditioners may serve as a quick solution to combat the effects of a hotter climate, it also poses complications for the global energy transition.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-temperatures-set-to-break-records-in-next-five-years-might-hit-key-warming-threshold-un-593411">Global temperatures set to break records in next five years, might hit key warming threshold: UN</a>

<h2>How air conditioners are landing us in 'hot soup'</h2>

In a special report released in 2018, the International Energy Agency (IEA) had warned that cooling would be "one of the leading contributors to global electricity demand over the next three decades".&nbsp;The IEA estimates that approximately 10 new air conditioners will be sold every second between now and 2050.

The increased use of air conditioning puts additional strain on local power supplies and undermines efforts to shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources.

<h2>How much energy are air conditioners consuming?</h2>

Currently, space cooling—which includes fans, dehumidifiers, and air conditioners—consumes over 2,000 terawatt hours (TWh) of electricity annually. To put this into perspective, that is two and a half times the total electricity used across Africa. As per the IEA, this&nbsp;accounts for around 10 per cent of global electricity consumption.&nbsp;

Bloomberg reports that based on existing policies and targets, this demand is projected to surge more than three times, to 6,200 TWh by 2050, with nearly 70 per cent of the increase attributed to residential air conditioning units.

In certain regions, such as parts of the US and the Middle East, space cooling already surpasses two-thirds of peak electricity demand on hot days. For instance, in Saudi Arabia, air conditioning alone accounts for 70 per cent of the country's total annual electricity demand.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-planning-to-combat-heatwave-crisis-most-advanced-study-593339">India's planning to combat heatwave crisis 'most advanced': Study</a>

<h2>What is&nbsp;the expected energy consumption of air conditioners in the future?</h2>

By 2050, space cooling is expected to overtake appliances as the largest consumer of electricity in buildings worldwide. To fulfil this demand, an additional capacity of 2,500 gigawatts would be required, which is equivalent to the current combined energy generation capacity of the United States, Europe, and India, according to the IEA.

The report predicts that countries with anticipated significant growth in cooling demand, particularly India, China, and Indonesia, would need to invest in substantial and expensive peak power capacity to meet the projected cooling needs.

<h2>But how are ACs contributing to rising temperatures?</h2>

It is all about the efficiency of cooling appliances.&nbsp;Often, consumers prioritise affordability over energy efficiency when purchasing new air conditioners.&nbsp;

As per the IEA,&nbsp;the average air conditioner sold in 2018 was only half as efficient as the typical appliance and only one-third as efficient as the best technology on the market.

<h2>What can countries do to promote energy-efficient air conditioners?</h2>

According to the IEA, countries could reward the purchase of energy-efficient cooling devices. As per the agency, implementing policies that mandate or incentivise the purchase of more efficient air conditioning units could reduce energy demand by 45 per cent and also lower investment and operational costs for the electricity network by $3 trillion.

<h2>Would that be enough?</h2>

Sadly, no. Even under an optimistic scenario that assumes the widespread adoption of more efficient cooling technology, the projected energy demand is likely to exceed the IEA's estimates for global warming by no more than 2 degrees Celsius.

Research conducted by the Centre for Sustainable Cooling at the University of Birmingham suggests that if everyone had access to the necessary cooling, including refrigerators for food and medicine, as well as air conditioners in cars and homes, the associated energy demand would be three times higher than the IEA's estimates by 2030.

However, according to a report by Sustainable Energy for All, an estimated 1.2 billion people living in rural and urban poor communities still lack&nbsp;access to cooling, including refrigeration and air conditioning.

<h2>How many ACs would the world require to cool the entire human population?&nbsp;</h2>

To meet the growing cooling needs, the Centre for Sustainable Cooling estimates that the world would require an additional 14 billion cooling devices by 2050. This is nearly four times the current number of 3.6 billion devices.

Furthermore, the volume of electricity required to power all these cooling devices, as estimated by the Centre, would amount to more than 80 per cent of the IEA's projected renewable capacity for 2050. In the worst-case scenario where new technologies for improving appliance efficiency are not adopted, this figure could surpass 100 per cent.

The report warns that even with improving AC efficiency, if renewable energy capacity does not continue to expand, the impact of millions more air conditioners would be far more significant. By 2030, it could result in over 2 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions per year, surpassing the entire emissions of the European Union in 2021.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Rising temperatures, heat waves, droughts and forest fires have all become a reality. With climate change steadily affecting the Earth's temperatures, the need to stay cool has become more pressing.

Rising temperatures, heat waves, droughts and forest fires have all become a reality. With climate change steadily affecting the Earth's temperatures, the need to stay cool has become more pressing. As per a recent report, to combat the heat, billions of people are now opting for cheap, pocket-friendly air conditioners that are further adding to the rising temperatures. In tropical countries, the rising temperatures have increasingly begun pushing normal summer temperatures into dangerous territory, and in temperate countries, heat waves that were previously unimaginable are becoming more common. How are people dealing with the heat? According to a report by Sustainable Energy for All, to deal with the rising temperatures, approximately 2.4 billion rural and urban poor individuals are on the verge of purchasing the most affordable cooling appliance available to them, regardless of its efficiency. The report states that while the mass adoption of inexpensive air conditioners may serve as a quick solution to combat the effects of a hotter climate, it also poses complications for the global energy transition. Also read | Global temperatures set to break records in next five years, might hit key warming threshold: UN How air conditioners are landing us in 'hot soup' In a special report released in 2018, the International Energy Agency (IEA) had warned that cooling would be "one of the leading contributors to global electricity demand over the next three decades". The IEA estimates that approximately 10 new air conditioners will be sold every second between now and 2050. The increased use of air conditioning puts additional strain on local power supplies and undermines efforts to shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. How much energy are air conditioners consuming? Currently, space cooling—which includes fans, dehumidifiers, and air conditioners—consumes over 2,000 terawatt hours (TWh) of electricity annually. To put this into perspective, that is two and a half times the total electricity used across Africa. As per the IEA, this accounts for around 10 per cent of global electricity consumption. Bloomberg reports that based on existing policies and targets, this demand is projected to surge more than three times, to 6,200 TWh by 2050, with nearly 70 per cent of the increase attributed to residential air conditioning units. In certain regions, such as parts of the US and the Middle East, space cooling already surpasses two-thirds of peak electricity demand on hot days. For instance, in Saudi Arabia, air conditioning alone accounts for 70 per cent of the country's total annual electricity demand. Also read | India's planning to combat heatwave crisis 'most advanced': Study What is the expected energy consumption of air conditioners in the future? By 2050, space cooling is expected to overtake appliances as the largest consumer of electricity in buildings worldwide. To fulfil this demand, an additional capacity of 2,500 gigawatts would be required, which is equivalent to the current combined energy generation capacity of the United States, Europe, and India, according to the IEA. The report predicts that countries with anticipated significant growth in cooling demand, particularly India, China, and Indonesia, would need to invest in substantial and expensive peak power capacity to meet the projected cooling needs. But how are ACs contributing to rising temperatures? It is all about the efficiency of cooling appliances. Often, consumers prioritise affordability over energy efficiency when purchasing new air conditioners. As per the IEA, the average air conditioner sold in 2018 was only half as efficient as the typical appliance and only one-third as efficient as the best technology on the market. What can countries do to promote energy-efficient air conditioners? According to the IEA, countries could reward the purchase of energy-efficient cooling devices. As per the agency, implementing policies that mandate or incentivise the purchase of more efficient air conditioning units could reduce energy demand by 45 per cent and also lower investment and operational costs for the electricity network by $3 trillion. Would that be enough? Sadly, no. Even under an optimistic scenario that assumes the widespread adoption of more efficient cooling technology, the projected energy demand is likely to exceed the IEA's estimates for global warming by no more than 2 degrees Celsius. Research conducted by the Centre for Sustainable Cooling at the University of Birmingham suggests that if everyone had access to the necessary cooling, including refrigerators for food and medicine, as well as air conditioners in cars and homes, the associated energy demand would be three times higher than the IEA's estimates by 2030. However, according to a report by Sustainable Energy for All, an estimated 1.2 billion people living in rural and urban poor communities still lack access to cooling, including refrigeration and air conditioning. How many ACs would the world require to cool the entire human population? To meet the growing cooling needs, the Centre for Sustainable Cooling estimates that the world would require an additional 14 billion cooling devices by 2050. This is nearly four times the current number of 3.6 billion devices. Furthermore, the volume of electricity required to power all these cooling devices, as estimated by the Centre, would amount to more than 80 per cent of the IEA's projected renewable capacity for 2050. In the worst-case scenario where new technologies for improving appliance efficiency are not adopted, this figure could surpass 100 per cent. The report warns that even with improving AC efficiency, if renewable energy capacity does not continue to expand, the impact of millions more air conditioners would be far more significant. By 2030, it could result in over 2 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions per year, surpassing the entire emissions of the European Union in 2021. (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.

Explained: Global warming pushing billions to buy air conditioners. Here’s how that’s adding to climate change

Experts have raised concerns that next year's elections in the UK and the US may be plagued by a surge of AI-driven disinformation. They warn that the proliferation of Artificial Intelligence generated images, text, and deep fake videos, spread by swarms of AI-powered propaganda bots, could have a significant impact.&nbsp;

In recent days, concerns about AI have soared, particularly following breakthroughs in generative AI technology.&nbsp;

<h2>Why is AI a concern now?</h2>

As per the Guardian, while earlier waves of "propaganda bots" relied on simple pre-written messages or "paid trolls", tools like ChatGPT and Midjourney hold the ability to produce realistic text, images, and even voice on command. This has raised concerns about interactive election interference on a large scale.

A study by NewsGuard, an organisation that monitors misinformation, tested ChatGPT and Google's Bard chatbot and found that they were capable of generating false news narratives when prompted. This highlights the potential for AI tools to mass-produce variations of fake stories, which raises concerns about the deliberate dissemination of false information.

On Friday, NewsGuard also announced that there has been a two-fold increase in AI-generated news and information websites, which have more than doubled to 125 in two weeks.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-leaders-call-for-responsible-use-of-generative-artificial-intelligence-594471">G7 leaders call for 'responsible' use of generative Artificial Intelligence</a>

<h2>OpenAI CEO Sam Altman's warning about&nbsp;ChatGPT and other AI models</h2>

Earlier this week, on Tuesday, Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, and the creator of ChatGPT, warned that the latest generation of AI models has the potential to manipulate users.

Highlighting the need for regulation, public education, and transparency regarding the use of AI, he said, "The general ability of these models to manipulate and persuade, to provide one-on-one interactive disinformation is a significant area of concern."

"Regulation would be quite wise: people need to know if they’re talking to an AI, or if content that they’re looking at is generated or not. The ability to really model … to predict humans, I think is going to require a combination of companies doing the right thing, regulation and public education," he added.

<h2>AI-powered disinformation</h2>

Professor Michael Wooldridge of the Alan Turing Institute identified AI-powered disinformation as his primary concern about the technology. He noted that generative AI can generate disinformation on an "industrial scale".

"Right now in terms of my worries for AI, it is number one on the list. We have elections coming up in the UK and the US and we know social media is an incredibly powerful conduit for misinformation. But we now know that generative AI can produce disinformation on an industrial scale."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/what-the-hell-gen-z-more-likely-to-believe-in-damnation-after-death-finds-study-594238">What the 'hell'? Gen Z more likely to believe in damnation after death, finds study</a>

He said chatbots like ChatGPT can produce tailored misinformation targeted at specific political groups or demographics, adding that "it's an afternoon's work for somebody with a bit of programming experience to create fake identities and just start generating these fake news stories."

<h2>AI-generated images</h2>

AI-generated imagery is another problem. Remember the pictures of Donald Trump getting arrested and the Pope in a 'dope' puffer jacket? That's the work of artificial intelligence.

Earlier this year, as these images went viral,&nbsp;many people&nbsp;raised concerns about the potential use of generated imagery to cause confusion and misinformation.

However, Sam Altman, while addressing US Senators, suggested that these concerns might be exaggerated or blown out of proportion. He compared AI-generated images to the earlier adoption of Photoshop.

He said that people eventually developed an understanding that images could be manipulated.

"Photoshop came on to the scene a long time ago and for a while people were really quite fooled by Photoshopped images – then pretty quickly developed an understanding that images might be Photoshopped."

However, in spite of Altman's statement, as AI capabilities advance, there are concerns that it is becoming&nbsp;increasingly difficult to trust things on social media and that as the technology develops further, the difficulty in differentiating between misinformation and purposeful disinformation will only increase.

<h2>AI and voice cloning</h2>

In January, voice cloning gained significant attention when a manipulated video of US President Joe Biden surfaced. The original footage, in which he discussed sending tanks to Ukraine, was altered using voice simulation technology to make it appear as though he was attacking transgender people. The doctored video was widely circulated on social media platforms.

The growing availability of voice cloning services, including the cloning of corporate executives and public figures, raises concerns about its potential misuse.

Recorded Future, a US cybersecurity firm, warned that rogue actors could sell voice cloning services online.

Alexander Leslie, an analyst with the firm, said that the technology is improving and poses a heightened threat as the US presidential election approaches.&nbsp;

"Without widespread education and awareness, this could become a real threat vector as we head into the presidential election," he said.

Steven Brill, the co-CEO of NewsGuard, expressed concern about the potential misuse of chatbot technology by malicious individuals to create varied versions of fake stories. He said, "the danger is someone using it deliberately to pump out these false narratives".

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Experts have raised concerns that next year's elections in the UK and the US may be plagued by a surge of AI-driven disinformation. They warn that the proliferation of Artificial Intelligence generated images, text, and deep fake videos, spread by swarms of AI-powered propaganda bots, could have a significant impact.

Experts have raised concerns that next year's elections in the UK and the US may be plagued by a surge of AI-driven disinformation. They warn that the proliferation of Artificial Intelligence generated images, text, and deep fake videos, spread by swarms of AI-powered propaganda bots, could have a significant impact. In recent days, concerns about AI have soared, particularly following breakthroughs in generative AI technology. Why is AI a concern now? As per the Guardian, while earlier waves of "propaganda bots" relied on simple pre-written messages or "paid trolls", tools like ChatGPT and Midjourney hold the ability to produce realistic text, images, and even voice on command. This has raised concerns about interactive election interference on a large scale. A study by NewsGuard, an organisation that monitors misinformation, tested ChatGPT and Google's Bard chatbot and found that they were capable of generating false news narratives when prompted. This highlights the potential for AI tools to mass-produce variations of fake stories, which raises concerns about the deliberate dissemination of false information. On Friday, NewsGuard also announced that there has been a two-fold increase in AI-generated news and information websites, which have more than doubled to 125 in two weeks. Also read | G7 leaders call for 'responsible' use of generative Artificial Intelligence OpenAI CEO Sam Altman's warning about ChatGPT and other AI models Earlier this week, on Tuesday, Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, and the creator of ChatGPT, warned that the latest generation of AI models has the potential to manipulate users. Highlighting the need for regulation, public education, and transparency regarding the use of AI, he said, "The general ability of these models to manipulate and persuade, to provide one-on-one interactive disinformation is a significant area of concern." "Regulation would be quite wise: people need to know if they’re talking to an AI, or if content that they’re looking at is generated or not. The ability to really model … to predict humans, I think is going to require a combination of companies doing the right thing, regulation and public education," he added. AI-powered disinformation Professor Michael Wooldridge of the Alan Turing Institute identified AI-powered disinformation as his primary concern about the technology. He noted that generative AI can generate disinformation on an "industrial scale". "Right now in terms of my worries for AI, it is number one on the list. We have elections coming up in the UK and the US and we know social media is an incredibly powerful conduit for misinformation. But we now know that generative AI can produce disinformation on an industrial scale." Also read | What the 'hell'? Gen Z more likely to believe in damnation after death, finds study He said chatbots like ChatGPT can produce tailored misinformation targeted at specific political groups or demographics, adding that "it's an afternoon's work for somebody with a bit of programming experience to create fake identities and just start generating these fake news stories." AI-generated images AI-generated imagery is another problem. Remember the pictures of Donald Trump getting arrested and the Pope in a 'dope' puffer jacket? That's the work of artificial intelligence. Earlier this year, as these images went viral, many people raised concerns about the potential use of generated imagery to cause confusion and misinformation. However, Sam Altman, while addressing US Senators, suggested that these concerns might be exaggerated or blown out of proportion. He compared AI-generated images to the earlier adoption of Photoshop. He said that people eventually developed an understanding that images could be manipulated. "Photoshop came on to the scene a long time ago and for a while people were really quite fooled by Photoshopped images – then pretty quickly developed an understanding that images might be Photoshopped." However, in spite of Altman's statement, as AI capabilities advance, there are concerns that it is becoming increasingly difficult to trust things on social media and that as the technology develops further, the difficulty in differentiating between misinformation and purposeful disinformation will only increase. AI and voice cloning In January, voice cloning gained significant attention when a manipulated video of US President Joe Biden surfaced. The original footage, in which he discussed sending tanks to Ukraine, was altered using voice simulation technology to make it appear as though he was attacking transgender people. The doctored video was widely circulated on social media platforms. The growing availability of voice cloning services, including the cloning of corporate executives and public figures, raises concerns about its potential misuse. Recorded Future, a US cybersecurity firm, warned that rogue actors could sell voice cloning services online. Alexander Leslie, an analyst with the firm, said that the technology is improving and poses a heightened threat as the US presidential election approaches. "Without widespread education and awareness, this could become a real threat vector as we head into the presidential election," he said. Steven Brill, the co-CEO of NewsGuard, expressed concern about the potential misuse of chatbot technology by malicious individuals to create varied versions of fake stories. He said, "the danger is someone using it deliberately to pump out these false narratives". (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.

WION Explains: Upcoming US, UK elections and the threat of AI-fuelled disinformation

Gen Z is cool, Gen Z doesn't really believe in God, but as per a new study, it does believe in hell. This may come as a surprise for many, but a new study has found that Generation Z aka Gen Z is almost twice as likely to believe in hell than baby boomers. While only 18 per cent of the boomers said they believe in the concept of the land of the damned, a whopping 32 per cent of Gen Z said they believe in the netherworlds.

And it's not just Gen Z,&nbsp;millennials too, believe in hell. This coming from generations that more often than not identify as atheist is sure to leave you bamboozled. After all, the idea of damnation must belong to an age where people and their lives are all shaped by the fear of hellfire and punishment after death.

<h2>Is the study trustworthy?</h2>

The results are from the 'World Values Survey',&nbsp;one of the world's largest and most widely used academic social surveys.

Conducted by the Policy Institute at King’s College, London, it found that in the United Kingdom, the younger generations are also more likely to believe in life after death than older generations.

<h2>How stark is the difference between Gen Z and boomers?</h2>

World Values Survey&nbsp;found that while 32 per cent of both Gen Z and millennials believe in hell, only 24 per cent of the pre-war generation, and at 18 per cent, an even lesser percentage of baby boomers think damnation awaits people after death.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/research-unmasks-shocking-toll-social-isolation-has-on-human-body-592437">Research unmasks shocking toll social isolation has on human body</a>

In comparison, only 27 per cent of millennials and Gen Z see themselves as religious, while 46 per cent of the pre-war generation identified as religiously inclined. In 1981, 69 per cent of the older generation said they were religious.

<h2>How many people were surveyed and who exactly are the Gen Z?</h2>

The statistics for the United Kingdom are based on a representative sample of 3,056 adults interviewed by Ipsos through a combination of face-to-face and online surveys.

Calgary Herald reports that the study classifies different generations based on their birth years for this analysis. The pre-war generation referred to individuals born before 1945, baby boomers included those born between 1945 and 1965, Gen X encompassed individuals born from 1966 to 1979, millennials referred to those born between 1980 and 1995, and Gen Z included individuals born from 1996 onwards.

<h2>If not, hell do the people believe in heaven and god?</h2>

As per the study, it's just hell. Between 1981 and 2022, the British public overall also stopped believing in heaven. From 1981 to 2022, the number of people who believe in heaven fell from 57 per cent to 41 per cent.

The data also reveals that just under half of Britons expressed a belief in God in 2022, a decrease from three-quarters in 1981. Among the 24 nations included in the study, only five now show a lower likelihood of believing in God compared to the UK, with China having the lowest percentage at 17 per cent.

<h2>The allure of something 'more than this'</h2>

Bobby Duffy, director of the Policy Institute, commented on the findings and said that while organised religion's cultural influence has continued to decline in the UK, the belief in "something" beyond this life remains strong, especially among the youngest generations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/wion-explains-new-york-the-city-that-never-sleeps-may-soon-lie-in-slumber-under-the-sea-594202">WION Explains | New York, the city that never sleeps, may soon lie in slumber under the sea</a>

"Our cultural attachment to organised religion has continued to decline in the UK – but our belief that there is something beyond this life is holding strong, including among the youngest generations," said Duffy.

"While the youngest generations continue to have lower attachment to formal religion, many of them have similar or even greater need to believe that there is 'more than this'."&nbsp;

Beliefs regarding life after death have remained consistent over the past four decades, with slightly less than half of the public consistently accepting that they believe in it.&nbsp;Despite their relatively lower level of faith, younger individuals demonstrate higher levels of belief. Last year, slightly over half of Gen Z and millennials expressed their belief in life after death, which is significantly higher than the 35 per cent of baby boomers and 39 per cent of the pre-war generation.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Gen Z is cool, Gen Z doesn't really believe in God, but as per a new study, it does believe in hell. This may come as a surprise for many, but a new study has found that Generation Z aka Gen Z is almost twice as likely to believe in hell than baby boomers.

Gen Z is cool, Gen Z doesn't really believe in God, but as per a new study, it does believe in hell. This may come as a surprise for many, but a new study has found that Generation Z aka Gen Z is almost twice as likely to believe in hell than baby boomers. While only 18 per cent of the boomers said they believe in the concept of the land of the damned, a whopping 32 per cent of Gen Z said they believe in the netherworlds. And it's not just Gen Z, millennials too, believe in hell. This coming from generations that more often than not identify as atheist is sure to leave you bamboozled. After all, the idea of damnation must belong to an age where people and their lives are all shaped by the fear of hellfire and punishment after death. Is the study trustworthy? The results are from the 'World Values Survey', one of the world's largest and most widely used academic social surveys. Conducted by the Policy Institute at King’s College, London, it found that in the United Kingdom, the younger generations are also more likely to believe in life after death than older generations. How stark is the difference between Gen Z and boomers? World Values Survey found that while 32 per cent of both Gen Z and millennials believe in hell, only 24 per cent of the pre-war generation, and at 18 per cent, an even lesser percentage of baby boomers think damnation awaits people after death. Also read | Research unmasks shocking toll social isolation has on human body In comparison, only 27 per cent of millennials and Gen Z see themselves as religious, while 46 per cent of the pre-war generation identified as religiously inclined. In 1981, 69 per cent of the older generation said they were religious. How many people were surveyed and who exactly are the Gen Z? The statistics for the United Kingdom are based on a representative sample of 3,056 adults interviewed by Ipsos through a combination of face-to-face and online surveys. Calgary Herald reports that the study classifies different generations based on their birth years for this analysis. The pre-war generation referred to individuals born before 1945, baby boomers included those born between 1945 and 1965, Gen X encompassed individuals born from 1966 to 1979, millennials referred to those born between 1980 and 1995, and Gen Z included individuals born from 1996 onwards. If not, hell do the people believe in heaven and god? As per the study, it's just hell. Between 1981 and 2022, the British public overall also stopped believing in heaven. From 1981 to 2022, the number of people who believe in heaven fell from 57 per cent to 41 per cent. The data also reveals that just under half of Britons expressed a belief in God in 2022, a decrease from three-quarters in 1981. Among the 24 nations included in the study, only five now show a lower likelihood of believing in God compared to the UK, with China having the lowest percentage at 17 per cent. The allure of something 'more than this' Bobby Duffy, director of the Policy Institute, commented on the findings and said that while organised religion's cultural influence has continued to decline in the UK, the belief in "something" beyond this life remains strong, especially among the youngest generations. Also read | WION Explains | New York, the city that never sleeps, may soon lie in slumber under the sea "Our cultural attachment to organised religion has continued to decline in the UK – but our belief that there is something beyond this life is holding strong, including among the youngest generations," said Duffy. "While the youngest generations continue to have lower attachment to formal religion, many of them have similar or even greater need to believe that there is 'more than this'." Beliefs regarding life after death have remained consistent over the past four decades, with slightly less than half of the public consistently accepting that they believe in it. Despite their relatively lower level of faith, younger individuals demonstrate higher levels of belief. Last year, slightly over half of Gen Z and millennials expressed their belief in life after death, which is significantly higher than the 35 per cent of baby boomers and 39 per cent of the pre-war generation. (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 the 'hell'? Gen Z more likely to believe in damnation after death, finds study

New York City&nbsp;may soon sink under the sea predicts a new research. The city is sinking due to the weight of its towering skyscrapers. Coupled with the rising sea levels, this weight is pushing New York under at an average rate of 1-2 millimetres per year; some areas are sinking at twice this rate.&nbsp;Since 1950, the water surrounding New York City has risen by approximately 9 inches (22 centimetres).&nbsp;The rising water levels are a looming&nbsp;threat to&nbsp;the&nbsp;8.4 million people of the city.

Researchers behind the study published in the Earth’s Future journal warn that "a deeply concentrated population of 8.4 million people faces varying degrees of hazard from inundation in New York City."

<h2>Why is New York sinking?</h2>

New York's iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building, or rather their weight, are causing the city&nbsp;to sink.

As per the research estimates, New York City's buildings, including iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building, weigh a total of 1.68 trillion pounds — equivalent to the weight of 140 million elephants. This enormous weight pushes down on a mixture of different materials beneath the city, causing it to sink just a little bit every year.&nbsp;

It says that while the city's largest buildings are constructed on solid bedrock, such as schist, the ground beneath also contains a mixture of sand and clays. This mixture contributes to the natural sinking occurring along much of the US east coast as the land adjusts to the retreat of glaciers following the last ice age.

<h2>Were the iconic buildings a mistake?</h2>

Tom Parsons, a geophysicist at the US Geological Survey, and lead author of the research emphasised&nbsp;that constructing large buildings in New York was not a mistake, but it is essential to consider that each new construction further compresses the ground.

He said that the softer the soil, the more the buildings compress it.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-is-sinking-in-the-sea-says-a-study-488110">Mumbai is sinking in the sea, says a study</a>

Parsons&nbsp;explains that while there is no immediate cause for panic, the ongoing sinking process increases the vulnerability to flooding.

"It’s not something to panic about immediately, but there’s this ongoing process that increases the risk of inundation from flooding."

<h2>Is it just New York that risks sinking?</h2>

No, the threat exists for all the coastal cities worldwide.

Researchers caution that it's not just New York that faces this danger. The risks, as per the authors, will be shared by many other coastal cities around the world as the climate crisis deepens.&nbsp;

They assert that the combination of tectonic and human-induced subsidence, along with other factors, all indicate a growing danger for coastal and riverfront regions.

"The combination of tectonic and anthropogenic subsidence, sea level rise, and increasing hurricane intensity imply an accelerating problem along coastal and riverfront areas."

<h2>Any previous research to support this?</h2>

A March 2022 study&nbsp;indicated that India's financial capital Mumbai,&nbsp;with a population of approximately 20 million, is experiencing a gradual sinking at an average rate of 2 mm per year.

The research, titled "Subsidence in Coastal Cities Throughout the World," highlighted that it is not just Mumbai.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-global-warming-pushing-billions-to-buy-air-conditioners-heres-how-thats-adding-to-climate-change-594153">Explained: Global warming pushing billions to buy air conditioners. Here's how that's adding to climate change</a>

As per the study,&nbsp;Tianjin, located in China, holds the distinction of being the fastest-sinking coastal city worldwide, with a subsidence rate of 5.2 cm per year.

Apart from Tianjin and Mumbai, the study examined land subsidence in 99 countries around the world. It identified additional coastal cities experiencing sinking, such as Jakarta in Indonesia (3.44 cm per year), Shanghai in China (2.94 cm per year), and Ho Chi Minh (2.81 mm per year) and Hanoi (2.44 cm per year) in Vietnam.

<h2>How is climate change causing these decades-old cities to sink?</h2>

The sinking, as per the study, is intensified by&nbsp;the impact of sea level rise, which is already occurring at approximately twice the global average due to the melting of glaciers and the expansion of seawater caused by global warming.&nbsp;

The research warns that by the end of the century, major flooding events from storms could occur up to four times more frequently due to the combined effects of sea level rise and climate change-fuelled hurricanes.

<h2>Are there any examples of how global warming is exacerbating the problem in New York?</h2>

In 2012 and then in 2021, New York City has already experienced the devastating impacts of flooding.

Hurricane Sandy in 2012 caused extensive damage and power outages, including flooding in the New York subway system. In 2021, Hurricane Ida led to further flooding and loss of life in the city.&nbsp;

Scientists have attributed the severity of both these disasters to the damning effects of global warming.

<h2>How can we protect iconic cities like New York and Mumbai?</h2>

As per Parsons, proactive&nbsp;planning is the way. He stressed that proactive planning is important for New York and other coastal cities. He said that vulnerable cities "have to get planning for this. If you get repeated exposure to seawater, you can corrode steel and destabilise buildings, which you clearly don’t want. Flooding also kills people, too, which is probably the greatest concern."

(With inputs from agencies)

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New York City may soon sink under the sea predicts a new research. The city is sinking due to the weight of its towering skyscrapers. Coupled with the rising sea levels, this weight is pushing New York under at an average rate of 1-2 millimetres per year; some areas are sinking at twice this rate.

New York City may soon sink under the sea predicts a new research. The city is sinking due to the weight of its towering skyscrapers. Coupled with the rising sea levels, this weight is pushing New York under at an average rate of 1-2 millimetres per year; some areas are sinking at twice this rate. Since 1950, the water surrounding New York City has risen by approximately 9 inches (22 centimetres). The rising water levels are a looming threat to the 8.4 million people of the city. Researchers behind the study published in the Earth’s Future journal warn that "a deeply concentrated population of 8.4 million people faces varying degrees of hazard from inundation in New York City." Why is New York sinking? New York's iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building, or rather their weight, are causing the city to sink. As per the research estimates, New York City's buildings, including iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building, weigh a total of 1.68 trillion pounds — equivalent to the weight of 140 million elephants. This enormous weight pushes down on a mixture of different materials beneath the city, causing it to sink just a little bit every year. It says that while the city's largest buildings are constructed on solid bedrock, such as schist, the ground beneath also contains a mixture of sand and clays. This mixture contributes to the natural sinking occurring along much of the US east coast as the land adjusts to the retreat of glaciers following the last ice age. Were the iconic buildings a mistake? Tom Parsons, a geophysicist at the US Geological Survey, and lead author of the research emphasised that constructing large buildings in New York was not a mistake, but it is essential to consider that each new construction further compresses the ground. He said that the softer the soil, the more the buildings compress it. Also read | Mumbai is sinking in the sea, says a study Parsons explains that while there is no immediate cause for panic, the ongoing sinking process increases the vulnerability to flooding. "It’s not something to panic about immediately, but there’s this ongoing process that increases the risk of inundation from flooding." Is it just New York that risks sinking? No, the threat exists for all the coastal cities worldwide. Researchers caution that it's not just New York that faces this danger. The risks, as per the authors, will be shared by many other coastal cities around the world as the climate crisis deepens. They assert that the combination of tectonic and human-induced subsidence, along with other factors, all indicate a growing danger for coastal and riverfront regions. "The combination of tectonic and anthropogenic subsidence, sea level rise, and increasing hurricane intensity imply an accelerating problem along coastal and riverfront areas." Any previous research to support this? A March 2022 study indicated that India's financial capital Mumbai, with a population of approximately 20 million, is experiencing a gradual sinking at an average rate of 2 mm per year. The research, titled "Subsidence in Coastal Cities Throughout the World," highlighted that it is not just Mumbai. Also read | Explained: Global warming pushing billions to buy air conditioners. Here's how that's adding to climate change As per the study, Tianjin, located in China, holds the distinction of being the fastest-sinking coastal city worldwide, with a subsidence rate of 5.2 cm per year. Apart from Tianjin and Mumbai, the study examined land subsidence in 99 countries around the world. It identified additional coastal cities experiencing sinking, such as Jakarta in Indonesia (3.44 cm per year), Shanghai in China (2.94 cm per year), and Ho Chi Minh (2.81 mm per year) and Hanoi (2.44 cm per year) in Vietnam. How is climate change causing these decades-old cities to sink? The sinking, as per the study, is intensified by the impact of sea level rise, which is already occurring at approximately twice the global average due to the melting of glaciers and the expansion of seawater caused by global warming. The research warns that by the end of the century, major flooding events from storms could occur up to four times more frequently due to the combined effects of sea level rise and climate change-fuelled hurricanes. Are there any examples of how global warming is exacerbating the problem in New York? In 2012 and then in 2021, New York City has already experienced the devastating impacts of flooding. Hurricane Sandy in 2012 caused extensive damage and power outages, including flooding in the New York subway system. In 2021, Hurricane Ida led to further flooding and loss of life in the city. Scientists have attributed the severity of both these disasters to the damning effects of global warming. How can we protect iconic cities like New York and Mumbai? As per Parsons, proactive planning is the way. He stressed that proactive planning is important for New York and other coastal cities. He said that vulnerable cities "have to get planning for this. If you get repeated exposure to seawater, you can corrode steel and destabilise buildings, which you clearly don’t want. Flooding also kills people, too, which is probably the greatest concern." (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.

WION Explains | New York, the city that never sleeps, may soon lie in slumber under the sea

A new survey released disturbing facts on Monday (May 15) stating&nbsp;that the earlier a child is given a smartphone, the more the chances of him or her suffering from mental health problems.&nbsp;The study further mentioned that women appear to be more affected.&nbsp;

The research conducted by a US-based non-profit Sapien Labs collected data from some 27,969 adults aged 18 and 24 from over 40 countries, including 4,000 Indians found that young adults who own smartphones as young as six reported more suicidal thoughts, and aggression feelings as adults than those who got phones late, TOI reported.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/suffering-from-long-covid-study-claims-it-might-have-something-to-do-with-where-you-live-592726">Suffering from long Covid? Study claims it might have something to do with where you live</a>

The study showed as many as 74 per cent of female respondents who received mobiles by the age of six were found experiencing more serious mental health challenges as adults with that come under "distressed" or "struggling" as per the MHQ range. The Mental Health Quotient examines an individual on the basis of six parameters including mood and outlook, social life, cognition, adaptability and resilience, drive and motivation and the mind-body connection.

It added that for those who got smartphones 61 per cent and 52 per cent were experiencing problems who got smartphones at the age of 10 and 15. People who got smartphones at 18, 46 per cent were struggling and distressed in life.&nbsp;

In the case of males, the trend was the same but was a bit less acute. Some 42 per cent of the men who got smartphones at the age of six were struggling and experiencing distress in life. Furthermore, the bar fell to 36 per cent for those who got an electronic device at the age of 18.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/research-unmasks-shocking-toll-social-isolation-has-on-human-body-592437">Research unmasks shocking toll social isolation has on human body</a>

These findings come against a backdrop of a progressive global decline in the mental health of the young generation that began around 2010-2014.&nbsp;

McAfee's Global Connected Family study last year stated that 83 per cent of the children used smartphones aged 10-14, which is seven per cent above the international average.&nbsp;

For parents, the findings gave a clear message, "Delay giving your child a smartphone as much as possible- the older the better. That said, the peer pressure is high&nbsp;and it is best if no one has one rather than one child being left out. At the same time, focus on your child's social development-it is fundamentally important for their mental well-being and capability for navigating the world and is what has been displaced by the use of phones."

(with inputs from agencies)

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A new survey released disturbing facts on Monday (May 15) stating that the earlier a child is given a smartphone, the more the chances of him or her suffering from mental health problems.

A new survey released disturbing facts on Monday (May 15) stating that the earlier a child is given a smartphone, the more the chances of him or her suffering from mental health problems. The study further mentioned that women appear to be more affected. The research conducted by a US-based non-profit Sapien Labs collected data from some 27,969 adults aged 18 and 24 from over 40 countries, including 4,000 Indians found that young adults who own smartphones as young as six reported more suicidal thoughts, and aggression feelings as adults than those who got phones late, TOI reported. Also read | Suffering from long Covid? Study claims it might have something to do with where you live The study showed as many as 74 per cent of female respondents who received mobiles by the age of six were found experiencing more serious mental health challenges as adults with that come under "distressed" or "struggling" as per the MHQ range. The Mental Health Quotient examines an individual on the basis of six parameters including mood and outlook, social life, cognition, adaptability and resilience, drive and motivation and the mind-body connection. It added that for those who got smartphones 61 per cent and 52 per cent were experiencing problems who got smartphones at the age of 10 and 15. People who got smartphones at 18, 46 per cent were struggling and distressed in life. In the case of males, the trend was the same but was a bit less acute. Some 42 per cent of the men who got smartphones at the age of six were struggling and experiencing distress in life. Furthermore, the bar fell to 36 per cent for those who got an electronic device at the age of 18. Also read | Research unmasks shocking toll social isolation has on human body These findings come against a backdrop of a progressive global decline in the mental health of the young generation that began around 2010-2014. McAfee's Global Connected Family study last year stated that 83 per cent of the children used smartphones aged 10-14, which is seven per cent above the international average. For parents, the findings gave a clear message, "Delay giving your child a smartphone as much as possible- the older the better. That said, the peer pressure is high and it is best if no one has one rather than one child being left out. At the same time, focus on your child's social development-it is fundamentally important for their mental well-being and capability for navigating the world and is what has been displaced by the use of phones." (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.

Kids using smartphones may face some serious mental health issues as adults, reveals study

World's foremost public health agency, the World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday, cautioned against using artificial intelligence (AI) for public healthcare. It said that the data used by AI to reach decisions could be biased or misused and advised caution while using the technology.

As per the WHO, risks must be examined carefully before using AI-generated large language model tools (LLMs) like "ChatGPT, Bard, Bert and many others" to protect and promote human well-being and protect public health.

The health agency said that while it was enthusiastic about the potential AI holds, it has concerns over how the technology will be used.

It said, "There is concern that caution that would normally be exercised for any new technology is not being exercised consistently with LLMs."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/raise-alarm-on-ai-threats-academics-appeal-health-professionals-591092">'Raise alarm on AI threats', academics appeal to health professionals</a>

"This includes widespread adherence to key values of transparency, inclusion, public engagement, expert supervision, and rigorous evaluation."

As per the WHO, the "precipitous" adoption of untested AI systems could lead to errors by healthcare workers, which could harm patients. This, it warned, could "cause harm to patients, erode trust in AI and thereby undermine (or delay) the potential long-term benefits and uses of such technologies around the world."

It&nbsp;further cautioned that artificial intelligence LLMs like ChatGPT and Bard that imitate understanding, processing, and producing human communication could be misused to "generate and disseminate highly convincing disinformation".&nbsp;

This disinformation, as per the WHO, can be in textual, audio or video form and would be difficult to differentiate from reliable health content for the public.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/microsoft-expands-ai-access-public-can-now-use-enhanced-features-without-signing-up-for-waitlist-589755">Microsoft expands AI access, allows users enhanced features without waitlist sign-up</a>

Reiterating the importance of applying ethical principles and appropriate governance, the World Health Organization specified six core principles it has identified as imperative while using AI in healthcare. These are: protect autonomy; promote human well-being, human safety, and the public interest; ensure transparency, explainability, and intelligibility; foster responsibility and accountability; ensure inclusiveness and equity; promote AI that is responsive and sustainable.

The health agency said that while it is committing to harnessing new technologies, including AI and digital health, towards the improvement of human health, it recommends that policymakers must ensure patient safety and protection.

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World's foremost public health agency, the World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday, cautioned against using artificial intelligence (AI) for public healthcare.

World's foremost public health agency, the World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday, cautioned against using artificial intelligence (AI) for public healthcare. It said that the data used by AI to reach decisions could be biased or misused and advised caution while using the technology. As per the WHO, risks must be examined carefully before using AI-generated large language model tools (LLMs) like "ChatGPT, Bard, Bert and many others" to protect and promote human well-being and protect public health. The health agency said that while it was enthusiastic about the potential AI holds, it has concerns over how the technology will be used. It said, "There is concern that caution that would normally be exercised for any new technology is not being exercised consistently with LLMs." Also read | 'Raise alarm on AI threats', academics appeal to health professionals "This includes widespread adherence to key values of transparency, inclusion, public engagement, expert supervision, and rigorous evaluation." As per the WHO, the "precipitous" adoption of untested AI systems could lead to errors by healthcare workers, which could harm patients. This, it warned, could "cause harm to patients, erode trust in AI and thereby undermine (or delay) the potential long-term benefits and uses of such technologies around the world." It further cautioned that artificial intelligence LLMs like ChatGPT and Bard that imitate understanding, processing, and producing human communication could be misused to "generate and disseminate highly convincing disinformation". This disinformation, as per the WHO, can be in textual, audio or video form and would be difficult to differentiate from reliable health content for the public. Also read | Microsoft expands AI access, allows users enhanced features without waitlist sign-up Reiterating the importance of applying ethical principles and appropriate governance, the World Health Organization specified six core principles it has identified as imperative while using AI in healthcare. These are: protect autonomy; promote human well-being, human safety, and the public interest; ensure transparency, explainability, and intelligibility; foster responsibility and accountability; ensure inclusiveness and equity; promote AI that is responsive and sustainable. The health agency said that while it is committing to harnessing new technologies, including AI and digital health, towards the improvement of human health, it recommends that policymakers must ensure patient safety and protection. 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.

World Health Organization issues warning, says AI in healthcare poses risks, could be misused

It has long been said that Humans are 'social animals,' we thrive on being around people. We all know isolation can be emotionally taxing, which is why it has long been used as a form of punishment in jails. But can social isolation affect you mentally and impact your energy levels? New research shows that isolation affects your energy levels the same way as going without food does.

Researchers from the University of Vienna found that socially isolating for a period of eight hours has detrimental effects on a person. This long without company, a person's body experiences a fall in energy levels equivalent to the decrease that comes with starving for eight hours.

The research suggests that social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic may have had an unexpected energy toll on people.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/people-with-mental-health-issues-at-increased-risk-of-death-in-heat-waves-study-591292">People with mental health issues at increased risk of death in heat waves: Study</a>

Based on research carried out both in a laboratory setting and during the COVID-19 quarantine periods, the study suggests that social personality traits may also influence the individual's reaction to social isolation.

As per SciTechDaily, just as prolonged periods without food can lead to hunger, a lack of social interaction can lead to a craving response in the brain, driving us to seek social connections again.&nbsp;

This is supported by the "social homeostasis" theory, which proposes that there is a homeostatic system in place to independently regulate our need for social interaction.&nbsp;

Although our understanding of the psychological reactions to social isolation remains limited, the study’s authors propose that lowered energy may be part of our homeostatic response to a lack of social contact and a potential precursor of the more detrimental effects of long-term social isolation.

The study involved 30 female volunteers who, on three separate days, spent eight hours in isolation without social contact, without food, or with both social contact and food. They reported their stress, mood, and fatigue levels multiple times throughout the day, while physiological stress responses such as heart rate and cortisol were recorded by the scientists.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/wegovy-other-weight-loss-drugs-no-silver-bullet-says-who-amid-obesity-review-report-591751">Wegovy, other weight loss drugs not ‘silver bullets’, says WHO amid obesity guidelines review</a>

The results were compared with measurements from a study conducted during the lockdown in Austria and Italy in the spring of 2020.&nbsp;

Data from 87 participants who had spent at least an eight-hour period in isolation were used, and their stress and behavioural effects were assessed several times a day for seven days.

The results of the laboratory study led by Giorgia Silani from the University of Vienna showed similarities between social isolation and food deprivation, with both inducing lowered energy and heightened fatigue.&nbsp;

"In the lab study, we found striking similarities between social isolation and food deprivation. Both states induced lowered energy and heightened fatigue, which is surprising given that food deprivation literally makes us lose energy, while social isolation would not", said first authors Ana Stijovic and Paul Forbes.

The authors propose that lowered energy may be a part of our homeostatic response to a lack of social contact and a potential precursor of some more detrimental effects of long-term social isolation.&nbsp;

"It is well-known that long-term loneliness and fatigue are related, but we know little about the immediate mechanisms that underlie this link. The fact that we see this effect even after a short period of social isolation suggests that low energy could be a 'social homeostatic' adaptive response, which in the long run can become maladaptive,"&nbsp;explains Silani.

(With inputs from agencies)

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It has long been said that Humans are 'social animals,' we thrive on being around people. We all know isolation can be emotionally taxing, which is why it has long been used as a form of punishment in jails.

It has long been said that Humans are 'social animals,' we thrive on being around people. We all know isolation can be emotionally taxing, which is why it has long been used as a form of punishment in jails. But can social isolation affect you mentally and impact your energy levels? New research shows that isolation affects your energy levels the same way as going without food does. Researchers from the University of Vienna found that socially isolating for a period of eight hours has detrimental effects on a person. This long without company, a person's body experiences a fall in energy levels equivalent to the decrease that comes with starving for eight hours. The research suggests that social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic may have had an unexpected energy toll on people. Also read | People with mental health issues at increased risk of death in heat waves: Study Based on research carried out both in a laboratory setting and during the COVID-19 quarantine periods, the study suggests that social personality traits may also influence the individual's reaction to social isolation. As per SciTechDaily, just as prolonged periods without food can lead to hunger, a lack of social interaction can lead to a craving response in the brain, driving us to seek social connections again. This is supported by the "social homeostasis" theory, which proposes that there is a homeostatic system in place to independently regulate our need for social interaction. Although our understanding of the psychological reactions to social isolation remains limited, the study’s authors propose that lowered energy may be part of our homeostatic response to a lack of social contact and a potential precursor of the more detrimental effects of long-term social isolation. The study involved 30 female volunteers who, on three separate days, spent eight hours in isolation without social contact, without food, or with both social contact and food. They reported their stress, mood, and fatigue levels multiple times throughout the day, while physiological stress responses such as heart rate and cortisol were recorded by the scientists. Also read | Wegovy, other weight loss drugs not ‘silver bullets’, says WHO amid obesity guidelines review The results were compared with measurements from a study conducted during the lockdown in Austria and Italy in the spring of 2020. Data from 87 participants who had spent at least an eight-hour period in isolation were used, and their stress and behavioural effects were assessed several times a day for seven days. The results of the laboratory study led by Giorgia Silani from the University of Vienna showed similarities between social isolation and food deprivation, with both inducing lowered energy and heightened fatigue. "In the lab study, we found striking similarities between social isolation and food deprivation. Both states induced lowered energy and heightened fatigue, which is surprising given that food deprivation literally makes us lose energy, while social isolation would not", said first authors Ana Stijovic and Paul Forbes. The authors propose that lowered energy may be a part of our homeostatic response to a lack of social contact and a potential precursor of some more detrimental effects of long-term social isolation. "It is well-known that long-term loneliness and fatigue are related, but we know little about the immediate mechanisms that underlie this link. The fact that we see this effect even after a short period of social isolation suggests that low energy could be a 'social homeostatic' adaptive response, which in the long run can become maladaptive," explains Silani. (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.

Research unmasks shocking toll social isolation has on human body

A wearable patch can now keep&nbsp;severe allergic reaction&nbsp;to peanuts in toddlers at bay,&nbsp;according to the results of a&nbsp;clinical trial.&nbsp;The late-stage trial, which included more than 200 children aged&nbsp;one&nbsp;to three&nbsp;with peanut allergies, found that after applying&nbsp;the experimental patch for over&nbsp;22 hours a day for a year, 67 per cent&nbsp;were able to endure 300 to 1,000 milligrams of peanut protein,&nbsp;the equivalent of one to four peanut kernels.&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nejm.org/media/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2212895" target="_blank">findings were published</a>&nbsp;in the New England Journal of Medicine.

“Amazingly, not only did it raise the amount of peanut [tolerance] in these children, but the nature of the reaction also changed. There was a decrease in the number of severe reactions,” Dr&nbsp;Matthew Greenhawt, the study’s lead author and director of the Food Challenge and Research Unit at Children’s Hospital Colorado told NBC news.

The patch&nbsp;called Viaskin manufactured by&nbsp;biopharmaceutical firm&nbsp;DBV Technologies, contains a small dose of peanut protein equal to about 1/1,000th of a peanut kernel.

A new patch is applied&nbsp;every day&nbsp;and worn between the shoulder blades so the skin absorbs the protein.

Immune cells then carry the protein to different&nbsp;parts of the body, where they help subdue&nbsp;the allergic response.&nbsp;

There are no approved treatments for children under four&nbsp;with peanut allergies.

However, the Food and Drug Administration has authorised Palforzia, a powder that may be combined with food such as applesauce, yoghurt or pudding, for children aged 4 to 17. Similarly, the powder is intended to reduce the chance of severe allergic responses in children by gradually raising their tolerance to peanuts.

The Viaskin trial, however, is the first to study a non-oral option for the 0-4&nbsp;age category.

According to Dr&nbsp;Pharis Mohideen, chief medical officer of DBV Technologies, the purpose of Viaskin isn't to get children to tolerate peanut-butter-and-jelly sandwiches or to entirely eradicate an allergy.

“We’re trying to build a protective layer for them so that if there is an accidental peanut exposure, they won’t have a reaction, or that reaction will be very mild and not send them to the emergency room,” he told NBC news.

Getting children with peanut allergies to the stage where they can tolerate several peanut kernels, according to Mohideen, is "absolutely life-changing" and would alleviate parents' concerns about taking their children to restaurants or on planes.&nbsp;

“If a label says ‘may contain peanuts,’ but you know you can tolerate a full peanut kernel, the likelihood that that product is safe is pretty high,” he added.

A peanut allergy affects around one in every 50&nbsp;children in the United States. According to a 2018 survey, the frequency of peanut allergies in the country increased over the preceding two decades, although the causes for the development are unclear.

Peanut allergies affect up to 20 per cent&nbsp;of people, while some people's allergies increase over time.

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A wearable patch can now keep severe allergic reaction to peanuts in toddlers at bay, according to the results of a clinical trial. The late-stage trial, which included more than 200 children aged one to three with peanut allergies, found that after applying the experimental patch for over 22 hours a day for a year, 67 per cent were able to endure 300 to 1,000 milligrams of peanut protein, the equivalent of one to four peanut kernels.

A wearable patch can now keep severe allergic reaction to peanuts in toddlers at bay, according to the results of a clinical trial. The late-stage trial, which included more than 200 children aged one to three with peanut allergies, found that after applying the experimental patch for over 22 hours a day for a year, 67 per cent were able to endure 300 to 1,000 milligrams of peanut protein, the equivalent of one to four peanut kernels. The findings were published in the New England Journal of Medicine. “Amazingly, not only did it raise the amount of peanut [tolerance] in these children, but the nature of the reaction also changed. There was a decrease in the number of severe reactions,” Dr Matthew Greenhawt, the study’s lead author and director of the Food Challenge and Research Unit at Children’s Hospital Colorado told NBC news. The patch called Viaskin manufactured by biopharmaceutical firm DBV Technologies, contains a small dose of peanut protein equal to about 1/1,000th of a peanut kernel. A new patch is applied every day and worn between the shoulder blades so the skin absorbs the protein. Immune cells then carry the protein to different parts of the body, where they help subdue the allergic response. There are no approved treatments for children under four with peanut allergies. However, the Food and Drug Administration has authorised Palforzia, a powder that may be combined with food such as applesauce, yoghurt or pudding, for children aged 4 to 17. Similarly, the powder is intended to reduce the chance of severe allergic responses in children by gradually raising their tolerance to peanuts. The Viaskin trial, however, is the first to study a non-oral option for the 0-4 age category. According to Dr Pharis Mohideen, chief medical officer of DBV Technologies, the purpose of Viaskin isn't to get children to tolerate peanut-butter-and-jelly sandwiches or to entirely eradicate an allergy. “We’re trying to build a protective layer for them so that if there is an accidental peanut exposure, they won’t have a reaction, or that reaction will be very mild and not send them to the emergency room,” he told NBC news. Getting children with peanut allergies to the stage where they can tolerate several peanut kernels, according to Mohideen, is "absolutely life-changing" and would alleviate parents' concerns about taking their children to restaurants or on planes. “If a label says ‘may contain peanuts,’ but you know you can tolerate a full peanut kernel, the likelihood that that product is safe is pretty high,” he added. A peanut allergy affects around one in every 50 children in the United States. According to a 2018 survey, the frequency of peanut allergies in the country increased over the preceding two decades, although the causes for the development are unclear. Peanut allergies affect up to 20 per cent of people, while some people's allergies increase over time. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

In a first, wearable skin patch can now treat peanut allergies in toddlers

Microsoft has now expanded public access to its generative artificial intelligence programmes and the AI-enhanced features are now available for anyone to use without a waitlist.&nbsp;

In a blog post published on Thursday, Yusuf Mehdi, corporate vice president of Microsoft, announced that the features of the company's Bing search engine and Edge internet browser are now open for anyone to use.

"This means that it will now be easier than ever for everyone to try the new Bing and Edge by simply signing into Bing with your Microsoft account," he said.

According to him,&nbsp;the services have been enhanced with the ability to work with images as well as texts. In the future, Microsoft intends to add video features to the mix.

The executive said that a Bing "Image Creator" was recently integrated into Microsoft's AI chatbot's repertoire, which enables it to generate visual, as well as written content.&nbsp; Additionally, the company will be expanding Image Creator's capabilities so that users can use their native languages.

"We are expanding Image Creator to all languages in Bing," said Mehdi, adding, "So, now, you can create images in your native language."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/artificial-intelligence-a-threat-to-journalism-press-freedom-index-report-588645">Artificial Intelligence a threat to journalism: Press Freedom Index report</a>

Microsoft has so far seen people make more than 200 million images with Bing creator software, Mehdi said.

"We believe innovating and learning in the open is part of a responsible approach," he added.

"Our teams continue to work to address issues such as misinformation and disinformation, content blocking, data safety and preventing the promotion of harmful or discriminatory content in line with our AI principles."

Watch |&nbsp;Which jobs will AI replace?

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The developments come as experts flag the dangers of AI, which include but are not limited to potential uses for fraud, with voice clones, deep-fake videos and convincing written messages.

In March of this year, a range of experts urged a pause in the development of AI systems and asked for time to make sure that the systems are safe.

Over 1,000 people, including billionaire Elon Musk and Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, were among the signatories of the open letter prompted by generative AI technology from Microsoft-backed firm OpenAI.&nbsp;The letter claimed that "AI systems with human-competitive intelligence can pose profound risks to society and humanity."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/google-microsoft-ceos-called-to-ai-meeting-at-white-house-588500">Google, Microsoft CEOs called to AI meeting at White House</a>

"Powerful AI systems should be developed only once we are confident that their effects will be positive and their risks will be manageable," it said.

The dangers have even prompted Geoffrey Hinton, a prominent computer scientist often dubbed as "the godfather of artificial intelligence" to quit his job at Google to speak out about the dangers of the technology.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Microsoft has now expanded public access to its generative artificial intelligence programmes and the AI-enhanced features are now available for anyone to use without a waitlist.

Microsoft has now expanded public access to its generative artificial intelligence programmes and the AI-enhanced features are now available for anyone to use without a waitlist. In a blog post published on Thursday, Yusuf Mehdi, corporate vice president of Microsoft, announced that the features of the company's Bing search engine and Edge internet browser are now open for anyone to use. "This means that it will now be easier than ever for everyone to try the new Bing and Edge by simply signing into Bing with your Microsoft account," he said. According to him, the services have been enhanced with the ability to work with images as well as texts. In the future, Microsoft intends to add video features to the mix. The executive said that a Bing "Image Creator" was recently integrated into Microsoft's AI chatbot's repertoire, which enables it to generate visual, as well as written content. Additionally, the company will be expanding Image Creator's capabilities so that users can use their native languages. "We are expanding Image Creator to all languages in Bing," said Mehdi, adding, "So, now, you can create images in your native language." Also read | Artificial Intelligence a threat to journalism: Press Freedom Index report Microsoft has so far seen people make more than 200 million images with Bing creator software, Mehdi said. "We believe innovating and learning in the open is part of a responsible approach," he added. "Our teams continue to work to address issues such as misinformation and disinformation, content blocking, data safety and preventing the promotion of harmful or discriminatory content in line with our AI principles." Watch | Which jobs will AI replace? The developments come as experts flag the dangers of AI, which include but are not limited to potential uses for fraud, with voice clones, deep-fake videos and convincing written messages. In March of this year, a range of experts urged a pause in the development of AI systems and asked for time to make sure that the systems are safe. Over 1,000 people, including billionaire Elon Musk and Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, were among the signatories of the open letter prompted by generative AI technology from Microsoft-backed firm OpenAI. The letter claimed that "AI systems with human-competitive intelligence can pose profound risks to society and humanity." Also read | Google, Microsoft CEOs called to AI meeting at White House "Powerful AI systems should be developed only once we are confident that their effects will be positive and their risks will be manageable," it said. The dangers have even prompted Geoffrey Hinton, a prominent computer scientist often dubbed as "the godfather of artificial intelligence" to quit his job at Google to speak out about the dangers of the technology. (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.

Microsoft expands AI access, allows users enhanced features without waitlist sign-up

Uranus — the seventh planet from Sun — has not just one, two or three moons, but a total of 27 moons. New research suggests&nbsp;that four of its moons&nbsp;may be hiding oceans beneath their icy exteriors.&nbsp;

These four moons, namely Miranda, Ariel, Umbriel, and Titania, are over 1500 km in diameter and have been studied extensively by scientists.&nbsp;

However, a fresh look at 40-year-old data sent to Earth by NASA's Voyager 2 spacecraft indicates that the four moons may have oceans buried kilometres deep under their surface.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sun-like-star-swallows-entire-planet-gives-glimpse-of-earths-fate-to-astronomers-589358">Sun-like star swallows entire planet, gives glimpse of Earth’s fate to astronomers</a>

Of these, Titania and Oberon, which orbit the farthest from Uranus, may have oceans buried some 50 kilometres (30 metres) deep. Oceans on Ariel and Umbriel, on the other hand, may be closer to the surface at 30 kilometres (19 miles) deep.

These astonishing findings were shared in a new study published in the Journal of Geophysical Research in December 2022.

Talking to Space.com, Julie Castillo-Rogez, a planetary scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California and the lead author of this study said: "Finding oceans in the Uranian moons would increase the prospect that [...] ocean worlds are frequent in our solar system, and maybe — by extension — in other solar systems."

The new research can help explain how even in the frigid outer reaches of the solar system, persistent internal heat and a few chemicals can make the Uranian&nbsp;moons watery worlds.

As per the researchers, early in their histories, Uranus' five largest moons — namely Titania, Oberon, Ariel, Umbriel and Miranda — had substantial oceans that ran deep, ranging from 100 km to 150 km (62 miles to 90 miles).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/saturns-vanishing-rings-further-its-cosmic-identity-crisis-589384">Saturn’s mesmerising rings vanishing, further aggravate its cosmic identity crisis</a>

"If the moons had benefited from long-term heating from their planet, then they could have maintained a thick ocean," said Castillo-Rogez.

Europa, a moon of Jupiter, and Enceladus, a moon of Saturn, both have significant subsurface oceans. The gravitational pull of their respective host planets causes these moons to experience deformation in their interiors and icy crusts, a phenomenon known as tidal flexing.&nbsp;

This process generates heat, which as per scientists, may be responsible for maintaining the subsurface water on these moons in a liquid, potentially life-supporting state.

However, Uranus has weaker tidal forces than Jupiter or Saturn, which means that the oceans on its four largest moons are "mostly frozen by now," according to Castillo-Rogez.

To gain a better understanding of the evolution of Uranus's largest moons, her team created a model using data collected from NASA missions that investigated other celestial bodies with subsurface oceans. The team examined findings from the Cassini mission, which studied Saturn's moon Enceladus, the Dawn mission, which explored the dwarf planet Ceres, and the New Horizons mission, which flew by Pluto and its largest moon Charon in 2015.&nbsp;

By analysing data from these missions, the team was able to construct a model of how the moons of Uranus may have formed and evolved over time.

The model created by the team reveals&nbsp;that the Uranian moons likely hold "thin oceans with high salt concentrations". This is likely due to limited internal heat left over from their births and considerable ammonia. The chemical is antifreeze in nature which helps keep water in its liquid form even in very low temperatures.

The researchers also suggest that the subsurface oceans could be habitable environments for microbial life that are adapted to living in extreme environments. They estimate that oceans would contain around 150 grams of salt per litre.&nbsp;Earth's Great Salt Lake in Utah has twice the salt volume but still boasts of life in and around it.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Uranus — the seventh planet from Sun — has not just one, two or three moons, but a total of 27 moons. New research suggests that four of its moons may be hiding oceans beneath their icy exteriors.

Uranus — the seventh planet from Sun — has not just one, two or three moons, but a total of 27 moons. New research suggests that four of its moons may be hiding oceans beneath their icy exteriors. These four moons, namely Miranda, Ariel, Umbriel, and Titania, are over 1500 km in diameter and have been studied extensively by scientists. However, a fresh look at 40-year-old data sent to Earth by NASA's Voyager 2 spacecraft indicates that the four moons may have oceans buried kilometres deep under their surface. Also read | Sun-like star swallows entire planet, gives glimpse of Earth’s fate to astronomers Of these, Titania and Oberon, which orbit the farthest from Uranus, may have oceans buried some 50 kilometres (30 metres) deep. Oceans on Ariel and Umbriel, on the other hand, may be closer to the surface at 30 kilometres (19 miles) deep. These astonishing findings were shared in a new study published in the Journal of Geophysical Research in December 2022. Talking to Space.com, Julie Castillo-Rogez, a planetary scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California and the lead author of this study said: "Finding oceans in the Uranian moons would increase the prospect that [...] ocean worlds are frequent in our solar system, and maybe — by extension — in other solar systems." The new research can help explain how even in the frigid outer reaches of the solar system, persistent internal heat and a few chemicals can make the Uranian moons watery worlds. As per the researchers, early in their histories, Uranus' five largest moons — namely Titania, Oberon, Ariel, Umbriel and Miranda — had substantial oceans that ran deep, ranging from 100 km to 150 km (62 miles to 90 miles). Also read | Saturn’s mesmerising rings vanishing, further aggravate its cosmic identity crisis "If the moons had benefited from long-term heating from their planet, then they could have maintained a thick ocean," said Castillo-Rogez. Europa, a moon of Jupiter, and Enceladus, a moon of Saturn, both have significant subsurface oceans. The gravitational pull of their respective host planets causes these moons to experience deformation in their interiors and icy crusts, a phenomenon known as tidal flexing. This process generates heat, which as per scientists, may be responsible for maintaining the subsurface water on these moons in a liquid, potentially life-supporting state. However, Uranus has weaker tidal forces than Jupiter or Saturn, which means that the oceans on its four largest moons are "mostly frozen by now," according to Castillo-Rogez. To gain a better understanding of the evolution of Uranus's largest moons, her team created a model using data collected from NASA missions that investigated other celestial bodies with subsurface oceans. The team examined findings from the Cassini mission, which studied Saturn's moon Enceladus, the Dawn mission, which explored the dwarf planet Ceres, and the New Horizons mission, which flew by Pluto and its largest moon Charon in 2015. By analysing data from these missions, the team was able to construct a model of how the moons of Uranus may have formed and evolved over time. The model created by the team reveals that the Uranian moons likely hold "thin oceans with high salt concentrations". This is likely due to limited internal heat left over from their births and considerable ammonia. The chemical is antifreeze in nature which helps keep water in its liquid form even in very low temperatures. The researchers also suggest that the subsurface oceans could be habitable environments for microbial life that are adapted to living in extreme environments. They estimate that oceans would contain around 150 grams of salt per litre. Earth's Great Salt Lake in Utah has twice the salt volume but still boasts of life in and around it. (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.

Just three planets down from Earth, this icy alien planet's moons may be hiding oceans of salty water

The world's first respiratory syncytial virus&nbsp;(RSV) vaccine, Arexvy, was approved by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Wednesday. This breakthrough in science took 60 years to materialise.&nbsp;

The single-dose shot, manufactured by the pharmaceutical giant GSK, has been&nbsp;developed to safeguard patients 60 years of age and older from lower respiratory tract sickness brought on by RSV, reported the New York Post.

“Our focus now is to ensure eligible older adults in the US can access the vaccine as quickly as possible and to progress regulatory review in other countries,” Tony Wood, the chief scientific officer at GSK,&nbsp;said in a <a href="https://www.gsk.com/en-gb/media/press-releases/us-fda-approves-gsk-s-arexvy-the-world-s-first-respiratory-syncytial-virus-rsv-vaccine-for-older-adults/">statement.</a>

RSV, which generally causes mild, cold-like symptoms, can make older people and young children very ill.

According to the Centers&nbsp;for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the highly contagious virus is blamed for more than 60,000 hospital admissions, 6,000 or more fatalities among Americans 65 and over, and 100 to 300 deaths of children under the age of five each year.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/what-is-melanoma-worlds-smallest-skin-cancer-know-its-symptoms-treatment-and-how-it-was-detected-588463">The 'smallest detected skin cancer' turned out to be melanoma. Know its symptoms</a>

The CDC also predicts that up to 80,000 kids under the age of five be hospitalised every year as a result of RSV.

The FDA&nbsp;examined data from a clinical trial in which Arexvy was given to 12,500 people, while the same number received a placebo.&nbsp;It says immunisation decreased the likelihood of getting severe RSV-associated LRTD by 94 per cent&nbsp;and RSV-associated LRTD by 83 per cent.

The injection site soreness, exhaustion, muscular pain, headaches, and joint stiffness are the most often reported side-effects of the immunisation.

“With this vaccine, Americans over the age of 60, and particularly those with underlying health conditions like COPD, asthma or congestive heart failure, will have a vaccine to help protect against potentially serious outcomes from RSV,” Dr John Kennedy, the president of the American Medical Group Association, said a statement.

Ahead of the RSV season, which is expected to begin in the autumn, GSK promises to make the vaccination accessible to senior citizens.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/mri-scans-and-ai-to-decode-what-we-think-this-study-has-answers-588137">MRI scans and AI to decode what we think? This study has answers</a>

Other RSV vaccines are also expected soon.

Researchers had anticipated that Pfizer's RSVpreF vaccine would receive FDA approval as the first RSV vaccine.

With the agency's approval, the shot — the first RSV vaccine for expectant mothers — might be given to pregnant women in their late second or third trimesters. This is expected to happen in August.

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The world's first respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine, Arexvy, was approved by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Wednesday. This breakthrough in science took 60 years to materialise.

The world's first respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine, Arexvy, was approved by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Wednesday. This breakthrough in science took 60 years to materialise. The single-dose shot, manufactured by the pharmaceutical giant GSK, has been developed to safeguard patients 60 years of age and older from lower respiratory tract sickness brought on by RSV, reported the New York Post. “Our focus now is to ensure eligible older adults in the US can access the vaccine as quickly as possible and to progress regulatory review in other countries,” Tony Wood, the chief scientific officer at GSK, said in a statement. RSV, which generally causes mild, cold-like symptoms, can make older people and young children very ill. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the highly contagious virus is blamed for more than 60,000 hospital admissions, 6,000 or more fatalities among Americans 65 and over, and 100 to 300 deaths of children under the age of five each year. ALSO READ | The 'smallest detected skin cancer' turned out to be melanoma. Know its symptoms The CDC also predicts that up to 80,000 kids under the age of five be hospitalised every year as a result of RSV. The FDA examined data from a clinical trial in which Arexvy was given to 12,500 people, while the same number received a placebo. It says immunisation decreased the likelihood of getting severe RSV-associated LRTD by 94 per cent and RSV-associated LRTD by 83 per cent. The injection site soreness, exhaustion, muscular pain, headaches, and joint stiffness are the most often reported side-effects of the immunisation. “With this vaccine, Americans over the age of 60, and particularly those with underlying health conditions like COPD, asthma or congestive heart failure, will have a vaccine to help protect against potentially serious outcomes from RSV,” Dr John Kennedy, the president of the American Medical Group Association, said a statement. Ahead of the RSV season, which is expected to begin in the autumn, GSK promises to make the vaccination accessible to senior citizens. ALSO READ | MRI scans and AI to decode what we think? This study has answers Other RSV vaccines are also expected soon. Researchers had anticipated that Pfizer's RSVpreF vaccine would receive FDA approval as the first RSV vaccine. With the agency's approval, the shot — the first RSV vaccine for expectant mothers — might be given to pregnant women in their late second or third trimesters. This is expected to happen in August. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Breakthrough! US approves world's first RSV vaccine: All you need to know

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

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

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

Researchers have found the second-deepest blue hole in the world just off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. The underwater cavern, located in Chetumal Bay is said to be approximately 900 feet deep and 80 or so feet less than the world’s deepest known blue hole which was discovered nearly seven years ago in the South China Sea.

While the blue hole was discovered back in 2021, it was not until recently that it was studied and documented in the scientific journal Frontiers In Marine Science. The site dubbed, Taam ja’ which means “deep water” in Mayan, was surveyed and sampled by scuba divers, undersea sonar, and using various other methods.&nbsp;

What are blue holes?

According to LiveScience, blue holes are large, undersea vertical caves or sinkholes found in coastal regions. They are also typically home to a range of plant and marine life, including corals, sea turtles and sharks.&nbsp;

Blue holes form when seawater meets limestone. Since limestone is very porous, the water easily permeates the rock while the chemicals present in the water slowly eat the limestone away over time.&nbsp;

However, blue holes, due to a lack of proper means to access them remain largely insufficiently studied by scientists. In an email, a coastal geologist from the United States Geological Survey (USGS), Christopher G. Smith told LiveScience, “They are largely poorly understood.”

The coastal geologist added that the unique seawater chemistry in blue holes suggests that they might interact with groundwater and possibly aquifers. Blue holes also contain very little oxygen, while sunlight only shines on their surface but despite these factors, they are home to various species that have adapted to the low-oxygen environment.&nbsp;

What do we know about the recent discovery?

Taam ja’, spans an area of 147,000 square feet and also has steep side slopes with a nearly 80-degree angle which form the “large conic structure,” noted the study. The mouth of the cavern sits around 15 feet below sea level. In 2021, scientists from El Colegio de la Frontera Sur (Ecosur), a public research centre coordinated by Mexico’s National Council of Science and Technology (Conacyt) first discovered the sinkhole.&nbsp;

The “origin and geological evolution of the TJBH (Taam ja’ Blue Hole) deserves further investigation,” researchers noted in the study. 
 
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Researchers have found the second-deepest blue hole in the world just off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. The underwater cavern, located in Chetumal Bay is said to be approximately 900 feet deep and 80 or so feet less than the world’s deepest known blue hole which was discovered nearly seven years ago in the South China Sea.

Researchers have found the second-deepest blue hole in the world just off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. The underwater cavern, located in Chetumal Bay is said to be approximately 900 feet deep and 80 or so feet less than the world’s deepest known blue hole which was discovered nearly seven years ago in the South China Sea. While the blue hole was discovered back in 2021, it was not until recently that it was studied and documented in the scientific journal Frontiers In Marine Science. The site dubbed, Taam ja’ which means “deep water” in Mayan, was surveyed and sampled by scuba divers, undersea sonar, and using various other methods. What are blue holes? According to LiveScience, blue holes are large, undersea vertical caves or sinkholes found in coastal regions. They are also typically home to a range of plant and marine life, including corals, sea turtles and sharks. Blue holes form when seawater meets limestone. Since limestone is very porous, the water easily permeates the rock while the chemicals present in the water slowly eat the limestone away over time. However, blue holes, due to a lack of proper means to access them remain largely insufficiently studied by scientists. In an email, a coastal geologist from the United States Geological Survey (USGS), Christopher G. Smith told LiveScience, “They are largely poorly understood.” The coastal geologist added that the unique seawater chemistry in blue holes suggests that they might interact with groundwater and possibly aquifers. Blue holes also contain very little oxygen, while sunlight only shines on their surface but despite these factors, they are home to various species that have adapted to the low-oxygen environment. What do we know about the recent discovery? Taam ja’, spans an area of 147,000 square feet and also has steep side slopes with a nearly 80-degree angle which form the “large conic structure,” noted the study. The mouth of the cavern sits around 15 feet below sea level. In 2021, scientists from El Colegio de la Frontera Sur (Ecosur), a public research centre coordinated by Mexico’s National Council of Science and Technology (Conacyt) first discovered the sinkhole. The “origin and geological evolution of the TJBH (Taam ja’ Blue Hole) deserves further investigation,” researchers noted in the study. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Scientists discover world’s second-deepest blue hole off the coast of Mexico

A study has revealed that the media's coverage of climate research is, to a large extent, carried out in a way that doesn't provoke action. It claims that the media coverage doesn't inspire the pro-environmental behaviours needed to address the problem.&nbsp;The study has been published in the Global Environmental Change scientific journal. For it, researchers analysed around 50,000 scientific publications on climate change for the year 2020 and examined which ones made it into the mainstream media.

They found that the media tends to pick research within the natural science field. There was also an evident focus on large-scale climate-based projections that won't happen for many years, reports AFP.

Researchers warned that this approach could cause a "possible distancing reaction on the part of the public."

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-climate-report-worlds-glaciers-melted-at-dramatic-speed-in-2022-585074" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/un-climate-report-worlds-glaciers-melted-at-dramatic-speed-in-2022-585074&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjKq8flq8D-AhUSr1YBHY7jCpE4ChAWegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0TfGPBfPhuYl6moXdi27T3" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-climate-report-worlds-glaciers-melted-at-dramatic-speed-in-2022-585074" target="_blank">UN&nbsp;climate&nbsp;report: World's glaciers melted at dramatic speed in 2022</a>

They said&nbsp;that most media coverage of the climate crisis only focuses on long-term projections or threats like glacier melting or polar bears in danger, etc.

The study by a group of researchers at the University of Lausanne (UNIL) specialising in geosciences and psychology claimed&nbsp;that "this type of narrative does not activate the mechanisms known from research on psychology that might engage pro-environmental behaviours in readers."

"On the contrary, the media's selective choice of certain elements of climate change research could backfire, provoking denial and avoidance."

Co-author Marie-Elodie Perga, a professor at the UNIL Institute of Earth Surface Dynamics, suggested&nbsp;that media should strive to "show that climate change has direct consequences on our lifestyles, our immediate environment or our finances".

Another study co-author, Fabrizio Butera, a UNIL psychology professor warned&nbsp;that such coverage can be harmful and that "individuals exposed to these facts, not feeling directly concerned by them, will tend towards a peripheral, superficial and distracted treatment of the information."

"If the goal of mediating research is to have a societal impact, then it seems that we are pushing all the buttons that don't work," said Perga.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-earth-day-10-movies-that-will-inspire-you-to-take-action-on-climate-change-585002">Earth Day: 10 movies that will inspire you to take action on climate change</a>

Researchers have suggested that fear created by large-scale threats, such as climate change, can lead the public to ignore the issue or seek out less worrying information.&nbsp;

They suggested that in order to inspire action, the media should present environmental issues in a "solution-oriented way" and strive to demonstrate how climate change has direct consequences on our lifestyles, our immediate environment, or our finances.&nbsp;

The researchers argued that fear can lead to behavioural change, but only if the problem presented is accompanied by solutions. Research on human behaviour has shown that people are more likely to take action when they believe there is a way to mitigate the problem. Selective and purely descriptive articles that only highlight the negative aspects of climate change can be counterproductive and may result in people ignoring the problem altogether. Thus, they said it is essential to emphasise potential solutions and inspire a sense of empowerment to address the issue, rather than solely focusing on the negative impacts of climate change.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A study has revealed that the media's coverage of climate research is, to a large extent, carried out in a way that doesn't provoke action. It claims that the media coverage doesn't inspire the pro-environmental behaviours needed to address the problem.

A study has revealed that the media's coverage of climate research is, to a large extent, carried out in a way that doesn't provoke action. It claims that the media coverage doesn't inspire the pro-environmental behaviours needed to address the problem. The study has been published in the Global Environmental Change scientific journal. For it, researchers analysed around 50,000 scientific publications on climate change for the year 2020 and examined which ones made it into the mainstream media. They found that the media tends to pick research within the natural science field. There was also an evident focus on large-scale climate-based projections that won't happen for many years, reports AFP. Researchers warned that this approach could cause a "possible distancing reaction on the part of the public." Also read | UN climate report: World's glaciers melted at dramatic speed in 2022 They said that most media coverage of the climate crisis only focuses on long-term projections or threats like glacier melting or polar bears in danger, etc. The study by a group of researchers at the University of Lausanne (UNIL) specialising in geosciences and psychology claimed that "this type of narrative does not activate the mechanisms known from research on psychology that might engage pro-environmental behaviours in readers." "On the contrary, the media's selective choice of certain elements of climate change research could backfire, provoking denial and avoidance." Co-author Marie-Elodie Perga, a professor at the UNIL Institute of Earth Surface Dynamics, suggested that media should strive to "show that climate change has direct consequences on our lifestyles, our immediate environment or our finances". Another study co-author, Fabrizio Butera, a UNIL psychology professor warned that such coverage can be harmful and that "individuals exposed to these facts, not feeling directly concerned by them, will tend towards a peripheral, superficial and distracted treatment of the information." "If the goal of mediating research is to have a societal impact, then it seems that we are pushing all the buttons that don't work," said Perga. Also read | Earth Day: 10 movies that will inspire you to take action on climate change Researchers have suggested that fear created by large-scale threats, such as climate change, can lead the public to ignore the issue or seek out less worrying information. They suggested that in order to inspire action, the media should present environmental issues in a "solution-oriented way" and strive to demonstrate how climate change has direct consequences on our lifestyles, our immediate environment, or our finances. The researchers argued that fear can lead to behavioural change, but only if the problem presented is accompanied by solutions. Research on human behaviour has shown that people are more likely to take action when they believe there is a way to mitigate the problem. Selective and purely descriptive articles that only highlight the negative aspects of climate change can be counterproductive and may result in people ignoring the problem altogether. Thus, they said it is essential to emphasise potential solutions and inspire a sense of empowerment to address the issue, rather than solely focusing on the negative impacts of climate change. (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 media's climate crisis coverage sparks fear and favours avoidance

Oöcyte cryopreservation or women electing to "freeze their eggs," is in trend these days. But is it actually a trend&nbsp;or even "a calculated act by women to hack their fertility" by extending their "ticking clocks" using medical intervention?&nbsp;

A new book by a Yale professor says that actually, men are to blame for more and more women choosing "Motherhood on Ice."

Incidentally, that is the book's name. "Motherhood on Ice" by leading anthropologist Marcia C Inhorn says that the rise of the practice is not because selfish career-driven women want to skirt motherhood and the responsibilities it comes with.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/taking-sleeping-pills-lowers-levels-of-alzheimers-proteins-reveals-study-584803">Taking sleeping pills lowers levels of Alzheimer's proteins, reveals study</a>

Talking to the Guardian, Inhorn reveals that when she embarked on research for her book, "there was a lot of either blaming women or saying that they’re naïve, stupid and so forth," while in academic circles, a "planned, almost feminist, narrative" blamed women for intentionally hacking their fertility.

However, her research and the more than 150 women she talked to for her book revealed that the problem can be summed up in one word: "Men".

There exists a "mating gap," to put it simply, in the US, there is a dearth of suitable educated men.

Inhorn and her fellow co-authors Dr Pasquale Patrizio, director of the Yale Fertility Center, and Daphna Birenbaum-Carmeli of the University of Haifa&nbsp;found that in the US and in the UK, high-earning working women in their late 30s who opted for freezing their eggs were primarily single because "they just couldn't find that reproductive partner."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-how-x-chromosome-gets-its-shape-solving-one-of-lifes-greatest-mysteries-584602">Scientists discover how X chromosome gets its shape, solving one of life's greatest mysteries</a>

"They weren’t freezing to advance; they were facing the overarching problem of partnership."

Inhorn says that this is reflected by the growing gap between men and women pursuing higher education. Four years ago, in 2019, in the US, there were 28 per cent more women opting for higher education. Soon, as per projections, it'll be two university-educated women per one similarly educated man.

Not only this, there is also the "men as partners problem."

Guardian reports that many women told Inhorn of their desire for an egalitarian relationship, i.e., one that is based on equality; even in terms of education level. However, many were ready to settle for someone with lower educational qualifications but had trouble finding a partner who isn't intimidated by their success.

Some even resorted to downplaying or exempting their educational qualifications from their dating profiles. To not "put men off," some hired professionals to help with their profile.

Watch |&nbsp;Singapore egg-freezing ban forces women to head overseas

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"Sometimes men would joke or insult them about their jobs or say ‘you’re smarter than I am, I can’t go out with you’. I mean, just really blatant kinds of misogyny and discrimination," she told Guardian.

Then there are&nbsp;the "Peter Pans," men who refuse to grow up. "They may be educated men who have money and so forth, but they want to play around and have a lot of fun and may not partner at all, or may not partner well into their 40s and 50s," she explains.

Of the 150 women Inhorn interviewed, only 36 did so because of medical reasons. The anthropologist predicts that with time, egg freezing for career planning will increase among women in their mid to late- 20s, but that partnership problems will remain a key driver.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Oöcyte cryopreservation or women electing to "freeze their eggs," is in trend these days. But is it actually a trend or even "a calculated act by women to hack their fertility" by extending their "ticking clocks" using medical intervention?

Oöcyte cryopreservation or women electing to "freeze their eggs," is in trend these days. But is it actually a trend or even "a calculated act by women to hack their fertility" by extending their "ticking clocks" using medical intervention? A new book by a Yale professor says that actually, men are to blame for more and more women choosing "Motherhood on Ice." Incidentally, that is the book's name. "Motherhood on Ice" by leading anthropologist Marcia C Inhorn says that the rise of the practice is not because selfish career-driven women want to skirt motherhood and the responsibilities it comes with. Also read | Taking sleeping pills lowers levels of Alzheimer's proteins, reveals study Talking to the Guardian, Inhorn reveals that when she embarked on research for her book, "there was a lot of either blaming women or saying that they’re naïve, stupid and so forth," while in academic circles, a "planned, almost feminist, narrative" blamed women for intentionally hacking their fertility. However, her research and the more than 150 women she talked to for her book revealed that the problem can be summed up in one word: "Men". There exists a "mating gap," to put it simply, in the US, there is a dearth of suitable educated men. Inhorn and her fellow co-authors Dr Pasquale Patrizio, director of the Yale Fertility Center, and Daphna Birenbaum-Carmeli of the University of Haifa found that in the US and in the UK, high-earning working women in their late 30s who opted for freezing their eggs were primarily single because "they just couldn't find that reproductive partner." Also read | Scientists discover how X chromosome gets its shape, solving one of life's greatest mysteries "They weren’t freezing to advance; they were facing the overarching problem of partnership." Inhorn says that this is reflected by the growing gap between men and women pursuing higher education. Four years ago, in 2019, in the US, there were 28 per cent more women opting for higher education. Soon, as per projections, it'll be two university-educated women per one similarly educated man. Not only this, there is also the "men as partners problem." Guardian reports that many women told Inhorn of their desire for an egalitarian relationship, i.e., one that is based on equality; even in terms of education level. However, many were ready to settle for someone with lower educational qualifications but had trouble finding a partner who isn't intimidated by their success. Some even resorted to downplaying or exempting their educational qualifications from their dating profiles. To not "put men off," some hired professionals to help with their profile. Watch | Singapore egg-freezing ban forces women to head overseas "Sometimes men would joke or insult them about their jobs or say ‘you’re smarter than I am, I can’t go out with you’. I mean, just really blatant kinds of misogyny and discrimination," she told Guardian. Then there are the "Peter Pans," men who refuse to grow up. "They may be educated men who have money and so forth, but they want to play around and have a lot of fun and may not partner at all, or may not partner well into their 40s and 50s," she explains. Of the 150 women Inhorn interviewed, only 36 did so because of medical reasons. The anthropologist predicts that with time, egg freezing for career planning will increase among women in their mid to late- 20s, but that partnership problems will remain a key driver. (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.

Are men responsible for 'Motherhood on Ice' a.k.a., women freezing their eggs?

Scientists have discovered that pet parrots that are allowed to make video calls to other birds exhibit signs of feeling less lonely.&nbsp;Giving the birds a tablet to use for video calls as part of the study led researchers to discover that they started to exhibit more social skills like preening, singing, and play. The research found that the parrots that called other birds the most frequently were the most popular options when the birds were given a choice of which "friend" to call on a touchscreen tablet.

Video interactions, according to co-author of the study and University of Glasgow doctor Ilyena Hirskyj-Douglas, have made numerous patients feel less alone all through the pandemic, reported The Guardian.&nbsp;

“There are 20 million parrots living in people’s homes in the USA, and we wanted to explore whether those birds might benefit from video calling too. If we gave them the opportunity to call other parrots, would they choose to do so, and would the experience benefit the parrots and their caregivers?” she said.&nbsp;

Their investigation, which was based on more than 1,000 hours of footage of 18 pet parrots, revealed that there were in fact advantages for the birds. Many species of parrots live in big flocks in the wild, but when kept as pets, they frequently live alone or in small groups. Birds that feel alone or bored may experience psychological issues that show themselves as rocking, pacing back and forth, or even self-harming actions like plucking feathers.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-climate-report-worlds-glaciers-melted-at-dramatic-speed-in-2022-585074">UN climate report: World's glaciers melted at dramatic speed in 2022</a>

The scientists hypothesised that video calling could replicate some of the social advantages of living in a flock.

The birds were chosen from Parrot Kindergarten's users, a coaching and educational site for pet parrots and their owners. With the help of their owners, the birds initially discovered how to ring a bell before learning to touch a picture of another bird on a tablet device to make a call to that bird. Owners kept careful notes on the birds' behaviour, and the researchers afterwards watched the video of the 147 deliberate calls the birds made to one another throughout the study.

Dr Jennifer Cunha, a professor at Northeastern University and a co-founder of Parrot Kindergarten, claimed that the parrots "seemed to grasp" that they were interacting with other birds because their conduct resembled that of actual interactions.

“All the participants in the study said they valued the experience, and would want to continue using the system with their parrots in the future,” she said.

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Scientists have discovered that pet parrots that are allowed to make video calls to other birds exhibit signs of feeling less lonely. Giving the birds a tablet to use for video calls as part of the study led researchers to discover that they started to exhibit more social skills like preening, singing, and play.

Scientists have discovered that pet parrots that are allowed to make video calls to other birds exhibit signs of feeling less lonely. Giving the birds a tablet to use for video calls as part of the study led researchers to discover that they started to exhibit more social skills like preening, singing, and play. The research found that the parrots that called other birds the most frequently were the most popular options when the birds were given a choice of which "friend" to call on a touchscreen tablet. Video interactions, according to co-author of the study and University of Glasgow doctor Ilyena Hirskyj-Douglas, have made numerous patients feel less alone all through the pandemic, reported The Guardian. “There are 20 million parrots living in people’s homes in the USA, and we wanted to explore whether those birds might benefit from video calling too. If we gave them the opportunity to call other parrots, would they choose to do so, and would the experience benefit the parrots and their caregivers?” she said. Their investigation, which was based on more than 1,000 hours of footage of 18 pet parrots, revealed that there were in fact advantages for the birds. Many species of parrots live in big flocks in the wild, but when kept as pets, they frequently live alone or in small groups. Birds that feel alone or bored may experience psychological issues that show themselves as rocking, pacing back and forth, or even self-harming actions like plucking feathers. ALSO READ | UN climate report: World's glaciers melted at dramatic speed in 2022 The scientists hypothesised that video calling could replicate some of the social advantages of living in a flock. The birds were chosen from Parrot Kindergarten's users, a coaching and educational site for pet parrots and their owners. With the help of their owners, the birds initially discovered how to ring a bell before learning to touch a picture of another bird on a tablet device to make a call to that bird. Owners kept careful notes on the birds' behaviour, and the researchers afterwards watched the video of the 147 deliberate calls the birds made to one another throughout the study. Dr Jennifer Cunha, a professor at Northeastern University and a co-founder of Parrot Kindergarten, claimed that the parrots "seemed to grasp" that they were interacting with other birds because their conduct resembled that of actual interactions. “All the participants in the study said they valued the experience, and would want to continue using the system with their parrots in the future,” she said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Study: Parrots taught to video call one another feel less lonely

SpaceX’s giant new rocket blasted off on its first test flight Thursday but exploded minutes after rising from the launch pad and crashed into the Gulf of Mexico.

Elon Musk’s SpaceX Starship rocket explodes mid-flight after launch

SpaceX's Starship: World's biggest Rocket blows up minutes into inaugural test flight

SpaceX’s Starship, the most powerful rocket ever built, took off from a launch pad on the coast of South Texas on Thursday at 9:28 a.m. ET, but exploded midair before stage separation.

SpaceX's Starship rocket lifts off for inaugural test flight

What works for one may not for another. This is especially true when it comes to mental health problems like depression and antidepressants. These drugs that can make a person's life significantly better often come with serious side effects. To avoid this and ensure that medications work effectively, an Israeli health-tech company is using Artificial Intelligence to match antidepressants to patients.

According to World Health Organization, globally, more than 280 million people suffer from depression. However, as per estimates for two-thirds of them, the initial prescriptions for depression or anxiety may not work properly.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/research-reveals-how-artificial-intelligence-can-help-look-for-alien-lifeforms-on-mars-and-other-planets-582992">Research reveals how Artificial Intelligence can help look for alien lifeforms on Mars and other planets</a>

The groundbreaking AI-based technology uses brain cells generated from patients' blood samples which are then tested for biomarkers when exposed to various antidepressants.&nbsp;

Genetika+, the company then analyses the patient's medical history and genetic data to determine the best drug and correct dosage for a doctor to prescribe.

As per a BBC report, the AI-based technology is still in development and is set to be launched commercially in 2024.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/heres-how-ai-can-help-modern-day-goldilocks-get-a-good-nights-sleep-578610">Here's how Artificial Intelligence can help modern-day Goldilocks get a good night's sleep</a>

The company has secured funding from the European Union's European Research Council and European Innovation Council. It is also working with pharmaceutical companies to develop precision drugs.

"We are in the right time to be able to marry the latest computer technology and biological technology advances," says neuroscientist Dr Cohen Solal, who is the co-founder and chief executive of Genetika+. Solal says that AI can help "solve the mystery" of which drugs work.

Dr Heba Sailem, senior lecturer of biomedical AI and data science at King's College London says that the potential for AI to transform the global pharmaceutical industry is huge.

(With inputs from agencies)

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What works for one may not for another. This is especially true when it comes to mental health problems like depression and antidepressants. These drugs that can make a person's life significantly better often come with serious side effects.

What works for one may not for another. This is especially true when it comes to mental health problems like depression and antidepressants. These drugs that can make a person's life significantly better often come with serious side effects. To avoid this and ensure that medications work effectively, an Israeli health-tech company is using Artificial Intelligence to match antidepressants to patients. According to World Health Organization, globally, more than 280 million people suffer from depression. However, as per estimates for two-thirds of them, the initial prescriptions for depression or anxiety may not work properly. Also read | Research reveals how Artificial Intelligence can help look for alien lifeforms on Mars and other planets The groundbreaking AI-based technology uses brain cells generated from patients' blood samples which are then tested for biomarkers when exposed to various antidepressants. Genetika+, the company then analyses the patient's medical history and genetic data to determine the best drug and correct dosage for a doctor to prescribe. As per a BBC report, the AI-based technology is still in development and is set to be launched commercially in 2024. Also read | Here's how Artificial Intelligence can help modern-day Goldilocks get a good night's sleep The company has secured funding from the European Union's European Research Council and European Innovation Council. It is also working with pharmaceutical companies to develop precision drugs. "We are in the right time to be able to marry the latest computer technology and biological technology advances," says neuroscientist Dr Cohen Solal, who is the co-founder and chief executive of Genetika+. Solal says that AI can help "solve the mystery" of which drugs work. Dr Heba Sailem, senior lecturer of biomedical AI and data science at King's College London says that the potential for AI to transform the global pharmaceutical industry is huge. (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.

Artificial Intelligence helps 'solve the mystery,' match medicine to patient, aid in treatment of depression

Sharing food with your loved ones is often considered a way to deepen the love and care two people share. However, a study published in the journal Nature shows that a virus that is primarily spread through saliva can evolve into cancer. This virus can be transmitted when people kiss, or share drinks or food and affects more than 90 per cent of the world's population.

The virus is called Epstein-Barr virus or EBV and it is the cause of infectious mononucleosis or mono and other infections. As per an ANI news agency report, the virus frequently comes with no symptoms.&nbsp;

Most EBV infections are small and transient, however, in some cases, the virus can go dormant and reactivate later.&nbsp;

Long-lasting latent infections, i.e., infections by an organism that has for some time been inactive in the body, are&nbsp;associated with a number of cancers as well as several chronic inflammatory disorders.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/research-reveals-how-artificial-intelligence-can-help-look-for-alien-lifeforms-on-mars-and-other-planets-582992">Research reveals how Artificial Intelligence can help look for alien lifeforms on Mars and other planets</a>

Researchers at the University of California San Diego have discovered how the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) can exploit genomic weaknesses to trigger cancer, while also decreasing the body's ability to suppress it.&nbsp;

They found that the virus induces cleavage of human chromosome 11, and triggers genomic instability, which can activate a leukaemia-causing oncogene and reduce the function of a major tumour suppressor.&nbsp;

Throughout every person's genome, there are fragile sites that are more prone to producing mutations, breaks, or gaps when replicating, some of which can cause cancer. The researchers found that EBNA1, a viral protein that remains in cells infected with EBV, binds to a fragile site on human chromosome 11, triggering chromosomal breakage.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/traces-of-ancient-viruses-in-dna-of-humans-could-help-fight-cancer-study-582940">Traces of ancient viruses in DNA of humans could help fight cancer: Study</a>

Examining whole-genome sequencing data for 2,439 cancers across 38 tumour types from the Pan-Cancer Analysis of Whole Genomes project, they found that cancer tumours with detectable EBV had higher levels of chromosome 11 abnormalities. This was found to be true in cases including 100 per cent of head and neck cancer cases.&nbsp;

The findings could help identify at-risk individuals who are susceptible to developing latent infection-associated diseases, as the EBV virus is generally harmless for most people, said the study's first author Julia Li, PhD, a postdoctoral fellow in Cleveland's lab.

"For a ubiquitous virus that is harmless for the majority of the human population, identifying at-risk individuals susceptible to the development of latent infection-associated diseases is still an ongoing effort," she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Sharing food with your loved ones is often considered a way to deepen the love and care two people share. However, a study published in the journal Nature shows that a virus that is primarily spread through saliva can evolve into cancer.

Sharing food with your loved ones is often considered a way to deepen the love and care two people share. However, a study published in the journal Nature shows that a virus that is primarily spread through saliva can evolve into cancer. This virus can be transmitted when people kiss, or share drinks or food and affects more than 90 per cent of the world's population. The virus is called Epstein-Barr virus or EBV and it is the cause of infectious mononucleosis or mono and other infections. As per an ANI news agency report, the virus frequently comes with no symptoms. Most EBV infections are small and transient, however, in some cases, the virus can go dormant and reactivate later. Long-lasting latent infections, i.e., infections by an organism that has for some time been inactive in the body, are associated with a number of cancers as well as several chronic inflammatory disorders. Also read | Research reveals how Artificial Intelligence can help look for alien lifeforms on Mars and other planets Researchers at the University of California San Diego have discovered how the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) can exploit genomic weaknesses to trigger cancer, while also decreasing the body's ability to suppress it. They found that the virus induces cleavage of human chromosome 11, and triggers genomic instability, which can activate a leukaemia-causing oncogene and reduce the function of a major tumour suppressor. Throughout every person's genome, there are fragile sites that are more prone to producing mutations, breaks, or gaps when replicating, some of which can cause cancer. The researchers found that EBNA1, a viral protein that remains in cells infected with EBV, binds to a fragile site on human chromosome 11, triggering chromosomal breakage. Also read | Traces of ancient viruses in DNA of humans could help fight cancer: Study Examining whole-genome sequencing data for 2,439 cancers across 38 tumour types from the Pan-Cancer Analysis of Whole Genomes project, they found that cancer tumours with detectable EBV had higher levels of chromosome 11 abnormalities. This was found to be true in cases including 100 per cent of head and neck cancer cases. The findings could help identify at-risk individuals who are susceptible to developing latent infection-associated diseases, as the EBV virus is generally harmless for most people, said the study's first author Julia Li, PhD, a postdoctoral fellow in Cleveland's lab. "For a ubiquitous virus that is harmless for the majority of the human population, identifying at-risk individuals susceptible to the development of latent infection-associated diseases is still an ongoing effort," she 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.

Study reveals how 'EBV' virus that spreads through saliva can lead to cancer

Artificial Intelligence is everywhere, and we mean everywhere. From virtual friends to chatbots, to image and video generation, AI is making headlines. But did you think it could ever be a part of sleep? One of the most basic needs of any living being is good rest. For many, sleep is an actual hobby. What if artificial intelligence takes over this part of our lives&nbsp;too? No, AI won't be doing the sleeping for us, but it would be contributing to how we sleep.

Believe it or not, artificial intelligence is already a part of the industry. There exist special mattresses that are equipped with AI technology and help you sleep better.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;How AI and Automation will impact jobs in the future<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/how-ai-and-automation-will-impact-jobs-in-the-future-518820/embed" width="560"></iframe>

These AI mattresses can detect, and monitor our sleep cycles, adjust their temperature according to our needs and even adapt their firmness according to what we need.

It is not fiction; in 2022, a hotel in New York made headlines for its suite that is dedicated to the pleasure of sleep. One of the key features of this room is a mattress from a company called Bryte. The mattress is integrated with artificial intelligence technology.&nbsp;

What is so special about this artificial intelligence-equipped mattress?

The answer is, so much.&nbsp;

Do you remember the story of Goldilocks and how after eating the bear's porridge, she tried out two mattresses before finding her perfect fit? Well, no need to be a modern-day Goldilocks. AI has you covered.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/artificial-intelligence-could-replace-300-million-jobs-worldwide-goldman-sachs-report-576795">AI could replace 300 million jobs worldwide, says report. Is your livelihood at risk?</a>

The core of this AI mattress, as per AFP, features 90 cushions, each of which can adapt to the user's individual needs in terms of firmness or softness. This could especially be a boon for couples with different tastes in mattress firmness.&nbsp;

Additionally, it can also adjust its temperatures as per your need, and all its features can be controlled via an app.&nbsp;

Another company, Sleep Number, also unveiled an AI mattress last year. This one can detect health problems and make appropriate adjustments.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ai-generated-images-of-donald-trumps-arrest-go-viral-take-a-look-574490">AI predicts what Donald Trump's arrest would look like. Take a look at the viral images!</a>

However, mattresses are not the only way artificial intelligence is being incorporated into the sleep industry.&nbsp;

A study by researchers from the University of Copenhagen's Department of Computer Science in collaboration with the Danish Centre for Sleep Medicine at the danish hospital Rigshospitalet has developed an AI-based algorithm that can improve the diagnosis, treatment and overall understanding of sleep disorders.

While these technological advancements are amazing, they are also expensive. So, it will be a few years till they become commonplace.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Artificial Intelligence is everywhere, and we mean everywhere. From virtual friends to chatbots, to image and video generation, AI is making headlines. But did you think it could ever be a part of sleep?

Artificial Intelligence is everywhere, and we mean everywhere. From virtual friends to chatbots, to image and video generation, AI is making headlines. But did you think it could ever be a part of sleep? One of the most basic needs of any living being is good rest. For many, sleep is an actual hobby. What if artificial intelligence takes over this part of our lives too? No, AI won't be doing the sleeping for us, but it would be contributing to how we sleep. Believe it or not, artificial intelligence is already a part of the industry. There exist special mattresses that are equipped with AI technology and help you sleep better. Watch | How AI and Automation will impact jobs in the future These AI mattresses can detect, and monitor our sleep cycles, adjust their temperature according to our needs and even adapt their firmness according to what we need. It is not fiction; in 2022, a hotel in New York made headlines for its suite that is dedicated to the pleasure of sleep. One of the key features of this room is a mattress from a company called Bryte. The mattress is integrated with artificial intelligence technology. What is so special about this artificial intelligence-equipped mattress? The answer is, so much. Do you remember the story of Goldilocks and how after eating the bear's porridge, she tried out two mattresses before finding her perfect fit? Well, no need to be a modern-day Goldilocks. AI has you covered. Also read | AI could replace 300 million jobs worldwide, says report. Is your livelihood at risk? The core of this AI mattress, as per AFP, features 90 cushions, each of which can adapt to the user's individual needs in terms of firmness or softness. This could especially be a boon for couples with different tastes in mattress firmness. Additionally, it can also adjust its temperatures as per your need, and all its features can be controlled via an app. Another company, Sleep Number, also unveiled an AI mattress last year. This one can detect health problems and make appropriate adjustments. Also read | AI predicts what Donald Trump's arrest would look like. Take a look at the viral images! However, mattresses are not the only way artificial intelligence is being incorporated into the sleep industry. A study by researchers from the University of Copenhagen's Department of Computer Science in collaboration with the Danish Centre for Sleep Medicine at the danish hospital Rigshospitalet has developed an AI-based algorithm that can improve the diagnosis, treatment and overall understanding of sleep disorders. While these technological advancements are amazing, they are also expensive. So, it will be a few years till they become commonplace. (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.

Here's how Artificial Intelligence can help modern-day Goldilocks get a good night's sleep

Last year's Tonga volcano explosion packed quite a punch. As per research, the explosion was around 1,000 times more powerful than the nuclear bomb the United States dropped on Japan's Hiroshima in 1945. Its magnitude was comparable to the most powerful nuclear detonation by the US: the Castle Bravo bomb that was detonated at Bikini Atoll in the year 1954.

Scientists have reached these estimates by using eye and earwitness accounts, along with data from tide gauges, satellites, evidence of broken windows and other sources.&nbsp;

According to them, the January 15, 2022 eruption of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai volcano likely involved five blasts, the final of which released energy equivalent to about 15 megatonnes of TNT which is 1,000 more powerful than 'Little Boy' the nuclear bomb responsible for Hiroshima's destruction.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/up-up-and-away-elon-musks-spacex-to-try-and-launch-starship-its-most-powerful-rocket-ever-on-monday-582601">Up, Up, and Away!: Elon Musk’s SpaceX to try and launch ‘Starship,’ its most powerful rocket ever on Monday</a>

The new study builds on previous research, which revealed that the eruption resulted in the highest ash plume ever recorded, reaching a height of 57 km (35 miles).&nbsp;

Guardian reports that the eruption sent ash and debris 20 km into the air. Previously, it was believed that the volcanic eruption caused a tsunami that hit several islands, with waves reaching as high as 15 metres. However, a computer simulation of the event suggests that the western coast of Tofua Island experienced waves as tall as 45 metres in height.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/responding-to-office-messages-on-whatsapp-after-work-hours-you-may-be-eligible-for-compensation-582683">Responding to office messages on WhatsApp after work hours? You may be eligible for compensation</a>

Dr Mohammad Heidarzadeh from the University of Bath, who has previously conducted research on the Tonga volcano eruption, has commented on a new study. He noted&nbsp;that the study benefits from a diverse observation dataset, which has enabled the researchers to create the most detailed modelling of the tsunami to date. He also remarked&nbsp;that the results of the study are consistent with his own&nbsp;research, which suggested that the maximum tsunami wave height was 90 metres.

"Modelling tsunamis from volcano eruptions is a challenging task and this has been nicely done," he said, as quoted by the Guardian. "It is interesting that the results are consistent with our previous study on this event, where we reported a maximum tsunami wave height of 90 metres," he added.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Last year's Tonga volcano explosion packed quite a punch. As per research, the explosion was around 1,000 times more powerful than the nuclear bomb the United States dropped on Japan's Hiroshima in 1945.

Last year's Tonga volcano explosion packed quite a punch. As per research, the explosion was around 1,000 times more powerful than the nuclear bomb the United States dropped on Japan's Hiroshima in 1945. Its magnitude was comparable to the most powerful nuclear detonation by the US: the Castle Bravo bomb that was detonated at Bikini Atoll in the year 1954. Scientists have reached these estimates by using eye and earwitness accounts, along with data from tide gauges, satellites, evidence of broken windows and other sources. According to them, the January 15, 2022 eruption of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai volcano likely involved five blasts, the final of which released energy equivalent to about 15 megatonnes of TNT which is 1,000 more powerful than 'Little Boy' the nuclear bomb responsible for Hiroshima's destruction. Also read | Up, Up, and Away!: Elon Musk’s SpaceX to try and launch ‘Starship,’ its most powerful rocket ever on Monday The new study builds on previous research, which revealed that the eruption resulted in the highest ash plume ever recorded, reaching a height of 57 km (35 miles). Guardian reports that the eruption sent ash and debris 20 km into the air. Previously, it was believed that the volcanic eruption caused a tsunami that hit several islands, with waves reaching as high as 15 metres. However, a computer simulation of the event suggests that the western coast of Tofua Island experienced waves as tall as 45 metres in height. Also read | Responding to office messages on WhatsApp after work hours? You may be eligible for compensation Dr Mohammad Heidarzadeh from the University of Bath, who has previously conducted research on the Tonga volcano eruption, has commented on a new study. He noted that the study benefits from a diverse observation dataset, which has enabled the researchers to create the most detailed modelling of the tsunami to date. He also remarked that the results of the study are consistent with his own research, which suggested that the maximum tsunami wave height was 90 metres. "Modelling tsunamis from volcano eruptions is a challenging task and this has been nicely done," he said, as quoted by the Guardian. "It is interesting that the results are consistent with our previous study on this event, where we reported a maximum tsunami wave height of 90 metres," he added. (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.

Quite a punch! Last year's Tonga volcano eruption was 1,000 times stronger than Hiroshima nuclear bomb

Even though it is fairly common these days, divorce remains something that society frowns upon. A new study has revealed that the end of a marriage could earn you more than society's displeasure, it could bring you serious health problems. As per the study, being a divorcee or even being single in your mid-life increases a person's risk of dementia. However, being married continuously for a prolonged period of time can significantly decrease the risk of developing dementia in old age.

This study by the Norwegian Institute of Public Health (NIPH/FHI) analysed the marital status of people aged 44 to 68 years over a 24-year period. They found that a person's marital status impacts their chances of clinical diagnosis of dementia or mild cognitive impairment after the age of 70.

Among their subjects, they found that divorced and single people had a high incidence of decline in cognitive abilities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-over-10-million-elderly-indians-have-dementia-ai-study-570587">Over 10 million elderly Indians have dementia: AI study</a>

Vegard Skirbekk, one of the researchers behind the study, says that this link between dementia and a person's marital status could be about having someone to help you cope with life and its stresses.

Skirbekk says that being married means we are not alone in the face of stress and have someone to talk to and share our burdens with.

This, as per him, helps "you cope better with adversity and as a result, you’re less subject to stress. A partner represents a security that provides a buffer."

Without the "buffer," we leave our brains open to an inflammatory stress hormone called cortisol, which can lead to brain damage over time.

But apparently, this is not the only way a marriage helps you avoid the risk of brain-related diseases. Living with a partner generally helps you develop healthy patterns. As Skirbekk puts it, if a doctor tells you that you're overweight, you can replace them, but "it's not as easy to change your spouse."

SCMP reports that, as per the researcher, "men are probably the greatest beneficiaries of a marital arrangement."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-led-to-brain-damage-in-two-infants-infected-during-pregnancy-study-580596">Coronavirus caused brain damage in two infants after moms got infected during pregnancy: Study</a>

Previous studies have also suggested that long romantic partnerships serve a protective role. A 2018 meta-study which was based on 15 individual studies also reached the same conclusion and theorised that being married reduces the risk of dementia.&nbsp;

Another research, this one from 2020, concluded that divorced/widowed individuals, especially men, had a higher risk of dementia. There is more evidence that points the same way. A survey from the year 2019 found that of the 120,000 American men surveyed, the married ones were healthier.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Even though it is fairly common these days, divorce remains something that society frowns upon. A new study has revealed that the end of a marriage could earn you more than society's displeasure, it could bring you serious health problems.

Even though it is fairly common these days, divorce remains something that society frowns upon. A new study has revealed that the end of a marriage could earn you more than society's displeasure, it could bring you serious health problems. As per the study, being a divorcee or even being single in your mid-life increases a person's risk of dementia. However, being married continuously for a prolonged period of time can significantly decrease the risk of developing dementia in old age. This study by the Norwegian Institute of Public Health (NIPH/FHI) analysed the marital status of people aged 44 to 68 years over a 24-year period. They found that a person's marital status impacts their chances of clinical diagnosis of dementia or mild cognitive impairment after the age of 70. Among their subjects, they found that divorced and single people had a high incidence of decline in cognitive abilities. Also read | Over 10 million elderly Indians have dementia: AI study Vegard Skirbekk, one of the researchers behind the study, says that this link between dementia and a person's marital status could be about having someone to help you cope with life and its stresses. Skirbekk says that being married means we are not alone in the face of stress and have someone to talk to and share our burdens with. This, as per him, helps "you cope better with adversity and as a result, you’re less subject to stress. A partner represents a security that provides a buffer." Without the "buffer," we leave our brains open to an inflammatory stress hormone called cortisol, which can lead to brain damage over time. But apparently, this is not the only way a marriage helps you avoid the risk of brain-related diseases. Living with a partner generally helps you develop healthy patterns. As Skirbekk puts it, if a doctor tells you that you're overweight, you can replace them, but "it's not as easy to change your spouse." SCMP reports that, as per the researcher, "men are probably the greatest beneficiaries of a marital arrangement." Also read | Coronavirus caused brain damage in two infants after moms got infected during pregnancy: Study Previous studies have also suggested that long romantic partnerships serve a protective role. A 2018 meta-study which was based on 15 individual studies also reached the same conclusion and theorised that being married reduces the risk of dementia. Another research, this one from 2020, concluded that divorced/widowed individuals, especially men, had a higher risk of dementia. There is more evidence that points the same way. A survey from the year 2019 found that of the 120,000 American men surveyed, the married ones were healthier. (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.

Unsure about marriage? Study indicates it might protect you from dementia in your old age

Why should only humans have all the fun? Tigers need their time to be individualistic as well. They&nbsp;are not just meat-chomping, mean, killing machines as we think. You wouldn't exactly see a tiger writing poetry, but it's now reasonably clear that tigers may have a little variance in their personalities.

A study has now put its seal of approval on this idea. Published on Wednesday (April 5) in the journal Royal Society Open Science, the study observed behaviour of 248 Siberian tigers through a personality test. Again, the mental image of tigers sitting dilligently to mark answers on paper is probably far from what actually happened.

"We found that tigers are very individual and that people who've worked with them and know them well see their individual personalities," co-author Rosalind Arden of the London School of Economics told AFP news agency.

A commonly used human personality test was adapted for this study. Using the test, tiger traits were explored. The traits were confidence, sincerity, bullying and savagery.

Questionnaires with a list of 70 personality indicators were filled out by veterinarians and feeders who work with the tigers on a daily basis.

The combined results revealed that the tigers displayed characteristics that fell into two overarching personality categories: Majesty and steadiness.

Tigers scoring higher for "majesty" were healthier, preyed more on live animals, and ate and mated more.

They were also "regarded by their human raters as having higher group status among tigers," the study said.

But being collaborative and gentler had its evolutionary benefits too: "steady" tigers were shown to be gentler, more sincere and more loving.

Such traits may play a role in the unusual length of time -- two to three years -- that tiger cubs remain with their mothers.

The study found very few sex-related differences in tigers' personalities, and father tigers have also been observed taking part in raising their young.

"It's pleasant to see that you don't have to be dominant, fierce, competitive and aggressive in order to succeed as a tiger," said Arden.

The study may be an amusing one to a common reader. But it's probably a bad idea to try to deduce whether the tiger that suddenly appeared before you in the wild is gentle or not. Just scoot.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
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Why should only humans have all the fun? Tigers need their time to be individualistic as well. They are not just meat-chomping, mean, killing machines as we think.

Why should only humans have all the fun? Tigers need their time to be individualistic as well. They are not just meat-chomping, mean, killing machines as we think. You wouldn't exactly see a tiger writing poetry, but it's now reasonably clear that tigers may have a little variance in their personalities. A study has now put its seal of approval on this idea. Published on Wednesday (April 5) in the journal Royal Society Open Science, the study observed behaviour of 248 Siberian tigers through a personality test. Again, the mental image of tigers sitting dilligently to mark answers on paper is probably far from what actually happened. "We found that tigers are very individual and that people who've worked with them and know them well see their individual personalities," co-author Rosalind Arden of the London School of Economics told AFP news agency. A commonly used human personality test was adapted for this study. Using the test, tiger traits were explored. The traits were confidence, sincerity, bullying and savagery. Questionnaires with a list of 70 personality indicators were filled out by veterinarians and feeders who work with the tigers on a daily basis. The combined results revealed that the tigers displayed characteristics that fell into two overarching personality categories: Majesty and steadiness. Tigers scoring higher for "majesty" were healthier, preyed more on live animals, and ate and mated more. They were also "regarded by their human raters as having higher group status among tigers," the study said. But being collaborative and gentler had its evolutionary benefits too: "steady" tigers were shown to be gentler, more sincere and more loving. Such traits may play a role in the unusual length of time -- two to three years -- that tiger cubs remain with their mothers. The study found very few sex-related differences in tigers' personalities, and father tigers have also been observed taking part in raising their young. "It's pleasant to see that you don't have to be dominant, fierce, competitive and aggressive in order to succeed as a tiger," said Arden. The study may be an amusing one to a common reader. But it's probably a bad idea to try to deduce whether the tiger that suddenly appeared before you in the wild is gentle or not. Just scoot. (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.

Tigers have unique personalities, just like humans, reveals a study

We've all been there. You&nbsp;have a song you can't get out of your head, maybe you hate it, but you still find yourself humming its tune. Why does this happen? Turns out there's science behind this. A new study has revealed the science behind earworms and has even come up with a way you can kick them out of your head.&nbsp;

Guardian reports that the research by Professor Emery Schubert of the University of New South Wales Arts and Media School found that earworms creep into our brains while we're relaxed, or rather when our brains are in a "low-attentional state."

Shubert describes this as the state which is "sometimes referred to as mind wandering."

"In other words, if you’re deeply engaged with the environment you are in, really concentrating on a task, then you won’t get an earworm," he explains.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/heres-how-ai-can-help-modern-day-goldilocks-get-a-good-nights-sleep-578610">Here's how Artificial Intelligence can help modern-day Goldilocks get a good night's sleep</a>

The study which has been published in the journal Music &amp; Science found that these "involuntary musical imagery" are often choruses of songs and that certain songs are more successful as earworms. This is because they have catchy, repetitive tunes that our brains are familiar with.

Schubert says that most research on earworms to date has analysed the song's hook — a short riff or passage that works to catch a listener's attention. He, however, said the research fails to take into consideration the "repetition of the music structure".

To reiterate this point, the research makes reference to an earlier study that revealed that Lady Gaga's Bad Romance&nbsp;is one of the most persistent earworms.

"The implication is that earworms might not have anything to do with the musical features at all. It largely doesn’t matter what the music is, as long as repetition is part of the music structure."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/artificial-intelligence-could-replace-300-million-jobs-worldwide-goldman-sachs-report-576795">AI could replace 300 million jobs worldwide, says report. Is your livelihood at risk?</a>

However, as per the research, apart from the repetition, the relaxation of the listener and their familiarity with the music also matter.&nbsp;

Now, if you're looking for a way to get rid of the earworm, apparently it's very simple. All you have to do is either finish off the music by&nbsp;"consciously thinking of another piece of music, or by removing yourself from the triggers, such as words or memories that relate to the music or lyrics."

But as it turns out, earworms are not all that useless. Schubert, the researcher behind this study, said that earworms could actually help solve questions about human consciousness and even provide insight into how our minds organise and recall material.

(With inputs from agencies)

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We've all been there. You have a song you can't get out of your head, maybe you hate it, but you still find yourself humming its tune. Why does this happen? Turns out there's science behind this.

We've all been there. You have a song you can't get out of your head, maybe you hate it, but you still find yourself humming its tune. Why does this happen? Turns out there's science behind this. A new study has revealed the science behind earworms and has even come up with a way you can kick them out of your head. Guardian reports that the research by Professor Emery Schubert of the University of New South Wales Arts and Media School found that earworms creep into our brains while we're relaxed, or rather when our brains are in a "low-attentional state." Shubert describes this as the state which is "sometimes referred to as mind wandering." "In other words, if you’re deeply engaged with the environment you are in, really concentrating on a task, then you won’t get an earworm," he explains. Also read | Here's how Artificial Intelligence can help modern-day Goldilocks get a good night's sleep The study which has been published in the journal Music & Science found that these "involuntary musical imagery" are often choruses of songs and that certain songs are more successful as earworms. This is because they have catchy, repetitive tunes that our brains are familiar with. Schubert says that most research on earworms to date has analysed the song's hook — a short riff or passage that works to catch a listener's attention. He, however, said the research fails to take into consideration the "repetition of the music structure". To reiterate this point, the research makes reference to an earlier study that revealed that Lady Gaga's Bad Romance is one of the most persistent earworms. "The implication is that earworms might not have anything to do with the musical features at all. It largely doesn’t matter what the music is, as long as repetition is part of the music structure." Also read | AI could replace 300 million jobs worldwide, says report. Is your livelihood at risk? However, as per the research, apart from the repetition, the relaxation of the listener and their familiarity with the music also matter. Now, if you're looking for a way to get rid of the earworm, apparently it's very simple. All you have to do is either finish off the music by "consciously thinking of another piece of music, or by removing yourself from the triggers, such as words or memories that relate to the music or lyrics." But as it turns out, earworms are not all that useless. Schubert, the researcher behind this study, said that earworms could actually help solve questions about human consciousness and even provide insight into how our minds organise and recall material. (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.

Here's why that tune is stuck in your head: Study sheds light on our 'bad Romance' with 'earworms'

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