<p>A small asteroid entered Earth’s atmosphere Sunday morning and lit up the sky over eastern Germany. Videos of the incident have gone viral on social media, depicting a glowing object descending over Europe. Experts later confirmed that the light came from a disintegrating meteorite.</p>

<p>According to astronomers and observers, the 2024 BX1 asteroid, which was temporarily designated as Sar2736, landed outside Berlin near Nennhausen at around 1:30 am local time. Hungarian astronomer Krisztián Sárneczky was the first one to discover the approaching asteroid several hours before its impact, according to The International Astronomical Union.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Prague's view of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sar2736?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sar2736</a>: a minor planet entering Earth's atmosphere on Jan 21, 2024, at 00:32 UT. <a href="https://t.co/KXDnBvzmGX">pic.twitter.com/KXDnBvzmGX</a></p>
— Hanjie Tan (@HonkitTan) <a href="https://twitter.com/HonkitTan/status/1748881538945531997?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Another *incredible* shot of the small asteroid burning up above Germany just moments ago—wow. <a href="https://t.co/OGl0GuWGe6">pic.twitter.com/OGl0GuWGe6</a></p>
— Dr Robin George Andrews 🌋☄️ (@SquigglyVolcano) <a href="https://twitter.com/SquigglyVolcano/status/1748874761722077214?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>NASA also confirmed the incident at least 20 minutes before its impact. “Heads Up: A tiny asteroid will disintegrate as a harmless fireball west of Berlin near Nennhausen shortly at 1:32am CET. Overseers will see it if it’s clear!,” the space agency wrote.</p>

<p>The incident marked the eighth time that an asteroid was discovered before hitting the Earth and the third time that Krisztián Sárneczky discovered it. Sárneczky is a well-known ‘asteroid hunter,’ having discovered minor planets and other space objects headed toward our planet, including two asteroids that respectively fell over France in 2023 and the Arctic Ocean in 2022.</p>

<h2><strong>How large was the asteroid?</strong></h2>

<p>The asteroid measured approximately 1 metre from end to end, according to Denis Vida, a PhD associate specialising in meteor physics at Western University in Canada. Vida is also the brain behind the Global Meteor Project, a mission to enhance meteor observation globally through a cooperative network of cameras directed towards space.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Here's the full video of the asteroid <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sar2736?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sar2736</a>, a ~1 m object that broke up some 50 m west of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Belin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Belin</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Germany?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Germany</a>, and probably dropped some meteorites on the ground. Video credit: <a href="https://t.co/72o6ZzPNz8">https://t.co/72o6ZzPNz8</a> <a href="https://t.co/PA73dkqid1">pic.twitter.com/PA73dkqid1</a></p>
— Denis Vida (@meteordoc) <a href="https://twitter.com/meteordoc/status/1748868373033746881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Denis Vida shared an impressive video clip of the descending asteroid, originally recorded by a livestream camera positioned in the German city of Leipzig. The footage was posted on X. In his accompanying remarks, Vida speculated that the asteroid might have released meteorites upon reaching the Earth's atmosphere and breaking apart. In further clarification provided to CBS News via email, Vida noted that the asteroid began to disintegrate at a location approximately 50 kilometres (about 30 miles) west of Berlin.</p>

<h2><strong>Asteroid named by minor planet centre</strong></h2>

<p>Initially dubbed Sar2736, the asteroid underwent an official naming process by the International Astronomical Union's minor planet centre.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw0Y8aq3pZ5LrvPfXZlwvO-f" data-ved="2ahUKEwimi4rw6PCDAxWl8DgGHaACD6sQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/elon-musks-starlink-nears-approval-for-space-broadband-services-in-india-682422" jsname="YKoRaf">Elon Musk`s Starlink nears approval for space broadband services in India</a></strong></p>

<p>The designation given to it became 2024 BX1, as reported by EarthSky. Notably, the minor planet centre, supported by a grant from NASA's near-earth object observation program, plays a crucial role in collecting comprehensive data on comets and the "outer irregular natural satellites of major planets."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A small asteroid entered Earth’s atmosphere Sunday morning and lit up the sky over eastern Germany. Videos of the incident have gone viral on social media, depicting a glowing object descending over Europe.

A small asteroid entered Earth’s atmosphere Sunday morning and lit up the sky over eastern Germany. Videos of the incident have gone viral on social media, depicting a glowing object descending over Europe. Experts later confirmed that the light came from a disintegrating meteorite. According to astronomers and observers, the 2024 BX1 asteroid, which was temporarily designated as Sar2736, landed outside Berlin near Nennhausen at around 1:30 am local time. Hungarian astronomer Krisztián Sárneczky was the first one to discover the approaching asteroid several hours before its impact, according to The International Astronomical Union. Prague's view of #Sar2736: a minor planet entering Earth's atmosphere on Jan 21, 2024, at 00:32 UT. pic.twitter.com/KXDnBvzmGX — Hanjie Tan (@HonkitTan) January 21, 2024 × Another *incredible* shot of the small asteroid burning up above Germany just moments ago—wow. pic.twitter.com/OGl0GuWGe6 — Dr Robin George Andrews 🌋☄️ (@SquigglyVolcano) January 21, 2024 × NASA also confirmed the incident at least 20 minutes before its impact. “Heads Up: A tiny asteroid will disintegrate as a harmless fireball west of Berlin near Nennhausen shortly at 1:32am CET. Overseers will see it if it’s clear!,” the space agency wrote. The incident marked the eighth time that an asteroid was discovered before hitting the Earth and the third time that Krisztián Sárneczky discovered it. Sárneczky is a well-known ‘asteroid hunter,’ having discovered minor planets and other space objects headed toward our planet, including two asteroids that respectively fell over France in 2023 and the Arctic Ocean in 2022. How large was the asteroid? The asteroid measured approximately 1 metre from end to end, according to Denis Vida, a PhD associate specialising in meteor physics at Western University in Canada. Vida is also the brain behind the Global Meteor Project, a mission to enhance meteor observation globally through a cooperative network of cameras directed towards space. Here's the full video of the asteroid #Sar2736, a ~1 m object that broke up some 50 m west of #Belin, #Germany, and probably dropped some meteorites on the ground. Video credit: https://t.co/72o6ZzPNz8 pic.twitter.com/PA73dkqid1 — Denis Vida (@meteordoc) January 21, 2024 × Denis Vida shared an impressive video clip of the descending asteroid, originally recorded by a livestream camera positioned in the German city of Leipzig. The footage was posted on X. In his accompanying remarks, Vida speculated that the asteroid might have released meteorites upon reaching the Earth's atmosphere and breaking apart. In further clarification provided to CBS News via email, Vida noted that the asteroid began to disintegrate at a location approximately 50 kilometres (about 30 miles) west of Berlin. Asteroid named by minor planet centre Initially dubbed Sar2736, the asteroid underwent an official naming process by the International Astronomical Union's minor planet centre. Also read: Elon Musk`s Starlink nears approval for space broadband services in India The designation given to it became 2024 BX1, as reported by EarthSky. Notably, the minor planet centre, supported by a grant from NASA's near-earth object observation program, plays a crucial role in collecting comprehensive data on comets and the "outer irregular natural satellites of major planets." (With inputs from agencies)

Asteroid crashes into Earth over Germany just hours after being discovered

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<p>A middle-sized black hole in the middle of one of the brightest globular clusters in the Milky Way galaxy may be emitting mysterious radio signals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a study published in&nbsp;<em>The Astrophysical Journal,&nbsp;</em>a medium-sized black hole or a pulsar, a fast-spinning neutron star, might be emitting radio signals. If it is a black hole, it would be a first-of-its-kind discovery. Scientists found the radio signal while scanning the 47 Tucanae cluster with the Australia Telescope Compact Array (ATCA) in New South Wales,&nbsp;Space.com reported.</p>

<p>Ancient groupings of stars scattered around the Milky Way galaxy, or globular clusters, are densely packed with stars more than other regions of the galaxy. In the case of 27 Tucanae, there are over one million stars in a sphere with 120 lightyears diameter and can be observed with the naked eye.</p>

<p>Researchers from the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR) created the most detailed image of 47 Tucanae with 450 hours of radio measurements with ATCA. They found an unusual radio wave source in the centre, around 14,500 lightyears from the Sun. They believe that a middle-sized black hole or a pulsar might be producing it.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/watch-asteroid-turns-into-fireball-before-crashing-into-earth-in-germany-682483">Asteroid crashes into Earth over Germany just hours after being discovered</a></p>

<p>"If this signal turns out to be a black hole, it would be a highly significant discovery and the first-ever radio detection of one inside a cluster," said Alessandro Paduano, lead author of the study and a former PhD student at Curtin University in Perth, Australia. He added, "While intermediate-mass black holes are thought to exist in globular clusters, there hasn't been a clear detection of one yet."</p>

<p>Supermassive black holes at the centre of galaxies can be as gigantic as millions, or even billions, of suns. Medium-sized black holes are the missing connection between stellar black holes, left over from the deaths of giant stars and supermassive black holes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tim Galvin, a research scientist at CSIRO and co-author of a paper on the study, said, "This project has stretched our software to its limits in terms of both data management and processing, and it has been really exciting to see the wealth of science that these techniques have enabled."</p>

<p>Arash Bahramian, an astronomer at Curtin Institute of Radio Astronomy who oversaw the project, added, "It gives us a glimpse of the exciting capabilities the next generation of radio telescopes will achieve when they come online."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A middle-sized black hole in the middle of one of the brightest globular clusters in the Milky Way galaxy may be emitting mysterious radio signals. According to a study published in The Astrophysical Journal, a medium-sized black hole or a pulsar, a fast-spinning neutron star, might be emitting radio signals.

A middle-sized black hole in the middle of one of the brightest globular clusters in the Milky Way galaxy may be emitting mysterious radio signals. According to a study published in The Astrophysical Journal, a medium-sized black hole or a pulsar, a fast-spinning neutron star, might be emitting radio signals. If it is a black hole, it would be a first-of-its-kind discovery. Scientists found the radio signal while scanning the 47 Tucanae cluster with the Australia Telescope Compact Array (ATCA) in New South Wales, Space.com reported. Ancient groupings of stars scattered around the Milky Way galaxy, or globular clusters, are densely packed with stars more than other regions of the galaxy. In the case of 27 Tucanae, there are over one million stars in a sphere with 120 lightyears diameter and can be observed with the naked eye. Researchers from the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR) created the most detailed image of 47 Tucanae with 450 hours of radio measurements with ATCA. They found an unusual radio wave source in the centre, around 14,500 lightyears from the Sun. They believe that a middle-sized black hole or a pulsar might be producing it. ALSO READ | Asteroid crashes into Earth over Germany just hours after being discovered "If this signal turns out to be a black hole, it would be a highly significant discovery and the first-ever radio detection of one inside a cluster," said Alessandro Paduano, lead author of the study and a former PhD student at Curtin University in Perth, Australia. He added, "While intermediate-mass black holes are thought to exist in globular clusters, there hasn't been a clear detection of one yet." Supermassive black holes at the centre of galaxies can be as gigantic as millions, or even billions, of suns. Medium-sized black holes are the missing connection between stellar black holes, left over from the deaths of giant stars and supermassive black holes. Tim Galvin, a research scientist at CSIRO and co-author of a paper on the study, said, "This project has stretched our software to its limits in terms of both data management and processing, and it has been really exciting to see the wealth of science that these techniques have enabled." Arash Bahramian, an astronomer at Curtin Institute of Radio Astronomy who oversaw the project, added, "It gives us a glimpse of the exciting capabilities the next generation of radio telescopes will achieve when they come online." (With inputs from agencies)

Black hole in the Milky Way might be sending mysterious radio signals

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<p>Pets having close contact with their owners, including sharing beds, snuggling and eating in the same area, might be more prone to catching human illnesses.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a study published in&nbsp;<em>Zoonoses: Infections Affecting Humans and Animals,&nbsp;</em>pets can catch several diseases from their human owners, including swine flu, human norovirus, COVID-19 and tuberculosis to dengue, fungal infections and parasites. While dogs and cats reported the most cases, researchers found a few in horses, ferrets and parrots.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zoonoses are diseases which pass between humans and other species. Over 60 per cent of human pathogens are zoonotic in origin. When humans pass diseases to animals, it is called reverse zoonosis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Benjamin Anderson, the study's author and an assistant professor at the University of Florida's College of Public Health and Health Professions, said, "We're starting to see examples of reverse zoonosis. Pets are more susceptible than, maybe, we previously thought." He added, "Typically, the viruses that I will have as a human are not going to fit into the receptors that a dog or cat has."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-black-hole-in-the-centre-of-a-bright-globular-cluster-may-be-emitting-mysterious-radio-signals-682680">Mysterious radio signals might be coming from a black hole in the Milky Way</a></p>

<p>However, some pathogens, like COVID-19 and flu, mutate to have a structure that allows them to penetrate through the cells of another species. This way, they can transfer between two species.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zoonosis and reverse zoonosis occur between mammals, as species more closely related are more prone to transferable diseases. But sometimes, the pathogen mutates enough to jump the gap and spreads between mammals, birds, or even reptiles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the study, reverse zoonosis provides another channel for diseases to spread. It has the potential to amplify an epidemic endangering humans. For instance, pigs infected by human flu and bird flu serve as a mixing pot for new viruses.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"While pathogens certainly can move from animals to other animals and can be picked up from the environment, exposure to humans also plays an important role. It's this constant back-and-forth exchange that happens over time, increasing the probability of a mutation taking place that allows the pathogen to infect a new host," Anderson said.</p>

<p>When animals get affected by human diseases, it is more complicated to track them as they don't often exhibit infections. The study's authors have urged people with pets to avoid close contact with the animals, especially in case of COVID-19 or flu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It's not always possible to keep your pets away for people who have strong bonds with their pets or those with a service animal. In such cases, people should ensure that the animal does not come in contact with body fluids like sneezes or snot.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pets having close contact with their owners, including sharing beds, snuggling and eating in the same area, might be more prone to catching human illnesses. According to a study published in Zoonoses: Infections Affecting Humans and Animals, pets can catch several diseases from their human owners, including swine flu, human norovirus, COVID-19 and tuberculosis to dengue, fungal infections and parasites.

Pets having close contact with their owners, including sharing beds, snuggling and eating in the same area, might be more prone to catching human illnesses. According to a study published in Zoonoses: Infections Affecting Humans and Animals, pets can catch several diseases from their human owners, including swine flu, human norovirus, COVID-19 and tuberculosis to dengue, fungal infections and parasites. While dogs and cats reported the most cases, researchers found a few in horses, ferrets and parrots. Zoonoses are diseases which pass between humans and other species. Over 60 per cent of human pathogens are zoonotic in origin. When humans pass diseases to animals, it is called reverse zoonosis. Benjamin Anderson, the study's author and an assistant professor at the University of Florida's College of Public Health and Health Professions, said, "We're starting to see examples of reverse zoonosis. Pets are more susceptible than, maybe, we previously thought." He added, "Typically, the viruses that I will have as a human are not going to fit into the receptors that a dog or cat has." ALSO READ | Mysterious radio signals might be coming from a black hole in the Milky Way However, some pathogens, like COVID-19 and flu, mutate to have a structure that allows them to penetrate through the cells of another species. This way, they can transfer between two species. Zoonosis and reverse zoonosis occur between mammals, as species more closely related are more prone to transferable diseases. But sometimes, the pathogen mutates enough to jump the gap and spreads between mammals, birds, or even reptiles. According to the study, reverse zoonosis provides another channel for diseases to spread. It has the potential to amplify an epidemic endangering humans. For instance, pigs infected by human flu and bird flu serve as a mixing pot for new viruses. "While pathogens certainly can move from animals to other animals and can be picked up from the environment, exposure to humans also plays an important role. It's this constant back-and-forth exchange that happens over time, increasing the probability of a mutation taking place that allows the pathogen to infect a new host," Anderson said. When animals get affected by human diseases, it is more complicated to track them as they don't often exhibit infections. The study's authors have urged people with pets to avoid close contact with the animals, especially in case of COVID-19 or flu. It's not always possible to keep your pets away for people who have strong bonds with their pets or those with a service animal. In such cases, people should ensure that the animal does not come in contact with body fluids like sneezes or snot. (With inputs from agencies)

Beware! You might be making your pets sick unknowingly, new study suggests

<p>A rare silver coin, believed to be 2,500 years old, has been unearthed near the holy town of Jerusalem. The find indicates that early currency was indeed used in ancient Judea, conclude archaeologists.</p>

<p>The coin dates back to the fifth or sixth century B.C. when Achaemenid Persians used to rule Judea. The coin, unearthed recently, was found cut in half so that it could be valued for its weight. Experts point out that only a handful of such coins have been discovered so far.</p>

<p>"The coin is extremely rare, joining only half a dozen coins of its type that have been found in archaeological excavations in the country," Robert Kool, a coin expert at the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA), said in a statement.</p>

<p>"The coins were minted in a period when the use of coins had just begun," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Where was the coin found?</strong></h2>

<p>The coin was discovered during an excavation meant for expanding a roadway at a place about 16 kilometres southwest of Jerusalem. The area used to be a rural region in the ancient Kingdom of Judea, which had its capital at Jerusalem.</p>

<p>Not just the coin, the remains of a "four room house," a traditional dwelling during this period, were also unearthed at the site, and the archaeologists also discovered a spherical sheqel weight — just under half an ounce (11 grams) — in one of the rooms.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Scientists welcome new antibiotic that kills drug-resistant bacteria CRAB</strong></p>

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<p>The rare discoveries illustrate the evolution of trade in Judea, transitioning from weighing silver pieces to the use of coins during this era, as stated by Kool.</p>

<h2><strong>Where did the coins originate?</strong></h2>

<p>These early coins, originating from regions like ancient Greece, Cyprus, and Turkey, began appearing in the land of Israel in the sixth and fifth centuries BCE, according to Kool.</p>

<p>Despite this, the fact that the coin was deliberately broken in two, allowing each half to be valued based on its silver weight, indicates that the universal adoption of coins was not yet prevalent during this period—a practice now recognised as "hacksilver" or "hacksilbur."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/us-police-warn-against-life-threatening-knock-the-door-tiktok-trend-681534"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;US: Police warn against life-threatening knock-the-door TikTok trend</strong></a></p>

<p>The coin, featuring a square stamp on one side, contrasts with later coins that employed more sophisticated techniques, resulting in raised stamped images rather than sunken ones, as highlighted in the statement.</p>

<p>Eli Escusido, the IAA's director, emphasised the significance of visual details, inscriptions, and dates on early coins as vital sources of archaeological information.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A rare silver coin, believed to be 2,500 years old, has been unearthed near the holy town of Jerusalem. The find indicates that early currency was indeed used in ancient Judea, conclude archaeologists.

A rare silver coin, believed to be 2,500 years old, has been unearthed near the holy town of Jerusalem. The find indicates that early currency was indeed used in ancient Judea, conclude archaeologists. The coin dates back to the fifth or sixth century B.C. when Achaemenid Persians used to rule Judea. The coin, unearthed recently, was found cut in half so that it could be valued for its weight. Experts point out that only a handful of such coins have been discovered so far. "The coin is extremely rare, joining only half a dozen coins of its type that have been found in archaeological excavations in the country," Robert Kool, a coin expert at the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA), said in a statement. "The coins were minted in a period when the use of coins had just begun," he added. Where was the coin found? The coin was discovered during an excavation meant for expanding a roadway at a place about 16 kilometres southwest of Jerusalem. The area used to be a rural region in the ancient Kingdom of Judea, which had its capital at Jerusalem. Not just the coin, the remains of a "four room house," a traditional dwelling during this period, were also unearthed at the site, and the archaeologists also discovered a spherical sheqel weight — just under half an ounce (11 grams) — in one of the rooms. Watch: Scientists welcome new antibiotic that kills drug-resistant bacteria CRAB × The rare discoveries illustrate the evolution of trade in Judea, transitioning from weighing silver pieces to the use of coins during this era, as stated by Kool. Where did the coins originate? These early coins, originating from regions like ancient Greece, Cyprus, and Turkey, began appearing in the land of Israel in the sixth and fifth centuries BCE, according to Kool. Despite this, the fact that the coin was deliberately broken in two, allowing each half to be valued based on its silver weight, indicates that the universal adoption of coins was not yet prevalent during this period—a practice now recognised as "hacksilver" or "hacksilbur." Also read: US: Police warn against life-threatening knock-the-door TikTok trend The coin, featuring a square stamp on one side, contrasts with later coins that employed more sophisticated techniques, resulting in raised stamped images rather than sunken ones, as highlighted in the statement. Eli Escusido, the IAA's director, emphasised the significance of visual details, inscriptions, and dates on early coins as vital sources of archaeological information. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Extremely rare’ 2,500-year-old broken silver coin unearthed near Jerusalem

<p>Aliens are watching us and are snooping on major landmarks across the Earth while using their ultra-advanced telescopes sitting thousands of light years away, a new study has claimed. But there is one catch: They are not observing us in real-time. Instead, there could be a delay of at least 3,000 years due to the time that light takes to travel across space. So, most probably, aliens are able to pick out buildings and structures built on Earth during the times of the Romans, Greeks, Indians and Egyptians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The peer-reviewed paper is published in the March 2024 edition of Acta Astronautica, titled "Are we visible to advanced alien civilizations?".</p>

<p>According to author ZN&nbsp;Osmanov, a Research Affiliate at the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) institute, the maximum distance for potential detection of activities on Earth by an extraterrestrial civilisation is 3000 light-years, an estimate calculated on the basis of the laws of physics.</p>

<p>It means that aliens could use huge and advanced telescopes to snoop on our major landmarks of the past. The study aimed to determine our detectability by categorising alien civilisations based on their technological advancements.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These classifications are based on the capability of the alien societies to harness the energy of their local star. The proposed categories are as follows: Type-I consumes all the energy incident on a planet from its star; Type-II utilises the total energy of the star; and Type-III is an advanced society that consumes the entire galactic energy.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/peruvian-aliens-found-out-to-be-just-dolls-made-of-bones-forensic-experts-says-679683"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Peruvian `aliens` found out to be just dolls made of bones, forensic experts say</strong></a></p>

<p>The study reads: "In particular, the question is: can the artefacts of our technological society be visible and potentially detectable by the telescopes of ETs?</p>

<p>"Since the question is to identify our society with civilization, the major focus should be on the search for large ships, buildings space satellites, etc. Such artefacts might easily be identified as artificial constructions.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Aliens in Mexico? Sensational claim on aliens</strong></p>

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<p>"For this purpose, it is natural to focus on the visible light reflected from the corresponding objects. To identify an observed object with an artificial one, the best way is to spatially resolve it. Therefore, optical telescopes will be used."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Aliens are watching us and are snooping on major landmarks across the Earth while using their ultra-advanced telescopes sitting thousands of light years away, a new study has claimed.

Aliens are watching us and are snooping on major landmarks across the Earth while using their ultra-advanced telescopes sitting thousands of light years away, a new study has claimed. But there is one catch: They are not observing us in real-time. Instead, there could be a delay of at least 3,000 years due to the time that light takes to travel across space. So, most probably, aliens are able to pick out buildings and structures built on Earth during the times of the Romans, Greeks, Indians and Egyptians. The peer-reviewed paper is published in the March 2024 edition of Acta Astronautica, titled "Are we visible to advanced alien civilizations?". According to author ZN Osmanov, a Research Affiliate at the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) institute, the maximum distance for potential detection of activities on Earth by an extraterrestrial civilisation is 3000 light-years, an estimate calculated on the basis of the laws of physics. It means that aliens could use huge and advanced telescopes to snoop on our major landmarks of the past. The study aimed to determine our detectability by categorising alien civilisations based on their technological advancements. These classifications are based on the capability of the alien societies to harness the energy of their local star. The proposed categories are as follows: Type-I consumes all the energy incident on a planet from its star; Type-II utilises the total energy of the star; and Type-III is an advanced society that consumes the entire galactic energy. Also read: Peruvian `aliens` found out to be just dolls made of bones, forensic experts say The study reads: "In particular, the question is: can the artefacts of our technological society be visible and potentially detectable by the telescopes of ETs? "Since the question is to identify our society with civilization, the major focus should be on the search for large ships, buildings space satellites, etc. Such artefacts might easily be identified as artificial constructions. Watch: Aliens in Mexico? Sensational claim on aliens × "For this purpose, it is natural to focus on the visible light reflected from the corresponding objects. To identify an observed object with an artificial one, the best way is to spatially resolve it. Therefore, optical telescopes will be used." (With inputs from agencies)

Aliens could be secretly watching us but with a 3,000-year delay: Study

<p>Just like humans, plants also communicate with each other as soon as any danger or attack is detected in their neighbourhood. Scientists know about this phenomenon since the 1980s, having identified at least 80 species who act in their defence in crisis situations. However, it was still shrouded in mystery as to how exactly plants receive such danger signals from their neighbours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, a team of Japanese scientists has not just solved this puzzle but also filmed the communication among plants in an amazing video. In a study published in Nature Communications, molecular biologists at Saitama University in Japan, Yuri Aratani and Takuya Uemura, demonstrated how these plants behave upon detecting danger.</p>

<h2><strong>Set up created using engineered plants</strong></h2>

<p>To conduct the experiment, scientists set off caterpillars on leaves cut from tomato plants and a commonly used weed called &nbsp;Arabidopsis thaliana. To better analyse its impact on the neighbouring plant, the compounds were concentrated in a plastic bottle and pumped onto the recipient plant at a constant rate.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;New evidence suggests size of the Sun could be smaller</strong></p>

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<p>Also, the recipient Arabidopsis plant was not an ordinary plant but was genetically engineered so that its cells contained a biosensor that fluoresced green when an influx of calcium ions was detected.</p>

<h2><strong>How undamaged plants responded?</strong></h2>

<p>In the video, undamaged plants clearly responded to messages from their injured neighbours, exhibiting calcium signalling across their extended leaves. The researchers discovered that compounds Z-3-HAL and E-2-HAL induced calcium signals in Arabidopsis by analysing airborne compounds.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/gujarat-sized-underwater-plateau-in-pacific-ocean-still-expanding-stuns-scientists-678978"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Experts stunned by massive underwater structure expanding since Jurassic era</strong></a></p>

<p>Using Arabidopsis plants engineered with fluorescent sensors in specific cells, they identified that guard cells (forming stomata), mesophyll cells (inner leaf tissue), and epidermal cells (outermost layer) were the initial responders to danger cues.</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video below:</strong></p>

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<p>When exposed to Z-3-HAL, guard cells promptly generated calcium signals, followed by mesophyll cells. Additionally, pre-treating plants with a phytohormone that closes stomata significantly reduced calcium signalling, indicating stomata function as the plant's 'nostrils.'</p>

<p>"We have finally unveiled the intricate story of when, where, and how plants respond to airborne 'warning messages' from their threatened neighbours," says Masatsugu Toyota, a molecular biologist at Saitama University in Japan and senior author of the study.</p>

<p>"This ethereal communication network, hidden from our view, plays a pivotal role in safeguarding neighbouring plants from imminent threats in a timely manner."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Just like humans, plants also communicate with each other as soon as any danger or attack is detected in their neighbourhood. Scientists know about this phenomenon since the 1980s, having identified at least 80 species who act in their defence in crisis situations.

Just like humans, plants also communicate with each other as soon as any danger or attack is detected in their neighbourhood. Scientists know about this phenomenon since the 1980s, having identified at least 80 species who act in their defence in crisis situations. However, it was still shrouded in mystery as to how exactly plants receive such danger signals from their neighbours. Now, a team of Japanese scientists has not just solved this puzzle but also filmed the communication among plants in an amazing video. In a study published in Nature Communications, molecular biologists at Saitama University in Japan, Yuri Aratani and Takuya Uemura, demonstrated how these plants behave upon detecting danger. Set up created using engineered plants To conduct the experiment, scientists set off caterpillars on leaves cut from tomato plants and a commonly used weed called Arabidopsis thaliana. To better analyse its impact on the neighbouring plant, the compounds were concentrated in a plastic bottle and pumped onto the recipient plant at a constant rate. Watch: New evidence suggests size of the Sun could be smaller × Also, the recipient Arabidopsis plant was not an ordinary plant but was genetically engineered so that its cells contained a biosensor that fluoresced green when an influx of calcium ions was detected. How undamaged plants responded? In the video, undamaged plants clearly responded to messages from their injured neighbours, exhibiting calcium signalling across their extended leaves. The researchers discovered that compounds Z-3-HAL and E-2-HAL induced calcium signals in Arabidopsis by analysing airborne compounds. Also read: Experts stunned by massive underwater structure expanding since Jurassic era Using Arabidopsis plants engineered with fluorescent sensors in specific cells, they identified that guard cells (forming stomata), mesophyll cells (inner leaf tissue), and epidermal cells (outermost layer) were the initial responders to danger cues. Watch the video below: × When exposed to Z-3-HAL, guard cells promptly generated calcium signals, followed by mesophyll cells. Additionally, pre-treating plants with a phytohormone that closes stomata significantly reduced calcium signalling, indicating stomata function as the plant's 'nostrils.' "We have finally unveiled the intricate story of when, where, and how plants respond to airborne 'warning messages' from their threatened neighbours," says Masatsugu Toyota, a molecular biologist at Saitama University in Japan and senior author of the study. "This ethereal communication network, hidden from our view, plays a pivotal role in safeguarding neighbouring plants from imminent threats in a timely manner." (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Plant caught on cam ‘talking’ to neighbouring plant in groundbreaking study

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<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidOwqVqm8Rlmc6" /><meta charset="utf-8" />Researchers have discovered the most aged skin fossil, roughly 286-million-years old. However, they do not know which creature it belongs to.</p>

<p>According to a study published in<em>&nbsp;Current Biology&nbsp;</em>journal, the fragment of the fossilised skin found has a distinctive pebbled texture, resembling the skin of a modern-day crocodile, and it exceeds the age of any known skin fossil by at least 21 million years.</p>

<p>Scientists believe it might have belonged to an early Paleozoic reptile. What makes the discovery more significant is the rare soft tissue in the fossilised skin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ethan Mooney, a palaeontology graduate student at the University of Toronto and the study's first author, said, "These types of discoveries can enrich our understanding and perception of these pioneering animals."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="www.wionews.com/science/sex-development-disorders-existed-even-over-5000-years-ago-reveals-study-on-ancient-dna-680132">Sex-chromosome syndromes existed even 5,000 years ago, ancient DNA study reveals</a></p>

<p>Researchers extracted the fossilised skin and another specimen from the Richards Spur limestone cave system in Oklahoma, a site known for its exceptional preservation conditions. Fine clay sediments, oil seepage, and an oxygen-poor cave environment at Richards Spur played a crucial role in preserving the skin.</p>

<p>"Animals would have fallen into this cave system during the early Permian and been buried in very fine clay sediments that delayed the decay process," Mooney elaborated.</p>

<p>"But the kicker is that this cave system was also an active oil seepage site during the Permian, and interactions between hydrocarbons in petroleum and tar are likely what allowed this skin to be preserved," she added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-traces-of-new-deadly-bat-virus-which-can-infect-humans-found-inside-cave-says-report-679874" target="_blank">Thailand: Traces of new deadly bat virus which can infect humans found inside cave, says report</a></p>

<p>Study co-author Tea Maho of the University of Toronto Mississauga observed the tiny fossilised skin, smaller than a fingernail. After microscopic observation, she found detailed epidermal tissues, characteristic of amniotes.</p>

<p>Amniotes are a group of terrestrial vertebrates that includes reptiles, birds, and mammals. They evolved from amphibian ancestors during the Carboniferous Period.</p>

<p>"We were shocked by what we saw because it's completely unlike anything we would have expected," said Mooney. "The epidermis was a critical feature for vertebrate survival on land. It's a crucial barrier between the internal body processes and the harsh outer environment," she added.</p>

<p>The pebbled surface skin and hinged regions between scales suggest a resemblance to ancient and present-day reptiles. However, researchers couldn't confirm the species due to the absence of associated skeletal remains.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Researchers have discovered the most aged skin fossil, roughly 286-million-years old. However, they do not know which creature it belongs to. According to a study published in Current Biology journal, the fragment of the fossilised skin found has a distinctive pebbled texture, resembling the skin of a modern-day crocodile, and it exceeds the age of any known skin fossil by at least 21 million years.

Researchers have discovered the most aged skin fossil, roughly 286-million-years old. However, they do not know which creature it belongs to. According to a study published in Current Biology journal, the fragment of the fossilised skin found has a distinctive pebbled texture, resembling the skin of a modern-day crocodile, and it exceeds the age of any known skin fossil by at least 21 million years. Scientists believe it might have belonged to an early Paleozoic reptile. What makes the discovery more significant is the rare soft tissue in the fossilised skin. Ethan Mooney, a palaeontology graduate student at the University of Toronto and the study's first author, said, "These types of discoveries can enrich our understanding and perception of these pioneering animals." ALSO READ | Sex-chromosome syndromes existed even 5,000 years ago, ancient DNA study reveals Researchers extracted the fossilised skin and another specimen from the Richards Spur limestone cave system in Oklahoma, a site known for its exceptional preservation conditions. Fine clay sediments, oil seepage, and an oxygen-poor cave environment at Richards Spur played a crucial role in preserving the skin. "Animals would have fallen into this cave system during the early Permian and been buried in very fine clay sediments that delayed the decay process," Mooney elaborated. "But the kicker is that this cave system was also an active oil seepage site during the Permian, and interactions between hydrocarbons in petroleum and tar are likely what allowed this skin to be preserved," she added. ALSO READ | Thailand: Traces of new deadly bat virus which can infect humans found inside cave, says report Study co-author Tea Maho of the University of Toronto Mississauga observed the tiny fossilised skin, smaller than a fingernail. After microscopic observation, she found detailed epidermal tissues, characteristic of amniotes. Amniotes are a group of terrestrial vertebrates that includes reptiles, birds, and mammals. They evolved from amphibian ancestors during the Carboniferous Period. "We were shocked by what we saw because it's completely unlike anything we would have expected," said Mooney. "The epidermis was a critical feature for vertebrate survival on land. It's a crucial barrier between the internal body processes and the harsh outer environment," she added. The pebbled surface skin and hinged regions between scales suggest a resemblance to ancient and present-day reptiles. However, researchers couldn't confirm the species due to the absence of associated skeletal remains. (With inputs from agencies)

Rare fossilised skin from an unknown creature is a whopping 286-million-years old

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<p>The earliest known cases of sex-chromosome syndromes, identified by researchers, suggest that people with extra or missing chromosomes existed 5,000 years ago.</p>

<p>According to a study published in&nbsp;<em>Communications Biology,&nbsp;</em>people with genetic syndromes have existed throughout human history and have been a part of human societies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They often have distinct looks and demeanours compared to the rest of the population. Researchers can learn more about how ancient societies treated people with these differences by finding out about prehistoric people who had such genetic syndromes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kyriaki Anastasiadou of the Francis Crick Institute in London, the co-author of the study, and his team used DNA sequencing to find that ancient people with an atypical number of chromosomes, including an infant with Down syndrome (caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21), lived around 5,000 years ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/astronauts-reveal-what-space-smells-like-and-its-stinkier-than-youd-expect-679866">Astronauts reveal what space smells like, and it’s stinkier than you’d expect</a></p>

<p>The research team also discovered the first prehistoric person to have Turner syndrome was a female, who had only one complete copy of the X chromosome instead of two copies, generally found in females. She lived in Somerset in the United Kingdom during the Iron Age, roughly around 2,500 years ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Anastasiadou and the team also found a male with an extra Y chromosome, called Jacob's syndrome. While a person with Turner's syndrome is shorter and has infertility problems, people with Jacob's syndrome are taller than average. The identified male live during the early Medieval Period, around 1,100 years ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/once-nearly-extinct-worlds-rarest-insect-now-thrives-in-thousands-in-us-679894">Once nearly extinct, world’s ‘rarest insect’ now thrives in thousands in US</a></p>

<p>Furthermore, researchers identified three ancient males from different periods with an extra X chromosome, a condition called Klinefelter syndrome, linked to growing taller than average and having broader hips and larger breasts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Anastasiadou, no evidence indicated that these people experienced different treatment. "There didn't seem to be anything different about how they died or how they were buried at first glance," she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The authors derived DNA samples from the teeth, skull, jaw and ear bones for the study. They used a computation tool for each individual to calculate the number of DNA fragments derived from the X and Y sex chromosomes. Then, they compared it to the amount of DNA fragments derived from non-sex chromosomes. With the help of this, they deduced the presence and ratio of X and Y chromosomes in each person.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The earliest known cases of sex-chromosome syndromes, identified by researchers, suggest that people with extra or missing chromosomes existed 5,000 years ago. According to a study published in Communications Biology, people with genetic syndromes have existed throughout human history and have been a part of human societies.

The earliest known cases of sex-chromosome syndromes, identified by researchers, suggest that people with extra or missing chromosomes existed 5,000 years ago. According to a study published in Communications Biology, people with genetic syndromes have existed throughout human history and have been a part of human societies. They often have distinct looks and demeanours compared to the rest of the population. Researchers can learn more about how ancient societies treated people with these differences by finding out about prehistoric people who had such genetic syndromes. Kyriaki Anastasiadou of the Francis Crick Institute in London, the co-author of the study, and his team used DNA sequencing to find that ancient people with an atypical number of chromosomes, including an infant with Down syndrome (caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21), lived around 5,000 years ago. ALSO READ | Astronauts reveal what space smells like, and it’s stinkier than you’d expect The research team also discovered the first prehistoric person to have Turner syndrome was a female, who had only one complete copy of the X chromosome instead of two copies, generally found in females. She lived in Somerset in the United Kingdom during the Iron Age, roughly around 2,500 years ago. Anastasiadou and the team also found a male with an extra Y chromosome, called Jacob's syndrome. While a person with Turner's syndrome is shorter and has infertility problems, people with Jacob's syndrome are taller than average. The identified male live during the early Medieval Period, around 1,100 years ago. ALSO READ | Once nearly extinct, world’s ‘rarest insect’ now thrives in thousands in US Furthermore, researchers identified three ancient males from different periods with an extra X chromosome, a condition called Klinefelter syndrome, linked to growing taller than average and having broader hips and larger breasts. According to Anastasiadou, no evidence indicated that these people experienced different treatment. "There didn't seem to be anything different about how they died or how they were buried at first glance," she said. The authors derived DNA samples from the teeth, skull, jaw and ear bones for the study. They used a computation tool for each individual to calculate the number of DNA fragments derived from the X and Y sex chromosomes. Then, they compared it to the amount of DNA fragments derived from non-sex chromosomes. With the help of this, they deduced the presence and ratio of X and Y chromosomes in each person. (With inputs from agencies)

Sex-chromosome syndromes existed even 5,000 years ago, ancient DNA study reveals

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<p>Astronauts say that they have smelled unusual scents in space. However, that's not surprising due to the difference between the chemistry of Earth and space.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Technically, one cannot smell anything in space as it is an airless vacuum. However, it's not entirely a vacuum, as it has all sorts of molecules, some of which have strong odours, according to Space.com.</p>

<h2><strong>Gunpowder, Ozone, Burnt Steak</strong></h2>

<p>Some of the most prominent odours that astronauts have reported smelling in space are gunpowder, ozone and burnt steak. According to scientists, there can be two reasons behind it. First, while an astronaut is on a spacewalk, single oxygen atoms can cling to their spacesuit and enter the airlock. It repressurises molecular oxygen, which floods into the airlock and reacts with the single atoms of oxygen to form ozone, explaining the sour, metallic smell.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Secondly, most interstellar carbon has PAHs (Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) found in charred food like burned toast or barbecued meat. Astronauts could've picked these easily, as there are plenty in the solar system, and brought them inside the space station or the capsule.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Rotten eggs and urine</strong></h2>

<p>However, these are not the only strange odours reported in space. Europen Space Agency's Rosetta crossed comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko in 2014, detecting many different molecules in the comet's gaseous halo surrounding its nucleus. These molecules include hydrogen sulphide, which gives rotten eggs their unpleasant stink, and ammonia, whose smell reminds one of urine.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="www.wionews.com/science/source-of-mysterious-radio-signal-that-took-8-billion-years-to-reach-earth-revealed-678566">Radio signal that took 8 billion years to reach Earth came from seven interacting galaxies</a></p>

<p>Hydrogen cyanide, an almond-like smelling toxic molecule, sweet-smelling carbon disulphide and pickled aroma of formaldehyde were also present in the halo. Although one would shut their nostrils at this combination of smells, the odour of this comet was weak, as most of the comet's coma was water vapour and carbon dioxide.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Gasoline and booze</strong></h2>

<p>An astronaut can't smell Saturn's moon Titan, as it has no oxygen and a minus 176.6 degrees Celsius temperature. However, scientists have found that Titan reeks of gasoline.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NASA discovered that Titan's hazy atmosphere contains a chemical, identified by Cassini spacecraft, consisting of nitrogen, methane and benzene, hailing from a family of molecules called polycyclic aromatic nitrogen heterocycles (PANHs). Thus, the presence of benzene gives Titan its petroleum stench.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Furthermore, Sagittarius B2, a massive interstellar molecular cloud of star-forming gas and dust, located less than 400 light-years from the centre of the Milky Way, contains large amounts of alcohol, including vinyl alcohol, methanol, and ethanol, which is used to make beer.</p>

<p>Astronomers also discovered ethyl formate, a sweet-smelling chemical found in raspberries, in Sagittarius B2 in 2009.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Astronauts say that they have smelled unusual scents in space. However, that's not surprising due to the difference between the chemistry of Earth and space. Technically, one cannot smell anything in space as it is an airless vacuum.

Astronauts say that they have smelled unusual scents in space. However, that's not surprising due to the difference between the chemistry of Earth and space. Technically, one cannot smell anything in space as it is an airless vacuum. However, it's not entirely a vacuum, as it has all sorts of molecules, some of which have strong odours, according to Space.com. Gunpowder, Ozone, Burnt Steak Some of the most prominent odours that astronauts have reported smelling in space are gunpowder, ozone and burnt steak. According to scientists, there can be two reasons behind it. First, while an astronaut is on a spacewalk, single oxygen atoms can cling to their spacesuit and enter the airlock. It repressurises molecular oxygen, which floods into the airlock and reacts with the single atoms of oxygen to form ozone, explaining the sour, metallic smell. Secondly, most interstellar carbon has PAHs (Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) found in charred food like burned toast or barbecued meat. Astronauts could've picked these easily, as there are plenty in the solar system, and brought them inside the space station or the capsule. Rotten eggs and urine However, these are not the only strange odours reported in space. Europen Space Agency's Rosetta crossed comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko in 2014, detecting many different molecules in the comet's gaseous halo surrounding its nucleus. These molecules include hydrogen sulphide, which gives rotten eggs their unpleasant stink, and ammonia, whose smell reminds one of urine. ALSO READ | Radio signal that took 8 billion years to reach Earth came from seven interacting galaxies Hydrogen cyanide, an almond-like smelling toxic molecule, sweet-smelling carbon disulphide and pickled aroma of formaldehyde were also present in the halo. Although one would shut their nostrils at this combination of smells, the odour of this comet was weak, as most of the comet's coma was water vapour and carbon dioxide. Gasoline and booze An astronaut can't smell Saturn's moon Titan, as it has no oxygen and a minus 176.6 degrees Celsius temperature. However, scientists have found that Titan reeks of gasoline. NASA discovered that Titan's hazy atmosphere contains a chemical, identified by Cassini spacecraft, consisting of nitrogen, methane and benzene, hailing from a family of molecules called polycyclic aromatic nitrogen heterocycles (PANHs). Thus, the presence of benzene gives Titan its petroleum stench. Furthermore, Sagittarius B2, a massive interstellar molecular cloud of star-forming gas and dust, located less than 400 light-years from the centre of the Milky Way, contains large amounts of alcohol, including vinyl alcohol, methanol, and ethanol, which is used to make beer. Astronomers also discovered ethyl formate, a sweet-smelling chemical found in raspberries, in Sagittarius B2 in 2009. (With inputs from agencies)

Astronauts reveal what space smells like, and it’s stinkier than you’d expect

<p>Paleontologists may have found a new species of tyrannosaur—Tyrannosaurus mcraeensis—that could have been even larger than Tyrannosaurus rex—the dinosaur king—in size. The revelation came after experts carefully studied a partial fossilised skull initially unearthed in 1983. For decades, scientists mistakenly thought it to be T. rex skull. However, they decided to expose it to further study in 2013 after a team of palaeontologists noticed subtle yet suspicious anomalies in its shape.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A new study published Thursday (Jan 11) in the journal ‘Scientific Reports’ revealed that the skull dates to between 73 million and 71 million years ago. It means that T. mcraeensis was 3 to 5 million years older than T. rex.</p>

<h2><strong>Differences noticed between T. mcraeensis and T. rex</strong></h2>

<p>According to experts, the most striking difference were&nbsp;observed in the shape of the lower jaw. "The most striking difference is the shape of the lower jaw, which is more slender and curved [than T.rex]," study co-author Nick Longrich, a palaeontologist at the University of Bath in the UK, was quoted as saying by Live Science.</p>

<p>"It also lacks the prominent bosses or hornlets found over the top of the eyes in T. rex," he added.</p>

<p>Longrich further added that T. mcraeensis was found to have fewer teeth than other tyrannosaurs, “which is one of the main reasons why the researchers believe it is T. rex's closest relative because T. rex also has fewer teeth.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&amp;rct=j&amp;q=&amp;esrc=s&amp;source=newssearch&amp;cd=&amp;cad=rja&amp;uact=8&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiS_5m_49eDAxVEsVYBHfcVBQoQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wionews.com%2Fscience%2Fscientists-discover-youngest-earth-sized-exoplanet-having-lava-hemisphere-679301&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Pn2wxV2fsXsKryqfgK2R1&amp;opi=89978449"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;`Extra hot and young` Earth-sized exoplanet with a ‘lava hemisphere’ discovered</strong></a></p>

<p>He added that the size of the skull was around the same size but “other individuals of the same species may have been even larger.”</p>

<p>"It's not impossible" that T. mcraeensis could have been even larger than T. rex, Longrich said. "Since we only have one individual, it's unlikely we've found the biggest individuals of the species."</p>

<h2><strong>T. rex’s other closest relatives</strong></h2>

<p>Tarbosaurus bataar and Zhuchengtyrannus magnus were previously considered T. rex's closest relatives, both believed to have roamed in China and Mongolia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;NASA James Webb Telescope captures stunning pictures of the universe</strong></p>

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<p>These tyrannosaurs predate T. rex, hinting that the origin of tyrannosaurs might be in Asia. However, recent discoveries propose that Laramidia is a more probable birthplace for the tyrannosaur lineage, implying later migration to Asia. Yet, none of the theories have been confirmed by experts.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Paleontologists may have found a new species of tyrannosaur—Tyrannosaurus mcraeensis—that could have been even larger than Tyrannosaurus rex—the dinosaur king—in size.

Paleontologists may have found a new species of tyrannosaur—Tyrannosaurus mcraeensis—that could have been even larger than Tyrannosaurus rex—the dinosaur king—in size. The revelation came after experts carefully studied a partial fossilised skull initially unearthed in 1983. For decades, scientists mistakenly thought it to be T. rex skull. However, they decided to expose it to further study in 2013 after a team of palaeontologists noticed subtle yet suspicious anomalies in its shape. A new study published Thursday (Jan 11) in the journal ‘Scientific Reports’ revealed that the skull dates to between 73 million and 71 million years ago. It means that T. mcraeensis was 3 to 5 million years older than T. rex. Differences noticed between T. mcraeensis and T. rex According to experts, the most striking difference were observed in the shape of the lower jaw. "The most striking difference is the shape of the lower jaw, which is more slender and curved [than T.rex]," study co-author Nick Longrich, a palaeontologist at the University of Bath in the UK, was quoted as saying by Live Science. "It also lacks the prominent bosses or hornlets found over the top of the eyes in T. rex," he added. Longrich further added that T. mcraeensis was found to have fewer teeth than other tyrannosaurs, “which is one of the main reasons why the researchers believe it is T. rex's closest relative because T. rex also has fewer teeth.” Also read: `Extra hot and young` Earth-sized exoplanet with a ‘lava hemisphere’ discovered He added that the size of the skull was around the same size but “other individuals of the same species may have been even larger.” "It's not impossible" that T. mcraeensis could have been even larger than T. rex, Longrich said. "Since we only have one individual, it's unlikely we've found the biggest individuals of the species." T. rex’s other closest relatives Tarbosaurus bataar and Zhuchengtyrannus magnus were previously considered T. rex's closest relatives, both believed to have roamed in China and Mongolia. Watch: NASA James Webb Telescope captures stunning pictures of the universe × These tyrannosaurs predate T. rex, hinting that the origin of tyrannosaurs might be in Asia. However, recent discoveries propose that Laramidia is a more probable birthplace for the tyrannosaur lineage, implying later migration to Asia. Yet, none of the theories have been confirmed by experts. (With inputs from agencies)

Dinosaur bigger and older than the T. rex once roamed the Earth, scientists find

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<p>Scientists have uncovered the source of the mysterious radio signal that took eight billion years to reach us.</p>

<p>A new research presented during the 243rd meeting of the American Astronomical Society in New Orleans, Louisiana, said the most distinct and ancient fast radio burst (FRB) came from a location that dates halfway back to the Big Bang.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Astronomers led by Northwestern University in the United States have found the origin of the most powerful FRB, detected in 2022.</p>

<p>The researchers traced the FRB, dubbed 20220610A, back to a group of at least seven galaxies using images captured by NASA's Hubble Space Telescope. Their findings suggest the galaxies appear to be interacting with each other and might be en route to a merger. Such rare interactions among galaxies lead to conditions that can trigger an FRB.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/this-planet-is-boiling-so-intensely-that-its-atmosphere-is-shredding-away-678467">This planet is boiling so intensely that its atmosphere is shredding away</a></p>

<p>According to experts, the new research raises questions about all the previous scientific models of FRBs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lead researcher Alexa Gordon of Northwestern University said, "Without the Hubble's imaging, it would remain a mystery, whether this FRB originated from one monolithic galaxy or some interacting system. It's these types of environments - these weird ones - that drive us toward a better understanding of the mystery of FRBs."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-youngest-earth-sized-exoplanet-having-lava-hemisphere-679301">'Extra hot and young' Earth-sized exoplanet with a ‘lava hemisphere’ discovered</a></p>

<p>FRBs are short but strong radio bursts that flare up and disappear within milliseconds. They produce more energy in one quick burst than the Sun emits in one year. FRB 20220610A was the most distant fast radio burst recorded, four times more energetic than closer FRBs. Scientists have discovered up to 1,000 FRBs since first discovering them in 2007. However, the sources behind most of them remain unknown.</p>

<p>Earlier studies suggested that FRBs generated near an unidentifiable, formless blob consisting of a single, irregular galaxy or a group of three distant galaxies. However, in the case of FRB 20220610A, there might be at least seven galaxies in incredible proximity to one another.</p>

<p>They are so close that all could fit inside our Milky Way.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study's co-author, Wen-fai Fong, an associate professor of physics and astronomy, said: "There are some signs that the group members are interacting. In other words, they could be trading materials or possibly on a path to merging. These groups of galaxies (called compact groups) are incredibly rare environments in the universe and are the densest galaxy-scale structures we know of."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Scientists have uncovered the source of the mysterious radio signal that took eight billion years to reach us. A new research presented during the 243rd meeting of the American Astronomical Society in New Orleans, Louisiana, said the most distinct and ancient fast radio burst (FRB) came from a location that dates halfway back to the Big Bang.

Scientists have uncovered the source of the mysterious radio signal that took eight billion years to reach us. A new research presented during the 243rd meeting of the American Astronomical Society in New Orleans, Louisiana, said the most distinct and ancient fast radio burst (FRB) came from a location that dates halfway back to the Big Bang. Astronomers led by Northwestern University in the United States have found the origin of the most powerful FRB, detected in 2022. The researchers traced the FRB, dubbed 20220610A, back to a group of at least seven galaxies using images captured by NASA's Hubble Space Telescope. Their findings suggest the galaxies appear to be interacting with each other and might be en route to a merger. Such rare interactions among galaxies lead to conditions that can trigger an FRB. ALSO READ | This planet is boiling so intensely that its atmosphere is shredding away According to experts, the new research raises questions about all the previous scientific models of FRBs. Lead researcher Alexa Gordon of Northwestern University said, "Without the Hubble's imaging, it would remain a mystery, whether this FRB originated from one monolithic galaxy or some interacting system. It's these types of environments - these weird ones - that drive us toward a better understanding of the mystery of FRBs." ALSO READ | 'Extra hot and young' Earth-sized exoplanet with a ‘lava hemisphere’ discovered FRBs are short but strong radio bursts that flare up and disappear within milliseconds. They produce more energy in one quick burst than the Sun emits in one year. FRB 20220610A was the most distant fast radio burst recorded, four times more energetic than closer FRBs. Scientists have discovered up to 1,000 FRBs since first discovering them in 2007. However, the sources behind most of them remain unknown. Earlier studies suggested that FRBs generated near an unidentifiable, formless blob consisting of a single, irregular galaxy or a group of three distant galaxies. However, in the case of FRB 20220610A, there might be at least seven galaxies in incredible proximity to one another. They are so close that all could fit inside our Milky Way. The study's co-author, Wen-fai Fong, an associate professor of physics and astronomy, said: "There are some signs that the group members are interacting. In other words, they could be trading materials or possibly on a path to merging. These groups of galaxies (called compact groups) are incredibly rare environments in the universe and are the densest galaxy-scale structures we know of." (With inputs from agencies)

Radio signal that took 8 billion years to reach Earth came from seven interacting galaxies

<p>A team of scientists has discovered a new Earth-sized exoplanet in a planetary system previously known for having just two planets. The newly-discovered planet is however extra hot and young. The object, called HD 63433 d, is also tidally locked on its axis, meaning that it has one side which constantly faces its Sun-sized star while the other side endures constant darkness.</p>

<p>The planetary system is believed to be 500 million years old and HD 63433 d exoplanet is known to be the youngest Earth-sized planet closest to the Earth, which is 400 million years old. The planetary system, called HD 63433, is about 10 times younger than our solar system.</p>

<h2><strong>Lava hemisphere</strong></h2>

<p>Since the exoplanet is tidally locked, experts believe the scorching temperatures on the dayside could be comparable to other lava worlds in the space. The team behind this discovery even thinks that the planet's dayside could be a "lava hemisphere."</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;New evidence suggests size of the Sun could be smaller</strong></p>

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<p>It must be noted that the star in the system is also a G-type star. Such a star has about 0.9 to 1.1 solar masses and an effective temperature between about 5,300 and 6,000 K. Our own star ‘Sun’ is also a G-type star.</p>

<h2><strong>How was the exoplanet discovered?</strong></h2>

<p>The team of scientists, led by Benjamin Capistrant and Melinda Soares-Furtado, used data from NASA's TESS (Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite) to identify a third unknown object in the planetary system. Upon muting signals from the two known exoplanets, the scientists could detect the presence of a third planet during its ‘transit,’ a period when a planet crosses in front of its star, blocking a tiny piece of the starlight.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&amp;rct=j&amp;q=&amp;esrc=s&amp;source=newssearch&amp;cd=&amp;cad=rja&amp;uact=8&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjZ-teEuteDAxVwp1YBHafnBD8QxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wionews.com%2Fscience%2Fsource-of-mysterious-radio-signal-that-took-8-billion-years-to-reach-earth-revealed-678566&amp;usg=AOvVaw2t3Ssobv9owRxBsCgNWga7&amp;opi=89978449"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Radio signal that took 8 billion years to reach Earth came from seven interacting galaxies</strong></a></p>

<p>This allowed them to see an additional signal - a small transit that would reappear every 4.2 days. Upon further investigation, they were able to validate that this was actually a third, smaller planet.</p>

<p>The planet is so close to its star that the temperature on its dayside surface can reach 1,257 Celsius. It is 8 times closer to its star than Mercury is to the Sun. Some scientists even believe the planet lacks a substantial atmosphere.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A team of scientists has discovered a new Earth-sized exoplanet in a planetary system previously known for having just two planets. The newly-discovered planet is however extra hot and young.

A team of scientists has discovered a new Earth-sized exoplanet in a planetary system previously known for having just two planets. The newly-discovered planet is however extra hot and young. The object, called HD 63433 d, is also tidally locked on its axis, meaning that it has one side which constantly faces its Sun-sized star while the other side endures constant darkness. The planetary system is believed to be 500 million years old and HD 63433 d exoplanet is known to be the youngest Earth-sized planet closest to the Earth, which is 400 million years old. The planetary system, called HD 63433, is about 10 times younger than our solar system. Lava hemisphere Since the exoplanet is tidally locked, experts believe the scorching temperatures on the dayside could be comparable to other lava worlds in the space. The team behind this discovery even thinks that the planet's dayside could be a "lava hemisphere." Watch: New evidence suggests size of the Sun could be smaller × It must be noted that the star in the system is also a G-type star. Such a star has about 0.9 to 1.1 solar masses and an effective temperature between about 5,300 and 6,000 K. Our own star ‘Sun’ is also a G-type star. How was the exoplanet discovered? The team of scientists, led by Benjamin Capistrant and Melinda Soares-Furtado, used data from NASA's TESS (Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite) to identify a third unknown object in the planetary system. Upon muting signals from the two known exoplanets, the scientists could detect the presence of a third planet during its ‘transit,’ a period when a planet crosses in front of its star, blocking a tiny piece of the starlight. Also read: Radio signal that took 8 billion years to reach Earth came from seven interacting galaxies This allowed them to see an additional signal - a small transit that would reappear every 4.2 days. Upon further investigation, they were able to validate that this was actually a third, smaller planet. The planet is so close to its star that the temperature on its dayside surface can reach 1,257 Celsius. It is 8 times closer to its star than Mercury is to the Sun. Some scientists even believe the planet lacks a substantial atmosphere. (With inputs from agencies)

'Extra hot and young' Earth-sized exoplanet with a ‘lava hemisphere’ discovered

<p>How is a black hole formed? In the simplest language, a black hole is born when a star dies. Now, astronomers have claimed that they might have just witnessed the birth of such a black hole in a major first. This is huge for the scientific community worldwide as it directly links the death of a star to the formation of a black hole-like compact object.</p>

<p>“Our research is like solving a puzzle by gathering all possible evidence,” Ping Chen, a researcher at the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel, and lead author of a study published in Nature, was quoted as saying by Cosomos Magazine.</p>

<h2><strong>How did it start?</strong></h2>

<p>It started with the discovery of a super bright object in space, called SN 2022jli. The object, located some 76 million years away, was discovered by a South African amateur astronomer, Berto Monard. Soon it was confirmed that they had their eyes set on a supernova. A supernova occurs just as a star is breathing its last, or when a black hole is about to form.</p>

<p>Supernovas are hard to study because they are impossible to predict and quickly disappear.</p>

<h2><strong>How SN 2022jli startled scientists?</strong></h2>

<p>SN 2022jli didn’t play by the normal space rules. Usually, a supernova starts out bright but fades gradually. In SN 2022jli’s case, the supernova had its share of ups and downs, switching from bright to dim and back to bright within days.</p>

<p>“In SN 2022jli’s data we see a repeating sequence of brightening and fading,” says Thomas Moore, a scientist from Queen’s University Belfast, whose study of the supernova was published last year in the Astrophysical Journal.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/parasite-black-holes-devouring-stars-from-inside-says-study-670146"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Parasite black holes devouring stars from inside, says study</strong></a></p>

<p>“This is the first time that repeated periodic oscillations, over many cycles, have been detected in a supernova light curve,” Moore added.</p>

<h2><strong>Possible explanation for this anomaly</strong></h2>

<p>Scientists believe that a surviving second star from the supernova explosion is responsible for revealing the compact object. They theorise that either a black hole or neutron star is gulping hydrogen from its companion's 'puffy' atmosphere, a process known as accretion. The resulting energy waves detected by researchers correspond to these oscillations.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;ISRO launches XPoSat to study black hole emissions</strong></p>

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<p>“The unprecedented properties of SN 2022jli tell that whatever happens in the system should be a rare phenomenon, which might be explained by the rarity of a bound binary system surviving a supernova explosion,” the researchers wrote in their Nature paper.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


How is a black hole formed? In the simplest language, a black hole is born when a star dies. Now, astronomers have claimed that they might have just witnessed the birth of such a black hole in a major first.

How is a black hole formed? In the simplest language, a black hole is born when a star dies. Now, astronomers have claimed that they might have just witnessed the birth of such a black hole in a major first. This is huge for the scientific community worldwide as it directly links the death of a star to the formation of a black hole-like compact object. “Our research is like solving a puzzle by gathering all possible evidence,” Ping Chen, a researcher at the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel, and lead author of a study published in Nature, was quoted as saying by Cosomos Magazine. How did it start? It started with the discovery of a super bright object in space, called SN 2022jli. The object, located some 76 million years away, was discovered by a South African amateur astronomer, Berto Monard. Soon it was confirmed that they had their eyes set on a supernova. A supernova occurs just as a star is breathing its last, or when a black hole is about to form. Supernovas are hard to study because they are impossible to predict and quickly disappear. How SN 2022jli startled scientists? SN 2022jli didn’t play by the normal space rules. Usually, a supernova starts out bright but fades gradually. In SN 2022jli’s case, the supernova had its share of ups and downs, switching from bright to dim and back to bright within days. “In SN 2022jli’s data we see a repeating sequence of brightening and fading,” says Thomas Moore, a scientist from Queen’s University Belfast, whose study of the supernova was published last year in the Astrophysical Journal. Also read: Parasite black holes devouring stars from inside, says study “This is the first time that repeated periodic oscillations, over many cycles, have been detected in a supernova light curve,” Moore added. Possible explanation for this anomaly Scientists believe that a surviving second star from the supernova explosion is responsible for revealing the compact object. They theorise that either a black hole or neutron star is gulping hydrogen from its companion's 'puffy' atmosphere, a process known as accretion. The resulting energy waves detected by researchers correspond to these oscillations. Watch: ISRO launches XPoSat to study black hole emissions × “The unprecedented properties of SN 2022jli tell that whatever happens in the system should be a rare phenomenon, which might be explained by the rarity of a bound binary system surviving a supernova explosion,” the researchers wrote in their Nature paper. (With inputs from agencies)

Missing link between a supernova and a black hole is finally revealed

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<p>Researchers have discovered over 30 new species of bacteria in patient samples at the University Hospital Basel, Switzerland.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a study published in&nbsp;<em>BMC Microbiology&nbsp;</em>journal, some of these newly-found bacteria can pave the way&nbsp;for new avenues of research and treatments for related infections due to their clinical relevance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dr Daniel Goldenberger, the study's lead author, said, "Such direct links between newly identified species of bacteria and their clinical relevance have rarely been published in the past."</p>

<p>The study focuses on how knowing pathogens in the world that infect humans can make treating them easier.</p>

<p>Since 2014, Goldenberger and his team have collected and analysed patient samples, studying 61 unknown bacterial pathogens from people with several medical conditions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sequencing these bacterial genomes using traditional methods was difficult for them. So, they turned to a relatively new method for their analysis. Using an algorithm, they compared the sequences with known strains and identified 35 new species.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Among these, seven were clinically relevant, meaning they can cause infections. The researchers classed the other 26 bacteria as "difficult to identify."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-have-finally-unravelled-the-mystery-of-floating-magic-islands-on-saturns-moon-titan-678095">'Magic islands' on Saturn's moon Titan are nothing but Swiss-cheese-like snow clusters</a></p>

<p>The study noted that most newly identified bacteria belonged to two genera: Corynebacterium (six species) and Schaalia (five species). "We can find many species in these two genera in the natural human skin microbiome and the mucosa. This is why they are frequently underestimated, and research into them is sparse," added Goldenberger. But they are harmful once they enter the bloodstream.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Furthermore, according to the study, one of the "difficult to identify" bacteria found in a dog bite wound on a patient's thumb might be a novel and emerging pathogen. A Canadian group first isolated the bacteria from wounds caused by dog or cat bites in 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The team will continue to work on this study by collecting and sequencing samples from patients at the University of Hospital Basel. Over 20 species added to the list will hopefully aid future diagnosis and treatment of infections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Publicly available clinical and genomic data may help understand [bacterial organisms] clinical and ecological role," the study authors wrote in their conclusion. "Our identification of 35 novel strains, seven of which appear to be clinically relevant, shows the wide range of undescribed pathogens yet to be defined."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Researchers have discovered over 30 new species of bacteria in patient samples at the University Hospital Basel, Switzerland. According to a study published in BMC Microbiology journal, some of these newly-found bacteria can pave the way for new avenues of research and treatments for related infections due to their clinical relevance.

Researchers have discovered over 30 new species of bacteria in patient samples at the University Hospital Basel, Switzerland. According to a study published in BMC Microbiology journal, some of these newly-found bacteria can pave the way for new avenues of research and treatments for related infections due to their clinical relevance. Dr Daniel Goldenberger, the study's lead author, said, "Such direct links between newly identified species of bacteria and their clinical relevance have rarely been published in the past." The study focuses on how knowing pathogens in the world that infect humans can make treating them easier. Since 2014, Goldenberger and his team have collected and analysed patient samples, studying 61 unknown bacterial pathogens from people with several medical conditions. Sequencing these bacterial genomes using traditional methods was difficult for them. So, they turned to a relatively new method for their analysis. Using an algorithm, they compared the sequences with known strains and identified 35 new species. Among these, seven were clinically relevant, meaning they can cause infections. The researchers classed the other 26 bacteria as "difficult to identify." ALSO READ | 'Magic islands' on Saturn's moon Titan are nothing but Swiss-cheese-like snow clusters The study noted that most newly identified bacteria belonged to two genera: Corynebacterium (six species) and Schaalia (five species). "We can find many species in these two genera in the natural human skin microbiome and the mucosa. This is why they are frequently underestimated, and research into them is sparse," added Goldenberger. But they are harmful once they enter the bloodstream. Furthermore, according to the study, one of the "difficult to identify" bacteria found in a dog bite wound on a patient's thumb might be a novel and emerging pathogen. A Canadian group first isolated the bacteria from wounds caused by dog or cat bites in 2022. The team will continue to work on this study by collecting and sequencing samples from patients at the University of Hospital Basel. Over 20 species added to the list will hopefully aid future diagnosis and treatment of infections. "Publicly available clinical and genomic data may help understand [bacterial organisms] clinical and ecological role," the study authors wrote in their conclusion. "Our identification of 35 novel strains, seven of which appear to be clinically relevant, shows the wide range of undescribed pathogens yet to be defined." (With inputs from agencies)

Discovery of over 30 unknown bacteria species might help find new treatments

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<p>Alaska has recorded the first case of a polar bear dying due to bird flu, alarming experts about the already stressed extant species.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The polar bear died from highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), contracted by scavenging on bird carcasses infected with the deadly strain H5N1. If the infection spreads, it could be dangerous for the Arctic population which is&nbsp;already facing issues due to climate change.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Division of Environmental Health officials confirmed the death in December after they found the dead polar bear in the northernmost town of Utqiagvik in October.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The case wasn't a surprise, as black and brown bears have previously contracted the deadly virus. However, it's more concerning as polar bears are a vulnerable species. Loss of their sea habitat has already hit their population. If the infection spreads, additional deaths could serve as another blow to the species.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Alaska's state veterinarian, Robert Gerlach, told Live Science that the infection might have already spread among other polar bears.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-have-finally-unravelled-the-mystery-of-floating-magic-islands-on-saturns-moon-titan-678095">'Magic islands' on Saturn's moon Titan are nothing but Swiss-cheese-like snow clusters</a></p>

<p>First identified in 1996 in China, the H5N1 has now spread worldwide. In 2020, a new variant of the deadly virus emerged, killing unprecedented birds. It also spread to North America in 2021. The virus has impacted numerous mammals, resulting in thousands of deaths.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Douglas Clark, associate professor at the University of Saskatchewan's School of Environment and Sustainability, said, "This is unlikely to be an isolated event. It's just that this one led to an outcome that was detected."</p>

<p>Due to their habitat, monitoring the virus among polar bears can be difficult for experts. However, the risk of transmission among polar bears is low because they are a solitary species. But, the concern remains as they have started to feed more on seabirds due to the reduced sea ice.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pollution is another aspect which makes polar bears more vulnerable to bird flu. Anthropogenic chemicals highly affect the species as they accumulate in the high-fat diets of animals. As their fat store depletes, these stored pollutants start interfering with the immune system.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Andrew Derocher, a professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Canada's University of Alberta, said, "A bear fasting for longer, nutritionally stressed, may have a weakened immune system. Now expose a bear with a weakened immune system to avian influenza and the issue of surviving the exposure becomes more challenging."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Alaska has recorded the first case of a polar bear dying due to bird flu, alarming experts about the already stressed extant species. The polar bear died from highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), contracted by scavenging on bird carcasses infected with the deadly strain H5N1.

Alaska has recorded the first case of a polar bear dying due to bird flu, alarming experts about the already stressed extant species. The polar bear died from highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), contracted by scavenging on bird carcasses infected with the deadly strain H5N1. If the infection spreads, it could be dangerous for the Arctic population which is already facing issues due to climate change. The Division of Environmental Health officials confirmed the death in December after they found the dead polar bear in the northernmost town of Utqiagvik in October. The case wasn't a surprise, as black and brown bears have previously contracted the deadly virus. However, it's more concerning as polar bears are a vulnerable species. Loss of their sea habitat has already hit their population. If the infection spreads, additional deaths could serve as another blow to the species. Alaska's state veterinarian, Robert Gerlach, told Live Science that the infection might have already spread among other polar bears. ALSO READ | 'Magic islands' on Saturn's moon Titan are nothing but Swiss-cheese-like snow clusters First identified in 1996 in China, the H5N1 has now spread worldwide. In 2020, a new variant of the deadly virus emerged, killing unprecedented birds. It also spread to North America in 2021. The virus has impacted numerous mammals, resulting in thousands of deaths. Douglas Clark, associate professor at the University of Saskatchewan's School of Environment and Sustainability, said, "This is unlikely to be an isolated event. It's just that this one led to an outcome that was detected." Due to their habitat, monitoring the virus among polar bears can be difficult for experts. However, the risk of transmission among polar bears is low because they are a solitary species. But, the concern remains as they have started to feed more on seabirds due to the reduced sea ice. Pollution is another aspect which makes polar bears more vulnerable to bird flu. Anthropogenic chemicals highly affect the species as they accumulate in the high-fat diets of animals. As their fat store depletes, these stored pollutants start interfering with the immune system. Andrew Derocher, a professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Canada's University of Alberta, said, "A bear fasting for longer, nutritionally stressed, may have a weakened immune system. Now expose a bear with a weakened immune system to avian influenza and the issue of surviving the exposure becomes more challenging." (With inputs from agencies)

Polar bear dies of bird flu, triggering fresh concerns amid climate change

<p>To date, we all were&nbsp;told that life originated on Earth nearly half a billion years ago. However, a new fossil discovery has led scientists to do some course correction and push the time scale by 1.2 billion years: Life might have started flourishing on the planet some 1.75 billion years ago instead.</p>

<p>The discovery revolves around the oldest evidence of oxygenic photosynthetic structures found in a fossil dating back to 1.75 billion years ago. The presence of these structures points to a phenomenon where cells can turn sunlight, water and carbon dioxide into energy and oxygen; or simply put: The presence of life.</p>

<h2><strong>Why is the discovery significant?</strong></h2>

<p>The newly discovered photosynthetic structures are pretty basic, taking into consideration the grand scale of life today found on Earth.</p>

<p>However, these structures are believed to have played a crucial role in the Great Oxygenation Event – a key moment on our planet which helped to fill the atmosphere with breathable air and make it possible for life forms to flourish.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/why-does-venus-spin-in-wrong-direction-scientists-pin-blame-on-ancient-moon-677858"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Why does Venus spin in wrong direction? Scientists pin blame on Ancient moon</strong></a></p>

<p>Published in Nature, the recent study delves into the revelation of fossils found in Australia's McDermott Formation.</p>

<p>Study co-author Emmanuelle Javaux from the University of Liège explains, “They led to the accumulation of oxygen and profoundly modified the chemistry of the Earth’s oceans and atmosphere, and the evolution of the biosphere, including complex life.”</p>

<h2><strong>Previous reporting on ‘life on Earth’</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier in November 2023, in a breakthrough, scientists recreated a chemical reaction which may have led to the creation of complex, self-replicating structures which eventually developed into living things on Earth.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;NASA James Webb Telescope captures stunning pictures of the universe</strong></p>

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<p>A chain of reactions was being recreated by the chemists which is needed to form RNA (or ribonucleic acid) that leads to the emergence of life. Speaking about recreating the chain of reactions, PhD Candidate in Prebiotic Chemistry, UNSW Sydney Quoc Phuong Tran said, “We know whatever chemical reaction created ribonucleotides must have been able to happen in the messy, complicated environment found on our planet billions of years ago.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


To date, we all were told that life originated on Earth nearly half a billion years ago. However, a new fossil discovery has led scientists to do some course correction and push the time scale by 1.

To date, we all were told that life originated on Earth nearly half a billion years ago. However, a new fossil discovery has led scientists to do some course correction and push the time scale by 1.2 billion years: Life might have started flourishing on the planet some 1.75 billion years ago instead. The discovery revolves around the oldest evidence of oxygenic photosynthetic structures found in a fossil dating back to 1.75 billion years ago. The presence of these structures points to a phenomenon where cells can turn sunlight, water and carbon dioxide into energy and oxygen; or simply put: The presence of life. Why is the discovery significant? The newly discovered photosynthetic structures are pretty basic, taking into consideration the grand scale of life today found on Earth. However, these structures are believed to have played a crucial role in the Great Oxygenation Event – a key moment on our planet which helped to fill the atmosphere with breathable air and make it possible for life forms to flourish. Also read: Why does Venus spin in wrong direction? Scientists pin blame on Ancient moon Published in Nature, the recent study delves into the revelation of fossils found in Australia's McDermott Formation. Study co-author Emmanuelle Javaux from the University of Liège explains, “They led to the accumulation of oxygen and profoundly modified the chemistry of the Earth’s oceans and atmosphere, and the evolution of the biosphere, including complex life.” Previous reporting on ‘life on Earth’ Earlier in November 2023, in a breakthrough, scientists recreated a chemical reaction which may have led to the creation of complex, self-replicating structures which eventually developed into living things on Earth. Watch: NASA James Webb Telescope captures stunning pictures of the universe × A chain of reactions was being recreated by the chemists which is needed to form RNA (or ribonucleic acid) that leads to the emergence of life. Speaking about recreating the chain of reactions, PhD Candidate in Prebiotic Chemistry, UNSW Sydney Quoc Phuong Tran said, “We know whatever chemical reaction created ribonucleotides must have been able to happen in the messy, complicated environment found on our planet billions of years ago.” (With inputs from agencies)

Wrong all along? Life on Earth originated long before than previously thought

<p>Want to get more popular among your colleagues? A new study has revealed that being creative could really help you win the trust and confidence of your co-workers, eventually making you more popular among them.</p>

<p>Researchers at the University of Melbourne recently conducted three studies to identify this link between being creative and&nbsp;popular in the workplace.</p>

<p>They first conducted an experimental study on 303 full-time employees and then conducted another survey on 294 full-time employees, followed by a third survey on 189 full-time MBA students over one year.</p>

<p>It turned out that those who are viewed as more creative by their coworkers tend to get more popularity and acceptance.</p>

<h2><strong>How creativity leads to popularity</strong></h2>

<p>While it's typical for individuals to initially connect with those of a similar demographic, such as gender or age, these factors become less significant as relationships mature. Interestingly, in contemporary workplaces, embracing demographic diversity enhances relationships, particularly when creativity is a key focus.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;New evidence suggests size of the Sun could be smaller</strong></p>

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<p>The impact of being perceived as creative is most pronounced in fostering relationship closeness over time, especially when a colleague identifies as the opposite gender and hails from a different nationality.</p>

<p>Establishing connections with individuals from diverse backgrounds often demands more time and effort compared to those from the same background. This can pose challenges for people from minority groups in building relationships at work.</p>

<p>However, when individuals from minority groups are recognised for their creativity, colleagues are more motivated to cultivate relationships with them. This gradual process contributes to increased popularity for individuals from minority groups.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-develop-worlds-first-graphene-semiconductor-in-revolutionary-computing-breakthrough-677184"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Scientists develop world’s first graphene semiconductor in revolutionary computing breakthrough</strong></a></p>

<p>Diverse colleagues bring distinct perspective&nbsp;and information, fostering creativity and personal growth. As more colleagues seek interactions to learn from these unique viewpoints, individuals from minority groups gain popularity within the organisational network.</p>

<h2><strong>Lessons for managers</strong></h2>

<p>The study offers this straightforward but strong lesson to managers: Healthy personal relationships at the workplace can be enhanced by promoting creativity-driven problem-solving discussions.</p>

<p>Hosting meetings for sharing ideas or even structured events like speed networking can help employees connect in a more authentic way.</p>

<p>People after all tend to prefer a workplace over others where their co-workers help them refine their ideas, improve their skills and where their creativity is rewarded.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Want to get more popular among your colleagues? A new study has revealed that being creative could really help you win the trust and confidence of your co-workers, eventually making you more popular among them.

Want to get more popular among your colleagues? A new study has revealed that being creative could really help you win the trust and confidence of your co-workers, eventually making you more popular among them. Researchers at the University of Melbourne recently conducted three studies to identify this link between being creative and popular in the workplace. They first conducted an experimental study on 303 full-time employees and then conducted another survey on 294 full-time employees, followed by a third survey on 189 full-time MBA students over one year. It turned out that those who are viewed as more creative by their coworkers tend to get more popularity and acceptance. How creativity leads to popularity While it's typical for individuals to initially connect with those of a similar demographic, such as gender or age, these factors become less significant as relationships mature. Interestingly, in contemporary workplaces, embracing demographic diversity enhances relationships, particularly when creativity is a key focus. Watch: New evidence suggests size of the Sun could be smaller × The impact of being perceived as creative is most pronounced in fostering relationship closeness over time, especially when a colleague identifies as the opposite gender and hails from a different nationality. Establishing connections with individuals from diverse backgrounds often demands more time and effort compared to those from the same background. This can pose challenges for people from minority groups in building relationships at work. However, when individuals from minority groups are recognised for their creativity, colleagues are more motivated to cultivate relationships with them. This gradual process contributes to increased popularity for individuals from minority groups. Also read: Scientists develop world’s first graphene semiconductor in revolutionary computing breakthrough Diverse colleagues bring distinct perspective and information, fostering creativity and personal growth. As more colleagues seek interactions to learn from these unique viewpoints, individuals from minority groups gain popularity within the organisational network. Lessons for managers The study offers this straightforward but strong lesson to managers: Healthy personal relationships at the workplace can be enhanced by promoting creativity-driven problem-solving discussions. Hosting meetings for sharing ideas or even structured events like speed networking can help employees connect in a more authentic way. People after all tend to prefer a workplace over others where their co-workers help them refine their ideas, improve their skills and where their creativity is rewarded. (With inputs from agencies)

Want to get more popular among colleagues? Being creative is the key

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<p>Chinese scientists have found that Earth's inner core wobbles around its rotational axis every 8.5 years.</p>

<p>According to a study published in&nbsp;<em>Nature Communications&nbsp;</em>journal, a tiny misalignment between the inner core and the Earth's mantle, the layer below the crust, causes this movement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earth's core has two parts: a swirling liquid outer boundary and an almost solid inner layer. This region, starting 2,896 kilometres beneath the surface, is accountable for numerous geophysical dynamics of our planet, including the length of each day and Earth's magnetic field that protects humans from the Sun's harmful rays.</p>

<p>The study noted that this shift can eventually alter the motion or shape of the liquid core, causing a change in the Earth's magnetic field.</p>

<p>In 2019, Hao Ding of Wuhan University and his team of geophysical researchers examined the motion of Earth's rotational axis relative to its crust, also called polar rotation.</p>

<p>They noticed a subtle deviation in polar rotation, which occurs every 8.5 years, leading to the discovery of "inner core wobble." To simplify things, the researchers have described the shift in Earth's inner core as similar to the wobble of a spinning top.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/spectacular-japans-xrism-satellite-provides-first-glimpse-into-x-ray-cosmos-677404">Spectacular! Japan's XRISM satellite provides first glimpse into X-ray cosmos</a></p>

<p>Furthermore, Ding and his co-authors verified this cycle by measuring slight shifts in day length worldwide, controlled by the periodic movement of the Earth's rotational axis. They compared it to the deviations in polar motion.</p>

<p>The researchers concluded that a tilt of 0.17 degrees between Earth's inner core and mantle causes this wobble. It rules out the traditional Earth rotation theory that "assumes that the rotation axis of the Earth's inner core and the rotation axis of the mantle coincide," Ding told Live Science.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The research also suggests that the tilt implies that the inner core northern hemisphere might be a little denser than the rest of the layers, as there is a contrast between Earth's inner and outer core density.&nbsp;</p>

<p>John Vale, a professor of Earth Science at the University of Southern California, told Live Science, "The new study helps discern the difference in composition between the metal in the solid inner and liquid outer core as well as estimates direction and speed of the wobble of the inner core."</p>

<p>The research team did not consider atmospheric, oceanic, and hydrological influences that might have influenced the deviation in polar motion besides the inner core wobble. However, it's a crucial discovery as it could help researchers in the future comprehend the dynamics between Earth's inner core and natural events that impact humanity, like earthquakes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Chinese scientists have found that Earth's inner core wobbles around its rotational axis every 8.5 years. According to a study published in Nature Communications journal, a tiny misalignment between the inner core and the Earth's mantle, the layer below the crust, causes this movement.

Chinese scientists have found that Earth's inner core wobbles around its rotational axis every 8.5 years. According to a study published in Nature Communications journal, a tiny misalignment between the inner core and the Earth's mantle, the layer below the crust, causes this movement. Earth's core has two parts: a swirling liquid outer boundary and an almost solid inner layer. This region, starting 2,896 kilometres beneath the surface, is accountable for numerous geophysical dynamics of our planet, including the length of each day and Earth's magnetic field that protects humans from the Sun's harmful rays. The study noted that this shift can eventually alter the motion or shape of the liquid core, causing a change in the Earth's magnetic field. In 2019, Hao Ding of Wuhan University and his team of geophysical researchers examined the motion of Earth's rotational axis relative to its crust, also called polar rotation. They noticed a subtle deviation in polar rotation, which occurs every 8.5 years, leading to the discovery of "inner core wobble." To simplify things, the researchers have described the shift in Earth's inner core as similar to the wobble of a spinning top. ALSO READ | Spectacular! Japan's XRISM satellite provides first glimpse into X-ray cosmos Furthermore, Ding and his co-authors verified this cycle by measuring slight shifts in day length worldwide, controlled by the periodic movement of the Earth's rotational axis. They compared it to the deviations in polar motion. The researchers concluded that a tilt of 0.17 degrees between Earth's inner core and mantle causes this wobble. It rules out the traditional Earth rotation theory that "assumes that the rotation axis of the Earth's inner core and the rotation axis of the mantle coincide," Ding told Live Science. The research also suggests that the tilt implies that the inner core northern hemisphere might be a little denser than the rest of the layers, as there is a contrast between Earth's inner and outer core density. John Vale, a professor of Earth Science at the University of Southern California, told Live Science, "The new study helps discern the difference in composition between the metal in the solid inner and liquid outer core as well as estimates direction and speed of the wobble of the inner core." The research team did not consider atmospheric, oceanic, and hydrological influences that might have influenced the deviation in polar motion besides the inner core wobble. However, it's a crucial discovery as it could help researchers in the future comprehend the dynamics between Earth's inner core and natural events that impact humanity, like earthquakes. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists might finally know why Earth's inner core wobbles every 8.5 years

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<p>Researchers have finally figured out the reason behind urine's yellow colour, answering an age-old question that has stumped scientists for years.</p>

<p>In the study published in the journal&nbsp;<em>Nature Microbiology</em>, Brantley Hall, an assistant professor in the University of Maryland's Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, and his team explain the chain of events that cause&nbsp;urine to be yellow and why it took so long to figure out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Urine, the last product of our body's natural drainage system, consists of excess water and waste filtered out of blood via the kidneys. These waste products include dead cells that have reached the end of their life cycle, like the RBCs (red blood cells) that carry oxygen throughout the body using haemoglobin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Red blood cells produce a compound called heme. Eventually, the red blood cells degrade, and their heme results in a chain of events that makes the urine yellow.</p>

<p>Scientists have known for some time that urobilin is the chemical primarily responsible for the yellow colour of urine. However, they were unsure about the&nbsp;steps in the process leading to the presence of urobilin in urine.</p>

<p>In the study, Hall explained the role of gut bacteria in breaking down the byproducts of heme, which causes the urine to be yellow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"When red blood cells degrade after their six-month lifespan, a bright orange pigment called bilirubin is produced as a byproduct. Once in the gut, the resident flora can convert bilirubin into a molecule which can turn yellow if exposed to oxygen. This molecule, urobilin, is a major reason behind urine's yellow colour," Hall told Gizmodo.</p>

<p>The study talks about the enzyme responsible for this reaction. Hall's team has coined the newly discovered enzyme bilirubin reductase or BilR. This enzyme breaks down into urobilinogen with the help of Firmicutes and other gut bacteria in the large intestine. Urobilinogen then turns into urobilin in the presence of air.</p>

<p>The study also showed that the gut microbiomes of healthy adults readily contain BilR, highlighting its crucial role.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hall noted that studying gut microbiomes is a difficult task. That's why it took so long to find how urine turns yellow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Unfortunately, gut microbes can be challenging to study. The gut is a low-oxygen environment, and many of the bacteria in our guts can't survive if too much oxygen is present, making them difficult to grow and perform experiments on in labs," Hall said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Researchers have finally figured out the reason behind urine's yellow colour, answering an age-old question that has stumped scientists for years. In the study published in the journal Nature Microbiology, Brantley Hall, an assistant professor in the University of Maryland's Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, and his team explain the chain of events that cause urine to be yellow and why it took so long to figure out.

Researchers have finally figured out the reason behind urine's yellow colour, answering an age-old question that has stumped scientists for years. In the study published in the journal Nature Microbiology, Brantley Hall, an assistant professor in the University of Maryland's Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, and his team explain the chain of events that cause urine to be yellow and why it took so long to figure out. Urine, the last product of our body's natural drainage system, consists of excess water and waste filtered out of blood via the kidneys. These waste products include dead cells that have reached the end of their life cycle, like the RBCs (red blood cells) that carry oxygen throughout the body using haemoglobin. Red blood cells produce a compound called heme. Eventually, the red blood cells degrade, and their heme results in a chain of events that makes the urine yellow. Scientists have known for some time that urobilin is the chemical primarily responsible for the yellow colour of urine. However, they were unsure about the steps in the process leading to the presence of urobilin in urine. In the study, Hall explained the role of gut bacteria in breaking down the byproducts of heme, which causes the urine to be yellow. "When red blood cells degrade after their six-month lifespan, a bright orange pigment called bilirubin is produced as a byproduct. Once in the gut, the resident flora can convert bilirubin into a molecule which can turn yellow if exposed to oxygen. This molecule, urobilin, is a major reason behind urine's yellow colour," Hall told Gizmodo. The study talks about the enzyme responsible for this reaction. Hall's team has coined the newly discovered enzyme bilirubin reductase or BilR. This enzyme breaks down into urobilinogen with the help of Firmicutes and other gut bacteria in the large intestine. Urobilinogen then turns into urobilin in the presence of air. The study also showed that the gut microbiomes of healthy adults readily contain BilR, highlighting its crucial role. Hall noted that studying gut microbiomes is a difficult task. That's why it took so long to find how urine turns yellow. "Unfortunately, gut microbes can be challenging to study. The gut is a low-oxygen environment, and many of the bacteria in our guts can't survive if too much oxygen is present, making them difficult to grow and perform experiments on in labs," Hall said. (With inputs from agencies)

What makes urine yellow? Researchers have finally figured it out

<p>Scientists have recently discovered a new species of an extinct land snail called Ferussina.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The specimen was found in Hațeg Basin, Romania and is believed to have lived about 72 million years ago&nbsp;during the Maastrichtian age of the Late Cretaceous epoch.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The newly-described species, Ferussina petofiana, belonged to a small genus of land snails that existed during the Paleogene period and is currently classified in its own family, Ferussinidae, in the superfamily Cyclophoroidea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Dr Barna Páll-Gergely from the HUN-REN Centre for Agricultural Research, “Ferussina was until now recorded only from Paleogene (Middle Eocene to Upper Oligocene and maybe to Upper Miocene) deposits of Western Europe (France, Germany, Switzerland, northern Italy).”</p>

<p>“The new species is the oldest, as well as the easternmost representative of its genus,” he was quoted as saying by Sci.News.</p>

<p>The size of its shell was around 10.8 mm in diameter and 4.4 mm in height.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The shell is depressed with flat base, domed dorsal surface, and rounded or slightly shouldered body whorl,” the palaeontologist said.</p>

<p>This species is known only from a single specimen found in the Densuș-Ciula Formation in Romania.</p>

<p>Dr Barna’s colleagues added that uppermost Cretaceous deposits discovered from western Romania “are primarily known for their fossil vertebrate fauna, which includes dwarf dinosaurs first described more than a century ago, although rare invertebrates and plants have also been reported from them.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-devise-way-to-convert-toxic-cigarette-butts-into-green-fuel-673690"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Scientists devise way to convert toxic cigarette butts into green fuel</strong></a></p>

<p>The discovery of the new snail species adds to the brief list of European groups that appear to have survived the end-Cretaceous mass extinction event.</p>

<p>According to the researchers, “The occurrence of Ferussina in layers of Maastrichtian age, represents a minimum chronostratigraphic range extension of about 23 million years for this genus.”</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;New evidence suggests size of the Sun could be smaller</strong></p>

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<p>“The most important implication of the discovery of Ferussina petofiana in the uppermost Cretaceous of Hațeg Basin is that the resulting extended chronostratigraphic range of the genus (and that of its parent subfamily, Ferussininae) crosses the Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary which coincides with one of the most devastating mass extinctions of the Phanerozoic,” the authors noted in a detailed study published in the journal Acta Zoologica Academiae Scientiarum Hungaricae.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Scientists have recently discovered a new species of an extinct land snail called Ferussina. The specimen was found in Hațeg Basin, Romania and is believed to have lived about 72 million years ago during the Maastrichtian age of the Late Cretaceous epoch.

Scientists have recently discovered a new species of an extinct land snail called Ferussina. The specimen was found in Hațeg Basin, Romania and is believed to have lived about 72 million years ago during the Maastrichtian age of the Late Cretaceous epoch. The newly-described species, Ferussina petofiana, belonged to a small genus of land snails that existed during the Paleogene period and is currently classified in its own family, Ferussinidae, in the superfamily Cyclophoroidea. According to Dr Barna Páll-Gergely from the HUN-REN Centre for Agricultural Research, “Ferussina was until now recorded only from Paleogene (Middle Eocene to Upper Oligocene and maybe to Upper Miocene) deposits of Western Europe (France, Germany, Switzerland, northern Italy).” “The new species is the oldest, as well as the easternmost representative of its genus,” he was quoted as saying by Sci.News. The size of its shell was around 10.8 mm in diameter and 4.4 mm in height. “The shell is depressed with flat base, domed dorsal surface, and rounded or slightly shouldered body whorl,” the palaeontologist said. This species is known only from a single specimen found in the Densuș-Ciula Formation in Romania. Dr Barna’s colleagues added that uppermost Cretaceous deposits discovered from western Romania “are primarily known for their fossil vertebrate fauna, which includes dwarf dinosaurs first described more than a century ago, although rare invertebrates and plants have also been reported from them.” Also read: Scientists devise way to convert toxic cigarette butts into green fuel The discovery of the new snail species adds to the brief list of European groups that appear to have survived the end-Cretaceous mass extinction event. According to the researchers, “The occurrence of Ferussina in layers of Maastrichtian age, represents a minimum chronostratigraphic range extension of about 23 million years for this genus.” Watch: New evidence suggests size of the Sun could be smaller × “The most important implication of the discovery of Ferussina petofiana in the uppermost Cretaceous of Hațeg Basin is that the resulting extended chronostratigraphic range of the genus (and that of its parent subfamily, Ferussininae) crosses the Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary which coincides with one of the most devastating mass extinctions of the Phanerozoic,” the authors noted in a detailed study published in the journal Acta Zoologica Academiae Scientiarum Hungaricae. (With inputs from agencies)

A snail species survived the mass extinction event which killed the dinosaurs

<p>Ancient humans from the Palaeolithic era in Western Europe may have followed the practice of chopping their fingers off to appease their deities, new research has found.</p>

<p>Archaeologists studied hundreds of cave paintings that showed missing at least a portion of their phalanges to reach this conclusion.</p>

<p>“There is compelling evidence that these people may have had their fingers amputated deliberately in rituals intended to elicit help from supernatural entities,” archaeologist professor Mark Collard of Simon Fraser University in Vancouver was quoted as saying by The Guardian.</p>

<h2><strong>What was revealed in cave paintings?</strong></h2>

<p>In 200 ancient handprints, each one was missing at least one finger, with some only losing a part of the upper segment while others lost multiple fingers.</p>

<p>Collard's presentation expanded on his original 2018 idea that our prehistoric ancestors intentionally amputated fingers as a form of reverence to deities.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-develop-wireless-charger-that-can-be-fitted-inside-human-body-673045"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Scientists develop wireless charger that can be fitted inside human body, dissolve later</strong></a></p>

<p>To support this, Collard and PhD student Brea McCauley highlighted 100 other ancient societies where finger amputation was practised, and people commemorated their lives through handprint and stencil paintings.</p>

<p>“This practice was clearly invented independently multiple times,” they state in the paper. “And it was engaged in by some recent hunter-gatherer societies, so it is entirely possible that the groups at Gargas and the other caves engaged in the practice.”</p>

<h2><strong>Alternative theories&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Previously, scientists speculated that finger amputations might be linked to sign language or a counting system, frostbite, or artists bending fingers for artistic illusion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Collard and McCauley argued that finger amputation was just one type of self-mutilation practised by ancient and even some modern societies.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;New evidence suggests size of the Sun could be smaller</strong></p>

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<p>They mentioned other rituals like fire-walking, face-piercing with skewers, and inserting hooks through the skin to pull heavy chains, all serving similar ritualistic purposes.</p>

<p>The example of Dani women from the New Guinea Highlands cutting off their fingers to symbolise the death of a loved one was also presented as a contemporary practice of such rituals.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ancient humans from the Palaeolithic era in Western Europe may have followed the practice of chopping their fingers off to appease their deities, new research has found.

Ancient humans from the Palaeolithic era in Western Europe may have followed the practice of chopping their fingers off to appease their deities, new research has found. Archaeologists studied hundreds of cave paintings that showed missing at least a portion of their phalanges to reach this conclusion. “There is compelling evidence that these people may have had their fingers amputated deliberately in rituals intended to elicit help from supernatural entities,” archaeologist professor Mark Collard of Simon Fraser University in Vancouver was quoted as saying by The Guardian. What was revealed in cave paintings? In 200 ancient handprints, each one was missing at least one finger, with some only losing a part of the upper segment while others lost multiple fingers. Collard's presentation expanded on his original 2018 idea that our prehistoric ancestors intentionally amputated fingers as a form of reverence to deities. Also read: Scientists develop wireless charger that can be fitted inside human body, dissolve later To support this, Collard and PhD student Brea McCauley highlighted 100 other ancient societies where finger amputation was practised, and people commemorated their lives through handprint and stencil paintings. “This practice was clearly invented independently multiple times,” they state in the paper. “And it was engaged in by some recent hunter-gatherer societies, so it is entirely possible that the groups at Gargas and the other caves engaged in the practice.” Alternative theories Previously, scientists speculated that finger amputations might be linked to sign language or a counting system, frostbite, or artists bending fingers for artistic illusion. However, Collard and McCauley argued that finger amputation was just one type of self-mutilation practised by ancient and even some modern societies. Watch: New evidence suggests size of the Sun could be smaller × They mentioned other rituals like fire-walking, face-piercing with skewers, and inserting hooks through the skin to pull heavy chains, all serving similar ritualistic purposes. The example of Dani women from the New Guinea Highlands cutting off their fingers to symbolise the death of a loved one was also presented as a contemporary practice of such rituals. (With inputs from agencies)

Ancient humans in Europe would chop their fingers off to appease deities: Study 

<p>Scientists have developed a wireless charging device that can be fitted under the skin to charge the bioelectronic devices in the body. The product has shown promising results when tested in rodents. If a similar level of success is seen in humans, it would mean medical implants can get rid of the clunky batteries and wiring that come with them.</p>

<h2><strong>Why the device is needed?</strong></h2>

<p>Wireless charging devices are required due to the fact that most bioelectronic devices, including sensors and drug-delivery systems, are limited by the capacity of onboard batteries.</p>

<p>If these systems are attached to an external source of power, the risk of infection getting spread increases significantly.</p>

<p>So, scientists came up with the idea of developing these flexible, under-the-skin chips. According to a research paper published in the journal Science Advances, these chips are biodegradable and can adapt to the shape of tissue during a procedure.</p>

<p>"Our prototyped power supply system represents an important step forward in advancing a wide range of biodegradable implantable medical devices with its potential to provide effective and reliable energy solutions," study co-author Wei Lan, a professor of electronics in the School of Physical Science and Technology at Lanzhou University in China, was quoted as saying by Live Science.</p>

<h2><strong>How does the wireless device work?</strong></h2>

<p>Diverging from batteries that store energy chemically, these supercapacitors store power in the form of electrical energy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite holding less energy per unit compared to batteries, they boast a high power density, allowing for substantial energy discharge.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-when-science-meets-art-recycled-metal-and-lab-grown-gems-672778"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;When science meets art: Recycled metal and lab-grown gems</strong></a></p>

<p>The researchers incorporated this prototype into a biodegradable chip-like implant, seamlessly integrating energy harvesting and storage.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The implant, when attached to a medical device, ensured a consistent power supply by directing power through the circuit into the capacitor.</p>

<p>In experiments with rats, the wireless implant functioned effectively for up to 10 days and completely dissolved within two months, confirming its biodegradability.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There's potential for extended durability by reinforcing the protective polymer and wax layers enveloping the system, as suggested by Lan.</p>

<h2><strong>Concerns and limitations</strong></h2>

<p>Despite these promising outcomes, the prototype faces challenges before human testing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In drug-delivery experiments, rats with uncharged implants displayed some passive drug release, and the team has yet to establish a mechanism for turning the device on or off, as it ceases operation only when it depletes power.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;New evidence suggests size of the Sun could be smaller</strong></p>

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<p>Future research will need to address concerns regarding the device's size and achieve full biodegradability.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Scientists have developed a wireless charging device that can be fitted under the skin to charge the bioelectronic devices in the body. The product has shown promising results when tested in rodents.

Scientists have developed a wireless charging device that can be fitted under the skin to charge the bioelectronic devices in the body. The product has shown promising results when tested in rodents. If a similar level of success is seen in humans, it would mean medical implants can get rid of the clunky batteries and wiring that come with them. Why the device is needed? Wireless charging devices are required due to the fact that most bioelectronic devices, including sensors and drug-delivery systems, are limited by the capacity of onboard batteries. If these systems are attached to an external source of power, the risk of infection getting spread increases significantly. So, scientists came up with the idea of developing these flexible, under-the-skin chips. According to a research paper published in the journal Science Advances, these chips are biodegradable and can adapt to the shape of tissue during a procedure. "Our prototyped power supply system represents an important step forward in advancing a wide range of biodegradable implantable medical devices with its potential to provide effective and reliable energy solutions," study co-author Wei Lan, a professor of electronics in the School of Physical Science and Technology at Lanzhou University in China, was quoted as saying by Live Science. How does the wireless device work? Diverging from batteries that store energy chemically, these supercapacitors store power in the form of electrical energy. Despite holding less energy per unit compared to batteries, they boast a high power density, allowing for substantial energy discharge. Also read: When science meets art: Recycled metal and lab-grown gems The researchers incorporated this prototype into a biodegradable chip-like implant, seamlessly integrating energy harvesting and storage. The implant, when attached to a medical device, ensured a consistent power supply by directing power through the circuit into the capacitor. In experiments with rats, the wireless implant functioned effectively for up to 10 days and completely dissolved within two months, confirming its biodegradability. There's potential for extended durability by reinforcing the protective polymer and wax layers enveloping the system, as suggested by Lan. Concerns and limitations Despite these promising outcomes, the prototype faces challenges before human testing. In drug-delivery experiments, rats with uncharged implants displayed some passive drug release, and the team has yet to establish a mechanism for turning the device on or off, as it ceases operation only when it depletes power. Watch: New evidence suggests size of the Sun could be smaller × Future research will need to address concerns regarding the device's size and achieve full biodegradability. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists develop wireless charger that can be fitted inside human body, dissolve later

<p>Scientists have recently unravelled the mystery of "The Great Unconformity," a phenomenon where large sections of the Earth's crust are missing from the geological record.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Experts have now concluded that this gap most likely emerged from the intense glacial erosion during a period known as "Snowball Earth," when much of the planet was covered in ice.</p>

<h2><strong>Glacial erosion led to gap in sedimentary record</strong></h2>

<p>The process of glacial erosion, occurring during this ancient time, led to a significant removal of rocks, creating a gap in the sedimentary record.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This geological oddity was first observed in 1869 at the Grand Canyon in Arizona when experts noticed a sudden change in the age of rocks, a pattern found in various locations globally.</p>

<p>A recent study estimated that an astonishing 3-5 kilometres of rock globally were eroded due to glacial activity, leaving a billion cubic kilometres of pre-Cambrian material missing from records.</p>

<p>The pre-Cambrian refers to the earliest part of Earth's history.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;China: Scientists develop powerful hydrogen therapy that could reverse ageing</strong></p>

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<p>Dr Brenhin Keller, the lead author of the study, highlighted the colossal scale of rock loss.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His theory proposes that more extensive erosion occurred before the Phanerozoic era than previously believed.</p>

<p>The Phanerozoic is the current and the latest of the four geologic eons in the Earth's geologic time scale, covering the time period from 538.8 million years ago to the present.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-find-chum-salmon-breeding-in-arctic-and-they-believe-its-an-ominous-sign-670905"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Chum salmon are breeding in Arctic, and it is `an ominous sign’ for humanity</strong></a></p>

<p>Evidence, including isotopes of hafnium and oxygen found in crystals from that era, supports the idea that these materials were eroded from old rock and deposited at low temperatures.</p>

<p>Their theory also suggests this is why there are many asteroid craters less than 700 million years old and only two that are dated older than that.</p>

<h2><strong>Current whereabouts of the missing rock</strong></h2>

<p>The researchers argue that glaciers responsible for eroding sedimentary rocks also carried them to the sea, providing a possible explanation for the current whereabouts of the missing rocks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This discovery sheds light on Earth's ancient history and the dynamic processes that have shaped its geological landscape.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Scientists have recently unravelled the mystery of "The Great Unconformity," a phenomenon where large sections of the Earth's crust are missing from the geological record.

Scientists have recently unravelled the mystery of "The Great Unconformity," a phenomenon where large sections of the Earth's crust are missing from the geological record. Experts have now concluded that this gap most likely emerged from the intense glacial erosion during a period known as "Snowball Earth," when much of the planet was covered in ice. Glacial erosion led to gap in sedimentary record The process of glacial erosion, occurring during this ancient time, led to a significant removal of rocks, creating a gap in the sedimentary record. This geological oddity was first observed in 1869 at the Grand Canyon in Arizona when experts noticed a sudden change in the age of rocks, a pattern found in various locations globally. A recent study estimated that an astonishing 3-5 kilometres of rock globally were eroded due to glacial activity, leaving a billion cubic kilometres of pre-Cambrian material missing from records. The pre-Cambrian refers to the earliest part of Earth's history. Watch: China: Scientists develop powerful hydrogen therapy that could reverse ageing × Dr Brenhin Keller, the lead author of the study, highlighted the colossal scale of rock loss. His theory proposes that more extensive erosion occurred before the Phanerozoic era than previously believed. The Phanerozoic is the current and the latest of the four geologic eons in the Earth's geologic time scale, covering the time period from 538.8 million years ago to the present. Also read: Chum salmon are breeding in Arctic, and it is `an ominous sign’ for humanity Evidence, including isotopes of hafnium and oxygen found in crystals from that era, supports the idea that these materials were eroded from old rock and deposited at low temperatures. Their theory also suggests this is why there are many asteroid craters less than 700 million years old and only two that are dated older than that. Current whereabouts of the missing rock The researchers argue that glaciers responsible for eroding sedimentary rocks also carried them to the sea, providing a possible explanation for the current whereabouts of the missing rocks. This discovery sheds light on Earth's ancient history and the dynamic processes that have shaped its geological landscape. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists now know what happened to a chunk of Earth’s crust missing for millions of years

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidAIaXdJDLoxFi" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>A strange and new kind of rock containing plastics has been found across the globe. They are deposits mainly formed by compressing rock and plastic polymers discarded by humans. So far, these plastic rocks have been found on the coast and inland in 11 countries across five continents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These bizarre plastic rocks are an alarming sign of global plastic pollution. A researcher told Newsweek that these rocks are harmful to ocean sustainability and human health.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What are these plastic rocks called?</strong></h2>

<p>There has been a debate among the scientific community about what to call these plastic rocks. Among the various terms proposed, there are "plastistone," "plastiglomerate," "plasticrust," "plastitar," "plastisandstone" and "anthropoquinas." These different terms describe how the plastic rocks develop in specific ways.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>First samples of plastic rocks</strong></h2>

<p>Geologist Patricia Corcoran reported the first example of a plastic rock nearly a decade ago in Hawaii and termed it "plastiglomerate."</p>

<p>Deyi Hou, the author of a recent paper,&nbsp;<em>Plastistone: An emerging type of sedimentary rock</em>, said, "Molten plastic, sand grains, clasts from rock, coral, shells, and wood debris were held together after campfire burning on Kamilo Beach, Hawaii, USA." However, the paper called these plastic rocks "plastistones."<br />
<br />
Hou, an associate professor of environment at Tsinghua University in China, added, "Since then, they have been frequently found on beaches, both on islands and mainland coastlines."</p>

<p>Hou and his team were the first to report the discovery of plastic rocks in the inland region. They were also the first to mention the chemical bonding between plastic and rock. Their most recent review summarised that plastic rocks exist across five continents and 11 countries.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How are plastic rocks formed?</strong></h2>

<p>Hou and his team explained that plastic rocks can form via a wide range of methods. "Burning is a commonly proposed mechanism, where plastic debris is melted during campfire or waste burning and then held within the mineral matrix when it cools down," Hou said.</p>

<p>He added, "When waves crash against intertidal rocks, plastic debris from maritime sources can become physically adhered to the rock surface."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/australian-researchers-building-worlds-first-human-brain-scale-computer-it-will-go-online-next-year-670693">Australian researchers building world's first human brain-scale computer. It will go online next year</a></p>

<p>Another way these plastic rocks form is when oil that contains a massive amount of plastic reaches a beach after a leak. This material attaches firmly to the host rock matrix and then undergoes partial evaporation and solidification process, Hou explained.</p>

<p>"Finally, our study found that chemical binding contributed to plastistone generation in an inland region," said Hou. According to their hypothesis, sunlight irradiation causes plastic oxidation, leading to chemical binding between the plastic and rock material.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Plastic rocks have been found in Bangladesh, Brazil, China, Hawaii, India, Italy, Japan, Peru, Portugal, the Spanish Curry Island and the United Kingdom.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Plastic pollution has become a complex problem</strong></h2>

<p>Gabriel Enrique De-la-Torre, a plastic pollution researcher at Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola in Peru, said, "Plastistone&nbsp;has&nbsp;emerged as a new term to describe plastics that have been incorporated into rocks." This will alter the fate of plastics in the environment, he said. "All in all, these findings show how complex the problem of plastic pollution has become," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the direct reason behind the formation of plastic rocks is the plastic pollution humans are pouring into the environment. According to the study, humans contribute roughly 22-48 million metric tonnes annually. "From a geologic perspective, the mass of plastic deposited by modern human beings is not trivial," Hou and his team wrote.</p>

<p>Furthermore, he believes that these plastic rocks will continue to increase as a part of natural geographical processes and stick around for a long time. They are likely to increase in places where plastic pollution is worse, like cities, mulched agricultural soils, and plastic waste dumping sites.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Plastistones can be made from a variety of plastic wastes. Plastic bags, bottles, fishing gear, maritime ropes, and agricultural mulching films can undergo lithification with rocks, giving rise to the formation of plastistones," Hou said.</p>

<h2><strong>How are plastic rocks harmful to us?</strong></h2>

<p>According to the study, plastic rocks alter the microbial communities within the soil and neighbouring environment. This way the plastic rocks directly affect the local ecosystems.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We observed a lower microbial diversity in the plastistone compared to the adjacent soil. Furthermore, we identified several microorganisms that showed a preference for colonising the plastistone," Hou said. However, the potential ecological risks associated with the phenomenon are still unexplored.</p>

<p>But the most dangerous fact about these plastic rocks is that they shed microplastics, tiny pieces of pollution which have spread across the globe and even into human and animal bodies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The occurrence of plastiglomerate in pristine coastal islands such as those found in India increases the possibility of release of microplastic as well as associated chemical forms from the same due to weathering and waves," biogeochemist professor Punyasloke Bhadury of the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research told Newsweek.</p>

<p>"The released microplastic will end up in the ocean, reaching higher trophic levels such as marine mammals and humans through predominantly edible fish," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A strange and new kind of rock containing plastics has been found across the globe. They are deposits mainly formed by compressing rock and plastic polymers discarded by humans.

A strange and new kind of rock containing plastics has been found across the globe. They are deposits mainly formed by compressing rock and plastic polymers discarded by humans. So far, these plastic rocks have been found on the coast and inland in 11 countries across five continents. These bizarre plastic rocks are an alarming sign of global plastic pollution. A researcher told Newsweek that these rocks are harmful to ocean sustainability and human health. What are these plastic rocks called? There has been a debate among the scientific community about what to call these plastic rocks. Among the various terms proposed, there are "plastistone," "plastiglomerate," "plasticrust," "plastitar," "plastisandstone" and "anthropoquinas." These different terms describe how the plastic rocks develop in specific ways. First samples of plastic rocks Geologist Patricia Corcoran reported the first example of a plastic rock nearly a decade ago in Hawaii and termed it "plastiglomerate." Deyi Hou, the author of a recent paper, Plastistone: An emerging type of sedimentary rock, said, "Molten plastic, sand grains, clasts from rock, coral, shells, and wood debris were held together after campfire burning on Kamilo Beach, Hawaii, USA." However, the paper called these plastic rocks "plastistones." Hou, an associate professor of environment at Tsinghua University in China, added, "Since then, they have been frequently found on beaches, both on islands and mainland coastlines." Hou and his team were the first to report the discovery of plastic rocks in the inland region. They were also the first to mention the chemical bonding between plastic and rock. Their most recent review summarised that plastic rocks exist across five continents and 11 countries. How are plastic rocks formed? Hou and his team explained that plastic rocks can form via a wide range of methods. "Burning is a commonly proposed mechanism, where plastic debris is melted during campfire or waste burning and then held within the mineral matrix when it cools down," Hou said. He added, "When waves crash against intertidal rocks, plastic debris from maritime sources can become physically adhered to the rock surface." ALSO READ | Australian researchers building world's first human brain-scale computer. It will go online next year Another way these plastic rocks form is when oil that contains a massive amount of plastic reaches a beach after a leak. This material attaches firmly to the host rock matrix and then undergoes partial evaporation and solidification process, Hou explained. "Finally, our study found that chemical binding contributed to plastistone generation in an inland region," said Hou. According to their hypothesis, sunlight irradiation causes plastic oxidation, leading to chemical binding between the plastic and rock material. Plastic rocks have been found in Bangladesh, Brazil, China, Hawaii, India, Italy, Japan, Peru, Portugal, the Spanish Curry Island and the United Kingdom. Plastic pollution has become a complex problem Gabriel Enrique De-la-Torre, a plastic pollution researcher at Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola in Peru, said, "Plastistone has emerged as a new term to describe plastics that have been incorporated into rocks." This will alter the fate of plastics in the environment, he said. "All in all, these findings show how complex the problem of plastic pollution has become," he added. However, the direct reason behind the formation of plastic rocks is the plastic pollution humans are pouring into the environment. According to the study, humans contribute roughly 22-48 million metric tonnes annually. "From a geologic perspective, the mass of plastic deposited by modern human beings is not trivial," Hou and his team wrote. Furthermore, he believes that these plastic rocks will continue to increase as a part of natural geographical processes and stick around for a long time. They are likely to increase in places where plastic pollution is worse, like cities, mulched agricultural soils, and plastic waste dumping sites. "Plastistones can be made from a variety of plastic wastes. Plastic bags, bottles, fishing gear, maritime ropes, and agricultural mulching films can undergo lithification with rocks, giving rise to the formation of plastistones," Hou said. How are plastic rocks harmful to us? According to the study, plastic rocks alter the microbial communities within the soil and neighbouring environment. This way the plastic rocks directly affect the local ecosystems. "We observed a lower microbial diversity in the plastistone compared to the adjacent soil. Furthermore, we identified several microorganisms that showed a preference for colonising the plastistone," Hou said. However, the potential ecological risks associated with the phenomenon are still unexplored. But the most dangerous fact about these plastic rocks is that they shed microplastics, tiny pieces of pollution which have spread across the globe and even into human and animal bodies. "The occurrence of plastiglomerate in pristine coastal islands such as those found in India increases the possibility of release of microplastic as well as associated chemical forms from the same due to weathering and waves," biogeochemist professor Punyasloke Bhadury of the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research told Newsweek. "The released microplastic will end up in the ocean, reaching higher trophic levels such as marine mammals and humans through predominantly edible fish," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Decoding the mystery of plastic rocks discovered on five continents

<p>A new study conducted in Romania has found that those who engage in phubbing may experience greater loneliness and mental stress. Phubbing means preferring a mobile phone over communicating with someone in person.</p>

<p>The study, published in BMC Psychology, found that the person subjected to phubbing, referred to as “phubbee,” may feel ignored and unimportant.</p>

<p>The authors of the study, Alexandra Maftei and Cornelia Măirean, wanted to examine the links between phubbing experiences, loneliness, life satisfaction, and psychological distress of adult phubbees.</p>

<h2><strong>How was the study conducted?</strong></h2>

<p>The study involved above 700 Romanian adults, aged between 18 and 77, with an average age of 24 years.</p>

<p>Of these participants, 74 per cent were females. Around 44 per cent of them were in a romantic relationship while 36 per cent were single and 18 per cent were married.</p>

<p>Participants were asked to assess themselves regarding their depression, anxiety, and stress levels. They were also analysed for their phubbing behaviour, loneliness and time spent on social media.</p>

<h2><strong>Results and observations</strong></h2>

<p>The study confirmed that phubbing was linked to higher levels of stress and loneliness among most adults.</p>

<p>Individuals who felt lonelier were also more likely to report lower life satisfaction and greater psychological distress.</p>

<p>The study also suggested that while phubbing can slightly increase the level of satisfaction among adults, the positive effect gets overshadowed by the negatives associated with loneliness.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/explained-growing-food-in-space-what-is-nasas-veggie-project-670838"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Explained: Growing food in space. What is NASA's Veggie project?</strong></a></p>

<p>“The study highlights the significant role of perceived phubbing when discussing psychological distress and life satisfaction, underlining the need to address further the (mis)use of digital devices (e.g., smartphones) within interpersonal relationships, as well as the need to understand better the outcomes of such behaviors to shape effective interventions in this regard,” the study authors concluded.</p>

<h2><strong>Limitations</strong></h2>

<p>The study stops short of drawing any cause-and-effect conclusion, meaning it is not necessary that only phubbing leads to increased loneliness as the opposite—only lonely people engage in phubbing—could also be true.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;China: Scientists develop powerful hydrogen therapy that could reverse ageing</strong></p>

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<p>The study comprised mostly young people, most of them being female. This raises the possibility that varied results may be observed if participants from diverse demography are included.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A new study conducted in Romania has found that those who engage in phubbing may experience greater loneliness and mental stress. Phubbing means preferring a mobile phone over communicating with someone in person.

A new study conducted in Romania has found that those who engage in phubbing may experience greater loneliness and mental stress. Phubbing means preferring a mobile phone over communicating with someone in person. The study, published in BMC Psychology, found that the person subjected to phubbing, referred to as “phubbee,” may feel ignored and unimportant. The authors of the study, Alexandra Maftei and Cornelia Măirean, wanted to examine the links between phubbing experiences, loneliness, life satisfaction, and psychological distress of adult phubbees. How was the study conducted? The study involved above 700 Romanian adults, aged between 18 and 77, with an average age of 24 years. Of these participants, 74 per cent were females. Around 44 per cent of them were in a romantic relationship while 36 per cent were single and 18 per cent were married. Participants were asked to assess themselves regarding their depression, anxiety, and stress levels. They were also analysed for their phubbing behaviour, loneliness and time spent on social media. Results and observations The study confirmed that phubbing was linked to higher levels of stress and loneliness among most adults. Individuals who felt lonelier were also more likely to report lower life satisfaction and greater psychological distress. The study also suggested that while phubbing can slightly increase the level of satisfaction among adults, the positive effect gets overshadowed by the negatives associated with loneliness. Also read: Explained: Growing food in space. What is NASA's Veggie project? “The study highlights the significant role of perceived phubbing when discussing psychological distress and life satisfaction, underlining the need to address further the (mis)use of digital devices (e.g., smartphones) within interpersonal relationships, as well as the need to understand better the outcomes of such behaviors to shape effective interventions in this regard,” the study authors concluded. Limitations The study stops short of drawing any cause-and-effect conclusion, meaning it is not necessary that only phubbing leads to increased loneliness as the opposite—only lonely people engage in phubbing—could also be true. Watch: China: Scientists develop powerful hydrogen therapy that could reverse ageing × The study comprised mostly young people, most of them being female. This raises the possibility that varied results may be observed if participants from diverse demography are included. (With inputs from agencies)

Preferring mobile phone over in person communication makes people lonely, stressed: Study

<p>In a recent study unveiled at the 2023 American Geophysical Union meeting, researchers studied and explored "hot Jupiters" through NASA's CubeSat mission, the Colorado Ultraviolet Transit Experiment (CUTE).&nbsp;</p>

<p>What sets CUTE apart is that this is really tiny in size, measuring merely 36 centimetres in length, akin to a cereal box, in contrast to the more sizable exoplanet-hunting telescopes which often look like small school buses.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Launched in September 2021, CUTE has directed its ultraviolet capabilities towards studying hot Jupiters in detail. Hot Jupiters are those planets which are in close proximity to their parent stars. The study focused on understanding atmospheric escape phenomena.</p>

<h2><strong>Previous analysis of WASP-189b</strong></h2>

<p>The team, comprising both undergraduate and graduate students, had previously published a comprehensive overview of CUTE in The Astronomical Journal in January 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Subsequently, in August 2023, they reported specific results from CUTE's observations of WASP-189b, an extrasolar planet, in The Astrophysical Journal Letters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>WASP-189b, with an orbital period of 2.7 days, exhibited a staggering atmospheric escape rate of 400 million kilograms per second due to its searing surface temperatures reaching approximately 8,315 degrees Celsius.</p>

<h2><strong>CUTE’s staggering capabilities</strong></h2>

<p>Despite its diminutive size, CUTE, orbiting at an altitude of 525 kilometres above the Earth's surface, showcased remarkable observational capabilities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The mission's reach extended beyond our solar system, as evidenced by its study of WASP-189b located approximately 325 light-years away.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This underscores CUTE's potential to gain profound insights into the formation and evolution of planets beyond our solar system.</p>

<h2><strong>Seven hot Jupiters identified as of now</strong></h2>

<p>While WASP-189b stands out as a prime example of CUTE's capabilities, the research team has extended its observations to a total of seven hot Jupiters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;ISRO to take on multiple missions, ISRO to put a space station in orbit by 2028</strong></p>

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<p>Noteworthy among these are MASCARA-4b, located around 557 light-years from Earth, and KELT-9b, approximately 667 light-years away. The team's findings revealed varying degrees of atmospheric escape, from barely any gas escaping in the case of MASCARA-4b to a moderate level in KELT-9b.</p>

<p>“We want to understand how our solar system fits into the family of solar systems in the universe,” said Dr Kevin France, who is the CUTE Principal Investigator, an associate professor in the Department of Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences at CU Boulder, lead author of the overview paper, and co-author on the WASP-189b paper.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/watch-nasa-releases-footage-of-tomatoes-lost-in-space-for-eight-months-670397"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Watch: NASA releases footage of tomatoes lost in space for eight months</strong></a></p>

<p>“That means understanding the big planets, the small planets, the ones that could have life and the ones that definitely don’t—and all of the important physical processes that are operating on these planets.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a recent study unveiled at the 2023 American Geophysical Union meeting, researchers studied and explored "hot Jupiters" through NASA's CubeSat mission, the Colorado Ultraviolet Transit Experiment (CUTE).

In a recent study unveiled at the 2023 American Geophysical Union meeting, researchers studied and explored "hot Jupiters" through NASA's CubeSat mission, the Colorado Ultraviolet Transit Experiment (CUTE). What sets CUTE apart is that this is really tiny in size, measuring merely 36 centimetres in length, akin to a cereal box, in contrast to the more sizable exoplanet-hunting telescopes which often look like small school buses. Launched in September 2021, CUTE has directed its ultraviolet capabilities towards studying hot Jupiters in detail. Hot Jupiters are those planets which are in close proximity to their parent stars. The study focused on understanding atmospheric escape phenomena. Previous analysis of WASP-189b The team, comprising both undergraduate and graduate students, had previously published a comprehensive overview of CUTE in The Astronomical Journal in January 2023. Subsequently, in August 2023, they reported specific results from CUTE's observations of WASP-189b, an extrasolar planet, in The Astrophysical Journal Letters. WASP-189b, with an orbital period of 2.7 days, exhibited a staggering atmospheric escape rate of 400 million kilograms per second due to its searing surface temperatures reaching approximately 8,315 degrees Celsius. CUTE’s staggering capabilities Despite its diminutive size, CUTE, orbiting at an altitude of 525 kilometres above the Earth's surface, showcased remarkable observational capabilities. The mission's reach extended beyond our solar system, as evidenced by its study of WASP-189b located approximately 325 light-years away. This underscores CUTE's potential to gain profound insights into the formation and evolution of planets beyond our solar system. Seven hot Jupiters identified as of now While WASP-189b stands out as a prime example of CUTE's capabilities, the research team has extended its observations to a total of seven hot Jupiters. Watch: ISRO to take on multiple missions, ISRO to put a space station in orbit by 2028 × Noteworthy among these are MASCARA-4b, located around 557 light-years from Earth, and KELT-9b, approximately 667 light-years away. The team's findings revealed varying degrees of atmospheric escape, from barely any gas escaping in the case of MASCARA-4b to a moderate level in KELT-9b. “We want to understand how our solar system fits into the family of solar systems in the universe,” said Dr Kevin France, who is the CUTE Principal Investigator, an associate professor in the Department of Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences at CU Boulder, lead author of the overview paper, and co-author on the WASP-189b paper. Also read: Watch: NASA releases footage of tomatoes lost in space for eight months “That means understanding the big planets, the small planets, the ones that could have life and the ones that definitely don’t—and all of the important physical processes that are operating on these planets.” (With inputs from agencies)

NASA’s tiny telescope discovers seven hot Jupiters millions of light-years away

<p>Researchers have observed that eating breakfast and dinner earlier can help prevent heart diseases. The study, published in the journal Nature Communications, analysed data from above 100,000 individuals and followed up on them for about seven years.</p>

<p>The study found approximately 2,000 instances of cardiovascular diseases, encompassing heart attacks and strokes.</p>

<h2><strong>Best time for the first meal</strong></h2>

<p>The study found that delaying the first meal of the day was linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.</p>

<p>It also noted that each additional hour of delay led to an increase of six per cent in cerebrovascular disease.</p>

<p>The research also made clear that no significant risk was associated with the number of times an individual ate.</p>

<h2><strong>Best time for the last meal</strong></h2>

<p>The study also revealed that consuming dinner after 9 pm was associated with a 28 per cent higher likelihood of experiencing a stroke or (transient ischemic attack) TIA.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is attributed to the alignment of our natural eating patterns with earlier meals. The study suggests potential impacts on blood sugar and blood pressure due to later digestion, as observed in animal studies.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;China: Scientists develop powerful hydrogen therapy that could reverse ageing</strong></p>

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<p>Elevated blood pressure during the evening, a time when it typically drops, may cause long-term damage to blood vessels, potentially leading to blood clots, heart attacks, and strokes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, it is emphasised that further research is necessary, and meal timing might not have as significant an impact as an unhealthy diet.</p>

<p>The research underlines that having dinner after 9 pm doesn’t heighten the risk of coronary heart problems. Still, each hour delay in dinner is associated with an 8 per cent increase in stroke or TIA likelihood.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/dine-early-live-long-eating-dinner-at-7pm-linked-to-longer-life-study-finds-660294"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Dine early, live long: Eating dinner at 7pm linked to longer life, study finds</strong></a></p>

<p>The study particularly highlights the impact on women, who constitute nearly 80 per cent of the study participants. While men show fewer significant outcomes, delaying breakfast is associated with an 11 per cent increased risk of coronary heart disease.</p>

<h2><strong>Benefits of overnight fasting</strong></h2>

<p>Additionally, the research suggests potential health benefits of longer overnight fasting, indicating a 7 per cent risk reduction in strokes for every additional hour of overnight fasting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This correlation primarily relates to individuals consuming dinner early and fasting longer before breakfast, rather than adopting the strategy of late dining followed by a delayed breakfast.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Researchers have observed that eating breakfast and dinner earlier can help prevent heart diseases. The study, published in the journal Nature Communications, analysed data from above 100,000 individuals and followed up on them for about seven years.

Researchers have observed that eating breakfast and dinner earlier can help prevent heart diseases. The study, published in the journal Nature Communications, analysed data from above 100,000 individuals and followed up on them for about seven years. The study found approximately 2,000 instances of cardiovascular diseases, encompassing heart attacks and strokes. Best time for the first meal The study found that delaying the first meal of the day was linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. It also noted that each additional hour of delay led to an increase of six per cent in cerebrovascular disease. The research also made clear that no significant risk was associated with the number of times an individual ate. Best time for the last meal The study also revealed that consuming dinner after 9 pm was associated with a 28 per cent higher likelihood of experiencing a stroke or (transient ischemic attack) TIA. This is attributed to the alignment of our natural eating patterns with earlier meals. The study suggests potential impacts on blood sugar and blood pressure due to later digestion, as observed in animal studies. Watch: China: Scientists develop powerful hydrogen therapy that could reverse ageing × Elevated blood pressure during the evening, a time when it typically drops, may cause long-term damage to blood vessels, potentially leading to blood clots, heart attacks, and strokes. However, it is emphasised that further research is necessary, and meal timing might not have as significant an impact as an unhealthy diet. The research underlines that having dinner after 9 pm doesn’t heighten the risk of coronary heart problems. Still, each hour delay in dinner is associated with an 8 per cent increase in stroke or TIA likelihood. Also read: Dine early, live long: Eating dinner at 7pm linked to longer life, study finds The study particularly highlights the impact on women, who constitute nearly 80 per cent of the study participants. While men show fewer significant outcomes, delaying breakfast is associated with an 11 per cent increased risk of coronary heart disease. Benefits of overnight fasting Additionally, the research suggests potential health benefits of longer overnight fasting, indicating a 7 per cent risk reduction in strokes for every additional hour of overnight fasting. This correlation primarily relates to individuals consuming dinner early and fasting longer before breakfast, rather than adopting the strategy of late dining followed by a delayed breakfast. (With inputs from agencies)

Delaying breakfast and dinner increases chances of heart attack, stroke: Study

<p>Researchers have introduced a groundbreaking solar-powered clothing system, which can revolutionise the landscape of wearable technology.</p>

<p>According to a team of scientists, they have made solar-powered smart clothing using flexible solar cells and an electronic device.</p>

<p>Together, they create clothing that allows the body to adapt to significant temperature changes outside, according to the study published in the journal Science.</p>

<p>The smart clothing promises not only enhanced comfort and safety but also supports human endurance in extreme environments such as the Arctic, deserts, or space.</p>

<h2><strong>Significance of solar-powered clothing system</strong></h2>

<p>According to researchers, the exacerbating climate crisis might make it difficult to wear conventional clothing items to keep the body hot or cold during extreme temperatures.</p>

<p>So, smart clothing is needed so that the body can quickly adapt to drastic temperature changes outside.</p>

<p>According to the scientists, the smart clothing can very well be integrated into conventional clothing.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;NASA satellites discover a 6-planet in-sync solar system</strong></p>

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<p>“The device can provide 10.1 degrees Celsius of cooling, but also keep it 3.2 degrees warmer than bare skin alone,” the Independent reported.</p>

<p>“The system can keep people within the comfortable thermal zone of 32-36 degrees, even when the outside temperature varies between 12.5 degrees and 37.6 degrees.”</p>

<h2><strong>Extremely efficient</strong></h2>

<p>According to the authors of the study, the system is extremely efficient as it can provide 24 hours of use just from 12 hours of charging in sunlight.</p>

<p>The technology “opens many possibilities for developing actively controlled, self-powered and wearable localised thermal-management systems and expanding human adaptation to harsh environments”, researchers said in a statement.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/jeff-bezos-says-space-colonisation-ultimately-means-to-preserve-the-planet-669969"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Bezos wants humans to colonise the solar system, while Musk has his sight set on Mars</strong></a></p>

<p>“It is possible to imagine a future of all-weather thermal management that is not limited by an energy supply and where extra collected energy might even power electronic devices under special conditions.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Researchers have introduced a groundbreaking solar-powered clothing system, which can revolutionise the landscape of wearable technology. According to a team of scientists, they have made solar-powered smart clothing using flexible solar cells and an electronic device.

Researchers have introduced a groundbreaking solar-powered clothing system, which can revolutionise the landscape of wearable technology. According to a team of scientists, they have made solar-powered smart clothing using flexible solar cells and an electronic device. Together, they create clothing that allows the body to adapt to significant temperature changes outside, according to the study published in the journal Science. The smart clothing promises not only enhanced comfort and safety but also supports human endurance in extreme environments such as the Arctic, deserts, or space. Significance of solar-powered clothing system According to researchers, the exacerbating climate crisis might make it difficult to wear conventional clothing items to keep the body hot or cold during extreme temperatures. So, smart clothing is needed so that the body can quickly adapt to drastic temperature changes outside. According to the scientists, the smart clothing can very well be integrated into conventional clothing. Watch: NASA satellites discover a 6-planet in-sync solar system × “The device can provide 10.1 degrees Celsius of cooling, but also keep it 3.2 degrees warmer than bare skin alone,” the Independent reported. “The system can keep people within the comfortable thermal zone of 32-36 degrees, even when the outside temperature varies between 12.5 degrees and 37.6 degrees.” Extremely efficient According to the authors of the study, the system is extremely efficient as it can provide 24 hours of use just from 12 hours of charging in sunlight. The technology “opens many possibilities for developing actively controlled, self-powered and wearable localised thermal-management systems and expanding human adaptation to harsh environments”, researchers said in a statement. Also read: Bezos wants humans to colonise the solar system, while Musk has his sight set on Mars “It is possible to imagine a future of all-weather thermal management that is not limited by an energy supply and where extra collected energy might even power electronic devices under special conditions.” (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists make solar-powered clothing system that works like personal AC

<p>The brain is amazing because neurons do two jobs: processing and remembering. Regular computers keep these jobs separate, but Brainoware is different. It combines real human brain tissue with electronics to make a new kind of computer.</p>

<p>Behind Brainoware is a team at Indiana University Bloomington, led by Feng Guo. They tested it with tasks like recognising speech and predicting equations. Brainoware wasn't as accurate as a computer with just hardware and artificial intelligence, but it's a big step toward a new kind of computer.</p>

<h2><strong>Ethical issues</strong></h2>

<p>Even though Guo and his team followed ethics rules, other researchers from Johns Hopkins University say we need to be careful. Lena Smirnova, Brian Caffo, and Erik C. Johnson, who didn't work on this study, say we must think about ethical issues when using human brain tissue in computers.</p>

<p>Before Brainoware, the best attempt to copy the brain was in 2013 with Riken's K Computer. It was one of the most powerful computers globally but took 40 minutes to simulate one second of just 1-2 per cent of the brain.</p>

<h2><strong>How was the brain tissue obtained?</strong></h2>

<p>Scientists have tried to make computers like the brain using neuromorphic computing, but it uses a lot of energy and takes a long time to train. Guo and his team tried a different way. They used real human brain tissue grown in a lab, forming mini-brains called organoids.</p>

<p>These organoids aren't real brains – they're just tissue structures without thoughts or feelings. They help study how the brain works without using a real human brain. Brainoware links these organoids to microelectrodes using a type of artificial neural network called reservoir computing.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;How alcohol impacts the brain | Brain can repair damage in 7.3 months</strong></p>

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<p>Electric signals send information into the organoid, where it's processed before Brainoware gives its answers as neural activity. Regular computer parts handle the input and output. These parts had to be trained to work with the organoid.</p>

<h2><strong>Results</strong></h2>

<p>To test Brainoware, the researchers gave it 240 audio clips with Japanese vowel sounds from eight speakers. They asked Brainoware to identify one speaker's voice.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/researchers-develop-vr-goggles-for-mice-to-create-immersive-scenarios-for-brain-research-667802"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Researchers develop VR goggles for mice to create immersive scenarios for brain research</strong></a></p>

<p>After just two days of training, Brainoware could identify the voice with 78 per cent accuracy. It was a bit less accurate than other artificial networks, but it reached similar results in much less training time.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The brain is amazing because neurons do two jobs: processing and remembering. Regular computers keep these jobs separate, but Brainoware is different. It combines real human brain tissue with electronics to make a new kind of computer.

The brain is amazing because neurons do two jobs: processing and remembering. Regular computers keep these jobs separate, but Brainoware is different. It combines real human brain tissue with electronics to make a new kind of computer. Behind Brainoware is a team at Indiana University Bloomington, led by Feng Guo. They tested it with tasks like recognising speech and predicting equations. Brainoware wasn't as accurate as a computer with just hardware and artificial intelligence, but it's a big step toward a new kind of computer. Ethical issues Even though Guo and his team followed ethics rules, other researchers from Johns Hopkins University say we need to be careful. Lena Smirnova, Brian Caffo, and Erik C. Johnson, who didn't work on this study, say we must think about ethical issues when using human brain tissue in computers. Before Brainoware, the best attempt to copy the brain was in 2013 with Riken's K Computer. It was one of the most powerful computers globally but took 40 minutes to simulate one second of just 1-2 per cent of the brain. How was the brain tissue obtained? Scientists have tried to make computers like the brain using neuromorphic computing, but it uses a lot of energy and takes a long time to train. Guo and his team tried a different way. They used real human brain tissue grown in a lab, forming mini-brains called organoids. These organoids aren't real brains – they're just tissue structures without thoughts or feelings. They help study how the brain works without using a real human brain. Brainoware links these organoids to microelectrodes using a type of artificial neural network called reservoir computing. Watch: How alcohol impacts the brain | Brain can repair damage in 7.3 months × Electric signals send information into the organoid, where it's processed before Brainoware gives its answers as neural activity. Regular computer parts handle the input and output. These parts had to be trained to work with the organoid. Results To test Brainoware, the researchers gave it 240 audio clips with Japanese vowel sounds from eight speakers. They asked Brainoware to identify one speaker's voice. Also read: Researchers develop VR goggles for mice to create immersive scenarios for brain research After just two days of training, Brainoware could identify the voice with 78 per cent accuracy. It was a bit less accurate than other artificial networks, but it reached similar results in much less training time. (With inputs from agencies)

Brainoware: This happened when scientists combined real human brain tissue with electronics

<p>A 75-million-year-old fossilised tyrannosaur has shed light on intriguing diet patterns of the ancient predators as they grew. The fossil had remains of two baby dinosaurs inside it, revealing that the tyrannosaur feasted on them right before it died.</p>

<p>The tyrannosaur was likely around 7 years old—a teenager in dinosaur years—and consumed the hind legs of the baby dinosaurs that were less than a year old.</p>

<p>The bird-like baby dinosaurs, called citipes, are believed to be close cousins of the tyrannosaurus rex.</p>

<p>The study, published in the journal Science Advances, reveals that while young tyrannosaurs preyed on small, young dinosaurs, the adults attacked and ate very large plant-eating dinosaurs, which lived in herds.</p>

<p>The discovery is “solid evidence that tyrannosaurs drastically changed their diet as they grew up,” Dr Darla Zelenitsky, one of the lead scientists in the study, was quoted as saying by BBC.</p>

<p>She said: “We now know that these teenage (tyrannosaurs) hunted small, young dinosaurs.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/real-life-jurassic-world-may-exist-on-other-planets-and-humans-may-detect-them-study-660668"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Dinosaurs might be roaming some other planet, new study finds</strong></a></p>

<p>“These smaller, immature tyrannosaurs were probably not ready to jump into a group of horned dinosaurs, where the adults weighed thousands of kilograms.”</p>

<p>The discovery reveals that juvenile tyrannosaurs had narrow skulls and blade-like teeth, and thus were better suited to eat small prey, while adult tyrannosaurs' large skulls and strong teeth enabled them to prey on much larger, heavier beasts.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;New dinosaur species found in Mexico</strong></p>

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<p>The fossil of the tyrannosaur was originally discovered in 2009 in Canada’s Alberta; however, it took scientists more than a decade to prepare it for study.</p>

<p>The initial discovery was made by the staff at Alberta’s Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology, who spotted small toe bones protruding from the rib cage.</p>

<p>Dr Francois Therrien, the other lead scientist in the study, was quoted by BBC as saying, “The rock within the ribcage was removed to expose what was hidden inside. And lo and behold – the complete hind legs of two baby dinosaurs, both under a year old.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A 75-million-year-old fossilised tyrannosaur has shed light on intriguing diet patterns of the ancient predators as they grew. The fossil had remains of two baby dinosaurs inside it, revealing that the tyrannosaur feasted on them right before it died.

A 75-million-year-old fossilised tyrannosaur has shed light on intriguing diet patterns of the ancient predators as they grew. The fossil had remains of two baby dinosaurs inside it, revealing that the tyrannosaur feasted on them right before it died. The tyrannosaur was likely around 7 years old—a teenager in dinosaur years—and consumed the hind legs of the baby dinosaurs that were less than a year old. The bird-like baby dinosaurs, called citipes, are believed to be close cousins of the tyrannosaurus rex. The study, published in the journal Science Advances, reveals that while young tyrannosaurs preyed on small, young dinosaurs, the adults attacked and ate very large plant-eating dinosaurs, which lived in herds. The discovery is “solid evidence that tyrannosaurs drastically changed their diet as they grew up,” Dr Darla Zelenitsky, one of the lead scientists in the study, was quoted as saying by BBC. She said: “We now know that these teenage (tyrannosaurs) hunted small, young dinosaurs. Also read: Dinosaurs might be roaming some other planet, new study finds “These smaller, immature tyrannosaurs were probably not ready to jump into a group of horned dinosaurs, where the adults weighed thousands of kilograms.” The discovery reveals that juvenile tyrannosaurs had narrow skulls and blade-like teeth, and thus were better suited to eat small prey, while adult tyrannosaurs' large skulls and strong teeth enabled them to prey on much larger, heavier beasts. Watch: New dinosaur species found in Mexico × The fossil of the tyrannosaur was originally discovered in 2009 in Canada’s Alberta; however, it took scientists more than a decade to prepare it for study. The initial discovery was made by the staff at Alberta’s Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology, who spotted small toe bones protruding from the rib cage. Dr Francois Therrien, the other lead scientist in the study, was quoted by BBC as saying, “The rock within the ribcage was removed to expose what was hidden inside. And lo and behold – the complete hind legs of two baby dinosaurs, both under a year old.” (With inputs from agencies)

As a teenager, the tyrannosaur only ate baby dinosaurs, and a fossil is proof

<p>Diamonds are not just jewels but can also act like data storage devices, a new research has established.</p>

<p>City College researchers of New York have achieved this significant breakthrough by harnessing the unique properties of diamonds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This groundbreaking approach, detailed in a study published in Nature Nanotechnology, revolves around utilising "colour centres" within diamonds – minute flaws where atoms are absent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The research was led by Richard G. Monge and Tom Delord, and it has transformed these gems into potent data storage devices.</p>

<h2><strong>Science behind the storage breakthrough</strong></h2>

<p>The key lies in these "colour centres," where tiny flaws create spots capable of absorbing light. Tom Delord, a postdoctoral research associate at CCNY, explained that the team exploited this feature to store various images at the same location in the diamond.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This was achieved by using a laser of a slightly different colour to input different information into different atoms within the same microscopic spots.</p>

<h2><strong>Challenges that researchers faced</strong></h2>

<p>One common obstacle in optical data storage is the diffraction limit, a physical constraint preventing the close packing of data. However, the CCNY method ingeniously sidesteps this issue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>By adjusting the colour (or wavelength) of the light used, the researchers can target different colour centres in close proximity, enabling the packing of more data into a confined space.</p>

<h2><strong>Reusable approach: Data can be erased and re-uploaded</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, the method developed at CCNY isn't a one-time solution. The data written into these diamond defects can be erased and rewritten repeatedly. According to Delord, this new technique allows the team to write and read tiny bits of data at a molecular level, reaching down to a single atom.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;New York city is sinking the way India's Joshimath did</strong></p>

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<p>The achieved data density is an impressive 25GB per square inch – a feat that envisions storing the entirety of a Blu-Ray disc's content within a space smaller than a postage stamp.</p>

<h2><strong>Is diamond storage commercially viable?</strong></h2>

<p>While the idea of using diamonds for data storage might initially evoke concerns about cost, the researchers suggest that lab-grown diamonds could potentially make this technology commercially acceptable.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/decoded-will-lab-grown-diamonds-get-lucky-this-festive-season-656047"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Decoded: Will lab-grown diamonds get lucky this festive season?</strong></a></p>

<p>Furthermore, this innovative approach aligns with a broader trend in exploring unconventional materials for data storage. For instance, Microsoft's Project Silica is investigating the use of quartz glass for cloud storage solutions, leveraging the durability of glass to preserve large volumes of digital data over extended periods.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Diamonds are not just jewels but can also act like data storage devices, a new research has established. City College researchers of New York have achieved this significant breakthrough by harnessing the unique properties of diamonds.

Diamonds are not just jewels but can also act like data storage devices, a new research has established. City College researchers of New York have achieved this significant breakthrough by harnessing the unique properties of diamonds. This groundbreaking approach, detailed in a study published in Nature Nanotechnology, revolves around utilising "colour centres" within diamonds – minute flaws where atoms are absent. The research was led by Richard G. Monge and Tom Delord, and it has transformed these gems into potent data storage devices. Science behind the storage breakthrough The key lies in these "colour centres," where tiny flaws create spots capable of absorbing light. Tom Delord, a postdoctoral research associate at CCNY, explained that the team exploited this feature to store various images at the same location in the diamond. This was achieved by using a laser of a slightly different colour to input different information into different atoms within the same microscopic spots. Challenges that researchers faced One common obstacle in optical data storage is the diffraction limit, a physical constraint preventing the close packing of data. However, the CCNY method ingeniously sidesteps this issue. By adjusting the colour (or wavelength) of the light used, the researchers can target different colour centres in close proximity, enabling the packing of more data into a confined space. Reusable approach: Data can be erased and re-uploaded Notably, the method developed at CCNY isn't a one-time solution. The data written into these diamond defects can be erased and rewritten repeatedly. According to Delord, this new technique allows the team to write and read tiny bits of data at a molecular level, reaching down to a single atom. Watch: New York city is sinking the way India's Joshimath did × The achieved data density is an impressive 25GB per square inch – a feat that envisions storing the entirety of a Blu-Ray disc's content within a space smaller than a postage stamp. Is diamond storage commercially viable? While the idea of using diamonds for data storage might initially evoke concerns about cost, the researchers suggest that lab-grown diamonds could potentially make this technology commercially acceptable. Also read: Decoded: Will lab-grown diamonds get lucky this festive season? Furthermore, this innovative approach aligns with a broader trend in exploring unconventional materials for data storage. For instance, Microsoft's Project Silica is investigating the use of quartz glass for cloud storage solutions, leveraging the durability of glass to preserve large volumes of digital data over extended periods. (With inputs from agencies)

Researchers shock the world by converting diamonds into data storage devices

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