<p>The Natural History Museum of London recently unveiled fossil collections revealing what is being hailed as the oldest disease-causing fungus.</p>

<p>The 407-million-year-old fungus is named Potteromyces asteroxylicola, after Beatrix Potter, the renowned author of Tales of Peter Rabbit and a fungi enthusiast.</p>

<p>The findings, outlined in the paper call it "A fungal plant pathogen discovered in the Devonian Rhynie Chert". Published in Nature Communications, the study sheds light on Potter's pioneering drawings and fungal growth studies, positioning her as a significant figure in mycology.</p>

<h2><strong>Fossil samples came from Rhynie Chert</strong></h2>

<p>Potteromyces was discovered in fossil samples from the Rhynie Chert, a crucial geological site in Scotland. The site is known for its well-preserved Early Devonian communities of plants and animals, including fungi and bacteria.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Collaborating with mycologists at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, the study proposes a historical precedent for disease-causing fungi like those affecting the UK's ash trees.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Zombie Fungus: Fungal pandemic can turn humans into zombies?</strong></p>

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<p>Dr Christine Strullu-Derrien, lead author and Scientific Associate at the Natural History Museum, says, "Although other fungal parasites have been found in this area before, this is the first case of one causing disease in a plant. What's more, Potteromyces can provide a valuable point from which to date the evolution of different fungus groups, such as Ascomycota, the largest fungal phylum."</p>

<p>"Naming this important species after Beatrix Potter seems a fitting tribute to her remarkable work and commitment to piecing together the secrets of fungi," Christine added.</p>

<h2><strong>First Potteromyces specimen was discovered in 2015</strong></h2>

<p>Christine found the first Potteromyces specimen in 2015. Its reproductive structures, known as conidiophores, had an unusual shape and formation unlike anything seen before.</p>

<p>&nbsp;The confirmation of this new species came when a second specimen, showcasing the fungus's distinct nature, was found in the collections of the National Museums of Scotland on another slide from the Rhynie Chert.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/wait-what-zombie-fungus-portrayed-in-show-last-of-us-could-become-a-reality-561499"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Wait, what? Zombie fungus portrayed in show `Last of Us` could become a reality?</strong></a></p>

<p>"New technology available to us, such as confocal microscopy, has enabled us to unlock more secrets from fossils housed in museum collections, such as those within the Natural History Museum," said Christine.</p>

<p>"When I first started work on the Rhynie Chert, it was only meant to take two or three years. It's now been 12, and I still think there is a lot to discover from this fabulous site,"&nbsp;she further stated.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Natural History Museum of London recently unveiled fossil collections revealing what is being hailed as the oldest disease-causing fungus. The 407-million-year-old fungus is named Potteromyces asteroxylicola, after Beatrix Potter, the renowned author of Tales of Peter Rabbit and a fungi enthusiast.

The Natural History Museum of London recently unveiled fossil collections revealing what is being hailed as the oldest disease-causing fungus. The 407-million-year-old fungus is named Potteromyces asteroxylicola, after Beatrix Potter, the renowned author of Tales of Peter Rabbit and a fungi enthusiast. The findings, outlined in the paper call it "A fungal plant pathogen discovered in the Devonian Rhynie Chert". Published in Nature Communications, the study sheds light on Potter's pioneering drawings and fungal growth studies, positioning her as a significant figure in mycology. Fossil samples came from Rhynie Chert Potteromyces was discovered in fossil samples from the Rhynie Chert, a crucial geological site in Scotland. The site is known for its well-preserved Early Devonian communities of plants and animals, including fungi and bacteria. Collaborating with mycologists at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, the study proposes a historical precedent for disease-causing fungi like those affecting the UK's ash trees. Watch: Zombie Fungus: Fungal pandemic can turn humans into zombies? × Dr Christine Strullu-Derrien, lead author and Scientific Associate at the Natural History Museum, says, "Although other fungal parasites have been found in this area before, this is the first case of one causing disease in a plant. What's more, Potteromyces can provide a valuable point from which to date the evolution of different fungus groups, such as Ascomycota, the largest fungal phylum." "Naming this important species after Beatrix Potter seems a fitting tribute to her remarkable work and commitment to piecing together the secrets of fungi," Christine added. First Potteromyces specimen was discovered in 2015 Christine found the first Potteromyces specimen in 2015. Its reproductive structures, known as conidiophores, had an unusual shape and formation unlike anything seen before. The confirmation of this new species came when a second specimen, showcasing the fungus's distinct nature, was found in the collections of the National Museums of Scotland on another slide from the Rhynie Chert. Also read: Wait, what? Zombie fungus portrayed in show `Last of Us` could become a reality? "New technology available to us, such as confocal microscopy, has enabled us to unlock more secrets from fossils housed in museum collections, such as those within the Natural History Museum," said Christine. "When I first started work on the Rhynie Chert, it was only meant to take two or three years. It's now been 12, and I still think there is a lot to discover from this fabulous site," she further stated. (With inputs from agencies)

World’s oldest disease-causing species found: It’s 407mn-year-old fungus

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<p>Scientists have pinpointed the location of the place where an asteroid hit Earth approximately 750,000 years ago.</p>

<p>In a study published in<em>&nbsp;Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences,&nbsp;</em>the planetary scientists released evidence showing that the location of impact crater they have been seeking for decades is on the Bolaven Plateau in southern Laos.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although the evidence for the asteroid's size and event's timing is far and wide, the discovery of the location has been a multi-year study.</p>

<p>Earlier studies say an asteroid hit the Earth's surface about 789,000 years ago, producing many rocks in southeast Asia and Australia. These black glassy rocks, called tektites, formed the most prominent debris spray from an extraterrestrial impact.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although older and bigger collisions have produced larger sprays, geological processes have long buried the evidence. However, the tektites are recent enough to be visible in several places.&nbsp;</p>

<h4>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/archaeologists-discover-temple-related-to-hercules-alexander-the-great-in-iraq-667500">Twin temples linked to Hercules and Alexander the Great discovered on top of each other in Iraq</a></h4>

<p>The location remained hidden for a long time due to geological conditions and thick rainforests. It is also in the world's most politically isolated nations. The team led by Professor Kerry Sieh&nbsp;of the Nanyang Technological University mentioned in the study that&nbsp;"the unexpected ordnance hampered fieldwork for decades."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sieh's team used a layer of pebble and boulder-sized rocks called Bolaven diamicton to identify the impact site's location. According to the research team, the impact broke the ancient sandstone and basaltic lava to form the diamicton.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The research team also studied the conclusions of other studies on the impact crater, which convinced them it had not been found as it was filled with lava. From 2015 to 2023, they conducted field research, gathering and analysing tektites from the Bolaven impact and marking their locations on the map. They found small samples that would fit in hand and large deposits up to nine meters thick.</p>

<p>Later, the maps pointed to a radical pattern of thickening ejecta (material thrown out during volcanic explosion) linked around a single plateau. The team believed this indicated where the asteroid crashed into the Earth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When the team introduced the idea of the crater being beneath the Bolavean Volcanic Field, they did not have enough evidence to convince the geologists. However, they have five separate datasets that point towards the location.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although the team needs to perform more research at or near the proposed impact site's vicinity, they are confident about the recent study, calling their results "all but definitive."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Scientists have pinpointed the location of the place where an asteroid hit Earth approximately 750,000 years ago. In a study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the planetary scientists released evidence showing that the location of impact crater they have been seeking for decades is on the Bolaven Plateau in southern Laos.

Scientists have pinpointed the location of the place where an asteroid hit Earth approximately 750,000 years ago. In a study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the planetary scientists released evidence showing that the location of impact crater they have been seeking for decades is on the Bolaven Plateau in southern Laos. Although the evidence for the asteroid's size and event's timing is far and wide, the discovery of the location has been a multi-year study. Earlier studies say an asteroid hit the Earth's surface about 789,000 years ago, producing many rocks in southeast Asia and Australia. These black glassy rocks, called tektites, formed the most prominent debris spray from an extraterrestrial impact. Although older and bigger collisions have produced larger sprays, geological processes have long buried the evidence. However, the tektites are recent enough to be visible in several places. Also Read | Twin temples linked to Hercules and Alexander the Great discovered on top of each other in Iraq The location remained hidden for a long time due to geological conditions and thick rainforests. It is also in the world's most politically isolated nations. The team led by Professor Kerry Sieh of the Nanyang Technological University mentioned in the study that "the unexpected ordnance hampered fieldwork for decades." Sieh's team used a layer of pebble and boulder-sized rocks called Bolaven diamicton to identify the impact site's location. According to the research team, the impact broke the ancient sandstone and basaltic lava to form the diamicton. The research team also studied the conclusions of other studies on the impact crater, which convinced them it had not been found as it was filled with lava. From 2015 to 2023, they conducted field research, gathering and analysing tektites from the Bolaven impact and marking their locations on the map. They found small samples that would fit in hand and large deposits up to nine meters thick. Later, the maps pointed to a radical pattern of thickening ejecta (material thrown out during volcanic explosion) linked around a single plateau. The team believed this indicated where the asteroid crashed into the Earth. When the team introduced the idea of the crater being beneath the Bolavean Volcanic Field, they did not have enough evidence to convince the geologists. However, they have five separate datasets that point towards the location. Although the team needs to perform more research at or near the proposed impact site's vicinity, they are confident about the recent study, calling their results "all but definitive." (With inputs from agencies)

This is the exact spot an asteroid made a crater 750,000 years ago

<p>Years of research have established that only female mosquitoes feed on blood as male mosquitoes don’t have mouth parts that the females use to pierce skin.</p>

<p>But after analysing one of the earliest-known mosquito fossils from Lower Cretaceous amber from Lebanon, researchers in a study published Monday (Dec 4) have claimed that male mosquitoes may also have sucked blood&nbsp;in the past.</p>

<p>According to the New York Times, Lebanese amber is rich in preserved fossils, called inclusions, and dates to around 125 million years in the early Cretaceous period.</p>

<h2><strong>How was the discovery made?</strong></h2>

<p>Dany Azar, a palaeontologist at the Nanjing Institute of Geology and Palaeontology and Lebanese University and the lead author of the paper took out a thin slice of the amber containing the fossil and put it under a microscope.</p>

<p>What he saw then took him by utmost surprise.</p>

<p>“To my big surprise, I said, ‘Oh, gosh, this is a mosquito,’” Azar was quoted as saying by New York Times.</p>

<p>After further examination, Azar observed the mosquito had pincerlike organs called claspers on their abdomens. The presence of these organs led Azar to think about an unbelievable possibility: Male mosquitoes might have been sucking blood in the past.</p>

<p>“We think now that, originally, the mosquito could be bloodsucking,” Azar said. “With the appearance of the flowering plant, this function could be just forgotten later on during the evolution of these insects,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Why have male mosquitoes abandoned blood-sucking?</strong></h2>

<p>Mosquitoes generally don’t prefer blood-sucking as it involves a riskier strategy to feed off a living organism.</p>

<p>Today, only female mosquitoes do so, that too when they require extra energy for reproduction.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/marine-creatures-sex-life-disrupted-due-to-plastic-waste-study-665626"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Marine creatures` sex life disrupted due to plastic waste: Study</strong></a></p>

<p>Male mosquitoes evolved to abandon blood-sucking as they aren’t required to produce eggs and can easily manage while feeding on nectar and plant juices.</p>

<h2><strong>Limitations of the study</strong></h2>

<p>As fascinating as the discovery may sound, it is still possible that the fossil in question might turn out to be something else and not a mosquito.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Why are scientists calling it a perfect world?</strong></p>

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<p>Also, it is possible that the bristly mouth parts that the scientists are referring to as ‘bloodsucking organs’ were meant for some different use altogether.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Years of research have established that only female mosquitoes feed on blood as male mosquitoes don’t have mouth parts that the females use to pierce skin. But after analysing one of the earliest-known mosquito fossils from Lower Cretaceous amber from Lebanon, researchers in a study published Monday (Dec 4) have claimed that male mosquitoes may also have sucked blood in the past.

Years of research have established that only female mosquitoes feed on blood as male mosquitoes don’t have mouth parts that the females use to pierce skin. But after analysing one of the earliest-known mosquito fossils from Lower Cretaceous amber from Lebanon, researchers in a study published Monday (Dec 4) have claimed that male mosquitoes may also have sucked blood in the past. According to the New York Times, Lebanese amber is rich in preserved fossils, called inclusions, and dates to around 125 million years in the early Cretaceous period. How was the discovery made? Dany Azar, a palaeontologist at the Nanjing Institute of Geology and Palaeontology and Lebanese University and the lead author of the paper took out a thin slice of the amber containing the fossil and put it under a microscope. What he saw then took him by utmost surprise. “To my big surprise, I said, ‘Oh, gosh, this is a mosquito,’” Azar was quoted as saying by New York Times. After further examination, Azar observed the mosquito had pincerlike organs called claspers on their abdomens. The presence of these organs led Azar to think about an unbelievable possibility: Male mosquitoes might have been sucking blood in the past. “We think now that, originally, the mosquito could be bloodsucking,” Azar said. “With the appearance of the flowering plant, this function could be just forgotten later on during the evolution of these insects,” he added. Why have male mosquitoes abandoned blood-sucking? Mosquitoes generally don’t prefer blood-sucking as it involves a riskier strategy to feed off a living organism. Today, only female mosquitoes do so, that too when they require extra energy for reproduction. Also read: Marine creatures` sex life disrupted due to plastic waste: Study Male mosquitoes evolved to abandon blood-sucking as they aren’t required to produce eggs and can easily manage while feeding on nectar and plant juices. Limitations of the study As fascinating as the discovery may sound, it is still possible that the fossil in question might turn out to be something else and not a mosquito. Watch: Why are scientists calling it a perfect world? × Also, it is possible that the bristly mouth parts that the scientists are referring to as ‘bloodsucking organs’ were meant for some different use altogether. (With inputs from agencies)

Male mosquitoes used to suck blood in past but they ‘evolved,’ study claims

<p>Researchers have found that the hypertension drug rilmenidine can slow down ageing in worms, raising the possibility that it could have similar effects in humans, potentially promoting longer and healthier lives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Previous studies indicate that rilmenidine imitates the impacts of reducing calorie intake, a practice known to extend lifespans in various animals.</p>

<p>"For the first time, we have been able to show in animals that rilmenidine can increase lifespan," said molecular biogerontologist João Pedro Magalhães, from the University of Birmingham in the UK.</p>

<p>"We are now keen to explore if rilmenidine may have other clinical applications."</p>

<h2><strong>Will rilmenidine slow down ageing in humans as well?</strong></h2>

<p>While it's unclear if these findings apply to humans and whether there are health risks involved, scientists hope to discover ways to achieve these benefits without resorting to extreme calorie restriction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a January study, worms treated with rilmenidine, typically used for high blood pressure, exhibited extended lifespans and improved health markers, resembling the effects of calorie restriction.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/astronomers-discover-massive-exoplanet-which-should-not-have-existed-665246"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Astronomers discover massive exoplanet which `should not` have existed</strong></a></p>

<p>Molecular biogerontologist João Pedro Magalhães from the University of Birmingham expressed excitement about the study, emphasising the potential for rilmenidine to increase lifespan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The research also revealed that the drug influenced gene activity linked to caloric restriction in the kidney and liver tissues of mice.</p>

<h2><strong>Key biological receptor identified</strong></h2>

<p>Additionally, scientists identified a key biological receptor, nish-1, crucial to rilmenidine's effectiveness in extending lifespan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Why are scientists calling it a perfect world?</strong></p>

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<p>Deleting nish-1 eliminated the drug's positive effects while restoring the receptor reinstated the lifespan increase with rilmenidine treatment.</p>

<p>"We found that the lifespan-extending effects of rilmenidine were abolished when nish-1 was deleted," the researchers explained in their paper. "Critically, rescuing the nish-1 receptor reinstated the increase in lifespan upon treatment with rilmenidine."</p>

<p>Compared to challenging low-calorie diets with side effects, rilmenidine offers promise as an anti-ageing drug due to its oral administration, widespread prescription, and relatively mild and rare side effects. While the research is in the early stages, these findings provide valuable insights into the potential of rilmenidine for anti-ageing purposes in the future.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Researchers have found that the hypertension drug rilmenidine can slow down ageing in worms, raising the possibility that it could have similar effects in humans, potentially promoting longer and healthier lives.

Researchers have found that the hypertension drug rilmenidine can slow down ageing in worms, raising the possibility that it could have similar effects in humans, potentially promoting longer and healthier lives. Previous studies indicate that rilmenidine imitates the impacts of reducing calorie intake, a practice known to extend lifespans in various animals. "For the first time, we have been able to show in animals that rilmenidine can increase lifespan," said molecular biogerontologist João Pedro Magalhães, from the University of Birmingham in the UK. "We are now keen to explore if rilmenidine may have other clinical applications." Will rilmenidine slow down ageing in humans as well? While it's unclear if these findings apply to humans and whether there are health risks involved, scientists hope to discover ways to achieve these benefits without resorting to extreme calorie restriction. In a January study, worms treated with rilmenidine, typically used for high blood pressure, exhibited extended lifespans and improved health markers, resembling the effects of calorie restriction. Also read: Astronomers discover massive exoplanet which `should not` have existed Molecular biogerontologist João Pedro Magalhães from the University of Birmingham expressed excitement about the study, emphasising the potential for rilmenidine to increase lifespan. The research also revealed that the drug influenced gene activity linked to caloric restriction in the kidney and liver tissues of mice. Key biological receptor identified Additionally, scientists identified a key biological receptor, nish-1, crucial to rilmenidine's effectiveness in extending lifespan. Watch: Why are scientists calling it a perfect world? × Deleting nish-1 eliminated the drug's positive effects while restoring the receptor reinstated the lifespan increase with rilmenidine treatment. "We found that the lifespan-extending effects of rilmenidine were abolished when nish-1 was deleted," the researchers explained in their paper. "Critically, rescuing the nish-1 receptor reinstated the increase in lifespan upon treatment with rilmenidine." Compared to challenging low-calorie diets with side effects, rilmenidine offers promise as an anti-ageing drug due to its oral administration, widespread prescription, and relatively mild and rare side effects. While the research is in the early stages, these findings provide valuable insights into the potential of rilmenidine for anti-ageing purposes in the future. (With inputs from agencies)

Medicine used for controlling blood pressure found to have anti-ageing effect

<p>Researchers have reportedly established a link between your music taste and your moral compass.</p>

<p>According to data analysed by scientists at Queen Mary University of London and ISI Foundation in Turin, Italy, music can have an impact and even change the way you perceive the world and how you behave.</p>

<p>To conduct their research, the scientists used machine learning to identify each song’s narrative, moral valence, attitude, and emotions and managed to draw connections between the music and an individual’s moral compass.</p>

<p>“Our study provides compelling evidence that music preferences can serve as a window into an individual's moral values,” noted Charalampos Saitis, one of the senior authors of the study and a lecturer in digital music processing at Queen Mary University of London’s School of Electronic Engineering and Computer Science.</p>

<h2><strong>How was the study conducted?</strong></h2>

<p>The study enlisted over 1,400 participants, who completed psychometric questionnaires evaluating their moral values.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, participants shared details about their favourite artists via Facebook page likes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The researchers then extracted acoustic and lyrical features from the top five songs of each participant's preferred artists.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Why are scientists calling it a perfect world?</strong></p>

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<p>Through algorithmic analysis, the team predicted participants' moral values based on these extracted features.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Text-processing techniques were applied to scrutinise narrative, moral values, sentiment, and emotions in lyrics.</p>

<p>Spotify-provided low- and high-level audio features were utilised to better understand encoded information in participants' musical preferences.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Results</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, pitch and tone emerged as crucial predictors for values related to care and fairness, while sentiments and emotions expressed in lyrics were more effective in predicting traits associated with loyalty, authority, and purity.</p>

<p>“Our findings showed that music is not merely a source of entertainment or aesthetic pleasure; it is also a powerful medium that reflects and shapes our moral sensibilities,” commented Vjosa Preniqi, the lead author and a doctoral student at Queen Mary’s.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/astronomers-discover-massive-exoplanet-which-should-not-have-existed-665246"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Astronomers discover massive exoplanet which `should not` have existed</strong></a></p>

<p>“By understanding this connection, we can open up new avenues for music-based interventions that promote positive moral development.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Researchers have reportedly established a link between your music taste and your moral compass. According to data analysed by scientists at Queen Mary University of London and ISI Foundation in Turin, Italy, music can have an impact and even change the way you perceive the world and how you behave.

Researchers have reportedly established a link between your music taste and your moral compass. According to data analysed by scientists at Queen Mary University of London and ISI Foundation in Turin, Italy, music can have an impact and even change the way you perceive the world and how you behave. To conduct their research, the scientists used machine learning to identify each song’s narrative, moral valence, attitude, and emotions and managed to draw connections between the music and an individual’s moral compass. “Our study provides compelling evidence that music preferences can serve as a window into an individual's moral values,” noted Charalampos Saitis, one of the senior authors of the study and a lecturer in digital music processing at Queen Mary University of London’s School of Electronic Engineering and Computer Science. How was the study conducted? The study enlisted over 1,400 participants, who completed psychometric questionnaires evaluating their moral values. Additionally, participants shared details about their favourite artists via Facebook page likes. The researchers then extracted acoustic and lyrical features from the top five songs of each participant's preferred artists. Watch: Why are scientists calling it a perfect world? × Through algorithmic analysis, the team predicted participants' moral values based on these extracted features. Text-processing techniques were applied to scrutinise narrative, moral values, sentiment, and emotions in lyrics. Spotify-provided low- and high-level audio features were utilised to better understand encoded information in participants' musical preferences. Results Notably, pitch and tone emerged as crucial predictors for values related to care and fairness, while sentiments and emotions expressed in lyrics were more effective in predicting traits associated with loyalty, authority, and purity. “Our findings showed that music is not merely a source of entertainment or aesthetic pleasure; it is also a powerful medium that reflects and shapes our moral sensibilities,” commented Vjosa Preniqi, the lead author and a doctoral student at Queen Mary’s. Also read: Astronomers discover massive exoplanet which `should not` have existed “By understanding this connection, we can open up new avenues for music-based interventions that promote positive moral development.” (With inputs from agencies)

Study finds link between your musical preference and moral compass

<p>A blind golden mole that can swim through sand has been rediscovered in South Africa 87 years after it was declared extinct.</p>

<p>Scientists were able to locate the mole in sand dunes in the northwest of the country, following a two-year search relying on DNA samples. A sniffer dog was also put to work, along with a team of conservationists and geneticists from the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT).</p>

<h2><strong>When were these moles spotted last time?</strong></h2>

<p>The golden mole species had gone out of sight since 1936. About the size of a mouse or hamster, they were previously spotted in the small region of Port Nolloth in the Northern Cape.</p>

<p>Adding to the predicament, they are very hard to spot, owing to their over-sensitive ears, which can detect movement from above ground. Also, they live in largely inaccessible burrows and don’t leave tunnels behind them.</p>

<p>“Extracting DNA from soil is not without its challenges, but we have been honing our skills and refining our techniques – even before this project – and we were fairly confident that if De Winton’s golden mole was in the environment, we would be able to detect it by finding and sequencing its DNA,” said Samantha Mynhardt, conservation geneticist with the Endangered Wildlife Trust and Stellenbosch University, in a press release.</p>

<h2><strong>Extensive expedition efforts</strong></h2>

<p>The team of scientists was first able to detect the presence of the golden mole species in June 2021.</p>

<p>It was then that they surveyed up to 18kms of dunes a day, using a trained sniffer dog, while also relying on 100 soil samples from sites along the northwest coast where golden mole activity was detected.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/wine-tasting-with-ai-scientists-achieve-spirited-breakthrough-in-artificial-intelligence-domain-665372"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Wine tasting with AI? Scientists achieve spirited breakthrough in Artificial Intelligence domain</strong></a></p>

<p>An analysis of the survey later confirmed the presence of golden mole in the dunes.</p>

<h2><strong>Biggest challenge</strong></h2>

<p>The scientists said the biggest challenge for them was to differentiate Cape golden mole and Grant’s golden mole from De Winton’s golden mole.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Japan: Advancing tech landscape with women in science &amp; technology</strong></p>

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<p>The team had only one golden mole DNA sample for reference, and that’s why they had to wait for almost a year until they could confirm the presence of the much sought-after species.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A blind golden mole that can swim through sand has been rediscovered in South Africa 87 years after it was declared extinct. Scientists were able to locate the mole in sand dunes in the northwest of the country, following a two-year search relying on DNA samples.

A blind golden mole that can swim through sand has been rediscovered in South Africa 87 years after it was declared extinct. Scientists were able to locate the mole in sand dunes in the northwest of the country, following a two-year search relying on DNA samples. A sniffer dog was also put to work, along with a team of conservationists and geneticists from the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT). When were these moles spotted last time? The golden mole species had gone out of sight since 1936. About the size of a mouse or hamster, they were previously spotted in the small region of Port Nolloth in the Northern Cape. Adding to the predicament, they are very hard to spot, owing to their over-sensitive ears, which can detect movement from above ground. Also, they live in largely inaccessible burrows and don’t leave tunnels behind them. “Extracting DNA from soil is not without its challenges, but we have been honing our skills and refining our techniques – even before this project – and we were fairly confident that if De Winton’s golden mole was in the environment, we would be able to detect it by finding and sequencing its DNA,” said Samantha Mynhardt, conservation geneticist with the Endangered Wildlife Trust and Stellenbosch University, in a press release. Extensive expedition efforts The team of scientists was first able to detect the presence of the golden mole species in June 2021. It was then that they surveyed up to 18kms of dunes a day, using a trained sniffer dog, while also relying on 100 soil samples from sites along the northwest coast where golden mole activity was detected. Also read: Wine tasting with AI? Scientists achieve spirited breakthrough in Artificial Intelligence domain An analysis of the survey later confirmed the presence of golden mole in the dunes. Biggest challenge The scientists said the biggest challenge for them was to differentiate Cape golden mole and Grant’s golden mole from De Winton’s golden mole. Watch: Japan: Advancing tech landscape with women in science & technology × The team had only one golden mole DNA sample for reference, and that’s why they had to wait for almost a year until they could confirm the presence of the much sought-after species. (With inputs from agencies)

Blind golden mole that swims through sand rediscovered 87 years after ‘extinction’

<p>Recently, five Michigan women got their eyes infected with syphilis after having sexual encounters with the same man.</p>

<p>Now, scientists in the US&nbsp;are worried that a new strain of the syphilis bacterium may have evolved, which could be behind this unusual nature of the infection.</p>

<p>It is not common for the syphilis bacterium, Treponema pallidum, to infect the eyes; however, it generally shows up when left untreated for a very long time.</p>

<p>That explains why the experts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are concerned about a mutation.</p>

<p>"A common heterosexual partner in an ocular syphilis cluster has not been previously documented and suggests that an unidentified strain of T. pallidum might have been associated with increased risk for systemic manifestations of syphilis," write CDC staff in their published report.</p>

<h2><strong>Symptoms</strong></h2>

<p>The infected women, aged between 40 and 60, experienced headaches, blurred vision, eye floaters, and photophobia (eye discomfort in bright light).</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Japan: Japan: Advancing tech landscape with women in science &amp; technology</strong></p>

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<p>When they all pointed towards the same sexual partner, the man was traced down and he was found to have early latent syphilis – a stage where the disease is still present, but there are no symptoms. He hadn't developed ocular syphilis, however, and was treated with penicillin.</p>

<h2><strong>Why it has puzzled the scientists?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Eye syphilis is a rare occurrence, affecting only a small percentage of cases, but such instances are increasing. Typically, it impacts individuals with late-stage syphilis, those over 65, those with a history of intravenous drug use, and those who are HIV-positive.</p>

<p>However, none of the women involved in this outbreak fit into these categories. The emergence of five cases in rapid succession strongly indicates a potential new phenomenon. Notably, this marks the first reported cluster associated with heterosexual transmission.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/europes-new-ariane-6-rocket-successfully-clears-major-full-scale-trial-662535"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Europe’s new Ariane 6 rocket successfully clears ‘major full-scale’ trial</strong></a></p>

<p>Tests on the central figure of the cluster failed to identify any new strain of T. pallidum.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The analysis was hindered by the fact that ulcers or lesions were absent, crucial for genetic testing, hindered the analysis.</p>

<p>The CDC is now raising awareness about a potential new bacterial strain that may facilitate the disease's spread to the eye and other body parts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Recently, five Michigan women got their eyes infected with syphilis after having sexual encounters with the same man. Now, scientists in the US are worried that a new strain of the syphilis bacterium may have evolved, which could be behind this unusual nature of the infection.

Recently, five Michigan women got their eyes infected with syphilis after having sexual encounters with the same man. Now, scientists in the US are worried that a new strain of the syphilis bacterium may have evolved, which could be behind this unusual nature of the infection. It is not common for the syphilis bacterium, Treponema pallidum, to infect the eyes; however, it generally shows up when left untreated for a very long time. That explains why the experts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are concerned about a mutation. "A common heterosexual partner in an ocular syphilis cluster has not been previously documented and suggests that an unidentified strain of T. pallidum might have been associated with increased risk for systemic manifestations of syphilis," write CDC staff in their published report. Symptoms The infected women, aged between 40 and 60, experienced headaches, blurred vision, eye floaters, and photophobia (eye discomfort in bright light). Watch: Japan: Japan: Advancing tech landscape with women in science & technology × When they all pointed towards the same sexual partner, the man was traced down and he was found to have early latent syphilis – a stage where the disease is still present, but there are no symptoms. He hadn't developed ocular syphilis, however, and was treated with penicillin. Why it has puzzled the scientists? Eye syphilis is a rare occurrence, affecting only a small percentage of cases, but such instances are increasing. Typically, it impacts individuals with late-stage syphilis, those over 65, those with a history of intravenous drug use, and those who are HIV-positive. However, none of the women involved in this outbreak fit into these categories. The emergence of five cases in rapid succession strongly indicates a potential new phenomenon. Notably, this marks the first reported cluster associated with heterosexual transmission. Also read: Europe’s new Ariane 6 rocket successfully clears ‘major full-scale’ trial Tests on the central figure of the cluster failed to identify any new strain of T. pallidum. The analysis was hindered by the fact that ulcers or lesions were absent, crucial for genetic testing, hindered the analysis. The CDC is now raising awareness about a potential new bacterial strain that may facilitate the disease's spread to the eye and other body parts. (With inputs from agencies)

One man infects 5 women with rare eye syphilis following sexual intercourse

<p>What will happen to our solar system if it ever encounters a rogue star? Researchers, including lead author Sean N. Raymond and co-authors Nathan A. Kaib, Franck Selsis, and Herve Bouy, recently published a study on arxiv.org, concluding that a rouge star can irreparably disrupt our solar system, completely dislodging the Earth from its orbit.</p>

<h2><strong>What is a rogue star?</strong></h2>

<p>A star, which is no longer under the gravitational influence of its sun, can eject from its home galaxy and interact with neighbouring ones.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Such stars are called rogue elements, which can sometimes move in odd directions and interfere with the gravitational orbits of other stars.</p>

<p>Scientists used computer models to understand the impact of such a rogue star on our solar system if it ever pays a visit.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Results and predictions</strong></h2>

<p>The team relied on N-body simulations to help them determine “the possible evolutionary pathways of the planets under the perturbation from a close stellar passage,” which revealed a close to 92 per cent chance that the eight known planets in our solar system would remain in their current orbits or similar ones if a rogue star were to pass within 100 astronomical units (au) of the Sun.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Chandrayaan-3: What are ISRO's plans to bring Moon samples to Earth?</strong></p>

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<p>Of all, mercury is the most fragile planet in our solar system, the scientists said.</p>

<p>“Mercury is the most fragile, with a destruction rate (usually via collision with the Sun) higher than that of the four giant planets combined,” the authors write in their paper.</p>

<h2><strong>What will happen to our Earth?</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking of the Earth, our planet may most likely collide with the moon in such a situation, thus completely eliminating life here.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is also possible that our planet may get swayed by the gravitational pull of the rogue star, thus taking a radically different orbit altogether with the rogue star effectively acting as our new sun.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/europes-juice-probe-set-to-use-first-ever-double-gravity-assist-from-earth-and-moon-for-launch-to-jupiter-661150"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Europe’s JUICE probe set to use first-ever ‘double gravity assist’ from Earth and Moon for launch to Jupiter</strong></a></p>

<p>Moreover, the Earth could end up in a more distant orbit than its current one, which would result in conditions becoming far colder due to the planet’s further distance from the Sun.</p>

<p>However, researchers said the chances of a rogue star disrupting our solar system are fairly low.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


What will happen to our solar system if it ever encounters a rogue star? Researchers, including lead author Sean N. Raymond and co-authors Nathan A. Kaib, Franck Selsis, and Herve Bouy, recently published a study on arxiv.

What will happen to our solar system if it ever encounters a rogue star? Researchers, including lead author Sean N. Raymond and co-authors Nathan A. Kaib, Franck Selsis, and Herve Bouy, recently published a study on arxiv.org, concluding that a rouge star can irreparably disrupt our solar system, completely dislodging the Earth from its orbit. What is a rogue star? A star, which is no longer under the gravitational influence of its sun, can eject from its home galaxy and interact with neighbouring ones. Such stars are called rogue elements, which can sometimes move in odd directions and interfere with the gravitational orbits of other stars. Scientists used computer models to understand the impact of such a rogue star on our solar system if it ever pays a visit. Results and predictions The team relied on N-body simulations to help them determine “the possible evolutionary pathways of the planets under the perturbation from a close stellar passage,” which revealed a close to 92 per cent chance that the eight known planets in our solar system would remain in their current orbits or similar ones if a rogue star were to pass within 100 astronomical units (au) of the Sun. Watch: Chandrayaan-3: What are ISRO's plans to bring Moon samples to Earth? × Of all, mercury is the most fragile planet in our solar system, the scientists said. “Mercury is the most fragile, with a destruction rate (usually via collision with the Sun) higher than that of the four giant planets combined,” the authors write in their paper. What will happen to our Earth? Speaking of the Earth, our planet may most likely collide with the moon in such a situation, thus completely eliminating life here. It is also possible that our planet may get swayed by the gravitational pull of the rogue star, thus taking a radically different orbit altogether with the rogue star effectively acting as our new sun. Also read: Europe’s JUICE probe set to use first-ever ‘double gravity assist’ from Earth and Moon for launch to Jupiter Moreover, the Earth could end up in a more distant orbit than its current one, which would result in conditions becoming far colder due to the planet’s further distance from the Sun. However, researchers said the chances of a rogue star disrupting our solar system are fairly low. (With inputs from agencies)

A rogue star can send Earth smashing into Moon, wiping out all life, study finds

<p>According to studies, five to ten per cent of all people, including healthy ones, hear voices related to their dead ones.&nbsp;Scientists have no idea what happens in the brain when people hear these “auditory hallucinations.”</p>

<p>Now, neuroscientist Pavo Orepic from the University of Geneva is claiming to have designed a robotic theory that can solve the scientific puzzle.</p>

<h2><strong>Who experiences these hallucinations?</strong></h2>

<p>It is generally assumed that these hallucinations are experienced by not just those having psychiatric disorders. However, according to studies, 70 per cent of people diagnosed with schizophrenia generally hear such voices.</p>

<p>Schizophrenics don’t make good subjects for experiments related to hallucinations since they consume drugs and medicines that might have side effects, complicating the results.</p>

<h2><strong>Why do these hallucinations occur?</strong></h2>

<p>Hallucinations occur when an individual’s sensory impressions don’t match with their brain’s expectations.</p>

<p>Some investigations also reveal hallucinations might occur when the brain has been conditioned by previous impressions and interprets sensory perceptions incorrectly as a result.</p>

<h2><strong>New robotic technique</strong></h2>

<p>Orepic has now designed an experiment which might trigger the above two mechanisms simultaneously.</p>

<p>As a part of the experiment, some blindfolded people were asked to press a lever in front of them. As they did so, a robotic arm touched them on their back.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Japan: Advancing tech landscape with women in science &amp; technology</strong></p>

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<p>With some practice, their brain started to perceive that it was their own hand which was touching them in their back.</p>

<p>After some practice, the experiment underwent a slight change.</p>

<p>Now, as the participants touched the lever, the robotic arm touched them after a slight delay.</p>

<p>This led the brain to think someone else was present there. “Now the brain explains that delayed sensory feedback as someone else being present and touching them in the back,” Orepic said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-new-downside-of-too-much-exercise-has-been-found-in-a-study-660854"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;A new downside of too-much exercise has been found in a study</strong></a></p>

<p>In the next part of the experiment, the subjects were made to hear noises into which they had mixed either very soft voices – sometimes the subjects’ own, sometimes someone else's – or no voice at all.</p>

<p>Surprisingly, it turned out that those having experienced the ‘delayed touch experiment’ were more likely to hear voices in the noise even if no voice had been mixed in.</p>

<p>“Our study confirms that the mechanisms behind the hallucinations are actually in everyone’s brain,” Orepic says.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“But for some reason, some people are more susceptible to them than others,” he adds.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


According to studies, five to ten per cent of all people, including healthy ones, hear voices related to their dead ones. Scientists have no idea what happens in the brain when people hear these “auditory hallucinations.

According to studies, five to ten per cent of all people, including healthy ones, hear voices related to their dead ones. Scientists have no idea what happens in the brain when people hear these “auditory hallucinations.” Now, neuroscientist Pavo Orepic from the University of Geneva is claiming to have designed a robotic theory that can solve the scientific puzzle. Who experiences these hallucinations? It is generally assumed that these hallucinations are experienced by not just those having psychiatric disorders. However, according to studies, 70 per cent of people diagnosed with schizophrenia generally hear such voices. Schizophrenics don’t make good subjects for experiments related to hallucinations since they consume drugs and medicines that might have side effects, complicating the results. Why do these hallucinations occur? Hallucinations occur when an individual’s sensory impressions don’t match with their brain’s expectations. Some investigations also reveal hallucinations might occur when the brain has been conditioned by previous impressions and interprets sensory perceptions incorrectly as a result. New robotic technique Orepic has now designed an experiment which might trigger the above two mechanisms simultaneously. As a part of the experiment, some blindfolded people were asked to press a lever in front of them. As they did so, a robotic arm touched them on their back. Watch: Japan: Advancing tech landscape with women in science & technology × With some practice, their brain started to perceive that it was their own hand which was touching them in their back. After some practice, the experiment underwent a slight change. Now, as the participants touched the lever, the robotic arm touched them after a slight delay. This led the brain to think someone else was present there. “Now the brain explains that delayed sensory feedback as someone else being present and touching them in the back,” Orepic said. Also read: A new downside of too-much exercise has been found in a study In the next part of the experiment, the subjects were made to hear noises into which they had mixed either very soft voices – sometimes the subjects’ own, sometimes someone else's – or no voice at all. Surprisingly, it turned out that those having experienced the ‘delayed touch experiment’ were more likely to hear voices in the noise even if no voice had been mixed in. “Our study confirms that the mechanisms behind the hallucinations are actually in everyone’s brain,” Orepic says. “But for some reason, some people are more susceptible to them than others,” he adds. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientist develops robotic technique to understand why people hear ‘their dead’

<p>Young people’s screen time is dangerously increasing and it is having a significant negative impact on their cognitive abilities, a new study has found.</p>

<p>As a result of disordered screen use, young people are developing health problems as well as shortened attention spans, hindering their mental well-being in the long run.</p>

<p>Amplifying this problem is the increasing trend to adapt technology into studies, often aimed at boosting the students’ engagement. However, teachers have noted that these devices are actually distracting in a learning environment. &nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How was the research conducted?</strong></h2>

<p>According to the study published in Science Alert, scientists conducted a meta-analysis of 34 previous studies and analysed various forms of screen use (including gaming, internet browsing, smartphone use and social media use) and compared the cognitive performance of individuals with disordered screen use to those without it.</p>

<p>The results were found to be concerning.</p>

<h2><strong>Results</strong></h2>

<p>It was revealed that those with problematic screen use consistently showed notably lower cognitive performance than their counterparts.</p>

<p>The primary cognitive area impacted was attention, specifically sustained attention—the capacity to concentrate on a constant stimulus for an extended duration.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Nuclear Fusion: A carbon-free source of energy</strong></p>

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<p>The second most significant distinction was found in "executive functioning," particularly in impulse control, reflecting the ability to manage automatic responses or ‘reflexes.’</p>

<p>Notably, the nature of screen activity didn't influence the outcomes. Moreover, this trend wasn't limited to children but was observed across diverse age groups.</p>

<h2><strong>Why is it concerning?</strong></h2>

<p>Social media algorithms are designed in a way to capture your attention and divert your focus outward; these can severely impact your ability to concentrate.</p>

<p>The algorithms are also addictive in nature, making it harder for individuals to disengage themselves from their screens. Thus, they don’t even realise when screen use has become a problem.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/moderate-consumption-of-tea-coffee-linked-to-decreased-risks-of-cognitive-disorders-study-655274"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Moderate consumption of tea, coffee linked to decreased risks of cognitive disorders: Study</strong></a></p>

<p>Attention is the bedrock of everyday tasks. People with weakened attention may struggle to keep up in less stimulating environments, such as a static workplace or classroom. They may find themselves turning to a screen as a result.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Young people’s screen time is dangerously increasing and it is having a significant negative impact on their cognitive abilities, a new study has found. As a result of disordered screen use, young people are developing health problems as well as shortened attention spans, hindering their mental well-being in the long run.

Young people’s screen time is dangerously increasing and it is having a significant negative impact on their cognitive abilities, a new study has found. As a result of disordered screen use, young people are developing health problems as well as shortened attention spans, hindering their mental well-being in the long run. Amplifying this problem is the increasing trend to adapt technology into studies, often aimed at boosting the students’ engagement. However, teachers have noted that these devices are actually distracting in a learning environment. How was the research conducted? According to the study published in Science Alert, scientists conducted a meta-analysis of 34 previous studies and analysed various forms of screen use (including gaming, internet browsing, smartphone use and social media use) and compared the cognitive performance of individuals with disordered screen use to those without it. The results were found to be concerning. Results It was revealed that those with problematic screen use consistently showed notably lower cognitive performance than their counterparts. The primary cognitive area impacted was attention, specifically sustained attention—the capacity to concentrate on a constant stimulus for an extended duration. Watch: Nuclear Fusion: A carbon-free source of energy × The second most significant distinction was found in "executive functioning," particularly in impulse control, reflecting the ability to manage automatic responses or ‘reflexes.’ Notably, the nature of screen activity didn't influence the outcomes. Moreover, this trend wasn't limited to children but was observed across diverse age groups. Why is it concerning? Social media algorithms are designed in a way to capture your attention and divert your focus outward; these can severely impact your ability to concentrate. The algorithms are also addictive in nature, making it harder for individuals to disengage themselves from their screens. Thus, they don’t even realise when screen use has become a problem. Also read: Moderate consumption of tea, coffee linked to decreased risks of cognitive disorders: Study Attention is the bedrock of everyday tasks. People with weakened attention may struggle to keep up in less stimulating environments, such as a static workplace or classroom. They may find themselves turning to a screen as a result. (With inputs from agencies)

Increasing screen time is killing your cognitive abilities, study reveals

<p>New research has established the link between the stress and anxiety levels noted in mothers during pregnancy and the behavioural issues in the children.</p>

<p>The study, published by the American Psychological Association, has revealed that children whose mothers experience increased levels of stress during pregnancy exhibit aggressive behaviour and lack mental well-being during their childhood and teen years.</p>

<p>“Our research suggests that psychological distress during the pregnancy period has a small but persistent effect on children’s risk for aggressive, disinhibited and impulsive behaviours,” said study author Irene Tung, PhD, of California State University, Dominguez Hills.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/can-stress-have-a-bearing-on-the-menstrual-cycle-expert-explains-586950"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Can stress have a bearing on the menstrual cycle? Expert explains</strong></a></p>

<p>“These findings add to the evidence that providing widely accessible mental health care and support during pregnancy may be a critical step to help prevent childhood behavior problems.”</p>

<p>The research was conducted after analysing data from 55 studies, which included more than 45,000 participants in total.</p>

<p>In this study, researchers specifically examined instances where mothers' psychological distress was assessed during and after pregnancy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They discovered that, even when accounting for later postnatal distress, experiencing distress during pregnancy heightened the risk of children developing externalising problems.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This effect remained consistent for both boys and girls and across different age groups: early childhood (2–5), middle childhood (6–12), and adolescence (13–18), with the strongest impact observed in early childhood.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gen Z crippling with stress at work</strong></p>

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<p>The results align with theories proposing that exposure to stress hormones in utero can influence children's brain development, as noted by the researchers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moving forward, Tung recommended that future research focuses on diversifying samples to explore cultural and socioeconomic factors influencing prenatal stress and to develop effective interventions.</p>

<p>“Most existing research has focused on white, middle-class and higher educated samples. But experiences of racism, economic disparities and lack of health care access are known contributors to stress during pregnancy. Understanding how psychological distress during pregnancy impacts underrepresented families is key to developing equitable public health policies and interventions,” she said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


New research has established the link between the stress and anxiety levels noted in mothers during pregnancy and the behavioural issues in the children. The study, published by the American Psychological Association, has revealed that children whose mothers experience increased levels of stress during pregnancy exhibit aggressive behaviour and lack mental well-being during their childhood and teen years.

New research has established the link between the stress and anxiety levels noted in mothers during pregnancy and the behavioural issues in the children. The study, published by the American Psychological Association, has revealed that children whose mothers experience increased levels of stress during pregnancy exhibit aggressive behaviour and lack mental well-being during their childhood and teen years. “Our research suggests that psychological distress during the pregnancy period has a small but persistent effect on children’s risk for aggressive, disinhibited and impulsive behaviours,” said study author Irene Tung, PhD, of California State University, Dominguez Hills. Also read: Can stress have a bearing on the menstrual cycle? Expert explains “These findings add to the evidence that providing widely accessible mental health care and support during pregnancy may be a critical step to help prevent childhood behavior problems.” The research was conducted after analysing data from 55 studies, which included more than 45,000 participants in total. In this study, researchers specifically examined instances where mothers' psychological distress was assessed during and after pregnancy. They discovered that, even when accounting for later postnatal distress, experiencing distress during pregnancy heightened the risk of children developing externalising problems. This effect remained consistent for both boys and girls and across different age groups: early childhood (2–5), middle childhood (6–12), and adolescence (13–18), with the strongest impact observed in early childhood. Watch: Gen Z crippling with stress at work × The results align with theories proposing that exposure to stress hormones in utero can influence children's brain development, as noted by the researchers. Moving forward, Tung recommended that future research focuses on diversifying samples to explore cultural and socioeconomic factors influencing prenatal stress and to develop effective interventions. “Most existing research has focused on white, middle-class and higher educated samples. But experiences of racism, economic disparities and lack of health care access are known contributors to stress during pregnancy. Understanding how psychological distress during pregnancy impacts underrepresented families is key to developing equitable public health policies and interventions,” she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Children develop behavioural issues if mothers experience high stress during pregnancy: Study

<p>Self-respect and the sense of having equal rights are key factors in determining how individuals deal with depressive symptoms and ward off suicidal thoughts.</p>

<p>According to the findings published in Health Psychology Open, high self-respect acted as a protector against depression and negative thoughts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Self-respect, defined as a person’s belief of possessing the same rights as others, has been suggested as a hitherto often neglected form of self-regard and has been shown as predictor of assertiveness in Western countries,” explained study author Daniela Renger, a university lecturer and research group leader at Kiel University.</p>

<p>“We were interested in finding out whether low self-respect is associated with mental health outcomes such as depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation (potentially via deficits in assertiveness) and whether this pattern can be found in Western and non-Western countries,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Methodology</strong></h2>

<p>To conduct the research, the experts carried out a series of three separate studies.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Tea-lovers prone to depression?</strong></p>

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<p>The first study focuses on European nations, the second on non-European countries (Iran, Indonesia, South Korea) and the third study in the UK.</p>

<p>A total of 436 participants took part in the first study, 1,533 in the second and 172 in the third study.</p>

<h2><strong>Results</strong></h2>

<p>The combined analysis of the data confirmed a negative correlation between higher self-respect and depressive symptoms, as well as suicidal ideation. Although these connections generally held true, there was some variability among individuals and cultures, suggesting that these associations might be influenced by diverse factors across contexts.</p>

<p>The results imply that interventions and therapy could benefit from emphasising self-respect as a crucial aspect of an individual's self-evaluation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Addressing the connection between perceptions of unequal rights and entitlements with depressive symptoms and suicidal thoughts may prove to be a valuable strategy. Furthermore, cultivating self-respect might enhance assertiveness, positively impacting mental health.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/blood-test-to-diagnose-depression-among-teens-scientists-reach-key-breakthrough-660195"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Blood test to diagnose depression among teens? Scientists reach key breakthrough</strong></a></p>

<p>“The more people believe in their basic equal rights compared with others (i.e., the higher their self-respect), the fewer depressive symptoms and the fewer suicidal thoughts they show,” Renger was quoted as saying by PsyPost.</p>

<p>However, it's important to note that, like all research, this study has limitations. It relied on correlational data, preventing the definitive establishment of causal relationships.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Further research is needed to explore the causal directions implied by the observed correlations.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Self-respect and the sense of having equal rights are key factors in determining how individuals deal with depressive symptoms and ward off suicidal thoughts. According to the findings published in Health Psychology Open, high self-respect acted as a protector against depression and negative thoughts.

Self-respect and the sense of having equal rights are key factors in determining how individuals deal with depressive symptoms and ward off suicidal thoughts. According to the findings published in Health Psychology Open, high self-respect acted as a protector against depression and negative thoughts. “Self-respect, defined as a person’s belief of possessing the same rights as others, has been suggested as a hitherto often neglected form of self-regard and has been shown as predictor of assertiveness in Western countries,” explained study author Daniela Renger, a university lecturer and research group leader at Kiel University. “We were interested in finding out whether low self-respect is associated with mental health outcomes such as depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation (potentially via deficits in assertiveness) and whether this pattern can be found in Western and non-Western countries,” he added. Methodology To conduct the research, the experts carried out a series of three separate studies. Watch: Tea-lovers prone to depression? × The first study focuses on European nations, the second on non-European countries (Iran, Indonesia, South Korea) and the third study in the UK. A total of 436 participants took part in the first study, 1,533 in the second and 172 in the third study. Results The combined analysis of the data confirmed a negative correlation between higher self-respect and depressive symptoms, as well as suicidal ideation. Although these connections generally held true, there was some variability among individuals and cultures, suggesting that these associations might be influenced by diverse factors across contexts. The results imply that interventions and therapy could benefit from emphasising self-respect as a crucial aspect of an individual's self-evaluation. Addressing the connection between perceptions of unequal rights and entitlements with depressive symptoms and suicidal thoughts may prove to be a valuable strategy. Furthermore, cultivating self-respect might enhance assertiveness, positively impacting mental health. Also read: Blood test to diagnose depression among teens? Scientists reach key breakthrough “The more people believe in their basic equal rights compared with others (i.e., the higher their self-respect), the fewer depressive symptoms and the fewer suicidal thoughts they show,” Renger was quoted as saying by PsyPost. However, it's important to note that, like all research, this study has limitations. It relied on correlational data, preventing the definitive establishment of causal relationships. Further research is needed to explore the causal directions implied by the observed correlations. (With inputs from agencies)

High self-respect acts as protector against depression, suicidal thoughts: Study

<p>A recent study has indicated that sperm count in men worldwide is declining due to increasing exposure to pesticides that are used in homes, gardens and sprayed on foods.</p>

<p>The study, published Wednesday (Nov 15) in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, examined 25 studies around the world on the two chemicals and included 20 studies in the meta-analysis.</p>

<p>“Over the course of 50 years, sperm concentration has fallen about 50 per cent around the world,” said senior study author Melissa Perry, dean of the College of Public Health at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia.</p>

<p>She pointed out that the fall was linked to two common insecticides used around the world: Organophosphates and N-methyl carbamates.</p>

<h2><strong>What are organophosphates?</strong></h2>

<p>Organophosphates are the main components of nerve gas, herbicides, pesticides and insecticides and are also used to create plastics and solvents.</p>

<p>They eliminate pests and bugs by damaging their minds and nervous systems.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Scientists create embryo model without sperm, egg or womb</strong></p>

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<p>“As we sort of start to close the net around factors that could negatively impact fertility, these pesticides start to rise to the top,” Dr Alexander Pastuszak, an assistant professor of surgery and urology at The University of Utah School of Medicine in Salt Lake City, was quoted as saying by CNN.</p>

<p>“There’s enough evidence to really start to say yes, these types of compounds can negatively affect fertility in men,” he said, adding, “Ultimately, you don’t know the impact on actual fertility until and unless you start trying to get pregnant.”</p>

<h2><strong>Who are at the highest risk?</strong></h2>

<p>Men working in agriculture and exposed to higher levels of pesticides showed significantly lower sperm concentration compared to those with minimal exposure to organophosphates and N-methyl carbamates, according to the study.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sperm concentration, indicating sperm per millilitre of semen, is crucial for comparing men across studies due to its adjustment for semen volume variability.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/high-mobile-use-may-be-bringing-down-your-sperm-count-study-654459"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;High mobile phone use may be bringing down your sperm count: Study</strong></a></p>

<p>Experts emphasise that sperm count, total progressively swimming sperm, and sperm concentration are key indicators of future fertility.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study suggests that pesticides may affect sperm by directly interfering with sexual hormones, damaging testes cells, and altering brain neurotransmitters impacting sperm production, as observed in animal studies.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A recent study has indicated that sperm count in men worldwide is declining due to increasing exposure to pesticides that are used in homes, gardens and sprayed on foods.

A recent study has indicated that sperm count in men worldwide is declining due to increasing exposure to pesticides that are used in homes, gardens and sprayed on foods. The study, published Wednesday (Nov 15) in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, examined 25 studies around the world on the two chemicals and included 20 studies in the meta-analysis. “Over the course of 50 years, sperm concentration has fallen about 50 per cent around the world,” said senior study author Melissa Perry, dean of the College of Public Health at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. She pointed out that the fall was linked to two common insecticides used around the world: Organophosphates and N-methyl carbamates. What are organophosphates? Organophosphates are the main components of nerve gas, herbicides, pesticides and insecticides and are also used to create plastics and solvents. They eliminate pests and bugs by damaging their minds and nervous systems. Watch: Scientists create embryo model without sperm, egg or womb × “As we sort of start to close the net around factors that could negatively impact fertility, these pesticides start to rise to the top,” Dr Alexander Pastuszak, an assistant professor of surgery and urology at The University of Utah School of Medicine in Salt Lake City, was quoted as saying by CNN. “There’s enough evidence to really start to say yes, these types of compounds can negatively affect fertility in men,” he said, adding, “Ultimately, you don’t know the impact on actual fertility until and unless you start trying to get pregnant.” Who are at the highest risk? Men working in agriculture and exposed to higher levels of pesticides showed significantly lower sperm concentration compared to those with minimal exposure to organophosphates and N-methyl carbamates, according to the study. Sperm concentration, indicating sperm per millilitre of semen, is crucial for comparing men across studies due to its adjustment for semen volume variability. Also read: High mobile phone use may be bringing down your sperm count: Study Experts emphasise that sperm count, total progressively swimming sperm, and sperm concentration are key indicators of future fertility. The study suggests that pesticides may affect sperm by directly interfering with sexual hormones, damaging testes cells, and altering brain neurotransmitters impacting sperm production, as observed in animal studies. (With inputs from agencies)

Sperm count decreasing worldwide due to increased exposure to pesticides: Study

Supernova are one of the universe's most cataclysmic events. If a planet is too close, it will be sterilised, even destroyed. When massive stars run out of nuclear fuel in their core, they produce x-rays and blast waves of fast particles that would render a planet like Earth uninhabitable. Watch this story to know how a star exploded 1.9 billion light-years away and our ozone layer took the hit.

Supernova's explosive end, destroyed parts of Ozone layer | Science News

A supernova explosion is one of the most spectacular events in the universe. During the explosion, huge energy is released. However, this can also spell doom for other planets in its vicinity. Watch this story to know how a supernova 'destroyed' some of earth's ozone for a few minutes in 2022

Gravitas: A supernova can tear apart a planet's atmosphere

<p>In a major breakthrough, scientists have reportedly discovered a ‘kill switch’ that triggers the death of cancer cells. California experts from UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center in Sacramento said they identified a protein on a receptor that can be designed to kill cancer cells.</p>

<p>"CD95 receptors, also known as Fas, are called death receptors. These protein receptors reside on cell membranes.</p>

<p>"When activated, they release a signal that causes the cells to self-destruct," the cancer centre said in a statement.</p>

<h2><strong>How is the therapy carried out?</strong></h2>

<p>The researchers have named it CAR T-cell therapy, which involves collecting T cells from the patient’s blood and then genetically modifying them in a lab to produce receptors called chimeric antigen receptors (CARs).</p>

<p>After modifying them, these cells are then injected back into the patient’s body, in the bloodstream.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Almost 300,000 women to be given drug to prevent breast cancer</strong></p>

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<p>"We have found the most critical epitope for cytotoxic Fas signalling, as well as CAR T-cell bystander anti-tumour function,” said Jogender Tushir-Singh, an associate professor in the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology and senior author of the study.</p>

<h2><strong>Limitation</strong></h2>

<p>As of now, the therapy has shown promising efficacy against liquid cancer, leukaemia and other blood cancers. As per scientists, it has shown “meagre success” against solid tumours such as breast, lung, and bowel cancer.</p>

<p>According to Tushir-Singh, it remains the biggest challenge so far.</p>

<p>However, the team is hopeful that the therapy can evolve to target solid cancer as well in the near future.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/1-in-every-3-deaths-from-nonmelanoma-skin-cancer-linked-to-working-outdoors-under-sun-who-calls-for-action-657327"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;1 in every 3 deaths from nonmelanoma skin cancer linked to working outdoors under sun</strong></a></p>

<p>"Modulating Fas may also extend the benefits of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy to solid tumors like ovarian cancer," the statement by the team reads.</p>

<p>“Previous efforts to target this receptor have been unsuccessful. But now that we’ve identified this epitope, there could be a therapeutic path forward to target Fas in tumors,” Tushir-Singh added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a major breakthrough, scientists have reportedly discovered a ‘kill switch’ that triggers the death of cancer cells. California experts from UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center in Sacramento said they identified a protein on a receptor that can be designed to kill cancer cells.

In a major breakthrough, scientists have reportedly discovered a ‘kill switch’ that triggers the death of cancer cells. California experts from UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center in Sacramento said they identified a protein on a receptor that can be designed to kill cancer cells. "CD95 receptors, also known as Fas, are called death receptors. These protein receptors reside on cell membranes. "When activated, they release a signal that causes the cells to self-destruct," the cancer centre said in a statement. How is the therapy carried out? The researchers have named it CAR T-cell therapy, which involves collecting T cells from the patient’s blood and then genetically modifying them in a lab to produce receptors called chimeric antigen receptors (CARs). After modifying them, these cells are then injected back into the patient’s body, in the bloodstream. Watch: Almost 300,000 women to be given drug to prevent breast cancer × "We have found the most critical epitope for cytotoxic Fas signalling, as well as CAR T-cell bystander anti-tumour function,” said Jogender Tushir-Singh, an associate professor in the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology and senior author of the study. Limitation As of now, the therapy has shown promising efficacy against liquid cancer, leukaemia and other blood cancers. As per scientists, it has shown “meagre success” against solid tumours such as breast, lung, and bowel cancer. According to Tushir-Singh, it remains the biggest challenge so far. However, the team is hopeful that the therapy can evolve to target solid cancer as well in the near future. Also read: 1 in every 3 deaths from nonmelanoma skin cancer linked to working outdoors under sun "Modulating Fas may also extend the benefits of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy to solid tumors like ovarian cancer," the statement by the team reads. “Previous efforts to target this receptor have been unsuccessful. But now that we’ve identified this epitope, there could be a therapeutic path forward to target Fas in tumors,” Tushir-Singh added. (With inputs from agencies)

In major breakthrough, scientists discover ‘kill switch' that can eliminate cancer cells

<p>Scientists have invented a breakthrough device that can not only clean dirty water and make it consumable but can also generate hydrogen fuel from it, thus solving two problems at once—the lack of energy and the lack of clean drinking water.</p>

<p>It can change the lives of millions of people who live off limited resources, with no access to clean water and clean energy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the scientists behind the machine, it is based on the photosynthesis process in plants, where they turn light into food. The older version of the same device required clean water to operate, making it unviable for areas with no clean water resources.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/technology-devouring-humans-robot-crushes-man-to-death-in-south-korea-656647"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Technology devouring humans? Robot crushes man to death in South Korea</strong></a></p>

<p>But the new model is simply miraculous.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Bringing together solar fuels production and water purification in a single device is tricky,” said Chanon Pornrungroj from the University of Cambridge.</p>

<p>“Solar-driven water splitting, where water molecules are broken down into hydrogen and oxygen, need to start with totally pure water because any contaminants can poison the catalyst or cause unwanted chemical side-reactions,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>How does the machine work?</strong></h2>

<p>The system utilises a carbon mesh to absorb light and heat, generating water vapour from which hydrogen is generated by a photocatalyst. This carbon mesh also repels water, allowing the system to float and protect important components from water damage.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Technology for Parkinson's patients</strong></p>

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<p>Moreover, this device captures a greater amount of solar energy compared to previous models, as it utilises a wider spectrum of light. A white layer on the top absorbs UV rays, while the remaining light is used to vapourise the water.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The researchers emphasise that this system is simple to manufacture and effective in treating highly polluted water.</p>

<p>Although currently a proof of concept, they believe it holds promise for achieving a sustainable future.</p>

<p>“The climate crisis and issues around pollution and health are closely related, and developing an approach that could help address both would be a game-changer for so many people,” said Cambridge’s Erwin Reisner, who led the work.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Scientists have invented a breakthrough device that can not only clean dirty water and make it consumable but can also generate hydrogen fuel from it, thus solving two problems at once—the lack of energy and the lack of clean drinking water.

Scientists have invented a breakthrough device that can not only clean dirty water and make it consumable but can also generate hydrogen fuel from it, thus solving two problems at once—the lack of energy and the lack of clean drinking water. It can change the lives of millions of people who live off limited resources, with no access to clean water and clean energy. As per the scientists behind the machine, it is based on the photosynthesis process in plants, where they turn light into food. The older version of the same device required clean water to operate, making it unviable for areas with no clean water resources. Also read: Technology devouring humans? Robot crushes man to death in South Korea But the new model is simply miraculous. “Bringing together solar fuels production and water purification in a single device is tricky,” said Chanon Pornrungroj from the University of Cambridge. “Solar-driven water splitting, where water molecules are broken down into hydrogen and oxygen, need to start with totally pure water because any contaminants can poison the catalyst or cause unwanted chemical side-reactions,” he added. How does the machine work? The system utilises a carbon mesh to absorb light and heat, generating water vapour from which hydrogen is generated by a photocatalyst. This carbon mesh also repels water, allowing the system to float and protect important components from water damage. Watch: Technology for Parkinson's patients × Moreover, this device captures a greater amount of solar energy compared to previous models, as it utilises a wider spectrum of light. A white layer on the top absorbs UV rays, while the remaining light is used to vapourise the water. The researchers emphasise that this system is simple to manufacture and effective in treating highly polluted water. Although currently a proof of concept, they believe it holds promise for achieving a sustainable future. “The climate crisis and issues around pollution and health are closely related, and developing an approach that could help address both would be a game-changer for so many people,” said Cambridge’s Erwin Reisner, who led the work. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists develop machine that creates hydrogen fuel from dirty water

<p>Climate crises, nuclear Armageddon, or a sudden meteor strike -- it's clear humanity could do with Planet B.&nbsp;But first we need to learn to reproduce safely in&nbsp;<strong>space</strong>, says&nbsp;<strong>Dutch</strong>&nbsp;entrepreneur Egbert Edelbroek.</p>

<p>Edelbroek's&nbsp;<strong>firm</strong>, Spaceborn United, is pioneering&nbsp;<strong>space</strong>&nbsp;sex research, with the eventual aim of natural conception and birth in the partial gravity environment found on Mars.</p>

<p>The challenges of achieving safe&nbsp;<strong>space</strong>&nbsp;sex are galactic, but the ambitious Dutchman is confident he will see an extraterrestrial human child born within his lifetime.</p>

<p>"It's important that the Earth and humanity can become a multiplanetary species," Edelbroek told AFP.</p>

<p>"If you want to have independent human settlements beyond Earth, and if you really want them to be independent, you also need to address the reproductive challenge," said the entrepreneur.</p>

<p>Actual sexual intercourse in&nbsp;<strong>space</strong>&nbsp;presents many difficulties, chief among them the lack of gravity -- a couple would drift away from each other -- so Spaceborn United is first trying to conceive an embryo in&nbsp;<strong>space</strong>.</p>

<p>Starting with mice, before eventually moving to human sperm and egg cells, the&nbsp;<strong>firm</strong>&nbsp;has created a disc that mixes the cells together, to produce a viable embryo.</p>

<p>It's like a "<strong>space</strong>&nbsp;station for your cells", said Aqeel Shamsul, CEO of the UK-based Frontier&nbsp;<strong>Space</strong>&nbsp;Technologies, which is working with Spaceborn on the project.</p>

<p>This embryo is then cryogenically frozen, to pause their development, but also to protect them during re-entry -- "It's a lot of shaking, a lot of vibration, a lot of G-forces. You don't want to expose embryos to this," said Edelbroek.</p>

<p>Research is currently under way in simulated partial gravity laboratory conditions but Edelbroek said a launch with mice cells was planned for the end of next year, with a timeline of "about five or six years" for the first launch with a human embryo.</p>

<h2>Delicate topic</h2>

<p>But that's only one small step. A giant ethical leap remains before such an embryo could be implanted back into an Earthling woman to give birth to the first child conceived in&nbsp;<strong>space</strong>.</p>

<p>"It's a delicate topic. You're exposing vulnerable human cells, human embryos, eventually, to the hazards of&nbsp;<strong>space</strong>, to radiation that is much higher than on Earth, to different gravity environments that embryos are never designed for," said Edelbroek.</p>

<p>Such ethical issues are one reason why research into&nbsp;<strong>space</strong>&nbsp;reproduction has generally been left to private firms like Spaceborn, rather than&nbsp;<strong>NASA</strong>, which is queasy about spending tax dollars on such sensitive topics.</p>

<p>Edelbroek said his&nbsp;<strong>firm</strong>&nbsp;was the only one looking to develop a human embryo in&nbsp;<strong>space</strong>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bodily fluids that are pulled down on Earth would be drawn upwards in a low-gravity environment, posing several challenges for the human body.</p>

<p>"An adult body can handle some differences, but you don't want to expose a growing, more vulnerable, foetus to these different variables. So you need to create the perfect environment first," he said.</p>

<h2>Crazy ambitious</h2>

<p>One new factor in&nbsp;<strong>space</strong>&nbsp;reproduction is the growth of&nbsp;<strong>space</strong>&nbsp;tourism, fuelled by companies like SpaceX and Virgin Galactic.</p>

<p>Couples on a&nbsp;<strong>space</strong>&nbsp;tourism flight might want to go down in history as the first to conceive, warned Edelbroek, adding that he was consulting with the sector to make them aware of the risks.</p>

<p>Spaceborn's research -- which replicates the IVF process but in&nbsp;<strong>space</strong>&nbsp;-- is also helping people closer to home to conceive, said Edelbroek.</p>

<p>The Dutchman said he had been forced to scale back his plans -- "we've gone from crazy ambitious to just very ambitious" -- as the scale of the challenges became clear.</p>

<p>Nonetheless, he is sure that a&nbsp;<strong>baby</strong>&nbsp;will be born in&nbsp;<strong>space</strong>&nbsp;within his lifetime.</p>

<p>"I expect to be at least 100 years old," the 48-year-old said. "So that should give us enough decades to achieve that, absolutely."</p>

<p>"Eventually, humanity -- hopefully with us -- needs to achieve childbirth in&nbsp;<strong>space</strong>."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Climate crises, nuclear Armageddon, or a sudden meteor strike -- it's clear humanity could do with Planet B. But first we need to learn to reproduce safely in space, says Dutch entrepreneur Egbert Edelbroek.

Climate crises, nuclear Armageddon, or a sudden meteor strike -- it's clear humanity could do with Planet B. But first we need to learn to reproduce safely in space, says Dutch entrepreneur Egbert Edelbroek. Edelbroek's firm, Spaceborn United, is pioneering space sex research, with the eventual aim of natural conception and birth in the partial gravity environment found on Mars. The challenges of achieving safe space sex are galactic, but the ambitious Dutchman is confident he will see an extraterrestrial human child born within his lifetime. "It's important that the Earth and humanity can become a multiplanetary species," Edelbroek told AFP. "If you want to have independent human settlements beyond Earth, and if you really want them to be independent, you also need to address the reproductive challenge," said the entrepreneur. Actual sexual intercourse in space presents many difficulties, chief among them the lack of gravity -- a couple would drift away from each other -- so Spaceborn United is first trying to conceive an embryo in space. Starting with mice, before eventually moving to human sperm and egg cells, the firm has created a disc that mixes the cells together, to produce a viable embryo. It's like a "space station for your cells", said Aqeel Shamsul, CEO of the UK-based Frontier Space Technologies, which is working with Spaceborn on the project. This embryo is then cryogenically frozen, to pause their development, but also to protect them during re-entry -- "It's a lot of shaking, a lot of vibration, a lot of G-forces. You don't want to expose embryos to this," said Edelbroek. Research is currently under way in simulated partial gravity laboratory conditions but Edelbroek said a launch with mice cells was planned for the end of next year, with a timeline of "about five or six years" for the first launch with a human embryo. Delicate topic But that's only one small step. A giant ethical leap remains before such an embryo could be implanted back into an Earthling woman to give birth to the first child conceived in space. "It's a delicate topic. You're exposing vulnerable human cells, human embryos, eventually, to the hazards of space, to radiation that is much higher than on Earth, to different gravity environments that embryos are never designed for," said Edelbroek. Such ethical issues are one reason why research into space reproduction has generally been left to private firms like Spaceborn, rather than NASA, which is queasy about spending tax dollars on such sensitive topics. Edelbroek said his firm was the only one looking to develop a human embryo in space. Bodily fluids that are pulled down on Earth would be drawn upwards in a low-gravity environment, posing several challenges for the human body. "An adult body can handle some differences, but you don't want to expose a growing, more vulnerable, foetus to these different variables. So you need to create the perfect environment first," he said. Crazy ambitious One new factor in space reproduction is the growth of space tourism, fuelled by companies like SpaceX and Virgin Galactic. Couples on a space tourism flight might want to go down in history as the first to conceive, warned Edelbroek, adding that he was consulting with the sector to make them aware of the risks. Spaceborn's research -- which replicates the IVF process but in space -- is also helping people closer to home to conceive, said Edelbroek. The Dutchman said he had been forced to scale back his plans -- "we've gone from crazy ambitious to just very ambitious" -- as the scale of the challenges became clear. Nonetheless, he is sure that a baby will be born in space within his lifetime. "I expect to be at least 100 years old," the 48-year-old said. "So that should give us enough decades to achieve that, absolutely." "Eventually, humanity -- hopefully with us -- needs to achieve childbirth in space." (With inputs from agencies)

Dutch firm eyes space baby to revive humanity after 'doomsday' crisis

<p>Do your pets make you happier? A new study has claimed that pets don’t have any positive impact on the well-being of their owners, contrary to the widely-held belief.</p>

<p>The study has been published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, which assessed 767 people over three times in May 2020. It becomes important to note that the assessment was done during the distressing period of the COVID-19 pandemic, which helped researchers better understand the impact of their pets on the participants’ mental well-being.</p>

<h2><strong>Contrasting data</strong></h2>

<p>Although pet owners claimed they became happier due to their pets and felt more positive emotions, there was little data to back these arguments.</p>

<p>When researchers compared their happiness, gauged on the basis of several indicators, with non-pet owners, they found no difference in well-being.</p>

<p>The researchers found that it did not matter what type of pet was owned, how many pets were owned or how close they were with their pet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“People say that pets make them happy, but when we actually measure happiness, that doesn’t appear to be the case,” said William Chopik, an associate professor in MSU’s Department of Psychology and co-author of the study.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“People see friends as lonely or wanting companionship, and they recommend getting a pet. But it’s unlikely that it’ll be as transformative as people think,” Chopik added.</p>

<h2><strong>Reasoning</strong></h2>

<p>One reason that the researchers cited for the similar level of happiness among pet owners and non-pet owners was that the latter had other things to do which made them happy.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Elon Musk's new chatbot, AI decoding pet language</strong></p>

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<p>“Staking all of your hope on a pet making you feel better is probably unfair and is maybe costly given other things you could do in your life that could improve your happiness,” added Chopik.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Perception</h2>

<p><span style="font-size: 15px;">Previous studies claimed that having pets was linked to having healthier hearts among pet owners. Those having pets were less likely to stay home sick, make fewer visits to the doctor, get more exercise, and are less prone to depression compared to non-pet owners.</span></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-man-turned-dog-goes-on-his-first-walk-makes-some-canine-friends-620493"><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">Also read:&nbsp;Watch | ‘Man-turned-dog’ goes on his first walk, makes some canine friends</span></strong></a></p>

<p>Furthermore, pets – especially dogs and cats – are known to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, ease loneliness, encourage exercise and playfulness, and even improve cardiovascular health.</p>

<p>However, the new study challenges these perceptions, highlighting the need to carry out further research and studies to get a better understanding of this relationship.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Do your pets make you happier? A new study has claimed that pets don’t have any positive impact on the well-being of their owners, contrary to the widely-held belief.

Do your pets make you happier? A new study has claimed that pets don’t have any positive impact on the well-being of their owners, contrary to the widely-held belief. The study has been published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, which assessed 767 people over three times in May 2020. It becomes important to note that the assessment was done during the distressing period of the COVID-19 pandemic, which helped researchers better understand the impact of their pets on the participants’ mental well-being. Contrasting data Although pet owners claimed they became happier due to their pets and felt more positive emotions, there was little data to back these arguments. When researchers compared their happiness, gauged on the basis of several indicators, with non-pet owners, they found no difference in well-being. The researchers found that it did not matter what type of pet was owned, how many pets were owned or how close they were with their pet. “People say that pets make them happy, but when we actually measure happiness, that doesn’t appear to be the case,” said William Chopik, an associate professor in MSU’s Department of Psychology and co-author of the study. “People see friends as lonely or wanting companionship, and they recommend getting a pet. But it’s unlikely that it’ll be as transformative as people think,” Chopik added. Reasoning One reason that the researchers cited for the similar level of happiness among pet owners and non-pet owners was that the latter had other things to do which made them happy. Watch: Elon Musk's new chatbot, AI decoding pet language × “Staking all of your hope on a pet making you feel better is probably unfair and is maybe costly given other things you could do in your life that could improve your happiness,” added Chopik. Perception Previous studies claimed that having pets was linked to having healthier hearts among pet owners. Those having pets were less likely to stay home sick, make fewer visits to the doctor, get more exercise, and are less prone to depression compared to non-pet owners. Also read: Watch | ‘Man-turned-dog’ goes on his first walk, makes some canine friends Furthermore, pets – especially dogs and cats – are known to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, ease loneliness, encourage exercise and playfulness, and even improve cardiovascular health. However, the new study challenges these perceptions, highlighting the need to carry out further research and studies to get a better understanding of this relationship. (With inputs from agencies)

Pet ownership doesn’t impact your well-being, new study debunks perception

<p>Scientists are still probing Enceladus, Saturn's ocean moon, as they think there's more to what we already know on planet Earth. They are trying to find life on another planet, and in the past decade, the search and research have picked pace, with increased attention on Enceladus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far, what we know about Enceladus is that it's an ice-covered ocean. The information comes from the Cassini mission, a space-research mission by NASA, the European Space Agency, and the Italian Space Agency to study Saturn and its system, including its rings and natural satellites.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The mission ended its exploration of the Saturn system in 2017. However, scientists are still working through its data to find out more. Cassini discovered geyser-like plumes of water erupting through Enceladus' icy shell during its mission.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-tracks-an-aeroplane-sized-asteroid-hurtling-towards-earth-657080">NASA tracks an aeroplane-sized asteroid hurtling towards Earth</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>It performed a close-proximity flyby in 2008 and analysed the plumes with its Cosmic Dust Analyzer (CDA), which showed that the water in the plumes contained a surprising mix of volatiles, including carbon dioxide, water vapour, and carbon monoxide.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The mission also found trace amounts of molecular nitrogen, simple hydrocarbons, and complex organic chemicals. Scientists are still analysing data from Cassini, which was destroyed in Saturn's atmosphere.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A new paper, titled "Observations of Elemental Composition of Enceladus Consistent with Generalized Models of Theoretical Ecosystems", has unveiled new findings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the latest finding, the researchers have used ecological and metabolic theory and modelling to understand how ammonia and inorganic phosphorous in Enceladus' ocean could make the moon favourable for life.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-scientists-discover-how-planets-were-formed-with-james-webb-heres-how-the-magic-unravelled-657008">James Webb telescope helps NASA scientists discover how planets were formed</a></strong></p>

<p>The authors explain: "Apart from speculating about threshold concentrations of bioactive compounds to support ecosystems, metabolic and ecological theory can provide a powerful interpretative lens to assess whether extraterrestrial environments are compatible with living ecosystems."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The analysis could be related to the Redfield ratio which is the consistent atomic ratio of carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus found in marine phytoplankton and throughout the deep oceans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The theory is given by American oceanographer Alfred Redfield, who said in his study in 1934 that the ratio of carbon to nitrogen to phosphorous (C:N:P) was remarkably consistent across ocean biomass at 106:16:1.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The authors of the new paper say: "Because of this seeming ubiquity, the Redfield ratio has been considered a target signature for astrobiological life detection, especially on ocean worlds such as Europa and Enceladus."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study has noted that the analysis of Cassini's data from Enceladus' plumes shows a high level of inorganic phosphate in the ocean.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The authors have said that these reports of "phosphorus follow on the tails of previous work identifying numerous elemental constituents of terrestrial life (C, N, H, O) from the Enceladus plume".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hence, Enceladus' ocean has a rich chemistry, and many chemicals reflect life's chemical makeup.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Scientists are still probing Enceladus, Saturn's ocean moon, as they think there's more to what we already know on planet Earth. They are trying to find life on another planet, and in the past decade, the search and research have picked pace, with increased attention on Enceladus.

Scientists are still probing Enceladus, Saturn's ocean moon, as they think there's more to what we already know on planet Earth. They are trying to find life on another planet, and in the past decade, the search and research have picked pace, with increased attention on Enceladus. So far, what we know about Enceladus is that it's an ice-covered ocean. The information comes from the Cassini mission, a space-research mission by NASA, the European Space Agency, and the Italian Space Agency to study Saturn and its system, including its rings and natural satellites. The mission ended its exploration of the Saturn system in 2017. However, scientists are still working through its data to find out more. Cassini discovered geyser-like plumes of water erupting through Enceladus' icy shell during its mission. Also read: NASA tracks an aeroplane-sized asteroid hurtling towards Earth It performed a close-proximity flyby in 2008 and analysed the plumes with its Cosmic Dust Analyzer (CDA), which showed that the water in the plumes contained a surprising mix of volatiles, including carbon dioxide, water vapour, and carbon monoxide. The mission also found trace amounts of molecular nitrogen, simple hydrocarbons, and complex organic chemicals. Scientists are still analysing data from Cassini, which was destroyed in Saturn's atmosphere. A new paper, titled "Observations of Elemental Composition of Enceladus Consistent with Generalized Models of Theoretical Ecosystems", has unveiled new findings. For the latest finding, the researchers have used ecological and metabolic theory and modelling to understand how ammonia and inorganic phosphorous in Enceladus' ocean could make the moon favourable for life. Also read: James Webb telescope helps NASA scientists discover how planets were formed The authors explain: "Apart from speculating about threshold concentrations of bioactive compounds to support ecosystems, metabolic and ecological theory can provide a powerful interpretative lens to assess whether extraterrestrial environments are compatible with living ecosystems." The analysis could be related to the Redfield ratio which is the consistent atomic ratio of carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus found in marine phytoplankton and throughout the deep oceans. The theory is given by American oceanographer Alfred Redfield, who said in his study in 1934 that the ratio of carbon to nitrogen to phosphorous (C:N:P) was remarkably consistent across ocean biomass at 106:16:1. The authors of the new paper say: "Because of this seeming ubiquity, the Redfield ratio has been considered a target signature for astrobiological life detection, especially on ocean worlds such as Europa and Enceladus." The study has noted that the analysis of Cassini's data from Enceladus' plumes shows a high level of inorganic phosphate in the ocean. The authors have said that these reports of "phosphorus follow on the tails of previous work identifying numerous elemental constituents of terrestrial life (C, N, H, O) from the Enceladus plume". Hence, Enceladus' ocean has a rich chemistry, and many chemicals reflect life's chemical makeup. (With inputs from agencies)

Enceladus: Does Saturn's ocean moon hold chemicals necessary for life?

<p>The tone of your doctor can have a major impact on your decisions regarding pursuing weight-loss programmes, a new research has found.</p>

<p>Researchers at the University of Oxford conducted a study by analysing encounters between doctors and patients at 38 GP surgeries in England.</p>

<p>They concluded that patients who received advice in an optimistic tone were more likely to subscribe to weight-loss programmes than those who were told about the consequences of obesity.</p>

<h2><strong>Methodology</strong></h2>

<p>Researchers listened to conversations between doctors and patients regarding a free 12-week weight-loss programme.</p>

<p>They categorised the conversations into three broad categories.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The first one was the “good news” approach, where patients were presented with the weight-loss programme as an opportunity or good news. The conversation revolved around the benefits of weight loss. Also, there was very little mention of negative words like obesity, body mass index, or weight as a problem.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: How effective is intermittent fasting?</strong></p>

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<p>The second was the “bad news approach”, where patients were told about the consequences of obesity. The tone reflected regret and pessimism.</p>

<p>Then there was a third approach termed “neutral,” where no special emphasis was placed on good or bad words. The conversation happened in “news delivery” style, the most commonly observed between doctors and patients.</p>

<h2><strong>Results</strong></h2>

<p>The study revealed that patients who underwent the "positive news" counselling approach experienced the most weight loss within a year.</p>

<p>Individuals in the "positive news" category, on average, shed 4.8kg, while those in the "negative news" group lost 2.7kg, and participants in the "neutral news" group showed a 1.2kg reduction in weight.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/trending/7-factors-on-which-weight-loss-depends-1698912409833"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;7 Factors on Which Weight Loss Depends</strong></a></p>

<p>The increased weight loss in the "positive news" group was largely attributed to a higher enrollment rate in the 12-week weight loss programme. Approximately 87 per cent of individuals in this group signed up for the programme, in contrast to less than half in the other groups.</p>

<p>Dr Charlotte Albury, lead author and researcher within the Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences at the University of Oxford, said: “What we found was that when doctors framed the conversation as ‘good news’ – emphasising the benefits and opportunities of weight loss in a positive manner – patients were more likely to enroll in a weight-loss programme, attend more sessions, and, importantly, lose more weight compared to a neutral or negative framing.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The tone of your doctor can have a major impact on your decisions regarding pursuing weight-loss programmes, a new research has found. Researchers at the University of Oxford conducted a study by analysing encounters between doctors and patients at 38 GP surgeries in England.

The tone of your doctor can have a major impact on your decisions regarding pursuing weight-loss programmes, a new research has found. Researchers at the University of Oxford conducted a study by analysing encounters between doctors and patients at 38 GP surgeries in England. They concluded that patients who received advice in an optimistic tone were more likely to subscribe to weight-loss programmes than those who were told about the consequences of obesity. Methodology Researchers listened to conversations between doctors and patients regarding a free 12-week weight-loss programme. They categorised the conversations into three broad categories. The first one was the “good news” approach, where patients were presented with the weight-loss programme as an opportunity or good news. The conversation revolved around the benefits of weight loss. Also, there was very little mention of negative words like obesity, body mass index, or weight as a problem. Watch: Gravitas: How effective is intermittent fasting? × The second was the “bad news approach”, where patients were told about the consequences of obesity. The tone reflected regret and pessimism. Then there was a third approach termed “neutral,” where no special emphasis was placed on good or bad words. The conversation happened in “news delivery” style, the most commonly observed between doctors and patients. Results The study revealed that patients who underwent the "positive news" counselling approach experienced the most weight loss within a year. Individuals in the "positive news" category, on average, shed 4.8kg, while those in the "negative news" group lost 2.7kg, and participants in the "neutral news" group showed a 1.2kg reduction in weight. Also read: 7 Factors on Which Weight Loss Depends The increased weight loss in the "positive news" group was largely attributed to a higher enrollment rate in the 12-week weight loss programme. Approximately 87 per cent of individuals in this group signed up for the programme, in contrast to less than half in the other groups. Dr Charlotte Albury, lead author and researcher within the Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences at the University of Oxford, said: “What we found was that when doctors framed the conversation as ‘good news’ – emphasising the benefits and opportunities of weight loss in a positive manner – patients were more likely to enroll in a weight-loss programme, attend more sessions, and, importantly, lose more weight compared to a neutral or negative framing.” (With inputs from agencies)

Patients more likely to shed weight if advice offered in ‘optimistic’ tone: Study

<p>Sometimes, big rocks from space, called meteorites, hit our Earth. Some of these meteorites are actually parts of an old explosion that happened on our neighbouring planet&nbsp;Mars.</p>

<p>Scientists wanted to know how old these Martian meteorites are. And now they have reportedly solved this puzzle using a special, research-oriented nuclear reactor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They found out that most of these meteorites are not very old, only a few hundred million years. They think these rocks came from recent volcanic activity on Mars, especially from the biggest volcano in our whole solar system, called Olympus Mons.</p>

<h2><strong>Argon-argon method</strong></h2>

<p>A scientist named Dr. Ben Cohen, along with a team from the University of Glasgow, the Natural History Museum, the University of Edinburgh, and some researchers in the US, worked very hard to figure out the exact age of these Martian meteorites. They used a special method called 'argon-argon' to measure the age.</p>

<p>"We know from certain chemical characteristics that these meteorites are definitely from Mars," explained Dr. Cohen.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;NASA Mars sample return mission</strong></p>

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<p>They put small pieces of seven Martian meteorites into the nuclear reactor to check the argon levels. They also considered the argon the rocks might have picked up in space and made sure they didn't get mixed with Earth's air.</p>

<p>"Once we did that, the argon-argon ages came out as being young and matched perfectly with other methods, like Uranium-Lead," said Dr. Cohen.</p>

<h2><strong>How come the Martian rocks are so young?</strong></h2>

<p>But here's a bit of a puzzle: Mars is very old, like three to four billion years old. But these meteorites are much younger, only a few hundred million years old.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/european-space-agency-shares-stunning-visualisation-of-mars-labyrinth-of-night-watch-here-647379"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;This stunning visualisation of Mars` gigantic `Labyrinth of Night` will blow your mind</strong></a></p>

<p>Dr. Cohen thinks that Mars gets hit by rocks often, and this creates a layer of crumbly rock on its surface. So, newer rocks keep coming up because of volcanoes. This means that with each new hit, older rocks are less likely to get sent into space.</p>

<p>This research helps us understand more about our solar system's history and is useful for missions to Mars, like the Perseverance rover, Curiosity rover, and ExoMars.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Sometimes, big rocks from space, called meteorites, hit our Earth. Some of these meteorites are actually parts of an old explosion that happened on our neighbouring planet Mars.

Sometimes, big rocks from space, called meteorites, hit our Earth. Some of these meteorites are actually parts of an old explosion that happened on our neighbouring planet Mars. Scientists wanted to know how old these Martian meteorites are. And now they have reportedly solved this puzzle using a special, research-oriented nuclear reactor. They found out that most of these meteorites are not very old, only a few hundred million years. They think these rocks came from recent volcanic activity on Mars, especially from the biggest volcano in our whole solar system, called Olympus Mons. Argon-argon method A scientist named Dr. Ben Cohen, along with a team from the University of Glasgow, the Natural History Museum, the University of Edinburgh, and some researchers in the US, worked very hard to figure out the exact age of these Martian meteorites. They used a special method called 'argon-argon' to measure the age. "We know from certain chemical characteristics that these meteorites are definitely from Mars," explained Dr. Cohen. Watch: NASA Mars sample return mission × They put small pieces of seven Martian meteorites into the nuclear reactor to check the argon levels. They also considered the argon the rocks might have picked up in space and made sure they didn't get mixed with Earth's air. "Once we did that, the argon-argon ages came out as being young and matched perfectly with other methods, like Uranium-Lead," said Dr. Cohen. How come the Martian rocks are so young? But here's a bit of a puzzle: Mars is very old, like three to four billion years old. But these meteorites are much younger, only a few hundred million years old. Also read: This stunning visualisation of Mars` gigantic `Labyrinth of Night` will blow your mind Dr. Cohen thinks that Mars gets hit by rocks often, and this creates a layer of crumbly rock on its surface. So, newer rocks keep coming up because of volcanoes. This means that with each new hit, older rocks are less likely to get sent into space. This research helps us understand more about our solar system's history and is useful for missions to Mars, like the Perseverance rover, Curiosity rover, and ExoMars. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists put Martian rock that hit Earth in nuclear reactor and solve a tricky puzzle

<p>Chinese palaeontologists have discovered two new species of lamprey from fossils considered 160 million years old.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lampreys are jawless fish that look like eels. Generally, these are thought of as parasitic organisms, that use their disc-shaped mouths and sharp teeth to latch onto prey and suck their blood.</p>

<p>But the two species discovered in China were not simply sucking blood but were scooping out flesh from their prey. Their bite was so powerful that it could even crack their prey’s skeleton.</p>

<p>“Living lampreys are always hailed as ‘water vampires,’ but their ancestor might be a flesh eater, their teeth tell,” says study co-author Feixiang Wu, a palaeontologist at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, to Popular Science’s Laura Baisas.</p>

<h2><strong>Species found in fossil bed in North China</strong></h2>

<p>The two species were discovered in a fossil bed in North China. The larger fossil of lamprey measures about 23 inches long, and is named Yanliaomyzon occisor by the scientists, with “occisor” meaning “killer” in Latin.</p>

<p>The small species is roughly 11 inches long and is named Yanliaomyzon ingensdentes, a name derived from the Latin words for “large teeth.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/hubble-shows-jupiter-in-breathtaking-colour-to-honour-planet-in-opposition-655167"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Hubble captures Jupiter in breathtaking colours as giant planet reaches farthest to sun</strong></a></p>

<p>The well-preserved fossils were in such good shape that palaeontologists could make out the creatures’ biting structures and oral discs.</p>

<p>“There have been no other lamprey fossils from the dinosaur age that preserve their terrorizing oral apparatus quite so clearly,” says Tetsuto Miyashita, a paleobiologist at the Canadian Museum of Nature who was not involved in the new research, to Nature News’ Xiaoying You.</p>

<h2><strong>Missing link</strong></h2>

<p>The recently discovered species, which coexisted with dinosaurs during the Jurassic period, act as a missing link between the earliest lampreys and the 31 surviving species we see today.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Nuclear Fusion: A carbon-free source of energy</strong></p>

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<p>For instance, the oldest preserved lamprey fossils date back around 360 million years to the Paleozoic era. These fossils reveal that early lampreys were considerably smaller, about an inch in length, and had underdeveloped feeding structures, suggesting that they did not feed on blood or flesh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, these early lampreys did not undergo metamorphosis (changing life forms). In contrast, modern lampreys are notably larger, possess intricate teeth, and go through all three distinct life stages.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Chinese palaeontologists have discovered two new species of lamprey from fossils considered 160 million years old. Lampreys are jawless fish that look like eels.

Chinese palaeontologists have discovered two new species of lamprey from fossils considered 160 million years old. Lampreys are jawless fish that look like eels. Generally, these are thought of as parasitic organisms, that use their disc-shaped mouths and sharp teeth to latch onto prey and suck their blood. But the two species discovered in China were not simply sucking blood but were scooping out flesh from their prey. Their bite was so powerful that it could even crack their prey’s skeleton. “Living lampreys are always hailed as ‘water vampires,’ but their ancestor might be a flesh eater, their teeth tell,” says study co-author Feixiang Wu, a palaeontologist at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, to Popular Science’s Laura Baisas. Species found in fossil bed in North China The two species were discovered in a fossil bed in North China. The larger fossil of lamprey measures about 23 inches long, and is named Yanliaomyzon occisor by the scientists, with “occisor” meaning “killer” in Latin. The small species is roughly 11 inches long and is named Yanliaomyzon ingensdentes, a name derived from the Latin words for “large teeth.” Also read: Hubble captures Jupiter in breathtaking colours as giant planet reaches farthest to sun The well-preserved fossils were in such good shape that palaeontologists could make out the creatures’ biting structures and oral discs. “There have been no other lamprey fossils from the dinosaur age that preserve their terrorizing oral apparatus quite so clearly,” says Tetsuto Miyashita, a paleobiologist at the Canadian Museum of Nature who was not involved in the new research, to Nature News’ Xiaoying You. Missing link The recently discovered species, which coexisted with dinosaurs during the Jurassic period, act as a missing link between the earliest lampreys and the 31 surviving species we see today. Watch: Nuclear Fusion: A carbon-free source of energy × For instance, the oldest preserved lamprey fossils date back around 360 million years to the Paleozoic era. These fossils reveal that early lampreys were considerably smaller, about an inch in length, and had underdeveloped feeding structures, suggesting that they did not feed on blood or flesh. Additionally, these early lampreys did not undergo metamorphosis (changing life forms). In contrast, modern lampreys are notably larger, possess intricate teeth, and go through all three distinct life stages. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Flesh-eater’ lamprey species discovered in China from 160 million-year-old fossil

<p>It is true that there's no magic solution for reversing the effects of ageing. As you grow older, certain changes are inevitable, but that doesn’t mean you are stuck with less nimble fingers.</p>

<p>One common concern that people have as they age is the decline in manual dexterity, or the ability to use their hands and fingers with precision and agility.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tasks that were once easy, like buttoning a shirt or writing a list, can become more challenging.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the research conducted by the University of Colorado Boulder's Department of Integrative Physiology, led by Sajjad Daneshgar, Taylor Tvrdy, and Professor Roger Enoka, has shown that there's hope for maintaining and even improving manual dexterity as we age.</p>

<h2><strong>How was the research done?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The researchers worked with a group of more than two dozen participants aged between 60 and 83. Their primary goal was to determine whether manual dexterity could be enhanced through practice and whether age was a limiting factor in this improvement.</p>

<p>To test this, the study participants engaged in a pegboard exercise over six sessions. The task involved inserting small, keyhole-shaped metal pegs into 25 corresponding holes on a board as quickly as possible. These keyholes were not all the same, as they had different orientations on the board.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Do mosquitos bite you more than others? Here's why</strong></p>

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<p>So, participants not only had to manipulate the pegs with their fingers to get them in the right position but also fit them correctly into the keyholes.</p>

<p>The exciting finding was that, regardless of their initial level of manual dexterity, all participants improved their performance by the end of the sixth session. In other words, everyone became faster and more skilled at the pegboard exercise.</p>

<h2><strong>Manual dexterity not hindered by age</strong></h2>

<p>This research is a testament to the idea that with practice and perseverance, individuals can maintain and even enhance their manual dexterity as they age.</p>

<p>It suggests that age is not a barrier to improving one's ‘hand’ skills. So, while there may not be a magical solution to ageing, there is certainly room for improvement and maintaining a high level of manual dexterity through regular practice, regardless of your age.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/men-less-likely-to-share-negative-experiences-than-women-reveals-study-655203"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Men less likely to share negative experiences than women, reveals study</strong></a></p>

<p>“Manual dexterity can be improved by the brain,” Daneshgar says, adding, “It’s not just at the level of the fingers. Signals from the brain are controlling function and practicing aids learning. This study shows that, as far as function in the limbs and hands, learning in terms of muscle training never ends. Whatever level you’re at, you can go back to this training and practicing to see improvement in function.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


It is true that there's no magic solution for reversing the effects of ageing. As you grow older, certain changes are inevitable, but that doesn’t mean you are stuck with less nimble fingers.

It is true that there's no magic solution for reversing the effects of ageing. As you grow older, certain changes are inevitable, but that doesn’t mean you are stuck with less nimble fingers. One common concern that people have as they age is the decline in manual dexterity, or the ability to use their hands and fingers with precision and agility. Tasks that were once easy, like buttoning a shirt or writing a list, can become more challenging. However, the research conducted by the University of Colorado Boulder's Department of Integrative Physiology, led by Sajjad Daneshgar, Taylor Tvrdy, and Professor Roger Enoka, has shown that there's hope for maintaining and even improving manual dexterity as we age. How was the research done? The researchers worked with a group of more than two dozen participants aged between 60 and 83. Their primary goal was to determine whether manual dexterity could be enhanced through practice and whether age was a limiting factor in this improvement. To test this, the study participants engaged in a pegboard exercise over six sessions. The task involved inserting small, keyhole-shaped metal pegs into 25 corresponding holes on a board as quickly as possible. These keyholes were not all the same, as they had different orientations on the board. Watch: Do mosquitos bite you more than others? Here's why × So, participants not only had to manipulate the pegs with their fingers to get them in the right position but also fit them correctly into the keyholes. The exciting finding was that, regardless of their initial level of manual dexterity, all participants improved their performance by the end of the sixth session. In other words, everyone became faster and more skilled at the pegboard exercise. Manual dexterity not hindered by age This research is a testament to the idea that with practice and perseverance, individuals can maintain and even enhance their manual dexterity as they age. It suggests that age is not a barrier to improving one's ‘hand’ skills. So, while there may not be a magical solution to ageing, there is certainly room for improvement and maintaining a high level of manual dexterity through regular practice, regardless of your age. Also read: Men less likely to share negative experiences than women, reveals study “Manual dexterity can be improved by the brain,” Daneshgar says, adding, “It’s not just at the level of the fingers. Signals from the brain are controlling function and practicing aids learning. This study shows that, as far as function in the limbs and hands, learning in terms of muscle training never ends. Whatever level you’re at, you can go back to this training and practicing to see improvement in function.” (With inputs from agencies)

Ageing doesn’t hinder our ability to use hands and fingers with precision: Study

<p>Have you ever wondered what the supermassive black holes feed on? It is generally thought that they gobble up everything whatever comes in their way. But now a team of Japanese scientists have concluded that the black holes might be much pickier and actually consume just 3 per of what is sucked into them.</p>

<p>The team reached the results using the ALMA radio telescope array in Chile's Atacama Desert. While conducting the experiment, the team focused on a relatively tiny sliver of the black hole at the centre of the Circinus galaxy, which lies some 13 million light-years from Earth.</p>

<h2><strong>What did the scientists observe?</strong></h2>

<p>The team noted that the gravitational pull of the black hole theorised gas and dust from space ionised it and sucked it into an inner accretion disk around it.</p>

<p>The scientists observed that even as the hole attracted a lot of gas, and clouds of dust around it, it ate just 3 per cent of the total elements pulled into it.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/yikes-black-holes-might-be-closer-to-earth-than-we-thought-635052"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Yikes! Black holes might be closer to Earth than we thought</strong></a></p>

<p>"The supply of material to the SMBH is known to trigger this feedback, although it has not been possible to quantitatively connect the gas supply to the subsequent feedback," the scientists write in the paper, but they also point out that more research will need to be done to validate the findings and build on their theory of how black holes' leftovers might feed new star formation.</p>

<h2><strong>About supermassive black holes</strong></h2>

<p>Supermassive black holes are believed to be situated at the heart of vast galaxies, including our own. Much like a spider in the centre of its web, these enigmatic entities expand by consuming interstellar gas and dust that venture too near.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Scientists reveal the sound of a super massive black hole</strong></p>

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<p>Yet, due to the extreme density and opacity of black holes, understanding their nature proves to be an immensely challenging task.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is to be noted that despite having garnered the special attention of scientists for decades, black holes still remain a topic of mystery among the scientific community. Experts possess limited knowledge regarding the fate of matter drawn close to black holes, except for the observation that once it enters.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Have you ever wondered what the supermassive black holes feed on? It is generally thought that they gobble up everything whatever comes in their way. But now a team of Japanese scientists have concluded that the black holes might be much pickier and actually consume just 3 per of what is sucked into them.

Have you ever wondered what the supermassive black holes feed on? It is generally thought that they gobble up everything whatever comes in their way. But now a team of Japanese scientists have concluded that the black holes might be much pickier and actually consume just 3 per of what is sucked into them. The team reached the results using the ALMA radio telescope array in Chile's Atacama Desert. While conducting the experiment, the team focused on a relatively tiny sliver of the black hole at the centre of the Circinus galaxy, which lies some 13 million light-years from Earth. What did the scientists observe? The team noted that the gravitational pull of the black hole theorised gas and dust from space ionised it and sucked it into an inner accretion disk around it. The scientists observed that even as the hole attracted a lot of gas, and clouds of dust around it, it ate just 3 per cent of the total elements pulled into it. Also read: Yikes! Black holes might be closer to Earth than we thought "The supply of material to the SMBH is known to trigger this feedback, although it has not been possible to quantitatively connect the gas supply to the subsequent feedback," the scientists write in the paper, but they also point out that more research will need to be done to validate the findings and build on their theory of how black holes' leftovers might feed new star formation. About supermassive black holes Supermassive black holes are believed to be situated at the heart of vast galaxies, including our own. Much like a spider in the centre of its web, these enigmatic entities expand by consuming interstellar gas and dust that venture too near. Watch: Gravitas: Scientists reveal the sound of a super massive black hole × Yet, due to the extreme density and opacity of black holes, understanding their nature proves to be an immensely challenging task. It is to be noted that despite having garnered the special attention of scientists for decades, black holes still remain a topic of mystery among the scientific community. Experts possess limited knowledge regarding the fate of matter drawn close to black holes, except for the observation that once it enters. (With inputs from agencies)

Black holes don’t gobble up everything, consume just 3% of what they suck: Study

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<p>Earth is on the cusp of exceeding an internationally agreed-upon point for global warming, according to researchers.</p>

<p>According to the study published on Monday in&nbsp;<em>Nature Climate Change&nbsp;</em>journal, if greenhouse gases continue to increase at the current rate, Earth's temperature might surpass the ideal threshold, causing disastrous consequences in several regions worldwide.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2015, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change created the Paris Agreement, an international treaty signed by several countries to mitigate climate change, establishing a 1.5 degrees Celsius global mean temperature rise above pre-industrial levels as the long-term warming limit.</p>

<p>In 2021, the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) determined a carbon budget of 500 billion metric tonnes would keep global warming below 1.5 degrees Celsius until mid-2032. But, according to the study, if carbon dioxide emissions remain at the current levels, the remaining carbon budget will be exhausted by early 2029. The most recent analysis brings the threshold of 1.5 degrees Celsius three years closer.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-gene-adapted-from-archaic-hominins-may-increase-mental-health-risk-in-modern-humans-says-study-654304" target="_blank">A gene adapted from archaic hominins may increase mental health risk in modern humans, says study</a></p>

<p>Researchers say surpassing the 1.5 degrees Celsius benchmark increases the risk of warming-related catastrophes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2018, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change predicted that global warming would threaten coral reefs, melt Antarctic ice sheets, increase sea levels, make the ocean more acidic and negatively impact crops.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rob Jackson, a professor of Earth System Science at Stanford University, told ABC News, "The world will blow past 1.5 degrees Celsius well before today's kindergarteners finish school."</p>

<p>Once the Earth passes the 1.5 degrees Celsius benchmark, the next countdown would be two degrees Celsius of warming, likely to be reached in the 2040s, says the study. It also mentioned that a half-degree rise in warming can lead to even more catastrophic climate-related situations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If the global mean temperature increases to three degrees Celsius, many places will become unliveable.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although climate researchers have not predicted a specific time for the surpassing, they have mentioned the intensity of the disastrous impacts it can cause.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While droughts will worsen and last longer, hurricanes will increase in ocean waters. Wildfires will become more common due to the hot climates and drying landscapes. Furthermore, melting ice sheets will flood populated coastal regions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Extreme weather events in recent years are some consequences of climate change due to global warming. According to a report by the World Meteorological Organization, published in October 2023, global water cycles have become erratic due to warming temperatures. Sea levels continue to rise, and glaciers are rapidly melting.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Earth is on the cusp of exceeding an internationally agreed-upon point for global warming, according to researchers. According to the study published on Monday in Nature Climate Change journal, if greenhouse gases continue to increase at the current rate, Earth's temperature might surpass the ideal threshold, causing disastrous consequences in several regions worldwide.

Earth is on the cusp of exceeding an internationally agreed-upon point for global warming, according to researchers. According to the study published on Monday in Nature Climate Change journal, if greenhouse gases continue to increase at the current rate, Earth's temperature might surpass the ideal threshold, causing disastrous consequences in several regions worldwide. In 2015, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change created the Paris Agreement, an international treaty signed by several countries to mitigate climate change, establishing a 1.5 degrees Celsius global mean temperature rise above pre-industrial levels as the long-term warming limit. In 2021, the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) determined a carbon budget of 500 billion metric tonnes would keep global warming below 1.5 degrees Celsius until mid-2032. But, according to the study, if carbon dioxide emissions remain at the current levels, the remaining carbon budget will be exhausted by early 2029. The most recent analysis brings the threshold of 1.5 degrees Celsius three years closer. ALSO READ | A gene adapted from archaic hominins may increase mental health risk in modern humans, says study Researchers say surpassing the 1.5 degrees Celsius benchmark increases the risk of warming-related catastrophes. In 2018, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change predicted that global warming would threaten coral reefs, melt Antarctic ice sheets, increase sea levels, make the ocean more acidic and negatively impact crops. Rob Jackson, a professor of Earth System Science at Stanford University, told ABC News, "The world will blow past 1.5 degrees Celsius well before today's kindergarteners finish school." Once the Earth passes the 1.5 degrees Celsius benchmark, the next countdown would be two degrees Celsius of warming, likely to be reached in the 2040s, says the study. It also mentioned that a half-degree rise in warming can lead to even more catastrophic climate-related situations. If the global mean temperature increases to three degrees Celsius, many places will become unliveable. Although climate researchers have not predicted a specific time for the surpassing, they have mentioned the intensity of the disastrous impacts it can cause. While droughts will worsen and last longer, hurricanes will increase in ocean waters. Wildfires will become more common due to the hot climates and drying landscapes. Furthermore, melting ice sheets will flood populated coastal regions. Extreme weather events in recent years are some consequences of climate change due to global warming. According to a report by the World Meteorological Organization, published in October 2023, global water cycles have become erratic due to warming temperatures. Sea levels continue to rise, and glaciers are rapidly melting. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

New study paints a scary scenario for when Earth passes the 1.5 degree threshold

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<p>Genetic adaptations from humans who lived tens of thousands of years ago might have made modern-day humans prone to mental health issues like depression, says a new study.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a study published in&nbsp;<em>PLOS Genetics</em>, modern humans have received a part of their genetic heritage from Denisovans, which makes them more vulnerable to mental health problems.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Researchers in Spain followed the prior study that focused on a variant of the gene SLC30A9 that might have evolved through positive selection, especially in East Asian populations.</p>

<p>The gene regulates zinc by transporting it across cell membranes in the body. Zinc is essential for the healthy growth and functioning of our neurological and immune systems. It is also crucial to maintain the excitability of the nervous system and has a connection to mental health.</p>

<p>However, the adaptation of these genes in modern humans tweaks the regulation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/gods-of-chaos-jupiter-protects-us-but-similar-gas-giants-do-this-to-earth-like-planets-654247" target="_blank">'Gods of chaos': Jupiter protects us, but similar gas giants do THIS to Earth-like planets</a></p>

<p>Although previous studies also indicated the association of the SLC30A9 genetic variant with a greater risk of depression and mental health issues, researchers are yet to make solid claims about the connections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rubén Vicente, a molecular biologist from Pompeu Fabra University, said, "In the future, expanding this study to animal models could shed light on this predisposition to suffering from mental illnesses."</p>

<p>Although the gene did not match with Neanderthals, a close comparison with the Denisovan gene revealed a match for the gene SLC30A9.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ana Roca-Umbert, an evolutionary biologist from Pompeu Fabra University, said, "Through genomic analysis, we noted that the genetic variant observed came from our interbreeding with archaic humans in the past, possibly the Denisovans."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nisar-in-a-first-nasa-and-isro-to-collaboratively-launch-earth-observing-satellite-in-2024-654044" target="_blank">NISAR: In a first, NASA and ISRO to collaboratively launch earth-observing satellite in 2024</a></p>

<p>The team also carried out lab experiments, which showed how the variation connected to the differences in cellular structure, like mitochondria, regulated zinc and influenced metabolism.</p>

<p>Researchers also suspect the Denisovan variant might have protected us against cold climates. Jorge Garcia-Calleja, another evolutionary biologist, said, "The change was beneficial and proved a selective advantage for humans." Thus, the SLC30A9 has reached the current population, she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the researchers, there's more to dig into how our genes evolve and affect us. However, a recent study reveals the genetic links with the past and is one of the most widespread and significant.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Genetic adaptations from humans who lived tens of thousands of years ago might have made modern-day humans prone to mental health issues like depression, says a new study.

Genetic adaptations from humans who lived tens of thousands of years ago might have made modern-day humans prone to mental health issues like depression, says a new study. According to a study published in PLOS Genetics, modern humans have received a part of their genetic heritage from Denisovans, which makes them more vulnerable to mental health problems. Researchers in Spain followed the prior study that focused on a variant of the gene SLC30A9 that might have evolved through positive selection, especially in East Asian populations. The gene regulates zinc by transporting it across cell membranes in the body. Zinc is essential for the healthy growth and functioning of our neurological and immune systems. It is also crucial to maintain the excitability of the nervous system and has a connection to mental health. However, the adaptation of these genes in modern humans tweaks the regulation. ALSO READ | 'Gods of chaos': Jupiter protects us, but similar gas giants do THIS to Earth-like planets Although previous studies also indicated the association of the SLC30A9 genetic variant with a greater risk of depression and mental health issues, researchers are yet to make solid claims about the connections. Rubén Vicente, a molecular biologist from Pompeu Fabra University, said, "In the future, expanding this study to animal models could shed light on this predisposition to suffering from mental illnesses." Although the gene did not match with Neanderthals, a close comparison with the Denisovan gene revealed a match for the gene SLC30A9. Ana Roca-Umbert, an evolutionary biologist from Pompeu Fabra University, said, "Through genomic analysis, we noted that the genetic variant observed came from our interbreeding with archaic humans in the past, possibly the Denisovans." ALSO READ | NISAR: In a first, NASA and ISRO to collaboratively launch earth-observing satellite in 2024 The team also carried out lab experiments, which showed how the variation connected to the differences in cellular structure, like mitochondria, regulated zinc and influenced metabolism. Researchers also suspect the Denisovan variant might have protected us against cold climates. Jorge Garcia-Calleja, another evolutionary biologist, said, "The change was beneficial and proved a selective advantage for humans." Thus, the SLC30A9 has reached the current population, she added. According to the researchers, there's more to dig into how our genes evolve and affect us. However, a recent study reveals the genetic links with the past and is one of the most widespread and significant. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

We can now blame our ancestors for our mental health issues, as per new study

<p>Can anger lead to better results when tackling tricky tasks? A new study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology suggests so.</p>

<p>The experiment carried out by a team of researchers has revealed that anger can sometimes act as a powerful motivator. In some cases, angry people perform better on a set of challenging tasks than those who stay emotionally neutral.</p>

<p>“These findings demonstrate that anger increases effort toward attaining a desired goal, frequently resulting in greater success,” said Dr Heather Lench, the first author of the study.</p>

<h2><strong>How was the study conducted?</strong></h2>

<p>To evaluate the responses, different groups of students were shown some images that triggered anger, desire, amusement, sadness or no particular emotion at all, respectively.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Then, they were given a challenging set of anagrams to solve.</p>

<h2><strong>Results</strong></h2>

<p>The experiment showed that those who were angry performed better than those who weren't. However, no significant difference was observed in performances related to easier challenges.</p>

<p>The researchers say there could be a link between anger and greater persistence or greater will to solve problems.</p>

<p>Another experiment showed those who were angry also performed better in video games. Those who felt amusement or desire performed at par with those sad or neutral.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Do mosquitos bite you more than others? Here's why!</strong></p>

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<p>“This pattern could indicate that general physical arousal had a benefit for game scores, as this would be greater in anger, amused, and desire conditions compared to the sad and neutral conditions,” the researchers write.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, no such differences in performance were found when it came to an easier video game.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ex-boyfriend-dumps-pythons-in-fit-of-anger-residents-scour-streets-in-search-of-reptiles-in-sydney-651866"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Ex-boyfriend dumps pythons in ‘fit of anger’, residents scour streets in search of reptiles in Sydney</strong></a></p>

<p>One experiment suggested being angry increased the degree to which participants cheated on tasks compared with the other emotions – except amusement – while another experiment found anger was associated with lower reaction times on a task.</p>

<p>“People often prefer to use positive emotions as tools more than negative and tend to see negative emotions as undesirable and maladaptive,” Lench said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Our research adds to the growing evidence that a mix of positive and negative emotions promotes well-being, and that using negative emotions as tools can be particularly effective in some situations,” he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Can anger lead to better results when tackling tricky tasks? A new study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology suggests so. The experiment carried out by a team of researchers has revealed that anger can sometimes act as a powerful motivator.

Can anger lead to better results when tackling tricky tasks? A new study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology suggests so. The experiment carried out by a team of researchers has revealed that anger can sometimes act as a powerful motivator. In some cases, angry people perform better on a set of challenging tasks than those who stay emotionally neutral. “These findings demonstrate that anger increases effort toward attaining a desired goal, frequently resulting in greater success,” said Dr Heather Lench, the first author of the study. How was the study conducted? To evaluate the responses, different groups of students were shown some images that triggered anger, desire, amusement, sadness or no particular emotion at all, respectively. Then, they were given a challenging set of anagrams to solve. Results The experiment showed that those who were angry performed better than those who weren't. However, no significant difference was observed in performances related to easier challenges. The researchers say there could be a link between anger and greater persistence or greater will to solve problems. Another experiment showed those who were angry also performed better in video games. Those who felt amusement or desire performed at par with those sad or neutral. Watch: Do mosquitos bite you more than others? Here's why! × “This pattern could indicate that general physical arousal had a benefit for game scores, as this would be greater in anger, amused, and desire conditions compared to the sad and neutral conditions,” the researchers write. However, no such differences in performance were found when it came to an easier video game. Also read: Ex-boyfriend dumps pythons in ‘fit of anger’, residents scour streets in search of reptiles in Sydney One experiment suggested being angry increased the degree to which participants cheated on tasks compared with the other emotions – except amusement – while another experiment found anger was associated with lower reaction times on a task. “People often prefer to use positive emotions as tools more than negative and tend to see negative emotions as undesirable and maladaptive,” Lench said. “Our research adds to the growing evidence that a mix of positive and negative emotions promotes well-being, and that using negative emotions as tools can be particularly effective in some situations,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Anger is not your enemy all the time, may help you solve problems faster

<p>Astronomers have made a remarkable discovery within the remnants of a cosmic collision that occurred about a billion years ago.</p>

<p>The celestial event involved a pair of colossal black holes hidden within the heart of NGC 7727, a galaxy formed through the merger of two spiral galaxies, situated approximately 90 million light-years away from Earth.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How was this discovery made?</strong></h2>

<p>This discovery was made possible by the use of the Gemini South telescope, in the Chilean Andes in South America.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/auroras-make-celestial-light-show-on-uranus-possible-scientists-find-652347">Auroras make celestial light show on Uranus possible, scientists find</a></strong></p>

<p>The present state of NGC 7727 holds particular intrigue for astronomers, as it provides a glimpse into the future appearance of our own Milky Way.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Our Milky Way is projected to undergo a collision with the neighboring Andromeda galaxy in roughly 4.5 billion years. Andromeda remains some 2.5 million light years apart from our home galaxy.</p>

<h2><strong>What this cosmic collision looks like?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The newfound pair of supermassive black holes in NGC 7727 appears to be in orbit around each other. They possess astonishing masses of 154 million times and 6.3 million times that of our Sun, respectively. These black holes are separated by about 1,600 light years, but, akin to their parent galaxies, they will eventually converge and merge.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India sun mission Aditya-L1 begins collecting data from distance of 50,000 kms | World DNA</strong></p>

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<p>This merger will culminate in the creation of an even more potent supermassive black hole, combined from the masses of these two entities.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it speak about the host galaxies?</strong></h2>

<p>During the early stages of their host galaxies' merger, these dueling black holes would have incited chaos by redistributing stars and dust away from the galactic centers. These stray objects would subsequently succumb to the powerful gravitational pull of the supermassive black holes, leading to discernible alterations in the shapes of the galaxies.</p>

<p>NGC 7727, situated in the constellation of Aquarius, exemplifies the transformative effects of galactic collisions, having evolved into a singular, shapeless mass devoid of the distinctive features of its precursor galaxies. The once-prominent spiral arms have been erased, replaced by a state of disarray.</p>

<p>At least 23 stellar nurseries within this galaxy reportedly bear the potential to evolve into "globular clusters". Such aggregations consist of the tens of thousands or&nbsp;even millions of stars.</p>

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Astronomers have made a remarkable discovery within the remnants of a cosmic collision that occurred about a billion years ago. The celestial event involved a pair of colossal black holes hidden within the heart of NGC 7727, a galaxy formed through the merger of two spiral galaxies, situated approximately 90 million light-years away from Earth.

Astronomers have made a remarkable discovery within the remnants of a cosmic collision that occurred about a billion years ago. The celestial event involved a pair of colossal black holes hidden within the heart of NGC 7727, a galaxy formed through the merger of two spiral galaxies, situated approximately 90 million light-years away from Earth. How was this discovery made? This discovery was made possible by the use of the Gemini South telescope, in the Chilean Andes in South America. Also read | Auroras make celestial light show on Uranus possible, scientists find The present state of NGC 7727 holds particular intrigue for astronomers, as it provides a glimpse into the future appearance of our own Milky Way. Our Milky Way is projected to undergo a collision with the neighboring Andromeda galaxy in roughly 4.5 billion years. Andromeda remains some 2.5 million light years apart from our home galaxy. What this cosmic collision looks like? The newfound pair of supermassive black holes in NGC 7727 appears to be in orbit around each other. They possess astonishing masses of 154 million times and 6.3 million times that of our Sun, respectively. These black holes are separated by about 1,600 light years, but, akin to their parent galaxies, they will eventually converge and merge. Also watch | India sun mission Aditya-L1 begins collecting data from distance of 50,000 kms | World DNA × This merger will culminate in the creation of an even more potent supermassive black hole, combined from the masses of these two entities. What does it speak about the host galaxies? During the early stages of their host galaxies' merger, these dueling black holes would have incited chaos by redistributing stars and dust away from the galactic centers. These stray objects would subsequently succumb to the powerful gravitational pull of the supermassive black holes, leading to discernible alterations in the shapes of the galaxies. NGC 7727, situated in the constellation of Aquarius, exemplifies the transformative effects of galactic collisions, having evolved into a singular, shapeless mass devoid of the distinctive features of its precursor galaxies. The once-prominent spiral arms have been erased, replaced by a state of disarray. At least 23 stellar nurseries within this galaxy reportedly bear the potential to evolve into "globular clusters". Such aggregations consist of the tens of thousands or even millions of stars. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Scientists get crucial insight into how our Milky Way will meet its end 

<p>The number of daily steps covered in walking matters, but so does your pace, a new study has revealed. A report released by the Journal of the American College of Cardiology has said that walking faster significantly impacts the benefits associated with it, regardless of how many steps you take every day.</p>

<p>In the study conducted by researchers from the Netherlands, Spain, and the United States, new insights into the importance of daily step counts on cardiovascular health and longevity have emerged.</p>

<p>The study, which analysed data from 12 studies involving over 111,000 participants, unveils significant revelations that could revolutionise the way we approach physical activity.</p>

<p>The research brings to light the following key findings:</p>

<h2><strong>1. 2,500 daily steps can reduce the risk of death (8 per cent reduction)</strong></h2>

<p>For those who aim to improve their health, taking 2,500 daily steps is a crucial milestone. This modest increase from the common goal of 2,000 daily steps has been found to lead to an 8 per cent reduction in the risk of death.</p>

<h2><strong>2. 2,700 daily steps are the turning point for cardiovascular health (11 per cent reduction)</strong></h2>

<p>When it comes to safeguarding against fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes, the magic number appears to be 2,700 daily steps. Achieving this goal results in an 11 per cent reduction in the risk of such events when compared to maintaining the basic 2,000 daily steps.</p>

<h2><strong>3. Optimal cardiovascular health at 7,000 daily steps (51 per cent reduction)</strong></h2>

<p>For those who are committed to reducing their risk of both fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular diseases, the optimal daily step count is approximately 7,000. This level of activity is associated with an impressive 51 per cent reduction in the risk of such health events.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH:&nbsp;Gravitas | Study: nearly 4,000 steps a day improves lifespan</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>4. 9,000 daily steps for extended lifespan (60 per cent reduction in risk of death)</strong></h2>

<p>For those who seek not only cardiovascular health but also longevity, the study suggests aiming for approximately 9,000 daily steps. Achieving this step count is associated with a remarkable 60 per cent reduction in the risk of death from any cause.</p>

<h2><strong>Gradual Improvements with Additional Steps</strong></h2>

<p>The research also highlights the benefits of gradual increases in daily step counts. Each 1,000 additional daily steps, equivalent to approximately 10 minutes of walking, offers a further reduction in the risk of death, although not in predictable intervals.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/how-many-steps-a-day-are-needed-to-stay-healthy-study-gives-the-answer-623855"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;How many steps a day are needed to stay healthy? Study gives the answer</strong></a></p>

<p>Additionally, an extra 500 daily steps, or about five minutes of walking, can substantially improve the health of individuals with low levels of physical activity.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The number of daily steps covered in walking matters, but so does your pace, a new study has revealed. A report released by the Journal of the American College of Cardiology has said that walking faster significantly impacts the benefits associated with it, regardless of how many steps you take every day.

The number of daily steps covered in walking matters, but so does your pace, a new study has revealed. A report released by the Journal of the American College of Cardiology has said that walking faster significantly impacts the benefits associated with it, regardless of how many steps you take every day. In the study conducted by researchers from the Netherlands, Spain, and the United States, new insights into the importance of daily step counts on cardiovascular health and longevity have emerged. The study, which analysed data from 12 studies involving over 111,000 participants, unveils significant revelations that could revolutionise the way we approach physical activity. The research brings to light the following key findings: 1. 2,500 daily steps can reduce the risk of death (8 per cent reduction) For those who aim to improve their health, taking 2,500 daily steps is a crucial milestone. This modest increase from the common goal of 2,000 daily steps has been found to lead to an 8 per cent reduction in the risk of death. 2. 2,700 daily steps are the turning point for cardiovascular health (11 per cent reduction) When it comes to safeguarding against fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes, the magic number appears to be 2,700 daily steps. Achieving this goal results in an 11 per cent reduction in the risk of such events when compared to maintaining the basic 2,000 daily steps. 3. Optimal cardiovascular health at 7,000 daily steps (51 per cent reduction) For those who are committed to reducing their risk of both fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular diseases, the optimal daily step count is approximately 7,000. This level of activity is associated with an impressive 51 per cent reduction in the risk of such health events. WATCH: Gravitas | Study: nearly 4,000 steps a day improves lifespan × 4. 9,000 daily steps for extended lifespan (60 per cent reduction in risk of death) For those who seek not only cardiovascular health but also longevity, the study suggests aiming for approximately 9,000 daily steps. Achieving this step count is associated with a remarkable 60 per cent reduction in the risk of death from any cause. Gradual Improvements with Additional Steps The research also highlights the benefits of gradual increases in daily step counts. Each 1,000 additional daily steps, equivalent to approximately 10 minutes of walking, offers a further reduction in the risk of death, although not in predictable intervals. Also read: How many steps a day are needed to stay healthy? Study gives the answer Additionally, an extra 500 daily steps, or about five minutes of walking, can substantially improve the health of individuals with low levels of physical activity. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Walking 9,000 steps a day linked to extended lifespan, pace also plays huge role: Study

<p>Scientists may have finally solved the world’s oldest ‘murder mystery’: The disappearance of a group of marine animals from ancient supercontinent Gondwana.</p>

<p>Gondwana used to be a supercontinent, from around 550 million years ago to approximately 180 million years ago, alongside Laurasia.</p>

<p>Gondwana incorporated present-day South America, Africa, Arabia, Madagascar, India, Australia, and Antarctica.</p>

<h2><strong>The 390-million-year-old murder mystery</strong></h2>

<p>It is believed that the so-called Malvinoxhosan biota — an ancient group of water-dwelling animals — disappeared from Gondwana over a period of five million years. What caused their disappearance remained a mystery for centuries.</p>

<p>Now, a recent study has pointed fingers towards climate change. The study, published on Oct 13 in the journal Earth-Science Reviews, found that climate change led to a dramatic fall in the sea levels, wiping out the group of marine animals.</p>

<p>"It's a 390-million-year-old murder mystery," said study lead author Cameron Penn-Clarke.</p>

<h2><strong>How climate change wiped off Malvinoxhosan biota?</strong></h2>

<p>According to the researchers, who reanalysed hundreds of fossils belonging to the Malvinoxhosan biota, the decrease in the water level was not directly responsible for their extinction but it triggered those climate changes that they couldn’t adapt to.</p>

<p>The drop in sea level disrupted ocean currents around the South Pole known as "circumpolar thermal barriers," which enabled warmer water from the equator to mix with colder southern waters.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Bird flu detected in Antarctica | Scientists create 'identical twin' universe</strong></p>

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<p>But Malvinoxhosan biota animals were meant to survive in cool waters.</p>

<p>Eventually, they vanished and it led to a "complete collapse" of the ecosystem around the South Pole.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-ancient-tectonic-plate-that-disappeared-20-million-years-ago-650437"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Scientists discover ancient tectonic plate that disappeared 20 million years ago</strong></a></p>

<p>"This research is important when we consider the biodiversity crisis we are facing in the present day," Penn-Clarke said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It demonstrates the sensitivity of polar environments and ecosystems to changes in sea level and temperature," he added, warning, "Any changes that occur are, unfortunately, permanent."</p>

<p>The study also revealed that the phenomenon which wiped off marine life from the South Pole millions of years ago has disturbing parallels to the situation today.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Scientists may have finally solved the world’s oldest ‘murder mystery’: The disappearance of a group of marine animals from ancient supercontinent Gondwana. Gondwana used to be a supercontinent, from around 550 million years ago to approximately 180 million years ago, alongside Laurasia.

Scientists may have finally solved the world’s oldest ‘murder mystery’: The disappearance of a group of marine animals from ancient supercontinent Gondwana. Gondwana used to be a supercontinent, from around 550 million years ago to approximately 180 million years ago, alongside Laurasia. Gondwana incorporated present-day South America, Africa, Arabia, Madagascar, India, Australia, and Antarctica. The 390-million-year-old murder mystery It is believed that the so-called Malvinoxhosan biota — an ancient group of water-dwelling animals — disappeared from Gondwana over a period of five million years. What caused their disappearance remained a mystery for centuries. Now, a recent study has pointed fingers towards climate change. The study, published on Oct 13 in the journal Earth-Science Reviews, found that climate change led to a dramatic fall in the sea levels, wiping out the group of marine animals. "It's a 390-million-year-old murder mystery," said study lead author Cameron Penn-Clarke. How climate change wiped off Malvinoxhosan biota? According to the researchers, who reanalysed hundreds of fossils belonging to the Malvinoxhosan biota, the decrease in the water level was not directly responsible for their extinction but it triggered those climate changes that they couldn’t adapt to. The drop in sea level disrupted ocean currents around the South Pole known as "circumpolar thermal barriers," which enabled warmer water from the equator to mix with colder southern waters. Watch: Bird flu detected in Antarctica | Scientists create 'identical twin' universe × But Malvinoxhosan biota animals were meant to survive in cool waters. Eventually, they vanished and it led to a "complete collapse" of the ecosystem around the South Pole. Also read: Scientists discover ancient tectonic plate that disappeared 20 million years ago "This research is important when we consider the biodiversity crisis we are facing in the present day," Penn-Clarke said. "It demonstrates the sensitivity of polar environments and ecosystems to changes in sea level and temperature," he added, warning, "Any changes that occur are, unfortunately, permanent." The study also revealed that the phenomenon which wiped off marine life from the South Pole millions of years ago has disturbing parallels to the situation today. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

A 390-million-year-old murder mystery has finally been solved, and the culprit still exists

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