New research has led to a breakthrough extension of the shelf life of pasta. Scientists have achieved this through a special ingredient and a new form of packaging.

You may be wondering why is this even news. The answer is simple. Even though this may seem like insignificant research it can have noteworthy implications on the significantly problematic issue we call "food wastage".

Watch |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker | Global food wastage poses major environmental problem

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How is that?

The research has successfully prolonged the shelf life of pasta by 30 days. Earlier its shelf life if stored properly was between 30 to 90 days and now thanks to the addition of "good" bacteria it has been extended to 120 days.&nbsp;

As per the research paper published in the journal Frontiers in Microbiology, this breakthrough can have "potential benefits on the economy and on the environment, spurring innovation in existing production models."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-wastes-much-more-food-than-it-imports-even-amid-cost-of-living-crisis-report-518078">EU wastes much more food than it imports, even amid cost of living crisis: Report</a>

How does the new technology work?

It uses a film that is less permeable to oxygen and with an atmosphere of 40 per cent carbon dioxide to 60 per cent nitrogen as opposed to the conventional packing that uses 20 per cent carbon dioxide to 80 nitrogen.&nbsp;

Additionally, a multi-strain probiotic mixture or bioprotective cultures (BCs) was added to the dough used to make the pasta.

The product when refrigerated at 4ºC outlasted pasta packaged conventionally, which over the 90 days storage period showed growth of visible mould, reports Guardian.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-a-fifth-of-all-food-reaching-consumers-wasted-un-368034">Nearly a fifth of all food reaching consumers wasted: UN</a>

Researchers report that the data obtained hints that the bioprotective cultures (BCs) can also be used in other types of cereal-based products and that this may even have possible implications that viable microorganisms in the food can have potentially positive effects on the gut microbiota of consumers, however, this would have to be explored.

(With inputs from agencies)

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New research has led to a breakthrough extension of the shelf life of pasta. Scientists have achieved this through a special ingredient and a new form of packaging.

New research has led to a breakthrough extension of the shelf life of pasta. Scientists have achieved this through a special ingredient and a new form of packaging. You may be wondering why is this even news. The answer is simple. Even though this may seem like insignificant research it can have noteworthy implications on the significantly problematic issue we call "food wastage". Watch | WION Climate Tracker | Global food wastage poses major environmental problem How is that? The research has successfully prolonged the shelf life of pasta by 30 days. Earlier its shelf life if stored properly was between 30 to 90 days and now thanks to the addition of "good" bacteria it has been extended to 120 days. As per the research paper published in the journal Frontiers in Microbiology, this breakthrough can have "potential benefits on the economy and on the environment, spurring innovation in existing production models." Also read | EU wastes much more food than it imports, even amid cost of living crisis: Report How does the new technology work? It uses a film that is less permeable to oxygen and with an atmosphere of 40 per cent carbon dioxide to 60 per cent nitrogen as opposed to the conventional packing that uses 20 per cent carbon dioxide to 80 nitrogen. Additionally, a multi-strain probiotic mixture or bioprotective cultures (BCs) was added to the dough used to make the pasta. The product when refrigerated at 4ºC outlasted pasta packaged conventionally, which over the 90 days storage period showed growth of visible mould, reports Guardian. Also read | Nearly a fifth of all food reaching consumers wasted: UN Researchers report that the data obtained hints that the bioprotective cultures (BCs) can also be used in other types of cereal-based products and that this may even have possible implications that viable microorganisms in the food can have potentially positive effects on the gut microbiota of consumers, however, this would have to be explored. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Scientists successfully extend shelf life of pasta. Here's why it's an important breakthrough

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Indian Space Agency has announced that it will be having a wee-hour launch for the first-ever commercial flight of the GSLV Mk3 rocket, which is India's heaviest launch vehicle. Indian Space Research Organization specified that the launch would be carried out during the wee hours of Sunday, 23rd October, at 0007 hours, or seven minutes past the midnight hour.&nbsp;

ISRO will be carrying out this launch, as part of a contract between NewSpace India Limited (ISRO's commercial arm) and OneWeb, the UK-based Low Earth Orbit Satellite communications company. With this launch, OneWeb will have over 70 per cent&nbsp;of its planned Gen 1 LEO Constellation in orbit. The company is working towards delivering high-speed, low-latency connectivity services around the world.&nbsp;

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LVM3 - M2/OneWeb India-1 Mission: Launch scheduled at 0007 hrs. IST on October 23, 2022. Cryo stage, equipment bay (EB) assembly completed. Satellites are encapsulated and assembled in the vehicle. Final vehicle checks are in progress. <a href="https://twitter.com/NSIL_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NSIL_India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/OneWeb?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OneWeb</a> <a href="https://t.co/pPbqjDjFmS">pic.twitter.com/pPbqjDjFmS</a>
— ISRO (@isro) <a href="https://twitter.com/isro/status/1580864532666122241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"Cryo stage, equipment bay (EB) assembly completed. Satellites are encapsulated and assembled in the vehicle. Final vehicle checks are in progress" ISRO said.&nbsp;

The GSLV Mk3 rocket is a three-stage heavy-lift launch vehicle developed by ISRO. The vehicle has two solid strap-on motors (burns solid fuel), a core-stage liquid booster (burns a combination of liquid fuels) and a cryogenic upper stage (burns liquid hydrogen with liquid oxygen). GSLV Mk III is designed to carry four-tonne class satellites into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) or about 10 tonnes to Low Earth Orbit (LEO), which is about twice the capability of its predecessor, the GSLV Mk II.

Thus far, ISRO has purely relied on its PSLV rocket (that can carry up to 1.75 tonnes&nbsp;to Low Earth Orbit), to do commercial launches. The addition of the GSLV MK3 to this list would mean that India can make a greater impact in the international market and thereby earn revenue from launching heavier customer satellites. While India's GSLV Mk3 has flown all four Indian national missions successfully to date, this will be the first time that the rocket will be performing the paid service of ferrying customer satellites to space.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-gslv-mk3-rocket-to-launch-oneweb-satellites-in-oct22-and-jan23-isro-chairman-493475">India's GSLV Mk3 rocket to launch Oneweb satellites in Oct'22 and Jan'23: ISRO Chairman</a>

Around the third week of September, a Ukrainian Antonov-124 transporter plane, ferrying the 36 OneWeb satellites flew all the way from Florida in the US to the Indian city of Chennai. The satellites were then transported by road to India's spaceport at&nbsp;Sriharikota in&nbsp;Southern Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;

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The Indian Space Agency has announced that it will be having a wee-hour launch for the first-ever commercial flight of the GSLV Mk3 rocket, which is India's heaviest launch vehicle.

The Indian Space Agency has announced that it will be having a wee-hour launch for the first-ever commercial flight of the GSLV Mk3 rocket, which is India's heaviest launch vehicle. Indian Space Research Organization specified that the launch would be carried out during the wee hours of Sunday, 23rd October, at 0007 hours, or seven minutes past the midnight hour. ISRO will be carrying out this launch, as part of a contract between NewSpace India Limited (ISRO's commercial arm) and OneWeb, the UK-based Low Earth Orbit Satellite communications company. With this launch, OneWeb will have over 70 per cent of its planned Gen 1 LEO Constellation in orbit. The company is working towards delivering high-speed, low-latency connectivity services around the world. LVM3 - M2/OneWeb India-1 Mission: Launch scheduled at 0007 hrs. IST on October 23, 2022. Cryo stage, equipment bay (EB) assembly completed. Satellites are encapsulated and assembled in the vehicle. Final vehicle checks are in progress. @NSIL_India @OneWeb pic.twitter.com/pPbqjDjFmS — ISRO (@isro) October 14, 2022 × "Cryo stage, equipment bay (EB) assembly completed. Satellites are encapsulated and assembled in the vehicle. Final vehicle checks are in progress" ISRO said. The GSLV Mk3 rocket is a three-stage heavy-lift launch vehicle developed by ISRO. The vehicle has two solid strap-on motors (burns solid fuel), a core-stage liquid booster (burns a combination of liquid fuels) and a cryogenic upper stage (burns liquid hydrogen with liquid oxygen). GSLV Mk III is designed to carry four-tonne class satellites into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) or about 10 tonnes to Low Earth Orbit (LEO), which is about twice the capability of its predecessor, the GSLV Mk II. Thus far, ISRO has purely relied on its PSLV rocket (that can carry up to 1.75 tonnes to Low Earth Orbit), to do commercial launches. The addition of the GSLV MK3 to this list would mean that India can make a greater impact in the international market and thereby earn revenue from launching heavier customer satellites. While India's GSLV Mk3 has flown all four Indian national missions successfully to date, this will be the first time that the rocket will be performing the paid service of ferrying customer satellites to space. Also read | India's GSLV Mk3 rocket to launch Oneweb satellites in Oct'22 and Jan'23: ISRO Chairman Around the third week of September, a Ukrainian Antonov-124 transporter plane, ferrying the 36 OneWeb satellites flew all the way from Florida in the US to the Indian city of Chennai. The satellites were then transported by road to India's spaceport at Sriharikota in Southern Andhra Pradesh. 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.

ISRO to launch 36 'OneWeb' satellites in maiden commercial flight of GSLV Mk III on Oct. 23

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A team of American researchers has identified a new variant of coronavirus in Russian bats that is capable of infecting people. They have voiced concern that the virus called "Khosta-2" may be "completely resistant" to all coronavirus vaccinations now on the market and is just waiting to jump from bats to humans.&nbsp;The team's research has been published in the journal PLoS Pathogens.

Here's everything we know about the dangerous virus:

What is Khosta-2?

The pathogen is classified as a sarbecovirus, a member of the coronavirus family. However, nothing is known about it other than the fact that it is related to SARS-CoV-2, the strain responsible for Covid.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-sound-the-alarm-over-virus-that-latches-onto-humans-just-like-covid-19-and-is-vaccine-resistant-519576">Scientists sound alarm over virus that 'latches onto humans' just like Covid-19, and is vaccine-resistant</a>

When and where was the virus discovered?

As per Daily Mail, Khosta-2 was discovered in bat samples taken from Sochi National Park between March and October 2020, i.e., around the same time when the world was in a panic over SARS-CoV-2. However, the Russian government acknowledged its presence pretty recently in May.

Is it dangerous to humans?

As per Dr Stephanie Seifert and her colleagues, Khosta-2 is a zoonotic virus, which means that it can "latch onto human cells with ease in the same way as the Covid virus."

How does it infect us?

According to tests, Khosta-2 was able to infect human cells in a manner that was remarkably similar to SARS-CoV-2 the virus responsible for Covid-19.

The virus attaches to the ACE-2 entrance enzyme, which is located on the surface of human cells, by hooking onto a spike-like protein on its surface.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Long Covid linked to suicides?

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-long-covid-linked-to-suicides-514348/embed" width="560"></iframe>

Are any vaccines available to combat it?

Daily Mail reports that the&nbsp;research team&nbsp;from Washington State University tested the virus in order to learn more about it. They discovered that the pathogen was resistant to the coronavirus vaccines we have available on the market today.

It was found to be 'completely resistant' Bebtelovimab, an antibody medication made by Eli Lilly.&nbsp;

Laboratory testing also revealed that it seemed "resistant" to two doses of vaccination by Moderna and Pfizer.

So how do we fight it?

Even though how it infects is similar to SARS-CoV-2, Koshta isn't as efficient.

Scientists believe that it could still be "possible" that the virus can be fought off using either natural immunity from Covid-19 or possibly even protection gained by vaccination.

Referring to SARS-CoV-2 which is also classified as sarbecovirus, they said it was behind "the largest global pandemic in modern history" and that&nbsp;a universal coronavirus vaccine is desperately needed at a time when "Zoonotic spillover of sarbecoviruses has led to the emergence of highly pathogenic human viruses."

(With inputs from agencies)

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A team of American researchers has identified a new variant of coronavirus in Russian bats that is capable of infecting people. They have voiced concern that the virus called "Khosta-2" may be "completely resistant" to all coronavirus vaccinations now on the market and is just waiting to jump from bats to humans.

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

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

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

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

Scientists sound alarm over virus that 'latches onto humans' just like Covid-19, and is vaccine-resistant

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scientists use space photos and volunteers to accurately calculate Weddell seal population

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Monogamous fish experience heartbreak when they're separated from their other half, according to the CNRS, the French National Centre for Scientific Research in Dijon. Using a zebra Cichlid, a small fish that forms stable couples over time, researchers observed their reaction time to positive, negative and neutral signals when they are with their partner and when they are alone. The longer the reaction time, the worse the emotional state of the fish.

Fish can feel heartbreak too, say researchers

Chinese neuroscientists have gained a deeper understanding of how people simultaneously recognize the face of a child, while at the same time visually resolving individual eyelash hairs.

The study, published on Thursday in the journal Neuron, has shown how human and non-human primates manage to conserve local high-resolution information from early to intermediate areas of the visual hierarchy to fulfill the hard task.

The idea that sensory transformation discards low-level detail to yield invariant classification is a central core of many models of brain function. As the complexity of the object or scene representation increases along the hierarchy, the visual resolution dramatically decreases.

However, researchers were perplexed by how people are able to effortlessly combine the fast coarse (global) information and slower fine (local) information together into a coherent perception of the world.

Primates can identify objects in the 10-degree central visual field within 150 milliseconds, suggesting an initial fast cascade of largely feedforward processing.

A lab led by Wang Wei at the Institute of Neuroscience of the Chinese Academy of Sciences revealed the unexpected neural clustering that preserves the visual acuity from macaque visual cortical areas V1 into V4, enabling the spatiotemporal separation of processing local and global features along the hierarchy.

The researchers particularly focused on spatial analysis in V4, which links the analysis of local features by V1 and V2 with the global object representation. Spatial resolution is often measured as spatial frequency (SF) discrimination.

Surprisingly, they discovered that clustered "islands" of V4 neurons, selective for high SFs, are up to 12 cycles per degree, far exceeding the average optimal SFs of V1 and V2 neurons at similar retinal eccentricities. These neural clusters violate the inverse relationship between visual acuity and retinal eccentricity.

The clustered neurons with high-SF selectivity were found to respond 10 milliseconds later than those in low-SF domains, providing direct neural evidence for the coarse-to-fine nature of human perception at intermediate levels of the visual processing hierarchy.

The study for the first time showed an unexpected compartmentation of area V4 into SF-selective functional domains that extend to high visual acuity.

Higher acuities are preserved to later stages of the visual hierarchy where more complex visual cognitive behavior occurs, and they may begin to resolve the long-standing paradox concerning fine visual discrimination in visual perception.

Chinese neuroscientists have gained a deeper understanding of how people simultaneously recognize the face of a child, while at the same time visually resolving individual eyelash hairs

Chinese neuroscientists have gained a deeper understanding of how people simultaneously recognize the face of a child, while at the same time visually resolving individual eyelash hairs. The study, published on Thursday in the journal Neuron, has shown how human and non-human primates manage to conserve local high-resolution information from early to intermediate areas of the visual hierarchy to fulfill the hard task. The idea that sensory transformation discards low-level detail to yield invariant classification is a central core of many models of brain function. As the complexity of the object or scene representation increases along the hierarchy, the visual resolution dramatically decreases. However, researchers were perplexed by how people are able to effortlessly combine the fast coarse (global) information and slower fine (local) information together into a coherent perception of the world. Primates can identify objects in the 10-degree central visual field within 150 milliseconds, suggesting an initial fast cascade of largely feedforward processing. A lab led by Wang Wei at the Institute of Neuroscience of the Chinese Academy of Sciences revealed the unexpected neural clustering that preserves the visual acuity from macaque visual cortical areas V1 into V4, enabling the spatiotemporal separation of processing local and global features along the hierarchy. The researchers particularly focused on spatial analysis in V4, which links the analysis of local features by V1 and V2 with the global object representation. Spatial resolution is often measured as spatial frequency (SF) discrimination. Surprisingly, they discovered that clustered "islands" of V4 neurons, selective for high SFs, are up to 12 cycles per degree, far exceeding the average optimal SFs of V1 and V2 neurons at similar retinal eccentricities. These neural clusters violate the inverse relationship between visual acuity and retinal eccentricity. The clustered neurons with high-SF selectivity were found to respond 10 milliseconds later than those in low-SF domains, providing direct neural evidence for the coarse-to-fine nature of human perception at intermediate levels of the visual processing hierarchy. The study for the first time showed an unexpected compartmentation of area V4 into SF-selective functional domains that extend to high visual acuity. Higher acuities are preserved to later stages of the visual hierarchy where more complex visual cognitive behavior occurs, and they may begin to resolve the long-standing paradox concerning fine visual discrimination in visual perception.

Watch: Chinese scientists reveal how brain decodes visual information effortlessly