It is known that if parents of a child have good source of income, the child stands to benefit. But a new landmark study has pointed at a direct correlation between money available with parents and brain development of the child in very first year. This is being touted to be first direct experimental evidence to show how poverty leads to such changes.

The study is ongoing.&nbsp;

"We have known for many years that growing up in poverty puts children at risk for lower school achievement, reduced earnings, and poorer health," explains neuroscientist Kimberly Noble from Columbia University.

"However, until now, we haven't been able to say whether poverty itself causes differences in child development, or whether growing up in poverty is simply associated with other factors that cause those differences."

For this study, a thousand low-income mothers were recruited shortly after their baby was born. These parents were from New York City, New Orleans, Omaha or Minneapolis/St. Paul.

By random selection, these mothers were given either USD 333 or USD 20 per month for first four years of their babies' lives.

It was found that babies of low-income mothers who had received higher cash payments showed higher frequency brain activity than the babies whose mothers had got lower amount of money.

More research is said to be needed to correctly ascertain whether higher frequency brain activity led to better cognitive development. But researchers think that this was possible. It is being ascertained if lower mental&nbsp;stress of parents had anything to do with heightened brain activity of the baby.

The study has been published in PNAS.

It is known that if parents of a child have good source of income, the child stands to benefit. But a new landmark study has pointed at a direct correlation between money available with parents and brain development of the child in very first year.

It is known that if parents of a child have good source of income, the child stands to benefit. But a new landmark study has pointed at a direct correlation between money available with parents and brain development of the child in very first year. This is being touted to be first direct experimental evidence to show how poverty leads to such changes. The study is ongoing. "We have known for many years that growing up in poverty puts children at risk for lower school achievement, reduced earnings, and poorer health," explains neuroscientist Kimberly Noble from Columbia University. "However, until now, we haven't been able to say whether poverty itself causes differences in child development, or whether growing up in poverty is simply associated with other factors that cause those differences." For this study, a thousand low-income mothers were recruited shortly after their baby was born. These parents were from New York City, New Orleans, Omaha or Minneapolis/St. Paul. By random selection, these mothers were given either USD 333 or USD 20 per month for first four years of their babies' lives. It was found that babies of low-income mothers who had received higher cash payments showed higher frequency brain activity than the babies whose mothers had got lower amount of money. More research is said to be needed to correctly ascertain whether higher frequency brain activity led to better cognitive development. But researchers think that this was possible. It is being ascertained if lower mental stress of parents had anything to do with heightened brain activity of the baby. The study has been published in PNAS.

Extra money with parents changes babies' brains, says a landmark study

A recent study led by the University of Hawaii states that earth is going through its sixth mass extinction. There have been five mass extinctions so far. However, all of those were caused by natural phenomena. This time, it is being caused entirely by humans.&nbsp;

The process of extinction is not new to earth. It has been going on since the 16th century. The study further highlights that earth could have already lost about 7.5 and 13 per cent of its total species since then.&nbsp;

"Incorporating estimates of the true number of invertebrate extinctions leads to the conclusion that the rate vastly exceeds the background rate and that we may indeed be witnessing the start of the sixth mass extinction," the study read.&nbsp;

As a part of the study, the team of researchers analysed molluscs, which happens to be the second-largest phylum in numbers of known species. According to the IUCN Red List data, molluscs have suffered a higher rate of extinction than birds and mammals.&nbsp;

Invertebrates, however, constitute about 95 per cent of known animal species.

Therefore, it is important to include them in the biodiversity extinction estimate, researchers argue.&nbsp;

The study also countered the views presented by some of the researchers. The head of the research, Robert Cowie, said that the Red list is biased as it leaves out most invertebrates. "Incorporating estimates of the true number of invertebrate extinctions leads to the conclusion that the rate vastly exceeds the background rate and that we may indeed be witnessing the start of the Sixth Mass Extinction,” the study read.&nbsp;

The study further urged the scientists to unite and do everything to stop the extinction of species.&nbsp;

A recent study led by the University of Hawaii states that earth is going through its sixth mass extinction. There have been five mass extinctions so far. However, all of those were caused by natural phenomena.

A recent study led by the University of Hawaii states that earth is going through its sixth mass extinction. There have been five mass extinctions so far. However, all of those were caused by natural phenomena. This time, it is being caused entirely by humans. The process of extinction is not new to earth. It has been going on since the 16th century. The study further highlights that earth could have already lost about 7.5 and 13 per cent of its total species since then. "Incorporating estimates of the true number of invertebrate extinctions leads to the conclusion that the rate vastly exceeds the background rate and that we may indeed be witnessing the start of the sixth mass extinction," the study read. As a part of the study, the team of researchers analysed molluscs, which happens to be the second-largest phylum in numbers of known species. According to the IUCN Red List data, molluscs have suffered a higher rate of extinction than birds and mammals. Invertebrates, however, constitute about 95 per cent of known animal species. Therefore, it is important to include them in the biodiversity extinction estimate, researchers argue. The study also countered the views presented by some of the researchers. The head of the research, Robert Cowie, said that the Red list is biased as it leaves out most invertebrates. "Incorporating estimates of the true number of invertebrate extinctions leads to the conclusion that the rate vastly exceeds the background rate and that we may indeed be witnessing the start of the Sixth Mass Extinction,” the study read. The study further urged the scientists to unite and do everything to stop the extinction of species.

Earth is witnessing its sixth mass extinction, humans to be blamed: Study

Prediction about your time and cause of death might be possible to some extent as a study found that the difference between the biological age of the retina, the light-sensitive layers of nerve tissue at the back of the eye, and a person's real age, is linked to their risk of death. The study, which has been published in the 'British Journal of Opthalmology' might indicate the overall health of the circulatory system and the brain. This 'retinal age gap' could be used as a screening tool.

Can your eyes predict risk of early death? Study reveals

A new study has found that the decline of seed-dispersing animals is damaging plants’ ability to adapt to climate breakdown.

Study: Decline in Animal population is hurting plants ability to adapt to Climate Change

A recent study which stated that cannabis compounds offer prevention from the virus that causes Covid immediately went viral. The study mentioned how researchers from Oregon State University identified two compounds namely, cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA).

A recent study which stated that cannabis compounds offer prevention from the virus that causes Covid immediately went viral. The study mentioned how researchers from Oregon State University identified two compounds namely, cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA). These compounds could help in blocking the virus. As soon as the study was published, it garnered tons of attention. There were also instances where people jumped to conclusions suggesting that weed could help in fighting the pandemic, something which the authors of the study did not claim. However, a recent report published by Forbes talks about how the findings need to be confirmed and there is no concrete evidence so far. Dr Mikael Sodergren, from Imperial College London’s medical cannabis research group, while speaking to Forbes said that it is “not unconventional” to identify drug candidates. Also read | Biden deploys military medical teams to hospitals in six states He deemed the results as interesting and warned that the findings need confirmation in animal models and testings on humans in clinical trials. As per Dr Mikael, the data provided by the study did not prove that cannabis compounds can prevent Covid infection in humans. He was quoted by Forbes as saying that it provides “no evidence to support the smoking or ingestion of cannabis products to do the same.” (With inputs from agencies)

Cannabis help in preventing Covid? Viral study offers no evidence: Report

Climate change is now affecting human bodies drastically. A study indicates that Rising temperatures are increasing the risk of Kidney stones in Humans.

Study: Rising temperatures are increasing the risk of Kidney stones in Humans

Considering bone or joint surgery? In many cases, surgery may be no more effective than options like exercise, physical therapy and drug treatments.

Hip and knee replacements, surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome and other orthopedic procedures are among the most common elective surgeries performed today, but they involve cost, risk and sometimes weeks or months of recovery. Many of these surgeries are not supported by evidence from randomized trials, a review found. Even when surgery has been shown to be effective, the review concluded, it may not be significantly better than nonsurgical care.

British researchers looked at studies of 10 common orthopedic operations, including surgeries of the knee, hip, shoulder, spine and wrist. They found good evidence of the superiority of surgery over other treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome and total knee replacement. For six other common surgeries, randomized trials found little advantage over interventions like exercise, weight management, physical therapy and drug treatment. The researchers found no controlled trials that had compared hip replacement or knee cartilage repair with nonsurgical care. The study is in The BMJ.

“Our study doesn’t show that these operations don’t make patients better,” said the lead author, Dr. Ashley W. Blom, a professor of orthopedic surgery at the University of Bristol in England. “And it does not say that treatments do not work if they have not undergone testing by randomized controlled trials. It’s just that some don’t work any better than the best nonsurgical treatments.”

Dr. Saam Morshed, a professor of orthopedic surgery at the University of California, San Francisco, who was not involved in the study, said, “I think it’s fair that we hold the mirror up to ourselves and scrutinize effectiveness for some of these operations. It’s important to understand where we have gaps in knowledge of the efficacy or nonefficacy of common surgical treatments.”

At the same time, he said, “It’s also important to understand that just because there isn’t a randomized trial supporting a given treatment, that doesn’t mean that the treatment is not effective.” Hip surgery, he said, is a good example. There may be no randomized trials of hip surgery, but there is overwhelming observational evidence for its effectiveness compared with nonsurgical treatment.

In other common procedures, the picture may be different. An arthroscopic operation to repair the anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, in the knee, among the most common sports injury surgeries in the United States, has a rate of success as high as 97% in some studies. But when the operation was compared with nonsurgical treatments, the review found, there was little difference in pain scores or the need for further surgical or nonsurgical treatment.

The researchers describe a large review of studies of the operation to repair the rotator cuff, the group of tendons and muscles that keeps the upper arm bone in the shoulder socket. Compared with exercise and steroid injections, the review found, there was little or no clinically significant difference in pain, function, quality of life or patient satisfaction with the results.

Some studies were randomized controlled trials, giving one group of patients real surgery and a matched group a placebo operation. In two such studies of surgery for shoulder impingement, a condition that causes pain on raising the arm, there was no difference between surgery and placebo surgery in patient-reported outcomes or adverse events.

Lumbar spine decompression is an operation to relieve the pain caused by a ruptured or bulging disk, sometimes called a pinched nerve, in the lower spine. Although the quality of the evidence was low, three analyses showed that surgery and nonsurgical treatments provided equivalent improvements.

There were no studies that compared surgical repair of the meniscus, the cartilage that covers the knee, with nonoperative care or a placebo. But in 10 randomized trials comparing a different procedure known as meniscectomy, or partial removal of the meniscus, with more conservative treatment, the operation did not provide meaningful improvement in knee pain, function or quality of life.

“The best nonoperative care is often multimodal and may involve a combination of physical, medical and psychological interventions, and it should not be assumed that these are necessarily the easiest or most cost-effective options for patients,” Blom said. “Clinicians should discuss both operative and the best nonoperative care with patients so that patients can consider all options and thereby make informed choices.”

Patient outcomes from these surgeries vary greatly, and these differences are important, Morshed said. “Future research is going to provide more nuanced inferences on the effect of surgery as we begin to understand on a patient level those characteristics that make them more or less likely to respond to a procedure,” he said.

Considering bone or joint surgery? In many cases, surgery may be no more effective than options like exercise, physical therapy and drug treatments. Hip and knee replacements, surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome and other orthopedic procedures are among the most common elective surgeries performed today, but they involve cost, risk and sometimes weeks or months of recovery.

Considering bone or joint surgery? In many cases, surgery may be no more effective than options like exercise, physical therapy and drug treatments. Hip and knee replacements, surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome and other orthopedic procedures are among the most common elective surgeries performed today, but they involve cost, risk and sometimes weeks or months of recovery. Many of these surgeries are not supported by evidence from randomized trials, a review found. Even when surgery has been shown to be effective, the review concluded, it may not be significantly better than nonsurgical care. British researchers looked at studies of 10 common orthopedic operations, including surgeries of the knee, hip, shoulder, spine and wrist. They found good evidence of the superiority of surgery over other treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome and total knee replacement. For six other common surgeries, randomized trials found little advantage over interventions like exercise, weight management, physical therapy and drug treatment. The researchers found no controlled trials that had compared hip replacement or knee cartilage repair with nonsurgical care. The study is in The BMJ. “Our study doesn’t show that these operations don’t make patients better,” said the lead author, Dr. Ashley W. Blom, a professor of orthopedic surgery at the University of Bristol in England. “And it does not say that treatments do not work if they have not undergone testing by randomized controlled trials. It’s just that some don’t work any better than the best nonsurgical treatments.” Dr. Saam Morshed, a professor of orthopedic surgery at the University of California, San Francisco, who was not involved in the study, said, “I think it’s fair that we hold the mirror up to ourselves and scrutinize effectiveness for some of these operations. It’s important to understand where we have gaps in knowledge of the efficacy or nonefficacy of common surgical treatments.” At the same time, he said, “It’s also important to understand that just because there isn’t a randomized trial supporting a given treatment, that doesn’t mean that the treatment is not effective.” Hip surgery, he said, is a good example. There may be no randomized trials of hip surgery, but there is overwhelming observational evidence for its effectiveness compared with nonsurgical treatment. In other common procedures, the picture may be different. An arthroscopic operation to repair the anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, in the knee, among the most common sports injury surgeries in the United States, has a rate of success as high as 97% in some studies. But when the operation was compared with nonsurgical treatments, the review found, there was little difference in pain scores or the need for further surgical or nonsurgical treatment. The researchers describe a large review of studies of the operation to repair the rotator cuff, the group of tendons and muscles that keeps the upper arm bone in the shoulder socket. Compared with exercise and steroid injections, the review found, there was little or no clinically significant difference in pain, function, quality of life or patient satisfaction with the results. Some studies were randomized controlled trials, giving one group of patients real surgery and a matched group a placebo operation. In two such studies of surgery for shoulder impingement, a condition that causes pain on raising the arm, there was no difference between surgery and placebo surgery in patient-reported outcomes or adverse events. Lumbar spine decompression is an operation to relieve the pain caused by a ruptured or bulging disk, sometimes called a pinched nerve, in the lower spine. Although the quality of the evidence was low, three analyses showed that surgery and nonsurgical treatments provided equivalent improvements. There were no studies that compared surgical repair of the meniscus, the cartilage that covers the knee, with nonoperative care or a placebo. But in 10 randomized trials comparing a different procedure known as meniscectomy, or partial removal of the meniscus, with more conservative treatment, the operation did not provide meaningful improvement in knee pain, function or quality of life. “The best nonoperative care is often multimodal and may involve a combination of physical, medical and psychological interventions, and it should not be assumed that these are necessarily the easiest or most cost-effective options for patients,” Blom said. “Clinicians should discuss both operative and the best nonoperative care with patients so that patients can consider all options and thereby make informed choices.” Patient outcomes from these surgeries vary greatly, and these differences are important, Morshed said. “Future research is going to provide more nuanced inferences on the effect of surgery as we begin to understand on a patient level those characteristics that make them more or less likely to respond to a procedure,” he said.

Considering bone or joint surgery? You may not need it.

Researchers report that mutations in Omicron can increase the coronavirus' affinity for human cells, enabling the virus to evade antibodies and spread more easily.

A team from Boston College in the US developed a computer model that predicts mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 virus, providing insight into future variants of concern before they emerge.

Based on the model, the team developed preliminary predictions about how mutations may affect Omicron and other SARS-CoV-2 variants' infectivity and immune response evasion.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-toughens-vaccination-rules-mandates-jab-for-those-over-50-442536" hreflang="en">Italy toughens vaccination rules, mandates jab for those over 50</a>

"We find that Omicron has not reached its full potential to bind human host cells," said Babak Momeni, Assistant Professor at Boston College.

"We identify mutations that can strengthen the virus affinity for the human cell, which could increase infectivity and evasion of antibodies," said Momeni, lead researcher on the project.

Coronavirus Omicron is believed to be the most infectious yet because it binds better to human receptors than Delta.&nbsp;The study also indicates&nbsp;the spike proteins of Omicron bind better to the ACE2 receptor than their Delta counterparts.

The yet-to-be peer-reviewed research posted on <a href="https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2021.12.01.470748v1">bioRxiv</a> indicates that Omicron may be able to evolve even stronger binding in order to increase transmission and infectivity.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sets-global-record-reports-more-than-1-million-cases-uk-australia-france-also-break-previous-records-442400" hreflang="en">US sets global record, reports more than 1 million cases; UK, Australia, France also break previous records</a>

The spike protein of Coronavirus binds to a receptor on the host cell called ACE2, allowing it to enter and infect the cells.

First, the spike must bind to ACE2, and several mutations in previous variants of concern have been found to be important for increasing its binding to ACE2.

"We use a fully quantum mechanical model to theoretically assess how different mutations in the spike can contribute to its increased, or decreased, binding strength to human ACE2," said Momeni.

Watch |&nbsp;Omicron cases surge across Europe, with France reporting over 300,000 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/omicron-cases-surge-across-europe-with-france-reporting-over-300000-covid-19-cases-in-24-hours-442595/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The modelling shows that Omicron binds to receptor proteins stronger than the Delta variant," he said.&nbsp;Researchers said the model predicts what mutations allow for better binding to host receptors and better antibody evasion. According to the researchers, such mutations could lead to a future variant of concern.

"Having this knowledge from our model would help with readiness for detecting and preventing, as well as treating, emerging and future variants," Momeni added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Researchers report that mutations in Omicron can increase the coronavirus' affinity for human cells, enabling the virus to evade antibodies and spread more easily.

Researchers report that mutations in Omicron can increase the coronavirus' affinity for human cells, enabling the virus to evade antibodies and spread more easily. A team from Boston College in the US developed a computer model that predicts mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 virus, providing insight into future variants of concern before they emerge. Based on the model, the team developed preliminary predictions about how mutations may affect Omicron and other SARS-CoV-2 variants' infectivity and immune response evasion. Also read | Italy toughens vaccination rules, mandates jab for those over 50 "We find that Omicron has not reached its full potential to bind human host cells," said Babak Momeni, Assistant Professor at Boston College. "We identify mutations that can strengthen the virus affinity for the human cell, which could increase infectivity and evasion of antibodies," said Momeni, lead researcher on the project. Coronavirus Omicron is believed to be the most infectious yet because it binds better to human receptors than Delta. The study also indicates the spike proteins of Omicron bind better to the ACE2 receptor than their Delta counterparts. The yet-to-be peer-reviewed research posted on bioRxiv indicates that Omicron may be able to evolve even stronger binding in order to increase transmission and infectivity. Also read | US sets global record, reports more than 1 million cases; UK, Australia, France also break previous records The spike protein of Coronavirus binds to a receptor on the host cell called ACE2, allowing it to enter and infect the cells. First, the spike must bind to ACE2, and several mutations in previous variants of concern have been found to be important for increasing its binding to ACE2. "We use a fully quantum mechanical model to theoretically assess how different mutations in the spike can contribute to its increased, or decreased, binding strength to human ACE2," said Momeni. Watch | Omicron cases surge across Europe, with France reporting over 300,000 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours "The modelling shows that Omicron binds to receptor proteins stronger than the Delta variant," he said. Researchers said the model predicts what mutations allow for better binding to host receptors and better antibody evasion. According to the researchers, such mutations could lead to a future variant of concern. "Having this knowledge from our model would help with readiness for detecting and preventing, as well as treating, emerging and future variants," Momeni added. (With inputs from agencies)

Research model predicts Omicron is not done evolving, it can further evolve to increase transmission

The UK is currently witnessing one of the most severe omicron surges, with England reporting a record daily spike of over 162,500 new cases on Saturday.

The UK is currently witnessing one of the most severe Omicron surges

A UK study done on Omicron mutant variant's hospitalisation rates claim that Hospitalisation risk is one-third of Delta in Omicron.

UK Study on Omicron hospitalisation rates: Hospitalisation risk one-third of Delta

London's Imperial College has published research on the need for hospitalization for omicron cases. The study says the risk of hospitalization for omicron patients is 40 to 45 per cent lower than for patients with a delta variant.

Some Christmas cheer: Hospitalization risk for Omicron patients 40-45% lower than Delta variant

In dinosaur-era seas, a kind of sea monster lived. These fish-shaped marine reptiles grew to enormous sizes in a span of just 2.5 million years, a new study has found. &nbsp;

The discovery says that these creatures like ichthyosaurs grew to gigantic sizes quickly. &nbsp;

The new species has been named Cymbospondylus youngorum by the team, said a report in the journal ‘Science' on Thursday. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/this-is-the-most-well-preserved-dinosaur-egg-ever-discovered-438891" hreflang="en">This is the most well-preserved Dinosaur egg ever discovered</a>

The marine reptile, which was big-jawed, used to live around 247 million years ago during the Triassic period.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This full-grown creature would have a nearly 6.5-foot-long skull and be measured over 55 feet, the researchers found. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Here's Cymbospondylus youngorum, the monster of the Triassic deep! Based off <a href="https://twitter.com/fishboy86164577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@fishboy86164577</a>'s reconstruction with a speculative thresher fin inspired by <a href="https://twitter.com/DevHistoria?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DevHistoria</a>. Hope ya'll enjoy! <a href="https://t.co/xbxetJZ72Z">pic.twitter.com/xbxetJZ72Z</a>
— Falcon9 (Commissions Open!) (@PrimevalArtist) <a href="https://twitter.com/PrimevalArtist/status/1474174111890952197?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The researchers think that the 45-tonne creature may have lived in the Panthalassic Ocean, a so-called superocean, which was off the west coast of North America. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/dinosaurs-killing-asteroid-caused-prolonged-darkness-on-earth-study-reveals-439636" hreflang="en">Dinosaurs-killing asteroid caused prolonged darkness on Earth, study reveals</a>

In an email, Lars Schmitz, associate professor, biology, Scripps College in Claremont, California, who is also the study’s senior researcher, told Live Science, "We have discovered that ichthyosaurs evolved gigantism much faster than whales, in a time where the world was recovering from devastating extinction [at the end of the Permian period]." &nbsp;&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
It's finally out! Paper on the exceptionally large Jim 2! This paper shows an exceptionally quick increase in size following the Permian extinction for ichthyosaurs, with Cymbospondylus youngorum having a skull around ~2m. I'll probably write something more detailed later. <a href="https://t.co/RaJNR3qwdi">pic.twitter.com/RaJNR3qwdi</a>
— Eddie Ardeo(they/them) (@Elisandre2002) <a href="https://twitter.com/Elisandre2002/status/1474097339447099395?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"It is a nice glimmer of hope and a sign of the resilience of life – if environmental conditions are right, evolution can happen very fast and life can bounce back," added Schmitz. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;&nbsp;

In dinosaur-era seas, a kind of sea monster lived. These fish-shaped marine reptiles grew to enormous sizes in a span of just 2.5 million years, a new study has found.

In dinosaur-era seas, a kind of sea monster lived. These fish-shaped marine reptiles grew to enormous sizes in a span of just 2.5 million years, a new study has found. The discovery says that these creatures like ichthyosaurs grew to gigantic sizes quickly. The new species has been named Cymbospondylus youngorum by the team, said a report in the journal ‘Science' on Thursday. Also Read: This is the most well-preserved Dinosaur egg ever discovered The marine reptile, which was big-jawed, used to live around 247 million years ago during the Triassic period. This full-grown creature would have a nearly 6.5-foot-long skull and be measured over 55 feet, the researchers found. Here's Cymbospondylus youngorum, the monster of the Triassic deep! Based off @fishboy86164577's reconstruction with a speculative thresher fin inspired by @DevHistoria. Hope ya'll enjoy! pic.twitter.com/xbxetJZ72Z — Falcon9 (Commissions Open!) (@PrimevalArtist) December 24, 2021 × The researchers think that the 45-tonne creature may have lived in the Panthalassic Ocean, a so-called superocean, which was off the west coast of North America. Also Read: Dinosaurs-killing asteroid caused prolonged darkness on Earth, study reveals In an email, Lars Schmitz, associate professor, biology, Scripps College in Claremont, California, who is also the study’s senior researcher, told Live Science, "We have discovered that ichthyosaurs evolved gigantism much faster than whales, in a time where the world was recovering from devastating extinction [at the end of the Permian period]." It's finally out! Paper on the exceptionally large Jim 2! This paper shows an exceptionally quick increase in size following the Permian extinction for ichthyosaurs, with Cymbospondylus youngorum having a skull around ~2m. I'll probably write something more detailed later. pic.twitter.com/RaJNR3qwdi — Eddie Ardeo(they/them) (@Elisandre2002) December 23, 2021 × "It is a nice glimmer of hope and a sign of the resilience of life – if environmental conditions are right, evolution can happen very fast and life can bounce back," added Schmitz. (With inputs from agencies)

A sea monster lived in dinosaur-era seas, says new study

UK Study: The risk of hospitalization for Omicron patients is 40-45% lower than the Delta variant

An experiment named MicroAge can now help people live a longer and healthier life. As a part of the experiment, human cells will be launched to space. This will help in understanding what happens to the human cells and why. The study will be launched on SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from the Kennedy Space Centre in Florida to the International Space Station.&nbsp;

The cells have been put into small 3D&nbsp;holders and once they reach space they will be electrically stimulated to induce contractions in the muscle tissue.&nbsp;

This will help scientists in closely examining the cells.&nbsp;

Researchers from the University of Liverpool, funded by the UK Space Agency, will analyse these cells.&nbsp;The UK Space Agency has provided £1.2 million in funds.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-japanese-billionaire-yusaku-maezawa-completes-12-days-at-iss-438418">Also read |&nbsp;In Pics | Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa completes 12 days at ISS</a>

Professor Malcolm Jackson, from the University of Liverpool while speaking to Sky News said, "We have known for a long time that astronauts in space can lose muscle rapidly. People have speculated whether that is an accelerated ageing phenomenon."

"We realised a little while ago that astronauts on the space station had an analogous problem, each astronaut that is on the space station exercises at least 2.5 hours each day and despite that, they lose quite a significant amount of muscle and in fact can't walk for a while after they get back on earth."

Regular updates regarding the experiment will be given on the MicroAge App.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

An experiment named MicroAge can now help people live a longer and healthier life. As a part of the experiment, human cells will be launched to space. This will help in understanding what happens to the human cells and why.

An experiment named MicroAge can now help people live a longer and healthier life. As a part of the experiment, human cells will be launched to space. This will help in understanding what happens to the human cells and why. The study will be launched on SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from the Kennedy Space Centre in Florida to the International Space Station. The cells have been put into small 3D holders and once they reach space they will be electrically stimulated to induce contractions in the muscle tissue. This will help scientists in closely examining the cells. Researchers from the University of Liverpool, funded by the UK Space Agency, will analyse these cells. The UK Space Agency has provided £1.2 million in funds. Also read | In Pics | Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa completes 12 days at ISS Professor Malcolm Jackson, from the University of Liverpool while speaking to Sky News said, "We have known for a long time that astronauts in space can lose muscle rapidly. People have speculated whether that is an accelerated ageing phenomenon." "We realised a little while ago that astronauts on the space station had an analogous problem, each astronaut that is on the space station exercises at least 2.5 hours each day and despite that, they lose quite a significant amount of muscle and in fact can't walk for a while after they get back on earth." Regular updates regarding the experiment will be given on the MicroAge App. (With inputs from agencies)

Human muscle cells will be sent to space to study ageing

Even as the severity of Omicron remains unclear, a research team from Imperial College, London after conducting a huge study on Friday said that there is no evidence to suggest cases of new variant are less severe than Delta. &nbsp;

The team suggested the findings on the basis of the proportion of people testing positive, who had symptoms or went to the hospital. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-threat-of-omicron-wave-americans-rush-to-get-covid-19-boosters-437648" hreflang="en">Amid threat of Omicron wave, Americans rush to get COVID-19 boosters</a>

It may be too soon to say how hospitalisations will play out in the UK. &nbsp;

The study showed that having Covid earlier provides only 19% protection against Omicron while getting two doses of a vaccine made it just 20%. &nbsp;&nbsp;

A booster dose, however, helped by blocking around 55% to 80% symptomatic cases. &nbsp;

From November 29 to December 11, the team analysed all PCR test-confirmed cases of coronavirus in England. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-france-fears-dominance-of-omicron-covid-variant-in-2022-canada-lifts-travel-ban-437815">As France fears dominance of Omicron Covid variant, Canada lifts travel ban</a>

It was one of the most expansive examinations of Omicron's potential to infect people. &nbsp;

The proportion of new Covid variant, Omicron, seems to be doubling among Covid cases in every two days up to December 11, the team said. &nbsp;

It means every person infected with new variant passed it on to over three other people. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Even as the severity of Omicron remains unclear, a research team from Imperial College, London after conducting a huge study on Friday said that there is no evidence to suggest cases of new variant are less severe than Delta.

Even as the severity of Omicron remains unclear, a research team from Imperial College, London after conducting a huge study on Friday said that there is no evidence to suggest cases of new variant are less severe than Delta. The team suggested the findings on the basis of the proportion of people testing positive, who had symptoms or went to the hospital. Also Read: Amid threat of Omicron wave, Americans rush to get COVID-19 boosters It may be too soon to say how hospitalisations will play out in the UK. The study showed that having Covid earlier provides only 19% protection against Omicron while getting two doses of a vaccine made it just 20%. A booster dose, however, helped by blocking around 55% to 80% symptomatic cases. From November 29 to December 11, the team analysed all PCR test-confirmed cases of coronavirus in England. Also Read: As France fears dominance of Omicron Covid variant, Canada lifts travel ban It was one of the most expansive examinations of Omicron's potential to infect people. The proportion of new Covid variant, Omicron, seems to be doubling among Covid cases in every two days up to December 11, the team said. It means every person infected with new variant passed it on to over three other people. (With inputs from agencies)

No evidence to suggest new variant Omicron less severe than Delta, reveals UK study

In a bid to learn about Historical events from the minute details of the ancient frescos, scientists use machine learning and robots to study them.

Robots to study ancient frescos: Machine learning project explores possibilities

As Omicron cases are rapidly spreading all across the world, a latest study has revealed that a three-shot course of the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid vaccine offers protection against the new variant, Omicron.&nbsp;The study was carried out by the Sheba Medical Center and the Health Ministry’s Central Virology Laboratory.&nbsp;

As a part of the study,&nbsp;a comparison was made between the blood of 20 people who had received two vaccine doses 5-6 months prior to the same number of people who had received a booster just a month before.&nbsp;

The findings are very similar to those of a study presented by Pfizer-BioNTech a week before. The study stated that the vaccine neutralises the Omicron variant of coronavirus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/study-demonstrates-three-doses-of-pfizer-biontech-vaccine-neutralises-omicron-variant-435221">Also read |&nbsp;Study demonstrates three doses of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine neutralises Omicron variant</a>

Omicron counts more than 30 mutations on the spike protein. The company has said that although two doses of the vaccine offer a high level of protection, the third jab increases efficacy by 25 per cent.&nbsp;

According to a report by Times of Israel, Prof. Gili Regev Yochay of Sheba Medical Center has deemed her research as “very worrisome."&nbsp;

However, she further said that it also gives a little optimism regarding the power of boosters to fight Omicron.

“The fact that Omicron is somewhat resistant to the vaccine is very much apparent when you’re only with two doses, and much less substantive after a third dose, she said during a media briefing.&nbsp;

Pfizer is expected to deliver an Omicron-based vaccine in March 2022. It is currently under development by BioNTech.

(With inputs from agencies)

As Omicron cases are rapidly spreading all across the world, a latest study has revealed that a three-shot course of the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid vaccine offers protection against the new variant, Omicron.

As Omicron cases are rapidly spreading all across the world, a latest study has revealed that a three-shot course of the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid vaccine offers protection against the new variant, Omicron. The study was carried out by the Sheba Medical Center and the Health Ministry’s Central Virology Laboratory. As a part of the study, a comparison was made between the blood of 20 people who had received two vaccine doses 5-6 months prior to the same number of people who had received a booster just a month before. The findings are very similar to those of a study presented by Pfizer-BioNTech a week before. The study stated that the vaccine neutralises the Omicron variant of coronavirus. Also read | Study demonstrates three doses of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine neutralises Omicron variant Omicron counts more than 30 mutations on the spike protein. The company has said that although two doses of the vaccine offer a high level of protection, the third jab increases efficacy by 25 per cent. According to a report by Times of Israel, Prof. Gili Regev Yochay of Sheba Medical Center has deemed her research as “very worrisome." However, she further said that it also gives a little optimism regarding the power of boosters to fight Omicron. “The fact that Omicron is somewhat resistant to the vaccine is very much apparent when you’re only with two doses, and much less substantive after a third dose, she said during a media briefing. Pfizer is expected to deliver an Omicron-based vaccine in March 2022. It is currently under development by BioNTech. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli study finds Pfizer booster to be effective against Omicron variant

Numerous people are always on the lookout for great investment options. Some of these people invest in shares while some find gold to be more rewarding. &nbsp;&nbsp;

But if a new study is to be believed, buying Lego sets can actually be more profitable. &nbsp;

The study, which was published on last Friday, said that shopping for Lego sets can be a great way to build a sound investment portfolio. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-the-first-time-in-39-years-inflation-surged-by-68-in-the-us-435978" hreflang="en">For the first time in 39 years, Inflation surged by 6.8% in the US</a>

The researchers at the Higher School of Economics in Russia, who conducted the study, found that there could be profitable gains made from investing in "more unusual goods whose purchase might seem less serious" like Lego sets, Barbie dolls, etc. &nbsp;

Victoria Dobrynskaya, associate professor, economic sciences, HSE University, said, "We are used to thinking that people buy such items as jewellery, antiques or artworks as an investment.” &nbsp;

Several deals are conducted on the secondary Lego market. It is a big market, which is not well-known to traditional investors. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-bank-regulators-are-trying-to-oust-a-trump-holdover-436058" hreflang="en">How bank regulators are trying to oust a Trump holdover</a>

Factors like a limited production run, a collector special edition and scarcity in market, boost prices of products over the years, found the study. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The average return on Lego sets may be 10%-11% annually, which is more than stocks, bonds or gold. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The value of a Lego set is only worthwhile if it has been kept for more than three years. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Numerous people are always on the lookout for great investment options. Some of these people invest in shares while some find gold to be more rewarding. But if a new study is to be believed, buying Lego sets can actually be more profitable.

Numerous people are always on the lookout for great investment options. Some of these people invest in shares while some find gold to be more rewarding. But if a new study is to be believed, buying Lego sets can actually be more profitable. The study, which was published on last Friday, said that shopping for Lego sets can be a great way to build a sound investment portfolio. Also Read: For the first time in 39 years, Inflation surged by 6.8% in the US The researchers at the Higher School of Economics in Russia, who conducted the study, found that there could be profitable gains made from investing in "more unusual goods whose purchase might seem less serious" like Lego sets, Barbie dolls, etc. Victoria Dobrynskaya, associate professor, economic sciences, HSE University, said, "We are used to thinking that people buy such items as jewellery, antiques or artworks as an investment.” Several deals are conducted on the secondary Lego market. It is a big market, which is not well-known to traditional investors. Also Read: How bank regulators are trying to oust a Trump holdover Factors like a limited production run, a collector special edition and scarcity in market, boost prices of products over the years, found the study. The average return on Lego sets may be 10%-11% annually, which is more than stocks, bonds or gold. The value of a Lego set is only worthwhile if it has been kept for more than three years. (With inputs from agencies)

Invest in Lego, not gold to get more returns, says study

First plastic and now, face mask. What’s common is that both have become a cause of concern due to excessive litter. &nbsp;

If a research data collected from 11 countries is to be believed, face mask pollution is the next big thing. &nbsp;

As per the research, the litter caused by face masks has increased by around 9,000%. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omicron-variant-in-india-section-144-imposed-in-mumbai-second-confirmed-case-in-delhi-436012" hreflang="en">Omicron variant in India: Section 144 imposed in Mumbai; second confirmed case in Delhi</a>

The cause is simply the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and the mask mandates rolled out by numerous governments worldwide. The researchers seem to have found an “exponential increase” in the new kind of pollution.&nbsp;

The study has been carried out by a team of researchers at the University of Portsmouth. It was published in ‘Nature Sustainability’ journal on Thursday. &nbsp;

A comprehensive study of personal protective equipment (PPE) was conducted by the group. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The findings have been based on data, which has been collected in 11 countries, such as Canada, France, Germany, Spain, Australia, Belgium, Sweden, New Zealand, the Netherlands, the UK and the US, with the help of a litter collection application Litterati. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-waste-crisis-looms-rome-asked-to-ignore-wrapping-gifts-this-christmas-435987" hreflang="en">As waste crisis looms, Rome asked to ignore wrapping gifts this Christmas</a>

Dr Keiron Roberts, lead researcher, University of Portsmouth said, “Overall, the study shows the impact that legislating the use of items, such as masks can have on their occurrence as litter. We found that littered masks had an exponential increase from March 2020, resulting in an 84-fold increase by October 2020.” &nbsp;

The nearly 9,000% hike in PPE litter indicates the enforcement of face mask-wearing “must be accompanied with education campaigns to limit their release into the environment,” Roberts added. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

First plastic and now, face mask. What’s common is that both have become a cause of concern due to excessive litter. If a research data collected from 11 countries is to be believed, face mask pollution is the next big thing.

First plastic and now, face mask. What’s common is that both have become a cause of concern due to excessive litter. If a research data collected from 11 countries is to be believed, face mask pollution is the next big thing. As per the research, the litter caused by face masks has increased by around 9,000%. Also Read | Omicron variant in India: Section 144 imposed in Mumbai; second confirmed case in Delhi The cause is simply the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and the mask mandates rolled out by numerous governments worldwide. The researchers seem to have found an “exponential increase” in the new kind of pollution. The study has been carried out by a team of researchers at the University of Portsmouth. It was published in ‘Nature Sustainability’ journal on Thursday. A comprehensive study of personal protective equipment (PPE) was conducted by the group. The findings have been based on data, which has been collected in 11 countries, such as Canada, France, Germany, Spain, Australia, Belgium, Sweden, New Zealand, the Netherlands, the UK and the US, with the help of a litter collection application Litterati. Also Read: As waste crisis looms, Rome asked to ignore wrapping gifts this Christmas Dr Keiron Roberts, lead researcher, University of Portsmouth said, “Overall, the study shows the impact that legislating the use of items, such as masks can have on their occurrence as litter. We found that littered masks had an exponential increase from March 2020, resulting in an 84-fold increase by October 2020.” The nearly 9,000% hike in PPE litter indicates the enforcement of face mask-wearing “must be accompanied with education campaigns to limit their release into the environment,” Roberts added. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19 effect: Litter caused by face masks witnesses 9,000% rise, says study

When given time and space to recover, nature can bounce back quickly. A new study suggests that tropical forests in the absence of human touch can bounce back, regrow pretty rapidly. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Scientists have now discovered that tropical forests have the potential to regrow almost fully if left untouched by humans for about 20 years. This can happen because of a natural process known as "secondary succession" in which old forest flora and fauna encourage the growth of new trees.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/googles-year-in-search-2021-tells-of-a-world-looking-to-heal-435374" hreflang="en">Google's Year in Search 2021, tells of a world looking to heal</a>

There just might still be time to reverse the damage done by us humans through catastrophic climate change over the past few decades. Published in Science, these new findings may be useful in mitigating the effects of climate breakdown and offer actionable advice on what to do next.&nbsp;

Oftentimes, natural regeneration is ignored in favour of tree planting, but according to Lourens Poorter, lead author of the paper, it produces better results than restoration planting.&nbsp;

Poorter says that the method is superior to planting new trees when it comes to biodiversity, climate change mitigation and recovering nutrients. In summary, it is not necessary to plant more trees when nature already does it.

More than 90 researchers from around the world participated in this study to analyse how tropical forests regrow. Researchers reviewed data from three continents, 77 sites, and 2,275 plots of land in North America and Western Africa. After that, 12 specific criteria were evaluated, such as soil, plant function, ecosystem structure and biodiversity, among others.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-the-first-time-in-centuries-worlds-population-set-to-decline-study-435049" hreflang="en">For the first time in centuries, world’s population set to decline: Study</a>

Using a technique called chronosequencing to model this data, they were able to infer long-term trends in forest recovery, which they would have otherwise had to wait for more than 100 years to see in the real world.

In particular, the researchers investigated what happens to tropical forest land that has been used for agriculture or farming but abandoned after a couple of seasons. An old forest portion, which includes some fertile soil, any remaining trees, seed banks, and possibly replanted stumps, provided a nourishing and interconnected ecosystem for the new forest to grow.

According to the researchers, different aspects of the land take, respectively, more or less time to return to the state of the "old forest" before it was used. It takes on average 10 years for soil to recover to its previous state. It takes 60 years to regenerate plant communities and animals, and 120 years to regenerate overall biomass, their calculations suggest.

Watch |&nbsp;Wildfires raged by climate change spurred record-breaking carbon into the atmosphere

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wildfires-raged-by-climate-change-spurred-record-breaking-carbon-into-the-atmosphere-english-news-435541/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The good news is that tropical forests can regain roughly 78 per cent of their old-growth status in just 20 years.

Poorter urged people to value secondary forests and allow them to regrow in areas where they can. Many of the promises made to restore forests across the world by planting trees have been proven to be unreal. According to Poorter, 30-50 per cent of those trees die and only a few species are able to mimic the natural biodiversity of forests.

Use natural regeneration whenever possible and plant or restore actively when necessary. The approach is case-by-case, depending on the local conditions as well as the needs of the local residents residing in these landscapes, concluded Poorter.

When given time and space to recover, nature can bounce back quickly. A new study suggests that tropical forests in the absence of human touch can bounce back, regrow pretty rapidly.

When given time and space to recover, nature can bounce back quickly. A new study suggests that tropical forests in the absence of human touch can bounce back, regrow pretty rapidly. Scientists have now discovered that tropical forests have the potential to regrow almost fully if left untouched by humans for about 20 years. This can happen because of a natural process known as "secondary succession" in which old forest flora and fauna encourage the growth of new trees. Also read | Google's Year in Search 2021, tells of a world looking to heal There just might still be time to reverse the damage done by us humans through catastrophic climate change over the past few decades. Published in Science, these new findings may be useful in mitigating the effects of climate breakdown and offer actionable advice on what to do next. Oftentimes, natural regeneration is ignored in favour of tree planting, but according to Lourens Poorter, lead author of the paper, it produces better results than restoration planting. Poorter says that the method is superior to planting new trees when it comes to biodiversity, climate change mitigation and recovering nutrients. In summary, it is not necessary to plant more trees when nature already does it. More than 90 researchers from around the world participated in this study to analyse how tropical forests regrow. Researchers reviewed data from three continents, 77 sites, and 2,275 plots of land in North America and Western Africa. After that, 12 specific criteria were evaluated, such as soil, plant function, ecosystem structure and biodiversity, among others. Also read | For the first time in centuries, world’s population set to decline: Study Using a technique called chronosequencing to model this data, they were able to infer long-term trends in forest recovery, which they would have otherwise had to wait for more than 100 years to see in the real world. In particular, the researchers investigated what happens to tropical forest land that has been used for agriculture or farming but abandoned after a couple of seasons. An old forest portion, which includes some fertile soil, any remaining trees, seed banks, and possibly replanted stumps, provided a nourishing and interconnected ecosystem for the new forest to grow. According to the researchers, different aspects of the land take, respectively, more or less time to return to the state of the "old forest" before it was used. It takes on average 10 years for soil to recover to its previous state. It takes 60 years to regenerate plant communities and animals, and 120 years to regenerate overall biomass, their calculations suggest. Watch | Wildfires raged by climate change spurred record-breaking carbon into the atmosphere The good news is that tropical forests can regain roughly 78 per cent of their old-growth status in just 20 years. Poorter urged people to value secondary forests and allow them to regrow in areas where they can. Many of the promises made to restore forests across the world by planting trees have been proven to be unreal. According to Poorter, 30-50 per cent of those trees die and only a few species are able to mimic the natural biodiversity of forests. Use natural regeneration whenever possible and plant or restore actively when necessary. The approach is case-by-case, depending on the local conditions as well as the needs of the local residents residing in these landscapes, concluded Poorter.

Study shows that away from human touch, tropical forests can regenerate in 20 years

If a study is to be believed, pollution caused by different chemicals, such as mercury, chromium, lead and aluminum, seems to have an effect on the sex ratio of babies. &nbsp;

The study examined over 100 possible factors while taking into account entire Swedish population and half the US population. Along with numerous pollutants, poverty indicators have also been linked to sex ratio changes of children born to millions of parents. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-frequent-and-destructive-historical-records-show-a-surge-in-hurricanes-over-the-last-150-years-433667" hreflang="en">More frequent and destructive: Historical records show a surge in hurricanes over the last 150 years</a>

It found that mercury, chromium and aluminum pollution seem to have led to birth of more boys, while lead pollution resulted in rise in the number of girls. &nbsp;

Due to extreme chemical exposures, the farming also affects sex ratio. &nbsp;

The indicators of stress and deprivation measures have also been linked to high changes in sex ratios. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-your-luxury-handbags-and-wallets-are-killings-the-amazon-forests-433405" hreflang="en">Your luxury handbags and wallets are killings the Amazon forests</a>

The factors like weather temperature, season of birth, violent crime rates and unemployment, did not show any relation. &nbsp;

The study does not show cause and effect but only correlations between several factors and sex ratios. The researchers feel more investigation is required to go into the depth of the reasons for these findings.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Andrey Rzhetsky at University of Chicago, who led research, said, “This is a list of suspects to investigate, and all the suspects have some credible evidence, but we’re very far from conviction.” &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;&nbsp;

If a study is to be believed, pollution caused by different chemicals, such as mercury, chromium, lead and aluminum, seems to have an effect on the sex ratio of babies.

If a study is to be believed, pollution caused by different chemicals, such as mercury, chromium, lead and aluminum, seems to have an effect on the sex ratio of babies. The study examined over 100 possible factors while taking into account entire Swedish population and half the US population. Along with numerous pollutants, poverty indicators have also been linked to sex ratio changes of children born to millions of parents. Also Read: More frequent and destructive: Historical records show a surge in hurricanes over the last 150 years It found that mercury, chromium and aluminum pollution seem to have led to birth of more boys, while lead pollution resulted in rise in the number of girls. Due to extreme chemical exposures, the farming also affects sex ratio. The indicators of stress and deprivation measures have also been linked to high changes in sex ratios. Also Read: Your luxury handbags and wallets are killings the Amazon forests The factors like weather temperature, season of birth, violent crime rates and unemployment, did not show any relation. The study does not show cause and effect but only correlations between several factors and sex ratios. The researchers feel more investigation is required to go into the depth of the reasons for these findings. Andrey Rzhetsky at University of Chicago, who led research, said, “This is a list of suspects to investigate, and all the suspects have some credible evidence, but we’re very far from conviction.” (With inputs from agencies)

Chemical pollution affects sex ratio of babies, finds study

Researchers say global warming might be responsible for albatrosses, one of the most monogamous birds in the world, divorcing more often.<o:p></o:p>

A recent Royal Society study shows that climate change and warming waters are leading to higher break-up rates among black-browed albatrosses.<o:p></o:p>

Albatrosses&nbsp;are anthropomorphic creatures, i.e., they exhibit traits or behaviours typically associated with humans. As they mature, they embark on years-long trips away from home, have a long, awkward teenage phase during which they learn how to seduce a mate through dance, and live for 50-60 years.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/internet-outrage-as-ukraine-clinic-offers-black-friday-discounts-on-babies-431545" hreflang="en">Internet outrage as Ukraine clinic offers Black Friday discounts on babies</a>

They mate for life, and they also celebrate loudly when reunited with a partner after a long time.<o:p></o:p>

Sadly, today, more and more of these creatures share another rite of passage with young humans. Under stress from the climate crisis, working longer hours to eat, and juggling the logistical challenges of travelling together, they are finding it increasingly difficult to maintain relationships.<o:p></o:p>

While earlier, it was estimated that only 1-3 per cent of couples who choose a partner will separate to find a better one, the study found that this increases significantly in years with unusually warm water temperatures, as many as 8 per cent of couples are splitting up.<o:p></o:p>

To reach these numbers an investigation was conducted into a wild population of 15,500 breeding pairs in the Falkland Islands over the course of 15 years.<o:p></o:p>

Warmer waters mean less fish, less food and harsher conditions for seabirds. Their stress hormones increase, they must hunt farther afield, fewer chicks survive.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/albert-einsteins-notes-on-theory-of-relativity-sold-at-this-record-price-431524" hreflang="en">Albert Einstein's notes on theory of relativity sold at this record price</a>

Albatross love lives have long been a subject of scientific study, as they are among the most loyal members of the animal kingdom.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

Co-author Francesco Ventura of the Royal Society study reported that&nbsp;even after adjusting for the scarcity of fish,&nbsp;researchers were surprised to find that warm waters led to unusually high levels of albatross couples splitting up.<o:p></o:p>

Usually, the birds divorce after facing a reproductive failure. A couple is more likely to split up when they do not produce a chick. While food shortages might result in more failures, they were surprised, however, to discover that higher water temperatures had an additional effect. It pushes up divorce rates even in instances where reproduction was successful.<o:p></o:p>

According to Ventura, one explanation could be that warming waters were forcing birds to hunt for longer and fly farther. A bird's partner may move on to someone else if he or she fails to return for a breeding season.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

Additionally, albatross stress hormones increase when waters are warmer and in harsher environments. Ventura indicated the birds might blame their partner for this.

<o:p>Watch |&nbsp;</o:p>Climate change affects Albatross mating, leading to 'break-ups'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/climate-change-affects-albatross-mating-leading-to-break-ups-431660/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The partner-blaming hypothesis suggests that stressed women might experience higher stress levels and blame their male partners or attribute it to the male's poor performance.<o:p></o:p>

The number of albatrosses is declining, says Dr Graeme Elliot, principal science adviser at New Zealand’s department of conservation, who has been studying albatrosses in the country’s waters for three decades.<o:p></o:p>

He reports that wandering albatross populations are declining at rates of 5-10 per cent every year, and have been dropping since 2005.&nbsp;&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

Because of this, increasingly homosexual couplings are occurring. There are now male-male pairs among the birds on Antipodes Island, which has never happened before. Only a few per cent of the boys can find a female partner, so they pair up with another boy.<o:p></o:p>

According to Elliott, we need a global campaign to save these birds, because if we do nothing, they will become extinct.<o:p></o:p>

Researchers say global warming might be responsible for albatrosses, one of the most monogamous birds in the world, divorcing more often. A recent Royal Society study shows that climate change and warming waters are leading to higher break-up rates among black-browed albatrosses.

Researchers say global warming might be responsible for albatrosses, one of the most monogamous birds in the world, divorcing more often. A recent Royal Society study shows that climate change and warming waters are leading to higher break-up rates among black-browed albatrosses. Albatrosses are anthropomorphic creatures, i.e., they exhibit traits or behaviours typically associated with humans. As they mature, they embark on years-long trips away from home, have a long, awkward teenage phase during which they learn how to seduce a mate through dance, and live for 50-60 years. Also read | Internet outrage as Ukraine clinic offers Black Friday discounts on babies They mate for life, and they also celebrate loudly when reunited with a partner after a long time. Sadly, today, more and more of these creatures share another rite of passage with young humans. Under stress from the climate crisis, working longer hours to eat, and juggling the logistical challenges of travelling together, they are finding it increasingly difficult to maintain relationships. While earlier, it was estimated that only 1-3 per cent of couples who choose a partner will separate to find a better one, the study found that this increases significantly in years with unusually warm water temperatures, as many as 8 per cent of couples are splitting up. To reach these numbers an investigation was conducted into a wild population of 15,500 breeding pairs in the Falkland Islands over the course of 15 years. Warmer waters mean less fish, less food and harsher conditions for seabirds. Their stress hormones increase, they must hunt farther afield, fewer chicks survive. Also read | Albert Einstein's notes on theory of relativity sold at this record price Albatross love lives have long been a subject of scientific study, as they are among the most loyal members of the animal kingdom. Co-author Francesco Ventura of the Royal Society study reported that even after adjusting for the scarcity of fish, researchers were surprised to find that warm waters led to unusually high levels of albatross couples splitting up. Usually, the birds divorce after facing a reproductive failure. A couple is more likely to split up when they do not produce a chick. While food shortages might result in more failures, they were surprised, however, to discover that higher water temperatures had an additional effect. It pushes up divorce rates even in instances where reproduction was successful. According to Ventura, one explanation could be that warming waters were forcing birds to hunt for longer and fly farther. A bird's partner may move on to someone else if he or she fails to return for a breeding season. Additionally, albatross stress hormones increase when waters are warmer and in harsher environments. Ventura indicated the birds might blame their partner for this. Watch | Climate change affects Albatross mating, leading to 'break-ups' The partner-blaming hypothesis suggests that stressed women might experience higher stress levels and blame their male partners or attribute it to the male's poor performance. The number of albatrosses is declining, says Dr Graeme Elliot, principal science adviser at New Zealand’s department of conservation, who has been studying albatrosses in the country’s waters for three decades. He reports that wandering albatross populations are declining at rates of 5-10 per cent every year, and have been dropping since 2005. Because of this, increasingly homosexual couplings are occurring. There are now male-male pairs among the birds on Antipodes Island, which has never happened before. Only a few per cent of the boys can find a female partner, so they pair up with another boy. According to Elliott, we need a global campaign to save these birds, because if we do nothing, they will become extinct.

Global warming affecting one of the most monogamous birds, leading to 'break-ups'

To stay healthy in old age, household chores can help adults in a big way. It may seem a bit rash, but researchers suggest that tasks at home like scrubbing floors, dusting, etc may help in staying fit. &nbsp;

The study has been published in the journal ‘BMJ Open’. A Singapore-based team of researchers said that regular physical activity “improves physical and mental health, mitigates the risks and effects of chronic diseases, and reduces falls, immobility, dependency and mortality among older adults”. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/drinking-tea-coffee-lowers-risk-of-stroke-and-dementia-study-430110" hreflang="en">Drinking tea, coffee lowers risk of stroke and dementia: Study</a>

In the study, the team recruited adults from Yishun town in Singapore. The participants were asked about their levels of physical activity, including the amount of light housework and heavy housework they did and were assessed for their risk of having a fall based on measures like knee extension strength. &nbsp;

It involved 249 participants in the age group of 21 to 64 years and 240 participants belonging to the age group of 65 to 90 years. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/scientists-discover-lie-detector-that-uses-artificial-intelligence-to-detect-micro-expressions-431030" hreflang="en">Scientists discover lie detector that uses artificial intelligence to detect micro-expressions</a>

The team found cognitive scores and attention scores were 8% and 14% higher respectively for adults, which did high amount of heavy housework compared to low levels. &nbsp;

Dr Shiou-Liang Wee, co-author of the research, said, “Housework is a purposeful activity performed by many older adults. Independent of recreation, (commuting) and other work-related physical activity, heavy housework is linked to sharper memory and better falls protection in older adults.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

To stay healthy in old age, household chores can help adults in a big way. It may seem a bit rash, but researchers suggest that tasks at home like scrubbing floors, dusting, etc may help in staying fit.

To stay healthy in old age, household chores can help adults in a big way. It may seem a bit rash, but researchers suggest that tasks at home like scrubbing floors, dusting, etc may help in staying fit. The study has been published in the journal ‘BMJ Open’. A Singapore-based team of researchers said that regular physical activity “improves physical and mental health, mitigates the risks and effects of chronic diseases, and reduces falls, immobility, dependency and mortality among older adults”. Also Read | Drinking tea, coffee lowers risk of stroke and dementia: Study In the study, the team recruited adults from Yishun town in Singapore. The participants were asked about their levels of physical activity, including the amount of light housework and heavy housework they did and were assessed for their risk of having a fall based on measures like knee extension strength. It involved 249 participants in the age group of 21 to 64 years and 240 participants belonging to the age group of 65 to 90 years. Also Read: Scientists discover lie detector that uses artificial intelligence to detect micro-expressions The team found cognitive scores and attention scores were 8% and 14% higher respectively for adults, which did high amount of heavy housework compared to low levels. Dr Shiou-Liang Wee, co-author of the research, said, “Housework is a purposeful activity performed by many older adults. Independent of recreation, (commuting) and other work-related physical activity, heavy housework is linked to sharper memory and better falls protection in older adults.” (With inputs from agencies)

In old age, household chores can boost health, says study

If a study in the UK is to be believed, meaty diets of men are responsible for 40% more greenhouse gas emissions than those of women. &nbsp;

A quarter of diet-related carbon emissions were due to the “optional” food and drink like alcohol, coffee, cakes and sweets, found the research. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/third-of-human-population-to-be-displaced-if-climate-change-not-curbed-427759" hreflang="en">Third of human population to be displaced if climate change not curbed</a>

The policies looking to encourage sustainable diets should focus on plant-based foods. The switching of drinks and cutting down on sweet snacks also help, the scientists said. &nbsp;

In western countries, another study found that vegan and vegetarian diets were around one third cheaper to buy than the regular diets. &nbsp;

Published in the journal ‘Plos One’, the new study analysed the emissions linked to over 3,200 specific food items and examined the diets of around 212 British people. The food and drink intake of these people were recorded for three 24-hour periods. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/drinking-tea-coffee-lowers-risk-of-stroke-and-dementia-study-430110" hreflang="en">Drinking tea, coffee lowers risk of stroke and dementia: Study</a>

The study found that animal products were responsible for almost half of the average diet’s greenhouse gas emissions. Around 31% was from meat and 14% from dairy. &nbsp;

The non-vegetarian diets lead to 59% more greenhouse gas emissions than vegetarian diets. The diets of men had 41% more emissions as they eat more meat and drinks, the research showed. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

If a study in the UK is to be believed, meaty diets of men are responsible for 40% more greenhouse gas emissions than those of women. A quarter of diet-related carbon emissions were due to the “optional” food and drink like alcohol, coffee, cakes and sweets, found the research.

If a study in the UK is to be believed, meaty diets of men are responsible for 40% more greenhouse gas emissions than those of women. A quarter of diet-related carbon emissions were due to the “optional” food and drink like alcohol, coffee, cakes and sweets, found the research. Also Read: Third of human population to be displaced if climate change not curbed The policies looking to encourage sustainable diets should focus on plant-based foods. The switching of drinks and cutting down on sweet snacks also help, the scientists said. In western countries, another study found that vegan and vegetarian diets were around one third cheaper to buy than the regular diets. Published in the journal ‘Plos One’, the new study analysed the emissions linked to over 3,200 specific food items and examined the diets of around 212 British people. The food and drink intake of these people were recorded for three 24-hour periods. Also Read | Drinking tea, coffee lowers risk of stroke and dementia: Study The study found that animal products were responsible for almost half of the average diet’s greenhouse gas emissions. Around 31% was from meat and 14% from dairy. The non-vegetarian diets lead to 59% more greenhouse gas emissions than vegetarian diets. The diets of men had 41% more emissions as they eat more meat and drinks, the research showed. (With inputs from agencies)

UK study says meaty diets of men lead to 40% more greenhouse gas emissions than women

As the world is trying to recover from the deadly Covid-19, a new study shed light towards how long covid has been affecting a lot of people worldwide.&nbsp;

Researchers from the University of Michigan have said that nearly 40 per cent of the people affected by Covid had after-effects of the illness, that is, long Covid. The conclusion was made after these researchers analysed 40 studies from 17 different countries.

For people who have been hospitalised due to Covid, the chances of long Covid rise to 57 per cent.

"Based on a WHO estimate of 237 million worldwide Covid-19 infections, this global pooled...estimate indicates that around 100 million individuals currently experience or have previously experienced long-term health-related consequences of Covid," the researchers said. They further warned that long Covid can increase pressure on the health care system.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/37-per-cent-patients-have-long-covid-symptoms-months-post-recovery-oxford-study-416740">Also read |&nbsp;37 per cent patients have long Covid symptoms months post recovery: Oxford study</a>

The study has revealed that for female survivors the rate is 49 per cent whereas for male survivors the rate is 37 per cent. There are nearly 49 per cent long Covid cases in Asia, 44 per cent in Europe and 39 per cent in North America.&nbsp;

Long Covid can be defined as new or persistent symptoms of the disease after four or more weeks of the infection. Most common symptoms of long Covid that persisted after recovery are fatigue, breathing problems, pain and anxiety or depression and abdominal symptoms.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a study in September showed that 1 in 3 Covid patients had at least one long Covid symptom even after three to six months after recovery.&nbsp;

The research was carried out by Oxford University, Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre and National Institute for Health Research. The study has been published in journal PLOS Medicine.

As the world is trying to recover from the deadly Covid-19, a new study shed light towards how long covid has been affecting a lot of people worldwide. Researchers from the University of Michigan have said that nearly 40 per cent of the people affected by Covid had after-effects of the illness, that is, long Covid.

As the world is trying to recover from the deadly Covid-19, a new study shed light towards how long covid has been affecting a lot of people worldwide. Researchers from the University of Michigan have said that nearly 40 per cent of the people affected by Covid had after-effects of the illness, that is, long Covid. The conclusion was made after these researchers analysed 40 studies from 17 different countries. For people who have been hospitalised due to Covid, the chances of long Covid rise to 57 per cent. "Based on a WHO estimate of 237 million worldwide Covid-19 infections, this global pooled...estimate indicates that around 100 million individuals currently experience or have previously experienced long-term health-related consequences of Covid," the researchers said. They further warned that long Covid can increase pressure on the health care system. Also read | 37 per cent patients have long Covid symptoms months post recovery: Oxford study The study has revealed that for female survivors the rate is 49 per cent whereas for male survivors the rate is 37 per cent. There are nearly 49 per cent long Covid cases in Asia, 44 per cent in Europe and 39 per cent in North America. Long Covid can be defined as new or persistent symptoms of the disease after four or more weeks of the infection. Most common symptoms of long Covid that persisted after recovery are fatigue, breathing problems, pain and anxiety or depression and abdominal symptoms. Meanwhile, a study in September showed that 1 in 3 Covid patients had at least one long Covid symptom even after three to six months after recovery. The research was carried out by Oxford University, Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre and National Institute for Health Research. The study has been published in journal PLOS Medicine.

Nearly 100 million people worldwide have suffered from long Covid: Study

If a new study is to be believed, the risk of stillbirth is about twice as high for women with Covid compared to those without. &nbsp;&nbsp;

When the Delta variant had become dominant, the risk of stillbirth had grown to about quadruple, a large US government study said on Friday. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-100-million-people-worldwide-have-suffered-from-long-covid-study-430694" hreflang="en">Nearly 100 million people worldwide have suffered from long Covid: Study</a>

Carried out by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the United States, the analysis was based on over 1.2 million deliveries, which were conducted between March 2020 and September 2021, from a large hospital database of the country. &nbsp;

Accounting for 0.65 per cent or 8,154 deliveries, stillbirths were highly rare overall. &nbsp;

After using statistical methods to account for the effect of other variables that might change the result, stillbirths were 1.47 times more common in Covid-positive mothers pre-Delta, 4.04 times higher after and 1.90 times higher overall.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-major-milestone-canada-approves-pfizer-covid-19-vaccine-for-kids-aged-5-11-430640" hreflang="en">'A major milestone': Canada approves Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine for kids aged 5-11</a>

The previous research indicated a potential biological cause for the increased risk that could be the result of inflammation or decreased blood flow to the placenta, wrote authors. &nbsp;

Among deliveries with Covid, conditions, such as heart injury, having more than one baby, life-threatening lung injury, sepsis, poor blood flow resulting in shock, separation of the placenta from the uterus, chronic high blood pressure and having to go on a ventilator or being admitted to ICU, were linked to higher rates of stillbirth. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

If a new study is to be believed, the risk of stillbirth is about twice as high for women with Covid compared to those without. When the Delta variant had become dominant, the risk of stillbirth had grown to about quadruple, a large US government study said on Friday.

If a new study is to be believed, the risk of stillbirth is about twice as high for women with Covid compared to those without. When the Delta variant had become dominant, the risk of stillbirth had grown to about quadruple, a large US government study said on Friday. Also Read: Nearly 100 million people worldwide have suffered from long Covid: Study Carried out by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the United States, the analysis was based on over 1.2 million deliveries, which were conducted between March 2020 and September 2021, from a large hospital database of the country. Accounting for 0.65 per cent or 8,154 deliveries, stillbirths were highly rare overall. After using statistical methods to account for the effect of other variables that might change the result, stillbirths were 1.47 times more common in Covid-positive mothers pre-Delta, 4.04 times higher after and 1.90 times higher overall. Also Read: 'A major milestone': Canada approves Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine for kids aged 5-11 The previous research indicated a potential biological cause for the increased risk that could be the result of inflammation or decreased blood flow to the placenta, wrote authors. Among deliveries with Covid, conditions, such as heart injury, having more than one baby, life-threatening lung injury, sepsis, poor blood flow resulting in shock, separation of the placenta from the uterus, chronic high blood pressure and having to go on a ventilator or being admitted to ICU, were linked to higher rates of stillbirth. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19 ups risk of stillbirth by nearly twice, says study in US

The world has been trying to battle the deadly coronavirus pandemic for a long time now. Various countries have also started booster shot inoculations to keep their people safe. However, a recent study has revealed that wearing a mask is the single most effective public health measure against Covid as it reduced the incidence by 53 per cent.

"This systematic review and meta analysis suggests that several personal protective and social measures, including handwashing, mask wearing, and physical distancing are associated with reductions in the incidence of Covid-19," the researchers said.&nbsp;

The researchers further said that the results highlight the need to continue wearing masks and practising social distancing.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-becoming-covid-19s-epicentre-yet-again-some-countries-planning-lockdown-booster-shots-428986">Also read |&nbsp;Europe becoming COVID-19’s epicentre yet again, some countries planning lockdown, booster shots</a>

Measures like lockdowns and shutting down of places need further analysis.&nbsp;

Researchers analysed results from over 30 studies and it was concluded that there is a 53 per cent reduction in the incidence of Covid with mask-wearing and a 25 per cent reduction with physical distancing. Hand washing also helps reduce the risk by 53 per cent.

Meanwhile, Europe is once again becoming the epicentre of a fresh COVID-19 outbreak, with some countries looking to impose lockdowns till Christmas and New Year as cases continue to rise. 
Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Croatia are among countries that have recently seen a surge in Covid cases.

According to EU data, the pace of inoculation has slowed in recent months. Only about 65 per cent of the population of the European Economic Area (EEA), including the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway, have received two doses.

The world has been trying to battle the deadly coronavirus pandemic for a long time now. Various countries have also started booster shot inoculations to keep their people safe.

The world has been trying to battle the deadly coronavirus pandemic for a long time now. Various countries have also started booster shot inoculations to keep their people safe. However, a recent study has revealed that wearing a mask is the single most effective public health measure against Covid as it reduced the incidence by 53 per cent. "This systematic review and meta analysis suggests that several personal protective and social measures, including handwashing, mask wearing, and physical distancing are associated with reductions in the incidence of Covid-19," the researchers said. The researchers further said that the results highlight the need to continue wearing masks and practising social distancing. Also read | Europe becoming COVID-19’s epicentre yet again, some countries planning lockdown, booster shots Measures like lockdowns and shutting down of places need further analysis. Researchers analysed results from over 30 studies and it was concluded that there is a 53 per cent reduction in the incidence of Covid with mask-wearing and a 25 per cent reduction with physical distancing. Hand washing also helps reduce the risk by 53 per cent. Meanwhile, Europe is once again becoming the epicentre of a fresh COVID-19 outbreak, with some countries looking to impose lockdowns till Christmas and New Year as cases continue to rise. Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Croatia are among countries that have recently seen a surge in Covid cases. According to EU data, the pace of inoculation has slowed in recent months. Only about 65 per cent of the population of the European Economic Area (EEA), including the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway, have received two doses.

Study reveals the most effective way of reducing Covid cases by 53%

If a new study is to be believed, bees scream when they are under attack by giant “murder” hornets. &nbsp;

This new defence mechanism was revealed by a study published in the Royal Society Open Science journal this week.&nbsp;

If left unchecked, the giant Asian hornets can completely destroy a honeybee hive in hours. In what scientists call a “slaughter phase”, they feed on larvae and decapitate bees. The hornets later also feed severed body parts to their young.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sharks-spotted-londons-river-thames-no-longer-biologically-dead-428629" hreflang="en">Sharks spotted! London's River Thames no longer 'biologically dead'</a>&nbsp;

As per the research, the bees release a “rallying call for collective defence” against the hornets. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The signal, which was previously undiscovered, is now known as an “anti-predator pipe, shares acoustic traits with alarm shrieks, fear screams and panic calls of primates, birds and meerkats,” said the study. &nbsp;

The bees produce the sound by vibrating their wings or thorax. It also elevates their abdomens and exposes a gland to release a pheromone. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/night-out-grizzly-bear-four-cubs-take-a-stroll-through-wyoming-town-in-us-428781" hreflang="en">Night out? Grizzly bear, four cubs take a stroll through Wyoming town in US</a>

Heather Mattila, a co-author of the study, told Gizmodo, “It’s alarming to hear. It’s characterised by rapid bursts of high-pitched sounds that change unpredictably in frequency – they’re quite harsh and noisy.” &nbsp;

During a hornet attack, signal rates increase seven- to eight-fold, shared the study. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

If a new study is to be believed, bees scream when they are under attack by giant “murder” hornets. This new defence mechanism was revealed by a study published in the Royal Society Open Science journal this week.

If a new study is to be believed, bees scream when they are under attack by giant “murder” hornets. This new defence mechanism was revealed by a study published in the Royal Society Open Science journal this week. If left unchecked, the giant Asian hornets can completely destroy a honeybee hive in hours. In what scientists call a “slaughter phase”, they feed on larvae and decapitate bees. The hornets later also feed severed body parts to their young. Also Read: Sharks spotted! London's River Thames no longer 'biologically dead' As per the research, the bees release a “rallying call for collective defence” against the hornets. The signal, which was previously undiscovered, is now known as an “anti-predator pipe, shares acoustic traits with alarm shrieks, fear screams and panic calls of primates, birds and meerkats,” said the study. The bees produce the sound by vibrating their wings or thorax. It also elevates their abdomens and exposes a gland to release a pheromone. Also Read: Night out? Grizzly bear, four cubs take a stroll through Wyoming town in US Heather Mattila, a co-author of the study, told Gizmodo, “It’s alarming to hear. It’s characterised by rapid bursts of high-pitched sounds that change unpredictably in frequency – they’re quite harsh and noisy.” During a hornet attack, signal rates increase seven- to eight-fold, shared the study. (With inputs from agencies)

Under attack by giant hornets, bees scream as rallying call for defence, reveals study 

The climate change is real and has been affecting even the wildest parts of the Amazon untouched by humanity, said a study. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Over the past four decades, hotter and&nbsp;drier conditions in the region have led to a reduction in the body size of the birds. But it has also&nbsp;resulted in an increase in their wingspans, a study, which was published in the journal 'Science Advances', said on Friday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/under-attack-by-giant-hornets-bees-scream-as-rallying-call-for-defence-reveals-study-428901" hreflang="en">Under attack by giant hornets, bees scream as rallying call for defence, reveals study&nbsp;</a>

These alterations seem to be a response to nutritional and physiological challenges, especially in the June to November dry season. &nbsp;

Vitek Jirinec, an ecologist at the Integral Ecology Research Center and the paper's lead author told AFP, "The biggest takeaway for me is that this is happening far from direct human disturbance, such as deforestation, in the heart of the world's biggest rainforest. That is something to ponder on the last day of COP26." &nbsp; &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-8-big-cats-test-positive-for-covid-19-at-st-louis-zoo-428910" hreflang="en">US: 8 big cats test positive for COVID-19 at St. Louis Zoo</a>

The data collected on over 15,000 birds, which were caught, weighed, measured and tagged in over 40 years of field work, was analysed by Jirinec and his colleagues. &nbsp;

Nearly all the birds had become lighter since 1980s, found the researchers. Every decade, several species lost an average of two per cent body weight. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The climate change is real and has been affecting even the wildest parts of the Amazon untouched by humanity, said a study. Over the past four decades, hotter and drier conditions in the region have led to a reduction in the body size of the birds.

The climate change is real and has been affecting even the wildest parts of the Amazon untouched by humanity, said a study. Over the past four decades, hotter and drier conditions in the region have led to a reduction in the body size of the birds. But it has also resulted in an increase in their wingspans, a study, which was published in the journal 'Science Advances', said on Friday. Also Read: Under attack by giant hornets, bees scream as rallying call for defence, reveals study These alterations seem to be a response to nutritional and physiological challenges, especially in the June to November dry season. Vitek Jirinec, an ecologist at the Integral Ecology Research Center and the paper's lead author told AFP, "The biggest takeaway for me is that this is happening far from direct human disturbance, such as deforestation, in the heart of the world's biggest rainforest. That is something to ponder on the last day of COP26." Also Read: US: 8 big cats test positive for COVID-19 at St. Louis Zoo The data collected on over 15,000 birds, which were caught, weighed, measured and tagged in over 40 years of field work, was analysed by Jirinec and his colleagues. Nearly all the birds had become lighter since 1980s, found the researchers. Every decade, several species lost an average of two per cent body weight. (With inputs from agencies)

Birds in Amazon turning smaller, longer-winged, courtesy climate change: Study

In a new study, the researchers seem to have identified the gene linked to severe Covid infection. The study was published in Nature Genetics. &nbsp;

The researchers from the University of Oxford found that it is LZTFL1 that is involved in higher severity disease and not SLC6A20. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/arderns-popularity-plummets-as-new-zealand-struggles-to-check-delta-outbreak-428443" hreflang="en">Ardern’s popularity plummets as New Zealand struggles to check Delta outbreak</a>

Around 60 per cent of the people belonging to South Asian heritage carry the higher-risk version of the gene compared to 15 per cent in white people and only two per cent of people from&nbsp;African or Afro-Caribbean heritage. &nbsp;

This gene is also very active in the layer of cells lining the airways and lungs. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-syringe-shortage-can-hit-world-in-2022-warns-who-report-428480" hreflang="en">Massive syringe shortage can hit world in 2022, warns WHO report</a>

The high-risk variant of the gene reduces the ability of cells in the lungs to repair damaged tissue and replace lost cells, which may be needed to overcome severe disease, showed the study. &nbsp;

This variant also makes cells that have more copies of the two proteins, which are called ACE2 and TMPRSS2, that allows the SARS-CoV-2 virus to enter cells and infect them. It means is that people who carry this high-risk gene variant, are likely to end up having more cells infected, less ability to heal and as a result, have a severe infection. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a new study, the researchers seem to have identified the gene linked to severe Covid infection. The study was published in Nature Genetics. The researchers from the University of Oxford found that it is LZTFL1 that is involved in higher severity disease and not SLC6A20.

In a new study, the researchers seem to have identified the gene linked to severe Covid infection. The study was published in Nature Genetics. The researchers from the University of Oxford found that it is LZTFL1 that is involved in higher severity disease and not SLC6A20. Also Read: Ardern’s popularity plummets as New Zealand struggles to check Delta outbreak Around 60 per cent of the people belonging to South Asian heritage carry the higher-risk version of the gene compared to 15 per cent in white people and only two per cent of people from African or Afro-Caribbean heritage. This gene is also very active in the layer of cells lining the airways and lungs. Also Read: Massive syringe shortage can hit world in 2022, warns WHO report The high-risk variant of the gene reduces the ability of cells in the lungs to repair damaged tissue and replace lost cells, which may be needed to overcome severe disease, showed the study. This variant also makes cells that have more copies of the two proteins, which are called ACE2 and TMPRSS2, that allows the SARS-CoV-2 virus to enter cells and infect them. It means is that people who carry this high-risk gene variant, are likely to end up having more cells infected, less ability to heal and as a result, have a severe infection. (With inputs from agencies)

New study finds gene linked to severe Covid infection

A recent study has revealed that over 25,000 tonnes of pandemic-related plastic waste has been leaked into the ocean while 8 million tons of plastic waste has been created globally, adding to an already out of control global problem.&nbsp;

The researchers have highlighted that most of the plastic largely accumulated from medical waste coming from hospitals.

The study titled "Plastic waste release caused by COVID-19 and its fate in the global ocean" has estimated that 8.4m tons of plastic waste has been generated from 193 countries.&nbsp;

"The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increased demand for single-use plastics that intensifies pressure on an already out-of-control global plastic waste problem. While it is suspected to be large, the magnitude and fate of this pandemic-associated mismanaged plastic waste are unknown," the study said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/plastic-coming-from-take-out-and-convenience-food-littering-the-ocean-study-390961">Also read |&nbsp;Plastic coming from take-out and convenience food littering the ocean: Study</a>

The researchers have warned that the released plastic can be transported over long distances in the ocean, come in contact with marine wildlife. This can lead to an injury or even death.

They have called for "better medical waste management in pandemic epicenters, especially in developing countries." 
Yiming Peng and Peipei Wu from Nanjing University was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "The Covid-19 pandemic has led to an increased demand for single-use plastics that intensifies pressure on an already out-of-control global plastic waste problem."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/good-newwz-us-couple-sues-ivf-clinic-for-baby-mix-up-427874">Also read |&nbsp;'Good Newwz': US couple sues IVF clinic, for baby 'mix-up'</a>

“The released plastics can be transported over long distances in the ocean, encounter marine wildlife, and potentially lead to injury or even death."

The study also revealed that 46 per cent of the mismanaged plastic waste came from Asia. This was due to the high level of mask-wearing by individuals. Then came Europe ay 24 per cent and North and South America at 22 per cent.

A recent study has revealed that over 25,000 tonnes of pandemic-related plastic waste has been leaked into the ocean while 8 million tons of plastic waste has been created globally, adding to an already out of control global problem.

A recent study has revealed that over 25,000 tonnes of pandemic-related plastic waste has been leaked into the ocean while 8 million tons of plastic waste has been created globally, adding to an already out of control global problem. The researchers have highlighted that most of the plastic largely accumulated from medical waste coming from hospitals. The study titled "Plastic waste release caused by COVID-19 and its fate in the global ocean" has estimated that 8.4m tons of plastic waste has been generated from 193 countries. "The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increased demand for single-use plastics that intensifies pressure on an already out-of-control global plastic waste problem. While it is suspected to be large, the magnitude and fate of this pandemic-associated mismanaged plastic waste are unknown," the study said. Also read | Plastic coming from take-out and convenience food littering the ocean: Study The researchers have warned that the released plastic can be transported over long distances in the ocean, come in contact with marine wildlife. This can lead to an injury or even death. They have called for "better medical waste management in pandemic epicenters, especially in developing countries." Yiming Peng and Peipei Wu from Nanjing University was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "The Covid-19 pandemic has led to an increased demand for single-use plastics that intensifies pressure on an already out-of-control global plastic waste problem." Also read | 'Good Newwz': US couple sues IVF clinic, for baby 'mix-up' “The released plastics can be transported over long distances in the ocean, encounter marine wildlife, and potentially lead to injury or even death." The study also revealed that 46 per cent of the mismanaged plastic waste came from Asia. This was due to the high level of mask-wearing by individuals. Then came Europe ay 24 per cent and North and South America at 22 per cent.

Over 25K tonnes of pandemic-related plastic polluting the ocean, posing threat to marine wildlife: Study

study

Study, News on Study, stories on Study, articles on Study, Study stories at Wion, Study news, Study latest news