A new study has revealed that materials can store "memories" of the past, potentially opening new doors in mechanical engineering and computing. &nbsp;
<h2>A breakthrough in material memory &nbsp;</h2>
Researchers from the University of Chicago and Pennsylvania State University have expanded on a concept known as return-point memory. Traditionally, this type of memory requires a back-and-forth force&mdash;like a combination lock that turns in both directions.
However, the study, published in Science Advances, shows that materials can still retain sequences of past forces even when pushed in just one direction. &nbsp;
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<h2>The role of hysterons &nbsp;</h2>
Using computer models, scientists identified abstract elements called hysterons&mdash;units within a material that do not immediately react to force but instead "remember" past deformations. When these hysterons experience what researchers call "frustrated interactions," they can store complex histories of force, breaking the known rules of return-point memory. &nbsp;
"The mathematical theorems for return-point memory say that we can't store a sequence if we only have this asymmetrical driving in one direction," explains physicist Nathan Keim from Pennsylvania State University.&nbsp;
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<h2>Real-world implications &nbsp;</h2>
Physicist Travis Jalowiec, from Pennsylvania State University, says, "Hysterons are elements of a system that may not immediately respond to external conditions, and can stay in a past state" Travis added, "Like how parts of a combination lock reflect the previous positions of the dial, and not where the dial is now."
To visualise this, imagine a bendy straw. When stretched, some folds pop open while others stay compressed, revealing past forces applied to it. Scientists suggest this principle could be harnessed in artificial materials, enabling mechanical systems to "remember" past states without electronic components. &nbsp;
Keim says, "If you can make a system that stores a sequence of memories, you can use it like a combination lock to verify a specific history, or you could recover diagnostic or forensic information about the past."&nbsp;
"We think this is a way to design artificial systems with this special kind of memory, starting with the simplest mechanical systems not much more complicated than a bendy straw and hopefully working up to something like an asymmetrical combination lock," Keim adds.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Trending | SCIENCE & TECH  | However, the study, published in Science Advances, shows that materials can still retain sequences of past forces even when pushed in just one direction.

A new study has revealed that materials can store "memories" of the past, potentially opening new doors in mechanical engineering and computing. A breakthrough in material memory Researchers from the University of Chicago and Pennsylvania State University have expanded on a concept known as return-point memory. Traditionally, this type of memory requires a back-and-forth force—like a combination lock that turns in both directions. However, the study, published in Science Advances, shows that materials can still retain sequences of past forces even when pushed in just one direction. Also read | Netizens troll Donald Trump's April 2 auto tariff announcement, say April Fools 'sacred day for his people' The role of hysterons Using computer models, scientists identified abstract elements called hysterons—units within a material that do not immediately react to force but instead "remember" past deformations. When these hysterons experience what researchers call "frustrated interactions," they can store complex histories of force, breaking the known rules of return-point memory. "The mathematical theorems for return-point memory say that we can't store a sequence if we only have this asymmetrical driving in one direction," explains physicist Nathan Keim from Pennsylvania State University. Also read | Study links popular birth control method to higher risk of heart attack and stroke Real-world implications Physicist Travis Jalowiec, from Pennsylvania State University, says, "Hysterons are elements of a system that may not immediately respond to external conditions, and can stay in a past state" Travis added, "Like how parts of a combination lock reflect the previous positions of the dial, and not where the dial is now." To visualise this, imagine a bendy straw. When stretched, some folds pop open while others stay compressed, revealing past forces applied to it. Scientists suggest this principle could be harnessed in artificial materials, enabling mechanical systems to "remember" past states without electronic components. Keim says, "If you can make a system that stores a sequence of memories, you can use it like a combination lock to verify a specific history, or you could recover diagnostic or forensic information about the past." "We think this is a way to design artificial systems with this special kind of memory, starting with the simplest mechanical systems not much more complicated than a bendy straw and hopefully working up to something like an asymmetrical combination lock," Keim adds.

New Study reveals how materials can ‘remember’ past forces

Scientists from Montana State University have found that microscopic life in Yellowstone National Park&rsquo;s hot springs could reveal how life first adapted to oxygen. These microbes thrive in the boiling waters of Octopus and Conch Springs, forming jelly-like streamers that wave in the currents. &nbsp;
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The research was conducted by geomicrobiologist Bill Inskeep, who has been studying the heat-loving microbes of Yellowstone since 1999 and the study was published in Nature Communications.
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<h2>Two springs, two different worlds &nbsp;</h2>
Although located close to each other, the two springs have very different chemical conditions. Octopus Spring has much higher oxygen levels, while Conch Spring has almost none but contains a high amount of toxic sulfide. This makes them ideal for studying how early life survived in changing environments. &nbsp;
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<h2>Learning from Yellowstone&rsquo;s microbes &nbsp;</h2>
By studying the microbes' genes and activities, researchers found that those in oxygen-rich Octopus Spring were more diverse and actively used oxygen. Meanwhile, microbes in the sulfide-rich Conch Spring still had the potential to use oxygen, showing that early life may have found ways to adapt even in low-oxygen conditions. &nbsp;
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<h2>A window into Earth's past &nbsp;</h2>
These findings suggest that before Earth&rsquo;s atmosphere became rich in oxygen, early microbes might have used tiny amounts of it to survive. Yellowstone&rsquo;s hot springs provide a natural laboratory to explore how life made one of its most important transitions billions of years ago.
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&nbsp;

Trending | SCIENCE & TECH: Located close to each other, the two springs have very different chemical conditions. Octopus Spring has much higher oxygen levels, while Conch Spring contains a high amount of toxic sulfide.

Scientists from Montana State University have found that microscopic life in Yellowstone National Park’s hot springs could reveal how life first adapted to oxygen. These microbes thrive in the boiling waters of Octopus and Conch Springs, forming jelly-like streamers that wave in the currents. Also Read | Boost in the area of xenotransplantation as US man gets gene-edited pig kidney The research was conducted by geomicrobiologist Bill Inskeep, who has been studying the heat-loving microbes of Yellowstone since 1999 and the study was published in Nature Communications. Also Read | Inside an oval shaped galaxy, European astronomers detect nearest Einstein ring using Euclid telescope Two springs, two different worlds Although located close to each other, the two springs have very different chemical conditions. Octopus Spring has much higher oxygen levels, while Conch Spring has almost none but contains a high amount of toxic sulfide. This makes them ideal for studying how early life survived in changing environments. Also Read | 'Cloudgazing on Mars': NASA's Curiosity rover captures colourful clouds on Mars - WATCH Learning from Yellowstone’s microbes By studying the microbes' genes and activities, researchers found that those in oxygen-rich Octopus Spring were more diverse and actively used oxygen. Meanwhile, microbes in the sulfide-rich Conch Spring still had the potential to use oxygen, showing that early life may have found ways to adapt even in low-oxygen conditions. Also Read | Do look up! Don't miss planet parade of Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Neptune and Uranus A window into Earth's past These findings suggest that before Earth’s atmosphere became rich in oxygen, early microbes might have used tiny amounts of it to survive. Yellowstone’s hot springs provide a natural laboratory to explore how life made one of its most important transitions billions of years ago. Also Read | Study reveals mindboggling fact about age of Chandrayaan-3's landing site

Yellowstone’s hot springs may hold clues to early life on Earth: Study

A groundbreaking study has uncovered that octopuses may possess the oldest known sex chromosomes among animals, dating back over 480 million years. The research, conducted by researchers at the University of Oregon and published in Current Biology, provides the first genetic evidence of sex determination in cephalopods.
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<h2>Longstanding mystery &nbsp;</h2>
Until now, researchers were uncertain whether octopuses even had sex chromosomes. Unlike mammals, whose X and Y chromosomes determine sex, scientists had previously relied on observational methods&mdash;distinguishing between individuals that laid eggs (females) and those that produced sperm (males). Some even speculated that cephalopods might determine sex based on environmental factors, similar to certain fish and reptiles. &nbsp;
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However, by sequencing the genome of the California two-spot octopus (Octopus bimaculoides), the first cephalopod with a fully mapped genome, researchers identified a distinct chromosome pair&mdash;chromosome 17&mdash;that differs between males and females. &nbsp;
<h2>Unique sex-determination system &nbsp;</h2>
Lead researcher Gabrielle Coffing and her team discovered that female octopuses possess only a single copy of this chromosome, while males have a double-Z pair. This contrasts with the human XY system, where females typically have two X chromosomes, and males have one X and one Y. &nbsp;
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Further analysis across multiple cephalopod species, including three octopuses, three squid, and a nautilus, confirmed that this Z chromosome system is deeply rooted in their evolutionary lineage. The chambered nautilus, which diverged from octopuses between 520 and 398 million years ago, also exhibited signs of the same genetic marker. This suggests that cephalopods may have the longest-lasting sex chromosome known in the animal kingdom&mdash;predating even insects, whose sex chromosomes are estimated to be around 450 million years old. &nbsp;

SCIENCE & TECH Trending: The research, conducted by researchers at the University of Oregon and published in Current Biology, provides the first genetic evidence of sex determination in cephalopods.

A groundbreaking study has uncovered that octopuses may possess the oldest known sex chromosomes among animals, dating back over 480 million years. The research, conducted by researchers at the University of Oregon and published in Current Biology, provides the first genetic evidence of sex determination in cephalopods. Also Read | Sugary beverages linked to over 2 million cases of type 2 diabetes per year: Study Longstanding mystery Until now, researchers were uncertain whether octopuses even had sex chromosomes. Unlike mammals, whose X and Y chromosomes determine sex, scientists had previously relied on observational methods—distinguishing between individuals that laid eggs (females) and those that produced sperm (males). Some even speculated that cephalopods might determine sex based on environmental factors, similar to certain fish and reptiles. Also read | Penguins do not have unconditional ‘love’ as we commonly believe: Study However, by sequencing the genome of the California two-spot octopus (Octopus bimaculoides), the first cephalopod with a fully mapped genome, researchers identified a distinct chromosome pair—chromosome 17—that differs between males and females. Unique sex-determination system Lead researcher Gabrielle Coffing and her team discovered that female octopuses possess only a single copy of this chromosome, while males have a double-Z pair. This contrasts with the human XY system, where females typically have two X chromosomes, and males have one X and one Y. Also read | Human ears move while listening, recent study says. It's due to 'neural fossil' Further analysis across multiple cephalopod species, including three octopuses, three squid, and a nautilus, confirmed that this Z chromosome system is deeply rooted in their evolutionary lineage. The chambered nautilus, which diverged from octopuses between 520 and 398 million years ago, also exhibited signs of the same genetic marker. This suggests that cephalopods may have the longest-lasting sex chromosome known in the animal kingdom—predating even insects, whose sex chromosomes are estimated to be around 450 million years old.

Study reveals octopuses may have oldest known sex chromosomes

Scientists have detected organic compounds and minerals necessary for life in samples from asteroid Bennu. This discovery offers compelling evidence that all life on Earth, including humans, is likely made of stardust, and asteroids delivered the so-called building blocks of life to our planet Earth millions of years ago.
These amazing findings not only provide proof about the chemical processes that took place in the primordial solar system, but also raise new questions about the potential for life elsewhere in the cosmos.
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<h2>'Exciting' discovery</h2>
"This is all very exciting because it suggests that asteroids like Bennu once acted like giant chemical factories in space and could have also delivered the raw ingredients for life to Earth and other bodies in our solar system," said Dr Daniel P Glavin, senior scientist for samples return at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, as cited by CNN.
Glavin, the lead author of the study published Wednesday in the journal Nature Astronomy, revealed that his team of scientists found building blocks of life, such as amino acids and even components found in DNA in the asteroid samples.
A separate paper, also published Wednesday in the journal Nature, also uncovered salts and minerals crucial to life, including some never seen in asteroid samples before, within Bennu&rsquo;s rocks.
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Results of both the papers were shared during a NASA press conference on Wednesday, where they were labelled "groundbreaking scientific discovery," by Nicky Fox, associate administrator for NASA&rsquo;s Science Mission Directorate.
<h2>Historic sample collection&nbsp;</h2>
These historic samples were collected by NASA's OSIRIS-REx (Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification and Security-Regolith Explorer) mission in October 2020.
It was the first time that the US sent a spacecraft to briefly land on the near-Earth asteroid and collect a sample, which was then distributed among scientists from across the world.
The samples are the first pristine material retrieved from an asteroid by the US. Rigorous precautions ensured that the samples were uncontaminated by Earth's environment, preserving their extraterrestrial integrity. &nbsp;
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<h2>Key discoveries in Bennu's composition</h2>
Scientists have identified a rich array of organic molecules, including 33 amino acids, essential for building proteins, and all five nucleobases found in DNA and RNA&mdash;adenine, guanine, cytosine, thymine, and uracil.&nbsp;
What makes the discovery even more special is that unlike meteorites, which are exposed to heat and Earth's atmosphere upon entry, Bennu's samples are pristine. This provides stronger evidence that the building blocks of life found on the asteroid were formed in space. &nbsp;
Bennu's samples also contained minerals such as sodium phosphates, carbonates, and sulfates, along with traces of ancient water locked within the asteroid's crystalline structures. These elements, particularly ammonia and nitrogen-rich compounds.&nbsp;
Scientists believed that Bennu originated from a larger parent asteroid, formed about 4.5 billion years ago in the solar system's cold outer regions. Their analyses have revealed that water once flowed within Bennu's parent body, leaving behind brine pockets rich in salts and minerals. These environments may have created conditions for complex organic molecules to form. Sodium carbonate, a mineral never before seen in asteroid samples was also detected, which points to processes similar to those on Earth's dry lakebeds. &nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Science & Tech, Trending, World news | Discover how samples from asteroid Bennu reveal that humans and all life on Earth may be made of stardust, supporting the theory of life's cosmic origins.

Scientists have detected organic compounds and minerals necessary for life in samples from asteroid Bennu. This discovery offers compelling evidence that all life on Earth, including humans, is likely made of stardust, and asteroids delivered the so-called building blocks of life to our planet Earth millions of years ago. These amazing findings not only provide proof about the chemical processes that took place in the primordial solar system, but also raise new questions about the potential for life elsewhere in the cosmos. Also read | Sunita Williams witnesses 16 New Year sunrises. Science explains how 'Exciting' discovery "This is all very exciting because it suggests that asteroids like Bennu once acted like giant chemical factories in space and could have also delivered the raw ingredients for life to Earth and other bodies in our solar system," said Dr Daniel P Glavin, senior scientist for samples return at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, as cited by CNN. Glavin, the lead author of the study published Wednesday in the journal Nature Astronomy, revealed that his team of scientists found building blocks of life, such as amino acids and even components found in DNA in the asteroid samples. A separate paper, also published Wednesday in the journal Nature, also uncovered salts and minerals crucial to life, including some never seen in asteroid samples before, within Bennu’s rocks. Also read | From Sci-Fi to Science: Groundbreaking discovery of 'negative time' using quantum physics Results of both the papers were shared during a NASA press conference on Wednesday, where they were labelled "groundbreaking scientific discovery," by Nicky Fox, associate administrator for NASA’s Science Mission Directorate. Historic sample collection These historic samples were collected by NASA's OSIRIS-REx (Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification and Security-Regolith Explorer) mission in October 2020. It was the first time that the US sent a spacecraft to briefly land on the near-Earth asteroid and collect a sample, which was then distributed among scientists from across the world. The samples are the first pristine material retrieved from an asteroid by the US. Rigorous precautions ensured that the samples were uncontaminated by Earth's environment, preserving their extraterrestrial integrity. Also read | Woman dressed as mermaid is almost swallowed by huge fish in Chinese aquarium, horrific video goes viral Key discoveries in Bennu's composition Scientists have identified a rich array of organic molecules, including 33 amino acids, essential for building proteins, and all five nucleobases found in DNA and RNA—adenine, guanine, cytosine, thymine, and uracil. What makes the discovery even more special is that unlike meteorites, which are exposed to heat and Earth's atmosphere upon entry, Bennu's samples are pristine. This provides stronger evidence that the building blocks of life found on the asteroid were formed in space. Bennu's samples also contained minerals such as sodium phosphates, carbonates, and sulfates, along with traces of ancient water locked within the asteroid's crystalline structures. These elements, particularly ammonia and nitrogen-rich compounds. Scientists believed that Bennu originated from a larger parent asteroid, formed about 4.5 billion years ago in the solar system's cold outer regions. Their analyses have revealed that water once flowed within Bennu's parent body, leaving behind brine pockets rich in salts and minerals. These environments may have created conditions for complex organic molecules to form. Sodium carbonate, a mineral never before seen in asteroid samples was also detected, which points to processes similar to those on Earth's dry lakebeds. (With inputs from agencies)

Asteroid Bennu sample proves humans are, in fact, made of stardust: Study

A new study has linked common medicines like antibiotics, antivirals and vaccinations with a reduced risk of dementia.
Following a systematic review of existing medicines across 14 studies and covering over a million cases of dementia, researchers have identified dozens of medications which could be linked with the risk of dementia.
While the results are not &ldquo;immediately clear&rdquo;, the research has highlighted some intriguing patterns.
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Four vaccines, including those that protect against diphtheria, hepatitis A, typhoid, and combined hep A and typhoid, have been associated with a decreased risk of dementia between 8 and 32 per cent.
While the reason for this is not clear, the international team of researchers noted that common risk factors for dementia are viral and bacterial infections. &ldquo;There is increasing interest in vaccination as being generally protective,&rdquo; according to the study.
&ldquo;Our findings support these hypotheses and lend further weight to these agents as being potentially disease-modifying or preventative for dementia,&rdquo; the team concludes.
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<h2>Progress in dementia treatment</h2>
While the research only reveals the associations between the two, the cause behind dementia or how these medications might help in preventing it is not known yet. However, the link opens the door to scientists for further research in the right direction.
Despite decades of research and billions of dollars in investment in the area, only a few drugs have been approved for dementia, most of which are only focused on treating the systems, while others result in severe side effects.
However, identifying those drugs among the sheer volume of available drugs is not an easy task.
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&ldquo;Pooling these massive health data sets provides one source of evidence which we can use to help us focus on which drugs we should try first,&rdquo; explains old-age psychiatrist Benjamin Underwood from the University of Cambridge. He led the recent review with dementia researcher Ilianna Lourida from the University of Exeter. The study was published in Alzheimer's and Dementia: Translational Research &amp; Clinical Interventions.
<h2>Link with other medications</h2>
A drug used to induce labour was found to protect the ageing of brains in mice. In humans, popular diabetes and weight loss drugs, like Ozempic, were shown to reduce the risk of dementia.
The researchers also discovered that anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen may also be linked with reduced risk of dementia. On the other hand, antihypertensives and antidepressants showed conflicting results.
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Recent studies have indicated that dementia may occur due to brain issues from high blood pressure or chronic inflammation. However, further research is needed to determine whether the medications prescribed for the treatment of those issues play a role in cognitive decline and their impact on dementia risk.
&ldquo;We're hopeful this will mean we can find some much-needed new treatments for dementia and speed up the process of getting them to patients,&rdquo; said Underwood.
&ldquo;If we can find drugs that are already licensed for other conditions, then we can get them into trials and, crucially, may be able to make them available to patients much, much faster than we could do for an entirely new drug.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

Science & tech | Health and Wellness: Despite decades of research and billions of dollars in investment, only a few drugs have been approved for dementia and most are only focused on treating the systems, while others result in severe side effects.

A new study has linked common medicines like antibiotics, antivirals and vaccinations with a reduced risk of dementia. Following a systematic review of existing medicines across 14 studies and covering over a million cases of dementia, researchers have identified dozens of medications which could be linked with the risk of dementia. While the results are not “immediately clear”, the research has highlighted some intriguing patterns. Also read | Men have grown faster than women over last century, study reveals Four vaccines, including those that protect against diphtheria, hepatitis A, typhoid, and combined hep A and typhoid, have been associated with a decreased risk of dementia between 8 and 32 per cent. While the reason for this is not clear, the international team of researchers noted that common risk factors for dementia are viral and bacterial infections. “There is increasing interest in vaccination as being generally protective,” according to the study. “Our findings support these hypotheses and lend further weight to these agents as being potentially disease-modifying or preventative for dementia,” the team concludes. Also read | Weight-loss drugs show wide health benefits, but risks remain: Study Progress in dementia treatment While the research only reveals the associations between the two, the cause behind dementia or how these medications might help in preventing it is not known yet. However, the link opens the door to scientists for further research in the right direction. Despite decades of research and billions of dollars in investment in the area, only a few drugs have been approved for dementia, most of which are only focused on treating the systems, while others result in severe side effects. However, identifying those drugs among the sheer volume of available drugs is not an easy task. Also read | Coffee linked to lower dementia risk: Study highlights unsweetened, caffeinated coffee benefits “Pooling these massive health data sets provides one source of evidence which we can use to help us focus on which drugs we should try first,” explains old-age psychiatrist Benjamin Underwood from the University of Cambridge. He led the recent review with dementia researcher Ilianna Lourida from the University of Exeter. The study was published in Alzheimer's and Dementia: Translational Research & Clinical Interventions. Link with other medications A drug used to induce labour was found to protect the ageing of brains in mice. In humans, popular diabetes and weight loss drugs, like Ozempic, were shown to reduce the risk of dementia. The researchers also discovered that anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen may also be linked with reduced risk of dementia. On the other hand, antihypertensives and antidepressants showed conflicting results. Also read | In a first, UK surgeons remove brain tumour through eye socket via keyhole surgery Recent studies have indicated that dementia may occur due to brain issues from high blood pressure or chronic inflammation. However, further research is needed to determine whether the medications prescribed for the treatment of those issues play a role in cognitive decline and their impact on dementia risk. “We're hopeful this will mean we can find some much-needed new treatments for dementia and speed up the process of getting them to patients,” said Underwood. “If we can find drugs that are already licensed for other conditions, then we can get them into trials and, crucially, may be able to make them available to patients much, much faster than we could do for an entirely new drug.” (With inputs from agencies)

Common medicines may reduce risk of dementia, new study suggests

A new study has revealed that men across the world have gained height and weight twice as fast as women over the last century, leading to larger differences between the sexes.
The study &lsquo;The sexy and formidable male body: men&rsquo;s height and weight are condition-dependent, sexually selected traits&rsquo; was published in Biology Letters.
&ldquo;We&rsquo;re seeing insights into how sexual selection has shaped the male and female body and how improved environments, in terms of food and a lower burden of disease, have freed us from our shackles,&rdquo; said Lewis Halsey, professor at the University of Roehampton, who led the research, according to the Guardian report.
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Halsey and his team used data from the World Health Organization, the UK, and overseas authorities records to observe the changes in height and weight compared with living conditions, which were measured by the human development index (HDI). The HDI is determined on the basis of life expectancy, time in education, and per capita income and lies between zero and one.
The records from dozens of countries were examined to determine changes in height and weight of both sexes for every 0.2 point increase in HDI. On average, women were 1.7 cm taller and 2.7 kg heavier, while men were 4 cm taller and 6.5 kg heavier.
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The study highlighted that as living conditions improved, both height and weight increased in humans. However, the increase was twice as fast in men than in women.
The researchers also delved into historical height records of the UK to see whether similar trends were prevalent within countries. The data indicated that HDI increased from 0.8 in 1900 to 0.94 in 2022. On average, female height increased 1.9 per cent during the first half of the century from 159 cm to 162 cm. In males, the height increased by 4 per cent, from 170 cm to 177 cm.&nbsp;
&ldquo;To put this in perspective, about one in four women born in 1905 was taller than the average man born in 1905, but this dropped to about one in eight women for those born in 1958,&rdquo; Halsey said.
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<h2>Sexual preferences and taller men</h2>
The scientists also speculate that the sexual preferences of women may have driven a trend for taller, more muscular men. According to Halsey, the prime indicators of health and vitality are physique and stature. Sexual selection also prefers men who are able to protect and defend their partner and children better.
&ldquo;Women can find men&rsquo;s height attractive because, potentially, it makes them more formidable, but also because being taller suggests they are well-made,&rdquo; said Halsey. &ldquo;As they&rsquo;ve grown up, they haven&rsquo;t been affected by the slings and arrows of a bad environment, so they&rsquo;ve reached more of their height potential. It&rsquo;s an indicator that they&rsquo;re well-made.&rdquo;
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The faster increase in male height and weight than in females was &ldquo;striking&rdquo;, said Michael Wilson, professor of ecology, evolution, and behaviour at the University of Minnesota. He said that these findings were consistent with the earlier idea that females are &ldquo;the more ecologically constrained&rdquo; sex due to demands of reproduction, which was especially the case in mammals where pregnancy and nursing are &ldquo;energetically expensive&rdquo;.
&ldquo;Investment in greater body size by males appears to be sensitive to nutritional conditions,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;When men grow up with more energy-dense food, they grow bigger bodies, to a greater extent than women.
(With inputs from agencies)

Science & Tech | Science: The study highlighted that as living conditions improved, both height and weight increased in humans. However, the increase was twice as fast in men than in women.

A new study has revealed that men across the world have gained height and weight twice as fast as women over the last century, leading to larger differences between the sexes. The study ‘The sexy and formidable male body: men’s height and weight are condition-dependent, sexually selected traits’ was published in Biology Letters. “We’re seeing insights into how sexual selection has shaped the male and female body and how improved environments, in terms of food and a lower burden of disease, have freed us from our shackles,” said Lewis Halsey, professor at the University of Roehampton, who led the research, according to the Guardian report. Also read | Weight-loss drugs show wide health benefits, but risks remain: Study Halsey and his team used data from the World Health Organization, the UK, and overseas authorities records to observe the changes in height and weight compared with living conditions, which were measured by the human development index (HDI). The HDI is determined on the basis of life expectancy, time in education, and per capita income and lies between zero and one. The records from dozens of countries were examined to determine changes in height and weight of both sexes for every 0.2 point increase in HDI. On average, women were 1.7 cm taller and 2.7 kg heavier, while men were 4 cm taller and 6.5 kg heavier. Also read | Coffee linked to lower dementia risk: Study highlights unsweetened, caffeinated coffee benefits The study highlighted that as living conditions improved, both height and weight increased in humans. However, the increase was twice as fast in men than in women. The researchers also delved into historical height records of the UK to see whether similar trends were prevalent within countries. The data indicated that HDI increased from 0.8 in 1900 to 0.94 in 2022. On average, female height increased 1.9 per cent during the first half of the century from 159 cm to 162 cm. In males, the height increased by 4 per cent, from 170 cm to 177 cm. “To put this in perspective, about one in four women born in 1905 was taller than the average man born in 1905, but this dropped to about one in eight women for those born in 1958,” Halsey said. Also read | In a first, UK surgeons remove brain tumour through eye socket via keyhole surgery Sexual preferences and taller men The scientists also speculate that the sexual preferences of women may have driven a trend for taller, more muscular men. According to Halsey, the prime indicators of health and vitality are physique and stature. Sexual selection also prefers men who are able to protect and defend their partner and children better. “Women can find men’s height attractive because, potentially, it makes them more formidable, but also because being taller suggests they are well-made,” said Halsey. “As they’ve grown up, they haven’t been affected by the slings and arrows of a bad environment, so they’ve reached more of their height potential. It’s an indicator that they’re well-made.” Also read | NHS to attempt brain implant that could boost mood by using ultrasound The faster increase in male height and weight than in females was “striking”, said Michael Wilson, professor of ecology, evolution, and behaviour at the University of Minnesota. He said that these findings were consistent with the earlier idea that females are “the more ecologically constrained” sex due to demands of reproduction, which was especially the case in mammals where pregnancy and nursing are “energetically expensive”. “Investment in greater body size by males appears to be sensitive to nutritional conditions,” he said. “When men grow up with more energy-dense food, they grow bigger bodies, to a greater extent than women. (With inputs from agencies)

Men have grown faster than women over last century, study reveals

A new study has revealed that weight-loss drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy may improve overall health in surprising ways. However, researchers warn these medications also come with risks and require further investigation. &nbsp;
<h2>Key findings &nbsp;</h2>
Researchers analysed data from two million US veterans with type 2 diabetes who used Ozempic, Wegovy, or standard treatments. The study, published in Nature Medicine, highlighted several health benefits: &nbsp; - Heart health: Lower risk of heart attacks, stroke, heart failure, and high blood pressure. &nbsp; - Neurological and mental health: Reduced risk of dementia, schizophrenia, seizures, and substance abuse. &nbsp; - Other benefits: Lower rates of liver cancer, kidney disease and bacterial infections. &nbsp;
The study reported a 12 per cent reduction in Alzheimer&rsquo;s risk after just 3.5 years of using these drugs, despite their short time on the market. &nbsp;
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<h2>Risks identified&nbsp;</h2>
While the benefits are significant, the drugs are "not without risk," researchers caution. Notable side effects include: &nbsp; - Digestive issues: Nausea, stomach pain and haemorrhoids. &nbsp; - Joint and bone pain, including arthritis. &nbsp; - Inflammation in the pancreas and kidneys. &nbsp;
The most surprising finding was increased joint pain, as weight loss usually eases pressure on joints. &nbsp;
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<h2>How do these drugs work?</h2>
The active ingredient, semaglutide, mimics the hormone GLP-1, which regulates hunger by signalling the brain when the stomach is full. However, GLP-1 receptors are also found in the heart, immune system, and other parts of the body, possibly explaining the drugs&rsquo; wide-ranging effects. &nbsp;
<h2>Caution&nbsp;</h2>
The study focused mostly on white male veterans, leaving questions about female-specific effects, such as anecdotal improvements in fertility. Researchers emphasise the need for more diverse and rigorous trials to confirm these findings. &nbsp;
Experts advise using these drugs only when medically necessary, as the risks may outweigh the benefits for those not facing obesity-related health issues. Further studies are expected to shed light on their long-term effects in the coming years.

 Trending | SCIENCE & TECH| Researchers analysed data from two million US veterans with type 2 diabetes who used Ozempic, Wegovy, or standard treatments. The study, published in Nature Medicine, highlighted several health benefits.

A new study has revealed that weight-loss drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy may improve overall health in surprising ways. However, researchers warn these medications also come with risks and require further investigation. Key findings Researchers analysed data from two million US veterans with type 2 diabetes who used Ozempic, Wegovy, or standard treatments. The study, published in Nature Medicine, highlighted several health benefits: - Heart health: Lower risk of heart attacks, stroke, heart failure, and high blood pressure. - Neurological and mental health: Reduced risk of dementia, schizophrenia, seizures, and substance abuse. - Other benefits: Lower rates of liver cancer, kidney disease and bacterial infections. The study reported a 12 per cent reduction in Alzheimer’s risk after just 3.5 years of using these drugs, despite their short time on the market. Also Read | Coffee linked to lower dementia risk: Study highlights unsweetened, caffeinated coffee benefits Risks identified While the benefits are significant, the drugs are "not without risk," researchers caution. Notable side effects include: - Digestive issues: Nausea, stomach pain and haemorrhoids. - Joint and bone pain, including arthritis. - Inflammation in the pancreas and kidneys. The most surprising finding was increased joint pain, as weight loss usually eases pressure on joints. Also Read | In a first, UK surgeons remove brain tumour through eye socket via keyhole surgery How do these drugs work? The active ingredient, semaglutide, mimics the hormone GLP-1, which regulates hunger by signalling the brain when the stomach is full. However, GLP-1 receptors are also found in the heart, immune system, and other parts of the body, possibly explaining the drugs’ wide-ranging effects. Caution The study focused mostly on white male veterans, leaving questions about female-specific effects, such as anecdotal improvements in fertility. Researchers emphasise the need for more diverse and rigorous trials to confirm these findings. Experts advise using these drugs only when medically necessary, as the risks may outweigh the benefits for those not facing obesity-related health issues. Further studies are expected to shed light on their long-term effects in the coming years.

Weight-loss drugs show wide health benefits, but risks remain: Study

A recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests that older adults who drink unsweetened, caffeinated coffee may have a lower risk of developing dementia. However, the protective benefits don&rsquo;t extend to sugar-sweetened or artificially sweetened coffee, according to researchers from institutions across China. &nbsp;
<h2>Key findings from the study &nbsp;</h2>
The researchers analysed health records of 204,847 participants in the UK aged between 40 and 69 at the study's outset. Over an average period of nine years, they examined coffee consumption patterns alongside the incidence of dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases. &nbsp;
-Coffee drinkers were at least 34 per cent less likely to develop Alzheimer&rsquo;s disease and related dementias. &nbsp; - A 37 per cent reduced risk of Parkinson&rsquo;s disease was observed among coffee drinkers. &nbsp; -Coffee drinkers were 47 per cent less likely to die from neurodegenerative diseases compared to non-coffee consumers. &nbsp;
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The most significant benefits were seen in participants who consumed more than three cups of unsweetened, caffeinated coffee daily. &nbsp;
<h2>Why unsweetened, caffeinated coffee?</h2>
The study emphasises that the observed benefits are exclusive to unsweetened and caffeinated coffee. According to researchers caffeine may have protective effects on the brain. Meanwhile, sugar and artificial sweeteners might interfere with these benefits, though the exact mechanism remains unclear. &nbsp;
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"Multiple mechanisms suggest a potential connection between unsweetened and caffeinated coffee consumption and neurodegenerative diseases," the researchers noted in their paper. &nbsp;
Despite these promising findings, the study doesn&rsquo;t establish a direct causal relationship between coffee consumption and a reduced dementia risk. It&rsquo;s unclear if coffee actively protects the brain, if early dementia symptoms influence coffee consumption, or if a third unidentified factor plays a role. &nbsp;
<h2>Broader implications</h2>
These findings align with previous studies suggesting that coffee consumption might slow cognitive decline and extend lifespan. However, the researchers advise caution when adding sugar or artificial sweeteners to coffee. &nbsp;
&nbsp;

Trending | SCIENCE & TECH | Coffee linked to lower dementia risk: Study highlights unsweetened, caffeinated coffee benefits

A recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests that older adults who drink unsweetened, caffeinated coffee may have a lower risk of developing dementia. However, the protective benefits don’t extend to sugar-sweetened or artificially sweetened coffee, according to researchers from institutions across China. Key findings from the study The researchers analysed health records of 204,847 participants in the UK aged between 40 and 69 at the study's outset. Over an average period of nine years, they examined coffee consumption patterns alongside the incidence of dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases. -Coffee drinkers were at least 34 per cent less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. - A 37 per cent reduced risk of Parkinson’s disease was observed among coffee drinkers. -Coffee drinkers were 47 per cent less likely to die from neurodegenerative diseases compared to non-coffee consumers. Also Read | In a first, UK surgeons remove brain tumour through eye socket via keyhole surgery The most significant benefits were seen in participants who consumed more than three cups of unsweetened, caffeinated coffee daily. Why unsweetened, caffeinated coffee? The study emphasises that the observed benefits are exclusive to unsweetened and caffeinated coffee. According to researchers caffeine may have protective effects on the brain. Meanwhile, sugar and artificial sweeteners might interfere with these benefits, though the exact mechanism remains unclear. Also Read | NHS to attempt brain implant that could boost mood by using ultrasound "Multiple mechanisms suggest a potential connection between unsweetened and caffeinated coffee consumption and neurodegenerative diseases," the researchers noted in their paper. Despite these promising findings, the study doesn’t establish a direct causal relationship between coffee consumption and a reduced dementia risk. It’s unclear if coffee actively protects the brain, if early dementia symptoms influence coffee consumption, or if a third unidentified factor plays a role. Broader implications These findings align with previous studies suggesting that coffee consumption might slow cognitive decline and extend lifespan. However, the researchers advise caution when adding sugar or artificial sweeteners to coffee.

Coffee linked to lower dementia risk: Study highlights unsweetened, caffeinated coffee benefits

The widespread presence of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly referred to as "forever chemicals," has been raising alarm over their impact on human health for years.&nbsp;
Now, new research highlights that wildlife is also suffering from these chemicals, with freshwater turtles in Australia showing signs of significant health problems due to PFAS exposure, as reported by the website ScienceNews.
<h2>Impact on turtles' metabolic health</h2>
A study published in Science of the Total Environment on December 15, 2023, led by environmental biochemist David Beale of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), reveals that freshwater turtles exposed to PFAS in Queensland, Australia, experienced alterations in their metabolic functions. The researchers found several biomarkers indicative of potential cancer and other health issues in the reptiles.
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<h2>Study methodology and findings</h2>
Beale and his team studied freshwater turtles (Emydura macquarii) from three sites around Queensland, each with varying levels of PFAS contamination. One site had high PFAS levels, another had moderate contamination, and a third had barely detectable amounts of the chemicals, with no other contaminants present. The turtles were captured, examined, and tested for PFAS exposure. Some female turtles were hormonally induced to lay eggs, and their hatchlings, along with the adult turtles, underwent physical and chemical exams. The researchers also analysed the eggshells to explore any potential link between shell strength and PFAS exposure.
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The study revealed that like humans, these turtles transferred PFAS contamination to their offspring through fats and nutrients. Most of the chemical accumulation in the adult females was found in their ovaries, although PFAS was also detected in organs such as the liver, kidneys and heart. The hatchlings, raised in the lab, exhibited high PFAS levels and concerning deformities, particularly in their scales.&nbsp;
A particularly alarming finding was the absence of juvenile turtles in the two PFAS-contaminated sites. This could indicate that the deformities and health issues caused by PFAS are leading to shorter lifespans, either because the deformed turtles are more vulnerable to predation or because of early mortality linked to their health problems.&nbsp;
The researchers also observed differences in egg size and quantity, with turtles from the moderately polluted site laying more but smaller eggs. While this may be a sign of PFAS impact, the team could not definitively link these changes to the chemical exposure.
&nbsp;

New research highlights that wildlife is also suffering from these chemicals, with freshwater turtles in Australia showing signs of significant health problems due to PFAS exposure

The widespread presence of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly referred to as "forever chemicals," has been raising alarm over their impact on human health for years. Now, new research highlights that wildlife is also suffering from these chemicals, with freshwater turtles in Australia showing signs of significant health problems due to PFAS exposure, as reported by the website ScienceNews. Impact on turtles' metabolic health A study published in Science of the Total Environment on December 15, 2023, led by environmental biochemist David Beale of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), reveals that freshwater turtles exposed to PFAS in Queensland, Australia, experienced alterations in their metabolic functions. The researchers found several biomarkers indicative of potential cancer and other health issues in the reptiles. Also Read | New study shows AI helps find more cancer cases without causing extra harm Study methodology and findings Beale and his team studied freshwater turtles (Emydura macquarii) from three sites around Queensland, each with varying levels of PFAS contamination. One site had high PFAS levels, another had moderate contamination, and a third had barely detectable amounts of the chemicals, with no other contaminants present. The turtles were captured, examined, and tested for PFAS exposure. Some female turtles were hormonally induced to lay eggs, and their hatchlings, along with the adult turtles, underwent physical and chemical exams. The researchers also analysed the eggshells to explore any potential link between shell strength and PFAS exposure. Also Read | Rabbit fever cases surge in the US: CDC report highlights risks The study revealed that like humans, these turtles transferred PFAS contamination to their offspring through fats and nutrients. Most of the chemical accumulation in the adult females was found in their ovaries, although PFAS was also detected in organs such as the liver, kidneys and heart. The hatchlings, raised in the lab, exhibited high PFAS levels and concerning deformities, particularly in their scales. A particularly alarming finding was the absence of juvenile turtles in the two PFAS-contaminated sites. This could indicate that the deformities and health issues caused by PFAS are leading to shorter lifespans, either because the deformed turtles are more vulnerable to predation or because of early mortality linked to their health problems. The researchers also observed differences in egg size and quantity, with turtles from the moderately polluted site laying more but smaller eggs. While this may be a sign of PFAS impact, the team could not definitively link these changes to the chemical exposure.

Study finds ‘forever chemicals’ impacting wildlife health

A study published in Circulation has revealed that damaged human hearts may possess significant self-healing abilities when supported by appropriate therapy. Researchers found that these regenerative powers can even exceed those of a healthy heart under certain conditions.
<h2>Role of LVAD in heart recovery &nbsp;</h2>
The study examined 52 heart failure patients, including 28 who received a left ventricular assist device (LVAD), a surgically implanted device that helps pump blood. LVADs are typically used for life or as a bridge to heart transplants, but in some cases, the heart's recovery has been so significant that the device could be removed.
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<h2>Tracking heart cell renewal &nbsp;</h2>
By analysing radioactive carbon-14 (14C) levels in heart cells, researchers tracked the regeneration of cardiomyocytes (heart muscle cells). In damaged hearts, the regeneration rate was 18&ndash;50 times lower than in healthy hearts. However, after LVAD implantation, regeneration rates surged to up to six times faster than normal.
<h2>Exploring regeneration mechanisms &nbsp;</h2>
The researchers noted that while LVADs improved heart structure and function, the exact reasons for the enhanced cell regeneration remain unknown. Mathematical modelling and carbon tracking suggested that new cardiomyocytes were being formed during the process, highlighting the potential for advanced heart failure therapies.&nbsp;
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<h2>Future implications &nbsp;</h2>
While LVAD-supported hearts showed remarkable repair capabilities, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. According to molecular biologist Olaf Bergmann from the Karolinska Institute, the findings suggest the presence of a key trigger for activating the heart&rsquo;s natural repair mechanism. "The results suggest that there might be a hidden key to kickstart the heart's own repair mechanism," he said. Further research is essential to understand and potentially replicate this process in new therapies.

Science | Trending: The study examined 52 heart failure patients, including 28 who received a left ventricular assist device (LVAD), a surgically implanted device that helps pump blood. 

A study published in Circulation has revealed that damaged human hearts may possess significant self-healing abilities when supported by appropriate therapy. Researchers found that these regenerative powers can even exceed those of a healthy heart under certain conditions. Role of LVAD in heart recovery The study examined 52 heart failure patients, including 28 who received a left ventricular assist device (LVAD), a surgically implanted device that helps pump blood. LVADs are typically used for life or as a bridge to heart transplants, but in some cases, the heart's recovery has been so significant that the device could be removed. Also Read | Can cancer be contagious? Surgeon 'catches' rare cancer from a patient Tracking heart cell renewal By analysing radioactive carbon-14 (14C) levels in heart cells, researchers tracked the regeneration of cardiomyocytes (heart muscle cells). In damaged hearts, the regeneration rate was 18–50 times lower than in healthy hearts. However, after LVAD implantation, regeneration rates surged to up to six times faster than normal. Exploring regeneration mechanisms The researchers noted that while LVADs improved heart structure and function, the exact reasons for the enhanced cell regeneration remain unknown. Mathematical modelling and carbon tracking suggested that new cardiomyocytes were being formed during the process, highlighting the potential for advanced heart failure therapies. Also Read | Scientists solve 200-year-old mystery of climate cooling volcano Future implications While LVAD-supported hearts showed remarkable repair capabilities, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. According to molecular biologist Olaf Bergmann from the Karolinska Institute, the findings suggest the presence of a key trigger for activating the heart’s natural repair mechanism. "The results suggest that there might be a hidden key to kickstart the heart's own repair mechanism," he said. Further research is essential to understand and potentially replicate this process in new therapies.

Study reveals damaged hearts may hold self-healing ability

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning about high levels of respiratory illness activity across the United States. Respiratory illnesses, including the flu, COVID-19, and RSV activity are currently rising at elevated rates.
<h2>States with high virus activity</h2>
New Hampshire is experiencing "very high" respiratory virus activity. Eleven other states&mdash;Arizona, Delaware, Georgia, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin&mdash;are reporting "high" activity. This reflects a widespread increase in cases of flu, COVID-19, and RSV across the country, as reported by abc news.
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<h2>Vaccination rates are low, but vaccines are available</h2>
Vaccines for the flu and COVID-19 are available for both children and adults, and RSV vaccines are available for certain groups of adults. However, the CDC highlights that vaccination coverage remains low, leaving many people without protection from these viruses.
<h2>Flu, COVID-19 and RSV cases on the rise</h2>
The CDC reports that flu, COVID-19, and RSV cases are all on the rise. The number of emergency department visits has increased, along with the number of positive tests for these viruses.&nbsp;
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As of December 21, the CDC estimates that there have been 3.1 million flu illnesses, 37,000 hospitalisations, and 1,500 deaths from the flu so far this season. COVID-19 cases are also rising, with higher levels of the virus detected in wastewater and an increase in emergency visits.&nbsp;
RSV is also a growing concern, especially among young children and older adults. The CDC has reported rising hospitalisations in both groups, with some areas seeing more severe cases.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: The CDC has alerted the public about a surge in respiratory illnesses, highlighting a widespread concern across the nation that requires attention and caution.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning about high levels of respiratory illness activity across the United States. Respiratory illnesses, including the flu, COVID-19, and RSV activity are currently rising at elevated rates. States with high virus activity New Hampshire is experiencing "very high" respiratory virus activity. Eleven other states—Arizona, Delaware, Georgia, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin—are reporting "high" activity. This reflects a widespread increase in cases of flu, COVID-19, and RSV across the country, as reported by abc news. Also Read | Smoking one cigarette can take away 20 minutes of your life, study finds Vaccination rates are low, but vaccines are available Vaccines for the flu and COVID-19 are available for both children and adults, and RSV vaccines are available for certain groups of adults. However, the CDC highlights that vaccination coverage remains low, leaving many people without protection from these viruses. Flu, COVID-19 and RSV cases on the rise The CDC reports that flu, COVID-19, and RSV cases are all on the rise. The number of emergency department visits has increased, along with the number of positive tests for these viruses. Also Read | Study reveals too much sitting can undermine exercise benefits As of December 21, the CDC estimates that there have been 3.1 million flu illnesses, 37,000 hospitalisations, and 1,500 deaths from the flu so far this season. COVID-19 cases are also rising, with higher levels of the virus detected in wastewater and an increase in emergency visits. RSV is also a growing concern, especially among young children and older adults. The CDC has reported rising hospitalisations in both groups, with some areas seeing more severe cases. (With inputs from agencies)

High respiratory virus activity surges across US, warns CDC

California, United States
Researchers from the California Institute of Technology have quantified the speed of the human brain at which it processes information, revealing we may not be as sharp as we might think. The study has opened new avenues of exploration for neuroscience.
The study has revealed that the speed of human thought is just 10 bits per second, much less than what we’d like to imagine. Our brain processes thoughts one at a time, making it a slow and crowded queue.
This new information is in contrast to the way the peripheral nervous system functions, processing gigabits of sensory data in a second, raising many questions for scientists.
The research led by neurobiologist Jieyu Zheng was conducted in the laboratory of Markus Meister and published in the journal Neuron on December 17.
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“This is an extremely low number,” Meister says. “Every moment, we are extracting just 10 bits from the trillion that our senses are taking in and using those 10 to perceive the world around us and make decisions. This raises a paradox: What is the brain doing to filter all of this information?”
Zheng and Meister have highlighted in their published paper that despite the richness in our mind’s eye, photographic memory, and unconscious processing, the brain really does operate at a sluggish pace, which rarely goes above 10 bits a second.
According to the researchers, the brain processes at just under 12 bits a second while solving a Rubik’s cube blindfolded and around 10 bits while playing a strategy video game. 
“The current understanding is not commensurate with the enormous processing resources available, and we have seen no viable proposal for what would create a neural bottleneck that forces single-strand operation,” the authors write.
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With over 85 billion neurons in the brain that form trillions of connections, allowing us to feel and think, why each of them can’t process collectively at a faster speed is not known.
“Our ancestors have chosen an ecological niche where the world is slow enough to make survival possible,” Zheng and Meister write. “In fact, the 10 bits per second are needed only in worst-case situations, and most of the time our environment changes at a much more leisurely pace.”
Scientists have suggested developing an interface that can link brains and computers for humans to communicate faster than the normal pace of speaking or typing, the new study has shown that our brains can only communicate at the same speed of 10 bits per second.
(With inputs from agencies)

The new information is in contrast to the way the peripheral nervous system functions, processing gigabits of sensory data in a second, raising many questions for scientists



California, United States Researchers from the California Institute of Technology have quantified the speed of the human brain at which it processes information, revealing we may not be as sharp as we might think. The study has opened new avenues of exploration for neuroscience. The study has revealed that the speed of human thought is just 10 bits per second, much less than what we’d like to imagine. Our brain processes thoughts one at a time, making it a slow and crowded queue. This new information is in contrast to the way the peripheral nervous system functions, processing gigabits of sensory data in a second, raising many questions for scientists. The research led by neurobiologist Jieyu Zheng was conducted in the laboratory of Markus Meister and published in the journal Neuron on December 17. Also read | Having your tonsils removed as a child may increase the risk of stress disorders: Study “This is an extremely low number,” Meister says. “Every moment, we are extracting just 10 bits from the trillion that our senses are taking in and using those 10 to perceive the world around us and make decisions. This raises a paradox: What is the brain doing to filter all of this information?” Zheng and Meister have highlighted in their published paper that despite the richness in our mind’s eye, photographic memory, and unconscious processing, the brain really does operate at a sluggish pace, which rarely goes above 10 bits a second. According to the researchers, the brain processes at just under 12 bits a second while solving a Rubik’s cube blindfolded and around 10 bits while playing a strategy video game. “The current understanding is not commensurate with the enormous processing resources available, and we have seen no viable proposal for what would create a neural bottleneck that forces single-strand operation,” the authors write. Also read | Ageing a thing of the past? New study finds 70 is the new 60 because... With over 85 billion neurons in the brain that form trillions of connections, allowing us to feel and think, why each of them can’t process collectively at a faster speed is not known. “Our ancestors have chosen an ecological niche where the world is slow enough to make survival possible,” Zheng and Meister write. “In fact, the 10 bits per second are needed only in worst-case situations, and most of the time our environment changes at a much more leisurely pace.” Scientists have suggested developing an interface that can link brains and computers for humans to communicate faster than the normal pace of speaking or typing, the new study has shown that our brains can only communicate at the same speed of 10 bits per second. (With inputs from agencies)

Our brain is not as fast as we might think, study reveals speed of human thought

Researchers from the California Institute of Technology have quantified the speed of the human brain at which it processes information, revealing we may not be as sharp as we might think. The study has opened new avenues of exploration for neuroscience.

The study has revealed that the speed of human thought is just 10 bits per second, much less than what we’d like to imagine. Our brain processes thoughts one at a time, making it a slow and crowded queue.

This new information is in contrast to the way the peripheral nervous system functions, processing gigabits of sensory data in a second, raising many questions for scientists.

The research led by neurobiologist Jieyu Zheng was conducted in the laboratory of Markus Meister and published in the journal Neuron on December 17.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/having-your-tonsils-removed-as-a-child-may-increase-the-risk-of-stress-disorders-study-785951">Having your tonsils removed as a child may increase the risk of stress disorders: Study</a>

“This is an extremely low number,” Meister says. “Every moment, we are extracting just 10 bits from the trillion that our senses are taking in and using those 10 to perceive the world around us and make decisions. This raises a paradox: What is the brain doing to filter all of this information?”

Zheng and Meister have highlighted in their published paper that despite the richness in our mind’s eye, photographic memory, and unconscious processing, the brain really does operate at a sluggish pace, which rarely goes above 10 bits a second.

According to the researchers, the brain processes at just under 12 bits a second while solving a Rubik’s cube blindfolded and around 10 bits while playing a strategy video game.&nbsp;

“The current understanding is not commensurate with the enormous processing resources available, and we have seen no viable proposal for what would create a neural bottleneck that forces single-strand operation,” the authors write.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/aging-a-thing-of-the-past-new-study-finds-70-is-the-new-60-785451">Ageing a thing of the past? New study finds 70 is the new 60 because...</a>

With over 85 billion neurons in the brain that form trillions of connections, allowing us to feel and think, why each of them can’t process collectively at a faster speed is not known.

“Our ancestors have chosen an ecological niche where the world is slow enough to make survival possible,” Zheng and Meister write. “In fact, the 10 bits per second are needed only in worst-case situations, and most of the time our environment changes at a much more leisurely pace.”

Scientists have suggested developing an interface that can link brains and computers for humans to communicate faster than the normal pace of speaking or typing, the new study has shown that our brains can only communicate at the same speed of 10 bits per second.

(With inputs from agencies)

Researchers from the California Institute of Technology have quantified the speed of the human brain at which it processes information, revealing we may not be as sharp as we might think.

Researchers from the California Institute of Technology have quantified the speed of the human brain at which it processes information, revealing we may not be as sharp as we might think. The study has opened new avenues of exploration for neuroscience. The study has revealed that the speed of human thought is just 10 bits per second, much less than what we’d like to imagine. Our brain processes thoughts one at a time, making it a slow and crowded queue. This new information is in contrast to the way the peripheral nervous system functions, processing gigabits of sensory data in a second, raising many questions for scientists. The research led by neurobiologist Jieyu Zheng was conducted in the laboratory of Markus Meister and published in the journal Neuron on December 17. Also read | Having your tonsils removed as a child may increase the risk of stress disorders: Study “This is an extremely low number,” Meister says. “Every moment, we are extracting just 10 bits from the trillion that our senses are taking in and using those 10 to perceive the world around us and make decisions. This raises a paradox: What is the brain doing to filter all of this information?” Zheng and Meister have highlighted in their published paper that despite the richness in our mind’s eye, photographic memory, and unconscious processing, the brain really does operate at a sluggish pace, which rarely goes above 10 bits a second. According to the researchers, the brain processes at just under 12 bits a second while solving a Rubik’s cube blindfolded and around 10 bits while playing a strategy video game. “The current understanding is not commensurate with the enormous processing resources available, and we have seen no viable proposal for what would create a neural bottleneck that forces single-strand operation,” the authors write. Also read | Ageing a thing of the past? New study finds 70 is the new 60 because... With over 85 billion neurons in the brain that form trillions of connections, allowing us to feel and think, why each of them can’t process collectively at a faster speed is not known. “Our ancestors have chosen an ecological niche where the world is slow enough to make survival possible,” Zheng and Meister write. “In fact, the 10 bits per second are needed only in worst-case situations, and most of the time our environment changes at a much more leisurely pace.” Scientists have suggested developing an interface that can link brains and computers for humans to communicate faster than the normal pace of speaking or typing, the new study has shown that our brains can only communicate at the same speed of 10 bits per second. (With inputs from agencies)

Stockholm, Sweden
A new study has revealed that surgical removal of tonsils as a child can increase the risk of developing an anxiety-related disorder later in life.
In the US, around 300,000 children get their tonsils removed surgically to reduce recurrent infections or improve breathing while sleeping. 
Researchers from Guangxi Medical University in China and the Karolinska Institute in Sweden discovered that tonsillectomy led to a 43 per cent increased risk of developing mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after examining data on over a million people from Swedish health registry.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/aging-a-thing-of-the-past-new-study-finds-70-is-the-new-60-785451">Ageing a thing of the past? New study finds 70 is the new 60 because...</a>
While this observational study could not pinpoint the cause of it, the analysis revealed a significant risk even after considering the sex, age when their tonsils were removed, family history of stress-related disorders, and socioeconomic status of their parents.
According to the researchers, “These findings suggest a potential role of adenotonsillar diseases or associated health conditions in the development of stress-related disorders.”
“We found that although the risk increase appeared to be greatest during the first years following surgery, an increased risk of stress-related disorders was still noted more than 20 years after the surgery.”
The study, which was published in JAMA Network Open, showed an increased risk of 55 per cent for developing PTSD for those who had tonsillectomies in their early years, compared with those who hadn’t.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mystery-illness-dinga-dinga-leaves-300-in-uganda-shaking-uncontrollably-785363">Mystery illness 'Dinga Dinga' leaves 300 in Uganda shaking uncontrollably</a>
The scientists also studied samples while considering genetic and environmental factors, which revealed a greater risk of anxiety disorders of 34 per cent for those family members who had their tonsils removed.
While we do not necessarily need tonsils to live, they help the body fight infections and their absence can make us more susceptible to developing certain health conditions, including anxiety-related disorders and persistent inflammation.
Previous studies have indicated that tonsillectomy may increase the risk of other health problems like cancer and autoimmune diseases.
The research team also highlighted, “If our findings here are validated in future studies of independent study populations, mechanistic studies would be needed to disentangle the role of human tonsils and their diseases, via inflammation or other associated health conditions, in the development of psychiatric disorders in general and stress-related disorders specifically.”
(With inputs from agencies)

The study, which was published in JAMA Network Open, showed an increased risk of 55 per cent for developing PTSD for those who had tonsillectomies in their early years, compared with those who hadn’t



Stockholm, Sweden A new study has revealed that surgical removal of tonsils as a child can increase the risk of developing an anxiety-related disorder later in life. In the US, around 300,000 children get their tonsils removed surgically to reduce recurrent infections or improve breathing while sleeping. Researchers from Guangxi Medical University in China and the Karolinska Institute in Sweden discovered that tonsillectomy led to a 43 per cent increased risk of developing mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after examining data on over a million people from Swedish health registry. Also read | Ageing a thing of the past? New study finds 70 is the new 60 because... While this observational study could not pinpoint the cause of it, the analysis revealed a significant risk even after considering the sex, age when their tonsils were removed, family history of stress-related disorders, and socioeconomic status of their parents. According to the researchers, “These findings suggest a potential role of adenotonsillar diseases or associated health conditions in the development of stress-related disorders.” “We found that although the risk increase appeared to be greatest during the first years following surgery, an increased risk of stress-related disorders was still noted more than 20 years after the surgery.” The study, which was published in JAMA Network Open, showed an increased risk of 55 per cent for developing PTSD for those who had tonsillectomies in their early years, compared with those who hadn’t. Also read | Mystery illness 'Dinga Dinga' leaves 300 in Uganda shaking uncontrollably The scientists also studied samples while considering genetic and environmental factors, which revealed a greater risk of anxiety disorders of 34 per cent for those family members who had their tonsils removed. While we do not necessarily need tonsils to live, they help the body fight infections and their absence can make us more susceptible to developing certain health conditions, including anxiety-related disorders and persistent inflammation. Previous studies have indicated that tonsillectomy may increase the risk of other health problems like cancer and autoimmune diseases. The research team also highlighted, “If our findings here are validated in future studies of independent study populations, mechanistic studies would be needed to disentangle the role of human tonsils and their diseases, via inflammation or other associated health conditions, in the development of psychiatric disorders in general and stress-related disorders specifically.” (With inputs from agencies)

Having your tonsils removed as a child may increase the risk of stress disorders: Study

A new study has revealed that surgical removal of tonsils as a child can increase the risk of developing an anxiety-related disorder later in life.

In the US, around 300,000 children get their tonsils removed surgically to reduce recurrent infections or improve breathing while sleeping.&nbsp;

Researchers from Guangxi Medical University in China and the Karolinska Institute in Sweden discovered that tonsillectomy led to a 43 per cent increased risk of developing mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after examining data on over a million people from Swedish health registry.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/aging-a-thing-of-the-past-new-study-finds-70-is-the-new-60-785451">Ageing a thing of the past? New study finds 70 is the new 60 because...</a>

While this observational study could not pinpoint the cause of it, the analysis revealed a significant risk even after considering the sex, age when their tonsils were removed, family history of stress-related disorders, and socioeconomic status of their parents.

According to the researchers, “These findings suggest a potential role of adenotonsillar diseases or associated health conditions in the development of stress-related disorders.”

“We found that although the risk increase appeared to be greatest during the first years following surgery, an increased risk of stress-related disorders was still noted more than 20 years after the surgery.”

The study, which was published in JAMA Network Open, showed an increased risk of 55 per cent for developing PTSD for those who had tonsillectomies in their early years, compared with those who hadn’t.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mystery-illness-dinga-dinga-leaves-300-in-uganda-shaking-uncontrollably-785363">Mystery illness 'Dinga Dinga' leaves 300 in Uganda shaking uncontrollably</a>

The scientists also studied samples while considering genetic and environmental factors, which revealed a greater risk of anxiety disorders of 34 per cent for those family members who had their tonsils removed.

While we do not necessarily need tonsils to live, they help the body fight infections and their absence can make us more susceptible to developing certain health conditions, including anxiety-related disorders and persistent inflammation.

Previous studies have indicated that tonsillectomy may increase the risk of other health problems like cancer and autoimmune diseases.

The research team also highlighted, “If our findings here are validated in future studies of independent study populations, mechanistic studies would be needed to disentangle the role of human tonsils and their diseases, via inflammation or other associated health conditions, in the development of psychiatric disorders in general and stress-related disorders specifically.”

(With inputs from agencies)

A new study has revealed that surgical removal of tonsils as a child can increase the risk of developing an anxiety-related disorder later in life. In the US, around 300,000 children get their tonsils removed surgically to reduce recurrent infections or improve breathing while sleeping.

A new study has revealed that surgical removal of tonsils as a child can increase the risk of developing an anxiety-related disorder later in life. In the US, around 300,000 children get their tonsils removed surgically to reduce recurrent infections or improve breathing while sleeping. Researchers from Guangxi Medical University in China and the Karolinska Institute in Sweden discovered that tonsillectomy led to a 43 per cent increased risk of developing mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after examining data on over a million people from Swedish health registry. Also read | Ageing a thing of the past? New study finds 70 is the new 60 because... While this observational study could not pinpoint the cause of it, the analysis revealed a significant risk even after considering the sex, age when their tonsils were removed, family history of stress-related disorders, and socioeconomic status of their parents. According to the researchers, “These findings suggest a potential role of adenotonsillar diseases or associated health conditions in the development of stress-related disorders.” “We found that although the risk increase appeared to be greatest during the first years following surgery, an increased risk of stress-related disorders was still noted more than 20 years after the surgery.” The study, which was published in JAMA Network Open, showed an increased risk of 55 per cent for developing PTSD for those who had tonsillectomies in their early years, compared with those who hadn’t. Also read | Mystery illness 'Dinga Dinga' leaves 300 in Uganda shaking uncontrollably The scientists also studied samples while considering genetic and environmental factors, which revealed a greater risk of anxiety disorders of 34 per cent for those family members who had their tonsils removed. While we do not necessarily need tonsils to live, they help the body fight infections and their absence can make us more susceptible to developing certain health conditions, including anxiety-related disorders and persistent inflammation. Previous studies have indicated that tonsillectomy may increase the risk of other health problems like cancer and autoimmune diseases. The research team also highlighted, “If our findings here are validated in future studies of independent study populations, mechanistic studies would be needed to disentangle the role of human tonsils and their diseases, via inflammation or other associated health conditions, in the development of psychiatric disorders in general and stress-related disorders specifically.” (With inputs from agencies)

Sydney, Australia
When you make a wish upon a star, it’s easy to imagine that the light you’re seeing may be ancient, perhaps from a star that has already burned out. 
However, as per Science Alert, this idea is more myth than reality. Laura Nicole Driessen, a postdoctoral researcher in radio astronomy at the University of Sydney, explains that the stars we see in the night sky are likely still alive and shining brightly.
<h2>Stars are closer than you think</h2>
A common misconception is that the stars we wish upon are "millions of light years away." As Driessen explains, most of the stars we can see are actually much closer.
All visible stars are within our galaxy, the Milky Way, which is about 100,000 light-years across. The furthest stars visible to the naked eye are only about 74,000 light years away, as per Science Alert reports—far less than the "millions of light years" often cited.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/jupiters-most-volcanic-moon-io-doesnt-have-an-ocean-of-magma-beneath-it-study-784691">Jupiter's most volcanic moon Io doesn't have an ocean of magma beneath it: Study</a>
<h2>Stars live longer than you expect</h2>
Driessen points out that many visible stars, including those in the Yale Bright Star Catalogue, can live for billions of years. While some massive stars have shorter lifespans, lasting only a few hundred thousand years, many stars visible to us are "main sequence" stars, which live for billions of years. Even giant stars can last long enough for your wish to travel to them, says Driessen, making the likelihood of wishing on a dead star quite low.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/saturns-rings-may-have-existed-since-the-solar-system-was-created-study-784694">Saturn's rings may have existed since the Solar System was created: Study</a>
If you’re still concerned about wishing upon a star that might no longer exist, Driessen suggests Alpha Centauri as a safe bet. Located just four light years away, Alpha Centauri is the closest star system to Earth. With three stars in the system, there’s no shortage of options for your wish to reach a star that’s still shining, and it will remain stable for a long time, as Science Alert notes.
So next time you make a wish, rest assured that the star you're wishing on is likely still very much alive.
(With inputs from agencies)

A common misconception is that the stars we wish upon are "millions of light years away." As Driessen explains, most of the stars we can see are actually much closer.



Sydney, Australia When you make a wish upon a star, it’s easy to imagine that the light you’re seeing may be ancient, perhaps from a star that has already burned out. However, as per Science Alert, this idea is more myth than reality. Laura Nicole Driessen, a postdoctoral researcher in radio astronomy at the University of Sydney, explains that the stars we see in the night sky are likely still alive and shining brightly. Stars are closer than you think A common misconception is that the stars we wish upon are "millions of light years away." As Driessen explains, most of the stars we can see are actually much closer. All visible stars are within our galaxy, the Milky Way, which is about 100,000 light-years across. The furthest stars visible to the naked eye are only about 74,000 light years away, as per Science Alert reports—far less than the "millions of light years" often cited. Also read | Jupiter's most volcanic moon Io doesn't have an ocean of magma beneath it: Study Stars live longer than you expect Driessen points out that many visible stars, including those in the Yale Bright Star Catalogue, can live for billions of years. While some massive stars have shorter lifespans, lasting only a few hundred thousand years, many stars visible to us are "main sequence" stars, which live for billions of years. Even giant stars can last long enough for your wish to travel to them, says Driessen, making the likelihood of wishing on a dead star quite low. Also read | Saturn's rings may have existed since the Solar System was created: Study If you’re still concerned about wishing upon a star that might no longer exist, Driessen suggests Alpha Centauri as a safe bet. Located just four light years away, Alpha Centauri is the closest star system to Earth. With three stars in the system, there’s no shortage of options for your wish to reach a star that’s still shining, and it will remain stable for a long time, as Science Alert notes. So next time you make a wish, rest assured that the star you're wishing on is likely still very much alive. (With inputs from agencies)

Experts reveal the truth about wishing on a star

A new study suggests that intelligence is determined by how the brain is wired, drawing parallels between brain function and internet connectivity. The research highlights the importance of brain networks in shaping cognitive abilities.

Study Compares Brain Function To The Internet, Defines Intelligence By Brain Wiring

A new study suggests that intelligence is determined by how the brain is wired, drawing parallels between brain function and internet connectivity. The research highlights the importance of brain networks in shaping cognitive abilities.



When you make a wish upon a star, it’s easy to imagine that the light you’re seeing may be ancient, perhaps from a star that has already burned out.&nbsp;

However, as per&nbsp;Science Alert, this idea is more myth than reality. Laura Nicole Driessen, a postdoctoral researcher in radio astronomy at the University of Sydney, explains that the stars we see in the night sky are likely still alive and shining brightly.

<h2>Stars are closer than you think</h2>

A common misconception is that the stars we wish upon are "millions of light years away." As Driessen explains, most of the stars we can see are actually much closer.

All visible stars are within our galaxy, the Milky Way, which is about 100,000 light-years across. The furthest stars visible to the naked eye are only about 74,000 light years away, as per Science Alert reports—far less than the "millions of light years" often cited.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/jupiters-most-volcanic-moon-io-doesnt-have-an-ocean-of-magma-beneath-it-study-784691">Jupiter's most&nbsp;volcanic moon Io doesn't have an ocean of magma beneath it: Study</a>

<h2>Stars live longer than you expect</h2>

Driessen points out that many visible stars, including those in the Yale Bright Star Catalogue, can live for billions of years. While some massive stars have shorter lifespans, lasting only a few hundred thousand years, many stars visible to us are "main sequence" stars, which live for billions of years. Even giant stars can last long enough for your wish to travel to them, says Driessen, making the likelihood of wishing on a dead star quite low.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/saturns-rings-may-have-existed-since-the-solar-system-was-created-study-784694">Saturn's rings may have existed since the Solar System was created: Study</a>

If you’re still concerned about wishing upon a star that might no longer exist, Driessen suggests Alpha Centauri as a safe bet. Located just four light years away, Alpha Centauri is the closest star system to Earth. With three stars in the system, there’s no shortage of options for your wish to reach a star that’s still shining, and it will remain stable for a long time, as Science Alert notes.

So next time you make a wish, rest assured that the star you're wishing on is likely still very much alive.

(With inputs from agencies)

When you make a wish upon a star, it’s easy to imagine that the light you’re seeing may be ancient, perhaps from a star that has already burned out. However, as per Science Alert, this idea is more myth than reality.

When you make a wish upon a star, it’s easy to imagine that the light you’re seeing may be ancient, perhaps from a star that has already burned out. However, as per Science Alert, this idea is more myth than reality. Laura Nicole Driessen, a postdoctoral researcher in radio astronomy at the University of Sydney, explains that the stars we see in the night sky are likely still alive and shining brightly. Stars are closer than you think A common misconception is that the stars we wish upon are "millions of light years away." As Driessen explains, most of the stars we can see are actually much closer. All visible stars are within our galaxy, the Milky Way, which is about 100,000 light-years across. The furthest stars visible to the naked eye are only about 74,000 light years away, as per Science Alert reports—far less than the "millions of light years" often cited. Also read | Jupiter's most volcanic moon Io doesn't have an ocean of magma beneath it: Study Stars live longer than you expect Driessen points out that many visible stars, including those in the Yale Bright Star Catalogue, can live for billions of years. While some massive stars have shorter lifespans, lasting only a few hundred thousand years, many stars visible to us are "main sequence" stars, which live for billions of years. Even giant stars can last long enough for your wish to travel to them, says Driessen, making the likelihood of wishing on a dead star quite low. Also read | Saturn's rings may have existed since the Solar System was created: Study If you’re still concerned about wishing upon a star that might no longer exist, Driessen suggests Alpha Centauri as a safe bet. Located just four light years away, Alpha Centauri is the closest star system to Earth. With three stars in the system, there’s no shortage of options for your wish to reach a star that’s still shining, and it will remain stable for a long time, as Science Alert notes. So next time you make a wish, rest assured that the star you're wishing on is likely still very much alive. (With inputs from agencies)

New Delhi, India
Scientists believed that Saturn did not always have rings and they had been created more than 100 to 400 million years ago. 
Now in a new study, researchers from the French National Centre for Scientific Research and the Institute of Science Tokyo have found that the rings of Saturn may not have been ancient but as old as the Solar System.
"Data from the Cassini spacecraft suggested the rings might be young because they appear so clean, and many people simply accepted that conclusion. However, our theoretical work now shows that a clean appearance does not necessarily mean the rings are young," said planetary scientist Ryuki Hyodo of the Institute of Science Tokyo, while speaking to ScienceAlert.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-warns-asteroids-2024-xy5-and-2024-xb6-race-toward-earth-but-are-they-really-a-threat-784185">NASA warns, asteroids 2024 XY5 and 2024 XB6 race toward Earth — but are they really a threat?</a>
"So, I think this is an important insight for guiding future planetary exploration missions; you better not be fooled by its first glance," he added. 
<h2>Saturn and its rings</h2>
In the Solar System, other giant planets also have rings, but they are not as majestic as that of Saturn.
The ethereal rings are present around Jupiter, Uranus, and Neptune, however, they are not visible till seen from the right wavelengths.
However, in the case of Saturn, its extensive rings define the planet. There is a high possibility that the rings could be a common phenomenon outside the Solar System because there are a large number of gas giant exoplanets present in the universe. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/jeff-bezos-will-spend-100000000000-on-a-new-space-station-that-will-also-host-tourists-781639">Jeff Bezos will spend $100,000,000,000 on a new space station that will also host tourists</a>
If the rings of Saturn are relatively short-lived, they will last only a few hundred million years before they collapse. 
However, if the rings of Saturn exist for a longer duration, they will not have any implications on the Solar System. 
Scientists had assumed that the age of Saturn's rings is less on the basis of the absence of dust because of high-speed meteoroids' constant bombardment which slammed the ice and converted them to rings. 
(With inputs from agencies)

The age of Saturn's rings was assumed on the basis of the absence of dust which happened because of constant bombardment of high-speed meteoroids which slammed the ice and converted them to rings



New Delhi, India Scientists believed that Saturn did not always have rings and they had been created more than 100 to 400 million years ago. Now in a new study, researchers from the French National Centre for Scientific Research and the Institute of Science Tokyo have found that the rings of Saturn may not have been ancient but as old as the Solar System. "Data from the Cassini spacecraft suggested the rings might be young because they appear so clean, and many people simply accepted that conclusion. However, our theoretical work now shows that a clean appearance does not necessarily mean the rings are young," said planetary scientist Ryuki Hyodo of the Institute of Science Tokyo, while speaking to ScienceAlert. Also Read: NASA warns, asteroids 2024 XY5 and 2024 XB6 race toward Earth — but are they really a threat? "So, I think this is an important insight for guiding future planetary exploration missions; you better not be fooled by its first glance," he added. Saturn and its rings In the Solar System, other giant planets also have rings, but they are not as majestic as that of Saturn. The ethereal rings are present around Jupiter, Uranus, and Neptune, however, they are not visible till seen from the right wavelengths. However, in the case of Saturn, its extensive rings define the planet. There is a high possibility that the rings could be a common phenomenon outside the Solar System because there are a large number of gas giant exoplanets present in the universe. Also Read: Jeff Bezos will spend $100,000,000,000 on a new space station that will also host tourists If the rings of Saturn are relatively short-lived, they will last only a few hundred million years before they collapse. However, if the rings of Saturn exist for a longer duration, they will not have any implications on the Solar System. Scientists had assumed that the age of Saturn's rings is less on the basis of the absence of dust because of high-speed meteoroids' constant bombardment which slammed the ice and converted them to rings. (With inputs from agencies)

Saturn's rings may have existed since the Solar System was created: Study

New Delhi, India
In the entire Solar System, the most volcanic celestial body is Jupiter's moon Io. Extensive lava flows on this moon and is spread across its surface. There are nearly 400 volcanoes on it. 
However, in a new study, scientists have found that this geographical situation on the moon is not because of a global and moonwide ocean of magma that flows beneath the surface. 
An international team of researchers used images snapped by NASA's Juno spacecraft and also looked into the moon's historical data and gravitational measurements about tidal deformations of Io to determine that the volcanoes of the moon are powered by scattered magma chambers that are present in the solid mantle. 
The new findings have countered the earlier theories, which had said that the volcanoes of Io are powered by the mostly solid mantle of the moon. 
According to scientists, magma oceans are present in different worlds, especially during their earlier formation. This also includes our own Moon.
"Since Morabito's discovery, planetary scientists have wondered how the volcanoes were fed from the lava underneath the surface," said space physicist Scott Bolton, who is from the Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-warns-asteroids-2024-xy5-and-2024-xb6-race-toward-earth-but-are-they-really-a-threat-784185">NASA warns, asteroids 2024 XY5 and 2024 XB6 race toward Earth — but are they really a threat?</a>
"Was there a shallow ocean of white-hot magma fuelling the volcanoes, or was their source more localised? We knew data from Juno's two very close flybys could give us some insights on how this tortured moon actually worked," he added. 
<h2>All about volcanic eruptions on Io</h2>
Jupiter's moon Io circles the planet every 42.5 hours and gets pulled and pushed by the massive gravitational forces present in the planet's elliptical orbit, which reshapes the moon constantly. 
This phenomenon is called tidal flexing and leads to the production of a huge amount of internal heat. 
In the new study, the deformations mentioned by the scientists are not enough to support the idea of the presence of a global magma ocean. 
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"This constant flexing creates immense energy, which literally melts portions of Io's interior," Bolton said.
"If Io has a global magma ocean, we knew the signature of its tidal deformation would be much larger than a more rigid, mostly solid interior," he added.
The lava flows and eruptions on Jupiter's moon cover hundreds of kilometres of area. 
Speaking about the findings, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory's (JPL) astronautical engineer Ryan Park said, "It has implications for our understanding of other moons, such as Enceladus and Europa, and even exoplanets and super-Earths." 
(With inputs from agencies)

Jupiter's moon Io has extensive lava flowing across its surface and around 400 volcanoes on it 



New Delhi, India In the entire Solar System, the most volcanic celestial body is Jupiter's moon Io. Extensive lava flows on this moon and is spread across its surface. There are nearly 400 volcanoes on it. However, in a new study, scientists have found that this geographical situation on the moon is not because of a global and moonwide ocean of magma that flows beneath the surface. An international team of researchers used images snapped by NASA's Juno spacecraft and also looked into the moon's historical data and gravitational measurements about tidal deformations of Io to determine that the volcanoes of the moon are powered by scattered magma chambers that are present in the solid mantle. The new findings have countered the earlier theories, which had said that the volcanoes of Io are powered by the mostly solid mantle of the moon. According to scientists, magma oceans are present in different worlds, especially during their earlier formation. This also includes our own Moon. "Since Morabito's discovery, planetary scientists have wondered how the volcanoes were fed from the lava underneath the surface," said space physicist Scott Bolton, who is from the Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio. Also Read: NASA warns, asteroids 2024 XY5 and 2024 XB6 race toward Earth — but are they really a threat? "Was there a shallow ocean of white-hot magma fuelling the volcanoes, or was their source more localised? We knew data from Juno's two very close flybys could give us some insights on how this tortured moon actually worked," he added. All about volcanic eruptions on Io Jupiter's moon Io circles the planet every 42.5 hours and gets pulled and pushed by the massive gravitational forces present in the planet's elliptical orbit, which reshapes the moon constantly. This phenomenon is called tidal flexing and leads to the production of a huge amount of internal heat. In the new study, the deformations mentioned by the scientists are not enough to support the idea of the presence of a global magma ocean. Also Read: Jeff Bezos will spend $100,000,000,000 on a new space station that will also host tourists "This constant flexing creates immense energy, which literally melts portions of Io's interior," Bolton said. "If Io has a global magma ocean, we knew the signature of its tidal deformation would be much larger than a more rigid, mostly solid interior," he added. The lava flows and eruptions on Jupiter's moon cover hundreds of kilometres of area. Speaking about the findings, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory's (JPL) astronautical engineer Ryan Park said, "It has implications for our understanding of other moons, such as Enceladus and Europa, and even exoplanets and super-Earths." (With inputs from agencies)

Jupiter's most volcanic moon Io doesn't have an ocean of magma beneath it: Study

Scientists believed that Saturn did not always have rings and they had been created more than&nbsp;100 to 400 million years ago.&nbsp;

Now in a new study, researchers from the French National Centre for Scientific Research&nbsp;and the Institute of Science Tokyo have found that the rings of Saturn may not have been ancient but as old as the Solar System.

"Data from the Cassini spacecraft suggested the rings might be young because they appear so clean, and many people simply accepted that conclusion. However, our theoretical work now shows that a clean appearance does not necessarily mean the rings are young," said planetary scientist&nbsp;Ryuki&nbsp;Hyodo of the Institute of Science Tokyo, while speaking to ScienceAlert.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-warns-asteroids-2024-xy5-and-2024-xb6-race-toward-earth-but-are-they-really-a-threat-784185">NASA warns, asteroids 2024 XY5 and 2024 XB6 race toward Earth — but are they really a threat?</a>

"So, I think this is an important insight for guiding future planetary exploration missions; you better not be fooled by its first glance," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>Saturn and its rings</h2>

In the Solar System, other giant planets also have rings, but they are not as majestic as that of Saturn.

The ethereal rings are present around Jupiter,&nbsp;Uranus, and Neptune, however, they are not visible till seen from the right wavelengths.

However, in the case of Saturn, its extensive rings define the planet. There is a high possibility that the rings could be a common phenomenon outside the Solar System because there are a large number of gas giant exoplanets present in the universe.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/jeff-bezos-will-spend-100000000000-on-a-new-space-station-that-will-also-host-tourists-781639">Jeff Bezos will spend $100,000,000,000 on a new space station that will also host tourists</a>

If the rings of Saturn are relatively short-lived, they will last only a few hundred million years&nbsp;before they collapse.&nbsp;

However, if the rings of Saturn exist for a longer duration, they will not have any implications on the Solar System.&nbsp;

Scientists had assumed that the age of Saturn's rings is less on the basis of the absence of dust because of high-speed meteoroids' constant bombardment which slammed the ice and converted them to rings.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Scientists believed that Saturn did not always have rings and they had been created more than 100 to 400 million years ago. Now in a new study, researchers from the French National Centre for Scientific Research and the Institute of Science Tokyo have found that the rings of Saturn may not have been ancient but as old as the Solar System.

Scientists believed that Saturn did not always have rings and they had been created more than 100 to 400 million years ago. Now in a new study, researchers from the French National Centre for Scientific Research and the Institute of Science Tokyo have found that the rings of Saturn may not have been ancient but as old as the Solar System. "Data from the Cassini spacecraft suggested the rings might be young because they appear so clean, and many people simply accepted that conclusion. However, our theoretical work now shows that a clean appearance does not necessarily mean the rings are young," said planetary scientist Ryuki Hyodo of the Institute of Science Tokyo, while speaking to ScienceAlert. Also Read: NASA warns, asteroids 2024 XY5 and 2024 XB6 race toward Earth — but are they really a threat? "So, I think this is an important insight for guiding future planetary exploration missions; you better not be fooled by its first glance," he added. Saturn and its rings In the Solar System, other giant planets also have rings, but they are not as majestic as that of Saturn. The ethereal rings are present around Jupiter, Uranus, and Neptune, however, they are not visible till seen from the right wavelengths. However, in the case of Saturn, its extensive rings define the planet. There is a high possibility that the rings could be a common phenomenon outside the Solar System because there are a large number of gas giant exoplanets present in the universe. Also Read: Jeff Bezos will spend $100,000,000,000 on a new space station that will also host tourists If the rings of Saturn are relatively short-lived, they will last only a few hundred million years before they collapse. However, if the rings of Saturn exist for a longer duration, they will not have any implications on the Solar System. Scientists had assumed that the age of Saturn's rings is less on the basis of the absence of dust because of high-speed meteoroids' constant bombardment which slammed the ice and converted them to rings. (With inputs from agencies)

In the entire Solar System, the most volcanic celestial body is Jupiter's moon&nbsp;Io. Extensive lava flows on this moon&nbsp;and is spread across its surface. There are nearly 400 volcanoes on it.&nbsp;

However, in a new study, scientists have found that this geographical situation on the moon is not because of a global and moonwide ocean of magma that flows beneath the surface.&nbsp;

An international team of researchers used images snapped by NASA's&nbsp;Juno&nbsp;spacecraft and also looked into the moon's historical data and gravitational measurements about tidal deformations of Io to determine that the volcanoes of the moon are powered by scattered magma chambers that are present in the solid mantle.&nbsp;

The new findings have countered the earlier theories, which had said that the volcanoes of Io are powered by the mostly solid mantle of&nbsp;the moon.&nbsp;

According to scientists, magma oceans are present in different worlds, especially during their earlier formation. This also includes our own Moon.

"Since Morabito's discovery, planetary scientists have wondered how the volcanoes were fed from the lava underneath the surface,"&nbsp;said space physicist Scott Bolton, who is from the Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-warns-asteroids-2024-xy5-and-2024-xb6-race-toward-earth-but-are-they-really-a-threat-784185">NASA warns, asteroids 2024 XY5 and 2024 XB6 race toward Earth — but are they really a threat?</a>

"Was there a shallow ocean of white-hot magma fuelling the volcanoes, or was their source more localised? We knew data from Juno's two very close flybys could give us some insights on how this tortured moon actually worked," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>All about volcanic eruptions on Io</h2>

Jupiter's moon Io circles the planet every 42.5 hours and gets pulled and pushed by the massive gravitational forces present in the planet's elliptical orbit, which reshapes the moon constantly.&nbsp;

This phenomenon is called tidal flexing and leads to the production of a huge amount of internal heat.&nbsp;

In the new study, the deformations mentioned by the scientists are not enough to support the idea of the presence of a global magma ocean.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/jeff-bezos-will-spend-100000000000-on-a-new-space-station-that-will-also-host-tourists-781639">Jeff Bezos will spend $100,000,000,000 on a new space station that will also host tourists</a>

"This constant flexing creates immense energy, which literally melts portions of Io's interior,"&nbsp;Bolton said.

"If Io has a global magma ocean, we knew the signature of its tidal deformation would be much larger than a more rigid, mostly solid interior," he added.

The lava flows and eruptions on Jupiter's moon cover hundreds of kilometres of area.&nbsp;

Speaking about the findings, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory's (JPL) astronautical engineer Ryan Park said, "It has implications for our understanding of other moons, such as Enceladus and Europa, and even exoplanets and super-Earths."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In the entire Solar System, the most volcanic celestial body is Jupiter's moon Io. Extensive lava flows on this moon and is spread across its surface. There are nearly 400 volcanoes on it.

In the entire Solar System, the most volcanic celestial body is Jupiter's moon Io. Extensive lava flows on this moon and is spread across its surface. There are nearly 400 volcanoes on it. However, in a new study, scientists have found that this geographical situation on the moon is not because of a global and moonwide ocean of magma that flows beneath the surface. An international team of researchers used images snapped by NASA's Juno spacecraft and also looked into the moon's historical data and gravitational measurements about tidal deformations of Io to determine that the volcanoes of the moon are powered by scattered magma chambers that are present in the solid mantle. The new findings have countered the earlier theories, which had said that the volcanoes of Io are powered by the mostly solid mantle of the moon. According to scientists, magma oceans are present in different worlds, especially during their earlier formation. This also includes our own Moon. "Since Morabito's discovery, planetary scientists have wondered how the volcanoes were fed from the lava underneath the surface," said space physicist Scott Bolton, who is from the Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio. Also Read: NASA warns, asteroids 2024 XY5 and 2024 XB6 race toward Earth — but are they really a threat? "Was there a shallow ocean of white-hot magma fuelling the volcanoes, or was their source more localised? We knew data from Juno's two very close flybys could give us some insights on how this tortured moon actually worked," he added. All about volcanic eruptions on Io Jupiter's moon Io circles the planet every 42.5 hours and gets pulled and pushed by the massive gravitational forces present in the planet's elliptical orbit, which reshapes the moon constantly. This phenomenon is called tidal flexing and leads to the production of a huge amount of internal heat. In the new study, the deformations mentioned by the scientists are not enough to support the idea of the presence of a global magma ocean. Also Read: Jeff Bezos will spend $100,000,000,000 on a new space station that will also host tourists "This constant flexing creates immense energy, which literally melts portions of Io's interior," Bolton said. "If Io has a global magma ocean, we knew the signature of its tidal deformation would be much larger than a more rigid, mostly solid interior," he added. The lava flows and eruptions on Jupiter's moon cover hundreds of kilometres of area. Speaking about the findings, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory's (JPL) astronautical engineer Ryan Park said, "It has implications for our understanding of other moons, such as Enceladus and Europa, and even exoplanets and super-Earths." (With inputs from agencies)

Researchers have recovered the oldest known DNA from modern humans in Europe, unearthing a mysterious and extinct branch of the human family tree. These early Homo sapiens arrived over 45,000 years ago, intermixed with Neanderthals, and left no surviving descendants. &nbsp;

Ancient bones found in German cave &nbsp;

The groundbreaking discovery stems from 13 bone fragments found in a cave beneath a medieval castle in Ranis, Germany. These remains belonged to six individuals, including a mother, her daughter and distant relatives, forming part of a pioneering population of early humans that ultimately vanished. &nbsp;

Published in the journal Nature on Thursday (Dec 12), the study was conducted by researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, in collaboration with the University of Reading and the University of Bristol. &nbsp;

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Clues from Neanderthal ancestry &nbsp;

The genetic analysis revealed that these ancient humans carried about 2.9 per cent Neanderthal DNA, a level similar to that of modern humans. The mixing likely occurred 1,500 years earlier when Homo sapiens migrated out of Africa and encountered Neanderthals living in Eurasia. &nbsp;

&nbsp;Vanished Chapter of Humanity &nbsp;

This group of early Europeans included individuals who shared ancestry with another ancient human from Zlatý kůň in the Czech Republic, whose DNA was sequenced in a previous study. Together, they formed part of a population that disappeared, leaving no genetic trace in people alive today. &nbsp;

According to researchers, these humans likely had dark skin, dark hair and brown eyes, reflecting their recent African origins. &nbsp;

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An ancient human population, to which the Ranis family group belonged, eventually vanished without leaving any genetic traces in modern humans. Other ancient lineages, including Neanderthals, also went extinct around 40,000 years ago. &nbsp;

Johannes Krause, director of archaeogenetics at the Max Planck Institute, noted that these findings suggest Homo sapiens may not have played a role in the extinction of Neanderthals, challenging long-held assumptions about human history. 
&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Researchers have recovered the oldest known DNA from modern humans in Europe, unearthing a mysterious and extinct branch of the human family tree. These early Homo sapiens arrived over 45,000 years ago, intermixed with Neanderthals, and left no surviving descendants.

Researchers have recovered the oldest known DNA from modern humans in Europe, unearthing a mysterious and extinct branch of the human family tree. These early Homo sapiens arrived over 45,000 years ago, intermixed with Neanderthals, and left no surviving descendants. Ancient bones found in German cave The groundbreaking discovery stems from 13 bone fragments found in a cave beneath a medieval castle in Ranis, Germany. These remains belonged to six individuals, including a mother, her daughter and distant relatives, forming part of a pioneering population of early humans that ultimately vanished. Published in the journal Nature on Thursday (Dec 12), the study was conducted by researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, in collaboration with the University of Reading and the University of Bristol. Also read | Krispy Kreme confirms cybersecurity breach, online ordering disrupted across US Clues from Neanderthal ancestry The genetic analysis revealed that these ancient humans carried about 2.9 per cent Neanderthal DNA, a level similar to that of modern humans. The mixing likely occurred 1,500 years earlier when Homo sapiens migrated out of Africa and encountered Neanderthals living in Eurasia. Vanished Chapter of Humanity This group of early Europeans included individuals who shared ancestry with another ancient human from Zlatý kůň in the Czech Republic, whose DNA was sequenced in a previous study. Together, they formed part of a population that disappeared, leaving no genetic trace in people alive today. According to researchers, these humans likely had dark skin, dark hair and brown eyes, reflecting their recent African origins. Also read | Omega-6 fatty acid decreasing ability to fight against cancer cells, warns study An ancient human population, to which the Ranis family group belonged, eventually vanished without leaving any genetic traces in modern humans. Other ancient lineages, including Neanderthals, also went extinct around 40,000 years ago. Johannes Krause, director of archaeogenetics at the Max Planck Institute, noted that these findings suggest Homo sapiens may not have played a role in the extinction of Neanderthals, challenging long-held assumptions about human history. (With inputs from agencies)

Oldest Human DNA reveals a lost branch of early humans in Europe

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