<p>Drinking alcohol can lead to a variety of health problems, including liver disease.&nbsp;Alcohol can also affect cognitive function and impair judgment which can lead to accidents and risky behaviour such as drunk driving. This contributes to millions of deaths globally each year. However, now researchers at ETH Zurich have unveiled a promising breakthrough in mitigating these risks.</p>

<p>A new protein gel can render alcohol completely harmless. This is as per a study published in Nature Nanotechnology which elaborates how alcohol breakdown in the gastrointestinal tract can potentially offer a preventive measure against alcohol-related health issues.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-influencers-big-yawn-goes-wrong-jaw-locked-wide-open-721159">WATCH | Influencer's big yawn goes wrong, jaw locked wide open!</a></p>

<p>According to Professor Raffaele Mezzenga from the Laboratory of Food &amp; Soft Materials at ETH Zurich, "The gel shifts the breakdown of alcohol from the liver to the digestive tract. In contrast to when alcohol is metabolised in the liver, no harmful acetaldehyde is produced as an intermediate product."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/rethinking-the-brains-cleanup-crew-sleep-does-not-detox-brain-as-previously-thought-heres-what-does-721131">Rethinking the brain's cleanup crew: Sleep does not detox brain as previously thought. Here's what does</a></p>

<p>Notably, the gel, primarily composed of whey proteins, undergoes a unique process to form long fibrils. Iron atoms, evenly distributed on the fibril surface, act as catalysts for alcohol breakdown. Meanwhile, gold nanoparticles, reacting with glucose, produce hydrogen peroxide. This process initiates the conversion of alcohol to harmless acetic acid within the gel.</p>

<h2><strong>Study conducted on mice&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Initial tests on mice showed promising results. When administered, the gel reduced blood alcohol levels by up to 56 per cent within five hours post-consumption. Moreover, mice receiving the gel daily alongside alcohol intake exhibited reduced liver damage and improved metabolic health compared to control groups.</p>

<section>
<p><strong>Watch | Mass migration of venemous snakes: Study, migration to take place around 2070</strong></p>

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<p>Mezzenga highlighted, "It's healthier not to drink alcohol at all. However, the gel could be of particular interest to people who don't want to give up alcohol completely, but don't want to put a strain on their bodies and aren't actively seeking the effects of alcohol."&nbsp;</p>
</section>

<p>The researchers have filed for a patent for the gel. Though further clinical trials are necessary before human use authorisation, the gel's edible whey protein composition offers promising prospects.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Drinking alcohol can lead to a variety of health problems, including liver disease. Alcohol can also affect cognitive function and impair judgment which can lead to accidents and risky behaviour such as drunk driving.

Drinking alcohol can lead to a variety of health problems, including liver disease. Alcohol can also affect cognitive function and impair judgment which can lead to accidents and risky behaviour such as drunk driving. This contributes to millions of deaths globally each year. However, now researchers at ETH Zurich have unveiled a promising breakthrough in mitigating these risks. A new protein gel can render alcohol completely harmless. This is as per a study published in Nature Nanotechnology which elaborates how alcohol breakdown in the gastrointestinal tract can potentially offer a preventive measure against alcohol-related health issues. WATCH | Influencer's big yawn goes wrong, jaw locked wide open! According to Professor Raffaele Mezzenga from the Laboratory of Food & Soft Materials at ETH Zurich, "The gel shifts the breakdown of alcohol from the liver to the digestive tract. In contrast to when alcohol is metabolised in the liver, no harmful acetaldehyde is produced as an intermediate product." Also Read | Rethinking the brain's cleanup crew: Sleep does not detox brain as previously thought. Here's what does Notably, the gel, primarily composed of whey proteins, undergoes a unique process to form long fibrils. Iron atoms, evenly distributed on the fibril surface, act as catalysts for alcohol breakdown. Meanwhile, gold nanoparticles, reacting with glucose, produce hydrogen peroxide. This process initiates the conversion of alcohol to harmless acetic acid within the gel. Study conducted on mice Initial tests on mice showed promising results. When administered, the gel reduced blood alcohol levels by up to 56 per cent within five hours post-consumption. Moreover, mice receiving the gel daily alongside alcohol intake exhibited reduced liver damage and improved metabolic health compared to control groups. Watch | Mass migration of venemous snakes: Study, migration to take place around 2070 × Mezzenga highlighted, "It's healthier not to drink alcohol at all. However, the gel could be of particular interest to people who don't want to give up alcohol completely, but don't want to put a strain on their bodies and aren't actively seeking the effects of alcohol." The researchers have filed for a patent for the gel. Though further clinical trials are necessary before human use authorisation, the gel's edible whey protein composition offers promising prospects. (With inputs from agencies)

Drink without hangover? Scientists create gel that can make alcohol harmless to the human body

<p>Scientists from Harvard University, in collaboration with Google's machine learning experts, have meticulously reconstructed a wiring diagram of a minute section of the human brain,&nbsp;an incredibly complex and vital organ that serves as the command centre for the nervous system.</p>

<p>This groundbreaking endeavour has revealed new details of the structure that is comprised of billions of neurons to transmit information through electrical and chemical signals.</p>

<p>The study reportedly focused on a minuscule cubic millimetre of healthy brain tissue extracted from the cortex of a 45-year-old woman undergoing surgery for epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterised by recurrent seizures, which are sudden, brief changes in the brain's electrical activity.</p>

<p>Despite the small size of the tissue, it was a monumental task to map out its wiring diagram for neural circuitry, cellular connections, and vascular support.&nbsp;Using electron microscope images of over 5,000 tissue slices, the researchers unveiled a staggering 57,000 individual cells, 23 centimetres of blood vessels, and&nbsp;150 million neural connections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/elon-musks-neuralink-human-trial-hits-snag-as-brain-chip-begins-to-detach-719880">Human trial of Elon Musk's Neuralink hits snag as brain chip begins to detach</a></p>

<p>Professor Jeff Lichtman of molecular and cellular biology at Harvard University said,&nbsp;“The aim was to get a high-resolution view of this most mysterious piece of biology that each of us carries around on our shoulders."</p>

<p>“The reason we haven’t done it before is that it is damn challenging. It really was enormously hard to do this," said Lichtman added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>By employing machine learning algorithms, the team meticulously traced the pathways of neurons and other cells through the tissue sections, a process that would have taken humans years to accomplish manually. The resulting dataset, comprising 1.4 petabytes of data, revealed numerous findings and challenged existing understandings of brain structure and function.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/consumption-of-olive-oil-could-lower-risk-of-dying-from-dementia-study-719850">Consumption of olive oil could lower risk of dying from dementia: Study</a></p>

<p>“We found many things in this dataset that are not in the textbooks,” Lichtman said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Pyramidal neurons</strong></h2>

<p>In the study, one of the intriguing discoveries were of pyramidal neurons that exhibited an unexpected symmetry in their dendritic branching. In addition to this, the presence of tightly wound axon bundles gave details into signal transmission within the brain.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | With ultra-processed foods, one is at higher risk of premature death: Study</strong></p>

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<p>While the prospect of mapping the entire human brain remains daunting, the team is embarking on a collaborative effort with Google to reconstruct the wiring of an entire mouse brain. This endeavour aims to elucidate the neural circuits governing behaviour and decision-making.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“There are really wonderful opportunities, if you have a whole mouse brain, to get insight into free will, even... You know, a mouse is not a robot,"&nbsp;Lichtman said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Scientists from Harvard University, in collaboration with Google's machine learning experts, have meticulously reconstructed a wiring diagram of a minute section of the human brain, an incredibly complex and vital organ that serves as the command centre for the nervous system.

Scientists from Harvard University, in collaboration with Google's machine learning experts, have meticulously reconstructed a wiring diagram of a minute section of the human brain, an incredibly complex and vital organ that serves as the command centre for the nervous system. This groundbreaking endeavour has revealed new details of the structure that is comprised of billions of neurons to transmit information through electrical and chemical signals. The study reportedly focused on a minuscule cubic millimetre of healthy brain tissue extracted from the cortex of a 45-year-old woman undergoing surgery for epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterised by recurrent seizures, which are sudden, brief changes in the brain's electrical activity. Despite the small size of the tissue, it was a monumental task to map out its wiring diagram for neural circuitry, cellular connections, and vascular support. Using electron microscope images of over 5,000 tissue slices, the researchers unveiled a staggering 57,000 individual cells, 23 centimetres of blood vessels, and 150 million neural connections. Also Read | Human trial of Elon Musk's Neuralink hits snag as brain chip begins to detach Professor Jeff Lichtman of molecular and cellular biology at Harvard University said, “The aim was to get a high-resolution view of this most mysterious piece of biology that each of us carries around on our shoulders." “The reason we haven’t done it before is that it is damn challenging. It really was enormously hard to do this," said Lichtman added. By employing machine learning algorithms, the team meticulously traced the pathways of neurons and other cells through the tissue sections, a process that would have taken humans years to accomplish manually. The resulting dataset, comprising 1.4 petabytes of data, revealed numerous findings and challenged existing understandings of brain structure and function. Also Read | Consumption of olive oil could lower risk of dying from dementia: Study “We found many things in this dataset that are not in the textbooks,” Lichtman said. Pyramidal neurons In the study, one of the intriguing discoveries were of pyramidal neurons that exhibited an unexpected symmetry in their dendritic branching. In addition to this, the presence of tightly wound axon bundles gave details into signal transmission within the brain. Watch | With ultra-processed foods, one is at higher risk of premature death: Study × While the prospect of mapping the entire human brain remains daunting, the team is embarking on a collaborative effort with Google to reconstruct the wiring of an entire mouse brain. This endeavour aims to elucidate the neural circuits governing behaviour and decision-making. “There are really wonderful opportunities, if you have a whole mouse brain, to get insight into free will, even... You know, a mouse is not a robot," Lichtman said. (With inputs from agencies)

A tiny section of human brain reveals astounding 57,000 cells, 150mn neural connections

<p>In a new study, it has been found that an unusual candidate for dark matter, which can be referred to as parasite black holes, is likely to be lurking inside stars and slowly devouring them from the inside.<br />
<br />
The study, which was led by astrophysicist Earl Bellinger of the Max Planck Institute for Astrophysics and Yale University, said that teeny tiny black holes – which were created at the dawn of the time – may have been incorporated into Sun-like stars, and are likely to be present at their cores ever since and slowly slurping up the matter and creating more black holes.<br />
<br />
The study has further examined how such parasitism would affect the stars and how they can be recognised out there in the Universe if scientists happen to cross them.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/supermassive-black-hole-in-our-galaxy-spinning-rapidly-altering-space-time-around-it-scientists-664371">Supermassive black hole in our galaxy spinning rapidly, altering space-time around it: Scientis</a>ts</p>

<p>"We find that such objects can be surprisingly long-lived, with the lightest black holes having no influence over stellar evolution, while more massive ones consume the star over time to produce a range of observable consequences," said the researchers, in their paper.<br />
<br />
"The unique internal structures of stars harbouring black holes may make it possible for asteroseismology to discover them, should they exist,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Do tiny black holes really exist?</strong></h2>

<p>The universe is filled with black holes of different sizes. Scientists have spotted black holes with stellar mass ranges which are likely formed from a massive star's core collapse at the end of its life and the mergers that happen.<br />
<br />
The universe also has supermassive monsters, which are millions to billions of times the mass of the Sun and are present at the core of every galaxy. The universe also has black holes with masses in between, which are elusive but are emerging in increasing numbers.<br />
<br />
However, till now scientists have not been able to find tiny black holes, which have masses similar to planets, moons, or asteroids. There is not enough mass in these objects and hence, the gravity to collapse is as dense as a black hole.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Milky way's mysteries: The curious case of missing stars</strong></p>

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<p>According to the researchers, they can study various stars to understand the signs of a black hole engine. It is expected that the black hole accretion is likely to produce various acoustic patterns inside the star.<br />
<br />
"This presents an opportunity to either discover such objects, or to place bounds on their number and capture rate," stated the researchers.<br />
<br />
"The implications for stars in more advanced evolutionary stages, numerical results for stars of different masses and metallicities, and investigations into stellar populations will also be explored in future works,” they added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a new study, it has been found that an unusual candidate for dark matter, which can be referred to as parasite black holes, is likely to be lurking inside stars and slowly devouring them from the inside.

In a new study, it has been found that an unusual candidate for dark matter, which can be referred to as parasite black holes, is likely to be lurking inside stars and slowly devouring them from the inside. The study, which was led by astrophysicist Earl Bellinger of the Max Planck Institute for Astrophysics and Yale University, said that teeny tiny black holes – which were created at the dawn of the time – may have been incorporated into Sun-like stars, and are likely to be present at their cores ever since and slowly slurping up the matter and creating more black holes. The study has further examined how such parasitism would affect the stars and how they can be recognised out there in the Universe if scientists happen to cross them. Also read: Supermassive black hole in our galaxy spinning rapidly, altering space-time around it: Scientists "We find that such objects can be surprisingly long-lived, with the lightest black holes having no influence over stellar evolution, while more massive ones consume the star over time to produce a range of observable consequences," said the researchers, in their paper. "The unique internal structures of stars harbouring black holes may make it possible for asteroseismology to discover them, should they exist,” he added. Do tiny black holes really exist? The universe is filled with black holes of different sizes. Scientists have spotted black holes with stellar mass ranges which are likely formed from a massive star's core collapse at the end of its life and the mergers that happen. The universe also has supermassive monsters, which are millions to billions of times the mass of the Sun and are present at the core of every galaxy. The universe also has black holes with masses in between, which are elusive but are emerging in increasing numbers. However, till now scientists have not been able to find tiny black holes, which have masses similar to planets, moons, or asteroids. There is not enough mass in these objects and hence, the gravity to collapse is as dense as a black hole. Watch: Milky way's mysteries: The curious case of missing stars According to the researchers, they can study various stars to understand the signs of a black hole engine. It is expected that the black hole accretion is likely to produce various acoustic patterns inside the star. "This presents an opportunity to either discover such objects, or to place bounds on their number and capture rate," stated the researchers. "The implications for stars in more advanced evolutionary stages, numerical results for stars of different masses and metallicities, and investigations into stellar populations will also be explored in future works,” they added. (With inputs from agencies)

Parasite black holes devouring stars from inside, says study

<p>Weight loss options are expanding rapidly. A new study presents&nbsp;potential findings for a non-surgical obesity treatment. This procedure involves controlled burning of a portion of the stomach's mucus lining.</p>

<p>The participants in the small trial saw an average weight loss of 8%&nbsp;from their starting weight, along with a notable decrease in hunger.</p>

<p>The process is known as endoscopic mucosal ablation, which is a method already used to remove precancerous or other unusual bits of tissue from the digestive tract.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-tiny-section-of-human-brain-reveals-astounding-57000-cells-150mn-neural-connections-719907">A tiny section of human brain reveals astounding 57,000 cells, 150mn neural connections</a></p>

<p>In the process, patients first drink a fluid in order to protect the stomach’s tissues, then doctors&nbsp;send an endoscope down through the esophagus to the uppermost portion of the stomach, also called the gastric fundus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Once there, the endoscope will burn the moist, inner lining of the fundus where mucus is produced.</p>

<p>The key to this procedure lies in the fundus, a part of the stomach responsible for a significant portion of our hunger pangs. This area is the primary producer of ghrelin, a hormone that signals hunger when our stomach is&nbsp;empty. Conversely, ghrelin levels decrease after eating. The goal is to safely reduce hunger by burning a portion of the fundus lining, thereby destroying enough ghrelin-producing cells to promote lasting weight loss.</p>

<p>Researchers running the first-in-human trial of this method announced their early results at the academic conference Digestive Disease Week.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/uk-woman-gets-more-than-half-a-million-pounds-payout-after-rushed-childbirth-left-her-with-stoma-and-ptsd-719741">UK woman gets more than half a million pounds payout after 'rushed' childbirth left her with stoma and PTSD</a></p>

<p>Ten patients living with obesity, all women, took part in the trial. On average, they lost 7.7% of their body weight and experienced a more than 40% reduction in fasting ghrelin levels. Participants’ average level of self-reported hunger also dropped by a third, while their stomach’s capacity for food and drink decreased by 42%.</p>

<p>It's important to note that this is a very early study with only a few participants. The results haven't been reviewed by other scientists yet, so more research is needed before getting too excited.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/parasitic-worm-once-ate-a-part-of-rfk-jrs-brain-heres-how-it-infects-the-brain-719673">Parasitic worm once ate 'a part of' RFK Jr's brain. Here's how that might happen to anyone</a></p>

<p>“This non-surgical procedure can smooth the progress of weight loss and significantly control hunger,. It may be a suitable alternative for those who are ineligible for or hesitant about medications like Wegovy or Ozempic, or bariatric surgery,” said study researcher Christopher McGowan, MD, a gastroenterologist and medical director of True You Weight Loss, a North Carolina clinic, in a statement released by Digestive Disease Week.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Weight loss options are expanding rapidly. A new study presents potential findings for a non-surgical obesity treatment. This procedure involves controlled burning of a portion of the stomach's mucus lining.

Weight loss options are expanding rapidly. A new study presents potential findings for a non-surgical obesity treatment. This procedure involves controlled burning of a portion of the stomach's mucus lining. The participants in the small trial saw an average weight loss of 8% from their starting weight, along with a notable decrease in hunger. The process is known as endoscopic mucosal ablation, which is a method already used to remove precancerous or other unusual bits of tissue from the digestive tract. Also read: A tiny section of human brain reveals astounding 57,000 cells, 150mn neural connections In the process, patients first drink a fluid in order to protect the stomach’s tissues, then doctors send an endoscope down through the esophagus to the uppermost portion of the stomach, also called the gastric fundus. Once there, the endoscope will burn the moist, inner lining of the fundus where mucus is produced. The key to this procedure lies in the fundus, a part of the stomach responsible for a significant portion of our hunger pangs. This area is the primary producer of ghrelin, a hormone that signals hunger when our stomach is empty. Conversely, ghrelin levels decrease after eating. The goal is to safely reduce hunger by burning a portion of the fundus lining, thereby destroying enough ghrelin-producing cells to promote lasting weight loss. Researchers running the first-in-human trial of this method announced their early results at the academic conference Digestive Disease Week. Also read: UK woman gets more than half a million pounds payout after 'rushed' childbirth left her with stoma and PTSD Ten patients living with obesity, all women, took part in the trial. On average, they lost 7.7% of their body weight and experienced a more than 40% reduction in fasting ghrelin levels. Participants’ average level of self-reported hunger also dropped by a third, while their stomach’s capacity for food and drink decreased by 42%. It's important to note that this is a very early study with only a few participants. The results haven't been reviewed by other scientists yet, so more research is needed before getting too excited. Also read: Parasitic worm once ate 'a part of' RFK Jr's brain. Here's how that might happen to anyone “This non-surgical procedure can smooth the progress of weight loss and significantly control hunger,. It may be a suitable alternative for those who are ineligible for or hesitant about medications like Wegovy or Ozempic, or bariatric surgery,” said study researcher Christopher McGowan, MD, a gastroenterologist and medical director of True You Weight Loss, a North Carolina clinic, in a statement released by Digestive Disease Week. (With inputs from agencies)

Non-surgical weight loss trial shows promising results

<p>In a bizarre new finding, a study published in the journal Biology Letters found that dice snakes go to extreme lengths to save themselves from predators, including faking their own deaths.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the study</strong></h2>

<p>The study finds that the species of snake also known as Natrix tessellata, can fake their own death when attacked by predators by putting on a theatrical display which includes oozing&nbsp;“mouthfuls” of blood, smearing themselves with faeces, and even releasing foul-smelling musk from their butts.</p>

<p>Notably, dice snakes are not the only ones in the animal kingdom who fake their own death to avoid being eaten by predators, as it is a good tactic for the prey to create a distraction and escape.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/gateway-to-the-underworld-in-siberia-is-growing-at-a-staggering-rate-every-year-719019">‘Gateway to the underworld’ in Siberia is growing at a staggering rate every year: Study</a></strong></p>

<p>Dice snakes are non-venomous snakes native to Europe and parts of Asia. The study also noted that not all dice snakes put up a theatrical display as some might even just lie still.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did the researchers find?</strong></h2>

<p>The researchers observed that out of the 263 dice snakes they studied, 124 smeared themselves with faeces and around 28 leaked blood from their mouths.</p>

<p>Overall, dice snakes spent&nbsp;about six and 24 seconds playing dead.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This behaviour depended on various factors like the sex of the individual, &nbsp;injuries, body temperature, size, age, presence of food in the stomach, presence of eggs in females, and previous experience with a predator, Vukašin Bjelica, one of the study’s authors, told CNN.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“When captured, they will vigorously struggle and hiss while expelling and coating themselves in musk and faeces,” the researchers wrote. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/have-we-already-lost-the-battle-april-continues-damning-11-month-trend-emerges-as-hottest-since-1940-719261">Have we 'already lost climate battle'?: April continues damning 11-month trend, emerges as hottest since 1940</a></strong></p>

<p>Eventually, the snake becomes immobile, opens its mouth, sticks out its tongue and fills its mouth with blood, according to the study.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Researchers also believe that the snake smears itself in faeces to make itself less appetising for its predators.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study also found that the snakes that used the blood and faeces approach spent two seconds less faking their own deaths than the ones who did not.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a bizarre new finding, a study published in the journal Biology Letters found that dice snakes go to extreme lengths to save themselves from predators, including faking their own deaths.

In a bizarre new finding, a study published in the journal Biology Letters found that dice snakes go to extreme lengths to save themselves from predators, including faking their own deaths. About the study The study finds that the species of snake also known as Natrix tessellata, can fake their own death when attacked by predators by putting on a theatrical display which includes oozing “mouthfuls” of blood, smearing themselves with faeces, and even releasing foul-smelling musk from their butts. Notably, dice snakes are not the only ones in the animal kingdom who fake their own death to avoid being eaten by predators, as it is a good tactic for the prey to create a distraction and escape. Also Read | ‘Gateway to the underworld’ in Siberia is growing at a staggering rate every year: Study Dice snakes are non-venomous snakes native to Europe and parts of Asia. The study also noted that not all dice snakes put up a theatrical display as some might even just lie still. What did the researchers find? The researchers observed that out of the 263 dice snakes they studied, 124 smeared themselves with faeces and around 28 leaked blood from their mouths. Overall, dice snakes spent about six and 24 seconds playing dead. This behaviour depended on various factors like the sex of the individual, injuries, body temperature, size, age, presence of food in the stomach, presence of eggs in females, and previous experience with a predator, Vukašin Bjelica, one of the study’s authors, told CNN. “When captured, they will vigorously struggle and hiss while expelling and coating themselves in musk and faeces,” the researchers wrote. Also Read | Have we 'already lost climate battle'?: April continues damning 11-month trend, emerges as hottest since 1940 Eventually, the snake becomes immobile, opens its mouth, sticks out its tongue and fills its mouth with blood, according to the study. Researchers also believe that the snake smears itself in faeces to make itself less appetising for its predators. The study also found that the snakes that used the blood and faeces approach spent two seconds less faking their own deaths than the ones who did not. (With inputs from agencies)

This snake gets all bloody and smelly and fakes its own death to save itself from predators

<p>Scientists have always known that deep down in the core of the Earth, there exist&nbsp;two blobs the size of continents. One is under the African continent and the other one is under the Pacific Ocean.</p>

<p>How these two blobs have spanned through centuries of Earth’s history always remained a mystery, until now. In the new research, scientists gathered that the blobs muster together and then break apart, much like continents and supercontinents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/historic-image-japanese-space-company-unveils-worlds-first-close-up-image-of-space-debris-719238">Historic image! Japanese space company unveils world’s first close-up image of space debris</a></p>

<p>The blobs have their roots 2,900 km (1,800 miles) below the surface, which is almost halfway to the centre of the Earth. These are thought to be the birthplace of rising columns of hot rock called “deep mantle plumes” that reach Earth’s surface and cause volcanic eruptions. Hence, these blobs have always remained an area of interest amongst the scientific fraternity.</p>

<h2><strong>Model demonstrating evolution of Earth blobs</strong></h2>

<p>The blobs are present in the mantle as they slow down waves caused by earthquakes, which suggest they are hotter than their surroundings. Scientists generally say that these blobs are linked with the movement of tectonic plates at Earth’s surface. However, how the blobs have changed over the course has puzzled the scientists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One lot of scientists is of the opinion that the present blobs have acted as anchors, locked in place for hundreds of millions of years while other rocks move around them. But as we know tectonic plates and mantle changed over time, it means blobs were also changing and taking new shapes.</p>

<p>The new research shows Earth's blobs have changed shape and location far more than previously thought. In fact, over time they have assembled and broken up in the same way that continents and supercontinents have at Earth's surface.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/have-we-already-lost-the-battle-april-continues-damning-11-month-trend-emerges-as-hottest-since-1940-719261">Have we 'already lost climate battle'?: April continues damning 11-month trend, emerges as hottest since 1940</a></p>

<p>The team of scientists used Australia's National Computational Infrastructure to run advanced computer simulations of how Earth's mantle has flowed over a billion years.</p>

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<p>“We found that just like continents, the blobs can assemble – forming "superblobs" as in the current configuration – and break up over time,” wrote the team of scientists from various universities, in their research paper.</p>

<p>“A key aspect of our models is that although the blobs change position and shape over time, they still fit the pattern of volcanic and kimberlite eruptions recorded at Earth's surface. This pattern was previously a key argument for the blobs as unmoving 'anchors'.”</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-telescope-hunts-for-featherweight-black-holes-which-have-gone-undetected-719305">NASA&nbsp;telescope hunts for 'featherweight' black holes&nbsp;which have gone undetected</a></p>

<p>“Strikingly, our models reveal the African blob assembled as recently as 60 million years ago – in stark contrast to previous suggestions the blob could have existed in roughly its present form for nearly ten times as long,” read the research paper.</p>

<p>The team is yet to know the origin of blobs and how they were made in the first place. The authors of the original research are - Nicolas Flament, Senior Lecturer, University of Wollongong; Andrew Merdith, Research fellow, University of Leeds; Ömer F. Bodur, Postdoctoral research fellow, University of Wollongong and Simon Williams, Research Fellow, Northwest University, Xi'an.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Scientists have always known that deep down in the core of the Earth, there exist two blobs the size of continents. One is under the African continent and the other one is under the Pacific Ocean.

Scientists have always known that deep down in the core of the Earth, there exist two blobs the size of continents. One is under the African continent and the other one is under the Pacific Ocean. How these two blobs have spanned through centuries of Earth’s history always remained a mystery, until now. In the new research, scientists gathered that the blobs muster together and then break apart, much like continents and supercontinents. Also Read | Historic image! Japanese space company unveils world’s first close-up image of space debris The blobs have their roots 2,900 km (1,800 miles) below the surface, which is almost halfway to the centre of the Earth. These are thought to be the birthplace of rising columns of hot rock called “deep mantle plumes” that reach Earth’s surface and cause volcanic eruptions. Hence, these blobs have always remained an area of interest amongst the scientific fraternity. Model demonstrating evolution of Earth blobs The blobs are present in the mantle as they slow down waves caused by earthquakes, which suggest they are hotter than their surroundings. Scientists generally say that these blobs are linked with the movement of tectonic plates at Earth’s surface. However, how the blobs have changed over the course has puzzled the scientists. One lot of scientists is of the opinion that the present blobs have acted as anchors, locked in place for hundreds of millions of years while other rocks move around them. But as we know tectonic plates and mantle changed over time, it means blobs were also changing and taking new shapes. The new research shows Earth's blobs have changed shape and location far more than previously thought. In fact, over time they have assembled and broken up in the same way that continents and supercontinents have at Earth's surface. Also Read | Have we 'already lost climate battle'?: April continues damning 11-month trend, emerges as hottest since 1940 The team of scientists used Australia's National Computational Infrastructure to run advanced computer simulations of how Earth's mantle has flowed over a billion years. × “We found that just like continents, the blobs can assemble – forming "superblobs" as in the current configuration – and break up over time,” wrote the team of scientists from various universities, in their research paper. “A key aspect of our models is that although the blobs change position and shape over time, they still fit the pattern of volcanic and kimberlite eruptions recorded at Earth's surface. This pattern was previously a key argument for the blobs as unmoving 'anchors'.” Also Read | NASA telescope hunts for 'featherweight' black holes which have gone undetected “Strikingly, our models reveal the African blob assembled as recently as 60 million years ago – in stark contrast to previous suggestions the blob could have existed in roughly its present form for nearly ten times as long,” read the research paper. The team is yet to know the origin of blobs and how they were made in the first place. The authors of the original research are - Nicolas Flament, Senior Lecturer, University of Wollongong; Andrew Merdith, Research fellow, University of Leeds; Ömer F. Bodur, Postdoctoral research fellow, University of Wollongong and Simon Williams, Research Fellow, Northwest University, Xi'an. (With inputs from agencies)

Earth has two giant blobs deep beneath its surface which are likely shape shifters

<p>A 30-year study conducted in the United States suggested a concerning connection between the consumption of ultra-processed foods and a higher risk of premature death, with particular emphasis on ready-to-eat meat products and sugary drinks. Published in The BMJ, the research underscored the importance of reevaluating dietary habits for long-term health benefits.</p>

<p>Ultra-processed foods are products that have undergone extensive processing and often contain additives, preservatives, artificial flavours, colours, and other substances. These foods typically contain minimal amounts of whole foods and are often high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and sodium while lacking in essential nutrients like fibre, vitamins, and minerals.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/heartbreaking-reality-over-321000-children-left-orphaned-due-to-americas-drug-epidemic-between-2011-2021-719636">Heartbreaking reality: Over 321,000 children left orphaned due to America's drug epidemic between 2011-2021</a></p>

<p>Examples include sugary drinks, packaged snacks, ready-to-eat meals, and many fast food items. These foods have long been under scrutiny for their potential health implications. The study, tracking the health of over 100,000 participants for several decades, revealed a notable association between increased consumption of such foods and elevated mortality rates.</p>

<h2><strong>Data collection for study&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The study, involving extensive data collection and analysis from two large cohorts of health professionals, identified over 48,000 deaths during the observation period. Notably, those with a higher intake of ultra-processed foods exhibited a 4 per cent higher risk of total mortality and a 9 per cent higher risk of death from various causes, including neurodegenerative diseases.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ai-deciphers-sperm-whale-clicks-unravels-underwater-conversations-719623">AI deciphers sperm whale clicks, unravels underwater conversations</a></p>

<p>The association between ultra-processed food consumption and mortality varied across food categories. The study is observational and prevents from making any definitive conclusions about causality. In addition to this, the study is mostly white with more health professional participants and thus it may limit generalisability.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | NASA's Voyager 1 sending useable data to Earth again</strong></p>

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<p>The researchers stressed the need for nuanced dietary recommendations and cautioned against oversimplification.</p>

<p>They asserted that the "findings provide support for limiting consumption of certain types of ultra-processed food for long-term health" and that "future studies are warranted to improve the classification of ultra-processed foods and confirm our findings in other populations."</p>

<p>"Our focus should be on advocating for greater global adoption of these and more ambitious interventions and increasing safeguards to prevent policies from being influenced by multinational food companies with vested interests that do not align with public health or environmental goals," they added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A 30-year study conducted in the United States suggested a concerning connection between the consumption of ultra-processed foods and a higher risk of premature death, with particular emphasis on ready-to-eat meat products and sugary drinks.

A 30-year study conducted in the United States suggested a concerning connection between the consumption of ultra-processed foods and a higher risk of premature death, with particular emphasis on ready-to-eat meat products and sugary drinks. Published in The BMJ, the research underscored the importance of reevaluating dietary habits for long-term health benefits. Ultra-processed foods are products that have undergone extensive processing and often contain additives, preservatives, artificial flavours, colours, and other substances. These foods typically contain minimal amounts of whole foods and are often high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and sodium while lacking in essential nutrients like fibre, vitamins, and minerals. Also Read | Heartbreaking reality: Over 321,000 children left orphaned due to America's drug epidemic between 2011-2021 Examples include sugary drinks, packaged snacks, ready-to-eat meals, and many fast food items. These foods have long been under scrutiny for their potential health implications. The study, tracking the health of over 100,000 participants for several decades, revealed a notable association between increased consumption of such foods and elevated mortality rates. Data collection for study The study, involving extensive data collection and analysis from two large cohorts of health professionals, identified over 48,000 deaths during the observation period. Notably, those with a higher intake of ultra-processed foods exhibited a 4 per cent higher risk of total mortality and a 9 per cent higher risk of death from various causes, including neurodegenerative diseases. Also Read | AI deciphers sperm whale clicks, unravels underwater conversations The association between ultra-processed food consumption and mortality varied across food categories. The study is observational and prevents from making any definitive conclusions about causality. In addition to this, the study is mostly white with more health professional participants and thus it may limit generalisability. Watch | NASA's Voyager 1 sending useable data to Earth again × The researchers stressed the need for nuanced dietary recommendations and cautioned against oversimplification. They asserted that the "findings provide support for limiting consumption of certain types of ultra-processed food for long-term health" and that "future studies are warranted to improve the classification of ultra-processed foods and confirm our findings in other populations." "Our focus should be on advocating for greater global adoption of these and more ambitious interventions and increasing safeguards to prevent policies from being influenced by multinational food companies with vested interests that do not align with public health or environmental goals," they added. (With inputs from agencies)

With ultra-processed foods, one is at higher risk of premature death, reveals 30-year study

Were COVID-19 vaccines dangerous for your health? AstraZeneca, the maker of Covishield, has admitted that its vaccines can cause rare side effects. What does this mean for the billions who took COVID-19 vaccines? Do the benefits of these vaccines still outweigh the risk?

Gravitas | Were Covid Vaccines dangerous for your health?

<p>Science has finally confirmed that time does slow way down when you’re inside the gym. But it’s not the monotony or the person on the next exercise machine who won’t stop talking on the phone.</p>

<p>Participants in a small study completed stationary bike trials. They then tried to estimate the passage of 30 seconds. Interestingly, on average, participants thought 30 seconds had passed when only 27 seconds had actually passed. This translates to feeling 8-9% faster than real time, making the clock seem to tick slower during their workout.</p>

<p>This effect raises a lot of interesting research questions about what’s going on. This particular study focuses on people’s insights and psychological explanations, but the human body goes through a multitude of physical changes during exercise.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-forewarn-timing-of-triple-whammy-extinction-that-will-eradicate-humankind-716974">Scientists forewarn timing of 'triple whammy extinction' that will eradicate all life from Earth</a></p>

<p>To test time perception during exercise, researchers tested 33 participants who cycled 4,000 metres on a stationary bike. Throughout the ride, they estimated the passage of 30 seconds at various points: before starting, during different milestones, and after finishing.</p>

<p>The study included solo rides, paced rides against a virtual opponent, and competitive races. While participants reported their exertion levels, specific speeds were only required in the competitive scenario.</p>

<p>The details of the results were quite surprising, “There was no difference between exercise conditions or time points (500 m, 1500 m, and 2500 m).” That means the appearance of a competitor, and any extra effort toward beating them, didn’t change the participant’s perception of time; nor did the steady increase of perceived effort during the entire trial.</p>

<p>The study was small with just 33 participants being included in it, but the research team says a number of their method details and findings are novel, meaning without precedent in the existing research.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This new study, published in the peer-reviewed journal Brain and Behavior, explores the psychology of exercise and its impact on time perception.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/fastest-spinning-asteroid-recently-hit-earths-atmosphere-and-crashed-in-berlin-716624">Fastest-spinning asteroid&nbsp;recently hit Earth’s atmosphere and crashed in Berlin</a></p>

<p>The researchers, hailing from both the Netherlands and England, found that even competitive scenarios didn't significantly alter the perception of time during exercise. This suggests athletes might need alternative strategies beyond competition to stay engaged and combat boredom during workouts.</p>

<p>“More work has to be done to further unravel the role of external stimuli, exercise intensity, and duration on the perception of time during exercise,” the researchers conclude.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Science has finally confirmed that time does slow way down when you’re inside the gym. But it’s not the monotony or the person on the next exercise machine who won’t stop talking on the phone.

Science has finally confirmed that time does slow way down when you’re inside the gym. But it’s not the monotony or the person on the next exercise machine who won’t stop talking on the phone. Participants in a small study completed stationary bike trials. They then tried to estimate the passage of 30 seconds. Interestingly, on average, participants thought 30 seconds had passed when only 27 seconds had actually passed. This translates to feeling 8-9% faster than real time, making the clock seem to tick slower during their workout. This effect raises a lot of interesting research questions about what’s going on. This particular study focuses on people’s insights and psychological explanations, but the human body goes through a multitude of physical changes during exercise. Also read: Scientists forewarn timing of 'triple whammy extinction' that will eradicate all life from Earth To test time perception during exercise, researchers tested 33 participants who cycled 4,000 metres on a stationary bike. Throughout the ride, they estimated the passage of 30 seconds at various points: before starting, during different milestones, and after finishing. The study included solo rides, paced rides against a virtual opponent, and competitive races. While participants reported their exertion levels, specific speeds were only required in the competitive scenario. The details of the results were quite surprising, “There was no difference between exercise conditions or time points (500 m, 1500 m, and 2500 m).” That means the appearance of a competitor, and any extra effort toward beating them, didn’t change the participant’s perception of time; nor did the steady increase of perceived effort during the entire trial. The study was small with just 33 participants being included in it, but the research team says a number of their method details and findings are novel, meaning without precedent in the existing research. This new study, published in the peer-reviewed journal Brain and Behavior, explores the psychology of exercise and its impact on time perception. Also read: Fastest-spinning asteroid recently hit Earth’s atmosphere and crashed in Berlin The researchers, hailing from both the Netherlands and England, found that even competitive scenarios didn't significantly alter the perception of time during exercise. This suggests athletes might need alternative strategies beyond competition to stay engaged and combat boredom during workouts. “More work has to be done to further unravel the role of external stimuli, exercise intensity, and duration on the perception of time during exercise,” the researchers conclude. (With inputs from agencies)

Exercise makes minutes seem shorter by 9%, says study

<p>Over eight decades of epigenetics – the study of changes in the expression of genes over generations – scientists are now coming to terms with the notion that what your grandparents ate is affecting you and your kids. Quite precisely, the dietary preferences and expressions run in the family. The nutritional aspects of epigenetics is called nutritional epigenetics.</p>

<h2><strong>How our grandparents are affecting our dietary choices?</strong></h2>

<p>According to Nathaniel Johnson, Assistant Professor of Nutrition and Dietetics at the University of North Dakota; Hasan Khatib, Associate Chair and Professor of Genetics and Epigenetics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison; and Thomas D Crenshaw, Professor of Animal and Dairy Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison — the dietary choices a person makes today affects the genetics of their future children.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The roots of epigenetics are in the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands during the second World War. The Dutch were forced to live on the rations of 400 to 800 kilocalories against the typical diet of about 2,000 kilocalories. Some 20,000 people died and about 4.5 million were malnourished.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Indian President Droupadi Murmu launches gene therapy for cancer</strong></p>

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<p>It was found that dietary shifts in the Netherlands caused changes to a gene called IGF2 that is related to growth and development. This suppressed muscle growth in both the children and grandchildren of Dutch women who survived the dietary challenges posed by the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/genes-from-extinct-human-cousins-increase-risk-for-severe-covid-19-study-331670">Genes from extinct human cousins increase risk for severe COVID-19: Study</a></strong></p>

<p>Due to this exact reason, an increased risk of obesity, heart disease, diabetes and low birth weight was reported in the post World War-2 generations of the Netherlands, according to the findings of the&nbsp;'Dutch Hunger Winter'.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Scientific evidence for genetic effects of dietary choice</strong></h2>

<p>Human body, within the limits of its survival instinct, attempts to withstand the impact of external challenges.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The traits gained during these periods of challenge, are sometimes inherited to the future generations.</p>

<p>Recently a study in sheep showed that a paternal diet supplemented with the amino acid methionine given from birth to weaning affected the growth and reproductive traits of the next three generations.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Over eight decades of epigenetics – the study of changes in the expression of genes over generations – scientists are now coming to terms with the notion that what your grandparents ate is affecting you and your kids.

Over eight decades of epigenetics – the study of changes in the expression of genes over generations – scientists are now coming to terms with the notion that what your grandparents ate is affecting you and your kids. Quite precisely, the dietary preferences and expressions run in the family. The nutritional aspects of epigenetics is called nutritional epigenetics. How our grandparents are affecting our dietary choices? According to Nathaniel Johnson, Assistant Professor of Nutrition and Dietetics at the University of North Dakota; Hasan Khatib, Associate Chair and Professor of Genetics and Epigenetics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison; and Thomas D Crenshaw, Professor of Animal and Dairy Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison — the dietary choices a person makes today affects the genetics of their future children. The roots of epigenetics are in the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands during the second World War. The Dutch were forced to live on the rations of 400 to 800 kilocalories against the typical diet of about 2,000 kilocalories. Some 20,000 people died and about 4.5 million were malnourished. Also watch | Indian President Droupadi Murmu launches gene therapy for cancer × It was found that dietary shifts in the Netherlands caused changes to a gene called IGF2 that is related to growth and development. This suppressed muscle growth in both the children and grandchildren of Dutch women who survived the dietary challenges posed by the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands. Also read | Genes from extinct human cousins increase risk for severe COVID-19: Study Due to this exact reason, an increased risk of obesity, heart disease, diabetes and low birth weight was reported in the post World War-2 generations of the Netherlands, according to the findings of the 'Dutch Hunger Winter'. Scientific evidence for genetic effects of dietary choice Human body, within the limits of its survival instinct, attempts to withstand the impact of external challenges. The traits gained during these periods of challenge, are sometimes inherited to the future generations. Recently a study in sheep showed that a paternal diet supplemented with the amino acid methionine given from birth to weaning affected the growth and reproductive traits of the next three generations. (With inputs from agencies)

What your grandparents ate is affecting you; what you are eating will affect your grandkids: Research

<p>The search for extraterrestrial life in our universe has spanned several years and theories. While we may have not found signs of life yet, that hasn't stopped human being's thirst to know if someone is out there. Scientists have been coming up with different ideas and theories to learn about the existence of aliens.</p>

<p>The scientists instead of changing where they are looking for potential alien life, are altering what exactly they are searching for.</p>

<p>A new theory has been proposed by a pair of astronomers on the basis of panspermia, according to which life can begin on one planet and then travel to another planet through meteorites.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The theory is based on "panspermia", which is a fringe theory that suggests all life forms can go from one planet to another by ‘hitching rides’ on meteors.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/alien-life-may-be-hiding-in-purple-hue-of-universe-scientists-712945">Alien life may be hiding in purple hue of universe: Scientists</a></p>

<p>The latest research has been put forward by astronomers Harrison B. Smith and Lana Sinapayen and has not been peer-reviewed. This research suggests the possibility of panspermia, however, the implications are huge.</p>

<p>The theory of panspermia will help scientists narrow down their search for alien life. This is important as till now more than 5,000 exoplanets have been identified by NASA where there are chances of presence of life and looking at each individually will take years and years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Scientists have till now not figured out in what form life may exist in the universe beyond Earth and if Earth is truly the only planet that supports life.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Aliens travelling on meteorites to make changes on other planets: Study</strong></h2>

<p>Similar to how the conditions on Earth have been altered by life on the planet and in the atmosphere of our planet, which includes adding more oxygen, the aliens are likely to have altered the properties of an exoplanet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the researchers, if the aliens can travel as per panspermia, then they are likely to try to make similar changes on every planet they travel to.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Are researchers using the CERN particle accelerator to find aliens?</strong></p>

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<p>As per the new study, if alien life is searched in this way, it can mean that experts will be able to potentially find clusters of planets close to each other with similar characteristics and this can be an indicator of potential life.</p>

<p>This finding comes at a time when new research has emerged according to which bacteria filled with purple pigments are likely to be hosting extraterrestrial life.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The search for extraterrestrial life in our universe has spanned several years and theories. While we may have not found signs of life yet, that hasn't stopped human being's thirst to know if someone is out there.

The search for extraterrestrial life in our universe has spanned several years and theories. While we may have not found signs of life yet, that hasn't stopped human being's thirst to know if someone is out there. Scientists have been coming up with different ideas and theories to learn about the existence of aliens. The scientists instead of changing where they are looking for potential alien life, are altering what exactly they are searching for. A new theory has been proposed by a pair of astronomers on the basis of panspermia, according to which life can begin on one planet and then travel to another planet through meteorites. The theory is based on "panspermia", which is a fringe theory that suggests all life forms can go from one planet to another by ‘hitching rides’ on meteors. Also Read: Alien life may be hiding in purple hue of universe: Scientists The latest research has been put forward by astronomers Harrison B. Smith and Lana Sinapayen and has not been peer-reviewed. This research suggests the possibility of panspermia, however, the implications are huge. The theory of panspermia will help scientists narrow down their search for alien life. This is important as till now more than 5,000 exoplanets have been identified by NASA where there are chances of presence of life and looking at each individually will take years and years. Scientists have till now not figured out in what form life may exist in the universe beyond Earth and if Earth is truly the only planet that supports life. Aliens travelling on meteorites to make changes on other planets: Study Similar to how the conditions on Earth have been altered by life on the planet and in the atmosphere of our planet, which includes adding more oxygen, the aliens are likely to have altered the properties of an exoplanet. As per the researchers, if the aliens can travel as per panspermia, then they are likely to try to make similar changes on every planet they travel to. Watch: Are researchers using the CERN particle accelerator to find aliens? As per the new study, if alien life is searched in this way, it can mean that experts will be able to potentially find clusters of planets close to each other with similar characteristics and this can be an indicator of potential life. This finding comes at a time when new research has emerged according to which bacteria filled with purple pigments are likely to be hosting extraterrestrial life. (With inputs from agencies)

Aliens may be travelling from one planet to another via meteorites: Study

After years of the COVID-19 pandemic, people have underscored the importance of physical touch for human beings. When the lockdowns were lifted and the vaccines closed the gaps of social distancing we were reminded of the power of a simple hug. Now science has confirmed a hug is good for you as the study states that physical touch including hugs can significantly improve both your mental and physical health.

Study decodes the power of hugs, good for both physical and mental health

<p>In a new study, it has been noted that organ transplants, which save people's lives, may also be altering their personalities in unexpected ways.</p>

<p>The paper titled “Personality Changes Associated with Organ Transplants”, which was published in the medical journal Transplantology in January discussed how various transplant recipients have seen major and long-lasting changes in their actions, thoughts and behaviour.</p>

<p>The investigation was carried out by researchers at the University of Colorado School of Medicine in the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They looked into the fact that there were significant changes in the personality of a patient after an organ transplant.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The researchers also observed the types of changes recipients of heart transplants went through and if they were different from recipients of other organs.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-200-women-and-several-men-allege-doctor-of-sexual-abuse-unnecessary-examinations-in-lawsuit-709484">Over 200 women, several men accuse doctor in Boston of sexual abuse, unnecessary examinations in lawsuit</a></p>

<h2><strong>How was the study&nbsp;carried out and what was found?</strong></h2>

<p>The study was carried out with 47 participants who filled out an online survey. Among the 47 people, 23 were heart recipients and 24 others were organ recipients.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the study,&nbsp;89 per cent of all transplant recipients said that they went through personality changes after their transplant surgery.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They reported changes in preferences for food, music, art, professional pursuits, intimacy and leisure activities. Some people also wrote about experiencing “new” memories, enhanced cognitive capabilities, heightened social and sexual adaptability and more inclination towards spiritual or religious events.</p>

<p>These were the types of changes which were described as either neutral or beneficial, however, there were also reports of distressing changes like anxiety, delirium, depression, sexual dysfunction and psychosis.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;South Korean President Yoon calls doctors for constructive dialogue</strong></p>

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<p>Many recipients also shared having “memories” which were not related to their personal experiences. Such memories generally involve sensory perceptions which were apparently related to their organ donor.</p>

<p>An example was highlighted by the paper: “A 56-year-old college professor received the heart of a 34-year-old police officer who tragically lost his life after he was fatally shot in the face."</p>

<p>“Following the transplant, the recipient reported a peculiar experience, stating, ‘A few weeks after I got my heart, I began to have dreams. I would see a flash of light right in my face, and my face gets real, real hot. It actually burns'," the paper read.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


In a new study, it has been noted that organ transplants, which save people's lives, may also be altering their personalities in unexpected ways. The paper titled “Personality Changes Associated with Organ Transplants”, which was published in the medical journal Transplantology in January discussed how various transplant recipients have seen major and long-lasting changes in their actions, thoughts and behaviour.

In a new study, it has been noted that organ transplants, which save people's lives, may also be altering their personalities in unexpected ways. The paper titled “Personality Changes Associated with Organ Transplants”, which was published in the medical journal Transplantology in January discussed how various transplant recipients have seen major and long-lasting changes in their actions, thoughts and behaviour. The investigation was carried out by researchers at the University of Colorado School of Medicine in the United States. They looked into the fact that there were significant changes in the personality of a patient after an organ transplant. The researchers also observed the types of changes recipients of heart transplants went through and if they were different from recipients of other organs. Also Read: Over 200 women, several men accuse doctor in Boston of sexual abuse, unnecessary examinations in lawsuit How was the study carried out and what was found? The study was carried out with 47 participants who filled out an online survey. Among the 47 people, 23 were heart recipients and 24 others were organ recipients. In the study, 89 per cent of all transplant recipients said that they went through personality changes after their transplant surgery. They reported changes in preferences for food, music, art, professional pursuits, intimacy and leisure activities. Some people also wrote about experiencing “new” memories, enhanced cognitive capabilities, heightened social and sexual adaptability and more inclination towards spiritual or religious events. These were the types of changes which were described as either neutral or beneficial, however, there were also reports of distressing changes like anxiety, delirium, depression, sexual dysfunction and psychosis. Watch: South Korean President Yoon calls doctors for constructive dialogue Many recipients also shared having “memories” which were not related to their personal experiences. Such memories generally involve sensory perceptions which were apparently related to their organ donor. An example was highlighted by the paper: “A 56-year-old college professor received the heart of a 34-year-old police officer who tragically lost his life after he was fatally shot in the face." “Following the transplant, the recipient reported a peculiar experience, stating, ‘A few weeks after I got my heart, I began to have dreams. I would see a flash of light right in my face, and my face gets real, real hot. It actually burns'," the paper read. (With inputs from agencies)

Humans may witness personality change after organ transplant: Study

<p>Scientists, in a new study, have hinted that&nbsp;meteorites may soon disappear from the icy plains of Antarctica due to climate warming.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Antarctic is a haven for meteorite hunters and is filled with meteorites in today's date. &nbsp;Every year, around 1,000 space rocks are found in the region and it is easy to spot their dark hue in the white expanse.</p>

<p>Field Museum of Natural History and the University of Chicago research scientist Maria Valdes has hinted that the scenario may not be so in the coming days.</p>

<p>“Antarctica, a desert of ice, provides an ideal background for meteorite recovery — go to the right place, and any rock you find must have fallen from the sky,” said Valdes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In late 2022 and early 2023, she visited the region as part of an expedition team to complete her work at the museum’s Robert A. Pritzker Centre for Meteoritics and Polar Studies. Five meteorites were found by the international team in the expedition.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/snow-covered-antarctica-hosts-hundreds-of-volcanoes-scientists-say-their-chances-of-eruption-are-709420">Snow-covered Antarctica hosts hundreds of volcanoes. Scientists say their chances of eruption are...</a></p>

<p>“We stumbled across an enormous brownstone sitting by itself in the middle of an ice field. It was a little bit smaller than a bowling ball and quite heavy — 7.6 kg (about 17 pounds),” Pritzker said via email.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I had seen and handled so many meteorites in my career, but finding one yourself is such a different feeling," she added.</p>

<h2><strong>Nearly 5,000 meteorites may&nbsp;disappear every year: study</strong></h2>

<p>The meteorites, which are made part of extraterrestrial bodies such as the moon, Mars or large asteroids, speak in detail about the solar system and how it was formed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the new study emphasises how this trove of scientific information is being threatened by the climate crisis.</p>

<p>Meteorites are getting lost in the melting ice which places them out of the reach of scientists.</p>

<p>“As the climate continues to warm, Antarctic rocks are sinking into the ice at an increasing rate. Over time, this will make many meteorites inaccessible to scientists,” said Valdes, who is not part of the latest research.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Scientists in Antarctica warn of Bird Flu outbreak as penguin cases confirmed</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/scientists-in-antarctica-warn-of-bird-flu-outbreak-as-penguin-cases-confirmed-708348/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>“We lose precious time capsules that hold clues to the history of our Solar System," he added.</p>

<p>As per the study published in the journal Nature Climate Change, as the Earth warms, nearly 5,000 meteorites may&nbsp;disappear from the surface of melting ice sheets every year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To date, scientists have found more than 48,000 meteorites in Antarctica, which is 60 per cent of specimens found on the entire Earth.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Scientists, in a new study, have hinted that meteorites may soon disappear from the icy plains of Antarctica due to climate warming. The Antarctic is a haven for meteorite hunters and is filled with meteorites in today's date.

Scientists, in a new study, have hinted that meteorites may soon disappear from the icy plains of Antarctica due to climate warming. The Antarctic is a haven for meteorite hunters and is filled with meteorites in today's date. Every year, around 1,000 space rocks are found in the region and it is easy to spot their dark hue in the white expanse. Field Museum of Natural History and the University of Chicago research scientist Maria Valdes has hinted that the scenario may not be so in the coming days. “Antarctica, a desert of ice, provides an ideal background for meteorite recovery — go to the right place, and any rock you find must have fallen from the sky,” said Valdes. In late 2022 and early 2023, she visited the region as part of an expedition team to complete her work at the museum’s Robert A. Pritzker Centre for Meteoritics and Polar Studies. Five meteorites were found by the international team in the expedition. Also Read: Snow-covered Antarctica hosts hundreds of volcanoes. Scientists say their chances of eruption are... “We stumbled across an enormous brownstone sitting by itself in the middle of an ice field. It was a little bit smaller than a bowling ball and quite heavy — 7.6 kg (about 17 pounds),” Pritzker said via email. “I had seen and handled so many meteorites in my career, but finding one yourself is such a different feeling," she added. Nearly 5,000 meteorites may disappear every year: study The meteorites, which are made part of extraterrestrial bodies such as the moon, Mars or large asteroids, speak in detail about the solar system and how it was formed. However, the new study emphasises how this trove of scientific information is being threatened by the climate crisis. Meteorites are getting lost in the melting ice which places them out of the reach of scientists. “As the climate continues to warm, Antarctic rocks are sinking into the ice at an increasing rate. Over time, this will make many meteorites inaccessible to scientists,” said Valdes, who is not part of the latest research. Watch: Scientists in Antarctica warn of Bird Flu outbreak as penguin cases confirmed “We lose precious time capsules that hold clues to the history of our Solar System," he added. As per the study published in the journal Nature Climate Change, as the Earth warms, nearly 5,000 meteorites may disappear from the surface of melting ice sheets every year. To date, scientists have found more than 48,000 meteorites in Antarctica, which is 60 per cent of specimens found on the entire Earth. (With inputs from agencies)

Meteorites, hiding in ice sheets of Antarctic, may disappear amid climate warming: study

<p>A recent study has revealed a bizarre situation in which our Moon had once completely turned itself inside out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A new paper was published by a team of scientists from the University of Arizona Lunar and Planetary Laboratory on the evolution of the lunar interior.</p>

<p>In the paper, they emphasised the ancient lunar interior's instability. The paper, which was published in the journal Nature Geoscience, spoke in detail about how the Moon had evolved in a chaotic manner.</p>

<p>In a press statement, study co-author and LPL associate professor Jeff Andrews-Hanna said, “Our moon literally turned itself inside out. But there has been little physical evidence to shed light on the exact sequence of events during this critical phase of lunar history, and there is a lot of disagreement in the details of what went down – literally.”</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/people-on-earth-will-soon-be-able-to-calculate-moon-standard-time-heres-how-707126">Earthlings will soon be able to calculate what time it is on the Moon. Here's how</a></p>

<h2><strong>How was the Moon formed?</strong></h2>

<p>Scientists have estimated that the moon was formed roughly 4.5 billion years ago when a small planet smashed into Earth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Because of the impact, the molten rock spread into space and slowly started orbiting around our planet. Through time, the rock solidified and formed our Moon.</p>

<p>In the lunar rock samples which were collected by the Apollo astronauts, new information has been provided about the ancient history of the Moon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later, in the satellite observations, it was found that the volcanic rocks were prominent on the nearside of the Moon.</p>

<p>A new model created by the researchers of the University of Arizona has explained why this is the case.</p>

<p>When the Moon was first formed, it was most likely covered by a global magma ocean. Once the molten rock cooled, it formed the mantle and the outer crust of the Moon.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US government asks NASA to create time zones for the moon</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-government-asks-nasa-to-create-time-zones-for-the-moon-707340/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The computer models showed how the magma which was under the crust had crystallised into dense minerals, which included ilmenite and contained titanium and iron.</p>

<p>“Because these heavy minerals are denser than the mantle underneath, it creates a gravitational instability, and you would expect this layer to sink deeper into the moon’s interior,” explained Weigang Liang, who headed the research as part of his doctoral work at LPL.</p>

<p>Later, the dense material sank in the interior of the Moon and melted and mixed with the mantle. Eventually, it came back to the surface through the titanium-rich lava which flows visibly on the surface.</p>

<p>The scientists, in their research, found that the gravity field of the Moon can be used to map the distribution of remnants of ilmenite, which were formed after the dense material sank in the lunar mantle.</p>

<p>The observations made by NASA’s Gravity Recovery and Interior Laboratory (GRAIL) lunar satellite were used by the scientists.</p>

<p>“Our analyses show that the models and data are telling one remarkably consistent story. Ilmenite materials migrated to the near side and sunk into the interior in sheetlike cascades, leaving behind a vestige that causes anomalies in the moon’s gravity field, as seen by [NASA’s] GRAIL," Liang said,&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the basis of their research, the scientists have estimated that the ilmenite-rich layer may have sunk more than 4.22 billion years ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A recent study has revealed a bizarre situation in which our Moon had once completely turned itself inside out. A new paper was published by a team of scientists from the University of Arizona Lunar and Planetary Laboratory on the evolution of the lunar interior.

A recent study has revealed a bizarre situation in which our Moon had once completely turned itself inside out. A new paper was published by a team of scientists from the University of Arizona Lunar and Planetary Laboratory on the evolution of the lunar interior. In the paper, they emphasised the ancient lunar interior's instability. The paper, which was published in the journal Nature Geoscience, spoke in detail about how the Moon had evolved in a chaotic manner. In a press statement, study co-author and LPL associate professor Jeff Andrews-Hanna said, “Our moon literally turned itself inside out. But there has been little physical evidence to shed light on the exact sequence of events during this critical phase of lunar history, and there is a lot of disagreement in the details of what went down – literally.” Also Read: Earthlings will soon be able to calculate what time it is on the Moon. Here's how How was the Moon formed? Scientists have estimated that the moon was formed roughly 4.5 billion years ago when a small planet smashed into Earth. Because of the impact, the molten rock spread into space and slowly started orbiting around our planet. Through time, the rock solidified and formed our Moon. In the lunar rock samples which were collected by the Apollo astronauts, new information has been provided about the ancient history of the Moon. Later, in the satellite observations, it was found that the volcanic rocks were prominent on the nearside of the Moon. A new model created by the researchers of the University of Arizona has explained why this is the case. When the Moon was first formed, it was most likely covered by a global magma ocean. Once the molten rock cooled, it formed the mantle and the outer crust of the Moon. Watch: US government asks NASA to create time zones for the moon The computer models showed how the magma which was under the crust had crystallised into dense minerals, which included ilmenite and contained titanium and iron. “Because these heavy minerals are denser than the mantle underneath, it creates a gravitational instability, and you would expect this layer to sink deeper into the moon’s interior,” explained Weigang Liang, who headed the research as part of his doctoral work at LPL. Later, the dense material sank in the interior of the Moon and melted and mixed with the mantle. Eventually, it came back to the surface through the titanium-rich lava which flows visibly on the surface. The scientists, in their research, found that the gravity field of the Moon can be used to map the distribution of remnants of ilmenite, which were formed after the dense material sank in the lunar mantle. The observations made by NASA’s Gravity Recovery and Interior Laboratory (GRAIL) lunar satellite were used by the scientists. “Our analyses show that the models and data are telling one remarkably consistent story. Ilmenite materials migrated to the near side and sunk into the interior in sheetlike cascades, leaving behind a vestige that causes anomalies in the moon’s gravity field, as seen by [NASA’s] GRAIL," Liang said, On the basis of their research, the scientists have estimated that the ilmenite-rich layer may have sunk more than 4.22 billion years ago. (With inputs from agencies)

Moon once 'literally turned itself inside out'. Scientists wonder 'how'

<p>A staggering 80 per cent of the world's greenhouse gas emissions is caused by only 57 oil, gas, coal, and cement producers.</p>

<p>As per a recent study, this powerful cohort of state-controlled corporations and shareholder-owned multinationals are the primary drivers of the ongoing climate crisis, according to the Carbon Majors Database, compiled by renowned researchers.</p>

<h2><strong>Commitments and reality</strong></h2>

<p>Despite global commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the analysis shows that most of these major producers increased their output of fossil fuels and related emissions in the seven years following the Paris Agreement, compared to the seven years prior.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/man-with-transplanted-pig-kidney-gets-discharged-from-hospital-in-rare-medical-case-707490">Man with transplanted pig kidney is discharged from hospital in rare medical case</a></strong></p>

<p>The database, which includes 122 of the world's largest historical climate polluters, highlights that 65 per cent of state entities and 55 per cent of private-sector companies scaled up their production during this period.</p>

<h2><strong>The biggest polluters</strong></h2>

<p>Leading the pack among investor-owned contributors to emissions was ExxonMobil, linked to 3.6 gigatonnes of CO2 over seven years, followed closely by Shell, BP, Chevron, and TotalEnergies, each associated with at least one per cent of global emissions.</p>

<p>Notably, the most significant surge in emissions was seen in state and state-owned producers, particularly in the Asian coal sector. This growth trend, which has continued, contradicts the International Energy Agency's warning that opening new oil and gas fields is incompatible with staying within safe global heating limits.</p>

<p>Richard Heede, who founded the Carbon Majors dataset, criticised companies for expanding fossil fuel exploration and production despite knowing for decades about the harm caused by their products.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is morally reprehensible for companies to continue expanding exploration and production of carbon fuels in the face of knowledge now for decades that their products are harmful," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-israeli-militarys-use-of-ai-lavender-to-generate-kill-lists-707558">Explained: Israeli military's use of AI tool 'Lavender' to generate kill lists</a></strong></p>

<p>He urged not to blame consumers "who have been forced to be reliant on oil and gas due to government capture by oil and gas companies."</p>

<p>The Carbon Majors' research has shifted the narrative on climate responsibility. For maybe the first time, it has attributed emissions to entities profiting from fossil fuel extraction rather than individual consumers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The database compares long-term emissions trends dating back to 1854 with recent developments since the 2016 Paris Agreement.</p>

<p>The long-term analysis shows that Chinese state coal production accounts for the largest share (14 per cent) of historic global CO2 emissions, followed by the former Soviet Union and Saudi Aramco.</p>

<p>Next in the line-up are the major US companies: Chevron with a three per cent share and ExxonMobil with 2.8 per cent. They are trailed by Russia's Gazprom and the National Iranian Oil Company. Following closely behind are two European firms: BP and Shell, each with more than a two per cent share, and then Coal India.</p>

<p>Heede also pointed out that fossil fuel producers have a moral obligation to pay for the damages they have caused.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A staggering 80 per cent of the world's greenhouse gas emissions is caused by only 57 oil, gas, coal, and cement producers. As per a recent study, this powerful cohort of state-controlled corporations and shareholder-owned multinationals are the primary drivers of the ongoing climate crisis, according to the Carbon Majors Database, compiled by renowned researchers.

A staggering 80 per cent of the world's greenhouse gas emissions is caused by only 57 oil, gas, coal, and cement producers. As per a recent study, this powerful cohort of state-controlled corporations and shareholder-owned multinationals are the primary drivers of the ongoing climate crisis, according to the Carbon Majors Database, compiled by renowned researchers. Commitments and reality Despite global commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the analysis shows that most of these major producers increased their output of fossil fuels and related emissions in the seven years following the Paris Agreement, compared to the seven years prior. Also read | Man with transplanted pig kidney is discharged from hospital in rare medical case The database, which includes 122 of the world's largest historical climate polluters, highlights that 65 per cent of state entities and 55 per cent of private-sector companies scaled up their production during this period. The biggest polluters Leading the pack among investor-owned contributors to emissions was ExxonMobil, linked to 3.6 gigatonnes of CO2 over seven years, followed closely by Shell, BP, Chevron, and TotalEnergies, each associated with at least one per cent of global emissions. Notably, the most significant surge in emissions was seen in state and state-owned producers, particularly in the Asian coal sector. This growth trend, which has continued, contradicts the International Energy Agency's warning that opening new oil and gas fields is incompatible with staying within safe global heating limits. Richard Heede, who founded the Carbon Majors dataset, criticised companies for expanding fossil fuel exploration and production despite knowing for decades about the harm caused by their products. "It is morally reprehensible for companies to continue expanding exploration and production of carbon fuels in the face of knowledge now for decades that their products are harmful," he said. Also read | Explained: Israeli military's use of AI tool 'Lavender' to generate kill lists He urged not to blame consumers "who have been forced to be reliant on oil and gas due to government capture by oil and gas companies." The Carbon Majors' research has shifted the narrative on climate responsibility. For maybe the first time, it has attributed emissions to entities profiting from fossil fuel extraction rather than individual consumers. The database compares long-term emissions trends dating back to 1854 with recent developments since the 2016 Paris Agreement. The long-term analysis shows that Chinese state coal production accounts for the largest share (14 per cent) of historic global CO2 emissions, followed by the former Soviet Union and Saudi Aramco. Next in the line-up are the major US companies: Chevron with a three per cent share and ExxonMobil with 2.8 per cent. They are trailed by Russia's Gazprom and the National Iranian Oil Company. Following closely behind are two European firms: BP and Shell, each with more than a two per cent share, and then Coal India. Heede also pointed out that fossil fuel producers have a moral obligation to pay for the damages they have caused. (With inputs from agencies)

From Exxon to Gazprom: 57 corporations drive 80% of global emissions, finds study

<p><strong>Hand Sanitiser And Brain:</strong> From the days of the pandemic, when the fear of coronavirus gripped the minds of people, hand sanitisers became not only a necessity but a tool to fight the virus and save lives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The sudden surge in the use and sale of hand sanitisers was evident and even though, today we are out of the pandemic era, the habit of frequently using hand sanitisers remains.</p>

<h2><strong>Hand Sanitiser And Brain</strong></h2>

<p>Now in a recent study, which was carried out on the basis of human cell cultures and mice, it was found that the chemicals present in common household disinfectants like furniture, textiles, disinfectants and glues are likely to damage the supporting cells present in the brain especially during important stages of the organ's development.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/human-brains-getting-larger-in-size-and-this-may-be-good-news-for-some-704458">Human brains getting larger in size, and this may be good news for some</a></p>

<p>Ohio's Case Western Reserve University molecular biologist Erin Cohn and his colleagues looked into 1,823 compounds of unknown toxicity and discovered two types of chemicals which either killed or paused the maturation of cells known as oligodendrocytes under laboratory conditions.</p>

<p>Oligodendrocytes are a kind of neurological support cell. These cells wrap around the neurons to form an insulating covering which ensures that brain signals are moving at a speed.</p>

<h2><strong>What are the chemicals doing to brain cells?</strong></h2>

<p>The experts identified one of the two chemical classes as quaternary compounds, which are used in wipes, hand sanitisers, disinfectant spray and personal care products like toothpaste and mouthwash for killing bacteria and viruses. The users, while using these products, can ingest or inhale the chemicals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The other chemical class identified was organophosphates. These chemicals, which serve as flame retardants, are commonly present in textiles, glues, and household items like electronics and furniture.</p>

<p>Humans can absorb the fat-soluble organophosphates through the skin which&nbsp;can then reach the brain.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Brain size steadily increased for people born after 1930s</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brain-size-steadily-increased-for-people-born-after-1930s-704739/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>In the experiments carried out on mice, an oral dose of one of three quaternary compounds was given to them and days later they found detectable levels of those chemicals in the brain tissue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was also found that less numbers of oligodendrocytes were present in the brains of the animals after they were administered 10 daily doses of one type of quaternary compound known as cetylpyridinium chloride. This was administered during the brain development's key period.</p>

<p>"We found that oligodendrocytes – but not other brain cells – are surprisingly vulnerable to quaternary ammonium compounds and organophosphate flame retardants," said Cohn.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Hand Sanitiser And Brain: From the days of the pandemic, when the fear of coronavirus gripped the minds of people, hand sanitisers became not only a necessity but a tool to fight the virus and save lives.

Hand Sanitiser And Brain: From the days of the pandemic, when the fear of coronavirus gripped the minds of people, hand sanitisers became not only a necessity but a tool to fight the virus and save lives. The sudden surge in the use and sale of hand sanitisers was evident and even though, today we are out of the pandemic era, the habit of frequently using hand sanitisers remains. Hand Sanitiser And Brain Now in a recent study, which was carried out on the basis of human cell cultures and mice, it was found that the chemicals present in common household disinfectants like furniture, textiles, disinfectants and glues are likely to damage the supporting cells present in the brain especially during important stages of the organ's development. Also Read: Human brains getting larger in size, and this may be good news for some Ohio's Case Western Reserve University molecular biologist Erin Cohn and his colleagues looked into 1,823 compounds of unknown toxicity and discovered two types of chemicals which either killed or paused the maturation of cells known as oligodendrocytes under laboratory conditions. Oligodendrocytes are a kind of neurological support cell. These cells wrap around the neurons to form an insulating covering which ensures that brain signals are moving at a speed. What are the chemicals doing to brain cells? The experts identified one of the two chemical classes as quaternary compounds, which are used in wipes, hand sanitisers, disinfectant spray and personal care products like toothpaste and mouthwash for killing bacteria and viruses. The users, while using these products, can ingest or inhale the chemicals. The other chemical class identified was organophosphates. These chemicals, which serve as flame retardants, are commonly present in textiles, glues, and household items like electronics and furniture. Humans can absorb the fat-soluble organophosphates through the skin which can then reach the brain. Watch: Brain size steadily increased for people born after 1930s In the experiments carried out on mice, an oral dose of one of three quaternary compounds was given to them and days later they found detectable levels of those chemicals in the brain tissue. It was also found that less numbers of oligodendrocytes were present in the brains of the animals after they were administered 10 daily doses of one type of quaternary compound known as cetylpyridinium chloride. This was administered during the brain development's key period. "We found that oligodendrocytes – but not other brain cells – are surprisingly vulnerable to quaternary ammonium compounds and organophosphate flame retardants," said Cohn. (With inputs from agencies)

Hand sanitisers may be damaging your brain cells, says study

<p>Stars are seemingly constant and are the silent guardians of the universe, however, within their serene existence is their potential for catastrophic events that could ripple across galaxies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, supernovae are incredibly powerful and energetic explosions that occur at the end of a massive star's life cycle.</p>

<p>When a massive star exhausts its nuclear fuel, it can no longer support itself against its own gravitational collapse. This collapse triggers an event which results in a supernova.</p>

<p>With every cosmic burst, stars unleash torrents of energy. This could range from gamma rays to cosmic rays.</p>

<p>The explosions of massive stars are rare occurrences in the cosmos. However, when they do happen, they unravel a surprising display of energy.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/denisovans-dna-shows-connection-with-dragon-man-100000-years-ago-706225">Denisovans DNA shows connection with 'dragon man' 100,000 years ago</a></p>

<p>With an estimated frequency of one supernova per 50 years, and considering the vast expanse of the universe containing about 100 billion galaxies, a supernova erupts somewhere in the universe approximately every hundredth of a second, a report said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Gamma rays emitted during explosion of stars&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>These stellar explosions emit high-energy radiation in the form of gamma rays. These gamma rays are invisible to the human eye due to their extremely short wavelengths.</p>

<p>Due to their high energy, gamma rays can easily penetrate through most materials, including skin and tissue. This effect poses health risks to living organisms if exposure is prolonged or intense.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-identify-remains-of-george-washingtons-family-members-using-advanced-dna-technology-706203">Scientists identify remains of George Washington's family members using advanced DNA technology</a></p>

<p>Although supernovae in our own Milky Way galaxy are infrequent, a handful have occurred close enough to Earth to be documented in historical records.</p>

<section>
<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/solar-eclipse-canadas-niagara-declares-state-of-emergency-706169">Solar eclipse: Canada's Niagara declares state of emergency</a></strong></p>

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<p>For instance, in 185 AD, an unexpected star appeared in the sky. It was likely the result of a supernova event.</p>
</section>

<p>In a similar fashion, in 1006 AD, a brilliant star exploded. It was later identified as a supernova located 7,200 light years away.</p>

<p>Another occurrence was witnessed in 1054 AD&nbsp;when Chinese astronomers spotted a star visible even during daylight. It was the explosion of a supernova situated 6,500 light years from Earth.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Stars are seemingly constant and are the silent guardians of the universe, however, within their serene existence is their potential for catastrophic events that could ripple across galaxies.

Stars are seemingly constant and are the silent guardians of the universe, however, within their serene existence is their potential for catastrophic events that could ripple across galaxies. Notably, supernovae are incredibly powerful and energetic explosions that occur at the end of a massive star's life cycle. When a massive star exhausts its nuclear fuel, it can no longer support itself against its own gravitational collapse. This collapse triggers an event which results in a supernova. With every cosmic burst, stars unleash torrents of energy. This could range from gamma rays to cosmic rays. The explosions of massive stars are rare occurrences in the cosmos. However, when they do happen, they unravel a surprising display of energy. Also Read | Denisovans DNA shows connection with 'dragon man' 100,000 years ago With an estimated frequency of one supernova per 50 years, and considering the vast expanse of the universe containing about 100 billion galaxies, a supernova erupts somewhere in the universe approximately every hundredth of a second, a report said. Gamma rays emitted during explosion of stars These stellar explosions emit high-energy radiation in the form of gamma rays. These gamma rays are invisible to the human eye due to their extremely short wavelengths. Due to their high energy, gamma rays can easily penetrate through most materials, including skin and tissue. This effect poses health risks to living organisms if exposure is prolonged or intense. Also Read | Scientists identify remains of George Washington's family members using advanced DNA technology Although supernovae in our own Milky Way galaxy are infrequent, a handful have occurred close enough to Earth to be documented in historical records. Watch | Solar eclipse: Canada's Niagara declares state of emergency × For instance, in 185 AD, an unexpected star appeared in the sky. It was likely the result of a supernova event. In a similar fashion, in 1006 AD, a brilliant star exploded. It was later identified as a supernova located 7,200 light years away. Another occurrence was witnessed in 1054 AD when Chinese astronomers spotted a star visible even during daylight. It was the explosion of a supernova situated 6,500 light years from Earth. (With inputs from agencies)

Are exploding stars cosmic hazards lurking in the universe?

<p>Denisovans, a group of ancient humans, continue to intrigue researchers with their elusive presence. Now, as per a new research, traces of their DNA hint at their journey from the Tibetan plateau to regions as far-flung as the Philippines and Laos.</p>

<p>Not just this, this DNA could have had a connection to northern China over 100,000 years ago.&nbsp;Denisovans were an ancient human population that lived tens of thousands of years ago and were closely related to but distinct from both modern humans (Homo sapiens) and Neanderthals.</p>

<p>They are known primarily through genetic evidence extracted from fossil remains found in the Denisova Cave in Siberia, Russia. Despite their genetic legacy in modern humans, their physical appearance has largely eluded discovery.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-identify-remains-of-george-washingtons-family-members-using-advanced-dna-technology-706203">Scientists identify remains of George Washington's family members using advanced DNA technology</a></p>

<p>Recent findings pointed out a possible connection between Denisovans and a newly identified species, Homo longi, also known as "Dragon man."</p>

<p>These are characterised by distinctive features such as a broad nose and thick brow ridges. This breakthrough suggested a deeper understanding of Denisovan traits and their evolutionary lineage.</p>

<p>Evidence of Denisovan genes in Tibetan populations also highlighted their interbreeding with Homo sapiens which could have potentially influenced modern humans' ability to thrive at high altitudes.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/powerful-solar-flare-causes-deep-shortwave-radio-blackout-over-pacific-ocean-705985">Powerful solar flare causes ‘deep shortwave radio blackout over Pacific Ocean’</a></p>

<p>Surprising discoveries, like a Denisovan jawbone in a Tibetan cave, further strengthen the link between Denisovans and Homo longi. This has now fuelled speculation about their shared ancestry.</p>

<p>“We now believe that the Denisovans were members of the Homo longi species,” Professor Xijun Ni from the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing reportedly said.</p>

<p>“The latter is ­characterised by a broad nose, thick brow ridges over its eyes and large tooth sockets," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Absence of Chinese fossils&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>However, challenges persist in unraveling Denisovan mysteries, including the absence of DNA in Chinese fossils.</p>

<p>Yet, innovative techniques like proteomics are now seem to be offering promising avenues for extracting information from ancient proteins.</p>

<section>
<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/solar-eclipse-canadas-niagara-declares-state-of-emergency-706169">Solar eclipse: Canada's Niagara declares state of emergency</a></strong></p>

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<p>Janet Kelso of the Max Planck Institute of Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig, Germany reportedly said, “It was the first time a Denisovan fossil find had been made outside Siberia and that was very important."</p>
</section>

<p>“Equally intriguing was the fact that the jawbone has teeth that are similar to the teeth found in Homo longi. So I think the evidence suggests a link between the cranium and Denisovans," Kelso added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Denisovans, a group of ancient humans, continue to intrigue researchers with their elusive presence. Now, as per a new research, traces of their DNA hint at their journey from the Tibetan plateau to regions as far-flung as the Philippines and Laos.

Denisovans, a group of ancient humans, continue to intrigue researchers with their elusive presence. Now, as per a new research, traces of their DNA hint at their journey from the Tibetan plateau to regions as far-flung as the Philippines and Laos. Not just this, this DNA could have had a connection to northern China over 100,000 years ago. Denisovans were an ancient human population that lived tens of thousands of years ago and were closely related to but distinct from both modern humans (Homo sapiens) and Neanderthals. They are known primarily through genetic evidence extracted from fossil remains found in the Denisova Cave in Siberia, Russia. Despite their genetic legacy in modern humans, their physical appearance has largely eluded discovery. Also Read | Scientists identify remains of George Washington's family members using advanced DNA technology Recent findings pointed out a possible connection between Denisovans and a newly identified species, Homo longi, also known as "Dragon man." These are characterised by distinctive features such as a broad nose and thick brow ridges. This breakthrough suggested a deeper understanding of Denisovan traits and their evolutionary lineage. Evidence of Denisovan genes in Tibetan populations also highlighted their interbreeding with Homo sapiens which could have potentially influenced modern humans' ability to thrive at high altitudes. Also Read | Powerful solar flare causes ‘deep shortwave radio blackout over Pacific Ocean’ Surprising discoveries, like a Denisovan jawbone in a Tibetan cave, further strengthen the link between Denisovans and Homo longi. This has now fuelled speculation about their shared ancestry. “We now believe that the Denisovans were members of the Homo longi species,” Professor Xijun Ni from the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing reportedly said. “The latter is characterised by a broad nose, thick brow ridges over its eyes and large tooth sockets," he added. Absence of Chinese fossils However, challenges persist in unraveling Denisovan mysteries, including the absence of DNA in Chinese fossils. Yet, innovative techniques like proteomics are now seem to be offering promising avenues for extracting information from ancient proteins. Watch | Solar eclipse: Canada's Niagara declares state of emergency × Janet Kelso of the Max Planck Institute of Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig, Germany reportedly said, “It was the first time a Denisovan fossil find had been made outside Siberia and that was very important." “Equally intriguing was the fact that the jawbone has teeth that are similar to the teeth found in Homo longi. So I think the evidence suggests a link between the cranium and Denisovans," Kelso added. (With inputs from agencies)

Denisovans DNA shows connection with ‘dragon man’ 100,000 years ago

<p>A groundbreaking study published in the journal Nature Communications has claimed that a mother’s dietary habits might be strongly linked to how her child&nbsp;looks. The study, published on Mar 26, claimed a mother’s diet could influence some features starting in the womb.</p>

<p>Researchers linked protein levels in the mother’s diet to gene activity, especially mTORC1 genes. The genes directly influence the “craniofacial shape of the embryos,” said the authors.</p>

<p>“We found that modulation of the level of protein in the maternal diet regulates mTORC1 activity, resulting in subtle but distinct changes in the craniofacial shape of the embryos,” the researchers explained.</p>

<h2><strong>Facial features of children linked to protein</strong></h2>

<p>The researchers found that high-protein diets in mothers led to stronger, sharper jawlines and bigger noses in children. On the other hand, a low protein diet led to slimmer, pointier features.</p>

<p>Simply put, a mother’s protein intake has a significant influence on the shape and size of the nose or jaw of their children.</p>

<h2><strong>Mother’s diet linked to the health of children</strong></h2>

<p>Previous studies have linked the mother’s diet to the health of newborn babies already. For example, the vegan diet of mothers has been linked to lower weight in children at the time of birth.</p>

<p>A study published earlier this year found that mothers who were obese were more likely to give birth to children facing heightened risk of metabolic conditions — such as fatty liver disease — later in life.</p>

<p>Another study revealed that mothers who ate excessive processed foods could pass on harmful chemicals to their fetuses.</p>

<h2><strong>How was the study conducted?</strong></h2>

<p>To conduct the study, scientists observed behaviours in pregnant mice and zebrafish.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;New evidence suggests size of the Sun could be smaller, says report</strong></p>

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<p>Scientists took genetically manipulated animals and observed changes in their offspring by making changes in their nutrition levels.</p>

<h2><strong>Significance</strong></h2>

<p>The study suggests that maternal nutrition could have a long-lasting impact on offspring, which might help them evolve according to certain environmental conditions.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiD8uuzjJmFAxVknK8BHY8yCmQQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-find-12000-year-old-preserved-human-brain-resisting-decomposition-702201" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-find-12000-year-old-preserved-human-brain-resisting-decomposition-702201&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiD8uuzjJmFAxVknK8BHY8yCmQQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE">Scientists find 12,000-year-old preserved human brains resisting decomposition</a></strong></p>

<p>“In summary, we have demonstrated here that the mTORC1 pathway modulates the embryonic shaping of craniofacial skeletal elements at the stage of chondrogenic condensations, with subsequent fine-tuning during intercalation of chondro-progenitors,” wrote the study authors.</p>

<p>“Furthermore, we provide evidence for an impact of maternal protein intake during pregnancy on the shaping of fetal craniofacial cartilage,” they added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A groundbreaking study published in the journal Nature Communications has claimed that a mother’s dietary habits might be strongly linked to how her child looks.

A groundbreaking study published in the journal Nature Communications has claimed that a mother’s dietary habits might be strongly linked to how her child looks. The study, published on Mar 26, claimed a mother’s diet could influence some features starting in the womb. Researchers linked protein levels in the mother’s diet to gene activity, especially mTORC1 genes. The genes directly influence the “craniofacial shape of the embryos,” said the authors. “We found that modulation of the level of protein in the maternal diet regulates mTORC1 activity, resulting in subtle but distinct changes in the craniofacial shape of the embryos,” the researchers explained. Facial features of children linked to protein The researchers found that high-protein diets in mothers led to stronger, sharper jawlines and bigger noses in children. On the other hand, a low protein diet led to slimmer, pointier features. Simply put, a mother’s protein intake has a significant influence on the shape and size of the nose or jaw of their children. Mother’s diet linked to the health of children Previous studies have linked the mother’s diet to the health of newborn babies already. For example, the vegan diet of mothers has been linked to lower weight in children at the time of birth. A study published earlier this year found that mothers who were obese were more likely to give birth to children facing heightened risk of metabolic conditions — such as fatty liver disease — later in life. Another study revealed that mothers who ate excessive processed foods could pass on harmful chemicals to their fetuses. How was the study conducted? To conduct the study, scientists observed behaviours in pregnant mice and zebrafish. Watch: New evidence suggests size of the Sun could be smaller, says report × Scientists took genetically manipulated animals and observed changes in their offspring by making changes in their nutrition levels. Significance The study suggests that maternal nutrition could have a long-lasting impact on offspring, which might help them evolve according to certain environmental conditions. Also read: Scientists find 12,000-year-old preserved human brains resisting decomposition “In summary, we have demonstrated here that the mTORC1 pathway modulates the embryonic shaping of craniofacial skeletal elements at the stage of chondrogenic condensations, with subsequent fine-tuning during intercalation of chondro-progenitors,” wrote the study authors. “Furthermore, we provide evidence for an impact of maternal protein intake during pregnancy on the shaping of fetal craniofacial cartilage,” they added. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Long nose, sharp jaw line:’ Study finds mother’s diet directly impacts facial features of children in womb

<p>The FDA-approved medicine sildenafil, which is administered for erectile dysfunction, can soon be part of the therapy to decrease the risk of Alzheimer's disease.</p>

<p>The researchers in the United States, have analysed medical insurance data and carried out a laboratory investigation of sildenafil's genetic and neurological effects. Sildenafil is a drug which is popularly sold under the brand name Viagra.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The researchers in the United States validated the potential of the medication in maintaining critical proteins in nerve cells from getting into a deadly mess.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recent studies carried out have again and again shown that enzyme blockers known as phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors are not only able to increase blood flow in the penis but can also prevent neurodegeneration which leads to dementia.</p>

<p>The potential of the enzyme blockers should not be surprising since the PDEs are known to remain involved in nerve signalling pathways which influence neuroplasticity.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/frequently-nose-picking-leading-cause-of-progressive-dementia-study-687765">Frequent nose-picking leading cause of progressive dementia: Study</a></p>

<p>As per earlier investigations on animal models, the PDE inhibitor sildenafil decreases the excessive phosphorylation of 'tau' proteins in nerve cells which leads them to form toxic tangles and helps improve cognitive health and memory.</p>

<p>However, some studies were not able to register an effect on the population level at all. &nbsp;</p>

<p>And though, the drug&nbsp;does not have an effect on a neurological level, the mechanism involved in the process is still not fully understood.</p>

<h2><strong>Cell cultures of neurons used by researchers to study Viagra's effect&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In the United States, the researchers used cell cultures of neurons, which were created using stem cells donated by patients with Alzheimer's, to sketch the metabolic and genetic activity behind the therapeutic effects of sildenafil.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After five days of treatment, significantly lower levels of tau proteins were produced by the laboratory-grown neurons in which phosphorus in high concentration was added, which confirmed sildenafil's potential to protect brain cells.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Celebrities who've been diagnosed with rare diseases &amp; more</strong></p>

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<p>When the researchers went through the messages produced by the DNA of the cells, they found multiple changes in the expression of genes, many of which involved the communication breakdown between nerves, inflammation and guidance of nerve cell structures.</p>

<p>Even though additional studies will be required to understand how these subtle influences are involved in the pathology behind Alzheimer's, the researchers have understood that the main gene families affected by sildenafil gave a solid foundation for understanding why this works and why Alzheimer's is developed in some brains in the first place.</p>

<p>"After integrating this large amount of data computationally, it is rewarding to see sildenafil's effects in human neurons and real-world patient outcomes," said Cleveland Clinic biomedical informatician and co-first author Feixiong Cheng, reported Science Alert.</p>


The FDA-approved medicine sildenafil, which is administered for erectile dysfunction, can soon be part of the therapy to decrease the risk of Alzheimer's disease.

The FDA-approved medicine sildenafil, which is administered for erectile dysfunction, can soon be part of the therapy to decrease the risk of Alzheimer's disease. The researchers in the United States, have analysed medical insurance data and carried out a laboratory investigation of sildenafil's genetic and neurological effects. Sildenafil is a drug which is popularly sold under the brand name Viagra. The researchers in the United States validated the potential of the medication in maintaining critical proteins in nerve cells from getting into a deadly mess. Recent studies carried out have again and again shown that enzyme blockers known as phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors are not only able to increase blood flow in the penis but can also prevent neurodegeneration which leads to dementia. The potential of the enzyme blockers should not be surprising since the PDEs are known to remain involved in nerve signalling pathways which influence neuroplasticity. Also Read: Frequent nose-picking leading cause of progressive dementia: Study As per earlier investigations on animal models, the PDE inhibitor sildenafil decreases the excessive phosphorylation of 'tau' proteins in nerve cells which leads them to form toxic tangles and helps improve cognitive health and memory. However, some studies were not able to register an effect on the population level at all. And though, the drug does not have an effect on a neurological level, the mechanism involved in the process is still not fully understood. Cell cultures of neurons used by researchers to study Viagra's effect In the United States, the researchers used cell cultures of neurons, which were created using stem cells donated by patients with Alzheimer's, to sketch the metabolic and genetic activity behind the therapeutic effects of sildenafil. After five days of treatment, significantly lower levels of tau proteins were produced by the laboratory-grown neurons in which phosphorus in high concentration was added, which confirmed sildenafil's potential to protect brain cells. Watch: Celebrities who've been diagnosed with rare diseases & more When the researchers went through the messages produced by the DNA of the cells, they found multiple changes in the expression of genes, many of which involved the communication breakdown between nerves, inflammation and guidance of nerve cell structures. Even though additional studies will be required to understand how these subtle influences are involved in the pathology behind Alzheimer's, the researchers have understood that the main gene families affected by sildenafil gave a solid foundation for understanding why this works and why Alzheimer's is developed in some brains in the first place. "After integrating this large amount of data computationally, it is rewarding to see sildenafil's effects in human neurons and real-world patient outcomes," said Cleveland Clinic biomedical informatician and co-first author Feixiong Cheng, reported Science Alert.

Viagra intake decreases Alzheimer’s risk by more than 50 per cent: Study

<p>A silent battle is ongoing in the majestic Alps as climate change is relentlessly altering its landscape by threatening the very foundation of its ecosystems. New research from The University of Manchester is showing the impacts of reduced snow cover as mountain ranges worldwide are experiencing accelerated warming.</p>

<p>Alpine regions are experiencing more rapid temperature increases compared to lower elevations. Many alpine regions contain glaciers that are receding at an accelerated rate due to global warming. This not only affects the availability of freshwater resources but also impacts ecosystems and biodiversity that depend on glacial meltwater.</p>

<p>Driven by this warming, snow cover is dwindling, and the hardy dwarf-shrubs, like heather, are marching upwards, reshaping the delicate balance of life in the Alps.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/2000-quakes-rock-a-spot-on-canada-coast-cause-of-ocean-floor-ripping-apart-scientists-703096">2,000 quakes rock a spot on Canada coast, cause ocean floor to 'rip apart': scientists</a></p>

<p>In alpine winters, snow allows soil microbes to remain active and store nutrients within their biomass. This facilitates the survival of plants amidst the cold conditions of the alpine environment.</p>

<p>"Declining winter snow cover is one of the most obvious and pronounced impacts of climate change in the Alps. Its effects on the functioning and biodiversity of alpine ecosystems are a major concern for people living in Alpine regions and beyond," Professor Michael Bahn from the University of Innsbruck reportedly explained.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The repercussions are dire. This vital ecosystem, which is thriving with the help of plants and soil microorganisms, is being thrown off-kilter. This is disrupting the delicate balance of nutrient transfers crucial for sustaining plant growth and biodiversity in these harsh environments.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/james-webb-space-telescope-to-soon-reveal-mysteries-of-auroras-on-uranus-saturn-703086">James Webb Space Telescope to soon reveal mysteries of auroras on Uranus, Saturn</a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the advance of dwarf shrubs are encroaching&nbsp;upon the traditional habitats of alpine flora further altering&nbsp;nutrient dynamics.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Vaping 'linked to cancer and damages body like smoking': News Study</strong></p>

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<p>Published in the journal Global Change Biology, the findings emerged from a collaboration between scientists from The University of Manchester, the University of Innsbruck, Helmholtz Zentrum München, and the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A silent battle is ongoing in the majestic Alps as climate change is relentlessly altering its landscape by threatening the very foundation of its ecosystems. New research from The University of Manchester is showing the impacts of reduced snow cover as mountain ranges worldwide are experiencing accelerated warming.

A silent battle is ongoing in the majestic Alps as climate change is relentlessly altering its landscape by threatening the very foundation of its ecosystems. New research from The University of Manchester is showing the impacts of reduced snow cover as mountain ranges worldwide are experiencing accelerated warming. Alpine regions are experiencing more rapid temperature increases compared to lower elevations. Many alpine regions contain glaciers that are receding at an accelerated rate due to global warming. This not only affects the availability of freshwater resources but also impacts ecosystems and biodiversity that depend on glacial meltwater. Driven by this warming, snow cover is dwindling, and the hardy dwarf-shrubs, like heather, are marching upwards, reshaping the delicate balance of life in the Alps. Also Read | 2,000 quakes rock a spot on Canada coast, cause ocean floor to 'rip apart': scientists In alpine winters, snow allows soil microbes to remain active and store nutrients within their biomass. This facilitates the survival of plants amidst the cold conditions of the alpine environment. "Declining winter snow cover is one of the most obvious and pronounced impacts of climate change in the Alps. Its effects on the functioning and biodiversity of alpine ecosystems are a major concern for people living in Alpine regions and beyond," Professor Michael Bahn from the University of Innsbruck reportedly explained. The repercussions are dire. This vital ecosystem, which is thriving with the help of plants and soil microorganisms, is being thrown off-kilter. This is disrupting the delicate balance of nutrient transfers crucial for sustaining plant growth and biodiversity in these harsh environments. Also Read | James Webb Space Telescope to soon reveal mysteries of auroras on Uranus, Saturn Meanwhile, the advance of dwarf shrubs are encroaching upon the traditional habitats of alpine flora further altering nutrient dynamics. Watch | Vaping 'linked to cancer and damages body like smoking': News Study × Published in the journal Global Change Biology, the findings emerged from a collaboration between scientists from The University of Manchester, the University of Innsbruck, Helmholtz Zentrum München, and the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology. (With inputs from agencies)

Alps grapples with climate change, know what snow retreat can lead to

<p>The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) is poised to embark on an exploration of the dazzling light displays on two of our solar system's giants, Uranus and Saturn. Two teams of astronomers from the University of Leicester will be diving into the captivating phenomena known as the Northern and Southern Lights on Earth as they study auroras of both of these planets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Auroras, also known as the Northern Lights (aurora borealis) and Southern Lights (aurora australis), are natural light displays that predominantly occur in polar regions, although they can sometimes be observed at lower latitudes during periods of heightened solar activity. These breathtaking phenomena typically manifest as colourful curtains, arcs, or waves of light dancing across the sky.</p>

<p>Henrik Melin from the University of Leicester School of Physics and Astronomy, who will lead the investigation on Uranus, expressed his excitement, stating, "I am thrilled to have been awarded time on this remarkable observatory, and this data will fundamentally shape our understanding of both Saturn and Uranus.”</p>

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<p>A recent discovery confirmed infrared auroras around Uranus, sparking questions about its unusually high temperature.</p>

<p>Emma Thomas, a Ph.D. student at the University of Leicester, pondered, "The temperature of all the gas giant planets, including Uranus, are hundreds of degrees Kelvin/Celsius above what models predict if only warmed by the sun, leaving us with the big question of how these planets are so much hotter than expected."</p>

<p>"One theory suggests the energetic aurora is the cause of this, which generates and pushes heat from the aurora down towards the magnetic equator," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/astronomers-call-to-protect-radio-silence-on-moons-far-side-amid-growing-scientific-interest-in-the-region-703006">Astronomers call to protect radio silence on Moon's far side amid growing scientific interest in the region</a></p>

<p>The JWST study of Uranus will commence in early 2025 and will capture images over a single day to map auroral emissions across its magnetic field. The investigation will aim to uncover the sources of charged particles responsible for Uranus' auroras.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-mans-mission-to-rejuvenate-water-bodies-703063">Indian man's mission to rejuvenate water bodies</a></strong></p>

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<p>Simultaneously, the JWST will focus on Saturn's northern auroral region, led by scientist Luke Moore from Boston University. By monitoring Saturn's atmospheric energies, the team will unveil the origins of its mesmerising light displays. Both studies will employ the JWST's Near-Infrared Camera (NIRCam) instrument to get insights into these celestial phenomena.</p>

<p>Thomas said, “A majority of exoplanets discovered so far fall in the sub-Neptune category and hence are physically similar to Neptune and Uranus in size. This may also mean similar magnetic and atmospheric characteristics too."</p>

<p>"By analysing Uranus's aurora, which directly connects to both the planet's magnetic field and atmosphere, we can make predictions about the atmospheres and magnetic fields of these worlds and hence their suitability for life," she added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) is poised to embark on an exploration of the dazzling light displays on two of our solar system's giants, Uranus and Saturn.

The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) is poised to embark on an exploration of the dazzling light displays on two of our solar system's giants, Uranus and Saturn. Two teams of astronomers from the University of Leicester will be diving into the captivating phenomena known as the Northern and Southern Lights on Earth as they study auroras of both of these planets. Auroras, also known as the Northern Lights (aurora borealis) and Southern Lights (aurora australis), are natural light displays that predominantly occur in polar regions, although they can sometimes be observed at lower latitudes during periods of heightened solar activity. These breathtaking phenomena typically manifest as colourful curtains, arcs, or waves of light dancing across the sky. Henrik Melin from the University of Leicester School of Physics and Astronomy, who will lead the investigation on Uranus, expressed his excitement, stating, "I am thrilled to have been awarded time on this remarkable observatory, and this data will fundamentally shape our understanding of both Saturn and Uranus.” Also Read | Women using weight loss drugs experiencing increased fertility, experts tell why A recent discovery confirmed infrared auroras around Uranus, sparking questions about its unusually high temperature. Emma Thomas, a Ph.D. student at the University of Leicester, pondered, "The temperature of all the gas giant planets, including Uranus, are hundreds of degrees Kelvin/Celsius above what models predict if only warmed by the sun, leaving us with the big question of how these planets are so much hotter than expected." "One theory suggests the energetic aurora is the cause of this, which generates and pushes heat from the aurora down towards the magnetic equator," she added. Also Read | Astronomers call to protect radio silence on Moon's far side amid growing scientific interest in the region The JWST study of Uranus will commence in early 2025 and will capture images over a single day to map auroral emissions across its magnetic field. The investigation will aim to uncover the sources of charged particles responsible for Uranus' auroras. Watch | Indian man's mission to rejuvenate water bodies × Simultaneously, the JWST will focus on Saturn's northern auroral region, led by scientist Luke Moore from Boston University. By monitoring Saturn's atmospheric energies, the team will unveil the origins of its mesmerising light displays. Both studies will employ the JWST's Near-Infrared Camera (NIRCam) instrument to get insights into these celestial phenomena. Thomas said, “A majority of exoplanets discovered so far fall in the sub-Neptune category and hence are physically similar to Neptune and Uranus in size. This may also mean similar magnetic and atmospheric characteristics too." "By analysing Uranus's aurora, which directly connects to both the planet's magnetic field and atmosphere, we can make predictions about the atmospheres and magnetic fields of these worlds and hence their suitability for life," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

James Webb Space Telescope to soon reveal mysteries of auroras on Uranus, Saturn

<p>Scientists have achieved a big milestone in the quest to address insulin shortages for diabetes patients. By genetically modifying a brown bovine cow in Brazil, researchers were able to extract human insulin and its precursor, proinsulin, directly from the cow's milk, as per a groundbreaking study published in Biotechnology Journal, reports said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The process involved somatic cell nuclear transfer to create specialised embryos, which were then implanted into cows.</p>

<p>Although only one transgenic cow was successfully produced, the results were promising. Analysis of the milk revealed the presence of both proinsulin and insulin, indicating the viability of this method for insulin production.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/global-decline-in-fertility-rates-to-create-a-demographically-divided-world-study-702719">Global decline in fertility rates to create a ‘demographically divided world’: Study</a></p>

<p>However, the study faced some limitations. Dr. Splenser, an endocrinologist with Memorial Hermann in Houston, reportedly highlighted concerns regarding the need for hormonal stimulation to induce lactation in transgenic cows.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The researchers had to hormonally stimulate the cows to lactate, which led to small amounts of insulin-containing milk being produced. Although the authors did identify signs of proinsulin and insulin in the cow’s milk using western blotting and mass spectroscopy, they did not prove if the insulin produced in the cows was actually physiologically active in-vitro or in-vivo,” Dr. Splenser said.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pregnant-women-working-in-extreme-heat-are-more-prone-to-miscarriage-and-stillbirth-new-study-suggests-702667">Pregnant women working in extreme heat are more prone to miscarriage and stillbirth, says new study</a></p>

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<p>While this breakthrough offers hope for addressing insulin shortages, ethical considerations surrounding the use of genetically modified animals must be carefully evaluated, reports said.</p>

<p>Biotechnology&nbsp;Professor at Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Dr. Wheeler, pointed out at the need for further research to asses the process.&nbsp;</p>
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<p>“One day we may be able to use milk as a source of critical medical proteins for human patients and maybe even develop a way to get insulin to diabetic patients without injections. However, that is a number of years away. This is a proof of concept study that was published. We need to produce more animals and determine the amount of insulin they can produce and the effectiveness of that insulin for treating diabetes," Dr Wheeler added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Scientists have achieved a big milestone in the quest to address insulin shortages for diabetes patients. By genetically modifying a brown bovine cow in Brazil, researchers were able to extract human insulin and its precursor, proinsulin, directly from the cow's milk, as per a groundbreaking study published in Biotechnology Journal, reports said.

Scientists have achieved a big milestone in the quest to address insulin shortages for diabetes patients. By genetically modifying a brown bovine cow in Brazil, researchers were able to extract human insulin and its precursor, proinsulin, directly from the cow's milk, as per a groundbreaking study published in Biotechnology Journal, reports said. The process involved somatic cell nuclear transfer to create specialised embryos, which were then implanted into cows. Although only one transgenic cow was successfully produced, the results were promising. Analysis of the milk revealed the presence of both proinsulin and insulin, indicating the viability of this method for insulin production. Also Read | Global decline in fertility rates to create a ‘demographically divided world’: Study However, the study faced some limitations. Dr. Splenser, an endocrinologist with Memorial Hermann in Houston, reportedly highlighted concerns regarding the need for hormonal stimulation to induce lactation in transgenic cows. “The researchers had to hormonally stimulate the cows to lactate, which led to small amounts of insulin-containing milk being produced. Although the authors did identify signs of proinsulin and insulin in the cow’s milk using western blotting and mass spectroscopy, they did not prove if the insulin produced in the cows was actually physiologically active in-vitro or in-vivo,” Dr. Splenser said. Also Read | Pregnant women working in extreme heat are more prone to miscarriage and stillbirth, says new study Watch | Chile water crisis | Catalonia Drought | Copacabana's youngest beach cleaner × While this breakthrough offers hope for addressing insulin shortages, ethical considerations surrounding the use of genetically modified animals must be carefully evaluated, reports said. Biotechnology Professor at Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Dr. Wheeler, pointed out at the need for further research to asses the process. “One day we may be able to use milk as a source of critical medical proteins for human patients and maybe even develop a way to get insulin to diabetic patients without injections. However, that is a number of years away. This is a proof of concept study that was published. We need to produce more animals and determine the amount of insulin they can produce and the effectiveness of that insulin for treating diabetes," Dr Wheeler added. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists genetically modify cow to solve insulin shortages for diabetes patients

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