<p>It's a general notion that some children are born brilliant and excel at studies, while others 'with less intelligence' lag behind in academic performance. A large new study seeks to bust this myth, having found that motivation, self-regulation, grit and perseverance help children become better at studies.</p>

<p>These non-cognitive skills that are part of emotional intelligence and also include academic interest and value attributed to learning, are as important as intelligence- a largely genetic attribute- in determining academic success, found the study.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: AI is spying on students</strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The researchers followed the development of 10,000 children in the UK, including siblings, to reach the conclusions.</p>

<p>Fostering non-cognitive skills alongside cognitive abilities could significantly improve educational outcomes, said the authors of the study published in the journal Nature Human Behaviour.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/autistic-11-year-old-girl-beats-albert-einstein-stephen-hawkings-iq-scores-590778">Also Read: Autistic 11-year-old girl beats IQ scores of Albert Einstein, Stephen Hawking</a></strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Our research challenges the long-held assumption that intelligence is the primary driver of academic achievement," said Dr Margherita Malanchini at Queen Mary University of London, who did the study along with Dr Andrea Allegrini at University College London.</p>

<h2><strong>Non-cognitive skills vs genetic factors</strong></h2>

<p>The findings challenge the traditional view of educational achievement as determined largely by intelligence, which is largely a genetic attribute.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Instead, it suggests that a child's "emotional and behavioural makeup, influenced by both genes and environment, plays a crucial role in their educational journey," said the release.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How the study was done</strong></h2>

<p>The study followed 10,000 children from age seven to 16 in England and Wales, using "a combination of twin studies and DNA-based analyses to examine the interplay between genes, environment, and academic performance," said the release.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/inheritance-of-attraction-study-claims-children-of-attractive-parents-earn-more-687432">Also Read: Inheritance of attraction? 'Hot parents' study claims children of attractive people earn more</a></strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>By analysing DNA of study participants, researchers constructed a "polygenic score" for non-cognitive skills, essentially a genetic snapshot of a child's predisposition towards these skills, it said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We discovered that genetic effects associated with non-cognitive skills become increasingly predictive of academic achievement over the school years, in fact their effect nearly doubles between the ages of 7 and 16," Dr Allegrini said.</p>

<p>"By the end of compulsory education, genetic dispositions towards non-cognitive skills were equally as important as those related to cognitive abilities in predicting academic success."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Children in same families differ in approach to studies</strong></h2>

<p>Children within the family may shape their own learning experiences based on their personality, dispositions and abilities.</p>

<p>"We found that while family-wide processes play a significant role, the increasing influence of non-cognitive genetics on academic achievement remained evident even within families," said Allegrini.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Our education system has traditionally focused on cognitive development," said Dr Malanchini.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


It's a general notion that some children are born brilliant and excel at studies, while others 'with less intelligence' lag behind in academic performance. A large new study seeks to bust this myth, having found that motivation, self-regulation, grit and perseverance help children become better at studies.

It's a general notion that some children are born brilliant and excel at studies, while others 'with less intelligence' lag behind in academic performance. A large new study seeks to bust this myth, having found that motivation, self-regulation, grit and perseverance help children become better at studies. These non-cognitive skills that are part of emotional intelligence and also include academic interest and value attributed to learning, are as important as intelligence- a largely genetic attribute- in determining academic success, found the study. Watch: AI is spying on students × The researchers followed the development of 10,000 children in the UK, including siblings, to reach the conclusions. Fostering non-cognitive skills alongside cognitive abilities could significantly improve educational outcomes, said the authors of the study published in the journal Nature Human Behaviour. Also Read: Autistic 11-year-old girl beats IQ scores of Albert Einstein, Stephen Hawking "Our research challenges the long-held assumption that intelligence is the primary driver of academic achievement," said Dr Margherita Malanchini at Queen Mary University of London, who did the study along with Dr Andrea Allegrini at University College London. Non-cognitive skills vs genetic factors The findings challenge the traditional view of educational achievement as determined largely by intelligence, which is largely a genetic attribute. Instead, it suggests that a child's "emotional and behavioural makeup, influenced by both genes and environment, plays a crucial role in their educational journey," said the release. How the study was done The study followed 10,000 children from age seven to 16 in England and Wales, using "a combination of twin studies and DNA-based analyses to examine the interplay between genes, environment, and academic performance," said the release. Also Read: Inheritance of attraction? 'Hot parents' study claims children of attractive people earn more By analysing DNA of study participants, researchers constructed a "polygenic score" for non-cognitive skills, essentially a genetic snapshot of a child's predisposition towards these skills, it said. "We discovered that genetic effects associated with non-cognitive skills become increasingly predictive of academic achievement over the school years, in fact their effect nearly doubles between the ages of 7 and 16," Dr Allegrini said. "By the end of compulsory education, genetic dispositions towards non-cognitive skills were equally as important as those related to cognitive abilities in predicting academic success." Children in same families differ in approach to studies Children within the family may shape their own learning experiences based on their personality, dispositions and abilities. "We found that while family-wide processes play a significant role, the increasing influence of non-cognitive genetics on academic achievement remained evident even within families," said Allegrini. "Our education system has traditionally focused on cognitive development," said Dr Malanchini. (With inputs from agencies)

Intelligence alone doesn't make children excel at studies; it takes grit and perseverance too: Study

<p>A new, nasally administered Covid vaccine candidate could be a game changer as it offers broad protection against the deadly virus and its variants, while also vaccinating those who are averse to needles, its developers have said.</p>

<p>Administered through the nasal passage, the dose has been licensed to the vaccine maker, Indian Immunologicals Ltd, and is expected to go into clinical trials soon.</p>

<p>The dose, called CDO-7N-1, is an intranasal live-attenuated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, which uses a method known as codon deoptimisation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: What reasons did AstraZeneca give while withdrawing its COVID-19 vaccine globally?</strong></p>

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<p>With just one shot, CDO-7N-1 was found to induce robust immune response in mice, hamsters and macaques, said its developers, who published their findings in Nature Communications journal on Monday (Aug 26).</p>

<p>The lab test animals were protected from SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, as well as its variants like beta, delta and omicron XBB.1.5, said the researchers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-faces-rising-claims-for-covid-19-vaccine-damages-over-14000-seek-compensation-751001">Also read: UK faces rising claims for COVID-19 vaccine damages; over 14,000 seek compensation</a></strong></p>

<p>“This is a live attenuated intranasal vaccine, inducing potential mucosal immunity as well as systemic immunity with just a single dose,” said Prof &nbsp;Suresh Mahalingam from Griffith’s Institute for Biomedicine and Glycomics, who has been working on the vaccine for four years.</p>

<p>“The vaccine induces strong memory responses in the nasal mucosa, offering long-term protection for up to a year or more. It’s been designed to be administered as single dose, ideally as a booster vaccine, as a safe alternative to needles with no adverse reactions in the short or long term,” he said.</p>

<p>This is a live-attenuated vaccine, meaning it contains the entire virus, thereby providing broad immunity, in contrast to a single antigen, which is used in many other vaccine platforms.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/plea-filed-in-indias-top-court-seeking-investigation-into-covishield-side-effects-717027">Also read: Plea filed in India’s top court seeking investigation into Covid vaccine Covishield's side effects</a></strong></p>

<p>The vaccine provides cross-protection against all variants of concern, and has neutralising capacity against SARS-CoV-1, said Dr Xiang Liu, the lead author of the study, adding it protects against transmission, prevents reinfection and the spread of the virus, while also reducing the generation of new variants.</p>

<p>“Unlike the mRNA vaccine, which targets only the spike protein, CDO-7N-1 induces immunity to all major SARS-CoV-2 proteins and is highly effective against all major variants to date," said Liu.</p>

<p>“Importantly, the vaccine remains stable at 4°C for seven months, making it ideal for low- and middle-income countries.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A new, nasally administered Covid vaccine candidate could be a game changer as it offers broad protection against the deadly virus and its variants, while also vaccinating those who are averse to needles, its developers have said.

A new, nasally administered Covid vaccine candidate could be a game changer as it offers broad protection against the deadly virus and its variants, while also vaccinating those who are averse to needles, its developers have said. Administered through the nasal passage, the dose has been licensed to the vaccine maker, Indian Immunologicals Ltd, and is expected to go into clinical trials soon. The dose, called CDO-7N-1, is an intranasal live-attenuated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, which uses a method known as codon deoptimisation. Watch: What reasons did AstraZeneca give while withdrawing its COVID-19 vaccine globally? × With just one shot, CDO-7N-1 was found to induce robust immune response in mice, hamsters and macaques, said its developers, who published their findings in Nature Communications journal on Monday (Aug 26). The lab test animals were protected from SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, as well as its variants like beta, delta and omicron XBB.1.5, said the researchers. Also read: UK faces rising claims for COVID-19 vaccine damages; over 14,000 seek compensation “This is a live attenuated intranasal vaccine, inducing potential mucosal immunity as well as systemic immunity with just a single dose,” said Prof Suresh Mahalingam from Griffith’s Institute for Biomedicine and Glycomics, who has been working on the vaccine for four years. “The vaccine induces strong memory responses in the nasal mucosa, offering long-term protection for up to a year or more. It’s been designed to be administered as single dose, ideally as a booster vaccine, as a safe alternative to needles with no adverse reactions in the short or long term,” he said. This is a live-attenuated vaccine, meaning it contains the entire virus, thereby providing broad immunity, in contrast to a single antigen, which is used in many other vaccine platforms. Also read: Plea filed in India’s top court seeking investigation into Covid vaccine Covishield's side effects The vaccine provides cross-protection against all variants of concern, and has neutralising capacity against SARS-CoV-1, said Dr Xiang Liu, the lead author of the study, adding it protects against transmission, prevents reinfection and the spread of the virus, while also reducing the generation of new variants. “Unlike the mRNA vaccine, which targets only the spike protein, CDO-7N-1 induces immunity to all major SARS-CoV-2 proteins and is highly effective against all major variants to date," said Liu. “Importantly, the vaccine remains stable at 4°C for seven months, making it ideal for low- and middle-income countries.” (With inputs from agencies)

Covid vaccine: Single-dose nasal drop protects against virus and variants, can be a gamechanger

<p>What is love, or rather, 'where' is love? A fascinating new study has located where exactly love happens in our brains. More precisely, it has mapped how different types of love situations fire up different parts of the brain.</p>

<p>Using functional magnetic resonance imaging or fMRI, the researchers from Aalto University mapped the brain activity of participants who were given stories to think about, related to six types of love: for romantic partners, friends, children, strangers, pets and nature.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Does falling in love mess with your head?</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How was the 'brain in love' study done?</strong></h2>

<p>The researchers gave specific love-related statements to participants and observed how their brains reacted. After hearing a professional actor’s rendition of each love story, participants were asked to imagine each emotion for 10 seconds,&nbsp;the researchers said in a release.</p>

<p>Could you guess which type of love ignited more parts of the participants' brains?&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Love for one’s children generated the most intense brain activity, closely followed by romantic love, according to the study published in the journal Cerebral Cortex.</p>

<p>The statement given to the parents was: "You see your newborn child for the first time. The baby is soft, healthy and hearty — your life’s greatest wonder. You feel love for the little one."</p>

<p>It was presented to 55 parents who said they were in a loving relationship.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-love-in-the-times-of-ai-your-digital-avatar-might-soon-go-out-on-dates-for-you-721735">Also Read: Love in the times of AI: Your digital avatar might soon go out on dates for you</a></strong><br />
<br />
"In parental love, there was activation deep in the brain's reward system in the striatum area while imagining love, and this was not seen for any other kind of love," said Pärttyli Rinne, who coordinated the study.</p>

<p>‘‘The activation pattern of love is generated...in the basal ganglia, the midline of the forehead, the precuneus and the temporoparietal junction at the sides of the back of the head," said Rinne.</p>

<p>Brain activity is influenced not only by the closeness of the object of love but also by whether it is a human being, another species or nature.</p>

<p>Compassionate love for strangers was less rewarding and caused less brain activation than love in close relationships, it noted.</p>

<p>The study also found that love of nature activated the reward system and visual areas of the brain, but not the social brain areas.</p>

<p>The study also found that it is possible to find, based on brain activity, whether a person is a pet owner or not.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-international-dog-day-indian-celebs-love-letters-for-their-furry-friends-753388">Also Read: International Dog Day: Indian celebs' love letters for their furry friends</a></strong></p>

<p>"When looking at love for pets and the brain activity associated with it, brain areas associated with sociality statistically reveal whether or not the person is a pet owner. When it comes to the pet owners, these areas are more activated than with non-pet owners," said Rinne.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


What is love, or rather, 'where' is love? A fascinating new study has located where exactly love happens in our brains. More precisely, it has mapped how different types of love situations fire up different parts of the brain.

What is love, or rather, 'where' is love? A fascinating new study has located where exactly love happens in our brains. More precisely, it has mapped how different types of love situations fire up different parts of the brain. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging or fMRI, the researchers from Aalto University mapped the brain activity of participants who were given stories to think about, related to six types of love: for romantic partners, friends, children, strangers, pets and nature. Watch: Does falling in love mess with your head? × How was the 'brain in love' study done? The researchers gave specific love-related statements to participants and observed how their brains reacted. After hearing a professional actor’s rendition of each love story, participants were asked to imagine each emotion for 10 seconds, the researchers said in a release. Could you guess which type of love ignited more parts of the participants' brains? Love for one’s children generated the most intense brain activity, closely followed by romantic love, according to the study published in the journal Cerebral Cortex. The statement given to the parents was: "You see your newborn child for the first time. The baby is soft, healthy and hearty — your life’s greatest wonder. You feel love for the little one." It was presented to 55 parents who said they were in a loving relationship. Also Read: Love in the times of AI: Your digital avatar might soon go out on dates for you "In parental love, there was activation deep in the brain's reward system in the striatum area while imagining love, and this was not seen for any other kind of love," said Pärttyli Rinne, who coordinated the study. ‘‘The activation pattern of love is generated...in the basal ganglia, the midline of the forehead, the precuneus and the temporoparietal junction at the sides of the back of the head," said Rinne. Brain activity is influenced not only by the closeness of the object of love but also by whether it is a human being, another species or nature. Compassionate love for strangers was less rewarding and caused less brain activation than love in close relationships, it noted. The study also found that love of nature activated the reward system and visual areas of the brain, but not the social brain areas. The study also found that it is possible to find, based on brain activity, whether a person is a pet owner or not. Also Read: International Dog Day: Indian celebs' love letters for their furry friends "When looking at love for pets and the brain activity associated with it, brain areas associated with sociality statistically reveal whether or not the person is a pet owner. When it comes to the pet owners, these areas are more activated than with non-pet owners," said Rinne. (With inputs from agencies)

What is love? Now, researchers have mapped exactly which parts of brains fire up in various love situations

<p>Did you know that some so-called 'smart toys' may be spying on your kids' behaviour patterns? A shocking study into 12 such toys found breaches of security and privacy, with the toys recording and transmitting user&nbsp;data to toy manufacturers.</p>

<p>The study examined smart toys like Toniebox, Tiptoi smart pen,&nbsp;Edurino learning app, Tamagotchi virtual pet, Moorebot mobile robot and chlidren's smart phone Kidibuzz. These toys employ interactive play through software apps and internet.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Smart devices evesdropping for ad targeting and listening to your conversations secretly?</strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Many of these toys raise privacy concerns, and some even collect extensive behavioral data about children," said the researchers at the University of Basel, Switzerland in a release.</p>

<p>Take the case of Toniebox in which children can use figurines that, when put into a box, would play music and audio content. The researchers found that the toy records exactly when the toy is activated and by which figurine, when the child stops playback, and to which spot they rewind or fast-forward, said the release.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amazon-shuts-down-customers-smart-home-devices-over-false-racism-claims-605214">Also read: Amazon shuts down customer's smart home devices over false racism claims</a></p>

<p>Such data is sent to the manufacturer, found the study headed by Prof Isabel Wagner of the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science at the University of Basel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the study to be presented at the Annual Privacy Forum in September, the researchers looked into data traffic encryption, data protection, transparency and compliance with the European Union General Data Protection Regulation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They found that Toniebox and the Tiptoi Pen do not securely encrypt data traffic.</p>

<p>Toniebox collects data and sends to the manufacturer.&nbsp;"Even if the Toniebox were operated offline and only temporarily connected to the internet while downloading new audio content, the device could store collected data locally and transmit it to the manufacturer at the next opportunity," said Wagner, a professor of cyber security.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/elon-musk-threatens-apple-device-ban-over-openai-integration-730630">Also read: Elon Musk threatens Apple device ban over OpenAI integration</a><br />
<br />
In another toy that integrates ChatGPT, the researchers found that log data "regularly vanishes,” said Wagner, adding the system is probably set up to delete the local copy of transmitted data to optimise internal storage use.</p>

<p>The ChatGPT toy transmits a data stream that looks like audio. "Perhaps the company wants to optimise speech recognition for children’s voices," said Wagner.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While companies claim the data helps optimise the devices, it's not clear to users what purpose this data could serve.</p>

<p>“The apps bundled with some of these toys demand entirely unnecessary access rights, such as to a smartphone’s location or microphone,” said Wagner.</p>

<p>“Children’s privacy requires special protection,” said Julika Feldbusch, first author of the study.</p>

<p>She said toy manufacturers should place greater weight on privacy and security of their products.</p>

<p>“Well-informed parents engage with the issue and can choose toys that do not create behavioural profiles of their children. But many lack the technical knowledge or don’t have time to think about this stuff in detail,” Feldbusch.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Did you know that some so-called 'smart toys' may be spying on your kids' behaviour patterns? A shocking study into 12 such toys found breaches of security and privacy, with the toys recording and transmitting user data to toy manufacturers.

Did you know that some so-called 'smart toys' may be spying on your kids' behaviour patterns? A shocking study into 12 such toys found breaches of security and privacy, with the toys recording and transmitting user data to toy manufacturers. The study examined smart toys like Toniebox, Tiptoi smart pen, Edurino learning app, Tamagotchi virtual pet, Moorebot mobile robot and chlidren's smart phone Kidibuzz. These toys employ interactive play through software apps and internet. Watch: Smart devices evesdropping for ad targeting and listening to your conversations secretly? × "Many of these toys raise privacy concerns, and some even collect extensive behavioral data about children," said the researchers at the University of Basel, Switzerland in a release. Take the case of Toniebox in which children can use figurines that, when put into a box, would play music and audio content. The researchers found that the toy records exactly when the toy is activated and by which figurine, when the child stops playback, and to which spot they rewind or fast-forward, said the release. Also read: Amazon shuts down customer's smart home devices over false racism claims Such data is sent to the manufacturer, found the study headed by Prof Isabel Wagner of the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science at the University of Basel. For the study to be presented at the Annual Privacy Forum in September, the researchers looked into data traffic encryption, data protection, transparency and compliance with the European Union General Data Protection Regulation. They found that Toniebox and the Tiptoi Pen do not securely encrypt data traffic. Toniebox collects data and sends to the manufacturer. "Even if the Toniebox were operated offline and only temporarily connected to the internet while downloading new audio content, the device could store collected data locally and transmit it to the manufacturer at the next opportunity," said Wagner, a professor of cyber security. Also read: Elon Musk threatens Apple device ban over OpenAI integration In another toy that integrates ChatGPT, the researchers found that log data "regularly vanishes,” said Wagner, adding the system is probably set up to delete the local copy of transmitted data to optimise internal storage use. The ChatGPT toy transmits a data stream that looks like audio. "Perhaps the company wants to optimise speech recognition for children’s voices," said Wagner. While companies claim the data helps optimise the devices, it's not clear to users what purpose this data could serve. “The apps bundled with some of these toys demand entirely unnecessary access rights, such as to a smartphone’s location or microphone,” said Wagner. “Children’s privacy requires special protection,” said Julika Feldbusch, first author of the study. She said toy manufacturers should place greater weight on privacy and security of their products. “Well-informed parents engage with the issue and can choose toys that do not create behavioural profiles of their children. But many lack the technical knowledge or don’t have time to think about this stuff in detail,” Feldbusch. (With inputs from agencies)

Some smart toys may be spying on your kids' behaviour patterns in breach of privacy

<p>A probe panel's report into sexual abuse has shaken and stirred the Malayalam film industry in the south Indian state of Kerala. The Hema Committee report, released to the public on August 19, has led to a further flurry of allegations against some of the most prominent names in Kerala filmdom.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following such claims, director Ranjith quit as chairman of the government-run Kerala Chalachitra Academy, whereas veteran actor Siddique resigned as general secretary of the movie actors' association AMMA, or Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes.</p>

<h2><strong>Hema Committee report: The background</strong></h2>

<p>What set the cat among the pigeons&nbsp;was some of the shocking findings of the Hema committee report, which was set up&nbsp;in the wake of a kidnap and sexual assault on a famous actress by a bunch of thugs on a moving vehicle in 2017, for which then superstar Dileep was the prime accused. Dileep went in and out of jail and continued the legal battle, even as his career continued more or less unimpeded, though not to the extent&nbsp;of stardom that he had enjoyed from the late 1990s till the year of the assault.</p>

<p>AMMA, time and again, appeared to dilly-dally on the issue of sexual assault and exploitation of female stars and aspiring artists, in some cases openly defending accused persons like Dileep.</p>

<p>While a bunch of male actors joined the chorus against sexual exploitation, most of them were either sidelined or quietened down.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/how-three-malayalam-films-are-scripting-history-with-massive-box-office-numbers-globally-712996">Also read: How three Malayalam films are scripting history with massive box office numbers globally</a></strong><br />
<br />
Some in the Malayalam film industry have deep linkages with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's Left Democratic Front or LDF government. This complicates matters for it, as institutions like Chalachitra Academy are state-run. There was also criticism that the report, even though it was submitted several years ago, was released only this month.</p>

<p>Culture Minister Saji Cheriyan and Law Minister P Rajeeve said that action will be taken against the accused only if formal complaints are filed. Another minister, MB Rajesh, said the government will seek legal advice on filing a legal complaint against Siddique and Ranjith.</p>

<h2><strong>What are the allegations that came to light after Hema Committee report?</strong></h2>

<p>Revathy Sampath, a young actress, alleged that Siddique raped her in a hotel room in 2016. She said she was not interested in a legal battle unless survivors of sexual assault are given protection by the government. Siddique, after quitting his post in AMMA, has lodged a police complaint against Sampath.</p>

<p>Sreelekha Mitra, a Bengali actress, accused Ranith of trying to sexually molest her during a film discussion.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Malayalam actor Lena makes surprising revelation</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the committee report was released, several actors have been accused of some sort of sexual harassment in the past, including Riyaz Khan, Baburaj, Mukesh, Maniyanpilla Raju and Jayasurya.</p>

<p>While the casting couch is not unheard of in the Kerala film industry, the bravery of women who are coming forward to speak up about sexual exploitation in Tinsel Town is unprecedented.</p>

<h2><strong>What is the Hema Committee, and what are its findings?</strong></h2>

<p>Hema Committee was formed by the Kerala government in 2017 to look into the issue of sexual harassment and gender inequality in the Malayalam film industry. The committee, whose other members are veteran actress Sharada and former civil service officer KB Valsalakumari, was formed a few months after the February 2017 kidnap and sexual assault of the young actress in which actor Dileep is the prime accused.</p>

<p><br />
<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/indian-film-producer-actor-vijay-babu-booked-for-rape-revealing-survivors-identity-on-social-media-474387">Also read: Indian film producer-actor Vijay Babu booked for rape, revealing survivor's identity on social media</a></strong><br />
<br />
The committee was formed on a complaint from Women in Cinema Collective, an association created in the wake of the kidnap assault incident.</p>

<p>Though the report was submitted to Chief Minister Vijayan in 2019, it did not see the light of the day until court complaints led to its release.</p>

<p>The report was released this month with many parts redacted, to preserve the privacy of some individuals.</p>

<p>The report found that sexual favours were being asked of women who wanted to&nbsp;enter the film industry and find work.<br />
It said sexual assault, abuse and harassment at the workplace were commonplace for women.</p>

<p>It highlighted the lack of basic amenities for women like female-only restrooms and changing rooms.</p>

<p>It put the spotlight on general male dominance in the industry.</p>

<p>It noted that often, complaints are not recorded in writing.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


A probe panel's report into sexual abuse has shaken and stirred the Malayalam film industry in the south Indian state of Kerala. The Hema Committee report, released to the public on August 19, has led to a further flurry of allegations against some of the most prominent names in Kerala filmdom.

A probe panel's report into sexual abuse has shaken and stirred the Malayalam film industry in the south Indian state of Kerala. The Hema Committee report, released to the public on August 19, has led to a further flurry of allegations against some of the most prominent names in Kerala filmdom. Following such claims, director Ranjith quit as chairman of the government-run Kerala Chalachitra Academy, whereas veteran actor Siddique resigned as general secretary of the movie actors' association AMMA, or Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes. Hema Committee report: The background What set the cat among the pigeons was some of the shocking findings of the Hema committee report, which was set up in the wake of a kidnap and sexual assault on a famous actress by a bunch of thugs on a moving vehicle in 2017, for which then superstar Dileep was the prime accused. Dileep went in and out of jail and continued the legal battle, even as his career continued more or less unimpeded, though not to the extent of stardom that he had enjoyed from the late 1990s till the year of the assault. AMMA, time and again, appeared to dilly-dally on the issue of sexual assault and exploitation of female stars and aspiring artists, in some cases openly defending accused persons like Dileep. While a bunch of male actors joined the chorus against sexual exploitation, most of them were either sidelined or quietened down. Also read: How three Malayalam films are scripting history with massive box office numbers globally Some in the Malayalam film industry have deep linkages with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's Left Democratic Front or LDF government. This complicates matters for it, as institutions like Chalachitra Academy are state-run. There was also criticism that the report, even though it was submitted several years ago, was released only this month. Culture Minister Saji Cheriyan and Law Minister P Rajeeve said that action will be taken against the accused only if formal complaints are filed. Another minister, MB Rajesh, said the government will seek legal advice on filing a legal complaint against Siddique and Ranjith. What are the allegations that came to light after Hema Committee report? Revathy Sampath, a young actress, alleged that Siddique raped her in a hotel room in 2016. She said she was not interested in a legal battle unless survivors of sexual assault are given protection by the government. Siddique, after quitting his post in AMMA, has lodged a police complaint against Sampath. Sreelekha Mitra, a Bengali actress, accused Ranith of trying to sexually molest her during a film discussion. Watch: Malayalam actor Lena makes surprising revelation × Since the committee report was released, several actors have been accused of some sort of sexual harassment in the past, including Riyaz Khan, Baburaj, Mukesh, Maniyanpilla Raju and Jayasurya. While the casting couch is not unheard of in the Kerala film industry, the bravery of women who are coming forward to speak up about sexual exploitation in Tinsel Town is unprecedented. What is the Hema Committee, and what are its findings? Hema Committee was formed by the Kerala government in 2017 to look into the issue of sexual harassment and gender inequality in the Malayalam film industry. The committee, whose other members are veteran actress Sharada and former civil service officer KB Valsalakumari, was formed a few months after the February 2017 kidnap and sexual assault of the young actress in which actor Dileep is the prime accused. Also read: Indian film producer-actor Vijay Babu booked for rape, revealing survivor's identity on social media The committee was formed on a complaint from Women in Cinema Collective, an association created in the wake of the kidnap assault incident. Though the report was submitted to Chief Minister Vijayan in 2019, it did not see the light of the day until court complaints led to its release. The report was released this month with many parts redacted, to preserve the privacy of some individuals. The report found that sexual favours were being asked of women who wanted to enter the film industry and find work. It said sexual assault, abuse and harassment at the workplace were commonplace for women. It highlighted the lack of basic amenities for women like female-only restrooms and changing rooms. It put the spotlight on general male dominance in the industry. It noted that often, complaints are not recorded in writing. (With inputs from agencies)

Sexual abuse in Malayalam film industry: Hema committee report leads to Siddique, Ranjith exits I Story so far

<p>We cannot escape social media and endless scrolling of photos and videos on our smartphones, once we are introduced to the practice. The same is the case with games on mobile phones or consoles. But have you ever wondered why we are so deeply into these technology-driven addictions? Is there a way out, taking control of our time and being mindful and purposeful of our use of technology?</p>

<p>A new book, <em>Managing Your Gaming and Social Media Habits: From Science to Solutions</em> by Catherine Knibbs, offers some tips to get out of social media addiction.</p>

<p>“When we engage with social media or gaming, we disconnect from our bodies and being present, and spend that time interacting with the media for what can seem like hours. This is one of the reasons why we get ‘caught up’ in the scrolling,” Knibbs was quoted as saying in a release.</p>

<p><br />
<strong>Watch: Are you scrolling phone and is it adding to your stress? Then you are 'doomscrolling'</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Her book seeks to make us&nbsp;aware of why we use technology the way we do, and how we can recognise when interventions are needed to help master our technology use.</p>

<p>Changing the addictive behaviours around technology could improve our mental health, productivity as well as sleep habits and diet.</p>

<h2><strong>But why are we addicted to technology in the first place?</strong></h2>

<p>This, according to the author, is because of a combination of factors: our need to belong, feel loved and cared for, and the way technology companies design products to address these.</p>

<p>“For some people social media and gaming offer a lifesaving space. Games provide a space for people to connect, and to combat other feelings that exist in their lives such as loneliness, anxiety, and depression,” said Knibbs, a psychotherapist who specialises in cybertrauma and online harms.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/doomscrolling-can-cause-health-issues-says-study-513539">Doomscrolling can cause health issues, says study</a></strong></p>

<p>She said people told her how their online communities make them feel like they are with people who understand them, see them and have the same interests.</p>

<p>"This can help them when they feel alone and in need of support.”</p>

<p>The book, part of the new Ask The Experts in Psychology series in partnership with the British Psychological Society,&nbsp; says the first step is to understand the tricks that technology companies use to get you addicted to their apps and devices.</p>

<p>They "create products that deliberately tap into our innermost desires and needs so as to keep our attention on those products,” she says.</p>

<p>And those needs are the desire to be recognised, seen, valued, loved and needed, and the fear of missing out or FOMO.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-abrosexuality-receives-a-push-on-social-media-what-is-it-752878">'Abrosexuality' receives a push on social media. What is it?</a></strong><br />
<br />
Avoidance of rejection and abandonment is at the core of what we do daily, especially on social media. “We are born ready to socialise and in doing so we have a primary need to get others to take care of us to prevent us from being rejected, abandoned, and causing us to die,” says Knibbs.</p>

<p>Then there's the desire for novelty, excitement and reward. The apps send out a constant stream of prompts, pings and pushes, nudges, and rewards, to appeal to this aspect of our minds.</p>

<h2><strong>Tips to address social media addiction and start taking back control </strong></h2>

<p>1. Start writing a diary of your technology use&nbsp;</p>

<p>2. Think critically about the situations in which you use it</p>

<p>3. As the question: What needs am I trying to meet when I reach for my smartphone?</p>

<p>4. Notice how the first use of social media of the week happened: what you did, where you were and at what time you first noticed "the urge to open the phone, laptop, computer, console etc"</p>

<p>5. Find out if your technology use is helpful and purposeful or not. Are you using this "in a mindful and purposeful way", so that you can feel more in control?</p>

<p>6. Notice the kinds of things that you seek out online, engage with, scroll past, or hover on</p>

<p>7. Turn the background colours on your devices to black and white</p>

<p>8. Remove notifications from the apps or home screen</p>

<p>9. Instal time blockers that tell you when you have spent a certain amount of time online.</p>

<p>10. Do meditation and other mindfulness practices</p>

<p>The eventual goal, says Knibbs,&nbsp; is "to reach a state where you can engage with technology more intentionally when you have the capacity to do so.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


We cannot escape social media and endless scrolling of photos and videos on our smartphones, once we are introduced to the practice. The same is the case with games on mobile phones or consoles.

We cannot escape social media and endless scrolling of photos and videos on our smartphones, once we are introduced to the practice. The same is the case with games on mobile phones or consoles. But have you ever wondered why we are so deeply into these technology-driven addictions? Is there a way out, taking control of our time and being mindful and purposeful of our use of technology? A new book, Managing Your Gaming and Social Media Habits: From Science to Solutions by Catherine Knibbs, offers some tips to get out of social media addiction. “When we engage with social media or gaming, we disconnect from our bodies and being present, and spend that time interacting with the media for what can seem like hours. This is one of the reasons why we get ‘caught up’ in the scrolling,” Knibbs was quoted as saying in a release. Watch: Are you scrolling phone and is it adding to your stress? Then you are 'doomscrolling' × Her book seeks to make us aware of why we use technology the way we do, and how we can recognise when interventions are needed to help master our technology use. Changing the addictive behaviours around technology could improve our mental health, productivity as well as sleep habits and diet. But why are we addicted to technology in the first place? This, according to the author, is because of a combination of factors: our need to belong, feel loved and cared for, and the way technology companies design products to address these. “For some people social media and gaming offer a lifesaving space. Games provide a space for people to connect, and to combat other feelings that exist in their lives such as loneliness, anxiety, and depression,” said Knibbs, a psychotherapist who specialises in cybertrauma and online harms. Also read: Doomscrolling can cause health issues, says study She said people told her how their online communities make them feel like they are with people who understand them, see them and have the same interests. "This can help them when they feel alone and in need of support.” The book, part of the new Ask The Experts in Psychology series in partnership with the British Psychological Society, says the first step is to understand the tricks that technology companies use to get you addicted to their apps and devices. They "create products that deliberately tap into our innermost desires and needs so as to keep our attention on those products,” she says. And those needs are the desire to be recognised, seen, valued, loved and needed, and the fear of missing out or FOMO. Also read: 'Abrosexuality' receives a push on social media. What is it? Avoidance of rejection and abandonment is at the core of what we do daily, especially on social media. “We are born ready to socialise and in doing so we have a primary need to get others to take care of us to prevent us from being rejected, abandoned, and causing us to die,” says Knibbs. Then there's the desire for novelty, excitement and reward. The apps send out a constant stream of prompts, pings and pushes, nudges, and rewards, to appeal to this aspect of our minds. Tips to address social media addiction and start taking back control 1. Start writing a diary of your technology use 2. Think critically about the situations in which you use it 3. As the question: What needs am I trying to meet when I reach for my smartphone? 4. Notice how the first use of social media of the week happened: what you did, where you were and at what time you first noticed "the urge to open the phone, laptop, computer, console etc" 5. Find out if your technology use is helpful and purposeful or not. Are you using this "in a mindful and purposeful way", so that you can feel more in control? 6. Notice the kinds of things that you seek out online, engage with, scroll past, or hover on 7. Turn the background colours on your devices to black and white 8. Remove notifications from the apps or home screen 9. Instal time blockers that tell you when you have spent a certain amount of time online. 10. Do meditation and other mindfulness practices The eventual goal, says Knibbs, is "to reach a state where you can engage with technology more intentionally when you have the capacity to do so.” (With inputs from agencies)

Are you addicted to social media and gaming? Here are tips to escape the mindless scrolling

<p>Winter seems to have come to California a bit too early. An unusual dusting of snow was witnessed in the usually sunny west American state in the middle of summer, a first in 20 years.</p>

<p>This is the first snowflakes of the year for the state's mountains. The High Sierra in Yoesmite saw its earliest snowfall in over 20 years over the weekend. Snow dusted other peaks like Mount Shasta too.</p>

<p>Yosemite has not seen August snow for at least 20 years, as per the National Weather Service, which described the situation as “anomalous cool conditions” in much of the western US.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: UNDP's future weather forecast hopes to drive climate action</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Temperatures in some places fell by 15 degrees Fahrenheit below normal. The weekend temperature was around 22 degrees and mostly cloudy but gradually recovered.</p>

<p>Social media users posted videos of snow capping the Sierra Nevada mountain range on Saturday (Aug 24).</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">California's bracing for a rare August snow! 🌨️❄️ This ultra-rare event could bring snow to the Sierra Nevada, with temps dropping 15°F below normal. Get ready for a wintery surprise! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CaliforniaSnow?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CaliforniaSnow</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeatherAlert?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeatherAlert</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RareEvent?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RareEvent</a> <a href="https://t.co/mqrkZOGKW8">pic.twitter.com/mqrkZOGKW8</a></p>
— XzERp (@XzERp11) <a href="https://twitter.com/XzERp11/status/1826332996057923746?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mount Shasta in the north of the Golden State saw 15 inches of snow, which is unusual for this time of the year.</p>

<h2><strong>But it could be a 'very late snowfall'</strong></h2>

<p>Gary Lazak, who runs weather2020.com, said this could be a very late snowfall, a sort of residue from the last winter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"While it may seem like an early snowfall, it's actually a continuation of the weather pattern established last October...and thus a very late snowfall, and not an early snowfall," he posted on X.<br />
<br />
<strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-severe-storms-sweep-across-central-and-eastern-regions-707360">US: Severe storms sweep across central and eastern regions</a></strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This event is linked to the part of the cycling weather pattern that occurred and produced snow in previous cycles during the winter and spring, particularly in mid-January. We're still cycling through the same pattern set last fall," he added.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">August 24th and we are officially on the board for snow! ❄️ <a href="https://t.co/Z4tSgPY7PG">pic.twitter.com/Z4tSgPY7PG</a></p>
— Carter Murphy 💰8️⃣ (@cartermurphy218) <a href="https://twitter.com/cartermurphy218/status/1827377859595473390?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nevertheless, the snow in August was definitely unexpected at&nbsp;Minaret Vista, a lookout point south-east of Yosemite National Park in the Sierra Nevada, said Madera County Deputy Sheriff Larry Rich.</p>

<p>“It’s not every day you get to spend your birthday surrounded by a winter wonderland in the middle of summer. It made for a day I won’t soon forget...It’s just one of those moments that makes working up here so special,” Rich said in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/greenland-ice-sheet-melting-rates-can-predict-europes-summer-weather-heres-how-700072">Greenland's melting rate of ice sheets can predict Europe's summer weather. Here's how</a></strong></p>

<p>Snow also fell at Mammoth Mountain and Palisades Tahoe ski resorts.</p>

<p>“This morning was chill. Take a look at the dusting of new snow on the mid and upper-mountain,” Mammoth Mountain staff posted on social media.</p>

<p>About three inches of snow fell in Lassen Volcanic National Park.</p>

<p>The early arrival of snow is a bit of a relief for Californians, who have witnessed heat waves and wildfires this summer season.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Winter seems to have come to California a bit too early. An unusual dusting of snow was witnessed in the usually sunny west American state in the middle of summer, a first in 20 years.

Winter seems to have come to California a bit too early. An unusual dusting of snow was witnessed in the usually sunny west American state in the middle of summer, a first in 20 years. This is the first snowflakes of the year for the state's mountains. The High Sierra in Yoesmite saw its earliest snowfall in over 20 years over the weekend. Snow dusted other peaks like Mount Shasta too. Yosemite has not seen August snow for at least 20 years, as per the National Weather Service, which described the situation as “anomalous cool conditions” in much of the western US. Watch: UNDP's future weather forecast hopes to drive climate action × Temperatures in some places fell by 15 degrees Fahrenheit below normal. The weekend temperature was around 22 degrees and mostly cloudy but gradually recovered. Social media users posted videos of snow capping the Sierra Nevada mountain range on Saturday (Aug 24). California's bracing for a rare August snow! 🌨️❄️ This ultra-rare event could bring snow to the Sierra Nevada, with temps dropping 15°F below normal. Get ready for a wintery surprise! #CaliforniaSnow #WeatherAlert #RareEvent pic.twitter.com/mqrkZOGKW8 — XzERp (@XzERp11) August 21, 2024 × Mount Shasta in the north of the Golden State saw 15 inches of snow, which is unusual for this time of the year. But it could be a 'very late snowfall' Gary Lazak, who runs weather2020.com, said this could be a very late snowfall, a sort of residue from the last winter. "While it may seem like an early snowfall, it's actually a continuation of the weather pattern established last October...and thus a very late snowfall, and not an early snowfall," he posted on X. Also read: US: Severe storms sweep across central and eastern regions "This event is linked to the part of the cycling weather pattern that occurred and produced snow in previous cycles during the winter and spring, particularly in mid-January. We're still cycling through the same pattern set last fall," he added. August 24th and we are officially on the board for snow! ❄️ pic.twitter.com/Z4tSgPY7PG — Carter Murphy 💰8️⃣ (@cartermurphy218) August 24, 2024 × Nevertheless, the snow in August was definitely unexpected at Minaret Vista, a lookout point south-east of Yosemite National Park in the Sierra Nevada, said Madera County Deputy Sheriff Larry Rich. “It’s not every day you get to spend your birthday surrounded by a winter wonderland in the middle of summer. It made for a day I won’t soon forget...It’s just one of those moments that makes working up here so special,” Rich said in a statement. Also read: Greenland's melting rate of ice sheets can predict Europe's summer weather. Here's how Snow also fell at Mammoth Mountain and Palisades Tahoe ski resorts. “This morning was chill. Take a look at the dusting of new snow on the mid and upper-mountain,” Mammoth Mountain staff posted on social media. About three inches of snow fell in Lassen Volcanic National Park. The early arrival of snow is a bit of a relief for Californians, who have witnessed heat waves and wildfires this summer season. (With inputs from agencies)

California dusted by earlier-than-usual snow in August for the first time in 20 years - Watch

<p>A 27-year-old Indian national from the southern state of Telangana and his Sudanese colleague died of dehydration and exhaustion in Saudi Arabia's Rub' al Khali desert.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian national has been identified as Mohammad Shehzad Khan. He was a resident of Karimnagar, about 174 km from Hyderabad or over 1,400 km south of New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Khan was working in Saudi Arabia for three years with a telecommunications company. Khan and his colleague found themselves stranded in the desolate and perilous Empty Quarter part of the desert, one of the most dangerous regions in the world.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-68-indian-nationals-die-in-hajj-pilgrimage-amid-scorching-temperatures-diplomat-733222">At least 68 Indian nationals die in Hajj pilgrimage amid scorching temperatures: Diplomat</a></strong></p>

<p>Stretching over 650,000 square kilometres, the Rubʿ al-Khali is the largest area of continuous sand in the world. The Rub' al-Khali is reported to be virtually uninhabited and largely unexplored. During the daytime, temperatures can soar as high as 55 degrees Celsius.</p>

<p>The region is notorious for its harsh conditions and spans across Saudi Arabia's southern regions and neighbouring countries.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The incident unfolded when Khan along with a Sudanese national, lost his way after their GPS signal failed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Karimnagar resident's mobile phone battery died and the duo were unable to call for help.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Their vehicle ran out of fuel and they were left stranded without food or water in the desert's scorching heat.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Saudi Arabia: Indian national on death row in Saudi jail to be freed</strong></p>

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<p>The two fought for survival in extremely high temperatures that went to extreme levels. But both of them died due to severe dehydration and exhaustion.</p>

<p>According to Telangana Today, their bodies were discovered on the prayer rug, indicating that they had given up hope of survival and were praying as they prepared to die.</p>

<p>The duo's bodies were discovered on Thursday, four days later, lying next to their vehicle in the dunes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A 27-year-old Indian national from the southern state of Telangana and his Sudanese colleague died of dehydration and exhaustion in Saudi Arabia's Rub' al Khali desert.

A 27-year-old Indian national from the southern state of Telangana and his Sudanese colleague died of dehydration and exhaustion in Saudi Arabia's Rub' al Khali desert. The Indian national has been identified as Mohammad Shehzad Khan. He was a resident of Karimnagar, about 174 km from Hyderabad or over 1,400 km south of New Delhi. Khan was working in Saudi Arabia for three years with a telecommunications company. Khan and his colleague found themselves stranded in the desolate and perilous Empty Quarter part of the desert, one of the most dangerous regions in the world. Also read | At least 68 Indian nationals die in Hajj pilgrimage amid scorching temperatures: Diplomat Stretching over 650,000 square kilometres, the Rubʿ al-Khali is the largest area of continuous sand in the world. The Rub' al-Khali is reported to be virtually uninhabited and largely unexplored. During the daytime, temperatures can soar as high as 55 degrees Celsius. The region is notorious for its harsh conditions and spans across Saudi Arabia's southern regions and neighbouring countries. What happened? The incident unfolded when Khan along with a Sudanese national, lost his way after their GPS signal failed. The Karimnagar resident's mobile phone battery died and the duo were unable to call for help. Their vehicle ran out of fuel and they were left stranded without food or water in the desert's scorching heat. Also watch | Saudi Arabia: Indian national on death row in Saudi jail to be freed × The two fought for survival in extremely high temperatures that went to extreme levels. But both of them died due to severe dehydration and exhaustion. According to Telangana Today, their bodies were discovered on the prayer rug, indicating that they had given up hope of survival and were praying as they prepared to die. The duo's bodies were discovered on Thursday, four days later, lying next to their vehicle in the dunes. (With inputs from agencies)

Telangana man found dead on prayer rug in Saudi Arabia desert

<p>A volcano has erupted in Iceland's Reykjanes peninsula, spewing hot lava, toxic gases and ash into the air, amid fears that this could be the start of another long period of volcanic activity in the Nordic country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is the sixth eruption since last December in&nbsp;Reykjanes, which is&nbsp;known for frequent volcanic activity.</p>

<p>“A volcanic eruption has begun. A fissure has opened east of Sylingarfell,” the Icelandic meteorological office (IMO) said in a statement, adding that the eruption had started at 9.26pm local time on Thursday (Aug 22) after a series of earthquakes.</p>

<p>The length of the eruptive fissure was nearly 3.9 km, according to IMO. "The lava flow continues both to the east and west towards Grindavíkurvegur. No lava flow is observed to the south towards Grindavík," it said in an update.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Iceland volcano still pouring out fountains of lava</strong></p>

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<p>Eruption of the&nbsp;volcano, located in south-western Iceland, led to the evacuation of the fishing village of Grindavik.</p>

<p>“Considerable seismic activity” was taking place at the northern end of the fissure, the IMO said, including a 4.0-magnitude earthquake.<br />
<br />
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/volcanic-eruptions-on-icelands-reykjanes-peninsula-could-continue-for-decades-study-735395">Volcanic eruptions on Iceland's Reykjanes peninsula could continue for decades: Study</a></p>

<p>Reykjanes peninsula is prone to volcanic activity, often leading to evacuation of its population of 30,000.<br />
<br />
Videos and images posted on social media showed the magnitude of the eruption.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">❗️🌋🇮🇸 - The Sundhnúkur volcano in Grindavík, southwest of Iceland, erupted, the entire area was evacuated and a state of emergency was declared.<br />
<br />
The fault from which the magma flows reaches almost 4 kilometers. However, scientists believe that the peak of the eruption will… <a href="https://t.co/dDpG86pMCc">pic.twitter.com/dDpG86pMCc</a></p>
— 🔥🗞The Informant (@theinformant_x) <a href="https://twitter.com/theinformant_x/status/1826818362820722832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">❗️🌋🇮🇸 - On Thursday, a volcano in southwest Iceland erupted, releasing lava and smoke into the air—marking the sixth eruption since December.<br />
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The event took place on the Reykjanes peninsula, just south of Reykjavik, where magma had been steadily accumulating.<br />
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The region, home… <a href="https://t.co/zUsdPfkudk">pic.twitter.com/zUsdPfkudk</a></p>
— 🔥🗞The Informant (@theinformant_x) <a href="https://twitter.com/theinformant_x/status/1826747601732976768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The last major volcanic activity in Iceland lasted till June 22, after an eruption that lasted 24 days.</p>

<p>Scientists are warning that the Reykjanes could face repeated events for decades or even centuries, The Guardian said in a report.</p>

<p>There were nine eruptions on the peninsula since 2021 after geological systems that had been dormant for 800 years were reactivated.</p>

<p>The IMO had warned for weeks that another eruption was likely.</p>

<p>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iceland-volcano-eruption-releases-gigantic-toxic-gas-cloud-flying-towards-europe-703101">Iceland volcano eruption releases gigantic toxic gas cloud flying towards Europe</a></p>

<p><br />
It said the seismic activity indicated a buildup of pressure to magma accumulation under Svartsengi.</p>

<p>Svartsengi has a power plant that supplies&nbsp;electricity and water to the peninsula. The power plant, which has been evacuated last December and is operated remotely, is safe and air and land travel is unaffected in the area as of now.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A volcano has erupted in Iceland's Reykjanes peninsula, spewing hot lava, toxic gases and ash into the air, amid fears that this could be the start of another long period of volcanic activity in the Nordic country.

A volcano has erupted in Iceland's Reykjanes peninsula, spewing hot lava, toxic gases and ash into the air, amid fears that this could be the start of another long period of volcanic activity in the Nordic country. This is the sixth eruption since last December in Reykjanes, which is known for frequent volcanic activity. “A volcanic eruption has begun. A fissure has opened east of Sylingarfell,” the Icelandic meteorological office (IMO) said in a statement, adding that the eruption had started at 9.26pm local time on Thursday (Aug 22) after a series of earthquakes. The length of the eruptive fissure was nearly 3.9 km, according to IMO. "The lava flow continues both to the east and west towards Grindavíkurvegur. No lava flow is observed to the south towards Grindavík," it said in an update. Watch: Iceland volcano still pouring out fountains of lava × Eruption of the volcano, located in south-western Iceland, led to the evacuation of the fishing village of Grindavik. “Considerable seismic activity” was taking place at the northern end of the fissure, the IMO said, including a 4.0-magnitude earthquake. Also read: Volcanic eruptions on Iceland's Reykjanes peninsula could continue for decades: Study Reykjanes peninsula is prone to volcanic activity, often leading to evacuation of its population of 30,000. Videos and images posted on social media showed the magnitude of the eruption. ❗️🌋🇮🇸 - The Sundhnúkur volcano in Grindavík, southwest of Iceland, erupted, the entire area was evacuated and a state of emergency was declared. The fault from which the magma flows reaches almost 4 kilometers. However, scientists believe that the peak of the eruption will… pic.twitter.com/dDpG86pMCc — 🔥🗞The Informant (@theinformant_x) August 23, 2024 × ❗️🌋🇮🇸 - On Thursday, a volcano in southwest Iceland erupted, releasing lava and smoke into the air—marking the sixth eruption since December. The event took place on the Reykjanes peninsula, just south of Reykjavik, where magma had been steadily accumulating. The region, home… pic.twitter.com/zUsdPfkudk — 🔥🗞The Informant (@theinformant_x) August 22, 2024 × The last major volcanic activity in Iceland lasted till June 22, after an eruption that lasted 24 days. Scientists are warning that the Reykjanes could face repeated events for decades or even centuries, The Guardian said in a report. There were nine eruptions on the peninsula since 2021 after geological systems that had been dormant for 800 years were reactivated. The IMO had warned for weeks that another eruption was likely. Also read: Iceland volcano eruption releases gigantic toxic gas cloud flying towards Europe It said the seismic activity indicated a buildup of pressure to magma accumulation under Svartsengi. Svartsengi has a power plant that supplies electricity and water to the peninsula. The power plant, which has been evacuated last December and is operated remotely, is safe and air and land travel is unaffected in the area as of now. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Iceland volcano spews hot lava into air in sixth eruption within eight months

<p>The residence of Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday (Aug 22) witnessed chaotic scenes that could have led to a diplomatic standoff between Islamabad and Berlin.</p>

<p>PM Sharif was expected to welcome German Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development, Ms Svenja Schulze, at his official residence.</p>

<p>However, when the minister was about to enter the PM House, the security officials asked her to leave her bag behind and get it checked.</p>

<p>The German minister resisted and refused to do so. In a viral video, one of the officials can be heard saying that&nbsp;“it’s protocol.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">German Development Minister humiliated at Pakistan Prime Minister’s Office. When Minister Svenja Schulze arrived for her meeting with Pak PM <a href="https://twitter.com/CMShehbaz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CMShehbaz</a>, his security demanded that she hand over her bag. Schulze turned back to leave &amp; then she was allowed. <a href="https://t.co/AdPXJ59Xo3">pic.twitter.com/AdPXJ59Xo3</a></p>
— Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdityaRajKaul/status/1826607190162985172?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Visibly annoyed, the minister discusses the matter with the German ambassador, Alfred Grannas, briefly. Then, the duo makes a U-turn towards their vehicle, in an apparent sign that Schulze was no longer interested in the scheduled meeting.</p>

<p>Subsequently, the security officials relented and let the minister enter the building with her bag.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjz87v1lImIAxX3yDgGHd8dAiYQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-two-children-killed-in-firing-on-school-van-in-punjabs-attock-752267" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-two-children-killed-in-firing-on-school-van-in-punjabs-attock-752267&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjz87v1lImIAxX3yDgGHd8dAiYQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">Pakistan: Two children killed in firing on school van in Punjab`s Attock</a></strong></p>

<p>According to German media, the German side had previously held detailed talks with Pakistani security ahead of the meeting. Schulze wanted to bring a photographer with her to the meeting, but this request was also rejected by the Pakistani&nbsp;side. But when officials told her to leave her bag behind, they ended up crossing her red line, forcing her to almost cancel the meeting and spark a diplomatic crisis.</p>

<p>But in the end, everything went according to plan. PM Sharif welcomed Schulze for dinner in the presence of nearly his entire cabinet.</p>

<p>Notably, Germany is extremely important for Pakistan’s cash-strapped economy, being a major export destination. Pakistan majorly exports textiles, leather goods, sports equipment, and medical instruments to Germany. The meeting was also important&nbsp;because Schulze was the first senior Western government official to visit the country since their recent election in February.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The residence of Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday (Aug 22) witnessed chaotic scenes that could have led to a diplomatic standoff between Islamabad and Berlin.

The residence of Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday (Aug 22) witnessed chaotic scenes that could have led to a diplomatic standoff between Islamabad and Berlin. PM Sharif was expected to welcome German Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development, Ms Svenja Schulze, at his official residence. However, when the minister was about to enter the PM House, the security officials asked her to leave her bag behind and get it checked. The German minister resisted and refused to do so. In a viral video, one of the officials can be heard saying that “it’s protocol.” German Development Minister humiliated at Pakistan Prime Minister’s Office. When Minister Svenja Schulze arrived for her meeting with Pak PM @CMShehbaz, his security demanded that she hand over her bag. Schulze turned back to leave & then she was allowed. pic.twitter.com/AdPXJ59Xo3 — Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) August 22, 2024 × Visibly annoyed, the minister discusses the matter with the German ambassador, Alfred Grannas, briefly. Then, the duo makes a U-turn towards their vehicle, in an apparent sign that Schulze was no longer interested in the scheduled meeting. Subsequently, the security officials relented and let the minister enter the building with her bag. Also read: Pakistan: Two children killed in firing on school van in Punjab`s Attock According to German media, the German side had previously held detailed talks with Pakistani security ahead of the meeting. Schulze wanted to bring a photographer with her to the meeting, but this request was also rejected by the Pakistani side. But when officials told her to leave her bag behind, they ended up crossing her red line, forcing her to almost cancel the meeting and spark a diplomatic crisis. But in the end, everything went according to plan. PM Sharif welcomed Schulze for dinner in the presence of nearly his entire cabinet. Notably, Germany is extremely important for Pakistan’s cash-strapped economy, being a major export destination. Pakistan majorly exports textiles, leather goods, sports equipment, and medical instruments to Germany. The meeting was also important because Schulze was the first senior Western government official to visit the country since their recent election in February. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: German minister almost cancels meet with Pakistan PM following humiliation over bag

<p>Taylor Swift has opened up for the first time about the foiled terror plot at the Vienna leg of her Eras tour which led to the cancellation of the concerts in the Austrian capital. In a lengthy Instagram post, the American pop sensation&nbsp;said she felt tremendous guilt and shared how she went through a rollercoaster of emotions.</p>

<h2><strong>How Vienna terror plot&nbsp;led to Taylor Swift concert cancellation</strong></h2>

<p>In early August, Austrian police foiled a terror attack plot led by a 19-year-old Islamic State supporter, who wanted to kill himself and many others on or before the Swift concerts in Vienna. The Vienna leg of the tour was to have taken place from August 8 to 10 at the Ernst Happel stadium. There was hope initially that the concert could go on, but authorities stopped it citing an&nbsp;“abstract danger”, leaving thousands of her fans known as Swifties heartbroken.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH: Taylor Swift shows in Vienna cancelled after 2 arrested for planning terror plot</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The terror plot evoked memories of the Ariana Grande concert bombing in the UK's Manchester Arena in 2019 which killed at least 23 people.</p>

<p>Austrian police arrested the 19-year-old and two others aged 17 and 18 and said the main suspect had been radicalised online and became a sympathiser of Islamic State. Authorities raided his house and found bomb-making chemicals.</p>

<h2><strong>What Taylor Swift said in her Instagram post on Vienna tour cancellation</strong></h2>

<p>In the Instagram post titled 'In Summation', Swift said on Wednesday night (Aug 21) that having the Vienna shows cancelled was "devastating".</p>

<p>“The reason for the cancellations filled me with a new sense of fear, and a tremendous amount of guilt because so many people had planned on coming to those shows. But I was also so grateful to the authorities because thanks to them, we were grieving concerts and not lives,” she wrote.</p>

<p>In the wake of the Vienna gig cancellation, she said all her energy went into protecting “the nearly half a million people I had coming to see the shows in London” in the subsequent days.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/taylor-swift-returns-to-the-stage-for-the-first-time-since-foiled-terror-plot-in-vienna-750552">Taylor Swift returns to the stage for the first time since foiled terror plot in Vienna</a></strong><br />
<br />
“My team and I worked hand in hand with stadium staff and British authorities every day in pursuit of that goal, and I want to thank them for everything they did for us...Let me be very clear: I am not going to speak about something publicly if I think doing so might provoke those who would want to harm the fans who come to my shows.”</p>

<p>The Instagram post was shared as she wound up the European leg of her blockbuster tour.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-post-vienna-scare-unticketed-taylor-swift-fans-banned-from-standing-outside-london-stadium-750089">Post Vienna scare: Unticketed Taylor Swift fans banned from standing outside London stadium</a></strong></p>

<p>Swift said she chose to remain silent about the Vienna incident as a form of “showing restraint and waiting to express yourself at a time when it’s right to."</p>

<p>"My priority was finishing our European tour safely, and it is with great relief that I can say we did that,” she said.</p>

<p><strong>Here is her full post:</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C-8sKGYymIC/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Taylor Swift (@taylorswift)</a></p>
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<p>Swift will go on with the rest of her tour with shows in Canada in November and December.</p>

<p>The Eras tour is the most lucrative ever in music history, having grossed more than $1 billion.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Taylor Swift has opened up for the first time about the foiled terror plot at the Vienna leg of her Eras tour which led to the cancellation of the concerts in the Austrian capital.

Taylor Swift has opened up for the first time about the foiled terror plot at the Vienna leg of her Eras tour which led to the cancellation of the concerts in the Austrian capital. In a lengthy Instagram post, the American pop sensation said she felt tremendous guilt and shared how she went through a rollercoaster of emotions. How Vienna terror plot led to Taylor Swift concert cancellation In early August, Austrian police foiled a terror attack plot led by a 19-year-old Islamic State supporter, who wanted to kill himself and many others on or before the Swift concerts in Vienna. The Vienna leg of the tour was to have taken place from August 8 to 10 at the Ernst Happel stadium. There was hope initially that the concert could go on, but authorities stopped it citing an “abstract danger”, leaving thousands of her fans known as Swifties heartbroken. WATCH: Taylor Swift shows in Vienna cancelled after 2 arrested for planning terror plot × The terror plot evoked memories of the Ariana Grande concert bombing in the UK's Manchester Arena in 2019 which killed at least 23 people. Austrian police arrested the 19-year-old and two others aged 17 and 18 and said the main suspect had been radicalised online and became a sympathiser of Islamic State. Authorities raided his house and found bomb-making chemicals. What Taylor Swift said in her Instagram post on Vienna tour cancellation In the Instagram post titled 'In Summation', Swift said on Wednesday night (Aug 21) that having the Vienna shows cancelled was "devastating". “The reason for the cancellations filled me with a new sense of fear, and a tremendous amount of guilt because so many people had planned on coming to those shows. But I was also so grateful to the authorities because thanks to them, we were grieving concerts and not lives,” she wrote. In the wake of the Vienna gig cancellation, she said all her energy went into protecting “the nearly half a million people I had coming to see the shows in London” in the subsequent days. Also read: Taylor Swift returns to the stage for the first time since foiled terror plot in Vienna “My team and I worked hand in hand with stadium staff and British authorities every day in pursuit of that goal, and I want to thank them for everything they did for us...Let me be very clear: I am not going to speak about something publicly if I think doing so might provoke those who would want to harm the fans who come to my shows.” The Instagram post was shared as she wound up the European leg of her blockbuster tour. Also read: Post Vienna scare: Unticketed Taylor Swift fans banned from standing outside London stadium Swift said she chose to remain silent about the Vienna incident as a form of “showing restraint and waiting to express yourself at a time when it’s right to." "My priority was finishing our European tour safely, and it is with great relief that I can say we did that,” she said. Here is her full post: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Taylor Swift (@taylorswift) × Swift will go on with the rest of her tour with shows in Canada in November and December. The Eras tour is the most lucrative ever in music history, having grossed more than $1 billion. (With inputs from agencies)

Taylor Swift speaks up on Vienna concert terror plot for first time, says she felt guilt, fear

<p>Sweden on Wednesday (Aug 21) began a killing spree to eliminate nearly 500 brown bears, or 20 per cent of the animal's population in the Nordic country, despite outcry by environment activists who call it more of a 'macho pride' issue than something motivated by real ecological concerns.</p>

<p>The brown bears can be shot dead as&nbsp;part of the annual license to kill. The hunting season will go into October 15.&nbsp;For this season, 486 brown bears can be killed in the so-called licensed hunt.</p>

<p>Activists say that a century&nbsp;of conservation efforts will go to waste after campaigns and laws had brought back the population of brown bears that were once killed to near-extinction by hunters.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The 'trophy hunt' of bears&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Brown bears that number more than 3,000 in Sweden,&nbsp;are a strictly protected species within the European Union. Hunting them is being seen by some as a matter of 'macho pride', allege the activists.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Polar Bears on verge of extinction due to starvation amid global warming</strong></p>

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<p>“There are several ways to better live side by side... by taking preventive measures to avoid damage and by using the great tourism value of bear watching as a tool for countryside development, which our neighbouring country Finland has proven to be very good at,” Euronews quoted Magnus Orrebrant, chairman of the Swedish Carnivore Association, as saying.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-country-for-bears-romanias-parliament-approves-culling-of-500-bears-741413">No country for bears? Romania's parliament approves stepping up bear culling</a></strong></p>

<p>Measures to protect them from trophy-hunting were introduced in 1927. Over several decades since then, their population gradually grew. It was&nbsp;around 2,200 in the year 2000, and&nbsp;peaked at around 3,300 in 2008.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But after the licensed hunt of 2023, the population dropped to 2,450.</p>

<p>Sweden’s Big Five, a conservation group, alleged the&nbsp;government was on a clear path to cull the big carnivores to 1,400, which is the minimum number required for conservation purposes.&nbsp;This would represent a 60 per cent loss from the 2008 peak.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/humans-can-learn-to-sleep-like-bears-to-save-their-lives-study-673901">Sleeping like a bear might help humans live a healthier life, study suggests</a></strong></p>

<p>“We can absolutely not continue to shoot this many bears if we are to have a stable bear population around the 2,400 bears we have today,” says Jonas Kindberg, leader of the Scandinavian Bear research project.</p>

<p>Officially known as Ursus arctos, brown&nbsp;bears mature slowly, taking up to four years to become adults.</p>

<p>Kindberg noted that only a few cubs are born at a time, and that too once in two to three years.&nbsp;“During the hunt, it is very difficult to tell females from males, and the females are much more valuable to the population. Therefore, you risk ending up in a situation that may take a very long time to repair.”</p>

<p>In addition to the annual licensed hunts, brown bears are allowed to be killed in 'protective' hunts if they're considered damaging to property or threat to life.</p>

<p>Last year, 648 bears were shot during licensed hunting, while 74 more were killed during protective hunting.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Sweden on Wednesday (Aug 21) began a killing spree to eliminate nearly 500 brown bears, or 20 per cent of the animal's population in the Nordic country, despite outcry by environment activists who call it more of a 'macho pride' issue than something motivated by real ecological concerns.

Sweden on Wednesday (Aug 21) began a killing spree to eliminate nearly 500 brown bears, or 20 per cent of the animal's population in the Nordic country, despite outcry by environment activists who call it more of a 'macho pride' issue than something motivated by real ecological concerns. The brown bears can be shot dead as part of the annual license to kill. The hunting season will go into October 15. For this season, 486 brown bears can be killed in the so-called licensed hunt. Activists say that a century of conservation efforts will go to waste after campaigns and laws had brought back the population of brown bears that were once killed to near-extinction by hunters. The 'trophy hunt' of bears Brown bears that number more than 3,000 in Sweden, are a strictly protected species within the European Union. Hunting them is being seen by some as a matter of 'macho pride', allege the activists. Watch: Polar Bears on verge of extinction due to starvation amid global warming × “There are several ways to better live side by side... by taking preventive measures to avoid damage and by using the great tourism value of bear watching as a tool for countryside development, which our neighbouring country Finland has proven to be very good at,” Euronews quoted Magnus Orrebrant, chairman of the Swedish Carnivore Association, as saying. Also read: No country for bears? Romania's parliament approves stepping up bear culling Measures to protect them from trophy-hunting were introduced in 1927. Over several decades since then, their population gradually grew. It was around 2,200 in the year 2000, and peaked at around 3,300 in 2008. But after the licensed hunt of 2023, the population dropped to 2,450. Sweden’s Big Five, a conservation group, alleged the government was on a clear path to cull the big carnivores to 1,400, which is the minimum number required for conservation purposes. This would represent a 60 per cent loss from the 2008 peak. Also read: Sleeping like a bear might help humans live a healthier life, study suggests “We can absolutely not continue to shoot this many bears if we are to have a stable bear population around the 2,400 bears we have today,” says Jonas Kindberg, leader of the Scandinavian Bear research project. Officially known as Ursus arctos, brown bears mature slowly, taking up to four years to become adults. Kindberg noted that only a few cubs are born at a time, and that too once in two to three years. “During the hunt, it is very difficult to tell females from males, and the females are much more valuable to the population. Therefore, you risk ending up in a situation that may take a very long time to repair.” In addition to the annual licensed hunts, brown bears are allowed to be killed in 'protective' hunts if they're considered damaging to property or threat to life. Last year, 648 bears were shot during licensed hunting, while 74 more were killed during protective hunting. (With inputs from agencies)

Sweden starts killing 20 per cent of its brown bear population despite outcry against 'macho pride'

<p>Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg reveals his first email ID that he used to create his first-ever profile on Facebook. Zuckerberg made the revelation on Threads, a counterpart of Instagram while replying to a funny post by a user.</p>

<p>All the frenzy started with an artist's post, “I’m you had to have a .edu email address to join Facebook years old.” To which, the Facebook founder reacted with, “Real ones know. First account was mzuckerb@fas.harvard.edu.”</p>

<p>It is widely known that Zuckerberg was the first person to create an account on Facebook but he was not the first one to have an ID. Apparently, three more IDs were created on the platform before Zuckerberg’s for testing, as per the Guardian.</p>

<p>The other three IDs were later deleted, hence, making Zuckerberg the first person to have a Facebook ID.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/india-trumps-china-as-manufacturer-of-apples-most-expensive-iphone-pro-and-pro-max-models-751537">India trumps China as manufacturer of Apple's most expensive iPhone Pro and Pro Max models</a></p>

<p>Chris Hughes and Dustin Moscovitz, both Facebook co-founders, are the second and third persons to have a Facebook ID, respectively.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>Take a look at the exchange here.</em></p>

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<p>Soon netizens started reacting to Zuckerberg’s reply with comments like “time flies” and some started sharing their first email IDs.</p>

<p>“Pretty sure I took an adult education class at the local university so I could get a .edu account at least partially so I could meet this requirement. (Still the only college credit I have today.)” shared a user.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another added, “I remember being a senior in high school and the thing I was most excited about was graduating so I could finally apply for a Facebook account with my college email. It was all I cared about at the time.”</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/over-200-flights-disrupted-at-japanese-airport-after-scissors-go-missing-751519">Over 200 flights disrupted at Japanese airport after scissors go missing</a></p>

<p>A third posted, “So many people will now test that email.” A fourth wrote, “I entered college in fall 2004. I remember when we had to switch Facebook from our .edu addresses to the accounts we had now! I think late 2005 or 2006 or so?”</p>

<p>Facebook was launched in February 2004, almost two decades ago with the website name- “thefacebook.com.”</p>

<p>In its initial years, the platform was started as a “directory of information for college students.” As time went on, several changes were made after its first launch and over the years, Facebook emerged as one of the most used social networking sites worldwide.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from Mark Zuckerberg, Facebook was co-founded by his classmates at Harvard- Eduardo Saverin, Dustin Moskovitz, Andrew McCollum, and Chris Hughes.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg reveals his first email ID that he used to create his first-ever profile on Facebook. Zuckerberg made the revelation on Threads, a counterpart of Instagram while replying to a funny post by a user.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg reveals his first email ID that he used to create his first-ever profile on Facebook. Zuckerberg made the revelation on Threads, a counterpart of Instagram while replying to a funny post by a user. All the frenzy started with an artist's post, “I’m you had to have a .edu email address to join Facebook years old.” To which, the Facebook founder reacted with, “Real ones know. First account was mzuckerb@fas.harvard.edu.” It is widely known that Zuckerberg was the first person to create an account on Facebook but he was not the first one to have an ID. Apparently, three more IDs were created on the platform before Zuckerberg’s for testing, as per the Guardian. The other three IDs were later deleted, hence, making Zuckerberg the first person to have a Facebook ID. Also Read | India trumps China as manufacturer of Apple's most expensive iPhone Pro and Pro Max models Chris Hughes and Dustin Moscovitz, both Facebook co-founders, are the second and third persons to have a Facebook ID, respectively. Take a look at the exchange here. Post by @zuck View on Threads × Soon netizens started reacting to Zuckerberg’s reply with comments like “time flies” and some started sharing their first email IDs. “Pretty sure I took an adult education class at the local university so I could get a .edu account at least partially so I could meet this requirement. (Still the only college credit I have today.)” shared a user. Another added, “I remember being a senior in high school and the thing I was most excited about was graduating so I could finally apply for a Facebook account with my college email. It was all I cared about at the time.” Also Read | Over 200 flights disrupted at Japanese airport after scissors go missing A third posted, “So many people will now test that email.” A fourth wrote, “I entered college in fall 2004. I remember when we had to switch Facebook from our .edu addresses to the accounts we had now! I think late 2005 or 2006 or so?” Facebook was launched in February 2004, almost two decades ago with the website name- “thefacebook.com.” In its initial years, the platform was started as a “directory of information for college students.” As time went on, several changes were made after its first launch and over the years, Facebook emerged as one of the most used social networking sites worldwide. Apart from Mark Zuckerberg, Facebook was co-founded by his classmates at Harvard- Eduardo Saverin, Dustin Moskovitz, Andrew McCollum, and Chris Hughes. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Did Thai ex-army chief Prawit Wongsuwon slap female journo? What his party said amid calls for probe

<p>OpenAI, the firm behind the wildly popular generative artificial intelligence app ChatGPT, will now be able to dig into the massive content database of iconic fashion magazine Vogue and other publications of its parent company Condé Nast. This will power its AI models in enhancing news discovery and delivery, OpenAI said in a release on Tuesday (Aug 21).</p>

<p>The partnership, whose financial details were not disclosed, will enable OpenAI to display content from Condé Nast's other brands like The New Yorker, Condé Nast Traveler, GQ, Architectural Digest, Vanity Fair, Wired, Bon Appétit, too within ChatGPT and SearchGPT prototype.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH:&nbsp;ChatGPT and AI: Students using chatbox to cheat in exams?</strong></p>

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<p>SearchGPT prototype, introduced earlier this year, is OpenAI's foray into the online search domain, offering a key challenge to Google. SearchGPT aims to give fast and timely answers with clear and relevant sources.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/openai-cuts-off-china-from-chatgpt-and-ai-services-739306">OpenAI cuts off China from ChatGPT and AI services</a></strong></p>

<p>The New Yorker is a long-form magazine focused mainly on the American city whose name it takes, while Condé Nast Traveler is one of the leading magazines in the travel segment. GQ, or Gentleman's Quarterly, is among the oldest and most influential magazines in men's fashion and style. Vanity Fair is a lifestyle magazine, while Architectural Digest focuses on home and office design and interiors. Wired is a premier tech publication, while Bon Appétit is focused on food.</p>

<p>SearchGPT "offers direct links to news stories, enabling users to easily explore more in-depth content directly from the source. We plan to integrate the best of these features directly into ChatGPT in the future," OpenAI said on its website.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/grok-or-gross-elon-musks-new-ai-photo-tool-generates-deepfakes-of-taylor-swift-kamala-harris-750343">Grok or Gross? Elon Musk's new AI photo tool generates deepfakes of Taylor Swift, Kamala Harris</a></strong></p>

<p>“We’re committed to working with Condé Nast and other news publishers to ensure that as AI plays a larger role in news discovery and delivery, it maintains accuracy, integrity, and respect for quality reporting,” it quoted Brad Lightcap, the COO of OpenAI, as saying.</p>

<p>Earlier, OpenAI had entered into similar partnerships with the Associated Press news agency, Axel Springer-which owns a bunch of print and online outlets- The Atlantic magazine, Dotdash Meredith, Financial Times, LeMonde, NewsCorp, Prisa Media, TIME, and Vox Media.</p>

<p>Roger Lynch, CEO of Condé Nast, said in a memo to staff that it will be a multi-year partnership to expand the reach of Condé Nast’s content.</p>

<p>"Generative AI is rapidly changing ways audiences are discovering information. It’s crucial that we meet audiences where they are and embrace new technologies while also ensuring proper attribution and compensation for the use of our intellectual property. This is exactly what we have found with OpenAI," Lynch said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>A great opportunity for legacy media companies?</strong></h2>

<p>The decades-old content banks of legacy media groups have suddenly become attractive for generative AI companies, who need it to feed their AI models. This is very different from the situation when tech giants like Google and Facebook used such content for linking, indexing and aggregation purposes, without sufficient compensation for the original content publishing companies. The AI-fuelled search could change all that.</p>

<p>In his statement, Lynch noted how news and digital media have faced steep challenges as Big Tech companies "eroded publishers’ ability to monetise content, most recently with traditional search."</p>

<p>"Our partnership with OpenAI begins to make up for some of that revenue, allowing us to continue to protect and invest in our journalism and creative endeavours," he said.</p>

<p>"It is just the beginning and we will continue what we started in Washington earlier this year - the fight for fair deals and partnerships across the industry until all entities developing and deploying artificial intelligence take seriously, as OpenAI has, the rights of publishers," he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


OpenAI, the firm behind the wildly popular generative artificial intelligence app ChatGPT, will now be able to dig into the massive content database of iconic fashion magazine Vogue and other publications of its parent company Condé Nast.

OpenAI, the firm behind the wildly popular generative artificial intelligence app ChatGPT, will now be able to dig into the massive content database of iconic fashion magazine Vogue and other publications of its parent company Condé Nast. This will power its AI models in enhancing news discovery and delivery, OpenAI said in a release on Tuesday (Aug 21). The partnership, whose financial details were not disclosed, will enable OpenAI to display content from Condé Nast's other brands like The New Yorker, Condé Nast Traveler, GQ, Architectural Digest, Vanity Fair, Wired, Bon Appétit, too within ChatGPT and SearchGPT prototype. WATCH: ChatGPT and AI: Students using chatbox to cheat in exams? × SearchGPT prototype, introduced earlier this year, is OpenAI's foray into the online search domain, offering a key challenge to Google. SearchGPT aims to give fast and timely answers with clear and relevant sources. Also read: OpenAI cuts off China from ChatGPT and AI services The New Yorker is a long-form magazine focused mainly on the American city whose name it takes, while Condé Nast Traveler is one of the leading magazines in the travel segment. GQ, or Gentleman's Quarterly, is among the oldest and most influential magazines in men's fashion and style. Vanity Fair is a lifestyle magazine, while Architectural Digest focuses on home and office design and interiors. Wired is a premier tech publication, while Bon Appétit is focused on food. SearchGPT "offers direct links to news stories, enabling users to easily explore more in-depth content directly from the source. We plan to integrate the best of these features directly into ChatGPT in the future," OpenAI said on its website. Also read: Grok or Gross? Elon Musk's new AI photo tool generates deepfakes of Taylor Swift, Kamala Harris “We’re committed to working with Condé Nast and other news publishers to ensure that as AI plays a larger role in news discovery and delivery, it maintains accuracy, integrity, and respect for quality reporting,” it quoted Brad Lightcap, the COO of OpenAI, as saying. Earlier, OpenAI had entered into similar partnerships with the Associated Press news agency, Axel Springer-which owns a bunch of print and online outlets- The Atlantic magazine, Dotdash Meredith, Financial Times, LeMonde, NewsCorp, Prisa Media, TIME, and Vox Media. Roger Lynch, CEO of Condé Nast, said in a memo to staff that it will be a multi-year partnership to expand the reach of Condé Nast’s content. "Generative AI is rapidly changing ways audiences are discovering information. It’s crucial that we meet audiences where they are and embrace new technologies while also ensuring proper attribution and compensation for the use of our intellectual property. This is exactly what we have found with OpenAI," Lynch said. A great opportunity for legacy media companies? The decades-old content banks of legacy media groups have suddenly become attractive for generative AI companies, who need it to feed their AI models. This is very different from the situation when tech giants like Google and Facebook used such content for linking, indexing and aggregation purposes, without sufficient compensation for the original content publishing companies. The AI-fuelled search could change all that. In his statement, Lynch noted how news and digital media have faced steep challenges as Big Tech companies "eroded publishers’ ability to monetise content, most recently with traditional search." "Our partnership with OpenAI begins to make up for some of that revenue, allowing us to continue to protect and invest in our journalism and creative endeavours," he said. "It is just the beginning and we will continue what we started in Washington earlier this year - the fight for fair deals and partnerships across the industry until all entities developing and deploying artificial intelligence take seriously, as OpenAI has, the rights of publishers," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

ChatGPT and Vogue publisher Condé Nast join hands for SearchGPT partnership. What does it mean?

<p>In an attempt to fish out thousands of tonnes of munitions submerged in the depths of water bodies in Switzerland, the authorities have launched a competition to gather ideas.</p>

<p>The three best ideas will share a massive prize pot of&nbsp;50,000 Swiss francs ($57,800), according to a statement published by the Federal Office for Defence Procurement (Armasuisse).&nbsp;The government is looking for ideas that are safe and environmentally friendly.</p>

<p>“With the launching of an idea competition, armasuisse wants to increasingly involve academia and industry in the considerations on how environmentally friendly and safe recovery of deep lake ammunition could be carried out, should this ever become an issue,” read the statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This could be the case if, against all expectations, the release of pollutants from submerged ammunition were to be established during ongoing lake water monitoring," it added.</p>

<p>The competition is open to the public and the last date to submit entries is February 2025. A panel of experts will assess the entries and announce the results in April 2025.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-world-war-2-bomb-emerges-due-to-drying-of-po-river-508790"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker: World War 2 bomb emerges due to drying of Po river</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Challenges to retrieving munitions&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>According to reports, there is an estimated 3,300 tonnes of submerged ammunition in Lake Lucerne and 4,500 tonnes in Lake Neuchatel alone. They were dunked in the lakes between 1918 and 1964.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some munitions are at a depth of 150 to 220 metres while others, especially in Lake Neuchatel are just six or seven metres below the surface.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-war-ii-biggest-bomb-explodes-underwater-during-attempt-to-defuse-it-335215"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;World War II&nbsp;biggest bomb explodes underwater during attempt to defuse it</strong></a></p>

<p>According to reports, the submerged munition is covered by&nbsp;a fine sediment layer and recovery attempts may damage the sensitive lake ecosystem and kill the tourism around it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Experts argue that even if the ideas are suggested quickly, it could take years and billions in funding to get the operation underway. However, the Swiss government is of the view that the ideas could form the basis of future research into dealing with the issue of submerged munitions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the threat of munitions lying unattended in public spaces is not a new phenomenon in Switzerland, In 1947, the alpine village of Mitholz suffered a massive blast when 3,000 tonnes of ammunition, stored in the mountain by the military, overlooking the village exploded.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As many as nine people were killed in the blast and the entire village was destroyed. Such was the magnitude of the blast that it was heard 160 kilometres away in Zurich.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In an attempt to fish out thousands of tonnes of munitions submerged in the depths of water bodies in Switzerland, the authorities have launched a competition to gather ideas.

In an attempt to fish out thousands of tonnes of munitions submerged in the depths of water bodies in Switzerland, the authorities have launched a competition to gather ideas. The three best ideas will share a massive prize pot of 50,000 Swiss francs ($57,800), according to a statement published by the Federal Office for Defence Procurement (Armasuisse). The government is looking for ideas that are safe and environmentally friendly. “With the launching of an idea competition, armasuisse wants to increasingly involve academia and industry in the considerations on how environmentally friendly and safe recovery of deep lake ammunition could be carried out, should this ever become an issue,” read the statement. “This could be the case if, against all expectations, the release of pollutants from submerged ammunition were to be established during ongoing lake water monitoring," it added. The competition is open to the public and the last date to submit entries is February 2025. A panel of experts will assess the entries and announce the results in April 2025. Watch | WION Climate Tracker: World War 2 bomb emerges due to drying of Po river × Challenges to retrieving munitions According to reports, there is an estimated 3,300 tonnes of submerged ammunition in Lake Lucerne and 4,500 tonnes in Lake Neuchatel alone. They were dunked in the lakes between 1918 and 1964. Some munitions are at a depth of 150 to 220 metres while others, especially in Lake Neuchatel are just six or seven metres below the surface. Also read | World War II biggest bomb explodes underwater during attempt to defuse it According to reports, the submerged munition is covered by a fine sediment layer and recovery attempts may damage the sensitive lake ecosystem and kill the tourism around it. Experts argue that even if the ideas are suggested quickly, it could take years and billions in funding to get the operation underway. However, the Swiss government is of the view that the ideas could form the basis of future research into dealing with the issue of submerged munitions. Notably, the threat of munitions lying unattended in public spaces is not a new phenomenon in Switzerland, In 1947, the alpine village of Mitholz suffered a massive blast when 3,000 tonnes of ammunition, stored in the mountain by the military, overlooking the village exploded. As many as nine people were killed in the blast and the entire village was destroyed. Such was the magnitude of the blast that it was heard 160 kilometres away in Zurich. (With inputs from agencies)

Switzerland offering $58,000 to fish out ammunition from lakes

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:14,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1753}">In India's Telangana, a content creator has been booked for posting a video tutorial on how to cook peacock curry.</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:47,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1786}">Kondam Pranay Kumar of Rajanna Sircilla, a YouTuber from Telangana, had posted a video recipe involving India's national bird, the peacock, titled "How to cook peacock curry in the traditional way" on his YouTube channel 'Sri TV'.</p>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:99,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1838}"><strong bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:99,&quot;w&quot;:283,&quot;h&quot;:24,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1838}">Why has he been booked?</strong></h2>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:143,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1882}">The video has triggered a backlash, and the Forest Department officials have booked him for promoting killing the ‘National Bird of India’.&nbsp;</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:192,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1931}">Animal rights activists have demanded action against the YouTuber.&nbsp;</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:224,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1963}">Officials,&nbsp;while booking him, also seized the "peacock curry".</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:256,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1995}"><strong bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:256,&quot;w&quot;:781,&quot;h&quot;:33,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1995}">Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:256,&quot;w&quot;:781,&quot;h&quot;:33,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1995}" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/school-principal-teacher-suspended-over-sexual-assault-against-2-nursery-kids-in-mumbais-thane-751562">India: School principal, teacher suspended over sexual assault against 2 nursery kids in Mumbai's Thane</a></strong></p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:305,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2044}">The man, as per reports, claimed that the curry was actually made using chicken, but that he used titled 'How to cook peacock curry in the traditional way' to get more views and likes.</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:354,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2093}">Officials also found chicken feathers during the raid at his house.</p>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:390,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2129}"><strong bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:390,&quot;w&quot;:306,&quot;h&quot;:24,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2129}">The importance of peacock?</strong></h2>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:434,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:51,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2173}">Peacock is the national bird of India and is listed under Schedule-I of the Wildlife Protection Amendment Act, 2022, which means it is a protected species. Thus, a case has been registered against Kondam Pranay Kumar, and the forest department has started an investigation.&nbsp;</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:500,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2239}">In a statement to the press, Forest Range Officer (FRO), R. Kalpana Devi said that Pranay was immediately taken into custody after receiving the information.</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:549,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2288}">The FRO said they inspected the place where the curry was cooked and seized the dish.&nbsp;</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:549,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2288}"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-gurugram-bomb-threat-sent-to-several-shopping-malls-in-new-delhi-751663">After Gurugram, bomb threat sent to several shopping malls in New Delhi</a></strong></p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:581,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2320}">She said that even naming the national bird for likes or otherwise in such a manner was an offence.&nbsp;</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:613,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2352}">"Naming a peacock is also an offence. We will send the curry to the lab for testing and after the report, we will take action."</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:645,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2384}">She added that any act that directly or indirectly promotes killing wildlife is subject to penal action. The case has now been referred to the police for further action, and the further action would depend on the forensic test of the curry.</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:694,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2433}"><em bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:694,&quot;w&quot;:182,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2433}">(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In India's Telangana, a content creator has been booked for posting a video tutorial on how to cook peacock curry. Kondam Pranay Kumar of Rajanna Sircilla, a YouTuber from Telangana, had posted a video recipe involving India's national bird, the peacock, titled "How to cook peacock curry in the traditional way" on his YouTube channel 'Sri TV'.

In India's Telangana, a content creator has been booked for posting a video tutorial on how to cook peacock curry. Kondam Pranay Kumar of Rajanna Sircilla, a YouTuber from Telangana, had posted a video recipe involving India's national bird, the peacock, titled "How to cook peacock curry in the traditional way" on his YouTube channel 'Sri TV'. Why has he been booked? The video has triggered a backlash, and the Forest Department officials have booked him for promoting killing the ‘National Bird of India’. Animal rights activists have demanded action against the YouTuber. Officials, while booking him, also seized the "peacock curry". Also read | India: School principal, teacher suspended over sexual assault against 2 nursery kids in Mumbai's Thane The man, as per reports, claimed that the curry was actually made using chicken, but that he used titled 'How to cook peacock curry in the traditional way' to get more views and likes. Officials also found chicken feathers during the raid at his house. The importance of peacock? Peacock is the national bird of India and is listed under Schedule-I of the Wildlife Protection Amendment Act, 2022, which means it is a protected species. Thus, a case has been registered against Kondam Pranay Kumar, and the forest department has started an investigation. In a statement to the press, Forest Range Officer (FRO), R. Kalpana Devi said that Pranay was immediately taken into custody after receiving the information. The FRO said they inspected the place where the curry was cooked and seized the dish. Also read | After Gurugram, bomb threat sent to several shopping malls in New Delhi She said that even naming the national bird for likes or otherwise in such a manner was an offence. "Naming a peacock is also an offence. We will send the curry to the lab for testing and after the report, we will take action." She added that any act that directly or indirectly promotes killing wildlife is subject to penal action. The case has now been referred to the police for further action, and the further action would depend on the forensic test of the curry. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Telangana man booked for posting video recipe of ‘Peacock curry’

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Mysterious object cruising at scary speed inside our galaxy baffles scientists | Trending on WION

<p>Sperm donations initially made in the UK are being exported to other countries in violation of rules, creating a situation of children being 'mass-produced' in multiple countries in Europe and beyond, according to a report.</p>

<p>Rules limit each sperm donation to 10 families in Britain, but there's no such limit on sperm or eggs from the country being sent abroad. This legal loophole is being exploited in what appears to be an industrial-level practice.</p>

<p>Such exports lead to more donor-conceived children abroad, who "could have to navigate relationships with dozens of biological half-siblings across Europe," The Guardian newspaper said in an exclusive report.</p>

<h2><strong>Why is UK sperm donations abroad a cause of concern?</strong></h2>

<p>“I’m not against there being more than 10 families if some are outside the UK, but 75, which some of these banks have alighted on, is a heck of a lot of relatives," Sarah Norcross, director of the fertility charity Progress Educational Trust told The Guradian.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These days, donor anonymity is practically non-existent, and it's possible to track down biological parents using new DNA testing options proliferating online.</p>

<p>While making contact with biological half-siblings is viewed positively, but when their numbers grew, it "felt unmanageable to have contact and relationships with a growing and indeterminate number of people,” said Prof Lucy Frith of the University of Manchester.</p>

<p>“Once you’ve frozen sperm it doesn’t get any older,” said Prof Jackson Kirkman-Brown, chair of the Association for Reproductive and Clinical Scientists.</p>

<p>This means donor sperm can be used over years or decades.&nbsp;“You can end up with donor siblings older than your parents,” Kirkman-Brown said, giving a hypothetical scenario.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: UK: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-man-makes-partner-pregnant-by-mixing-his-own-sperm-with-fathers-escapes-paternity-test-690887">Man impregnates partner by mixing his sperm with father's, escapes paternity test</a></strong></p>

<p>Donations are "presented to donors as a beautiful gift to help someone create a family, not as, ‘We’re going to maximise the number of births from your gametes and make as much money as we can from that,’” said Prof Nicky Hudson, a medical sociologist at De Montford University.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Who is in control of sperm donation rules in the UK?</strong></h2>

<p>The rules in Britain regarding sperm and egg donations are controlled by Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA). “As the HFEA has no remit over donation outside of HFEA licensed clinics, there would be no monitoring of how many times a donor is used in these circumstances,” Rachel Cutting, director of compliance and information at the HFEA, was quoted as saying in the Guardian report.</p>

<p><br />
<strong>WATCH: 50% drop in sperm count globally</strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The Guardian report said Kirkman-Brown and other experts are asking HFEA to crack down.</p>

<p>“There is data showing that some of the children who find the really big families struggle with that,” Kirkman-Brown said. “If you believe that it’s necessary to enforce the 10-family limit in the modern world, then logically that should apply wherever the sperm are from.”</p>

<h2><strong>Britain's sperm donation 'industry'</strong></h2>

<p>Ironically, Britain was an importer of sperm till five years ago, mainly from the US and Denmark, the report pointed out. But between 2019 and 2021, UK exported 7,542 straws of sperm. The world’s largest sperm and egg bank Cryos opened a unit in Manchester this April.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australias-supreme-court-allows-62-year-old-woman-to-remove-sperm-from-her-dead-husband-676124">Australia's Supreme Court allows 62-year-old woman to remove sperm from her dead husband</a><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The European Sperm Bank, which accounted for 90% of exports, applies a worldwide limit of 75 families a donor and estimates that its donors help on average 25 families," the report said.</p>

<h2><strong>Egg donation also rising, but some feel it's like human trafficking</strong></h2>

<p>Besides the better-known sperm donations, there is growth in egg donations too in Britain.</p>

<p>Egg freezing technologies have grown in recent years, and egg donations are likely to increase as payments for the same is going to go up from £750 to £986 in October, the Guardian report said.</p>

<p>“The idea of a dad to loads of children already exists in our cultural imagination. We don’t have that for women,” noted Prof Nicky Hudson, a medical sociologist at De Montford University, Hudson, adding that it's not an idea encouraged by women. One of them told Hudson it 'felt like human trafficking'.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Sperm donations initially made in the UK are being exported to other countries in violation of rules, creating a situation of children being 'mass-produced' in multiple countries in Europe and beyond, according to a report.

Sperm donations initially made in the UK are being exported to other countries in violation of rules, creating a situation of children being 'mass-produced' in multiple countries in Europe and beyond, according to a report. Rules limit each sperm donation to 10 families in Britain, but there's no such limit on sperm or eggs from the country being sent abroad. This legal loophole is being exploited in what appears to be an industrial-level practice. Such exports lead to more donor-conceived children abroad, who "could have to navigate relationships with dozens of biological half-siblings across Europe," The Guardian newspaper said in an exclusive report. Why is UK sperm donations abroad a cause of concern? “I’m not against there being more than 10 families if some are outside the UK, but 75, which some of these banks have alighted on, is a heck of a lot of relatives," Sarah Norcross, director of the fertility charity Progress Educational Trust told The Guradian. These days, donor anonymity is practically non-existent, and it's possible to track down biological parents using new DNA testing options proliferating online. While making contact with biological half-siblings is viewed positively, but when their numbers grew, it "felt unmanageable to have contact and relationships with a growing and indeterminate number of people,” said Prof Lucy Frith of the University of Manchester. “Once you’ve frozen sperm it doesn’t get any older,” said Prof Jackson Kirkman-Brown, chair of the Association for Reproductive and Clinical Scientists. This means donor sperm can be used over years or decades. “You can end up with donor siblings older than your parents,” Kirkman-Brown said, giving a hypothetical scenario. Also read: UK: Man impregnates partner by mixing his sperm with father's, escapes paternity test Donations are "presented to donors as a beautiful gift to help someone create a family, not as, ‘We’re going to maximise the number of births from your gametes and make as much money as we can from that,’” said Prof Nicky Hudson, a medical sociologist at De Montford University. Who is in control of sperm donation rules in the UK? The rules in Britain regarding sperm and egg donations are controlled by Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA). “As the HFEA has no remit over donation outside of HFEA licensed clinics, there would be no monitoring of how many times a donor is used in these circumstances,” Rachel Cutting, director of compliance and information at the HFEA, was quoted as saying in the Guardian report. WATCH: 50% drop in sperm count globally × The Guardian report said Kirkman-Brown and other experts are asking HFEA to crack down. “There is data showing that some of the children who find the really big families struggle with that,” Kirkman-Brown said. “If you believe that it’s necessary to enforce the 10-family limit in the modern world, then logically that should apply wherever the sperm are from.” Britain's sperm donation 'industry' Ironically, Britain was an importer of sperm till five years ago, mainly from the US and Denmark, the report pointed out. But between 2019 and 2021, UK exported 7,542 straws of sperm. The world’s largest sperm and egg bank Cryos opened a unit in Manchester this April. Also read: Australia's Supreme Court allows 62-year-old woman to remove sperm from her dead husband "The European Sperm Bank, which accounted for 90% of exports, applies a worldwide limit of 75 families a donor and estimates that its donors help on average 25 families," the report said. Egg donation also rising, but some feel it's like human trafficking Besides the better-known sperm donations, there is growth in egg donations too in Britain. Egg freezing technologies have grown in recent years, and egg donations are likely to increase as payments for the same is going to go up from £750 to £986 in October, the Guardian report said. “The idea of a dad to loads of children already exists in our cultural imagination. We don’t have that for women,” noted Prof Nicky Hudson, a medical sociologist at De Montford University, Hudson, adding that it's not an idea encouraged by women. One of them told Hudson it 'felt like human trafficking'. (With inputs from agencies)

Sperm from UK is being exported to other countries, leading to dozens of half-siblings: Report

<p>From <em>The Bible </em>to <em>The Satanic Verses</em>, several books were banned in parts of the world at various points in time due to the perception that they poison minds. But some books can be poisonous quite literally, as the chemicals used in their making are harmful to humans.</p>

<p>According to a study done by a team of researchers at Lipscomb University in the US, some of the bright-coloured, cloth-bound books from the Victorian era onwards might contain&nbsp;such chemicals.</p>

<p>These colours come from dyes that might be a health risk to readers, collectors or librarians, said a release on the study.</p>

<p>Chronic exposure to inhaled lead or chromium could lead to even cancer, lung damage or fertility issues, said the researchers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pigments from the cloth covers can be harmful if rubbed onto hands or become airborne and are inhaled, they added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH: Toxic chemicals found in clean energy batteries, threat of PFAS in Lithium-ion cells</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study will be presented at American Chemical Society (ACS) meeting&nbsp;on August 18–22.</p>

<p>“These old books with toxic dyes may be in universities, public libraries and private collections,”&nbsp;Abigail Hoermann, a chemistry student at Lipscomb University, who was part of the study, was quoted as saying in the study.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/common-bandages-may-contain-harmful-chemicals-reveals-study-708288">Common bandages may contain harmful chemicals, reveals study</a></strong></p>

<p>“I find it fascinating to know what previous generations thought was safe, and then we learn, oh, actually, that might not have been a great idea to use these brilliant dyes,” the release quoted Joseph Weinstein-Webb, an assistant chemistry professor at Lipscomb, who did the study along with his students, as saying.</p>

<h2><strong>How poisonous books were detected&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The study examined some 19th- and early 20th-century fabric-covered books from the university’s Beaman Library.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The poisons were detected using three spectroscopic techniques: XRF or X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, ICP-OES or Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy, and XRD or X-ray diffraction technology.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/led-lights-in-room-temperature-can-clean-up-forever-chemicals-overnight-suggests-study-745516">LED lights in room temperature can 'clean up' forever chemicals overnight, suggests study</a></strong></p>

<p>XRF was used&nbsp;for checking arsenic or other heavy metals on the book covers. ICP-OES examined the concentration of those metals. XRD was used to identify the pigment molecules that contain those metals.</p>

<p>Researchers found lead and chromium present in some of the Lipscomb books.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In some instances, these heavy metals were in the form of lead (II) chromate, a compound that was used for the chrome yellow pigment by Vincent van Gogh in his sunflower paintings, said the release.</p>

<p>In some cases, metal concentrations were found to be above acceptable limits for chronic exposure as set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The lead was more than double the CDC limits, and chromium almost six times the cap.</p>

<p>Such poisonous and potentially harmful books were sealed in plastic bags for handling and storage or removed from public circulation.</p>

<h2><strong>How the 'Poison Book Project' was started</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, the Winterthur Museum, Garden &amp; Library in Delaware found copper acetoarsenite, an arsenic compound, in some 19th-century books in its collection.</p>

<p>This emerald-green pigment was used in Victorian-era wallpaper, garments and cloth book covers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This discovery led to the launch of the 'Poison Book Project', a crowdsourced research effort.&nbsp;The project uses various imaging and chemical processing techniques to trace the&nbsp;toxic pigments in books around the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The researchers at&nbsp;Lipscomb University hope to contribute their findings to the Poison Book Project.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


From The Bible to The Satanic Verses, several books were banned in parts of the world at various points in time due to the perception that they poison minds. But some books can be poisonous quite literally, as the chemicals used in their making are harmful to humans.

From The Bible to The Satanic Verses, several books were banned in parts of the world at various points in time due to the perception that they poison minds. But some books can be poisonous quite literally, as the chemicals used in their making are harmful to humans. According to a study done by a team of researchers at Lipscomb University in the US, some of the bright-coloured, cloth-bound books from the Victorian era onwards might contain such chemicals. These colours come from dyes that might be a health risk to readers, collectors or librarians, said a release on the study. Chronic exposure to inhaled lead or chromium could lead to even cancer, lung damage or fertility issues, said the researchers. Pigments from the cloth covers can be harmful if rubbed onto hands or become airborne and are inhaled, they added. WATCH: Toxic chemicals found in clean energy batteries, threat of PFAS in Lithium-ion cells × The study will be presented at American Chemical Society (ACS) meeting on August 18–22. “These old books with toxic dyes may be in universities, public libraries and private collections,” Abigail Hoermann, a chemistry student at Lipscomb University, who was part of the study, was quoted as saying in the study. Also read: Common bandages may contain harmful chemicals, reveals study “I find it fascinating to know what previous generations thought was safe, and then we learn, oh, actually, that might not have been a great idea to use these brilliant dyes,” the release quoted Joseph Weinstein-Webb, an assistant chemistry professor at Lipscomb, who did the study along with his students, as saying. How poisonous books were detected The study examined some 19th- and early 20th-century fabric-covered books from the university’s Beaman Library. The poisons were detected using three spectroscopic techniques: XRF or X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, ICP-OES or Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy, and XRD or X-ray diffraction technology. Also read: LED lights in room temperature can 'clean up' forever chemicals overnight, suggests study XRF was used for checking arsenic or other heavy metals on the book covers. ICP-OES examined the concentration of those metals. XRD was used to identify the pigment molecules that contain those metals. Researchers found lead and chromium present in some of the Lipscomb books. In some instances, these heavy metals were in the form of lead (II) chromate, a compound that was used for the chrome yellow pigment by Vincent van Gogh in his sunflower paintings, said the release. In some cases, metal concentrations were found to be above acceptable limits for chronic exposure as set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The lead was more than double the CDC limits, and chromium almost six times the cap. Such poisonous and potentially harmful books were sealed in plastic bags for handling and storage or removed from public circulation. How the 'Poison Book Project' was started Earlier, the Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library in Delaware found copper acetoarsenite, an arsenic compound, in some 19th-century books in its collection. This emerald-green pigment was used in Victorian-era wallpaper, garments and cloth book covers. This discovery led to the launch of the 'Poison Book Project', a crowdsourced research effort. The project uses various imaging and chemical processing techniques to trace the toxic pigments in books around the world. The researchers at Lipscomb University hope to contribute their findings to the Poison Book Project. (With inputs from agencies)

Some books are poisonous, quite literally, and can even cause cancer. Here is how

<p>A top boss of a News Corp company in Australia has apologised for making what appeared to be a Nazi salute following backlash from the Jewish community. Patrick Delaney, the CEO of Foxtel, a cable company majority owned by News Corp, found himself in a soup after an old picture of him doing the 'Nazi salute' resurfaced.</p>

<p>"This evening, a ten-year-old photograph of me making an inappropriate salute which is highly offensive to the Jewish community was published online. I am very sorry for my actions and sincerely apologise to people who have been hurt or offended espesially the members of the Jewish community," he said in an email dated Sunday (Aug 18), the text of which was released by Crikey.com, which first reported about the photo.</p>

<p>"Since becoming aware of this photo, I have been searching my mind for a circumstance, from over a decade ago, where a photo capturing me in this pose could ever be possible. The picture is completely inconsistent with my values and beliefs, and family connections," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/3-columbia-university-deans-who-sent-antisemitic-texts-at-event-on-jews-quit-what-is-textgate-scandal-748683">3 Columbia University deans who sent 'antisemitic' texts at event on Jews quit: What is 'textgate' scandal?</a></strong></p>

<p><br />
Delaney "unreservedly" apologised after trying to initially explain it out saying he thought he was showing the similarity between the Nazi salute and a gesture used by fans of an Australian soccer club.</p>

<p>"Regardless of the context, the fact I demonstrated this offensive salute was wrong," he said, according to a report in the BBC.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gaza siege triggers rise in anti-antisemitism; France, Russia witness anti-Jew sentiment | WION</strong></p>

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<p>The photo was taken a decade ago. His apology came as the Jewish Council of Australia condemned his actions as "deeply concerning", particularly given that he is leading a media company.</p>

<p>"It shouldn't need to be said that the salute is an offensive and violent act not only for Jews, but also for other racialised groups," said Sarah Schwartz, the council's executive officer, while adding that it's equally concerning that he operates in a media industry "where he felt this was somehow okay."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read</strong>: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-redefines-extremism-in-the-face-of-rising-hate-crimes-critics-call-it-a-threat-to-free-speech-699848">Britain redefines 'extremism' in the face of rising hate crimes, critics call it a threat to free speech</a></p>

<p>As per the Foxtel CEO, he was impersonating "a threatening gesture" made by some fans of Western Sydney Wanderers, a soccer club, during the 2014-15 season, while visiting the set of a Fox Sports television programme when he was the CEO of that channel.</p>

<p>In his apology, Delenay condemned "racism in all its forms", pointing to his commitment to the 'Say No to Antisemitism letter', the BBC said.</p>

<p>The letter was&nbsp; signed by him as well as some other influential Australians from all walks of life following the Hamas terror attack on Israel last October.</p>

<p>Delaney is no stranger to controversy. In 2022, he was in the news for calling the star of <em>Game of Thrones</em> star Emilia Clarke a "short, dumpy girl."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


A top boss of a News Corp company in Australia has apologised for making what appeared to be a Nazi salute following backlash from the Jewish community. Patrick Delaney, the CEO of Foxtel, a cable company majority owned by News Corp, found himself in a soup after an old picture of him doing the 'Nazi salute' resurfaced.

A top boss of a News Corp company in Australia has apologised for making what appeared to be a Nazi salute following backlash from the Jewish community. Patrick Delaney, the CEO of Foxtel, a cable company majority owned by News Corp, found himself in a soup after an old picture of him doing the 'Nazi salute' resurfaced. "This evening, a ten-year-old photograph of me making an inappropriate salute which is highly offensive to the Jewish community was published online. I am very sorry for my actions and sincerely apologise to people who have been hurt or offended espesially the members of the Jewish community," he said in an email dated Sunday (Aug 18), the text of which was released by Crikey.com, which first reported about the photo. "Since becoming aware of this photo, I have been searching my mind for a circumstance, from over a decade ago, where a photo capturing me in this pose could ever be possible. The picture is completely inconsistent with my values and beliefs, and family connections," he added. Also read: 3 Columbia University deans who sent 'antisemitic' texts at event on Jews quit: What is 'textgate' scandal? Delaney "unreservedly" apologised after trying to initially explain it out saying he thought he was showing the similarity between the Nazi salute and a gesture used by fans of an Australian soccer club. "Regardless of the context, the fact I demonstrated this offensive salute was wrong," he said, according to a report in the BBC. Watch: Gaza siege triggers rise in anti-antisemitism; France, Russia witness anti-Jew sentiment | WION × The photo was taken a decade ago. His apology came as the Jewish Council of Australia condemned his actions as "deeply concerning", particularly given that he is leading a media company. "It shouldn't need to be said that the salute is an offensive and violent act not only for Jews, but also for other racialised groups," said Sarah Schwartz, the council's executive officer, while adding that it's equally concerning that he operates in a media industry "where he felt this was somehow okay." Also read: Britain redefines 'extremism' in the face of rising hate crimes, critics call it a threat to free speech As per the Foxtel CEO, he was impersonating "a threatening gesture" made by some fans of Western Sydney Wanderers, a soccer club, during the 2014-15 season, while visiting the set of a Fox Sports television programme when he was the CEO of that channel. In his apology, Delenay condemned "racism in all its forms", pointing to his commitment to the 'Say No to Antisemitism letter', the BBC said. The letter was signed by him as well as some other influential Australians from all walks of life following the Hamas terror attack on Israel last October. Delaney is no stranger to controversy. In 2022, he was in the news for calling the star of Game of Thrones star Emilia Clarke a "short, dumpy girl." (With inputs from agencies)

News Corp honcho apologises after pics of him doing 'Nazi salute' resurface

<p>A song about immigrants was among the top 50 on German music charts this month, but there's a twin problem: It is entirely AI-generated, and appears to use terms and expressions considered racist and stereotyping of immigrant communities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The song in question is “Verknallt in einen Talahon", meaning 'In Love with a Talahon'.</p>

<p>The song made by Josua Waghubinger, who goes by his artist name Butterbro, peaked at 48 this month in Germany, the world's fourth largest music market, before falling. It is still among top 100, having gone down to 83 at the time of writing this.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/grammys-ceo-issues-clarification-ai-generated-music-not-eligible-for-awards-633619">Grammys CEO issues clarification: AI-generated music not eligible for awards</a> </strong><br />
<br />
The music, vocals and artwork were entirely generated using artificial intelligence,&nbsp; using the AI platform Udio, reported The Guardian. Waghubinger said he made the song's chorus by feeding his own lyrics into Udio.</p>

<p>The song is conceived as a parody, using modern lyrics, and appears to stress on stereotypes about migrants, with beats reminiscent of Schlager pop. Schlager is a pop music genre that was popular in Europe in the 1960s.</p>

<p>Less than a month into its debut,&nbsp;the song&nbsp;has amassed 3.5 million streams on Spotify and went on to become third on its global viral hits chart. It's up on other streamers like Apple Music and Shazam too. Videos based on the song have gone viral on TikTok.</p>

<h2><strong>Why is German viral song Verknallt in einen Talahon seen as racist?</strong></h2>

<p>"'Talahon' is a term used variously with pride, with disdain, and also by far-right groups as a slur," said an article in Music Ally. "Very broadly, 'Talahon' describes young men with a migrant background, a specific clothing style, and who are stereotyped as having vulgar, aggressive behaviour, and a lack of respect towards women," it said.</p>

<p>"The song references a Germanised version of the Arabic expression “taeal huna”, meaning “come here” but now commonly used in Germany to describe groups of young men with immigrant backgrounds, often with derogatory overtones," The Guardian report said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: AI-generated song 'Heart on my sleeve' submitted for Grammy consideration</strong></p>

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<p><br />
Sample some lyrics and their racial and stereotypical undertones: The lover in the song is described as having "a Louis belt, a Gucci bag and Air Max trainers” and “smells like an entire perfume shop”.</p>

<p>The woman says her lover is “as sweet as baklava” when he gets angry. Baklava is a Turkish-origin pastry dessert, and Turks are among the largest immigrant groups in Germany.</p>

<p>While speaking to a music podcast Die Klangküche, Waghubinger, a hobby musician and IT professional, said he wanted to make a song "that made fun of overtly macho behaviour with a twinkle in the eye and without discriminating.”</p>

<p>His main motivation was to make it go viral on social media, he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/artificial-intelligence-the-future-of-music-or-its-biggest-threat-586655">Artificial Intelligence: The future of music or its biggest threat? </a></strong></p>

<p>The Guaridan quoted music writer Felicia Aghaye as writing that the song’s popularity is "doubly problematic because 'talahon' was firmly established as an insult among young Germans and Austrians against migrants."</p>

<p>"Rightwing groups, for example, use the term to create a bogeyman and stoke Islamophobia and xenophobia,” it quoted Aghaye, who added that the artist appears not to have understood the negative connotations of the term.</p>

<h2><strong>Udio, the controversial AI music platform</strong></h2>

<p>Udio is a text-to-music generative AI tool that can create music - vocals and instruments - from text prompts. It is facing multiple lawsuits about copright violation by music labels.</p>

<p>Earlier this month, Udio and another AI platform Suno, responded to the lawsuits citing 'fair use'.</p>

<p>“The premise of their case is that musical styles – the characteristic sounds of opera, or jazz, or rap music – are somehow proprietary. Decades of judicial precedent establishes that no company controls a genre or style of music,” it said in a filing at a New York court on August 1.</p>

<p>“Under longstanding doctrine, what Udio has done—use existing sound recordings as data to mine and analyze for the purpose of identifying patterns in the sounds of various musical styles, all to enable people to make their own new creations – is a quintessential ‘fair use’ under copyright law,” it added.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A song about immigrants was among the top 50 on German music charts this month, but there's a twin problem: It is entirely AI-generated, and appears to use terms and expressions considered racist and stereotyping of immigrant communities.

A song about immigrants was among the top 50 on German music charts this month, but there's a twin problem: It is entirely AI-generated, and appears to use terms and expressions considered racist and stereotyping of immigrant communities. The song in question is “Verknallt in einen Talahon", meaning 'In Love with a Talahon'. The song made by Josua Waghubinger, who goes by his artist name Butterbro, peaked at 48 this month in Germany, the world's fourth largest music market, before falling. It is still among top 100, having gone down to 83 at the time of writing this. Also read: Grammys CEO issues clarification: AI-generated music not eligible for awards The music, vocals and artwork were entirely generated using artificial intelligence, using the AI platform Udio, reported The Guardian. Waghubinger said he made the song's chorus by feeding his own lyrics into Udio. The song is conceived as a parody, using modern lyrics, and appears to stress on stereotypes about migrants, with beats reminiscent of Schlager pop. Schlager is a pop music genre that was popular in Europe in the 1960s. Less than a month into its debut, the song has amassed 3.5 million streams on Spotify and went on to become third on its global viral hits chart. It's up on other streamers like Apple Music and Shazam too. Videos based on the song have gone viral on TikTok. Why is German viral song Verknallt in einen Talahon seen as racist? "'Talahon' is a term used variously with pride, with disdain, and also by far-right groups as a slur," said an article in Music Ally. "Very broadly, 'Talahon' describes young men with a migrant background, a specific clothing style, and who are stereotyped as having vulgar, aggressive behaviour, and a lack of respect towards women," it said. "The song references a Germanised version of the Arabic expression “taeal huna”, meaning “come here” but now commonly used in Germany to describe groups of young men with immigrant backgrounds, often with derogatory overtones," The Guardian report said. Watch: AI-generated song 'Heart on my sleeve' submitted for Grammy consideration × Sample some lyrics and their racial and stereotypical undertones: The lover in the song is described as having "a Louis belt, a Gucci bag and Air Max trainers” and “smells like an entire perfume shop”. The woman says her lover is “as sweet as baklava” when he gets angry. Baklava is a Turkish-origin pastry dessert, and Turks are among the largest immigrant groups in Germany. While speaking to a music podcast Die Klangküche, Waghubinger, a hobby musician and IT professional, said he wanted to make a song "that made fun of overtly macho behaviour with a twinkle in the eye and without discriminating.” His main motivation was to make it go viral on social media, he said. Also read: Artificial Intelligence: The future of music or its biggest threat? The Guaridan quoted music writer Felicia Aghaye as writing that the song’s popularity is "doubly problematic because 'talahon' was firmly established as an insult among young Germans and Austrians against migrants." "Rightwing groups, for example, use the term to create a bogeyman and stoke Islamophobia and xenophobia,” it quoted Aghaye, who added that the artist appears not to have understood the negative connotations of the term. Udio, the controversial AI music platform Udio is a text-to-music generative AI tool that can create music - vocals and instruments - from text prompts. It is facing multiple lawsuits about copright violation by music labels. Earlier this month, Udio and another AI platform Suno, responded to the lawsuits citing 'fair use'. “The premise of their case is that musical styles – the characteristic sounds of opera, or jazz, or rap music – are somehow proprietary. Decades of judicial precedent establishes that no company controls a genre or style of music,” it said in a filing at a New York court on August 1. “Under longstanding doctrine, what Udio has done—use existing sound recordings as data to mine and analyze for the purpose of identifying patterns in the sounds of various musical styles, all to enable people to make their own new creations – is a quintessential ‘fair use’ under copyright law,” it added. (With inputs from agencies)

An AI-generated song on immigrants is killin' it on German charts. But here's the problem

<p>An Indian-origin family's three members were killed in a car crash in the Texas state of the US. The couple's 14-year-old son is the lone survivor. Arvind Mani, 45, his wife Pradeepa Arvind, 40, and their 17-year-old daughter Andril Arvind, all residents of Leander — over 870 miles southwest of Tennessee — were killed around 5.45 am on Wednesday (August 14) near Lampass County, local media reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 14-year-old Adiryan was not in the vehicle and thus became the only surviving member of the family, according to a GoFundMe page set up to financially aid the boy. The page has raised over $700,000 so far.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pune-porsche-crash-police-arrests-teen-drivers-father-family-of-victims-calls-it-murder-723795">Pune Porsche Crash: Police arrest teen driver's father, family of victim calls it 'murder'</a></strong></p>

<p>"Arvind (45) and Pradeepa (42) were a wonderful couple blessed with two children, Andril (17) and Adiryan (14)," reads the GoFundMe page titled 'Support for Adiryan Arvind: A Tragic Loss and a Young Life to Rebuild'.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>According to reports, Arvind and his wife were driving their daughter to college in North Texas. The 17-year-old girl had just graduated from high school and was going to attend the University of Dallas where she planned to take up a course in computer science.</p>

<p>The crash killed five people in total. This also includes the driver of the car that crashed into the family's vehicle. The Indian-American family's vehicle then caught fire in which three members perished.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There was no chance of survival. It is one of the worst crashes I have seen in 26 years because of the magnitude of the damage and amount of people lost," police told local media.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pune Porsche crash: 2 doctors arrested on charges of manipulating teen driver's blood sample</strong></p>

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<p>Authorities say that the driver of the car that hit the family could be running on the road at a speed as high as 160 kmph, according to a witness who said the vehicles zoomed past her.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the family's car driving around 112 kmph, the car was "like driving into a concrete wall at 270 kmph," police said.</p>

<p>"The Rouse High School family is deeply saddened to share the loss of one of our very own Raiders from the Class of 2024, Andril Arvind," said a letter sent to parents from the school's principal.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


An Indian-origin family's three members were killed in a car crash in the Texas state of the US. The couple's 14-year-old son is the lone survivor. Arvind Mani, 45, his wife Pradeepa Arvind, 40, and their 17-year-old daughter Andril Arvind, all residents of Leander — over 870 miles southwest of Tennessee — were killed around 5.

An Indian-origin family's three members were killed in a car crash in the Texas state of the US. The couple's 14-year-old son is the lone survivor. Arvind Mani, 45, his wife Pradeepa Arvind, 40, and their 17-year-old daughter Andril Arvind, all residents of Leander — over 870 miles southwest of Tennessee — were killed around 5.45 am on Wednesday (August 14) near Lampass County, local media reported. The 14-year-old Adiryan was not in the vehicle and thus became the only surviving member of the family, according to a GoFundMe page set up to financially aid the boy. The page has raised over $700,000 so far. Also read | Pune Porsche Crash: Police arrest teen driver's father, family of victim calls it 'murder' "Arvind (45) and Pradeepa (42) were a wonderful couple blessed with two children, Andril (17) and Adiryan (14)," reads the GoFundMe page titled 'Support for Adiryan Arvind: A Tragic Loss and a Young Life to Rebuild'. What happened? According to reports, Arvind and his wife were driving their daughter to college in North Texas. The 17-year-old girl had just graduated from high school and was going to attend the University of Dallas where she planned to take up a course in computer science. The crash killed five people in total. This also includes the driver of the car that crashed into the family's vehicle. The Indian-American family's vehicle then caught fire in which three members perished. "There was no chance of survival. It is one of the worst crashes I have seen in 26 years because of the magnitude of the damage and amount of people lost," police told local media. Also watch | Pune Porsche crash: 2 doctors arrested on charges of manipulating teen driver's blood sample × Authorities say that the driver of the car that hit the family could be running on the road at a speed as high as 160 kmph, according to a witness who said the vehicles zoomed past her. With the family's car driving around 112 kmph, the car was "like driving into a concrete wall at 270 kmph," police said. "The Rouse High School family is deeply saddened to share the loss of one of our very own Raiders from the Class of 2024, Andril Arvind," said a letter sent to parents from the school's principal. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian-origin family killed in US car crash, 14-year-old son lone survivor

<p>In the last scene of the hit film <em>Barbie</em>, the titular character played by Margot Robbie goes to&nbsp;see a gynaecologist. It was supposed to be a joke or ironic statement, as the Barbie dolls on which the film is based are known to have no genitals.</p>

<p>Now, researchers who analysed internet data have found that after the film's release in 2023, there was a spike in online searches for gyneac appointments. This may be a sign of increased awareness about gynaecological health, they posited.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-netizens-declare-ryan-goslings-%E2%80%98i%E2%80%99m-just-ken%E2%80%99-performance-greatest-oscars-moment-ever-698884">Netizens declare Ryan Gosling's ‘I’m Just Ken’ performance 'greatest Oscars moment ever'</a></strong></p>

<p>The study, published in JAMA journal, warned however that&nbsp;searches for gynaecologists may have also been done by people who do not require gynecologic care. "Therefore, it remains unclear whether a 'Barbie effect'&nbsp;in awareness would translate to improved measurable health outcomes," the researchers said.</p>

<p><em>Barbie</em>, directed by Greta Gerwig and released in 2023 July, was one of the highest grossing films ever, with nearly 13 million tickets sold.</p>

<h2><strong>How gynaecology search trends increased after Barbie release</strong></h2>

<p>“I’m here to see my gynaecologist,” says Barbie, played by Margot Robbie in the final scene of the film which was released on 21 July 2023.</p>

<p>When analysing online search trends in the United States&nbsp;following <em>Barbie</em>’s release, the researchers looked at 34 queries related to gynecologic care, women’s health care, or broader medical care.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-mattel-launches-weird-barbie-doll-after-box-office-success-of-margot-robbie-movie-622628">Mattel launches Weird Barbie doll after box office success of Margot Robbie movie</a></strong></p>

<p>These search terms included gynaecologist, gynaecologist definition, gynaecologist appointment, women’s health, doctor, and doctor’s appointment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The search terms were divided into sub-categories, and the first three categories measured topics directly related to the language used in <em>Barbie</em>.</p>

<p>Weekly US online search trends in the year preceding and three months following the film's&nbsp;release date were obtained using Google Trends and Glimpse, said the study's authors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When comparing the data, they found a 51 per cent rise in search terms on gynaecologists&nbsp;following <em>Barbie</em>’s release, and 154 per cent rise in searches on gynaecologist definition.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Celebrating 65 years of Barbie with 'Barbie: The exhibition'</strong></p>

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<p>"Our results suggest that Barbie’s closing line may have spurred interest in gyneacology, further suggesting the potential influence of popular films on health literacy and awareness," said the study done by&nbsp;Eva Senechal, Charles F&nbsp;Bray, Christopher M&nbsp;Worsham, and Anupam B&nbsp;Jena.</p>

<h2><strong>How films and stars can influence health behaviours</strong></h2>

<p>The research noted that Katie Couric’s live-streamed colonoscopy was associated with a 21 per cent&nbsp;rise in the procedure.</p>

<p>Angelina Jolie’s essay about her experience with breast cancer led to a 64 per cent&nbsp;increase in genetic testing.</p>

<p>On the negative side, there was a&nbsp;29 rise in suicide rates in the months after the controversial season finale of <em>13 Reasons Why</em>.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In the last scene of the hit film Barbie, the titular character played by Margot Robbie goes to see a gynaecologist. It was supposed to be a joke or ironic statement, as the Barbie dolls on which the film is based are known to have no genitals.

In the last scene of the hit film Barbie, the titular character played by Margot Robbie goes to see a gynaecologist. It was supposed to be a joke or ironic statement, as the Barbie dolls on which the film is based are known to have no genitals. Now, researchers who analysed internet data have found that after the film's release in 2023, there was a spike in online searches for gyneac appointments. This may be a sign of increased awareness about gynaecological health, they posited. Also Read: Netizens declare Ryan Gosling's ‘I’m Just Ken’ performance 'greatest Oscars moment ever' The study, published in JAMA journal, warned however that searches for gynaecologists may have also been done by people who do not require gynecologic care. "Therefore, it remains unclear whether a 'Barbie effect' in awareness would translate to improved measurable health outcomes," the researchers said. Barbie, directed by Greta Gerwig and released in 2023 July, was one of the highest grossing films ever, with nearly 13 million tickets sold. How gynaecology search trends increased after Barbie release “I’m here to see my gynaecologist,” says Barbie, played by Margot Robbie in the final scene of the film which was released on 21 July 2023. When analysing online search trends in the United States following Barbie’s release, the researchers looked at 34 queries related to gynecologic care, women’s health care, or broader medical care. Also Read: Mattel launches Weird Barbie doll after box office success of Margot Robbie movie These search terms included gynaecologist, gynaecologist definition, gynaecologist appointment, women’s health, doctor, and doctor’s appointment. The search terms were divided into sub-categories, and the first three categories measured topics directly related to the language used in Barbie. Weekly US online search trends in the year preceding and three months following the film's release date were obtained using Google Trends and Glimpse, said the study's authors. When comparing the data, they found a 51 per cent rise in search terms on gynaecologists following Barbie’s release, and 154 per cent rise in searches on gynaecologist definition. Watch: Celebrating 65 years of Barbie with 'Barbie: The exhibition' × "Our results suggest that Barbie’s closing line may have spurred interest in gyneacology, further suggesting the potential influence of popular films on health literacy and awareness," said the study done by Eva Senechal, Charles F Bray, Christopher M Worsham, and Anupam B Jena. How films and stars can influence health behaviours The research noted that Katie Couric’s live-streamed colonoscopy was associated with a 21 per cent rise in the procedure. Angelina Jolie’s essay about her experience with breast cancer led to a 64 per cent increase in genetic testing. On the negative side, there was a 29 rise in suicide rates in the months after the controversial season finale of 13 Reasons Why. (With inputs from agencies)

Barbie effect: Did Margot Robbie's last line in film spur search on gynaecological care? Study thinks so

<p>Researchers have decoded the largest animal genome, and it doesn't belong to giants like whales or elephants, but to a humble but strange-looking fish. The lungfish genome was found to be 30 times the size of the human genome.</p>

<p>The sequencing was carried out by an international team of researchers led by Konstanz evolutionary biologist Axel Meyer and Würzburg biochemist Manfred Schartl.</p>

<h2><strong>Why is lungfish so special? The living fossil</strong></h2>

<p>The lungfish is called so because it actually has lungs, unlike most other fish species, a characteristic it retained from its ancestors who could move and breathe on land. The freshwater fish come in mainly three varieties: South American, African and Australian.</p>

<p>Lungfish are known as 'living fossils' because they retain some of the traits of their ancient ancestors from hundreds of millennia ago.</p>

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<p>The Australian lungfish retain&nbsp;the limb-like structures that once enabled their ancestors to move on land. These are absent in their African and South American relatives, having evolved into fin-like structures for swimming.</p>

<p>Lungfish&nbsp;share ancestors with all other four-limbed vertebrates known as tetrapods.</p>

<h2><strong>Why does lungfish have such big genome?</strong></h2>

<p>According to a press release from the researchers, the South American lungfish breaks all records for size, with its DNA having more than&nbsp;90 gigabases. One gigabase is&nbsp;90 billion bases.</p>

<p>Earlier, the record was held by its cousin, the Australian lungfish, which had around half that number. "18 of the 19 chromosomes of the South American lungfish are each individually larger than the entire human genome with its almost 3 billion bases,” said Meyer, an evolutionary biologist at the University of Konstanz in Germany.</p>

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<p>The cause for such enlarged DNA is 'autonomous transposons'.&nbsp;Autonomous transposons are DNA sequences that “replicate” and then change their position in the genome, which in turn causes the genome to grow, said the study, with the South American lungfish showing the fastest rate of such expansion.<br />
<br />
The researchers estimated that the lungfish genome grew by the size of the entire human genome every million years.</p>

<p>“And it continues to grow. We have found evidence that the transposons responsible are still active,” said Meyer.</p>

<p>In spite of the expansion, the lungfish genome is remarkably stable, similar to their ancestral tetrapods, said a release on the study.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Researchers have decoded the largest animal genome, and it doesn't belong to giants like whales or elephants, but to a humble but strange-looking fish. The lungfish genome was found to be 30 times the size of the human genome.

Researchers have decoded the largest animal genome, and it doesn't belong to giants like whales or elephants, but to a humble but strange-looking fish. The lungfish genome was found to be 30 times the size of the human genome. The sequencing was carried out by an international team of researchers led by Konstanz evolutionary biologist Axel Meyer and Würzburg biochemist Manfred Schartl. Why is lungfish so special? The living fossil The lungfish is called so because it actually has lungs, unlike most other fish species, a characteristic it retained from its ancestors who could move and breathe on land. The freshwater fish come in mainly three varieties: South American, African and Australian. Lungfish are known as 'living fossils' because they retain some of the traits of their ancient ancestors from hundreds of millennia ago. Also read: Online outrage over `sexist` hostess lampshade outfits, Indian-origin CEO responds The Australian lungfish retain the limb-like structures that once enabled their ancestors to move on land. These are absent in their African and South American relatives, having evolved into fin-like structures for swimming. Lungfish share ancestors with all other four-limbed vertebrates known as tetrapods. Why does lungfish have such big genome? According to a press release from the researchers, the South American lungfish breaks all records for size, with its DNA having more than 90 gigabases. One gigabase is 90 billion bases. Earlier, the record was held by its cousin, the Australian lungfish, which had around half that number. "18 of the 19 chromosomes of the South American lungfish are each individually larger than the entire human genome with its almost 3 billion bases,” said Meyer, an evolutionary biologist at the University of Konstanz in Germany. Also read: Video: 13-year-old Chinese girl stuns audience with Bharatnatyam debut The cause for such enlarged DNA is 'autonomous transposons'. Autonomous transposons are DNA sequences that “replicate” and then change their position in the genome, which in turn causes the genome to grow, said the study, with the South American lungfish showing the fastest rate of such expansion. The researchers estimated that the lungfish genome grew by the size of the entire human genome every million years. “And it continues to grow. We have found evidence that the transposons responsible are still active,” said Meyer. In spite of the expansion, the lungfish genome is remarkably stable, similar to their ancestral tetrapods, said a release on the study. (With inputs from agencies)

This lungfish, known as 'living fossil', has largest-ever genome decoded, 30 times bigger than ours

<p>The Sun has had the largest number of sunspots in over 20 years this month, according to the US agencies observing the star.</p>

<p>The estimated Sunspot Number or SNN for 8 August may have reached 299, said the US Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) in Boulder, Colorado.</p>

<p>This is the largest number since at least July 2002, it said on its website.&nbsp;These sunspots occurred in a 24-hour period.</p>

<p>The current solar cycle, which is numbered as Solar Cycle 25, "likely reached its highest SSN thus far on August 8, a value of perhaps 299," it said. A solar cycle, estimated to last 11 years, is how the Sun alternates between its so-called solar minimum and solar maximum.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/volcanic-eruption-in-536-spewed-so-much-ash-that-it-went-dark-for-18-months-749711">Volcanic eruption in 536 spewed so much ash that Sun didn't shine for 18 months</a></strong></p>

<p>The official SSN data is released by global agencies in September, though 299 appears to be a possible number. The final number will come from the World Data Center - Sunspot Index and Long-Term Solar Observations (WDC-SILSO).</p>

<p>In fact, the SWPC had recorded the SSN higher at 337, a value not observed since March 2001.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What are sun spots?</strong></h2>

<p>Each sunspot is the size of the whole earth. These are relatively darker areas on the Sun.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rotations of the Sun in each solar cycle lead to areas of magnetic energy on the star. When these areas are very strong, they become visible as sunspots.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is the result of sunspots?</strong></h2>

<p>Sunspots have strong magnetic fields that cause coronal mass ejections or CMEs.&nbsp;CMEs release large amounts of plasma and magnetic fields&nbsp;from&nbsp;the Sun's corona region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These cause solar flares that send out electromagnetic radiation and are experienced as geomagnetic 'solar storms' on Earth.</p>

<p>As sunspots increase, a corresponding rise in solar flares&nbsp;is observed.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-strange-highway-formed-between-sun-and-earth-in-2023-nasa-says-747914">Aurora on Sun? It happened in 2023 when Earth spewed back particles</a></strong></p>

<p>Warnings were issued for geomagnetic storms&nbsp;in the August 11-12 period, around the time when sunspots were estimated at the highest since 2002.<br />
<br />
"Solar Cycle 25 is proving to be much more active than originally forecast by the scientist experts who predicted the cycle back in 2019 or so," Space.com quoted Shawn Dahl of SWPC as saying.</p>

<p>The Solar Cycle 25 has already caused intense geomagnetic storms, and auroras on Earth.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Sun has had the largest number of sunspots in over 20 years this month, according to the US agencies observing the star. The estimated Sunspot Number or SNN for 8 August may have reached 299, said the US Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) in Boulder, Colorado.

The Sun has had the largest number of sunspots in over 20 years this month, according to the US agencies observing the star. The estimated Sunspot Number or SNN for 8 August may have reached 299, said the US Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) in Boulder, Colorado. This is the largest number since at least July 2002, it said on its website. These sunspots occurred in a 24-hour period. The current solar cycle, which is numbered as Solar Cycle 25, "likely reached its highest SSN thus far on August 8, a value of perhaps 299," it said. A solar cycle, estimated to last 11 years, is how the Sun alternates between its so-called solar minimum and solar maximum. Also read | Volcanic eruption in 536 spewed so much ash that Sun didn't shine for 18 months The official SSN data is released by global agencies in September, though 299 appears to be a possible number. The final number will come from the World Data Center - Sunspot Index and Long-Term Solar Observations (WDC-SILSO). In fact, the SWPC had recorded the SSN higher at 337, a value not observed since March 2001. What are sun spots? Each sunspot is the size of the whole earth. These are relatively darker areas on the Sun. The rotations of the Sun in each solar cycle lead to areas of magnetic energy on the star. When these areas are very strong, they become visible as sunspots. What is the result of sunspots? Sunspots have strong magnetic fields that cause coronal mass ejections or CMEs. CMEs release large amounts of plasma and magnetic fields from the Sun's corona region. These cause solar flares that send out electromagnetic radiation and are experienced as geomagnetic 'solar storms' on Earth. As sunspots increase, a corresponding rise in solar flares is observed. Also read | Aurora on Sun? It happened in 2023 when Earth spewed back particles Warnings were issued for geomagnetic storms in the August 11-12 period, around the time when sunspots were estimated at the highest since 2002. "Solar Cycle 25 is proving to be much more active than originally forecast by the scientist experts who predicted the cycle back in 2019 or so," Space.com quoted Shawn Dahl of SWPC as saying. The Solar Cycle 25 has already caused intense geomagnetic storms, and auroras on Earth. (With inputs from agencies)

The Sun probably just had the largest number of sunspots in over 20 years: What does it mean?

<p>A man in the US who suffers from the muscle degeneration disease ALS was able to 'speak' using a brain-computer interface, offering hope to thousands of people who are unable to speak because of such conditions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Casey Harrell, 45, used the brain-computer interface or BCI that interpreted his brain signals and turned them into text, which was then read by a computer, with 97 per cent accuracy, which makes this device the most accurate of its kind.</p>

<p>“Our BCI technology helped a man with paralysis to communicate with friends, families and caregivers,” said neurosurgeon David Brandman of University of California, Davis, where the experiment was conducted.</p>

<p>Brandman described it as "the most accurate speech neuroprosthesis (device) ever reported.”</p>

<p>Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-when-does-ageing-really-kick-in-scientists-find-two-specific-ages-when-signs-show-up-they-are-750381">When does ageing really kick in? Scientists find two specific ages when signs show up. They are...</a></p>

<p>Harrell used the system in both prompted and spontaneous conversational settings, a release from UC Davis said on Wednesday (Aug 15).</p>

<p>In both cases, speech decoding happened in real time, it said.</p>

<p>"The decoded words were shown on a screen and read aloud in a voice that sounded like Harrell’s before he had ALS. The voice was composed using software trained with existing audio samples of his pre-ALS voice," it said.</p>

<h2><strong>How the man with ALS was able to 'speak'</strong></h2>

<p>The 45-year's speech was hard to understand and he required others to help interpret for him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the experiment, sensors from the BCI were implanted in Harrel's&nbsp;brain in July 2023. These included four microelectrode arrays inserted in the part of his brain responsible for coordinating speech, which could record brain activity from 256 cortical electrodes.</p>

<p>The researchers essentially 'recorded' him from the part of the brain that’s trying to send commands to the muscles.</p>

<p>"We are basically listening into that, and we’re translating those patterns of brain activity into a phoneme — like a syllable or the unit of speech — and then the words they’re trying to say,” said neuroscientist Sergey Stavisky.&nbsp;“We’re really detecting their attempt to move their muscles and talk.”</p>

<p>The brain signals are then interpreted by machine-learning programmes in the device.</p>

<h2><strong>Why this is a breakthrough</strong></h2>

<p>The experiment offers hope for people who want to speak but can’t.</p>

<p>“Previous speech BCI systems had frequent word errors. This made it difficult for the user to be understood consistently and was a barrier to communication,” Brandman said. “Our objective was to develop a system that empowered someone to be understood whenever they wanted to speak.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The first time we tried the system, he cried with joy as the words he was trying to say correctly appeared on-screen. We all did," said neuroscientist Sergey Stavisky who was part of the study.</p>

<p><br />
“At this point, we can decode what Casey is trying to say correctly about 97 per cent of the time,” Brandman said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It has been immensely rewarding to see Casey regain his ability to speak with his family and friends through this technology,” said the study’s lead author, Nicholas Card.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is ALS?</strong></h2>

<p>ALS is a progressive muscle degeneration disease. Also known as&nbsp;Lou Gehrig's disease, it inhibits the ability of nerve cells that control movement over a period of time, leading to the&nbsp;weakening of muscles.</p>

<p>Over time, patients become unable to stand, walk and use their hands.</p>

<p>In some cases, ALS can&nbsp;impair speech as it affects muscles and nerves that control speaking movements.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A man in the US who suffers from the muscle degeneration disease ALS was able to 'speak' using a brain-computer interface, offering hope to thousands of people who are unable to speak because of such conditions.

A man in the US who suffers from the muscle degeneration disease ALS was able to 'speak' using a brain-computer interface, offering hope to thousands of people who are unable to speak because of such conditions. Casey Harrell, 45, used the brain-computer interface or BCI that interpreted his brain signals and turned them into text, which was then read by a computer, with 97 per cent accuracy, which makes this device the most accurate of its kind. “Our BCI technology helped a man with paralysis to communicate with friends, families and caregivers,” said neurosurgeon David Brandman of University of California, Davis, where the experiment was conducted. Brandman described it as "the most accurate speech neuroprosthesis (device) ever reported.” Also read:When does ageing really kick in? Scientists find two specific ages when signs show up. They are... Harrell used the system in both prompted and spontaneous conversational settings, a release from UC Davis said on Wednesday (Aug 15). In both cases, speech decoding happened in real time, it said. "The decoded words were shown on a screen and read aloud in a voice that sounded like Harrell’s before he had ALS. The voice was composed using software trained with existing audio samples of his pre-ALS voice," it said. How the man with ALS was able to 'speak' The 45-year's speech was hard to understand and he required others to help interpret for him. For the experiment, sensors from the BCI were implanted in Harrel's brain in July 2023. These included four microelectrode arrays inserted in the part of his brain responsible for coordinating speech, which could record brain activity from 256 cortical electrodes. The researchers essentially 'recorded' him from the part of the brain that’s trying to send commands to the muscles. "We are basically listening into that, and we’re translating those patterns of brain activity into a phoneme — like a syllable or the unit of speech — and then the words they’re trying to say,” said neuroscientist Sergey Stavisky. “We’re really detecting their attempt to move their muscles and talk.” The brain signals are then interpreted by machine-learning programmes in the device. Why this is a breakthrough The experiment offers hope for people who want to speak but can’t. “Previous speech BCI systems had frequent word errors. This made it difficult for the user to be understood consistently and was a barrier to communication,” Brandman said. “Our objective was to develop a system that empowered someone to be understood whenever they wanted to speak.” "The first time we tried the system, he cried with joy as the words he was trying to say correctly appeared on-screen. We all did," said neuroscientist Sergey Stavisky who was part of the study. “At this point, we can decode what Casey is trying to say correctly about 97 per cent of the time,” Brandman said. “It has been immensely rewarding to see Casey regain his ability to speak with his family and friends through this technology,” said the study’s lead author, Nicholas Card. What is ALS? ALS is a progressive muscle degeneration disease. Also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, it inhibits the ability of nerve cells that control movement over a period of time, leading to the weakening of muscles. Over time, patients become unable to stand, walk and use their hands. In some cases, ALS can impair speech as it affects muscles and nerves that control speaking movements. (With inputs from agencies)

Brain-computer interface helps man with ALS 'speak' again: 'He cried with joy, we all did'

<p>A woman in Britain&nbsp;has won a huge payout years after a rape case she had filed was dropped over so-called 'sexomnia'. Jade Blue McCrossen-Nethercott, a 32-year-old survivor and activist, was given £35,000 in compensation by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), which admitted to its wrong handling of the case and apologised.</p>

<p>Sexomnia is a rare sleep disorder in which a person is unaware that sex is happening.</p>

<p>In a letter to Jade, CPS “apologised unreservedly” and expressed commitment "to improve every aspect of how life-changing crimes like rape are dealt with”.</p>

<p>Subject of a BBC documentary, Jade said it was a "big triumph" to hold CPS accountable, adding that it&nbsp;"took me to the darkest points of my life.”</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kolkata-horror-rape-miscreants-vandalise-rg-kar-hospital-disrupt-midnight-protest-video-750268">Kolkata horror rape: Miscreants vandalise RG Kar Hospital, disrupt midnight protest - VIDEO</a></strong></p>

<p>She said she sued CPS in search of accountability and to avoid future mistakes in similar rape cases. “For me it's not about the financial side of things. I'm very much wanting to push for systemic changes with the CPS and the legal system advocating for better training, policies, procedures and practices,” she was quoted as saying by BBC.</p>

<p>Centre for Women's Justice, which provided lawyers to Jade, noted that such a payout from CPS was &nbsp;"extremely rare," BBC reported.</p>

<h2><strong>The rape incident</strong></h2>

<p>The incident at the heart of the case happened in&nbsp;2017. Jade, who was 24 years old at the time, had been at a house party with friends and slept there. She woke up seminude, and found that her necklace was broken. There was a man in the room where Jade had slept.<br />
<br />
She felt she was violated. Police was called in, and a rape case was filed.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH: Kolkata rape-murder case: Doctors protest nationwide 'no safety, no duty' | WION Decodes</strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<h2><strong>What is sexomnia?</strong></h2>

<p>First approved as a clinical condition in 2003, sexomnia, or ‘sleep sex’ happens when victims who are sleeping appear to exhibit signs of consent for sexual activity, which is often forgotten by the time the person wakes up.</p>

<p>Accoridng to an article in The Independent, sexmonia has "become popular among lawyers as a defence for accused rapists."</p>

<p>"Medically, it is a type of parasomnia, an umbrella term for sleep disorders in which people experience or exhibit unusual behaviours during sleep, which also includes sleepwalking," said the article.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In the case of sexsomnia, people engage in sexual behaviours such as masturbation, sexual movements, or initiating sex with another person,” it quoted &nbsp;clinical sexologist &nbsp;Marie Morice as saying.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sexomnia happens during non-REM sleep. Non-REM (REM stands for Rapid Eye Movement), which is deeper form of sleep that occurs when your heart rate and body temperature decrease. Considered a form of sleepwalking, sexomnia happens when parts of the brain that control sexual behaviour stay awake while the rest is asleep.</p>

<p>There are very few known instances of sexsomnia, with only a few hundred cases documented worldwide, according to The Independent article.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-300-million-children-victimized-by-online-sexual-abuse-annually-725808">Over 300 million children victimised by online sexual abuse annually</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Why did CPS drop the case of Jade?</strong></h2>

<p>The case was dropped by CPS in 2020 just days before it was to go into trial. CPS cited two sleep experts who had said Jade was suffering from sexomnia when the incident happened.</p>

<p>That conclusion came after Jade was given a questionnaire about her sleep habits. She was not interviewed by the experts.</p>

<p>Jade said she did not have sexsomnia, however, sleep experts felt it may have been an isolated episode.</p>

<p>The accused was set free without even facing a jury. That made it impossible for the case to be reopened without compelling evidence.</p>

<h2><strong>Jade's legal battle</strong></h2>

<p>After the case was dropped, Jade said she felt more upset about it, than the incident itself.</p>

<p>She filed an &nbsp;appeal in 2021 through the CPS system that gives victims the right to review. The payout and apology letter from a chief crown prosecutor&nbsp;were given after that.</p>

<p>In the apology letter, the CPS admitted the case should have gone into trial, adding it was wrong for it to close it.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


A woman in Britain has won a huge payout years after a rape case she had filed was dropped over so-called 'sexomnia'. Jade Blue McCrossen-Nethercott, a 32-year-old survivor and activist, was given £35,000 in compensation by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), which admitted to its wrong handling of the case and apologised.

A woman in Britain has won a huge payout years after a rape case she had filed was dropped over so-called 'sexomnia'. Jade Blue McCrossen-Nethercott, a 32-year-old survivor and activist, was given £35,000 in compensation by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), which admitted to its wrong handling of the case and apologised. Sexomnia is a rare sleep disorder in which a person is unaware that sex is happening. In a letter to Jade, CPS “apologised unreservedly” and expressed commitment "to improve every aspect of how life-changing crimes like rape are dealt with”. Subject of a BBC documentary, Jade said it was a "big triumph" to hold CPS accountable, adding that it "took me to the darkest points of my life.” Also Read: Kolkata horror rape: Miscreants vandalise RG Kar Hospital, disrupt midnight protest - VIDEO She said she sued CPS in search of accountability and to avoid future mistakes in similar rape cases. “For me it's not about the financial side of things. I'm very much wanting to push for systemic changes with the CPS and the legal system advocating for better training, policies, procedures and practices,” she was quoted as saying by BBC. Centre for Women's Justice, which provided lawyers to Jade, noted that such a payout from CPS was "extremely rare," BBC reported. The rape incident The incident at the heart of the case happened in 2017. Jade, who was 24 years old at the time, had been at a house party with friends and slept there. She woke up seminude, and found that her necklace was broken. There was a man in the room where Jade had slept. She felt she was violated. Police was called in, and a rape case was filed. WATCH: Kolkata rape-murder case: Doctors protest nationwide 'no safety, no duty' | WION Decodes × What is sexomnia? First approved as a clinical condition in 2003, sexomnia, or ‘sleep sex’ happens when victims who are sleeping appear to exhibit signs of consent for sexual activity, which is often forgotten by the time the person wakes up. Accoridng to an article in The Independent, sexmonia has "become popular among lawyers as a defence for accused rapists." "Medically, it is a type of parasomnia, an umbrella term for sleep disorders in which people experience or exhibit unusual behaviours during sleep, which also includes sleepwalking," said the article. “In the case of sexsomnia, people engage in sexual behaviours such as masturbation, sexual movements, or initiating sex with another person,” it quoted clinical sexologist Marie Morice as saying. Sexomnia happens during non-REM sleep. Non-REM (REM stands for Rapid Eye Movement), which is deeper form of sleep that occurs when your heart rate and body temperature decrease. Considered a form of sleepwalking, sexomnia happens when parts of the brain that control sexual behaviour stay awake while the rest is asleep. There are very few known instances of sexsomnia, with only a few hundred cases documented worldwide, according to The Independent article. Also Read: Over 300 million children victimised by online sexual abuse annually Why did CPS drop the case of Jade? The case was dropped by CPS in 2020 just days before it was to go into trial. CPS cited two sleep experts who had said Jade was suffering from sexomnia when the incident happened. That conclusion came after Jade was given a questionnaire about her sleep habits. She was not interviewed by the experts. Jade said she did not have sexsomnia, however, sleep experts felt it may have been an isolated episode. The accused was set free without even facing a jury. That made it impossible for the case to be reopened without compelling evidence. Jade's legal battle After the case was dropped, Jade said she felt more upset about it, than the incident itself. She filed an appeal in 2021 through the CPS system that gives victims the right to review. The payout and apology letter from a chief crown prosecutor were given after that. In the apology letter, the CPS admitted the case should have gone into trial, adding it was wrong for it to close it. (With inputs from agencies)

'Sexomnia' case: UK woman whose rape trial was dropped over rare sleep disorder wins huge payout

<p>The Chinese internet is flooded with videos and posts about protests that took place this week after a delivery driver was made to kneel in front of security guards. Some reports said it was a female rider, but that could not be verified as the person had a helmet and mask on.</p>

<p>Incidentally, the whole episode happened as a Chinese movie about the life of gig workers becoming a big hit in the country.</p>

<p>The incident that took place in the eastern city of Hangzhou exposed chinks in the Chinese gig worker economy, where delivery drivers for apps are made to work long hours for poor pay, and virtually no medical or social protections.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/foreign-investors-withdraw-record-amounts-from-china-in-june-quarter-749772">Foreign investors withdraw record amounts from China in June quarter</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>What happened with the delivery driver in China?</strong></h2>

<p>The incident happened on Monday (Aug 12) when the delivery driver was caught by security guards, apparently after damaging a fence of a compound while delivering a food order.</p>

<p>The driver was held back by the security guards, who asked for payment for the damaged fence.</p>

<p>The rider kneeled before the guards, pleading to be allowed to go as other deliveries were getting delayed, according to local police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Other delivery drivers in the area gathered, demanding the release of their fellow driver.</p>

<p>The whole thing was caught on camera.</p>

<p>Watch it here:<br />
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<em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of content shared on social media</strong></em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">On August 12th in Hangzhou, China, a food delivery worker was forced to kneel, which triggered widespread dissatisfaction among delivery workers in the area, leading to a protest event. <a href="https://t.co/66Ly94UqPM">pic.twitter.com/66Ly94UqPM</a></p>
— Real video from China. (@cz8921469_z) <a href="https://twitter.com/cz8921469_z/status/1823183253613814267?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Soon, the episode snowballed into a larger protest in the city, with scores of gig workers taking to the streets and shouting slogans like 'apologise'.</p>

<h2><strong>China gig worker kneeling incident sparks online discussion</strong></h2>

<p>The incident led to a major discussion on China's much-censored internet on the economic woes of workers, and the rise in protests against President Xi Jinping's regime.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read&nbsp;: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/navigating-chinas-economic-crossroads-challenges-and-opportunities-ahead-737301">Navigating China's economic crossroads: challenges and opportunities ahead</a></strong><br />
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"A massive protest broke out today in Hangzhou City, China, after a security guard forced a female delivery worker to kneel and pay a fine of 200 yuan," wrote Jennifer Zeng on X.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A massive protest broke out today in Hangzhou City, China, after a security guard forced a female delivery worker to kneel and pay a fine of 200 yuan.<br />
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Hundreds of fellow delivery workers gathered to support her.<br />
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In China's current economic downturn, the survival conditions… <a href="https://t.co/VtRl1YUOgA">pic.twitter.com/VtRl1YUOgA</a></p>
— Inconvenient Truths by Jennifer Zeng (@jenniferzeng97) <a href="https://twitter.com/jenniferzeng97/status/1823031323843272885?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Another X user with the handle @DeepChinaDive wrote: "Bottled-up anger finally erupts. Delivery workers' protest reveals deeper issues: economic pressure, harsh working conditions, power imbalances. Is this just the beginning? Social tensions have been brewing for a while. More to come?"</p>

<p>One of the X users pointed out that amid the current economic downturn, delivery workers are facing tough living conditions.</p>

<p>They are forced to work desperately to ensure timely deliveries amid intense competition.</p>

<p>"They are also often bullied by the police or security guards. &nbsp;As a result, their resentment has been building up for a long time," wrote the social media user.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: China grapples with ageing population, 94 million workers above the age of 60</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Upstream, a Chinese film on gig worker life, is a top hit</strong></h2>

<p>The incident happened around the same time as <em>Upstream</em>, a Chinese film on the lives of gig workers, has emerged as a top hit.</p>

<p><em>Upstream </em>tackles several of China's biggest economic pain points, an uncertain job market, downward mobility and the hardscrabble life of millions working gig jobs, Reuters said in a report.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Chinese internet is flooded with videos and posts about protests that took place this week after a delivery driver was made to kneel in front of security guards.

The Chinese internet is flooded with videos and posts about protests that took place this week after a delivery driver was made to kneel in front of security guards. Some reports said it was a female rider, but that could not be verified as the person had a helmet and mask on. Incidentally, the whole episode happened as a Chinese movie about the life of gig workers becoming a big hit in the country. The incident that took place in the eastern city of Hangzhou exposed chinks in the Chinese gig worker economy, where delivery drivers for apps are made to work long hours for poor pay, and virtually no medical or social protections. Also Read: Foreign investors withdraw record amounts from China in June quarter What happened with the delivery driver in China? The incident happened on Monday (Aug 12) when the delivery driver was caught by security guards, apparently after damaging a fence of a compound while delivering a food order. The driver was held back by the security guards, who asked for payment for the damaged fence. The rider kneeled before the guards, pleading to be allowed to go as other deliveries were getting delayed, according to local police. Other delivery drivers in the area gathered, demanding the release of their fellow driver. The whole thing was caught on camera. Watch it here: Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of content shared on social media On August 12th in Hangzhou, China, a food delivery worker was forced to kneel, which triggered widespread dissatisfaction among delivery workers in the area, leading to a protest event. pic.twitter.com/66Ly94UqPM — Real video from China. (@cz8921469_z) August 13, 2024 × Soon, the episode snowballed into a larger protest in the city, with scores of gig workers taking to the streets and shouting slogans like 'apologise'. China gig worker kneeling incident sparks online discussion The incident led to a major discussion on China's much-censored internet on the economic woes of workers, and the rise in protests against President Xi Jinping's regime. Also read : Navigating China's economic crossroads: challenges and opportunities ahead "A massive protest broke out today in Hangzhou City, China, after a security guard forced a female delivery worker to kneel and pay a fine of 200 yuan," wrote Jennifer Zeng on X. A massive protest broke out today in Hangzhou City, China, after a security guard forced a female delivery worker to kneel and pay a fine of 200 yuan. Hundreds of fellow delivery workers gathered to support her. In China's current economic downturn, the survival conditions… pic.twitter.com/VtRl1YUOgA — Inconvenient Truths by Jennifer Zeng (@jenniferzeng97) August 12, 2024 × Another X user with the handle @DeepChinaDive wrote: "Bottled-up anger finally erupts. Delivery workers' protest reveals deeper issues: economic pressure, harsh working conditions, power imbalances. Is this just the beginning? Social tensions have been brewing for a while. More to come?" One of the X users pointed out that amid the current economic downturn, delivery workers are facing tough living conditions. They are forced to work desperately to ensure timely deliveries amid intense competition. "They are also often bullied by the police or security guards. As a result, their resentment has been building up for a long time," wrote the social media user. Watch: China grapples with ageing population, 94 million workers above the age of 60 × Upstream, a Chinese film on gig worker life, is a top hit The incident happened around the same time as Upstream, a Chinese film on the lives of gig workers, has emerged as a top hit. Upstream tackles several of China's biggest economic pain points, an uncertain job market, downward mobility and the hardscrabble life of millions working gig jobs, Reuters said in a report. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Massive protests in China after delivery driver made to kneel for this reason

<p>When does ageing start? Is it a gradual process or is there a specific age in which we start to 'suddenly' age? According to a new study, there are two, not one, time periods in our lives when we show sudden signs of ageing.</p>

<p>There is a burst of ageing at 44, and then at 60, accoriding to research done at Stanford University in the US.</p>

<p>This busts the general notion that our bodies and minds decline in a slow process, referred to as 'linear ageing'.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: China's anti-ageing component isolated from blood</strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, the ageing in 40s was seen as part of onset of menopause in women, but the study has shown that men also show signs of decline in mid-40s onwards.</p>

<h2><strong>How did they reach the conclusion?</strong></h2>

<p>The study published in Nature Ageing journal tracked thousands of different molecules in people aged between 25 and 75.</p>

<p>It found two waves of age-related changes in the molecular composition of bodies: at around ages 44 and again at 60.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The findings could explain "why spikes in certain health issues including musculoskeletal problems and cardiovascular disease occur at certain ages," the researchers said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/new-study-reveals-that-your-bodys-cells-age-rapidly-within-a-day-719816">New study reveals that your body's cells age rapidly within a day</a></strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>The researchers call these sudden spurts 'nonlinear' ageing. "The analysis revealed consistent nonlinear patterns in molecular markers of ageing, with substantial dysregulation occurring at two major periods occurring at approximately 44 years and 60 years of chronological age," said the study.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They found cardiovascular disease, lipid and alcohol metabolism changes at the 40-year transition, and shifts in "immune regulation and carbohydrate metabolism" during the 60-year transition.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-shows-strong-links-between-losing-loved-ones-and-ageing-745671">Study shows 'strong links' between losing loved ones and biological ageing</a></strong></p>

<p>Risk of diseases accelerate at specific points in human lifespan.</p>

<p>The study pointed out that in the US,&nbsp; atherosclerosis, stroke and heart attacks are are up 40% between the ages of 40 and 59. It rises to about 75% between ages 60 and 79 and reaches &nbsp;86% at 80 years and above.</p>

<p>Neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s have distinct "turning points" around the ages of 40 and 65, respectively.</p>

<h2><strong>What is ageing?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Ageing is the decline in physical and cognitive abilities, as well as changes in&nbsp;appearance such as wrinkling skin. This is also the period in which people suffer from aches and pains, and diseases and wounds take longer to heal.</p>

<p>According to World Health Organization, ageing is on the rise globally.</p>

<p>"In 2019, the number of people aged 60 years and older was 1 billion. This number will increase to 1.4 billion by 2030 and 2.1 billion by 2050," it says on its Ageing website.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


When does ageing start? Is it a gradual process or is there a specific age in which we start to 'suddenly' age? According to a new study, there are two, not one, time periods in our lives when we show sudden signs of ageing.

When does ageing start? Is it a gradual process or is there a specific age in which we start to 'suddenly' age? According to a new study, there are two, not one, time periods in our lives when we show sudden signs of ageing. There is a burst of ageing at 44, and then at 60, accoriding to research done at Stanford University in the US. This busts the general notion that our bodies and minds decline in a slow process, referred to as 'linear ageing'. Watch: China's anti-ageing component isolated from blood × Earlier, the ageing in 40s was seen as part of onset of menopause in women, but the study has shown that men also show signs of decline in mid-40s onwards. How did they reach the conclusion? The study published in Nature Ageing journal tracked thousands of different molecules in people aged between 25 and 75. It found two waves of age-related changes in the molecular composition of bodies: at around ages 44 and again at 60. The findings could explain "why spikes in certain health issues including musculoskeletal problems and cardiovascular disease occur at certain ages," the researchers said. Also read: New study reveals that your body's cells age rapidly within a day The researchers call these sudden spurts 'nonlinear' ageing. "The analysis revealed consistent nonlinear patterns in molecular markers of ageing, with substantial dysregulation occurring at two major periods occurring at approximately 44 years and 60 years of chronological age," said the study. They found cardiovascular disease, lipid and alcohol metabolism changes at the 40-year transition, and shifts in "immune regulation and carbohydrate metabolism" during the 60-year transition. Also read: Study shows 'strong links' between losing loved ones and biological ageing Risk of diseases accelerate at specific points in human lifespan. The study pointed out that in the US, atherosclerosis, stroke and heart attacks are are up 40% between the ages of 40 and 59. It rises to about 75% between ages 60 and 79 and reaches 86% at 80 years and above. Neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s have distinct "turning points" around the ages of 40 and 65, respectively. What is ageing? Ageing is the decline in physical and cognitive abilities, as well as changes in appearance such as wrinkling skin. This is also the period in which people suffer from aches and pains, and diseases and wounds take longer to heal. According to World Health Organization, ageing is on the rise globally. "In 2019, the number of people aged 60 years and older was 1 billion. This number will increase to 1.4 billion by 2030 and 2.1 billion by 2050," it says on its Ageing website. (With inputs from agencies)

When does ageing really kick in? Scientists find two specific ages when signs show up. They are...

<p>The largest 'bluestone' of the ancient Stonehenge, a six-tonne rock, had been moved from some 750 kilometres away in Scotland to its current location in Salisbury, England, according to a new study that scientists found fascinating.</p>

<p>The study puts to question not only how ancient people were able to move such a big megalith for hundreds of kilometres, but also how human populations interacted in the Neolithic period.<br />
<br />
Neolithic period, also known as New Stone Age, ran from 10,000 BC to 2200 BC</p>

<h2><strong>How did scientists trace origin of Stonehenge bluestone&nbsp;to Scotland?</strong></h2>

<p>As per a study published in Nature journal, the scientists tested the chemical composition and age of minerals within the bluestone. Bluestone is the name given to rocks that are not native to the area.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The &nbsp;stone’s chemical composition and the age of minerals within it, when taken together, give an “age fingerprint”.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/lunar-standstill-illuminates-stonehenges-celestial-connections-734668">Lunar 'standstill' illuminates Stonehenge's celestial connections</a></strong></p>

<p>Based on the analysis, the scientists are now positing that the largest bluestone was moved by water from some 750km&nbsp;away in northeast Scotland.<br />
<br />
The area of its origin is probably around Orkney Islands, according to the study.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It assumes that the blue stone, which is called 'altar stone', was sourced from red sandstone deposits of northeast Scotland.</p>

<p>So far, the origin of blue stones in Stonehenge had been traced to Preseli hills in Wales. The larger sarsen stones - the ones that stand tall at the peripheral circle of Stonehenge, are from West Woods, near Marlborough.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH: Stonehenge to celebrate Summer Solstice: Movement of the sun to be live-streamed</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p><br />
Sarsens stones are sourced relatively nearby, estimated to be 25 km.&nbsp;</p>

<h4><strong>Also read: &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/experts-believe-rare-lunar-event-may-be-linked-to-stonehenges-alignment-711657">Experts believe rare lunar event may be linked to Stonehenge's alignment</a></strong></h4>

<h2><strong>What is the significance of the study?</strong></h2>

<p>"The difficulty of long-distance overland transport of such massive cargo from Scotland, navigating topographic barriers, suggests that it was transported by sea," said the study.</p>

<p><br />
"Such routing demonstrates a high level of societal organization with intra-Britain transport during the Neolithic period," it added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The largest 'bluestone' of the ancient Stonehenge, a six-tonne rock, had been moved from some 750 kilometres away in Scotland to its current location in Salisbury, England, according to a new study that scientists found fascinating.

The largest 'bluestone' of the ancient Stonehenge, a six-tonne rock, had been moved from some 750 kilometres away in Scotland to its current location in Salisbury, England, according to a new study that scientists found fascinating. The study puts to question not only how ancient people were able to move such a big megalith for hundreds of kilometres, but also how human populations interacted in the Neolithic period. Neolithic period, also known as New Stone Age, ran from 10,000 BC to 2200 BC How did scientists trace origin of Stonehenge bluestone to Scotland? As per a study published in Nature journal, the scientists tested the chemical composition and age of minerals within the bluestone. Bluestone is the name given to rocks that are not native to the area. The stone’s chemical composition and the age of minerals within it, when taken together, give an “age fingerprint”. Also read: Lunar 'standstill' illuminates Stonehenge's celestial connections Based on the analysis, the scientists are now positing that the largest bluestone was moved by water from some 750km away in northeast Scotland. The area of its origin is probably around Orkney Islands, according to the study. It assumes that the blue stone, which is called 'altar stone', was sourced from red sandstone deposits of northeast Scotland. So far, the origin of blue stones in Stonehenge had been traced to Preseli hills in Wales. The larger sarsen stones - the ones that stand tall at the peripheral circle of Stonehenge, are from West Woods, near Marlborough. WATCH: Stonehenge to celebrate Summer Solstice: Movement of the sun to be live-streamed × Sarsens stones are sourced relatively nearby, estimated to be 25 km. Also read: Experts believe rare lunar event may be linked to Stonehenge's alignment What is the significance of the study? "The difficulty of long-distance overland transport of such massive cargo from Scotland, navigating topographic barriers, suggests that it was transported by sea," said the study. "Such routing demonstrates a high level of societal organization with intra-Britain transport during the Neolithic period," it added. (With inputs from agencies)

A six-tonne stone in Stonehenge was transported from 750km away. Scientists wonder how

<p>A female math tutor in the UK who sexually abused an underage boy and kept a diary on it has been jailed for six years, police said.</p>

<p>Holly Rouse-Sweeney, a 37-year-old tutor from Hebden Bridge, was given six years in jail by the Nottingham Crown Court on Friday (Aug 9).</p>

<p>She was initially teaching the boy online and then arranged to meet him at her county home and went on to sexually abuse him despite knowing that he was underage.</p>

<p>The boy's mother became suspicious after seeing inappropriate massages on WhatsApp and alerted the police in May 2023.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH:&nbsp;UK Met officers dissuaded children from making sexual abuse claims, report claims</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Upon searching her place, &nbsp;Nottinghamshire Police found diary entries in which Rouse-Sweeney detailed the abuse, even mentioning the boy's age.</p>

<p>She abused him several times at her former Nottinghamshire home, said Nottinghamshire Police &nbsp;in a release, "despite being aware he was under the age of consent."&nbsp;</p>

<p>She had pleaded guilty and attributed the abuse to a pre-existing mental health issue.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/children-committing-more-than-half-of-child-sexual-abuse-crimes-says-new-data-678653">UK: Children committing more than half of child sexual abuse crimes, says new data</a></strong><br />
<br />
Rouse-Sweeney pleaded guilty to two counts of engaging in non-penetrative sexual activity with a boy, and four counts of causing a boy to engage in sexual activity, the police release said.</p>

<p>The tutor was added to the UK sex offenders’ register. After her release, she will be subject to a sexual harm prevention order which will tightly restrict her activities, the police said.</p>

<p>Rouse-Sweeney was issued a restraining order, preventing her from making any contact with the boy in future.<br />
<br />
<strong>Also Read :&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whistleblower-reveals-continuing-sexual-abuse-of-women-in-uk-military-594045">Whistleblower reveals continuing sexual abuse of women in UK military</a></strong></p>

<h2>'A breach of trust'</h2>

<p>“This was an appalling breach of trust by a woman who had been trusted to spend time with a vulnerable child," the police release quoted child abuse specialist Detective Constable Keeley Bringhurst as saying.</p>

<p>“Instead of teaching him mathematics she cynically took advantage of him for her own sexual gratification. I know this abuse has had a significant impact on the victim and his family and I hope they will be comforted by this very strong sentence,” Bringhurst said.</p>

<h2><strong>Not the first case in UK of female teachers abusing boys</strong></h2>

<p>This is not the first case of female teachers abusing boys in the UK. In July this year, a teacher who abused two teenage schoolboys and became pregnant by one of them was jailed for six-and-a-half years by Manchester Crown Court.</p>

<p>Rebecca Joynes, 30, had exchanged social media messages and groomed the boys from the age of 15.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She was convicted of four counts of sexual activity with a child and two counts of sexual activity with another child.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A female math tutor in the UK who sexually abused an underage boy and kept a diary on it has been jailed for six years, police said. Holly Rouse-Sweeney, a 37-year-old tutor from Hebden Bridge, was given six years in jail by the Nottingham Crown Court on Friday (Aug 9).

A female math tutor in the UK who sexually abused an underage boy and kept a diary on it has been jailed for six years, police said. Holly Rouse-Sweeney, a 37-year-old tutor from Hebden Bridge, was given six years in jail by the Nottingham Crown Court on Friday (Aug 9). She was initially teaching the boy online and then arranged to meet him at her county home and went on to sexually abuse him despite knowing that he was underage. The boy's mother became suspicious after seeing inappropriate massages on WhatsApp and alerted the police in May 2023. WATCH: UK Met officers dissuaded children from making sexual abuse claims, report claims × Upon searching her place, Nottinghamshire Police found diary entries in which Rouse-Sweeney detailed the abuse, even mentioning the boy's age. She abused him several times at her former Nottinghamshire home, said Nottinghamshire Police in a release, "despite being aware he was under the age of consent." She had pleaded guilty and attributed the abuse to a pre-existing mental health issue. Also Read: UK: Children committing more than half of child sexual abuse crimes, says new data Rouse-Sweeney pleaded guilty to two counts of engaging in non-penetrative sexual activity with a boy, and four counts of causing a boy to engage in sexual activity, the police release said. The tutor was added to the UK sex offenders’ register. After her release, she will be subject to a sexual harm prevention order which will tightly restrict her activities, the police said. Rouse-Sweeney was issued a restraining order, preventing her from making any contact with the boy in future. Also Read : Whistleblower reveals continuing sexual abuse of women in UK military 'A breach of trust' “This was an appalling breach of trust by a woman who had been trusted to spend time with a vulnerable child," the police release quoted child abuse specialist Detective Constable Keeley Bringhurst as saying. “Instead of teaching him mathematics she cynically took advantage of him for her own sexual gratification. I know this abuse has had a significant impact on the victim and his family and I hope they will be comforted by this very strong sentence,” Bringhurst said. Not the first case in UK of female teachers abusing boys This is not the first case of female teachers abusing boys in the UK. In July this year, a teacher who abused two teenage schoolboys and became pregnant by one of them was jailed for six-and-a-half years by Manchester Crown Court. Rebecca Joynes, 30, had exchanged social media messages and groomed the boys from the age of 15. She was convicted of four counts of sexual activity with a child and two counts of sexual activity with another child. (With inputs from agencies)

Female tutor jailed for abusing underage boy in UK in second such case in two months

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