Latest news with #Tutankhamun
Sydney Morning Herald
35 minutes ago
- Health
- Sydney Morning Herald
Toxic fungi behind the ‘Pharaoh's curse' can kill cancer cells
British nobleman Lord Carnarvon was one of the first people to step into the rediscovered tomb of King Tutankhamun and behold its treasures: gold chariots, scarab pendants, a statue of Anubis and the pharaoh's famed death mask with eyes of obsidian and quartz. Carnarvon's untimely death, five months later in April 1923, helped spawn the myth of the pharaoh's curse – that anyone who disturbs a mummy's tomb is doomed to misfortune. Some scientists suspect the real killer, however, was infection by a toxic fungus that lay dormant in the tomb like a booby trap: Aspergillus flavus. Now the fungus is again at the centre of intrigue after researchers in the US crafted the deadly spores into a compound that can kill cancer cells. In the search for new drugs, scientists have been studying a group of natural molecules called RiPPs (ribosomally synthesised and post-translationally modified peptides). Many of these tiny proteins have proved toxic to infectious microbes and cancer cells, which is why researchers are on the hunt for new types of RiPPs to test their medical potential. 'We often think of fungi as causing disease or food spoilage, but this is an example of them holding the key to treating diseases.' Dr Justin Beardsley, University of Sydney Thousands of these molecules have been found in bacteria but only a few from fungi, which is why researchers from the University of Pennsylvania went looking in Aspergillus. They found new types of RiPPs with a structure of interlocking rings and tested them against human leukemia cells. Some of the molecules blocked the growth of the cancerous cells. Scientists then added a fat molecule present in the royal jelly that bees feed their larvae. The fat molecule or 'lipid' helped the cancer-busting RiPPs to infiltrate leukemia cells, and together the experimental combination performed as effectively as two existing leukemia drugs.
The Age
35 minutes ago
- Health
- The Age
Toxic fungi behind the ‘Pharaoh's curse' can kill cancer cells
British nobleman Lord Carnarvon was one of the first people to step into the rediscovered tomb of King Tutankhamun and behold its treasures: gold chariots, scarab pendants, a statue of Anubis and the pharaoh's famed death mask with eyes of obsidian and quartz. Carnarvon's untimely death, five months later in April 1923, helped spawn the myth of the pharaoh's curse – that anyone who disturbs a mummy's tomb is doomed to misfortune. Some scientists suspect the real killer, however, was infection by a toxic fungus that lay dormant in the tomb like a booby trap: Aspergillus flavus. Now the fungus is again at the centre of intrigue after researchers in the US crafted the deadly spores into a compound that can kill cancer cells. In the search for new drugs, scientists have been studying a group of natural molecules called RiPPs (ribosomally synthesised and post-translationally modified peptides). Many of these tiny proteins have proved toxic to infectious microbes and cancer cells, which is why researchers are on the hunt for new types of RiPPs to test their medical potential. 'We often think of fungi as causing disease or food spoilage, but this is an example of them holding the key to treating diseases.' Dr Justin Beardsley, University of Sydney Thousands of these molecules have been found in bacteria but only a few from fungi, which is why researchers from the University of Pennsylvania went looking in Aspergillus. They found new types of RiPPs with a structure of interlocking rings and tested them against human leukemia cells. Some of the molecules blocked the growth of the cancerous cells. Scientists then added a fat molecule present in the royal jelly that bees feed their larvae. The fat molecule or 'lipid' helped the cancer-busting RiPPs to infiltrate leukemia cells, and together the experimental combination performed as effectively as two existing leukemia drugs.
Time Business News
3 days ago
- General
- Time Business News
Where Do Almonds Come From? Guide
Almonds are more than just a healthy snack. They're one of the most popular tree nuts in the world, prized for their flavor, versatility, and health benefits. But have you ever stopped to wonder where do almonds come from? Knowing the origin of almonds helps us appreciate the incredible journey this tiny nut has made—from ancient groves in the Middle East to supermarket shelves around the globe. Botanically speaking, almonds aren't actually nuts—they're seeds. They come from the fruit of the almond tree ( Prunus dulcis ), which is closely related to peaches and cherries. If you've ever cracked open a peach pit, you've seen something that looks a lot like an almond inside. Unlike peanuts (which are legumes) or walnuts (which are true nuts), almonds are classified as 'drupes'—fruits with a hard shell and a seed inside. It's this seed that we eat. Almonds have a rich history dating back over 5,000 years. Archaeological evidence suggests they were first domesticated in the Middle East, particularly in areas that are now modern-day Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Turkey. Almonds appear in the Bible and are one of the earliest domesticated fruit trees. They were even found in the tomb of King Tutankhamun, proving their value and status in ancient Egypt. Almond trees are deciduous and require a cold winter to properly bloom. They typically flower in early spring, and the nuts are harvested in late summer. These trees thrive in Mediterranean climates—mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Well-drained sandy or loamy soils are ideal for optimal growth. The earliest wild almonds likely grew in the Fertile Crescent, an area known for the birth of agriculture. Over time, farmers selectively bred almonds to remove toxic bitterness from wild varieties. This region played a key role in the spread of almonds, especially along trade routes like the Silk Road and later, via Roman and Greek expansion. Thanks to ancient civilizations and traders, almonds made their way to Greece, Italy, and Spain, where they became deeply ingrained in culinary traditions. Spanish missionaries brought almonds to the New World in the 1700s. While initially unsuccessful in some parts, they found a perfect home in California's Central Valley. The global almond industry is now dominated by: United States (especially California) Spain Iran Australia California produces over 80% of the world's almonds. Its ideal climate, advanced agricultural technology, and vast farmland make it the top choice for large-scale almond farming. Almond harvesting usually takes place from August to October. Farmers use mechanical shakers to shake the trees, causing the nuts to fall to the ground where they dry before being collected. Once harvested, almonds are hulled, shelled, sorted, and sometimes roasted or blanched, depending on their end use. Growing almonds is water-intensive. A single almond takes about 1.1 gallons of water to produce. This has sparked debate, especially in drought-prone California. Environmentalists argue that large-scale almond farming strains ecosystems, but many farmers are adopting water-saving technologies and sustainable practices to counter these issues. Almonds are nutrient powerhouses. They're rich in: Protein Healthy fats Vitamin E Magnesium Fiber They help lower cholesterol, support heart health, aid in weight loss, and even benefit brain function. Sweet almonds are edible and widely cultivated. Bitter almonds contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide and are toxic if eaten raw. Almonds can be eaten raw, roasted, salted, slivered, or turned into products like almond milk, butter, or flour. From Indian sweets like badam halwa to Italian biscotti and French macarons, almonds are a global culinary star. Almond oil is used in skincare, while almond shells are even used for eco-friendly fuel and mulch. Almonds are technically seeds. They are related to peaches and plums. Bees are essential for pollinating almond trees. California almond blooms are the first major crop bloom of spring. Almond trees can live for 20–25 years. Almonds face challenges from climate instability, bee population decline, and shifting consumer demand. Farmers must adapt to survive. Drip irrigation, AI monitoring, and regenerative practices are shaping the future of sustainable almond farming. Eco-conscious consumers are pushing for lower water usage, better pollination practices, and organic farming standards. Almonds have traveled a long and fascinating journey—from ancient groves in the Middle East to high-tech farms in California. Whether you enjoy them in your breakfast smoothie or as a crunchy snack, almonds are a testament to nature's resilience and human innovation. No, almonds originated in the Middle East, but California is now the world's largest producer. Wild almonds are often bitter and toxic, while cultivated almonds are sweet and safe to eat. No, they need a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. It takes about 3 to 4 years for an almond tree to start producing nuts. Not raw. Bitter almonds contain cyanide and must be processed to be safe for consumption. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Kuwait Times
4 days ago
- Business
- Kuwait Times
Egypt grand museum delay puts tourism hopes on hold
In the shadow of the Grand Egyptian Museum, souvenir shop owner Mona has been readying for the tourist boom she hoped the long-awaited opening would bring - now once again out of reach. 'I had bet everything on this opening,' she told AFP from her shop, just steps from the iconic pyramids of Giza, which the much-anticipated museum overlooks. Originally scheduled to fully open this month, the museum was expected to attract up to five million visitors annually, fuelling optimism across Cairo's battered tourism sector. 'We planned our entire summer and fall packages around the museum opening,' said Nadine Ahmed, a 28-year-old agent with Time Travel tours. 'But with group cancellations, refunds and route changes, we've lost tens of thousands of dollars.' Though parts of the museum have been open for months, the main draw - the treasures of Tutankhamun - will remain under wraps until the official launch. Less than three weeks before its July 3 opening, the government announced another delay, this time pushing the landmark event to the final quarter of the year. Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly cited regional security concerns and the desire to host an event of 'global scale'. Visitors tour the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza on the southwestern outskirts of the capital Cairo following a partial opening in October.--AFP photos Visitors walk next the 3,200-year-old pink-granite colossal statue of King Ramses II at the entrance of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), in Giza on the southwestern outskirts of the capital Cairo. A visitor takes pictures of the eight-metre tall colossal statues of the ancient Egyptian king Amenhotep III (1391–1353 BC) -- father of Amenhotep IV or Akhenaten and believed to be the grandfather of Tutankhamun -- and his consort queen Tiye, at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo's central Tahrir Square. A man approaches the main entrance of the Egyptian Museum in Cairo's central Tahrir Square. Tourists visit a papyrus shop near the Great Pyramids plateau in Giza, south of Cairo. A tourist visits Philae Jewellery Bazaar shop near the Great Pyramids plateau in Giza, south of Cairo. Visitors tour the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza on the southwestern outskirts of the capital Cairo. Decades in the making The vast museum, two decades in the making, has faced repeated delays - from political upheaval and economic crises to the COVID-19 pandemic. Ahead of the expected launch, Mona, who asked to be identified by her first name only, took out a loan to renovate her store and stock up on goods inspired by the museum's collection. A few streets away, Mohamed Mamdouh Khattab, 38, prepared months in advance, hiring and training extra staff and expanding his inventory. 'The opening of the museum is a key milestone,' said Khattab, who owns a sprawling bazaar of handcrafted jewellery and ancient replicas. 'It's a project that should have been launched a long time ago,' said the vendor, whose family has been in the industry since the 1970s. Tourism accounts for about 10 percent of Egypt's workforce, but the sector has struggled - from the fallout of the 2011 Arab Spring to militant attacks and the Covid shutdown. Still, signs of recovery have emerged: Egypt welcomed 3.9 million tourists in the first quarter of 2025, up 25 percent from the same period last year - itself a record. Fragility At a Giza papyrus workshop, 30-year-old tour guide Sara Mahmoud hopes the opening will revive visitor numbers. 'Big openings have brought a lot of tourism to Egypt before,' she said, pointing to the 2021 Pharaohs' Golden Parade and the reopening of the Avenue of the Sphinxes. 'These events get people excited - we saw the crowds coming in.' Such momentum could make a real difference, said Ragui Assaad, an economist at the University of Minnesota. 'Any initiative that directly increases foreign exchange earnings is likely to have a good return on investment,' he told AFP. 'If you compare it with all the other mega-projects, which do not increase foreign exchange earnings... this is a far better project.' He was referring to a sweeping infrastructure drive under President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, including the construction of a massive new administrative capital east of Cairo. The stakes are high: since 2022, Egypt's currency has lost two-thirds of its value, squeezing household budgets and straining every layer of the economy. 'There were days when I sold just one bracelet,' Mona lamented, thinking back to the years when 'tourists arrived in droves'. — AFP
France 24
5 days ago
- Business
- France 24
Egypt grand museum delay puts tourism hopes on hold
"I had bet everything on this opening," she told AFP from her shop, just steps from the iconic pyramids of Giza, which the much-anticipated museum overlooks. Originally scheduled to fully open this month, the museum was expected to attract up to five million visitors annually, fuelling optimism across Cairo's battered tourism sector. "We planned our entire summer and fall packages around the museum opening," said Nadine Ahmed, a 28-year-old agent with Time Travel tours. "But with group cancellations, refunds and route changes, we've lost tens of thousands of dollars." Though parts of the museum have been open for months, the main draw -- the treasures of Tutankhamun -- will remain under wraps until the official launch. Less than three weeks before its July 3 opening, the government announced another delay, this time pushing the landmark event to the final quarter of the year. Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly cited regional security concerns and the desire to host an event of "global scale". Decades in the making The vast museum, two decades in the making, has faced repeated delays -- from political upheaval and economic crises to the Covid-19 pandemic. Ahead of the expected launch, Mona, who asked to be identified by her first name only, took out a loan to renovate her store and stock up on goods inspired by the museum's collection. A few streets away, Mohamed Mamdouh Khattab, 38, prepared months in advance, hiring and training extra staff and expanding his inventory. "The opening of the museum is a key milestone," said Khattab, who owns a sprawling bazaar of handcrafted jewellery and ancient replicas. "It's a project that should have been launched a long time ago," said the vendor, whose family has been in the industry since the 1970s. Tourism accounts for about 10 percent of Egypt's workforce, but the sector has struggled -- from the fallout of the 2011 Arab Spring to militant attacks and the Covid shutdown. Still, signs of recovery have emerged: Egypt welcomed 3.9 million tourists in the first quarter of 2025, up 25 percent from the same period last year -- itself a record. Fragility At a Giza papyrus workshop, 30-year-old tour guide Sara Mahmoud hopes the opening will revive visitor numbers. "Big openings have brought a lot of tourism to Egypt before," she said, pointing to the 2021 Pharaohs' Golden Parade and the reopening of the Avenue of the Sphinxes. "These events get people excited -- we saw the crowds coming in." Such momentum could make a real difference, said Ragui Assaad, an economist at the University of Minnesota. "Any initiative that directly increases foreign exchange earnings is likely to have a good return on investment," he told AFP. "If you compare it with all the other mega-projects, which do not increase foreign exchange earnings... this is a far better project." He was referring to a sweeping infrastructure drive under President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, including the construction of a massive new administrative capital east of Cairo. The stakes are high: since 2022, Egypt's currency has lost two-thirds of its value, squeezing household budgets and straining every layer of the economy.
