Latest news with #Science
Time of India
a day ago
- Health
- Time of India
Do you get frequent headaches? Study links Neanderthal DNA to headaches in modern humans
Recent research suggests that Neanderthal DNA may be linked to headaches in modern humans. When our ancestors interbred with Neanderthals, we inherited genes that may affect pain sensitivity, inflammation, and skull shape, all of which can increase the risk of chronic headaches and migraines. Some people carry Neanderthal variants that make them more sensitive to pain or more prone to inflammation, both common headache triggers. These genes, once helpful for survival, may now contribute to modern health problems. Understanding the genetic connection between Neanderthal DNA and headaches could lead to better diagnosis and treatment for headache sufferers today. What is Neanderthal DNA and how it may be the reason of headaches, study finds Source: Science Neanderthal DNA refers to the genetic material inherited from Neanderthals, our ancient human relatives who lived in Europe and Asia from around 400,000 to 40,000 years ago. When our ancestors interbred with Neanderthals, they passed on their genes to modern humans, resulting in a small but significant amount of Neanderthal DNA in our genomes. The study, which was published in the journal Evolution, Medicine, and Public Health, found that certain genetic variants inherited from Neanderthals may contribute to the development of headaches. The researchers analysed the DNA of thousands of individuals and found that those with certain Neanderthal-derived genetic variants were more likely to experience headaches. How does Neanderthal DNA affect headaches 1. Genetic pre-disposition The study suggests that Neanderthal DNA may have contributed to the development of genetic variants that predispose individuals to headaches. 2. Pain sensitivity Variants of the SCN9A gene, inherited from Neanderthals, have been shown to increase pain sensitivity. People with this gene tend to experience more intense sensations from stimuli like heat, pressure, or touch. This hypersensitivity can also extend to headaches, making everyday discomfort feel more severe 3. Altered brain and skull structure Some Neanderthal-influenced skull shapes, such as flatter or smaller occipital bones, may affect how the brain fits inside the skull. This abnormal pressure can cause severe headaches, dizziness, and vision problems. 4. Inflammatory responses Some Neanderthal genes affect how the body handles inflammation. While this may have helped ancient humans fight off infections, today it could lead to chronic low-grade inflammation, a known trigger for migraine attacks and neurological pain. 5. Evolutionary trade-offs It's important to understand that some Neanderthal traits were beneficial in ancient environments, such as increased clotting, stronger immune response, or denser bones. But in the modern world, these same traits may contribute to health issues like chronic pain, autoimmune reactions, and headaches. Also read | 12 effective ways to relieve migraine pain at home without medications
The Sun
a day ago
- Business
- The Sun
Malaysia to table Atomic Bill amendments
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia is stepping up its push into nuclear energy, as the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry (Mosti) prepares to propose key amendments to the Atomic Energy Bill – a move aimed at reinforcing the nation's nuclear regulatory framework. Minister Chang Lih Kang said the move reflects Malaysia's commitment to exploring nuclear as a future energy source, alongside early progress in thorium (a radioactive metallic element) extraction. 'A pre-feasibility study on nuclear energy has been completed. Initial findings show strong potential for Malaysia to pursue this path,' he said in response to Kuala Terengganu MP Datuk Haji Ahmad Amzad Mohamed @ Hashim (PN). Following the study, six technical task forces were proposed – three of which are led by Mosti. They focus on technology and industrial development, nuclear skills and expertise and the legal-regulatory structure. Chang also previously confirmed that the Atomic Energy Licensing Act 1984 will be amended to support the next phase of development. Malaysia currently has 323 research officers at the Malaysian Nuclear Agency and 36 science officers at the Atomic Energy Department. Of these, 61 hold qualifications in nuclear science or engineering. 'This reflects our commitment to developing local talent to support safe and responsible use of nuclear technology.' Chang said international cooperation is also a core strategy. He said Malaysia is working closely with global agencies on technical training, joint research, technology transfer and capacity building nuclear science. 'On July 10, we signed a strategic civil nuclear agreement with the United States. This is a major catalyst for long-term collaboration on Malaysia's civil nuclear ambitions.' Malaysia is also pursuing similar partnerships with China and Russia to build capacity in nuclear power generation. 'The partnerships will give us access to cutting-edge expertise, proven technologies and best practices, which are critical for building our infrastructure and local industry.' Chang added that Malaysia collaborates with the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation to detect nuclear weapons tests and use scientific data for natural disaster monitoring, including earthquakes and tsunamis. Malaysia also maintains strong ties with the International Atomic Energy Agency through technical cooperation, regional agreements and research collaborations under the Asian Nuclear Cooperation Forum. Beyond power generation, Chang said nuclear technology is already being used to tackle environmental and climate challenges.
The Star
a day ago
- Business
- The Star
Malaysia powers up nuclear push
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is moving closer to adopting nuclear energy as part of its long-term energy transition strategy. Science, Technology and Innovation (Mosti) Minister Chang Lih Kang (pic) said a pre-feasibility study on nuclear power has been completed. He said the initial findings showed that nuclear energy had strong potential to serve as a stable, clean and reliable power source for the country. 'In line with this, six technical task forces have been proposed to support nuclear energy readiness. 'Three of these are under Mosti, focusing on technology and industry development, development of nuclear competencies and a legal and regulatory framework,' Chang told the Dewan Rakyat yesterday. The remaining three teams will fall under the purview of the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Ministry, he said. Chang said the country now has 323 nuclear researchers under the Malaysian Nuclear Agency and 36 science officers under the Atomic Energy Department, holding qualifications in nuclear science and engineering. He said Malaysia was working to amend its Atomic Energy Act to enable the ratification of key international treaties and conventions under the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). 'Once approved by the Cabinet, we aim to table the amended Act in this Parliament session. 'This will demonstrate Malaysia's seriousness in exploring nuclear energy as one of our power generation options,' he said. Chang also confirmed that Malaysia signed a strategic civil nuclear cooperation agreement with the United States on July 10, complementing its existing collaborations with China and Russia. 'The agreement will act as a catalyst for long-term cooperation in infrastructure development, joint research, technical training and local industry strengthening,' he added. He said Malaysia was also working closely with the IAEA through technical cooperation programmes, regional partnerships, the Asian Nuclear Cooperation Forum and coordinated research projects. Beyond power generation, he said, nuclear technology is also being used in climate and environmental research.
Time of India
a day ago
- Health
- Time of India
It's true! Adults can grow new brain cells
A recent study from the Karolinska Institute reveals that the human brain continues to generate new neurons in the hippocampus, the brain's memory center, well into late adulthood. Researchers identified neural progenitor cells, confirming ongoing neurogenesis. These findings offer hope for developing regenerative treatments for neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders by understanding how the brain adapts throughout life. You may perhaps show an inhibition to adapt to change or grow, but your brain doesn't. In fact, an adult human brain continues to grow new neurons, even as they age. Yes, that's right. A new study has found compelling evidence that neurons in the brain's memory centre, the hippocampus, continue to form well into late adulthood. A study led by researchers at the Karolinska Institute in Sweden has found answers to the long-debated and fundamental question about the brain's adaptability. The findings of the study are published in the journal Science . Neurons continue to form into late adulthood The hippocampus is the region in the brain responsible for learning and memory. It is also in charge of emotional regulation. In 2013, a group of researchers at the Karolinska Institute showed that new neurons can form in the hippocampus of adults. In order to confirm it, they measured the carbon-14 levels in DNA from brain tissue. However, it was still debated, due to the lack of clear evidence that the cells that precede new neurons, known as neural progenitor cells, actually exist and divide in adult humans. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Up to 70% off | Libas Purple Days Sale Libas Undo 'We have now been able to identify these cells of origin, which confirms that there is an ongoing formation of neurons in the hippocampus of the adult brain,' Jonas Frisén, Professor of Stem Cell Research at the Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, who led the research, said. The study The new study, however, sought the help of advanced methods to examine brain tissue from people aged 0 to 78 years from several international biobanks. Using single-nucleus RNA sequencing, they studied the cell properties. They combined it with machine learning and identified different stages of neuronal development. They also used RNAscope and Xenium to further understand the process. What they found was striking. These methods confirmed that the newly formed cells were located in a specific area of the hippocampus called the dentate gyrus. This area is important for memory formation, learning, and cognitive flexibility. How is this study significant? The findings of this study is a hope for new treatments. The results suggest that the progenitors of adult neurons are similar to those of mice, pigs, and monkeys. However, there are some differences in which genes are active. There were also large variations between individuals – some adult humans had many neural progenitor cells, others hardly any at all. 'This gives us an important piece of the puzzle in understanding how the human brain works and changes during life. Our research may also have implications for the development of regenerative treatments that stimulate neurogenesis in neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders,' Jonas Frisén explained.
CBC
a day ago
- Science
- CBC
Here's how earthquakes can cause tsunamis
Earth's tectonic plates shift slowly — about nine centimetres per year, slightly faster than fingernails grow. This movement can trigger powerful earthquakes. Seismologist John Cassidy explains the science behind earthquakes and why they can lead to tsunamis.
