Gaza’s Health Ministry has recorded four more hunger-related deaths over the past 24 hours, Al Jazeera reports.
The latest count brings the total number of Palestinians who starved to death during Israel’s war on Gaza to 239, including 106 children.
Blog
-
Israel starves 4 more Palestinians to death in Gaza; toll rises to 239
A malnourished Palestinian child gets a check up at a medical point run by a local NGO affiliated with the primary health care of the Palestinian health ministry in al-Mawasi, in the southern Gaza Strip district of Khan Yunis, on August 13, 2025. — AFP -
Commodities: Oil Falls On Bearish Fundamentals, But Upside Risks Abound – Seeking Alpha
- Commodities: Oil Falls On Bearish Fundamentals, But Upside Risks Abound Seeking Alpha
- Oil hits two-month low as US, IEA supply guidance weighs By Reuters Investing.com
- WTI Crude Oil Under Fire—Could Another Wave of Selling Hit Soon? Action Forex
- Oil Updates — prices climb on Russia supply risks, ahead of summit Arab News
- Evening update for crude oil -11-08-2025 Economies.com
Continue Reading
-
Google Doodle flies Pakistan’s national flag for 14 August
Google updated its homepage doodle on Thursday to mark Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day, depicting the country’s green and white flag in the sky.
Pakistan’s Independence Day is observed on August 14 each year to celebrate the country’s independence secured in 1947. The day is a national holiday and a common subject for commemorative art and media.
Google often changes its homepage doodle to mark international days, cultural events and notable figures. The feature is a routine way global audiences are informed of significant dates and events from both the present and the past.
Read: Markets join festive Independence Day rush
The main flag-hoisting ceremony took place today at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad, where Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif unfurled the national flag.
Festivities have been planned across the country to commemorate the day with patriotic zeal and fervour.
Google has marked Pakistan’s Independence Day in past years with different celebratory doodles designed each year.
Continue Reading
-
7 Side effects of overeating bananas on your digestion, heart, blood sugar, and more |
Bananas are among the most popular fruits worldwide, praised for their natural sweetness, convenience, and rich nutrient profile. They provide essential vitamins and minerals such as potassium, vitamin B6, magnesium, and dietary fiber, and can offer a quick energy boost. Consuming one or two bananas a day is generally safe and supports a balanced diet. However, eating too many bananas can have side effects, ranging from minor digestive issues to more serious health concerns, particularly for individuals with underlying conditions. Understanding these potential effects can help you enjoy bananas without risk.
Eating too many bananas can cause these 7 possible side effects
Digestive Discomfort
Bananas are a good source of soluble fiber, which absorbs water in the digestive tract and helps regulate bowel movements. One medium banana contains approximately five grams of fiber, supporting healthy digestion when eaten in moderation. However, consuming multiple bananas daily may overwhelm your digestive system, particularly if your body is not used to a high-fiber diet. Excess soluble fiber can slow food movement through the gut and ferment in the intestines, producing gas, bloating, or abdominal cramps. People with sensitive digestion or preexisting gastrointestinal issues may notice discomfort more quickly when eating large quantities of bananas.
Hyperkalemia (Excess Potassium)
Potassium is a critical mineral for heart, nerve, and muscle function, and bananas are famously high in it. A medium banana provides roughly 326 milligrams, while the daily recommended intake for adults ranges from 2,600 to 3,400 milligrams. According to a study published in ScienceDirect, eating too many bananas or combining them with other potassium-rich foods can raise blood potassium levels excessively, a condition known as hyperkalemia. Symptoms may include irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest discomfort, or difficulty breathing. Those with kidney disease, Addison’s disease, or those taking potassium-sparing medications are especially vulnerable to this condition and should monitor intake carefully.
Blood Sugar Spikes
Bananas contain natural sugars and carbohydrates that can affect blood glucose levels. According to a study published in NIH, ripe bananas, in particular, have a higher glycemic index, around 60, meaning their sugars are absorbed relatively quickly, which can lead to rapid increases in blood sugar. This effect is more pronounced in individuals with diabetes or insulin resistance. Eating multiple bananas in a short time frame can exacerbate these spikes. To reduce this risk, pairing a banana with protein or healthy fats, such as peanut butter or yogurt, can help slow sugar absorption and minimise abrupt changes in blood glucose levels.
Migraine triggers
Bananas contain tyramine, a naturally occurring compound that forms as the fruit ripens. According to the American Migraine Foundation, tyramine can influence blood vessel function in the brain and may trigger migraines in sensitive individuals. Overripe bananas have the highest tyramine content and are more likely to provoke symptoms in those with a history of migraine, especially if other tyramine-rich foods like aged cheese, nuts, yogurt, or citrus fruits have caused attacks in the past. People prone to migraines should monitor their banana intake and consider consuming less ripe fruit to reduce potential triggers.
Tooth Decay
Frequent snacking on bananas throughout the day can increase the risk of tooth decay. While bananas are nutritious, their natural sugars and starches can cling to teeth and serve as fuel for bacteria, leading to cavity formation. Unlike simple sugars that dissolve quickly, banana starch breaks down slowly, allowing particles to remain on teeth for longer and giving bacteria more time to produce acid that erodes enamel. To minimise this effect, it is important to brush teeth or rinse the mouth after eating bananas, especially if consumed between meals.
Oral Allergy Syndrome
Some individuals, particularly those allergic to ragweed pollen, may experience oral allergy syndrome (OAS) after eating bananas. Symptoms include itching, tingling, or mild swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat. OAS occurs because the immune system mistakes proteins in bananas for similar proteins found in allergens like ragweed pollen. People with latex allergies may also experience cross-reactivity. While OAS is usually mild and confined to the mouth, it can occasionally progress to more severe reactions. Those with known sensitivities should approach banana consumption cautiously and monitor for symptoms.
Drowsiness
Bananas contain magnesium, which relaxes muscles, and tryptophan, an amino acid that the body uses to produce serotonin and melatonin, hormones that regulate mood and sleep. Eating several bananas in one sitting may have a mild sedative effect, making you feel tired or sluggish. This effect is more pronounced when bananas are consumed with high-carbohydrate meals, which increase tryptophan availability in the brain. Although temporary for most people, it is wise to avoid consuming large quantities if alertness is needed immediately afterward.
How to eat bananas safely : Nutrition, portion control, and health tipsA medium banana (about seven inches) provides roughly 105 calories, 27 grams of carbohydrates, 14 grams of natural sugars, three grams of fiber, 422 milligrams of potassium, 28 milligrams of magnesium, and one gram of protein. For most healthy adults, one to two bananas per day is considered safe. Individuals with type 2 diabetes, chronic kidney disease, or allergies to ragweed pollen should limit intake and consult a healthcare provider for personalised advice.Bananas are a nutritious and convenient fruit, offering energy, vitamins, and minerals. However, consuming too many can lead to digestive discomfort, blood sugar spikes, hyperkalemia, migraines, dental issues, allergic reactions, or drowsiness. Moderation is key, and pairing bananas with other foods or monitoring portions can help you enjoy their benefits without experiencing negative side effects. By understanding the potential risks and adjusting intake, bananas can remain a healthy part of your daily diet.Also Read: 13 Foods that can worsen anxiety and depression and what to eat instead
“Get the latest news updates on Times of India, including reviews of the movie Coolie and War 2.”
Continue Reading
-
Overactive bladder symptoms profile and related factors among women during the perinatal period: a latent profile analysis | BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth
Haylen BT, de Ridder D, Freeman RM, Swift SE, Berghmans B, Lee J, et al. An international urogynecological association (IUGA)/international continence society (ICS) joint report on the terminology for female pelvic floor dysfunction. Neurourol Urodyn. 2010;29(1):4–20.
Google Scholar
Chuang YC, Liu SP, Lee KS, Liao L, Wang J, Yoo TK, et al. Prevalence of overactive bladder in China, Taiwan and South Korea: results from a cross-sectional, population-based study. Low Urin Tract Symptoms. 2019;11(1):48–55.
Google Scholar
Santander J, Plata M, Zuluaga L, Azuero J, Daza F, Trujillo CG, et al. What is the real burden of the overactive bladder? Results from a national prevalence study. Neurourol Urodyn. 2022;41(4):926–34.
Google Scholar
Chen HJ, Hsiao SM, Yang CF, Lee CN, Wang YW, Guo DW, et al. Overactive bladder during pregnancy: a prospective longitudinal study. Medicina (Kaunas). 2022;58(2): 243.
Google Scholar
Blomquist JL, Muñoz A, Carroll M, Handa VL. Association of delivery mode with pelvic floor disorders after childbirth. JAMA. 2018;320(23):2438–47.
Google Scholar
Peyronnet B, Mironska E, Chapple C, Cardozo L, Oelke M, Dmochowski R, et al. A comprehensive review of overactive bladder pathophysiology: on the way to tailored treatment. Eur Urol. 2019;75(6):988–1000.
Google Scholar
Poole OV, Uchiyama T, Skorupinska I, Skorupinska M, Germain L, Kozyra D, et al. Urogenital symptoms in mitochondrial disease: overlooked and undertreated. Eur J Neurol. 2019;26(8):1111–20.
Google Scholar
Kenne KA, Wendt L, Brooks Jackson J. Prevalence of pelvic floor disorders in adult women being seen in a primary care setting and associated risk factors. Sci Rep. 2022;12(1): 9878.
Google Scholar
Hendrickson WK, Allshouse AA, Nygaard IE, Swenson CW. Overactive bladder in late pregnancy to 1 year after first vaginal delivery. Urogynecology. 2024;30(4):433–42.
Google Scholar
Iglesia CB. Pelvic floor changes: consequences of pregnancy and delivery. BJOG. 2016;123(5):830.
Google Scholar
Burnett LA, Boscolo FS, Laurent LC, Wong M, Alperin M. Uncovering changes in proteomic signature of rat pelvic floor muscles in pregnancy. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2019;221(2):130.e1-130.e9.
Google Scholar
Zhen Y, Yang F. Study on relationship between interaction of estrogen, progesterone and relaxin with stress urinary incontinence during pregnancy. Chongqing Med Sci. 2018;47(14):1885–8.
Kamisan Atan I, Zhang W, Shek KL, Dietz HP. Does pregnancy affect pelvic floor functional anatomy? A retrospective study. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol. 2021;259:26–31.
Google Scholar
Lang JH, Zhu L. Female pelvic floor (2nd edition). Beijing: People’s Medical Publishing House;2018.
Lee WL, Chang CP, Wang PH. Overactive bladder syndrome in nulliparous women. J Chin Med Assoc. 2021;84(9):809–10.
Google Scholar
Reynolds WS, Fowke J, Dmochowski R. The burden of overactive bladder on US public health. Curr Bladder Dysfunct Rep. 2016;11(1):8–13.
Google Scholar
Branch of Women’s Health Care, Chinese Preventive Medicine Association. Guideline to postpartum health services. Chin J Woman Child Health Res. 2021;6(32):767–781.
Machin D, Campbell M, Fayers P, Pinol A. Sample size tables for clinical studies, 2nd Edition [M/OL]. Blackwell Science. Malden, Mass. 1997.
Jiang H, Mei Y, Wang X, Zhao Z, Lin B, Wang W, et al. Professional calling among nursing students: a latent profile analysis. BMC Nurs. 2023;22(1): 299.
Google Scholar
Åhlund S, Rothstein E, Rådestad I, Zwedberg S, Lindgren H. Urinary incontinence after uncomplicated spontaneous vaginal birth in primiparous women during the first year after birth. Int Urogynecol J. 2020;31(7):1409–16.
Google Scholar
Tähtinen RM, Cartwright R, Tsui JF, Aaltonen RL, Aoki Y, Cárdenas JL, et al. Long-term impact of mode of delivery on stress urinary incontinence and urgency urinary incontinence: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur Urol. 2016;70(1):148–58.
Google Scholar
Thorp JM Jr., Norton PA, Wall LL, Kuller JA, Eucker B, Wells E. Urinary incontinence in pregnancy and the puerperium: a prospective study. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1999;181(2):266–73.
Google Scholar
Hyakutake MT, Han V, Baerg L, Koenig NA, Cundiff GW, Lee T, et al. Pregnancy-associated pelvic floor health knowledge and reduction of symptoms: the PREPARED randomized controlled trial. J Obstet Gynaecol Can. 2018;40(4):418–25.
Google Scholar
Wu HY, Qian L, Li NN. Analysis of pelvic floor function status and influencing factors in parturient women. Prev Med. 2019;31(6):625–7.
Berzuk K, Shay B. Effect of increasing awareness of pelvic floor muscle function on pelvic floor dysfunction: a randomized controlled trial. Int Urogynecol J. 2015;26(6):837–44.
Google Scholar
Wang JL, Ma JQ, Xu MY, Li F, Ren F, Guo YF, et al. Comparison of the effects of different growth standards on infants in urban Shanghai: a cluster-randomized controlled trial. Chin Med J (Engl). 2019;132(1):4–10.
Google Scholar
Liu P, Xu L, Wang Y, Zhang Y, Du Y, Sun Y, et al. Association between perinatal outcomes and maternal pre-pregnancy body mass index. Obes Rev. 2016;17:1091–102.
Google Scholar
Woodley SJ, Lawrenson P, Boyle R, Cody JD, Mørkved S, Kernohan A, et al. Pelvic floor muscle training for preventing and treating urinary and faecal incontinence in antenatal and postnatal women. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2020,5(5):CD007471.
Rieger MM, Wong M, Burnett LA, Sesillo FB, Baynes BB, Alperin M. Mechanisms governing protective pregnancy-induced adaptations of the pelvic floor muscles in the rat preclinical model. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2022;226(5):708.e1-708.e13.
Google Scholar
Swift EM, Zoega H, Stoll K, Avery M, Gottfreðsdóttir H. Enhanced antenatal care: combining one-to-one and group antenatal care models to increase childbirth education and address childbirth fear. Women Birth. 2021;34(4):381–8.
Google Scholar
Newman MA. Evolution of the theory of health as expanding consciousness. Nurs Sci Q. 1997;10:22–5.
Google Scholar
Schreiner L, Crivelatti I, de Oliveira JM, Nygaard CC, Dos Santos TG. Systematic review of pelvic floor interventions during pregnancy. Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 2018;143(1):10–8.
Google Scholar
Snyder K, Mollard E, Bargstadt-Wilson K, Peterson J, Branscum C, Richards T. Pelvic floor dysfunction in rural postpartum mothers in the United States: prevalence, severity, and psychosocial correlates. Women Health. 2022;62(9–10):775–87.
Google Scholar
Chilaka C, Toozs-Hobson P, Chilaka V. Pelvic floor dysfunction and obesity. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol. 2023;90: 102389.
Google Scholar
Timmermans YEG, van de Kant KDG, Oosterman EO, Spaanderman MEA, Villamor-Martinez E, Kleijnen J, et al. The impact of interpregnancy weight change on perinatal outcomes in women and their children: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Obes Rev. 2020;21(3): e12974.
Google Scholar
Continue Reading
-
Atif Aslam Performs At Azaadi Concert A Day After Father’s Death
Atif Aslam is hands down the biggest star of Pakistan. He started his career as a young boy with Aadat and rose to become a global star. His dedication to his craft, down to earth attitude and the way he keeps himself in touch with his fans is what makes him the superstar that he is. The star has just gone through a huge personal tragedy. He lost his beloved father Muhammad Aslam and his is still dealing with the massive loss.
Despite going through this huge loss, Atif Aslam once again showed his dedication and professionalism. He performed at the Azaadi concert last night, just a day after losing his father. He interacted with fans, got involved in the concert and made his fans happy. His dedication is out of this world and fans had a lot to say.
This is how he was at the concert:
View this post on Instagram
The Internet is divided over this performance. One user said, “Never seen such a committed person. A true professional.” Another added, “Artists do not have the right to grieve when tickets are sold. They have to entertain people.” One said, “This is wrong. He should not have performed because his father just died.” Here is the reaction:
Continue Reading
-
Global leaders extend wishes on Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day – Pakistan
US state secretary says country “deeply appreciates Pakistan’s engagement on counterterrorism and trade”; China, Iran, Turkiye among friendly countries extending greetings.
Leaders and lawmakers from around the world, including the United States, Russia, and China, congratulated Pakistan on its 79th Independence Day on Thursday with public messages, highlighting diplomatic ties.
The day, marking Pakistan’s freedom from British rule and the declaration of independence in 1947, dawned with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes at the provincial headquarters. Special prayers were also offered in mosques for peace, solidarity and prosperity of the country.
United States
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, in a statement, felicitated the people of Pakistan on behalf of the United States.
“The United States deeply appreciates Pakistan’s engagement on counterterrorism and trade. We look forward to exploring new areas of economic cooperation, including critical minerals and hydrocarbons, and fostering dynamic business partnerships which will promote a prosperous future for Americans and Pakistanis,” the statement said.
The US State Department’s Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs said it extended its “warm wishes to the people of Pakistan as they celebrate 78 years of independence on August 14”.
“We look forward to deepening the people-to-people and economic ties as our two countries work together to promote a prosperous future for Americans and Pakistanis,” the agency said.
In a video shared by state-run Radio Pakistan on X, US Congressman Pete Sessions said, “To my friends that are in the Pakistani community, congratulations. A day in which you can remember once again your contribution to the United States of America on behalf of your heritage.
Appreciating the contributions, Sessions detailed: “Not just science and mathematics and not just hard work, but people of good faith who have come to the United States to pledge themselves to the future of not just America, but your country also, to forge that continued relationship and reliance upon each other. Thank you so much for your celebration. Thank you so much for your contribution.”
In a similar vein, US Congresswoman and representative of Brooklyn, New York’s 9th Congressional District, Yvette Clarke congratulated the people of Pakistan, as well as the diaspore in her district.
“Not only am I deeply honoured for this opportunity to celebrate with you 79 years of independence for the proud nation of Pakistan, I’m also eternally grateful for the millions of Pakistani-Americans who have used their ingenuity, talent, skill, and expertise in doing their part to build our communities, for your charitable contributions to the less fortunate, and your relentless pursuit of the American dream,” Clarke said.
She added that the US is blessed to call Pakistan-Americans its neighbours, friends, and loved ones.
Senator Chris Van Hollen affirmed his commitment to further strengthening ties of friendship between the people of the US and Pakistan.
“I’m proud to join you in celebrating Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day. I’m fortunate to have a special connection with Pakistan, having been born in Karachi as the son of an American Foreign Service officer,” the Senator said in a video posted by Radio Pakistan.
“Throughout my life, I’ve experienced firsthand the generosity, the goodness, and the determination of the Pakistani people,” he added. “I’m proud to celebrate the strong people-to-people ties between our two countries, including the diaspora of over 600,000 Pakistani-Americans who contribute to our communities and to our country in every field of endeavour.”
US Congresswoman and representative for California’s 28th congressional district, Judy Chu, said she wants to extend her “heartfelt congratulations to the people of Pakistan and to the vibrant Pakistani American community here in Southern California”.
Chu added: “One of the things I love most about our region is its incredible diversity, and I’m proud that we are home to one of the largest Pakistani American communities in the United States.”
US Congresswoman and representative from California Zoe Lofgren also congratulated Pakistan.
“I know about the contributions of Pakistani Americans firsthand, as Silicon Valley, which includes part of my district, is home to a large and vibrant community of Pakistani Americans who contribute so much to the well-being of our country,” Lofgren said.
“It’s important to highlight the positive contributions of immigrant communities like Pakistani Americans. Congratulations again. Happy Independence Day.”
Shama Haider, the first Muslim and the first Pakistani American to be elected to the New Jersey State Assembly, said it was her honour to send her heartfelt greetings to Pakistanis everywhere.
“Today, we celebrate the courage, the vision and the sacrifice that gave us our beloved motherland. No matter where we live, Pakistan lives in our hearts. Let’s honour our heritage, strengthen our unity and work for progress together. Pakistan Zindabad.”
China
The Embassy of China in Pakistan posted on X, extending congratulations to Pakistan on its Independence Day.
“Warmest congratulations to the government and people of Pakistan on celebrating its 79th Independence Day,” read the embassy’s statement. “May Pakistan continue to prosper, and may the ironclad friendship between China and Pakistan grow ever stronger. Chin–Pak Dosti Zindabad!”
Iran
Iran’s foreign ministry extended its “sincere congratulations to the friendly and brotherly government and people of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on their Independence Day”.
It wished “our Pakistani nation everlasting peace, prosperity and wellbeing”.
Afghanistan
The Embassy of Afghanistan in Islamabad, in a Facebook post, conveyed its “sincere congratulation to the Government and the people of Pakistan on the occasion”.
“We reaffirm our steadfast commitment to further strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our two nations, and to working together towards our shared aspirations for peace, stability, and prosperity in the region,” the embassy’s statement added.
Russia
The Russian Embassy in Pakistan also shared a message on X, conveying its greetings.
“In its 78 years of independence, Pakistan has made significant progress in many areas, strengthened its position in the international community, and contributed to space exploration,” said the embassy’s statement.
“Despite numerous challenges, Pakistan remains faithful to the traditional values and principles established by its founding fathers, Allama Iqbal and Muhammad Ali Jinnah. The people of Pakistan can rightly be proud of their country. From the bottom of our hearts, we wish our Pakistani friends success, prosperity, and well-being! Youm-e-Azadi Mubarak,” the statement added.
Turkiye
Turkiye’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Mofa) posted on X: “Congratulations to friendly and brotherly Pakistan on its Day of Independence! Pakistan Zindabad!”
Azerbaijan
Similarly, Azerbaijan’s Mofa posted: “Our most sincere and heartfelt congratulations to brotherly People and the Government of Pakistan on the occasion of the 78th anniversary of the Independence Day of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan! Long Live Pakistan! Happy Independence Day!”
European Union
The Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Pakistan in a post on X said the EU Ambassador to the country, Riina Kionka, extended heartfelt wishes to Pakistan.
“Together, we celebrate friendship and unity — because we are stronger together,” the post added.
France
The Embassy of France in Pakistan extended its “warmest congratulations to the people and Government of Pakistan on the occasion of Independence Day”.
“Happy Independence Day to all Pakistanis!” the embassy’s post on X added.
Germany
Germany’s consul general in Karachi, Andreas Wegner, shared a message for Pakistan, noting: “On this Independence Day, I salute the vision of unity, faith and discipline that inspired the nation’s book.
“Eighty-five years ago, the Lahore Resolution had in motion a movement that, over 75 years, overcame the burden of colonialism and led to the creation of Pakistan. It was a bold call for justice, equality, and representation.
“Ideals worth protecting now as much as then,” the German diplomat stressed.
Romania
Romanian Ambassador to Pakistan Dan Stoenescu congratulated the country’s people in a video message shared by Radio Pakistan.
He said on behalf of the Romanian government and its people, he prays for the constant success, unity, and betterment of Pakistan. “Romania proudly stands with Pakistan in its happiness and reiterates its friendship with the country,” Stoenescu said.
In a separate tweet, the country’s foreign ministry said it was committed to strengthening “bilateral relations through closer trade, educational and cultural ties, as well as by fostering EU–South Asia dialogue”.
Ukraine
Ukraine’s Mofa highlighted on X that the two countries enjoy friendly and mutually beneficial relations.
“Happy Independence Day to the Government and People of Pakistan!” said the ministry’s statement.
“Ukraine and Pakistan enjoy friendly, mutually beneficial relations based on shared trust and respect. Looking forward to further intensify our diplomatic dialogue and practical interaction.”
Sweden
Ambassador of Sweden to Pakistan Alex Berg von Linde conveyed his country’s heartfelt congratulations and warm wishes to the people of Pakistan.
Switzerland
The Embassy of Switzerland in Pakistan sent “warm wishes to all Pakistanis celebrating August 14th”.
Indonesia
The Indonesian Embassy in Islamabad also wished Pakistan its 78th birthday in an X post.
Header image: Pakistanis celebrate the 79th Independence Day on Aug 14, 2025. — X/RadioPakistan
Continue Reading
-
Tianjin University scientists make breakthrough in human genome synthesis and transfer
Researchers from Tianjin University have synthesized a human genome fragment exceeding 1 million base pairs in length — specifically 1.14 million base pairs — and successfully transferred it into mouse cells to verify its biological function.
This milestone overcomes critical technological bottlenecks in human genome synthesis and transfer, opening new pathways for biomedicine and genetic disease treatment.
The accomplishment addresses two long-standing challenges.
First, over 50 percent of the human genome consists of complex repetitive sequences, which academician Yuan Yingjin likened to “assembling a million-piece puzzle with near-identical fragments”.
Second, transferring lengthy DNA segments is exceptionally delicate; core team member Liu Yue described it as moving “a fragile artwork of glass beads prone to shattering”.
The team focused on the AZFa region of the Y chromosome, where deletions cause untreatable male infertility. This segment posed extreme difficulties with over 69 percent repetitive content.
Using their novel “SynNICE” system, scientists employed a stepwise strategy: dividing sequences into over 200 fragments, assembling them hierarchically using the homologous recombination capabilities of baker”s yeast and integrating components with CRISPR-Cas9.
For transfer, they pioneered yeast nuclei as protective carriers. Yuan explained: “If DNA transfer is a moon mission, yeast nuclei are the spacecraft safeguarding genetic material.”
Liu Yue added that this “natural transport capsule” prevents damage by shielding synthetic DNA within intact nuclei.
The breakthrough enables direct study of gene-function-disease relationships. Peking University professor Tang Fuchou noted SynNICE could extend viability of pig-to-human organ transplants from “years to decades”.
Yuan emphasized interdisciplinary collaboration with Tsinghua University and hospitals, plus adherence to WHO-endorsed Tianjin Biosecurity Guidelines.
Supported by national resources, the team is now expanding SynNICE applications to tackle more health challenges.
Zang Yifan contributed to this stroy.
Continue Reading
-
East Palestine train derailment causing PTSD and major depression in residents – News
POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER (PTSD) and major depression have been found in residents of Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia as direct effects of the 2023 East Palestine train derailment, a new study has shown.
Researchers, including those from the University of Virginia and the University of South Carolina, have published a study identifying the physical and psychological health impacts collected nine months after the event.
The derailment involved more than a dozen Norfolk Southern freight cars catching fire, ultimately prompting a controlled venting that released approximately 438,000 L of vinyl chloride into the air, waterways and soil. Exposure to vinyl chloride has been linked to serious health risks, including liver cancer and leukaemia. Around half of the residents in East Palestine had to evacuate the area.
Health conditions and distrust
Around 1,000 residents within a 65-mile radius of the derailment were surveyed, with the findings showing most respondents were concerned about the impact of exposure to themselves and family members.
Most respondents reported various ways in which they tried to limit their exposure to the vinyl chloride, including avoiding consuming water (51.8%) and food grown on land (51.5%). Half of all respondents reported at least one physical health problem that either started or got worse after the derailment. These included sinus drip (24.3%), cough (23.6%) and diarrhoea (12.2%).
More worrying is the psychiatric symptoms of the derailment, with mental health disorders being “highly prevalent” among all respondents. The study found that residents showed signs of major depression and comorbid PTSD, which is PTSD alongside other mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression.
Past experiences
The health study was conducted to better assess how communities can build resilience and prepare for natural and human-caused disasters, including process safety-related infrastructure failures and the release of toxic chemicals. Previous human-caused disasters included the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear meltdown, where residents in proximity to the meltdown were found to have developed PTSD and depression, as well as a social stigmatisation around being exposed to radiation.
Past research has shown that continued displacement and the slow support of the government had put East Palestine residents in severe distress.
Governmental negligence surrounding the derailment has come under scrutiny following the release of a letter from the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which reveals that several chemical compounds – including known carcinogens – were excluded from the contaminated soil samples provided by Norfolk Southern.
The Government Accountability Project obtained the letter via a freedom of information request. The organisation says the letter shows that the EPA failed to conduct proper environmental sampling in East Palestine.
Researchers for the East Palestine health study say that for human-caused disasters, response programmes should provide more attention to community health, and stress and uncertainty.
Continue Reading
-
A mother’s journey of determination: Turning US$100 into a thriving business in Timor-Leste
BAUCAU MUNICIPALITY, Timor-Leste (ILO Story) – Genoveva, a 34-year-old mother of four from Baucau Municipality, Timor-Leste, now runs a successful virgin coconut oil (VCO) business. She actively manages her inventory and attracts customers through promotions and competitive pricing.
I now earn around US$200 per week, which allows me to support my family and pay for my children’s education.
Genoveva, a mother of four children and young entrepeneur
“My customer base has grown, and my market has expanded beyond Baucau to other municipalities, including the capital city, Dili. I now earn around US$200 per week, which allows me to support my family and pay for my children’s education,” she said proudly.
Her life changed dramatically after joining a series of training courses in 2024 under the European Union (EU)-funded Agroforestry Skills for Employment and Resilience Programme, implemented by the ILO and facilitated by Instituto de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Empresarial (IADE). Although hesitant at first, Genoveva completed three key training modules using ILO tools: Generate Your Business Idea (GYIB), Financial Literacy and Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB).
© ILO
Genoveva’s business not only supports her family but also contributes to the local economy in Timor-Leste. “At first, I was unsure about joining the training because of my responsibilities at home and with my children. Thankfully, my father encouraged me and offered to take care of the children so I could attend,” she shared. “I’m grateful to him as the courses gave me practical skills and tools that helped me strengthen and grow my VCO business.”
During the training, Genoveva learned how to manage inventory, set better prices and separate business income from household expenses. Within just three months, she was able to improve the business she had been running for five years with little progress.
I’m grateful the courses gave me practical skills and tools that helped me strengthen and grow my VCO business.
Becoming an entrepreneur was her way of supporting her family and ensuring her children’s education. She started her first business in 2012, opening a small kiosk selling basic groceries. When that venture failed, she and her aunt pooled US$50 each to start a small-scale VCO production business.
“In 2019, with a capital of US$100 and the confidence that I had gained some skills, I launched my own VCO business from a humble kiosk along the road between Baucau and Lospalos. I also sold at local markets. But no matter how hard I worked, I earned only US$30 per week—barely enough to support my family. I felt desperate, like my business was going nowhere,” she recalled.
© ILO
The products of virgin coconut oils (VCOs) produced by Genoveva, a young entrepreneur in Timor-Leste. After the training, Genoveva understood why her business had stagnated. Without proper inventory management or financial tracking, she couldn’t monitor profits and often had to borrow money to buy raw materials.
“Thanks to the training, I realized I needed better financial and business knowledge. Now I can manage, sell, earn more and even provide jobs for others,” she said, adding that she has hired two employees and pays them regularly.
Today, Genoveva’s business not only supports her family but also contributes to the local economy and inspires other women in her community. “The training gave me more than technical skills. it gave me the confidence to lead and grow my business,” she concluded.
Continue Reading