The Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology’s Atal Incubation Centre (AIC) has partnered with Humane Society International-India (HSI-India) to establish the Centre for Predictive Human Model Systems. This new system has developed both computational models and advanced in-vitro models that have been employed for research and testing in life sciences.
The efficiency of these models extends beyond just being resource-friendly and cost-effective. They also provide an ethical method of testing by eliminating the need for animal models. The accuracy of these models in predicting human outcomes is noteworthy. The focus is on a new approach methodology and prioritizing investments in human-based, non-animal methodologies specifically for life sciences research in India.
The Aftermath of Cyclone Kenneth in Mozambique
Six weeks after the destructive Cyclone Idai, Mozambique was hit again, this time with cyclone Kenneth, marking a record for two cyclones in one season. The potent tropical cyclone had winds reaching up to 220 kilometers per hour. This cyclone also impacted the Comoros island nation. These back-to-back occurrences have hampered recovery efforts in Mozambique, which was devastated by the previous cyclone.
Panel Formed to Review Microinsurance Framework by IRDAI
The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDAI) has initiated a committee to review the regulatory framework on microinsurance. These insurance products cater to low-income households or individuals who lack savings, offering them coverage for assets with lower value, compensation for illness, injuries, or death.
The committee consists of 13 members tasked with suggesting customer-friendly product designs, easy methods for premium payment, and simple claim settlement procedures. Their mandate also includes suggesting changes to improve and modernize the distribution structure with technology-driven solutions including mobile-based ones.
Qatar’s Abolition of Kafala System
By the end of 2019, Qatar plans to abolish the controversial Kafala system, which legally binds a migrant worker’s immigration status to an individual employer or sponsor during their contract period. Under this current system, migrant workers require explicit permission from their employers before they can enter or leave the country or change employment. This significant policy shift aims to address migrant worker rights and protections.
Xenon Decay Observed by the XENON Dark Matter Project
The XENON Dark Matter Project has achieved a landmark scientific discovery by observing the radioactive decay in liquid Xenon-124 atomic nuclei for the first time. The measured half-life of Xenon-124 is about one trillion times longer than the age of the universe, making this the slowest radioactive decay ever recorded. This remarkable discovery demonstrates the capabilities of the XENON detector to measure other rare physical phenomena, including double electron capture.
| Fact | Information |
|---|---|
| Collaborative Effort | The XENON experiment includes 160 scientists from 24 different nationalities and 27 institutions from countries like the US, Europe, Japan, and the UAE. |
| Project Aim | The goal of the Xenon Dark Matter Project is to search for Dark matter particles at Gran Sasso Laboratory of the National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN) in Italy. |
Southern River Terrapin Conservation Efforts in Cambodia
Cambodia has taken significant steps towards conservation by releasing twenty critically endangered Southern Terrapin Turtles into their native rivers. The Southern River Terrapin’s populations have been drastically affected by hunting, trafficking, and illegal sand mining. Found in Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand, the Southern River Terrapin is listed as critically endangered on the IUCN Red List.
The Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary: Home to Diverse Species
Situated along the Manjira river in Telangana, the Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a vast array of wildlife species, including over 70 types of birds and the mugger crocodile. Originally a sanctuary for crocodiles, the habitat has grown to encompass a diverse range of animals.
The mugger crocodile is perhaps the sanctuary’s most notable resident. It is commonly found in freshwater environments such as lakes, rivers, village ponds, and even man-made reservoirs. This species does not migrate seasonally and can live in both freshwater and coastal saltwater lagoons. The mugger crocodile makes burrows on land in various habitats and is currently listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
