#venus institute of investigation studies

[mysticstronomy]

DID LIFE EXIST ON VENUS??

Blog#429

Wednesday, August 21st 2024.

Welcome back,

The hellish planet Venus may have had a perfectly habitable environment for 2 to 3 billion years after the planet formed, suggesting life would have had ample time to emerge there, according to a new study.

In 1978, NASA's Pioneer Venus spacecraft found evidence that the planet may have once had shallow oceans on its surface. Since then, several missions have investigated the planet's surface and atmosphere, revealing new details on how it transitioned from an "Earth-like" planet to the hot, hellish place it is today.

It's believed that Venus may have been a temperate planet hosting liquid water for 2 to 3 billion years before a massive resurfacing event about 700 million years ago triggered a runaway greenhouse effect, which caused the planet's atmosphere to become incredibly dense and hot.

Researchers from NASA's Goddard Institute for Space Studies shared a series of five simulations that show what Venus' environment would be like based on different levels of water coverage.

All five of the simulations suggest Venus may have been able to maintain stable temperatures, ranging from a low of 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius) to a high of 122 degrees Fahrenheit (50 degrees Celsius), for about 3 billion years, according to a statement from the Europlanet Society.

"Our hypothesis is that Venus may have had a stable climate for billions of years," Michael Way, one of the study researchers, said in the statement. "It is possible that the near-global resurfacing event is responsible for its transformation from an Earth-like climate to the hellish hot-house we see today."

Under stable climate conditions, Venus would have been able to support liquid water and, in turn, possibly allow life to emerge. In fact, if the planet hadn't experienced the resurfacing event, it might have remained habitable today, the researchers said.

However, the resurfacing event triggered a series of incidents that caused a release, or outgassing, of carbon dioxide stored in the rocks of the planet. As a result, Venus' atmosphere became too dense and hot for life to survive.

Creating the different simulations involved adapting a 3D general-circulation model, which accounted for atmospheric compositions as they were 4.2 billion years ago and 715 million years ago, and as they are today. The model also accounts for the gradual increase in solar radiation, as the sun gets warmer over the course of its lifetime.

In addition, three of the five scenarios assumed the topography of Venus was similar to what it is today. In these scenarios, the ocean ranged from a shallow depth of about 30 feet (10 meters) to about 1,000 feet (310 m), with a small amount of water locked in the soil.

Originally published on https://www.space.com

COMING UP!!

(Saturday, August 24th, 2024)

"HOW POWERFUL IS DARK ENERGY??"

[unsacredism]

*  chris wood. cis male. he/him. / that’s alexander bonneville walking into o'connell’s - you know, the thirty3 year old software engineer known for nailing every song on karaoke night? having lived here for twenty four years, their neighbors know them to be determined & kindhearted, but their stubborn & overly secretive tendencies shine through when there are no buses in the city. 

*     𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐊𝐒: wanted connections / spotify playlist.

hey, everyone!! this is zazz ( she/her, twenty3, gmt ) bringing you mr. alexander bonneville. he's one of my fave ( and oldest ) muses of mine so i hope you all love him as well! here you’ll find all the info you need to get to know him. if you wanna plot, hmu on discord or through private messages!! by the way, english is not my first language so i apologize if there's any errors in my writing.

*     ⸻     𝐋𝐀𝐘𝐄𝐑  𝐎𝐍𝐄.

name: alexander james madsdatter bonneville. date of birth: november 2, 1990. zodiac sign: scorpio sun, taurus rising, taurus moon, scorpio venus. place of birth: new york city, new york. current residence: lakeview, new orleans, louisiana. occupation: software engineer & co-founder of RISE. education: massachusetts institute of technology. sexuality: heterosexual. gender + pronouns: cis man, he/him. relationship status: single, it's complicated.

*     ⸻     𝐋𝐀𝐘𝐄𝐑  𝐓𝐖𝐎.

positive traits: kind-hearted, dynamic, intelligent, easygoing, loyal. neutral traits: observant, logical, independent, sometimes sarcastic with a clever sense of humor. negative traits: stubborn, moody, secretive, resentful, pessimist. likes: retro music, train rides, cats, brownies, waking up early. dislikes: overplayed songs, baking, being lost, most social media, hypocrites. habits: gesturing when speaking, frowning, jaw clenching, glancing at his watch, touching his facial hair. alcohol? cigarettes? drugs? sometimes. no. rarely.

*     ⸻     𝐁𝐈𝐎𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐏𝐇𝐘.

alexander was born into a broken family. his parents were young, about to turn twenty and twenty-one when they had him - it's safe to say things were not easy for them. when he was born, his father, dominic, was just starting a new job as a sales supervisor, and his mom, elizabeth, was still studying communications. between the years of sacrifice and struggle, their relationship got more and more unmanageable and the pair decided to break it off, leaving six-year-old alexander confused. even though dominic and elizabeth ended things on good terms, from that point on, alexander's childhood was a mix of two worlds - he had to constantly adapt to each parent's life, routine, and plans, going from one house to another when mommy had to study or dad had to work overtime. but, when he was nine, things changed when his dad got a new and better job in another state. lakeview was different and he liked it. there, he grew healthier, not having to fear much, and feeling at home all the time. everybody knew each other and it all felt like one big happy family - just what wished for all those years.

when he got into university, everybody congratulated him, and he knew he would come back to that place, wanting to have a happy family of his own there. he attended the prestige massachusetts institute of technology for computer science, later specializing in software engineering. upon graduating, he came back to lakeview, got an apartment for himself, and started a job in a freshly launched small company, where he would work until he was twenty-nine. when he hit thirty, his project came to life. founded by him and a close friend, RISE aimed to be one more of the many companies that investigate, study, and create new apps and programs to help the average consumer and businesses. for the last couple of years, he has been helping local businesses adopt some new technology, making their cherished work easier.

most people are used to seeing him often accompanied by his now ex-girlfriend, dila. the pair have been together for more than a decade and were usually seen around town together, walking his dog, lilo, or just casually sharing a meal, looking as enamored as ever. however, two months ago, they parted ways. he had just proposed to her, and the refusal shattered his heart. they began fighting a lot, and things just went downhill from that point on. after moving from the house they shared, alexander is still struggling to adapt to his new reality, but it's visible how the loss of this relationship affected him.

*     ⸻     𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐂𝐀𝐍𝐎𝐍𝐒.

he has a dog named lilo, after lilo and stitch.

alexander is a morning person, so it's usual to see him around town when the sun starts shining.

has a great singing voice and loves music, so he is always down for karaoke nights.

he is a friendly person, often striking up a conversation with any and everyone.

alexander has a clever sense of humor, so expect some meticulous jokes when he's around.

he is actively working on his relationship with his mother, who became distant when alexander moved to lakeview with his father.

[hoveringaboveuranus]

Diana Pasulka, professor of religious studies at the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, presented "Mathematicians and Artists: The New Sites of UAP Field Research," or ‘Toto, We’re Not in New Mexico Anymore," the fourth plenary session during Archives of the Impossible, a scholarly conference and exhibition that took place at Rice University March 3-6, 2022. Stanislav Panin, a PhD Candidate in the Department of Religion at Rice University, provided introductory remarks. Pasulka's research spans Catholic history to new religious movements. Recent books include "American Cosmic: Religion,

UFOs, and Technology" (OUP 2019) and "Contact 21: Encounters with Non-Human Intelligence" (forthcoming). She has published in Tank, Vox, Vice, and has been invited to speak at numerous institutions and venues, including the Guggenheim Museum in New York City, keynotes at universities, and international public radio. She is lead investigator on an ongoing study of Catholic manuscripts and saints at the Vatican Secret Archive and the Vatican Space Observatory.

[sudheervanguri]

Walk-In Interview for Clinical Research Coordinator at SCTIMST, Thiruvananthapuram Walk-In Interview for Clinical Research Coordinator at SCTIMST Advt. No.: R&P Cell/21/5489/SCTIMST/2024 Dated: 27/06/2024 Join SCTIMST as a Clinical Research Coordinator (Temporary) Project Title: A multicentre, international randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel group and event-driven Phase 3 study of the oral FXIa inhibitor asundexian (BAY 2433334) for the prevention of ischemic stroke in male and female participants aged 18 years and older after an acute non-cardioembolic ischemic stroke or high-risk TIA (P-5489). Position: Clinical Research Coordinator (Temporary) Qualifications & Experience (Essential): Bachelor’s degree in Nursing or Pharmacy OR Master’s degree in Life Sciences or Public Health. Qualifications & Experience (Desirable): Diploma/Certificate in Clinical Research OR One year of experience in clinical trials/clinical research. Knowledge in basic computer applications. Working knowledge of clinical study databases. Good organizational skills. Job Description: Assisting the Principal Investigator in recruiting patients as per the study protocol. Entry of patient data into the database. Follow-up of patients in the trial. Monthly Emoluments: ₹30,000/- (Consolidated) Age Limit: 35 years (as of 01/07/2024) Number of Vacancies: 1 (One) Nature/Tenure of Appointment: Temporary (Purely on contract), for a period of one year or till the completion of the project, whichever is earlier. Date & Time of Interview: 09/07/2024, 11:00 AM Time of Reporting: 10:00 AM Mode of Selection: Walk-in-interview Venue: AMCHSS Building, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST), Medical College Campus, Thiruvananthapuram. Detailed Notification Click here Application Process Interested and eligible candidates are invited to attend the walk-in interview as per the schedule. Please report at the Ground Floor of the AMCHSS building with your bio-data, original certificates, and copies of certificates to prove age, qualifications, and experience. Contact Information: Research & Publication Cell: 0471-2524437/637 Email: projectcell@sctimst.ac.in Website: www.sctimst.ac.in [caption id="attachment_85525" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Clinical Research Coordinator Recruitment at SCTIMST[/caption]

[baiabazadze]

"Tracking Health Trends: Insights from the Epidemiology Frontline"

Epidemiology is the study of how diseases and health conditions spread among populations. It involves investigating the causes and effects of health outcomes to improve population health. By analyzing data on demographics, behaviors, environmental factors, and more, epidemiologists can identify risk factors, trends, and patterns that influence public health.

Current Trends in Public Health:

Infectious Disease Outbreaks: From COVID-19 to seasonal flu outbreaks, epidemiologists play a pivotal role in tracking and controlling the spread of infectious diseases. Through surveillance systems and modeling techniques, they assess the impact of outbreaks and recommend strategies for containment and prevention.

Chronic Disease Burden: Non-communicable diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer continue to pose significant challenges globally. Epidemiologists study risk factors like diet, physical activity, genetics, and socio-economic status to develop strategies for prevention and management.

Global Health Disparities: Disparities in health outcomes based on race, ethnicity, income, and geographic location remain a critical focus. Epidemiologists work to identify root causes and advocate for policies that promote health equity and reduce disparities. The Importance of Collaboration:

Public Health Agencies: Collaborations with local, national, and international health agencies strengthen surveillance systems and response efforts.

Academic Research: Partnerships with universities and research institutions drive innovation in epidemiological methods and interventions.

Community Engagement: Engaging communities in research and health initiatives promotes trust, enhances data collection, and improves health outcomes.

Conclusion:

As we navigate the complexities of global health challenges, epidemiologists continue to adapt and innovate. By leveraginghttps://health.universeconferences.com/ data-driven insights and collaborative efforts, we can address emerging health threats, promote health equity, and improve overall well-being. Stay tuned as we explore more topics in epidemiology, from emerging infectious diseases to innovative research methodologies. Together, we can make strides towards a healthier future.

Important Information: Conference Name: 15th American Healthcare, Hospital Management, Nursing, And Patient Safety Summit Patient Safety Conference Short Name: #15AHNPSUCG2025   Dates: May 14-16,2025 Venue|: San Francisco, United States & Virtual Email: health@ucgconferences.com Visit: https://health.universeconferences.com/ Call for Papers: https://health.universeconferences.com/call-for-paper/Register here: https://health.universeconferences.com/registration/Call/WhatsApp Us: +442033222718

[lboogie1906]

Harrison Branch (born June 6, 1947) A graduate of the San Francisco Art Institute and Yale University School of Art, he will become a professor of art at Oregon State University and a photographer whose works will be exhibited and collected in the US and Europe and will appear in the landmark photography book, “An Illustrated Bio-Bibliography of Black Photographers,” 1940-1988, edited by Deborah Wills Ryan. He spent many years exploring an interest in the relationships of tonal scales between silver and non-silver photographic prints.

He will investigate the methods used to create platinum-palladium prints and become intrigued by the superiority of the process as compared to silver print photography. He will work with Platinotypes and study the subtle ways in which light becomes the subject matter. He will work primarily with bellows cameras, which are far more technically intricate and often much larger than the conventional cameras of recent decades.

The subject matter of his photography will vary over time, but will often include undeveloped natural areas. He will exhibit his work regionally, nationally, and internationally in venues including the Oakland Museum, the George Eastman House in Rochester, and the Bibliotheque Nationale in Paris. #africanhistory365 #africanexcellence

[jcmarchi]

Four from MIT named 2024 Knight-Hennessy Scholars

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/four-from-mit-named-2024-knight-hennessy-scholars/

Four from MIT named 2024 Knight-Hennessy Scholars

MIT senior Owen Dugan, graduate student Vittorio Colicci ’22, predoctoral research fellow Carine You ’22, and recent alumna Carina Letong Hong ’22 are recipients of this year’s Knight-Hennessy Scholarships. The competitive fellowship, now in its seventh year, funds up to three years of graduate studies in any field at Stanford University. To date, 22 MIT students and alumni have been awarded Knight-Hennessy Scholarships.

“We are excited for these students to continue their education at Stanford with the generous support of the Knight Hennessy Scholarship,” says Kim Benard, associate dean of distinguished fellowships in Career Advising and Professional Development. “They have all demonstrated extraordinary dedication, intellect, and leadership, and this opportunity will allow them to further hone their skills to make real-world change.”

Vittorio Colicci ’22

Vittorio Colicci, from Trumbull, Connecticut, graduated from MIT in May 2022 with a BS in aerospace engineering and physics. He will receive his master’s degree in planetary sciences this spring. At Stanford, Colicci will pursue a PhD in earth and planetary sciences at the Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability. He hopes to investigate how surface processes on Earth and Mars have evolved through time alongside changes in habitability. Colicci has worked largely on spacecraft engineering projects, developing a monodisperse silica ceramic for electrospray thrusters and fabricating high-energy diffraction gratings for space telescopes. As a Presidential Graduate Fellow at MIT, he examined the influence of root geometry on soil cohesion for early terrestrial plants using 3D-printed reconstructions. Outside of research, Colicci served as co-director of TEDxMIT and propulsion lead for the MIT Rocket Team. He is also passionate about STEM engagement and outreach, having taught educational workshops in Zambia and India.

Owen Dugan

Owen Dugan, from Sleepy Hollow, New York, is a senior majoring in physics. As a Knight-Hennessy Scholar, he will pursue a PhD in computer science at the Stanford School of Engineering. Dugan aspires to combine artificial intelligence and physics, developing AI that enables breakthroughs in physics and using physics techniques to design more capable and safe AI systems. He has collaborated with researchers from Harvard University, the University of Chicago, and DeepMind, and has presented his first-author research at venues including the International Conference on Machine Learning, the MIT Mechanistic Interpretability Conference, and the American Physical Society March Meeting. Among other awards, Dugan is a Hertz Finalist, a U.S. Presidential Scholar, an MIT Outstanding Undergraduate Research Awardee, a Research Science Institute Scholar, and a Neo Scholar. He is also a co-founder of VeriLens, a funded startup enabling trust on the internet by cryptographically verifying digital media.

Carina Letong Hong ’22

Carina Letong Hong, from Canton, China, is currently pursuing a JD/PhD in mathematics at Stanford. A first-generation college student, Hong graduated from MIT in May 2022 with a double major in mathematics and physics and was inducted into Sigma Pi Sigma, the physics honor society. She then earned a neuroscience master’s degree with dissertation distinctions from the University of Oxford, where she conducted artificial intelligence and machine learning research at Sainsbury Wellcome Center’s Gatsby Unit. At Stanford Law School, Hong provides legal aid to low-income workers and uses economic analysis to push for law enforcement reform. She has published numerous papers in peer-reviewed journals, served as an expert referee for journals and conferences, and spoken at summits in the United States, Germany, France, the U.K., and China. She was the recipient of the AMS-MAA-SIAM Morgan Prize for Outstanding Research, the highest honor for an undergraduate in mathematics in North America; the AWM Alice T. Schafer Prize for Mathematical Excellence, given annually to an undergraduate woman in the United States; the Maryam Mirzakhani Fellowship; and a Rhodes Scholarship.

Carine You ’22

Carine You, from San Diego, California, graduated from MIT in May 2022 with bachelor’s degrees in electrical engineering and computer science and in mathematics. Since graduating, You has worked as a predoctoral research assistant with Professor Amy Finkelstein in the MIT Department of Economics, where she has studied the quality of Medicare nursing home care and the targeting of medical screening technologies. This fall, You will embark on a PhD in economic analysis and policy at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. She wishes to address pressing issues in environmental and health-care markets, with a particular focus on economic efficiency and equity. You previously developed audio signal processing algorithms at Bose, refined mechanistic models to inform respiratory monitoring at the MIT Research Laboratory of Electronics, and analyzed corruption in developmental projects in India at the World Bank. Through Middle East Entrepreneurs of Tomorrow, she taught computer science to Israeli and Palestinian students in Jerusalem and spearheaded an online pilot expansion for the organization. At MIT, she was named a Burchard Scholar.

[priteshwemarketresearch]

Interactive Video Walls: Shaping the Future of Digital Interaction

Interactive Video Wall Market was valued at USD 6,612.76 Million in 2022 and expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.2% during the forecast period. An Interactive Video Wall is a dynamic display technology that combines multiple screens or displays to create a large, immersive, and interactive visual experience. These video walls are commonly used in various settings, including commercial spaces, public installations, control rooms, educational institutions, and entertainment venues.. Forecast market information, SWOT analysis, Interactive Video Wall market scenario, and feasibility study are important aspects in this report.

Get a sample copy of this report: https://wemarketresearch.com/sample-request/interactive-video-wall-market/1284

Companies Covered: Interactive Video Wall Market:

Pro Display

Eyevis

Delta Electronics, Inc.

Mitsubishi Electric Corporation

Barco

LG Electronics Inc.

NEC Display Solutions

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

These companies have the potential to drive market growth through various strategies. They can focus on offering innovative and high-performance products, taking advantage of advancements in technology. Additionally, expanding their distribution channels to target new customers would be beneficial. Strategic partnerships and collaborations can also be pursued to strengthen market presence and enhance competitiveness.

Global Interactive Video Wall Market Segmentation:

By Display

LCD

LED

Others

By End-user

Retail

Corporate

Transportation

Healthcare

Hospitality

Museum

Others

By Geography

 North America

US.

Canada

Mexico

Europe

UK.

Germany

France

Italy

Spain

Russia

Asia-Pacific

Japan

China

India

Australia

South Korea

ASEAN

Rest of APAC

South America

Brazil

Argentina

Colombia

Rest of South America

MEA

South Africa

Saudi Arabia

UAE

Egypt

Rest of MEA

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are the top performing regions of the Interactive Video Wall markets?

What factors will influence demand and supply trends across each markets during the forecast period?

Which country / region has more opportunities for Interactive Video Wall Market?

Who are the key competitors of market Players?

Global Interactive video wall Market Dynamics:

Rise in the Usage Across Transportation:

Touch screen technology makes it easier and faster for consumers to use digital devices like tablets and cell phones. The industry is expected to develop even faster as the number of devices with touch sensors continues to rise and gains popularity among consumers.

Rise in the Demand for Digital Content and Information:

The need for relevant digital content and information among passengers has grown, leading    to interactive announcements displayed on video walls. This has underwritten significantly to the growth of the worldwide interactive video wall market.

Interactive Video Wall Market Regional Insights:

The report provides a comprehensive examination of the factors driving growth, constraints, future prospects, and competitive landscape across all regions. The market is segmented by region into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa. Additionally, the report identifies the top countries in each region and provides market forecasts for each one.

Key objectives of this research are:

To explore Global Interactive Video Wall Market size by respective indicators.

To scrutinize the sum and estimation of the Global Interactive Video Wall Market, Based on key aspects.

To offer an account of the competitive landscape and investigate their development plans.

To examine the Global Interactive Video Wall Market for growth possibilities, and strategic growth.

To review the Global Interactive Video Wall Market size (volume and worth) from the organization, key market regions, items and applications, and statistical data.

To generate competitive learnings and factors analysis, SWOT examination, and business improvement plans for the future.

To scrutinize the range of available and novel organic business growth strategies.

Directly Purchase a Copy of this Interactive Video Wall Market research report at: https://wemarketresearch.com/purchase/interactive-video-wall-market/1284?license=single

The research includes historical data from 2018 to 2023 and forecasts until 2033, making the report valuable to industry executives, marketing, sales and product managers, consultants, analysts, and stakeholders in clearly presented tables Together, we are looking for documents that are easily accessible graph.

Finally, the Interactive Video Wall Market report is the believable source for gaining the Market research that will exponentially accelerate your business. The report provides locales, economic conditions, item values, benefits, limits, creations, supplies, requests, market development rates, numbers, etc. Interactive Video Wall industry report additionally presents a new task SWOT exam, speculation attainability investigation, and venture return investigation.

About We Market Research:

WE MARKET RESEARCH is an established market analytics and research firm with a domain experience sprawling across different industries. We have been working on multi-county market studies right from our inception. Over the time, from our existence, we have gained laurels for our deep rooted market studies and insightful analysis of different markets.

Our strategic market analysis and capability to comprehend deep cultural, conceptual and social aspects of various tangled markets has helped us make a mark for ourselves in the industry. WE MARKET RESEARCH is a frontrunner in helping numerous companies; both regional and international to successfully achieve their business goals based on our in-depth market analysis. Moreover, we are also capable of devising market strategies that ensure guaranteed customer bases for our clients.

Contact Us:

Mr. Robbin Joseph

Corporate Sales, USA

We Market Research

USA: +1-724-618-3925

Websites: https://wemarketresearch.com/

Email: sales@wemarketresearch.com

[sunaleisocial]

Study: Life’s building blocks are surprisingly stable in Venus-like conditions

New Post has been published on https://sunalei.org/news/study-lifes-building-blocks-are-surprisingly-stable-in-venus-like-conditions/

Study: Life’s building blocks are surprisingly stable in Venus-like conditions

If there is life in the solar system beyond Earth, it might be found in the clouds of Venus. In contrast to the planet’s blisteringly inhospitable surface, Venus’ cloud layer, which extends from 30 to 40 miles above the surface, hosts milder temperatures that could support some extreme forms of life.

If it’s out there, scientists have assumed that any Venusian cloud inhabitant would look very different from life forms on Earth. That’s because the clouds themselves are made from highly toxic droplets of sulfuric acid — an intensely corrosive chemical that is known to dissolve metals and destroy most biological molecules on Earth.

But a new study by MIT researchers may challenge that assumption. Appearing today in the journal Astrobiology, the study reports that, in fact, some key building blocks of life can persist in solutions of concentrated sulfuric acid.

The study’s authors have found that 19 amino acids that are essential to life on Earth are stable for up to four weeks when placed in vials of sulfuric acid at concentrations similar to those in Venus’ clouds. In particular, they found that the molecular “backbone” of all 19 amino acids remained intact in sulfuric acid solutions ranging in concentration from 81 to 98 percent.  

“What is absolutely surprising is that concentrated sulfuric acid is not a solvent that is universally hostile to organic chemistry,” says study co-author Janusz Petkowski, a research affiliate in MIT’s Department of Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences (EAPS).

“We are finding that building blocks of life on Earth are stable in sulfuric acid, and this is very intriguing for the idea of the possibility of life on Venus,” adds study author Sara Seager, MIT’s Class of 1941 Professor of Planetary Sciences in EAPS and a professor in the departments of Physics and of Aeronautics and Astronautics. “It doesn’t mean that life there will be the same as here. In fact, we know it can’t be. But this work advances the notion that Venus’ clouds could support complex chemicals needed for life.”

The study’s co-authors include first author Maxwell Seager, an undergraduate in the Department of Chemistry at Worcester Polytechnic Institute and Seager’s son, and William Bains, a research affiliate at MIT and a scientist at Cardiff University.

Building blocks in acid

The search for life in Venus’ clouds has gained momentum in recent years, spurred in part by a controversial detection of phosphine — a molecule that is considered to be one signature of life — in the planet’s atmosphere. While that detection remains under debate, the news has reinvigorated an old question: Could Earth’s sister planet actually host life?

In search of an answer, scientists are planning several missions to Venus, including the first largely privately funded mission to the planet, backed by California-based launch company Rocket Lab. That mission, on which Seager is the science principal investigator, aims to send a spacecraft through the planet’s clouds to analyze their chemistry for signs of organic molecules.

Ahead of the mission’s January 2025 launch, Seager and her colleagues have been testing various molecules in concentrated sulfuric acid to see what fragments of life on Earth might also be stable in Venus’ clouds, which are estimated to be orders of magnitude more acidic than the most acidic places on Earth.

“People have this perception that concentrated sulfuric acid is an extremely aggressive solvent that will chop everything to pieces,” Petkowski says. “But we are finding this is not necessarily true.”

In fact, the team has previously shown that complex organic molecules such as some fatty acids and nucleic acids remain surprisingly stable in sulfuric acid. The scientists are careful to emphasize, as they do in their current paper, that “complex organic chemistry is of course not life, but there is no life without it.”

In other words, if certain molecules can persist in sulfuric acid, then perhaps the highly acidic clouds of Venus are habitable, if not necessarily inhabited.

In their new study, the team turned their focus on amino acids — molecules that combine to make essential proteins, each with their own specific function. Every living thing on Earth requires amino acids to make proteins that in turn carry out life-sustaining functions, from breaking down food to generating energy, building muscle, and repairing tissue.

“If you consider the four major building blocks of life as nucleic acid bases, amino acids, fatty acids, and carbohydrates, we have demonstrated that some fatty acids can form micelles and vesicles in sulfuric acid, and the nucleic acid bases are stable in sulfuric acid. Carbohydrates have been shown to be highly reactive in sulfuric acid,” Maxwell Seager explains. “That only left us with amino acids as the last major building block to study.”

A stable backbone

The scientists began their studies of sulfuric acid during the pandemic, carrying out their experiments in a home laboratory. Since that time, Seager and her son continued work on chemistry in concentrated sulfuric acid. In early 2023, they ordered powder samples of 20 “biogenic” amino acids — those amino acids that are essential to all life on Earth. They dissolved each type of amino acid in vials of sulfuric acid mixed with water, at concentrations of 81 and 98 percent, which represent the range that exists in Venus’ clouds.

The team then let the vials incubate for a day before transporting them to MIT’s Department of Chemistry Instrumentation Facility (DCIF), a shared, 24/7 laboratory that offers a number of automated and manual instruments for MIT scientists to use. For their part, Seager and her team used the lab’s nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrometer to analyze the structure of amino acids in sulfuric acid.

After analyzing each vial several times over four weeks, the scientists found, to their surprise, that the basic molecular structure, or “backbone” in 19 of the 20 amino acids remained stable and unchanged, even in highly acidic conditions.

“Just showing that this backbone is stable in sulfuric acid doesn’t mean there is life on Venus,” notes Maxwell Seager. “But if we had shown that this backbone was compromised, then there would be no chance of life as we know it.”

“Now, with the discovery that many amino acids and nucleic acids are stable in 98 percent sulfuric acid, the possibility of life surviving in sulfuric acid may not be so far-fetched or fantastic,” says Sanjay Limaye, a planetary scientist at the University of Wisconsin who has studied Venus for over 45 years, and who was not involved with this study. “Of course, many obstacles lie ahead, but life that evolved in water and adapted to sulfuric acid may not be easily dismissed.”

The team acknowledges that Venus’ cloud chemistry is likely messier than the study’s “test tube” conditions. For instance, scientists have measured various trace gases, in addition to sulfuric acid, in the planet’s clouds. As such, the team plans to incorporate certain trace gases in future experiments.

“There are only a few groups in the world now that are working on chemistry in sulfuric acid, and they will all agree that no one has intuition,” adds Sara Seager. “I think we are just more happy than anything that this latest result adds one more ‘yes’ for the possibility of life on Venus.”

[professionalcoursescertification]

Mastering PMP Renewal PDUs: A Roadmap to Professional Growth

Introduction

In a project manager's career, earning the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a noteworthy accomplishment. Nevertheless, in order to keep this prestigious accreditation, one must be dedicated to lifelong learning and professional advancement by accumulating Professional Development Units (PDUs). We'll go through the key processes in this blog post to help you become proficient with PMP renewal PDUs and provide you a clear plan on how to advance your career while meeting the requirements for certification renewal.

Comprehending PMP Certification Renewal: Every three years, PMP holders are required by the Project Management Institute (PMI) to renew their certification. The acquisition of PDUs, which function as a gauge of continued professional progress, is essential to this renewal process. Project managers are guaranteed a well-rounded skill set by these PDUs, which are divided into areas such as Technical, Leadership, Strategic, and Business Management.

Examining Earning Prospects for PDUs:

Investigate a variety of income options if you want to become proficient at PMP renewal training units. Conventional venues including conferences, seminars, and workshops provide great educational opportunities. But thanks to online platforms, project managers may now choose from a wide range of self-paced modules, webinars, and virtual courses. You can tailor your learning path to fit your interests, goals for your profession, and timetable by making use of these resources.

Using Work Experience to Earn PDUs: Obtaining PDUs through professional activities is one of the PMP renewal's biggest benefits. Claim PDUs for leadership positions, strategic contributions, and project management-related tasks inside your company. You can earn PDUs and improve your professional abilities and knowledge at the same time by making the most of your work experience.

Tailoring Your PDU Journey: Different project managers require different courses of study and have different professional paths. Customizing your PDU journey based on your unique skills, limitations, and goals is essential to mastering PMP renewal PDUs. Whether your professional development objectives are to increase your technical proficiency, hone your leadership skills, or broaden your strategic thinking, make sure your PDU earning activities reflect these aspirations.

Networking and Staying Involved: Obtaining PDUs offers you the chance to grow your professional network and keep involved in the project management community in addition to helping you meet criteria. Participating in online forums, attending networking events, and joining business associations can all help to promote collaboration, exchange of expertise, and offer insightful information. 

Organizing and Monitoring Your PDU Progress: To become proficient with PMP renewal PDUs, you must plan ahead and monitor your progress carefully. To keep an eye on your actions, track your PDUs across several categories, and make sure that the conditions for renewal are being met, set up a PDU tracking system. You may optimize your professional development and expedite the renewal process by defining objectives, creating schedules, and allotting time for PDU earning activities.

In conclusion,

Earning PDUs to renew your PMP certification offers you the chance to grow professionally and engage in ongoing learning. It's more than just a required task. You can master PMP renewal PDUs and set yourself up for long-term professional excellence in project management by comprehending the renewal process, looking into various PDU earning opportunities, utilizing your work experience, personalizing your learning journey, remaining involved in the community, and effectively planning.

[spacenutspod]

5 min read NASA’s Hubble Finds Water Vapor in Small Exoplanet’s Atmosphere This is an artist’s concept of the exoplanet GJ 9827d, the smallest exoplanet where water vapor has been detected in the atmosphere. The planet could be an example of potential planets with water-rich atmospheres elsewhere in our galaxy. With only about twice Earth’s diameter, the planet orbits the red dwarf star GJ 9827. Two inner planets in the system are on the left. The background stars are plotted as they would be seen to the unaided eye looking back toward our Sun. The Sun is too faint to be seen. The blue star at upper right is Regulus; the yellow star at center bottom is Denebola; and the blue star at bottom right is Spica. The constellation Leo is on the left, and Virgo is on the right. Both constellations are distorted from our Earth-bound view from 97 light-years away. NASA/ESA/Leah Hustak (STScI)/Ralf Crawford (STScI) Astronomers using NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope observed the smallest exoplanet where water vapor has been detected in the atmosphere. At only approximately twice Earth’s diameter, the planet GJ 9827d could be an example of potential planets with water-rich atmospheres elsewhere in our galaxy. “This would be the first time that we can directly show through an atmospheric detection, that these planets with water-rich atmospheres can actually exist around other stars,” said team member Björn Benneke of the Trottier Institute for Research on Exoplanets at Université de Montréal. “This is an important step toward determining the prevalence and diversity of atmospheres on rocky planets.” “Water on a planet this small is a landmark discovery,” added co-principal investigator Laura Kreidberg of Max Planck Institute for Astronomy in Heidelberg, Germany. “It pushes closer than ever to characterizing truly Earth-like worlds.” However, it remains too early to tell whether Hubble spectroscopically measured a small amount of water vapor in a puffy hydrogen-rich atmosphere, or if the planet’s atmosphere is mostly made of water, left behind after a primeval hydrogen/helium atmosphere evaporated under stellar radiation. “Our observing program, led by principal investigator Ian Crossfield of Kansas University in Lawrence, Kansas, was designed specifically with the goal to not only detect the molecules in the planet’s atmosphere, but to actually look specifically for water vapor. Either result would be exciting, whether water vapor is dominant or just a tiny species in a hydrogen-dominant atmosphere,” said the science paper’s lead author, Pierre-Alexis Roy of the Trottier Institute for Research on Exoplanets at Université de Montréal. “Until now, we had not been able to directly detect the atmosphere of such a small planet. And we’re slowly getting in this regime now,” added Benneke. “At some point, as we study smaller planets, there must be a transition where there’s no more hydrogen on these small worlds, and they have atmospheres more like Venus (which is dominated by carbon dioxide).” Astronomers using NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope have observed water vapor in the atmosphere of the smallest exoplanet ever detected. Located 97 light-years away, planet GJ 9827d is approximately twice the size of Earth. Credit: NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center/Lead Producer: Paul Morris Because the planet is as hot as Venus, at 800 degrees Fahrenheit, it definitely would be an inhospitable, steamy world if the atmosphere were predominantly water vapor. At present the team is left with two possibilities. One scenario is that the planet is still clinging to a hydrogen-rich atmosphere laced with water, making it a mini-Neptune. Alternatively, it could be a warmer version of Jupiter’s moon Europa, which has twice as much water as Earth beneath its crust.” The planet GJ 9827d could be half water, half rock. And there would be a lot of water vapor on top of some smaller rocky body,” said Benneke. If the planet has a residual water-rich atmosphere, then it must have formed farther away from its host star, where the temperature is cold and water is available in the form of ice, than its present location. In this scenario, the planet would have then migrated closer to the star and received more radiation. The hydrogen was heated and escaped, or is still in the process of escaping the planet’s weak gravity. The alternative theory is that the planet formed close to the hot star, with a trace of water in its atmosphere. The Hubble program observed the planet during 11 transits – events in which the planet crossed in front of its star – that were spaced out over three years. During transits, starlight is filtered through the planet’s atmosphere and has the spectral fingerprint of water molecules. If there are clouds on the planet, they are low enough in the atmosphere so that they don’t completely hide Hubble’s view of the atmosphere, and Hubble is able to probe water vapor above the clouds. “Observing water is a gateway to finding other things,” said Thomas Greene, astrophysicist at NASA’s Ames Research Center in California’s Silicon Valley. “This Hubble discovery opens the door to future study of these types of planets by NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope. JWST can see much more with additional infrared observations, including carbon-bearing molecules like carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and methane. Once we get a total inventory of a planet’s elements, we can compare those to the star it orbits and understand how it was formed.” GJ 9827d was discovered by NASA’s Kepler Space Telescope in 2017. It completes an orbit around a red dwarf star every 6.2 days. The star, GJ 9827, lies 97 light-years from Earth in the constellation Pisces. The Hubble Space Telescope is a project of international cooperation between NASA and ESA. NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, manages the telescope. The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) in Baltimore, Maryland, conducts Hubble and Webb science operations. STScI is operated for NASA by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy, in Washington, D.C. Media Contacts: Claire AndreoliNASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MDclaire.andreoli@nasa.gov Ray VillardSpace Telescope Science Institute, Baltimore, MD Science Contacts: Pierre-Alexis RoyTrottier Institute for Research on Exoplanets at Université de Montréal Björn BennekeTrottier Institute for Research on Exoplanets at Université de Montréal Share Details Last Updated Jan 25, 2024 Editor Andrea Gianopoulos Location Goddard Space Flight Center Related Terms Exoplanets Goddard Space Flight Center Hubble Space Telescope Missions Studying Exoplanets The Universe Keep Exploring Discover More Topics From NASA Hubble Space Telescope Since its 1990 launch, the Hubble Space Telescope has changed our fundamental understanding of the universe. Exoplanets Science Missions James Webb Space Telescope Webb is the premier observatory of the next decade, serving thousands of astronomers worldwide. It studies every phase in the…

[dharshareddy189]

DIGITAL MEDIA: SOURCES AND SIGNIFICANCE

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Di Cesare, D.M., Craig, S.L., Brooks, A.S. and Doll, K., 2023. Setting the Game Agenda: Reviewing the Emerging Literature on Video Gaming and Psychological Well-Being of Sexual and Gender Diverse Youth. Games and Culture, p.15554120231178883. Available at: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/15554120231178883

The study by Di Cesare, Craig, Brooks, and Doll (2023)  has majorly focused on sexually and gender-diverse youth who have been associated with online video gaming and often confront multiple issues regarding cyberbullying and harassment from heterogenic online gamers. Foremostly, the study has focused on mental health challenges that sexually and gender-diverse young gamers have been confronting from digital media channels during the presidential era. The article has considered the contribution of digital gaming communities, which has not been profoundly recognised in previous research studies. The article has used both qualitative and quantitative data from secondary resources on the multifaceted character of online video gaming. The authors intended to perform an in-depth analysis developing five themes harnessing mental health well-being in video gaming.

One of the five themes includes the identity development of gamers from SDGY backgrounds and the development of self-expression in video gaming. The second theme has been developed based on the video gaming coping skills of “sexual and gender-diverse youth”. Social support gathering from video gaming communities can also be mentioned as another theme included by the authors. Digital microaggression can be discussed as a horrifying practice for video gamers, which significantly impacts the mental health and stability of online gamers, wherein the authors have given substantial focus to developing the fourth theme. For the fifth theme, the authors have analysed the civic engagement of SGDY through online video gaming. Discrimination, violence, and microaggressions of video gamers against sexually and ender-diverse communities have influenced the core research area of this study. However, graphs and charts have not been used, hence the absence of visual representation has created a major research limitation for this article. Nevertheless, the thematic analysis of key research areas and discussion on the digital world of opportunities and the collaboration of academic institutions have made the research worthwhile.    

A significant subject that the study focuses on is the identity formation of SGDY players and the promotion of self-expression in the video game industry. The study acknowledges the value of online communities as venues for self-expression and self-discovery, especially for a group of people who frequently deal with difficult identity-related challenges. The study clarifies how SGDY people can explore and express their identities through online gaming, which fosters a positive atmosphere for self-expression. The study only damages off the edges of a complicated and varied element of SGDY gamers' experiences, hence critical analysis must ask whether it sufficiently investigates the complexity and obstacles faced in this process. The second subject is the coping mechanisms that people with SGDY have learned from playing video games. The report emphasises how important gaming is to this group as a coping strategy for mental health issues. The study looks at how video games give SGDY people a virtual haven and a way to manage their emotions and relieve stress. Although the study acknowledges the benefits of coping, a critical viewpoint would entail examining whether it sufficiently tackles any potential drawbacks or hazards related to an over-dependence on video games as a coping method. Furthermore, examining the range of coping mechanisms used by SGDY gamers may provide a more complex interpretation of this issue.

The social support that SGDY people have received from online gaming groups is the subject of the third theme. The study recognises that internet platforms help SGDY gamers feel supported and part of a community. However, whether the research delves deeply enough into the nature of the aforementioned supportive networks should be the subject of a rigorous examination. The study examines the possible drawbacks of virtual communities, such as toxicity or exclusion, and whether are there differences in the calibre of support offered. For a thorough analysis of this issue, one must have an in-depth grasp of the interpersonal interactions that exist inside gaming groups (Di Cesare et al. 2023). The worrying problem of technological microaggressions in the game industry and their significant effect on the psychological well-being of SGDY people is addressed in the fourth theme. The research highlights the alarming frequency of microaggressive behaviours and their negative impacts on the gaming community. The study's success in identifying the causes of online harassment and outlining viable remedies should be scrutinised critically.

The sixth theme explores how SGDY people use online video gaming to engage in civic life. The study looks at the ways that the primary research topic is impacted by violence, prejudice, and microaggressions directed at SGDY communities. From a critical standpoint, it would be important to evaluate if the study successfully points out places where citizens can get involved in the gaming industry and if it suggests ways to stop discriminatory practices. Although the lack of charts and graphs is recognised as a disadvantage, a rigorous examination ought to explore the degree to which visual aids could have improved the study's impact and clarity. It's also crucial to assess the thematic review of important study fields and the conversation around the potential presented by the digital world.

The investigation of topics including identity formation, coping strategies, social support, cyberbullying, and community involvement offers a fundamental structure for comprehending the particular difficulties encountered by SGDY people in the digital sphere. Although the study makes a commendable contribution to the research by recognising the sometimes disregarded function of online gaming neighbourhoods, a critical eye demands a deeper examination of the nuances of SGDY encounters. For example, the analysis of building an identity would benefit from a deeper examination of the obstacles and achievements encountered in the process of self-expression through the gaming industry. Essentially, this study establishes a framework for further research, but a critical eye demands larger, more comprehensive studies into the complex experiences of kids who identify as sexually and gender non-conforming and who play online video games. By expanding on these issues, future research can further the conversation and create a more welcoming and understanding gaming atmosphere for SGDY people.

[sustainable-design-methods]

Learning@Teaching Digital Exhibition

Education is essential for a prosperous and healthy society, liberating the intellect, unleashing imagination, and building self-esteem. The public education system has been around for over 150 years, with a basic schooling model of 20-30 students taught by one teacher. Education should include sustainability, realigning schools to be relevant for future difficulties and teaching problem-solving competencies and specialized skills rather than pure knowledge to educate residents for the post-human period. The Sustainable Development Goals of the UN aim to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

To develop customized, digitally supported learning and teaching environments, we will examine the history of teaching, present deficiencies of schools, and the future production of multimedia educational offers. We will also reflect on the architectural needs of new learning and teaching spaces.

This year, Studio Peter Ruge has investigated the theme 'Learning @ Teaching,' in which we explore the role of architecture in the future of education, whether formal, informal, or hybrid. We researched future teaching requirements, how learning solutions and venues may adapt to lifetime learning needs and the new manner of learning and teaching. This studio found appropriate study sites, investigated various educational concerns, future challenges and prospects, and investigated educational approaches.

Explore the future of learning with Learning @ Teaching’s digital exhibition!

ROBERT OXMAN AWARD NOMINATION

We’re also proud to share the two students nominated for the Robert Oxman Award in Hochschule Anhalt, Dessau Institute of Architecture.

Zhe Yi, Lee  Reimagine Urban Voids: Learning Space for All

Cheah Ann, Hung Human-Non Human: Reimagine Zoo as a Pedagogy Camp

[meghalayacareer]

NEIGRIHMS Recruitment 2023: Research Officer, Project Technical, Project Assistant, Nurse & DEO Vacancy

NEIGRIHMS Recruitment 2023: North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health & Medical Sciences, Shillong released an employment notification for the recruitment of various posts on a contractual basis for one year under the ICMR project "A Community-Based Study on Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL), Functional Status and Morbidity Profile among Elderly Persons Living in Rural Setting of Meghalaya". The last date for submission of the application will be April 20, 2023. 1. Post Name:- Research Officer- Scientist-B (Medical) - No of posts:- 1 (One) - Upper age limit:- 40 years. - Salary:- Rs. 61000/- per month - Essential Qualification:- Bachelor's degree (MBBS/BDS/AYUSH) from a recognized institute with one year of experience OR Postgraduate degree in Community Medicine/ Geriatrics/ Psychiatry from a recognized institute. - Desirable:- # Research/ Clinical experience in Geriatrics/ Psychiatry # Ability to handle SPSS/STATA or other statistical software(s). # Experience in handling ICMR-funded ad-hoc projects/ any other extramural project. 2. Post Name:- Project Technical Officer (Psychologist) - No of posts:- 1 (One) - Upper age limit:- 35 years. - Salary:- Rs. 32,000/- per month - Essential Qualification:– Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from a recognized institute with one year of work experience OR Master’s degree in Psychology from a recognized institute. - Desirable:- # Ph.D. in psychology # Experience in clinical assessment and use of various scales for neuropsychological assessment. # Experience in working at the community level. 3. Post Name:- Project Invest Assistant (Field Investigator) - No of posts:- 1 (One) - Upper age limit:- 35 years. - Salary:- Rs. 31000/- per month - Essential Qualification:- Graduate in Science/ relevant subject from a recognized institute with one year of work experience OR Master’s degree in the relevant subject from a recognized institute. - Desirable:- Experience in working at the community level and should be able to collect the relevant data. 4. Post Name:- Junior Nurse - No of posts:- 1 (One) - Upper age limit:- 32 years. - Salary:- Rs. 18000/- per month - Essential Qualification:- Graduate in Nursing (B.Sc Nursing) from a recognized institute with one year of work experience OR Master’s degree in Nursing from a recognized institute - Desirable:- Ability to handle Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint). 5. Post Name:- Data Entry Operator (Gr. C) - No of posts:- 1 (One) - Upper age limit:- 35 years. - Salary:- Rs. 31000/- per month - Essential Qualification:- Intermediate OR 12 pass in Science stream from a recognized board or two years experience in Electronic Data Processing (EDP) work in any recognized organization. - Desirable:- Ability to handle Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint). How to apply for NEIGRIHMS Recruitment 2023: Research Officer, Project Technical, Project Assistant, Nurse & DEO Vacancy? Interested and eligible candidates may submit their applications online through Google with the necessary information. The last date for submission of the application is 20th April 2023. Shortlisted candidates will be intimated through the NEIGRIHMS website and only the candidates will be eligible for the interview. Shortlisted candidates must bring all the required documents (Original + sell attested photocopy- one) and one recent passport-size photograph. Candidates without the original certificates at the time of the interview will not be considered. - Date of interview: 24th April 2023 (Monday) from 09:00 AM - Venue: Seminar Room, Department of Community Medicine, Main Building, NEIGRIHMS, Shillong Advertisement No:– NEIGR/Commed/ICMR_HRQOL/2023/1 (Date: 11.04.2023) Those who wish to apply are advised to go through the below official notification in detail before submitting applications. Download Official Notification Click Here Application Link Click Here Read the full article

[sudheervanguri]

AIIMS Nagpur Recruitment for Project Technical Support III The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Nagpur is inviting applications for the post of Project Technical Support III. This opportunity is part of a prestigious ICMR-funded research project titled “Tele-school Health Led Epilepsy Smart School in India: An Implementation Initiative with Mixed Methods Assessment.” This project is led by Dr. Sulena (PI) and Dr. Shikha Jain (Co-PI). Position Details Position: Project Technical Support III Number of Posts: 01 Salary: Rs. 28,000/- per month + HRA as applicable Age Limit: Below 35 years on the date of the interview Eligibility Criteria Essential Qualifications: Three-year graduate degree in Medical Social Work or Life Sciences with three years of field-based research experience OR Postgraduate degree in Medical Social Work or a related field. Desirable Qualifications: Degree or diploma in clinical research Two years of experience in clinical trials or studies Proficiency in computer operations Important Dates and Venue Last Date for Application: 25th May 2024 Date of Interview: 30th May 2024 Reporting Time: 9:00 AM Interview Venue: Department of Pediatrics, 2nd Floor IPD Block, AIIMS Nagpur Application and Selection Procedure Application Submission: Candidates must fill out the application form online through the Google form link provided: Google Form Link. Required Documents: Scanned copies of certificates including proof of date of birth, educational qualifications, and experience must be uploaded in the Google form. Curriculum Vitae: The CV must be filled in the prescribed format (Annexure I) and uploaded in the Google form. Selection Process: The selection will be through personal interviews. If the number of applicants exceeds a 1:10 ratio, an MCQ-based written test may be conducted. Notification: The list of eligible candidates and interview notices will be published on the AIIMS Nagpur website. [caption id="attachment_77545" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Recruitment for Project Technical Support III at AIIMS Nagpur[/caption] Terms and Conditions These positions are tenure-based and linked to the duration of the funded project. The positions are not regular posts under ICMR or AIIMS Nagpur. Candidates cannot claim permanent employment based on this experience. Initial appointment is for six months, extendable based on performance and project requirements. A 15-day notice period is required for resignation. The project tenure completion will end the employment automatically. Proficiency in English, Marathi, and Hindi is required. The appointee must meet the prescribed norms for output in terms of quality and quantity of work. The principal investigator reserves the right to terminate the contract with a one-month notice period. No TA/DA will be provided for attending the interview. Apart from the consolidated salary and HRA, no other allowances will be provided. Contact Information For any queries, please contact: Dr. Shikha Jain Associate Professor, Department of Pediatrics, Co-Principal Investigator Mobile: 7024134309

[z34l0t]

Excerpts:

This week, an international team of virologists, genomicists, and evolutionary biologists may have finally found crucial data to help fill that knowledge gap. A new analysis of genetic sequences collected from the market shows that raccoon dogs being illegally sold at the venue could have been carrying and possibly shedding the virus at the end of 2019. It’s some of the strongest support yet, experts told me, that the pandemic began when SARS-CoV-2 hopped from animals into humans, rather than in an accident among scientists experimenting with viruses.

[...]

The genetic sequences were pulled out of swabs taken in and near market stalls around the pandemic’s start. They represent the first bits of raw data that researchers outside of China’s academic institutions and their direct collaborators have had access to. Late last week, the data were quietly posted by researchers affiliated with the country’s Center for Disease Control and Prevention, on an open-access genomic database called GISAID. By almost pure happenstance, scientists in Europe, North America, and Australia spotted the sequences, downloaded them, and began an analysis.

The samples were already known to be positive for the coronavirus, and had been scrutinized before by the same group of Chinese researchers who uploaded the data to GISAID. But that prior analysis, released as a preprint publication in February 2022, asserted that “no animal host of SARS-CoV-2 can be deduced.” Any motes of coronavirus at the market, the study suggested, had most likely been chauffeured in by infected humans, rather than wild creatures for sale.

The new analysis, led by Kristian Andersen, Edward Holmes, and Michael Worobey—three prominent researchers who have been looking into the virus’s roots—shows that that may not be the case. Within about half a day of downloading the data from GISAID, the trio and their collaborators discovered that several market samples that tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 were also coming back chock-full of animal genetic material—much of which was a match for the common raccoon dog. Because of how the samples were gathered, and because viruses can’t persist by themselves in the environment, the scientists think that their findings could indicate the presence of a coronavirus-infected raccoon dog in the spots where the swabs were taken. Unlike many of the other points of discussion that have been volleyed about in the origins debate, the genetic data are “tangible,” Alex Crits-Christoph, a computational biologist and one of the scientists who worked on the new analysis, told me. “And this is the species that everyone has been talking about.”

[...]

China has, for years, been keen on pushing the narrative that the pandemic didn’t start within its borders. In early 2020, a Chinese official suggested that the novel coronavirus may have emerged from a U.S. Army lab in Maryland. The notion that a dangerous virus sprang out from wet-market mammals echoed the beginnings of the SARS-CoV-1 epidemic two decades ago—and this time, officials immediately shut down the Huanan market, and vehemently pushed back against assertions that live animals being sold illegally in the country were to blame; a WHO investigation in March 2021 took the same line. “No verified reports of live mammals being sold around 2019 were found,” the report stated. But just three months later, in June 2021, a team of researchers published a study documenting tens of thousands of mammals for sale in wet markets in Wuhan between 2017 and late 2019, including at Huanan. The animals were kept in largely illegal, cramped, and unhygienic settings—conditions conducive to viral transmission—and among them were more than 1,000 raccoon dogs. Holmes himself had been at the market in 2014 and snapped a photo at Stall 29, clearly showing a raccoon dog in a cage; another set of images from the venue, captured by a local in December 2019 and later shared on Weibo, caught the animals on film as well—right around the time that the first recorded SARS-CoV-2 infections in humans occurred.