🧠 Mitochondrial protein links fat intake to obesity

Research discovered that mitochondrial fusion protein OPA1 affects appetite regulation and body weight in mice. Led by Professor Shigenobu Matsumura at Osaka Metropolitan University, the study used OPA1 knockout mice to investigate this link. Soybean oil increased OPA1 in male mice, while mice lacking OPA1 showed increased food intake and obesity, especially in females. The anti-obesity drug setmelanotide's effect was also reduced in OPA1-deficient females. These findings offer insights into neuronal energy metabolism related to obesity.

💔 Man allegedly beaten to death over theft suspicion in UP

A 38-year-old man named Ram Sneh was allegedly tied to a pole and beaten with sticks by villagers. This incident occurred in Bishanpur Kala village in Balrampur, Uttar Pradesh. The attack happened after he was caught by locals on suspicion of theft. His family took him to a hospital, where doctors confirmed his death. Police have registered a murder case and arrested Akbar, along with a 14-year-old juvenile. 💔

📈 Veg prices skyrocket in Kozhikode before Onam 💸

Vegetable prices have sharply increased in Kozhikode ahead of the Onam festivities. This surge is impacting households across the district, putting financial strain on families. Ginger is noted as the most expensive item, currently at ₹220 a kg, with prices potentially hitting ₹250 a kg. The price hike is attributed to adverse weather damaging crops and rising demand leading up to August 17. Consumers are now demanding government subsidies through Horticorp to manage these inflated rates.

🔬 Algae's secret control over photosynthesis revealed

A new study has shed light on how algae regulate the process of photosynthesis. Researchers examined how these organisms function in various environments. The study focused on the role of pH levels in controlling photosynthetic activity. This mechanism is crucial for understanding aquatic ecosystem health and carbon cycling. Future research aims to further explore the implications of this pH-based regulation. 🔬

🚭 Smokers Missing Heart Disease Dangers

Many smokers remain largely uninformed about the significant health risks associated with tobacco use. This lack of awareness is noted across various demographic groups in recent health surveys. Data indicates that a considerable percentage of current smokers have not fully grasped the connection between smoking and cardiovascular issues as of early 2024. Medical experts emphasize that smoking substantially increases the risk of heart disease and related complications. Health authorities are now pushing more targeted awareness campaigns to educate the public on these dangers. 🚭

🏏 Spinners find their groove in Sri Lanka

Spin bowling has seen a resurgence in effectiveness during the recent matches in Sri Lanka. The success has been largely attributed to slower and slightly fuller deliveries from the bowlers. Specific stats regarding wicket-taking or economy rates were not provided in the article snippet. This trend suggests that the pitch conditions are favoring spin-oriented bowling techniques. Teams are expected to continue utilizing these tactical adjustments in upcoming fixtures.

🏥 SSO Cancer Hospitals Unveils New Head & Neck Cancer Centre

SSO Cancer Hospitals has launched a dedicated Head and Neck Cancer Centre. This new facility is located at the hospital premises and features expertise from Jonty Rhodes. The centre aims to provide advanced care starting from its inauguration date. It is part of the hospital's expansion to combat complex oncological issues. Further patient intake details are expected to be released soon by the hospital administration.

🔬 Tomato genes help them thrive in the cold

Researchers discovered a genetic system in tomatoes that coordinates flower and fruit development. This study, led by Professor Naomi Ori and Nave Man, took place across Germany and Israel. They found that gene-edited plants produced more than 18 times the fruit early on in winter greenhouse tests. This mechanism allows for fruit development without fertilization, a process called parthenocarpy. Future research will assess the commercial potential regarding flavor and size. 🍅

💡 IEEE launches mentorship for rural connectivity in Bangalore

The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) started the FNEM – Powering CTU programme at IIITB. This initiative aims to help innovators find sustainable fixes for rural connectivity issues and close the digital divide. The inaugural cohort begins a 1,000-Day LAMP journey for support. Participants will get mentorship, technical guidance, and entrepreneurial help for their ideas. The programme covers five modules like tech entrepreneurship and community engagement.

🚜 App system boosts fertilizer access in Andhra Pradesh

The Andhra Pradesh Agriculture Department is seeing positive outcomes from its APAIMS App-based fertilizer distribution system. Director of Agriculture Manazir Jeelani Samoon confirmed that 15,25,319 farmers bought 3,07,183 tonnes of fertilizer through the app. This includes 3,00,177 tenant farmers who procured 96,694 tonnes, making up 31% of total purchases as of August 13, 2026. The system uses end-to-end tracking for better transparency and tackles illegal markups. Strict action has been taken, suspending sales of 13,364 tonnes valued at ₹30.60 crore and cancelling dealer licenses. 🚜

⚡ Lightning strikes kill two teens in Anantnag

Two teenagers tragically died, and two others sustained injuries after a lightning strike hit a group on Thursday evening. The incident occurred near Gawran Nard in the Kokernag area of Anantnag district, South Kashmir. The deceased were Faizan Ahmad, 18, and Bilal Ahmad Battana, 16, while Sajad and Shareef Ahmad Battana were injured. The injured individuals were subsequently transported to PHC Larnoo for necessary medical treatment. This event adds to a string of extreme weather incidents impacting J&K this year.