A recent study reveals that deletion mutations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) significantly contribute to age-related muscle loss. Mitochondria, known as the cell's powerhouses, generate ATP for cellular functions like muscle contraction and protein synthesis. Mutations in mtDNA lead to impaired mitochondrial function, causing muscle cells to lose energy and undergo atrophy. Older individuals show a two-fold increase in chimeric mitochondrial mRNA, accelerating dysfunction. These findings suggest that mtDNA deletions and chimeric genes can serve as biomarkers for biological aging, offering potential for therapies to delay muscle degeneration.
Isaac Newton, born on December 25, 1642, made groundbreaking contributions to science. He formulated the laws of motion, explaining inertia, force, and action-reaction principles, which are foundational to physics. His law of gravitation transformed our understanding of planetary motion. Newton’s work in optics led to discovering that white light is a combination of colors. He also created the reflecting telescope and developed calculus. His magnum opus, Principia, laid the foundation for classical mechanics. His work continues to influence modern science, and the Isaac Newton Medal honors significant contributions to physics.
The establishment of the Mediation Council of India (MCI) is being prioritized to address the need for faster, cheaper dispute resolution. The MCI, mandated by the 2023 Mediation Act, would set rules, standards, and certification processes for mediators. Mediation offers a flexible, non-adversarial alternative to litigation, reducing legal bottlenecks and judicial burdens. The MCI aims to boost voluntary mediation, particularly for commercial disputes, and enhance the confidence in India’s legal framework, potentially attracting global investors. Online dispute resolution services are expected to grow with MCI’s formation.
The 1924 Belgaum Congress session, presided over by Gandhi, marked a significant moment in Indian history. Gandhi’s leadership focused on social reform, combating untouchability, promoting khadi, and advocating for Hindu-Muslim unity. His leadership redefined Congress as a movement for both political and social reform. Gandhi also promoted the protection of cows, praised sanitation volunteers, and emphasized the reduction of membership fees. The session was culturally significant, with musical performances and lasting legacies, such as the Pampa Sarovara well, which still supplies water today.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reported that the Real Effective Exchange Rate (REER) of the rupee reached 108.14 in November 2024, indicating overvaluation and impacting export competitiveness. A REER above 100 suggests overvaluation, while below 100 indicates undervaluation. The rupee’s low volatility, despite a strong US dollar, suggests resilience against global currency fluctuations. Overvaluation makes exports more expensive, affecting the trade balance. REER adjusts for inflation and relative price levels, while the Nominal Effective Exchange Rate (NEER) reflects a currency's nominal performance against trading partners without inflation adjustments. REER plays a key role in determining a currency's external competitiveness.
