December 13, 2024 This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlightedthe following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: fact-checked proofread by Frontiers Journals Seed aging is a critical challenge for seed banks and agricultural industries, significantly reducing germination rates and seedling vigor. This decline not only leads to economic losses but also undermines efforts to preserve genetic diversity. A study by Dr. Jun Zhu and his team at the University of Arkansas introduces a sustainable and cost-effective solution: a solar-powered plasma water generator capable of rejuvenating aged seeds and promoting robust seedling growth. The research, recently published in Frontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering , highlights a transformative approach to addressing this long-standing issue. The researchers developed a novel corona dielectric barrier discharge (cDBD) microreactor that produces plasma-activated water (PAW) using solar energy . This innovative system effectively enhances seed germination by modifying the chemical and hormonal environment essential for seed development. The study demonstrated that spinach seeds stored for 23 years showed a remarkable 135% increase in germination rates and significantly improved seedling growth after PAW treatment, compared to untreated seeds. Key to this success is the biochemical transformation induced by PAW. The treatment lowers water pH, increases oxidation-reduction potential, and elevates nitrate levels, creating an ideal environment for germination. Furthermore, PAW influences key plant hormones, such as gibberellins and abscisic acid, to break seed dormancy and promote growth. These findings suggest that the solar-powered plasma generator not only restores the vitality of aged seeds but also offers insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying seed rejuvenation. "This solar-powered technology is a significant step forward in sustainable agriculture ," said Dr. Xiao, "It provides a low-cost, environmentally friendly method to enhance the germination of aged seeds, which are often discarded due to their diminished viability. By harnessing renewable energy, this innovation addresses critical challenges in food production while reducing waste." Spinach, chosen as the model crop for this study, holds significant economic and nutritional value. While the findings are directly applicable to spinach seeds, the potential applications extend to a wide range of crops, making this technology an invaluable tool for global agriculture. By prolonging seed viability and reducing agricultural waste, this plasma-based approach helps ensure food security and sustainability in the face of increasing global challenges. This breakthrough underscores the power of combining renewable energy with advanced plasma technology to address pressing agricultural issues. As climate change and resource limitations continue to impact global food production, innovations like this provide new avenues for sustainable growth. Future research will focus on scaling the technology for broader agricultural applications and further refining its efficiency. More information: Compact solar-powered plasma water generator: enhanced germination of aged seed with the corona dielectric barrier discharger, Frontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering (2024). DOI: 10.15302/J-FASE-2024573 Provided byFrontiers JournalsBringing holiday cheer to Lodi kids
The price of 92-octane gasoline, a commonly used fuel for vehicles, has been particularly affected by the decrease in oil prices. As oil prices continue to fall, the cost of producing gasoline has also declined, resulting in a sustained decrease in the retail price of 92-octane gasoline. This has been welcomed by consumers, who are benefitting from the lower prices at the pump.Hysterical “I felt like Linda Blaire in The Exorcist ” - one of the victims There is a reason why I put this first on my list: it is because of the well-structured script and production that hook you within the first three minutes of the first episode. This podcast from Wondery and Pineapple Street Studios investigates the mysterious 2011 outbreak that affected a group of high school girls at Le Roy Junior-Senior High School in New York. It is said to be the most severe case since the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. This podcast is filled with twists and turns, a fantastic music score, and a host who is engaged in every minute detail. What caused the mass hysteria which all thought was long dead? Is there something in the water or inside the school or “all in the head”? The episodes cover it all. The Modi Raj “There have always been two Narendra Modi’s...” With PM Narendra Modi returning to power for the third time this year, The Economist released “ The Modi Raj ,” an eight-episode limited podcast series exploring the rise of Narendra Modi and his transformation of India. The podcast, hosted by The Economist ’s Avantika Chilkoti, traces Mr. Modi’s life from 1950, the year he was born and moves periodically from there to map out his entire journey. She speaks to many people close to him, RSS members, and even his tailor. Topics such as the RSS, Mr. Modi’s time as a pracharak, his untold marriage, The Emergency and the Ayodhya dispute are covered, among others. She tells us how Mr. Modi plans to balance both parts of his agenda and turn India into a superpower. PM Modi is seen in the spotlight like no other. Wrongly Accused: The Annette Hewins Story Annette Hewins was one of the three women convicted in 1997 for the deaths of Diane Jones (21) and her two daughters in Merthyr Tydfil, a town in Wales. She was accused of supplying petrol for the arson attack . This took a toll on Annette who died in 2017 less than 24 hours after being detained in a mental health unit. She suffered a fatal arrhythmia caused by the drug problem she developed in prison. After serving 18 months in custody, the judges said there wasn’t sufficient evidence to convict her. So why was she targeted? This podcast from BBC Studios focusses on her story and is hosted by none other than Nicole Jacobs, who was just four years old when her mother was arrested for a crime she was wrongly accused of. Ms. Nicole talks about everything in great detail. She takes us back to October 10, 1995, when the attack took place, and uncovers the truth. The Good Whale “An imperfect attempt to understand what might be best for an animal who can’t speak for himself. An intention to make things right for him, to make things better.” This is a podcast from the studios of Serial and The New York Times . In it, host Daniel Alarcon tells the story of Keiko, the killer whale famously known as Willy from the 1993 classic Free Willy . This limited series focusses on the science experiment to return Keiko to the ocean from an amusement park in Mexico. This celebrity orca needed a Hollywood ending, and how he ended up in Norway is a story you must listen to. This 7,000-pounder became a good friend to me after the podcast — imagine the bond formed by those who cared for him. It’s truly a “deep dive.” Broomgate: A Curling Scandal Curling is one sport I wasn’t that aware of but the title intrigued me to listen to this six-part series by CBC which talks about “a broom that almost killed Curling.” If you don’t know what that means, it’s fine, I didn’t know about it either until I discovered this. John Cullen, the host, reveals the never-told-before scandal that shook the sport of Curling. This podcast shows how a simple change to a piece of gaming equipment led to an uproar. Players remained quiet for many years due to fear but this series swept the truth about a broom across the board. Long Shadow S3: In Guns We Trust “We were interested in going to the moon we are not interested in solving the gun problem.” The United States has more guns than people, with more than 400 million privately owned firearms. There have been more than 488 mass shootings across the U.S. so far in 2024. The United States is the centre of gun violence compared to other countries. In this podcast , host Garrett Graff’s exceptional presentation explains how firearms went from being an ordinary part of rural American life to a menacing element in modern society. How did the U.S. get here? How did the U.S. become so divided over guns? Can we find a way forward? Mr. Graff covers it all. He investigates each mass shooting, starting with the Columbine High School massacre of 1999, one of America’s deadliest school shootings. The podcast also examines why the perpetrators did what they did and explores the main reasons behind these heinous crimes. This is produced by Long Lead and Campside Media in collaboration with The Trace and distributed by PRX. The Curious History Of Your Home In this podcast from the Noiser Network, Historian Ruth Goodman, with her rich-toned voice, guides you through the surprising stories behind everyday objects in your home: coffee, beds, ovens, cats, fridges, and other simple items that were once precious discoveries. Where did the concept of the oven come from? What was the connection between a wasp and the discovery of paper? Did you know that coffee was once called the ‘bitter invention of Satan’? Well, this is one podcast that may surprise you! Black Box In 2023, The Godfather of AI, Geoffrey Hinton, quit his position at Google after deciding he had to “blow the whistle” on the technology he helped develop. Mr. Hinton said AI will find ways to circumvent our restrictions and manipulate people to do what it wants. This seven-part podcast series , brought to you by The Guardian , explores the collision of humanity and AI. Michael Safi investigates the story of a technology so strange and complex that it’s even baffled its creators such as the tech has a mind of its own. This series looks at different weird interactions between humanity and technology. The host also talks about a term I was first introduced to called ‘AI vertigo’ - dizziness when trying to comprehend what is coming with AI. This reminds me of the interaction between Theodore and Samantha in the 2013 film Her . If you want to know what’s in store, the presenter dives into the question “If we are falling towards some new place with great speed, who pushed us?” Soul Boom We always thought of Dwight Schrute helping us grow beets right? but here he helps us grow spiritually. The actor and comedian Rainn Wilson brings a podcast where he sits with super interesting people from actors, authors, and athletes, to comedians. Whether it be the idea of the afterlife, religion, God, the Universe, spiritual practices, healing, love, mental space, or the journey of the soul, Mr. Wilson makes sure the conversations are meaningful and digs into the core of the human experience: creativity, spirituality, and psychology. I’m sure you’ll have one favourite episode, mine is the conversation with Anne Lamott, What is the Key to Lasting Love? Strangers on a Bench After all these heavy recommendations, one podcast caught my attention. In it, Tom Rosenthal singer-songwriter and composer, approaches a stranger on a bench in the park and asks if he can sit down next to them and record their conversation. He talks about random things to strangers with interesting thoughts, great lessons, and anecdotes that could brighten one’s day. The ambient sound invites us to sit with them on that bench to hear the stories. Also, while you’re here. Listen to our homegrown podcasts of 2024 The Rearview The Rearview is a podcast where the hosts Jacob Koshy and Sobhana K. Nair guide you on a scenic route through the history of science. Filled with fascinating anecdotes, deep archival dives, and a closer look at the quirky minds behind groundbreaking ideas. This is a podcast that not only refreshes my knowledge of history and general knowledge questions I once knew but also offers more in-depth conversations. This is the rearview of the time-travelling DeLorean automobile. The Interface Technological acceleration is increasing exponentially. Innovations that once took decades are now happening in a matter of years, or even months. AI, automation and robotics are making jobs and industries obsolete while creating new roles and economic opportunities. To better understand this acceleration, John Xavier engages with a diverse group of experts, including scientists, business leaders and policymakers such as Anima Anandkumar, Nitin Seth, Arundhati Bhattacharya, Mihir Shukla, and Bruce Schneier. The podcast aims to inform listeners about the dynamic technological landscape and the mindset needed to navigate this terrain. Published - December 28, 2024 03:42 pm IST Copy link Email Facebook Twitter Telegram LinkedIn WhatsApp Reddit The Rearview Podcast / The Hindu Podcasts / entertainment (general)
The Manchester Derby is more than just a match between two teams from the same city – it is a showdown between two footballing philosophies, two sets of passionate fans, and two clubs with a rich history of success and rivalry. The clash between City's attacking prowess and United's defensive resilience is sure to provide plenty of drama and excitement for fans watching around the world.
Oil prices have experienced a sharp nosedive in recent weeks, leading to a continuous expansion in the drop of the price of 92-octane gasoline. The global oil market has seen a significant shift with prices plummeting due to a variety of factors, including decreased demand, surplus supply, and geopolitical tensions.Smith’s glory days are gone, but he may have a parting shot to play
The Places of Worship Act, enacted in 1991, has recently re-emerged in the public eye, largely due to oral observations made in May 2022 by the then Chief Justice of India, D.Y. Chandrachud. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh has linked the Act's resurgence to a talk by Rajmohan Gandhi, a Janata Dal MP at the time, during the Rajya Sabha's debate on the Bill. Gandhi's 1991 speech, described by Ramesh as one of the Rajya Sabha's most outstanding, advocated for reconciling differences peacefully. It reverberates today, as Ramesh argues that the Act is being undermined by the Bharatiya Janata Party. His remarks were made amid disputes over historical religious sites in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. The Places of Worship Act prohibits altering the character of religious places as they existed on August 15, 1947. Recent court cases, involving the Gyanvapi mosque in Varanasi, have led to legal discussions and controversies regarding this legislation, highlighting ongoing tensions in India's socio-political landscape. (With inputs from agencies.)LUKE LITTLER turned on the style on a shocking night when several world darts champions bombed out of Butlin’s. Michael van Gerwen, Gerwyn Price, Peter Wright and Stephen Bunting all crashed out of the first round of the Players Championship Finals on day one. He passed £1m in prize money after beating Martin Lukeman 16-3 in the Grand Slam of Darts on Sunday. But The Nuke – the overwhelming favourite for next month’s World Championship – showed his class with a 6-0 obliteration of Rob Cross in Minehead. Littler, 17, sensationally averaged 112.73 – the second-highest average in the tournament’s history – and nailed six of his 10 checkouts, five days after his Grand Slam of Darts success. The Warrington teen said: “It’s always good to start any major or competition well. “In my first game of the Grand Slam, I sent out a real statement, that I am here to win. I’m very happy to get off the mark again here. “My performance is good and my confidence is high. My hopes are very high for the Worlds. But I have to focus on Minehead first. “Recent performances have shown why I should be favourite. On recent form, people might say that I’m the best in the world.” What Littler is doing this season is making many longstanding players seem old and staid – and his consistency is frightening. BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKER S Where everything he touches finds the right bed, in comparison Wright’s woeful form on TV continues – as he was smashed 6-1 by Daryl Gurney in round one. The Scotsman, 54, might be a two-time world champion but he heads to Ally Pally with little confidence that he can have a long run in that competition. Former champion of the world Price was shocked 6-4 by French ace Thibault Tricole. It is another setback for The Iceman, 39, who failed to qualify for the Grand Slam of Darts and finished seventh in the Premier League. Van Gerwen, 35, was extremely poor as he was humbled 6-1 by Ian White in his first match. Bunting’s status as the No.2 seed mattered little as he lost 6-2 to Belgian outsider Mario Vandenbogaerde. At least Luke Humphries, the defending champion, did not join the casualty list as he knocked out Giant German Gabriel Clemens 6-2. Meanwhile, darts rookie Dom Taylor was booted out of the tournament after he failed a drugs test. The 26-year-old world No. 80 was set to make his debut appearance with a glamour first-round tie against former world champion Michael Smith , 34, last night. But hours before his contest, the Darts Regulation Authority announced it had suspended Taylor for a suspected doping offence. Known as The Tower , he was tested at a recent PDC Pro Tour event and returned a positive sample for a banned substance. The DRA have refused to say if the Bristol thrower had taken a performance-enhancing drug or if it was a result of recreational use.This detailed school assembly guide provides everything needed for a successful and engaging program. From the latest news highlights to motivational thoughts of the day and a thoughtfully crafted anchoring script, it ensures a seamless and impactful event that resonates with all participants. Mumbai: School assemblies play a vital role in the holistic development of students, offering a space to foster leadership skills, enhance self-confidence, and build a strong sense of unity within the school community. More than routine gatherings, these assemblies are opportunities for students to grow, collaborate, and find inspiration, making them an indispensable part of a thriving educational environment. Planning a successful school assembly requires careful consideration and creativity. By incorporating elements that educate, inspire, and entertain, educators can craft sessions that not only captivate but also leave a lasting positive impact on the students. Start by selecting a theme that resonates with the student’s interests or aligns with important current events, school values, or upcoming celebrations. A well-chosen theme provides direction and ensures that the assembly’s purpose is clear and meaningful. Opening the assembly with a warm and enthusiastic welcome sets a positive tone, encouraging students and staff to engage actively. Including a ‘Thought of the Day’ adds a reflective element to the assembly, sparking optimism and thoughtfulness. This can be followed by brief and relevant updates on school activities, achievements, or global events presented in a student-friendly manner. These updates keep the audience informed and connected to their community and the world beyond. Adding interactive or creative segments such as performances, role plays, or quizzes can further enliven the session, ensuring active participation. These activities also provide students with opportunities to showcase their talents and build confidence in public speaking and teamwork. As the assembly nears its conclusion, acknowledge everyone’s contributions, share key announcements, and close with a unifying gesture like the national anthem, a school pledge, or a motivational send-off. This helps foster a sense of pride and belonging among the students and staff. For a truly impactful assembly, each segment should be concise yet engaging, ensuring the audience remains attentive throughout. Creating an inclusive environment where every student feels valued and involved enhances the overall experience, making assemblies memorable and meaningful. With thoughtful planning and execution, school assemblies can transform into powerful platforms for personal growth, inspiration, and community building, leaving a profound impact on all participants. Thought for the Day for school assembly “The Constitution is the soul of India, and it is a light that will guide future generations.” – Dr BR Ambedkar (Quote for Constitution Day 2024) School assembly news headlines today Refer to the top school assembly headlines covering national, international, and sports news: National news for school assembly International news for school assembly Sports news for school assembly Constitution Day speech in English for students Good morning everyone, Today, we are here to celebrate Constitution Day, also known as Samvidhan Divas, which is observed every year on 26 November. This day marks the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1949 by the Constituent Assembly. It is a day to honour the values and principles that form the foundation of our democracy. The Indian Constitution, drafted under the leadership of Dr BR Ambedkar, is the longest-written constitution in the world. It contains provisions that ensure justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity for all citizens of India. It is a guiding document that helps us understand our rights and responsibilities and ensures the smooth functioning of our nation. As students, it is important to understand the significance of the Constitution. It grants us fundamental rights like the right to freedom, equality, and education, which empower us to live with dignity. At the same time, it reminds us of our fundamental duties, such as respecting the national flag, protecting the environment, and promoting harmony among all citizens. On this day, let us pay tribute to the visionaries who worked tirelessly to frame this remarkable document. Let us also pledge to uphold its values and contribute to building a better and stronger India. Remember, as young citizens, we have the power to shape the future of our country by staying committed to these ideals. Thank you, and Jai Hind! Anchoring Script for School Assembly Here’s a fresh and engaging school assembly anchoring script that seamlessly blends all key elements: greetings, inspiration, news updates, motivational content, and an entertaining performance, ensuring a lively and impactful session. [Opening Remarks] Anchor 1: Good morning, everyone! A heartfelt welcome to our esteemed Principal, respected teachers, and dear friends. I’m [Anchor Name], and it’s an honour to lead today’s assembly. Let’s make this gathering a truly memorable one! Anchor 2: A warm good morning to all! It’s wonderful to see everyone here, ready to begin a day filled with enthusiasm and inspiration. Today’s assembly promises valuable insights and delightful moments, so let’s get started! [Thought for the Day] Anchor 1: To begin on a thoughtful note, let’s listen to today’s inspiring quote that will surely give us food for thought. [Quote is shared by a student.] Anchor 2: Thank you for sharing such a profound and meaningful thought. Let’s reflect on it throughout the day and apply its wisdom in our actions. [News and Announcements] Anchor 1: Up next, let’s catch up with the latest happenings in our school and beyond. Here are some updates to keep you informed. [Share current school news or events.] Anchor 2: A quick reminder to all participants of the upcoming Annual Day! Make sure you register for your events before the deadline this week and gear up for an incredible showcase of talent. [Motivational Speech] Anchor 1: Let’s now take a moment to energise our spirits with a motivational message. Each day is an opportunity to learn, grow, and make a difference. Anchor 2: Absolutely! Challenges shape us, and every small effort counts toward achieving our dreams. Let’s listen closely and carry this inspiration forward. [Special Performance] Anchor 1: And now, for the highlight of the day! [Name of the student or group] is here to present a wonderful [performance type, e.g., skit/song/dance]. Let’s give them a big round of applause as they take the stage! Anchor 2: Sit back, relax, and enjoy this captivating performance. Let’s show our appreciation with lots of cheer and support! [Closing Remarks] Anchor 1: What an amazing performance! A huge thank you to [student/group name] for sharing their creativity and talent with us. Anchor 2: Indeed, it was truly inspiring. As we conclude today’s assembly, let’s carry forward the positive energy and lessons we’ve gained today. Anchor 1: Let’s strive to do our best, help one another, and embrace each day with a spirit of collaboration and optimism. Anchor 2: Thank you, everyone, for your enthusiastic participation. Wishing you a fantastic day ahead, full of learning and success! Both: Goodbye, and have an incredible day! A well-structured assembly not only provides crucial updates but also has a lasting effect, leaving everyone motivated and energised. Click for more latest Events news . Also get top headlines and latest news from India and around the world at News9. Chhaya Gupta, a lifestyle sub-editor specialising in fashion, food, relationships, travel, well-being, and spirituality, is a dedicated fashion enthusiast and avid traveller. With meticulous attention to detail, she stays abreast of the latest developments in major events across Indian cities and internationally. From life to style, she derives immense pleasure in covering a variety of subjects. With 1.5 years of experience, she has honed her skills while working at The Free Press Journal.