Research reveals new insights into retinal thickness that may detect type 2 diabetes, dementia early
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RESEARCHERS have conducted one of the largest eye studies in the world to reveal new insights into retinal thickness, highlighting its potential in the early detection of diseases like type 2 diabetes, dementia and multiple sclerosis.
The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute (WEHI) led study used cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology to analyse over 50,000 eyes and produced maps of the retina in unprecedented detail to better understand how retinal differences link to various diseases.
The retina is part of the central nervous system, which also comprises the brain and spinal cord. Many diseases are linked to degeneration or disruption of this critical system, including neurodegenerative conditions such as dementia and metabolic disorders like diabetes.
Sported by AI, the research has created the most detailed maps of the retina ever produced.
WEHI researchers have used these maps to link retinal thinning to a range of diseases as well as identifying new genetic factors that influence retinal thickness.
The findings could pave the way for routine eyecare imaging as a disease screening tool. Unlocking a window into the brain.
Lead researcher, WEHI’s Dr Vicki Jackson, said the findings broaden the horizons for using retinal imaging as a doorway into the central nervous system, to help man age disease.
“We’ve shown that retinal imaging can act as a window to the brain, by detecting associations with neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis and many other conditions,” said Dr Jackson, a statistician and gene expert.
“Our maps’ fine-scale measurements reveal critical new details about connections between retinal thinning and a range of common conditions.”
The study also identified new genetic factors that influence retinal thickness, which are likely to play a role in the growth and development of a person’s retina. __ANI
KEY HIGHLIGHTS:
Researchers conducted one of the largest eye studies to reveal how retinal thickness can aid in early disease detection, including type 2 diabetes, dementia, and multiple sclerosis.
Led by the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute (WEHI), the study used AI technology to create detailed retina maps, linking retinal thinning to various diseases.
The findings show that retinal imaging could serve as a diagnostic tool for neurological and metabolic disorders, offering a window into the brain.
Additionally, new genetic factors influencing retinal thickness were identified, further enhancing its potential as a disease biomarker.
NEARLY 60 per cent of all adults and a third of all children in the world will be overweight or obese by 2050 unless governments take action, a large new study said Tuesday.The research published in the Lancet medical journal used data from 204 countries to paint a grim picture of what it described as one of the great health challenges of the century.“The unprecedented global epidemic of overweight and obesity is a profound tragedy and a monumental societal failure,” lead author Emmanuela Gakidou, from the US-based Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME), said in a statement.The number of overweight or obese people worldwide rose from 929 million in 1990 to 2.6 billion in 2021, the study found.Without a serious change, the researchers estimate that 3.8 billion adults will be overweight or obese in 15 years — — or around60 per cent of the global adult population in 2050.The world’s health systems will come under crippling pressure, the researchers warned, with around a quarter of the world’s obese expected to be aged over 65 by that time.They also predicted a 121-percent increase in obesity among children and adolescents around the world. A third of all obese young people will be living in two regions -- North Africa and the Middle East, and Latin America and the Caribbean -- by 2050, the researchers warned.But it is not too late to act, said study co-author Jessica Kerr from Murdoch Children’s Research Institute in Australia. “Much stronger political commitment is needed to transform diets within sustainable global food systems,” she said.That commitment was also needed for strategies “that improve people’s nutrition, physical activity and living environments, whether it’s too much processed food or not enough parks,” Kerr said.Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar
The Pyu era, spanning from the 2nd century BCE to the 9th century CE, was a golden age in Myanmar’s history, marked by the rise and prosperity of the Pyu city-states. These early civilizations, flourishing in present-day central Myanmar, were not only pioneers of urban culture but also masterful creators of art, particularly in sculpture. The artistic legacy of the Pyu offers a fascinating glimpse into their religious devotion, societal structure, and aesthetic sensibilities.Myanmar took great strides to secure international recognition for its three ancient Pyu cities—Halin, Beikthano (Vishnu), and Sriksetra—culminating in their designation as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Among them, Sriksetra stands as the heart of Pyu artistic expression, where a remarkable collection of sculptures and architectural wonders still whisper the stories of a bygone era. With the arrival of Buddhism, artistic production in the Pyu cities flourished, leaving behind an enduring visual culture that reflects their deep spiritual beliefs.This study delves into the different types of Pyu pagodas, aiming to preserve the historical significance of these ancient structures for future generations. A descriptive approach is used to illustrate the forms of Pyu-era pagodas, while an analytical method is employed to classify their distinctive architectural styles, particularly those found in Sriksetra. The pagodas and stupas of the Pyu period, scattered across the ancient landscape, exhibit diverse designs—cylindrical stupas, round stupas, and temple structures—all of which have been meticulously examined in this research.By tracing the evolution of Pyu pagodas, we uncover their deep-rooted influence on the architectural marvels of the later Bagan era. These early masterpieces serve as the precursors of Myanmar’s grand pagodas, bridging the artistic heritage of the Pyu civilization with the timeless elegance of Bagan’s temple city. Through this exploration, we reaffirm the enduring significance of Pyu art and architecture, ensuring their legacy continues to inspire and captivate generations to come.Influences and ThemesThe Pyu sculptural tradition was deeply influenced by Indian art, particularly from the Gupta and post-Gupta periods. Buddhism played a central role in Pyu society, which is reflected in their sculptures' predominant themes. Statues of the Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and various deities were commonly created, often displaying characteristics of early Southeast Asian Buddhist art. Hindu influences were also present, as seen in sculptures depicting Vishnu, Shiva, and other Hindu deities.Materials and TechniquesPyu sculptors primarily worked with stone, bronze, and terracotta. Stone sculptures, often crafted from sandstone, were used to create large statues and relief carvings found in temples and stupas. Bronze casting was another prominent technique, used to produce intricate Buddha images and ritual objects. Terracotta plaques adorned temple walls, featuring scenes from Jataka tales and other religious motifs.Iconography and StylesPyu sculptures exhibit a blend of indigenous and foreign styles. The Buddha statues from this era are characterized by serene expressions, elongated earlobes, and draped robes, reflecting Indian artistic traditions. Some sculptures display stylistic similarities with the Amaravati and Gupta schools of art, evident in the soft modeling of figures and elegant poses. However, local adaptations can be observed, particularly in facial features and decorative elements, which distinguish Pyu art from its Indian counterparts.Notable DiscoveriesSignificant archaeological findings related to Pyu sculpture art have been unearthed in ancient Pyu cities such as Beikthano, Halin, and Sri Ksetra. Bronze Buddha images, intricately carved stone reliefs, and terracotta votive tablets are among the most notable discoveries. These artifacts are now preserved in museums, including the National Museum of Myanmar, offering a glimpse into the artistic sophistication of the Pyu civilization.Legacy and InfluenceThe artistic legacy of the Pyu era laid the foundation for later Burmese art, particularly in the Pagan (Bagan) period. Many stylistic elements introduced during the Pyu era continued to evolve, shaping the artistic traditions of Myanmar for centuries. The sculptures of this ancient civilization not only serve as a testament to their artistic prowess but also provide crucial historical and cultural insights into early Myanmar.In conclusion, the sculpture art of the Pyu era represents a rich blend of indigenous creativity and external influences. As archaeological research continues, further discoveries may shed even more light on the artistic achievements of this fascinating period in Myanmar's history.Reference - The Artistic Monuments of Pyu in Ancient Sriksetra by Khaing Khaing Saw- https://www.metmuseum.org/- https://www.originalbuddhas .com/Source: Thawdar Eain (NP News)
SCIENTISTS have found specialized neurons in the brains of mice that order the animals to stop eating. Though many feeding circuits in the brain are known to play a role in monitoring food intake, scientists also believe that the neurons in those circuits do not make the final decision to cease eating a meal.The neurons identified by the Columbia scientists, a new element of these circuits, are located in the brainstem, the oldest part of the vertebrate brain. Their discovery could lead to new treatments for obesity.“These neurons are unlike any other neuron involved in regulating satiation,” says Alexander Nectow, a physician-scientist at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, who led the research with Srikanta Chowdhury, an associate research scientist in the Nectow lab.“Other neurons in the brain are usually restricted to sensing food put into our mouth, or how food fills the gut, or the nutrition obtained from food. The neurons we found are special in that they seem to integrate all these different pieces of information and more.” The decision to stop eating is a familiar phenomenon. “It happens every time we sit down to eat a meal: At a certain point while we’re eating, we start to feel full, and then we get fuller, and then we get to a point where we think, okay, that’s enough,” Nectow says.How does the brain know when the body has had enough — and how does it act on that information to stop eating? Other re-searchers had previously tracked the decision-making cells to the brainstem, but the leads ended there in previous research.Nectow and Chowdhury deployed new single-cell techniques that make it possible to peer into a region of the brain and discern different types of cells that until now have been difficult to distinguish from one another. “This technique — spatially resolved molecular profiling — allows you to see cells where they are in the brainstem and what their molecular composition looks like,” Nectow says.During their profiling of a brainstem region known for processing complex signals, the researchers spotted previously unrecognized cells that had similar characteristics to other neurons involved in regulating appetite.“We said, ‘Oh, this is interesting. What do these neurons do?’ To see how the neurons influenced eating, the researchers engineered the neurons so they could be turned on and off, by the researcher, with light.When the neurons were activated by the light, the mice ate much smaller meals. The intensity of the activation determined how quickly animals stopped eating.“Interestingly, these neurons don’t just signal an immediate stop; they help the mice to slow down their eating gradually,” Chowdhury says.Nectow and Chowdhury also looked at how other eating circuits and hormones affected the neurons. The researchers found thatthe neurons were silenced by a hormone that increases appetite and activated by a GLP-1 agonist, a class of drugs now popular for treating obesity and diabetes.Source : The Global New Light of Myanmar
Kuthodaw Pagoda, nestled in the heart of Mandalay, Myanmar, stands as one of the world's most significant Buddhist monuments. Revered for its spiritual and historical importance, it is home to the world's largest book—a collection of 729 marble slabs meticulously inscribed with the entire Pali Canon of Theravāda Buddhism. This awe-inspiring site serves as a timeless testament to Myanmar’s deep-rooted devotion to Buddhism. With its breathtaking architecture and profound cultural significance, Kuthodaw Pagoda remains a cherished pilgrimage destination, drawing visitors from around the globe.Historical origins: A King’s visionIn the mid-19th century, King Mindon (reigned 1853–1878) undertook a monumental endeavor to preserve Buddhist teachings in the face of British colonial expansion. Concerned about the potential loss of the Tipitaka—the sacred Pali Canon of Theravāda Buddhism—he commissioned an enduring stone manuscript that would safeguard the scriptures for future generations.Construction began in 1860, resulting in an extraordinary collection of 729 marble slabs inscribed with the Tipitaka, accompanied by a 730th tablet detailing the project's history. Each slab, measuring 5 feet tall, 3.5 feet wide, and 5 inches thick, would collectively reach a towering height of 340 feet—equivalent to a 28-story building—if stacked.Scribes meticulously transcribed the text from delicate palm-leaf manuscripts, while skilled stonemasons engraved the inscriptions. Originally, the carved letters were filled with gold ink and embellished with rubies and diamonds, turning the site into a radiant sanctuary. However, in the 1880s, British troops looted the pagoda, stripping it of its precious adornments. Despite this, the inscriptions remain remarkably well-preserved today, their clarity maintained by black ink derived from soot and ash, ensuring that King Mindon’s vision endures as a lasting testament to Myanmar’s spiritual and cultural heritage.Architectural and Spiritual GrandeurInspired by Bagan’s iconic Shwezigon Pagoda, the Kuthodaw Pagoda complex is a masterpiece of both architectural and spiritual significance. Each of the 729 marble tablets is enshrined in an individual white shrine (kyauksa gu), meticulously arranged in concentric enclosures around the central stupa. Towering above the site, the gilded Maha Lawka Marazein stupa serves as the spiritual heart of the complex, radiating serenity and devotion.Inscription ProcessThe task of inscribing the Tipitaka onto marble slabs was a monumental feat, requiring years of meticulous effort. Buddhist scholars and monks painstakingly transcribed the sacred scriptures, ensuring absolute precision in every detail. Each stone tablet, standing approximately 1.5 meters (5 feet) tall and 13 centimeters (5 inches) thick, was originally adorned with gold lettering, enhancing its divine presence. Though much of the gilding has faded over time, the inscriptions remain a remarkable testament to Myanmar’s enduring dedication to preserving Buddhist teachings.The World's Largest BookKuthodaw Pagoda holds the prestigious title of the World’s Largest Book, not only for its profound content but also for its sheer scale. Comprising 1,460 pages—each marble slab inscribed on both sides—the collection preserves over 8,000 teachings of the Buddha. While modern literary compilations such as One Piece (21,540 pages) or World-2023 ESN Publications (100,100 pages) may surpass it in page count, the Kuthodaw inscriptions remain unparalleled in physical size, historical significance, and cultural weight.Preservation Through AdversityThroughout its history, Kuthodaw Pagoda has faced numerous challenges, particularly during British colonial rule and subsequent conflicts. Many of its original gold-inscribed letters were looted or eroded over time. However, dedicated restoration efforts have helped preserve the sacred inscriptions, ensuring their survival for future generations. Today, the pagoda stands as a protected cultural and religious heritage site, recognized by UNESCO for its historical and spiritual significance.A Living LegacyKuthodaw Pagoda continues to draw thousands of visitors each year, including pilgrims, scholars, and tourists who come to admire its unparalleled legacy. Ongoing restoration and conservation efforts aim to safeguard this extraordinary monument, ensuring that its teachings, artistry, and spiritual essence remain intact for generations to come.Cultural Legacy and Modern RelevanceKuthodaw Pagoda is more than just an ancient relic—it is a living symbol of Myanmar’s Buddhist identity and spiritual devotion. Pilgrims and visitors alike circumambulate the golden stupa, offering flowers and prayers in reverence. The site also reflects the broader legacy of King Mindon, whose vision shaped Mandalay’s Royal Palace and Atumashi Monastery. Despite suffering from colonial plunder and the natural wear of time, dedicated restoration efforts since the 1890s have preserved its spiritual and cultural essence, ensuring its significance endures.A Testament to EnduranceThe stone scriptures of Kuthodaw Pagoda transcend their status as a record-breaking marvel; they are a testament to Myanmar’s resilience, where artistry, faith, and history converge into an everlasting monument. As one visitor observed, "The fragrance of star flowers and the whispers of ancient teachings offer not just enlightenment but a profound connection to the past."For scholars, devotees, and curious travelers alike, Kuthodaw Pagoda remains an open chapter in humanity’s quest for preservation and meaning. As the World’s Largest Book, it stands as a symbol of knowledge, faith, and cultural heritage—an enduring beacon of inspiration that continues to draw admiration from people around the world.Source: Thawdar Eain (NP News)
RESEARCHERS have conducted one of the largest eye studies in the world to reveal new insights into retinal thickness, highlighting its potential in the early detection of diseases like type 2 diabetes, dementia and multiple sclerosis. The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute (WEHI) led study used cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology to analyse over 50,000 eyes and produced maps of the retina in unprecedented detail to better understand how retinal differences link to various diseases. The retina is part of the central nervous system, which also comprises the brain and spinal cord. Many diseases are linked to degeneration or disruption of this critical system, including neurodegenerative conditions such as dementia and metabolic disorders like diabetes. Sported by AI, the research has created the most detailed maps of the retina ever produced. WEHI researchers have used these maps to link retinal thinning to a range of diseases as well as identifying new genetic factors that influence retinal thickness. The findings could pave the way for routine eyecare imaging as a disease screening tool. Unlocking a window into the brain. Lead researcher, WEHI’s Dr Vicki Jackson, said the findings broaden the horizons for using retinal imaging as a doorway into the central nervous system, to help man age disease. “We’ve shown that retinal imaging can act as a window to the brain, by detecting associations with neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis and many other conditions,” said Dr Jackson, a statistician and gene expert. “Our maps’ fine-scale measurements reveal critical new details about connections between retinal thinning and a range of common conditions.” The study also identified new genetic factors that influence retinal thickness, which are likely to play a role in the growth and development of a person’s retina. __ANIKEY HIGHLIGHTS:Researchers conducted one of the largest eye studies to reveal how retinal thickness can aid in early disease detection, including type 2 diabetes, dementia, and multiple sclerosis. Led by the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute (WEHI), the study used AI technology to create detailed retina maps, linking retinal thinning to various diseases. The findings show that retinal imaging could serve as a diagnostic tool for neurological and metabolic disorders, offering a window into the brain. Additionally, new genetic factors influencing retinal thickness were identified, further enhancing its potential as a disease biomarker.Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar
Thanks to the centuries-long shared border and close historical ties, Myanmar and India share numerous cultural and traditional similarities. The connection between Myanmar meditation practices and Indian yoga stems from their shared roots in ancient Indian spiritual traditions, both emphasizing self-discipline, mindfulness, and inner peace. Both practices are deeply rooted in similar philosophical and spiritual frameworks that originated in the Indian subcontinent and subsequently spread throughout parts of Asia, including Myanmar.Meditation has long been an integral part of Myanmar's cultural and spiritual heritage. Deeply rooted in Theravada Buddhism, meditation offers numerous mental, physical, and emotional benefits, carrying centuries of profound historical significance.Yoga, originating in ancient India over 5,000 years ago, is deeply intertwined with Indian philosophy, spirituality, and culture. In today's fast-paced world, our modern lifestyle and approach to healing often lead to an accumulation of micro-assaults on our immune systems without adequate time for our bodies to recover. This is where the ancient yet simple practices of yoga can be invaluable in boosting immunity and promoting a healthier life.Shared Origins in PhilosophyIndian Roots: Both yoga and meditation practices in Myanmar share roots in ancient Indian spiritual traditions, notably Hinduism and Buddhism. Yoga evolved as a system for self-realization during the Vedic period, while meditation practices gained prominence with the rise of Buddhism.Buddhism as a Bridge: Meditation in Myanmar is deeply influenced by Theravada Buddhism, which originated in India and subsequently spread to Southeast Asia. Buddha himself emphasized mindfulness and meditation, principles that resonate deeply with the meditative aspects of yoga.Both yoga and Myanmar meditation emphasize cultivating mindfulness and deep inner awareness. In yoga, mindfulness is developed through postures, breath control, and meditation, fostering a connection between the body and mind. Similarly, Myanmar meditation practices, such as Vipassana (insight meditation), center on observing the present moment with clarity and understanding the true nature of reality.Both practices share the ultimate goal of transcending worldly distractions, deepening self-awareness, and attaining inner peace and liberation.BenefitsMental Clarity and Focus: Meditation cultivates mindfulness, allowing practitioners to remain present and focused. This heightened awareness enhances decision-making and reduces mental clutter.Stress Reduction: Regular meditation calms the mind and reduces stress by activating the body's relaxation response. This is particularly valuable in today's fast-paced world.Emotional Resilience: Meditation fosters emotional balance, helping individuals manage negative emotions such as anger, anxiety, and fear. Over time, practitioners experience greater patience and compassion.Physical Health: Scientific studies demonstrate that meditation can lower blood pressure, improve sleep quality, and boost the immune system. It also promotes overall well-being by mitigating the impact of chronic stress.Spiritual Growth: For many in Myanmar, meditation is a path to spiritual awakening and liberation (Nivana). It deepens understanding of the impermanent nature of life and cultivates inner peace.YogaYoga, as a mind-body intervention, has been globally utilized to combat lifestyle-related diseases where stress is believed to play a significant role. By calming the mind and bringing stability and balance to vital energies, yoga helps modulate the immune response appropriately. Studies have shown that yoga can improve immunity, even during influenza epidemics.Rooted in Indian traditions and culture, yoga is a system of holistic living that emphasizes the development of one's inherent power in a balanced manner. Today, it is widely practiced as an integral part of a healthy lifestyle. Yoga's global popularity stems from its spiritual values, therapeutic credentials, its role in disease prevention, its promotion of health, and its effectiveness in managing lifestyle-related disorders.Ethical Principles and Spiritual GoalsYogic Philosophy: The eightfold path of yoga, emphasizing Strength, Awareness, and Flexibility, posits that regular yoga practice can lead to increased muscle and bone strength, improved sleep, better stress management and resilience, a strengthened immune system, and enhanced brain health.Buddhist Teachings: Myanmar meditation practices are grounded in the Eightfold Path taught by the Buddha, emphasizing right mindfulness, right concentration, and right effort, principles that align closely with yogic ideals.Practical TechniquesBoth traditions incorporate techniques to quiet the mind and access deeper states of meditation. In yoga, this is achieved through cultivating a state of abiding calm, while in Myanmar meditation, this is often done through techniques like mindfulness of breathing. The practice of focusing on the breath is central to both traditions, serving as a crucial tool for calming the mind and developing concentration.Spiritual LiberationBoth yoga and meditation ultimately aim for liberation. In yoga, the goal is freedom from the cycle of birth and death, often described as union with the divine. In meditation, the goal is the cessation of suffering and the attainment of enlightenment. These goals reflect a shared vision of transcending the limitations of human existence and achieving a higher state of consciousness.Modern InterconnectionsWith globalization, yoga and meditation have become increasingly intertwined. Myanmar meditation masters like Mahasi Sayadaw and Ledi Sayadaw have popularized vipassana meditation worldwide, often integrated into yoga retreats. Indian yoga gurus and Buddhist meditation teachers share mutual respect for each other's traditions, recognizing their complementary benefits for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.Buddhism, a significant influence on Myanmar meditation practices, also shaped aspects of yoga, particularly its meditative and ethical components. As Buddhism spread from India to Myanmar, it carried forward techniques of mindfulness and concentration that complement yoga.ConclusionIn essence, both yoga and Myanmar meditation serve as profound paths to cultivating mindfulness, inner awareness, and overall well-being. Rooted in ethical principles and spiritual wisdom, these practices promote mental clarity, emotional resilience, and physical health while guiding practitioners toward a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. Through structured techniques such as breath control, postures, and meditative focus, yoga and Myanmar meditation foster inner peace, balance, and self-discipline. As holistic disciplines, they not only help individuals navigate modern challenges with greater ease but also encourage a journey toward spiritual growth and enlightenment. By integrating these ancient traditions into daily life, practitioners can experience a harmonious connection between mind, body, and spirit, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and meaningful existence.References:• Teachings of Venerable Mahasi Sayadaw•Teachings of Venerable Ledi Sayadaw•Embassy of India, Yangon, Myanmar• Practitioners of the Vipassana GroupSource: Thawdar Eain (NP News)
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