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An earthquake in northwestern China killed at least 127 people and is the deadliest in 9 years

In the late hours of Monday, a potent earthquake jolted the rugged terrain of northwestern China, as confirmed by authorities on Tuesday. This calamity led to the destruction of numerous dwellings, forcing inhabitants to endure the harsh conditions of a sub-zero winter evening. The death toll reached 127, marking this as the most devastating earthquake in China in nearly a decade.

The tremor, measuring 6.2 in magnitude, occurred shortly before midnight. It caused over 700 injuries, inflicted damage on infrastructure including roads, and disrupted power and communication services in the provinces of Gansu and Qinghai. This was reported by officials and covered in various Chinese media outlets.

As search and rescue teams scoured through the debris of fallen structures and navigated at least one landslide, those who lost their homes were left with no choice but to brace for a frigid winter night in temporary shelters and tents set up at emergency evacuation sites.

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Scientists discover new method Ebola virus uses to infect cells

Grasping the mechanisms of viral movement within the human body is essential for the development of impactful medications and treatments targeting viral spread. Researchers at the Texas Biomedical Research Institute (Texas Biomed) have recently shared their discoveries in the Journal of Infectious Diseases, revealing that the Ebola virus uses specialized intercellular channels to transfer between cells, thereby bypassing medical interventions.

The lead researcher, Olena Shtanko, PhD, an Assistant Professor at Texas Biomed and the primary author of the study, explains, "Our research indicates that the virus not only finds a place to hide but also travels to new cells for further replication."

The study highlights that the Ebola virus forms what are known as tunneling nanotubes. These are dynamic intercellular bridges that enable cells to communicate and transfer materials across distances up to 200 microns. Previously, these structures were identified as key factors in the progression of neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and other viruses like HIV-1 and influenza. Dr. Shtanko's work is pioneering in studying their role in the spread of the Ebola virus.

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Jonathan Majors Found Guilty of Assault, Harassment

After extensive deliberations spanning over four hours across three days, a jury in New York has rendered a verdict in the case involving actor Jonathan Majors, known for his roles in Marvel films. The actor has been convicted of third-degree reckless assault and also found guilty of harassment.

During the announcement of the verdict, Majors, attired in a sophisticated gray suit paired with a black dress shirt and tie, stood alongside his legal representatives. Supporting him in the courtroom were his family members and his partner, Meagan Good. The sentencing is scheduled for February 6th. The offenses, categorized as a misdemeanor and a violation, respectively, could lead to a maximum imprisonment of one year.

In a turn of events, Majors was acquitted of two other charges. The jury found him not guilty of intentional assault in the third degree and not guilty of second-degree aggravated harassment.

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