Weird News

Screen use affects young brains

Screen time has a long-term impact on a child's brain.

Scientists say that watching TV, playing video games or using a tablet has both positive and negative effects on the shape and function of the brains of youngsters.

A review of 23 years' worth of neuroimaging - including 33 studies measuring the impact on children under 12 - discovered that screen time causes changes in the brain's prefrontal complex, which is responsible for functions including working memory.

Tablet users were discovered to have worse brain function and problem-solving ability, while video gaming and high Internet usage impact badly on intelligence scores and brain volume.

Professor Hui Li of The Education University of Hong Kong said: "It should be recognised by educators and caregivers that children's cognitive development may be influenced by their digital experiences."

'Zombie' deer disease detected

A case of 'zombie' deer disease has been reported at Yellowstone National Park.

A deer carcass at the park tested positive for chronic wasting disease (CWD) - a killer brain condition that leaves the animals confused and uncoordinated, reducing their fear of human beings.

The US National Park Service has warned visitors to report any sightings of sick or dead animals "as soon as possible", and to "avoid contact" with the wildlife as staff look to halt the spread of the disease.

The government agency said: "There is currently no evidence that CWD can infect humans or domestic animal species.

"However, it is recommended that tissues from CWD-infected animals not be consumed."

The authorities say that there is currently no vaccination or cure for CWD and the condition is 100 per cent fatal for deer and related species.

Golfer's shot lands in woman's lap

(AP): It was the most awkward lie of the day for Rory McIlroy.

The four-time major winner's tee shot on the par-three 13th hole at the World Tour Championship last Thursday somehow landed in the lap of a female spectator as she lay on grass to the right of the green. Amid much laughter, the rest of the spectators retreated, but the woman remained lying down, with her feet crossed and the ball lodged between her legs.

McIlroy went up to her, scratched his head, then feigned a shot -- to the amusement of the gallery. McIlroy stood back and said: "Right, ermm. Referee!"

The match referee arrived and gave McIlroy a drop, saying: "Basically, it's the spot underneath her."

"You can get up," a laughing McIlroy said to the woman, who handed him the ball, stood up, picked up her bag, and returned to the gallery to cheers.

McIlroy chipped onto the green and wound up making bogey.