Dogs being friendly with humans may literally be written into their genes

Apr 19 2023

The domestication of dogs from wolves into man’s best friend has been theorised about for ages, with various studies confirming that our long-standing relationships with the canines are much more bizarre than you’d think.

But why are dogs so friendly to humans? Why don’t they dart away or attack on sight? Is it merely domestic conditioning? Or is there something else going on?

Well, according to various studies in evolutionary genetics from 2017 hint that hypersocial dogs may carry variants of two genes called GTF2I and GTFF2IRD1.

When these genes are not present in humans, it causes Williams-Beuren syndrome, which is characterised by elfin facial features, cognitive difficulties and a tendency to be loving with everyone.

The first hint of this came from 2010, when biologists examined DNA from 225 wolves and 912 dogs from 85 breeds.

In later studies, wolves were found, expectedly, to spend less time near humans and worked equally hard to solve puzzles presented to them. On the other hand, dogs tended to focus on the human instead of any other activity.

It was found that even mice, when missing the two genes, were more prone for social behaviour. Coupled with the history of domestication, which now sees dogs and humans coming together closer instead of just humans putting leashes on them, the hypothesis of ‘friendly genes’ worked significantly well.

The study into such genes still requires much more study, but it is very possible that dogs were literally ready to befriend us for hundreds of years.

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Over 1,500 patients awaiting operations at Mater Dei

Apr 18 2023

Responding to questions made by Nationalist Party MP Claudette Buttiġieġ, Health Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Chris Fearne revealed that 1,573 patients are still awaiting for their operations at Mater Dei.

The health minister said that 934 are waiting for knee replacement surgeries, 492 are awaiting a cataract operation and 147 are awaiting hip replacement.

1,573 patients have reportedly been waiting longer than the time stipulated by the Patient Charter. The charter states that in urgent cases where a patient’s health is imminent danger but with no diagnosis of urgent deterioration of health, intervention should start within 12 weeks.

In less urgent cases wherein the patient’s health is not endangered, the waiting period is 18 months.

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Air Malta discussions with EU commission still ongoing says Minister

Apr 18 2023

Speaking during an interview with TVM News, Finance Minister Clyde Caruana said that the European Commission has yet to take a definitive decision in regards to the future of AirMalta.

The minister confirmed with TVM News that the government and Air Malta are still engaged in discussions with the European Commission, with the next one being scheduled for another two weeks.

The commission, the minister said, looked at Air Malta operations and its financial situation throughout the years, but still requires more information to allow the government to do what needs to be done to establish a national airline.

Reiterating how Air Malta was given state aid back in 2012, Caruana addressed the declaration made earlier today by Air Malta Chief Executive David Curmi. Curmi claimed that by the end of 2023, Malta will have a new national airline.

Caruana said that it would be premature to comment at this stage due to other negotiations still having to be closed. Once agreements are made, the decisions would have to be communicated properly to all those involved.

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The Gozo Flower Art Festival is finally here and here’s what you should expect

The Gozo Flower Festival is finally here and here's what you should expect

Apr 18 2023

Photo Source: @kovexdi on Instagram

Spring is fully in bloom and now is the time to get ready for the Gozo Flower Art Festival, taking place between April 28 and May 1 around Victoria. Here’s a rundown of the exciting activities happening throughout the festival:

On Friday 28 April, head to the Ministry for Gozo Hall in Victoria at 19:00 for the Flower Carpet Project Conference. This conference will inform attendees about the creative process behind the magnificent installation, the history and significance of this unique art form, and the intricate design techniques used by the artists. Following the conference, at 20:00, don’t miss the Flower Carpet Project Exhibition grand opening, where you’ll get a sneak peek of the breathtaking installation.

Saturday 29th April is all about The Making of the Infiorata at Castle Road, Victoria from 09:00 onwards. Witness the skilled artists carefully arranging thousands of petals to form stunning designs. At 19:00, be part of the excitement of the unveiling of the finished Infiorata masterpieces at the Inauguration of the Infiorata at Independence Square, Victoria.

On Sunday 30th April, visit the Infiorata Display at Castle Hill, Ċittadella from 09:00 onwards and marvel at the beauty of the Infiorata. Take a leisurely stroll around the installation and enjoy the stunning visual spectacle. From 10:00 to 13:00, attend workshops at Villa Rundle and learn the art of flower arrangement from expert instructors to create your own unique floral masterpiece.

On Monday 1st May, don’t miss the chance to marvel at the beauty of the Infiorata and take a leisurely stroll around the installation at Castle Hill, Ċittadella from 09:00 onwards.

Photo Source: @kovexdi on Instagram

The Gozo Flower Art Festival is the perfect opportunity to indulge in the beauty and fragrance of flowers while enjoying a range of exciting activities.

From learning about the creative process behind the Flower Carpet Project installation to witnessing the intricate process of The Making of the Infiorata, there’s something for everyone at this festival. So mark your calendars and don’t miss this fantastic event in Victoria!

#MaltaDaily