Briefly

Evolution of H5N1 avian flu identified

A Chinese research team has systematically identified the origin, evolution and propagation of the H5N1 virus, which has caused avian influenza outbreaks around the world. The research, conducted by the Harbin Veterinary Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, was published recently in the journal Emerging Microbes&Infections. The study found that the currently circulating H5N1 virus emerged in October 2020 as a recombination of the H5N8 avian influenza virus with subtypes such as H1N1 and H3N8.

Name solicited for solar observatory

China started soliciting suggestions on Monday for a Chinese name of its first solar probe, the Advanced Space-based Solar Observatory, according to the National Space Science Center of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The satellite is scheduled to be launched into space in October. Between July 11 and 24, netizens are invited to suggest a name for the probe that reflects its function while also suggesting China's spirit of scientific exploration and cultural self-confidence. The satellite will conduct observations on the solar magnetic field, solar flares and coronal mass ejections, to support the forecasting of catastrophic space weather.

Xinhua