A Decade of Divorces in Thailand Reaches 1.3 Million Partners

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24 March 2023, 14:52

Divorce and separation concept. Two golden wedding rings. Dictionary definition — istock photo

In the last 10 years, there have been 1.3 million divorces in Thailand, with Bangkok having the highest rate.

The public is very interested in the hot issue about the divorce of a famous singer-actress couple who have been separated for some time but are still raising children together.

Time and again, several superstar couples who were together for a long time ended in separation or divorce. By and large, Thailand is also affected by divorces.

According to the Bureau of Registration Administration (BORA), there were a total of 146,159 divorces in 2022: Bangkok ranked first with 17,635 cases, while Chonburi, Nakhon Ratchasima and Rayong ranked second, third and fourth with 7,357, 5,612 and 4,249 cases respectively.

Samut Prakarn ranks fifth with 4,227 cases, while Pathum Thani follows with a record 3,750 cases. Khon Kaen ranks seventh with 3,693 cases. Chian Mai ranks with 3,435 cases. Ubon Ratchathani ranks with 3,262 cases. Finally, Songkha ranks tenth with 2,849 cases.

In the first three months of 2023, there are a total of 24,901 divorces. Again, Bangkok leads with 2,955 cases, followed by Chonburi with 1,328 cases. Nakhon Ratchasima and Rayong follow with 1,328 and 1,004 cases respectively. Finally, Rayong and Samut Prakarn top the list with 757 and 737 cases respectively.

In the past 10 years (2012 – 2022), there were 1,322,145 divorce cases:
146,1559 in 2022
110,942 in 2021
121,011 in 2020.
128,514 in 2019
127,265 in 2018
121,617 in 2017
118,539 in 2016
117,880 in 2015
111,810 in 2014.
107,031 in 2013
111,337 in 2012

Bangkok recorded the highest rate of divorce in any year. However, this could be because Bangkok has the largest population in the country.

‘Third Space Retail’ in the heart of Bangkok’s CBD opens June 2023

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Contributor

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24 March 2023, 13:48

World-class developers collaborate to drive Park Silom as ‘Third Space Retail’ in the heart of Bangkok’s CBD, set to open June 2023

Bangkok – March 24, 2023 – Park Silom, a premium mixed-used complex in the heart of prime Bangkok’s CBD Silom, is a collaboration between Nye Estate, Minor International and Siam Piwat. Synergizing their prestigious expertise, the three forefront developers are driving Park Silom into a ‘Third Space Retail,’ offering a new retail experience to Silom under the concept “Everyday Indulgence for New Breed City Living.“

The new 39-storey complex on a 6-rai plot in the center of Silom with its retail space spanning over 5 floors is meticulously designed to cater to the lifestyle needs of individuals with high purchasing power, including local working professionals and international tourists, by providing them with a unique and modern way of daily living in the city. The planned date for the soft opening is set to take place in June 2023.

Ms.Ornruedi Na-Ranong, Executive Directorof NYE & RPG Development Company Limited, said: “The Park Silom project has been developed under NYE & RPG Company Limited, a joint venture between Nye Estate and Minor International Public Company Limited. It is a 39- storey high-end office and retail complex that spans over 6 rai in Bangkok’s central Silom’s area.

The idea behind its creation is based on the ‘New Breed of Silom’ vision which takes into accounts the needs and lifestyles of the people and communities in the Silom area. The determination is to transform this land into a space that caters to the diverse needs of city dwellers while also connecting and empowering the Silom community, which is renowned for its dynamic nature. It is truly a Symbol of Dynamism.”

She continued, “We are collaborating with Siam Piwat Company Limited, a leading property and retail developer to handle the management of Park Silom retail assets and properties. The partnership is expected to provide a thrilling and well-balanced urban living experience for the residents of Park Silom and surrounding areas on a daily basis.

The place serves multiple purposes such as work, shopping, and a hang-out spot during the day. Moreover, it can provide a unique and vibrant to unwind after work. The soft opening is scheduled in June 2023.”

Chanisa Kaewruen, Head of Corporate Strategy Group of Siam Piwat, said “Siam Piwat adheres to ‘The Visionary ICON’, a corporate vision that reinforces its leadership in creativity, and is known for its exceptional expertise in developing and managing globally respected real estate and retail destinations.” Siam Piwat is a leading property and retail developer, the owner and operator of world-class destinations, such as Siam Paragon, Siam Center, and Siam Discovery, and a joint venture partner of ICONSIAM and Siam Premium Outlets Bangkok.

She pointed out that through the collaboration, Siam Piwat will enhance the retail management of the retail space on the first five floors of Park Silom, which spans an area of 9,300 square meters. The Silom area will soon experience a new concept of retail space that combines the comfort of home with the convenience of a shopping complex.

This ‘Third Space Retail’ will be designed under the concept “Everyday Indulgence for New Breed City Living.” The aim of the project is to connect lifestyles of working individuals and affluent Thai and international tourists. This will be achieved by catering to their daily urban living and lifestyle needs in innovative ways.

“The research conducted on retail business and consumer behavior in Silom and its surrounding areas has revealed a business opportunity to address the needs of the Silom community and fulfill their lifestyle requirements. This location offers great potential due to its position as a hub for many leading organizations, financial institutions, enterprises, and multinational companies, along with its surrounding population of high purchasing power.”

“Our project is primarily focused on the new generation of working professionals in the Silom and Sathorn areas, who possess a high level of purchasing power. These individuals have a desire for an urban lifestyle and enjoy a balanced work-life.

Furthermore, they seek to lead a vibrant and enjoyable life, while also taking care of their physical and mental health. Families who reside in the Silom and Sathorn districts, with high financial capabilities, as well as those who commonly travel to the area for purposes such as visiting hospitals, or being parents to students at renowned schools in the area, are our secondary targets. These households reflect the urban lifestyle and modernity of city-dwellers, possessing both a large purchasing power and an exquisite taste.”

“Within the retail area, there will be a selection of more than 80 leading brands covering lifestyles, fashion, and wellness of the highest quality. The dining zone boasts an array of eateries, ranging from celebrated restaurants to innovative concepts, as well as cozy cafes, coffee shops, bars, and bistros. This vibrant hub of culinary delights is the perfect spot for a delicious meal and a new hangout spot in Silom.

The Food Market is a premium supermarket zone dedicated to offering quality products, as well as providing a platform for new brands and a space to support the lifestyle of the modern generation who strive for a work-life balance. This location is an ideal spot for both shopping and socializing, attracting both office workers and tourists from both inside and outside of Thailand, once the country reopens. It is a perfect gathering place for those looking to enjoy the best of both worlds,” said Ms. Chanisa.

Covering the first five floors of the building, the retail space commences on the basement floor under the name of THE HELP & SERVICES which offers a variety of shops and services tailored to provide convenience to customers. These include 24-hour shops, parcel delivery services, supermarkets, and leading restaurants among others.

The G Floor is divided into zones, with THE BALCONY providing a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for brunch and all-day dining. An ideal meeting place for those in the Silom area, THE BALCONY is the perfect spot to relax and converse throughout the day. THE CELLAR offers a relaxed meeting space for people to unwind after work.

SIVADON COURTYARD is a sprawling green space of more than 1 rai in front of Park Silom, offering a place for relaxation and a new experience for the Silom community. With many activities tailored to meet the needs of local residents and visitors alike, this courtyard is “the new lung of Silom”.

THE LOBBY on the lobby floor houses chic cafes for starting the day or transforming the atmosphere into an informal setting for young professionals to gather and meet. THE DINING ROOM provides professionally selected restaurants to meet everyday dietary needs and energy replenishment.

The 2nd floor is home to THE DRESSING ROOM, a collection of fashion and beauty stores offering an array of cosmetics, clothing, and accessories, and much more.

Located on the 3rd floor, THE CLUBHOUSE & SPA offers a collection of stores that specialize in beauty and health care, as well as other related items.

“Siam Piwat, a world-renowned destination developer, has accumulated knowledge, experience, and expertise in various aspects of real estate development, retail, department store business, food and beverage business, marketing communication, and real estate asset management. Confident in our ability to revolutionize real estate development and retail, we can create a remarkable, one-of-a-kind retail experience in the Silom area, adding both value and success,” concluded said Ms. Chanisa.

A world-class techno music festival at “DRUMCODE X BLUE TREE SONGKRAN”

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Contributor

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24 March 2023, 11:41

Get set for A world-class techno music festival at “DRUMCODE X BLUE TREE SONGKRAN” featuring for Thailand’s first ever the “DRUMCODE” Stage on April 14-15

featuring for Thailand’s first ever the “DRUMCODE” Stage on April 14-15 at “Blue Tree Phuket” Early-bird tickets until March 31!

This Songkran, awaken your spirit with “DRUMCODE X BLUE TREE SONGKRAN”, featuring the ‘DRUMCODE’ stage and renowned DJs such as Kolsch, Joris Voorn, Teenage Mutants, Victor Ruiz, Juliet Fox, Bart Skils, Alex Stein, Tom Pooks, Nakadia plus many local DJs. Awaken the fun and party over 2 Days on 2 Stages with 2 Atmospheres on 14th-15th April 2023.

“DRUMCODE X BLUE TREE SONGKRAN” offers a unique experience with a world-class techno music festival led by world-famous DJs. Plus, many local DJs. Double the fun with included access to the largest crystal lagoon in Thailand. There are a wide variety of slides and activities such as Super Fly, Zipline, Cliff Jumping, Fly Board, Rock Climbing Paddle Board, Aquatic Show, and much more.

The Thai techno iconic, Nakadia, who has achieved international success, will be one of the performers on the “DRUMCODE” stage. She’s excited to officially announce that the DRUMCODE stage will be in Thailand for the first time at the Blue Tree Songkran event. She would like everyone to come and join this amazing event as it promises to be the best two days ever. “See you!”, she says.

Early Bird tickets are available for 3,500 baht from now until March 31st. Regular tickets cost 4,000 baht and can be purchased online at www.Bluetree.fun or www.Bluetreesongkran.com and at the event for 4,500 baht. The entrance ticket is a Combo Ticket that can be used for both days of the event and is inclusive of access to all water and activities in the Crystal Lagoon for the two days.

For more information, please call 076-602435 or visit https://bluetree.fun/

DJ Line Up Schedule on April 14-15, 2023

DRUMCODE STAGE @ Blue Tree Park

Alex Stein

Bart Skils

Joris Vorn

Juliet Fox

Kolsch

Nakadia

Teenage Mutants

Tom Pooks

Victor Ruis

Dan Buri

Kolourone

Rui Tang

Vicky Kroon

Blue Tree Stage (Local DJs) @ Blue Tree Lagoon

Notto

Dennis Lee

Stixplanet

Radar Radario LIVE

Tam Bagerman

Note:

-Combo Ticket can be used for both days of the event inclusive of access to all water and activities in the Crystal Lagoon area (no single-day ticket sale)

– More information on Drumcode can be viewed at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drumcode_Records

#BlueTree #BlueTreePhuket

#DRUMCODE #DRUMCODEXBLUETREESONGKRAN

#Entertainmenthub #ThrillandChill #DayandNight

#Songkran #Festival #SongkranFestival

Shopping souvenirs across Thailand at ICONSIAM “Dear Tummy Lifestyle Supermarket”

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Contributor

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24 March 2023, 09:00

“Dear Tummy Lifestyle Supermarket” at ICONSIAM, opens a new zone of Taste of Thailand, for shopping with famous souvenirs across Thailand, Complete personal shopper service in one place.

Dear Tummy Lifestyle Supermarket, G floor ICONSIAM is ready to welcome foreign tourists who return to Thailand continuously. After Thailand began to relax measures to control COVID-19 last year, it launched a zone called “Taste of Thailand,” gathering more than 500 items of famous Thai souvenirs, which are products that pass the selection criteria of being clean, safe, and hygienic for both Thai tourists. and foreigners can shop conveniently and confidently in quality, ready to provide complete services in one place at “Dear Tummy“

The “Taste of Thailand” zone divides the souvenirs available within the zone into 5 product types, starting with Snacks such as KUNNA – Durian Extra Crispy Roll, TAMARIND HOUSE – Crispy Banana, The Gold Green Baked – Coconut Chips, KAEW – Crispy Coconut Rolls Pandanus Flavored, Greenville – Mango Jelly, SRIWANNA – Gold Freeze Dried Durian Monthong, CHAO SUA – Rice Cracker with Flossy Pork, NAI PRAMONG – Crispy Salmon Skin, etc.,

there are lots of Dried Fruits, whether it’s Dried Mango or Dried Pineapple. Dried Durian, Dried Longan, Dried Tamarind, and Dried Medjool Dates from quality leading brands such as Royal Thai Fruit, Fareeda, THONG AMPAI, MAE CHALAME, TAMARIND HOUSE, etc.,followed by Thai Desserts from Raman – Ancient Thai Caramel, Alua and Crispy Jelly from Maree House.

That is not all, we also have a group of Food Products and Thai Beverages, such as MADAMEORN – Isaan Sausage. CHAO SUA -Pad Thai, ChaTraMue – Thai Tea, and Suan Dusit – Sweetened Flavored Milk Tablet, Honey from The Royal Chitralada Project, Ota – Coffee, and the last group of products in the zone are Dried Seafood. Whether it’s seasoned white fish, Crispy Squid or Dried Squid.

In addition, we also have group products in Seasoning, Instant Foods, Home Herbal Medicines, and others that are popular with foreign tourists and are included in “Dear Tummy” as well.

In addition to the souvenir products and other variety products whether vegetables, fruits, fresh meats, imported snacks, condiments, and many more. “Dear Tummy” also adds special services to increase convenience for tourists. Start with a personal shopper who will help recommend products and promotions at the store, including taking care of ordering products via LINE OA: @deartummy or calling 088–971–8034, as well as providing packing and delivery service directly to hotels and airports in Bangkok with a promotion, to get 100 Baht delivery fee discount, when ordering products 1,000 Baht per receipt from today onwards.

This is not all. “Dear Tummy” also participates in tax measures to support and promote tourism with a VAT refund, foreign tourists can choose from a wide variety of products and also receive a VAT refund.

Dear Tummy Lifestyle Supermarket G Floor, ICONSIAM open daily from 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. For more information and order products via LINE OA: @deartummy or call 088–971–8034

Bangkok Halts THB 30bn Chao Phraya Riverfront Project

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Khaosod English

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24 March 2023, 01:53

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt announced that he would stop the “Chao Phraya walkway riverfront” project proposed by the Prayut Chan-o-cha government. He added that the project was not worth it and did not meet the needs of the people.

After the Thai Administrative Court ruled on March 22, 2023 to stop the construction of the Chao Phraya walkway, adding that the panel of defendants should adjust 4 points, Bangkok Deputy Governor Wisanu Subsompon told Prachachat Business that the Bangkok Municipality, which is one of the defendants, will accept the ruling and will not appeal.

However, as this project is part of a government policy, the government policy must be taken into account if the project is to be continued or cancelled.

Wisanu added that in view of Bangkok’s vision under Chadchart’s leadership, this project must be stopped as it will consume too much of Bangkok’s budget. Besides, a long construction along the Chao Praya River might not be in line with the lives of the people in the communities, which would result in the areas not being used optimally.

This was a dream project under Prayut’s government as it was cited as an urgent agenda for the development of the country two days after the coup. It is said that the aim of the project is to solve water management and transport.

“I like cycling because it is the best exercise. I dream of building bike lanes along the Chao Praya River, like in South Korea. It costs a lot of money, but if we do not think about it today, it will not happen. I have tried to talk to the governor of Bangkok because we need to change the urban planning because we cannot live like this anymore,” Prayut said on November 6, 2014.

Later, Aswin Kwanmuang, then governor of Bangkok, enthusiastically embraced the project and proposed to build a walking and cycling path on both sides of the Chao Phraya River, 50 kilometres in total, from the Rama III Bridge to the Phra Nang Klao Bridge, at a cost of THB 30 billion.

The public strongly opposed the project, fearing that it would destroy the lives of people in the communities. On November 21, 2018, the public networks filed a lawsuit with the Administrative Court of Thailand to stop the construction and issue an interim protection order for the duration of the lawsuit. The Administrative Court and the Supreme Administrative Court decided to halt the project until a final decision is made.

The new administrative team in Bangkok proposed a new model to develop the area along the Chao Praya River along the lines of Kudi Chin, a new tourist attraction. Two factors were considered: Will the area be a tourist attraction or a public space and will it meet the needs of the people in the area.

Trade Between China, Mekong Countries Hits $416.7B in 2022

By

Xinhua News Agency

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23 March 2023, 23:56

china-mekhong — A a China-Vietnam-Laos freight train loaded with agricultural products at Nanning International Railway Port in Nanning, capital of south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, May 13, 2021. (China Railway Nanning Group Co., Ltd./Handout via Xinhua )

KUNMING, March 23 (Xinhua) — Trade between China and countries along the Mekong River posted steady growth last year despite COVID-19 and the sluggish global economy.

Thanks to deepened mutual trust and cooperation, China’s trade volume with Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam totaled 416.7 billion US dollars in 2022, up 5 percent year on year.

The figures were disclosed at the opening ceremony of Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Week 2023, which was held on Thursday in Kunming, the capital of southwest China’s Yunnan Province.

In 2016, the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation mechanism was launched by China, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam. It derives its name from a river that is called the Lancang in China and the Mekong in the five other countries.

The mechanism has since become a landmark cooperation model in the region, and it has continuously injected vitality into regional development.

Join the Colorful Poi Sang Long Ceremony 2023 in Mae Hong Son

By

Khaosod English

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23 March 2023, 19:57

Tourism Authority of Thailand, Mae Hong Son office. cordially invites all tourists to take part in Poi Sang Long ceremony during April 3-5, 2023 at Pang Lor temple or at other places and enjoy the charm of Mae Hong Son City.

Poi Sang Long, a Buddhist novice ordination ceremony, will hold for 3 – 4 days and there will be the interesting activities as follow:

The first day begins when the boys have their heads shaved by parents and relatives. Then, they are bathed and anointed with special waters and dressed up elegantly and colorfully while their faces are superbly embellished.

By this time, the boys are known locally as ‘Sang Long’ or ‘Look Kaew’ (jewel sons). The parade moves around the city, visiting temples to beg forgiveness from abbots and the city pillar at the beginning of the journey. By late afternoon, the boys are carried back to their homes.

Poi Sang Long4 — The boys are known locally as ‘Sang Long’ or ‘Look Kaew’ (jewel sons)

The second day is a grand colorful procession is held, filled with family members and important components of Mae Hong Son’s Tai Yai community. In the parade, there are handmade floats, offerings for the temple, traditional dance and, of course, the boys themselves. The parade go around the city, before it moves down the main streets of town and out to the temples.

The Third day, the procession once again proceeds through the town and the boys are taken to the Temple for the formal ordination ceremony.

Poi Sang Long ceremony in Mae Hong Son is a Buddhist novice ordination ceremony, but unlike any other ceremony of its type in the country. Young boys aged between 7 and 14 are ordained as novices to learn the Buddhist doctrines.

Poi Sang Long5 — The boys are ordained as novices to learn the Buddhist doctrines.

It’s believed that they will gain merit ordaining for their parents. The origins of this festival lie in Buddhist legend. It is believed that the tradition is probably following in the footsteps of Prince Rahula, the Buddha’s own son, who gave up his worldly life to follow his father’s spiritual teachings.

Prince Rahula became the youngest ordained monk and the first novice in Buddhism. Subsequently it became a tradition that young boys should ordain to learn Buddhist teachings. With such high reverence to the Buddhist religion, the people here consider that the celebrations should be as grand as possible.

This colorful festival is one of the most delightful in Mae Hong Son, attracting people from far and wide. The local authorities and the Tourism Authority of Thailand consider this festival to be unique to Mae Hong Son province.

Poi Sang Long3 — This festival to be unique to Mae Hong Son province

Schedule of Poi Sang Long in Mueng District

March 22–25, at Wat Mae Sa Kued (parade starting at 7:00 a.m. on March 24).
March 26-31, at Wat Na Pa Paek (parade starting at 7:00 a.m. on March 30).
April 3-5 at Wat Pang Lor (parade starting at 7:00 a.m. on April 4).
April 3-5 at Wat Kha Han (parade starting at 7:00 a.m. on April 4).
April 22-24 at Wat Nai Soi (parade starting at 7:00 a.m. on April 23).

Schedule of Poi Sang Long in Pai District

April 3-5 at Wat Pa Kam (parade starting at 2:00 p.m. on April 4).
April 5-7 at Wat Mae Na Terng Nai (parade starting at 2:00 p.m. on April 6).
April 29-May 2 at Wat Muang Soi (parade starting at 2:00 p.m. on May 1).

Schedule of Poi Sang Long in Mae Sa-Reang District

April 2-4 at Wat Sri Boon Rueng (parade starting at 4.00 p.m. on April 3).
April 7-9 at Wat Suphan Na Rang Sri (parade starting at 4.00 p.m. on April 8).

Schedule of Poi Sang Long in Pang Ma Pha District

March 20-22 at Wat Mae La Na (parade starting at 7:00 a.m. on March 21).
March 25-28 at Pa Ya Ngu cave abbey (parade starting at 7:00 a.m. on March 27).

Schedule of Poi Sang Long in Khun Yuam District District

March 29 – April 1 at Wat Tor Pae (parade starting at 4.00 p.m. on March 31).
April 3-5 at Wat Kham Nai (parade starting at 7:00 a.m. on April 5).

Schedule of Poi Sang Long in Mae La Noi District

April 5-8 at Wat Doi Kaew (parade starting at 4 p.m. on April 7)

More information please contact at 053-612982-3 or at our Facebook Fan page /TAT. Maehongson.

What Made Beethoven Sick? DNA From His Hair Offers Clues

By

Associated Press

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23 March 2023, 18:09

Beethoven DNA — The Moscheles Lock, from composer Ludwig van Beethoven, with an inscription by former owner Ignaz Moscheles. Hundreds of years after Beethoven's death, researchers have pulled DNA from strands of his hair — and found clues about what killed him, according to a study published Wednesday March 22, 2023. (Ira F. Brilliant Center for Beethoven Studies, San Jose State University via AP)

NEW YORK (AP) — Nearly 200 years after Ludwig van Beethoven’s death, researchers pulled DNA from strands of his hair, searching for clues about the health problems and hearing loss that plagued him.

They weren’t able to crack the case of the German composer’s deafness or severe stomach ailments. But they did find a genetic risk for liver disease, plus a liver-damaging hepatitis B infection in the last months of his life.

AP23081406284947 — An original lock of world famous composer Ludwig van Beethoven placed in a gift box, that was a popular collectible in the 19th century, is seen at the Beethoven Haus in Bonn, Germany. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner)

These factors, along with his chronic drinking, were probably enough to cause the liver failure that is widely believed to have killed him, according to a study published Wednesday in the journal Current Biology.

This Sunday marks the 196th anniversary of Beethoven’s death in Vienna on March 26, 1827, at the age of 56. The composer himself wrote that he wanted doctors to study his health problems after he died.

“With Beethoven in particular, it is the case that illnesses sometimes very much limited his creative work,” said study author Axel Schmidt, a geneticist at University Hospital Bonn in Germany. “And for physicians, it has always been a mystery what was really behind it.”

AP23081405423244 — Julia Ronge, Head of Collection at Beethoven Haus, talks during an interview with The Associated Press in Bonn, Germany, on the sequencing project of the genome of world famous composer Ludwig van Beethoven by an international team of researchers led by Cambridge University, Tuesday, March 21, 2023. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner)

Since his death, scientists have long tried to piece together Beethoven’s medical history and have offered a variety of possible explanations for his many maladies.

Now, with advances in ancient DNA technology, researchers have been able to pull genetic clues from locks of Beethoven’s hair that had been snipped off and preserved as keepsakes. They focused on five locks that are “almost certainly authentic,” coming from the same European male, according to the study.

They also looked at three other historical locks, but weren’t able to confirm those were actually Beethoven’s. Previous tests on one of those locks suggested Beethoven had lead poisoning, but researchers concluded that sample was actually from a woman.

AP23080549956000 — The Stumpff Lock, from composer Ludwig van Beethoven, in a laboratory at the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Human History in Germany. (Anthi Tiliakou via AP)

After cleaning Beethoven’s hair one strand at a time, scientists dissolved the pieces into a solution and fished out chunks of DNA, said study author Tristan James Alexander Begg, a biological anthropologist at the University of Cambridge.

Getting genes out was a challenge, since DNA in hair gets chopped up into tiny fragments, explained author Johannes Krause, a paleogeneticist at Germany’s Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology.

But eventually, after using up almost 10 feet (3 meters) of Beethoven’s hair, they were able to piece together a genome that they could “quiz” for signs of genetic disease, Krause said.

AP23081405306484 — The original locks of Ludwig van Beethoven are presented at the Beethoven Haus in Bonn, Germany. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner)

While researchers didn’t find any clear genetic signs of what caused Beethoven’s gastrointestinal issues, they found that celiac disease and lactose intolerance were unlikely causes. In the future, the genome may offer more clues as we learn more about how genes influence health, Begg said.

The research also led to a surprising discovery: When they tested DNA from living members of the extended Beethoven family, scientists found a discrepancy in the Y chromosomes that get passed down on the father’s side. The Y chromosomes from the five men matched each other — but they didn’t match the composer’s.

AP23081405586893 — The Beethoven Haus, where world famous composer Ludwig van Beethoven was born and lived in Bonn, Germany. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner)

This suggests there was an “extra-pair paternity event” somewhere in the generations before Beethoven was born, Begg said. In other words, a child born from an extramarital relationship in the composer’s family tree.

The key question of what caused Beethoven’s hearing loss is still unanswered, said Ohio State University’s Dr. Avraham Z. Cooper, who was not involved in the study. And it may be a difficult one to figure out, because genetics can only show us half of the “nature and nurture” equation that makes up our health.

But he added that the mystery is part of what makes Beethoven so captivating: “I think the fact that we can’t know is OK,” Cooper said.

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AP journalist Daniel Niemann contributed to this report from Bonn, Germany.

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The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

Tokyo Cherry Blossoms in Full Bloom, Matching 2nd Earliest Record

By

Kyodo News

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23 March 2023, 16:07

cherryblossom1 — People walk under cherry trees in full bloom at Tokyo's Ueno park on March 22, 2023. (Kyodo)

TOKYO – Cherry blossoms were in full bloom on Wednesday, March 22 in central Tokyo, matching 2013, 2020 and 2021 to become the second-earliest day in the year for the seasonal phenomena to occur since records began, the Japan Meteorological Agency said.

More than 80 percent of the flowers on a “Somei Yoshino” tree at Yasukuni Shrine, used by the agency as a yardstick to measure the annual event, were in bloom, fulfilling the full-bloom criteria nine days earlier than average and five days earlier than in 2022.

The agency believes the trees’ flowering in the capital was accelerated by temperatures having risen to around 20 degrees on several occasions since they began blooming Tuesday last week.

cherryblossom2 — Tokyo’s Ueno Park is crowded with people viewing the cherry blossoms on March 19, 2023. (Kyodo)

The trees in Tokyo were flowering at the earliest time since observations began in 1953, matching records seen in 2020 and 2021.

Cherry trees across Japan are blooming earlier than usual this year, the agency said, with similar scenes in cities such as Fukuoka, Osaka and Nagoya.

For the first time in three years, parks administered by the Tokyo metropolitan government, such as Ueno Park, have allowed people to gather for parties involving food and drinks during the cherry blossom season.

The Tokyo government had advised people to refrain from holding cherry blossom-viewing parties at parks and public spaces in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

AIS Aunjai CYBER to win WSIS Prize 2023 by ITU and UN

By

Contributor

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23 March 2023, 15:19

AIS showcases capabilities on world stage as the only Thai corporate. AIS Aunjai CYBER to win WSIS Prize 2023 by ITU and UN

AIS has taken its Aunjai CYBER program to represent Thailand, as the only Thai corporate entity able to win an international sustainability award, while also making the top five ranking of 1,800 programs around the world.

The Champion of WSIS Prize 2023 was presented at the WSIS Prizes 2023 in the category of programs using technology for building confidence and security in use of ICTs, hosted by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the United Nations (UN).

The award once again validated a proactive approach to addressing cyber issues sustainably. AIS is committed to leverage the potential of its digital networks to develop tools to intervene, alongside up-skilling Thai people’s digital skills, so they can be more aware, and inhabit the digital world safely and responsibly through the AIS Aunjai CYBER program.

Saichon Submakudom, Head of PR at AIS, said, “All members of the AIS teams wish to thank the International Telecommunication Union and the United Nations for recognizing AIS’ commitment to this issue, by ranking the Aunjai CYBER program in the top five of 1,800 sustainability programs entered from around the world. We were also graciously presented with the Champion of WSIS Prize 2023 for Building confidence and security in use of ICTs.

“AIS Aunjai CYBER program was initiated in 2019, at a time when the usage of Internet and social media had increased at a the rapid rate, but various kinds of social problems had arisen. We were then the first network service provider to stand up and be counted as a social hub for building networks through the efforts of our partners, as a united front to address the issue of cyber threats sustainably. We wanted to promote society to use digital tech creatively, securely and responsibly, to benefit people at large.”

Mrs. Suphatra SRIMAITREEPHITHAK Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary/ Permanent Representative, congratulated AIS on winning the Champion of WSIS Prize 2023 for its Aunjai CYBER program, which is a big boost to Thailand’s reputation. “This program has the objective of consistency with the “Thailand 4.0” policy, which has the aim of upgrading digital know-how for the Thai population and protecting Thai users from cyber-threats. it promotes a safe online society and builds digital immunity. It also fulfills the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals under Goal no. 4, Guaranteeing a Quality Education for all, and supports opportunities for lifelong learning.”

Saichon added, “Aunjai CYBER was conceived as a program under the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), SDG no. 4, Guaranteeing a Quality Education for all. This is aligned with our strategic plan for sustainable operations, which is to support the responsible use of digital networks, while promoting digital literacy and citizenship for Thai people in general. Today, the Aunjai CYBER program has been expanded into many other forms, so it has become a hub of safe and secure Internet usage.”

“The Aunjai CYBER syllabus for cyber-immunity was the first of its kind in Thailand to be certified by the Ministry of Education as being compliant with Thai curricular standards. The syllabus itself was a joint effort between the state and private sectors, and it has been upgraded and rolled out to students at 29,000 schools around the country affiliated to the Office of the Basic Education Commission (OBEC).

“Previous AIS programs such as Aor Sor Mor Online, Smart Kids Brave Hearts, and “Work Wizard” technology for the disabled, have also addressed sustainability issues and won the WSIS Prize. Winning the WSIS Prize 2023 is an achievement of which AIS teams are all immensely proud. We are the only Thai corporation to successfully win an award at the Champion level. We would like to reaffirm our intentions to continue ushering in positive and sustainable change to Thai digital society,” concluded Saichon.

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AIS showcases capabilities on world stage as the only Thai corporate. AIS Aunjai CYBER to win WSIS Prize 2023 by ITU and UN

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