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As the demand for greener energy surges, the need for battery metals has led to a controversial focus on deep-sea mining, particularly in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ) of the Pacific Ocean. Vast deposits of manganese nodules, rich in nickel and cobalt, present a potential solution, but the ecological impacts of such mining remain largely unknown. A recent study co-led by the National Oceanography Centre and the Natural History Museum in London examined a site mined in 1979, revealing that the scars left by mining are still visible after 44 years, although some small marine life has begun to recolonise the area. However, larger species show little recovery, raising concerns about long-term biodiversity loss. While sediment plumes from mining operations appear to have limited effects on wildlife, the study underscores the urgent need for further research to assess the broader ecological consequences of deep-sea mining. 
Published: Apr 17 2025, 4 ameznews.inA viral photo of a lion appearing to have its testicles bitten by a lioness has sparked widespread amusement online, amassing 77,000 shares on Twitter. However, the image, taken by photographer Safi Kok at Rotterdam Zoo, misrepresents the situation. The lioness in the photo is actually a juvenile cub, and the male lion's expression is not one of mating distress but rather a reaction to playful biting from his offspring. While lions do exhibit intense mating behaviors, including the use of barbed penises to stimulate ovulation, there is no evidence to support the claim that lionesses bite males to initiate mating. The zoo clarified that this playful behavior is typical among the cubs, who have been known to engage with their father, Aapel, in various playful antics. Thus, while the image is humorous, it reflects a more innocent interaction than the viral narrative suggests. 
Published: Apr 19 2025, 9 ameznews.inA recent un-peer-reviewed study suggests that the Antikythera Mechanism, often hailed as the world's oldest analog computer, may not have functioned as intended. Discovered in a shipwreck dated to around 60 BCE, this ancient device was designed to track celestial movements using gears and pointers. However, researchers have raised concerns about its operational viability due to manufacturing errors identified through CT scans, which could lead to gear jamming. The study authors argue that these inaccuracies exceed tolerable limits, casting doubt on whether the mechanism ever worked or if its errors were less severe than observed. While some experts propose it may have served as an educational display rather than a precise astronomical tool, the findings remain speculative, emphasizing the need for caution in interpreting the device's functionality. The study is available on arXiv for further examination. 
Published: Apr 15 2025, 1 ameznews.inIn Kruger National Park, a giraffe exhibiting skin nodules has raised concerns among wildlife experts, as it may be infected with a type of papillomavirus, specifically the bovine variant. Captured in photographs by wildlife photographer Marius Nortje, the giraffe's condition has been shared by Worldwide Vets, who noted that the disease likely spreads through direct contact or via oxpecker birds, which may inadvertently transmit the virus while removing parasites. Although the disease is not considered life-threatening, there is currently no treatment available. Dr. Gemma Campling from Worldwide Vets highlighted that this is not the first occurrence of such symptoms in the area, recalling a similar case in 2007 that led to the euthanasia of two affected giraffes for research purposes. For now, the affected giraffe is under close observation, with no plans for euthanasia. 
Published: Apr 19 2025, 6 ameznews.inDuring a recent appearance on _The Tonight Show_, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates shared his optimistic predictions about the future of artificial intelligence (AI), suggesting that it could democratize access to expertise in fields like medicine and education. Gates believes that, similar to the evolution of computers, AI will become more accessible and commonplace, potentially alleviating shortages of professionals such as doctors and mental health experts. However, his views have sparked criticism, with detractors highlighting structural issues in these professions and the current limitations of AI, which often struggles with accuracy and bias. Gates acknowledged the uncertainties surrounding AI's impact on jobs and society, noting that it could lead to shorter workweeks. He also raised concerns about AI's environmental footprint, as its energy consumption and water usage pose significant challenges. Ultimately, while Gates envisions a transformative role for AI, the debate over its implications continues. 
Published: Apr 18 2025, 11 pmeznews.inA recent study from the University of Sao Paulo Medical School has revealed alarming long-term effects of heavy alcohol consumption on brain health. Researchers analyzed nearly 1,800 brain autopsies and found that individuals consuming eight or more alcoholic drinks per week had a 133% higher likelihood of developing hyaline arteriolosclerosis, a type of vascular brain lesion. This condition, along with neurofibrillary tangles associated with Alzheimer’s disease, was linked to cognitive decline. The study indicated that former heavy drinkers faced an 89% increased risk of these lesions, while moderate drinkers had a 60% higher risk. Notably, heavy drinkers also had a reduced brain mass and died, on average, 13 years earlier than non-drinkers. While the study highlights the correlation between alcohol consumption and brain damage, it acknowledges limitations in establishing causation. The findings underscore the urgent need for public health initiatives to address heavy drinking. 
Published: Apr 19 2025, 7 ameznews.inA new study from the University of Melbourne and the University of California, Berkeley, has examined the relationship between language and environmental concepts, particularly focusing on the often-cited claim that Inuit languages have numerous words for "snow." Analyzing a dataset of 616 languages, researchers found that Eastern Canadian Inuktitut indeed has a rich vocabulary for snow, with terms like _kikalukpok_ (noisy walking on hard snow) and _apingaut_ (first snowfall). Other languages, including Scots and various Alaskan languages, also feature multiple snow-related terms. In contrast, the study revealed that languages in snowy regions do not necessarily have more words for rain, which is crucial for survival. The research highlights that while certain languages may have extensive vocabularies for specific concepts, these findings should be approached cautiously to avoid reinforcing stereotypes about cultures. The study is published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS). 
Published: Apr 15 2025, 5 pmeznews.inScientists are exploring the intricacies of human sexuality using advanced imaging techniques, including MRI scans and 4D ultrasounds, leading to viral content on social media, such as a GIF of a couple engaging in intercourse within an MRI machine. This research not only satisfies scientific curiosity but also highlights the health benefits of a healthy sex life, which can lower blood pressure, enhance the immune system, and reduce the risk of heart attacks. The fascination with the mechanics of sex has prompted researchers to document these intimate moments, with author Mary Roach sharing her experiences in a video that showcases the intersection of science and sexuality. As this unique approach to studying human behavior gains attention, it underscores the ongoing interest in understanding the biological and emotional aspects of sexual activity. 
Published: Apr 18 2025, 10 pmeznews.inThe "H" in "Jesus H. Christ" is not a middle name, such as Hector, but rather a historical reference rooted in Christian symbolism, according to Dr. Dan McClellan, a biblical scholar at the University of Birmingham. The initial is believed to have originated from a Christogram, a monogram that combines letters and symbols to represent Jesus. These Christograms have been discovered on various artifacts, including artworks, coins, gravestones, and even ancient tattoos. This intriguing detail highlights the rich tapestry of names attributed to Jesus in the Bible, which include Jesus of Nazareth, the Lamb of God, and King of Kings. Dr. McClellan's insights shed light on the significance of the "H" and its connection to the broader tradition of Christian iconography. For a deeper understanding, viewers can check out Dr. McClellan's explanation in a video available online. 
Published: Apr 19 2025, 4 ameznews.inOver 111 years after its tragic sinking, the Titanic remains a source of intrigue, with surprising revelations about its wreckage. Notably, despite extensive exploration since its rediscovery in 1985, no human remains have ever been found on board. Filmmaker James Cameron, who has visited the site 33 times, noted, “We’ve seen clothing... but we’ve never seen any human remains.” The absence of bodies can be attributed to several factors, including the buoyancy of lifejackets, which may have carried bodies away from the wreck site during storms, and the activity of deep-sea scavengers. Additionally, the Titanic lies below the calcium carbonate compensation depth, where bones dissolve in the ocean's chemistry. While some speculate that sealed areas of the ship may still contain preserved remains, the likelihood of finding recognizable bodies diminishes as time passes. 
Published: Apr 17 2025, 12 ameznews.inSocial scientists have identified several key factors that can predict the likelihood of divorce among couples. Research indicates that marrying in one's teens or after age 32 significantly increases divorce risk, with the late twenties being the optimal time for marriage. Additionally, couples with a larger age gap face higher divorce rates, particularly if the husband is not employed full-time, as traditional gender roles still influence marital stability. Educational attainment also plays a crucial role; those without a high school diploma are more likely to divorce compared to college graduates. Relationship dynamics, such as showing contempt, withdrawing during conflicts, and describing the relationship negatively, are strong indicators of potential marital breakdown. Interestingly, excessive affection in the early stages of marriage can also lead to higher divorce rates, as couples may struggle to maintain such intensity over time. Daily stressors and poor communication further exacerbate these issues, highlighting the complexity of marital relationships. 
Published: Apr 19 2025, 2 amFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
