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A new study suggests that _Homo sapiens_ may have survived in Europe and North Asia while Neanderthals went extinct due to their use of ochre sunscreen and tailored clothing, which protected them from increased UV radiation during a period of weakened Earth's magnetic field known as the Laschamps excursion, around 41,000 years ago. Researchers from the University of Michigan and international colleagues found that this magnetic dip likely exposed the ozone layer to harmful cosmic rays, leading to higher skin cancer risks and weakened immune systems. The timing of this event coincided with significant changes in _H. sapiens_ clothing and the widespread use of ochre, which provided UV protection. While previous theories focused on competition or conflict between the two species, this new perspective highlights the importance of adaptive strategies in human survival. The findings, published in *Science Advances*, underscore the need for long-term preservation of scientific research in the face of potential future magnetic field shifts. 
Published: Apr 17 2025, 12 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 ameznews.inIn a groundbreaking moment for marine biology, researchers have captured live footage of a juvenile colossal squid in its natural habitat for the first time, after a century of elusive sightings. Filmed at a depth of 600 meters off the South Sandwich Islands on March 9, the 30-centimeter squid was recorded by the Schmidt Ocean Institute’s research vessel, _Falkor (too)_, using a remotely operated vehicle. Dr. Kat Bolstad, a cephalopod biologist, expressed excitement over the discovery, noting that previous encounters with the species, _Mesonychoteuthis hamiltoni_, were limited to remains found in the stomachs of predators. The colossal squid, which can grow up to 7 meters and weigh 500 kilograms, is part of the glass squid family, characterized by its transparent body. This significant find coincides with the 100th anniversary of the species' formal identification, marking a milestone in our understanding of deep-sea life.
Published: Apr 16 2025, 6 pmeznews.inIn a groundbreaking discovery, researchers have documented a rare event in evolutionary history where a marine bacterium, UCYN-A, has become an organelle within its algal host, _Braarudosphaera bigelowii_. This marks the first instance of a eukaryote containing an organelle capable of fixing nitrogen, a process crucial for life. The findings, detailed in two recent studies, reveal that UCYN-A and its algal host have co-evolved over approximately 100 million years, with evidence showing that UCYN-A imports proteins from the alga, a hallmark of organelle development. This "nitroplast" could provide insights into nitrogen fixation's role in ocean ecosystems and potential agricultural applications. The research builds on nearly three decades of work, beginning with the identification of UCYN-A in the Pacific Ocean, and suggests that similar organisms may exist, promising further exploration in the field. The studies were published in the journals *Cell* and *Science*.
Published: Apr 19 2025, 12 amFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
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