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A newly described species of spider-like arachnid, _Chimerarachne yingi_, dating back 100 million years, has intrigued scientists with its unique features, including a tail-like appendage. While it shares characteristics with modern spiders, such as spinnerets and a palpal organ for sperm transfer, it also possesses a segmented abdomen and a flexible, whip-like tail, known as a flagelliform telson. This tail may have served various functions, including sensory navigation, predator distraction, or even as a defensive mechanism. Researchers utilized microscopy and 3D imaging to analyze two male fossils, contributing to the understanding of spider evolution and suggesting that spider traits developed in a mosaic fashion. Although _Chimerarachne_ is not a direct ancestor of modern spiders, it represents an early branch or close relative, highlighting the complexity of arachnid evolution. This discovery adds a fascinating chapter to the history of spiders, though it may not ease the fears of arachnophobes. 
Published: Jan 03 2026, 8 ameznews.inA recent study has identified the year 536 CE as potentially the worst time in human history, primarily due to extreme weather events that led to widespread famine. Researchers, examining ice cores from the European Alps, suggest that a volcanic eruption—likely from Iceland—created a "mystery cloud" that obscured the sun, triggering a "volcanic winter." This climatic shift resulted in crop failures across the globe, with reports of snow in summer in China and severe droughts in Peru. Historical accounts, including those from Byzantine historian Procopius, describe a pervasive dread caused by the sun's obscuration. The aftermath of this environmental catastrophe contributed to significant social upheaval, including the collapse of empires and political instability across Eurasia. The findings underscore the profound impact of climate events on human societies, marking the century following 536 CE as a particularly grim period in history.
Published: Jan 03 2026, 10 ameznews.inDNA analysis from over 100 individuals buried in Çatalhöyük's East Mound suggests that the ancient inhabitants had a matrilocal social structure, where women played a significant role in household formation. This Neolithic settlement, one of the oldest known, thrived for at least 1,200 years, yet little is known about its civilization due to a lack of written records. The research indicates that kinship ties were less relevant in burial practices, with bodies in close proximity showing only slight genetic relatedness. Dr. Eva Rosenstoick from the University of Bonn noted that female lineages were more prominent than male ones, hinting at a society where women held greater status. While the findings challenge previous notions of a matriarchal society, they do suggest that women had more influence compared to later settlements. The study, published in *Science*, also revealed that genetic diversity increased over time, likely due to extensive trade.
Published: Jan 03 2026, 7 ameznews.inIn May 2018, a statue of the Virgin Mary at a church in New Mexico reportedly began "weeping" olive oil during a noon mass on Pentecost Sunday, drawing large crowds seeking spiritual experiences. Church officials from the Roman Catholic Diocese of Las Cruces confirmed the phenomenon, with business manager Judy Ronquillo stating it occurred multiple times. Experts analyzed the liquid, finding it to be olive oil mixed with perfume, akin to chrism used in Christian rites, but the source remained unexplained. While some skeptics suggested a hoax to attract visitors, diocesan officials denied this, citing surveillance footage. Weeping statues have been a recurring phenomenon in Catholicism, with many cases in Italy involving alleged blood tears, some later debunked as hoaxes. The Church typically investigates such claims swiftly, with only a few instances receiving official recognition.
Published: Jan 03 2026, 6 ameznews.inA recent study has revealed that the occupant of one of the most extravagant Paleolithic burials, known as "Il Principe," may have endured a horrific death after being mauled by a large predator, likely a bear. Discovered in 1942 in Italy's Arene Candide Cave and dated to approximately 27,900 to 27,300 years ago, the teenage boy's grave contained opulent items such as carved antlers and mammoth ivory pendants, initially suggesting high social status. However, the boy's skeletal injuries, including a smashed collarbone and severe skull fractures, indicate a violent encounter with an animal. Remarkably, signs of healing on the bones suggest he survived for two to three days post-attack, likely succumbing to internal injuries. Researchers propose that the lavish burial may have been a ritualistic response to this traumatic event rather than a reflection of social rank, as similar burials often involve individuals with unusual injuries.
Published: Dec 29 2025, 9 pmeznews.inThe concept of "indigo children," popularized by Nancy Ann Tappe, describes a group of supposedly "highly evolved" individuals characterized by traits such as strong intuition, creativity, and a questioning nature. Advocates claim these children possess unique abilities, including psychic tendencies, and are seen as the next stage of humanity. However, critics argue that the broad characteristics attributed to indigo children often overlap with common childhood behaviors and neurological conditions like ADHD and autism. This phenomenon emerged during a time of heightened medical scrutiny and increased diagnoses of mental health disorders, leading some to view the indigo label as a way for parents to rationalize or deny their children's challenges. Experts caution that embracing the indigo identity may delay necessary treatment, emphasizing the importance of addressing genuine psychological needs rather than romanticizing atypical behaviors. Ultimately, the notion lacks scientific backing, raising concerns about its validity and potential consequences for affected children.
Published: Jan 03 2026, 4 ameznews.inIn a remarkable breakthrough, underwater photographs of the elusive Ross seal (_Ommatophoca rossii_), the smallest member of the Antarctic true seals, have potentially been captured for the first time. These seals, rarely seen by humans, are known to inhabit the dense pack ice of Antarctica, making them difficult to study. Justin Hofman, an undersea specialist with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, took the extraordinary images during a recent expedition, describing the experience as akin to an early Christmas. With an estimated population of around 40,000 mature individuals, Ross seals constitute just 1 percent of the Antarctic seal population. They are characterized by their distinctive wide faces and large eyes, and they typically reach lengths of up to 2.3 meters. While their diet remains largely unknown, they are believed to primarily consume squid, along with krill and fish, diving to depths of 100-300 meters in search of food.
Published: Jan 03 2026, 3 ameznews.inA new scientific theory suggests that damage to the brainstem may underlie both myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) and long COVID, potentially explaining the multi-system effects of these conditions. Researchers from Renegade Research in Denver propose that infections could harm connective tissue in the brainstem, leading to conditions like craniocervical instability and dysregulated intracranial pressure. This damage may disrupt vital functions, impacting the immune and autonomic nervous systems and contributing to chronic inflammation. The study outlines a seven-step pathological process beginning with infection and immune response, which could result in further complications, including reactivation of dormant viruses. Previous brain imaging studies have identified abnormalities in the brainstem of ME/CFS and long COVID patients, supporting this hypothesis. The authors hope their model will inspire new research and treatments for these historically misunderstood conditions, which have long been considered enigmatic.
Published: Dec 30 2025, 11 pmeznews.inA new study reveals that the Amazon rainforest is on the brink of a "hypertropical" climate, a condition not seen on Earth for approximately 10 million years, as intense heat and drought push the ecosystem beyond its limits. Researchers predict that by the end of this century, the region could experience prolonged hot droughts for up to 150 days a year, leading to a staggering 55% increase in tree mortality during such events. The study highlights that when soil moisture drops significantly, trees close their leaf pores to conserve water, resulting in carbon starvation and potential hydraulic collapse. This shift could severely impact the global climate, as the Amazon plays a crucial role in regulating carbon levels. Lead author Jeff Chambers emphasizes that while these conditions are alarming, they can be mitigated through effective climate action. The findings are published in the journal *Nature*.
Published: Dec 31 2025, 12 ameznews.inA recent study from Germany has revealed that including gaming as an extracurricular activity on resumes may hinder job prospects compared to traditional activities like team sports. Despite the growing popularity of gaming—61% of Americans play at least an hour weekly, with a notable increase among those over 50—the research indicates that hiring managers perceive gaming less favorably. In an experiment involving 162 participants, resumes featuring gaming were rated lower in hirability than those listing volleyball, regardless of the applicant's proficiency level. While gaming can develop valuable skills such as multitasking and problem-solving, these benefits are not yet fully recognized in professional contexts. The study highlights the need for further research into how perceptions of gaming might evolve as awareness of its workplace relevance increases. However, limitations in the study's design suggest caution in generalizing the findings. The research is published in the Journal of Personnel Psychology.
Published: Dec 30 2025, 4 amFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
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