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Bermuda, an island formed from a volcano active 30-35 million years ago, presents a geological puzzle as it lacks the typical features of volcanic islands. Researchers Dr. William Frazer and Professor Jeffrey Park have discovered a unique subsurface structure beneath Bermuda, revealed through seismic wave analysis, which suggests a layer of less dense material that supports the island without the presence of a traditional mantle plume. This layer, approximately 20 kilometers thick and 50 kilograms per cubic meter less dense than the surrounding mantle, allows Bermuda to float and causes the crust to bend upwards. Unlike other volcanic islands, Bermuda shows no recent volcanic activity or elevated heat flow, leading the authors to propose that its geological support is enduring. Their findings, published in Geophysical Research Letters, challenge existing theories about mantle plumes and suggest that Bermuda's formation may be linked to its unique volcanic rock composition and mantle characteristics. 
Published: Dec 16 2025, 12 ameznews.inA biologist at William & Mary, Jon Allen, has discovered that his long-time lab companion, a ribbon worm named “Baseodiscus the Eldest” or “B,” is at least 23 years old, potentially nearing 30, making it the oldest recorded ribbon worm. Allen first adopted B in 2005 during his doctoral studies at the University of North Carolina, rescuing it from a renovation-related fate. The worm, which measures 90 centimeters (3 feet), has been a staple in Allen's lab, often showcased to students. Curious about its age, Allen sent a tissue sample for analysis, confirming its species as _Baseodiscus punnetti_. This finding significantly extends the known lifespan of ribbon worms, a largely understudied group, and could enhance understanding of their ecological roles. Allen emphasized the importance of this research in filling knowledge gaps about the longevity of marine invertebrates, which can rival that of some of the oldest known animals, like the giant ocean quahog clam.
Published: Dec 19 2025, 11 pmeznews.inThe exact date of Jesus Christ's birth remains uncertain, with December 25 being a traditional celebration lacking contemporary evidence. Scholars suggest that Jesus was likely born between 6 and 4 BCE, based on discrepancies in the Gospel accounts of Matthew and Luke regarding historical events like the reign of Herod the Great and the census of Quirinius. The earliest mention of December 25 as Christ's birth date appears in the 3rd century CE, and the celebration of Christmas did not emerge until several centuries later. This date coincides with the Roman festival of Sol Invictus, celebrating the sun's rebirth after the winter solstice, and aligns with various pre-Christian winter solstice traditions across Europe and the Near East. Early Christians often adapted these existing celebrations, infusing them with new theological significance.
Published: Dec 20 2025, 12 ameznews.inIn a recent discussion with European Space Agency astronauts, the topic of favorite fictional spacecraft emerged alongside serious space exploration missions. Veteran astronauts Samantha Cristoforetti and Alexander Gerst expressed a preference for the USS Enterprise-D from *Star Trek: The Next Generation*, highlighting its potential for adventure and discovery. New astronaut Rosemary Coogan chose the Millennium Falcon from *Star Wars*, while fellow astronaut Pablo Álvarez Fernández opted for Rocinante from *The Expanse*. A non-scientific poll among fans revealed the top five fictional spaceships: Rocinante in fifth place, followed by Serenity from *Firefly*, the TARDIS from *Doctor Who*, and the Millennium Falcon in second. Topping the list was the Enterprise-D, which garnered 24% of the votes, celebrated for its comfort and style despite its unrealistic elements. This light-hearted exchange underscores the enduring fascination with space travel in popular culture.
Published: Dec 19 2025, 10 pmeznews.inOxpeckers, the small birds often seen riding on the backs of Africa's megafauna, including rhinos, zebras, and hippos, have a complex relationship with their hosts that challenges traditional views of symbiosis. While it was long believed that these birds primarily help by eating ticks, recent studies reveal a more nuanced dynamic. Researchers found that oxpeckers do not significantly reduce tick populations and can actually harm rhinos by pecking at their wounds, slowing healing. However, a 2020 study indicated that the presence of red-billed oxpeckers significantly enhances the ability of black rhinos to detect approaching threats, acting as an alarm system for the visually impaired animals. This relationship illustrates a delicate balance of costs and benefits, as rhinos tolerate the birds' harmful behaviors in exchange for crucial protective advantages in a landscape where they face increasing dangers from humans.
Published: Dec 19 2025, 11 pmeznews.inComet 3I/ATLAS, the third known interstellar visitor, will reach its closest point to Earth today, December 19, at a distance of 270 million kilometers (168 million miles). Although this is still far from Earth, it marks the closest approach the comet will ever make as it journeys out of the Solar System. The comet, which peaked in brightness in late October, is currently visible in the constellation Leo, near the star Rho Leonis and close to Regulus, the brightest star in the constellation. Observers can spot it using a telescope, as it appears as a faint dot with a magnitude of 11.2. Ideal viewing conditions are enhanced by the new Moon, which minimizes moonlight interference. For those unable to observe it directly, major observatories and The Virtual Telescope Project will provide online coverage, including a livestream starting December 20 at 4 am UTC.
Published: Dec 19 2025, 6 pmeznews.inNew research suggests that the tragic victims of Pompeii may have been dressed inappropriately for a summer disaster, potentially indicating that the eruption of Mount Vesuvius on August 24, 79 CE, occurred on a cooler day than previously thought. Archaeologist Llorenç Alapont noted that the heavy wool garments worn by the victims, consisting of a tunic and cloak, were ill-suited for the heat of summer, raising questions about the actual date of the eruption. While Pliny the Younger documented the event, the study of 14 plaster casts reveals that both those who died indoors and outdoors wore similar heavy clothing. This has led some scholars to speculate that the eruption may have taken place in autumn, with evidence such as charcoal graffiti dated October 17 and remnants of seasonal foods suggesting a different timeline. However, without further historical evidence, the traditional August date remains unchallenged.
Published: Dec 19 2025, 7 pmeznews.inA comprehensive analysis of nearly 20,000 pregnancies in Canada has underscored the significant benefits of COVID-19 vaccination for both pregnant individuals and their babies. Conducted during the Delta and Omicron variant waves, the study found that vaccinated pregnant people faced a 60% lower risk of hospitalization and a 90% reduced likelihood of requiring critical care compared to their unvaccinated counterparts. Additionally, vaccination was linked to a decreased risk of preterm birth, with the most pronounced benefits observed in those vaccinated during pregnancy. Dr. Deborah Money from the University of British Columbia emphasized the overwhelming evidence supporting the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines in pregnancy, while lead author Dr. Elisabeth McClymont highlighted the unique opportunity for preventive health during this vulnerable period. The findings bolster public health recommendations for vaccination, amidst ongoing debates about vaccine guidance in various regions, including the U.S.
Published: Dec 19 2025, 11 ameznews.inOn November 24, 1974, Donald Johanson and his graduate student Tom Gray stumbled upon a groundbreaking discovery at Hadar, Ethiopia, while mapping the area. Initially finding only fragments of antelope and monkey fossils, their fortunes changed when Johanson spotted a small bone that turned out to be part of a hominid. Over the following weeks, they unearthed around 40% of a skeleton belonging to a previously unknown species, later named Australopithecus afarensis, and affectionately nicknamed "Lucy" after The Beatles' song "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds." This discovery, which revealed that Lucy walked upright, significantly advanced our understanding of human evolution, suggesting bipedality preceded brain expansion. Despite initial skepticism from some in the scientific community, Lucy has become an iconic figure in anthropology, symbolizing a pivotal moment in the study of our ancestral lineage. As the 50th anniversary of her discovery approaches, researchers continue to explore the implications of her existence.
Published: Dec 18 2025, 11 ameznews.inA recent brain-imaging study has revealed that the psychoactive compound psilocybin, found in magic mushrooms, induces a significant shift in brain activity, making it less organized and more random. This chaotic connectivity, observed in seven participants who underwent multiple MRI scans before, during, and after their psychedelic experience, may contribute to enhanced cognitive flexibility, potentially explaining the therapeutic effects of psychedelics in treating depression and other mental health issues. Researchers noted that while individual brain connectivity patterns were distinct prior to ingestion, they became indistinguishable post-trip, suggesting a temporary loss of personal identity. The study highlighted a persistent loosening of connectivity within the default mode network (DMN) for up to three weeks after the experience, which is associated with a reduction in habitual mental chatter and an increased ability to reshape thought patterns. The findings, published in *Nature*, underscore the potential of psychedelics as a lasting therapeutic intervention.
Published: Dec 19 2025, 9 amFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
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