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In a remarkable discovery, geologists have identified the oldest water on Earth, estimated to be between 1.5 billion and 2.64 billion years old, found at a depth of 3 kilometers in a Canadian gold mine. Led by Professor Barbara Sherwood Lollar, the team revealed that this ancient water is not merely trapped but flows at rates of liters per minute, containing traces of life that suggest microbial activity over geological timescales. The sulfate present in the water indicates that it was produced in situ through reactions between the water and surrounding rock, rather than from modern surface sources. Sherwood Lollar even tasted the water, describing it as "very salty and bitter," significantly saltier than seawater, which aligns with its extensive age. This discovery not only sheds light on Earth's history but also has implications for the search for life beyond our planet. The findings were published in the journal Nature in 2016. 
Published: Dec 15 2025, 6 ameznews.inHigh-speed cameras have unveiled the origins of the mysterious will-o’-the-wisps, or ignis fatuus, a phenomenon that has fascinated and frightened humanity for centuries. These ethereal blue lights, often seen in wetlands, are linked to the oxidation of methane produced by decaying organic matter. While earlier theories suggested that swamp gas ignited due to phosphine, recent research identifies small electrical discharges, termed microlightning, as the ignition source. This occurs when methane bubbles, charged as they move through water, create sparks that facilitate oxidation without combustion, emitting blue-violet light instead of heat. The study highlights the role of transient electrical discharges in natural processes, suggesting that encouraging microlightning could help mitigate methane's greenhouse gas effects, as oxidizing methane produces less harmful carbon dioxide. The findings, published in the *Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences*, may offer a new perspective on the ecological significance of these enchanting lights.
Published: Dec 15 2025, 5 ameznews.inA pair of vertebrae once believed to belong to woolly mammoths and discovered in Alaska have been reclassified as whale bones, marking a significant correction in paleontological records. Initially dated to between 1,900 and 2,700 years old, these fossils were thought to represent the youngest mammoth remains ever found, despite the species' extinction in the region around 13,000 years ago. However, isotopic and DNA analyses revealed the bones belonged to a common minke whale and a Northern Pacific Right whale, raising questions about how they ended up over 400 kilometers from the ocean. Researchers speculate that ancient hunter-gatherers may have transported the bones for symbolic or practical uses, although evidence for this inland behavior is scarce. The study, published in the Journal of Quaternary Science, highlights the complexities of fossil identification and the potential for historical mix-ups in museum collections.
Published: Dec 11 2025, 10 pmeznews.inThe sight of sneakers hanging from power lines, known as "shoefiti," is a global phenomenon with various interpretations. One common theory suggests it serves as a memorial for the deceased, a practice that has evolved over millennia. However, the act can also be misinterpreted as a sign of gang territory, although experts like Snopes caution that this is more of a legend than a universal truth. Some former gang members have confirmed that in certain contexts, such as Kansas City, it can signify neighborhood marking. Additionally, the act of tossing shoes can be a form of taunting, particularly in school settings, as retrieving them can be dangerous and nearly impossible. Ultimately, the true meaning behind shoefiti often remains elusive, varying widely based on local culture and individual intent.
Published: Dec 15 2025, 4 ameznews.inArchaeologists have uncovered what is believed to be the earliest evidence of controlled fire-making by humans, dating back approximately 400,000 years, near Barnham in Suffolk, UK. A team from the British Museum discovered a patch of soil that had been repeatedly heated to over 700°C, indicating the presence of a campfire or hearth used multiple times. The site also yielded heat-cracked handaxes and rare iron pyrite, suggesting that early humans actively transported materials for fire-making. This finding challenges previous timelines, which suggested complex fire use emerged only 50,000 years ago, and indicates that early Neanderthals, rather than modern humans, were the fire masters of this era. Lead researcher Dr. Rob Davis emphasized the significance of this discovery, stating it pushes back the timeline of fire control by 350,000 years, highlighting its crucial role in human evolution and social development.
Published: Dec 10 2025, 11 pmeznews.inIn a surprising turn of events, Tom Cruise's ambitious space movie, which was set to be filmed aboard the International Space Station (ISS), has been canceled, reportedly due to political considerations. NASA had previously expressed excitement about collaborating with Cruise, with then-Administrator Jim Bridenstine highlighting the potential to inspire future generations of engineers and scientists. Directed by Doug Liman, known for _Edge of Tomorrow_, the film aimed to transcend mere gimmickry and create a lasting cinematic experience. However, sources indicate that Cruise hesitated to seek necessary permissions from the federal government, specifically not wanting to approach former President Donald Trump for support. This decision follows Cruise's earlier refusal of a Kennedy Center Honor from Trump, citing scheduling conflicts. As it stands, the project remains indefinitely shelved, leaving fans to wonder if they will ever see Cruise's daring exploits in space.
Published: Dec 13 2025, 5 ameznews.inThe often-overlooked pinky toe plays a crucial role in human mobility and balance, contrary to its reputation as a seemingly useless appendage. Podiatrist Dr. Bruce Pinker emphasizes that the pinky toe contributes to balance and propulsion during walking, functioning as part of a "tripod" system alongside the big toe and heel. Research indicates that shorter toes, including the pinky, enhance running efficiency, while sprinters may benefit from longer toes for short bursts of speed. Although some individuals can adapt to life without a pinky toe, its absence can lead to an altered gait and increased risk of falls. As humans have evolved from tree-dwelling ancestors, the pinky toe's significance in maintaining stability and facilitating movement underscores the need for greater appreciation of this small but vital part of the foot.
Published: Dec 15 2025, 2 ameznews.inA significant discovery beneath the Moon's surface reveals a large granite mass emitting heat, indicating ancient volcanic activity. Researchers, utilizing data from Chinese and American lunar orbiters, identified this heat source beneath the Compton and Belkovich craters, suggesting the presence of a previously unrecognized Earth-like volcano. The granite, which is rare outside Earth, forms deep within the crust, typically associated with volcanic activity. The study, led by Dr. Matt Siegler of the Planetary Science Institute, found that the area is 10°C warmer than its surroundings, attributed to radioactive elements rather than recent magma activity, as the last eruption occurred 3.5 billion years ago. This discovery, published in the journal *Nature*, hints at the potential for more granite deposits on the Moon and possibly elsewhere in the Solar System, reshaping our understanding of lunar geology.
Published: Dec 14 2025, 10 pmeznews.inA groundbreaking gene therapy, BE-CAR7, has shown remarkable promise in treating previously incurable cancers, particularly aggressive forms of leukemia, with 64% of patients remaining disease-free after three years. Developed by researchers at Great Ormond Street Hospital and University College London, the treatment involves modifying donor white blood cells to create "universal" cancer-fighting cells. In a recent trial involving ten patients, 82% achieved significant remission, allowing them to proceed to bone marrow transplants. Among the success stories is 16-year-old Alyssa Tapley, whose cancer has remained undetectable since her treatment. While the therapy offers hope for patients with limited options, it is not without risks, as some participants faced severe side effects. Experts emphasize the treatment's potential to revolutionize care for aggressive cancers, with further funding now available to expand its application. The findings were presented at the 67th American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting and published in the New England Journal of Medicine.
Published: Dec 09 2025, 9 pmeznews.inSeals, often celebrated for their charm as marine predators, possess nails that serve various functions, akin to human toenails. Zookeepers frequently trim these nails, particularly for species like harbor seals, which may not wear them down naturally in captivity. The nails, made of keratin, are crucial for grooming and maintaining their fur, while also aiding in climbing on surfaces like sand and ice. Interestingly, the placement of nails on fur seals appears unconventional, as they are located halfway up the flipper due to the underlying bone structure. In contrast, northern true seals have more robust claws, which they utilize for catching prey, showcasing an evolutionary adaptation that reflects their swimming style. This diversity in nail and claw functionality highlights the evolutionary history of seals, illustrating how they have adapted to their aquatic environments while retaining traits from their terrestrial ancestors.
Published: Dec 14 2025, 1 pmFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
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