eznews.inWhen learning a new language, many learners feel overwhelmed by the rapid speech of native speakers, leading to the impression that some languages are inherently "faster." Research supports this notion, with a 2011 study from the University of Lyon ranking Japanese as the fastest language, producing 7.84 syllables per second, closely followed by Spanish. However, a 2019 study revealed that while Japanese speakers articulate quickly, their syllables convey less information compared to languages like English, which packs more meaning into fewer syllables. This suggests a trade-off between speed and information density, with all languages balancing out at a rate of about 39 bits per second. Critics argue that the evidence for significant differences in speech tempo is inconclusive, and many studies have focused primarily on European and East Asian languages, overlooking the vast diversity of global languages. 
Published: Jan 05 2026, 2 pmeznews.inThe Antarctic midge (_Belgica antarctica_), measuring just 2-6 millimeters, holds the title of the largest terrestrial animal in Antarctica, a continent known for its extreme cold and harsh conditions. Despite its small size, this flightless insect has adapted remarkably to survive in one of the planet's most inhospitable environments, where food sources are scarce. The midge feeds on mosses and plants that thrive on nutrients from the droppings of local wildlife, such as penguins and seals. Over time, these insects have evolved to endure freezing temperatures, entering a state of quiescence for up to nine months each year. Their life cycle includes a brief adult phase, primarily focused on reproduction. However, the midge now faces additional challenges from human-induced environmental changes, including the presence of microplastics in their systems, raising concerns about their future survival.
Published: Jan 01 2026, 9 pmeznews.inResearchers at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) in Switzerland have pioneered a novel field known as "necrobotics," utilizing the exoskeletons of langoustine tails—leftover from culinary waste—as components for robotic systems. These crustacean exoskeletons, made of chitin, offer a unique combination of rigidity and flexibility, enabling complex movements ideal for robotics. The team created a robotic gripper capable of lifting objects up to 500 grams and a swimming robot with flapping fins, demonstrating the potential of repurposing food waste into functional machines. This sustainable approach not only reduces waste but also leverages natural designs honed by evolution, suggesting that such bio-hybrid robots may outperform traditional metal and plastic counterparts. The findings, which highlight the innovative integration of sustainability in robotics, are detailed in the journal *Advanced Science*.
Published: Jan 05 2026, 12 pmeznews.inAstronomers have revised their understanding of Uranus, suggesting it may contain significantly more methane than previously believed. Traditionally classified as an ice giant, Uranus and its neighbor Neptune are thought to be composed mainly of icy materials like water, methane, and ammonia surrounding a rocky core. However, new models indicate that the interior of Uranus could consist of at least 10% methane, potentially even more than water, challenging earlier assumptions based on the elemental composition of the solar system's outer regions. The research posits that chemical reactions involving carbon-rich planetesimals during the planet's formation may have produced this methane. This finding raises questions about the planets' formation in a region rich in organic materials but poor in water. To confirm these theories, further observations of Uranus are essential, as the planet has only been visited once by NASA's Voyager 2.
Published: Jan 05 2026, 7 ameznews.inMicroplastics have infiltrated even the most remote regions of the Earth, including Antarctica, where researchers have discovered microplastic fragments in the digestive tracts of wild midge larvae, _Belgica antarctica_. This finding, reported by a team led by Jack Devlin from the University of Kentucky, marks the first evidence of microplastics in this unique insect, which is crucial for the Antarctic ecosystem. Although ingestion was rare, detected in fewer than 7% of the larvae, it highlights the pervasive nature of plastic pollution. The study revealed that while the midges' survival rates remained stable even at high plastic concentrations, their fat reserves were compromised, raising concerns about their long-term health and resilience amid climate change. The research underscores the urgent need for further investigation into the ecological impacts of microplastics in pristine environments, as Antarctica's relative purity is increasingly threatened by human activity.
Published: Dec 31 2025, 8 ameznews.inIn the early 20th century, the allure of radioactive products captivated the public, following French physicist Henri Becquerel's discovery of uranium's radioactive properties in 1896. This fascination led to the creation of various items, including Radithor, a radium-infused drink marketed as a health tonic. American sportsman Eben Byers, who consumed over 1,400 bottles of Radithor after an injury, initially believed it alleviated his pain. However, Byers soon experienced severe health issues, including weight loss, headaches, and extensive dental decay, ultimately leading to the removal of most of his jaw. Byers' case highlighted the dangers of radiation, prompting regulatory scrutiny in the 1930s. Tragically, he died at 51, with his body severely damaged by radiation exposure. The inventor of Radithor maintained its safety until his own death from bladder cancer, with posthumous examinations revealing extensive internal damage from radiation.
Published: Jan 05 2026, 7 ameznews.inLandslides, defined as the movement of rock, debris, or earth down a slope, are a significant geological phenomenon that can occur anywhere, including on Mars. They result from an imbalance between gravity and friction, often triggered by factors such as heavy rainfall, erosion, or human activities. Notably, volcanic activity can exacerbate landslides, leading to destructive events like lahars. The largest landslide in recorded history occurred at Mount St. Helens in Washington State in 1980, following a magnitude-5 earthquake. This catastrophic event released immense pressure, resulting in a lateral blast that devastated the surrounding area, killing dozens and transforming the landscape. The landslide, with a volume of 2.5 km³, traveled at speeds of up to 180 mph, destroying infrastructure and altering river systems, effects of which are still felt today as sediment continues to impact local ecosystems and flood management.
Published: Jan 01 2026, 9 ameznews.inNew research from Queensland, Australia, suggests that long COVID may not be a distinct condition but rather part of a broader spectrum of post-viral syndromes. A team led by Queensland's Chief Health Officer will present findings at an upcoming conference, indicating no significant difference in lasting symptoms among over 5,000 participants who tested positive for COVID-19, influenza, or had respiratory issues of unknown origin. Approximately 16% reported ongoing symptoms a year later, with 3.6% experiencing a moderate-to-severe impact on daily life. Critics of the study argue that its methodology lacks sufficient detail to support claims that long COVID is indistinguishable from other post-viral syndromes. Nonetheless, the research highlights the need for increased awareness and funding for post-viral conditions, coinciding with the second annual International Long COVID Awareness Day, which aims to confront the challenges faced by those affected.
Published: Jan 05 2026, 3 ameznews.inA recent study has revealed a significant increase in cases of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) linked to COVID-19, with incidence rates now 15 times higher than before the pandemic. Researchers from the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that individuals with a history of COVID-19 are nearly eight times more likely to develop ME/CFS. The study, part of the RECOVER Initiative, assessed 11,785 participants post-infection, revealing that 4.5% met the diagnostic criteria for ME/CFS, compared to just 0.6% of uninfected individuals. Symptoms such as post-exertional malaise, dizziness, and cognitive impairments were prevalent among those affected, mirroring those seen in long COVID patients. Dr. Suzanne D. Vernon emphasized the need for healthcare providers to recognize and manage post-COVID ME/CFS effectively, highlighting the urgency for further research into the condition's links to viral infections.
Published: Jan 05 2026, 3 ameznews.inA groundbreaking study from Stanford Medicine has established a link between the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease affecting over 5 million people globally. The research reveals that while EBV infects fewer than 1 in 10,000 B cells in healthy individuals, this figure rises to 1 in 400 in lupus patients. The study identifies a "molecular switch" gene activated by EBV in infected B cells, triggering a cascade of pro-inflammatory responses that lead to the immune system attacking the body’s own tissues. Senior author Dr. William Robinson emphasized the significance of this finding, suggesting it could apply to all lupus cases. However, the study notes that not all EBV-infected individuals develop lupus, indicating that specific strains of the virus may play a role in this transformation. The findings are published in *Science Translational Medicine*.
Published: Jan 05 2026, 4 amFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
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