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High levels of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) have been reported in parts of China, raising concerns reminiscent of the COVID-19 outbreak five years ago. HMPV, a single-stranded RNA virus, causes cold- and flu-like symptoms, with most cases being mild, though it can lead to severe respiratory issues in some individuals. First identified in 2001, HMPV has been circulating among humans for decades and is not a novel virus. The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention has noted a rise in flu-like illnesses, with HMPV being the second-leading cause of respiratory infections among children in the country. Experts suggest that the current outbreak may be a seasonal peak rather than a new pandemic threat, emphasizing the importance of transparency and data sharing from China to monitor the situation effectively. Enhanced disease surveillance may also be uncovering previously undetected cases. 
Published: Jan 22 2025, 5 pmeznews.inIn a groundbreaking study, Chinese scientists have discovered over 7,000 previously undocumented microbe species in the Mariana Trench, the deepest part of the world's oceans. Conducted aboard the deep-sea submersible _Fendouzhe_ during 2021, the research involved 33 dives to depths ranging from 6,000 to 10,900 meters (19,685 to 35,761 feet). The findings reveal a unique ecosystem in the hadal zone, with microbes exhibiting specialized adaptations to extreme pressure and cold. Notably, the study also identified the hadal amphipod (_Hirondellea gigas_) and the record-holding hadal snailfish (_Pseudoliparis swirei_). Genetic analysis indicated that some microbes possess smaller, efficient genomes for thriving under pressure, while others have larger, adaptable genomes. The researchers suggest that the novel genes found in these microorganisms could aid in biodiversity conservation efforts. The study is published in the journal *Cell*, highlighting the potential of these deep-sea discoveries.
Published: Mar 07 2025, 8 ameznews.inA scuba diver off the coast of Oahu, Hawaii, recently captured the loudest sounds of humpback whales singing, showcasing their vocal prowess. Mark Healey, who filmed the underwater spectacle, noted it was the most intense whale song he had ever encountered. Humpback whales, known for their elaborate songs, primarily use these vocalizations for mating purposes, with males being the primary singers. Interestingly, even calves participate, making distinct sounds to signal their need for milk. Research indicates that whale songs adhere to Zipf’s law, a principle of human language, suggesting an efficient communication system among these marine mammals. Each year, approximately 12,000 humpbacks migrate to Hawaii's warmer waters from November to May to mate and raise their young, providing opportunities for the public to observe these majestic creatures.
Published: Mar 07 2025, 6 ameznews.inSeventy-one percent of the Earth is covered by ocean, yet much of the seafloor remains unmapped. The Seabed 2030 initiative, led by the Nippon Foundation-GEBCO, aims to map the entire ocean floor by 2030, despite significant technical, financial, and political challenges. Recent advancements have enabled the mapping of 217,560 square kilometers across 14 countries using satellite-derived bathymetry, significantly reducing costs to approximately $2 per square kilometer. Victor Vescovo, a prominent explorer, is spearheading efforts to further lower costs and improve efficiency through automated vehicles equipped with advanced sonar technology. With around 300 million square kilometers still unmapped, Vescovo emphasizes the importance of this endeavor for navigation, climate modeling, and environmental understanding. While the goal of a complete map within five years may be ambitious, technological innovations suggest that a global seafloor map could soon be within reach.
Published: Mar 07 2025, 5 ameznews.inQuantum computers are poised to transform computational modeling, leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics to perform tasks that would take traditional supercomputers billions of years. Despite ongoing challenges in their development, the Zuchongzhi-3, a superconducting quantum prototype with 105 qubits, has recently claimed a significant milestone in "quantum supremacy." Chinese researchers assert that Zuchongzhi-3 can execute a Random Circuit Sampling (RCS) task in mere minutes, a feat that would take the second most powerful supercomputer, Frontier, nearly 6 billion years. This achievement reportedly surpasses the capabilities of Google's quantum processor, Sycamore, by a factor of one million. However, while these advancements are notable, practical applications for quantum computing remain limited, prompting Google to launch a $5 million competition to identify real-world uses. The findings are detailed in the journal *Physical Review Letters*.
Published: Mar 05 2025, 10 pmeznews.inA recent image of a "square structure" on Mars has sparked widespread discussion, particularly after endorsements from figures like Elon Musk and podcaster Joe Rogan on social media. Captured by the Mars Global Surveyor in 2001, the image shows a square-like feature that has led to speculation about potential alien settlements. However, experts caution that the image has been altered and that the formation is likely a natural geological feature, shaped by weather and erosion. This phenomenon, known as pareidolia, occurs when the human brain interprets random patterns as familiar shapes. Historical parallels exist, such as the 19th-century claims of Martian canals, which were later debunked. While the allure of extraterrestrial life is compelling, scientists emphasize the need for rigorous investigation to rule out natural explanations before jumping to conclusions about life beyond Earth.
Published: Mar 05 2025, 1 ameznews.inNASA has announced the shutdown of two scientific instruments on its Voyager 1 and Voyager 2 spacecraft to extend their missions as they approach the end of their operational lives after nearly 50 years in space. Both spacecraft, which have traveled farther from Earth than any other human-made objects, are experiencing power limitations due to the decay of their plutonium-powered systems. Voyager 1 has already faced issues, including a malfunctioning thruster and a repeating data pattern, while Voyager 2 has also encountered communication problems. To conserve power, NASA will deactivate Voyager 1's cosmic ray subsystem and Voyager 2's low-energy charged particle instrument, with the latter scheduled for shutdown on March 24. Despite these challenges, NASA aims to keep the spacecraft operational into the 2030s, as they continue to provide valuable data from the edge of the Solar System.
Published: Mar 07 2025, 12 ameznews.inNASA's Lunar Trailblazer mission, aimed at mapping water on the Moon's surface, is facing significant challenges after the spacecraft lost communication shortly after its launch aboard a SpaceX Dragon rocket on February 27. Part of NASA's Small Innovative Missions for Planetary Exploration (SIMPLEx) program, the mission seeks to enhance understanding of the Moon's water cycle and identify potential resources for future crewed missions. Despite the setback, telemetry data suggests the spacecraft may be in low power mode and slowly spinning, with hopes that it could eventually re-establish contact as its solar panels receive sunlight. Although it has missed its initial opportunity to engage its thrusters for lunar orbit, NASA is exploring alternative maneuvers. Nicky Fox, associate administrator of the Science Mission Directorate, emphasized the team's commitment to restoring communication, highlighting the mission's high-risk, high-reward nature in pursuit of groundbreaking lunar science.
Published: Mar 07 2025, 12 ameznews.inAs the quest to combat aging intensifies, many are turning to collagen supplements, which claim to restore youthful skin by replenishing the body's most abundant protein. Collagen, essential for skin structure and elasticity, diminishes with age, leading to wrinkles and sagging. While some studies, including a 2023 meta-analysis, suggest that hydrolyzed collagen can improve skin hydration and elasticity, the evidence remains inconclusive due to small sample sizes and potential biases in research. Furthermore, there is no guarantee that ingested collagen targets the skin specifically. Experts caution that collagen supplements are not FDA-regulated, raising concerns about their safety and efficacy. Instead of relying on supplements, individuals are encouraged to protect their existing collagen through sun protection, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and avoiding smoking. Consulting healthcare professionals before starting any supplement regimen is advisable, especially for those with specific health conditions.
Published: Mar 07 2025, 1 ameznews.inA newly identified species of titanosaur, named _Chadititan calvoi_, has been discovered by palaeontologists in the Anacleto Formation of northern Patagonia. This long-necked dinosaur, which translates to "titan of the salt," is characterized as a "gentle giant" with a slender build, distinguishing it from other titanosaurs. Its name pays homage to the salt flats where it was found, alongside a wealth of rare fossils, including the first records of tropical land snails _Neocyclotidae_ and _Leptinaria_. Remarkably, over 90% of the recovered fossils were freshwater turtles, a stark contrast to similar sites in North America and Europe, where turtles typically comprise less than half of the fauna. This research, part of a National Geographic-funded project, aims to enhance understanding of the Cretaceous ecosystem in Patagonia, revealing unique environmental characteristics as continents drifted apart. The findings are detailed in the *Revista del Museo Argentino Ciencias Naturales*.
Published: Mar 06 2025, 7 pmeznews.inRecent research suggests that dark skin, hair, and eyes were prevalent among Europeans until the Iron Age, challenging previous assumptions about the timeline of lighter pigmentation. Originating from Africa, early humans had dark features, which began to lighten as they migrated to northern Eurasia, where paler skin offered an evolutionary advantage for vitamin D production in low-sunlight areas. Professor Guido Barbujani, a study author, noted that while light skin was first observed around 15,000 years ago in the Caucasus, dark features persisted much longer than previously believed. Analysis of DNA from 348 ancient individuals revealed that dark or intermediate skin colors remained common well into the Copper and Iron Ages. The study indicates that while light-skinned individuals began to appear in the Bronze Age, the majority of Europeans were still dark-skinned during much of prehistory, with dietary factors potentially influencing this endurance.
Published: Mar 06 2025, 10 pmFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
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