eznews.in
Research has pinpointed the Zagros Mountains, spanning modern-day Iran, northern Iraq, and southeastern Turkey, as the primary location where Homo sapiens and Neanderthals interbred during the Late Pleistocene. This mountainous region, characterized by its rich biodiversity and varied topography, provided an ideal environment for both species to coexist and interact. The findings align with archaeological evidence, as the area is home to numerous sites containing remains of both Neanderthals and early humans. The significance of this interbreeding is profound, as it has contributed to the genetic makeup of contemporary non-African populations, with 1 to 4 percent of their genomes derived from Neanderthals. These inherited genes influence various traits, including physical characteristics and susceptibility to certain health conditions. The study, published in *Scientific Reports*, sheds light on the complex history of human evolution and interspecies relationships. 
Published: Jun 21 2025, 12 ameznews.inHave you ever felt a strange sensation when touching your belly button? This peculiar feeling, which can trigger a tingling in the groin or an urge to urinate, has a scientific explanation. The belly button, or umbilicus, is connected to nerve fibers that relay information to the spinal cord, including signals from the bladder and urethra. According to Dr. Christopher Hollingsworth from NYC Surgical Associates, stimulating the belly button can trick the brain into interpreting these signals, mimicking the sensation of needing to pee. However, this odd feeling only occurs when pressure is applied deeply into the belly button, as the internal lining, known as the parietal peritoneum, is highly sensitive. A gentle touch won't elicit the same response, but a deeper poke can lead to this unexpected and curious sensation.
Published: Jun 16 2025, 5 pmeznews.inOn March 20, 1995, a coordinated attack by the doomsday cult Aum Shinrikyo in Tokyo's underground system marked a grim milestone in terrorism, as five men released sarin gas, resulting in 13 deaths and thousands of injuries. The cult, founded in the mid-1980s by Chizuo Matsumoto, who later proclaimed himself a divine messenger, evolved from a yoga group into a violent organization advocating for an apocalyptic vision. Despite initial failures in their chemical weapon efforts, the attack demonstrated their capacity for mass destruction, igniting global fears about non-state actors wielding chemical weapons. In the aftermath, international efforts to strengthen chemical weapon regulations intensified, leading to the establishment of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons in 1997. While Aum Shinrikyo's leaders were executed, the group persists under new names, raising ongoing concerns about the potential resurgence of chemical attacks in the future.
Published: Jun 19 2025, 7 ameznews.inA recent study published in the journal *Brain, Cognition and Mental Health* suggests that the parasite *Toxoplasma gondii*, commonly spread by cats, may enhance the attractiveness of its human hosts. The research involved 35 infected individuals and 178 non-infected controls, with "raters" assessing their perceived attractiveness based on various metrics, including body mass index and facial symmetry. Results indicated that infected participants were viewed as healthier and more attractive, with infected men displaying more symmetrical faces and women having lower BMIs and more sexual partners. This aligns with previous findings in rats, hinting that the parasite might alter host characteristics to boost mating opportunities. While some studies suggest increased testosterone levels in infected males could explain these changes, the authors emphasize the need for further research to unravel the complex interactions between parasites and human hosts, which could have significant implications for understanding sexually transmitted pathogens.
Published: Jun 20 2025, 6 pmeznews.inThe world's largest sand battery has been launched in Pornainen, southern Finland, marking a significant advancement in renewable energy storage. Developed by Polar Night Energy for Loviisan Lämpö, this towering structure, measuring 13 meters tall and 15 meters wide, is designed to cut local heating emissions by nearly 70 percent, equating to a reduction of approximately 160 tons of carbon-equivalent emissions annually. Capable of delivering 1 megawatt of thermal power and storing up to 100 megawatt-hours of energy, the sand battery utilizes around 2,000 tonnes of crushed soapstone to absorb excess heat from renewable sources. This innovative system addresses the intermittent nature of solar and wind energy by storing it for later use, thereby enhancing grid stability and supporting Finland's goal of climate neutrality by 2035. Industry leaders emphasize the technology's potential to integrate electricity and heat production while reducing reliance on combustion-based energy sources.
Published: Jun 19 2025, 7 ameznews.inA recent analysis of data from NASA's Gravity Recovery and Interior Laboratory (GRAIL) mission has revealed significant differences between the Moon's nearside and far side, extending beyond surface appearances to the interior structure. Researchers found that the nearside is warmer and more geologically active, with a mantle that may be 2-3% "softer" and temperatures 100 to 200°C higher than the far side, likely due to radioactive materials. This study, led by Dr. Ryan Park, produced the most detailed gravitational map of the Moon to date, highlighting variations in topography, crustal thickness, and heat-producing elements. These findings not only enhance our understanding of the Moon's volcanic history but also have practical implications for future lunar exploration, as the detailed gravity map will aid in developing navigation systems essential for upcoming missions. The study is published in the journal Nature.
Published: Jun 21 2025, 9 ameznews.inA new genetic analysis of ancient teeth has challenged the long-held belief that Native Americans descended from the Jōmon people of Japan, who lived from around 14,000 to 300 BCE. Previously, archaeological evidence suggested that the First Peoples arrived in North America from Japan approximately 15,000 years ago, using the Bering Land Bridge. However, a study published in *PaleoAmerica* led by Professor Richard Scott found minimal genetic links between Native Americans and the Jōmon population, indicating that the former likely originated from Siberia instead. The research revealed that only 7 percent of Jōmon teeth samples were associated with non-Arctic Native Americans. Additionally, the discovery of ancient human footprints in New Mexico, dating back 23,000 to 21,000 years, suggests that humans migrated to the Americas much earlier than previously thought, further undermining the Japan-origin theory. Dr. Scott emphasized that the Jōmon are an unlikely source for Indigenous Americans.
Published: Jun 21 2025, 10 ameznews.inIn Madison, Wisconsin, a pair of sandhill cranes have formed an unusual family unit by adopting a Canada gosling alongside their own chick. The adoption occurred after heavy rains submerged the cranes' nest, prompting them to settle in an abandoned Canada goose nest, where the gosling hatched. Local photographer Alan Ginsberg noted the immediate bond formed between the gosling and the cranes, with the mother crane caring for both chicks. Birdwatchers have flocked to witness this rare interspecies family since they were first spotted in May. While such adoptions are uncommon, previous instances have been documented, raising questions about the gosling's future, given the differing dietary habits of the two species. Despite potential challenges, Ginsberg reports that the family has adapted well, often foraging together, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of nature.
Published: Jun 20 2025, 10 pmeznews.inIn Florida's Everglades, invasive Burmese and Indian pythons are creating a complex ecological challenge, as scientists have discovered that many of these snakes are hybrids resulting from interspecies breeding. Originally introduced in the 1970s, the python population surged after Hurricane Andrew in 1992, leading to a dramatic decline in native wildlife, including a 99.3% drop in raccoon numbers. A 2018 genetic study by the US Geological Survey revealed that at least 13 captured pythons were hybrids, suggesting these snakes are better adapted to their environment than their parent species. This phenomenon, known as hybrid vigor, may enhance their survival and spread. Despite ongoing efforts to control the python population, their effective camouflage and secretive behavior complicate management strategies. Researchers are now leveraging genetic tools to better understand these invasive predators and their impact on Florida's ecosystems.
Published: Jun 21 2025, 2 ameznews.inEarth's crust is in a constant state of flux, as illustrated by a new one-minute video showcasing the movement of tectonic plates over the past 1.8 billion years, a mere 40% of the planet's history. Produced by Australian and Chinese geologists, the video begins in the 21st century and traces the formation of supercontinents like Pangaea and Rodinia, challenging the notion of the "boring billion" period, previously thought to be geologically stable. Current geological activity continues, with Zealandia recognized as a submerged continent and East Africa's rift potentially leading to the creation of a new ocean in the next 5 to 10 million years. Looking ahead, scientists predict the emergence of a new supercontinent in about 200 million years, with scenarios including "Amasia," where continents cluster around the North Pole, or "Aurica," where they gather at the equator, hinting at a dramatically different Earth in the future.
Published: Jun 18 2025, 12 ameznews.inA young black bear in Michigan, which had been struggling with a plastic lid stuck around its neck since it was a cub two years ago, has finally been freed by state wildlife biologists. The bear first came to the attention of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in 2023 when a trail camera captured images of it with the blue lid. After several unsuccessful attempts to locate the bear, it was spotted again in late May 2023, prompting DNR biologists to set a baited trap. On June 2, the bear was anesthetized, and the lid was safely removed, revealing an abscess and scarring on its neck, but it was otherwise healthy, weighing around 50 kilograms (110 pounds). DNR officials highlighted the importance of adhering to regulations regarding bait container openings to prevent wildlife injuries, urging the public to secure their garbage to protect bears from similar hazards.
Published: Jun 20 2025, 8 pmFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
India
World
Economy
Science
Health
Showbiz
Contact