eznews.in
Recent studies have revealed that both Mercury and the Moon are undergoing significant shrinkage due to thermal contraction, while the situation for Earth is more complex. Mercury, the smallest planet in the Solar System, has been observed to have contracted by approximately 7 kilometers since the 1970s, with evidence of ongoing cooling and the formation of thrust faults, akin to wrinkles on an aging apple. Similarly, the Moon has shown signs of contraction, with thrust faults indicating a reduction of about 100 meters in recent geological history. Data from Apollo-era seismometers suggest that the Moon remains tectonically active, producing moonquakes as it continues to cool. In contrast, Earth experiences a negligible mass loss of around 50,000 tonnes annually due to atmospheric gas escape, while its overall radius changes minimally at a rate of 0.1 millimeters per year, indicating that it is not shrinking in the same manner as its celestial neighbors. 
Published: Mar 18 2025, 6 ameznews.inA recent study has highlighted the distinct differences between the Indian rhinoceros (_Rhinoceros unicornis_) and the Sundaic rhinoceros, also known as the Javan rhino (_Eurhinoceros sondaicus_), leading to the latter's reclassification as a separate genus. The Sundaic rhino, critically endangered and confined to Java's Ujung Kulon peninsula, features a slender skull and specialized teeth for softer vegetation, while females lack a horn. In contrast, the Indian rhino, listed as vulnerable, is larger, with a robust body and teeth adapted for tougher grasses, and is found across India, Nepal, and Myanmar. The study suggests that environmental pressures have driven the two species to evolve independently, resulting in notable behavioral differences; Sundaic rhinos are solitary, whereas Indian rhinos form social groups. This refined classification aims to enhance conservation strategies for these endangered species, as detailed in the journal ZooKeys.
Published: Mar 15 2025, 6 pmeznews.inA recent study from Johns Hopkins University has explored the effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component of cannabis, challenging its historical classification as a hallucinogen. Researchers conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial where volunteers inhaled varying doses of vaporized THC. One participant, identified as H.C., experienced significant impairment after inhaling 25 milligrams of THC, struggling to respond to questions and maintain consciousness. He later reported hallucinogenic sensations, including visual distortions and an out-of-body experience, although these effects differed from those typically associated with classic hallucinogens. The study suggests that the presence of other cannabis components, such as cannabidiol (CBD), may mitigate some of THC's adverse effects, indicating a complex interaction within the cannabis plant that warrants further investigation. The findings highlight the need to reassess the understanding of cannabis and its effects on cognition and perception.
Published: Mar 18 2025, 5 pmeznews.inA viral claim on social media suggests that individuals with rhesus-negative blood may be descendants of aliens, a theory popularized by a TikTok video featuring a clip from the 2009 series *Ancient Aliens*. Proponents argue that extraterrestrial intervention could explain the rarity of this blood type, which is found in only about 15% of the global population. While the origins of rhesus-negative blood remain unclear, scientists have not found evidence supporting the alien theory, which is often framed as part of the "Aliens of the Gaps" argument. Instead, genetic mutations and natural selection are more plausible explanations for its existence. Historical context reveals that the Rh factor was identified in the 1930s, and while some speculate about its potential health implications, such as resistance to certain parasites, no definitive benefits have been established. Ultimately, the notion of alien ancestry lacks scientific backing and is overshadowed by more rational genetic explanations.
Published: Mar 17 2025, 5 ameznews.inA team of biologists has proposed that iguanas reached the South Pacific islands of Fiji and Tonga by rafting on natural debris from the Americas, covering an astonishing 8,000 kilometers (5,000 miles). This journey, the largest known transoceanic voyage by any land vertebrate, challenges previous theories suggesting Asian or Antarctic origins. Research led by Simon Scarpetta from the University of San Francisco revealed that Fijian iguanas belong to a lineage closely related to North American desert iguanas, with their divergence occurring around 30 million years ago, coinciding with the formation of the islands. The study suggests that storms may have dislodged iguanas and their eggs, allowing them to float across the Pacific, a feat previously thought improbable. The findings highlight the remarkable adaptability of iguanas and underscore the importance of such oceanic crossings in populating remote volcanic islands. The research is published in the *Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences*.
Published: Mar 18 2025, 3 ameznews.inTouching your belly button can evoke a peculiar tingling sensation, often leading to an urge to urinate. This phenomenon is linked to the belly button, or umbilicus, which connects to nerve fibers that relay signals to the spinal cord, including sensations from the bladder and urethra. According to Dr. Christopher Hollingsworth from NYC Surgical Associates, the parietal peritoneum, the internal lining at the belly button, is highly sensitive and shares nerve pathways with those of the bladder. Consequently, when pressure is applied to the belly button, it can trick the brain into interpreting these signals as originating from the bladder, resulting in the unusual feeling. However, this sensation is only experienced when one presses deeply into the belly button, as light touches do not stimulate the same nerve fibers.
Published: Mar 13 2025, 11 ameznews.inIn March 2013, a tragic incident unfolded in Seffner, Florida, when 37-year-old Jeff Bush was swallowed by a sinkhole that opened beneath his bedroom. The sinkhole, approximately 6 meters (20 feet) wide and deep, was heard by his brother Jeremy and his partner Rachel, who rushed to the scene after hearing Jeff's screams. Despite Jeremy's desperate attempt to rescue him, he was pulled to safety by a deputy sheriff as the ground continued to collapse. Rescuers were unable to locate Bush's body, which, along with bedroom furniture, was lost in the sinkhole. The following day, engineers deemed the site too dangerous for further rescue efforts, leading to the demolition of the house and filling of the sinkhole with gravel. Florida's geology, rich in limestone, makes it particularly prone to such sinkholes, which occur when underground caverns collapse.
Published: Mar 15 2025, 12 ameznews.inIn the past two months, four commercial airplane crashes have occurred, three of which were fatal, raising concerns about aviation safety. However, data from the US National Transportation Safety Board indicates that January and February 2025 have seen fewer aviation accidents than in previous years, with flying remaining the safest mode of travel. Between 2005 and 2023, global aviation accidents dropped significantly, and fatalities in commercial crashes decreased from 824 to 72. Experts attribute the perception of increased crashes to statistical anomalies and the pervasive nature of social media, which amplifies attention on rare incidents. Recent cuts to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have sparked debate about potential impacts on safety, though experts suggest these changes are unlikely to have immediate effects. While the recent incidents have drawn scrutiny, the overall trend shows that flying is safer than ever, with the odds of a fatal accident remaining exceedingly low.
Published: Mar 14 2025, 1 pmeznews.inA recent study challenges the stereotype of the "lazy stoner," revealing that chronic cannabis users do not exhibit reduced motivation or effort due to their consumption. Researchers surveyed 260 regular cannabis users, who reported using the drug recreationally at least three times a week, through a smartphone app that assessed their motivation levels over a week. The findings indicated that these users chose challenging tasks at similar rates whether they were high or not, suggesting that their motivation remains intact. Interestingly, those who consumed cannabis more frequently were often more inclined to tackle difficult challenges. While the study noted that regular use could lead to impulsivity and reduced conscientiousness, it found no evidence of a "weed hangover" affecting motivation the following day. The research, published in *Social Psychological and Personality Science*, highlights that cannabis use is often associated with positive emotions rather than the negative traits commonly attributed to it.
Published: Mar 18 2025, 5 ameznews.inCancer remains a leading global health challenge, responsible for 9.7 million deaths in 2022, with lung cancer being the most lethal, claiming 1.8 million lives worldwide. In the U.S., it accounted for approximately 130,180 deaths. Other significant causes of cancer mortality include colon and rectum, liver, breast, and stomach cancers. While breast cancer has a high mortality rate, it also boasts a five-year survival rate of 99.3%, contrasting with lower survival rates for pancreatic and liver cancers. Disparities in cancer mortality are evident, with men facing higher rates than women, and non-Hispanic black men experiencing the highest mortality. However, advancements in treatment and lifestyle changes have contributed to a 1.7% annual decline in cancer deaths in the U.S. between 2013 and 2022, with promising new therapies and personalized vaccines currently in development.
Published: Mar 17 2025, 9 pmFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
India
World
Economy
Science
Health
Showbiz
Contact