eznews.inResearch from the University of East Anglia reveals that polar bears are genetically adapting to climate change, though this development raises concerns about their survival. Analyzing blood samples from 17 polar bears in Greenland, scientists found significant differences in gene activity between those in warmer southeastern regions and their colder northeastern counterparts. The study highlighted changes linked to heat stress, aging, and metabolism in the warmer population, suggesting a rapid genetic response to environmental challenges. Dr. Alice Godden, the lead researcher, emphasized that while this adaptation offers a glimmer of hope, it does not mitigate the species' risk of extinction. The findings underscore the urgent need for conservation efforts and global action to reduce carbon emissions. Additionally, the study points to broader trends, such as polar bears moving inland and interbreeding with grizzlies, further complicating their future. The research is published in the journal Mobile DNA. 
Published: Dec 13 2025, 1 ameznews.inIn a regrettable incident in 1964, graduate student Donald R. Currey inadvertently felled Prometheus, a bristlecone pine that would later be confirmed as the oldest tree ever dated, estimated at 4,900 years old. Currey, intrigued by the tree's potential for his research on glacial features in Great Basin National Park, sought to extract core samples to analyze its growth rings. However, when traditional coring methods failed, he obtained permission from the US Forest Service to cut down the tree. It was only after counting the rings from the cross-section that Currey realized the monumental age of Prometheus, which had been alive since before the rise of ancient civilizations. The tree's demise left only a stump at its original site, while a slab of Prometheus can be viewed at the Great Basin Visitor Center, serving as a poignant reminder of the loss of this ancient natural wonder.
Published: Dec 12 2025, 11 pmeznews.inRecent discussions in the scientific community have highlighted the fascinating phenomenon of tails in celestial bodies, particularly in relation to the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS, which has developed both a tail and a rare anti-tail during its passage through our Solar System. However, comets are not alone in this characteristic; Mercury also possesses a sodium tail, created by its thin atmosphere being influenced by solar radiation. Interestingly, Earth has its own tail, known as the "magnetotail," which extends at least 2 million kilometers into space. This tail is formed by the Earth's magnetosphere, which traps plasma and is shaped by the solar wind. While the magnetotail is a permanent feature, its size and shape can fluctuate, especially during solar events like coronal mass ejections. Despite extensive exploration by spacecraft, many mysteries about Earth's magnetotail remain, due to its vast and complex nature.
Published: Dec 09 2025, 8 pmeznews.inSheep possess a unique rectangular pupil shape, unlike the round pupils found in humans, which plays a crucial role in their survival as prey animals. This distinctive feature, shared with other ruminants like goats and deer, enhances their panoramic vision, allowing them to see nearly 360 degrees around them—an essential adaptation for spotting predators. According to Marty Banks, a principal investigator at UC Berkeley, the elongated pupil lets in more light, improving visibility in the direction of potential threats. Additionally, the narrow vertical shape sharpens horizontal contours, aiding sheep in navigating their environment while fleeing danger. While most predators have vertical or circular pupils, the mongoose stands out with a pupil shape similar to that of sheep, defying typical classifications in the animal kingdom. This diversity in pupil shapes reflects the varied evolutionary adaptations among species for survival.
Published: Dec 12 2025, 2 pmeznews.inA comprehensive study involving nearly half of France's population has revealed that young and middle-aged individuals vaccinated with mRNA COVID-19 vaccines are 74% less likely to die from the virus. Furthermore, vaccinated individuals showed a 25% lower risk of dying from any cause over four years compared to their unvaccinated counterparts. Conducted by researchers from the French National Agency for the Safety of Medicines and Health Products, the study analyzed health data from 28.7 million people, focusing on those aged 18 to 59 who received their first mRNA vaccine dose between May and October 2021. The findings contradict recent claims made by FDA officials regarding vaccine-related deaths, reinforcing the safety of mRNA vaccines. While the study's results suggest a significant mortality benefit associated with vaccination, the authors acknowledge potential confounding factors that may influence these outcomes. The research is published in JAMA Open.
Published: Dec 08 2025, 11 pmeznews.inBathing habits have varied significantly throughout history and across cultures, from the communal baths of ancient Rome to the avoidance of water in early-modern Europe due to health fears. In contemporary society, regular bathing is often seen as essential. Notably, Amou Haji, dubbed the "world's dirtiest man," lived for over 50 years without bathing, believing that water would harm him, a conviction stemming from personal trauma. His death shortly after his first wash in 2022 sparked speculation about the effects of his long-standing hygiene practices, though age was likely a factor. Other historical figures, like Kailash Singh and Nathaniel Bentley, also eschewed bathing for personal reasons, highlighting a complex relationship with cleanliness. Experts warn that neglecting hygiene can lead to skin issues and infections, while excessive washing can also cause skin problems, suggesting a balanced approach to personal hygiene is crucial.
Published: Dec 12 2025, 9 ameznews.inA population of spiny-tailed iguanas on Clarion Island, off the coast of Mexico, has been vindicated from the label of invasive species following genetic research that reveals their true origins. Previously thought to have been introduced by humans, studies show these reptiles diverged from their mainland relatives approximately 425,000 years ago, likely arriving via driftwood or vegetation. This revelation is significant, as there were discussions about exterminating the iguanas to rectify what was believed to be a human error. Ironically, the introduction of non-native species like sheep and pigs had led to the misinterpretation of the iguanas as invasive, as their visibility increased when vegetation was cleared. The findings underscore the importance of genetic research in conservation efforts, highlighting the need for accurate assessments to protect native species. The study was published in the journal *Ecology and Evolution*.
Published: Dec 12 2025, 10 ameznews.inA remarkable discovery at the renowned Hell Creek fossil site in North Dakota has revealed a mosasaur tooth, suggesting that these ancient marine predators adapted to freshwater environments without losing their impressive size. The tooth, unearthed by Trissa Ford in 2022, was initially thought to belong to a _Tyrannosaurus rex_ but was identified by marine reptile expert Dr. Nathan Van Vranken as belonging to a mosasaur from the _Prognathodontini_ subfamily. This finding raises intriguing questions about the mosasaur's habitat, as Hell Creek is nearly 2,000 kilometers from the ocean. Dr. Melanie During, part of the research team, posits that these creatures evolved to thrive in river systems, potentially preying on dinosaurs. The study highlights the adaptability of mosasaurs, drawing parallels to modern-day crocodiles, and suggests that the Loch Ness Monster could be more akin to a mosasaur than previously thought. The findings are detailed in a recent publication in BMC Zoology.
Published: Dec 12 2025, 8 ameznews.inA professor from the Max Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence, Wolfgang Goymann, explores the duality of human nature, likening it to ancient deities that embody both creation and destruction. He argues that while humans possess unparalleled intelligence, this has not shielded us from folly, making us potentially the smartest yet most reckless species. Goymann highlights that intelligence is not exclusive to humans, citing the cognitive abilities of insects like honey bees and crows. He raises concerns about humanity's role in causing a sixth mass extinction, noting that previous extinctions were also instigated by living organisms. Goymann posits that our unique cognitive abilities allow us to knowingly contribute to global destruction, yet he remains optimistic, suggesting that redirecting resources from military spending to environmental solutions could avert catastrophe. His reflections, published in the journal *Ethology*, underscore the urgent need for humanity to leverage its intelligence for the greater good.
Published: Dec 11 2025, 4 pmeznews.inAs the festive season approaches, many chocolate lovers may notice that the chocolate from Advent calendars tastes different from regular chocolate bars. This discrepancy often arises because Advent calendar chocolates can contain higher amounts of vegetable oils, sometimes using a cheaper alternative known as compound chocolate, which replaces cocoa butter with less expensive fats like coconut or palm oil. While this allows for easier molding into festive shapes, it can result in a waxier texture and altered flavor compared to traditional chocolate. In the United States, strict regulations mean that products containing vegetable oils cannot be labeled simply as "chocolate," while the European Union has more lenient rules, permitting up to 5% vegetable oil in chocolate products. Consequently, chocolate enthusiasts are advised to check ingredient lists, especially when purchasing cheaper Advent calendars, to understand what they are consuming.
Published: Dec 12 2025, 4 amFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
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