eznews.inNew research challenges the long-held view of _Homo habilis_ as the first human species to dominate the food chain, suggesting instead that these early hominins were more prey than predator. Approximately 2 million years ago, _H. habilis_ is believed to have scavenged from the kills of large carnivores, but a study analyzing remains from Olduvai Gorge indicates that they were likely hunted by leopards. Using AI to examine bite marks on two _H. habilis_ specimens, researchers found a greater than 90% probability that these individuals were preyed upon by leopards, contradicting previous assumptions that they were merely scavenged by hyenas. This revelation implies that _H. habilis_ may not have been the apex scavenger it was once thought to be, with _Homo erectus_ emerging as a more likely candidate for the first hominin to successfully compete with large predators. The findings are detailed in the Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences. 
Published: Sep 17 2025, 9 pmeznews.inIn recent years, scientists have been held to stringent ethical standards, largely in response to past experiments that raised serious moral concerns. Notable among these is the Little Albert experiment (1920), where psychologists John B. Watson and Rosalie Rayner conditioned an infant to fear fluffy objects, causing potential long-term psychological harm. Similarly, Stanley Milgram's obedience study (1961) revealed that participants would administer what they believed were dangerous electric shocks to others under authority pressure, with 65% delivering the maximum voltage. The infamous Tuskegee Syphilis Study (1932-1972) involved 600 Black men who were misled about their health, suffering severe consequences as researchers observed untreated syphilis. Lastly, the Stanford prison experiment (1971) demonstrated how quickly individuals could conform to abusive roles, leading to psychological trauma. These historical cases underscore the necessity for ethical oversight in research involving human subjects.
Published: Sep 17 2025, 10 pmeznews.inIn a groundbreaking achievement, scientists have decoded the genome of the sweet potato, revealing its complex genetic structure for the first time. This significant milestone, announced in September 2025, is crucial as the sweet potato is a vital global crop known for its resilience in extreme climates and minimal need for pesticides. Researchers focused on the "Tanzania" variety, successfully phasing its 90 chromosomes into six sets, a feat complicated by the vegetable's hybrid nature as a "segmental allopolyploid." This unique genomic architecture contributes to the sweet potato's adaptability and hardiness, allowing it to thrive in diverse environments. The findings, published in *Nature Plants*, pave the way for future enhancements in crop yield and nutritional content, with potential applications extending to other staple crops like wheat and bananas. The study underscores the importance of understanding the genetic makeup of key food sources in addressing global food security challenges.
Published: Sep 17 2025, 8 pmeznews.inA new study from the University of Maine challenges the traditional "March of Progress" depiction of human evolution, suggesting that our species is not at its pinnacle but rather in the midst of a significant evolutionary shift driven by culture. Researchers Tim Waring and Zachary Wood propose that humans are evolving towards a state of eusociality, akin to ant colonies, where cultural groups function as superorganisms. This shift, they argue, is evident in societal responses to crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, where communities acted collectively rather than as isolated individuals. The study highlights that cultural evolution is outpacing genetic evolution, with advancements in technology and social organization enabling humans to solve problems more effectively. Waring emphasizes that our future may increasingly depend on the adaptability of our societies rather than our genetic makeup, marking a transformative phase in human evolution. The findings are detailed in the journal BioScience.
Published: Sep 17 2025, 4 pmeznews.inA new study suggests that ancient humans may have developed long-distance hunting weaponry over 300,000 years ago, a topic that has sparked considerable debate among anthropologists. Researchers analyzed wooden spears from sites in Clacton-on-Sea, Schöningen, and Lehringen, finding that the point of balance in the Schöningen spears indicated they were designed for throwing, while the Lehringen spear was more suited for thrusting. The study challenges previous methods of determining spear function based solely on tip cross-sections, which often overlap between thrusting and throwing designs. Instead, the researchers argue that measurements of length and balance are more reliable indicators. Their findings, supported by experiments with spear replicas, suggest that the technological capability for projectile hunting existed at least 300,000 years ago, marking a significant advancement in prehistoric weaponry. The study is published in the Journal of Paleolithic Archaeology.
Published: Sep 17 2025, 6 pmeznews.inIn many European and Asian bathrooms, you may encounter toilets equipped with two flush buttons, a design aimed at promoting water conservation. The larger button typically activates a "full flush" for solid waste, while the smaller button triggers a "half flush" for liquid waste, reflecting the adage, "if it’s brown, flush it down; if it’s yellow, let it mellow." This dual-flush system is a response to longstanding concerns about water usage, particularly in regions like Australia, where single-flush toilets can consume up to 12 liters per flush. In contrast, dual-flush models can reduce this to as little as 3 liters, potentially saving households around 25,000 liters of water annually. So, next time you face a dual-flush toilet, remember: choose wisely to help conserve this precious resource.
Published: Sep 17 2025, 5 pmeznews.inAs autumn approaches, many people embrace the season with cozy comforts, but for arachnophobes, it signals the onset of "spider season." From late August to mid-October, house spider sightings surge in Europe and North America as male spiders, having reached maturity, actively seek mates. This increase in visibility is not due to a population boom but rather heightened activity among existing spiders, facilitated by warm weather that keeps windows open. Experts predict that 2025 will see a particularly busy spider season, especially in the UK, where a hot summer has led to a rise in insect populations, providing ample food for spiders. Dr. David Gee from the University of Derby notes that increased competition among males results in more roaming behavior. While natural repellents are largely ineffective, it's important to remember that most spiders are harmless and play a crucial role in pest control.
Published: Sep 17 2025, 11 ameznews.inRecent claims circulating online and in tabloids suggest that Nostradamus predicted Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine would lead to World War III. One passage, interpreted as foreseeing a "Great War" lasting seven months, has sparked concern, particularly given the potential for nuclear escalation involving major powers like the U.S. and Russia. Nostradamus's earlier predictions, including a famine so severe that people might resort to cannibalism, have also been linked to current global tensions. However, experts argue that Nostradamus's prophecies are often vague and can be retroactively applied to various events, a phenomenon known as "postdiction." This means that while his writings may seem prophetic in hindsight, they lack specificity and accuracy when considered beforehand. Ultimately, the consensus is that Nostradamus did not predict the current geopolitical crisis involving Ukraine and Russia.
Published: Sep 13 2025, 12 ameznews.inRussia has announced plans to send humans to the Moon by 2031, as stated by Vladimir Solntsev, CEO of the rocket company Energia, in a report by TASS. The ambitious timeline includes an unmanned spacecraft orbiting the Moon in 2026, followed by another unmanned mission to practice landing in 2027, and a further flight in 2029. The initiative aims to establish a lunar space station and potentially a base on the Moon, supported by the development of a new heavy-lift rocket and a manned spacecraft named Federation. While the timeline has shifted from previous goals, with a 2029 manned landing initially proposed, Russia is now collaborating with the European Space Agency and possibly NASA. Additionally, discussions are ongoing regarding the future of the International Space Station, with a potential extension of its operational life until 2028.
Published: Sep 17 2025, 10 ameznews.inFlying foxes, or _Pteropus_, are among the largest bats globally, boasting a cat-sized body and an impressive wingspan that can rival that of eagles. This genus includes around 65 species, primarily found across East Africa, the Indian Ocean, South and Southeast Asia, Australia, and some Pacific islands. Unlike many bats, flying foxes do not use echolocation; instead, they rely on keen eyesight and smell to forage for nectar, blossoms, and ripe fruit, playing a crucial role as pollinators and seed dispersers in their ecosystems. Notably, they have evolved a high-sugar diet without the risk of diabetes due to their unique metabolism. However, nearly half of these species face conservation challenges, particularly those on islands threatened by human encroachment. While generally shy, flying foxes can carry viruses like Hendra, which pose risks to humans and horses. The giant golden-crowned flying fox, once classified as _Pteropus_, is now recognized as the largest bat, highlighting the diversity and vulnerability of these remarkable creatures.
Published: Sep 16 2025, 9 pmFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
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