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A promising oral vaccine against norovirus, known as VXA-G1.1-NN, has shown positive results in early clinical trials targeting older adults, who are particularly vulnerable to severe complications from the virus. Unlike traditional injections, this pill delivers a harmless viral vector carrying a norovirus protein directly to the small intestine, potentially enhancing immune responses at mucosal surfaces where the virus typically enters the body. The trial involved 65 participants aged 55 to 80, with results indicating a strong antibody response lasting up to 210 days and no serious adverse events reported. Given the challenges of norovirus transmission, particularly in communal settings, the development of this vaccine could significantly reduce outbreaks. Vaxart plans to initiate a Phase 1 trial for a second-generation vaccine pill, marking a hopeful advancement in combating this highly contagious infection. The findings were published in *Science Translational Medicine*. 
Published: Mar 14 2025, 6 pmeznews.inA recent study suggests that the genetic ability of East Asian adults to digest milk without adverse effects may have originated from Neanderthals, predating the human consumption of dairy. Researchers found a unique haplotype associated with lactase persistence (LP) in East Asians, a group typically known for high lactose intolerance. This genetic variant, which affects the lactase gene (_LCT_), likely spread through ancient hunter-gatherer populations due to its immune system benefits rather than lactose digestion. The haplotype underwent positive selection between 25,000 and 28,000 years ago, long before dairy farming began, indicating its initial purpose was unrelated to milk consumption. The study also highlights that this haplotype influences other genes, such as _DARS1_, crucial for immune cell development, suggesting that ancient adaptations may have been driven by factors like famine or pathogen exposure. The findings are detailed in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
Published: Mar 13 2025, 9 pmeznews.inIf extraterrestrial civilizations exist within reach of Earth's signals, they may inadvertently receive the opening ceremony of the 1936 Olympic Games, which includes a speech by Adolf Hitler. Senior SETI astronomer Seth Shostak noted that while this wasn't the first broadcast, its high frequency could allow it to penetrate the ionosphere. This scenario echoes the fictional narrative in the film _Contact_, where aliens respond to humanity with a Hitler transmission, akin to a stranger regurgitating a chapter of _Mein Kampf_ in response to a greeting. However, Shostak reassured that the likelihood of aliens detecting such weak signals is minimal. Meanwhile, discussions on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit have sparked fears about potential alien communications, ranging from ominous warnings to the "Zoo Hypothesis," which suggests advanced civilizations might be observing humanity from afar, waiting for us to reach a certain level of maturity before making contact.
Published: Mar 12 2025, 10 pmeznews.inA recently released video by the US Navy shows a spherical unidentified flying object (UFO) measuring 2 meters (6 feet) in diameter, capable of reaching speeds of up to 254 kilometers per hour (158 miles per hour), before it dives into the ocean. The Pentagon has confirmed the authenticity of the footage, which was captured in 2019, reportedly from the USS Omaha's Combat Information Center off the coast of San Diego. Filmmaker Jeremy Corbell, who shared the video online, describes the object as an advanced transmedium vehicle, suggesting it can travel through both air and water—an ability not currently matched by any known military or civilian technology. Following its sighting, a submarine search was conducted, but the object had vanished. The concept of flying submarines has been explored in the past, but significant technical challenges have hindered development.
Published: Mar 13 2025, 10 pmeznews.inRecent claims circulating online and in tabloids suggest that Nostradamus predicted Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine would lead to World War III. These interpretations reference a passage that ominously states, "seven months the Great War, people dead of evil-doing," which some speculate could relate to escalating global conflict. Additionally, Nostradamus is said to have foreseen a famine so severe that it would drive humanity to cannibalism, with soaring wheat prices as a catalyst. However, experts argue that Nostradamus's predictions are often vague and open to interpretation, allowing for "postdictions" that seem relevant only after events occur. Critics highlight that his prophecies lack specificity and accuracy, rendering them more a reflection of human fears than genuine foresight. Ultimately, the consensus is that Nostradamus did not predict the current geopolitical landscape, including the situation in Ukraine or the potential for World War III.
Published: Mar 11 2025, 10 pmeznews.inIn a groundbreaking study, scientists have inserted a human "language gene" variant into mice, revealing significant insights into the evolution of vocal communication. The modified mice exhibited distinct vocalization patterns, with higher-pitched squeaks and varied sound selections when calling for their mothers, compared to their unaltered counterparts. Notably, adult male mice produced more complex high-frequency calls when courting females. This research centers on the NOVA1 gene, which, while present in various animals, has a unique variant in humans that alters RNA binding related to vocalization. The findings suggest that this genetic change may have conferred advantages in communication, potentially influencing the evolutionary success of modern humans over Neanderthals and Denisovans, who lacked this variant. The study, published in *Nature Communications*, underscores the intricate relationship between genetics and the development of complex speech.
Published: Mar 14 2025, 1 ameznews.inWhen you close your eyes, you may notice swirling patterns and flashes of light, known as "phosphenes." These visual sensations occur even in darkness due to the ongoing activity of retinal cells, which generate weak internal signals that mimic light. Katrina Schmid, an Associate Professor at Queensland University of Technology, explains that the brain interprets these random signals as visual images, leading to the perception of colors and patterns that aren't actually present. While phosphenes are typically harmless, they can sometimes indicate underlying retinal issues or neurological conditions, particularly if the patterns change or become more pronounced. Applying pressure to the eyeball can also induce phosphenes, but caution is advised. If you experience persistent or altered visual disturbances, consulting a medical professional is recommended.
Published: Mar 13 2025, 6 pmeznews.inThis week, groundbreaking research revealed that scientists have successfully inserted a human "language gene" into mice, significantly enhancing their vocalizations and providing insights into the evolution of communication. In related studies, reading science articles has been shown to help maintain mental acuity as people age, countering cognitive decline. Meanwhile, a global mission led by the Nippon Foundation has resulted in the discovery of 866 new marine species, including various types of sharks and corals, highlighting the rich biodiversity of Earth's oceans. Additionally, a historical examination of mercury's use as a medicinal treatment sheds light on its toxic effects, exemplified by the tragic case of poet John Keats, who may have suffered from the very "cures" intended to heal him. These developments underscore the ongoing exploration and understanding of both human health and the natural world.
Published: Mar 16 2025, 3 ameznews.inChina is poised to explore the Earth's mantle with its newly launched drilling ship, _Meng Xiang_, which translates to "dream." Officially entering service in November 2024, the vessel can drill up to 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) beneath the seabed, surpassing the capabilities of Japan's _Chikyū_ and the now-scrapped US ship _JOIDES Resolution_. Measuring 179.8 meters (589 feet), _Meng Xiang_ can operate independently for 120 days and supports a crew of 180, alongside nine laboratories focused on various scientific disciplines. This ambitious mission aims to unlock secrets of the Earth's interior, enhancing our understanding of plate tectonics and oceanic crust evolution. Xu Zhenqiang, director of the China Geological Survey, emphasized the potential for groundbreaking discoveries that could reshape our knowledge of geology and marine life. The project also signifies China's ascent as a scientific superpower, challenging the US's historical dominance in oceanic research.
Published: Mar 14 2025, 9 pmeznews.inA palaeontologist's appeal for dinosaur footprint-bearing rocks near Biloela, Australia, has yielded significant discoveries, including a remarkable collection of prints found in the foyer of Biloela State High School. Dr. Anthony Romilio from the University of Queensland noted that while Australia lacks dinosaur bones from before the mid-Jurassic, it is rich in earlier dinosaur footprints. Many prints were lost due to coal mining, but some were salvaged, including those at the school, which had been overlooked for two decades. The prints, which belong to small, plant-eating dinosaurs, were documented for educational purposes by a local geologist. Romilio and his team identified 66 prints from 47 individuals in a small area, creating casts and 3D scans for future research. Despite the missed educational opportunities, the excitement among former students and teachers may inspire a renewed interest in palaeontology. The findings are detailed in the journal *Historical Biology*.
Published: Mar 15 2025, 5 pmFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
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