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Researchers from the University of Oxford have identified seven universal moral principles that underpin human cooperation, suggesting these behaviors are biologically ingrained through evolution. The study, published in *Current Anthropology*, posits that these morals—helping kin, aiding one's group, reciprocating, bravery, deferring to superiors, dividing resources fairly, and respecting prior possession—are essential for societal success and conflict resolution. By analyzing ethnographic reports from 60 cultures, the researchers concluded that these principles are universally regarded as morally good, countering the views of philosophers like John Locke, who doubted the existence of a common ethical code. Dr. Oliver Scott Curry, a lead author of the study, emphasized the potential for these findings to foster mutual understanding across cultures, highlighting a shared commitment to cooperation and the common good. 
Published: Aug 12 2025, 8 pmeznews.inA recent study has explored the interactions between dolphins and whales, aiming to determine whether these encounters are playful or merely instances of harassment. Researchers analyzed 199 documented interactions involving 19 species, primarily through social media footage and two animal-borne videos from humpback whales in Australia. Co-author Olivia Crawley noted the intrigue of observing behaviors such as bow riding and close touches. The findings suggest that approximately 25% of these interactions can be classified as positive or playful, particularly among humpback whales, where about a third of encounters exhibited friendly behaviors. Notably, eight instances of deliberate touching were recorded, with interactions continuing below the water's surface. While negative interactions were rare, the study highlights the complexity of social behaviors in marine mammals, emphasizing the importance of understanding these dynamics within marine ecosystems. The research is published in Discover Animals. 
Published: Aug 13 2025, 12 pmeznews.inA new study highlights the challenges in researching long COVID due to the absence of a standardized definition for the condition, which affects individuals experiencing prolonged symptoms after recovering from COVID-19. The research, which analyzed studies from the US, UK, Netherlands, Sweden, and Puerto Rico, found that varying definitions led to prevalence estimates ranging from 15% to 42% among a cohort of 4,575 patients. This inconsistency complicates comparisons across studies and may hinder understanding of the condition, according to lead researcher Lauren Wisk from UCLA. The lack of an objective diagnostic test further complicates matters, as diagnoses rely on patient-reported symptoms, risking mislabeling and misguiding care. The authors suggest that a more concise list of symptoms could enhance clarity and improve research outcomes. The findings are published in JAMA Network Open, underscoring the urgent need for a unified approach to long COVID. 
Published: Aug 13 2025, 1 pmeznews.inIn a surprising case reported in the ACG Case Reports Journal, a 59-year-old man undergoing a routine colonoscopy was found to have a ladybug residing in his colon. The clinical team, led by researchers from Wolters Kluwer Health, noted that the ladybug, identified as _Harmonia axyridis_, likely survived the digestive process due to the rapid transit facilitated by a polyethylene glycol laxative used for bowel preparation. This unusual discovery raises questions about how the insect entered the man's body, with the authors suggesting it may have slipped in while he was sleeping. The case highlights the unexpected findings that can occur during colonoscopies, as gastrointestinal specialist Dr. Keith Siau noted similar instances involving cockroaches. Such occurrences remind us of the intricate relationship between humans and nature, even within our own bodies. 
Published: Aug 13 2025, 2 ameznews.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 clean water would harm him. His death shortly after his first wash in 2022 sparked speculation about the effects of his hygiene practices, although he was 94 years old. Other historical figures, like Kailash Singh, who abstained from bathing for 35 years, and Nathaniel Bentley, known as "Dirty Dick," illustrate the extremes of non-washing. Experts warn that neglecting hygiene can lead to skin issues and infections, while excessive washing can also cause skin problems. Ultimately, the frequency of bathing should be tailored to individual needs, balancing cleanliness with skin health. 
Published: Aug 09 2025, 10 ameznews.inThe world's freshwater ecosystems are home to some truly fearsome creatures, rivaling the horrors of the deep sea. Among them is the giant freshwater stingray (_Urogymnus polylepis_), which can grow over 2 meters wide and weigh up to 300 kilograms, boasting a formidable barb that can inflict painful wounds. Another unsettling inhabitant is the diving bell spider (_Argyroneta aquatica_), the only spider that lives almost entirely underwater, using a silk structure to breathe. The Goliath tigerfish (_Hydrocynus goliath_), known for its impressive size and razor-sharp teeth, poses a threat to smaller prey, though it rarely targets humans. Lastly, the notorious candiru catfish has a reputation for allegedly invading human orifices, though this is largely exaggerated; however, some species have been known to latch onto humans, causing painful injuries. These creatures remind us that terror can lurk in both salt and fresh waters. 
Published: Aug 13 2025, 11 ameznews.inScientists have identified over 300 previously uncharted underwater canyons off the coast of Antarctica, utilizing advanced high-resolution bathymetric data. This research, conducted by teams from University College Cork and the University of Barcelona, revealed 332 submarine trenches—five times more than earlier studies had documented. Some of these canyons plunge more than 4,000 meters into the ocean, with the most intricate systems located in East Antarctica, characterized by complex, branching structures. In contrast, the western canyons are shorter and steeper. This disparity suggests that the East Antarctic Ice Sheet is significantly older than its western counterpart. The findings underscore the importance of these canyons in ocean circulation and marine ecosystems. The study highlights the need for continued exploration of the seafloor, as much of it remains unmapped, which could lead to further discoveries and enhance climate change models. The research is published in the journal Marine Geology. 
Published: Aug 12 2025, 5 pmeznews.inPapahānaumokuākea, hailed as “the poster child for the future,” is the world’s largest marine conservation area, renowned for its thriving wildlife, including the largest albatross colony. Recent expeditions by NOAA Ocean Exploration have unveiled remarkable discoveries in its deep-sea environments, including coral and sponge habitats, and a significant geological feature—a volcanic dike at a depth of 2,040 meters. The team utilized a “map and dive” strategy to explore these depths, revealing diverse marine life such as large glass sponges, deep-sea lizardfish, and potentially new jellyfish species. Notably, the expedition also located the wreck of the USS _Yorktown_. These findings underscore the ecological importance of marine protected areas, not only for local biodiversity but also for their broader environmental impact. For more details on these discoveries, visit the NOAA website. 
Published: Aug 13 2025, 3 ameznews.inA recent study by psychologist Karl R. Gegenfurtner from Giessen University reveals how supermarkets use colored net bags to manipulate consumer perception of fruit, particularly oranges. The red or orange nets enhance the appearance of the fruit's color, making unripe oranges look more appealing and ripe by masking their greenness. This phenomenon, known as the confetti illusion, suggests that our brains perceive colors based on their surrounding context, leading to a deceptive visual experience. For instance, Gegenfurtner recounted purchasing what appeared to be ripe oranges, only to find them green once removed from the net. The study highlights that this marketing strategy is not limited to oranges but extends to other fruits and vegetables, as vendors have long recognized the impact of color on consumer behavior. While the effectiveness of this tactic on sales remains unverified, the findings are published in the journal i-Perception. 
Published: Aug 13 2025, 4 ameznews.inA significant decline in hospitalizations due to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) among infants has been reported for the 2024-25 season, attributed to the introduction of two new preventive measures. RSV is the leading cause of hospital admissions for infants in the U.S., with 2-3% of babies under six months typically affected each year. However, recent data from the CDC indicates that the number of hospitalizations for infants under eight months fell by approximately 46% compared to pre-pandemic years, with a notable 52% decrease in those under two months. The increase in protection, from 30% to 66% of infants receiving either a maternal vaccine or nirsevimab, underscores the effectiveness of these interventions. While hospitalization rates rose among older children, the findings reinforce the importance of early vaccination strategies to safeguard vulnerable infants during RSV season. 
Published: Aug 13 2025, 3 ameznews.inItaly's ambitious plan to construct the world's longest suspension bridge, connecting the mainland to Sicily, has taken a significant step forward with the government's final approval on August 6. The €13.5 billion ($15.8 billion) Strait of Messina Bridge will span 3,300 meters (10,827 feet) and feature two towering supports, each 399 meters (1,309 feet) high. Designed to accommodate three traffic lanes in each direction, along with rail tracks and sidewalks, the project also includes extensive infrastructure improvements, such as new roads and underground stations. Transport Minister Matteo Salvini hailed it as "the biggest infrastructure project in the West," while critics raise concerns over environmental impacts and financial viability. The bridge's construction faces engineering challenges due to the region's seismic activity and harsh marine conditions. Despite opposition, the Italian government remains committed to realizing this long-held vision, which dates back to ancient times. 
Published: Aug 13 2025, 2 amFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
