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Astronomers have been investigating a perplexing phenomenon where stars seem to vanish without a trace, with the Vanishing and Appearing Sources during a Century of Observations (VASCO) project identifying around 100 such cases over the past 70 years. A new study suggests that massive stars may collapse directly into black holes without the expected supernova explosion, a theory supported by observations of the binary star system VFTS 243 at the Milky Way's edge. Researchers found evidence indicating that the black hole formed with minimal baryonic ejecta, implying a total collapse scenario. This could explain the sudden disappearance of some stars, as they might extinguish without any visible explosion. Co-author Alejandro Vigna-Gómez noted that such collapses could lead to stars vanishing from the night sky, while Professor Irene Tamborra emphasized the significance of VFTS 243 for future studies on stellar evolution. The findings are detailed in the journal *Physical Review Letters*. 
Published: Jul 20 2025, 4 pmeznews.inJanuary 23, 1556, is widely regarded as the deadliest day in human history, with estimates suggesting that more lives were lost on this date than any other. The catastrophic event occurred in the Shaanxi province of China, where a massive earthquake struck, leading to the collapse of structures and widespread devastation. Historical records indicate that approximately 830,000 people perished as a result of the quake and its aftermath, marking a grim chapter in human history. The sheer scale of the tragedy has left an indelible mark on historical accounts, highlighting the vulnerability of human life to natural disasters. As we reflect on this day, it serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the fragility of human existence. For more details on this tragic event, visit the full article linked above.
Published: Jul 17 2025, 8 pmeznews.inResearchers at the University of Florida have developed an experimental mRNA vaccine that could pave the way for a "universal" cancer vaccine, enhancing existing cancer treatments. Tested in mice, the vaccine demonstrated a robust antitumor response when combined with immunotherapy, notably without targeting specific tumors. Senior author Elias Sayour highlighted the unexpected finding that an mRNA vaccine could stimulate a strong immune response against various cancers. Unlike traditional cancer vaccines that focus on specific proteins or personalized approaches, this innovative method aims to broadly activate the immune system. The study showed that the vaccine, when paired with a PD-1 inhibitor, significantly improved treatment outcomes, sometimes eliminating tumors entirely. Co-author Duane Mitchell emphasized its potential to awaken patients' immune responses to cancer. While still in early stages, this research signifies a promising advancement in cancer immunotherapy, with hopes for future commercialization as a universal treatment option.
Published: Jul 22 2025, 2 ameznews.inIn the Paraná Delta, just north of Buenos Aires, a remarkable natural phenomenon known as El Ojo, or "the eye," has captured attention. This giant floating island, measuring approximately 118 meters in diameter, consists of a dense mat of plant life and organic matter, drifting freely in a perfectly circular lake. Its unique shape is the result of erosion, as the island gradually carves out a symmetrical basin while rotating over time. Filmmaker Sergio Neuspiller documented this intriguing site in 2016, describing the striking contrast of the transparent water against the black earth below. Similar floating forests, known as _matupás_, exist in the Brazilian Amazon, often linked to local folklore about the mythical _cobra grande_ or "Giant Anaconda." Despite limited scientific research on these islands, Indigenous communities possess valuable knowledge about their ecological significance, highlighting the importance of traditional wisdom in understanding such natural wonders.
Published: Jul 18 2025, 5 pmeznews.inA recent study from Boston College has highlighted the numerous benefits of a four-day workweek, including increased job satisfaction, improved mental and physical health, and reduced burnout and fatigue. The research, which involved nearly 2,900 employees across 141 organizations in multiple countries, found that those participating in the four-day model reported significant improvements in well-being compared to their five-day counterparts. Notably, employees maintained their salaries while working fewer hours, and productivity levels remained stable or even increased. Associate Professor Paula O’Kane noted that healthier, well-rested employees can be more productive in less time, suggesting that flexible work arrangements could yield similar benefits. As artificial intelligence transforms the workplace, the traditional five-day workweek appears increasingly outdated, prompting calls for a shift towards more balanced work structures. The findings are published in the journal *Nature Human Behaviour*.
Published: Jul 22 2025, 2 ameznews.inThe tiny handles on maple syrup bottles, often deemed impractical for pouring, have sparked curiosity about their purpose. These features are believed to be skeuomorphs—design elements that mimic older objects without serving a functional role. Dating back to the 1930s, the handles were likely introduced as a marketing strategy during the Great Depression, evoking nostalgia for larger stone jugs used for various liquids, including liquor and molasses. Jean-François, curator at the Canada Museum of History, noted that syrup companies aimed to connect their product with the romanticized image of 19th-century crocks. This trend mirrors other skeuomorphic designs, such as the floppy disk icon for saving files and the shutter sound in digital cameras. Ultimately, the handles serve as a reminder of a bygone era rather than a practical addition to modern syrup packaging.
Published: Jul 22 2025, 3 ameznews.inOn July 22, the Earth is expected to experience a day that is 1.34 milliseconds shorter than the standard 86,400 seconds, part of a puzzling trend of increasing rotational speed observed since 2020. While the Moon's gradual distancing from Earth typically contributes to a long-term slowing of rotation, recent data indicates a reversal, with 2024 recording the shortest day to date at 1.66 milliseconds short. Factors influencing rotation include sea level changes, atmospheric shifts, and significant earthquakes, such as the 2011 Japan quake, which altered the Earth's mass distribution and accelerated its rotation. Despite the historical need for leap seconds to adjust for slowing rotation, none have been required since 2016, leaving scientists baffled by this unexpected acceleration. The International Earth Rotation and Reference Systems Service (IERS) continues to monitor these changes closely, as astronomers anticipate further short days in the coming months.
Published: Jul 22 2025, 12 ameznews.inThe Vera C. Rubin Observatory has recently showcased its capabilities with stunning first light images, revealing new asteroids and galaxies within hours. Currently in its commissioning phase, the observatory is fine-tuning its systems ahead of its official scientific operations. Notably, during test runs, astronomers utilized Rubin to study Comet 3I/ATLAS, the third known interstellar object to traverse the Solar System, which is significantly larger and faster than its predecessors, ‘Oumuamua and Comet Borisov. Discovered on July 1 by the ATLAS survey, the comet exhibits a growing dusty coma, now nearly 3,000 kilometers in radius. Initial estimates suggest its nucleus measures about 5.6 kilometers. If fully operational, Rubin could have detected Comet 3I/ATLAS before ATLAS did, and over the next decade, it is expected to identify between 5 and 50 interstellar objects during its Legacy Survey of Space and Time.
Published: Jul 21 2025, 10 pmeznews.inA remarkable fossil discovery has captivated palaeontologists, revealing the soft tissues of a _Temnodontosaurus_ ichthyosaur, marking the first instance of such remains found in a giant ichthyosaur. This 183-million-year-old fossil, which includes a meter-long front flipper, showcases unique features such as a serrated trailing edge supported by previously unknown cartilaginous structures termed chondroderms. Dr. Dean Lomax, a co-author of the study, expressed his astonishment at the fossil's intricate details, suggesting it could transform our understanding of ichthyosaurs and their hunting strategies. The chondroderms may have provided hydroacoustic advantages, enabling stealthy predation in dimly lit waters. This discovery not only sheds light on ichthyosaur behaviour but also raises questions about the evolutionary origins of these marine reptiles and whether similar features existed in other ancient species. The findings are detailed in a study published in the journal *Nature*.
Published: Jul 17 2025, 10 pmeznews.inEvery year, numerous Americans find themselves in emergency rooms due to mishaps involving sex toys, with data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System revealing a steady increase in such incidents over the past decade. An analysis of cases from 2013 to 2023 highlighted that vibrators are the most commonly "stuck" items, often due to their lack of a flared base, with rectal injuries accounting for nearly 70% of cases. Experts attribute the rise in incidents to the growing normalization of sex toys, increased accessibility through online shopping, and a lack of comprehensive sex education regarding safe practices. Notably, men are more frequently admitted to ERs for these issues, likely due to a tendency to engage in riskier sexual behaviors. To mitigate these incidents, sex educators advocate for better awareness and education on safe toy usage, emphasizing the importance of informed exploration in sexual health.
Published: Jul 20 2025, 8 pmFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
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