eznews.in
A groundbreaking study presented at the American Geophysical Union's annual meeting in 2018 revealed a vast ecosystem beneath Earth's surface, housing billions of microorganisms that collectively contain 15 to 23 billion tonnes of carbon—hundreds of times more than the total carbon mass of humans. Researchers found that approximately 70 percent of Earth's microbes reside underground, with genetic diversity potentially rivaling that of surface life, earning this hidden realm the nickname "subterranean Galapagos." Despite the extreme conditions of heat, pressure, and nutrient scarcity, life thrives, primarily in the form of bacteria and archaea, with some eukarya, including a nematode discovered over 1.4 kilometers deep in a South African gold mine. The study underscores the vast unknowns of subsurface life and its potential implications for understanding life on Earth and beyond, as scientists continue to explore this largely uncharted territory. 
Published: May 07 2025, 4 ameznews.inNatural history museums are facing scrutiny for the conspicuous absence of penis bones, or bacula, from their displays, a phenomenon attributed to Victorian-era prudishness. While many mammals possess this unique bone, which provides structural support during mating, it is rarely showcased in UK and European museums. Jack Ashby, Assistant Director at the University Museum of Zoology in Cambridge, highlights that the only specimen on display with its baculum is an elephant seal. He argues that this omission misrepresents animal anatomy and reflects outdated societal norms. The baculum can be significant in size, with walrus bones reaching over 60 centimeters, making their absence even more perplexing. Ashby’s new book, *Nature’s Memory*, delves into how human biases have shaped natural history collections, suggesting it may be time for museums to embrace the baculum and present a more accurate depiction of the animal kingdom.
Published: May 05 2025, 10 pmeznews.inAs relationships evolve, many couples grapple with the question of when to become intimate, a topic once shrouded in social norms that often dictated abstinence until marriage. Recent studies suggest that delaying sexual activity may lead to greater marital satisfaction, with research indicating that couples who wait tend to focus more on emotional intimacy. However, experts like psychotherapist Barton Goldsmith argue that a mere 36 hours of dating can suffice for intimacy, while others recommend waiting three months to ensure the initial "honeymoon phase" has passed. The so-called "three-date rule" has also gained traction in popular culture. Ultimately, experts emphasize that the decision to engage sexually should stem from open communication and mutual comfort, rather than rigid timelines. In the end, the right moment is subjective, hinging on the feelings and consent of all parties involved.
Published: May 08 2025, 1 ameznews.inPhysicists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have unveiled a groundbreaking method to visualize quantum phenomena, capturing the first images of freely interacting atoms in space. Their innovative Atom-Resolved Microscopy technique allows atoms to move and interact before being momentarily frozen by a lattice of light, enabling detailed imaging. The researchers studied two atomic gases—sodium, behaving like bosons, and lithium, acting as fermions—revealing distinct behaviors such as bosonic wave formation and fermionic pairing, akin to electron interactions in superconductors. Senior author Professor Martin Zwierlein expressed excitement over observing single atoms and their interactions, while co-author Richard Fletcher emphasized the significance of translating mathematical concepts into tangible images. The team plans to explore more complex quantum phenomena, such as quantum Hall physics, which could deepen our understanding of fundamental particles. Their findings are published in *Physical Review Letters*.
Published: May 07 2025, 10 pmeznews.inA newly discovered species of worm, named _Pararosa vigarae_, has captivated scientists with its remarkable ability to contract its body to just one-fifth of its normal length, resembling an accordion. This unique worm, found off the Northwest coast of Spain at a depth of 30 meters, measures approximately 25 centimeters (9.8 inches) when fully extended. It belongs to the order Heteronemertea, which includes the longest animal on Earth, _Lineus longissimus_. The worm's name honors Rosa Vigara, wife of the study's senior author, Dr. Aida Verdes, as a gift for their golden wedding anniversary. In addition to its accordion-like contraction, _P. vigarae_ is a predatory worm that uses venom to hunt. Verdes' ongoing research aims to uncover the toxins that make nemerteans such effective predators, highlighting the potential for discovering new species and behaviors in familiar environments. The findings are published in the journal Royal Society Open Science.
Published: May 07 2025, 8 pmeznews.inThe Byford Dolphin Accident, which occurred on November 5, 1983, in the North Sea, is regarded as one of the most catastrophic diving incidents in history. During a routine operation involving saturation diving, a diver mistakenly unlatched a diving bell before it had been depressurized, resulting in a catastrophic pressure imbalance. The diving bell was violently expelled, killing the diver who had released the clamp almost instantly. Tragically, three other divers inside the saturation chambers suffered horrific deaths as their bodies rapidly decompressed, leading to severe internal injuries and hemorrhaging. Autopsy reports revealed the gruesome aftermath, with one diver's remains found in multiple bags, highlighting the extreme violence of the incident. Following the disaster, the families of the victims campaigned for 26 years, ultimately uncovering equipment failures that contributed to the tragedy, underscoring the inherent dangers of deep-sea diving operations.
Published: May 07 2025, 10 pmeznews.inElon Musk's SpaceX has officially established its own municipality, Starbase, in Texas, following a Cameron County vote that saw 216 out of 283 eligible residents, primarily SpaceX employees, support the move. The new city, which will be classified as a Type C municipality, allows for local governance, including the ability to levy property taxes. SpaceX aims to develop Starbase as a hub for its Starship project, which Musk envisions as pivotal for humanity's access to space. However, the decision has raised concerns among local residents and environmental groups, particularly regarding potential restrictions on access to Boca Chica Beach and State Park during rocket launches. Additionally, SpaceX has faced scrutiny over environmental issues, including fines for wastewater dumping and debris from rocket explosions affecting the surrounding area. As Starbase gains city status, tensions may arise between the company and the local community over regulatory control and environmental impacts.
Published: May 07 2025, 11 pmeznews.inThe Bible, a foundational text for Christians worldwide, is not a singular work but a compilation of diverse narratives, prophecies, and poems written over centuries. Contrary to popular belief, particularly fueled by Dan Brown's _The Da Vinci Code_, the Council of Nicaea in 325 CE did not determine the biblical canon; instead, it focused on theological debates regarding the Trinity. The selection of texts for the Bible was a gradual process involving various Church authorities and scholars from the first to fourth centuries CE, who debated and ultimately decided which writings were deemed authoritative. Many texts, such as the Didache and the Shepherd of Hermas, were excluded not for containing hidden knowledge but because they were considered less authoritative. This complex history continued to evolve, with discussions about the canon persisting into the 16th century, notably marked by Martin Luther's German Bible translation.
Published: May 07 2025, 9 pmeznews.inThe Haenyeo, or "sea women," of Jeju Island, South Korea, have developed unique genetic adaptations over generations of freediving, allowing them to thrive in cold waters while foraging for seafood. These women, some in their 80s, can dive up to 10 meters without equipment, often spending four to five hours underwater. A study led by researchers from the University of California, Berkeley, analyzed the genomes of 30 Haenyeo divers and found distinct genetic variations linked to cold tolerance and blood pressure regulation, suggesting natural selection has favored these traits. Interestingly, while the Haenyeo's heart rates drop significantly during simulated dives, this ability appears to be a result of extensive training rather than inherited genetics. However, the tradition faces decline, with an aging population and fewer young women taking up the practice. Researchers hope insights from the Haenyeo's adaptations could inform modern medical treatments.
Published: May 07 2025, 9 pmeznews.inThe spiny devil katydid (_Panacanthus cuspidatus_), also known as the thorny devil, is a striking insect characterized by its crown-like head protrusion and an array of angular spikes. Unlike most katydids that primarily feed on plants, this omnivorous species is a skilled hunter, using its long spiny legs to trap prey. The spines serve as a defensive mechanism, deterring predators by making the katydid less palatable and helping it blend into spiky vegetation. During mating season, males communicate through a unique form of stridulation, producing loud sounds to attract females, although this also draws the attention of bats. A 2004 study suggested that the katydid's spininess may be an evolutionary adaptation linked to its complex mating calls. Enthusiastic wildlife photographer Nick Volpe described the spiny devil as "one of the most insane bugs in the universe," highlighting its intimidating appearance and carnivorous nature.
Published: May 07 2025, 9 pmeznews.inConservation efforts in the U.S. gained momentum in the early 1900s, culminating in the 1973 Endangered Species Act (ESA), which has since protected over 2,000 species. A report by the Center for Biological Diversity reveals that 90% of these species are recovering as per their federal recovery plans. Notable success stories include the brown pelican, which rebounded from near extinction due to DDT, with populations soaring from 1,276 to nearly 11,000 nesting pairs by 2007. Similarly, the Virginia northern flying squirrel increased from just 10 individuals in 1985 to 1,100 by 2013, thanks to habitat restoration efforts. The Steller sea lion's population grew from 18,000 in 1979 to 70,000 in 2010, leading to its delisting in 2013. Other species, such as the Aleutian Canada goose and Lake Erie water snake, also demonstrate the ESA's effectiveness, although challenges remain for species like the gray wolf, which still faces legal battles over its protection status.
Published: May 07 2025, 10 pmFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
India
World
Economy
Science
Health
Showbiz
Contact