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Researchers at the University of Geneva have discovered that a single gene, known as Sonic hedgehog (Shh), plays a crucial role in the transformation of scales into feathers in vertebrates. This finding suggests that the evolutionary leap from scales to feathers is less complex than previously thought, requiring only a transient change in the expression of the Shh gene. By using a technique called "egg candling," scientists were able to activate the Shh pathway in chicken embryos, resulting in the growth of feathers on their feet, a trait not commonly seen in most chicken varieties. The study indicates that the Shh pathway is essential for the development of various keratinized skin appendages and may provide insights into the evolutionary history of birds from their dinosaur ancestors. The research was published in the journal Science Advances. 
Published: Oct 26 2025, 9 pmeznews.inIn the 1980s, America’s red wolf was declared extinct in the wild due to persecution and habitat loss, but recent conservation efforts in the eastern United States may be gaining traction. A new study, titled _Restoring The Wild East_, surveyed over 3,800 participants across 72 counties to gauge public support for the reintroduction of red wolves and cougars. Findings indicate a notable shift in perception, with many respondents, particularly those in historic red wolf territories, expressing support for their return, driven by perceived ecological and societal benefits. While acceptance of cougars was lower due to fears of personal risk, the study highlights the importance of effective communication and public education in fostering coexistence with large carnivores. The authors emphasize that understanding public concerns can enhance conservation initiatives, ultimately aiding in the recovery of these endangered species. The study is published in the journal Biological Conservation.
Published: Oct 25 2025, 5 ameznews.inThe concept of dividing a circle into 360 degrees can be traced back to the Ancient Babylonians around 2400 BCE, who likely chose this number due to its mathematical convenience and astronomical significance. The Babylonians, who utilized a sexagesimal (base-60) counting system, found that 360 is a "superior highly composite number," easily divisible by many integers, making calculations simpler. This division aligns with their observations of the sun's movement, which completes approximately 360 degrees in a year. The choice of 360 may also reflect the influence of Greek geometers, who appreciated the symmetry of triangles, as six equilateral triangles can fit within a circle, each measuring 60 degrees. While modern mathematics often employs radians for more complex calculations, the legacy of 360 degrees remains a testament to ancient mathematical ingenuity.
Published: Oct 26 2025, 11 pmeznews.inIn a tragic incident on October 25, 1999, a Learjet 35, registered as N47BA, veered off course during a routine flight from Orlando to Dallas, ultimately flying towards Canada without any contact from its crew. Onboard were six individuals, including golf legend Payne Stewart and two pilots, who lost consciousness due to cabin depressurization, likely caused by an unknown malfunction. After failing to establish communication, military jets were scrambled to intercept the aircraft, which was observed flying straight and level but with opaque cockpit windows. As the plane ran low on fuel, it spiraled down and crashed in South Dakota, leaving a large crater and no survivors. The incident raised concerns about air safety and the potential for military intervention, with Canadian authorities prepared to shoot it down if it entered their airspace. A memorial now honors the victims, while the exact cause of the depressurization remains a mystery.
Published: Oct 26 2025, 7 pmeznews.inResearchers at the University of Cincinnati have unveiled intriguing aspects of wolf spiders' mating rituals, which include elaborate courtship behaviors such as rhythmic tapping, leg shaking, and even "singing" to attract females. Presenting their findings at the Midwest Ecology and Evolution Conference, the team highlighted that male spiders must impress females to avoid being cannibalized, a fate that befalls about 50% of males in some species. However, in the studied _Schizocosa ocreata_, the risk is lower, with only 10% facing this grim outcome. Males can detect chemical cues in a female's silk to gauge her mating history, adjusting their courtship strategies accordingly. The unique dance moves of each species are so distinct that they prevent interbreeding among similar-looking spiders. The researchers aim to further explore these behaviors by creating a virtual environment to study spider interactions in a controlled setting.
Published: Oct 23 2025, 6 pmeznews.inThis week, nearly 90% of US adults have been identified as having at least one risk factor for a newly recognized medical condition known as cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome, yet most remain unaware of it, prompting the American Heart Association to raise awareness. In genetic research, the ancient Jomon people of Japan have been found to possess virtually no Denisovan DNA, distinguishing them from other prehistoric populations. Meanwhile, Iceland has recorded its first-ever sighting of mosquitoes, leaving only one location on Earth that remains mosquito-free. Additionally, a study involving over two million children has linked autism prevalence to maternal exposure to certain pollutants during pregnancy, although the findings suggest these factors are not the primary causes of autism. Lastly, a unique "wind phone" in Dorset invites individuals to communicate with deceased loved ones, exploring the therapeutic potential of such interactions in coping with grief.
Published: Oct 25 2025, 6 pmeznews.inBar-tailed godwits, remarkable shorebirds, undertake the longest non-stop migration of any animal, covering an astonishing 11,000 kilometers (6,800 miles) in a single flight. These ultra-endurance aviators embark on their journey from the Arctic, where they breed and feast on bristle worms and crustaceans, heading south as temperatures drop in September. To sustain this grueling trek, they rely on immense fat reserves, with some individuals having up to 55% of their body mass as fat. This adaptation involves a process called autophagy, where the birds recycle their own tissues to make room for fat, leading to shrunken organs. Remarkably, these organs regenerate upon reaching their destination. In 2022, one bar-tailed godwit set a record by flying 13,560 kilometers (8,435 miles) from Alaska to Tasmania in just 11 days, a feat that comes at the cost of significant bodily sacrifice, including parts of their liver and gizzards.
Published: Oct 21 2025, 3 pmeznews.inAn amateur astronomer, Scott Tilley, has detected an unusual signal from SpaceX's classified satellite network, Starshield, while monitoring satellites from his home in British Columbia. Tilley stumbled upon the signal in the 2,025-2,110 MHz frequency range, which is typically reserved for uplinking data to satellites, not for downlinking transmissions to Earth. His findings suggest that 170 out of 193 catalogued Starshield satellites are emitting signals in this band, potentially breaching national licensing requirements. SpaceX, which signed a $1.8 billion contract with the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) to develop this network, has not commented on the specifics of the project. Experts speculate that the unusual emissions could be a tactic to obscure the satellites' activities or simply a regulatory oversight by SpaceX. The implications of these transmissions raise questions about compliance with international regulations designed to prevent interference in satellite communications.
Published: Oct 22 2025, 10 pmeznews.inIn a groundbreaking conservation effort, Chester Zoo has successfully microchipped 80 critically endangered achoque salamanders, native to Lake Pátzcuaro in Mexico. These elusive amphibians, also known as Lake Pátzcuaro salamanders (_Ambystoma dumerilii_), are notoriously difficult to identify visually, making individual tracking a challenge. Project lead Adam Bland highlighted the unique biology of these creatures, which can absorb or expel microchips, complicating tagging efforts. The initiative received support from the Monasterio de la Virgen Inmaculada de la Salud, where nuns have been breeding the salamanders to combat their declining numbers. Following a thorough safety assessment, the microchips were found to have no adverse effects, paving the way for future monitoring of wild populations. This collaborative effort aims to enhance conservation strategies for the species, which is believed to have only about 150 adults remaining in its natural habitat.
Published: Oct 21 2025, 10 pmeznews.inComet 3I/ATLAS is set to reach its closest approach to the Sun on October 29, at a distance of 203 million kilometers (126 million miles), marking a peak in its activity as it releases gases and dust not seen in millions of years. Researchers David Jewitt and Jane Luu, using data from the Nordic Optical Telescope, have observed the comet's unique anti-tail and estimated it is shedding approximately 180 kilograms (397 pounds) of dust every second—equivalent to the weight of two kangaroos. This emission rate surpasses that of Comet 2I/Borisov, which released only 70 kilograms (154 pounds) at a similar distance. Comet 3I/ATLAS is distinguished by its high speed and eccentric orbit, possibly making it twice as old as the Solar System. Although currently obscured by the Sun, it will soon be visible again, with spacecraft set to capture further observations.
Published: Oct 25 2025, 1 amFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
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