eznews.inEach December, American internet users are often puzzled by the sight of people in elaborate beast-like costumes parading through Alpine streets, a spectacle rooted in the ancient tradition of Krampusnacht, or "Krampus Night." Celebrated on December 5, the eve of St. Nicholas Day, this event is particularly prominent in southern Germany, Austria, and parts of Italy and the Czech Republic. Central to the festivities is Krampus, a half-goat, half-demon figure who punishes misbehaving children, contrasting with the benevolent St. Nicholas. Historically, Krampusnacht featured raucous "Krampus runs," where costumed participants would chase children, but modern celebrations have evolved into more theatrical street parades. The origins of Krampus can be traced back to pre-Christian pagan traditions, and despite the rise of Christianity, the character has remained a vibrant part of local folklore, intertwining with the modern image of Santa Claus. 
Published: Nov 27 2025, 3 pmeznews.inParents are often familiar with the minor injuries that children can sustain while exploring their surroundings, but knowing when to seek medical attention is crucial. One key indicator of a worsening infection is the presence of tracking lines, or lymphangitis, which appear as red lines extending from a wound, signaling that the infection may be spreading to the lymphatic system. Common bacterial culprits include _Streptococcus_ and _Staphylococcus_, typically harmless until they breach the skin barrier. Other risk factors for lymphangitis include diabetes and immune system disorders. If tracking lines are observed, prompt medical attention is essential, as early treatment with antibiotics can prevent complications like sepsis, a severe condition affecting thousands of children annually. Symptoms of sepsis include rapid heart rate, fever, and confusion, making awareness of these signs vital for timely intervention.
Published: Nov 27 2025, 12 pmeznews.inResearchers have discovered four new species of fungi on the Hungarian steppe, including one named _Tulostoma shaihuludii_, which resembles the sandworms from Frank Herbert's _Dune_. This new species, part of the stalked puffball genus _Tulostoma_, was identified after 25 years of sample collection in the Pannonian steppe, a region known for its sandy soil and grassy thickets, ideal for gasteroid fungi. The findings, published in the journal MycoKeys, highlight the biodiversity of the area, which has recorded 19 species of _Tulostoma_ so far, with more likely undiscovered. The study underscores the rarity of these fungi, many of which are red-listed for conservation. In a related discovery, researchers have also gained insights into the anatomy of the Kalahari dwarf worm lizard, _Zygaspis quadrifrons_, revealing unique features through advanced imaging techniques. These findings raise questions about other hidden species in similar habitats.
Published: Nov 27 2025, 1 pmeznews.inNew evidence suggests that the iconic _Tyrannosaurus rex_ may have been capable of swimming, despite its massive size and tiny arms. Sir David Attenborough's series _Prehistoric Planet_ explores this possibility, showcasing the dinosaur in a doggy paddle-like motion. Fossilized swim traces, including claw marks found in Spain's Cameros Basin and similar tracks in Utah, indicate that _T. rex_ and other theropods could navigate water when necessary. Notably, the dinosaur's bones, filled with pneumatic cavities, would have enhanced its buoyancy, making it a proficient swimmer. Dr. Darren Naish, a scientific consultant for the series, posits that _T. rex_ likely used swimming to expand its feeding opportunities. While it may not have swum like modern aquatic animals, it probably employed a technique akin to that of emus, keeping its head above water while using its powerful legs to paddle.
Published: Nov 27 2025, 4 ameznews.inFossils of hominin foot bones, dating back 3.4 million years and discovered in Ethiopia, have been linked to a newly identified species, _Australopithecus deyiremeda_. This finding adds to the growing evidence that multiple hominin species coexisted during this period, complicating the narrative of human evolution. Initially, the famous fossil known as Lucy, classified as _Australopithecus afarensis_, was thought to represent a direct ancestor of modern humans. However, the discovery of the Burtele foot, which exhibits features more akin to earlier tree-dwelling apes, suggests a more complex evolutionary landscape. Researchers, including Professor Yohannes Haile-Selassie, noted that _A. deyiremeda_ likely occupied a different ecological niche, primarily consuming fruits and nuts, while _A. afarensis_ adapted to a mixed diet. This raises intriguing questions about the evolutionary relationships between these species and their potential roles in the human lineage. The study is published in *Nature*.
Published: Nov 27 2025, 9 ameznews.inPsychological research reveals a phenomenon known as the "left-cheek bias," where individuals tend to present their left cheek more prominently in portraits and selfies, a trend dating back to the 1970s. Initial studies by Christopher McManus and Nicholas Humphrey analyzed 1,474 European portraits, finding a significant 60% preference for left-side exposure. Subsequent research, including a 2015 study, confirmed this bias in selfies, while mirror selfies showed a right-cheek preference. The reasons behind this bias remain debated, with theories suggesting that the left side of the face may express more emotion or be perceived as more attractive. Gender differences in this bias are inconclusive, and context also plays a role, as seen in variations among different professional fields. As selfie culture continues to thrive, the left-cheek bias remains a fascinating aspect of human behavior, prompting ongoing psychological exploration.
Published: Nov 27 2025, 9 ameznews.inAs winter sets in, a new trend has emerged where people are airing their duvets outside in the cold, particularly in colder regions like Scandinavia. Proponents claim this practice refreshes bedding and may enhance sleep quality by reducing moisture trapped in linens. However, experts express skepticism about its effectiveness. While airing can help eliminate some moisture, it does not significantly kill bacteria or dust mites, as freezing temperatures do not eradicate most common bacteria. Additionally, bedding left outside can absorb pollen, potentially worsening allergies. The consensus among experts is that regular washing at high temperatures remains the most effective method for maintaining clean bedding. Although airing duvets outside may be environmentally friendly and provide some benefits, it should not replace traditional laundering practices for optimal hygiene and comfort.
Published: Nov 27 2025, 10 ameznews.inEyelid twitching, often depicted in cartoons as a sign of stress or madness, is medically known as "myokymia" and is a common, usually harmless condition. Triggered by factors such as fatigue, stress, or excessive caffeine, these twitches can occur multiple times a day and may affect either eyelid. Experts recommend rest and reducing caffeine intake as effective remedies. While myokymia is typically benign, another condition called benign essential blepharospasm (BEB) remains less understood, with potential links to brain function. Other triggers include alcohol consumption, poor nutrition, and eye strain, but hormonal changes related to menopause are not directly linked to eyelid twitching. In rare cases, twitching may indicate more serious health issues, such as Parkinson's disease or brain tumors, but these usually present additional symptoms. If twitching persists or is accompanied by other signs, medical advice should be sought.
Published: Nov 26 2025, 10 pmeznews.inNeuroscientists have identified five distinct epochs in human brain development, echoing Shakespeare's poetic division of life into ages. Analyzing brain scans from nearly 4,000 individuals, researchers pinpointed four significant turning points at ages 9, 32, 66, and 83, marking crucial shifts in brain structure and function. The first turning point at age 9 signals the onset of adolescence, characterized by increased white matter and refined cognitive abilities, albeit with heightened mental health risks. By age 32, the brain reaches a peak in structural maturity, while the longest phase, spanning from 32 to 66, sees the stabilization of intelligence and personality. At 66, brain networks begin to reorganize, and by 83, connectivity declines, leading to more isolated brain regions. This research, published in *Nature Communications*, enhances our understanding of neurological and psychiatric disorders linked to brain wiring changes throughout life.
Published: Nov 27 2025, 3 ameznews.inMars is set to join an exclusive group of planets known to exhibit lightning, previously limited to Earth, Jupiter, and Saturn. Researchers have uncovered audio evidence of electrical discharges on the Red Planet, recorded by the SuperCam microphone on NASA's Perseverance rover. Over two Martian years, the rover captured 55 events linked to dust devils and convective fronts during periods of strong winds. While these discharges differ from Earth’s thunderstorms, they indicate an electrically active Martian atmosphere, driven by triboelectric charging from airborne dust. This phenomenon could influence the planet's chemical conditions, potentially affecting the preservation of organic materials and the overall habitability of Mars. Furthermore, these electrical events pose risks to equipment and future astronauts, highlighting the need for specialized instruments to further investigate these atmospheric dynamics. The findings are detailed in a study published in the journal Nature.
Published: Nov 26 2025, 10 pmFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
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