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On February 3, 2022, SpaceX launched 49 Starlink satellites, but most were lost shortly after due to re-entry into the Earth's atmosphere, which the company initially attributed to a geomagnetic storm. However, further analysis suggests that a more complex solar event may have been responsible. The atmosphere expanded unexpectedly during the storm, increasing drag on the satellites and causing them to descend. Researchers propose that a "terminator" event, part of the Sun's 22-year Hale cycle, may have altered solar flux, impacting satellite performance. This event, which occurred in December 2021, was not aligned with previous predictions of a weak solar maximum, leading to a peak in solar activity in October 2024 with 216 sunspots. While geomagnetic storms can temporarily increase atmospheric density, they do not fully explain the satellites' failure, highlighting the ongoing mysteries of solar dynamics. 
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Apr 24 2025, 9 pmeznews.inThe Sun has unleashed its strongest solar flare of 2025, classified as an X2.7 flare, resulting in radio blackouts across Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. This event, originating from sunspot region 4087, follows a year of heightened solar activity in 2024 as the Sun approaches the peak of its Solar Cycle. The flare's intensity is significant, with X-class flares being the most powerful, capable of causing substantial disruptions to radio communications. While a smaller X1.2 flare was recorded recently, causing brief radio outages in the Americas, the X2.7 flare is not expected to produce a coronal mass ejection (CME) that would impact Earth. However, the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center warns that users of high-frequency radio signals may experience temporary disruptions. As sunspot region 4087 continues to evolve, further solar flares and CMEs could occur, potentially affecting Earth as it rotates into view.
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May 15 2025, 2 ameznews.inScientists have successfully created the first-ever CRISPR-Cas9 modified spider, specifically targeting the common house spider, *Parasteatoda tepidariorum*. This groundbreaking research, published in *Angewandte Chemie*, utilizes the revolutionary gene-editing tool CRISPR-Cas9 to incorporate a red fluorescent protein gene sequence into spider silk proteins. Spider silk, known for its remarkable strength—five times stronger than steel of the same weight—offers exciting potential for materials science. The research team developed an injection solution to modify the spiders, allowing for the creation of genetically altered offspring that exhibit glowing silk under specific light conditions. Professor Dr. Thomas Scheibel, a senior author of the study, emphasized the promise of this technique for enhancing the tensile strength of spider silk, marking a significant advancement in the application of gene editing in arachnids.
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May 10 2025, 5 pmeznews.inAstronomers have made a groundbreaking discovery by observing visible green aurorae on Mars, marking the first detection of any type of aurora from the ground on a planetary body other than Earth. This phenomenon occurs when charged solar wind particles collide with the sparse oxygen atoms in Mars' thin atmosphere. The observation was achieved using NASA's Perseverance rover, specifically its SuperCam spectrometer and Mastcam-Z camera, after three unsuccessful attempts. Lead author Dr. Elise Wright Knutsen from the University of Oslo noted that the aurora appeared as a diffuse green haze, similar to those seen on Earth. Unlike Earth, Mars lacks a magnetic field, allowing aurorae to occur at lower latitudes, such as Jezero Crater, where Perseverance is exploring. This discovery adds to the growing understanding of aurorae across the Solar System, with the study published in *Science Advances*.
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May 15 2025, 12 pmeznews.inA recent study published in BJU International has revealed a significant increase in the depiction of human penis size in art over the past seven centuries, particularly from the 20th century onwards. Researchers analyzed 232 paintings of nude males from 21 countries, focusing on the penis-to-ear and penis-to-nose ratios to assess changes in perceived size. Findings indicated that while penis sizes were relatively small in the 15th and 16th centuries, they began to grow larger from the 19th century, culminating in an average ratio of 1.5761 in the 21st century. The study suggests that the rise in perceived size may be influenced by the internet and pornography, which often promote exaggerated ideals of masculinity. The researchers caution that these evolving representations could exacerbate body image issues among men, as many tend to overestimate average sizes and seek potentially harmful enhancements. However, the study acknowledges its limitations, including a European bias in the selected artworks.
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May 11 2025, 12 pmeznews.inA troop of chimpanzees in Uganda's Budongo Forest has been observed engaging in mutual care, treating each other's wounds and injuries, which suggests a form of empathy and understanding of medicinal plants. Researchers noted that while chimpanzees typically heal faster than humans, they still require assistance, particularly in the face of injuries from snares and fights. Over four months, 41 instances of medical application were documented, with 34 cases involving self-treatment. Notably, seven instances of care for others were recorded, including attempts to remove snares and cleaning genitalia after mating, with no discernible pattern in age or genetic relationship among the caregivers and recipients. This behavior, more prevalent in the Sonso community under hunting pressure, may indicate a response to increased need. The findings contribute to understanding the evolutionary roots of human healthcare systems, as highlighted by Dr. Elodie Freymann from the University of Oxford.
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May 15 2025, 6 ameznews.inExperts are urging people to wash their bedding more frequently, ideally once a week or at least every two weeks, to combat the buildup of sweat, dead skin cells, and dust mites, which can lead to health issues like eczema, allergies, and asthma. With the average person spending a third of their life in bed, neglecting laundry can turn sheets into a “botanical park” of bacteria, according to biologist Phillip Tierno. While summer months pose greater risks due to increased sweating and pollen, factors such as pet ownership and individual health conditions also influence washing frequency. Despite these recommendations, a YouGov survey revealed that only 28% of Brits wash their sheets weekly, with many waiting up to a month or longer. Similarly, a 2017 poll found that nearly half of Americans wash their sheets just once or twice a month, highlighting a widespread disregard for bedding hygiene.
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May 11 2025, 5 ameznews.inThe term "shallowing," a relatively new concept in sexual practices, has gained attention for its potential to enhance female pleasure. Defined as a technique that involves limited penetration—just at the entrance of the vagina—shallowing can be performed using fingers, toys, or a partner. A recent survey revealed that approximately 86% of women already engage in this practice, which emphasizes the sensitivity of the vulva, containing 90% of the vagina's nerve endings. Experts suggest that shallowing not only heightens pleasure but also fosters a deeper connection with one's body and can increase anticipation during sexual encounters. It is particularly beneficial for those who find deeper penetration uncomfortable or unpleasurable. As the conversation around sexual wellness evolves, shallowing presents an accessible option for enhancing intimacy and enjoyment.
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May 11 2025, 2 pmeznews.inUrophagia, or urine therapy, has gained attention recently, particularly with celebrity endorsements, but it is an ancient practice with roots in various cultures, including references in the Bible and Hindu texts. Despite its historical use, medical experts strongly discourage the consumption of urine due to significant health risks. Urine, primarily a waste product, contains bacteria and can lead to dehydration and kidney stress if ingested regularly. While some proponents claim it has health benefits, scientific evidence does not support these assertions. Instead, innovative uses for urine, such as in sustainable agriculture and energy generation, are emerging, highlighting its potential without the need for consumption. Ultimately, while urine may have historical significance, modern medical advice emphasizes that it is best viewed as waste rather than a remedy.
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May 14 2025, 8 pmeznews.inScientists have identified a strain of the opportunistic bacterium _Pseudomonas aeruginosa_, commonly associated with hospital infections, that can break down biodegradable plastics used in medical devices. This discovery, made in the UK, centers on an enzyme called Pap1, which was found in _P. aeruginosa_ isolated from a wound. The enzyme effectively degrades polycaprolactone (PCL), a material prevalent in sutures, catheters, and other medical tools. This capability may explain the bacterium's persistence in clinical environments, as it can compromise the integrity of medical devices, potentially increasing infection risks. The research also revealed that the presence of Pap1 enhances the bacterium's ability to form biofilms, which are resistant to antibiotics. The findings underscore the need for incorporating antimicrobial components into PCL devices to mitigate infection risks. The study is published in *Cell Reports*, and researchers are now exploring whether other pathogens possess similar plastic-degrading abilities.
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May 15 2025, 12 ameznews.inA team of researchers led by Professor Alexander B. Niculescu at Indiana University School of Medicine has developed a groundbreaking RNA biomarker blood test capable of assessing the severity of depression and predicting the risk of future severe depression or bipolar disorder. This innovative test builds on previous work identifying blood biomarkers linked to suicidality and post-traumatic stress disorder, with findings published in *Molecular Psychiatry*. Over four years and involving more than 300 participants, the team identified 26 key biomarkers through a rigorous four-step process, ultimately enabling tailored medication for patients. Niculescu emphasized the importance of these blood tests in providing objective assessments, particularly in a field where subjective self-reports can be unreliable. The study also revealed a connection between circadian rhythm genes and mood disorders, shedding light on seasonal symptom variations. This advancement represents a significant step towards integrating precision medicine into psychiatry, aiming to improve patient outcomes.
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May 14 2025, 9 pmFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
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