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Earth's magnetic field, a protective shield for at least 3.7 billion years, may have formed even earlier, though evidence remains contentious. Research from the University of Oxford, examining iron-rich rocks in Greenland's Isua Greenstone Belt, indicates that the magnetic field had a strength of at least 15 microteslas during this time, comparable to today's 30 microteslas. The field is generated by molten iron and nickel in the outer core, driven by the planet's rotation and convection, a process known as the geodynamo. While some studies suggest the magnetic field could date back to 4.2 billion years, later research has cast doubt on this due to geological alterations. The magnetic field is crucial for life, shielding Earth from cosmic radiation. Notably, it undergoes geomagnetic reversals every 200,000 to 300,000 years, with the last occurring 780,000 years ago, indicating we may be overdue for another flip. 
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May 09 2025, 2 pmeznews.inFor the first time, researchers have captured a photograph of a living Upemba lechwe (_Kobus anselli_), a critically endangered antelope species, during an aerial survey of the Kamalondo Depression in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, its sole habitat. Lead author Manuel Weber from Upemba National Park described the fleeting moment when he photographed the animal, marking the first published image of the species since its identification in 2005. The survey, the first in over 50 years, revealed a stark decline in numbers, estimating fewer than 100 individuals remain, a drastic drop from earlier estimates of 5,000 to 20,000 in the 1970s. Poaching has significantly contributed to this decline, prompting calls for immediate protective measures. Weber hopes the photograph will raise awareness and galvanize conservation efforts, stating, “This may be our only chance to save this species.” The findings are published in the African Journal of Ecology.
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May 29 2025, 4 pmeznews.inSir David Attenborough's latest documentary, _OCEAN_, features groundbreaking footage from the perspective of a bottom trawler, revealing the devastating impact of this fishing method on marine ecosystems. The film captures fish, cephalopods, and rays fleeing as the trawler's net devastates the seabed, a sight that has deeply affected marine conservationists like Enric Sala, who highlights that bottom trawling produces carbon emissions comparable to global aviation. Research indicates that this practice can strip up to 41% of seabed fauna, with recovery taking over six years. Toby Nowlan, the film's director, compares the destruction to bulldozing ancient woodlands, emphasizing the urgent need for change. As _OCEAN_ airs ahead of the 2025 UN Ocean Conference, it aims to raise awareness and prompt action to protect 30% of the ocean by 2030, challenging viewers to confront the hidden devastation beneath the waves.
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May 29 2025, 5 pmeznews.inThe Ordovician period, spanning approximately 485 to 444 million years ago, was marked by a remarkable surge in marine biodiversity, known as the Great Ordovician Biodiversification Event (GOBE). During this time, deep-sea creatures underwent rapid diversification, with new body plans emerging, including starfish and corals, as they adapted to various ecological niches. However, this flourishing era ended with the Late Ordovician mass extinction, characterized by a series of cooling events followed by warming, which led to significant species loss—about 60% of genera and 85% of species. Unlike other mass extinctions, the ecological impact of this event was relatively minimal, as key functional groups survived, allowing ecosystems to quickly rebound. Despite its severity in terms of species loss, the Ordovician extinction remains lesser-known, partly due to its ancient timeline and lack of relatable terrestrial impacts, unlike the more famous end-Cretaceous extinction that wiped out the dinosaurs.
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May 26 2025, 7 pmeznews.inIn the latest episode of IFLScience's podcast "We Have Questions," the intriguing question of why animals don’t brush their teeth is explored. While humans adhere to a strict dental hygiene routine, wild animals, such as bonobos, often display seemingly perfect teeth without any brushing. To delve deeper into this phenomenon, the podcast features insights from Peter Kertesz, a dental consultant for ZSL London Zoo and various wildlife facilities. Kertesz, alongside dental nurse Monika Mazurkiewicz, provides dental care for a range of species, from elephants to dolphins. The episode sheds light on the unique dental needs of non-human species and the reasons behind their lack of a brushing routine. Listeners can access the episode on popular platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music, offering a fascinating look into the world of animal dentistry.
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May 26 2025, 5 pmeznews.inA 30-year-old man, referred to as "Mr. X," was hospitalized after injecting a homemade "mushroom tea" made from magic mushrooms, leading to the fungus growing in his veins. The case, detailed in the Journal of the Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry, began when Mr. X sought to self-medicate for opioid dependence and depression, having recently stopped his bipolar disorder medication. After researching the therapeutic effects of psilocybin, he prepared the tea for injection, a method not typically used. Days later, he was found by his family in a critical state, suffering from jaundice, nausea, and organ failure, and was placed in the Intensive Care Unit. Blood cultures revealed the injected fungus was growing in his bloodstream, raising questions about its potential impact on his mental state. The case underscores the risks of using drugs outside of prescribed methods and the need for public education on such dangers.
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May 26 2025, 8 ameznews.inSalicylic acid, the active component of aspirin, is a crucial plant hormone that aids in growth, development, and disease resistance, and may hold the key to enhancing plant resilience against climate change. A recent study published in *Science Advances* examined its role in Arabidopsis, a mustard family member, revealing that environmental stresses like heat and drought trigger the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can either harm or alert plants to stress. Researchers found that these ROS stimulate the formation of an alarm molecule, MEcPP, leading to increased salicylic acid production, vital for plant defense mechanisms. "It's like plants use a painkiller for aches and pains," noted co-author Wilhelmina van de Ven. The findings could significantly impact food security and environmental health, as enhancing salicylic acid production may bolster plants' ability to cope with climate-related challenges, benefiting ecosystems and human life alike. The team plans further research on MEcPP's role in plant stress responses.
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May 26 2025, 9 ameznews.inWhen setting up a campfire, careful selection of rocks is crucial to avoid dangerous explosions. While using a ring of rocks can help contain the fire and reduce wildfire risks, river rocks should be strictly avoided due to their porous nature, which can trap water. When heated, this water can turn to steam, causing the rocks to explode. Additionally, thermal shock can shatter rocks rich in minerals like quartz. Other porous rocks, such as sandstone and limestone, also pose similar risks. Instead, opt for tough, non-porous varieties like granite and slate, and avoid using rocks as the fire's base. Pollution is another concern, as trapped gases in porous rocks can release harmful substances when heated. To ensure a safe campfire experience, check local regulations, clear flammable materials, keep water nearby, and never leave the fire unattended. For more safety tips, consult the National Park Service.
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May 26 2025, 11 ameznews.inHummingbirds, renowned for their vibrant plumage, are the only bird species capable of sustained backward flight, a feat made possible by their unique wing structure and joint flexibility. Unlike other birds, hummingbirds can flap their wings 20 to 80 times per second, achieving speeds comparable to fighter jets. Their wings, which are stiff and extend almost straight out from their bodies, allow for a distinctive figure-eight motion, enabling them to generate lift on both the upstroke and downstroke. This insect-like flight style, as described by biologist Tyson Hedrick, combines vertebrate evolutionary traits with remarkable agility. To navigate tight spaces, hummingbirds can retract their wings and maneuver sideways, employing a "ballistic technique" to swiftly pass through openings, as noted by biologist Marc Badger. This combination of speed, agility, and unique flight mechanics underscores the hummingbird's exceptional adaptability in the avian world.
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May 23 2025, 3 ameznews.inResearchers from the Leonardo DNA Project claim to have identified six living descendants of the Renaissance polymath Leonardo da Vinci, as detailed in their new book, _Genìa Da Vinci. Genealogy and Genetics for Leonardo’s DNA_. The authors, Alessandro Vezzosi and Agnese Sabato, reconstructed a family tree spanning nearly 700 years and 21 generations, revealing 15 male-line descendants linked to da Vinci's father and half-brother. Genetic analysis conducted by David Caramelli and forensic anthropologist Elena Pilli confirmed that all six descendants share matching Y chromosome segments, suggesting an unbroken male lineage for at least 15 generations. However, the research is not peer-reviewed, and confirmed DNA from da Vinci himself has yet to be identified. While da Vinci is not believed to have had children, the study aims to explore his biological legacy and its implications for understanding his extraordinary talents. The book will be publicly presented on May 22, 2025.
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May 21 2025, 10 pmeznews.inDespite covering 66% of the Earth's surface, the deep ocean remains largely uncharted, with only 26% of the ocean floor mapped, a significant increase from 6% in 2017. New research reveals that an astonishing 99.999% of the deep ocean, defined as areas deeper than 200 meters, has never been observed by humans. A study analyzing 43,681 submersible expeditions found that these efforts have only captured a mere 0.001% of the total seabed, predominantly in the economic zones of a few countries, including the US, Japan, and New Zealand. The current mapping rate is just 3 square kilometers per year, suggesting it could take over 100,000 years to complete the task without a fundamental shift in exploration methods. Experts advocate for automation to reduce costs and enhance mapping efforts, emphasizing the deep ocean's critical role in climate regulation and potential medical discoveries.
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May 26 2025, 12 pmFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
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