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Evolutionary biologists often encounter the question, “If humans evolved from monkeys, why are there still monkeys?” This misconception stems from a misunderstanding of evolutionary processes, which are not linear. Instead of viewing evolution as a direct progression from one species to another, it is more accurate to see humans and chimpanzees as cousins that share a common ancestor from approximately 6 to 7 million years ago. This ancestor, now extinct, gave rise to both species, which have since evolved separately. The fossil record is incomplete, making it challenging to identify this ancestor, but genetic evidence shows that humans and chimps share about 98.8% of their DNA. Furthermore, the divergence between great apes and monkeys occurred around 25 to 30 million years ago. As evolutionary biologists William Eric Meikle and Eugenie C. Scott noted, asking why monkeys still exist if humans evolved from them is as nonsensical as questioning why a sibling remains if one has evolved from a cousin. 
Published: May 18 2025, 12 ameznews.inOff the coast of Central California lies the Sur Pockmark Field, a vast area featuring over 5,200 prehistoric circular depressions, each approximately 200 meters wide and five meters deep. Initially thought to be influenced by methane gas, recent research by a team from the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, the US Geological Survey, and Stanford University revealed no methane presence at the site. Instead, the pockmarks are attributed to sediment gravity flows, which have shaped and maintained these formations over at least 280,000 years. The study, which involved mapping over 300 pockmarks and analyzing 500 sediment samples, suggests that these structures are regularly spaced due to historical sediment flows. This finding alleviates concerns for potential offshore wind farm developers, as it provides crucial insights into the seafloor's stability, aiding in the responsible development of renewable energy resources. The research is detailed in the Journal of Geophysical Research Earth Surface.
Published: May 13 2025, 11 pmeznews.inChina's terracotta army, often dubbed the "eighth wonder of the world," comprises around 8,000 life-size figures and is a remarkable feat of ancient craftsmanship and collaboration. Located northeast of Xi’an in Shaanxi province, this 2,200-year-old burial site, spanning 56 square kilometers, was commissioned by Qin Shi Huang, China's first emperor, who sought to secure his afterlife. Discovered by local farmers in 1974, the site has since revealed thousands of intricately detailed soldiers, chariots, horses, and even acrobats, reflecting the political structure of the Qin dynasty. Each soldier, averaging 1.8 meters tall, showcases advanced mass production techniques, with individual features that have faded over time. Despite extensive excavations, the emperor's tomb remains untouched due to concerns over potential damage, as it is believed to contain further secrets, including toxic mercury. Qin Shi Huang's obsession with immortality ultimately led to his demise, highlighting the paradox of his quest for eternal life.
Published: May 18 2025, 1 ameznews.inA curious phenomenon has emerged among heart transplant recipients, who report experiencing changes in emotions, tastes, and even memories that appear to belong to their organ donors. This intriguing possibility raises questions about whether organs might carry aspects of their previous owners' personalities. Since the first successful organ transplant in 1954, the field has expanded significantly, yet the notion of memory transfer remains particularly pronounced in heart transplants. Recipients have noted shifts in preferences, such as a newfound love for chicken nuggets, mirroring their donor's tastes. Researchers are exploring various theories, including cellular memory, epigenetic modifications, and the heart's neural network, to understand this phenomenon. While no definitive mechanism has been established, the interplay between the heart and brain suggests a complex relationship that warrants further investigation. As scientists delve deeper, the implications for patient care and our understanding of identity could be profound.
Published: May 18 2025, 1 ameznews.inCar tires, once naturally white, are now predominantly black due to the addition of carbon black, a material that significantly enhances durability. Bridgestone, a leading tire manufacturer, explains that carbon black, composed of nearly 97% pure carbon, is produced through incomplete combustion of petroleum products. This black substance not only increases resistance to heat and abrasion but also protects tires from UV light and ozone, ultimately extending their lifespan. Without carbon black, tires may last less than 5,000 miles, necessitating frequent replacements. Additionally, carbon black improves the electrical conductivity of tires, allowing static charges to dissipate safely. Historically, tires were made from wood and iron before evolving into rubber, with John Boyd Dunlop's pneumatic tire, patented in 1888, setting the standard for modern designs. The aesthetic benefit of carbon black also helps conceal dirt, making maintenance easier for drivers.
Published: May 18 2025, 2 ameznews.inDespite their prominence on dinner plates, turkey eggs remain largely absent from the culinary scene, primarily due to economic factors. In the wild, a turkey hen lays eggs every 24 to 32 hours, producing a clutch of nine to 13 eggs over two weeks. However, with around 2,500 turkey farms in the U.S., the yield is not competitive; turkeys take seven months to reach egg-laying age, compared to chickens' five months, and their lower egg production makes them less appealing to farmers. While turkey eggs are edible and reportedly taste similar to chicken eggs—albeit larger with tougher shells—they are not commercially viable. The challenges of housing and feeding these larger birds further complicate their farming. Thus, despite their potential, turkey eggs remain a rarity in the market, overshadowed by the more efficient chicken egg industry.
Published: May 17 2025, 9 pmeznews.inA recent study has shed light on the evolutionary significance of same-sex behavior in animals, challenging the notion that it is an "evolutionary conundrum." Conducted by ecologists from Spain, the research reveals that such behaviors have been documented in over 1,500 species, predominantly among mammals, particularly primates like bonobos, who engage in sexual activities to strengthen social bonds. The study suggests that same-sex interactions help alleviate tension and reduce aggression among competing males, indicating a crucial social function. While same-sex behavior is also observed in fish, amphibians, reptiles, and invertebrates, the reasons behind these actions remain less understood. The authors caution against directly comparing animal same-sex behavior to human sexual orientation, emphasizing that these interactions are often short-term and not indicative of permanent preferences. The findings, published in *Nature Communications*, highlight the need for further research into this underappreciated aspect of animal behavior.
Published: May 17 2025, 10 pmeznews.inA recent analysis of data from NASA's Gravity Recovery and Interior Laboratory (GRAIL) mission has revealed significant differences between the Moon's nearside and far side, extending beyond surface appearances to the interior structure. Researchers found that the nearside is warmer and more geologically active, with a mantle that may be 2-3% "softer" and temperatures 100-200°C higher than the far side, likely due to radioactive materials. This study, led by Dr. Ryan Park, produced the most detailed gravitational map of the Moon to date, highlighting variations in topography, crustal thickness, and heat-producing elements. These findings not only enhance our understanding of the Moon's volcanic history but also have practical implications for future lunar exploration, as the detailed gravity map will aid in developing navigation systems essential for upcoming missions. The research is published in the journal Nature.
Published: May 14 2025, 9 pmeznews.inA family returning from a vacation in Costa Rica has contracted histoplasmosis, a potentially fatal lung infection caused by inhaling fungal spores from bat droppings. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that 12 individuals, including six adults and six children, fell ill after participating in a cave tour linked to a previous outbreak. Symptoms appeared 8 to 19 days post-exposure, with patients experiencing headaches, fever, and respiratory issues. While one adult was hospitalized with possible lung cancer, all patients showed signs of recovery a month later. The CDC is investigating the cases in collaboration with state health departments and has issued a health alert to raise awareness about the risks associated with caving tours. Histoplasma, the fungus responsible for the infection, is prevalent in certain U.S. regions, particularly around the Mississippi and Ohio River valleys, where many are exposed at least once in their lifetime.
Published: May 17 2025, 7 pmeznews.inWhen pushing one end of a long metal pole, the other end does not move instantly, nor does it do so at the speed of light, as one might intuitively assume. Instead, the movement is dictated by the speed of sound in the material of the pole. Material scientist Brian Haidet explains that when pressure is applied, the first layer of atoms in the pole transmits the force to adjacent layers, creating a wave that travels through the pole at sound speed. This speed varies depending on the material's density and other factors, such as temperature and pressure. In a recent experiment, Haidet demonstrated that the delay in movement at the opposite end of the pole corresponded to the expected speed of sound in steel, highlighting the fascinating complexities of physics that challenge our everyday perceptions of solid objects.
Published: May 17 2025, 8 pmFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
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