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The largest snowflake ever recorded was reported to be as wide as a large pizza, measuring 1 foot 3 inches (38 cm) across during a storm in Montana in 1887. However, this size likely resulted from clumps of multiple snow crystals rather than a single entity. Snow crystals, which form from water vapor freezing directly into ice, typically exhibit a maximum size of around 10 millimeters (0.39 inches), as observed by Caltech physicist Dr. Kenneth Libbrecht. His research has explored the diverse shapes of snow crystals, revealing that environmental conditions influence their formation. For enthusiasts looking to observe snow crystals, Libbrecht recommends wearing dark clothing for contrast, using a magnifier, and familiarizing oneself with different snowflake types. With the right conditions and a bit of patience, anyone can join in the quest to discover these unique winter wonders. 
Published: Dec 23 2024, 5 pmeznews.inNew research has revealed a potential link between fungi in the nasal microbiota and the common respiratory conditions of allergic rhinitis and asthma. A study conducted by researchers at the University of Porto examined nasal samples from 214 participants, including those with allergic rhinitis, asthma, or both, and found that patients exhibited a significantly higher diversity of fungal species compared to healthy controls. The dominant fungal families identified were _Ascomycota_ and _Basidiomycota_, with some species recognized as allergenic or opportunistic pathogens. This suggests that the nasal cavity may serve as a reservoir for fungi that could exacerbate these conditions. The findings indicate that understanding the mycobiome could lead to new treatment avenues, particularly targeting metabolic pathways associated with immune responses. However, further longitudinal studies are needed to clarify the role of fungi in these respiratory diseases and their potential as therapeutic targets.
Published: Dec 22 2024, 10 ameznews.inThe US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has awarded Breakthrough Therapy designation to Jemperli (dostarlimab), a promising drug for treating locally advanced mismatch repair deficient (dMMR)/microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) rectal cancer, which has demonstrated a remarkable 100% clinical response rate in trials. This designation aims to expedite the drug's development and review process, potentially transforming treatment options for patients who often endure significant long-term side effects from conventional therapies. Jemperli, a PD-1-blocking monoclonal antibody, enhances the immune system's ability to target cancer cells, offering a non-invasive alternative to chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. Currently, all 42 patients in an ongoing phase II trial have shown a complete clinical response with only mild side effects. Jemperli is already approved for advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer, highlighting its potential as a significant advancement in oncology.
Published: Dec 23 2024, 9 pmeznews.inIn a groundbreaking discovery, researchers have identified the oldest confirmed case of the plague outside Eurasia in a 3,290-year-old Egyptian mummy, revealing that the bubonic plague, caused by the bacterium *Yersinia pestis*, was present in North Africa long before the infamous Black Death pandemic of the 14th century. The mummy, housed at the Museo Egizio in Turin, Italy, showed advanced signs of infection in both bone tissue and intestinal content. This finding, presented at the European Meeting of the Paleopathology Association, marks the first molecular evidence of plague in ancient Egypt, although the extent of its prevalence remains unclear. Previous studies have suggested possible outbreaks along the Nile, supported by archaeological findings of fleas and references in ancient medical texts. Researchers speculate that the plague may have been spread by fleas on Nile rats before transitioning to black rats that facilitated its global spread.
Published: Dec 23 2024, 10 pmeznews.inIFLScience requires your contact information to communicate about its products and services. Subscribers have the option to unsubscribe from these communications at any time. For details on how to unsubscribe and to understand the organization's privacy practices, including its commitment to safeguarding your personal information, IFLScience encourages users to review its Privacy Policy.
Published: Dec 23 2024, 7 pmeznews.inThe bald eagle is poised to become the official national bird of the United States after a bill was passed by the House of Representatives on December 16, following Senate approval in July. This long-overdue recognition comes as the bald eagle has served as an unofficial symbol of American freedom and strength for over two centuries, appearing on the Great Seal since 1782 and various national insignia. Representative Brad Finstad, who introduced the bill, emphasized the eagle's significance to the nation's identity. The bald eagle's population has rebounded in recent decades after a severe decline due to pesticide use, particularly DDT, which affected egg production. With President Biden's expected support, the legislation will soon solidify the bald eagle's status, joining other national symbols like the American bison and the rose.
Published: Dec 23 2024, 8 pmeznews.inRecent claims suggest that Nostradamus predicted Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine could escalate into World War III, with various interpretations of his writings circulating online. One passage, which mentions "seven months the Great War," has sparked speculation about a larger conflict stemming from current tensions. However, experts argue that Nostradamus's predictions are often vague and can be retroactively applied to numerous events, a phenomenon known as "postdiction." For instance, a passage linked to famine suggests dire consequences, but its ambiguity allows for broad interpretation. Critics emphasize that Nostradamus's prophecies lack specificity and accuracy, rendering them more a reflection of contemporary fears than genuine foresight. Ultimately, the consensus is that Nostradamus did not predict Putin's actions or a potential world war, highlighting the tendency to ascribe meaning to his cryptic verses only after events unfold.
Published: Dec 19 2024, 11 ameznews.inPharaoh Amenhotep III, known as "The Magnificent," has been brought back to life through a facial reconstruction, despite his mummy being one of the worst preserved among ancient Egyptian rulers. Reigning from approximately 1388 to 1351 BCE, Amenhotep III oversaw a golden age marked by peace and monumental architecture, including the Luxor Temple and the Colossi of Memnon. However, his mummy suffered significant damage from grave robbers and humidity, complicating efforts to ascertain his facial features. Researchers relied on early 20th-century anatomical notes and modern imaging techniques to reconstruct his likeness, producing both a grayscale model and a more artistic, colorful representation. The study highlights the unique mummification process he underwent, which resulted in a "statue-like" appearance rather than a traditional mummy. The findings are detailed in the journal *Clinical Anatomy*.
Published: Dec 23 2024, 1 pmeznews.inAs people age, a notable shift in sleep patterns occurs, with older adults tending to wake up earlier than their younger counterparts. This phenomenon is attributed to natural changes in the brain and eyes. Experts suggest that the brain's responsiveness diminishes with age, leading to a reduced ability to process external cues such as light and social signals, which are crucial for regulating sleep-wake cycles. Additionally, age-related vision changes, including conditions like cataracts, can further impact the brain's perception of daylight, causing melatonin levels to rise prematurely and prompting earlier bedtimes. Consequently, while younger individuals may identify as night owls, the aging process often results in a natural inclination towards earlier sleep and wake times, reflecting a broader trend in sleep behavior among older adults.
Published: Dec 23 2024, 10 ameznews.inScientists have made a groundbreaking discovery by observing a new isotope of oxygen, known as oxygen-28, which contains 20 neutrons. This finding, achieved at the Radioactive Isotope Beam Factory, challenges existing nuclear physics theories regarding "magic numbers"—specific numbers of protons or neutrons that confer stability to an atom. While oxygen-28 was expected to be a "doubly magic" isotope due to its configuration, it unexpectedly decayed into another isotope, suggesting that the nuclear shell may not be filled as previously thought. This instability raises questions about the validity of 20 as a magic number, a concept also seen in isotopes of neon, sodium, and magnesium. The researchers propose that further studies, particularly observing the nucleus in higher-energy states, could provide insights into this phenomenon. The findings are detailed in a study published in *Nature*.
Published: Dec 23 2024, 11 amFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
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