Discovery of Three Supermassive Black Holes Merging into One: A Cosmic Event Unveiled

Posted on December 31, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Supermassive black holes can consume or merge with other black holes.

Mark Garlick/Science Photo Library

Supermassive black holes absorbing matter — Supermassive black holes can consume or merge with other black holes.

Mark Garlick/Science Photo Library

Recent studies reveal that three galaxies featuring supermassive black holes at their cores are merging into a colossal galaxy—a phenomenon rarely observed in astronomy.

Astronomers posit that to achieve their immense sizes, supermassive black holes often need to engulf or merge with other massive black holes during galactic collisions. Discovering these events is challenging, as they are short-lived compared to a black hole’s lifespan. These mergers are most easily detected when a black hole is actively consuming matter and emitting light, which is not frequently the case. Currently, only around 150 pairs of merging galactic black holes have been identified.

Researchers at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, D.C., led by Emma Schwartzman, have identified a trio of supermassive black holes actively feeding and functioning as a single system. “The more galaxies involved, the rarer this system becomes,” Schwartzman noted.

Each supermassive black hole emits low-frequency radiation as radio waves, which can penetrate dust that obscures other forms of light. This characteristic enabled Schwartzman and her team to conduct observations using the Very Long Baseline Array in Hawaii and the Very Large Array in New Mexico, effectively ruling out alternate light sources such as star-filled galaxies.

“What’s particularly intriguing is that all three of these black holes show signs of merging. There’s no guarantee we will observe emissions in the radio spectrum that we haven’t detected before,” Schwartzman commented.

According to Isabella Lamperti, a researcher at the University of Florence, there are visible indications that the galaxies are beginning to interact. Given that two of the galaxies are approximately 70,000 light-years apart, and the third is 300,000 light-years away, this interaction is still in a relatively early phase.

However, considering their life spans spanning billions of years, we are witnessing a dramatic conclusion. “It’s akin to capturing the final moments of a melodrama where the galaxies converge,” commented Emma Kuhn from Ruhr University Bochum, Germany.

Simulating the merging of three active supermassive black holes presents substantial difficulty, but observing this unique system will provide physicists with better insights into more intricate mergers, according to Kuhn. “This marks the initial step in unraveling the physics underlying the system,” she stated.

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Remarkable Discovery: 160 Million-Year-Old Dinosaur Footprints Unearthed in Chile

Posted on December 27, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The recently uncovered theropod and sauropod footprints from the Late Jurassic Mahara Formation are the oldest dinosaur tracks documented in Chile and along the western edge of the ancient supercontinent Gondwana.

Palaeoartistic reconstruction of Quebrada Huatacon from the Late Jurassic period. Image credit: Nahuel Vazquez.

“The Late Jurassic fossil record highlights significant disparities in the density and distribution of dinosaur footprints between Laurasia and Gondwana,” stated Dr. Marco Yurac from the School of Paleontology and his colleagues.

“In Europe alone, numerous footprint sites have been identified, including regions in Italy, Croatia, Poland, Spain, Switzerland, France, Germany, and Portugal.”

“Moreover, North America boasts extensive track sites rich in ichthyological evidence.”

“Conversely, dinosaur footprints in Gondwana are relatively scarce and fragmentary, with notable exceptions like footprint-bearing outcrops in the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco.”

“Beyond these, ichthyological evidence is limited, with only a few records from Australia.”

“In South America, the majority of dinosaur footprints are found along the eastern coast, particularly in Brazil, Guyana, and Uruguay, with additional reports from northern locales like Colombia.”

“In contrast, on the western coast of South America, corresponding to Gondwana’s western boundary, Late Jurassic dinosaur footprints have only been discovered in Chile.”

A track consisting of four consecutive imprints from a large three-fingered dinosaur in the Mahalla Formation of Chile. Image credit: Yurac et al., doi: 10.1186/s13358-025-00419-9.

Paleontologists have discovered five distinct formations containing footprints within the Majara Formation in the Quebrada Huatacondo area of Chile.

These footprints were created by theropod and sauropod dinosaurs approximately 160 million years ago.

“Around 160 million years ago, northern Chile experienced cycles of flooding and drought,” explained the researchers.

“While the climate was primarily arid, temporary wetlands formed from seasonal water accumulation, attracting a variety of animals, from small theropods to massive carnivorous dinosaurs.”

“As dinosaurs traversed wet mud near these water sources, their footprints were imprinted into the soft sediment.”

“Subsequent flooding gently covered these tracks, preserving them for millions of years.”

The Majara footprints reveal the existence of giant (51-52.8 cm), large (43.5-46.5 cm), and medium-sized (25-27 cm) theropod dinosaurs.

One surface showcases over 25 footprints (ranging from 8 to 13 cm), attributed to microscopic theropods.

“These footprints represent the smallest theropod prints ever recorded in Chile, and likely extend across the entire western margin of Gondwana,” said the scientists.

Another surface is the only stratigraphic level exhibiting solely sauropod footprints (potentially undertracks).

“Due to their poor state of preservation, exact quantitative measurements were not feasible,” commented the authors.

“Nonetheless, analyses of the digital model suggest at least nine footprints with configurations indicative of potential movements.”

Paleontologists assert that this discovery represents the earliest known dinosaur footprints from Chile and the western margin of Gondwana.

“These footprints offer crucial insights for reconstructing the paleoenvironment and behavioral patterns of dinosaurs in northern Chile during the Late Jurassic, reflecting the temporary inhabitation of semi-arid floodplain and ephemeral wetland ecosystems,” the researchers concluded.

This significant finding is detailed in a research paper published in the Swiss Journal of Paleontology.

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M. Yurac et al. 2025. Upper Jurassic dinosaur footprints from the Mahara Formation of the Huatacondo region (Tarapaca Basin, Chile): Reassessment of known localities and discovery of new footprints. Swiss Journal of Paleontology 144, 72; doi: 10.1186/s13358-025-00419-9

Source: www.sci.news

2025 Discovery: Living Organisms Emit Ghostly Glow

Posted on December 25, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Living Things Emit “Biophotons”

Microphone shot/Shutterstock

This year, scientists made a fascinating discovery: an eerie glow emitted by mice that vanished after death, evoking paranormal notions about the body’s aura. This finding has ignited significant interest in the scientific exploration of biophotons.

Biophotons are extremely faint particles of light created by cellular structures, particularly mitochondria, which are responsible for energy production. Researchers have been attempting to detect these weak signals, but the field has encountered skepticism. Separating biophotons from other light sources, such as infrared light, presents considerable challenges in demonstrating their authenticity.

<p>Due to experimental limitations, biophoton research has mainly concentrated on smaller, specific body parts. However, in May, <a href="https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=sUKbEwsAAAAJ&hl=en">Daniel Oblak</a> and his team at the University of Calgary, Canada, observed biophotons emitted from the entire bodies of four hairless mice. Interestingly, these biophotons dissipated shortly after the mice died.</p>
<p>The researchers also recorded biophotons emitted from the leaves of umbrella trees (<em>Heptapleurum arboricola</em>), reinforcing the evidence for their existence through comprehensive study.</p>
<p>Following the <em>New Scientist</em> report on the study, many media outlets contacted Oblak’s team for interviews. The phenomenon's similarity to a "spiritual aura," which some psychics claim reflects an individual's physical and mental health, may have contributed to the public's fascination. Oblak mentioned, "Someone from Argentina urged us to investigate the glow of hands during healing." </p><section>

</section>
<p>However, Oblak emphasizes that the science surrounding biophotons is legitimate. Numerous scientists have approached his team to collaborate on further studies. One proposal involves investigating biophoton production mechanisms in plants. Experts in genetically modified seeds suggest analyzing changes in biophoton emissions by disabling specific genes.</p>
<p>Insights into how biophotons correlate with seed germination could significantly benefit agriculture, according to Oblak. “You could assess seed samples to determine if the germination process happened without direct contact with the seeds.”</p>

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Rising Hopes for Alien Discovery in 2025: What Happened to the Excitement?

Posted on December 22, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Artist’s Impression of Exoplanet K2-18b

A. Smith/N. Mandusudhan

Artist's impression of K2-18b exoplanet — Artist’s Impression of Exoplanet K2-18b

A. Smith/N. Mandusudhan

The quest for extraterrestrial life intensified this year when scientists detected intriguing signals from exoplanets containing molecules associated with life on Earth. Although subsequent attempts to confirm these findings were unsuccessful, exoplanet researchers believe the resulting discussions provided valuable insights for future alien detection efforts.

In April, Nick Madhusudan and his team at the University of Cambridge announced they observed “the first hints of another world, possibly inhabited.” These signals originated from K2-18b, an exoplanet approximately eight times the mass of Earth and located 124 light-years away within its star’s habitable zone, as observed with the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST).

The infrared radiation emitted by K2-18b suggests its atmosphere may contain dimethyl sulfide (DMS), a molecule known to be produced solely by living organisms, particularly marine phytoplankton, here on Earth.

As expected, this discovery generated significant buzz within both media and the scientific community. However, many researchers advised caution, emphasizing that the DMS signal was weak and required additional observations and rigorous analysis for confirmation.

Now, several months later, most astronomers concur that there is currently no evidence of DMS or any biomolecules in K2-18b’s atmosphere. Should they exist, they remain undetectable. “We only know for certain that methane and carbon dioxide are present in the atmosphere of this planet,” explains Lewis Wellbanks from Arizona State University.

Claims of discovering extraterrestrial life were premature, according to Wellbanks. “It’s been shown repeatedly that this information is inaccurate. New observations indicate that those gases are not present,” he asserted.

Yet, the data spike initially attributed to DMS still requires clarification, says Jake Taylor at Oxford University. “We observed a spike—a physical phenomenon. At this point, we still don’t know what it signifies.”

Identifying the molecules responsible for these spikes requires further exploration planned for the JWST next year. Scientists can only ascertain what’s present in a planet’s atmosphere by analyzing the starlight filtering through it during the planet’s transit across its host star. This occurs four times each Earth year.

Despite the controversy surrounding this discovery, Taylor notes it also fostered positive outcomes. “This has been a significant learning experience for the entire exoplanet community. We are reassessing our definitions and statistical methods, which has been tremendously beneficial,” he states.

“This experience teaches us to calibrate our expectations,” says Wellbanks. “It’s a reminder that relying on data manipulation to validate a claim is challenging. As one wise person noted, there are lies, damned lies, and statistics. This whole DMS saga falls into that category.”

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New Fossil Discovery Indicates Mosasaurs Could Thrive in Freshwater Environments

Posted on December 16, 2025 by

Paleontologists have discovered a 66-million-year-old Mosasaurus tooth within the Hell Creek Formation in North Dakota, USA. This find reinforces the idea that mosasaurs, often viewed as marine reptiles, also hunted in freshwater rivers.

Artist’s reconstruction of the Hell Creek Mosasaurus. Image credit: Christopher DiPiazza.

“Mosasaurs were apex predators in marine environments, diversifying during the Late Cretaceous and dominating a range of ecological niches,” stated paleontologist Melanie Dooling from Uppsala University and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam alongside her team.

“The mosasauridae family is divided into three subfamilies: mosasauridae, plioplatecarpinidae, and tylosauridae, each showcasing unique adaptations that allow them to exploit various ecological opportunities.”

“Although mosasaurid fossils are often linked to shallow marine environments, findings of fossils in estuarine and freshwater settings challenge the notion that they were solely marine creatures.”

In 2022, a significant mosasaur tooth was unearthed from a multi-species fossil site in the Hell Creek Formation.

This area, once part of the ancient Western Interior Seaway, is well-known for a scarcity of marine species, primarily housing fossils of terrestrial and freshwater organisms.

The fossil was found in river sediments alongside an ancient tooth from a tyrannosaurus rex and a crocodile jawbone, indicating a rich ecosystem that included fossilized dinosaurs like edmontosaurus.

This specimen is related to the mosasaurid family prognatodontini, as its surface texture resembles that of other members in this group.

Researchers also studied isotopes within the tooth enamel to deduce the habitat of mosasaurs, discovering oxygen and strontium isotopic signatures indicative of freshwater conditions.

This may imply that mosasaurs preyed on freshwater animals, suggesting they could thrive and hunt away from oceanic environments.

“The carbon isotopes in teeth generally reflect the diet of the organism,” Dr. Dühring explained.

“Many mosasaurs exhibit low ¹³C values, allowing for deeper dives.”

“The teeth of Mosasaurus, in contrast, have higher ¹³C values compared to those of all known mosasaurs, dinosaurs, and crocodiles, indicating they likely did not dive deeply and may have occasionally consumed drowned dinosaurs.”

“Isotopic data suggest this mosasaur inhabited freshwater river environments.”

“When we examined two additional mosasaurus teeth from a nearby, slightly older site, we noted similar freshwater isotopic signatures.”

“These analyses indicate that mosasaurs inhabited fluvial environments for about the last million years before their extinction.”

Further examination of older mosasaurus teeth and other fauna from the Western Interior Seaway suggested isotopic concentrations more aligned with freshwater rather than saltwater habitats.

This points to a gradual decrease in salinity in the region over time.

The authors propose that members of Prognathodontini might have been opportunistic predators inhabiting niches similar to modern species, akin to the saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus), believed to have adapted to freshwater systems in response to the receding salinity of the Western Interior Seaway, gradually moving into the Hell Creek channel.

“We also analyzed fossils from other marine species and found distinct differences,” stated Dr. Per Ahlberg, a paleontologist at Uppsala University.

“Gill-breathing animals possessed isotopic signatures linked to brackish or saltwater, while all lung-breathing organisms did not.”

“This indicates that mosasaurs, which required surface access to breathe, lived in the upper freshwater layer rather than the saltier deeper layers.”

The team’s paper was published in the Journal on December 12, 2025, in BMC Zoology.

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in the midst of chaos others. 2025. King of the Riverside offers a fresh perspective on pre-extinct mosasaurs through a multi-proxy approach. BMC Zuhl 10, 25; doi: 10.1186/s40850-025-00246-y

Source: www.sci.news

Discovery of a New Shell-Producing Sea Anemone Species in Japanese Waters

Posted on November 5, 2025 by

A newly identified species of hermit crab-associated sea anemone, Paracalliactis, has been described by a group of marine biologists from Japan and Australia. This crab creates and maintains a distinctive shell-like structure known as a carcinodecium, which enhances the living space for its hermit crab host.

Paracalliactis. Image credit: Yoshikawa et al., doi: 10.1098/rsos.250789.

Paracalliactis is the ninth recognized species within its genus, Paracalliactis.

The genus previously included eight species, one of which was unverified; Involves Paracalliactis and one yet-to-be-described species inhabit shells occupied by hermit crabs.

Most Paracalliactis species thrive on the deep-sea floor (at depths of approximately 200 to 4,700 meters), while Paracalliactis rosea and Paracalliactis sinica are noted at varying depths from shallow to deep (50–3,000 m and shallow depths of 39–40 m, respectively).

“Our findings indicate that even simple organisms like sea anemones can exhibit unexpectedly complex behaviors,” stated the first author, Dr. Akihiro Yoshikawa, a researcher at Kumamoto University.

“The capacity of animals to construct shell-like structures offers intriguing insights into how they navigate and perceive their environment.”

The Paracalliactis hermit crabs have been found inhabiting the shells of Oncopagurus monstrosus, which resides at depths ranging from 200 to 500 meters along the Pacific coast of Mie and Shizuoka prefectures.

Unlike typical sea anemones, which lack a hard skeleton, this species secretes a carcinogen that fortifies and enlarges the crab’s shell.

The research team’s stable isotope analysis indicated that the sea anemones derive a portion of their nutrition from organic particles and crab feces, demonstrating an unusual yet effective recycling method on the deep sea floor.

Additionally, 3D imaging using micro-CT scans revealed that sea anemones attach to their shells in a consistent, unidirectional manner, potentially linked to both feeding and shell formation.

Consequently, hermit crabs gain the advantage of increased body size through this association, underscoring a true symbiotic relationship between the two species.

“Our study provides the first quantitative evidence of mutualism within the carcinogen-forming context, illustrating a remarkable case of deep-sea symbiosis and hypothesizing how mutual benefits evolve over time, fostering the development of carcinogen-forming abilities and species-specific mutualisms,” the authors concluded.

Their paper was published on October 22nd in Royal Society Open Science.

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Akihiro Yoshikawa et al.. 2025. Deep seafloor symbiosis: A new shell-forming sea anemone coexists with hermit crabs. R. Soc. Open Science 12(10):250789; doi: 10.1098/rsos.250789

Source: www.sci.news

Discovery of a New Marsupial Species in Peru

Posted on September 30, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Researchers have discovered a new species within the marsupial genus Marmosa from a single specimen found on the eastern slopes of the Andes in the San Martin region of Peru.

Marmosa Chachapoya. Image credit: Pedro Peloso.

Marmosa is a relatively small genus of neotropical mammals belonging to the family Didelphidae.

It represents one of three genera commonly referred to as mouse opossums, with the others being Tamarins and Tracuatine.

Marmosa Professor Sylvia Pavan from California Polytechnic University and her team stated:

“In addition to the naming of this species Marmosa, phylogenetic analysis has recently identified two potential new species from northern Peru. One has been classified under the subgenus Stegomarmosa, while the other is situated among the species of the subgenus Mikureus.

The new Marmosa species was found at altitudes where no other species of this genus had previously been recorded.

Designated as Marmosa Chachapoya, these animals exhibit reddish-brown fur and distinct mask-like facial markings.

They have a combined body and tail length of up to 25 cm (10 inches), with the body measuring approximately 10 cm (4 inches).

Researchers note that Marmosa Chachapoya is closely related to two species in the subgenus Stegomarmosa: Marmosa Repida and Marmosa Undersoni.

“I quickly realized this was an extraordinary find,” said Professor Pavan.

“Currently, we know very little about this species, as only a single specimen has been collected.”

To verify its classification as a new species, scientists analyzed its DNA and physical characteristics, concentrating on notable features such as the elongated nose and slender body.

“Marmosa Chachapoya is not the only new species discovered during our expedition,” Professor Pavan remarked.

“We have collected several other specimens, including new semi-aquatic rodents that have yet to be officially described.”

“These discoveries are crucial for biodiversity and conservation efforts, underscoring the ongoing mysteries of biodiversity in this region.”

“The results suggest that there are additional undiscovered species, many of which may be at risk without proper protection.”

“It emphasizes the significant role of scientific exploration and conservation in areas like the Rio Abysseo.”

The team’s paper was published in the journal Novitate at the American Museum on June 19, 2025.

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Sylvia E. Pavan et al. 2025. New species of Marmosa (Mammals, Didelphimorphia, Didelphidae) from Peru’s Parque Nacional del Rio Abysseo. Novitate at the American Museum 4037

Source: www.sci.news

Discovery of a New Carnivorous Dinosaur Species in Argentina

Posted on September 24, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A recently identified member of the Megaraptran dinosaur family has been unveiled by a collaborative effort of Argentine and US paleontologists.

Joaquinraptor Casali. Image credit: Andrew McCuffy, Carnegie Museum of Natural History.

This newly discovered dinosaur species inhabited Patagonia, Argentina, during the later stages of the Cretaceous period, approximately 70 to 67 million years ago.

Dubbed Joaquinraptor Casali, these ancient predators were the apex carnivores in the region.

It is a member of the Megaraputra, a lineage of large, clawed carnivorous theropod dinosaurs recognized from Cretaceous deposits across Asia, Australia, and especially South America.

“Megaraptrands were carnivorous theropods characterized by elongated skulls, large claws, and robust forelimbs found in Asia, Australia, and South America,” stated Dr. Lucio Ibilik, a paleontologist at Patagonico de Geología y Paleontología.

“Nevertheless, our comprehension of this group is limited due to the scarcity of complete fossils.”

A well-preserved, partially articulated skeleton of a single Joaquinraptor Casali specimen was uncovered in the Lago Corfue Huapi Formation, situated in the South Central Chubut province of central Patagonia, Argentina.

The specimen comprised numerous dinosaur skulls, anterior limbs, hind legs, ribs, and vertebrae.

Based on the microstructure of the bones, paleontologists propose that the specimen is an adult, albeit possibly not fully matured.

Drawing from other megaraptran remains, they estimate that Joaquinraptor Casali measured about 7 meters in length and weighed over 1,000 kg.

Evidence from sediment suggests this dinosaur thrived in a warm, humid floodplain environment.

“The discovery of bones within the fossilized remains of a crocodilian’s leg pressed against the lower jaw of Joaquinraptor Casali provides insights into its feeding habits, suggesting it may have been a primary predator in its habitat,” the researchers noted.

“However, additional studies are necessary to enhance our understanding of its behavior and ecological role.”

According to scientists, Joaquinraptor Casali and other factions of Megaraputra remained dominant predators in this area of South America, ultimately facing extinction alongside other non-avian dinosaurs at the end of the Cretaceous period.

“It seems that South American megaraptolids achieved larger body sizes (over 7 m in length) than their generally smaller counterparts in Australia (5-6 m),” they added.

“The Patagonian Megaraputrids may have continued to grow throughout their evolutionary history, possibly influenced by the extinction of Carcharodontosaurus during the late Cretaceous.”

“Furthermore, this could have permitted Megaraptorids to fill a niche as apex predators within their ecosystems.”

“Moreover, as suggested by the stratigraphy of the Maastrichtian (likely late Maastrichtian), Joaquinraptor Casali may have survived until the Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary, perishing alongside all other non-avian dinosaurs.”

The discovery of Joaquinraptor Casali has been detailed in a paper published in the journal Nature Communications.

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lm ibiricu et al. 2025. The latest Cretaceous Megaraptolid Cellopod dinosaurs shed light on the evolution and paleontology of megaraptrans. Nut commune 16, 8298; doi:10.1038/s41467-025-63793-5

Source: www.sci.news

Strange Discovery: Venus Features a Lava Tube

Posted on September 22, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

We are gaining knowledge about Venus, a high-pressure planet

JSC/NASA

SEI 267222984 — We are gaining knowledge about Venus, a high-pressure planet

JSC/NASA

There is compelling evidence that vast underground tunnels have been formed from lava on Venus. These formations are unusually wide and distinct from those found on other celestial bodies.

It is generally accepted that underground tunnels, carved through lava, exist as lava tubes on Earth, the Moon, and Mars. Smaller, low-gravity planets tend to develop more porous tubes as their rocky walls are less susceptible to collapse due to weaker gravity. For instance, the Moon has such large tubes that scientists have proposed utilizing them as habitats for astronauts, shielding them from intense solar winds.

Researchers have observed indications of these lava tubes on Venus, evident from surface holes that may have been formed by the underground features or by other geological activities associated with its active fault lines.

Recently, Barbara de Tofoli from the University of Padova in Italy along with her colleagues uncovered direct evidence of these lava tubes on Venus. Remarkably, despite Venus’s similarities to Earth regarding its mass and gravity, its lava tubes appear to be surprisingly wide, with a volume comparable to those found on the Moon.

“While Earth has a small number of lava tubes, Mars has a slightly larger count, and the Moon has even more. Venus disrupts this trend by featuring incredibly large tubes, indicating its potential significance,” she stated at the Europlanet Science Congress in Helsinki, Finland, earlier this month.

De Tofoli and her team used radar and mapping data from previous missions to examine the alignment of these pits near large volcanoes. They identified four distinct sites where alternative geological explanations, such as structural activities, were implausible. The pits were also found to align with the steepest sections of volcanic slopes, consistent with the movement of lava. Their depth-to-width ratio corresponded with known lava tubes.

The unexpectedly large size of these tubes, especially their width, implies that the extreme conditions on Venus, characterized by high temperatures and pressure, can influence the movement of molten rock beneath the surface. “Due to the extremely high pressure, the floor of these tubes is not eroded as intensely as it typically is on other planets; instead, it remains largely flat throughout the tube.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

New Tektite Discovery Sheds Light on 11-Million-Year-Old Asteroid Impact in Australia

Posted on September 19, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Tektite forms almost pure glass (with minimal crystalline inclusions) when space debris impacts the Earth, causing surface materials to melt and be ejected hundreds or thousands of kilometers away.

Map of Ananguite strown field based on Tektite location. Image credit: Musolino et al. , doi: 10.1016/j.epsl.2025.119600.

“Tektite is a specific type of glass formed by impacts, recognized particularly for its distribution across extensive spray fields far from the source crater,” stated Professor Fred Jordan from Curtin University and his team.

“The widespread distribution in Central Europe (14 million years ago), North America (35 million years ago), the Ivory Coast (1 million years ago), and from China to Australia (780,000 years ago) has been traced back to the spread originating from Central Europe, known for four distinct scattered fields located in Central America (800,000 years ago).

“The corresponding tektites include Moldavites, Bediasite-Georgiaite, Ivorites, Australiasites, and Belizites, respectively.”

A newly identified type of Tektite, called Ananguite, has been found primarily in South Australia.

“Discovering a new Tektite field is akin to opening a new chapter in Earth’s tumultuous geological history,” remarked Professor Jourdan.

“These glasses are indigenous to Australia and reveal ancient impact events previously unknown to us.”

“Each piece acts as a small time capsule from the depths of our planet’s history.”

“What adds intrigue to these findings is that, despite the considerable impact, the crater has yet to be located.”

“Understanding when and how frequently large asteroids strike Earth can also assist in evaluating the risk of future impacts, which is vital for planetary defense.”

Photos of six Tektites studied by Musolino et al. Scale bar – 2 mm. Image credit: Musolino et al. , doi: 10.1016/j.epsl.2025.119600.

“The glasses differ from all previously known tektites,” noted PhD candidate Annam Solino from AIX-Marseille University.

“These tektites are distinct due to their unusual chemistry and an approximate age of 11 million years.”

“They indicate a shock event that is completely separate from the fields associated with well-known Australian tektites.”

“While Australian tektites formed roughly 780,000 years ago and have spread across the globe, these tektites are significantly older and suggest major impacts that were previously overlooked.”

The team’s research paper was published in the journal Earth and Planetary Science Letters.

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Anna Musolino et al. 2025. Australia’s new tektite spray field dates back 11 million years, originating from a volcanic arc impact crater. Earth and Planetary Science Letters 670:119600; doi:10.1016/j.epsl.2025.119600

Source: www.sci.news

Discovery of a New Pakisephalosaur Species: A Dome-Headed Dinosaur Unearthed in Mongolia

Posted on September 18, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists have unearthed fossilized remains of a previously unknown species of pachycephalosaur in the Gobi Desert, Mongolia. These fossils are the most complete and geologically oldest Pachycephalosaurus specimens discovered worldwide.

A young zavacephale rinpoche engaged in a territorial duel along the shores of a lake 108 million years ago. Image credit: Masaya Hattori.

“The Pakisepalosaurus, akin to the dome-headed dinosaurs, is one of the most intriguing dinosaurs,” states Dr. Tsogtbaatar Chinzorig, a researcher affiliated with the Mongolian Academy of Sciences and the Institute of Paleontology at North Carolina State University.

“It is thought that members of this group, characterized by their enlarged skull roofs and intricate skull features, developed a complex social structure.”

“Despite their crucial role in comprehending dinosaur behavioral ecology, the absence of uncontested early species has hindered our understanding of their origins and the reconstruction of early evolution.”

This new pachycephalosaur species has been named zavacephale rinpoche, which thrived in Mongolia during the early Cretaceous period, approximately 108 million years ago.

During this period, the region was a valley adorned with lakes and flanked by cliffs and wetlands.

“zavacephale rinpoche predates the known Pakisepalosaur fossils by about 15 million years,” Dr. Chinzorig notes.

“It was a small creature, measuring less than 1 meter (3 feet) in length, yet it stands as the most complete specimen discovered to date.”

Fossilized remains of zavacephale rinpoche were found in the Klen Duk Formation within the East Gobi Basin.

“zavacephale rinpoche represents a vital specimen for deciphering the evolution of the Pachycephalosaurus’s cranial dome. This has been a topic of debate for quite some time, given the lack of early divergent or pre-rear Cretaceous species and the fragmentary nature of most Pachyphalosaurus fossils,” Dr. Chinzorig explained.

“We’ve encountered many unique experiences worldwide,” remarked Lindsay Zanno, a researcher at North Carolina State University and director of paleontology at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences.

“The domes likely provided no defense against predators or help in thermoregulation; thus, they were probably a means of display for social interactions.”

“If you seek to establish a relationship, I suggest starting your rehearsals early,” she adds.

zavacephale rinpoche fills a significant gap in the timeline of Pachycephalosaurs.

“This specimen is a unique discovery,” Dr. Zanno emphasized.

“Not only does it push the fossil record of this group back by at least 15 million years, but it is also the oldest and most well-preserved Pachycephalosaurus known, offering profound insights into its anatomy and biology, including the use of gastroliths to aid in digestion.”

“The newly recovered materials from zavacephale rinpoche are helping to reconstruct our understanding of the paleobiology, locomotion, and anatomy of these enigmatic dinosaurs, including aspects of their hands, gastroliths, and the articulated tails with preserved tendons,” Dr. Chinzorig concluded.

The findings are detailed in a study published today in the journal Nature.

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T. Chinzorig et al. A dome-shaped Pakisephalosaurus from Mongolia’s early Cretaceous period. Nature Published online on September 17th, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41586-025-09213-6

Source: www.sci.news

Remarkable Discovery: Two Fossils of Young Individuals Tragically Lost to a Catastrophic Storm in Germany

Posted on September 6, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists from the University of Leicester studied two immature fossilized skeletal remains of Pterodactylus antiquus, individuals whose wings were damaged and were discovered in Solnhofen limestone, southern Germany. Their findings reveal that these creatures were sadly victims of a powerful Jurassic storm, which created the perfect conditions for fossilization, leading to the preservation of hundreds of similar specimens.

Artistic representation of the hatchling Pterodactylus antiquus, inspired by fossil discoveries, struggling through a tumultuous tropical storm. Image credit: Rudolf Hima.

“Dating back 153-148 million years, the Jurassic Solnhofen limestone deposits in Bavaria, southern Germany, are renowned for their remarkably preserved fossils, including many examples of various pterosaurs, flying reptiles from the Mesozoic era.”

“A puzzling aspect of this site is that while Solnhofen is home to hundreds of pterosaur fossils, almost all are small, immature specimens that are remarkably intact.”

“In stark contrast, larger adult pterosaurs are infrequently found and typically represented by isolated fragments, such as skulls or limbs.”

“This trend contradicts expectations, as larger, more resilient animals should theoretically have a greater chance of fossilization than fragile juveniles.”

In their latest study, the researchers examined the fossilized remains of two immature pterosaurs from the Solnhofen limestone.

These individuals belong to Pterodactylus antiquus, a species that inhabited Germany during the late Jurassic period.

With a wingspan of under 20 cm (8 inches), these hatchlings represent the smallest known pterosaurs.

Both specimens exhibit identical injuries: a clean, sloping fracture in the humerus.

Newborn specimens of Pterodactylus antiquus from Solnhofen limestone, Germany. Scale bar – 20 mm. Image credit: Smyth et al., doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2025.08.006.

One specimen’s left wing and another’s right wing appear broken in a manner consistent with a strong twist, likely caused by a sudden gust of wind rather than impact with a hard object.

The unfortunate pterosaur was likely submerged beneath the lagoon’s surface, overwhelmed by storm waves, and swiftly sank to the seabed, where it was quickly buried by a fine layer of mud stirred up by the tempest.

This rapid entombment facilitated the exceptional preservation observed in the fossils.

It’s reminiscent of a scene only days or weeks after the animals’ demise, with preservation so remarkable that while no significant skeletal trauma is evident, many other small, very young pterosaurs are found within the Solnhofen limestone.

These juvenile pterosaurs, unable to withstand the storm’s ferocity, were also drawn into the lagoon.

This discovery clarifies why smaller fossils are so well preserved—due to the direct aftermath of the storm, which was a common cause of death for pterosaurs in the region.

“For centuries, scientists believed the Solnhofen lagoon ecosystem was primarily composed of small pterosaurs,” stated Dr. Smith.

“However, we now recognize that this perspective was quite skewed; many of these pterosaurs were not lagoon dwellers.”

“Most were likely immature individuals that lived on nearby islands, inadvertently caught in a powerful storm.”

A study detailing these findings was published today in the journal Current Biology.

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Robert S. Smith et al. Fatal incidents in juvenile pterosaurs and selective sampling within fossil Solnhofen communities. Current Biology, published online September 5th, 2025. doi:10.1016/j.cub.2025.08.006

Source: www.sci.news

Groundbreaking Discovery: Scientists May Have Uncovered a Method to Halt Brain Aging

Posted on August 30, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

As we grow older, our cognitive learning and memory capabilities decline—recent studies have identified the proteins responsible for this phenomenon.

Researchers at UC San Francisco have pinpointed the culprit: an iron-associated protein called FTL1. Its detrimental effects hinder cognitive awareness throughout the aging process, and understanding this may allow us to target it in treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.

“It’s essentially a reversal of the challenges,” said Saul Vilda, PhD, Associate Director and Senior Author of the Papers at UCSF Bakar Aging Research Institute; Natural aging. “It’s about more than just slowing or preventing symptoms.”

The hippocampus, a brain region essential for learning and memory, is particularly susceptible to the effects of aging. Researchers observed an increase in neuronal FTL1 in the hippocampus of older mice, correlating with cognitive decline and reduced intercellular connections.

The hippocampus, shown here, is vital for the formation of new memories (credit: Getty Images)

In an experiment, scientists artificially increased FTL1 levels in young mice, leading to brain and behavior changes reminiscent of older mice. Elevated FTL1 levels hinder synaptic connections, ultimately resulting in poorer memory performance.

Interestingly, their motor skills and anxiety levels remained stable, indicating that the cognitive impairments were specifically linked to memory and synaptic functions.

When researchers reduced FTL1 levels in the hippocampus of older mice, they noted improved neuronal connections and enhanced performance in memory tests, effectively reversing some signs of aging.

The FTL1 protein is involved in iron storage and metabolism, regulating long-term levels in the brain. As we age, alterations in iron metabolism lead to increased FTL1 in neurons.

By reversing aspects of cognitive aging in mice, this discovery could pave the way for treatments that counteract the effects of FTL1 in the brain, potentially restoring cognitive function in older adults.

“Identifying elements that seem to promote aging while keeping your brain youthful is crucial for overall health and activity as you age. FTL1 appears to be an anti-aging champion,” stated Andrew Steel in BBC Science Focus.

“This is an intriguing preliminary study, but as this research was conducted on mice, we must observe whether the same effects occur in humans.”

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Potential Discovery of ‘Planet Y’ in the Outer Solar System

Posted on August 21, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Could there be hidden planets in our solar system?

Peter Jurik/Alamy

At the far reaches of our solar system, there could be a new Earth-sized planet, referred to as Planet Y.

Astronomers have speculated for a long time about the existence of concealed planets past the Kuiper Belt, which is populated with frozen bodies, including UTO. Notable theories have included Planet X, a compelling candidate believed to be approximately seven times the mass of Earth and orbiting about 50 times the distance from the Sun, alongside at least 300 other solar masses.

Amir Shiraj from Princeton University and his team suggest the existence of Planet Y, distinct from other candidates, based on the warping observed in the orbits of some Kuiper Belt objects. “If that warp is confirmed, the simplest explanation is an undiscovered planet with a tilt,” Shiraj explains.

This hypothetical planet could have a mass comparable to that of Mercury or Earth and might orbit roughly 100-200 times the distance of genomic syndrome. The gravitational influence of this planet could cause certain Kuiper Belt objects to have orbits that are slightly inclined, mimicking the rippling effect in a body of water.

“The signals we’re detecting are subtle but trustworthy,” Shiraj remarks. “Previous hints of Planet Nine shared similar statistical probabilities.”

The orbital distortion conjectured for Planet Y differs from the rationale behind the potential existence of Planet Nine, which is thought to attract objects with its gravity. “The signatures indicate a different source,” Shiraj adds.

Johnty Horner at the University of South Queensland believes it is “plausible” that an unseen realm, like Planet Y, exists in the outer solar system. “It’s a reminder that we are still exploring what lies beyond Neptune; our understanding is still in its infancy,” he states.

Such a planet might have been ejected from the inner solar system to the outer reaches. “Scattering appears more likely,” Horner suggests.

With the Vera C. Rubin Observatory’s decade-long survey of the skies, our perception of the outer solar system is expected to transform significantly in the coming years. Should Planet Y, Planet Nine, or other candidates exist, Rubin may directly observe them.

“Rubin is rapidly expanding our catalog of well-studied trans-Neptunian objects,” remarks Shiraj. If Planet Y is indeed lurking out there, Rubin might identify it “within the initial years of the survey,” Shiraj adds, or at least provide further evidence of the observed warping effect.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

New Discovery: A Galaxy That Defies Existence

Posted on August 19, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Embracing Life After 40

Worried that you’re past your prime? Think again! We’ve gathered the most effective workouts to try once you hit the big 4-0.

Discover Your Purpose

Finding purpose is essential for our wellbeing, both mental and physical. Join us as we explore how to uncover the meaning in your life.

Bird Migration Insights

How do birds manage to travel such incredible distances? Researchers are beginning to uncover the secrets—insights that may one day help us rejuvenate our own energy.

Understanding Hoarding

Hoarding isn’t just about collecting items; it’s recognized as a psychological condition that requires a nuanced approach for treatment.

Additionally

Protect Bees: While pollinators need our help, the situation for bees may not be as dire as you think.
Four-Day Workweek: There’s research supporting the idea that a shorter workweek can enhance both physical and mental wellbeing. Find out what the studies reveal.
Q&A Section: This month’s questions include: Can animals engage with video games? Why do my eyelids twitch unexpectedly? What does “clubbed finger” refer to? Are there particles related to time? Will relocating near a golf course improve my health? Is breakfast cereal genuinely nutritious? Should I give up on high-intensity interval training? Can clothing chemicals disrupt my hormones? What are the most dangerous fish? Can we detect animals in infrared? And much more…

Issue 423 Launching on Tuesday, August 19th, 2025

Remember that BBC Science Focus is available across all major digital platforms. Find it on Android, Kindle Fire and e-readers, as well as the iOS App for iPad and iPhone.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Discovery of a New Blue-Spotted Mussel Species in Fiji

Posted on July 23, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Marine researchers have discovered a new species of the genus Stingray Neotrygon residing in the waters of Fiji.

Vibrant colors of Neotrygon Romeoi from around Fiji. Image credit: Glaus et al., doi: 10.1111/jfb.70094.

Neotrygon is a genus of stingrays found extensively in the West Pacific region of India.

Commonly referred to as mask rays, these animals are uniquely identifiable within the family Dasyatidae by a dark band present in the interorbital area, which results in distinctive black and white banding towards the latter part of the tail and two nipple-like structures in the mouth.

Currently, there are 17 recognized species of Neotrygon, with ten of these described since 2016.

The majority of these species (14) are believed to belong to the blue-spotted maskray complex.

The newly identified species, found exclusively in Fiji’s waters, has been named Neotrygon Romeoi, previously confused with Neotrygon kuhlii and Neotrygon trigonoides.

“It is characterized by its broad, angular snout, long claspers in adult males, and a row of spine-like structures extending from the neck to the tail’s base,” explained Dr. Kelstin Grousse, a researcher at the University of South Pacific.

“The ray’s brown dorsal surface is adorned with dark, mask-like patterns around its eyes, and it features two large patches behind its spirals, along with numerous small black spots surrounding its face.”

The description of Neotrygon Romeoi is based on nine specimens (31-39.7 cm disc width) procured from the Suva fish market and collected by local fishermen. Notably, none of the rays were killed for research purposes.

“Rays are among the most threatened marine species,” stated Dr. Glaus.

“Considering their limited distribution, high catch volumes, and unknown life histories, it is advisable to evaluate them for protection under Fiji’s Endangered and Species Conservation Act. This act is particularly relevant for endemic sharks and rays, assisting in the preservation of native biodiversity by regulating trade and the protection of certain vulnerable species.”

“This discovery underscores Fiji’s unique natural heritage and the urgent necessity to enhance our understanding and conservation of marine species,” added Lavenie Tawake, team leader of the Pacific European Union Marine Partnership (PEUMP) program.

The discovery of Neotrygon Romeoi has been documented in a study published in the Journal of Fish Biology.

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Kirsten Grousse et al. A new species of blue-spotted maskray (Neotrygon, Dasyatidae) from Fiji. Journal of Fish Biology published online on June 9th, 2025. doi:10.1111/jfb.70094

Source: www.sci.news

Discovery of a New Rock Type Originating from the Old Slug Heap

Posted on July 18, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

French lens slug heap

Caroline Bancoilly/Alamie

Nearly two decades ago, New Scientist conducted a thought experiment titled “Imagine Earth Without People,” projecting how our planet would evolve over millennia in the absence of humanity. This intriguing exploration highlighted the environmental impacts of our species without relying on speculative dread. The takeaway was clear: while it would take considerable time, nature would eventually reclaim its landscapes, leaving scant evidence of our existence. “What’s humbling and paradoxical is that Earth forgets us so swiftly,” the piece concluded.

This reflection resurfaced when I encountered a recent research article in Geology, where researchers from the University of Glasgow unveiled a geological process indicating that the Earth may never truly forget us.

The team investigated the geology of Derwent Howe along the coast of Cumbria, England, a site that served as a major iron and steel hub for about 125 years from the 1850s. This location generated massive amounts of industrial waste known as slag, with approximately 27 million cubic meters deposited along a two-kilometer stretch of coastline. While the slag heaps persist, they are steadily eroded by oceanic forces.

During their fieldwork, researchers discovered outcrops comprised of unusual sedimentary rock types. Formerly sandy shores had their geology altered quite recently, clearly indicating detrital formations made of fragments from other rocks and minerals. A closer examination revealed that this material was derived from the slag heaps, suggesting a cycle where the slag erodes, enters the ocean, and rapidly solidifies into rocks onshore.

Remarkably, this process occurs much faster than typical rock formation, which usually spans thousands or millions of years. Here, however, it seems to transpire in mere decades.

Rock industrial waste on the Cambria coastline is turning into rocks in just a few decades, research reveals

University of Glasgow

Even more astonishingly, the researchers uncovered two artifacts embedded in this rapid rock formation. One was a penny minted in 1934, and the other was a pull tab from an aluminum beverage can, less than 36 years old. This suggests that calcification can happen in mere decades, leading the team to propose a new geological process termed the “anthropomorphized rock cycle.”

Researchers suggest that this is an entirely new geological process: anthropomorphized rock cycle.

“What’s remarkable is we’ve found that human-made materials can integrate into natural systems and dissolve over decades,” explained Amanda Owen, the team leader, to the University of Glasgow news team. “This challenges our understanding of rock formation and implies that the waste created during the modern era will have a lasting impact on our future.”

Much like with Derwent Howe, this phenomenon extends worldwide. A similar rock was discovered near Bilbao, Spain in 2022, though dating it proved challenging. David Brown, a team member, noted that slag waste presents a worldwide occurrence that will turn into rocks wherever it interacts with ocean waves.

At first glance, this might seem problematic. The environmental implications of such processes remain ambiguous. However, this discovery could indeed have a silver lining. If industrial waste solidifies into rock formations, that may offer a neat, albeit indirect, way to manage it. Rocks from Derwent Howe also revealed remnants of clothing, plastics, car tires, and fiberglass. Perhaps this process could serve as a rapid disposal method for our discarded remnants.

The study yields varied conclusions. For years, Earth scientists have debated the designation of a new geological epoch called the Anthropocene, to acknowledge that humanity has superseded natural processes as the primary influence on Earth’s systems. I’m a strong advocate for this designation, as it underscores the myriad perturbations in natural processes that have kept our planet habitable for millennia. Yet, last year, the International Geological Union opted not to endorse the Anthropocene due to controversy regarding its inception.

Now more than ever seems the right moment to reconsider that decision. Our impact on Earth’s surface marks the beginning of a new geological chapter that commenced roughly 175 years ago, observable by future civilizations. If this isn’t a new geological era, then what is?

Graham’s Week

What I’m reading

I’m listening to an anthology of comedic poems by Tim Key on audiobook.

What I’m watching

Wimbledon, the Women’s Euro, and later this month, the British and Irish Lions Rugby Test Series against Australia.

What I’m working on

I’m tending to my vegetable garden. As a beginner, I’m learning from my mistakes. How can you tell when beetroots are ready to be harvested?

Graham Lawton is a staff writer for New Scientist and the author of Must Not Grumble: The Surprising Science of Everyday Ailments. You can follow him @grahamlawton

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Astronomers Unveil Their First Solar System Discovery

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Astronomers have, for the first time, been able to witness the early stages of solar system formation, discovering small entities that would eventually evolve into planets orbiting a distant young star.

This represents the earliest phase of planetary formation ever documented, giving us insight into our own solar system’s appearance shortly after the Sun ignited.

“We observe signs of planetary development – the transformation of tiny dust particles into slightly larger grains – and in some systems, this provides insight into earlier phases. Professor Merel Van ‘T Hoff, a co-author of the new study, elaborated on these findings. BBC Science Focus.

“This can be likened to researchers studying human evolution who, for the first time, can observe infants by examining young children.”

The Baby Planetary System is coming to life around a young star known as Hops-315, located 1,300 light years from Earth.

Stars in this early stage are thought to closely resemble our Sun, making them ideal subjects for uncovering the secrets of our solar system’s inception and Earth’s genesis.

Young stars like Hops-315 are enveloped by hot disks of gas and dust termed “protoplanetary discs.” Initially, these disks are extremely hot, causing silicon and iron – crucial planetary components – to be in gaseous form. However, as the disk cools, these elements begin to solidify.

Evidence from ancient meteorites in our solar system suggests that the first solid materials were formed from these discs, specifically crystalline minerals containing silicon monoxide (SiO).

These images illustrate how hot gas condenses into solid minerals around Baby Star Hops-315. The left image captures Hops-315 and its surroundings as seen by the Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array (Alma). Two insets depict an artist’s representation of silicon monoxide molecules condensing into solid silicates – credit: ESO/L. Calsada/Alma (ESO/NAOJ/NRAO)/M. McClure et al.

Using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) and Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array (Alma), international teams identified SiO in its gaseous form and as a newly formed crystalline mineral surrounding Hops-315, strongly indicating that solidification is just beginning.

“The first tiny minerals we observe clump together to form ‘pebbles,’ roughly the size of thumbnails,” Professor Melissa McClure, who led the research, stated. BBC Science Focus. “If they cluster closely enough, they can naturally collapse under their own gravity, forming bodies similar in size to kilometer-sized asteroids.

“Eventually, these will collide and merge, creating a planetary embryo, a full-sized rocky planet, or even the core of a gas giant like Jupiter.”

The research team plans to continue its observations of Hops-315 while also looking for other systems at this nascent stage of planetary evolution.

However, don’t expect to witness planetary formations in real-time. As Van’T Hoff remarked, “The timescale for disk evolution spans hundreds of thousands of years.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0j-mh6_qlba

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About our experts

Merrell van T. Hoff is an assistant professor at Purdue University in the United States. His research aims to understand how planets form and how frequently Earth-like planets exist in the Milky Way and other galaxies. Before joining Purdue, Professor Van’T Hoff was a postdoctoral researcher with the Michigan Fellows Association at the University of Michigan.

Melissa McClure is an assistant professor at Leiden Observatory in the Netherlands and a Beni Prize laureate. Her research employs observations and models to trace how solid building blocks of life (such as “dust” grains like ice and rocks) are incorporated from the formation of dense molecular clouds to the evolution of planets within protoplanetary discs and young exoplanets.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Discovery of a Gigantic New Sauropod Dinosaur Species in China

Posted on July 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Chinese paleontologists have uncovered the fossilized skeleton of the colossal Mamenchisaurus dinosaurs, heralding a remarkable new genus from the late Jurassic epoch.

Fossil remains of Tongnanlong Zhimingi. Image credit: Wei et al., doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-09796-0.

The newly identified species inhabited southwestern China approximately 147 million years ago (late Jurassic epoch).

Scientifically designated as Tongnanlong Zhimingi, this sauropod dinosaur measured around 23-28 m (75.5-92 feet) in length.

“Sauropods are enormous, herbivorous quadrupeds and represent the largest terrestrial dinosaurs that ever existed,” remarked Dr. Xuefang Wei, a researcher from the Western Center for China Geological Survey.

“They first appeared in the late Triassic period, spread globally by the Middle Jurassic, and ultimately went extinct at the end of the late Cretaceous period.”

More than 150 genera have been documented, including over 20 genera from the Jurassic period within China.

“Southwest China is a significant area for Jurassic sauropod discoveries, particularly in the Sichuan Basin,” they added.

The sauropod fauna found in the Jurassic Sichuan Basin was once considered an endemic population distinct from the terrestrial fauna of Pangaea.

This distribution was often explained by the East Asian seclusion hypothesis, suggested to have occurred between the Jurassic and early Cretaceous periods.

However, this hypothesis faces challenges from recent phylogenetic analyses conducted in China, as well as the discovery of Neosaurupod dinosaurs, including a Mamenchisaur dinosaur found in Africa.

The holotype specimen of Tongnanlong Zhimingi was excavated from a construction site in the Dongnan district of the Chonging region within the Sichuan Basin.

This includes three dorsal vertebrae, six caudal vertebrae, scapulae, coracoids, and hind limb bones.

“Our fieldwork indicates that the fossil site belongs to the upper part of the Jurassic. The Monitor formations are situated above Quaternary sediments,” noted the paleontologist.

“The Sorning Formation is composed of purple-red mudstone and sandstone.”

“The layer is rich in invertebrate fossils, including various freshwater Conchostracans, particularly ostracods and stone trails.”

Several vertebrates are identified from this layer, such as fish Ceratodus szechuanensis, turtle Plesiochelys Tatsuensis, and dinosaurs like Mamenchisaurus anyuensis.

Anatomical and phylogenetic studies affirmed that Tongnanlong Zhimingi is part of the sauropod dinosaur family Mamenchisauridae.

“Mamenchisauridae was not a fauna confined to East Asia, but rather had a global distribution during the late Jurassic period,” the researchers concluded.

“Tongnanlong Zhimingi enhances the diversity of Eusauraupods and offers new insights into sauropod diversity and evolutionary developments from the mid-Jurassic to the Late Jurassic as they increased in size.”

Their study was published in the journal Scientific Reports on July 10th.

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X. Wei et al. 2025. New Mamenchisaurus discoveries monitoring the Upper Jurassic formations in the Sichuan Basin, China and their implications for sauropod gigantism. Sci Rep 15, 24808; doi:10.1038/s41598-025-09796-0

Source: www.sci.news

Discovery of Hemifusomes: Biologists Unveil New Organelle Complexes in Human Cells

Posted on June 25, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A team of biologists from the University of Virginia and the National Institutes of Health has found that half of certain organelles can make up to 10% of vesicle organelles present in cells, yet they do not follow the typical endocytotic pathway.

Cutting-edge Cryo-Electron microscope images of rat-1 cells cultured on Cryo-EM grids. The lamellipodia and filopodia in the upper right corner illustrate the cell boundary, distinguishing the cytoplasm from the extracellular space (ext). Various vesicle organelles are highlighted, including early endosomal-like vesicles (EN, pink), multinuclear bodies (MVB, blue), hemispores (HF, yellow), and inverted hemifusomes (FHF, green). Scale bar – 0.5 µm. Image credit: Tavakoli et al., doi: 10.1038/s41467-025-59887-9.

“It’s like uncovering a new recycling center within a cell,” remarked Dr. Seham Ebrahim, a researcher at the University of Virginia.

“Many believe it plays a role in how cells manage their packaging and processing of materials. If this process fails, it can lead to diseases affecting multiple systems in the body.”

“One such condition is Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that may result in albinism, visual impairments, lung issues, and problems with blood clotting.”

“The challenges related to how cells manage their cargo are central to many of these issues.”

“We’re just beginning to grasp how these new organelles fit into the broader context of cellular health and disease.”

“This discovery is thrilling because finding a genuinely new internal cell is rare, and it opens up avenues for exploring entirely new paths.”

Utilizing Cryo-Electron tomography (Cryo-ET), the researchers managed to capture a significant number of images.

They propose that these organelles facilitate the creation of vesicle-based organelles, which function like mixing bowls, small blister-like sacs, and multiple vesicles.

This process plays a critical role in cellular sorting, recycling, and debris management.

Dr. Ebrahim stated, “You can think of vesicles as small delivery trucks within a cell.”

“Part of it functions like a loading dock where cargo is connected and transferred. It’s a step in the process we were unaware of.”

Many of these organelles have gone unnoticed but are surprisingly prevalent in certain areas of the cell.

Researchers aim to enhance their understanding of their significance in proper cell functioning and how issues with them can lead to diseases.

Such findings may contribute to targeted treatments for a range of serious genetic disorders.

“This is only the beginning,” Dr. Ebrahim noted.

“Now that we’ve confirmed the existence of hemifusomes, we can explore their behavior in healthy cells and investigate what occurs when problems arise.”

“It could pave the way for new strategies to address complex genetic disorders.”

The team’s paper was published in the journal Nature Communications.

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A. Cigarette et al. 2025. Proteolipid nanosap interacting with half of hemifusomes mediates polyspore formation. Nat Commun 16, 4609; doi:10.1038/s41467-025-59887-9

Source: www.sci.news

Discovery of the Tiwanaku Civilization Temple in Bolivia

Posted on June 25, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Bolivian archaeologists have unearthed an ancient complex located approximately 215 km (130 miles) southeast of the historic Tiwanak site. This large modular structure, featuring integrated sunken courtyards, bears a striking resemblance to the terraced temples of Tiwanak, indicating significant national investment.

Isometric reconstruction of the Paraspata temple rendered with a 3 m high wall. Image credits: Capriles et al., doi: 10.15184/aqy.2025.59.

The ancient society near the southern shore of Lake Titicaca was once among the most influential civilizations in Bolivia.

Known as Tiwanak, this society is regarded by archaeologists as one of the earliest instances of Andean civilization and a precursor to the Inca Empire, yet it mysteriously vanished around a millennium ago.

“Much remains enigmatic about the Tiwanak civilization,” remarked Pennsylvania archaeologist Jose Capriles.

“Their society disintegrated around 1000 AD, long before the Incas seized control of the Andes in the 15th century.”

“At its zenith, Tiwanak showcased a well-organized social structure, leaving behind architectural remnants like pyramids, terraced temples, and monoliths. While most of these artefacts are found around Lake Titicaca, Tiwanak’s influence extended much farther, though the exact boundaries of its control remain debated.”

“The newly uncovered temple complex is situated about 215 km south of the historically recognized Tiwanak site, known to local indigenous farmers but inadequately studied by researchers due to its unassuming setting.”

“However, the site’s location is quite strategic.”

During the Tiwanaku period, it linked three major trade routes across diverse ecosystems, with the fertile highlands around Lake Titicaca to the north.

This has led researchers to conclude that the site must have been significant in connecting communities.

“People traveled, traded, and erected monuments at pivotal points across the arid mountainous terrain,” Dr. Capriles said.

“Upon discovering an unmapped rectangular area, we employed various techniques to visualize the region.”

“The function of the site was unclear, so I integrated different satellite images.”

“We also carried out a series of UAV missions to capture high-resolution images.”

“Using photogrammetry—a method that constructs 3D models from photographs—we achieved a more detailed visualization of the structure and its surrounding landscape.”

Stone alignments identified an ancient temple named Palaspata, derived from the local terminology.

This temple complex spans roughly 125 m in length and 145 m in width, featuring 15 rectangular enclosures surrounding a central courtyard.

The layout seems to align with rituals that coincide with the sun’s zenith, particularly when it is directly above the equator.

Paraspata Temple. Image credits: Capriles et al., doi: 10.15184/aqy.2025.59.

Using the information gathered, researchers created reconstructions to visualize what the ancient Palaspata temple may have looked like.

The temple’s surface contained numerous fragments of Kelcups, which were used for consuming chicha, a traditional corn beer, during agricultural festivals and ceremonies, suggesting the temple was a key trade hub.

This highlights that corn was cultivated in the Cochabamba valley, indicating the temple’s role in facilitating connections among various culinary traditions on its elevated grounds, thereby enhancing access to an assortment of products.

“The temple likely served a spiritual function, as evidenced by the interconnections that managed trade and harvest distribution within designated ritual spaces,” noted Dr. Capriles.

“Most economic and political dealings were likely mediated through divinity, since this was a common framework for fostering cooperation among disparate individuals, as religion often serves as a unifying force among different groups.”

“The discovery was a revelation, even for local inhabitants,” commented Jas Ventura Guaralo, the mayor of Caracoro, where the site is located.

“The archaeological findings at Palaspata are vital as they unearth significant aspects of local heritage that have been largely ignored.”

“This discovery is crucial for our community, and we regard its documentation as invaluable for boosting tourism and showcasing the region’s rich history.”

The team’s paper was published today in the journal Ancient.

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Jose M. Capriles et al. 2025. Gateway to the East: Palaspata Temple and the southeast expansion of Tiwanak. Ancient 99 (405): 831-849; doi: 10.15184/aqy.2025.59

Source: www.sci.news

Discovery of a New Metaterian Mammal Species Unearthed in Texas

Posted on June 25, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Members of the genus Metatherian Swaindelphys were previously identified in the Swain Quarry in southern Wyoming and the Nasimiento Formation in the San Juan Basin, New Mexico, and are now also found in the Black Peaks Formation in West Texas.

Reconstructing the life of Swaindelphys. Image credit: Kristen Tietjen.

The newly identified species thrived in Texas during the Ale-Nocene period, around 60 million years ago.

It has been designated Swaindelphys Solastella; these animals were significantly larger than related species, yet still about the size of a modern hedgehog.

It belonged to Metatherian, a group encompassing living marsupials and their extinct relatives.

“We’ve dedicated a lot of effort to uncovering this world,” remarked Kristen Miller, a doctoral student at the University of Kansas.

Fossil remains of Swaindelphys Solastella were uncovered in the Black Peak Formation within Big Bend National Park, West Texas.

“The earliest fossil mammals from the Big Bend during the Ale Holocene epoch were initially documented decades ago,” stated Professor Chris Beard of the University of Kansas.

“However, our mission is to uncover some of the smaller, more elusive fossil mammals that inhabited Big Bend during that era.”

“The new fossil we are describing holds significance as it represents the largest marsupial ever identified from the Ale Holocene in North America, in terms of body size.”

“This isn’t surprising considering that everything tends to be larger in Texas.”

The distribution patterns of Swaindelphys may provide insights into the natural features and barriers that limited the geographical spread of species during this time, including early primates.

“During the Ale New Century, the climate would have been warmer, likely leaning towards tropical,” Miller explained.

“Instead of the desert landscape seen today, there would have been more vegetation, possibly alongside numerous rivers and streams.”

“These fossils are found in what are referred to as river sediments, stemming from ancient river systems.”

The discovery of Swaindelphys Solastella is detailed in a paper released this month in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology.

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Kristen Miller et al. Implications of biogeographical and biostratigraphic novel species. Swaindelphys (Mammals, Metatheria) from the Black Peaks Formation, Big Bend National Park, Texas. Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, published online on June 17th, 2025. doi:10.1080/02724634.2025.2500501

Source: www.sci.news

Discovery of New Superheavy Nucleus: Seaborgium-257

Posted on June 24, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A collaborative team of physicists from Germany, Finland, India, and Japan has identified a new isotope of the synthetic element Seaborgium.

Mossat et al. Report on the discovery of the new isotope Seaborgium-257. Image credit: P. Mossat, GSI/Fair.

Seaborgium is a synthetic chemical element with the symbol SG and atomic number 106.

This element was first synthesized in 1974, and currently, there are 14 known isotopes. The most stable isotope, Seaborgium-271, has a half-life of about 2.4 minutes.

The newly discovered isotope, Seaborgium-257, decays through spontaneous fission and alpha particle emission, possessing a half-life of 12.6 ms.

“Our progress is hindered by a scarcity of high-quality lead-206 targets necessary for the production of Seaborgium-257, using a powerful beam of Chromium-52 from the GSI/Fair Linear Accelerator Unilac,” they explained.

Utilizing the advanced gas-filled recoil separator TASCA (transactinide separator and chemical device), researchers recorded a total of 22 decays of Seaborgium-257.

“Our findings regarding Seaborgium-257 provide intriguing insights into the shell effects influencing the fission properties of ultra-heavy nuclei,” they mentioned.

“One significant outcome suggests that the next lightweight yet unknown isotopes may undergo nuclear fission within a brief timeframe of 1 nanosecond to 6 microseconds.

“This upper limit for the anticipated half-life is close to the current experimental capabilities unless a so-called K-extra-character state exists.”

“This excited state, stabilized by quantum effects, exhibits extended fission lifetimes and potentially allows for the exploration of short-lived nuclei.”

“Recently, notable advancements were achieved with the discovery of the 60-NS Rutherford 252 through a long-lived K-amplitude state, edging towards the stability threshold.”

“The quest for the isotopic limits of elements is a natural extension of these experiments, mapping the boundaries of hyper-heavy nuclear stability.”

“To date, no K-atroscopy states have been identified in Seaborgium isotopes.”

Nonetheless, in this current experiment, the team also irradiated a lead-208 target and found strong evidence of a K-isomer state in Seaborgium-259.

“Our results concerning the K-Crossic state of Seaborgium-259 open avenues to investigate the K-isomer phenomena in other isotopes, paving the way for the synthesis of short-lived Seaborgium-256 isotopes.”

The team’s results were published in the journal Physical Review Letters.

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P. Mossat et al. 2025. Investigating the shell effect in fission: a new hyperstable nucleus 257SG. Phys. Rev. Lett. 134, 232501; doi:10.1103/s7hr-y7zq

Source: www.sci.news

Discovery of a Compact Binary System: A Neutron Star Orbiting Within Another Star

Posted on May 23, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

This binary system comprises a PSR J1928+1815 along with a rapidly spinning millisecond pulsar known as the Helium Star Companion.

The AI impression of the compact binary system. Image credit: Gemini AI.

The millisecond pulsar consists of rapidly rotating neutron stars that emit radio waves.

These stars attain remarkable rotational velocities by harvesting material from surrounding stellar groups.

The development of such exotic binary systems remains partially understood, as it encompasses a range of complex processes.

The theory suggests that binary systems may undergo a common envelope phase, where a star orbits within the outer layer of its companion.

If the companion in this evolutionary phase is a neutron star, the theory indicates that the outer layer will be swiftly ejected, resulting in a binary system of recycled pulsars and stripped helium stars.

In the recent study, Dr. Zonglin Yang, a national astronomer at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, along with colleagues, examined the millisecond pulsar PSR J1928+1815.

Utilizing data from a high-speed 500-meter aperture spherical radio telescope, they discovered that the pulsar has a spin period of 10.55 ms and resides in a close binary system with companion helium stars, completing an orbit every 3.6 hours.

They employed a stellar model to demonstrate that this system originated following an unstable mass transfer from companion stars to neutron stars, leading to the formation of a common envelope around both stellar objects.

The neutron star approached the core of the other star, ejected the outer envelope, and released energy, resulting in a tightly bound binary system.

“The companion star has a mass between 1.0 and 1.6 solar masses, obscuring the pulsar approximately 17% of its orbit and is undetectable at other wavelengths, suggesting it is likely a stripped helium star,” the authors noted.

“We interpret this system as having recently undergone a common envelope phase to create compact binaries.”

“Such systems are thought to be rare, yet we anticipate the existence of others,” they added.

“We estimate that there could be between 16 and 84 undiscovered examples within the Milky Way.”

The findings are documented in a paper published in the journal Science.

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Zl Yang et al. 2025. A pulsar helium star compact binary system formed by common envelope evolution. Science 388 (6749): 859-863; doi: 10.1126/science.ado0769

Source: www.sci.news

Discovery of a Newly Preserved Specimen of Archeopteryx

Posted on May 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The latest fossil, named Chicago Archeopteryx, is the 14th known specimen of this remarkable Jurassic species.

Chicago Archeopteryx. Image credit: Delaney Drummond/Field Museum.

The Archeopteryx inhabited the Jurassic period around 150 million years ago.

The Chicago specimen is the smallest known, roughly the size of a pigeon. Its fragile hollow bones are embedded in exceptionally hard limestone.

As with other Archeopteryx fossils, this new find was located in limestone deposits near Solnhofen, Germany.

This particular fossil was uncovered by a private collector before 1990 and has remained privately held since then.

A coalition of supporters assisted the Field Museum in acquiring it, and it arrived there in August 2022.

“When we initially obtained the specimen of Archeopteryx,” remarked Dr. Jinmaio Connor, the Field Museum’s Associate Curator of Fossil Reptiles.

“Despite the fact that Archeopteryx has been known for over 160 years, we were uncertain about the new insights we might gain.”

“However, our specimens are exceptionally well preserved and prepared, so we are uncovering a wealth of new information, from the tip of the beak to the tip of the tail.”

Thanks to the outstanding preservation of the specimens, paleontologists conducted high-resolution CT scans and digital 3D reconstructions.

The findings reveal an almost entirely intact skull, featuring a well-preserved palate region.

“The bones in the roof of the mouth provide valuable insights into the evolution of what is known as a skull, a feature of modern birds that allows them to move their beaks independently from the braincase,” Dr. O’Connor explained.

“While it may not seem thrilling, for those studying bird evolution, it’s quite significant, as it is thought that specialized skulls may have evolved for varying ecological niches.”

“Additionally, the soft tissues preserved in Chicago Archeopteryx‘s hands and feet support the idea that Archeopteryx likely spent considerable time on the ground and may have even climbed trees.”

An illustration of Archeopteryx depicting its characteristic feathers that would have assisted flight. Image credit: Michael Rothman.

The wing feathers of the Chicago Archeopteryx raise an enduring scientific question regarding the origins of flight in dinosaurs.

“Archeopteryx is not the first dinosaur with wings, nor the first to possess ‘wings’,” Dr. O’Connor explained.

“However, it is considered the earliest known dinosaur that managed to achieve powered flight using its wings.”

“This section of the paper is particularly intriguing to me, as it provides evidence that Archeopteryx employed feathered wings for flight.”

Key to Archeopteryx‘s flight may be a set of feathers previously unrecognized in the species—a group of long upper arm feathers known as Tertials.

“In comparison to most modern birds, Archeopteryx has an exceptionally long upper arm bone,” noted Dr. O’Connor.

“If you are flying, having an elongated upper arm bone can create a gap between your long primary and secondary wings and the rest of your body.”

“If air flows through that gap, it can disturb the lift being generated, making flight impossible.”

Nevertheless, modern birds have developed solutions to this issue, employing a series of tertial feathers to bridge the gap between their bodies and wings.

“Our specimen is the first Archeopteryx to be preserved and studied for its long feather structure,” Dr. O’Connor said.

“These feathers share similarities with those of birds, yet are absent in non-avian feathered dinosaurs.”

“Their wing feathers terminate at their elbows, indicating that these non-bird dinosaurs could not fly, whereas Archeopteryx could.”

“This also supports the idea that flight in dinosaurs may have evolved multiple times, which I find very exciting.”

The team’s research findings were published in the journal Nature this week.

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J. O’Connor et al. Chicago Archeopteryx offers insights into early avian evolution. Nature Published online May 14, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41586-025-08912-4

Source: www.sci.news

Discovery of a Massive Wandering Black Hole Located 600 Million Light-Years Away

Posted on May 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The discovery of this superwalled black hole was made possible by the newly identified tidal disruption event, AT2024TVD.

Tidal Disruption Event AT2024TVD. Image credits: NASA/CXC/University of California, Berkeley/Yao et al. /ESA /STSCI /HST /J. DEPASQUALE.

“A tidal disruption event (TDE) occurs when stars are either stretched or ‘spaghettified’ by the immense gravitational forces of black holes,” explained UC Berkeley researcher Dr. Yuhanyao.

“The remnants of the torn-apart stars are pulled into a circular orbit around the black hole.”

“This process creates high-temperature shocks and emissions that can be detected in ultraviolet and visible light.”

The AT2024TVD event enabled astronomers to utilize the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope to identify elusive wandering supermassive black holes, supported by observations from NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory.

Interestingly, these 1 million rogue black holes are often found to be supermassive and actively consuming surrounding material.

Among the roughly 100 TDEs recorded by the Light Sky Survey, this marks the first instance of an offset TDE being identified.

In fact, at the center of the host galaxy lie ultra-massive black holes differing in mass by 100 million solar masses.

Hubble’s optical precision indicates that the TDE is located just 2,600 light-years from the larger black holes at the galaxy’s core.

This distance is comparable to just one minute of the span between our Sun and the central ultra-massive black hole of the Milky Way.

The larger black hole expels energy as it accumulates material, classifying it as an active galactic nucleus.

Interestingly, the two supermassive black holes exist within the same galaxy but are not gravitationally linked like a binary pair.

Smaller black holes can potentially spiral toward the center of the galaxy, eventually merging with their larger counterparts.

However, at this point, they are too distant to be bound by gravity.

“AT2024TVD is the first offset TDE captured through optical observations, opening up new possibilities for studying this elusive population of black holes in future surveys,” Dr. Yao remarked.

“Currently, theorists have not focused extensively on offset TDEs.

“I believe this discovery will drive scientists to search for more instances of this type of event.”

The black holes responsible for AT2024TVD are traversing the bulges of gigantic galaxies.

Black holes periodically consume stars every tens of thousands of years, lying dormant until their next “meal” arrives.

How did the black hole become displaced from the center? Previous studies suggest that three-body interactions can eject lower-mass black holes from a galaxy’s core.

This theory may apply here, given its proximity to the central black hole.

“If a black hole undergoes a three-body interaction with two other black holes in the galaxy’s core, it can remain bound to the galaxy and orbit the central region,” explained Dr. Yao.

Another possibility is that these black holes are remnants from a smaller galaxy that merged with the host galaxy over a billion years ago.

In such a case, the black hole could eventually merge with the central active black hole in the distant future. As of now, astronomers remain uncertain about its trajectory.

“There is already substantial evidence that the galaxy will increase its TDE rate, but the presence of a second black hole associated with AT2024TVD suggests a past merger has occurred.”

The team’s survey results will be published in the Astrophysical Journal Letters.

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Yuhan Yao et al. 2025. A massive black hole located 0.8 kpc from the host nucleus. apjl in press; Arxiv: 2502.17661

Source: www.sci.news

Early Monotonicity: A Semi-Quantitative Discovery by Paleontologists

Posted on April 30, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The prevailing belief regarding these egg sales has been that both species descend from land-dwelling ancestors. While the ancestors of the platymonds became semi-aquatic, Echidna remained terrestrial. However, a detailed examination of a humerus bone from Kryoryctes cadburyi, a prehistoric monotreme that lived in Victoria, Australia, during the early Cretaceous period, indicates that Echidna evolved from semi-aquatic ancestors, suggesting that the lifestyle of modern paddy field amphibians originated over 100 million years ago.

Artist’s impressions of Kryoryctes cadburyi. Image credit: Peter Schouten.

“Approximately 30 examples of mammals have evolved to live entirely or partially in water, such as whales, dolphins, dugongs, seals, otters, and beavers,” says Professor Suzanne Hand, a paleontologist from the University of New South Wales.

“However, it is exceedingly rare to observe mammals evolving in the opposite direction.”

“We are discussing semi-aquatic mammals that transitioned to a land-based existence. Such an event would be quite unusual, but I believe that’s what occurred with echidnas.”

In their recent study, Professor Hand and her team analyzed a single humerus bone of an ancient monotreme, Kryoryctes Cadbury.

Using CT scans and other techniques, they investigated the internal microstructure of the specimen.

“The external structure of bones allows for direct comparisons with similar animals to clarify relationships, while the internal structure offers insights into the beast’s lifestyle and ecology,” Professor Hand explained.

“Thus, while the internal structure might not reveal the animal’s identity, it can inform us about its environment and living conditions.”

Living in southern Victoria about 108 million years ago, Kryoryctes cadburyi and its relatives dominated the Australian mammalian fauna.

“Mesozoic mammals from Australia are uncommon and primarily known through their teeth and jaws,” states Professor Michael Archer from the University of New South Wales.

“Currently, Kryoryctes cadburyi is known solely from limb bones.”

“This humerus presents an extraordinary chance to gain insight into the lifestyles of Australian mammals, revealing a considerable story, perhaps one we weren’t initially anticipating.”

Researchers were taken aback when they discovered that the internal structure of the ancient humerus differed from that of modern Echidna bones.

“The internal structure shows that the bone wall of platymonds is quite thick with a narrow bone marrow cavity, while Echidna has a much thinner bone wall,” they noted.

“The fine structure of the Kryoryctes cadburyi humerus resembles that found in lizards, with its dense bone serving as ballast, aiding its ability to dive for food, a trait noticed in other semi-aquatic mammals.”

There are also peculiar traits in modern Echidna that might hint at an ancient semi-aquatic ancestry.

“It’s well established that the platypus bill contains numerous highly sensitive receptors that detect slight currents created by prey,” Professor Hand remarked.

“Although Echidna’s snouts have fewer receptors, it’s thought these might be remnants of their aquatic manipulative capabilities, along with traces of platypus-like features found in the embryos of echidnas.”

“Another characteristic inherited from their aquatic ancestors is the backward orientation of Echidna’s hind legs, similar to the rounded feet of the platypus when swimming.”

“In Echidnas, however, this trait is utilized for digging.”

“Our research has shown that echidnas exhibit diving reflexes when submerged in water, which assist in conserving oxygen and prolonging breath-holding capabilities. Studies on a respiratory protein called mammalian myoglobin further suggest echidna’s semi-aquatic ancestry.”

“The positive charge on myoglobin’s surface correlates with enhanced muscle capacity to retain oxygen, thereby extending the duration mammals can dive.”

“This is more prominent in platypuses, but even among burrowing mammals, echidnas show a higher than expected capacity.”

Survey results were published this week in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

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Suzanne J. Hand et al. 2025. Bone microstructure supports the Mesozoic origin of monotremes’ semi-aquatic lifestyle. PNAS 122 (19): E2413569122; doi: 10.1073/pnas.2413569122

Source: www.sci.news

Discovery of Glowing Dark Clouds and Molecules Near Earth

Posted on April 29, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Stars and planets arise from swirling clouds of cosmic gas and dust, primarily composed of hydrogen and other molecular elements. On Monday, astronomers announced the discovery of the closest known cloud to Earth, a vast, crescent-shaped region teeming with potential for star formation.

This cloud, located approximately 300 light-years from our solar system, has been named after EOS, the Greek goddess of dawn. It is the first molecular cloud identified through hydrogen fluorescence, according to Blakeley Burkhart, an astrophysicist at Rutgers University.

“If you observe these clouds in the sky, they’re enormous,” Dr. Burkhart stated. The findings were published in conjunction with a colleague in the Nature Astronomy Journal. She also remarked, “It literally glows in the darkness.”

Investigating clouds like EO, especially regarding their hydrogen content, could reshape astronomers’ understanding of the galactic material available for planet and star formation. This research also provides insights into the rates of formation and destruction of the materials that fuel these processes.

“For the first time, we are observing this hidden reservoir of hydrogen that can create stars,” explained Thavisha Dharmawardena, an astronomer at New York University and co-author of the study. Following the discovery of EOS, astronomers expressed a desire to identify more hydrogen-rich clouds.

Molecular hydrogen, which consists of two hydrogen atoms, is the universe’s most abundant substance. This stellar nursery contains it abundantly. However, detecting these molecules from the ground is challenging because they emit light at wavelengths easily absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere.

In contrast, carbon monoxide—composed of one carbon atom and one oxygen atom—is simpler to detect. It emits light at longer wavelengths, making it accessible for observation with radio telescopes commonly used to identify star-forming clouds.

EOS eluded detection for a long time due to its unexpected nature and low carbon monoxide levels.

Dr. Burkhart identified the cloud while analyzing data from approximately 20 years earlier from the Far-Ultraviolet Imaging Spectrograph (FIMS), an instrument aboard a Korean satellite. She found molecular hydrogen signatures in areas where she believed no molecular cloud existed and collaborated with Dr. Dharmawardena for deeper investigation.

“At this stage, I was familiar with nearly every molecular cloud by name,” Dr. Dharmawardena noted. “I had no awareness of this particular structure; I couldn’t comprehend it.”

Dr. Dharmawardena confirmed the discovery against the 3D map of interstellar dust in our galaxy, which was developed using data from the now-retired Gaia Space Telescope. “EOS was distinctly outlined and visible,” she commented. “It’s a stunning structure.”

John Black, an astronomer at Sweden’s Chalmers Institute of Technology, lauded the methods used to unveil EOS, though he was not part of the research team.

“It’s remarkable to witness molecular hydrogen firsthand and trace the outline of this cloud,” Dr. Black remarked. He added that, compared to carbon monoxide, hydrogen reveals the “authentic shape and size” of EOS.

Utilizing molecular hydrogen data, astronomers estimated the mass of EO to be about 3,400 times that of our Sun, significantly exceeding the carbon monoxide-based estimate of 20 solar masses.

Dr. Burkhart suggested that similar carbon monoxide measurements may underrepresent the mass of other molecular clouds. She emphasized the significance of this finding in stellar formation, as larger clouds can spawn larger stars.

In a follow-up study, EOS, which remains unreviewed, revealed that the cloud has not produced a star previously. However, the future potential for star formation remains uncertain.

Dr. Burkhart collaborated with a team of astronomers to conceptualize a NASA spacecraft named EOS, which inspired the cloud’s name. This proposed space telescope aims to map molecular hydrogen content in clouds across the galaxy, including its namesake.

Such a mission could enhance our understanding of the potential for more concealed clouds and known stellar clouds to contribute to star and planet formation.

“I genuinely don’t know how stars and planets come into being,” Dr. Burkhart admitted. “By observing molecular hydrogen firsthand, we can gain insights into how the birthplaces of stars form and how they ultimately fade away.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

Discovery of fossils of 113 million fiery ants in Brazil

Posted on April 25, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists describe the oldest known members of Haidomyrmecinae – An extinct subfamily of ants that were only during the Cretaceous period – preserved as an impression of limestone rocks in the Krato Formation in northeastern Brazil.

Vulcanidris cratensisholotype. Scale bar – 2 mm. Image credit: Lepeco et al. , doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2025.03.023.

It has been named Vulcanidris cratensisthe new ant species lived 113 million years ago (early Cretaceous period).

This species represents the oldest and most definitive ant known in science, and is also the most complete evidence of the early evolution of ants in the fossil record.

“Vulcanidris cratensis The author, Dr. Anson Lepeco, a paleontologist at Dr. Zloria da Universad de Sao Paulo, stated:

“What makes this discovery particularly interesting is its belong to an extinct “hell ant”, known for its strange predatory adaptation. ”

“Even though it is part of an ancient lineage, the species already exhibits highly specialized anatomical features, suggesting unique hunting behaviors.”

The oldest previous ants were found in France and Myanmar and were preserved in amber instead of limestone.

The presence of hell ants in Brazil indicates that ants are already widely distributed and diversified early in their evolution.

“There was an hell ants explained by Amber, and this was the first time I could visualize them in a rock fossil,” Dr. Lepeco said.

Dr. Lepeco and his colleagues discovered a very well-preserved Ant specimen and systematically examined one of the world’s largest collections of fossil insects from. Krato Layera deposit known for its exceptional fossil preservation.

“When we encountered this extraordinary specimen, we quickly recognized its importance not only as a new species, but also as a potentially conclusive evidence of ants in the Krato Formation,” Dr. Lepeco said.

“The finding highlights the importance of a thorough investigation of existing collections either privately or in museums, and highlights the fauna of Brazilian paleontology and the country’s unexposed fossil insects.”

Using microcomputed tomography imaging, paleontologists discovered it Vulcanidris cratensis It was previously closely related to hell ants, known only from specimens preserved in Burma mber, Myanmar.

This finding shows that ants must have been widely distributed worldwide and repeatedly crossed Cretaceous lands.

But what surprised them most was the professional traits of Hell’s Ants.

“We were hoping to find the features of the hellish ant, but we were shocked by the features of the feeding device,” Dr. Lepeco said.

“Unlike modern ants with laterally moving mandibles, this species had a mandible with face and face projections running forward in front of their head and eyes.”

“Finding such anatomically specialized ants for 113 million years ago challenges our assumptions about how quickly and complex adaptations these insects have developed.”

“The complex forms suggest that even these early ants had evolved sophisticated plundering strategies that were already very different from their modern counterparts.”

“The discovery of this new ant specimen raises broader questions about the evolutionary pressures that have led to the unique adaptation of hell’s ants.”

“Advanced imaging tools allow us to explore these fossil specimens in greater detail than ever before.”

Discovery of Vulcanidris cratensis Reported in a paper It’s published in the journal today Current Biology.

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Anderson Repeco et al. Ants from Hell from the Lower Cretaceous period in Brazil. Current BiologyPublished online on April 24, 2025. doi:10.1016/j.cub.2025.03.023

Source: www.sci.news

Discovery of a 100 million year old armored dinosaur’s footprints in Canada

Posted on April 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

It will be assigned to a new ICHNOSPECIES Ruopodasaurus clava the footprints of these dinosaurs found in northeastern British Columbia and northwest Alberta confirm the presence of antirosaurus antirosaurus during the Middle North American period.

Cast specimen of Ruopodasaurus clava From the Murray River, British Columbia, Canada. Image credits: Arbor et al. , doi: 10.1080/02724634.2025.2451319.

“There are two major groups in Ankylosaurus,” says Dr. Victoria Arbor, an evolutionary biologist and vertebrate paleontologist at the Royal BC Museum and the University of Victoria.

“The Nodosaurid Ankylosaurs have a flexible tail and four toes, while the Ankylosaurs have a tail club like the Sledgehammer, with only three legs.”

“Unlike the well-known Ichnospecies of the Ankylosaurus. Tetrapodosaurus borealis These new tracks found in North America with four toes – Name Ruopodasaurus clava – There are only three, so anywhere in the world makes the first known example of antirosaurus footprints.”

“Ruopodasaurus clava means “falling lizards with clubs/maces,” referring to both the mountainous areas where these tracks were discovered and the distinctive tail clubs of these dinosaurs.

They don’t know exactly what the dinosaurs made, but Ruopodasaurus clava Although it looks like a footprint, paleontologists know it was about 5-6m long, thorny, armored, and had a stiff or full tail club.

“Ankylosaurus is my favorite group of dinosaurs, so it’s really exciting for me to be able to identify new examples of these dinosaurs in British Columbia,” Dr. Arbor said.

Newly discovered Ruopodasaurus clava The footprint dates back to the mid-Cretaceous period, approximately 100 million to 94 million years ago.

No bones of Ankilosauride were found in North America about 100-84 million years ago, leading to speculation that antirosauride disappeared from North America at this time.

These footprints show that during this gap in the skeletal fossil record, tailed ankylosauruses were alive and well in North America.

This finding also shows that two major ankylosaurus of Nodosaurus – Nodosaurus and Ankylosaurus groups coexist in the same region during this time, including this new three indirect species.

“We’ve seen a lot of experience in the world,” said Dr. Charles Helm, scientific advisor at the Tumbler Ridge Museum.

“It’s really exciting to know that through this research there are two types of Ankylosaurus that call this area home. Ruopodasaurus clava It has been identified only in this region of Canada.”

“The study also highlights how important the Peace Region in northeastern British Columbia is to understand the evolution of dinosaurs in North America.

“This discovery gives us a new part of the puzzle about ancient creatures that once roamed Canadian stuff.”

Findings are reported in a paper in Journal of VertebratePaleontology.

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Victoria M. Arbor et al. Ichnotaxon, a new tyrophoran from British Columbia, Canada, confirms the existence of antirosaurus dinosaurs in the central Cretaceous period of North America. Journal of VertebratePaleontologyPublished online on April 14th, 2025. doi:10.1080/02724634.2025.2451319

Source: www.sci.news

During the Mesolithic Age in East Asia, the discovery of stone tools reveals a complex range of human dynamics

Posted on April 2, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The Mid-Lestic Age is considered a dynamic period in European and African history, but is generally considered a static period in East Asia. The discovery of a series of refined stone tools at Long Tang Sight in southwestern China, 50,000-60,000 years ago, challenges that recognition.

A product from the Quina system located at Longtan Site, China. Image credits: Luan et al. , doi: 10.1073/pnas.2418029122.

The Paleolithic period in the Central era occurred about 300,000-40,000 years ago and is considered an important time in human evolution.

This period is related to the origins and evolution of modern African people.

In Eurasia, it is associated with the development of several archaic human groups, such as the Neanderthals and Denisovan.

However, there is a widely believed belief that in most of the Paleostemic period, China’s development had slowed.

“Our discoveries challenge our current understanding of human history and technological development in East Asia,” said Professor Beau Lee of the University of Wollongong.

“This finding challenges a long-established general theory among archaeologists that China-China tools are relatively simple and unchanged.”

Professor Li and colleagues unearthed a rich collection of stone tools at the Longtan archaeological site in Yunnan, China.

This tool revealed a complete kina technology system that includes the cores used to generate large and thick flakes.

The Kina Industry is one of the most representative tool creation strategies developed in the Mid Paleolithic period around 300,000-40,000 years ago.

It is characterized by a steeply scaled retouch of thick flakes, which often produces robust scrapers with heavy edge modifications associated with neanderthals, representing strategies developed during marine isotope stage 4 as a response to open forest grassland environments and cool/dry climates.

The Kina Technical System was discovered in Western and Southern Europe during this period, but was not thought to have existed in East Asia.

The wear traces of Longtanquina scrape suggest that they are used in a variety of materials, including bones, horns, wood, meat, skin, and non-slow plants.

“Evidence has shown that the discoveries at Longtan significantly broadened the geographical distribution of human species, the tools used, and the adaptability to adapt to a variety of climates and environments,” Professor Li said.

“The discovery of Longtan also provides a perspective to understand how the human-leeze species evolved and evolved in East Asia prior to the massive arrival of early modern people 45,000 years ago.”

“Understanding rather old artifacts forces us to rethink models of human migration patterns and technology evolution in this part of the world.”

“This opens an exciting new avenue for research and, as we know, can rewrite East Asia’s prehistoric period.”

a paper The survey results were published this week Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

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Qi-Jun Ruan et al. 2025. Kinarithic technology demonstrates the diverse late Pleistocene human dynamics of East Asia. pnas 122 (14): E2418029122; doi: 10.1073/pnas.2418029122

Source: www.sci.news

Astounding Discovery: Curiosity Detects Long-Chain Carbon Molecules in Martian Mudstones

Posted on March 26, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Sample analysis of Mars Instrument on NASA’s Curiosity Rover detected decane, anteca and dodecane molecules in Gale Crater samples.

This graphic shows the long chain organic molecules, decane, undercane, dodecane, and rover of curiosity from NASA. Image credit: NASA/Dan Gallagher.

“The main scientific goal of Curiosity is to quantitatively assess the possibility of Mars’ habitability in the past or present,” says Dr. Caroline Freissinet, researcher at Atmosphères ET Observation Spatiales at CNRS and Laboratoire.

“Sample analysis in the MARS (SAM) instrument suite on a rover is dedicated to this task by employing inventory of organic and inorganic compounds present on the surface of Mars as potential chemical biosignatures and investigating the nature of the conservation.”

Using SAM instruments, researchers analyzed molecules released from excavated mudstone samples called Cumberlands, collected in Yellowknife Bay, the geological layer of Gale Crater.

They were able to detect three long chain alkanes: decane (c)₁₀h_{twenty two}), unedecane (c₁₁h_{twenty four}), and dodecan (c₁₂h₂₆).

“These long carbon chains, which contain up to 12 consecutive carbon atoms, can exhibit similar characteristics to the fatty acids produced on Earth through biological activity,” the researchers said.

Dodecane represents the highest molecular mass organic molecule ever identified on the surface of Mars.

“Detection of long-chain alkanes shows various causes of organic matter and storage mechanisms in Cumberland samples,” the scientists said.

“Clays and sulfate minerals are expected to play an important role in this long-term storage.”

According to the author, the source of Mars’ long-chain alkanes remains uncertain.

“Laboratory experiments support sources from the saturated forms of linear chains, primary carboxylic acids, i.e. decano acids, dodecano acids, and tridecano acids, for decane, undecano and dodecano acids, respectively,” they said.

“Abiotic processes can form these acids, but are considered to be a universal product of biochemistry, on the ground and perhaps Mars.”

“The origin and distribution of these molecules therefore has great interest in searching for potential biosignatures on Mars.”

Survey results It will be displayed in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

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Caroline Freecinet et al. 2025. Long chain alkanes are preserved in the mudstones of Mars. pnas 122 (13): e2420580122; doi: 10.1073/pnas.2420580122

Source: www.sci.news

Reconsidering Dark Energy: A Potential Universe-Altering Discovery

Posted on March 20, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The Mayall Telescope Star Trail in Arizona houses dark energy spectroscopy equipment

Luke Tyas/Berkeley Lab

Dark energy is one of the most mysterious features of our universe. We don’t know what it is, but it controls how the universe is expanding and its ultimate destiny. Now, the study of millions of heavenly objects reveals that they may have been thinking about all the wrong things that could potentially have dramatic consequences in the universe.

“This is the biggest hint we have about the nature of dark energy in the roughly 25 years since we discovered it,” he says. Adam Reese at Johns Hopkins University in Maryland.

The results come from three years of data collected by Arizona’s Dark Energy Spectroscopy (DESI). By combining this data with other measurements such as background radiation in cosmic microwaves and maps of supernovas, the DESI team concluded that dark energy may have changed over time.

“This is the cutting edge of human knowledge,” says a member of the DigiTeam. It’ll be Percival At the University of Waterloo, Canada. “We see amazing things throughout the universe.”

Desi is attached to a telescope and works by measuring the “redshift” of light emitted from a distant galaxy, or how that wavelength of light extends as it travels through space. From now on, researchers can determine how much the universe has expanded during the journey of light and calculate how this expansion is changing. So far, the team has analyzed light from nearly 15 million galaxies and other bright objects in the sky.

For decades, physicists have agreed that the universe is expanding at a fixed acceleration. This is a cosmological constant known as the lambda, interpreted as the driving force of dark energy. However, in April 2024, Desi’s measurements provide the first hint that the universe may actually be decreasing faster over time, with the cosmological constants not so constant.

Riess, who is not part of the Desi team, says at the time they were not sure if the discovery would last with more data. In fact, it’s just getting stronger. “It’s very exciting for me to see that. [the team] After another year and after they added more data, no issues were found in the analysis. If anything, the outcome is more important,” he says.

That being said, this discovery still does not meet the “5-sigma” statistical levels traditionally used by physicists to discover it as authentic, rather than as a statistical fluke. Current analysis reaches a maximum of 4.2 sigma, but team members Mustafa Ishak Bouzaki At the University of Texas and Dallas, the team says they believe the results will reach five sigma within two years as Digi continues to acquire the data. “This outcome with dark energy is something we never thought it would happen in our lifetime,” he says.

One of the relief, according to Ishak-Boushaki, is that the discovery relies on Desi’s data as well as several other investigations in the universe. Riess compares the situa…To read more, visit Example Website.

Source: www.newscientist.com

Future paleontologists may find wind turbine blades to be a significant technological discovery

Posted on March 19, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

University of Leicester paleontologists Sarah Gabot and Jan Zarashivich have published a new book on how different types of so-called technolosils collapse in the past, including plastic bottles, patios, cell phones, old socks, spherical pens and many other hosts.

Wind turbine blades made from recycled materials may be one of the most surprising fossils discovered by future paleontologists. Image credit: Gemini AI.

In their book, Disposal: How Technorosil becomes our ultimate legacythe author explores what different human items look like, subject to natural processes for thousands to millions of years.

But one technical oil that may really turn your head among paleontologists in distant environments in exploring the extraordinary layers of human epoch is the relic of wind turbines.

“The fossils are not from row towers. They are made of metal and made of recycled metal,” Professor Zalasiewicz said.

“But the giant wind turbine blades are made from materials such as fiberglass, epoxy resin, and carbon fiber. These are extremely difficult to recycle, but they make fossils easier.”

“As wind turbines reach their end of life and are removed, huge 50m-long bladed landfills are growing, sliced into truck-length segments and appearing to be neatly stacked together.”

“Some of them have been buried for millions of years, and if you ultimately stumble upon an inquisitive, distant paleontologist, a massive, hollow, sawbone cemetery,” he said.

“Some are crushed and dulled by the movement of the earth, while others are full of mineral growth, but their impressive shape and enormous size shine through the layers.”

“For our distant explorers, they become a huge puzzle. Can they tell us that they were built to grab the wind, providing clean, renewable energy?”

“Perhaps if they can connect them together — just like we're reconstructing the skeletons of today's giant dinosaurs — we can see their aerodynamic shapes.”

“They become one puzzle among the millions we leave behind in our daily lives (and I think they'll also find more ominous fossils left behind by fossil fuel burning).

“There was nothing like this new fossil cornea in the 400 million years of history on Earth.”

“And now we should begin to understand this amazing, surprising, often toxic, what we leave on the planet.”

“To know how our countless discarded objects become fossilized in the distant future will help us deal with the growing mountains that we live in today.”

The author also explains the types of science that appear to show the footprints of distant humans on Earth for the average reader.

It offers a different perspective on fossils and fossils. It expands the ideas of what people think of as fossils and what they can convey to us.

“It was a real adventure to use an understanding of how fossils are formed in the past and apply it to the very new world of what we now call Technofossils,” Professor Gabbott said.

“But then, we were asked a really tough question. Will the most amazing technolosil we're leaving behind will be millions (or billions) now?”

“There are so many candidates comparable to wind turbines because of the 'the strangest human fossil of all time.' ”

“For example, there are countless different shapes that a pair of Y fronts can take when pressed within a layer (and explores a very specific question in the book).”

“There are some very distinctive, and very hard fossil smoke particles that come out of our power plants.”

“There are strange stories of tea bags, chicken feathers, non-stick frying pans, instantaneous patterns of silicon chips, copper wire that wraps around the world.”

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Sarah Gabot and Jan Zarashivich. 2025. How Technorosil becomes our ultimate legacy. OUP Oxford

Source: www.sci.news

The Most Fascinating Discovery I’ve Made Online: Josh Berry | Culture

Posted on March 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

ah. The internet is a vast reservoir of fury, tribalism, and all the porn in human history. Like many, I find myself drawn to the internet, particularly social media. Every night before bed, I often regret spending too much time interacting with others when I could have been scrolling alone in my own chaotic nest like a zombie. Here are some internet gems that tickle my funny bone, and hopefully yours too.

1. Jonathan Ross interviewed by Alan Partridge

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/G0GiwGvFjuE?start=189&wmode=opaque&feature=oembed&start=189" title="Alan Partridge on Jonathan Ross 2011 – Better version" height="480" width="854" allowfullscreen="

Alan Partridge is a comedic genius with layers upon layers of stupidity and complexity, a quintessentially British character. Watch him in this interview with Jonathan Ross as he shamelessly promotes his book, “I, Partridge.”

Personal highlight: “I think you can count the number of friends I have in the industry with thumbs and toes…or one hand finger…not including thumbs… I have four.”

2. Johnny Vegas’s old stand-up

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/cCxgag-Ho10?wmode=opaque&feature=oembed" title="Johnny Vegas – 2000 Melbourne International Comedy Festival Gala" height="480" width="854" allowfullscreen="

Johnny Vegas’s stand-up routines are raw and unapologetically funny, pushing boundaries and challenging audiences. His unique style sets him apart in the world of comedy, a breath of fresh air in today’s politically correct environment.

3. Eddie Murphy pretends to be James Brown

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/hLVmw81qDSA?wmode=opaque&feature=oembed" title="Eddie Murphy impersonates James Brown" height="480" width="640" allowfullscreen="

Eddie Murphy’s James Brown impression is not only spot-on but seamlessly weaved into his stand-up routine. His ability to convey humor without words in his impersonation is truly remarkable, showcasing his comedic genius.

4. TJ Miller

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/CexNsiQt0sI?wmode=opaque&feature=oembed" title="Cargo Pants | Comedy Special: Dear Jonah | T.J. Miller" height="480" width="854" allowfullscreen="

I find this clip amusing because it showcases the beauty of randomness and oddity in comedy.

5. Jimmy Kerr and Susie Dent

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/bbcEwxuxE9k?wmode=opaque&feature=oembed" title="Jimmy Carr’s funniest Susie Dent remark" height="480" width="854" allowfullscreen="

I enjoy this clip because it highlights the consistency of comedic talent.

6. Moira’s drive-thru

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/p_9m81Z-L4E?wmode=opaque&feature=oembed" title="Drive Thru Prank | Facejacker" height="480" width="854" allowfullscreen="

These sketches never fail to entertain, whether as a teenager or an adult. Kayvan Novak’s talent in voice modulation and improvisation is truly impressive, making for top-notch comedy.

7. Mrs. Merton

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/Lj-9lSEBBm0?wmode=opaque&feature=oembed" title="Debbie McGee on Mrs Merton" height="480" width="640" allowfullscreen="

This character-based interview format with Caroline Aherne’s Mrs. Merton is a comedic gem. Her ability to deliver cutting questions with a soft demeanor is both smart and entertaining.

8. Rack Rack

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/RkRl8fwkaqw?wmode=opaque&feature=oembed" title="Netflix Presents: The Characters | Tim Robinson | Netflix" height="480" width="854" allowfullscreen="

A sketch that delivers a surprising twist, Tim Robinson’s humor shines bright in this piece.

9. Thank you Rachel

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/lrJ1ZhECi-Q?wmode=opaque&feature=oembed" title="“Thanks, A lot Rachel”" height="480" width="854" allowfullscreen="

A guilty pleasure meme, “Thanks, Rachel” captures the humor in an everyday situation of charger theft, delivering pure and unfiltered emotions in a hilariously relatable way.

10. Bo Burnham

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/NeOhV4zOxJ4?wmode=opaque&feature=oembed" title="The Chicken – Bo Burnham (from THE INSIDE OUTTAKES – album out now)" height="480" width="854" allowfullscreen="

While not traditionally funny, Bo Burnham’s “Chicken” offers a unique perspective on the relationship between comedy, performance, and happiness.

“Chicken” explores the pursuit of comedy through a simple yet profound narrative about a chicken crossing the road, leaving viewers to ponder the essence of comedic endeavor.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Discovery of a New Titanosaurus Species in Argentina

Posted on March 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists working in northern Patagonia, Argentina, have excavated fossils of a small Rinconsaurus titanosaurus, a previously unknown species.

Chadititan Kalboy. Image credit: Gabriel Rio.

The newly discovered dinosaurs roamed the globe during the late Cretaceous period, about 78 million years ago.

It has been named Chadititan Kalboythe ancient species belong to the Argentine Titanosaurus group Rinconsora.

“Rinconsen Auria was first established in 2007 with the aim of incorporating the genus. Rinconsaurus and Muirensaur“The “Bernardino Rivadavia” of Argentino de Ciencias Natures and the “Felix de Azara” of Fandacion de Historia Natural, said Dr. Federico Agnolin, a fellow paleontologist.

“This clade contains a tiny Titanosaurus, elongated, lightly constructed – less than 11 m in length.

According to researchers, Chadititan Kalboy It was a very small, Rinconsaurus Titanosaurus constructed of gracyl.

“Compared to the length of the femur Bonatitanestimated body length Chadititan It could be estimated to be about 7 m in length,” they said.

“The new Titanosaurus shows that the Rinconsau factions are characterized by a different physique than other Titanosaurus.

Fossilized bones from several individuals Chadititan Kalboy Fossils found in new areas of Analecto Layer Near General Roca City in the Rio Negro province of Argentina.

“The new area is located within Marine Family Farm, close to the Pasocordoba area, 10km southwest of the city of Loca,” the scientist said.

“The area consists of scattered bad lands and low hills separating the eastern edge of the lowlands of “Salinity Moreno.” ”

“They produced numerous fossil specimens despite their relatively small outcrop size.”

“It's worth mentioning that there is no single osteoderm from Chadititan Kalboy It was discovered in this area,” they added.

“We can assume that these Titanosaurs are absent because no osteoderms were found in connection with other Rinconsenserurs.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3mwmz78wy08

In addition to Chadititan Kalboythe authors unearthed new assemblages of invertebrates and vertebrate fossils.

The collection includes gulfish, lungfish, turtles, crocodile parents, dinosaurs, snails and beetles deposited in small ponds surrounded by dunes and palm trees.

The team revealed the first fossil record of Neocyclotidae (a family of tropical land snails) and the first incontroversial record of Sabrinid genus Reptinariaa kind of small tropical air-breathing land snail.

“In addition to ” Chadititan KalboyFossils identifying mollusks, fish and turtles enrich our understanding of this ancient ecosystem and expand our knowledge of life in Patagonia near the end of the dinosaur era.”

“Just looking at the presence or absence of species in the area can suggest what makes the environment unique.”

“In this case, the rarity of turtle-rich turtles and crocodiles compared to regions in Europe and North America during this period further emphasizes how Patagonia's ecosystems differ when the continent drifted during the Cretaceous period.”

“One of the most prominent aspects of the discovered fauna is its overwhelming freshwater turtle abundance, accounting for more than 90% of the recovered fossils.”

“This high proportion is very rare. Turtles rarely make up more than 50% of fauna, like in joint locales in North America and Europe,” added Dr. Agnolin.

Team's paper Published in the journal Revista Del Museo Argentino Ciencias Naturales.

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Federico L. Agnoline et al. 2024. A description of a new fossil region from the Anagre Formation (Late Cretaceous, Campanian) from northern Patagonia, a new Titanosaurus. Pastor Argentina cienc. nut 26(2): 217-259; doi: 10.22179/revmacn.26.885

Source: www.sci.news

Sequencing the Genome of White Oak Trees: Latest Scientific Discovery

Posted on February 26, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The scientist is White Oak (Quercus alba), a rich forest tree species in eastern North America of ecological, cultural and economic importance.

Quercus alba Individual sequences of genome assemblies growing at Star Hill Farm in Loretto, Kentucky, USA. Image credit: D. Larson.

“The Oaks are an important member of many ecosystems around the world,” said a researcher at the University of Tennessee. Meg Staton And a colleague.

“In eastern North America, white oak is a keystone species and is one of the most abundant forest trees across its range.”

“In addition to its ecological and cultural importance, white oak has a very economic importance, including many high value material applications and the main species used in barrel styles for the aging of distilled spirits. It's there.”

“However, few studies have addressed the diversity of white oak genomes. The lack of available genetic and genomic resources now creates barriers to fostering understanding of white oak biology and evolutionary history. It's presenting it.”

In their study, the authors sequenced individual genomes of white oak from a forest near Loretto, Kentucky, USA.

They found that this oak species has a high genetic diversity, many of which preceded divergence from other oaks, and likely could affect divergence time estimates .

“The White Oak genome represents a major new resource for studying genome diversity and evolution. Quercus” said Dr. Staton.

“Also, unbiased gene annotations are key to accurately assessing the evolution of R (disease-resistant) genes. Quercus. ”

“Our paper addresses the degree of genetic diversity and population differentiation in white oaks and how gene content and disease resistance genes evolved. Quercus Related species. ”

The authors say that the amount of standing genetic variation and the degree to which the population is regionally adapted will affect the response of white oaks and other oak species to increasingly common heat and drought stress. It points out.

“The details are interesting for those who are invested in the sustainability of White Oak, across economic, ecological and cultural boundaries,” they said.

study Published in the journal New Botanist.

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Drew A. Larson et al. Haplotype-degradated reference genomes Quercus alba It sheds light on the history of orc evolution. New BotanistPublished online on February 11th, 2025. doi: 10.1111/nph.20463

Source: www.sci.news

Potential Massive Energy Sources Await Discovery in Earth’s Mountainous Regions

Posted on February 21, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

In the quest for clean energy and a shift away from fossil fuels, scientists may have uncovered new sources of power, potentially hidden in our mountains. A team of researchers from Germany has identified a vast reservoir of hydrogen gas, generated by rocks formed millions of years ago, through advanced simulations.

This discovery is significant as hydrogen (H₂) as a power source does not emit greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, making it a more sustainable alternative to fossil fuels that contribute to climate change. Additionally, the production of hydrogen results in water instead of harmful emissions. However, the challenge lies in the fact that natural hydrogen production is rare, with the current synthetic production relying on fossil fuels.

The main hurdle in hydrogen production is sourcing it naturally. While geological processes can generate natural hydrogen without the need for fossil fuels, the availability of large accessible reserves remains uncertain. The recent study conducted by German researchers could potentially address this issue.

“We may be on the brink of a new era in natural hydrogen exploration,” said Dr. Frank Zworn, the lead author of the study published in the journal Advances in Science. “This could pave the way for a new natural hydrogen industry.”

https://c02.purpledshub.com/uploads/sites/41/2025/02/Earths-mantle.mp4

The rocks that produce hydrogen gas originate from the Earth’s mantle, constituting a significant portion beneath the Earth’s crust. Video Credits: Getty Images

Researchers at the GFZ Helmholtz Center for Geosciences in Germany utilized simulations of plate tectonic processes to identify a substantial reserve of natural hydrogen.

Natural hydrogen can be generated through various methods, such as bacterial transformation of organic matter or the splitting of water molecules due to radioactivity in the Earth’s crust. However, one of the most promising natural methods involves a geological process known as “serpentinization,” where rocks from the Earth’s mantle react with water to release H2 gas.

According to researchers, when these hydrogen-rich rocks are situated near the Earth’s surface, they can create potential zones for large-scale hydrogen production via excavation. These rocks are brought closer to the surface through processes such as continental rifting and mountain formation over millions of years.

As the crustal plates collide and create mountains, deep mantle rocks push up to the surface of the Earth. ‘Hot spots’ of hydrogen gas were identified where these rocks surfaced. – Image credit: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 USGS/ESEU Frankswaan edition, GFZ

By analyzing two processes, researchers determined that mountain formation offers ideal conditions for hydrogen generation. The combination of cold environments in mountains and increased water circulation could enhance hydrogen levels significantly. Simulations showed that rocks emerging through mountain formations have 20 times the hydrogen capacity compared to those brought to the surface via continental rifting.

Signs of natural hydrogen production have already been observed in mountainous regions such as the Pyrenees, European Alps, and Balkans. The research team anticipates that their findings will inspire further exploration of natural hydrogen in these areas and other mountainous regions.

Professor Sasha Brune, the head of the geodynamic modeling section at GFZ, emphasized the economic prospects tied to natural hydrogen. He stated, “It is now crucial to delve deeper into the migration pathways of microbial ecosystems that consume hydrogen, both shallow and deep, and to gain a better understanding of where potential hydrogen reservoirs can be formed.”

Read More:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Discovery of new bird fossils from China sheds light on early evolution of avian species

Posted on February 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists have excavated fossilized remains of two Jurassic bird species in the area of Zenge County, Fujian Province, southeastern China. These 149 million-year-old fossils exhibit early appearances of highly derived bird characteristics, and together with fossils of another bird from the same region, they have the early origins of the birds and the early Jurassic. It suggests bird radiation.

Baminornis Zhenghensis. Image credit: Chuang Zhao.

“Birds are the most diverse group of terrestrial vertebrates,” says Professor Min Wang. Paleontology and Paleontology of Vertebrates The Chinese Academy of Sciences and colleagues said in a statement.

“Specific macroevolutionary studies suggest that their early diversification dates back to the Jurassic period.”

“However, the earliest evolutionary history of birds has long been obscure by highly fragmented fossil records. Archeopteryx Being the only widely accepted Jurassic bird. ”

“nevertheless Archeopteryx It was closely similar, especially due to its distinctive long reptile tail, as it had feathered wings. This is in stark contrast to the short-tailed morphology of modern and Cretaceous birds. ”

“Recent research questions about Aviaran's status. Archeopteryx classifies it as a deinonychosaurian dinosaur, a sister group of birds. ”

“This raises the question of whether there is a clear record of Jurassic birds.”

In their new study, Professor Wang and co-authors discovered and investigated two early bird fossils that were part of the so-called Zhenghe Biota.

One of these birds named Baminornis Zhenghensis the earliest known short-tailed bird.

“Baminornis Zhenghensis The end of the short tail in a complex bone called Pygostyle is a characteristic that can also be observed in living birds,” the paleontologist said.

“Previously, the oldest record of short-tailed birds was from the early Cretaceous period.”

“Baminornis Zhenghensis It is the only Jurassic and the oldest short-tailed bird ever discovered, pushing back the appearance of this derivative bird's distinctive features for nearly 20 million years. ”

According to the team, Baminornis Zhenghensis It also represents one of the oldest known birds.

“A step back and reconsidering the uncertainty of the phylogenetics Archeopteryx we don’t doubt it Baminornis Zhenghensis said Dr. Zhonghe Zhou of the Institute for Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleontology at the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

The second unnamed bird is represented by a single fossilized fullcula (wishbone).

“Our results support this introduction to Furcula ornithuromorpha a diverse group of Cretaceous birds,” the researchers said.

Team's work It was published in the journal today Nature.

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R. Chen et al. 2025. The first short-tailed bird from the late late Jurassic period in China. Nature 638, 441-448; doi:10.1038/s41586-024-08410-z

Source: www.sci.news

New brain cell discovery may regulate when you should stop eating

Posted on February 5, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Manipulating neuron types can make snacks more likely to resist

5M3Photos/Getty Images

Neurons in the mouse brain tell them to stop eating when they have enough food. And since people probably have the same cells, they may one day manipulate them to help treat obesity.

“The main question we were trying to answer was how our brains sense and respond to different signals.” Alexander Nectau At Columbia University in New York.

To learn more, he and his colleagues used a kind of molecular profiling to distinguish between different cell types in the mouse brain. In the dorsal trunk nucleus, part of the brainstem associated with functions such as feeding, mood, and sleep, we encountered cells that produce a hormone called cholecystokinin, which helps regulate appetite.

To study what these cells feel to make them work, researchers measured their activity as mice spent the day. “Every time an animal eats a bite, activity has risen and then it has become corrupted,” says Nectow. “These neurons sense and use information such as food smells and sights, food tastes, food sensations in the intestines, and neurohormones released in response to intestinal foods and so on. You can actually finish your meal.

Next, researchers used a technique called optogenetics. This involves engineering neurons so that they can turn them on and off with light. The mice slowed their diet when they used light to activate them. The more intense the activation, the slower and stopped the animal.

Neurons sit in the brainstem and are similar ancestor characteristics across vertebrates, so Nectow probably thinks we have them too. “We didn’t confirm that, but my guess is that humans have these neurons.”

The team also discovered that mouse neurons can be activated by compounds called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists. Brand names such as Ozempic and Wegovy.

If these neurons have the same function in people, theoretically, they can either control the feeding habits of obese people or combine this approach with GLP-1-based drugs to increase greater weight loss. They can be adjusted to achieve, says Nectau.

“Understanding the circuits governing meal halts is particularly important in an environment of near-ubiquitous food availability,” he says. Jeff Davis At Swansea University, UK. “The authors used elegant methods to identify these important cell populations.”

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com