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First Fossil Discovery Shows Sauropods Didn't Chew Food

In a groundbreaking discovery, researchers have uncovered the first-ever fossilized stomach contents of a sauropod, specifically a _Diamantinasaurus matildae_, dating back 94 to 101 million years. Excavated in Queensland, Australia, this near-complete specimen revealed a cololite containing layers of plant fossils, confirming that sauropods were herbivores. The findings indicate that these massive dinosaurs relied on fermentation and gut microbes to digest food, similar to modern-day hindgut fermenters like elephants and horses, without the need for chewing. Lead author Stephen Poropat noted that the heat generated from fermentation could have influenced their long necks and tails, aiding in temperature regulation. This discovery not only sheds light on the dietary habits of sauropods but also highlights their role as ecosystem engineers throughout their lives, impacting plant evolution and environmental dynamics. The study is published in the journal *Current Biology*. sources

Published:
Jun 09 2025, 10 pm

Get Ready for Canada’s Island in a Lake Mystery!

In the Arctic Archipelago, Canada’s Victoria Island boasts a remarkable geographical phenomenon: a third-order island, or sub-sub-sub island, which is the largest of its kind in the world. Discovered in 2007 by geographer Josh Calder while exploring Google Maps, this unique formation consists of an island measuring just 300 meters across, situated in an unnamed lake, which itself is located on a larger, seahorse-shaped island within a lake near Victoria Island. This intricate layering of land and water is not unique to Canada; a similar structure, Vulcan Point, exists in the Philippines, although it temporarily vanished during a volcanic eruption in 2020. Victoria Island, largely unvisited and isolated, may host more such islands, given its numerous lakes. Canada is also home to the largest lake island, Manitoulin Island, which features its own lakes and islands, further showcasing the country's extraordinary geographical diversity. sources

Published:
Jun 10 2025, 3 am

Why Are US Street Lights Turning Purple?

In recent years, a peculiar phenomenon has emerged across the United States, with streetlights emitting a striking purple hue, attributed to the degradation of LED silicone phosphor. Since 2021, at least 30 states have reported this unusual lighting, with similar occurrences noted in Canada and Ireland. Cities such as Milwaukee, Schaumburg, and Los Angeles have been particularly affected. The purple glow results from the breakdown of the yellow phosphor coating on blue LEDs, which are designed to appear white by combining blue and yellow light. The largest lighting manufacturer in North America, Acuity, confirmed that this spectral shift affected a small percentage of their fixtures but assured that the phenomenon poses no safety risk. As manufacturers phase out the problematic components, the prevalence of these purple lights is expected to decline, alleviating concerns over the potential visual discomfort associated with blue light. sources

Published:
Jun 10 2025, 11 am

Phantom Pain: Beyond Limbs to Erections, Cramps, and Farts

Phantom pain, a phenomenon experienced by many amputees, occurs when individuals feel sensations in body parts that no longer exist, such as cramps or burning in an amputated limb. This condition highlights the brain's remarkable ability to send convincing pain signals despite the absence of the physical source. Neuroscientist Dr. Austin Lim notes that up to 85% of amputees report such sensations, which can significantly impact their quality of life. While neuroprosthetics have been developed to stimulate nerves and improve the functionality of prosthetic limbs, treatments for phantom pain remain varied, including medication and cognitive behavioral therapy. Interestingly, phantom sensations can also affect internal organs, with conditions like "phantom rectum syndrome" affecting a significant percentage of patients post-surgery. Experts suggest that addressing pain in the affected area before amputation may be the most effective preventive measure against phantom pain. sources

Published:
Jun 13 2025, 10 pm

Humans' Fastest Speed Reaches 39,937.7 Kilometers Per Hour

On December 24, 2024, NASA's Parker Solar Probe achieved a record-breaking speed of 692,000 kilometers per hour (430,000 miles per hour) during its closest approach to the Sun, surpassing its previous record of 635,266 kilometers per hour set in 2023. At this astonishing velocity, the probe could traverse the United States from coast to coast in just 23.4 seconds. In contrast, the fastest speed ever reached by humans is 39,937.7 kilometers per hour (24,816.1 miles per hour), a record set during the Apollo 10 mission on May 26, 1969, when astronauts Thomas Stafford, John Young, and Eugene Cernan conducted a "dress rehearsal" for the Moon landing. This speed was achieved during reentry, approximately 121.9 kilometers (75.7 miles) above Earth. Despite advancements in space exploration, this human speed record remains unbroken, highlighting the extraordinary capabilities of robotic missions like the Parker Solar Probe. sources

Published:
Jun 09 2025, 5 pm

Why Baboons Travel in Straight Lines: The Reason Explained

New research has shed light on the travel behavior of wild chacma baboons (_Papio ursinus_) in South Africa's Da Gama Park, revealing that their straight-line movements, known as progressions, are driven by social bonds rather than survival instincts. Observing 78 progressions over 36 days, researchers found that the order of baboons in these lines is not random; instead, it reflects their social hierarchy and connections. Contrary to previous assumptions that dominant individuals lead the group, the study showed that higher-ranking baboons often occupy the middle of the line, while lower-ranking members tend to be at the front or back. This suggests that baboons prefer to travel alongside their friends, fostering social ties during their journeys, particularly in the late afternoon or evening as they return to sleeping sites. The findings, published in *Behavioral Ecology*, highlight the importance of social relationships in animal movement patterns. sources

Published:
Jun 13 2025, 11 pm

"Meet the Fast and Fearsome Sun Spiders"

The world of Solifugae, often dubbed "sun spiders" or "camel spiders," presents a fascinating yet daunting glimpse into the lesser-known realm of arachnids. Described in 1925 by explorer Dr. Richard G W Hingston as a "monstrous apparition," these creatures, which number over 1,200 species, remain poorly understood due to their nocturnal habits and challenges in laboratory study. Found predominantly in arid regions, their name derives from Latin, meaning "the ones that flee from the Sun." Solifuges are adept predators, capable of rapid movement and powerful bites, preying on various invertebrates while also facing threats from birds and reptiles. Despite their intriguing biology, including unique reproductive traits, much about their life cycle and ecology remains a mystery. As research continues, the enigmatic solifuges may yet reveal more about their role in desert ecosystems. sources

Published:
Jun 13 2025, 1 am

New Giant Viruses Discovered in Oceans Worldwide

Scientists from the University of Miami have identified 230 new types of giant viruses in oceans worldwide, a discovery that could significantly impact our understanding of marine ecosystems and public health. These giant viruses, measuring up to two microns, are much larger than typical viruses, which usually max out at 0.4 microns. They possess complex genomes and genes involved in cellular functions like carbon metabolism and photosynthesis, suggesting they play a crucial role in influencing their hosts, primarily protists such as algae. This research could aid in predicting and managing harmful algal blooms, which pose health risks globally. Lead author Benjamin Minch emphasized that understanding these viruses is vital for supporting marine environments, as they interact with phytoplankton, the foundation of oceanic food webs. The findings, published in the journal *npj Viruses*, highlight the ecological significance of these previously overlooked organisms. sources

Published:
Jun 11 2025, 6 pm

Why Are Shoes Hanging on Power Lines?

The phenomenon of shoes tossed over power lines, known as "shoefiti," is a global practice with various interpretations. One common theory suggests it serves as a memorial for deceased loved ones, a tradition that has evolved over millennia. However, the act can also be misinterpreted as a marker of gang territory, a notion debunked by sources like Snopes, which emphasize that there is no singular explanation for this behavior. Some individuals, like former gang member Patrick Starr, have confirmed that in certain contexts, it can signify neighborhood affiliations or commemorate fallen members. Additionally, the act of throwing shoes can be a form of taunting, particularly in school settings, as retrieving them can be dangerous due to the height of utility poles. Ultimately, the true meaning behind shoefiti often remains elusive, varying widely based on local culture and individual intent. sources

Published:
Jun 13 2025, 12 pm

YouTuber Builds Titanium-Piercing Handheld Laser

A YouTuber known as "styropyro," real name Drake Anthony, has developed what he claims to be the world's most powerful handheld laser, capable of cutting through titanium and melting tungsten. In a recent video, Anthony explained that his laser operates at 250 watts, a staggering 50,000 times stronger than the legal limit of 5 milliwatts for laser pointers. This new device surpasses the highest laser danger rating by a factor of 500, posing significant risks, including instant blindness and fire hazards. Demonstrating its capabilities, Anthony showcased the laser's ability to slice through copper wire, penetrate titanium, and even transform alumina powder into rubies. He emphasized the advancements in technology that allowed him to create this powerful tool, which boasts a brightness four times greater than his previous record-breaking laser. However, he cautioned viewers against attempting similar experiments at home due to the inherent dangers involved. sources

Published:
Jun 13 2025, 10 am

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