fossil
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Science
Fossil discovery sheds light on the early evolution of animal nervous systems
An incomplete tubular specimen of the Eopliaprites sphinx excavated from the Quang Tuanh Formation of the Early Cambrian. The ventral nerve cord is shown. Credit: Science Advances (2025). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adr0896 An international team of scientists has solved a fascinating piece of the evolutionary puzzle. That’s how the ventral nerve cord, a key component of the central nervous system, evolved in…
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Biology
Fossil research reveals the oldest evolutionary ‘arms race’
An example of a shell of Lapworthella fasciculata from the Mernmerna Formation in the Flinders Ranges, South Australia (under scanning electron microscopy). A hole made by a boring predator is shown. Scale bar represents 200 micrometers. Credit: R. Bicknell, et al. (2025) Current Biology A study led by researchers at the American Museum of Natural History provides the oldest known…
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Chemistry
From CO₂ to acetaldehyde: new copper catalyst offers green alternative to fossil fuel-based processes
Copper cluster catalyst on activated carbon. Credit: Cedric Coolen (EPFL) Acetaldehyde is an important chemical used in the production of everything from perfume to plastics. Currently, its production relies primarily on the petrochemical ethylene. However, growing environmental concerns have pushed the chemical industry to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels, and scientists have been searching for more environmentally friendly ways…
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Earth
500,000 years of fossil record reveals the impact of climate change on deep sea ecosystems
This photo beautifully captures the majestic landscape of the Southern Ocean, a key component of Earth’s climate system and a hotspot for deep-sea biodiversity. The whale gracefully swims within the frame, a powerful symbol of the rich and vibrant life that thrives in these waters. Credit: Minoru Ikehara. Climate change will not only affect life on land, but also the…
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