Science Alert
Catch up on the latest science news, from space and technology to life and environmental research- all the discoveries shaping our world today.
Updated: 2 hours 6 min ago
In 1901,sponge divers off the Greek island of Antikythera recovered a gear from 2,000 years ago
In 1900, a remarkable discovery was made when divers stumbled upon the Antikythera Mechanism amidst a shipwreck in the Mediterranean Sea. This ancient artifact showcased astounding knowledge of astronomy and mechanical engineering dating back over 2,000 years. Researchers found it capable of calculating astronomical cycles and predicting eclipses, intertwining science with the cultural tapestry of ancient Greece.
Invasive Burmese pythons and Florida’s native snakes show different parasite infection rates
Researchers investigated the prevalence and types of parasites affecting Burmese pythons and native snakes in South Florida. They found that invasive pythons showed lower overall pentastome prevalence than native snake species. Different native snakes displayed varying rates of infection by specific parasites like Raillietiella orientalis and Porocephalus. The study also revealed that Burmese pythons lacked platyhelminths typically found in native snakes.
In the 1960s, scientists studying the venom of Brazilian pit viper found a compound lowered BP
The Brazilian pit viper, Bothrops jararaca, has been a focal point in research leading to significant medical breakthroughs. In the 1960s, Sergio Ferreira uncovered a peptide from this snake that plays a crucial role in blood pressure regulation. This groundbreaking discovery eventually paved the way for captopril, the pioneering ACE inhibitor approved in 1981, which has transformed the treatment landscape for hypertension and heart ailments.
1300 BC: Spain's copper mine linked to 11 Scandinavian bronze objects, hinting at ancient networks
Excavations at the Las Minillas site in Spain have unveiled substantial copper mining activities dating back to the Late Bronze Age. Investigations revealed a chemical link between the site and bronze artifacts discovered in Scandinavia. Researchers noted extensive mining operations and identified numerous nearby mining locations, indicating that southern Iberia was crucial for copper supply in Europe during this period.
Scientists covered part of a Chinese glacier with fabric to slow melting
A recent study illustrated that utilizing artificial fabric to cover Dagu Glacier yielded a notable decrease in ice melting, with a remarkable 27% reduction within the initial two months, thereby safeguarding substantial ice reserves. Nevertheless, the fabric's effectiveness diminished over time due to factors such as reduced reflectivity, ultimately resulting in an annual melting reduction of 15%. Researchers also pointed out the practical difficulties in scaling this solution.
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