Oldest vertebrate herbivore fossil identified from 300-million-year-old skull
Summary
A 300-million-year-old fossil reveals one of the oldest vertebrate herbivores, pushing back the timeline for plant-eating animals. Other news: EU restricts Chinese participation in key research; brain connectivity sex differences grow with age; scientists fight misinformation online.
Oldest vertebrate herbivore identified from fossil skull
A fossilized skull more than 300 million years old has been identified as a new species, Tyrannoroter heberti. The animal was a reptile-like 'microsaur' and is one of the oldest-known vertebrate herbivores.
Researchers created a 3D reconstruction of the skull and found specialized teeth worn down from grinding, consistent with plant-eating. This discovery suggests vertebrate herbivores emerged several million years earlier than previously estimated.
EU bans China from key Horizon Europe research areas
The European Union has barred Chinese organizations from participating in most sensitive research projects funded by its €93.5-billion Horizon Europe programme. The change took effect this year.
Organizations based in or controlled by China can no longer apply for grants in areas including:
- Artificial intelligence
- Telecommunications and semiconductors
- Biotechnology and health
- Quantum technologies
The EU cites security concerns about sharing sensitive technology. Only select projects related to climate, biodiversity, and agriculture remain open to Chinese participation.
Brain connectivity sex differences grow with age
Sex differences in brain-connectivity patterns appear minimal in early life but increase drastically starting at puberty. Some of these differences continue to widen throughout adulthood.
Researchers analyzing brain-imaging data suggest this could explain differing likelihoods between men and women for developing disorders like anxiety and depression. Some experts argue the differences might reflect societal factors like education and gender roles rather than biological sex alone.
Scientists adopt influencer tactics to fight misinformation
To combat scientific misinformation on platforms like TikTok, experts are using strategies from the influencer playbook. Creators are attempting to reach broad audiences with peer-reviewed evidence on topics like climate change, a tactic known as 'pre-bunking.'
Others, such as popular creator Doctor Mike, fact-check specific false claims head-on. Research indicates these efforts can shift opinions on issues like vaccine hesitancy, but creators often face personal backlash for their work.
Essayist explores the drive for knowledge across disciplines
In her new book Traversal, essayist Maria Popova investigates the purpose driving the human thirst for knowledge. She uses stories of figures like crystallographer Dorothy Hodgkin and novelist Mary Shelley to find common themes.
Nature editor Urmila Chadayammuri, in a review, calls it a book "so ambitious in scope and form that it can only succeed — or fail — spectacularly." She concludes that "Traversal succeeds."
How to be a better interviewee for science books
Popular-science authors are experienced interviewers, but they need prepared collaborators. Nature asked five book authors for their advice on being a valuable interviewee.
- Keep it simple: Avoid jargon and use analogies to make your work accessible.
- Meet in person when possible: This helps the interviewer understand your character and work environment.
- Show enthusiasm: Be patient and don't expect the interviewer to grasp complex concepts immediately.
Publishers need policies for deceased authors
Academic publishers should establish respectful policies for handling manuscripts with deceased authors, argues clinical pharmacist Katie Derington. She speaks from experience, having lost a colleague in 2023 while they were submitting a paper for publication.
Derington discusses the practical and ethical challenges of this situation in the latest Nature Careers Podcast.
Related Articles
Playing Tetris reduces trauma flashbacks, study finds
Playing Tetris can reduce trauma flashbacks by occupying the brain's visual processing, with symptoms fading after six months, new research finds.
Lack of fiber harms older brains in just three days, study in rats finds
A new study in rats found that a lack of dietary fiber, common in refined diets, can quickly impair emotional memory in older brains, specifically affecting the amygdala. This suggests fiber is crucial for cognitive health in aging.
Stay in the loop
Get the best AI-curated news delivered to your inbox. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
