Here are today’s most important updates from the realm of Science and Space.
A dramatic transformation is unfolding in the Southern Ocean, where scientists have discovered that surface waters around Antarctica are becoming saltier, despite a rapid and unprecedented decline in sea ice. This revelation, made possible by data from the European Space Agency’s SMOS (Soil Moisture and Ocean Salinity) satellite, upends long-held assumptions about the region’s response to climate change. Traditionally, melting sea ice is expected to freshen ocean surface waters, as freshwater from the ice dilutes the salty sea. However, since 2015, Antarctica has lost an area of sea ice comparable to Greenland. Instead of becoming fresher, the surface waters south of 50 S latitude have grown saltier, according to a research team. Now, saltier surface waters allow heat from below to rise more easily, melting sea ice from beneath and making it harder for new ice to form.
A new brain imaging study has found that people addicted to short-form video platforms may be less sensitive to financial losses and more prone to impulsive decisions. The research shows that such behavioural changes are linked to specific patterns of brain activity, particularly in regions responsible for evaluating rewards and guiding actions. The study draws parallels between short-form video addiction and other addictive behaviours like gambling and substance abuse. In both cases, individuals tend to prioritise immediate rewards over long-term consequences. This may lead to a reduced ability to weigh risks and make sound decisions, especially when it comes to money.
A recent study has revealed that extreme heat can increase the risk of death in pet dogs by nearly 10%. The research highlights the growing dangers that human-induced climate change poses not just to people, but also to animals. The study analyzed a large dataset of dog mortality rates during heatwaves and found a direct link between rising temperatures and canine fatalities. Experts warn that dogs are especially vulnerable due to limited cooling mechanisms and dependency on humans for shelter and hydration. The findings call for urgent awareness among pet owners, particularly during hot weather, to ensure pets are kept cool, hydrated, and never left in confined spaces like cars. Dog breeds at elevated risk of heat-related illnesses include Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and so on.
Scientists have found a new species of pterosaur that lived 200 million years ago along with the dinosaurs. The fossilised jawbone of the creature was unearthed by scientists at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History in 2011. They have now identified the fossil as the oldest known species of the pterosaur in North America. The scientists have named the pterosaur, Eotephradactylus mcintireae, which means "ash-winged dawn goddess," referring to the volcanic ash that helped preserve its bones. The name also honours volunteer Suzanne McIntire, who discovered the jawbone. The pterosaur is approximately 209 million years old, dating back to the late Triassic period, and was found in Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona. The animal was about the size of a small seagull, with winged reptiles likely feeding on armoured fish, as indicated by the heavy wear on its preserved teeth.
