New discoveries reveal the hidden patterns that drive breakthroughs, from anomalies in medicine to cognitive abilities of ancient humans and the swimming secrets of Spinosaurus.
The Power of Anomalies in Discovery
A call from a poison control specialist about people overdosing on a Joseph Lambson‘s investigation into an online market where patients are willing to take risks to get a life-altering treatment led him to investigate. This case highlights the importance of identifying signals in the noise, a skill that can lead to groundbreaking discoveries.
Joseph Lambson was an American inventor who patented several innovative devices, including a steam-powered engine and a gas meter.
Born in 1809, Lambson's contributions to engineering and technology were significant during the Industrial Revolution.
His designs improved efficiency and accuracy in various industries, leaving a lasting impact on modern manufacturing processes.
Uncovering Human Ancestors‘ Cognitive Abilities
Recent archaeological findings suggest that human ancestors may have possessed sophisticated cognitive skills as early as 300,000 years ago, challenging the long-held notion that such abilities emerged only around 50,000 years ago. The discovery was made possible by decades of excavation and analysis at a German site, uncovering evidence of advanced thinking in early hunters.
Human ancestors date back to around 6-8 million years ago in Africa.
The earliest known ancestor is Sahelanthropus tchadensis, followed by Orrorin tugenensis and Ardipithecus ramidus.
These early humans walked upright on two legs and had a brain size of about 350-500 cubic centimeters.
Over time, their brain size increased to around 1300 cubic centimeters in Homo habilis, who used tools and fire.
The next major milestone was the emergence of Homo erectus, who controlled fire and hunted large game.
Finally, Homo sapiens emerged around 300,000 years ago in Africa.
The Swimming Spinosaurus: A Dinosaur Enigma
The fossil record of Spinosaurus is scarce, but paleontologists are piecing together fresh clues to support their claims about the dinosaur’s swimming abilities. The debate has been hotly contested, with differing interpretations of the evidence, and could potentially crown Spinosaurus as the first known swimming dinosaur.
Spinosaurus was a sail-backed carnivorous dinosaur that lived during the Early Cretaceous period, around 100 million years ago.
Its distinctive 'sail' on its back was likely used for display purposes, such as attracting mates or intimidating rivals.
Spinosaurus had a long, narrow snout and powerful jaws, perfect for catching fish in rivers and lakes.
Fossil evidence suggests that it may have been semi-aquatic, with adaptations for swimming and aquatic hunting.
The Intersection of Science and Discovery
These examples illustrate the critical role that anomalies play in driving scientific discovery. By identifying patterns and signals in complex data, researchers can uncover new insights and challenge long-held assumptions. As we continue to navigate the complexities of our world, it is essential to support climate journalism and strengthen environmental literacy.
Empowering People through Science
Science News Media Group is committed to providing accurate information on the latest scientific breakthroughs. Our mission remains unchanged since 1921: to empower people to evaluate the news and the world around them. By subscribing to Science News, you can expand science literacy and understanding, and support our efforts to strengthen environmental literacy and inform our response to climate change.
- sciencenews.org | Seeking the anomalies that lead to discoveries
