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Time of India
an hour ago
- Science
- Time of India
Tetrapodophis: The 120 million-year-old four-footed snake-discovery and controversy
Credit: Instagram/@ In 2015, a fossil unearthed in a German museum collection set the world abuzz. The specimen, Tetrapodophis amplectus, Latin for "four-footed snake," was hailed as the first documented four-limbed snake. If confirmed, it would be a landmark item of evolutionary history, filling in the gap between early lizards and contemporary snakes. Though the find has since been clouded with scientific controversy and legal entanglement, questioning not just evolutionary theory but ethics involved in fossil acquisition as well. ( source: Wikipedia ) A unique fossil, like no other Approximately 20 centimeters in length, Tetrapodophis's fossil contains more than 150 vertebrae, a truncated tail, and a snake-like elongated body. The novel aspects of the fossil were its minute but intact fore- and hindlimbs, both with five digits, coupled with traits such as hooked teeth, a flexible skull, and prey remains in its stomach, indicating a carnivorous diet. The fossil was published in the journal Science by Dr. David Martill and colleagues, who ruled out the possibility that it came from a marine reptile, concluding instead that it was direct evidence of how snakes evolved from burrowing lizards. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo Tetrapodophis is estimated to have existed between 113 and 120 million years ago during the Early Cretaceous, according to Martill, and was probably suited to living on land. Scientific evidence suggests While the early excitement was palpable, however, most within the field of paleontology questioned the fossil's categorization. In 2016 and once more in 2021, paleontologist Dr. Michael Caldwell of the University of Alberta spearheaded the re-examination of the specimen. His research group contended that Tetrapodophis did not possess several central anatomical features common in true snakes. Among the features being questioned were the skull's structure, which did not have the movable joints and cranial kinesis characteristic of snakes; the vertebrae, which did not show the articulations characteristic of snakes and fossils; and the limb and rib morphology in general, which was similar to that of aquatic lizards called dolichosaurs. What humongous secrets science can uncover is truly fascinating. Caldwell and others suggested that the specimen had been incorrectly identified and was a member of the family Dolichosauridae, an extinct group of marine reptiles more closely related to mosasaurs than to early snakes. The scientific controversy served to illustrate a long-standing debate in paleontology: did snakes evolve from terrestrial lizards or from marine ancestors? Tetrapodophis became the center of this broader question. Legal disputes over a fossil? Know why Complicating matters was the dodgy provenance of the fossil. It was in a German private collection, but it was thought by many to have come from the Crato Formation in northeastern Brazil a place famous for its Early Cretaceous fossils. Brazil strictly prohibits the unauthorized exportation of fossils as national heritage. The release of the 2015 paper attracted severe criticism from Brazilian paleontologists and authorities, who argued that the fossil was exported illegally from the country. The controversy triggered further debate concerning the morality of fossil collection and the role of academic journals in ensuring specimens are legal. In 2024, following years of diplomatic pressure, the owners of the fossil consented to the repatriation of Tetrapodophis to Brazil. It was subsequently moved to the National Museum in Rio de Janeiro, where it will be examined further by Brazilian scientists. Update? Up to 2025, there has been no scientific agreement on Tetrapodophis's actual classification. A 2023 reclassification in the group of stem-snakes—animals that constitute a common ancestor with the contemporary snakes but belong outside the group has yet to convince most scientists, as they argue the necessity of further fossil records and adult specimens. The case of Tetrapodophis remains unresolved, not only as a paleontological puzzle but also as a case study in ethics, international law, and the evolving nature of science itself. It reminds us of the dramatic and sometimes contentious interaction between science, law, and heritage. More significantly, it reminds us of how a single fossil can disprove long-held theories, invoke global legal action, and realign the global debate on scientific accountability.
Indian Express
7 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Squid Game 3 ending: 7 burning questions answered in Netflix thriller finale; future possibilities explored
Squid Game wrapped with Season 3 dropping on June 27. The Lee Byung Hun, Lee Jung Jae-led Korean thriller may not return for another season, but it hints at a spin-off, possibly an American one. Since the finale aired, Hwang Dong Hyuk's direction has drawn mixed reactions, with many fans let down by how things ended, especially some characters who felt completely pointless and Gi Hun's fate undoing everything he fought for. The tagline teased how low humanity can sink, and sure enough, survival came at a brutal cost. We got a winner, yes, but not much closure. So here we are, breaking down all the loose ends that still need answers. Also read: Squid Game Season 3 ending explained: The truth about Gi Hun's fate, the mystery woman, and all survivors While some viewers are still holding on to theories that Gi Hun might be alive, there's no real possibility. The core message of the show has already been delivered. The economic divide, the dehumanisation, and Gi Hun's final words, 'We are not horses. We are humans'. were aimed at those enjoying these brutal games, using people as pawns for their entertainment. He makes the ultimate sacrifice in the final round, choosing to throw himself off the tower rather than kill the newborn. But yes, it's safe to say his sacrifice will trigger another story, a fresh web of entanglements. Because nothing really ends here. In the final moments, we see In Ho, aka the Front Man, ordering the island's self-destruction and escaping with Jun Hee's newborn. Cut to a few months later, he's spotted in LA, visiting Gi Hun's family. So yes, Front Man survived and vanished. Jun Ho failed. But what's loud and clear is this: In Ho isn't done. His next move, possibly tied to a global expansion of the Game, is already being teased. Also read: Squid Game Season 3 review: Brutal games and bigger moral dilemmas make you pause and reflect The Latin phrase 'hodie mihi, cras tibi' ('today it's me, tomorrow it will be you'), the words written on the dormitory walls, sugegsting, the game is far from over. Korean writing '사람 조심 바보' ('Beware of people, idiot') teasing player 333 betrayal '안전 제일' ('safety first') was ironically written at the final game. Player 456's game timer reads '4:56' just before Gi Hun manages to eliminate the other player. The 'blacklist players' binder that No-eul skips, hinting that more is yet to come. The original mastermind, Oh Il Nam, is long gone. The Front Man, once a winner himself, now runs the show. In Ho survives Season 3, and as the story gears up for a spin-off, a new player steps in. Cate Blanchett's mystery woman is seen recruiting new players, playing Ddakji, hinting at a new organisation pulling the strings. Meanwhile, operations in South Korea have shut down. After 2 years of digging through islands, Detective Jun Ho finally tracked down the betrayer, Captain Park, and landed on the right one, just as the game wrapped up. But before he could act, Jin Ho gave the order to blow up the island and bailed. Jun Ho and No-eul made it out, but the entire Korean operation went up in smoke, with the Front Man wiping out every trace. So, yeah, the authorities failed again. Still, with spin-offs teased, Na Eul might've already cracked open a lead that changes everything. They appear to have evaded justice for the most part. We saw the VIPs enjoying the deaths and betting on contestants, but towards the end, it seems like they managed to escape. Unconcerned about being caught, they were seen gulping down drinks, which shows continued power and the difficulty of exposing such a powerful, clandestine organisation. There is a big possibility, and it makes sense, given Cate Blanchett's role was a treasure in the very last part as a recruiter, suggesting the operations will now be shifted to America. Earlier, in an interview with talk show host Jimmy Fallon, actor Lee Byung Hun, who plays the Front Man, teased a possibility of a spin-off featuring his character. So either we get that, or the story shifts oversees with Lee continuing his role.
Miami Herald
12 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Miami Herald
Adamari Lopez bombshell: TV star hired a PI when she thought partner was cheating
Ever felt like snooping on a partner you suspect of cheating? Adamari Lopez has no problem with that. As long as someone is doing the prying, namely a professional. The former telenovela actress confessed around the 16 minute mark of Thursday's 'Ada y Chiqui de Show, ' a newish lifestyle show on YouTube with her pal Chiquibaby (aka Stephanie Himonidis Sedano), that she once hired a PI to do her dirty work. That's short for private investigator. The Univision personality ('Desiguales') and Chiqui were discussing who was the more jealous and toxic of the two, and the topic of affairs came up. 'It's like the old saying, 'Seek and you will find,'' said Lopez, touching her nose. 'You know what happens; we have an intuition.' Lopez went on to say it's better to leave than stay with a significant other who doesn't want to be with you. 'If someone gives me reason to be jealous and to make an accurate, correct and well-thought-out decision you have to gather all your sources,' she said. 'Or else you'll turn into a crazy person.' Lopez explained the process to Chiqui, who appeared shocked: You pay the PI, and he or she gives up the goods, including photos, videos, 'de todo' (everything). The Puerto Rican native claimed that men are really bad at hiding affairs. 'They swear that they know how to do things,' Lopez said. 'But they don't know a damn thing [about how to have a side piece].' The former 'Hoy Dia' star believed the reason many stray is they lack the 'huevos' to communicate if something is wrong. 'Well, if you're looking elsewhere, I can too,' she said. 'Then I can leave the relationship to find my peace, my tranquility and find a relationship that's worth it and one that isn't with a [bleep] who deceives you.' Lopez did not name the ex in question, but she was married to Latin pop star Luis Fonsi for roughly three years and later wrote a memoir about their tumultuous time together. In 2012's 'Viviendo' ('Living'), the breast cancer survivor divulged that the 'Despacito' singer was unfaithful to her, which he vehemently denied. A few years after the split, Lopez fell in love with her 'Mira Quién Baila' partner Toni Costa, with whom she has a daughter, now 10. They broke up in 2021; the reason was not publicly disclosed.
Express Tribune
12 hours ago
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Order out of chaos
Listen to article Master disclaimer: If I manage to cover all disclaimers in this piece, I will get to the core of my argument today. Otherwise, perhaps I will rename it Disclaimers and leave it at that. But you will appreciate these disclaimers are necessary. First disclaimer: The phrase "order out of chaos" ("ordo ab chao" in Latin) is often attributed to the 33rd Scottish Rite Masonry. This piece has nothing to do with them. I use the phrase because it resonates with my message, as you will see. Second disclaimer: There is a beautiful quote attributed to Elizabeth Holmes, the disgraced founder of Theranos, a privately owned corporation once touted as a breakthrough health-tech company. It goes like this: "First they think you're crazy, then they fight you, and then all of a sudden you change the world." Upon closer inspection, it seems to be a paraphrase of the following statement, commonly misattributed to Mahatma Gandhi: "First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win." In reality, this too is a rewording of a statement by Nicholas Klein, an American trade union activist speaking in 1918. Consider the statement: "First they ignore you. Then they ridicule you. And then they attack you and want to burn you. And then they build monuments to you." I like all three versions because they correspond with my lived experience. The third disclaimer relates to one of my own recent positions. In my piece titled "Why states fear complexity", dated 14 September 2024, I pointed out that two forces — complexity and acceleration — were making societies too complicated to be governed by any state, resulting in the state's woefully inadequate responses like repression, spin, propaganda and moral pollution. Then I wrote: "With such state-driven projects to subvert and pervert all arguments, moral pollution will only add to complexity... States' reaction to this turf encroachment will not present a pretty sight." Then I suggested a remedy: "What can ordinary citizens do? The best disruption is the simplest — basic human decency. We can take charge of the future if all decent souls worldwide are vigilant. If you count yourself among them, wake up, be ready to use everything you have got, and watch this space." You are within your rights to complain that this is the context — where is the disclaimer? So here it is: I believe the simple remedy worked, and is still working. Now to my core argument today, albeit with some context. In my past columns, I have repeatedly pointed out that in his book, The Clash of Civilizations and the Remaking of World Order, Samuel Huntington was being manipulative rather than prescient. With the luxury of 20/20 hindsight, one can say that his chief purpose was to divide and prime the world for a clash that could conveniently be weaponised and used by his favoured groups and entities. I have also mentioned that while the direct impact of this sordid propaganda piece started to wane after the retirement of the Global War on Terror (GWOT) in 2017 — due to the emergent complexity of politics — two of its and GWOT's key beneficiaries and committed Islamophobes (India and Israel) clung to it as if their lives depended on it. While nations are bigger than ideologies, their ruling elites often are not. Especially when their rise to power and influence can be directly linked to such a virulent ideology or philosophy. Since the governments headed by Benjamin Netanyahu and Narendra Modi have repeatedly tried to reshape their respective countries' internal political structures and the global rule-based order through a clever use of Islamophobia — with diminishing returns and capacity — they have been growing restless. So, in the past sixty days, both nations initiated dangerous wars. India attacked Pakistan. Israel attacked Iran. Their sense of entitlement has been informed by their experiences spanning decades. Since Kargil in 1999, India has felt that most of its claims are taken at face value. After 9/11, this trend was solidified. In 2016, it claimed the Uri incident was perpetrated by Pakistan-backed militants, against whom it had carried out a surgical strike. The world did not see any reason to dispute either claim. In 2019, on the cusp of a national election, it again blamed Pakistani militants and claimed to have carried out aerial strikes — again, without much proof. No disputes there either. The international media only questioned the claim about downing an F-16. This time, everything changed. Likewise, Netanyahu did the same. Since the ghastly attacks of 7 October 2023, he has launched a forever war. Gaza, then Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen. But forever wars need superpower-level resources, which Israel lacks. So, his recent attack on Iran was an attempt to externalise the forever war by dragging the US into it. But through his cleverly calculated moves, President Trump demolished that attempt. The question is: what changed? The first reason: the law of diminishing returns. If you destroy the international rule-based system to such an extent that it can do nothing about your atrocities in Gaza or Kashmir, then the very order which rescued you repeatedly in the past can no longer come to your rescue. You got greedy and slew the golden goose. The second reason is even simpler. It speaks to the nature of complexity I flagged earlier. While the inner workings of everything are getting complex, their end result is a simpler interface. For instance, you once needed knowledge and practice to code, make music, or create videos. Now you tell AI what you want and, with some refinement, it delivers results. The same goes for narratives. If you keep calling out propaganda, prejudice, and manipulations consistently and clearly, people begin to listen. Again, this is my lived experience. You need coherence and credibility, not sophisticated perception management. Just tell people what you hear and see. Since they can relate to your estimation of the objective truth, they pay attention. Now the question is: where do we go from here? These two elements are down but not out. If they can be convinced that the age of spin and conspiracy is over, the world can take a beautiful turn. But will they? Sadly, there are few signs that they will. In fact, they might want to hurt President Trump. In their diminished capacity, Indians are already trying to do that. But Mr Trump is what Nassim Nicholas Taleb calls 'antifragile', growing with every attempt to undermine him. Perhaps after such outdated tactics are exhausted, they may discover a better world is possible: one where all prejudices — Islamophobia, Christianophobia, antisemitism, Hinduphobia — are equally repulsive, and we can all progress in harmony. Order out of chaos, perhaps!
Chicago Tribune
13 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Chicago Tribune
Taste of Chicago music headliners including Lupe Fiasco announced for 2025
Taste of Chicago is coming back to Grant Park Sept. 5-7, according to an announcement Friday from the city's Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events. Music headliners include the Chicago-born rapper Lupe Fiasco, R&B singer JoJo and Latin superstar Elvis Crespo. 5 p.m. Chicago Made artists 6 p.m. Terry Hunter 7 p.m. Lupe Fiasco 5 p.m. Chicago Made artists 6 p.m. The O'My's 7 p.m. JoJo 5 p.m. Chicago Made artists 6 p.m. To be announced 7 p.m. Elvis Crespo Along with music on the mainstage, there will be a roster of Chicago SummerDance performers turning Buckingham Fountain Plaza into a dance party and a lineup for the Goose Island Stage announced at a later date. This summer's Taste will have 45 food vendor booths in all, according to the announcement. New offerings include Beat Kitchen Cantina, ChefLife19, Chillafry, Crave Cookies, Dao Thai Restaurant, Hubbard Inn, Khmai, Lexington Betty Smoke House, Nitro Nostalgia Ice Cream and Board Game Cafe, and Thimi's Empanadas. Returning food vendors include Eli's Cheesecake, African Food Palace, BJ's Market & Bakery, Churro Factory, Connie's Pizza, Franco's Ristorante, Harold's Chicken #55, JJ Thai Street Food, Porkchop, Prime Tacos, Moore Poppin Gourmet Popcorn, The Original Rainbow Cone and Yum Dum. Taste of Chicago is free admission and vendors will not use food tickets again this year. Before the main event in Grant Park, three neighborhood events will take place on June 28 in Marquette Park (6743 S. Kedzie Ave.); on July 19 in Pullman Park (11101 S. Cottage Grove Ave.) and Aug. 9 in Albany Park (Kimball Avenue between Lawrence and Leland), all running noon to 8 p.m. with live music, food and SummerDance.
