Science news this week: PCOS has a new name, Neanderthals were the world's oldest dentists, and the first nuclear bomb explosion spawned an 'alien' crystal
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has been officially renamed to polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) to better reflect its underlying biology. A 60,000-year-old Neanderthal tooth shows evidence of intentional drilling, marking the earliest known dental procedure. The first nuclear bomb test produced a rare green glassy mineral, dubbed a potential 'alien' crystal, unlike any naturally occurring form.
- ▪The name change from PCOS to PMOS followed a 14-year process involving over 14,000 patients and health professionals.
- ▪Neanderthals drilled a cavity in a tooth 60,000 years ago, predating the next known dental procedure by 45,000 years.
- ▪The Trinity nuclear test in 1945 created a unique glassy mineral called trinitite, with a previously unknown structure.
- ▪The new name PMOS reflects that the condition involves arrested ovarian follicles, not necessarily cysts.
- ▪Researchers say the mental health impacts of pollution may be more significant than previously understood.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Science news this week: PCOS has a new name, Neanderthals were the world's oldest dentists, and the first nuclear bomb explosion spawned an 'alien' crystal May 16, 2026: Our weekly roundup of the latest science in the news, as well as a few fascinating articles to keep you entertained over the weekend. By Ben Turner published 16 May 2026 in News When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. PCOS name change, Neanderthals the world's oldest dentists, and the 'alien' crystal that spawned from the world's first atomic bomb.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Live Science.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from Live Science
