The Delphic Oracle: A Multidisciplinary Defense of the Gaseous Vent Theory

@article{Spiller2002TheDO,
  title={The Delphic Oracle: A Multidisciplinary Defense of the Gaseous Vent Theory},
  author={Henry A. Spiller and John R. Hale and Jelle Zeilinga de Boer},
  journal={Journal of Toxicology: Clinical Toxicology},
  year={2002},
  volume={40},
  pages={189 - 196}
}
Ancient historical references consistently describe an intoxicating gas, produced by a cavern in the ground, as the source of the power at the oracle of Delphi. These ancient writings are supported by a series of associated geological findings. Chemical analysis of the spring waters and travertine deposits at the site show these gases to be the light hydrocarbon gases methane, ethane, and ethylene. The effects of inhaling ethylene, a major anesthetic gas in the mid-20th century, are similar to… 
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The Oracle at Delphi

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It seems likely that, because the technique described here obtained only cortical tissue and thus was unlikely to damage renal vessels, it may be safer than percutaneous biopsy of a kidney in the normal position.