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Neanderthals Cannibalized Rival Women and Children 45,000 Years Ago

Neanderthals in present-day Belgium may have resorted to cannibalism around 45,000 years ago, specifically targeting the weakest members of rival clans, according to new research. Analysis of bones found in the Goyet caves revealed a minimum of six individuals, predominantly petite females and children, indicating they were deliberately chosen as victims. The remains, which show clear signs of butchering, represent the largest collection of cannibalized Neanderthal remains in northern Europe. Isotopic studies suggest these individuals were not local, and their physical characteristics imply they were not particularly mobile, likely making them easy targets. The study authors propose that this exocannibalism reflects a predatory behavior linked to competition and warfare, coinciding with the arrival of Homo sapiens in the region, which may have heightened tensions and violence among Neanderthal groups. The findings are detailed in the journal *Scientific Reports*. sources

Published:
Dec 06 2025, 10 am

Heartwarming Camera Trap Shows Sunda Tiger Moms and Cubs

Tigers are facing significant threats from habitat loss and poaching, yet new research highlights the positive impact of protected areas on their survival. A study conducted in the Leuser Ecosystem on Sumatra, the last refuge for critically endangered Sumatran tigers (_Panthera tigris sondaica_), reveals promising results. Researchers deployed 133 camera traps between 2023 and 2024, identifying 27 individual tigers, including three sets of cubs, indicating a healthy ecosystem capable of supporting both tigers and their prey. The number of tiger sightings was nearly three times higher than previous surveys, suggesting effective conservation efforts. Dr. Joe Figel, a conservation biologist, emphasized the importance of these findings, attributing the success to the collaboration of local communities and government agencies in preserving vital forest habitats. The study, published in *Frontiers in Conservation Science*, underscores the potential for conservation initiatives to benefit critically endangered species. sources

Published:
Dec 09 2025, 2 am

Lüften: The Science-Backed German Tradition of Fresh Air

In Germany, the practice of _lüften_, or airing out spaces by opening windows and doors, is a cultural staple embraced year-round, even in winter. This ritual, often performed daily, is believed to enhance physical health and respiratory function, a notion supported by scientific studies linking fresh air to improved sleep quality and reduced depressive symptoms. Notably, during the COVID-19 pandemic, German Chancellor Angela Merkel highlighted _lüften_ as a cost-effective method to mitigate virus spread. However, experts caution that frequent ventilation can undermine energy efficiency in well-insulated buildings, as residents may not fully utilize modern heating and air recovery systems. To balance health benefits with energy conservation, the _stoßlüften_ (shock ventilation) method is recommended, where windows are opened briefly to minimize energy loss. As such, while _lüften_ is beneficial, it requires mindful execution to avoid energy inefficiencies. sources

Published:
Dec 09 2025, 11 pm

Life Experiences of Female Neanderthals: A Glimpse

Research into the lives of female Neanderthals reveals intriguing parallels with modern experiences, particularly regarding maturity and social roles. Genetic studies suggest that female Neanderthals may have reached menarche earlier than contemporary humans, and evidence indicates they likely migrated to their partners' communities after mating. Childbirth for Neanderthal women was likely painful, with anatomical studies showing a pelvis structure that may have complicated delivery, although they possibly received midwifery-like support from their communities. Furthermore, evidence of bone trauma and wear suggests that Neanderthal women actively participated in hunting and other labor-intensive activities, challenging the notion of a strict gender division in prehistoric societies. Overall, while definitive conclusions remain elusive due to limited data, the findings paint a picture of female Neanderthals as active, integral members of their communities, sharing many experiences with modern women. sources

Published:
Dec 10 2025, 12 am

Exercise or Sleep: What Matters More When Time's Tight?

A recent study analyzing over 28 million days of data from more than 70,000 participants has revealed the intricate relationship between sleep and physical activity. While only 13% of individuals met both recommended sleep and exercise targets, the findings suggest that quality sleep significantly enhances the likelihood of increased physical activity the following day. Specifically, those who achieved over seven hours of restful sleep tended to be more active, whereas achieving daily step goals did not correlate with improved sleep quality. Researchers emphasize that prioritizing sleep may be the most effective strategy for boosting energy and motivation for exercise. Simple lifestyle adjustments, such as reducing screen time before bed and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, can greatly enhance sleep quality, ultimately supporting a healthier, more active lifestyle. The study highlights the challenges of balancing sleep and exercise in real life, calling for a reevaluation of health guidelines to better accommodate individual circumstances. sources

Published:
Dec 09 2025, 1 am

Science Supports the Timeless "Grandmother Rule" of Washing

Researchers at George Washington University have explored what they term "The Grandmother Hypothesis," revealing that people often neglect key areas of their skin during washing, which can adversely affect their skin microbiome. The study, led by Keith Crandall, involved 129 students who collected skin samples from various body parts, including commonly overlooked areas like the navel and behind the ears. Findings indicated that regions regularly cleaned, such as forearms and calves, exhibited a more diverse and healthier microbiome compared to neglected areas. The research highlighted that dry skin regions were richer and functionally distinct, while moist areas showed less diversity. Crandall noted that an imbalance in the skin microbiome could lead to conditions like eczema and acne, emphasizing the need for further investigation into the relationship between microbiome health and overall human health. This study serves as a foundational reference for understanding healthy adult microbiomes. sources

Published:
Dec 06 2025, 5 pm

Gravitational Lenses Reveal Ongoing Cosmic Mysteries

Researchers have provided a new estimate for the universe's expansion rate, known as the Hubble constant, which highlights the ongoing Hubble tension—a significant discrepancy in measurements. Different methods yield varying results: the European Space Agency's Planck satellite estimates the rate at 67.4 kilometers per second per megaparsec, while other observations suggest a higher value of 72.8 kilometers per second per megaparsec. The latest findings from time-delay cosmography, which utilizes gravitational lensing, indicate a value of 71.6 kilometers per second per megaparsec, aligning more closely with the galaxy method but still diverging from the cosmic microwave background measurements. This discrepancy raises critical questions about our understanding of the universe, with experts like Professor Tommaso Treu emphasizing the need for further independent measurements to determine whether this is a new phenomenon or a result of measurement errors. The study is published in Astronomy and Astrophysics. sources

Published:
Dec 08 2025, 11 pm

Earth's Tail Discovered: Extends Over 2 Million Kilometers

Recent discussions in the scientific community have highlighted the fascinating phenomenon of tails in celestial bodies, particularly in the context of comet 3I/ATLAS, which has developed both a tail and a rare anti-tail during its journey through the Solar System. However, comets are not alone in this characteristic; Mercury also possesses a sodium tail, created by its thin atmosphere interacting with solar radiation. Interestingly, Earth has its own tail, known as the "magnetotail," which extends at least 2 million kilometers into space. This tail is formed by the Earth's magnetosphere, which traps plasma and is shaped by the solar wind. The magnetotail can fluctuate in size and shape, influenced by solar events such as coronal mass ejections. Despite extensive exploration by spacecraft, many mysteries about this vast region remain, as its sheer size complicates detailed study. sources

Published:
Dec 09 2025, 8 pm

New Treatment Cures 64% of Incurable Cancer Patients

A groundbreaking gene therapy, BE-CAR7, has shown remarkable promise in treating previously incurable cancers, particularly aggressive forms of leukemia, with 64% of trial patients remaining cancer-free after three years. Developed by researchers at Great Ormond Street Hospital and University College London, the treatment involves modifying donor white blood cells to target and destroy cancerous T-cells. The trial, which included eight children and two adults, reported that 82% achieved significant remission, allowing them to proceed to bone marrow transplants. Among the first patients, 16-year-old Alyssa Tapley, who had exhausted standard treatment options, has remained cancer-free since her participation. While the treatment offers hope, it is not without risks, as some patients faced severe side effects. The study's findings, presented at the American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting, highlight the potential of immunotherapies in revolutionizing cancer treatment. sources

Published:
Dec 09 2025, 9 pm

Record-Breaking Black Hole Blast Hits 60,000 km/s

Galaxy NGC 3783, renowned for its striking spiral arms, conceals a dynamic supermassive black hole at its core, which is generating unprecedented winds at one-fifth the speed of light. This remarkable phenomenon was observed using the European Space Agency’s XMM-Newton and the X-Ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission (XRISM), revealing that a bright X-ray flare from the black hole triggers these ultra-fast winds within just one day. The black hole, located approximately 130 million light-years from Earth and weighing 30 million times that of the Sun, is classified as an Active Galactic Nucleus (AGN). Researchers highlight the significance of understanding these winds, as they play a crucial role in galaxy evolution and star formation. The study, published in Astronomy & Astrophysics, underscores the parallels between solar flares and black hole activity, offering insights into the complex processes governing both cosmic phenomena. sources

Published:
Dec 09 2025, 6 pm

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