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Men's Beards: Surprising Motivations Revealed by Study

A recent study from the University of Silesia and the University of Padova has unveiled the complex motivations behind men's decision to grow beards, linking facial hair to social status, competition, and family care. The research, which surveyed 414 men aged 18 to 40, found that bearded men are often perceived as healthier, more trustworthy, and better suited for fatherhood, suggesting that beards may signal a shift from short-term mating to long-term relationships. Interestingly, while men with facial hair were more inclined to value family care, those who reported higher competitiveness did not necessarily have more facial hair. The study highlights that motivations for beard maintenance are multifaceted, encompassing both affiliative and competitive aspects, and calls for further research to explore the nuances of facial hair styles and their implications. The findings are published in the *Archives of Sexual Behavior*. sources

Published:
Nov 13 2025, 11 pm

Lupus Linked to Common Virus: New Insights Revealed

A groundbreaking study from Stanford Medicine has established a link between the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease affecting over 5 million people globally. The research reveals that while EBV infects fewer than 1 in 10,000 B cells in healthy individuals, this figure rises to 1 in 400 in lupus patients. The study identifies a "molecular switch" gene activated by EBV in infected B cells, triggering a cascade of pro-inflammatory responses that lead to the immune system attacking the body’s own tissues. Senior author Dr. William Robinson emphasized the significance of this finding, suggesting it could apply to all lupus cases. However, the study notes that not all EBV-infected individuals develop lupus, indicating that specific strains of the virus may play a role in this transformation. The findings are published in *Science Translational Medicine*. sources

Published:
Nov 13 2025, 9 pm

Long-Term COVID Symptoms Persist Years After Infection

A recent study has shed light on the perplexing condition of Long COVID, which can persist for months or years after the initial infection, manifesting in over 200 symptoms. Researchers followed 24 COVID-19 patients for up to 900 days, focusing on T cells—immune cells that may play a crucial role in the condition. Unlike previous studies, this research utilized PET scans to observe T cell behavior, revealing patterns of long-term activation in various body parts, including the lungs and gut, where COVID-19 RNA was also detected. While the study does not definitively clarify whether these T cells are responding to remnants of the virus or active particles, it suggests that some individuals may harbor viral reservoirs in their tissues. Experts believe this research could pave the way for targeted treatments, addressing the urgent need for new clinical trials for the millions affected by Long COVID. The findings are published in *Science Translational Medicine*. sources

Published:
Nov 13 2025, 6 pm

Don't Wash Your Raw Turkey This Thanksgiving

As Thanksgiving approaches, health experts warn against the common practice of washing raw turkey, which can lead to serious foodborne illnesses. Washing the bird can spread harmful bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter, potentially contaminating surfaces and other foods within a five-foot radius, according to Janell Goodwin from the USDA. This risk is particularly concerning during the holiday season, as nearly one million cases of food poisoning from Clostridium perfringens occur annually in the U.S., with a spike in November and December. To ensure safety, it is crucial to wash hands thoroughly before and after handling raw turkey, cook it to an internal temperature of 165°F (73.9°C), and refrigerate leftovers within two hours. Following these guidelines can help prevent unpleasant symptoms such as diarrhea and nausea, allowing families to enjoy their Thanksgiving feast without health concerns. sources

Published:
Nov 13 2025, 11 am

How to Handle a Broken Banjo String

During sexual activity, injuries can occur, one of the more cringe-worthy being the tearing of the penis frenulum, colloquially known as the "banjo string." This small fold of connective tissue can tear during vigorous sexual activity or forceful movements, often resulting in immediate pain and bleeding. While many cases do not require medical intervention and can heal on their own, it is advised to avoid sexual activity and certain lubricants during recovery. If tearing becomes recurrent, medical options such as frenuloplasty, frenectomy, or circumcision may be considered. Although the sight of a torn frenulum can be alarming, it typically heals with time, and individuals are encouraged to consult a healthcare professional if they have concerns. Always seek professional medical advice for any health-related issues. sources

Published:
Nov 10 2025, 3 am

The Glitter Conspiracy: Who's Stealing All the Glitter?

The festive season may be overshadowed by a potential glitter shortage, a product synonymous with Christmas decorations, children's crafts, and even pranks. Glitter, primarily made from thin sheets of plastic or foil coated in aluminum, has captivated humans for generations, with its allure possibly rooted in an evolutionary attraction to shiny objects. Invented in the 1940s by Henry Ruschmann in New Jersey, glitter became popular during World War II as a substitute for Christmas candles. Despite its widespread use, the identity of the largest glitter consumer remains a closely guarded secret, fueling conspiracy theories online, with speculation ranging from the boat-building industry to toothpaste manufacturing. While rumors of a shortage circulate, no official confirmation has been issued by glitter manufacturers, who are known for their secrecy. Environmental concerns over glitter's long degradation time have led to calls for its ban, raising questions about its future in festive celebrations. sources

Published:
Nov 13 2025, 11 am

Surprise Yellowstone Eruption Sends Rocks Flying, Visitors Flee

A hydrothermal explosion occurred in Yellowstone National Park's Biscuit Basin, prompting a temporary closure of the area and damage to boardwalks, though no injuries were reported. Captured on video by visitors, the explosion, which took place near Sapphire Pool, involved the violent ejection of boiling water, steam, and rock fragments. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reassured the public that this event is unlikely to signal a larger volcanic eruption, as other geological activities remain normal. Hydrothermal explosions, while less dangerous than magmatic eruptions, can still pose significant risks, as demonstrated by the incident. Research geologist Lisa Morgan noted that these explosions are poorly understood and can occur with little warning, often triggered by sudden pressure drops. Smaller hydrothermal explosions happen annually in Yellowstone, but this event's location and timing, near a popular tourist spot, heightened its impact. sources

Published:
Nov 13 2025, 12 pm

"Strange Creature's 'All-Body Brain' Redefines Nervous System Evolution"

Recent research has revealed that sea urchins, often dismissed as simple creatures due to their lack of a centralized brain, possess a surprisingly complex "all-body brain." Traditionally thought to have only a rudimentary radial nervous system, a study mapping the purple sea urchin (_Paracentrotus lividus_) has uncovered a diverse array of neuronal cell types, some expressing genes typically associated with vertebrate brains. This suggests that their neural organization is integrated throughout their bodies rather than centralized. Additionally, light-sensitive cells similar to those in human retinas were found scattered across their surfaces. Dr. Jack Ullrich-Lüter, a lead author of the study, argues that this challenges our understanding of intelligence and the evolution of nervous systems, urging a reevaluation of how we perceive intelligence in creatures that do not conform to human-like neurological structures. The findings were published in *Scientific Reports*. sources

Published:
Nov 12 2025, 11 pm

Boost IFLScience Visibility: Set Us as Your Preferred Source

Google has introduced a new "Preferred Sources" feature, allowing users in the US and India to customize their news feeds by prioritizing their favorite media outlets, including IFLScience. This initiative aims to enhance user experience by enabling readers to receive more relevant science news while filtering out less pertinent content. To add IFLScience as a preferred source, users can follow a simple process involving a search for any news topic and selecting IFLScience from the options provided. This feature not only benefits readers by ensuring access to accurate and engaging science reporting but also supports smaller publishers like IFLScience in reaching dedicated audiences amidst a challenging media landscape marked by AI-generated content and declining trust in news. By encouraging users to take control of their news consumption, Google aims to foster a more informed public while helping quality outlets thrive. sources

Published:
Nov 13 2025, 10 am

"Chicago River's Flow Reversed in 1900"

In a bold response to a public health crisis and polluted waterways, Chicago authorities reversed the flow of the Chicago River in 1900, diverting wastewater away from Lake Michigan and towards the Mississippi River basin. This monumental engineering feat, achieved through the construction of the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal, aimed to protect the city’s drinking water from contamination caused by industrial waste and sewage. While this move improved water quality for Chicagoans, it angered residents downstream, particularly in St. Louis, who found themselves facing a surge of pollution. Legal challenges ensued, but the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the project. Although the river remained dirty for much of the 20th century, recent environmental efforts have led to a resurgence of wildlife, with reports of fish, turtles, and even organized swims in the river, marking a significant turnaround from its polluted past. sources

Published:
Nov 13 2025, 8 am

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