A groundbreaking study published in the journal Science Advances reveals that Neanderthals, our ancient relatives, operated sophisticated “fat factories” as far back as 125,000 years ago. This research, conducted by a team from Leiden University, sheds new light on the survival strategies of Neanderthals and their understanding of resource management during an interglacial period that resembled today’s climate.

The Neumark-Nord archaeological site near Leipzig, Germany, has been a focal point of research for decades. Archaeologists have uncovered evidence that Neanderthals intentionally chose a lakeside location to establish their fat factories. This strategic choice allowed them to process the bones of at least 172 mammals, including deer, horses, and aurochs—an extinct species of bovine. The inhabitants of this settlement employed advanced techniques for extracting bone marrow, which involved breaking open large bones and grinding them into fragments. They even heated these fragments in water to yield calorie-rich bone grease.

Parenting is a journey filled with unique challenges, especially when family dynamics and differing parenting styles come into play. As families grow and evolve, the complexities can become even more pronounced, leading to difficult conversations and decisions. Here are some insights into navigating these challenges, emphasizing the importance of communication, understanding, and setting boundaries.

In one family scenario, a mother grapples with the decision to care for her brother’s son, Pete, during a challenging time for his family. With the impending birth of a baby and complications expected, the mother faces the dilemma of accommodating Pete’s sleep habits, which differ significantly from her own children’s sleep training. This situation highlights the need for open dialogue and setting clear expectations.

The Tour de France, renowned for its breathtaking scenery and intense competition, was marred by an unfortunate incident during stage 3 on July 8, 2025. Bryan Coquard of Team Cofidis found himself at the center of controversy after a mid-race crash that led to the abandonment of Jasper Philipsen, who was wearing the coveted green jersey.

The incident occurred during an intermediate sprint when Coquard attempted to launch his sprint but collided with Laurenz Rex of Intermarché-Wanty. The collision not only caused Coquard to nearly lose his balance but also resulted in Philipsen crashing behind him. As a consequence, Coquard received a yellow card and a fine of 500 CHF from the race jury for what was deemed an ‘irregular sprint.’

In an era where technology seamlessly integrates into our daily lives, Apple has taken a significant step forward with its digital car key feature. Introduced in 2020, this innovative capability allows users to lock, unlock, and start compatible vehicles using their iPhone or Apple Watch, all through the Wallet app. As of now, several major automakers, including Audi, BMW, Hyundai, Kia, Genesis, Mercedes-Benz, and Volvo, have adopted this technology, and the list is poised for further expansion.

In a world often dominated by negative headlines and doom-scrolling, it’s crucial to shift our focus toward the positive. Good News Roundups (GNRs) serve as a beacon of hope, showcasing uplifting stories that inspire action and foster community engagement. By highlighting positive developments, we can combat the detrimental effects of negative news on our physical and mental health.

The impact of negative news on our well-being is significant. Research has shown that constant exposure to distressing information can lead to increased anxiety, stress, and feelings of helplessness. In contrast, engaging with uplifting news can enhance our mood, boost our resilience, and encourage proactive behaviors. This is where GNRs come into play, providing a refreshing antidote to the barrage of negativity in mainstream media.

In the pursuit of better health, small changes can lead to significant improvements. One effective strategy is to incorporate nutrient-dense foods into your diet. Among the myriad of options available, passion fruit stands out as a delicious and healthful choice that packs a punch in nutritional value.

Passion fruit, although modest in size, is a powerhouse of nutrients. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, just one average-sized passion fruit (approximately 18 grams) contains an impressive 1.87 grams of fiber and 5.22 milligrams of magnesium, all while contributing fewer than 18 calories to your daily intake. This makes it an excellent addition to any meal or snack without the guilt of excess calories.

In today’s fast-paced world, technology has become an integral part of our lives, especially in the workplace. As layoffs and job transitions become increasingly common, many individuals find themselves seeking support and guidance to navigate these challenging times. Fortunately, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) offer new avenues for assistance, allowing those affected by job loss to regain their footing and move forward with confidence.

For those who are currently facing a layoff or who may be preparing for one, it’s essential to know that you are not alone. The emotional and cognitive load that comes with job loss can be overwhelming, but AI tools such as ChatGPT and Copilot can help alleviate some of that burden. Here are several ways you can leverage these technologies to support your career journey.

In a groundbreaking study published on July 3, 2025, in the journal Science, researchers have unveiled compelling evidence that the adult human brain is capable of forming new neurons, a process known as neurogenesis. This discovery could put to rest a long-standing debate about the brain’s ability to regenerate itself and has significant implications for our understanding of learning, memory, and emotional health.

The research, led by Marta Paterlini from the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, demonstrates that neurogenesis occurs primarily in the hippocampus, a critical region of the brain associated with learning and memory. “In short, our work puts to rest the long-standing debate about whether adult human brains can grow new neurons,” Paterlini stated.

For years, the astronomical community has been buzzing with theories surrounding the existence of a ninth planet in our Solar System, often referred to as Planet 9. Some astronomers argue that the peculiar clustering and orbital tilt of certain trans-Neptunian objects suggest that they are being influenced by the gravitational pull of an as-yet-undiscovered planet. This hypothetical Planet 9 is believed to be similar in size to Neptune, orbiting the Sun in a highly elliptical path at a staggering distance of around 300 astronomical units (AU) from our star.

In a significant legal development, Sean “Diddy” Combs was acquitted of serious charges, including racketeering and sex trafficking, on July 2, 2025. A federal court jury found that the government’s assertion that Combs operated a criminal enterprise akin to a mafia organization was unfounded. This verdict has sparked widespread discussion among legal experts and the public alike.

The case against Combs hinged on the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, which requires prosecutors to prove that the defendant led a structured group engaged in illegal activities. Legal experts noted that the prosecution faced a daunting challenge in establishing that Combs directed an organized operation involving employees who facilitated illicit behavior. Anna Cominsky, head of New York Law School’s Criminal Defense Clinic, remarked that the RICO charges seemed to stretch the law beyond its intended use.