A Neanderthal who lived 75,000 years ago survived a severe facial injury for at least a year before suffering a possibly fatal spear wound. Researchers studying remains found in Iraq’s Shanidar Cave identified a 15mm hole in the shoulder blade, suggesting a wooden spear injury. The findings also point to possible care from other Neanderthals.

Ji-Hong Wu, a resourceful student from Holy Trinity Catholic High School, has pioneered a virtual air piano that translates hand gestures into music. Self-taught in coding and motion recognition, he achieved commendable success by securing third place at a robotics competition. Rather than hiring legal help, he confidently prepared his own patent application and collaborated with examiners, resulting in a Canadian patent, while his US application awaits approval.

Queensland proudly announces the acquisition of three significant cattle properties, expanding its protected area network by almost 396,000 hectares. These lands are essential for wildlife conservation, providing critical habitats for various threatened species. Funded by the federal government through a biodiversity initiative, this move contributes to Australia's ambitious target of safeguarding 30 percent of its land and oceans by 2030.

Students at Calistoga Junior/Senior High School developed a cooling device targeting hot working conditions. They presented their invention at EurekaFest and the California State Capitol. The project utilized a $7,500 grant from the InvenTeams initiative to support their research and development. Their invention gained recognition as a finalist for the SXSW Innovation Awards. The InvenTeams program aims to inspire students to address real-world problems through practical inventions.

Gunisha Kaur, a 16-year-old from Ludhiana, creates pollinator gardens to support biodiversity and inclusion. Her initiative, Buzzing Blooms, transforms urban spaces into chemical-free habitats for both pollinators and children. Over 24 months, the project recorded significant increases in pollinator species and bee visitation. Engaging local communities, Buzzing Blooms focuses on inclusive outdoor spaces catering to diverse needs. Through workshops and advocacy, Kaur aims to foster environmental action among youth.

Scientists have reprogrammed blood-cell precursors from an 80-year-old donor into neural stem cells with an epigenetic age below 20, according to a study published in Aging Cell. The process unfolded gradually over more than 100 days, offering researchers a way to investigate cellular rejuvenation and its potential implications for ageing and Alzheimer's research.

Shark populations are declining significantly due to human activities and a third of species are threatened. Participation in shark ecotourism leads to increased conservation efforts among tourists and the public. After two years, those who engaged in ecotourism showed a 40% increase in conservation activities. Educational experiences during these tours provide vital information about the role of sharks in the ecosystem.

A farmer in Behbeit El Hagar, Egypt stumbled upon a remarkable royal statue of Ramses II while tilling his land. In a swift response, local antiquities officials began an excavation to retrieve the statue along with other artifacts. They uncovered a substantial head of Ramses II and several smaller statues embellished with inscriptions. This discovery is expected to deepen our knowledge of ancient Egypt's cultural and political legacy.

A sandwich idea at 15 led Miami student Gabriella Rothberg to develop genetically engineered tomatoes designed to produce heme, an iron-containing molecule associated with meat flavour. Now 17, she is listed alongside her father on a US patent issued in June 2026. The project remains experimental, with taste and nutritional benefits yet to be established.

Archaeologists in Glasgow have uncovered remains of a 12-foot wall built by a wealthy distiller to block public access to the River Clyde in the 1820s. Residents tore down the wall in 1823, leading to arrests and a six-year legal battle. The excavation also revealed a rare 1791 trade token bearing the city's motto, "Let Glasgow Flourish".