Discoveries

Good morning, Science Enthusiasts!

We tend to think of medicine as a uniquely human invention. But for the first time, scientists have spotted an orangutan using medicinal plants to treat its wounds.

The orangutan, named Rakus, was first seen chewing the stem and leaves of the Akar Kuning plant, known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. He then smeared the chewed up leaves onto a large wound on his face which sealed up after five days.

According to researchers, this behavior may have originated in a common ancestor between us and these primates.

And speaking of ancient ancestors, scientists have reconstructed the face of a Neanderthal woman in stunning detail, 75,000 years after her death.

But first, let’s take a look at a new cosmic model which adds a “footnote” to Einstein’s theory of general relativity.

We'll see you on Monday! Until then, stay curious! 🚀

Pandora Dewan is a Senior Science Reporter at Newsweek based in London, UK. Her focus is reporting on science, health and technology. You can get in touch with Pandora by emailing [email protected], or on Instagram and X @PandoraDewan.

GRAVITY REEXAMINED

Einstein's theory of general relativity

Scientific Tweak May Fix Einstein Theory 'Glitch'

A bizarre "cosmic glitch" in the theory of how the gravity of the universe works may have been mended. The strange glitch in Einstein's description of gravity in his theory of general relativity may explain some of the mysteries of how gravity works on a cosmic scale, according to a new paper in the Journal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics. Here’s what the research says.

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LAB NOTES

Top science news across disciplines

Research: Scientists have revealed a "major" new factor in the decline of bumblebee populations across the world. Bumblebee populations have declined by 90 percent in the past 20 years, according to Environment America. Learn more.
The cosmos: Hopeful stargazers are in for a treat this week as the annual Eta Aquarid meteor shower is primed to light up the night sky. Don’t miss this stellar event! Check out the details.
Climate change: The extremes of the Colorado River's water supply have been forecast over the next 25 years, and there's some good news for the drought-hit waterway. Find out here.
Aging: Researchers may have identified a solution to age-associated muscle degeneration, and it all comes down to resynchronising our internal body clocks. For insights into how it might combat aging.
Archaeology: Archaeologists have uncovered a previously unknown prehistoric settlement of "spectacular" size in southeastern Europe. Explore the details. — compiled by Sonal Nain, newsletter producer

RARE FINDS

Exploring astronomy

Scientists Find 'Exciting' Rare Exoplanet in Habitable Zone of Twin Stars

A planet has been discovered lurking in the habitable zone of not one, but two, stars. This far-off planet, situated around 310 light-years from Earth, orbiting its host star at just the right distance that liquid water could exist on its surface, according to a new study in The Astronomical Journal. Could this mean life beyond Earth? Learn more about it.