Scientists digitally dissect ancient Egyptian ‘screaming' mummy

Ancient Egypt continues to fascinate with its pyramids, pharaohs, and artifacts. Recently, 63 tombs dating back over 2,500 years were discovered in Egypt’s Damietta, along with a collection of coins, gold objects, and pottery. In another excavation, a mummified woman found near Luxor almost a century ago has been ‘digitally dissected’ using CT scans and infrared imaging. The scans revealed that her organs were still intact, contrary to funerary rites, and offered insights into her life. Researchers have also theorized that Mercury, the smallest planet in our solar system, could have a layer of diamonds beneath its surface. An experiment conducted with a synthetic mixture of elements similar to Mercury’s composition found that graphite could transform into diamond crystals under the right conditions. While awaiting confirmation from the BepiColombo mission, scientists are intrigued by the possibility. In regards to Venus, scientists have detected phosphine and ammonia in its atmosphere, gases considered biomarkers for life. The findings await independent confirmation but raise excitement for upcoming missions to Venus. Homo sapiens, our species, coexisted with Neanderthals for hundreds of thousands of years. Ancient DNA analysis suggests multiple interbreeding events between the two groups, possibly leading to the eventual extinction of Neanderthals. Lastly, geneticists have discovered a family of genes that control the prickles found on plants like roses, tomatoes, and barley. By targeting these genes, gene-editing techniques could potentially remove prickles, simplifying the process of harvesting produce. Exciting findings continue to emerge from various fields of research.