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Alongside Ötzi the Iceman: a bounty of ancient mosses and liverworts

A study released in PLOS ONE identified 75 species of mosses and liverworts preserved alongside Ötzi, providing insights into the ancient Alps ecosystem. The bryophyte community around 5,000 years ago was similar to today's, while non-local species confirm Ötzi's route through the Schnalstal valley.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 30, 2019
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

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5,300-year-old Iceman's last meal reveals remarkably high-fat diet

Researchers analyzed the stomach contents of the world's oldest naturally preserved ice mummy and found a remarkably high proportion of fat in his diet. The analysis also revealed wild meat from ibex and red deer, cereals, and traces of toxic bracken, providing insights into ancient dietary habits and food preparation.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 12, 2018

You and some 'cavemen' get a genetic checkup

A recent study by Georgia Institute of Technology reveals that genetic risks to health, such as cardiovascular disease, may be rising in modern humans. This contradicts the long-term trend of decreased genetic risk found in ancient ancestors.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalHuman Biology·DateAug 23, 2017

New discoveries concerning Ötzi's genetic history

Researchers at EURAC have made new discoveries about Ötzi's genetic history, clarifying that his maternal lineage is no longer present in modern populations. The study found that Ötzi's mitochondrial DNA, named K1f, originated locally in the Alps and is now extinct.

SourceEuropean Academy of Bozen/Bolzano (EURAC)·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 14, 2016

The Iceman's gut microbes shed light on ancient human geography

The study of the Iceman's gut microbes reveals a surprising connection to Asian strains and modern European strains, suggesting that recent human migrations influenced European genetic makeup. The findings also indicate that the Iceman may have been ill before his murder, with high levels of virulence factors in his gut microbiome.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 7, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Hair from mummy's clothes provides insights into red deer lineage

A study published in PLOS ONE analyzed Neolithic deer hair from the Tyrolean Iceman's clothing to shed light on red deer lineage. The results indicate that Alpine Copper Age red deer falls within the western European lineage, contrasting with current populations in the Italian Alps which belong to the eastern lineage.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 2, 2014

Iceman Ötzi had bad teeth

Researchers studied the teeth of the Neolithic mummy Ötzi, finding severe oral diseases such as advanced periodontitis and tooth decay. The Iceman's diet, which included starchy foods like bread and cereal porridge, contributed to his dental problems.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalEuropean Journal Of Oral Sciences·DateApr 9, 2013

Oetzi's last supper

A 5,200-year-old study of the Tyrolean Iceman's intestinal contents identifies six different mosses, suggesting he may have traveled, injured himself, and dressed wounds. The findings provide insights into his lifestyle and events leading up to his death.

SourceSpringer·JournalVegetation History and Archaeobotany·DateDec 1, 2008
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Oetzi the Iceman dressed like a herdsman

A new study analyzing Oetzi's hair samples reveals his clothes were made from sheep and cattle fur, supporting the idea that he was a herdsman. The technique used could be faster and more reliable for checking animal hair products and aiding manufacturers in adhering to EU laws.

SourceWiley·JournalRapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry·DateAug 20, 2008

Mystery of 5,000 year old glacier mummy solved

Researchers used CT scans to reveal a close-to-the-shoulder artery lesion in the Iceman, confirming his cause of death as a result of an arrowhead injury. The discovery sheds new light on life conditions in the past and the evolution of diseases.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateJun 6, 2007