Category: General Interest

Energy specialists are sounding the alarm about a hidden drain on household electricity bills: devices that continue to draw power even when they appear to be switched off. This so‑called standby consumption may seem insignificant day to day, but over the course of a year it can noticeably increase energy costs. Desktop Computers in the Home Office As remote work becomes more common, many households now keep desktop computers permanently set up. When these machines are left in standby rather than fully shut down, they can generate an estimated additional…

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Physical activity is often associated with gym workouts, running sessions, or structured fitness programs. Yet new scientific findings suggest that everyday movements—many of them far less intense—may play a surprisingly important role in supporting long‑term health. A Closer Look at the Study The analysis draws on a large-scale longitudinal study involving nearly 70,000 adults aged 43 to 78. Researchers set out to understand how light daily activity influences the risk of disease and overall mortality. This included simple, routine actions such as doing housework, standing, or walking at a slow…

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Color is one of the first things people notice about us. Before we speak, before we shake hands, before we even smile, the shades we choose to wear send subtle signals about who we are and how we move through the world. Psychologists, designers, and cultural historians agree on one thing: clothing colors are not random. They reflect mood, identity, and even long‑term personality traits. This doesn’t mean your wardrobe is a psychological X‑ray. But it does mean that the hues you gravitate toward—consciously or not—offer a fascinating window into…

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2026 is shaping up to be a remarkable year for sky‑watchers. From dazzling meteor showers to dramatic eclipses and a radiant Jupiter, the night sky over Central Europe will offer a series of rare and unforgettable moments. Anyone willing to look up at the right time will be rewarded with some of the most striking astronomical events of the decade. Jupiter Opens the Year With a Brilliant Show The first highlight arrives early: on 10 January, Jupiter reaches opposition, placing Earth, the Sun, and the gas giant almost perfectly in…

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Whether in coffee, in snacks between meals, or hidden in processed foods, this sweet substance is everywhere. However, according to longevity specialist Gerd Wirtz, a consistently high sugar intake can contribute to accelerating the body’s aging process. More sugar than many people realize Sugar is not only found in sweets, but also in bread, sauces, and ready-made products. According to Wirtz, this constant availability means that people in Western countries consume significantly more sugar than the body needs. In addition, sugar activates the reward system in the brain and can…

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A wave of Arctic air continues to grip large parts of Europe, bringing freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall, and severe disruptions to transport and daily life. Even Spain, known for its scorching summers, is shivering under sub-zero conditions. Netherlands: Rail Network Brought to a Standstill Train services across the Netherlands were almost completely halted on Tuesday due to a combination of harsh winter weather and a major technical failure. No trains ran anywhere in the country until 10 a.m. as frozen switches and a computer malfunction crippled the network. Services slowly…

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Eating, walking, cleaning, and even reading—everything is more enjoyable when done together. This is shown by a study involving data from more than 40,000 Americans: no matter what they are doing, people are happier when they have company during everyday activities. Silent book clubs are places where reading enthusiasts meet to read together in silence. Discussing the books is not mandatory, and the participants are sometimes complete strangers to each other. The idea originated in the US, but these unusual reading clubs can now be found all over the world.…

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As Christmas approaches, winter is tightening its grip across Central Europe — and this year, the holiday weather will be particularly dramatic for Austria’s southern neighbors. While much of Carinthia is expected to enjoy a white Christmas, Slovenia, Croatia, and parts of northern Italy are bracing for a mix of snowfall and powerful winds. Ljubljana and Zagreb Set for a White Christmas Tuesday will still bring mild, grey, and mostly calm conditions across the region, with only occasional light rain. But according to meteorologist Nikolas Zimmermann from the weather service…

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A new analysis by Greenpeace is putting a spotlight on the disproportionate climate impact of luxury air travel. According to the report, First- and Business-Class flights generate several times more greenhouse gas emissions per passenger than seats in Economy — and the organization is urging policymakers to act. Luxury Seats, Outsized Emissions The study finds that First Class passengers are responsible for five times, and Business Class passengers for four times, the emissions of someone flying Economy on the same route. Although premium passengers make up only about 14 percent…

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