NASA Honors Late Scientist With First Named Geomagnetic Storm

A dazzling geomagnetic storm in May 2024, known as Storm Gannon, lit up skies from Canada to the Netherlands and marked a poignant tribute to Dr. Jennifer Lea Gannon, a revered space weather scientist who passed away earlier that month. "Jenn was an outstanding role model, colleague, and scientist who excelled in creating a sense of community across the domains of space science," her colleagues wrote in Space Weather journal. "She will be sorely missed by many." Dr. Gannon died suddenly on May 2 at age 45 in Greenbelt, Maryland. As an editor at Space Weather since April 2019, she guided over 200 manuscripts and published numerous editorials. Her expertise spanned geomagnetically induced currents and radiation-belt electron dynamics. "This awe-inspiring event is nature's way of rejoicing in the life of Dr. Jennifer Lea Gannon," NASA heliophysicist Madhulika Guhathakurta wrote online. The storm reached Kp9 on the space weather scale—the strongest level since 2003—prompting its naming after Dr. Gannon. While most geomagnetic storms go unnamed due to their lesser impact, this one stood out for its intensity and reach. Geomagnetic storms occur when solar eruptions send charged particles toward Earth, creating auroras visible even at lower latitudes during powerful events like Storm Gannon. "The world lost Jenn on May 2, 2024, and a week later the skies lit up with a breathtaking display of auroras," Guhathakurta noted. The storm captivated both scientists and the public with vivid displays shared widely on social media. Its name quickly entered scientific literature and was mentioned by the White House while discussing space weather strategy. "Jenn was a brilliant scientist... her mentorship inspired countless young scientists," added Guhathakurta.

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A Decade, 120 Scientists, and One Big Discovery About How Your Cells Work

A decade-long international collaboration has unveiled a comprehensive blueprint of chemical transport pathways in human cells, marking a significant milestone in biomedical research. Spearheaded by Giulio Superti-Furga at CeMM, the Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, and backed by an international consortium under the European Union's Innovative Medicines Initiative, this project culminated in four groundbreaking studies published in *Molecular Systems Biology*. The research focused on solute carriers (SLCs), the largest family of transporter proteins essential for cellular exchange processes. These proteins play a crucial role in absorbing nutrients and expelling waste, yet many remain poorly understood. The project more than doubled existing knowledge about these transporters, offering new insights into their functions and potential therapeutic applications. "This effort represents an unprecedented push towards understanding a target class heavily involved in human disease," said Giulio Superti-Furga, Scientific Director of CeMM and Coordinator of the RESOLUTE consortium. "We hope to have lowered the barrier for transporter research." The initiative brought together 120 researchers from 13 institutions across eight countries. After five years of laboratory work and additional data integration efforts led by CeMM, the team produced transformative findings that illuminate chemical traffic within cells. Key outcomes include metabolic mapping of SLC genes, mapping protein-protein interactions for nearly 400 SLCs, identifying synthetic lethal interactions through genetic experiments, and creating an integrative functional landscape accessible via https://re-solute.eu. Ulrich Goldmann highlighted the project's impact: "We were able to annotate most solute carriers with functional information and create tools that serve the global research community."

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Engineers Just Uncovered a Battery Breakthrough for Everyday Electronics

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have uncovered a fascinating phenomenon within fast-working batteries: a protective layer that appears only during rapid discharge. This transient solid-electrolyte interphase, or T-SEI, forms briefly and then vanishes, potentially revolutionizing electric vehicles and clean energy sources like wind and solar. Typically, batteries develop a permanent film known as solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI) on metal components. While this film shields the battery from unwanted chemical reactions, its buildup over time can lead to damage, causing faster drainage and eventual failure. The newly discovered temporary film offers similar protection without long-term harm. T-SEI emerges only when needed, such as during rapid acceleration in an electric vehicle, and disappears once its job is done, leaving the battery's surface smooth. "The battery discharge process has largely been overlooked," said Kent Zheng, a researcher who joined the UT team in 2023. "By controlling this transient interphase, we can design batteries that perform better under high-demand conditions, last longer, and are less prone to failure," added Stephen T. Fuller, the study's lead author. This discovery could transform how devices and energy grids are powered. The T-SEI layer reduced surface roughness by 42 percent, significantly enhancing battery longevity and efficiency. This improvement could mean fewer replacements for devices, reducing e-waste and lowering demand for raw materials used in production. Better batteries could also cut maintenance costs and energy waste for businesses and cities relying on large-scale storage solutions. Combined with other advancements in battery technology, highly efficient systems may soon be available for clean energy applications. UT researchers plan further tests on various battery types to explore T-SEI's potential fully.

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Meet Evie: Peppa Pig's Adorable New Baby Sister

Peppa Pig fans have something new to squeal about. The beloved British children's show announced Tuesday that Peppa Pig will soon welcome a baby sister, Evie Pig, to the family. The news was revealed on "Good Morning Britain," complete with playful images of the Pig family at London's St Mary’s Hospital's Lindo Wing, famously known for hosting royal births like those of Kate Middleton's children. In true regal fashion, a video on the official "Peppa Pig" Instagram account featured a town crier outside the hospital. Ringing a gold bell and holding a pink scroll, he proclaimed, "Lend me your ears, for news of the birth of a daughter to Mummy and Daddy Pig. Peppa and George have a baby sister and her name is Evie." He concluded with an enthusiastic "Long live Evie Pig!" This announcement follows February's buzz when it was revealed that Mummy Pig was expecting her third child—a first in the show's 20-year history. Hasbro, the production company behind Peppa Pig, confirmed that Evie will make her debut in "Peppa Meets the Baby Cinema Experience," set to hit U.S. theaters on May 30. With ten seasons broadcast across more than 180 territories worldwide, Peppa Pig has become an international sensation despite competition from other high-quality children's shows. The series made headlines last year by introducing its first same-sex couple—two lesbian polar bears—sparking both praise and criticism. As anticipation builds for Evie's arrival on screen, parents might find their little ones adopting more British accents thanks to this charming piglet family.

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The World's First Bladder Transplant is Giving This Cancer Survivor a New Hope

In a groundbreaking medical achievement, U.S. surgeons have successfully performed the world's first human bladder transplant. The complex eight-hour procedure took place on May 4, 2025, involving the transplantation of a kidney and bladder from an organ donor into a patient who had lost these organs to kidney disease and cancer. "The kidney immediately made a large volume of urine, and the patient's kidney function improved immediately," said Dr. Nima Nassiri, a urologist at the University of California, Los Angeles. "There was no need for any dialysis after surgery, and the urine drained properly into the new bladder." The patient regained normal urination shortly after surgery—a milestone he hadn't achieved in seven years. "This surgery is a historic moment in medicine," said Dr. Inderbir Gill from the University of Southern California. "It stands to impact how we manage carefully selected patients with highly symptomatic 'terminal' bladders that are no longer functioning." Previously, patients with severely impaired bladders had limited options, often resorting to using part of their intestines as a substitute—a method fraught with complications in 80% of cases. Bladder transplants have been notoriously difficult due to the organ's complex blood vessel system deep within the abdomen. The medical team spent over four years preparing for this surgery by practicing robot-aided transplants on deceased donors still on ventilators. The recipient, Oscar Larrainzar, 41, had been dependent on dialysis for seven years after losing his kidneys and most of his bladder. Surgeons simplified the procedure by connecting some veins and arteries before implanting the donor organ. "Despite the complexity of the case, everything went according to plan," Gill noted. "The patient is doing well." Four more surgeries are planned as part of an ongoing clinical trial. If successful, larger trials may follow.

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Every Student from This Black High School Was Accepted into College Again

Southland College Prep Charter High School in Richton Park, Illinois, celebrated a remarkable milestone as the entire Class of 2025 secured college acceptances and amassed over $50 million in scholarships. The annual “All In” celebration on May 9 highlighted the achievements of the 145-member class. In a surprise announcement, four seniors received scholarships from the Kwarteng Family Foundation. The foundation was established by sisters Sandra, Lisa, Amy, and Esther Kwarteng to honor their father, Alex. The sisters are all pursuing careers in healthcare and awarded $10,000 in scholarships to graduates of their alma mater. “Our family is a living example,” said Sandra Kwarteng. “You can do it.” The scholarship recipients include Kehinde Sowemimo (Yale University), Itohan Salami (Washington University), Dhayra Gomez (University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign), and Terri Mensah (Carleton College). Sowemimo also serves as Southland’s Class of 2025 valedictorian. Dr. Alex Kwarteng encouraged students to “give back” during an emotional speech at the ceremony. In addition to these honors, three Southland seniors were accepted into five Ivy League schools: Brown University, Cornell University, Harvard University, the University of Pennsylvania, and Yale University. Ten seniors received full-ride scholarships to California Polytechnic State University—San Luis Obispo through a growing partnership with the school. Forty percent of Southland’s Class of 2025 were offered full-ride scholarships by colleges and universities nationwide. Two students earned more than $750,000 in scholarships through the QuestBridge National College Match Program. “Admissions to top schools are important,” said Robert Lane, Director of College Admissions. “But equally important is that every student finds a school that is right for them.”

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Keanu Reeves Just Surprised a Local U.K. Pub With an Unexpected Visit

Keanu Reeves, known for his down-to-earth demeanor and kindness, recently surprised staff at The Robin Hood pub in Tring, Hertfordshire. The Hollywood star, famous for roles in "The Matrix" and "John Wick," visited the quaint market town about 30 miles outside of London over a weekend in 2023. The pub's employees were taken aback when Reeves walked through their doors. Chef Scott Valentine, 18, was particularly nervous about cooking for such a high-profile guest. However, Reeves put everyone at ease with his graciousness. "He came to the bar and ordered a beer (Seafarers Ale) and just walked over to the corner," Laura Rolfe told The Mirror. "He ordered fish and chips and Nat's shepherd's pie." Valentine shared his initial apprehension with the BBC but noted that Reeves was appreciative of the meal. "It was a bit worrying because I had to cook for him, but we took it out to him and he said thank you and was really nice," Valentine said. “He came into the kitchen, shook our hands and said the food was lovely." The Robin Hood staff posted a photo on Facebook featuring Valentine alongside Reeves. “What a lovely man he was too,” they wrote. While it's unclear why Reeves visited Tring, speculation suggests he may have been working on a Disney Plus docuseries about Formula 1 racing. In 2022, it was announced that Reeves would produce a documentary about Jenson Button’s victory for Brawn GP in 2009. Reeves continues to work on various projects including upcoming sequels in the "John Wick" series and an Amazon MGM romance thriller with Sandra Bullock. Reeves' visit left everyone with warm memories of his humility—a testament to how small gestures can leave lasting impressions.

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Blind Mom And Her Guide Dog Graduate College With Honors

Amanda Juetten, a 47-year-old mother from Tennessee, recently achieved a significant milestone by graduating magna cum laude from Tennessee Tech University. Despite being completely blind due to retinitis pigmentosa, Juetten crossed the stage with her guide dog, Colonel, by her side. Juetten's journey to higher education began nearly three decades ago but was postponed when she became a mother right after high school. After years of progressive vision loss, she found herself without the skills needed for total blindness. Determined to regain independence, she enrolled in an eight-month program at the Colorado Center for the Blind. "I thought, ‘I know blind parents make their kids’ lunches. I know blind parents go to PTA meetings. I can do this,’" Juetten said. With newfound confidence and adaptive techniques, Juetten returned to college in 2022 to pursue a degree in professional studies with a concentration in organizational leadership. She praised her instructors for their support and accessibility efforts. "The instructors were asking, ‘What are your needs? How can I make this accessible to you?’ They have been fantastic," she said. Now graduated, Juetten is advocating for greater acceptance and understanding of blindness. She plans to pursue further education in blindness rehabilitation and aims to offer services in assistive technology and Braille. "The blind need a voice," Juetten emphasized. "I want to help give people the skills to find their voice." Juetten actively participates in advocacy work and serves on the board of the National Federation of the Blind of Tennessee. Her message is clear: "You still have the same hopes and dreams... So let's find a way to do that.

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Heroic Teamwork Saved This Curious Kitten From a Cellar Adventure

A curious kitten named William found himself at the center of a week-long rescue operation in Wisbech, England, after getting trapped in a blocked cellar. The five-month-old black kitten was first heard on May 9 behind a William Hill bookmaker shop, sparking an extensive rescue effort involving drainage companies, the fire service, the RSPCA, and concerned locals. Residents took to social media to express their worries and attempted to coax the kitten out. However, it wasn't until several drainage companies—Dyno-Rod, DALROD Cambridge, and JW Drainage Services—joined forces that progress was made. They used cameras to locate William within the ventilation pipes. Despite multiple visits from Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service, freeing William proved challenging. "The kitten managed to find itself in such an awkward position that even our animal rescue equipment couldn't reach it," said a fire service spokesperson. The RSPCA described the mission as "far more complex than anyone expected." With no clear map of where the pipes led, nearby cellars were searched extensively. Eventually, it was discovered that William had ventured into an old cellar beneath the shop—a space unknown until then. After gaining permission from the shop owner to dig up part of the floor and reveal a trap door to the cellar, rescuers faced another hurdle when William darted into a wall cavity. RSPCA animal rescue officer John Woods expressed gratitude for everyone's efforts: "It's actually been so heart-warming how everyone has pulled together for rescuing William." Now safe at an RSPCA branch in Norfolk and recovering well despite being thin from his ordeal, William will eventually be rehomed.

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Discover The Largest Anglo-Saxon Gold Coin Hoard Found Yet

A remarkable treasure trove of 7th-century gold coins has found a new home at the Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery in Norfolk, England. This collection, believed to be the largest of its kind discovered in Britain, consists of 129 coins featuring 118 different designs from 51 European mints. Unearthed by two metal detectorists in a west Norfolk field between 2014 and 2020, the hoard primarily contains Frankish tremisses. These coins were minted in the Merovingian Frankish kingdoms—regions that now encompass modern-day France, Germany, Switzerland, and the Low Countries. They are among the first coins produced in Europe following the fall of the Roman Empire and predate Anglo-Saxon England's initial gold coinage. The acquisition was made possible through funding from the National Heritage Memorial Fund, the Art Fund, and The Wolfson Foundation. Charles Bingham-Newland, chair of Friends of Norwich Museums, emphasized its significance: "The hoard will add immeasurably to our knowledge of the Anglo-Saxon period." This find is one of only eight such hoards known across Europe and marks just the third discovery within the United Kingdom. Dr. Tim Pestell, senior curator at Norwich Castle, noted its importance: "This internationally significant find reflects...the early Kingdom of East Anglia." The display coincides with the reopening of Norwich Castle's Anglo-Saxon and Viking Gallery after extensive renovations. By housing these coins at Norwich Castle Museum, they remain accessible for both researchers and visitors alike.

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