Nepal's New Gecko Stars: 3 Beauties Discovered In Mountain Hideaways

In Nepal, researchers have discovered three new species of bent-toed geckos, bridging a significant geographical gap in their distribution. Lead researcher Santosh Bhattarai highlights the threats these geckos face from habitat destruction. The discovery sheds light on Nepal's diverse flora and fauna. Bhattarai's team conducted surveys in the Chitwan Annapurna Landscape to find these unique species. The study was published in Zootaxa journal, showcasing the importance of conservation efforts for lesser-known reptiles in Nepal.

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Nike's Co-Founder Says He's Pledging $2 Billion to ‘revolutionize’ Cancer Care

In a major boost for cancer research and treatment, Nike co-founder Phil Knight and his wife Penny Knight have donated a staggering $2 billion to Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU). This generous contribution is set to support the Knight Cancer Institute, marking it as the largest gift in both higher education and Oregon state history. The donation comes at a crucial time for OHSU, the leading research institution in the state. Dr. Brian Druker, a renowned cancer researcher whose work has previously been supported by the Knights, will oversee this massive gift. He expressed gratitude for the couple's unwavering support of cancer research efforts. "We’re here today because of two people who love the state and believe that everyone facing a cancer diagnosis deserves the best care and the best outcome," Druker said at a press conference announcing the donation. With this new funding, the Knight Cancer Institute will become an independent entity within OHSU, complete with its own board of governors. Druker will serve as its first president. He aims to create an unparalleled experience in cancer care, offering patients access to services such as nutrition guidance, mental health treatment and cutting-edge clinical trials. The ambition is clear: make OHSU "the best place on earth for cancer care." Druker believes that patients could start seeing improvements as soon as next July. "We want to make sure we get this right because if somebody calls, we want to offer this experience," he shared in an interview. This isn't the first time the Knights have made significant contributions to OHSU. In 2013, they announced a challenge grant of $500 million with a matching requirement that ultimately resulted in $1 billion being funneled into cancer research. That initiative led to hundreds of new jobs and advancements in treatments. Phil and Penny Knight emphasized their excitement about continuing their support for revolutionary cancer research under Druker's leadership. "We are grateful for the opportunity to invest in the next stage of the Druker-led revolutionary vision of cancer research, diagnosis, treatment, care, and some day, eradication," they stated. Governor Tina Kotek attended Thursday’s announcement and highlighted its significance for Oregon. "We are going to remember that we were all here for this incredible moment," she said. "For Oregon, it is amazing." Dr. Shereef Elnahal also addressed attendees during what was his first week as president of OHSU. He expressed enthusiasm about starting his tenure with such impactful news. This $2 billion donation surpasses previous large gifts in higher education history, including Michael Bloomberg's $1.8 billion donation to Johns Hopkins University in 2018. Before Thursday's announcement, estimates pegged lifetime philanthropy from Phil and Penny Knight at around $3.6 billion—a figure that's now even more impressive with this latest groundbreaking contribution.

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Stranded Dolphin Named 'Lucky' Makes a Splashing Return Home Thanks to Heroic Rescue Team

In an unusual rescue mission, a dolphin found itself stranded in a shallow lagoon in a South Carolina neighborhood. The Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network received an unexpected call about the situation and confirmed that the report was genuine. The dolphin had ventured into the area due to heavy rains and high tides but got stuck as water levels receded. Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network teamed up with the Bluffton Fire Department to assist the distressed mammal. Together, they made their way to the lagoon where they found the dolphin, miles from its natural habitat. Weighing around 225 kilograms, it took eight people to transport her onto a marine rescue tarp and then onto a utility trailer. During this operation, the team identified the dolphin as "Lucky," a seven-foot female familiar to researchers at USC Bluffton. "After a quick health check she was determined to be...known to local researchers at USC Bluffton as Lucky," Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network wrote on Instagram. Lucky is regularly spotted in May River, making her well-known in local research circles. The rescue team traveled approximately 3 kilometers alongside Lucky until they reached deeper waters suitable for release. Throughout this trek, they kept her hydrated by pouring water over her skin. After two hours of painstaking effort, Lucky was finally released back into safer waters, where she immediately swam away.

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This Daredevil Cat Just Survived an Incredible 50-Foot Plunge

In a tale that sounds more like a scene from an action movie than real life, Ivy the cat managed to survive a 15-meter fall from the fifth floor of a Sheffield apartment building. The four-year-old feline walked away with only a fractured jaw after her unexpected plunge. Owner Emily Redfern was enjoying dinner during one of the recent heatwaves when she realized that Ivy had gone missing. With temperatures hitting 30 degrees Celsius, the door to the balcony was left open for ventilation. Ivy found her way through a gap and took an unplanned tumble into the communal courtyard below. Emily, 26, panicked when she couldn't find Ivy in her apartment and hurried downstairs. To her relief, there was Ivy, curled up on the ground but still alive. "I couldn’t drive, I was too panicked, so a friend took us straight to an emergency vet,” said Emily, who works as a marketing executive. The day after the fall, Ivy was transferred to Vets for Pets Sheffield Drakehouse. An X-ray confirmed that despite falling from such a height, she only suffered from a dislocated jaw. Practice owner and head vet Dr. Alexandra Dontu remarked on the rarity of treating such cases: “This was the first time in my career I’d treated a patient who had fallen from such a height.” The veterinary team repositioned Ivy’s jaw and fitted her with a feeding tube to aid her recovery. During Ivy's recovery period, Emily took on the demanding task of syringe-feeding her every two hours while maintaining her full-time job. Even overnight feedings became part of Emily's routine to help mend her pet. "It was traumatic for Emily," noted Dr. Dontu about the experience, adding praise for how well Emily handled the situation at home. Ivy has bounced back remarkably well and is almost fully recovered now. To prevent any future mishaps, Emily has taken precautions by installing netting on her balcony. With this incident serving as a wake-up call, vets are advising pet owners in high-rise buildings to be cautious about leaving windows or balconies accessible to their pets during hot weather spells. Cats are naturally curious creatures that might wander onto thin ledges or slip through small gaps without realizing the danger they face. “Cats are naturally inquisitive creatures,” said Dr. Dontu, “so even small gaps or the thin ledge of a balcony railing can be dangerous.” Reflecting on what happened and acknowledging those who helped them through it all, Emily said, “I can’t thank the team at Drakehouse enough."

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A 96-Year-Old Veteran's Fortunes Changed With One Kind Gesture

At the Anchor Bar in Frederick, Maryland, Thursday nights feel a little like Cheers. Especially when 96-year-old Korean War veteran Charlie Rentzel walks in. “We love Mr. Charlie — he’s such a doll,” one customer said. “He’s fun, a lot of fun,” added another. For years, Rentzel’s Thursday routine was simple: same seat, same beer, next to his wife Anna. But a few months ago, one small gesture changed everything. Veteran Alex Nowlin spotted Rentzel’s Korean War hat and quietly told the bartender he wanted to cover the couple’s tab. “As a veteran, it was personal to me,” Nowlin said. During their conversation, he learned the Renzels stop in after Charlie’s oncology appointments — he’s being treated for blood cancer and is showing signs of dementia. Their home, in nearby Brunswick, also needed major repairs: an ADA-compliant bathroom, safer windows, and a better front walk. “They didn’t ask for this,” Nowlin said. “I’m literally telling them, ‘We’re going to make this happen.’” With help from bar regulars, neighbors, and even strangers, more than $10,000 in improvements began pouring in: new paint, stairwell repairs, landscaping, and accessibility upgrades so Charlie no longer needs to climb stairs. “Half the people who helped, I didn’t even know their names,” Nowlin said. Anna Rentzel was overwhelmed. “There’s not enough thank-yous for what they’ve done for us,” she said. In nearly a century of life, Charlie said he’s never experienced anything like this. “I’m just so happy,” he said through tears. “I’m not doing it because I’m sad. I’m doing it because I’m happy.” The couple says the generosity has inspired others. “We’ve got people saying they want to grow up to be just like Charlie,” Anna said. “God help them,” Charlie replied with a laugh. And to think it all began with a stranger buying a beer. “How lucky can I be?” Charlie said.

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This 14-Year-Old Spent His Entire Summer Feeding Kids for Free

A 14-year-old boy from the U.K. is making a difference in his community by ensuring kids don’t go hungry during the summer holidays. Buddy, as he's known, started a project to provide packed lunches three times a week for families who rely on free school meals during term time. Buddy’s initiative, called Lunch Box Buddy, operates with the help of local business sponsors and donations collected through his website and Facebook page. He buys part of the food with these funds and prepares the meals in his kitchen at home. Each lunch bag typically includes crisps, fruit, and sandwiches with various fillings. Breakfasts are also provided. “It makes me feel really happy, in general, to help people,” Buddy said about his initiative. He estimates distributing around 100 meals each day and plans to maintain this service throughout the summer break. Buddy explained that many families genuinely need this support due to financial strains when school-provided meals aren't available. “You see a lot of families that do really need this,” he noted. “It can be expensive in the summer holidays, so this helps massively for them.” His mother, Emily, expressed her pride in what Buddy is doing for the community. “I really feel like he’s doing some good,” she said. She added that providing breakfast and weekend food is having a significant impact on these families’ lives. “They’re families for whom it is making a real difference,” Emily highlighted. “I can't think of anything better I'd like to do this summer than be here with him.”

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Meet Nya: The German Shepherd Bringing Smiles and Calm to Train Passengers

Britain's railways have a new kind of helper on board—a therapy dog named Nya. This six-year-old German Shepherd is the first therapy dog to work for a rail company in the UK, volunteering her services with TransPennine Express. Her owner, Stephen O’Callaghan, who has traded his police badge for a role as the company's safeguarding and crime prevention lead, brings Nya along to help passengers ease their travel anxieties. O'Callaghan describes the impact Nya has had: “The feedback I’ve got is really good, from passengers and staff, it’s been really positive. It just puts a smile on people’s faces.” Despite her intimidating appearance as a German Shepherd, Nya's friendly demeanor quickly wins over travelers and staff alike. Nya's presence isn't limited to just one location. She travels across various cities including Sheffield, Hull, Manchester Airport, and Cleethorpes. In these places, she interacts with both passengers and stressed train staff. O’Callaghan recounted an encounter at Cleethorpes where a woman struggling with anxiety found comfort in Nya's company: “She was rolling around on the floor with her; she was besotted with her.” Registered with Pets as Therapy last year, Nya meets rigorous standards ensuring she remains calm and gentle under pressure. She's trained not to bark unexpectedly or pull excessively on her lead—important traits when navigating busy train stations. Beyond providing emotional support, Nya knows how to entertain. “There’s quite a few funny tricks I can do with her,” O’Callaghan shared. One trick involves having her walk between his legs while he moves around—a helpful way to manage space in crowded areas. Nya’s success has sparked interest from other rail companies like Northern, which are considering incorporating therapy dogs into their services too. O'Callaghan is enthusiastic about this development: “Anything we introduce is great; anything we can do with dogs is even better." As more train operators explore similar initiatives, Nya continues to set an example of how animals can make public transport experiences more pleasant and supportive for everyone involved.

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The Surprising Trick To Get Kids Back On Track For School Sleep Schedules

As the school year looms, it's time to hit reset on summer sleep habits. After all, a solid night's rest is key to keeping kids sharp and alert in class. "We don’t say ‘get good sleep’ just because," said Dr. Gabrina Dixon, pediatrician at Children's National Hospital. "It really helps kids learn and it helps them function throughout the day." Sleep needs shift as children grow. Preschoolers should clock up to 13 hours per night, tweens between nine and 12 hours, and teenagers thrive with eight to ten hours of shut-eye. Summer often sees bedtimes pushed later thanks to sleepovers and movie nights. To ease back into school mode, experts suggest inching bedtime earlier by 15 to 30 minutes each night starting a week or two before classes begin. Avoid heavy meals and screens close to bedtime; instead, encourage winding down with calming activities like reading or showering. “You’re trying to take the cognitive load off your mind,” said Dr. Nitun Verma from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. He likened it to gently easing off the gas pedal while driving. Parents can tailor these suggestions based on their child's needs. Nikkya Hargrove, who owns a bookstore in Connecticut, starts adjusting her twin daughters' bedtime by 30 minutes during the week leading up to school. Conversations about bedtime are also crucial as her children learn self-advocacy through small negotiations over staying up a bit longer. “If they’re groggy and they don’t like how they feel, then they know, ‘OK, I have to go to bed earlier,’” Hargrove explained. Morning light exposure also plays a role in resetting internal clocks. Sitting by a window or spending some time outside can signal the brain that it's time to wake up. Quality of sleep is just as important as getting enough of it. Back-to-school jitters can make falling asleep challenging despite an early bedtime. Dr. Dixon recommends addressing anxieties directly by talking through what might be causing stress—be it a new school or making friends—and possibly role-playing these situations beforehand for familiarity's sake. While life can get hectic in the lead-up to school starting again and having everything prepped might not always be feasible, most kids will settle into new routines eventually, according to sleep experts like Dixon, who advises parents simply breathe and start implementing schedules when possible.

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Secret Smile Mission: Meet the 9-Year-Old Spreading Joy with Tiny Message Bottles

Emma Trowell, a 9-year-old from Canada, is spreading joy around the city with her charming twist on an old tradition. Instead of tossing messages in bottles into the city's river, Emma hides them around town for people to find. Her project began as a way to brighten people's days during the summer. Since she was four, Emma has held onto positive mottos and decided to share them in a unique way. Inspired by painted rocks she found during the pandemic, she opted for small bottles as her delivery method. "I write a cute message, like, ‘Have a great day’ and ‘Did you know you’re amazing’," Emma explained. After writing each note, she adds some glitter before hiding it around public areas in London. Over the past month, Emma has hidden over two dozen bottles throughout London, Ontario. She even made signs to alert passersby about these hidden treasures. "I hope they would have a better day if they’re like really sad and that," said Emma about her intentions. Mary St. Onge, Emma’s mom, shared how her daughter wants anyone who finds a bottle to feel happier, regardless of their background or age. As word spread and bottles started disappearing, social media buzzed with excitement about Emma's thoughtful project. Some people mentioned that just seeing the signs lifted their spirits; those who found the bottles were delighted by the messages inside. "I’m happy that someone found it, and I hope it made them feel better," said Emma when asked about people discovering her messages. The positivity of Emma’s initiative caught on quickly online; many people called for others to follow suit with similar acts of kindness. Emma is hopeful that more will join in spreading goodwill. "If you’re having a bad day, you could just give it [a message] to someone," she suggested. "We would love if other people want to do similar things," said Mary.

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This Breakthrough Space Technology Could Change How We See the Universe

Scientists have long struggled to study the mesosphere, a part of the atmosphere that's too high for planes and weather balloons but too low for satellites. But now, engineers might be onto something with an idea inspired by a 19th-century invention. A new paper in Nature introduces a lightweight, disc-shaped device that can levitate using only sunlight. Made from ceramic aluminum with a chromium base, this little gadget floats thanks to photophoresis—a process where differences in heat and pressure around the disc create enough lift to keep it airborne. No fuel or batteries are needed. Ben Schafer, the study's lead author and an associate researcher at Harvard University, explains that photophoresis is "an inherently sustainable flight mechanism." This means these devices could gather important atmospheric data for meteorology, telecommunications, and even space weather predictions. The idea isn't entirely new. Back in 1873, physicist William Crookes invented a radiometer powered by sunlight. While others have tried to build on Crookes’s work over the years without much success, Schafer and his team used recent advances in nanofabrication technology to give it another shot. They created tiny samples described as "shiny, thin squares with very tiny holes." These were small enough that the photophoretic force actually exceeded their weight, allowing them to levitate. To test their concept, researchers recreated mesospheric conditions in a lab chamber and watched as the discs floated. Schafer is now the CEO of Rarefied Technologies and is eager to bring these gadgets into commercial use. His team wants to tweak their design so they can carry communication tech capable of collecting and sending back weather data. "We plan to use passive devices that can be tracked remotely with lidar or radar," Schafer said. Igor Bargatin from the University of Pennsylvania notes that this technology has big potential. Sufficiently developed arrays of these flyers could collect detailed data on temperature, pressure, chemical composition and wind dynamics in the mesosphere.

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Astronomers Uncovered Ancient 'Cosmic Grapes' in a Distant Galaxy

Astronomers are shaking up our understanding of galaxies, thanks to a fresh find from the James Webb Space Telescope and Chile’s ALMA array. These high-powered instruments have given scientists an unprecedented look at a galaxy that existed just 930 million years after the Big Bang. What they found were at least 15 dense star-forming clumps, resembling a bunch of grapes, embedded in a rotating disk. This new insight contradicts earlier images captured by the Hubble Space Telescope, which had depicted this galaxy as a smooth disk. Instead, it reveals a complex structure full of dynamic movement and star formation. The findings, published in Nature Astronomy, are challenging current models of how galaxies form. Researchers say these "cosmic grapes" could indicate that many early galaxies might be similarly clumpy. Until now, they remained hidden from our view. According to an ALMA statement, existing simulations have failed to reproduce such large numbers of clumps in rotating galaxies from this early period in cosmic history. This discovery raises essential questions about how these celestial bodies take shape and evolve over time. The implications of this research suggest that our understanding of feedback processes and structure formation during a galaxy's youth may need significant revisions. As astronomers continue to observe the universe with advanced technology like the James Webb Space Telescope and ALMA array, more surprising discoveries may be on the horizon. The cosmic grapes offer researchers an intriguing glimpse into the birth and growth of galaxies. They could represent just one example among potentially many similar structures that populated the universe's formative years. The hope is that future observations will shed light on how widespread these clumpy structures were in those early times. For now, scientists remain excited about what these findings mean for astronomy as a whole. By examining these dense clusters within young galaxies, researchers can gain valuable insights into how galaxies like our Milky Way came into being billions of years ago. As new technologies allow us to peer deeper into space than ever before, every discovery offers another piece of the puzzle in understanding our universe's origins. With each observation comes an opportunity to refine theories and open up new avenues for exploration and study. In their statement regarding the cosmic grapes discovery, ALMA highlighted its potential significance: "Future observations will be key to revealing if such clumpy structures were common in the universe's youth.

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