Scientists Just Might Have Found a Natural Alternative to Ozempic

A tiny gut microbe might hold the key to naturally managing blood sugar levels and curbing sugar cravings, according to a recent study by researchers at Jiangnan University in China. This discovery could potentially offer an alternative to drugs like Ozempic for people with type 2 diabetes. The research highlights the role of a specific gut microbe, Bacteroides vulgatus, and its metabolites in regulating glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone that helps control blood sugar and appetite. "A growing body of research has revealed that our cravings for dietary components originate from signals sent from the gut," the authors noted in their paper published in Nature Microbiology. In experiments with diabetic mice, increasing the abundance of B. vulgatus led to enhanced GLP-1 secretion. This process also triggered the release of another hormone, FGF21, which is associated with reduced sugar cravings. The study found that mice lacking a gut protein called Ffar4 had diminished colonies of B. vulgatus, resulting in lower FGF21 levels and increased sugar preference. Human studies have shown similar patterns; individuals with genetic variants affecting FGF21 production are more likely to consume sweet foods excessively. In blood analyses involving participants with type 2 diabetes and healthy controls, mutations reducing FGF21 were linked to higher sugar preferences. While these findings are promising for diabetes prevention strategies, further research is needed to determine if they apply to humans as effectively as they do in mice. Nonetheless, this study opens new avenues for understanding how our gut microbiome influences dietary habits and metabolic health.

Read More

Viral Video Captures Texas Officers Helping Homeless Man on a Cold Morning

What started as a routine patrol on a chilly Texas morning turned into a widely shared moment of kindness — and a reminder that the most meaningful acts of service often go unnoticed. Two officers from the Brownsville Police Department, Gonzalo Rubio and Francisco Maldonado, were driving through downtown Brownsville when they spotted a homeless man shivering in the cold. Though he had a blanket, the man was visibly trembling. When they stopped to check on him, they discovered he wasn’t wearing pants. That changed their plans instantly. “My partner said, ‘Let’s go buy him some clothes,’” Rubio recalled. They feared the man might wander off, so they asked dispatch to monitor the area while they made a quick trip to buy sweatpants. When they returned, the man was still there. The moment they helped him put on the new clothes — a small gesture with big impact — was captured by a bystander and quickly went viral. The Brownsville Police Department later shared body-worn camera footage of the encounter on Facebook, calling it an act of “service and humanity.” “In an act of compassion, Officers Rubio and Maldonado purchased new sweatpants for the man to ensure he stayed warm and comfortable,” the department wrote. Rubio, who grew up in Brownsville, said the attention surprised him. “Sometimes it just goes away, like okay, whatever, that’s nice,” he said. “But this one kept happening.” He was quick to add that this wasn’t an extraordinary moment — just part of the job. “They’re not bothering anybody, they’re not doing anything wrong, and we just happen to be driving by,” he said, reflecting on how common it is to see people resting downtown. “It was a rainy day, we still had 12 hours to go,” he said. “So much other stuff happened that day that nobody knows about.” For the Brownsville Police Department, the video became a quiet example of their values in action. “The Brownsville Police Department is proud of our compassionate officers who continue to embody our commitment to serving our community with dignity, empathy, and respect,” the department said. What made this moment resonate beyond the kind gesture was its simplicity: two officers, a quick trip to the store, and one man kept warm. No spotlight, no ceremony. Just a little help when it was needed most.

Read More

Harvey Milk Terminal was Just Named the World’s Most Beautiful Airport — Here's Why

The most beautiful airport in the world isn’t in Singapore or Hong Kong — it’s in San Francisco. Harvey Milk Terminal 1 at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) has won the 2025 Prix Versailles for the “World’s Most Beautiful Airport,” beating out terminals in China, Japan, and France. The award, which honors exceptional architecture around the world, was presented in December at UNESCO headquarters in Paris. The terminal, which opened in 2024, was recognized for its ambitious design, sustainability features, and strong connection to local culture. The jury praised it as “the fruit of an ambitious transformation” that offers “a soothing, restorative setting for travelers,” according to Travel + Leisure. Designed by architecture firm Gensler, the terminal achieved a 79% reduction in carbon emissions and a 59% drop in energy use. It’s also the first airport terminal in the world named after an LGBTQ+ leader. "We are truly honored to be named the top airport in the world by Prix Versailles," said SFO Airport Director Mike Nakornkhet in a press release. “Harvey Milk Terminal 1 was designed to establish a new benchmark for an extraordinary airport experience, bringing to life our mission to put people and planet first.” Other airports recognized this year included Terminal 2 at Yantai Penglai International Airport in China, the arrivals terminal at Roland Garros Airport on Réunion Island in France, and Terminal 1 at Kansai International Airport in Osaka, Japan. Portland International Airport in Oregon also received a special prize for the exterior of its main terminal, while Marseille Provence Airport in France was honored for its interior. Despite being fan favorites, Singapore’s Changi Airport and Hong Kong International Airport were not among this year’s winners. Changi, home to the world’s largest indoor waterfall, regularly tops traveler rankings for its design and amenities, while Hong Kong’s Sky Bridge is one of the most unique viewing platforms in the world. But SFO’s Harvey Milk Terminal stood out for more than just aesthetics. Natural light fills the space, and 30 pieces of local artwork are displayed throughout the terminal. Gender-neutral restrooms, quiet zones, wellness areas, and accessible signage were all designed with passenger comfort in mind. The terminal has also eliminated most overhead announcements, opting for a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere. A permanent exhibition, Harvey Milk: Messenger of Hope, features dozens of photographs that highlight the life and legacy of the late San Francisco supervisor and civil rights pioneer. “Each year, the Prix Versailles challenges us to look beyond aesthetics alone and to evaluate architecture and design as a force capable of shaping the world we inhabit,” said the jury chairperson in a statement. “It invites us to measure creativity not only by its boldness, but by its integrity – its ability to respond to cultural context, to uplift communities, and to contribute meaningfully to a sustainable future.” For travelers passing through Northern California, the recognition is a reminder that an airport can be more than just a stopover — it can be a reflection of the city it serves.

Read More

Exercise is Emerging as a Powerful Treatment for Depression

For anyone struggling with depression, a new study suggests that lacing up your sneakers might be just as helpful as talking to a therapist or taking medication — at least for some people. A review led by researchers at the University of Lancashire in the UK analyzed 73 randomized controlled trials involving nearly 5,000 adults. The findings suggest that exercise offers clear mental health benefits, with results showing it can ease symptoms of depression as effectively as traditional treatments like therapy or antidepressants. "Exercise appears to be a safe and accessible option for helping to manage symptoms of depression," said Andrew Clegg, a professor of Health Services Research at the University of Lancashire. The analysis included a wide range of exercise routines and treatment combinations. On the whole, exercise proved to be moderately effective at reducing depressive symptoms compared to no treatment at all. Its effectiveness was found to be roughly on par with psychological therapy. The researchers also noted some evidence that exercise might work as well as antidepressants, though the certainty of that comparison was lower. But the impact of exercise wasn’t universal. Some people responded better than others, and not all types of exercise worked equally well. Light to moderate activities appeared more effective than intense workouts, and routines with 13 to 36 sessions delivered the most consistent results. That said, none of the trials tracked the long-term effects of exercise on depression. "There’s no one-size-fits-all approach," Clegg said. "Finding approaches that individuals are willing and able to maintain is important." The study didn’t identify a single best type of exercise, but there were hints that mixing different forms of physical activity could have added benefits. Tailoring workouts to individual preferences and abilities is likely key to making them sustainable. "For people with depression, the evidence indicates that exercise may offer similar short-term benefits to therapy or medication for some," said Brendon Stubbs, a neuroscientist at King's College London who wasn’t involved in the study. "Decisions on switching or combining approaches should be made collaboratively with healthcare providers, considering individual circumstances." The review focused on structured trials, which typically involve volunteers who are already motivated or inclined to be physically active. That raises questions about how well the results apply to those who might find it difficult to start exercising in the first place. It’s also a reminder that depression is complex. While exercise can help, it’s not a cure-all. Underlying causes can range from medical conditions like vitamin deficiencies to neurodevelopmental issues such as autism. Professional help remains an essential part of diagnosis and treatment. “Exercise can help people with depression, but if we want to find which types work best, for whom, and whether the benefits last over time, we still need larger, high-quality studies,” said Clegg. “One large, well-conducted trial is much better than numerous poor-quality small trials with limited numbers of participants in each.” The full study was published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.

Read More

This Mother Duck was Just Rescued From a 'Life-Threatening Situation' on a Frozen Lake

A duck trapped on a frozen lake in Romania has been rescued by military firefighters, after what officials described as a "life-threatening situation." Video footage released by Tulcea Emergency Situations Inspectorate (ISU Tulcea) on January 14 shows firefighters using a boat to carefully reach the distressed duck on Lake Ciuperca, which had frozen over. According to the agency, the duck was found immobilized and “without the strength to stand.” Officials said ice had built up on her feathers, posing a severe threat to her survival. “Because the ice caught by her fur was life-threatening, our colleagues decided to bring her to the inspector’s headquarters, where she was kept in a shelter until she regained her strength,” ISU Tulcea said in a statement. The duck’s duckling had already freed itself before firefighters arrived. The animal was safely transported to a warm shelter, where it was monitored as it recovered.

The Capital of Cyprus Was Just Named the Top Cultural Destination In Europe For 2026

Forget the beach. Travellers are trading sun loungers for city strolls, museum visits, and local cuisine. And according to European Best Destinations, there’s one spot you should have your eye on for 2026: Nicosia. The capital of Cyprus has just been named the number one cultural destination in Europe, topping a list that includes heavy hitters like Florence and Vienna. The shift reflects a broader trend as low-cost flights have made short city breaks more accessible, giving travellers more reasons to explore nearby European cities through weekend getaways focused on food, art, and heritage. Nicosia stood out for its “blend of heritage and contemporary creativity,” according to the travel site. Compact and walkable, the city offers a deep dive into centuries of history alongside a year-round arts calendar that rivals Europe’s cultural capitals. Its Old Town, continuously inhabited since 3000 BC, is still surrounded by Venetian walls built in the 16th century. Inside, travellers can wander from the Museum of Byzantine Art to the Leventis Municipal Museum, which traces the story of the city itself, and the Cyprus Museum, the oldest archaeological museum in the country. It’s not just about what’s behind glass, though. Nicosia’s cultural calendar is full, with music, film, dance, and art events happening all year long. The Faneromeni Arts Festival brings open-air performances each summer, while the Cyprus International Film Festival draws filmmakers from around the globe. In winter, the city turns festive with Christmas village pop-ups dotted across town. The rankings were created by European Best Destinations, which has been highlighting top spots around the continent since 2009. Their team starts with a longlist of 40 cities, taking into account factors like the number of museums, the variety of cultural experiences, and the city’s festival calendar. From there, a shortlist is created based on expert evaluation of each city’s heritage and creative scene. Then, more than 22,000 travellers from 131 countries weigh in, rating each city on its authenticity, cultural richness, and how much they’d like to visit. The final score is a blend of expert and traveller input. Florence, Italy, came in second place, celebrated for its wealth of Renaissance masterpieces and a thriving contemporary art scene. Works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci draw visitors to the Uffizi and Galleria dell’Accademia, while newer spaces like Centro Pecci and Aria Art Gallery showcase modern creativity. Florence’s food culture also got a nod, especially after being added to UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list. Dishes like ribollita, pappardelle al cinghiale, and pistachio gelato add another layer to the city’s cultural appeal. Vienna followed in third, thanks to its Museum Quarter, grand palaces, and rich musical heritage. Leuven in Belgium and Šibenik in Croatia rounded out the top five. Other cities in the top 10 include Verona (Italy), Tomar (Portugal), Rouen (France), Oxford (UK), and Graz (Austria). But in 2026, it’s Nicosia that takes the crown. With its mix of ancient history and modern art, all within a city that’s easy to explore on foot, it’s a standout pick for travellers seeking something beyond the usual stops.

Read More

Off-Duty Firefighter Saves High School Coach’s Life During Pickleball Game in California

What started as a casual game of pickleball turned into a life-or-death moment for a high school football coach in Southern California — and thanks to an off-duty firefighter, it had a happy ending. On December 19, Rob Frith, head football coach at San Juan Hills High School, was playing at a park in San Clemente when he suddenly collapsed. “One minute you're there and enjoying time with friends,” Frith told KCBS. “It hit me so fast I dropped on the back of my head.” Nearby, John Rowlands, an off-duty firefighter with the Orange County Fire Authority, saw it happen and rushed over. He immediately began chest compressions and continued for about 15 minutes until help arrived. Orange County Sheriff’s deputies used an automated external defibrillator (AED) to deliver a shock, and paramedics quickly followed up with lifesaving care. Frith was awake and talking in the ambulance — an outcome authorities called rare in cardiac arrest cases. Frith later said he didn’t fully understand what had happened until he was in the ambulance. “I think I looked at them and just kind of said, ‘Well, if I’m looking at you two guys right now, something bad must’ve happened to me.’ I think the response I got was something like, ‘No, you’re looking at us right now, so I think something good happened to you.’ That was Johnny saving my life.” At the hospital, Frith learned he had a previously undiagnosed heart defect that led to sudden cardiac arrest. He’s now recovering and grateful to be alive. On January 12, Frith and his family visited Fire Station 59 to thank Rowlands and the first responders who helped save his life. “This means everything,” Frith's wife, Tara, told Rowlands. “You are our forever hero, along with the other men that were there with you that day. I cannot thank you enough.” Rowlands said he was just grateful to be in the right place at the right time. “It felt good. It was really cool to know that we had the right people there at the right time to keep a family together.” Thanks to fast action, teamwork, and CPR training, a husband, father, and coach is still here — and already planning to get back on his feet.

Read More

3 Women in Their 80s and 90s Launched a Podcast from a Care Home, Share Fun Stories and Laughter

Three women in their eighties and nineties are proving it's never too late to try something new — especially if it involves microphones, lights, and a bit of banter. Doreen Lichfield, 92, Anne Borne, 92, and Maureen Ward, 88, have launched a podcast from their Birmingham care home, chatting about how life has changed across the decades. Titled Do You Remember the Time?, the monthly show is filmed at Sutton Rose Care Home and already has lights, cameras, microphones — and even a custom-made sign — to give it the full YouTube treatment. The idea started in a reminiscence group, where staff noticed the trio’s lively back-and-forth. Their conversations, full of wit and reflection, sparked a suggestion: why not turn this into a podcast? None of the three had heard of podcasts before. But that didn’t stop them. “I hadn't heard of [a podcast] either,” said Ms Ward, a former insurance worker. “It's much the same as we do with our families and our friends here when we're having a meal.” Ms Borne, who worked as a bank clerk, admitted they didn’t quite know what they were signing up for. Still, the project has taken off — and it’s just like dinner-table chat, only with a broader audience. Ms Lichfield, the eldest of the three, called it “like learning a new language.” She was born in Birmingham, fostered at age two, and evacuated twice during World War II to Staffordshire. A former financial agent, she says the podcast works well because all three of them are “mixed characters.” Their first episode explores their school days, with Lichfield recalling her time in a small village in Tamworth during the war. She contrasts the rigid formality of that era with today’s faster-paced world — and still thinks her generation may have had it better. “We all talked,” she said. “When did you last see people talking in the street? When did you last see people laughing in the street?” Each episode will feature open conversations on topics like relationships, aging, and how society has shifted over the years. Rosie Boshell, a customer relations executive at the care home, said the show has helped the women grow in confidence. “They have incredible stories and wisdom to share,” she said. “The podcast gives them a platform to be heard. It's been wonderful to see their confidence and laughter grow with each recording.” With a few mics and a lot of charm, these women are turning late-in-life curiosity into something that resonates well beyond their care home walls.

Read More

Portland Approves Grants to Provide Free E-Bikes for Local Youth

Hundreds of teens in Portland, Oregon will soon have a faster, cheaper, and cleaner way to get around. The city has approved grants to give out free electric bikes to youth and community members through local nonprofits. The effort is backed by the Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund, which helps pay for projects that reduce emissions and promote access to green technology. In this case, the goal is to cut transportation costs and air pollution while making it easier for young people to move through the city. Recipients will get more than just an e-bike. The grants also cover safety gear and training. The program is focused on underserved neighborhoods, where transit options can be limited and car ownership is often out of reach. Portland’s geography makes e-bikes a smart fit. Hills and traffic slow down traditional cyclists and drivers alike, but e-bikes allow riders to travel farther with less effort — and far less cost than owning a car. Commuters can save money on gas, parking, and maintenance, all while dodging some of the city’s infamous congestion. The program fits into Portland’s broader clean mobility push. In 2024, the city became the first in the country to pilot a zero-emissions delivery zone. It has long championed e-bikes and e-scooters as practical alternatives to gas-powered vehicles. Still, not everyone is on board. Some online commenters questioned how the grants are being spent, criticizing what they saw as high overhead and inefficiency from the nonprofits involved. Others asked whether the funds would be better used on road repairs or home energy upgrades. Concerns were also raised about the per-person cost of the grant awarded to The Street Trust, one of the nonprofits leading the program. There was debate about whether the initiative met the city's legal age rules for e-bike riders. Supporters pushed back. One commenter pointed out that secure home storage and charging should be part of the conversation, while another defended the process behind the grants. “These grants were carefully vetted and are exactly why PCEF exists,” they wrote. “I’m indirectly on the receiving end of one of them, and I guarantee you that it’s going to be transformative for its target population.” As cities look for ways to reduce carbon emissions and expand mobility access, e-bikes are gaining traction. They offer a flexible, low-cost alternative that’s well-suited to urban life — especially for younger riders who may not have access to a car. For Portland teens, that means the path to independence might now come with pedals, a motor, and a full battery.

Read More

Firefighters Save Overdosed Puppies In Washington, and Adoption Offers are Pouring In

Six puppies in rural Washington are on the mend after surviving a suspected fentanyl overdose — and the firefighters who saved them may soon be their new families. Three of the sick puppies were dropped off at Sky Valley Fire Station, about an hour northeast of Seattle, on Sunday. Firefighters jumped into action, spraying naloxone up their noses, administering oxygen, and even performing CPR. Within minutes, the puppies began to respond. “Their tails started wagging,” Battalion Chief Brandon Vargas said on Tuesday. Deputies later tracked down the people who had brought the puppies in. Authorities say they found three more animals in need of care and believe the puppies were likely exposed to fentanyl — either by inhaling or ingesting it. An investigation into possible animal cruelty or neglect is now underway. The individuals involved claimed they were only temporarily caring for the dogs. All six puppies are now healthy and recovering under the care of Snohomish County Animal Services and the Everett animal shelter. They’re expected to be cleared for adoption after a brief quarantine. The shelter says it has been overwhelmed with adoption offers and is asking the public not to call with questions. According to Vargas, several fire department staff have expressed interest in giving the pups a permanent home. This isn’t the first time pets have needed overdose treatment. Across the U.S., there have been multiple incidents of dogs being revived after exposure to opioids, especially fentanyl, which can be fatal even in very small amounts.

Read More

County Launches 'Street Psychiatry' Program, Prescribes Medication to Homeless on the Spot

Albany County is trying a new approach to a familiar problem: helping unhoused residents get the mental health support they desperately need — without waiting for them to walk into a clinic. The county has launched a street psychiatry team made up of six professionals: a nurse, a mental health clinician, a case manager, a mental health care advocate, a certified substance abuse counselor, and a supervising clinician. Their job is simple — but not easy. They go to where people are: sidewalks, parks, encampments. And they provide care on the spot. “Basically, we’re going to give them their prescription right there, right on the street to go get filled, so they can really get the help that they need,” said Albany County Executive Dan McCoy. “We cannot address the homeless crisis without addressing the mental health crisis.” This kind of outreach isn’t just compassionate, it’s catching on. According to the American Psychiatric Association, more than a dozen street psychiatry teams were operating across the U.S. as of 2023, offering psychiatric care to people experiencing homelessness — no appointment required. It’s a model that aims to do more than improve health. It also reduces tension in communities. “Folks that are living on our streets … we need to meet them where they’re at,” said Brendan Cox, the county’s police chief. “If we don’t get that clinic to them, we’re just going to continue to see disorder.” By removing barriers to care and giving people the tools they need — before crisis hits — officials hope to improve lives and reduce strain on emergency services. “We can have this whole spectrum of responses that don’t always have to involve the police,” Cox added. “And start getting people the services they need and increase public health, increase public safety.”

Read More