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Meet The Man Who Became Immune To Deadly Snake Venom, Paving the Way For New Antivenom
In 2017, immunologist Jacob Glanville stumbled upon media reports about Tim Friede, a man who had injected himself with venom from some of the world's deadliest snakes for nearly two decades. Intrigued by Friede's self-immunization against snake neurotoxins, Glanville saw potential beyond the sensational headlines. Glanville reached out to Friede, who was eager to collaborate. "Finally, I’ve been waiting for this call," Friede said. The partnership led to a groundbreaking study published in the journal Cell, detailing an antivenom developed from antibodies in Friede’s blood and a venom-blocking drug. The research team, including Peter Kwong from Columbia University’s Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, discovered that antibodies isolated from Friede's blood could protect mice against bites from 19 species of venomous snakes. The antivenom cocktail combines two antibodies with varespladib, a drug currently in human trials. Steven Hall, a snakebite pharmacologist at Lancaster University not involved in the study, praised the approach as "a very clever and creative way" to develop an antivenom. He noted that using human-derived antibodies could reduce side effects compared to traditional methods involving animals. While promising results have been achieved in mice, further testing is needed before human application. The team aims to create a comprehensive antivenom cocktail for both elapid and viperid snakes or separate treatments tailored to specific regions. Friede stopped his self-immunization efforts in 2018 after several close calls and now works at Glanville’s biotechnology company Centivax. As research continues, hopes are high that this innovative approach could revolutionize snakebite treatment worldwide.
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A Rare Gathering Of Giant Whale Sharks Was Just Discovered Off Australia's Great Barrier Reef
Off the far northern edge of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, something extraordinary is happening beneath the waves. At a remote site called Wreck Bay, scientists have confirmed the first known seasonal gathering of whale sharks in eastern Australia — and the entire southwest Pacific. The discovery, detailed in a new study published in Ecology and Evolution, gives researchers a rare chance to study the world's largest fish in a part of the ocean where their presence had long been a mystery. “These are massive animals, some the length of a city bus, yet they’ve remained hidden here for years,” said Ingo Miller of the Biopixel Oceans Foundation and lead author of the study, speaking to Mongabay. “In terms of regional and global population assessments and conservation management, this is going to be quite significant.” Whale sharks — slow-moving, spot-covered filter feeders — are usually solitary and travel vast distances across tropical oceans. But at Wreck Bay, researchers documented a recurring aggregation of mostly juvenile males, ranging from 3.5 to 8 meters long. Over four expeditions between 2019 and 2024, they identified 59 individual sharks. The animals gather at Wreck Bay primarily during November and December, coinciding with the monsoon season. At this time, nutrient-rich waters rise and create dense feeding patches, drawing in the sharks to feed—mostly at dusk and into the night. Researchers pieced together the pattern using a combination of satellite tagging, oceanographic data, and historical sighting records. One key clue came from a shark first spotted near Cooktown that led scientists to the secluded bay. “This study highlights the importance of using local ecological knowledge and citizen science to advance our understanding of enigmatic species, such as the whale shark,” said Gonzalo Araujo, founder of the U.K.-based Marine Research and Conservation Foundation. Whale sharks, despite their enormous size, are gentle and non-aggressive. Their signature spot patterns — unique to each individual — have led some scientists to refer to groups of them as “constellations.” Globally, these giants are listed as endangered. Their numbers are declining due to climate change, plastic pollution, ship strikes, and entanglement in industrial fishing nets. That makes protected areas like Wreck Bay — located inside a highly regulated zone of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park — all the more important. For now, Wreck Bay remains a quiet refuge. But with new eyes on the region, researchers hope it will become a critical site for understanding — and protecting — one of the ocean’s most awe-inspiring travelers.
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Scientists Discovered How To Extract Silver From E-Waste — Using Cooking Oil
Your used bottle of cooking oil might hold the key to greener tech—and a cleaner planet. In a breakthrough that blends kitchen chemistry with high-stakes sustainability, researchers in Finland have discovered a way to extract silver from electronic waste using everyday ingredients like vegetable oil and hydrogen peroxide. The method, developed by scientists at the University of Helsinki and the University of Jyväskylä, is safe, scalable, and surprisingly effective. It could help turn mountains of discarded electronics into a valuable resource—without the toxic mess of traditional recycling. How it works: salad dressing science meets silver recovery The technique starts with fatty acids found in common oils like sunflower or olive oil. When combined with hydrogen peroxide and gently heated, these acids dissolve silver from old circuit boards, wires, and keyboard connectors. Ethyl acetate—a much safer solvent than the acids or cyanide typically used in metal recovery—is then used to extract the silver in solid form. It’s cleaner, safer, and less polluting than anything currently used in large-scale electronic waste (e-waste) recycling. “You don’t need harsh chemicals, and there’s no toxic runoff,” the research team explained in the Chemical Engineering Journal. “It’s a controlled process that’s environmentally benign.” Why this matters now Silver is essential to nearly all modern electronics—from smartphones to solar panels to electric vehicles—but less than 20% of it is ever recycled. As natural reserves shrink and demand climbs, recovering silver from e-waste isn’t just efficient, it’s urgently needed. Over the past 25 years, silver prices have jumped sixfold. Meanwhile, electronics continue piling up in landfills. Old phones, laptops, and tablets contain hidden troves of silver that could be reused—if we can extract it without poisoning the environment or endangering workers. This method might be the answer. Powered by light, precision, and renewables To understand how the chemistry works at the molecular level, researchers turned to advanced computer modeling. They found that fatty acids from the cooking oil help stabilize silver ions, making it easier to recover them using just light and mild solvents. Even better, the ingredients are reusable, leaving behind no chemical waste. The process also has pinpoint precision—it isolates silver without disturbing other metals, a major leap forward for urban mining. In one test, researchers used it to recover silver from keyboard connectors, producing pure silver powder in return. A future for cleaner recycling—maybe even at home The implications are big. If refined further, this process could lead to small-scale or even home-use recycling kits—making it possible to extract silver from old gadgets safely and cheaply. For manufacturers and e-waste recyclers, it could mean lower costs, cleaner operations, and safer conditions for workers. Instead of sending precious metals to landfills or relying on energy-intensive mining, we could close the loop—recovering, reusing, and reimagining what waste can do. “We’ve long known that waste is a problem,” the researchers noted. “Now, it might also be the solution.”
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75 Seniors in a Long-Term Care Home United to Adopt This Pup Found Wandering the Streets
A few months ago, Chewy the Shih Tzu was just another lost dog, wandering the streets of Austin with matted fur, no tags, and no one coming to claim him. Now, he's a cherished resident at The Philomena, an assisted-living center in Kyle, Texas — and he’s bringing joy to just about everyone he meets. The 7-year-old black and gray pup was discovered by an employee of The Philomena. After a visit to the vet, staff found a microchip, a name, and even a registered owner. But when they reached out, the response was devastating. “They said they didn’t want the pooch anymore,” said Priscilla Duran, who runs the senior living facility. “They even blocked every phone number we used to call them.” With no one else to turn to, Duran had an idea: “What if he’s our dog?” It didn’t take long to realize Chewy belonged with them. “He’s so good with people, good with other dogs. He was already house-broken, well-mannered, and didn’t bark at anything,” Duran told the Hays Free-Press. “He doesn’t have a mean bone in his body. He’s just the chillest, coolest little guy.” Now, the once-abandoned Shih Tzu has found a permanent place in the heart of The Philomena. He roams the halls, rides on residents' walkers, and makes frequent appearances at Scrabble nights — usually dressed for the occasion. Most days, he can be found in someone’s lap, soaking up affection and handing out smiles. “He’s more than a pet — he’s part of our community,” Duran said in an interview with CBS Austin. “Our residents understand what it’s like to start fresh somewhere new. Just like they found a welcoming place here, Chewy has too.” Chewy may not be a certified therapy dog, but he doesn’t need a title to make a difference. Residents with memory loss light up when they see him. Some who struggle to speak find their words again, just to tell him how happy he makes them feel. “I’ve not seen him pass anybody who does not grin ear to ear,” said Duran. “Even in memory care, when words are not enough, you realize — with an animal and someone with dementia — words aren’t needed.” “Dogs are just proof,” Duran said, “that actions speak louder than words.”
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Zone Zero: The ‘Almost Too Easy’ Activity That Still Boosts Your Health
Forget sweating it out at the gym. A new fitness trend is turning heads for how little it asks of you — and how much it could help. It’s called Zone Zero, and it’s all about moving your body just enough — but not too much. The idea is simple: low-effort, low-heart-rate activity that’s so light, it doesn’t even register as a traditional workout. “It’s the stuff that feels almost too easy,” celebrity personal trainer Kollins Ezekh told Fox News Digital. “Like walking after dinner or stretching when you’ve been sitting too long.” Unlike other workout zones, Zone Zero is considered “active rest.” You’re moving, but your heart rate stays below 50% of your maximum — low enough that you can talk, breathe easily, and carry on without breaking a sweat. Think slow walking, standing instead of sitting, gentle stretching, or folding laundry. It’s not yet an official exercise category, and experts are clear that Zone Zero is not a substitute for more intense movement. Organizations like the National Institutes of Health still recommend moderate to vigorous activity — such as brisk walking, running, or cycling — for long-term health. But as a starting point or a recovery tool, Zone Zero could help people who feel intimidated by traditional workouts or are just trying to move more throughout the day. So where does it fit in? Exercise zones are generally based on your heart rate. Here’s how they break down: Zone Zero: Under 50% of your maximum heart rate. Feels like very light movement. You can breathe normally and talk easily. Zone 1: 50%–60%. Light effort — like a slow walk or gentle warmup. Zone 2: 60%–70%. Brisk walking or light jogging. You’re breathing a bit harder but can still hold a conversation. This is good for endurance and fat-burning. Zone 3 and above: Moderate to intense effort. Talking gets harder. These zones build strength and cardiovascular fitness. To estimate your own maximum heart rate, subtract your age from 220. Half of that number gives you your Zone Zero limit. So, if you’re 40 years old, your max heart rate is around 180, and Zone Zero is anything under 90 beats per minute. But you don’t need a fitness tracker to tell if you’re in it. If you’re breathing comfortably and chatting without effort, you’re there. “The benefits are real,” Ezekh said. “It helps regulate blood sugar, improves circulation, and makes recovery on off days easier. It’s also stress-free, which is why people are more likely to stick with it.” Just don’t rely on it alone, he warns. “You won’t build much strength or endurance from Zone Zero by itself.” Still, it may be the nudge people need to start moving more — especially those who avoid traditional workouts. Ezekh recommends using Zone Zero as a base, and layering on strength or cardio when you’re ready. “I see it as the foundation,” he said. “Sprinkle it throughout the day, then add in strength and cardio to round out your fitness.”
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Elderly Residents Hit The Ice: Care Home's Heartwarming Skating Adventure Goes Viral
A care home has been flooded with smiles and skating stories after taking four of its residents ice skating—some for the very first time. Leonard Lodge Care Home in Brentwood, England, arranged the trip to Riverside Leisure Centre in Chelmsford on Tuesday, and the experience left residents buzzing. Activities coordinator Lynn Amiri said the idea started out as a bit of a wild thought. “I had this crazy idea and our fantastic team of amazing staff stepped up and made it happen,” she said. Among the group was 97-year-old Millie, who had what staff called “the best time.” Her family even pitched in, buying her a new hat, scarf, and gloves to keep her warm on the rink. Another resident, 80-year-old Yvonne, said she never imagined she’d be stepping onto the ice for the first time at her age. The outing made such an impact that other residents are already asking when they can have a go. “Our residents have not stopped talking about their experience and we now have a list of residents clamouring to get on the ice,” said general manager Fiona Crickmore.
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Discovering Another Earth? Nasa's Webb Telescope Unveils Secrets of This Distant Exoplanet
Scientists using NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope are taking a closer look at an Earth-sized exoplanet that could potentially support liquid water—raising new hopes in the search for habitable worlds beyond our solar system. The planet, known as TRAPPIST-1 e, is one of seven rocky planets orbiting a red dwarf star about 40 light-years from Earth. While all seven are similar in size to Earth, planet e stands out as the one most likely to be in the star’s “habitable zone,” where temperatures could allow water to exist on its surface. “This is the only one in the system where water on the surface is theoretically possible,” NASA said in a news release. But before researchers can even consider whether TRAPPIST-1 e has oceans, they first need to confirm whether it has an atmosphere. That’s where the Webb telescope comes in. Using Webb’s Near-Infrared Spectrograph (NIRSpec), scientists observed TRAPPIST-1 e as it passed in front of its host star. If the planet has an atmosphere, starlight passing through it should leave distinct chemical fingerprints—small dips in the light spectrum that can be picked up by the telescope’s instruments. These dips help researchers determine what gases, if any, surround the planet. So far, four observations of the planet have been completed, with more on the way. “Webb’s infrared instruments are giving us more detail than we’ve ever had access to before,” said Néstor Espinoza, principal investigator on the research team and a scientist at the Space Telescope Science Institute in Baltimore. “The initial four observations we’ve been able to make of planet e are showing us what we will have to work with when the rest of the information comes in.” Espinoza and his colleagues have already published two papers outlining their early findings. One major clue: TRAPPIST-1 e does not appear to have a primary atmosphere—the kind made of hydrogen and helium that forms during a planet’s early development. That’s not a surprise, NASA noted, since the planet’s star is highly active and prone to intense solar flares, which likely stripped away any such early atmosphere. However, scientists say the planet may have developed what’s known as a “secondary atmosphere.” Earth has one, too—built up over time through volcanic activity, chemical processes, and biological life. “This risk of losing the primary atmosphere is especially high around red dwarf stars like TRAPPIST-1,” said NASA. “But many planets, including Earth, have gone on to form heavier secondary atmospheres.” Researchers are now analyzing whether TRAPPIST-1 e has built up such an atmosphere—and what it might be made of. To help answer that question, scientists are comparing its data with readings from TRAPPIST-1 b, another planet in the same system. That planet has no atmosphere, so contrasting the two gives researchers a clearer picture of what to look for. There’s also the big question of water. NASA cautions that there are still many possibilities: TRAPPIST-1 e might have none at all, or it could host an ocean, patches of water, or ice on its perpetually dark side. If liquid water is present, researchers say, that would likely mean the planet has some form of greenhouse effect—where atmospheric gases like carbon dioxide trap heat and help stabilize surface temperatures. Ana Glidden, a postdoctoral researcher at MIT’s Kavli Institute for Astrophysics and Space Research, led some of the work on analyzing potential atmospheres for the planet. “We are really still in the early stages of learning what kind of amazing science we can do with Webb,” Glidden said in the NASA release. “It’s incredible to measure the details of starlight around Earth-sized planets 40 light-years away and learn what it might be like there, if life could be possible there.” “We’re in a new age of exploration that’s very exciting to be a part of,” she added. NASA’s research into the TRAPPIST-1 system is ongoing. For now, the possibility that a rocky planet just 40 light-years away may have water—and the conditions to support life—is enough to keep scientists looking closer.
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A New MRI Brain Scan Can Predict Alzheimer's Risk Years Before Symptoms Develop
A new study from Johns Hopkins University suggests that measuring iron levels in the brain may help predict who is at higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease—even before any symptoms appear. The study, published in the journal Radiology, used an advanced MRI technique called quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) to track brain iron in 158 cognitively healthy participants over a 7.5-year period. The results showed that individuals with higher levels of iron in two key brain regions—the entorhinal cortex and the putamen—were two to four times more likely to develop mild cognitive impairment, a condition that often precedes Alzheimer’s. "Brain iron changes may be measured years before memory loss, when the participants are still cognitively normal," said Xu Li, senior author of the study and an associate professor of radiology at Johns Hopkins University. QSM, which has been developed over the past decade, offers a non-invasive, cost-effective way to map and quantify iron levels in the brain—something that traditional MRIs cannot do. “QSM can detect small differences in iron levels across different brain regions, providing a reliable and non-invasive way to map and quantify iron in patients, which is not possible with conventional MR approaches," Li said in a press release. High levels of iron in the brain have long been suspected of contributing to neurodegeneration. When excess iron interacts with abnormal proteins like amyloid and tau—hallmark features of Alzheimer’s—it may trigger toxic processes that damage brain cells and accelerate cognitive decline. In this study, participants were part of a long-term research project and had no signs of memory loss when first enrolled. But over the follow-up period, those with elevated iron in the memory-related regions of their brain were significantly more likely to develop signs of cognitive impairment. “This risk is even higher when the participants have higher levels of amyloid pathologies,” Li noted. The findings could pave the way for earlier, more accessible screening tools for Alzheimer’s. Compared to PET scans, which are often used to detect amyloid and tau, QSM is described as both more affordable and less invasive. "I think we should be hopeful,” Li said. “We can use this kind of tool to help identify patients at higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and potentially guide early interventions as new treatments become available.” There are still limitations, Li acknowledged. The group studied was relatively small and lacked diversity—it was made up mainly of white, highly educated individuals with a strong family history of Alzheimer’s. Broader studies across more varied populations will be necessary to confirm the results. Still, the potential applications are promising. If validated, QSM could become a valuable tool in clinical settings to identify at-risk patients and track the effectiveness of emerging treatments. It could even lead to new therapeutic targets focused on regulating brain iron levels. That said, Li cautioned against rushing into treatments aimed at reducing brain iron. While high iron is linked to neurodegeneration, iron also plays a vital role in brain health and development. “While iron chelation therapies (to remove iron) for Alzheimer’s are currently explored, their effect is still not very clear and much more research is needed,” he said. The study was supported by the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering, the National Institute on Aging, and the National Institutes of Health. Researchers now hope to standardize and streamline the QSM technology so it can be more widely used in clinical practice.
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This Daredevil Kitesurfer Just Soared 1,500 Feet Over an Iconic Landmark in a Record-Breaking Feat
British kite-surfer Jake Scrace has soared into the record books — literally — by flying a staggering 1,587 feet (450 meters) into the air above the Isle of Wight, setting a new world record for the highest kitesurf tow-up ever recorded. Scrace, a 40-year-old carpenter from Worthing in West Sussex, was towed from a boat in the English Channel by a para-motor before releasing the tether at peak altitude and gliding back down to the sea using only his kite. His flight took him high above the island’s iconic Needles — the striking white chalk stacks that rise out of the water off its western tip. “It was the biggest challenge I’ve ever taken on,” said Scrace. “Up there, it was about trusting the team, the conditions, and just going for it.” And it worked. He nailed the record on his first attempt. “The sense of freedom was incredible and I’m buzzing that we got the record on the first attempt,” he said. “I’m already thinking about what the next stunt could be and where we can go with it.” The record-shattering flight nearly doubled the previous record of 908.7 feet. Scrace’s feat was the result of months of preparation, supported by a 30-person team including safety divers, drone operators, and technical specialists. The attempt took place on July 23, and the height was verified using altimeter readings, bodycams, drones, and GPS-tracked smartphones. The project was backed by global construction consultancy Gleeds, who funded the stunt as part of their 150th anniversary celebrations. The timing also coincided with the 70th anniversary of Guinness World Records, adding extra significance to the achievement. “We celebrate extraordinary feats that push the boundaries of human achievement,” said Pravin Patel, Guinness World Records' official adjudicator. “Gleeds’ record-breaking kitesurf tow-up is a stunning example of innovation, precision, and daring.” Richard Steer, chairman of Gleeds, said the project was about more than breaking records. “For 150 years, Gleeds has believed in pushing boundaries and turning bold ideas into reality. This world record embodies that spirit perfectly — a reminder that with vision, teamwork, and determination, even the sky is no limit.” Scrace first gained attention years ago by kitesurfing over Worthing Pier, but this latest feat, set against one of the UK’s most iconic natural backdrops, has taken his passion to new heights. Quite literally.
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Ohio Launches Program to Enroll Newborns in Dolly Parton's Free Book Program
Ohio is making it easier than ever for families to get books into their homes, starting from day one. On Friday, First Lady Fran DeWine announced a new statewide effort to enroll newborns in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library while parents are still filling out birth certificate paperwork at the hospital. The goal: ensure more children receive free, age-appropriate books during the critical early years of brain development. “Research has shown that 80% of a child’s brain is developed by age three,” DeWine said. “So we want to get books into the home as early as possible in order to have the most impact. One simple checkmark will give Ohio’s little ones a great start in life.” The Imagination Library program mails one free book each month to children from birth until their fifth birthday. Families who sign up at birth have the chance to receive the full 60-book collection — all at no cost. Governor Mike DeWine also joined the announcement, along with country music star Zac Brown, who performed and donated a signed guitar for auction to support the initiative. Since Ohio partnered with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in 2019, nearly 23 million books have been mailed to children across the state. Today, more than 404,000 children, about 70% of Ohio households with kids under five, are enrolled. The state hopes that by making sign-up automatic at birth, even more families will take advantage of the program and help set their kids up for lifelong learning.
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Koalas, LEGO, And Scientists: Heartwarming Wins This Week!
From record-breaking pumpkins to universal child care, here’s a roundup of some of the most hopeful, heartening, and headline-worthy good news stories from around the world this week: 🚌 Ireland expands free public transit for children Ireland just made it easier for families to get around. The country expanded its free public transit program to include kids up to 8 years old — an estimated 263,000 children are now eligible. It's a big win for accessibility, helping reduce transportation costs for families and encourage greener commuting habits. 🏡 LEGO contest raises money for real homes A recent LEGO building contest didn’t just inspire creative dream homes — it raised funds to build real ones. Proceeds will go to low-income families in need of housing, turning play into tangible impact. 🏘️ Late landlord donates 20 rental units to people experiencing homelessness Wisconsin landlord Richard “Dick” Reetz passed away in June at 97 — and left behind a legacy of kindness. He donated his entire rental portfolio to a housing nonprofit, adding 20 units to support people facing homelessness. It’s the largest property donation in the nonprofit’s history. 🏙️ Boston turns empty office space into homes Boston's Office-to-Residential Conversion Program is already making an impact. The city has approved 15 projects to turn vacant office buildings into 762 new housing units. The goal? Add more than 1,500 new downtown residents by 2026 — and put empty space to better use. 🌞 Solar surpasses gas in Hungary’s energy mix Solar power just became Hungary’s second-largest source of electricity — overtaking gas and trailing only nuclear. It’s a major shift from just a decade ago, when solar accounted for only 0.2% of the country’s electricity. 👨👩👧👦 New Mexico guarantees universal free child care Starting in November, all families in New Mexico will have access to free child care — regardless of income. The state will also raise wages for child care workers and invest in expanding facilities to meet growing demand. The program is expected to save families an average of $12,000 per child. 🧸 Former Denny’s transformed into a vibrant child care center for homeless families A repurposed Denny’s in Los Angeles is now a bright and welcoming early childhood education center — offering free care to children in families experiencing homelessness. 🌳 Australia creates a massive koala national park New South Wales just added 176,000 hectares of forest to its protected lands, creating one of its largest national parks and safeguarding over 12,000 koalas. Logging within the park has been immediately banned. 👶 Michigan man walks 1,500 miles for mental health awareness Lee Johns is walking from Michigan to Florida — 1,500 miles — to raise awareness and funds for mental health. Carrying a 60-pound backpack, he’s spreading the message that no one should face their struggles alone. 🌍 And more good news around the globe: • Mexico’s jaguar population has increased by 30% thanks to conservation efforts. • Brazil saw a 65% drop in Amazon rainforest fires, the lowest recorded burn area in years. • Hong Kong courts ruled in favor of lesbian couples seeking parental recognition. • Scientists created solar cells that work efficiently with indoor light — a potential battery alternative. • Illinois became the first Midwest state to require medication abortion and contraception access at public universities. • Argentina’s last zoo elephant was relocated to a sanctuary in Brazil. • A Texas nonprofit is paying youth to get trained in civic engagement. • James Patterson is helping emerging authors finish their books with $50K in grants. • A new glue-gun tool helps surgeons repair broken bones faster and more precisely. • A German startup launched the world’s first vegan pregnancy test. • U.S. scientists continue climate reporting efforts through the IPCC — now with more representation from developing countries than ever before.