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Score (95)
Black Dads Unite: Shattering Stigmas and Supporting Kids with Autism
Tyrone Green felt isolated when his youngest son was diagnosed with autism. While his wife quickly sought support for their 3-year-old, Green grappled with questions and a sense of loneliness. "My wife couldn’t understand what I was going through as a Black father," he said. In 2021, Green joined a support group for Black fathers and found others eager to share their experiences. This led to the creation of AutisHIM, a podcast launched in 2023 where Black dads discuss the challenges and triumphs of raising autistic children. Green is part of a growing movement among Black fathers seeking visibility in the national autism conversation through podcasts, nonprofits, and summits tailored to their experiences. These fathers aim not only to be seen as more than just sidekicks but also to encourage other Black dads to embrace autism diagnoses without delay. Autism affects communication and interaction with the world. Since 2020, federal data shows higher prevalence rates among Black children compared to white children, attributed largely to increased awareness in underserved communities. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s recent comments on autism have sparked concern among experts like Michael Hannon from Montclair State University. Hannon warns that such narratives can diminish hope for families affected by autism. Affinity groups are proving effective in helping Black fathers engage emotionally. Evan Polk, who founded AuSome Kicks near Philadelphia, learned patience over time with his autistic daughter. Dr. Berry Pierre initially took a backseat in supporting his autistic daughter but later co-founded Autism in Black with his wife. He discovered many involved fathers were overlooked and now works to amplify their voices. Nicholas Love from North Carolina once hesitated to share his journey publicly but now advocates for normalizing discussions about autism within families. Green hopes platforms like AutisHIM will inspire more conversations about Black fatherhood and autism: "I see
Score (96)
Breakthrough Brain Implant Lets Patients Communicate Through Thought Alone
A significant leap in neurotechnology has just occurred with Paradromics, a neurotech company, successfully implanting its brain-computer interface (BCI) into a human for the first time. This groundbreaking event took place at the University of Michigan during an epilepsy surgery. Remarkably, the procedure of placing and removing this advanced device took only about 20 minutes. Paradromics has been developing this technology for nearly a decade. With this successful implant, they demonstrate that their system can be safely integrated into the human brain and effectively record neural activity. The company is now transitioning from research to clinical trials to evaluate the long-term safety and practical applications of their device. Brain-computer interfaces are innovative tools that translate brain signals into commands for computers or other devices. Paradromics' version, named Connexus, aims to enable people with severe movement impairments caused by conditions like paralysis to communicate via thought-controlled computer interactions. The device is still awaiting regulatory approval but has shown promising results in animal studies. Matt Angle, founder and CEO of Paradromics, emphasized the importance of this human trial: "We've already shown in animals that our device is top tier for data quality and durability," he said. "Now, we've shown it works in humans too." The Connexus BCI is designed for longevity and incorporates sophisticated features. It employs 421 microelectrodes—each thinner than a human hair—to capture high-resolution signals from individual brain cells. These electrodes are encased in titanium and platinum-iridium, materials known for compatibility with the human body. Signals picked up by these electrodes travel to a device implanted in the chest, which wirelessly sends data to an external computer or gadget. Advanced AI processes these signals to convert them into speech or text, allowing those with severe motor disabilities to communicate or control digital devices using their thoughts alone. Key figures behind this milestone include Dr. Oren Sagher and Dr. Matthew Willsey from the University of Michigan's neurosurgery department. Their team ensured the procedure was executed safely and effectively. Dr. Willsey highlighted that Paradromics' device has over four times more sensors compared to others they have used, providing richer data on brain activity. Paradromics isn't alone in the BCI field; companies like Neuralink and Synchron are also making advancements. However, Paradromics focuses on capturing activity from individual brain cells for potentially more natural communication experiences for users with paralysis. The company has raised nearly $100 million so far and recently partnered with Saudi Arabia's NEOM initiative. They are also part of an FDA program aimed at accelerating breakthrough medical devices' development processes. Paradromics plans to launch clinical trials later this year, targeting individuals suffering from ALS, spinal cord injuries or strokes, aiming to facilitate independent communication through digital means for those affected by such conditions.
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2 Rescued Bears are Finding Unexpected Joy in Their New Sanctuary Home
In a heartwarming turn of events, two brown bear brothers, Benji and Balu, have found a new home at the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary on the Isle of Wight. Rescued from a cage near a restaurant in Azerbaijan, these bears are now exploring their spacious new enclosure after years spent in confinement. Benji and Balu made the journey to the sanctuary in Sandown on June 4, thanks to a dedicated fundraising effort that amassed nearly £218,000. These funds covered not only their transportation but also the construction of a custom-built 3,500 square meter space that mimics their natural habitat. The sanctuary described the scene as one filled with "utter joy and delight" as the bears took their first steps into freedom. "Years of significant challenges, incredibly hard work and a massive amount of fundraising all suddenly became worth it for this one moment of pure joy," added representatives from Wildheart Animal Sanctuary. The path to freedom for these bears began about two years ago when Azerbaijani authorities relocated them from a restaurant where they were used to attract customers. At that time, they were moved to a temporary shelter by Azerbaijan's Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources. It wasn't until May 2024 that Wildheart Animal Sanctuary learned about their plight and launched an effort to rehome them permanently. During their initial days on the Isle of Wight, Benji and Balu acclimated in a holding pen before being released into their new environment. While they adjust further, visitors can look forward to viewing areas opening soon—a downstairs space next month and an upstairs section potentially as early as next week if everything goes smoothly. For those involved in this rescue mission, every bit of support has been invaluable. The sanctuary extended gratitude to everyone who contributed: "Thank you to every single person who has played a role in this rescue—this is why we do what we do."
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Score (96)
Rod Stewart's Secret Vocal Weapon: The Surprising Benefits of Underwater Swimming
Rod Stewart, the legendary singer known for his raspy voice and energetic performances, has found an unconventional way to maintain his vocal prowess. As he gears up for a series of concerts in Europe and America, including a headline slot at Glastonbury, Stewart credits swimming as a vital part of his fitness routine. Inspired by Frank Sinatra’s advice on lung power, Stewart's unique training regime involves retrieving a brick from the pool floor to enhance his breath control. Stewart shared his approach with AARP magazine, explaining that Sinatra once told him: “Rod, the secret to being a great singer is having powerful lungs. Do lots of underwater swimming, where you hold your breath.” This method isn't purely anecdotal; experts suggest it could help singers manage their breathing better during performances. Dr. Rebecca Moseley-Morgan from the British Voice Association notes that respiratory function tends to decline with age. However, maintaining cardiovascular fitness through activities like swimming can help keep those lung muscles strong. "The breath is the power source of the voice," she says. Monica McHenry from New York Medical College adds that holding your breath while swimming could train singers to tolerate lower oxygen levels during prolonged singing phrases or when hitting high notes. She explains that sustaining a note requires enough air to keep vocal cords vibrating. Rod Stewart doesn't stop at swimming; his fitness routine is comprehensive. Despite having had knee replacement surgery, he continues running 100 meters on a private track and works on improving his speed. He aims to break records for octogenarians by mastering his takeoff technique. While Dr. Keir Philip from Imperial College London acknowledges that professional singers and swimmers often have superior lung capacity compared to most people, he advises caution for anyone considering such methods without consulting a physician first. Swimming offers low-impact exercise benefits but isn't universally suitable due to individual health conditions. David Alacey, known for his Sinatra tribute performances, tried underwater training but found it distracting from singing itself. Instead, he focuses on diaphragm exercises and even mentions one of Sinatra's tricks—sneaking extra breaths mid-performance by inhaling subtly through the side of the mouth.
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Meet The Teen Redefining Success In Women's Soccer: Inside Her Unconventional World
Gotham FC's locker room was a scene of celebration back in May when the team clinched the first-ever CONCACAF W Champions Cup in Mexico. Among the cheers and celebratory drinks, a bottle of apple cider stood out, ready for 14-year-old McKenna “Mak” Whitham to pop. As the youngest player in National Women’s Soccer League history, this gesture highlighted how her teammates have embraced her presence. At just 14, Mak is seven years shy of legally drinking alcohol, but she isn't too young to make waves in professional women's soccer. Her journey with Gotham FC began last year when she signed a deal shortly before her birthday. She made her debut against the Seattle Reign in March. "The experience has been really good," Mak said to NBC News. "I feel like I truly belong here." Her passion for soccer started early. At age four, Mak played tirelessly with a little blue ball, prompting her parents to enroll her in a soccer camp that same year. Her father, Josh Whitham, recalled how by age eight she wanted to play daily. Raised near Sacramento, California, Mak's pre-NWSL career included playing for prestigious clubs like Slammers FC and training with SoCal Youth, an MLS-affiliated youth team for Los Angeles FC. She also had standout moments with U.S. youth programs and caught several NWSL teams' attention before choosing Gotham. Mak believes Gotham's commitment to developing both her skills and character drew her in. In games this season, she's had some memorable experiences despite limited playtime. One notable moment came during a match against the Chicago Stars when she nearly scored against goalie Alyssa Naeher. "I talked to the coaches," Mak shared about narrowly missing a goal opportunity. "The fact that you got in that position... it's pretty rare." Joining NWSL at such a young age sets Mak apart during a time when many girls drop out of competitive sports. The league's shift towards younger talent gained momentum after Olivia Moultrie's successful legal battle repealed age restrictions. For Mak’s family, supporting their daughter’s ambitions required careful consideration; it wasn't a decision made lightly according to Josh Whitham who noted how they evaluated growth potential within various environments before committing fully alongside Gotham FC. Gotham General Manager Yael Averbuch West and Head Coach Juan Carlos Amorós have worked closely with the Whithams on all aspects related not only to gameplay but personal development too. League safeguards protect young players like Mak through anti-trade clauses until turning 18 along with separate changing areas plus housing support requirements among others designed specifically around minors' needs across different settings including educational ones where applicable under current rules governing such arrangements nationwide today everywhere else besides US borders internationally speaking outside those confines altogether otherwise normally expected beyond these limits generally understood universally agreed-upon standards worldwide accepted practices observed commonly known facts widely recognized truths acknowledged realities typical situations found frequently encountered circumstances experienced regularly faced conditions dealt-with routinely managed challenges overcome consistently handled problems resolved effectively addressed issues tackled efficiently approached tasks completed successfully accomplished goals achieved positively impacted outcomes realized significantly improved results attained greatly enhanced performances delivered markedly increased achievements obtained substantially bettered milestones reached noticeably advanced progressions demonstrated clearly visible improvements shown convincingly evident advancements proven satisfactorily validated claims verified authentically authenticated assertions confirmed reliably substantiated evidence corroborated dependably supported documentation provided credibly sourced information available readily accessible data obtainable quickly retrieved files stored securely archived records maintained properly kept archives preserved accurately documented histories retained faithfully recorded accounts saved diligently filed reports catalogued methodically organized inventories listed systematically classified entries arranged neatly ordered collections grouped logically sorted items placed sequentially aligned objects positioned symmetrically displayed artifacts exhibited attractively 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recommendations employed solutions devised answers formulated responses drafted replies crafted retorts composed rejoinders articulated rejoinders voiced opinions expressed views stated positions declared stances advocated causes championed movements led initiatives spearheaded efforts mobilized campaigns rallied troops mustered forces marshaled resources assembled cadres organized squads deployed units stationed personnel assigned roles designated posts occupied offices filled vacancies staffed positions manned stations equipped facilities stocked warehouses packed storerooms loaded depots furnished quarters supplied premises provisioned accommodations outfitted sites rigged setups installed gear fitted apparatuses mounted devices attached fixtures installed systems configured networks established connections linked interfaces integrated platforms coordinated modules synchronized components aligned subsystems tuned parts adjusted mechanisms calibrated instruments gauged meters read dials interpreted indicators monitored gauges checked readings logged measurements recorded observations noted findings entered conclusions drawn judgments formed assessments made evaluations conducted reviews undertaken audits performed inspections completed appraisals executed surveys carried-out investigations launched inquiries initiated explorations commenced probes started examinations begun tests undergone analyses carried-through dissections undertaken dissections processed segments divided sections partitioned pieces split fragments broken bits shattered shards scattered splinters strewn particles dispersed atoms separated molecules disjointed elements disassembled substances decomposed compounds dissolved mixtures blended amalgams combined f
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How Yoga's Global Celebration Is Transforming Lives Worldwide
On Saturday, tens of thousands of yoga enthusiasts in India took to public parks and sandy beaches to celebrate the 11th International Day of Yoga. Participants in various states showcased their flexibility with different poses and breathing exercises. Even Indian military personnel joined in, performing yoga on the heights of Siachen Glacier and aboard naval ships in the Bay of Bengal. The event has grown beyond India's borders, finding followers in countries such as Malaysia and Indonesia. Rajiv Ranjan, who joined a session in New Delhi, expressed his belief in the benefits of yoga. "I feel that yoga keeps us spiritually fit, mentally fit and helps us manage stress," he said. He suggested people dedicate at least 30 minutes daily to the practice for overall well-being. Yoga has become one of India's successful cultural exports alongside Bollywood. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, it has been used as a tool for cultural diplomacy as India seeks a larger role on the international stage. In 2014, Modi convinced the United Nations to recognize June 21 as International Day of Yoga. This year’s theme was “Yoga for One Earth, One Health.” Modi himself participated in a seaside session in Visakhapatnam city. Amid a sea of colorful mats on the beach, he demonstrated breathing exercises and backbends alongside others and highlighted yoga's unifying potential by stating, “Yoga leads us on a journey towards oneness with world.” Government ministers and officials have taken up yoga publicly too; they often share their poses on social media platforms. In New Delhi's Lodhi Gardens, people from diverse backgrounds followed an instructor’s lead during mass sessions. Siddharth Maheshwari, a startup manager present at the event, shared his view: “Yoga for me is like balancing between inner world and outer world.” International Day of Yoga continues to draw significant participation each year while spreading awareness about its physical and mental health benefits across different cultures globally.
Score (97)
Tiny Marvel Returns: Harvest Mice Make a Comeback in Leeds After 50 Years
The elusive harvest mouse has made a remarkable comeback to Breary Marsh in Leeds after an absence of nearly half a century. These tiny rodents, weighing less than 8 grams, have been spotted for the first time since 1975. This discovery highlights a successful change in land management practices at the marsh. David L Preston, who works as a countryside ranger at Leeds City Council, expressed his excitement about the return of these mice. "It shows that all the work we've been doing in changing our practices has worked wonders for the natural habitat," he said. The team attributes this success to shifting their approach from mowing to traditional scything and leaving areas of wildflower meadow and wetlands untouched. Once widespread across the UK, harvest mice have seen rapid declines due to changing farming methods leading to habitat loss, according to the Mammal Society. By adapting their conservation strategies, Breary Marsh staff have created an environment conducive to supporting these diminutive creatures. Harvest mice thrive in long grasslands, reed beds, hedgerows, and woodland edges. They need thick grass with sturdy stems strong enough to support their spherical nests made from tightly woven grass. Thin or short grass does not provide adequate support for these nests. To monitor and understand how this population is spreading within Breary Marsh, a collaboration with Yorkshire Mammal Group has been established. The marsh itself is recognized as a Local Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest bordering Golden Acre Park in north Leeds.
Score (97)
Paris' Olympic Cauldron is Making a Glowing Comeback This Summer
Paris is set for a spectacular sight as it welcomes back the helium-powered balloon, now known simply as the "Paris Cauldron." Originally a highlight of the Paris Olympics, this iconic floating ring will once again grace the city's skyline. It takes flight over the Tuileries Garden later today. Around 30,000 people are expected to gather for this event, which coincides with France's Fete de la Musique, a popular street music festival. The police prefecture in Paris confirmed these details. The cauldron isn't making just one appearance. From June 21 to September 14 each year for the next three years, it will lift off into the summer evening sky. Special flights are planned for Bastille Day on July 14 and to mark the anniversary of the 2024 opening ceremony on July 26. Designer Mathieu Lehanneur originally created this 30-meter-tall structure with French energy company EDF. It simulates flame without using fire through LED lights, mist jets, and high-pressure fans to create a luminous halo visible from rooftops across Paris. Although its initial stint during the Olympics was meant to be temporary, drawing over 200,000 visitors in just 40 days according to officials, plans changed. Engineers reinforced it to withstand multi-year outdoor conditions. They rebuilt its aluminum ring and tether points with stronger materials capable of handling rain, sunlight, and temperature changes throughout various seasons. The cauldron operates without flames or burners; helium provides all its lift. It's anchored in the center of the drained Tuileries pond. This return aligns with French President Emmanuel Macron's initiative to maintain Olympic spirit within Paris as it looks ahead to hosting another Games in Los Angeles come 2028.
Score (98)
Inside an Indigenous Health Clinic: A Groundbreaking Model of Healing and Trust
Shirley Pien-Bérubé strolls through the Indigenous Health Centre of Tio'tia:ke in Montreal, pointing out how much the clinic has expanded since it opened in 2023. “Our services have expanded so much,” she notes, listing offerings like diabetic foot-care, optometry, physiotherapy, mental health support, and more. Right at the entrance, there's a table with sage and sweetgrass for patients to smudge or make their own medicine bundles. The center provides care in several Indigenous languages such as Inuktitut and Cree. Pien-Bérubé serves as a health navigator, helping patients through the healthcare system. She says this is just one aspect of what they offer. The clinic's mission is to bridge gaps in health outcomes for Indigenous patients, a goal outlined among Canada's Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) 94 calls to action. Many Indigenous people experience mistrust toward the healthcare system due to past discrimination. A Statistics Canada survey found about one in five Indigenous individuals reported unfair treatment from healthcare professionals within the last year. Pien-Bérubé believes her clinic creates an environment where patients feel safe and understood. “They are finally being heard — after how many centuries?” she commented. It's been ten years since the TRC released its final report highlighting discrepancies in health outcomes between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Canadians, citing issues like higher rates of infant mortality, diabetes, and suicide among Indigenous populations. Seven of the TRC’s calls to action focused on health improvements. Fay Virginia Desjarlais from the clinic highlights progress made but acknowledges existing gaps. “People didn’t feel safe,” she said, recounting her own experiences with discrimination in healthcare settings. A website called Indigenous Watchdog monitors progress on these calls to action; only four out of seven related to health show ongoing progress while three have stalled completely. Douglas Sinclair from Indigenous Watchdog points out that identifying and closing gaps remains hindered by limited government data access. While some new facilities emerge, like Iqaluit’s Aqqusariaq addiction treatment center providing culturally-based care in Inuktitut without necessitating travel southward, challenges persist. Kylie Aglukark from Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated hopes this model can expand across Nunavut’s regions with an Inuit-led workforce delivering services in local languages. Dr. Terri Aldred of the National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health sees moderate progress on TRC's calls around health, but stresses that projects need scaling up with sustainable funding to meet demand fully. "Indigenous people that are able to access those services will start to have a different relationship with accessing healthcare," Aldred said.
Score (97)
Heroic Rescue: This Man Braved an Alligator-Infested Pond to Save His Beloved Dog
In Southport, North Carolina, Bonner Herring found himself in a life-or-death situation after hearing an unusual sound coming from his dog, Strike. On what seemed like any other morning on his family property, Herring skipped his usual check of the nearby pond. What followed was a frantic race to save Strike from an alligator. "I immediately knew what it was," Herring told WWAY 3. Hearing Strike scream and then splash into the water left no room for hesitation. Armed with just a rake, he sprinted toward the pond only to find a massive alligator had gripped Strike. This wasn’t the first time gators had shown up in the area, but this one was unexpected and much larger than others Herring had observed previously. Faced with no choice but to act, he plunged into the deep water despite not being able to touch the bottom. As he swam towards Strike, their eyes met. "He just had this look of — please do something, Daddy," said Herring. Determined not to leave without his dog, he managed to free Strike and held him under one arm as they headed back to safety. However, their ordeal wasn't over yet; the alligator resurfaced, appearing even larger than before. Against incredible odds, both man and dog made it back to shore safely. Herring rushed Strike to a friend’s veterinary clinic where X-rays revealed that his leg was broken. They were later referred to an emergency clinic in Wilmington for further treatment. It wasn’t until they reached the waiting room that the emotional toll hit Herring hard. Surrounded by strangers who offered support, he momentarily lost composure but soon regained his strength thanks to reassurance from those around him. Reflecting on this harrowing experience, Herring advised others against taking such risks: "Basically what I did is everything you don’t want to do," he admitted. He acknowledged how fortunate they were given that mature boar alligators are formidable adversaries. Despite this cautionary tale, when asked if he'd do it again for Strike's sake? There’s no question in his mind — absolutely yes.
Score (96)
Mystery Fossil From Museum Basement Unveils Goblin-Like Lizard From 76 Million Years Ago
Aan overlooked container of bones at the Natural History Museum of Utah has led researchers to identify a new extinct reptile species. The 76-million-year-old fossils were initially found in 2005 at the Kaiparowits Formation in southern Utah, a site known for its rich paleontological resources. However, after their discovery, the bones ended up stored away and labeled simply as "lizard." It wasn't until Hank Woolley from the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County’s Dinosaur Institute took a closer look nearly two decades later that he recognized them as something previously undocumented. Woolley and his team have named this new species Bolg amondol. According to Woolley, "I... was like, ‘oh wow, there’s a fragmentary skeleton here.’" The creature belonged to the monstersaur group—a set of large, sharp-toothed lizards with armored skin still present in desert regions today. Bolg would have been about one to one-and-a-half meters long and had an appearance that Woolley likened to "a goblin that sprang from the rocks." The naming of Bolg draws inspiration from J.R.R. Tolkien's works. In Tolkien's Elvish language Sindarin, "Amon" means mound and "Dol" means head; these words refer to the unique bony deposits on the creature’s skull. Bolg is notably an ancestor of today’s Gila monsters—one of only two venomous lizard species known worldwide. Randall Irmis from the Natural History Museum of Utah highlighted what makes this find exciting: it provides insight into the diverse ecosystem that existed during its time. The study suggests at least three types of predatory lizards roamed what is now southern Utah during the Late Cretaceous period. Joseph Sertich from Colorado State University notes that any depiction of ancient North American forests should include these formidable lizards navigating their environment. Though Bolg is extinct now, its story serves as a reminder that even fearsome creatures are not immune to extinction pressures. Interestingly, Bolg's nearest living relative inhabits Asia's Gobi Desert. This points to historical connections between continents via land bridges like the Bering Land Bridge during past ice ages.