Author: Andrew Rogers
Andrew Rogers
Andrew Rogers is a freelance journalist based in the USA, with over 10 years of experience covering Politics, World Affairs, Business, Health, Technology, Finance, Lifestyle, and Culture. He earned his degree in Journalism from the University of Florida. Throughout his career, he has contributed to outlets such as The New York Times, CNN, and Reuters. Known for his clear reporting and in-depth analysis, Andrew delivers accurate and timely news that keeps readers informed on both national and international developments.
A new ultrasound “helmet” could transform the treatment of neurological conditions by offering a non-invasive alternative to deep brain stimulation, according to a study in Nature Communications. The device can precisely target brain regions up to 1,000 times smaller than standard ultrasound, potentially replacing the surgical implantation of electrodes currently used for Parkinson’s patients. Researchers from Oxford University and UCL tested the system on seven volunteers, directing ultrasound waves to the lateral geniculate nucleus. The pulses reached the tiny target with unprecedented accuracy and produced lasting effects in connected brain regions. Experts say similar targeting in motor control areas could…
Labour’s pledge to end the badger cull by 2029 can only succeed if the government adopts a Covid-style push on testing and vaccination, according to a new report. The review, led by Sir Charles Godfray, warns that ministers have only a “small chance” of eradicating bovine tuberculosis (bTB) in England by the current 2038 target without a major boost in funding and urgency. More than 210,000 badgers have been killed since culling began in 2013, with bTB costing taxpayers and the cattle industry an estimated £150m a year. Godfray stressed that badgers do spread the disease to cattle, but said…
The Lancashire Wildlife Trust (LWT) has begun a project to bring back three rare species once common on the region’s peat bogs: the large heath butterfly, bog bush cricket and white-faced darter dragonfly. These insects rely on lowland peatlands, 96% of which have been lost due to human activity. LWT has been restoring habitats by rebuilding water systems and replanting specialist vegetation, and is now seeking £20,000 to complete the effort. “These insects all play vital roles in the peatland ecosystem,” the trust said, noting their importance in pollination, decomposition, and controlling insect populations. Senior nature recovery officer Dr Matt…
New Zealand is testing whether vaccines can shield its most endangered birds, including the kākāpō, the world’s fattest parrot, from the deadly H5N1 bird flu. While the virus has devastated wildlife globally, Oceania remains untouched—so far. In a world-first trial, the Department of Conservation vaccinated 10 captive birds from five critically endangered species. Four developed strong antibody responses lasting at least six months. The goal is to protect captive breeding populations that are vital for restocking wild populations. Conservationists warn vaccinating wild birds is impractical, but protecting core breeding flocks could prevent extinction if H5N1 arrives. Similar efforts have already…
A simple two-minute cheek-swab test could help identify children at risk of a potentially fatal heart condition years before symptoms appear, according to new research presented at the European Society of Cardiology congress in Madrid. Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM), a genetic disorder that disrupts the structure and electrical activity of the heart, accounts for more than 10% of sudden cardiac deaths in children. Often developing without warning, ACM can cause palpitations, fainting, breathlessness, and in severe cases, sudden death. Scientists at Great Ormond Street Hospital and St George’s, University of London discovered that the same protein abnormalities found in the heart…
Oscar Piastri strengthened his grip on the Formula 1 drivers’ title race with a flawless victory at the Dutch Grand Prix, while teammate and closest rival Lando Norris suffered a devastating retirement just seven laps from the finish. Piastri led confidently from pole to flag at Zandvoort, handling light rain and three safety-car restarts with trademark composure. The 24-year-old Australian’s win now gives him a 34-point advantage in the championship, a significant setback for Norris, who had started the weekend just nine points adrift. Norris’s title hopes took a crushing blow when his McLaren suffered an oil leak while running…
A major US study has found that many 4- and 5-year-olds diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are prescribed medication far earlier than medical guidelines recommend. Experts advise that children in this age group should first undergo six months of behavioural therapy before starting drugs, but analysis of more than 9,700 cases revealed that 42% were given medication within a month of diagnosis. Only 14% received prescriptions after the recommended therapy-first approach. Researchers say the findings, published in JAMA Network Open, highlight concerns over treatment practices. “Starting ADHD treatment with a behavioural approach is beneficial,” said lead author Dr Yair Bannett…
Groundbreaking research suggests the shingles vaccine may offer cardiovascular protection, reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes by nearly 20%. A global systematic review and meta-analysis of 19 studies revealed that adults who received the jab had an 18% lower risk of stroke or heart attack, with a 16% reduction observed in people aged 50 and older. The study, to be presented at the European Society of Cardiology congress in Madrid, marks the first worldwide review to investigate this connection. Researchers believe the protective effect may be linked to preventing inflammation caused by shingles, which is a known factor…
A new study suggests that rising ocean acidity could weaken sharks’ teeth, threatening their ability to hunt and survive. Sharks rely on multiple rows of teeth that are constantly replaced, but acidification may cause damage faster than new teeth can grow. Researchers warn this could disrupt shark populations and destabilize marine ecosystems. The experiment tested discarded blacktip reef shark teeth in tanks with current ocean pH levels (8.1) and projected future levels (7.3). After eight weeks, teeth exposed to more acidic conditions showed twice as much damage, including root corrosion and dulled serrations. Lead researcher Maximilian Baum said this could…
Wild bees deliberately visit different flowers to regulate their intake of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, according to new research in the Colorado Rockies. Over eight years, ecologists tracked eight bumblebee species, mapping their pollen diets and analyzing the nutritional value of the flowers they visited. The study revealed striking differences: some pollen contained as little as 17% protein, while others had up to 86%. Seasonal changes also influenced nutrient availability, with spring flowers being protein-rich and late-summer blooms higher in fats and carbohydrates. Larger bees with longer tongues tended to prefer protein-heavy pollen, while smaller bees sought out pollen richer…