Author: Andrew Rogers

A review of alternative treatments for obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) has found that psychedelic substances, particularly psilocybin, show more promise than cannabis in reducing symptoms. The review, led by Dr Michael Van Ameringen of McMaster University and published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research, examined published and preliminary evidence on psychedelics and cannabinoids for OCD. It noted that 40–60% of patients gain little or no relief from standard treatments such as SSRIs and exposure therapy. Researchers found stronger evidence supporting psilocybin than cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Psilocybin appears to affect the brain’s default mode network, which is linked to…

Scientists have identified genetic changes in polar bears that could help them adapt to rising temperatures, marking what researchers believe is the first statistically significant link between climate change and DNA shifts in a wild mammal. A study by the University of East Anglia found that polar bears in south-east Greenland show different genetic activity compared with those in colder northern regions. Researchers analysed blood samples and focused on so-called “jumping genes” – mobile DNA elements that influence how other genes function. The study found that these jumping genes were far more active in bears living in warmer, less icy…

European airlines are expanding their flight routes to smaller U.S. cities, offering travelers more options beyond major hubs like New York and Washington, D.C. British Airways, Lufthansa, and other carriers are leading this trend. Airline officials say the expansion responds to growing demand for diverse destinations and regional travel experiences. By connecting European travelers directly to cities such as Nashville, Portland, and Boise, airlines are supporting tourism beyond traditional hotspots. Travel experts note that new routes make it easier for visitors to explore lesser-known cities. This trend helps local economies by increasing hotel bookings, restaurant visits, and spending on attractions.…

The EU’s planned ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars from 2035 is set to be watered down, according to a senior MEP, in a move likely to anger environmental campaigners. Manfred Weber, president of the European People’s party in the European parliament, said the European Commission is expected to soften the rule so it no longer amounts to a total ban on combustion engines. Instead of requiring all new cars to have zero CO₂ emissions from 2035, manufacturers would be expected to meet a 90% fleet-wide emissions reduction target, allowing some hybrid vehicles to remain on…

Scientists have documented orcas and Pacific white-sided dolphins cooperating to hunt salmon off the coast of British Columbia — a behavior never recorded before. Using drones, underwater cameras and acoustic tags, researchers found that northern resident killer whales were following dolphins that acted like “scouts,” chasing large Chinook salmon ahead of the whales. In return, dolphins fed on scraps once the whales tore the fish apart at the surface. The whales showed no aggression, which surprised researchers since they normally guard fresh prey. Audio recordings revealed alternating echolocation clicks from both species, suggesting they may be listening to each other…

Humans have been ranked 7th out of 35 mammal species for monogamy in a new University of Cambridge study, placing us well above meerkats and chimpanzees — but still behind Eurasian beavers and other top-ranked species. Researchers compared genetic data to see how often siblings shared both parents. Humans scored 66% full siblings, while beavers reached 72%. At the bottom of the list were chimpanzees, dolphins and mountain gorillas, showing far more promiscuous mating patterns. The findings suggest humans evolved a relatively uncommon form of pair bonding among mammals — likely linked to paternal care and offspring survival. However, scientists…

Health authorities in England have identified a newly evolved mpox variant in a patient who recently travelled to Asia. Genome sequencing confirmed the virus is a recombinant strain, containing genetic material from two known mpox clades – clade 1, which is linked with more severe illness, and clade 2, the strain behind the global 2022 outbreak. The UK Health Security Agency said it is assessing the significance of the new variant, stressing that viral evolution is expected as different strains circulate. Officials urged eligible individuals to get vaccinated as a precaution. Mpox, formerly monkeypox, spreads through close contact with infected…

Crystal Palace continued their impressive rise under Oliver Glasner, climbing to fourth in the Premier League after Marc Guéhi sealed a 2-1 victory over Fulham with a late header at Craven Cottage. The win marks Palace’s third defeat inflicted on Marco Silva’s side within the year, adding further frustration for the Fulham manager. Eddie Nketiah opened the scoring on his first league start of the season, finishing coolly after smart buildup play from Adam Wharton and Tyrick Mitchell. Fulham replied with a stunning equaliser from Harry Wilson, who curled in a brilliant outside-of-the-boot strike after a slick one-two with Raúl…

Recent government actions in the United States demonstrate active engagement in addressing economic, foreign-policy, and defense challenges, signaling a commitment to effective governance. Officials say these measures aim to stabilize key sectors and enhance public confidence. Economic initiatives include financial support for farmers and rural communities, trade partnerships, and policies to strengthen domestic industries. By providing targeted aid and encouraging investment, the government seeks to improve economic stability and growth. In foreign policy, high-level diplomatic visits and strategic agreements reflect a focus on international collaboration. Engagements with countries such as India and Canada highlight efforts to expand trade, strengthen alliances,…

While Nepal is best known for Himalayan peaks and Kathmandu’s busy backpacker streets, the lesser-known Terai lowlands offer a completely different world: jungles filled with wildlife, peaceful farmland, sacred Buddhist sites, and a warm culture that treats visitors like family. Here, the indigenous Tharu people live among national parks and fertile plains along the Indian border — and hospitality isn’t just a custom, it’s a belief. In the village of Bhada, travellers can stay through Nepal’s Community Homestay Network, which lets families open their homes to guests and benefit directly from tourism. Staying with Shyam Chaudhary in her traditional mud-and-timber…