Women Working Night Shifts 50% More Likely to Develop Severe Asthma, Finds Study

Financial Express,

A major UK study has revealed that women who work night shifts face up to a 50% higher risk of developing moderate to severe asthma compared to those working only during the day, a pattern not observed among men. Led by Dr. Robert Maidstone from the University of Manchester, the research analyzed data from over 270,000 UK workers, making it one of the largest studies of its kind. The study found that women on night shifts, especially postmenopausal women not using hormone replacement therapy, were particularly at risk. Asthma already disproportionately affects women, who are more likely to be hospitalized and have higher mortality rates than men. Researchers believe disruption to the body’s circadian rhythm and hormonal differences may be contributing factors. Professor Florence Schleich, an independent lung expert, noted that while many women cannot easily change work schedules, more needs to be done to minimize risks. The research team plans to further investigate the interplay between sex hormones, shift work, and asthma severity, aiming to improve outcomes for women in night shift occupations.

Population Explosion Could Lead to Water Shortages by 2055, Report Warns

The Telegraph,

Officials have warned that rapid population growth could cause significant water shortages in England by 2055, with a projected daily shortfall of five billion tonnes for homes and businesses. The Environment Agency’s (EA) latest report highlights that additional demands for environmental protection, energy, and food production could further strain resources. The most severe deficits are expected in the south east of England, where a booming population and ongoing construction have dramatically increased water demand. Climate change and environmental pressures are compounding the problem, risking environmental degradation, economic disruption, and lower resilience in critical sectors. The report stresses the need for immediate action—reducing household and business consumption, halving leakage, and investing in infrastructure like new reservoirs and desalination plants. The EA also advocates for smart meter rollouts and public efforts to reduce water usage, such as shorter showers and using full appliance loads. Emerging industries, such as data centers and hydrogen production, are urged to use recycled water to alleviate pressure on public supplies. The warning follows record-breaking spring temperatures and drought conditions across parts of England, underlining the urgency of preserving this vital resource.

Chinese Brain Implant Achieves Landmark Clinical Trial with Amputee Operation

South China Morning Post,

China has reached a milestone in brain-computer interface technology, becoming the world’s second nation to advance to human clinical trials of invasive devices, according to state broadcaster CCTV. The trial involved a 37-year-old man who lost all four limbs in a high-voltage accident more than ten years ago. In March, researchers surgically implanted a coin-sized device and electrode array into his brain. Within weeks, the patient was able to control a computer cursor, play chess and video games, and perform digital tasks with near-normal skill. This significant development highlights China’s progress in neural technology, offering hope for improved quality of life for amputees and people with severe disabilities. The achievement also signals China’s intent to be a leader in advanced medical technology, as research teams continue to explore wider clinical applications.

Removing Russia from Group Was a Mistake, Trump Tells G7 Summit

Reuters,

At the G7 summit in Canada, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the removal of Russia from the former Group of Eight more than a decade ago was a mistake. Trump’s remarks highlighted his ongoing belief that Russia’s exclusion was detrimental to the group’s effectiveness, although he did not elaborate further during the meeting. This position reflects Trump’s long-standing stance on engaging Russia in international forums, in contrast to the policies of some other Western leaders.