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This chart shows estimated cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) in the US from 2014 to 2024. The three lines use different possible rates: Low (1.2 per 100,000 people) – about 4,000 cases a year Mid (1.7 per 100,000) – about 5,500 cases a year High (3.0 per 100,000) – about 10,000 cases a year The numbers stay fairly steady over time. There’s no big rise, just small changes with population growth. The information you quoted is incorrect. Reference #6 does not open. GBS is a very serious, debilitating disease — patients often require intubation and ICU care. If there were a significant increase in cases, it would be reported and widely known. Don't just say you are the messenger. If you're going to post up information, it needs to be correct.

https://www.cdc.gov/flu/vaccine-safety/guillainbarre.html "Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a rare disorder in which a person’s own immune system damages their nerve cells, causing muscle weakness and sometimes paralysis. GBS can cause symptoms that usually last for a few weeks. Most people recover fully from GBS, but some people have long-term nerve damage. In some cases, people have died of GBS, usually from difficulty breathing. GBS occurs in about 1 to 2 out of every 100,000 people in the United States each year. Most cases are not associated with vaccines."

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Global health agencies have strongly refuted US President Donald Trump’s recent remarks linking everyday painkillers and vaccines to autism. Speaking on Monday, Trump advised pregnant women to avoid acetaminophen (paracetamol) and suggested delaying childhood vaccinations—claims experts say are baseless and potentially harmful. The World Health Organization (WHO) stressed that vaccines do not cause autism and save millions of lives annually. It also noted research on paracetamol in pregnancy shows no consistent evidence of risk. UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting dismissed Trump’s comments, urging the public to trust doctors and scientists over political rhetoric. The UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) reinforced that there is no proven connection between paracetamol use during pregnancy and autism, warning that untreated fever and pain can be more dangerous to both mother and child. The European Medicines Agency, Spain’s health ministry, and Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration echoed these findings, calling Trump’s statements misleading and a threat to public health. Medical regulators worldwide are united in their stance: established treatments like paracetamol remain safe when used as directed, and vaccines are critical to preventing deadly diseases. Officials emphasised that spreading misinformation undermines public trust in science and endangers lives. Key Takeaways: WHO and regulators confirm no link between paracetamol in pregnancy and autism. Experts warn Trump’s comments on vaccines and painkillers could endanger public health. Global health agencies urge people to rely on medical evidence, not political claims. Adapted From: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/sep/23/global-health-agencies-dismiss-false-trump-claim-everyday-painkillers

Harold “Dickie” Bird, one of cricket’s most beloved umpires, has died at 92. His passing has drawn tributes from across the sport and beyond. Though Bird never played for England, his presence on the field was unmistakable: he controlled 66 Test matches and 69 men’s one-day internationals—including three World Cup finals—and earned wide respect for his fairness, firmness, and humour. Bird was known for more than just making decisions. Fans and players remembered him for quirks like checking incoming rain or breaking into a grin during tense moments. He also collected a trove of stories—bomb threats at Lord’s, stolen hats at World Cups, and village-club origins—that featured in his bestselling autobiography (over a million copies sold). Born in 1933 and nicknamed “Dickie” in school, he played at county level for Yorkshire and Leicestershire before moving into umpiring. Alongside his on-field legacy, he founded the Dickie Bird Foundation (2004) and was honoured with an MBE and later an OBE for services to cricket and charity. Despite never marrying or having children, Bird’s impact felt deeply personal to many. During the pandemic, he spoke candidly about isolation and the importance of staying active, especially for older people. He maintained strong ties to his roots—serving as Yorkshire CCC president, attending Barnsley events, and being granted freedom of Barnsley. Tributes poured in: Geoffrey Boycott called him a legend, Anil Kumble said “Cricket lost one of its brightest souls,” and former PM David Cameron praised his warmth and national presence. Key Takeaways: Dickie Bird officiated 66 Test matches and 69 men’s ODIs, including three World Cups, winning respect for his fair, firm style. He blended eccentric charm with professionalism—fond of rain forecasts, storytelling, and connecting with fans. Beyond cricket, Bird’s philanthropy and public candour endeared him to many; his legacy crosses generations. Adapted From: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/sep/23/dickie-bird-former-test-cricket-umpire-dies

A grenade explosion jolted central Oslo late tonight, prompting police to issue urgent warnings for residents to avoid the area. The blast, the result of a controlled detonation of a planted grenade, took place near Bislett stadium and close to key landmarks like the Royal Palace and the Israeli Embassy. Authorities arrested minors in connection with the incident; one boy born in 2012 is among those detained. Norway’s police suspect the event is linked to criminal conflict, and investigations are ongoing. As a precaution, residents received emergency alerts on their phones advising them to stay away from windows because more explosive devices may still be in the vicinity. The area remains sealed off, affecting traffic and tram routes. No injuries have been reported so far. Witnesses described the explosion as deafening, with some saying their ears hurt and others smelling smoke near the blast zone. Officials continue combing the scene for evidence of further devices or accomplices. They have not confirmed how many are being sought but have not ruled out additional arrests. The motive remains under investigation, with police focusing on possible links to criminal rivalry in Oslo. This incident underscores rising concerns over public safety and explosive-related crime in urban Norway. Authorities urge vigilance as the investigation proceeds. Key Takeaways: Controlled detonation of a planted grenade caused the explosion in central Oslo; no injuries reported. Minors arrested; officials warn residents to avoid windows due to potential additional explosives. Investigations underway into criminal involvement; area remains cordoned off, traffic disrupted. Adapted From: https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/2112510/oslo-rocked-grenade-explosion-city-centre-residents-told-stay-away

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Eric Idle, the Monty Python co-founder, has voiced sharp criticism of modern television, saying it no longer captivates him—apart from sports. In a recent interview promoting his new tour, Idle called mainstream TV formulaic: largely reality shows, game shows, news, or programmes of people trying to “bonk each other on islands.” He believes streaming services have siphoned off TV’s originality, saying “they’ve uninvented television.” Idle contrasted this with his preference for watching cricket and supporting his football club, Chelsea, as his few remaining habits of tuning in. Despite his dissatisfaction, Idle praised South Park for its audacious political commentary, particularly its treatment of Donald Trump. He noted that humour has a unique power: “Comedy is saying the right thing at the wrong time … telling truth to power.” He argued that leaders like Trump and Hitler fear comedy because being mocked undermines their image. Idle reflected on his early days with Monty Python, when the group had freedom over their material without interference from executives. He recalled how the BBC placed their show in a late Sunday slot, a time when few were watching—and that lack of oversight allowed for creativity that, he implies, rarely exists now. Idle also acknowledged the passing of his troupe mates—Graham Chapman (1989) and Terry Jones (2020)—and how Monty Python’s influence shaped sketch comedy for decades. Through his critique, Idle is grieving more than just changing modes of TV: he’s mourning what he sees as the loss of risk, invention, and truth in television comedy. Video not from article: Key Takeaways: Idle finds modern TV stale. He believes many shows follow repetitive formulas and that streaming has hollowed out what made television distinctive. Comedy with edge matters. He praises South Park and its courage to mock power, seeing comedy as a vital counterbalance to authoritarian impulses. Creative freedom has declined. Idle wistfully recalls a time when Monty Python operated without executive constraints—something he says is rare in today’s TV landscape. Adapted From: https://www.mirror.co.uk/3am/celebrity-news/monty-python-legend-eric-idle-35946042

A recent 18-month randomized trial by researchers from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Ben-Gurion University and the University of Leipzig shows that a green-Mediterranean diet—one enriched with green tea and the aquatic plant Mankai—can slow brain aging. In the DIRECT PLUS study with ~300 participants, three diets were compared: a standard healthy diet; a traditional calorie-restricted Mediterranean diet; and the green-Mediterranean version. Scientists measured proteins in the blood that are known to indicate accelerated brain aging. They discovered that the green-Mediterranean group had significantly reduced levels of these proteins compared to the other groups. The researchers believe the anti-inflammatory compounds in green tea and Mankai play a key protective role for brain health. Tracking protein signatures provided insight into how diet influences the brain long before symptoms appear—suggesting that choosing the right foods might preserve cognitive function as people age. Key Takeaways Following a green-Mediterranean diet enriched with green tea and Mankai is associated with lower levels of proteins linked to faster brain aging. Anti-inflammatory components in green tea and Mankai may be central to protecting cognition. Dietary interventions can influence brain health early, before noticeable cognitive decline. Adapted From: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250921090902.htm Link to original study: https://www.clinicalnutritionjournal.com/article/S0261-5614(25)00235-3/fulltext Edited discussion from study "These findings are closely aligned with our previous results shadowing that the green-MED, high-polyphenol diet, rich in Mankai, green tea, and walnuts, and low in red/processed meat, is potentially neuroprotective for age-related brain atrophy."

Sarah, Duchess of York, is facing fallout after leaked emails revealed she described convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein as a “supreme friend” in a 2011 message. The email surfaced shortly after Ferguson had given a public interview distancing herself from Epstein, admitting that accepting money from him was a “gigantic error of judgment.” In the private message, she apologised for her statements, praised Epstein as “steadfast, generous,” and referred to his support of her and her family. Her team says the email was sent under legal pressure to avoid litigation. As a response, several UK charities cut ties with Ferguson. Organisations including Julia’s House, Teenage Cancer Trust, Prevent Breast Cancer, The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation, Children’s Literacy Charity, British Heart Foundation, and the National Foundation for Retired Service Animals have ended or suspended her patronage or ambassadorship roles. These removals follow concern about the appropriateness of her continuing association with these causes given the content of the email. Ferguson expressed regret over her past links with Epstein, emphasising that she had condemned him once she learned the full extent of his abuses. A spokesperson asserted she was misled by him. The controversy has ignited renewed public scrutiny of her reputation and charity work. While she has longstanding involvement in philanthropy, this episode threatens to undermine public trust. The incident also feeds into broader conversations about accountability among public figures connected, however indirectly, to sexual abuse scandals. --- Key Takeaways Sarah Ferguson called Jeffrey Epstein a “supreme friend” in a 2011 email, despite having publicly distanced herself from him. Dozens of UK charities—including Teenage Cancer Trust and Julia’s House—have severed patronage links with her following the revelation. Ferguson says she acted under legal advice and pressure; she maintains she condemned Epstein once fully aware of his crimes. Adapted From: https://www.express.co.uk/news/royal/2111720/charity-sarah-ferguson-jeffrey-epstein

I don’t understand what Mr. Trump means, because leucovorin is used only when folic acid isn’t sufficient for specific medical conditions, whereas folic acid, or vitamin B9, has long been safely recommended for pregnant women.

A remarkably well-preserved dinosaur fossil named Zavacephale rinpoche has been unearthed in Mongolia’s Gobi Desert, pushing back the known record for dome-headed dinosaurs (pachycephalosaurs) by about 14 million years. Dated to at least 108 million years ago, it is now the oldest known pachycephalosaur. What makes it special: this is the most complete skeleton yet found for this group, with a fully intact skull, the first known pachycephalosaur hand, a full tail (tendons and all), stomach stones (gastroliths), but missing only some parts of the neck, backbone, and limbs. Interestingly, the specimen was a juvenile or adolescent when it died, yet its skull dome was already fully developed. CT scans and bone growth analysis showed that dome formation happened early in its life. The shape of the dome itself differs from later species: Zavacephale’s dome is built mainly from forehead bones, whereas later pachycephalosaurs integrate more of the skull bones. This suggests Zavacephale offers a transitional evolutionary snapshot, helping paleontologists understand both growth stages and evolutionary change in dome structure. Though small in size (about 1 metre long, 5.85 kg), Zavacephale’s completeness opens doors to studying behaviours and anatomy previously shrouded by fragmentary fossils: what domes were for (combat? display?), how hand structure evolved, and how tail tendons functioned. The fossil was found in the Khuren Dukh Formation by Mongolian and international teams, and published in Nature (2025). The discovery is expected to fuel decades of research into early pachycephalosaurs. Key Takeaways: Zavacephale rinpoche is the oldest known pachycephalosaur (~108 million years), extending the fossil record by about 14 million years. Despite being juvenile, Zavacephale had a fully formed dome, indicating dome growth occurs early. The skeleton’s preservation (skull, hand, tail tendons, stomach contents) provides rare insight into anatomy, behaviour, and evolution of early dome-headed dinosaurs. Adapted From: https://www.sciencealert.com/stunningly-complete-dome-headed-dinosaur-emerges-from-the-sands-of-mongolia

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Scientists may have found a new way to make bones stronger — and even reverse the damage caused by osteoporosis. A joint team from the University of Leipzig in Germany and Shandong University in China discovered that a tiny “switch” in our cells, called GPR133, plays a big role in keeping bones healthy. People with weaker versions of this switch often have thinner, more fragile bones. To test this, researchers studied mice that didn’t have GPR133. Without it, the animals developed bone loss similar to osteoporosis. But when the scientists activated the switch using a compound named AP503, the mice grew stronger bones. The treatment worked on its own and became even more effective when combined with exercise. This is exciting because most current osteoporosis treatments can only slow down bone loss — they don’t actually rebuild what’s already been lost. If this approach works in humans, it could give people, especially older women who are most at risk, a way to regain stronger, healthier bones. It’s still early days, though. The research has only been done in animals, and human trials will be needed to see if the treatment is safe and effective. But the discovery of GPR133’s role offers a hopeful new path toward stronger bones and better quality of life for millions of people worldwide. Key Takeaways: Scientists found a cell “switch,” GPR133, that helps keep bones strong. Activating it with AP503 made mice’s bones healthier, especially with exercise. Could lead to future treatments that reverse osteoporosis in humans Sourced From https://www.sciencealert.com/new-breakthrough-to-strengthen-bones-could-reverse-osteoporosis The study was published in Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41392-025-02291-y

The Interview:

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The United Kingdom has formally recognised a Palestinian state, a landmark move that has drawn sharp criticism from Israel and set off ripples across global diplomacy. Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s announcement marks the first time a major Western power — and former colonial authority in Palestine — has granted such recognition, signalling a shift in Western policy. Canada and Australia joined the UK in coordinated announcements, intensifying pressure on Israel while challenging the United States’ position. The decision arrives ahead of a UN General Assembly summit on Gaza, spearheaded by France and Saudi Arabia, which aims to revive the two-state solution as the path to ending decades of conflict. France, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Malta are also expected to follow suit, joining more than 145 UN members that already recognise Palestinian statehood. In Israel, reactions were swift and divisive. Far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir called for immediate annexation of the West Bank, labelling the move a “prize for terrorists.” Opposition leader Benny Gantz warned recognition would embolden Hamas, complicating hostage negotiations and prolonging the war. Meanwhile, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum criticised Western governments for ignoring captives still held in Gaza. Not all Israelis condemned the decision. Left-wing MP Ofer Cassif welcomed the recognition as a first step toward peace but urged it be followed by an arms embargo and international accountability measures. Some Israeli academics and citizens expressed unease with the timing, arguing the recognition came while missiles still target civilians and hostages remain in captivity. The UK’s recognition, though largely symbolic, carries historic weight. As debates intensify, the move could mark a turning point in global engagement with the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, reigniting the long-stalled push for a two-state solution. Key Takeaways: UK, Canada, and Australia recognise Palestine, challenging US stance. Israeli leaders respond with anger, calling for annexation and retaliation. Supporters argue recognition is a vital step toward lasting peace. Original Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/features/2025/9/21/israel-bristles-as-uk-leads-western-recognition-of-palestine

A new genomic study reveals that nearly 80% of indigenous ant species in Fiji are facing population declines, underscoring how island biodiversity is especially vulnerable to human impact. Researchers from the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) used DNA from specimens collected over centuries in museum collections to reconstruct the history of Fiji’s ant communities. These specimens, analyzed via “museumomics,” allowed scientists to trace both long-term trends and more recent changes in species numbers. They found that the most severe declines in endemic ant species correlate with European contact, colonial expansion, modern trade, and agricultural intensification over the past few hundred years. Meanwhile, ant species introduced by humans are booming. The team identified 65 separate colonization events—including both natural arrivals from millennia ago and recent invasions tied to global trade—showing that non-native species have gained a strong foothold in Fiji. The decline is particularly marked among species found only in Fiji; many of these have evolved sensitive traits, making them poorly equipped to cope with rapid environmental changes and invasive species pressures. Because islands like Fiji are relatively isolated, they can act like early warning systems for biodiversity collapse. The research shows that museum collections are more than relics: they’re powerful tools for tracking ecological change over long time frames. The authors suggest that better monitoring and conservation efforts—drawing on both historic data and current field observations—are essential to preserving insect biodiversity. The study adds to mounting evidence of an “insect apocalypse” underway, especially in tropical island ecosystems, where human activity and ecosystem fragility collide. Key Takeaways: About 79% of Fiji’s endemic ant species are declining, with sharp drops corresponding to colonial era and modern agriculture. Non-native ant species (introduced more recently) are increasing significantly, altering ecological balance. Museum collections plus genomic techniques provide crucial historical data to assess biodiversity loss and guide conservation in fragile island ecosystems. Original Source: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250919085246.htm