Mosquitoes aren’t just annoying – they kill around 700,000 people a year via the diseases they spread. But scientists are developing new, counterintuitive ways to tackle them.
Fighting the world’s most deadly animal… in an unexpected way
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A drug already used for osteoporosis blocked spinal damage in a new study
Changes in gene activity may contribute to neck and back pain by damaging the discs that act as the spine’s natural shock absorbers, according to new research.
A study using zebrafish found that altered gene activity can cause minerals to accumulate within the spine. This process resembles bone forming where it should not, eventually making spinal tissue unusually hard.
Researchers say the results reveal several biological processes that could become targets for future back pain treatments. The work also indicates that zebrafish may provide a useful model for testing potential therapies.
Why Spinal Discs Break Down
Most people experience back pain at some point. A major cause is the progressive deterioration of the discs that cushion the bones of the spine, a condition called intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD).
Although IVDD is widespread and places a considerable burden on patients and health care systems, no medications can currently halt or reverse its progression. Surgery is still the only available long-term treatment.
Inherited factors are known to influence a person’s risk of developing IVDD. Previous research has repeatedly connected early disc problems to a gene associated with collagen IX, a protein that helps bind together the structural fibers inside spinal discs.
To investigate how defects in this gene might cause disc disease, researchers from the Universities of Edinburgh and Bristol studied zebrafish bred without a functioning copy of it.
Zebrafish Developed Human-Like Spinal Damage
As the zebrafish grew older, they developed spinal abnormalities that closely resembled disc disease in people. Their vertebrae fused, while mineral deposits caused the tissue between the bones to become abnormally hard.
The researchers discovered that this mineralization did not begin immediately. First, a supportive scaffold layer within the developing spine started to deteriorate. Mineral deposits appeared only after this early structural damage had occurred.
The team then examined patterns of gene activity in the fish to determine which genes had become more or less active.
Their analysis revealed problems with fat processing and with mTOR, a pathway that regulates growth. They also found changes involving phosphate control and vitamin A signaling. Each of these processes has been associated with abnormal mineral accumulation.
Existing Osteoporosis Drug Reduced Mineral Buildup
The researchers also identified several approaches that reduced the spinal damage.
A bisphosphonate, a type of bone-protecting medication already used to treat osteoporosis, prevented minerals from accumulating. Spinal fusion was also reduced when the fish received less food or were treated with drugs that suppressed fat metabolism.
According to the researchers, the results highlight phosphate regulation and fat metabolism as especially promising areas for the development of future medicines.
The study was funded by Arthritis UK and BBSRC and published in the journal Communications Biology.
New Possibilities Beyond Surgery
Study lead, Dr. Erika Kague, from the University of Edinburgh’s Institute of Genetics and Cancer, said: “For decades, surgery has been the only real answer for disc disease. By understanding the biology that drives the spine to harden, our zebrafish studies point to several ways of slowing it down, including a drug already used safely in patients. There’s more work to do, but for a condition that’s affected people for generations without a treatment in sight, this is super exciting.”
Dr. Caroline Aylott, Head of Research Delivery at Arthritis UK, said: “For the 9.5 million people across the UK living with back pain, this research brings fresh hope that potential new therapeutic approaches are on the horizon.
“We are proud to fund research that is unlocking the science behind the processes leading to spinal disc degeneration. Back pain is one of the UK’s most common conditions that has blighted millions over generations. Dr. Erika Kague and her team at the University of Edinburgh have uncovered important genetic evidence that could pave the way for new treatments, bringing us one step closer to a future where fewer people have to live with the daily pain and challenges that back pain can bring.”
Dr. Jef Grainger, Executive Director of Bioscience Advancing Knowledge at BBSRC, said: “This research shows how publicly funded discovery bioscience can generate the knowledge needed to address major health challenges. By revealing new knowledge of how healthy biological processes break down in aging-related spinal disc degeneration, the study opens up promising avenues for future treatment development. It’s a great example of how BBSRC-supported research helps turn scientific discovery into knowledge and innovations that have the potential to improve people’s lives.”
Sunshine to meal times: How to beat jet lag
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Scientists have kept vaccines stable at room temperature for a year, which could transform global vaccination.
Walk-in mental health centres to open in banks and libraries across England
Government plans network of nearly 200 specialist services to help those facing mental health crises.
This $67 Balance Chair ‘Reduces The Stress On My Body, Back And Hips’
If you deal with body pains or spend long periods of your day sitting, you may be constantly searching for a comfortable seat. Lucky for you, we found one that makes reviewers bounce with joy — literally. From the Yoga brand Gaiam, shoppers call this balance ball chair the “best investment for working from home” (or just watching TV), crediting it with lessening pain and pressure as they sit. According to our price trackers, you can currently snag the classic purple version for about 20% off, the lowest price it’s been in months. Plus, the removable ball can be used for home workouts, so you’re kind of getting a two-for-one.
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Designed to improve your posture and keep you more alert, reviewers say the chair is easing pain through their back and hips — whether they’re working at a desk or working out.
Made with a 20.4-inch stability ball and chair frame with lockable wheels, this chair is compatible with most average desks. The brand says the chair is ideal for users from 5 feet to 5 feet 11 inches and has a 300-pound weight capacity. Plus, it comes with an air pump and exercise guide to really get you rolling. While it’s certainly a unique piece of office furniture, fans say this ball chair is the type of thing you’ll wish you bought sooner for how quickly and consistently it brings them relief. “Sitting in this for 5 minutes reduced my lower back pain,” one wrote. “It took a few days to get [used] to but after just 2 weeks I have noticed a HUGE difference,” another said.
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According to the brand, the ball chair is made to employ “micro-movements” in your body, engaging muscles in your core to help you sit up straighter, putting less pressure on your lower back.
“It is absolutely amazing,” Lori writes. “…I no longer have shooting pains by the end of the day.” “I can’t say it has taken away the pain completely but, it HAS helped by reducing the amount of stress on my body, back and hips,” one shopper wrote. “And there is minimal pain at the end if the day.”
Others credit the ball for “immediate changes in energy,” as the ball “makes me sit up instead of huddling slumped over at my desk.” “It is nearly impossible to slouch,” one wrote. “You actually have to make an effort to slouch or sit improperly.”
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And, if you’re looking to get more movement in your day, the chair works for seated stretching and chair yoga, or the ball can be used completely on its own for strength building. “The movement the ball chair gives me is great. I feel like I can stretch my sides and flex my butt muscles,” one wrote. “During my lunch break I am able to use it and stretch, as well as doing some exercises to keep my lower back in shape,” another said.
Ready to feel the bliss of this balance ball chair? Check out these promising reviews and grab one for yourself while it’s 20% off.
“Originally I bought just a ball, which promptly got a hole and began to deflate so I decided that for an office setting, this chair would likely work the best. It is absolutely amazing. I am so comfortable all day and rarely have to switch position. It is nearly impossible to slouch, you actually have to make an effort to slouch or sit improperly. I no longer have shooting pains by the end of the day. This not only makes you sit properly, but take the pressure of sitting off of your spine and the back of your thighs. I would recommend this for anyone who wants to be more comfortable sitting long hours working at a computer. On a side note, I have been mocked to no end in my office for this chair, they laugh until they sit on it! So I just laugh right back…oh yeah? Well, I’m more comfortable than you!” — Lori Myers
“Sitting in this for 5 minutes reduced my lower back pain. Love this chair. Great for pregnancy.” — Andrea Gentsy
“It’s great! it has reduced the pain in my shoulders from typing all day. Arrived fast as well. I use the ball for additional exercises.” — Moonmuse
“Seems crazy, but helps with back pain! I had a coworker who had one of these, and it always seemed silly to me. I assumed she just liked it because it was trendy. I have back problems. Mostly sciatica, but it can be very painful and debilitating. It had been aching and I felt that I was a few days away from a significant episode of my back going completely out, and I know it’s from too much sitting at work, but due to the nature of my job, it can’t be helped. Out of desperation, I asked my coworker if I could trade her chairs for a couple of days to see if it helped and possibly order one for myself. It was really awkward at first, and I felt unstable, but you get used to that. I think the beauty of these chairs for someone like me is that they force you to sit upright and make it really hard for you to sit in positions that seem comfortable at the time, but are really bad for your back. It’s very hard to sit on this chair with one foot under you, which is my kryptonite. It’s also short enough for my feet to touch the ground (you can adjust this a little by airing up the ball more or less for your height). After a couple of days of sitting on this thing, my back pain was less, and I’d gotten used to it. I ordered my own and I’m now a believer. If you have chronic back pain and spend most of your time sitting at work, I definitely recommend this chair.” — rachybob
“Wow! I feel more energized while sitting. No more slumping in my chair and almost falling asleep. Using muscle groups that I need to use. Also, sit with the balance ball plug up. Stops air leaking :D” — Amazon customer
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The Real Deal: We use deal trackers and commerce experience to sift through “fake” hike-and-drop deals and other deceptive sales tactics. Products will usually be rated at least 4 stars with a minimum 15% discount. (And when there’s an exception, we’ll tell you why.)
Blow For Badenoch As Former Neo-Nazi Quits As Tory Candidate After Backlash
A former neo-Nazi has quit as a Conservative candidate following an angry backlash.
Joshua Bonehill-Paine was due to stand for election to Somerset council.
But he announced he was standing down following a backlash from Jewish groups.
Tory leader Kemi Badenoch, who had defended Bonehill-Paine, has made him an adviser on radicalisation to the party’s Culture and Integration Commission.
Bonehill-Paine was jailed for more than three years in 2015 after posting anti-semitic material online ahead of a planned neo-Nazi rally.
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The following year, he was found guilty of racially-aggravated harassment of the Jewish Labour MP Luciana Berger.
He has since recanted his previous anti-semitic views and now works with the Home Office on anti-radicalisation programmes.
In a post on X, Bonehill-Paine, creator of the satirical Crewkerne Gazette, said: “The last 24 hours have shown that a lot of people do not understand how terrible I feel about the things I did when I was much younger.
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“I know that my previous actions continue to cause pain in the Jewish community. I had thought that getting involved in my local council and working hard for my community was a good way to show how much I have changed and that I want to give something back.
“I realise now that the fight against anti-semitism is something that I actually need to do more of, I need to show the Jewish community how much I regret my previous actions and how hard I will work to fight to help destroy anti-semitism and rebuild trust.”
He added: “While I cannot change my past, I can warn others away from the same destructive path. I know how this ideology works because I lived inside it.
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“I also know that if I stand as a council candidate, other political parties will spend all their time focusing on my past rather than the work I’m doing today, or even fighting anti-semitism in their own midst.
“Rather than standing as a local council candidate, I believe that my experience is better used supporting Kemi Badenoch in her ongoing mission to combat the anti-semitism and extremism that is dividing our nation.
“I have therefore informed the party of my decision to withdraw from next year’s council election.”
Badenoch said: “While I am sad that Joshua feels he won’t be given the space to explain his position and represent his community, I am glad he is going to work with me and the party on tackling radicalisation as part of our Culture and Integration Commission.
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“If we are going to stop extremism and anti-semitism we are going to need help from those people who were part of the problem, but have now changed and are being part of the solution.
“Piling on them and trying to get them cancelled may be sport for other parties, but this is a different Conservative Party.
“Sometimes there will be difficult judgement calls, but right now I know that we are the only party actively working to unite the country rather than one particular faction or other.”
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A Reform UK spokesman said: “It beggars belief that Kemi Badenoch has hired a former neo-Nazi.
“Joshua Bonehill-Paine, a self-professed fascist who has been jailed for publishing antisemitic material, will now have a say over national Conservative Party policy. This is alarming news for the Jewish community in Britain.”
Listen to Commons People, the podcast that makes politics easy. Every week, Kevin Schofield and Kate Nicholson unpack the week’s biggest stories to keep you informed. Join us for straightforward analysis of what’s going on at Westminster.
‘Odyssey’ Actor Knows Why She Hasn’t Worked In A Year
Most observers would think that starring in “The Odyssey” means being set for life.
But Oscar nominee Samantha Morton, who stars as Circe in the new Christopher Nolan blockbuster, dispelled that myth during a recent podcast appearance.
“I haven’t worked for a year since making ‘The Odyssey,’ you know ― and I’ve got really good agents and a manager, but at the end of the day, I’m 49,” the “Minority Report” actor said on the “Happy Sad Confused” podcast episode, released on Monday.
“Whilst I do believe I’m a good actor, there are other good actors out there. Do you know what I mean?” she said to host Josh Horowitz. “So, the politics of the industry has changed massively.”
Despite her age being a potential liability in Hollywood, Morton said that she does think she’ll “keep working ’til my 80s” at least.
Many women in Hollywood have opened up about how age affects the roles they get offered.
“When I started out as a child, I was warned that my career would fall off a cliff at the age of 35, which is something I know a lot of women face,” she told Porter magazine in 2023.
“Sex and the City” star Kim Cattrall put it more bluntly, telling ABC in 2016 that 35 was a seen as an “expiration date” for actresses.
5 Ways To Help Hedgehogs In The Heat After Charity Issues Urgent Plea
During one of this year’s earlier heatwaves (and there have been many), the British Hedgehog Preservation Society (BHPS) issued an “urgent plea” for us to provide water for thirsty wildlife.
They noted that this is especially key given a 2022 report that found rural hedgehog populations have shrunk by somewhere between 30% and 75% since 2000.
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Recently, a hedgehog rescue centre told the BBC they’d been “inundated” with baby hedgehogs following very dry and hot conditions in the south-east of the UK.
Speaking to HuffPost UK, Fay Vass, chief executive for BHPS, noted: “As our climate continues to change and become more extreme, it poses new dangers and challenges to our native wildlife.
“Scarcity of water sources is a common problem for wildlife and long spells of drought only serve to make this worse. Small mammals can easily become dehydrated and having access to fresh, clean water can mean the difference between life and death for hedgehogs.”
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So what should we actually do to make their summers more bearable?
1) Place shallow dishes of water where hedgehogs can reach them
During very hot weather, hydration is key for hedgehogs and other wildlife.
“Placing shallow dishes of clean, fresh water around the garden is a simple, easy step we can all take that will provide a lifeline for hedgehogs and other wildlife during hot, dry spells,” Vass said.
2) Keep some of your garden wild
You might have taken part in “no-mow May”, a scheme which sees gardens grow wild across the UK.
This has been linked to greater biodiversity. And according to the Vass, the practice can help animals long past May too.
“Allowing sections of the garden to be wild and overgrown is important… as this can offer much-needed shade, shelter and a natural food source,” she said.
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Additionally, “leaving log piles and leaf piles in quieter corners also offers valuable shelter and places to forage for grubs, worms and other natural food” year-round.
3) Put out some cat or high-meat dog food in a clean dish
It’s not just about water. “Hedgehogs can struggle to find enough food when the ground is hot and dry,” said the expert.
“Putting out some high-quality meaty hedgehog food, meaty cat or dog food or dry cat biscuits to supplement their natural diet can provide a vital lifeline for hungry hedgehogs during the hot summer months,” she added, stressing it’s important to make sure their feeding dishes and areas are kept clean.
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4) Create a wildlife pond
Though its benefits might be felt especially keenly in summer, Vass said this is one of the best ways to support animals no matter the weather.
“Creating a wildlife-friendly garden with features such as a gently sloping pond provides a reliable year-round water source and encourages insect prey,” she advised.
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We’ve written before at HuffPost UK about how to make your own with an old washing-up bowl.
5) Make sure hedgehogs have a way into your garden
Again, this is just as important in summer as it is in winter. “It’s vital to make sure hedgehogs can access your garden” said the expert.
Check with your neighbours if you share a fence, and if it’s OK with everyone concerned, consider creating “13x13cm gaps in fences or walls to allow them to move freely between gardens and green spaces”.
‘No More Botox Needed In My Lips!’: This $10 Lip Treatment Workings Wonders For Thinning, Aging Lips
A good lip treatment is a crucial part of a skin care routine, especially as you age. Lips are often one of the first things people notice. More importantly, when they feel uncomfortable, you notice them more. This is especially so if you deal with dry lips or notice that yours are a little more textured than you’re used to due to natural aging. In the spirit of improving our lip TLC, we spotted a hyaluronic acid plumping gloss that reviewers swear addresses signs of aging lips and delivers “spa-like” results at a steal of a price. It’s 26% off if you clip the on-page coupon, a solid deal for what reviewers call “a spa treatment for my lips” and even a Botox replacer.
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You may be familiar with the $45 2025 HuffPicks beauty winner, Youthfull Lip Replenisher, for aging lips. Today, let us raise you the Suquato peptide lip treatment, also designed to fill out wrinkles and restore bounce — on sale for just $10 right now!
It boasts a 3-in-1 formula that can be used as an overnight mask, a single-layer plumping gloss or a lip gloss topper for lipstick — and per the reviews, this baby is highly effective.
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“This stuff took 10 years off my lips in one night,” another reviewer raved. “[I] put it on one night and in the morning I was shocked to see my lips were actually plump and juicy!”
“After one night my wrinkles were noticeably diminished,” reviewer L Quinn gushed about the plumping gloss. “After a few nights, my upper lip was smooth. No more Botox needed in my lips!!”
Talk about product efficacy?!
The winning combo in the ingredients list and practical product packaging is what makes this lip treatment a real winner.
Made with hyaluronic acid and a strong peptide complex, the versatile lip treatment hydrates and boosts collagen to lock in moisture and reduce fine lines. The added shea butter and vitamin E keep your mouth nourished and protect it from the elements.
“The texture is extremely smooth and velvety, feels so luxurious to apply and wear,” one review shared. “It creates a mild, pleasant kind of tingling sensation, which is nice for a little mental confirmation that it’s working but without being overbearing or uncomfortable at all.”
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Some say it’s scentless, while others compliment the subtle smell, yet everyone seems to agree the formula is long-lasting and feels great. ” It’s sort of sticky without actually being sticky and it stays on for a long time instead of disappearing after 20 minutes like regular lip balm often does,” one wrote.
“Sticky enough that it lasts but not sticky enough to get my hair caught in it,” another said.
Last but not least, the other ingenious part about this lip plumping treatment is the design of the applicator tip.
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Considering the 4.3-star rated Suquato peptide lip treatment but need to know a little more? Check more reviews below from people loving the formula.
“Best lip treatment ever. I am 68 years old with thinning lips resulting in feathering. I’ve tried pretty much EVERY lip treatment – plumper on the market with varying results from “ok” to none. I was therefore pretty skeptical when I ordered this product – but boy was I ever wrong! Results were instantaneous and lasting. Feathering diminished to nearly gone! I LOVE THIS PRODUCT and it has become a daily part of my self-care and make-up routine. I HIGHLY recommend you try it!” — Eileen M Johnson
“I’m happy with this lip mask and how it plumps my lips.I’m 64 years old and have noticed thinning especially of my upper lip along with vertical lines and wrinkles on both upper and lower lips. I didn’t think to take a before pic but the picture I have provided was taken approx. 1 hour after application of the lip mask.” — SLG
“This is a 5 star plus review.
I’ve tested this with
DHC
DRMTLGY
CWB
VASALINE
I’m 63 and try all skin products. This is the best lip mask that stays on and moisturize.” — Sunshine62“I’m 65 and HAD small lines all across my top lip. A few years ago I resorted to getting two injections of Botox on my upper lip to smooth out the wrinkles. The Botox was wearing off when I decided to try this product. After one night my wrinkles were noticeably diminished. After a few nights my upper lip was smooth. No more Botox needed in my lips!!
Now I’m waiting for them to come out with a whole face serum!!” — L.Quinn
Cetaphil
An SPF-infused moisturizer suitable for all skin types
Yadav is a fan of the Cetaphil Face Moisturizer because it’s made with SPF 35 as well as “hydrating glycerin, conditioning panthenol and antioxidants like vitamin E and niacinamide, which also helps calm the skin,” she said. Oily skin types will appreciate its matte finish. Because it provides long-lasting hydration for up to 24 hours, it’s also suitable for those with dry or combination skin types.
Medicube
A K-beauty collagen jelly that visibly plumps (BOGO available)
If glass skin is the goal, this editors’ pick is the road to getting there. From the K-beauty brand that you’ve undoubtedly seen on your For You Page more than a handful of times comes the Medicube Collagen Jelly Cream, a bouncy gel moisturizer that targets uneven skin tone as it hydrates. Instead of thick, pore-clogging oils, it uses hydrolyzed collagen and niacinamide to work its magic. Bonus: It’s available on a buy 3, get one free deal too! 👀
Promising review: “I was skeptical at 1st but one single I fell in love. A very little goes along way. You can use in a thin layer under makeup or thick for a overnight mask. I like to keep it refrigerated for that extra chill and it feel amazing. It hasn’t broken me out and just left me with beautiful glowing hydrating skin. For reference I am 40 with textured acne prone skin. I will definitely recommend and repurchase! Beautiful product.” — JustAmble
La Roche-Posay
A ceramide moisturizer that provides 48-hour hydration
Looking for long-lasting moisture? You’ve found it in La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer, which comes recommended by Stephens. “This is a go-to for sensitive or acne-prone skin because i’s oil-free and contains ceramide-3, niacinamide and prebiotic thermal water to calm and hydrate the skin without triggering breakouts,” she said. “It also helps restore the skin’s moisture barrier, which is often compromised in acne-prone individuals.”
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Aestura
A sensitive skin-friendly, barrier-strengthening cream
For a rich yet non-greasy moisturizer, the Aestura Atobarrier365 Cream Moisturizer is the best of both worlds. Dr. Y. Claire Chang, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, said it’s ideal for those with sensitive skin thanks to a patented blend of barrier-boosting ceramide capsules that allow the ingredient to stay within the skin barrier longer. “This leaves my skin looking glowy for hours — when applied, it feels luxuriously smooth and absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving the skin hydrated and protected without any heavy residue,” she said.
The Real Deal: We use deal trackers and commerce experience to sift through “fake” hike-and-drop deals and other deceptive sales tactics. Products will usually be rated at least 4 stars with a minimum 15% discount. (And when there’s an exception, we’ll tell you why.)
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