Author: OMN AI

The world’s first global systematic review suggests the shingles vaccine could lower the risk of heart attack and stroke in adults. Analyzing 19 studies, researchers found that vaccination was associated with an 18% reduced risk of cardiovascular events in adults aged 18 and older, with a 16% reduction for those over 50. Shingles, caused by the reactivation of the herpes zoster virus, can lead to painful rashes and severe complications such as long-term nerve pain, deafness, and in rare cases, blindness. The vaccine is typically recommended for older adults or those with weakened immune systems, but the study indicates potential…

The United States has scrapped a decades-old tariff exemption that let imports under $800 enter duty-free, shaking e-commerce worldwide. From Friday, small parcels must clear customs and pay tariffs, affecting millions of shipments every day. In 2023, nearly 1.4 billion packages valued at over $64bn entered the US under the de minimis exemption, according to customs data. Analysts warn higher prices, fewer choices, and tougher conditions for small businesses. Katherine Theobalds, founder of Buenos Aires shoe brand Zou Xou, said: “It might be the end for us.” The de minimis exemption and its impact The de minimis rule began in…

Unprecedented Sighting Near Costa Rica Fishermen off Costa Rica were left astonished when they hooked a strikingly orange nurse shark—a phenomenon never recorded before. The anglers shared photos of their catch, describing it as “an extraordinary moment in marine history that amazes scientists, fishers, and ocean enthusiasts alike.” Shark Identification The unusual shark measured roughly two meters and was identified as a nurse shark, easily recognized by the characteristic “whisker-like” barbels on its snout. This individual represents the first documented case of a nurse shark exhibiting such a vivid orange coloration. Genetic Explanation Researchers writing in Marine Biodiversity analyzed the…

Experts link rising temperatures and lower rainfall to more intense and frequent forest fires.The 2025 wildfire season in Europe has already shattered records for burned land.Fires have destroyed over one million hectares in the EU, exceeding Corsica’s total area.This area burned is more than four times last year’s total. EU Fire Statistics Authorities declared more than 1,800 forest fires, releasing over 38 million tonnes of CO₂.Among 27 EU nations, only the Czech Republic, Estonia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, and Malta avoided wildfires.Italy and Romania each reported more than 450 blazes, topping the list.Damage does not always match fire counts: Cyprus reported three…

Nvidia has posted record revenue as global demand for artificial intelligence accelerates, even amid rising geopolitical tensions. On Wednesday, the Santa Clara-based chipmaker reported $46.7bn (£34.6bn) in second-quarter revenue, a 56% increase compared with the same period in 2024. Shares fell in after-hours trading after executives acknowledged the company was still “working through geopolitical issues.” Nvidia remains entangled in trade tensions between Washington and Beijing. Rapid policy changes under the Trump administration, aimed at protecting US leadership in artificial intelligence, add further uncertainty to the company’s outlook. Tech giants drive AI surge Nvidia’s processors have become essential to powering the…

A new study has found that ocean acidification could erode shark teeth, potentially leaving the apex predators less able to feed and affecting marine ecosystem stability. Sharks naturally grow multiple rows of teeth, with new ones quickly replacing lost or damaged ones, but rising ocean acidity may damage teeth faster than they can be replaced. Ocean acidification occurs as the oceans absorb carbon dioxide, lowering pH levels. By 2300, projections suggest ocean pH could drop from 8.1 to 7.3, a change that could have “profound implications for marine organisms,” the study said. To test this, researchers placed 60 naturally shed…

A new study in the Colorado Rockies has shown that wild bees actively select flowers to balance their intake of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Over eight years, researchers observed eight species of bumblebees and analyzed the pollen they collected, revealing wide variation in nutrient content and seasonal shifts. Spring flowers tended to provide protein-rich pollen, while late-summer blooms were higher in fats and carbohydrates. Individual bees adjusted their foraging as their colonies developed, reflecting changing nutritional needs. The study also found distinct nutritional niches among bee species: larger bees with longer tongues preferred high-protein, low-sugar pollen, while smaller bees favored…

Federal Funding Linked to Curriculum Changes The Biden administration has signaled that states risk losing federal sex education funding if their programs include references to transgender individuals or gender identity. Under the Personal Responsibility Education Program (PREP), 46 states and territories received letters from the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) instructing them to remove such content within 60 days, or risk losing federal support. Officials cited the need to align curricula with statutory objectives and guidance from the Department of Health and Human Services. Controversy Surrounding the Policy The directive follows the administration’s earlier decision to revoke a $12…

Gunfire erupted Wednesday morning at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis during first-day mass.The shooter fired a rifle through church windows while also carrying a shotgun and a pistol.Police confirmed he killed two children, aged eight and ten, and wounded 17 others before killing himself.Authorities contained the shooter and declared no ongoing threat to residents. Officials Condemn Attack Police Chief Brian O’Hara called the shooting “sheer cruelty and cowardice” in a press briefing.Governor Tim Walz described the attack as “horrific” and prayed for students and teachers affected.Children’s Minnesota admitted five victims, while Hennepin Healthcare treated additional patients from the shooting.President Donald…

South Korea has passed a law banning smartphones and other smart devices during school hours. The country joins a growing number of nations restricting phone use to protect students’ learning and wellbeing. The law will take effect in March 2026. Lawmakers from both ruling and opposition parties supported it. They argue it is needed to curb smartphone addiction, which research increasingly links to harmful effects. Parents and lawmakers push for action Supporters say phones disrupt lessons and reduce academic performance. Children spend too much time scrolling instead of studying or socialising. Parents worry devices prevent children from forming friendships or…