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Scientists Discover Ocean Microbe with Potential to Combat Climate Change

Scientists Discover Ocean Microbe with Potential to Combat Climate Change

A newly identified marine microbe could enhance natural carbon capture in the oceans.

Researchers in Sydney, Australia, have uncovered a new marine microbe that holds promise as a natural ally in combating climate change. This tiny, single-cell organism has the ability to photosynthesise, hunt, and consume prey while naturally absorbing carbon, offering insights into the ocean’s role as a carbon sink.

Martina Doblin, the senior author of the study, explained to Newsweek that the discovery could shift the scientific understanding of carbon movement within marine ecosystems. “This could be a game-changer in the way we think about carbon and how it moves through the marine environment,” Doblin said.

The microbe operates by producing a mucus-like substance known as exopolymer mucosphere, which is rich in carbon and traps other microbes. Once it consumes its prey, the substance is ejected and sinks into deeper ocean layers, contributing to the natural carbon cycling process. This process could have enormous climate implications, as it allows carbon to move from the ocean’s surface into its deeper layers. Researchers estimate that this microbe could sequester up to 0.15 gigatons of carbon annually.

While the discovery is promising, the microbe alone will not solve climate change. Experts point out that the world would need to remove about 10 gigatons of carbon from the atmosphere each year to avoid catastrophic warming. This newly discovered microbe could contribute only a small fraction of that—around 1 percent. Nevertheless, scientists are optimistic about discovering similar species that may also assist with natural carbon sequestration.

Doblin added, “The implication is that the ocean might be capturing more carbon naturally than we currently understand, and there may be previously overlooked areas that can contribute to this process.” This discovery sheds light on the ocean’s potential to act as a more significant carbon sink than previously thought, offering hope for innovative climate solutions.

Madonna & Sickick’s ‘Frozen (Fireboy DML Remix)’: How Does the New Video Compare to the Original?

Madonna & Sickick’s ‘Frozen (Fireboy DML Remix)’: How Does the New Video Compare to the Original?

The remix takes a fresh approach but sacrifices some of the original’s iconic undertones.

Madonna’s latest collaboration with Sickick, Frozen (Fireboy DML Remix), has officially hit the screen—and it offers a stark contrast to the original visuals. This latest remix follows the success of Sickick’s initial viral Frozen remix, which took TikTok by storm in 2021, amassing over 127,000 TikToks and 50 million streams globally since its release. The inclusion of Nigerian artist Fireboy DML makes this new iteration a natural evolution, but does it live up to the original’s legacy?

Director Ricardo Gomes brings his distinct visual style to this remix, kicking things off with a close-up zoom on Madonna’s eye and a series of night-time road flashes that set an enigmatic tone. Fans will recognise imagery from the 1998 Frozen video, such as the black dog—an iconic symbol of death—and the ravens that featured in the original’s abstract visuals.

However, this remix takes a sharp turn into modern, stylised visuals. The video leans heavily on high-fashion-inspired aesthetics—think Skims x Balenciaga vibes—with Madonna sporting slick synthetic blue lighting, a sleek leather bodysuit, and minimalist racer-glasses. Fireboy DML adds a contrast with warmer tones—reds and oranges—infused into his scenes, creating a striking juxtaposition.

While Madonna’s aesthetic references lean toward futuristic Blade Runner undertones, the spiritual and atmospheric qualities that defined the original video (directed by Chris Cunningham in 1998) are largely abandoned. The original’s themes of haunting female angst, desert landscapes, and ethereal visuals—evoking witchy and mystical undertones—are barely visible here. In brief moments, Madonna’s hair blows dramatically as the green-screened desert moves behind her, a fleeting callback to the original’s banshee-like mysticism. Yet, these moments feel more like homage than genuine recreation.

Critics argue that the remix’s focus on sleek modernity and Fireboy DML’s smooth verses sacrifices much of the emotional weight of the original Frozen. The track features a heavy beat, autotuned vocals, and an easygoing rhythm, making it danceable but removing much of the original’s brooding atmosphere. Some may see this shift as intentional—after all, why repeat the same visual motifs from 24 years ago? Yet, others feel that Gomes and Madonna missed a unique opportunity to draw on the song’s enduring cultural resonance.

Madonna and Ricardo Gomes share a long creative partnership, dating back to her 2019 Madame X tour and artistic projects exploring LGBTQIA+ advocacy. Despite their artistic chemistry and access to Frozen’s iconic pop-cultural status, the remix’s video leaves some fans underwhelmed, as it moves away from its spiritual predecessor’s rich and moody undertones.

Perhaps the point of this new iteration is simply its beat, its aesthetic, and its collaboration with Fireboy DML rather than a deeper exploration of Frozen’s original themes. But whether this is a bold reinvention or a missed opportunity depends on the viewer’s perspective. One thing is clear: Frozen (Fireboy DML Remix) is as much a modern club anthem as it is a nostalgic reimagining, even if it diverges from the original’s haunting essence.

Whistleblower Accuses Former White House Science Chief of Misconduct and Retaliation

Whistleblower Accuses Former White House Science Chief of Misconduct and Retaliation

Ethics violations and a toxic workplace are at the centre of the latest allegations.

A whistleblower has levelled serious accusations against Eric Lander, the former director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), claiming ethical misconduct, bullying, and retaliation against staff members. The complaint highlights instances of Lander creating a harmful work environment and violating ethics policies while in his role.

This latest complaint, filed by the Government Accountability Project on behalf of whistleblower Rachel Wallace and other anonymous OSTP employees, is said to be the most detailed yet regarding alleged misconduct under Lander’s leadership. It accuses him of ignoring repeated warnings about ethical violations and retaliating against those who raised concerns.

The complaint was formally submitted to the Office of Special Counsel, as well as congressional committees, seeking reinstatement for Wallace and financial damages for other affected individuals. According to the whistleblower’s findings, at least 15 employees reported being victims of mistreatment, the majority of whom were women. “Ethics violations were rampant; retaliation was ever-present. It proves toxic workplaces are nonpartisan. We urge you to promptly investigate,” the filing states.

Despite these accusations, Lander’s lawyer, Michael N. Levy, strongly disputed the claims, asserting that investigations had cleared him of wrongdoing regarding Wallace’s demotion and other related actions. Levy stated: “Any suggestion that Lander treated anyone differently on the basis of gender or race is simply not true.”

Wallace, a 21-year veteran of the civil service and former general counsel at OSTP, alleged Lander ignored ethical boundaries, including hiring decisions made prior to his formal confirmation. She also accused him of pressuring employees, particularly women, to return to in-person work while disregarding legal protections.

Lander resigned from his role in February, after the findings of the investigation into his actions were brought to light by Politico. Despite his resignation, Wallace claims little has changed. “I’m still in exactly the same position I was when this all started,” she explained, criticising a lack of action to address the workplace culture or reinstate her to her prior position.

The White House has maintained that it takes all allegations seriously and investigates complaints thoroughly. Despite Lander’s resignation, concerns remain about the administration’s response to these revelations, with Wallace and others claiming corrective steps have yet to materialise.

This unfolding situation underscores ongoing concerns about ethical accountability and workplace safety in federal institutions, as well as the consequences of unchecked power within the administrative structure.

Arteta Urges Caution with Tomiyasu’s Return Amid Concerns Over Persistent Calf Issue

Arteta Urges Caution with Tomiyasu’s Return Amid Concerns Over Persistent Calf Issue

The Arsenal manager emphasises patience to avoid further injury setbacks for the defender.

Mikel Arteta has stressed that Arsenal will adopt a cautious approach with Takehiro Tomiyasu as concerns mount over the possibility of a recurring calf injury. Tomiyasu initially sustained the issue in January but managed to feature in the second leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final against Liverpool. However, since that appearance, the Japanese international has remained sidelined and will also miss the upcoming match against Leicester on Sunday.

Arteta has admitted uncertainty regarding Tomiyasu’s return and is determined not to rush him back into action, fearing further setbacks. “He needs to be consistently training for a period so that we can minimise the risk of having another recurring injury in the same muscle because it would be something to worry about, and we have to stay away from that,” Arteta explained.

He added that Tomiyasu’s quick recovery after his initial calf issue may have contributed to the problem. “He had a calf injury and after that, he had a really quick recovery. We played him, maybe too quick, I don’t know,” the manager said.

Arteta expressed his disappointment, highlighting Tomiyasu’s importance to the team: “He had a recurring injury there and then he felt it again one day when he was back in training with us, so yes, disappointment because he has been really important. He played a lot of minutes, he played quality minutes, and had a good contribution in the team, and unfortunately now we cannot use him.”

In Tomiyasu’s absence, Cedric Soares has stepped in, with Arteta praising his professionalism and performance. “It’s good to have someone like Cedric that when we had to use him, he was ready because he is a great professional and he is performing well for the team,” Arteta concluded.

Arsenal will continue to monitor Tomiyasu’s recovery while taking a measured approach to ensure his long-term fitness.

Poland Ready to Transfer MiG-29 Jets to Germany for Potential Deployment to Ukraine

Poland Ready to Transfer MiG-29 Jets to Germany for Potential Deployment to Ukraine

Following Zelensky’s urgent appeal, Warsaw urges NATO allies to assist with fighter jet transfers.

The Polish government has confirmed its readiness to send all of its MiG-29 fighter jets to a US military base in Germany, paving the way for their potential transfer to Ukraine. This move follows a recent plea from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US lawmakers’ calls to expedite military aid to bolster Ukraine’s defences against Russia’s ongoing invasion.

Poland’s foreign ministry stated: “The authorities of the Republic of Poland… are ready to deploy, immediately and free of charge, all their MiG-29 jets to the Ramstein Air Base and place them at the disposal of the Government of the United States of America.” Additionally, Warsaw has requested that the United States provide used aircraft with comparable operational capabilities and has signalled its willingness to negotiate a purchase immediately.

Zelensky, in a dramatic video address to US lawmakers on Saturday, emphasised Ukraine’s need to strengthen its air defences to maintain control of its skies. Dressed in his signature army-green shirt and standing before a white wall adorned with the Ukrainian flag, Zelensky warned that this might be his “last time” speaking to them alive. His plea highlighted the urgent need for either a NATO-enforced no-fly zone or additional fighter jet support.

While NATO has resisted Zelensky’s calls for a no-fly zone—citing fears of escalating the war with Russia—it appears that transferring Soviet-era MiG jets from Eastern European allies to Ukraine is becoming a practical alternative. During a meeting with approximately 300 members of Congress and their staff, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer acknowledged Zelensky’s “desperate plea” and the potential for the US to facilitate these transfers.

The United States is reportedly exploring the possibility of sending American-made F-16 fighter jets to Eastern European NATO members as replacements for the MiGs, but logistical challenges could delay this plan. A backlog in F-16 production, coupled with commitments to supply F-16s to Taiwan, complicates efforts. As a result, these NATO allies would need to supply their MiGs to Ukraine, essentially accepting American IOUs for future F-16 shipments.

Zelensky also underscored that drones and aircraft would be vital to Ukraine’s defence efforts during his address, highlighting the multifaceted military support the nation requires to counter Russian advances.

The situation signals both strategic urgency and challenges as allies coordinate military assistance to support Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Coca-Cola, Starbucks, and McDonald’s Cease Operations in Russia Over Ukraine Conflict

Coca-Cola, Starbucks, and McDonald’s Cease Operations in Russia Over Ukraine Conflict

The companies take action in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and its humanitarian impact.

Coca-Cola, Starbucks, and McDonald’s have all suspended their operations in Russia within a matter of hours, following the country’s invasion of Ukraine. The decisions come as the conflict continues to escalate, with each company expressing solidarity with those affected.

Starbucks confirmed its decision to “suspend all business activity in Russia” in a statement on its website. The company noted that its licensed partner, Alshaya Group, operates over 100 cafes in Russia and will provide support to approximately 2,000 employees impacted by the suspension. CEO Kevin Johnson added: “We condemn the horrific attacks on Ukraine by Russia, and our hearts go out to all those affected.” Johnson also emphasised that the company would halt all product shipments to Russia while maintaining transparency about its actions as the situation develops.

McDonald’s followed shortly after, announcing the temporary closure of all 850 locations in Russia. CEO Chris Kempczinski highlighted the humanitarian crisis as the driving factor behind the move, stating: “The conflict in Ukraine and the humanitarian crisis in Europe has caused unspeakable suffering to innocent people.” Despite the closure, the fast-food giant will continue paying its 62,000 employees in Russia to mitigate the economic impact. Kempczinski expressed the company’s commitment to supporting employees, franchisees, and partners during this crisis.

Meanwhile, Coca-Cola also declared its decision to suspend operations in the country. A statement from the beverage company said: “Our hearts are with the people who are enduring unconscionable effects from these tragic events in Ukraine. We will continue to monitor and assess the situation as circumstances evolve.”

These corporate responses highlight the significant economic impact of the ongoing conflict, as major multinational companies grapple with ethical and operational decisions in the face of geopolitical instability.

Ed Sheeran Refutes Claims of Musical Plagiarism in ‘Shape of You’ Court Battle

Ed Sheeran Refutes Claims of Musical Plagiarism in ‘Shape of You’ Court Battle

Singer addresses lawsuit accusations from songwriters over alleged borrowing from 2015 track.

Ed Sheeran has firmly rejected accusations of copying musical ideas as he appeared in court to address the ongoing legal battle surrounding his hit Shape of You.

Sheeran faces legal action from songwriters Sami Chokri and Ross O’Donoghue, who allege that parts of their 2015 track Oh Why were used without permission in his 2017 single.

During the trial’s opening on Friday, Chokri and O’Donoghue’s lawyer, Andrew Sutcliffe, described Sheeran as a “magpie” who frequently “borrows ideas” without proper credit. On Monday, Sheeran took the stand to counter these claims, firmly denying any wrongdoing.

The musician told the court that if Sutcliffe had conducted a proper investigation, he would have found numerous lesser-known artists with whom Sheeran had cleared song elements. Additionally, he denied having any familiarity with Chokri when the latter performed under the name Sami Switch earlier in his career.

“I’ve never done what you’re suggesting,” Sheeran asserted, addressing Sutcliffe. In a written statement, Sheeran further disputed having met Chokri at a London Nando’s, dismissing the accusation.

The singer also emphasised his efforts to ensure fairness, stating, “I’ve always tried to credit anyone contributing to any song I’ve written, even those who were only minor influences.”

Chokri and O’Donoghue are arguing that Shape of You contains “specific lines and phrases” taken from their track Oh Why, sparking this high-profile legal dispute.

US Struggles to Keep Up with Russia and China in Hypersonic Missile Development

US Struggles to Keep Up with Russia and China in Hypersonic Missile Development

Report highlights test failures as Pentagon races to meet operational goals for advanced weapons.

The United States is reportedly falling further behind Russia and China in the development of hypersonic missile technology following a series of unsuccessful tests. Lockheed Martin’s air-launched hypersonic missile has failed three consecutive trials, while both China and Russia have successfully tested their own hypersonic weapons.

The Pentagon had aimed to begin initial production of its hypersonic missile by 30 September, but setbacks are delaying progress, according to a Bloomberg report. Designed to travel at speeds over five times the speed of sound, hypersonic missiles give minimal reaction time for enemy air defences.

The US missile, estimated to cost approximately $1.4 billion, is intended to be deployed from a B-52H bomber. Upon release, it would separate and accelerate to hypersonic speeds as it heads toward its target. Currently, the project must pass additional testing, including the fourth and fifth evaluations of its booster motor by 30 June.

The Air Force is also awaiting the outcome of a review into the reasons behind the failed tests, with results initially expected in February. If successful, the next stage would involve a flight test of a fully operational hypersonic missile between July and September. Additionally, Lockheed Martin’s capacity to manufacture and deliver these advanced weapons must be thoroughly assessed.

Defence official Heidi Shyu, Undersecretary of Research and Engineering for the Defence Department, expressed support for the Air Force’s efforts to expedite the programme. However, she noted to Bloomberg that “the 30 September operational capability date is a very aggressive schedule.”

Despite these challenges, the Air Force remains committed to advancing the missile programme “while maintaining high standards of technical rigor.” Lockheed Martin secured a $480 million contract in April 2018, which was later increased to $986 million in December 2019.

The report also highlighted that Russia successfully test-fired its hypersonic missile before its invasion of Ukraine in February, and that China had previously flown a hypersonic missile 25,000 miles in just over 100 minutes in July 2022, according to US intelligence.

The three recent failures of the US missile occurred during testing of the missile’s booster motor after its separation from the bomber, further emphasising the hurdles the programme continues to face.

Theresa May Warns Women May Face Setbacks Due to Rise in Flexible Working

Theresa May Warns Women May Face Setbacks Due to Rise in Flexible Working

Former PM highlights risks of being ‘out of sight, out of mind’ as remote work changes workplace dynamics.

Theresa May has cautioned that the shift toward flexible working could put women at a disadvantage in their careers, as they risk becoming less visible to senior managers. Speaking during a conversation with former Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard for International Women’s Day, May addressed how caregiving responsibilities and remote work impact women’s professional opportunities.

May explained that many women balance childcare and caring for elderly relatives, which places them in a challenging position in the workplace. While flexible working is widely recognised by senior business leaders as beneficial, she noted that middle management has been more resistant to its adoption.

She explained this resistance, saying, “It was middle management that found it most difficult and I think it was because often for middle management, presence in the office was their way of judging your output, rather than actually having to judge the output on its own sake.”

May further added that the pandemic had shifted attitudes toward remote work, showing many employees could maintain productivity at home unless they were in roles requiring physical presence. Despite this, she warned that if women adopt flexible working disproportionately, they risk missing out on key opportunities, such as informal networking moments with senior leadership.

May recounted a story from Australia about a woman who deliberately timed her Monday morning lift journey with the company’s CEO, using these small interactions to strengthen her visibility and career prospects. She concluded that “out of sight can be out of mind” and highlighted that while flexible working can help women manage their responsibilities, it carries potential long-term risks if it reduces their visibility.

She urged that more managers must embrace flexibility while ensuring that it does not inadvertently hinder women’s chances for career progression.

The conversation was part of the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership event held at King’s College London.

Mike Pence Launches $10 Million Ad Campaign Blaming Anti-Oil Democrats for Strengthening Putin’s War

Mike Pence Launches $10 Million Ad Campaign Blaming Anti-Oil Democrats for Strengthening Putin’s War

Former VP targets House Democrats, accusing policies of enabling Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Mike Pence has rolled out a $10 million advertising campaign aimed at House Democrats, claiming their environmental policies have indirectly supported Russia’s military actions in Ukraine.

The ads target key Democratic members and accuse President Joe Biden and his administration of jeopardising international security by halting domestic oil production. Specifically, the ads criticise the revocation of the permit for the Keystone XL Pipeline—a decision made by the Biden administration but initially supported under Trump’s administration when Pence was Vice President.

The central claim in the ad reads: “Joe Biden caved to the radical environmentalists and stopped America’s Keystone Pipeline and dramatically increased Americans’ dependence on Russian oil, endangering America’s security and helping Russia fund their invasion.”

This move comes amid a broader political debate. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and many Democrats are actively pushing for a ban on Russian oil imports as a response to the invasion of Ukraine. In a recent letter to Democratic colleagues, Pelosi underscored the administration’s priorities: “The Administration and the Congress remain laser-focused on bringing down the higher energy costs for American families and our partners stemming from Putin’s invasion.”

The ad campaign specifically targets a list of vulnerable House Democrats, including:

Rep Colin Allred (TX-32)
Rep Cindy Axne (IA-03)
Rep Jared Golden (ME-02)
Rep Henry Cuellar (TX-28)
Rep Kurt Schrader (OR-05)
Rep Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07)
Rep Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15)
Rep Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06)
Rep Susan Wild (PA-07)
Rep Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05)
Rep Matt Cartwright (PA-08)
Rep Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)
Rep Tom O’Halleran (AZ-02)
Rep Elaine Luria (VA-02)
Rep Sharice Davids (KS-03)
Rep Teresa Leger Fernandez (NM-03)
Some of these Democrats are considered particularly vulnerable. For instance, Rep Elaine Luria faces challenges following redistricting in Virginia, with political forecasts labelling her district a “Toss-up.” Similarly, Rep Cindy Axne’s Iowa district has leaned Republican in past elections, complicating her prospects.

Conversely, Representatives Colin Allred (Texas’s 32nd District) and Lizzie Fletcher (Texas’s 7th District) represent seats that have become safer for Democrats through redistricting. According to political analysis by FiveThirtyEight, Allred’s district has a Democratic lean of 25 percentage points, while Fletcher’s has a lean of 24 percentage points, largely due to the shifting demographics of their respective areas.

This ad campaign highlights how Pence and his political group Advancing American Freedom are strategically leveraging energy policy and geopolitical concerns ahead of upcoming elections.