The US economy expanded at a robust 2.5% growth rate over the past year, according to new Commerce Department figures released Thursday. This growth is largely attributed to consumer spending, which accounts for approximately 70% of the US economy. Americans’ spending power was bolstered by wealth creation, a strong labor market, and lower interest rates. … Read more
A tuberculosis outbreak is currently underway in Wyandotte County, Kansas, with 67 active infections and 79 latent cases reported as of January 24. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment are working to contain the spread. While there is a TB vaccine available in the US, … Read more
A new study published in Science has found that scratching an itchy rash can actually provide some benefits, such as defense against bacterial skin infections. The researchers discovered that scratching releases a compound called substance P, which activates mast cells and helps fight off pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus. While this may seem counterintuitive, the study … Read more
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s hearing before the Senate has raised concerns about his fitness for the position of US Chief Health Official. During the second day of questioning, Kennedy struggled to answer questions about Medicare and refused to dismiss a debunked link between autism and vaccines. When pressed on this topic, he left open the … Read more
The Seattle Mariners have turned to veteran second baseman Jorge Polanco, who was let go in December, to play third base for the 2025 season. Polanco has agreed to a one-year contract worth $7.75 million, pending a physical and a potential vesting player option. This move comes after the Mariners traded four players to acquire … Read more
A recent mouse study published in Science has shed light on the contradictory effects of scratching an itch. Researchers discovered that while scratching can provide temporary relief, it often leads to inflammation and worsening symptoms in the long run. This paradox highlights the need for new strategies to manage chronic itching conditions, such as those … Read more
The Detroit Lions will have six representatives at the 2025 Pro Bowl Games, starting Thursday night. Quarterback Jared Goff, running back Jahmyr Gibbs, center Frank Ragnow, tackle Taylor Decker, safety Brian Branch, and punter Jack Fox will all participate in various events. On Wednesday, the NFL released details of the event, which includes new competitions … Read more
Actress Christine Baumgartner has confirmed her engagement to financier Josh Conner, just a year after filing for divorce from actor Kevin Costner. The couple’s whirlwind romance began in May 2023, when Baumgartner “blindsided” Costner with her divorce filing after 18 years of marriage. Baumgartner, 50, and Costner, 70, share three children together: Cayden, Hayes, and … Read more
UFC president Dana White has condemned fighter Bryce Mitchell’s comments about Adolf Hitler as “beyond disgusting”. The 30-year-old American, ranked 13th in the featherweight division, made antisemitic, homophobic, and transphobic remarks during a podcast episode. White stated that Mitchell needs an education on World War II history and Hitler’s atrocities. The UFC has yet to … Read more
Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) reported its Q2 fiscal 2025 results, with revenue and earnings beating street estimates. The company’s Azure cloud computing sales growth rate has slowed, but its overall revenue reached $69.6 billion, a 12% year-over-year increase. Productivity and Business Processes sales grew 14%, driven by higher sales of Microsoft 365 products and LinkedIn solutions. … Read more