Hemp Chaos, Killer Fungus, & Cancer Risks Explode!

Researchers have discovered that specific strains of the Beauveria bassiana fungus can effectively combat climate change-driven bark beetle infestations, offering a potential alternative to traditional insecticides, according to multiple news sources. The discovery, made by researchers at the Max Planck Institute, addresses a growing problem as bark beetle infestations intensify due to climate change.

The Beauveria bassiana fungus overcomes the beetles' defenses, providing a novel approach to pest control. This development comes amid growing concerns about the environmental impact of traditional insecticides.

In other news, multiple reports highlight concerns about potential political interference in appointments at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Additionally, the British supermarket chain Asda is facing challenges with declining sales. The construction of the HS2 railway in Britain has also led to the discovery of a massive collection of archaeological objects.

Meanwhile, the legal status of hemp continues to cause confusion due to its similarity to marijuana. According to NPR News, hemp and marijuana are the same species, yet face different laws. Nick Johnson, author of "Grass Roots," noted the long history of confusion surrounding the cannabis plant and its uses.

Also making headlines is a growing awareness of the link between alcohol consumption and cancer risk. A 2025 report by the U.S. Surgeon General's office, citing a 2019 study, revealed that less than half of Americans recognize alcohol as a carcinogen. A more recent 2025 study from JAMA Oncology found that nearly 53% of Americans are unaware of any link between alcohol and cancer. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists seven cancers with known links to alcohol consumption, including cancers of the mouth, throat, larynx, esophagus, liver, colon, rectum, and breast.

Finally, cryoelectron microscopy has revealed the molecular basis for broad gB binding and cross-genus virus neutralization by an antibody Fab5, offering effective protection against authentic virus challenges in immune-competent mice, non-human primates, and humanized mice with murine, rhesus, and human gammaherpesvirus.