John Scurlock, a New Orleans engineer, invented the bouncy castle in the early 1960s, initially as a backyard toy for his sons. Inspired by NASA's work on inflatable space stations, his "space pillow" became a neighborhood sensation, eventually leading to a family business selling inflatable play structures at fairs. However, safety concerns led to a redesign and the creation of Space Walk Inflatables. Tragically, a 1972 fire in the Rault Center, where five women jumped to their deaths, spurred Scurlock to develop a heavy-duty inflatable safety cushion, now used worldwide by fire brigades and emergency services. His innovative design, patented in 1973, evolved from his earlier bouncy castle invention.

The safety air cushion, capable of withstanding falls from significant heights, has saved countless lives globally. Scurlock continued inventing throughout his life, applying his engineering expertise to diverse projects, including underwater pipe welding equipment. His sons, Jeff and Mials, continue to run the family business, producing both bouncy castles and the life-saving safety air cushions.

Impact Statement: John Scurlock's ingenuity, initially driven by a desire to create fun for his children, resulted in two impactful inventions: the ubiquitous bouncy castle and the life-saving safety air cushion, demonstrating the unforeseen consequences of innovation and a commitment to safety.

Jamie Lee Curtis, in a recent interview, discussed her career, views on aging and Hollywood, and her personal journey with addiction. She emphasizes her "aggressive earliness," attributing it to a need for control stemming from witnessing her parents' careers decline with age. Curtis openly criticizes the cosmetic surgery industry, using strong language to describe its impact on women, while also acknowledging her own past regrets about cosmetic procedures. She highlights her recent Oscar win for Everything Everywhere All at Once and her current prolific career, including roles in The Bear and the upcoming Freakier Friday.

Curtis reflects on the challenges and triumphs of her career, noting she feels liberated from Hollywood's expectations. She details her active role in producing her projects, advocating for theatrical release of Freakier Friday, and her outspokenness about societal issues, including her support for her transgender daughter amid anti-trans legislation. Her advocacy is fueled by her recovery from alcoholism and a desire for personal freedom.

The interview reveals Curtis's philosophy of "freedom," emphasizing authenticity and pushing back against societal pressures, particularly regarding age and appearance in Hollywood. Her career resurgence reflects a deliberate rejection of traditional industry norms and a commitment to her own terms.

A woman, identified only as Sarah, discovered her father, James, had engaged in sexually coercive behavior and created extensive recordings documenting his wife's movements and his own obsessive use of pornographic websites. This behavior emerged after years of taking the Parkinson's medication Ropinirole, a dopamine agonist. Sarah learned from his nurse that such extreme side effects were possible. The couple is now separated due to James's actions, and he is currently residing in a specialist care home where he has allegedly assaulted staff. This is one of 50 cases the BBC has been made aware of involving similar behavior in men taking dopamine agonist medications. Many cases involve exploitation of women and children.

The BBC's investigation reveals that while the risks of impulsive behaviors, including altered sexual interests, are known, doctors aren't consistently warning patients. The drug manufacturer, GSK, knew about a link between Ropinirole and "deviant" sexual behavior as early as 2003 but warnings weren't fully detailed in drug leaflets until 2007. Concerns have also emerged regarding studies on Rotigotine, another dopamine agonist, where potential conflicts of interest and downplaying of adverse effects are alleged. The UK's MHRA, however, has no plans to alter warnings. The Royal College of GPs' updated curriculum will include monitoring for impulsive behaviors.

Impact Statement: This investigation highlights serious concerns about the insufficient warnings regarding the potentially devastating side effects of dopamine agonist drugs, impacting patient safety and families. The lack of comprehensive warnings and potential conflicts of interest in research highlight a need for increased transparency and stronger patient protections.

A strike by over 2,000 Republic Services garbage collectors across the United States, beginning July 1st, has left numerous cities grappling with overflowing trash and unsanitary conditions. The Teamsters union, representing the workers, alleges unfair pay and benefits compared to other sanitation workers. Republic Services counters that the union is unwilling to compromise and accuses the union of illegal activities, including vandalism and threats, claims the union denies. The strike initially impacted 14 communities in Greater Boston and spread to several other locations, including Manteca, California; Ottawa, Illinois; Cumming, Georgia; and Lacey, Washington.

The situation has created significant problems for municipalities, forcing them to implement costly temporary solutions like creating makeshift dump sites and hiring alternative contractors. Several cities, including Gloucester, Massachusetts, have joined lawsuits against Republic Services for breach of contract. Mayor Greg Vargas of Gloucester highlighted the company's failure to provide adequate replacement workers as promised. In Boston, Mayor Michelle Wu announced fines for Republic's failure to clear trash, impacting both residents and businesses. While some localized agreements have been reached, the strike continues in several areas, with negotiations stalled in Massachusetts. Business owners report serious issues with overflowing dumpsters and pest infestations.

Impact Statement: The strike highlights the vulnerability of cities reliant on private waste management companies and the significant public health and economic consequences of labor disputes in essential services.

A recent study suggests that the widely promoted 10,000 steps daily target might be unnecessarily high, with 7,000 steps offering substantial health benefits. This sparked a broader examination of common health benchmarks, including water intake, sleep, exercise, and mindfulness. While the NHS recommends 1.5-2 liters of water daily, kidney specialist Prof Neil Turner argues that listening to one's thirst is often sufficient, except for individuals with specific conditions. Dr Linia Patel, however, emphasizes the importance of hydration for women's health, citing potential symptoms like fatigue and constipation associated with dehydration.

Regarding sleep, the NHS recommends 7-9 hours nightly, a benchmark reinforced by Prof Ama Johal, who highlights the significant health risks associated with insufficient sleep. While there’s no wriggle room on the minimum, short daytime naps can be beneficial. For exercise, the Chief Medical Officer recommends 150 minutes of exercise weekly and two strength training sessions; Dr Sinead Roberts advocates adapting recommendations to individual lifestyles, emphasizing the interconnectedness of various health factors. Finally, while the NHS suggests 10 minutes of daily mindfulness, psychologist Natasha Tiwari clarifies that even brief mindful moments can offer positive effects.

Impact Statement: The article challenges the rigid adherence to specific health targets, suggesting a more flexible, personalized approach focusing on overall well-being rather than strict numerical goals.

Research is underway to understand how the female body uniquely responds to elite sports. Studies are exploring the impact of breast size and sports bras on running performance, the influence of the menstrual cycle on athletic ability and the use of period trackers, and the higher risk of certain injuries like ACL tears in women. Scientists like Prof Joanna Wakefield-Scurr (University of Portsmouth), nicknamed the "Bra Professor," are using motion sensors to measure how breast movement affects performance, showing that inadequate support reduces stride length. Athletes like Calli Hauger-Thackery (Team GB) discuss the challenges of competing while menstruating, highlighting the need for open conversations and better support. Researchers such as Prof Kirsty Elliott-Sale (Manchester Metropolitan University) and Dr Thomas Dos'Santos (Manchester Metropolitan University) investigate hormonal influences and anatomical differences contributing to the higher risk of ACL injuries in women. The Sale Sharks Women rugby team is collaborating with Manchester Metropolitan University to address menstrual cycle impacts on performance. Former England captain Katy Daley-McLean emphasizes the shift from viewing female athletes as "mini-men" to a more inclusive and supportive environment.

Impact Statement: This research has the potential to significantly improve athletic performance, reduce injury risk, and foster greater inclusivity in women's sports.

Gregg Wallace, former MasterChef host, apologized for hurting anyone but denied being a "groper, a sex pest or a flasher" in an interview with The Sun. The statement follows his dismissal earlier this month after an independent inquiry upheld 45 allegations of misconduct, including unwelcome physical contact and instances of being in a state of undress. Co-host John Torode was also fired after an allegation of using a racist term was upheld; he claims no recollection of the event. The inquiry was launched by Banijay following a BBC News investigation last year, which prompted over 50 people to come forward with allegations against Wallace, primarily involving inappropriate language and culturally insensitive remarks.

Wallace attributed some of his behavior to his background and a previously jovial work environment, while also mentioning his recent autism diagnosis. He addressed a specific incident involving him being partially undressed on set, claiming no contestants were present. His linking of his autism diagnosis to the allegations sparked criticism from disability charities. Torode, who has stated that any racist language is unacceptable, was defended by Wallace, who cited Torode's support for diverse MasterChef winners. However, Wallace admitted to unfollowing Torode and his wife on social media due to their differences.

Despite the dismissals, the BBC announced that a new series of MasterChef, filmed prior to the firings, will still air. This decision has been met with criticism from some who made allegations against Wallace, who claim it shows a disregard for their experiences.

Impact Statement: The dismissals of Wallace and Torode will significantly impact the MasterChef brand and raise questions about workplace conduct in the television industry. The broadcast of the new series despite the allegations will likely generate further controversy.

The eviction of "Nasty Nick" Bateman from the UK's Big Brother in 2000 sparked a national debate about the show's ethics and its impact on viewers. The show's finale attracted 10 million viewers, marking a significant cultural shift. Twenty-five years later, reality TV remains hugely popular, with shows like The Traitors and Love Island consistently drawing large audiences. While criticism persists regarding the genre's superficiality and potential for harm, some social experts suggest it can foster social understanding and challenge biases.

Professor Danielle Lindemann of Lehigh University highlights reality TV's demographic diversity, arguing it showcases aspects of society often overlooked. Dr. Jacob Johanssen of St Mary's University emphasizes the genre's innovation in featuring ordinary people, creating a unique connection with viewers. The show's impact extends to raising awareness of diverse health conditions (e.g., Embarrassing Bodies) and disabilities (Pete Bennett's Big Brother win), sparking discussions on challenging topics such as gaslighting and domestic abuse.

Reality TV's influence extends to influencing viewers' behavior and social attitudes, as evidenced by studies linking exposure to certain shows with increased discussions about sex among girls and a reduction in teenage birth rates in the US following the airing of MTV's 16 and Pregnant. While concerns remain about participant welfare and ethical production practices, the genre's capacity to initiate meaningful societal conversations remains undeniable.

Impact Statement: Reality TV's impact on society is multifaceted, raising both ethical concerns and the potential for positive social change through increased awareness and discussion of diverse issues.

More than 10,000 former retained firefighters across the UK are missing out on pension payments potentially worth thousands to over £100,000, according to the Fire and Rescue Services Association (FRSA). Two recent legal rulings established their entitlement to pensions for service between April 2000 and April 2006, covering their entire careers, although they must "buy back" contributions. The FRSA estimates 16,000 have claimed, but at least 10,000 more are eligible. Former firefighters Peter Duncombe and Paul Jarvis described receiving lump sum payments and ongoing monthly payments as a significant boost, especially given the cost of living crisis.

The FRSA urges those who may qualify to contact their former employers or the union for assistance. The Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government and the Local Government Association stated their support in ensuring firefighters receive their pensions, highlighting efforts to trace individuals with service dating back to the 1960s. The National Fire Chiefs Council also emphasized the critical role of on-call firefighters and encouraged eligible individuals to claim.

Impact Statement: This situation highlights a significant financial impact on thousands of former retained firefighters and underscores the importance of awareness campaigns to ensure eligible individuals receive their due pension payments.

Apple TV+ has unveiled "Pluribus," a new series from "Breaking Bad" creator Vince Gilligan, premiering November 7th. The show, already renewed for a second season, stars Rhea Seehorn, reuniting her with Gilligan after their work on "Better Call Saul." Apple describes the series as centering on "the most miserable person on Earth" tasked with "saving the world from happiness." The cast also includes Karolina Wydra, Carlos Manuel Vesga, Miriam Shor, and Samba Schutte.

"Pluribus" joins Apple TV+'s growing catalog of science fiction programming, alongside shows like "Murderbot," "Foundation," and "Invasion," and upcoming adaptations such as "Neuromancer."

A Global Witness survey of over 200 land and environmental defenders between November 2024 and March 2025 revealed that more than 90 percent experienced online abuse, primarily on Meta platforms (Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram). Facebook was the most frequently cited platform, followed by X. Approximately 75 percent of those surveyed believed their online abuse correlated with offline harm. The report highlights the increased risk faced by activists, particularly women, due to online harassment, including "red-tagging" in Southeast Asia, which labels dissidents as communists.

Meta's abandonment of its third-party fact-checking program and shift towards a crowdsourced content moderation approach are cited as contributing factors. Activists like Fatrisia Ain in Indonesia detail the real-world consequences, including physical attacks and threats, stemming from online harassment. Ain reported unsuccessful attempts to get Facebook to remove posts containing dangerous accusations.

Meta responded by highlighting its available safety features but did not directly address the concerns raised in the report. Global Witness advocates for increased resources for content moderation, algorithmic improvements, and public input into social media platform policies to mitigate online harassment and its real-world ramifications.

Impact Statement: The report highlights the significant connection between online harassment and real-world violence against environmental activists, urging social media companies to improve their content moderation practices.

Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba, Inter Miami players, missed the MLS All-Star Game on Wednesday without receiving sanctions, their coach confirmed. Both players, selected by fans and media, were absent from the MLS's 3-1 victory against Liga MX All-Stars. League rules allow for a one-match suspension for players opting out without a medical reason. However, Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano cited the team's heavy game schedule and Messi's fatigue as reasons for their absence. Mascherano stated that Messi is expected to return to training and both players could feature in Inter Miami's match against FC Cincinnati on Saturday at DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, depending on their fitness.

Messi leads the MLS with 18 goals and 10 assists in 17 league games, alongside appearances in the CONCACAF Champions Cup and FIFA Club World Cup. Alba has one goal and eight assists in 18 MLS matches, with additional appearances in those competitions.

Joan MacDonald, a 79-year-old fitness influencer with over 2 million Instagram followers, exemplifies a growing trend of older women embracing intense strength training. Other notable examples include 89-year-old Ernestine Shepherd, a competitive bodybuilder, and Nora Langdon, who recently deadlifted 225 pounds in her 80s. These women challenge stereotypes of aging and frailty, demonstrating that older individuals are capable of significant physical feats. Their experiences highlight the benefits of strength training for bone health, cognitive function, and overall well-being, particularly for women who may have internalized negative messages about exercise.

Many of these women initially worried about appearing "manly" but overcame those concerns, emphasizing the importance of dispelling societal biases against women lifting weights. The increasing popularity of strength training among older women is reflected in the inclusion of powerlifting in the National Senior Games for the first time this year, with 88 women aged 50 to 82 participating. Experts like Elaina Manolis, a physical therapist, stress the importance of strength training for maintaining independence and functionality in later life, while acknowledging that it's not a solution for all health challenges.

Impact Statement: The growing visibility of older women excelling in strength training challenges societal perceptions of aging and promotes the importance of physical activity for healthy aging.

Former England cricketer Graham Thorpe (55) died by suicide on August 4, 2024, after being struck by a train in Surrey, a coroner concluded. Surrey Coroner Jonathan Stevens stated there were "shortcomings" in Thorpe's care in the months leading up to his death, particularly after he expressed suicidal thoughts to his wife and a care coordinator on June 28, 2024. While the coroner found failings in the care provided, he couldn't definitively say whether earlier intervention would have changed the outcome. The last time healthcare professionals saw Thorpe in person was March 20, 2024.

An investigation by Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust found that Thorpe's presentation on June 28th wasn't perceived as a crisis situation, and a two-week delay in follow-up was deemed appropriate at the time. A consultant psychiatrist, Dr. Shriti Burgul, later acknowledged that, in hindsight, a home visit would have been clinically indicated. Thorpe's widow attributed the decline in his mental health to the "real shock" of losing his job as a batting coach with the England and Wales Cricket Board. A neuropsychological impact was also considered a possibility that could have affected his engagement with appointments.

Impact Statement: The inquest highlights concerns regarding the provision of mental healthcare, specifically the assessment and response to individuals expressing suicidal ideation.

Adam Sandler's Happy Gilmore returns in a sequel 29 years after the original. The film opens with Happy, now married with five children, accidentally killing his wife with a golf shot. This leads to his retirement and a descent into alcoholism, before his daughter's ballet aspirations motivate him to return to professional golf. The sequel features cameos from numerous professional golfers, including Lee Trevino, Jordan Spieth, Xander Schauffele, Jack Nicklaus, Fred Couples, John Daly, Scottie Scheffler, and Will Zalatoris, along with returning cast members like Christopher McDonald as Shooter McGavin, and new additions like Bad Bunny.

The film pays tribute to deceased actors from the original, notably Carl Weathers, and incorporates recurring gags and familiar Sandler comedic elements. While not reaching the heights of the original, the sequel focuses on Happy’s redemption, his daughter’s ambitions, and the evolving world of professional golf. The film also includes cameos from other celebrities outside the golf world, such as Travis Kelce and Kelsey Plum.

Happy Gilmore 2 is available now on Netflix.

Rewind, a new brand launching in Europe, has released a limited-edition 9V battery-flavored corn chip. The chips, described as having a sharp, acidic flavor with a mineral tang, are intended to evoke the nostalgic memory (for some) of licking a 9V battery. Chef Mattias Larsson used citric acid, sodium bicarbonate, and mineral salts to create the flavor profile.

While licking a 9V battery is generally considered safe, Rewind explicitly discourages ingesting batteries. The company offers sample packs worldwide via a request form on their website. The chips themselves are thinner than some prefer but are otherwise palatable according to one taste-tester.

Impact Statement: The release of this unusual flavor is generating significant social media attention and curiosity.

Fountains, with a history spanning millennia, have served diverse purposes across cultures. From Minoan Crete (2000 BCE) where they were integrated into religious rituals, to ancient Egypt with their lion-head spouts, and the Islamic gardens symbolizing paradise, fountains held cultural and practical significance. The Renaissance and Baroque periods saw them become symbols of political power, exemplified by Rome's Fountain of Four Rivers and Trevi Fountain. In Ottoman Istanbul, public fountains served as charitable acts and community gathering spaces. Modern iterations, such as the Bellagio Fountains and Dubai Fountain, have evolved into spectacular performances. However, concerns remain regarding water waste, especially in drought-prone areas. Modern designs are addressing this with recirculated water and solar-powered pumps. Research confirms the localized cooling effect of fountains, particularly those with fine sprays or mist. Cities across Europe, facing rising temperatures, are adapting existing fountains with misting nozzles and expanding access to drinking fountains. The restoration of ancient fountains, such as one in Kibyra, Turkey (23 CE), highlights their enduring cultural value.

While fountains alone cannot solve urban heat issues, their continued use and adaptation demonstrate their enduring relevance in a warming world.