Keeping wastewater flowing into tomorrow's coffee | On the ISS this week July 7 - 11, 2025

Archaeologists in Belize have uncovered the tomb of an ancient Maya ruler, packed with fascinating artifacts—including a striking jadeite mosaic death mask and intricately shaped vessels depicting animals like owls and monkeys. This discovery offers a rare glimpse into the rituals and craftsmanship of a civilization that thrived centuries ago.

Scientists are uncovering clues about why polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) often affects multiple generations in families. A new study points to "epigenetic memory"—changes in gene activity passed down without altering the DNA itself—as a possible culprit. This could explain the stubborn hereditary pattern of PCOS and open doors for better treatments.

Editor’s Note: PCOS is a frustrating, poorly understood condition that messes with fertility, hormones, and metabolism. If epigenetics plays a role, it’s a big deal—not just for explaining family ties, but for eventually developing targeted therapies. For millions of women, this research could be a step toward answers that feel personal, not just clinical.

Scientists have successfully grown tiny, lab-made versions of the amniotic sac—the protective membrane surrounding a developing fetus—using stem cells. This breakthrough could help researchers better understand early pregnancy and potentially lead to new medical treatments or products.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just a cool science experiment—it’s a big deal for pregnancy research and medicine. The amniotic sac plays a crucial role in fetal development, but studying it in real time is incredibly difficult. These lab-grown models could unlock secrets about miscarriages, birth defects, or even improve fertility treatments. Plus, they might pave the way for synthetic alternatives to medical products derived from pregnancy tissues. In short, it’s a step toward solving mysteries that have stumped doctors for decades.

Ben Jealous, the Sierra Club’s executive director, is stepping away from his role after a turbulent stint marked by internal tensions. Since joining the prominent environmental group in 2023, Jealous reportedly butted heads with staff and the organization’s union, leading to this abrupt leave. It’s unclear whether this is a temporary pause or the beginning of a permanent exit.

Editor’s Note: The Sierra Club is one of the most influential environmental organizations in the U.S., so any leadership shake-up is a big deal—especially when it’s messy. Jealous, a former NAACP leader, was supposed to bring fresh energy to the group, but internal conflicts have derailed that vision. This could signal deeper issues within the organization or just a bad fit. Either way, it’s a setback for a group that’s trying to stay relevant in a crowded activist landscape.

Scientists are testing a groundbreaking treatment called VERVE-102 that uses gene editing to tackle high cholesterol at its source—by tweaking DNA directly in the body. Early results show it can slash levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol, especially for people with inherited conditions that cause dangerously high cholesterol.

Editor’s Note: If this treatment pans out, it could be a game-changer for folks with stubbornly high cholesterol who don’t respond well to existing meds. Instead of taking daily pills or injections, a one-time DNA edit might offer long-term protection against heart disease. That’s huge—but it’s still experimental, so don’t cancel your statin prescription just yet.