The Trump administration is taking steps to weaken the Endangered Species Act, a key piece of legislation aimed at protecting threatened wildlife. This move has raised concerns among environmentalists and conservationists who fear it could lead to increased risks for endangered species.

Clinicians are advocating for a new diagnostic approach to better assess suicide risk, moving beyond reliance on patients to disclose self-harm thoughts. This shift aims to enhance the accuracy of risk assessments and improve patient care.

The article discusses the current lack of global leadership in addressing climate change, highlighting the challenges faced by nations in coordinating effective responses. It emphasizes the need for stronger commitments and collaborative efforts to combat climate issues, as existing measures are deemed insufficient.

Early indicators suggest that the upcoming flu season in the U.S. may be particularly severe. Health experts are monitoring trends that show an increase in flu cases, raising concerns about the potential impact on public health and healthcare systems.

Scientists have determined that kissing has existed for at least 16 million years. This finding highlights the long evolutionary history of this behavior, suggesting that it may have deep roots in human and primate ancestry.

Iowa City has implemented a program making its public buses free for riders, resulting in a significant increase in ridership. This initiative has led to a reduction in personal vehicle use, contributing to less traffic congestion and improved air quality. Due to the positive outcomes observed, the city has decided to extend the program for an additional year, reflecting a commitment to sustainable transportation solutions.

A new gene-editing strategy has been developed that could significantly aid in the creation of treatments for rare diseases. This advancement, reported by The New York Times, highlights the potential of innovative genetic technologies to address previously untreatable conditions.

In Washington, a collaborative effort involving land trusts, conservancies, and tribes is utilizing audio technology and artificial intelligence to analyze birdsong. This initiative aims to gather insights into the health of forest habitats, effectively allowing birds to provide feedback on restoration efforts. By capturing and interpreting these natural sounds, the project seeks to enhance understanding of ecological conditions and inform future conservation strategies.

In South Carolina, the challenge of conserving family land is complicated by informal inheritance practices that often leave properties without clear titles. A growing initiative is emerging to assist families in navigating these complexities, ensuring that their legacies and lands are preserved for future generations. This effort highlights the importance of legal clarity in property ownership and the role of community support in maintaining familial ties to land.