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From Ancient Rituals to Fireworks: Why New Year’s Eve Still Matters

New Year’s Eve marks humanity’s shared fascination with time, renewal, and fresh beginnings - a moment to close one chapter and open the next. The tradition dates back more than 4,000 years to ancient Mesopotamia, where the Babylonians celebrated Akitu, a multi-day festival tied to the spring harvest and the rebirth of nature. Rather than a single night of revelry, Akitu was a ritual reset: debts were settled, promises were renewed, and cosmic order was symbolically restored. The date we recognize today, January 1 - comes from ancient Rome. In 46 BCE, Julius Caesar reformed the calendar and dedicated the year’s first day to Janus, the two-faced god of doorways and transitions, who looked both backward and forward. This symbolism still defines New Year’s Eve: reflection on the past paired with hope for what’s ahead. Over centuries, as Christianity spread across Europe, the celebration evolved, blending solemn religious observances with local customs of feasting, bells, and bonfires. In modern times, New Year’s Eve has become a global cultural event, shaped by public countdowns, fireworks, music, and collective rituals. From the iconic ball drop in Times Square to family gatherings and quiet toasts at home, the night offers a shared pause, an almost universal agreement to stop, take stock, and imagine change. Traditions vary frm lucky foods, noise-making to ward off evil spirits, or first-footing to invite good fortune, but the intent is the same. At its core, celebrating New Year’s Eve is about agency and optimism. Resolutions, whether kept or not, are expressions of belief that tomorrow can be different. Across cultures and centuries, the night endures because it gives people permission to hope—to acknowledge what was, release what no longer serves, and step forward together into something new. Looking to go deeper on why New Year’s Eve resonates so powerfully around the world? Our experts can speak to the historical, cultural, and psychological reasons humans mark time this way, and why the midnight reset still matters today. Find your expert here: www.expertfile.com

From Saint to Superstar: The Remarkable History of Santa — and His Many Global Identities

Santa Claus may look familiar — red suit, white beard, infectious laugh — but behind the modern icon is a centuries-long story shaped by religion, folklore, migration, marketing, and local tradition. Far from being a single character, “Santa” is a global collection of gift-givers, each reflecting the culture that shaped them. The Historical Roots: A Saint Becomes a Symbol The story of Santa Claus begins with St. Nicholas, a 4th-century Greek bishop known for generosity, compassion, and secret gift-giving. Stories of Nicholas helping the poor — often anonymously — spread across Europe, establishing a lasting connection between generosity and winter celebrations. Over time, St. Nicholas evolved from a religious figure into a folkloric one as traditions blended with local customs, seasonal festivals, and storytelling. The idea of a benevolent winter gift-giver became firmly embedded in European culture long before Santa ever boarded a sleigh. Santa in North America: Reinvention and Red Suits In North America, Santa Claus emerged as a cultural hybrid: Dutch settlers brought traditions of Sinterklaas 19th-century poems and illustrations reshaped Santa into a jovial, approachable figure 20th-century popular culture and advertising standardized the modern image: red suit, round belly, flying reindeer, North Pole address What began as a saintly figure became a universal symbol of generosity, childhood wonder, and seasonal joy — largely detached from religious roots but deeply tied to cultural celebration. Santa Around the World: Same Spirit, Different Stories Santa’s core traits — kindness, generosity, winter magic — remain consistent, but his appearance and habits vary widely: Europe Sinterklaas (Netherlands & Belgium): Arrives by boat, wears bishop’s robes, celebrated earlier in December Father Christmas (UK): Rooted in feasting and goodwill, later merged with Santa traditions Père Noël (France): Delivers gifts with a quiet, gentle presence La Befana (Italy): A broom-riding grandmother figure tied to Epiphany traditions Nordic Countries Joulupukki (Finland): Lives in Lapland, wears practical winter clothing, and feels distinctly grounded in nature Julenisse (Norway & Denmark): A blend of Santa and household folklore spirits Asia Hoteiosho (Japan): A cheerful monk associated with happiness and abundance Christmas gift-givers in many Asian countries are largely secular, tied to pop culture rather than religion Latin America Papá Noel: Often coexists with religious gift-bringers tied to Epiphany Emphasis may be placed more on community and family than individual gift-giving Why Santa Still Matters Santa’s endurance lies in his adaptability. He absorbs cultural values — generosity, kindness, joy — and reflects them back in familiar, comforting ways. Whether religious, secular, or purely symbolic, Santa represents shared traditions that bring people together during the darkest days of the year. Story Angles for Journalists How St. Nicholas became a global icon The commercialization of Santa — myth vs. modern marketing Cultural identity through holiday folklore Why children worldwide believe in gift-givers How immigrant communities blend Santa traditions Santa as a mirror of societal values across cultures Why This Matters Today In an increasingly globalized world, Santa Claus is a rare figure who crosses borders with ease — adapting, evolving, and uniting cultures through shared storytelling. His many forms remind us that traditions aren’t static; they grow with the people who keep them alive. Journalists covering culture, history, religion, folklore, or holiday traditions can connect with historians, anthropologists, religious scholars, and cultural experts through ExpertFile to explore how Santa continues to shape — and reflect — societies around the world. Find your expert here: www.expertfile.com

Ape Ancestors and Neanderthals Likely Kissed, New Analysis Finds

Kissing occurs in a variety of animals but presents an evolutionary puzzle: it appears to carry high risks, such as disease transmission, while offering no obvious reproductive or survival advantage. Despite kissing carrying cultural and emotional significance in many human societies, up to now researchers have paid little attention to its evolutionary history. In the new study, “A comparative approach to the evolution of kissing,” published this week in the journal Evolution and Human Behavior, the researchers carried out the first attempt to reconstruct the evolutionary history of kissing using a cross-species approach based on the primate family tree. The results indicate that kissing is an ancient trait in the large apes, evolving in the ancestor to that group 21.5 – 16.9 million years ago. Kissing was retained over the course of evolution and is still present in most of the large apes. The team also found that our extinct human relatives, Neanderthals, were likely to have engaged in kissing too. This finding, together with previous studies showing that humans and Neanderthals shared oral microbes (via saliva transfer) and genetic material (via interbreeding), strongly suggests that humans and Neanderthals kissed one another. “While kissing may seem like an ordinary or universal behavior, it is only documented in 46% of human cultures,” said Catherine Talbot, co-author and assistant professor in the College of Psychology at Florida Tech. “The social norms and context vary widely across societies, raising the question of whether kissing is an evolved behavior or cultural invention. This is the first step in addressing that question.” Matilda Brindle, lead author and evolutionary biologist at Oxford’s Department of Biology, said: “This is the first time anyone has taken a broad evolutionary lens to examine kissing. Our findings add to a growing body of work highlighting the remarkable diversity of sexual behaviors exhibited by our primate cousins.” To run the analyses, the team first defined what constitutes a kiss. This was challenging because many mouth-to-mouth behaviours look like kissing. Since the researchers were exploring kissing across different species, the definition also needed to be applicable to a wide range of animals. They therefore defined kissing as non-aggressive, mouth-to-mouth contact that did not involve food transfer. Having established this definition, the researchers collected data from the literature on which modern primate species have been observed kissing, focusing on the group of monkeys and apes that evolved in Africa, Europe and Asia. This included chimpanzees, bonobos, and orangutans, all of which have been observed kissing. They then ran a phylogenetic analysis, treating kissing as a ‘trait’ and mapping this to the family tree of primates. They used a statistical approach (called Bayesian modelling) to simulate different evolution scenarios along the branches of the tree, to estimate the probability that different ancestors also engaged in kissing. The model was run 10 million times to give robust statistical estimates. Stuart West, co-author and professor of evolutionary biology at Oxford, said, “By integrating evolutionary biology with behavioral data, we’re able to make informed inferences about traits that don’t fossilise – like kissing. This lets us study social behaviour in both modern and extinct species.” While the researchers caution that existing data are limited – particularly outside the large apes – the study offers a framework for future work and provides a way for primatologists to record kissing behaviors in nonhuman animals using a consistent definition.

A Roadmap or a Rift? Examining Trump’s 28-Point Ukraine Peace Proposal

As negotiations around the war in Ukraine continue to dominate global headlines, a newly surfaced 28-point peace proposal associated with former U.S. President Donald Trump has triggered intense debate across NATO capitals, Kyiv, and Moscow. The document — described in reporting by Reuters, Axios, Sky News, Al Jazeera and other outlets — outlines a framework aimed at ending the conflict but includes provisions that many analysts say could significantly reshape Europe’s security landscape. A Plan Built Around Ceasefire, Guarantees, and Reconstruction At its core, the plan calls for a formal ceasefire, a non-aggression pact between Russia, Ukraine, and European states, and a set of “security guarantees” meant to deter future conflict. Reporting indicates that Ukraine would receive assurances that any renewed Russian offensive would trigger a coordinated international response. The plan also proposes the creation of a major reconstruction program — potentially financed in part with frozen Russian assets — to rebuild infrastructure and modernize Ukraine’s economy. The proposal references pathways for deeper Ukrainian integration with Europe, including support for progressing toward EU membership and providing enhanced access to European markets. A large “Ukraine Development Fund” is also mentioned in multiple summaries of the plan. Provisions Driving the Most Global Pushback The most controversial elements relate to Ukraine’s territorial integrity and long-term security posture. Outlets such as Sky News and Al Jazeera report that the draft would recognize Russian control over Crimea and large parts of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson — areas currently occupied by Russian forces. Ukraine would also be required to formally abandon NATO membership and cap its military at 600,000 personnel. Additional provisions include restrictions on the presence of foreign troops in Ukraine, phased lifting of sanctions on Russia, full amnesty for war-related actions, and the reintegration of Russia into global economic and political structures. These components have drawn sharp responses, particularly from European leaders who argue the plan could reward aggression and undermine international legal norms. Dr. Glen Duerr is a citizen of three countries. He was born in the United Kingdom, moved to Canada as a teenager, and then to the United States to obtain his Ph.D. His teaching and research interests include nationalism and secession, comparative politics, international relations theory, sports and politics, and Christianity and politics. View his profile. What Remains Unclear or Still Under Discussion Reporting from Reuters and AP notes that many sections of the plan remain undefined or are still in flux. The exact mechanism behind the proposed security guarantees is not detailed. Oversight of reconstruction funds, timelines for reintegration of Russia, and the legal handling of frozen assets also require further clarification. Some reporting suggests parts of the plan draw from a prior informal Russian “non-paper,” raising questions about the provenance and intent of specific provisions. Why the Proposal Matters With the war approaching four years of fighting, any formal proposal for ending hostilities carries significant geopolitical weight. Supporters of the plan frame it as a pragmatic attempt to halt loss of life and begin rebuilding. Critics argue it risks legitimizing territorial conquest and weakening the broader post-Cold-War security order. As governments evaluate the implications, journalists covering defense, diplomacy, and international law will find this evolving proposal central to understanding where U.S., European, Russian, and Ukrainian negotiators may — or may not — be willing to go next.

UF expert answers questions about local risk of bird flu

Consumers may have noticed the rising price of eggs and even some shortages at grocery stores lately due to H5N1 avian influenza, but as cases of human and animal infections continue to rise, how concerned should you be about the virus? Benjamin Anderson, Ph.D., an assistant professor in the University of Florida College of Public Health and Health Professions’ Department of Environmental and Global Health and lead for UF’s Emerging Pathogens Institute bird flu response team answers some questions about the risk of infection to humans and animals from bird flu and how to protect yourself. Who is at risk? Currently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the risk to humans is low. “That is correct on an overall level,” Anderson said. There is no human-to-human transmission right now. Anderson said that while there have been an “alarming” number of human cases, the number of infections is still fewer than 100. Of those, most have resulted in mild illness and were in people who had direct exposure to infected animals. So far, there has been only one death attributed to the current outbreak of H5N1, known more commonly as bird flu – a man in Louisiana who was infected by a backyard flock. “We do have a lot of people who keep chickens,” Anderson said. “Because of the situation in Louisiana, this has, I think, piqued the concern even more so among folks who might have backyard poultry to recognize that is a potential pathway for transmission.” If you see a dead chicken, do not touch it or try to investigate yourself. Instead, report it to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Report dead wildlife, including migratory birds, to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission. Anderson said while the risk to the public is currently low, the future risk, including human-to-human transmission that could result in a pandemic, is still uncertain. Right now, he said, “Unless you’re handling poultry or working with or near dairy cattle, where bird flu outbreaks have been ongoing, your risk is relatively low.” Can I catch the virus from my backyard bird feeder? Gainesville is on a major flyway for migratory birds – a draw for birdwatching enthusiasts, particularly in the winter. This may be how bird flu has made its way into backyard flocks, since infected migratory birds shed the virus in their waste. So far, there is no data that suggests bird feeders could pose a significant transmission risk to people, and no reported human cases of bird flu have been traced to feeders. “However, when I say there’s no data, that means there’s no data. It hasn’t been investigated,” Anderson said. Waterfowl such as ducks and geese are more likely to carry the virus than songbirds. But if backyard birdwatchers are concerned, he said, take precautions such as wearing gloves and disinfecting bird feeders. And whether there’s an elevated risk of bird flu or not, always take care to avoid touching bird feces, which can contain salmonella. “Using some common sense, good hygiene practices, is going to be an effective way of protecting yourself,” he said. Are my outdoor cats in danger? Outdoor cats are susceptible to bird flu through exposure to dairy cattle, wild birds and contaminated raw milk. There is also new evidence of some sources of raw cat food being contaminated with H5N1. H5N1 causes severe infection in cats, with neurological symptoms that could mimic rabies. Infected cats may be disoriented, lethargic or disinterested in food. Florida residents can contact the Florida Health Department if they notice these symptoms in their pet. “If you see something unusual, seeking out professional care for that animal is an important thing to do,” Anderson said. As of now, it’s unclear whether cats can transmit the virus to humans, but as it adapts, transmission to other species could become easier and more widespread. What about eggs and poultry from the farmers market? Florida state statutes require sellers to register as a food supplier and meet certain criteria for food handling safety. But the regulations can be unclear to some small, local egg and poultry producers, and others operate under the radar. “I wouldn’t say that if you go to a farmers market, it’s a guarantee that the products you’re buying are produced under the proper regulations,” Anderson said, but the regulations themselves can be unclear. Some things you can do to keep yourself safe are asking the vendor if they’re registered and permitted with the state’s agriculture agency and checking that the products are labeled. Per the statutes, eggs must be refrigerated at all times between packaging and sale to the consumer. And definitely steer clear of raw milk, which has been tied to several human and animal H5N1 infections and always carries a risk of salmonella. “Don’t drink it, and don’t give it to your animals,” Anderson said. Is there a vaccine? How else can I protect myself? There is a vaccine for bird flu. While it isn’t currently being administered to humans in the U.S., Anderson said some agriculture workers in Europe have received it. “There is a potential justification for starting to release some of the stock of the H5N1-specific vaccine,” but it would come with tradeoffs, he said, such as maintaining stockpiles and keeping the vaccine matched well to an evolving virus. In his opinion, though, it makes sense to start the process now, both to protect workers who are already at higher risk of contracting the virus, and to begin collecting data on how well the vaccine is working. The idea that the U.S. should hold off on releasing a vaccine until bird flu becomes a pandemic is contrary to protecting public health, he said, adding that the tipping point for him was seeing the virus start to show up in backyard poultry. “That’s the rationale that I base my opinion off of,” Anderson said.

UD physicists track one of the most powerful solar flares in nearly two decades

A massive solar flare – possibly the strongest recorded in nearly 20 years – has unleashed a wave of charged particles toward Earth, sparking radio blackouts across parts of Africa and Europe and triggering measurable increases in radiation levels worldwide. At the University of Delaware, physicists Pierre-Simon Mangeard and John Clem are closely monitoring the event through UD’s neutron monitor network, a global system that tracks cosmic radiation from observatories in Newark, Greenland, Canada, Antarctica and Hawaii. “This is a significant event, still in progress,” said Mangeard. The physicists are seeing a roughly 65% increase in ground-level radiation, which is possibly the largest since 2006.  These elevated readings are known as a Ground Level Enhancement (GLE) – a rare occurrence caused by high-energy particles accelerated by solar flares that penetrate Earth’s magnetic field and reach the surface. The data being collected now will help researchers better understand how such bursts of solar activity impact Earth’s atmosphere, communications systems and even aviation safety. Clem and Mangeard’s work at UD’s Bartol Research Institute and Department of Physics and Astronomy contributes to global efforts to monitor and predict space weather events, including solar storms and coronal mass ejections. The team’s continuous, real-time data help scientists worldwide assess potential disruptions to satellites, power grids and high-altitude flights. As analysis of this flare continues, UD’s neutron monitor network will remain a key resource for understanding how space weather events ripple through our planet’s systems. Experts available for interviews: • Pierre-Simon Mangeard, research associate, Department of Physics and Astronomy • John Clem, associate professor, Department of Physics and Astronomy To contact Mangeard or Clem, email mediarelations@udel.edu.

Heart valve developed at UC Irvine shines in early-stage preclinical testing

UC Irvine researchers designed and developed a minimally invasive replacement pulmonary heart valve. Created for pediatric patients, the device can be expanded as children grow, eliminating the need for multiple surgeries. The team successfully conducted laboratory and early-stage animal feasibility testing of the implant, crucial steps toward approval for human use. Irvine, Calif., June 23, 2025 — Researchers at the University of California, Irvine have successfully performed preclinical laboratory testing of a replacement heart valve intended for toddlers and young children with congenital cardiac defects, a key step toward obtaining approval for human use. The results of their study were published recently in the Journal of the American Heart Association. The management of patients with congenital heart disease who require surgical pulmonary valve replacement typically occurs between the ages of 2 and 10. To be eligible for a minimally invasive transcatheter pulmonary valve procedure, patients currently must weigh at least 45 pounds. For children to receive minimally invasive treatment, they must be large enough so that their veins can accommodate the size of a crimped replacement valve. The Iris Valve designed and developed by the UC Irvine team can be implanted in children weighing as little as 17 to 22 pounds and gradually expanded to an adult diameter as they grow. Research and development of the Iris Valve has been supported by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development; the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute; and the National Science Foundation. This funding has enabled benchtop fracture testing, which demonstrated the valve’s ability to be crimped down to a 3-millimeter diameter for transcatheter delivery and subsequently enlarged to 20 millimeters without damage, as well as six-month animal studies that confirmed successful device integration within the pulmonary valve annulus, showing valve integrity and a favorable tissue response. “We are pleased to see the Iris Valve performing as we expected in laboratory bench tests and as implants in Yucatan mini pigs, a crucial measure of the device’s feasibility,” said lead author Arash Kheradvar, UC Irvine professor of biomedical engineering. “This work represents the result of longstanding collaboration between our team at UC Irvine and Dr. Michael Recto at Children’s Hospital of Orange County built over several years of joint research and development.”  Congenital heart defects affect about 1 percent of children born in the United States and Europe, with over 1 million cases in the U.S. alone. These conditions often necessitate surgical interventions early in life, with additional procedures required to address a leaky pulmonary valve and prevent right ventricular failure as children grow. The Iris Valve can be implanted via a minimally invasive catheter through the patient’s femoral vein. The Kheradvar group employed origami folding techniques to compress the device into a 12-French transcatheter system, reducing its diameter to no more than 3 millimeters. Over time, the valve can be balloon-expanded up to its full 20-millimeter diameter. This implantation method, along with the ability to begin treatment earlier in very young patients, helps mitigate the risk of complications from delayed care and reduces the need for multiple surgeries in this vulnerable population. “Once the Iris Valve comes to fruition, it will save hundreds of children at least one operation – if not two – throughout the course of their lives,” said Recto, an interventional pediatric cardiologist at CHOC who’s also a clinical professor of pediatrics at UC Irvine. “It will save them from having to undergo surgical pulmonary valve placement, as the Iris Valve is delivered via a small catheter in the vein and can be serially dilated to an adult diameter and also facilitate the future placement of larger transcatheter pulmonary valves – with sizes greater than 20 millimeters, like the Melody, Harmony and Sapien devices – if needed.” Kheradvar said that the next phase of preclinical testing of the Iris Valve is funded by the Brett Boyer Foundation, which is committed to supporting research into treatments for congenital heart disease. “We are actively engaged with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to define and carry out the required experiments and documentation for first-in-human authorization of the Iris Valve,” Kheradvar said. “Our team is urgently advancing the Iris Valve through preclinical studies to enable its clearance for first-in-human use. This is a critical step toward providing toddlers – who currently have no viable minimally invasive treatment until they reach the 45-pound threshold – with a much-needed option.” First co-author Nnaoma Agwu, a biomedical engineering Ph.D. candidate at UC Irvine, said: “The development of the Iris Valve required a strong and knowledgeable team that understood the clinical and mechanical design requirements. This accomplishment would not have been possible without the collaboration of talented clinicians, veterinarians and engineers. With this milestone reached, we are rigorously advancing the Iris Valve’s development, setting our sights on human clinical trials.” Joining Kheradvar, Recto and Agwu as co-authors of the article in Journal of the American Heart Association were Daryl Chau, a recent UC Irvine master’s graduate; Gregory Kelley and Tanya Burney, both research specialists at UC Irvine, with Burney also affiliated with the Beckman Laser Institute; Ekaterina Perminov, a clinical veterinarian with UC Irvine’s University Laboratory Animal Resources; and Christopher Alcantara, a radiology technician at CHOC. About UC Irvine’s Brilliant Future campaign: Publicly launched on Oct. 4, 2019, the Brilliant Future campaign aims to raise awareness and support for the university. By engaging 75,000 alumni and garnering $2 billion in philanthropic investment, UC Irvine seeks to reach new heights of excellence in student success, health and wellness, research and more. The Samueli School of Engineering plays a vital role in the success of the campaign. Learn more by visiting https://brilliantfuture.UC Irvine.edu/the-henry-samueli-school-of-engineering About the University of California, Irvine: Founded in 1965, UC Irvine is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities and is ranked among the nation’s top 10 public universities by U.S. News & World Report. The campus has produced five Nobel laureates and is known for its academic achievement, premier research, innovation and anteater mascot. Led by Chancellor Howard Gillman, UC Irvine has more than 36,000 students and offers 224 degree programs. It’s located in one of the world’s safest and most economically vibrant communities and is Orange County’s second-largest employer, contributing $7 billion annually to the local economy and $8 billion statewide. For more on UC Irvine, visit www.uci.edu. Media access: Radio programs/stations may, for a fee, use an on-campus studio with a Comrex IP audio codec to interview UC Irvine faculty and experts, subject to availability and university approval. For more UC Irvine news, visit news.uci.edu. Additional resources for journalists may be found at https://news.uci.edu/media-resources.

Roderick Cooke, PhD, French and Francophone Studies Professor, Shares Thoughts on Louvre Heist, Artifacts Stolen

On Sunday, October 19, at 9:34 a.m., four masked individuals surged into the Louvre’s Galerie d’Apollon from a severed, second-floor window. Hurriedly, they smashed open two display cases, seized eight pieces of jewelry, then shimmied down a ladder and sped off on motorbikes toward Lyons. In seven minutes’ time, in broad daylight, they absconded with an estimated $102 million in valuables from the world’s most famous museum. This past Saturday, October 25, French authorities announced the first arrests in connection with the daring heist. However, despite the police’s progress, the country continues to litigate the matter—embroiled in discussions of heritage, history and national identity. Recently, Roderick Cooke, PhD, director of French and Francophone Studies at Villanova University, shared his perspective on the situation as well as the artifacts lost. Q: The Louvre heist has been described as “brazen,” “shocking” and a “terrible failure” on security’s part. Is there any sort of precedent for this event in the museum’s history? Dr. Cooke: Nothing on this scale has ever happened to the Louvre since its founding as a museum during the Revolution. The closest equivalent is the 1911 theft of the Mona Lisa by a former employee who claimed it should be returned to Italy. However, that was one painting, the heist was not committed by organized crime, and the Mona Lisa did not have the renown it enjoys today. The impact of the theft was thus lower, although it did cause major outrage and a sweeping law-enforcement response at the time. Ironically, that theft is often credited with making da Vinci’s painting the global icon it continues to be. Q: What has the reaction to this event been among the French people? DC: It’s harder to get a sense of reactions across French society, because so much of the aftermath has focused on the intellectual milieux’s opinions. And in those realms, it has immediately become a political football. Individuals positioning themselves as anti-elite or anti-status quo, such as Jordan Bardella of the National Rally party, have called the theft a “humiliation,” immediately tying it to French national prestige. Former President François Hollande has conversely and vainly called for the event to be de-polemicized, citing national solidarity. This is happening because the Louvre is one of the most visible manifestations of French soft power—the most-visited museum anywhere on Earth. As such, anything attacking its integrity becomes an attack on the nation, and how individual French citizens feel about the theft is closely tied to their broader view of the nation. Q: Several of the items stolen from the Louvre once belonged to Empress Eugénie. Could you share a bit of information on her story? DC: Eugénie de Montijo was a Spanish aristocrat who married the Emperor of the French, who ruled as Napoleon III between 1852 and 1870. It was a time of authoritarian repression and sham democracy—Napoleon III installed the Empire through a coup. Its clearest legacy is that Paris looks the way it does today largely because of the thorough modernizations overseen by Napoleon III’s appointee Baron Haussmann. So, Eugénie and her now-lost jewels represent a complex point in French history, when culture and the economy developed quickly, but did so in a climate of fear for any French person who opposed the regime too loudly (like Victor Hugo, who went into exile on the Channel Islands and wrote poems savaging Napoleon III and his deeds). Some accused the Empress of being responsible for the more hardline and conservative stances taken by her husband’s government. On a different note, she was a diligent patron of the arts and arguably the most significant figure in the contemporary fashion world, famous for setting trends such as the bustle that radiated across Europe. This explains the mix of anger and admiration that followed her depending on the sphere she was operating in. A new English-language biography argues that far from being a traditionalist, she was a pioneering feminist by the standards of the time. It looks like her historical importance will continue to be debated. Q: Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez described the stolen items as “of immeasurable heritage value.” How significant of a cultural loss do you consider this theft? DC: These jewels are referred to in French as “les Joyaux de la Couronne” (the Crown Jewels), but of course that phrase lands very differently in republican France than it does across the water in the United Kingdom. The items actually represent several different dynasties of French rulers, some of whom came to power through direct conflict with others. The now-ransacked display at the Louvre smoothed over these historical divisions, for which many French people died over the centuries. President Macron referred to the stolen items as embodying “our history,” which is emblematic of the French state’s work to create a conceptual present-day unity out of the clashes of the past. At a time when France is arguably more divided than at any point since World War II, any unitary symbol of identity takes on greater significance. Q: Do you have any closing thoughts on the artifacts taken and what they represent? DC: I’d reemphasize the previous point about the smoothing effect of the museum display on the violent history that made it possible. Much of the reporting on the stolen jewels lists off the different queens and empresses who owned them, without giving readers a sense of the complicated succession of regime changes and ideologies that put those women in power in the first place. The relative stability of the last 60-odd years is an anomaly in modern French history. This set of jewels and the names of their original owners may seem far removed from the concerns of an ordinary French citizen today, but just beneath their surface is a legacy of changing governments and tensions between social classes that survives in new forms in 2025.

Aston University: From Metformin to modern obesity therapies

Early beginnings: from herbal medicine to modern drug The origins of a modern diabetes therapy can be traced back to Galega officinalis (goat’s rue), a herb used in European folk medicine for centuries to treat excessive thirst and urination. Its active chemical, guanidine, was found to lower blood sugar in animals in 1918, inspiring the synthesis of a family of drugs known as biguanides. Among these new drugs was metformin, created in 1922 and introduced as a treatment for diabetes in Europe in the late 1950s. However, by the 1970s, metformin was largely disregarded because other biguanide medicines were being withdrawn due to their side-effect of lactic acidosis. Revival in the 1990s: Aston’s role in rediscovery In the early 1990s, research at Aston University provided a decisive turning point. Professor Cliff Bailey and his colleagues revealed that metformin’s primary action occurred in the intestine, where it promoted glucose metabolism and reduced blood sugar without causing weight gain. Their studies clarified that concerns about lactic acid were largely due to misuse, not inherent toxicity. These findings reignited global interest in metformin. Professor Bailey presented his work as an expert witness to the US Food and Drug Administration in 1994, a critical step in securing approval of the drug in the US. He also assisted the European Medicines Agency during periodic reassessments. “My research has always focused on understanding how type 2 diabetes develops and how best to treat it.” Professor Clifford Bailey, Aston University. Establishing global first-line therapy Momentum built through the late 1990s. The UK Prospective Diabetes Study (1998) demonstrated that metformin not only improved blood sugar but also reduced cardiovascular risk, strengthening the case for its wider adoption. By 2012, the American Diabetes Association and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes recommended metformin as the preferred first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes. “We discovered that metformin worked somewhat differently from what was previously thought. By showing how it could be used safely and effectively, we helped pave the way for its wider acceptance.” Today, metformin is the most prescribed diabetes drug worldwide. It is included in the World Health Organization’s Essential Medicines List and has been taken by hundreds of millions of patients, profoundly reshaping global diabetes care. New directions: dapagliflozin and the SGLT-2 inhibitors After the success of metformin, Aston played a central role in the next wave of diabetes medicines. In the 2000s, Professor Bailey was principal investigator in clinical trials for dapagliflozin, the first of the sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors. Unlike older therapies, SGLT inhibitors lower blood sugar by blocking reabsorption of glucose in the kidneys, causing excess glucose to be excreted in urine. Large international trials demonstrated additional benefits, including weight reduction, lower blood pressure, and improved outcomes for patients with kidney and heart disease. Since its launch in 2012, dapagliflozin has become the most widely prescribed SGLT-2 inhibitor, with more than five million patients treated. It is now embedded in global treatment guidelines, expanding therapeutic options to improve the control of blood glucose and body weight. Foundations for modern obesity therapies The influence of Aston University’s research extends beyond metformin and dapagliflozin. The University’s diabetes research team also studied gut hormones such as GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide), which play a central role in regulating insulin secretion and fat metabolism. These early discoveries helped lay the groundwork for today’s incretin-based therapies, including combined GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonists such as tirzepatide. Now widely known as 'anti-obesity injections', these medicines emerged as diabetes treatments and are now transforming care for overweight people with and without type 2 diabetes. Key findings from the research at Aston University Metformin is now being investigated for its anti-ageing and fertility benefits Dapagliflozin shows promise against heart and kidney diseases and gout Gut hormones such as GIP may hold the key to entirely new treatment strategies Why does this matter? The work by Professor Bailey and his colleagues at Aston University has contributed to metformin’s recognition as the primary treatment worldwide for type 2 diabetes. Today, at least half of all patients in Western countries are prescribed metformin — an incredibly cost-effective medicine that continues to save lives. “We identified early on that gut hormones such as GIP were central players in the control of blood glucose and body weight — long before they became the basis for today’s new generation of anti-obesity medicines.” This original research helped lay the scientific foundation for breakthrough treatments like tirzepatide, widely hailed as a game-changer in obesity and diabetes care. Aston University also contributed to the development of dapagliflozin, the first in a new class of drugs that lower blood sugar while also protecting the heart and kidneys. “Millions of people worldwide are living longer and healthier lives because of therapies that have been underpinned by research at Aston University.” Looking ahead Type 2 diabetes remains one of the world’s most pressing health challenges, affecting more than 500 million people globally. Its progressive nature demands a continual search for safer, more effective treatments. From helping rescue a nearly forgotten drug in the 1990s to shaping the next generation of therapies, Aston University’s research has left an enduring mark on clinical practice, regulation, and patient outcomes. The legacy of this work is clear: millions of people worldwide are living longer, healthier lives because of medicines that Aston helped bring to the forefront of modern diabetes and obesity care. About Cliff Bailey is Emeritus Professor of Clinical Science and Anniversary Professor at Aston University in Birmingham, England. He has served on medical and scientific committees of Diabetes UK (formerly the British Diabetic Association), Society for Endocrinology, and European Association for the Study of Diabetes. He has served as a diabetes expert for the approval of new medicines by regulatory agencies including the European Medicines Agency and NICE. His research is mainly directed towards the pathogenesis and treatment of diabetes, especially the development of new agents to improve insulin action and reduce obesity, and the therapeutic application of surrogate beta-cells. Dr Bailey has published over 400 research papers and reviews, and four books, and he is particularly known for research on metformin. References to Case Studies and Key Sources Bailey CJ et al. Metformin: Changing the Treatment Algorithm for Type 2 Diabetes. Aston University REF Impact Case Study, 2014. Bailey CJ. Metformin: Historical Overview. Diabetologia, 2017. Bailey CJ & Day C. Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes: Future Approaches. British Medical Bulletin, 2018.

Seniors Pay the Highest Price When Politicians Dismiss Healthcare Evidence

Disclaimer: This is an opinion piece. It reflects the author's perspective and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with your physician or healthcare provider to discuss your individual health and vaccination needs. If you’re experiencing health issues, don’t rely on blogs (even snappy ones)—rely on a qualified medical professional. Fall is here. Kids are back in class, pumpkin spice is back in mugs, and—like clockwork—news headlines are back stirring fear and doubt. This season, RFK Jr. is making noise about vaccines, throwing science under the school bus, and leaving some older Canadians wondering: Who should I trust—politics or science? Spoiler: if you’re betting on politics to keep you healthy, you might as well ask your neighbour’s cat for medical advice. So, let’s get back to basics: what shots you really need, why the science is solid, why politics muddies the waters, and how you can be your own best health advocate. Oh, and because you know me—I’ll sprinkle in a few “if only” vaccines we all wish existed. Science vs. Politics: Who Wins? Science: Vaccines work. They reduce severe illness, save millions of lives, and prevent outbreaks of diseases we thought we’d left in history books. COVID-19 vaccines alone are credited with saving over 1.4 million lives in Europe since 2020. Vaccines aren’t some modern fad cooked up in a lab—they’ve been saving lives since 1796, when English doctor Edward Jenner made a discovery that led to the first smallpox vaccines, which at the time was one of the deadliest diseases on earth. Fast forward to today, and the results speak for themselves. Data from the CDC shows that vaccines have slashed major diseases in the U.S. and Canada to the point where polio and smallpox haven’t been seen in decades—down from tens of thousands of cases every year in the 20th century. Even measles, which has made a resurgence due to rising vaccine skepticism, is still nowhere near the half-million infections Americans used to see annually. Thanks to vaccines, measles, pertussis, mumps, and rubella are now more likely to show up in a history book—or on a pub trivia night—than in your family doctor’s office. Over a century of data shows that vaccines don’t just work—they’ve rewritten medical history. A landmark CDC study published in JAMA by researchers Sandra W. Roush (MT, MPH) and Trudy V. Murphy, MD, with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia did a major study comparing disease rates before and after vaccines became widespread.  The results were jaw-dropping: Cases of diphtheria, mumps, pertussis, and tetanus dropped by more than 92%, and deaths by more than 99%. Endemic polio, measles, and rubella have been eliminated in the U.S and Canada. Smallpox is gone from the globe. Even newer vaccines introduced since 1980—like those for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, Hib, and chickenpox—cut cases and deaths by 80% or more. The evidence found by the CDC study was so overwhelming that the authors called vaccines “among the greatest achievements of biomedical science and public health” (Source: JAMA, 2007) The number of cases of most vaccine-preventable diseases is at an all-time low; hospitalizations and deaths have also shown striking decreases. Think about it. When was the last time someone at your dinner table worried about catching smallpox? Enter RFK Jr., stage left. He has wasted no time since his appointment as US Secretary of Health & Human Services to undermine confidence in the public health system.  His recent moves—firing the CDC director, cutting mRNA funding (even for cancer vaccines!), and gutting expert panels—are sowing doubt faster than a Toronto raccoon opening a green bin. Even Dr. Martin Makary, Commissioner of Food and Drugs for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), recently chimed in with an opinion piece published last week in  The Wall Street Journal. His take? Vaccines should mostly be reserved for high-risk groups, healthy people don’t really need them, and maybe we should start running more placebo trials “just to be sure.” That sounds reasonable until you realize it’s the same playbook RFK Jr. uses: shrink access, shift the burden of proof endlessly, and treat vaccines like optional extras. When Politics Drowns Out Science, Seniors Pay the Highest Price When politics drowns out science, we pay the highest price. Because the truth is: our immune systems age just like our knees do—creaky and slower to respond. Vaccines aren’t optional; they’re essential. Demanding new placebo trials for vaccines we already know work is like asking a baker to prove yeast makes bread rise every single year. And framing vaccines as “only for the sick” ignores the basic truth: when coverage falls, outbreaks rise. Period. Vaccines for Canadian Adults & Seniors (Source: Health Canada) Vaccines aren’t just for kids—they’re part of healthy aging, too. Health Canada has issued clear guidelines on which shots adults and seniors should have on their radar, from flu and pneumonia to shingles and RSV. Think of it as a maintenance schedule for your immune system. That said, every person’s health history is unique, so always check with your doctor or healthcare provider before rolling up your sleeve. Flu shot (Seasonal Influenza Vaccine) – Protects against flu strains that mutate yearly (PHAC – Influenza Vaccine). Everyone should receive it annually; seniors may be eligible for a high-dose version. Pneumococcal (Pneu-C-20) – Shields you from pneumonia, bloodstream infections, and meningitis (PHAC – Pneumococcal Vaccine). One dose at 65+. Shingles (Recombinant Zoster Vaccine – RZV) – Stops the chickenpox virus (that never left your body) from staging a painful comeback tour (PHAC – Shingles Vaccine Guidance)—two doses, starting at age 50. Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis Vaccine) – Protects against lockjaw, a throat infection, and whooping cough (PHAC – Tdap Vaccine). One-time booster, then Tdap every 10 years. Polio (Inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine – IPV) – Keeps polio from making a comeback (PHAC – Polio Vaccine). Needed if you missed doses or travel to outbreak zones. RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccine) – Prevents serious lung infections in older adults (Health Canada – RSV Vaccine Information). Recommended for ages 75+ or in long-term care. MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella Vaccine) – Blocks childhood triple threats (PHAC – MMR Vaccine). One dose if born after 1970 and not immune. Varicella (Chickenpox Vaccine) – For those who have never had chickenpox (PHAC – Varicella Vaccine). Two doses under age 50; For those over 50, the shingles vaccine is recommended. The Vaccines We Wish Existed Because let’s face it: medicine has cured smallpox, but not small talk. RV – Rectitious Vision Correction: For correcting poor attitudes and selective hearing in spouses. FOMOVAX: Stops the green-eyed monster when your friends are on a Caribbean cruise and you’re at Costco. TechTonic: For when Zoom won’t unmute and your iPad keeps asking for your “Apple ID you made in 2009.” EarPeace: Selective hearing—blocks whining, amplifies compliments. WineNot: The Thanksgiving booster that helps you tolerate in-laws, politics talk, and Uncle Bob’s gravy complaints. MemoryMap: Protects against the “where did I put my glasses?” epidemic. Spoiler: they’re on your head. If only. Until then, we’ll have to stick with flu and shingles shots. Screening Schedule: The Other Half of the Health Checklist Keeping your health on track sometimes feels like managing a full-time maintenance schedule. After all, the human body has more moving parts than a Canadian Tire catalogue—so of course things need regular tune-ups. If vaccines are like scheduled oil changes for your immune system, screenings are more like the regular safety inspections—checking the brakes, the lights, and making sure nothing rattles when it shouldn’t. Our bodies have a knack for keeping secrets until it’s too late, which is why Health Canada and national guidelines recommend routine checks for cancer, heart health, bone strength, and more. Here’s the recommended Health Canada guidelines—your doctor may adjust based on your risk.: Cervical (Pap test): Every 3 years, ages 25–69 (CTFPHC – Cervical Cancer Guideline). Breast (Mammogram): Every 2–3 years, ages 50–74 (CTFPHC – Breast Cancer Screening). Colorectal (Colonoscopy or FIT test): Every 2 years (FIT) or 10 years (colonoscopy), ages 50–74 (CTFPHC – Colorectal Cancer Screening). Prostate (PSA test): Discuss with your doctor around age 50 (CTFPHC – Prostate Cancer Guideline). Lung Cancer Screening: For current/former heavy smokers, typically ages 55–74 (Canadian Partnership Against Cancer – Lung Cancer Screening). Bone Density (DXA scan): At 65+ or earlier if at risk (Osteoporosis Canada – BMD Testing). Blood Pressure & Cholesterol: Annual or as needed (Hypertension Canada Guidelines). Diabetes (A1C test): Every 3 years starting at 40 (Diabetes Canada – Clinical Guidelines). Your Fall Holistic Health Checklist Still with me?  Here's a checklist that I personally follow as a seasonal tune-up—part vaccines, part screenings, part lifestyle hacks. It’s not about chasing perfection; it’s about making sure you’ve got the energy to keep doing what you love (and maybe even outpace the grandkids). Whether you’re just easing into retirement, solidly in the groove, or rocking your seventies with style, these age-by-age tips will help you stay sharp, strong, and one step ahead of sneaky health surprises. Pre-Retirees (55–64) • Annual flu shot • Covid-19 shot • Start shingles series (50+) • Tdap booster if due • Immunization catch-up (MMR, polio, varicella) • Screenings: Pap, mammogram, colon, bloodwork • Exercise, hydrate, and learn to say no—yes, that’s preventive care too. Post-Retirees (65+) • Annual flu shot (high-dose if offered) • Covid-19 shot • Pneumococcal vaccine • RSV vaccine (75+ or communal living) • Shingles vaccine if not done • Screenings: colon, prostate, bone density, cholesterol, diabetes • Keep bones strong: vitamin D, weight training, and occasionally lifting grandkids count. Active Retirees (70+) • All of the above • Review meds and fall-prevention strategies • Stay social—book clubs, golf leagues, dance classes. Loneliness is a silent epidemic. • Advocate for friends, spouses, and grandkids—because being the family health quarterback matters. Your Best Shot: Be Your Own (and Your Community’s) Advocate Vaccines and screenings are only half the story—the other half is using your voice. Seniors have enormous influence, and when you speak up, policymakers listen. Here are a few ways to make sure your concerns don’t get lost in the shuffle: Start local. Write a short letter or email to your Member of Parliament, MPP, or Mayor. Personal stories are more powerful than statistics—tell them why vaccines, screenings, and health services matter to you and your community. Pick up the phone. Constituency offices actually log every call, so even a five-minute conversation with a staffer goes on record. Think of it as Yelp for public policy. Go public. A letter to the editor in your local paper or a well-placed comment at a town hall gets noticed by decision-makers. Be persistent (but polite). Politics moves slowly, but steady nudges add up. You don’t need to storm Parliament—just keep knocking on the door. You’ve spent a lifetime paying taxes, raising families, and building communities—you’ve earned the right to be heard. And let’s be real: nobody wants to mess with a senior who’s got a phone, an email list, and time to follow up. This fall, don’t let politics steal your peace of mind. Don’t let headlines plant seeds of doubt. Vaccines and screenings aren’t about fear—they’re about freedom: freedom to keep moving, keep laughing, keep living the “Hip, Fit & Financially Free” life you deserve. And until they invent the "WineNot" booster or the "MemoryMap" shot, your best defence is still the good old-fashioned flu, shingles, and pneumonia vaccines—plus the screening tests that catch sneaky stuff early. So roll up your sleeve. Book that screening. Be your own health advocate. And while you’re at it, sign your spouse up for the RV shot—because an attitude adjustment should absolutely be a household vaccine. Stay healthy. Don't Retire - Rewire! Sue Resources Want to dig deeper? Here are links to a few of my other health and wellness posts where I share practical tips, a little humour, and more ways to keep your retirement years strong, savvy, and stress-free. > The Retirement Games: From Sprint to Marathon, The New Retirement Reality > Life Hacks in Retirement: Strategies for Aging Well Also for each vaccine mentioned, here are some links to trusted sources of information.  Please consult with your physician or healthcare provider before commencing with any treatment. COVID-19 Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) - COVID-19: Spread, prevention and risks - https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/prevention-risks.html Flu Shot (Seasonal Influenza) Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) – Canadian Immunization Guide, Influenza Chapter: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/healthy-living/canadian-immunization-guide-part-4-active-vaccines/page-10-influenza-vaccine.html Pneumococcal (Pneu-C-20) PHAC – Canadian Immunization Guide, Pneumococcal Chapter: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/healthy-living/canadian-immunization-guide-part-4-active-vaccines/page-16-pneumococcal-vaccine.html Shingles (Recombinant Zoster Vaccine – RZV) PHAC – Shingles Vaccine Guidance: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/vaccines-immunization/shingles-vaccine.html Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis) PHAC – Tdap Vaccine - https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/healthy-living/canadian-immunization-guide-part-4-active-vaccines/page-21-tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis-vaccine.html Polio (IPV) PHAC – Polio Vaccine Guidance - https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/healthy-living/canadian-immunization-guide-part-4-active-vaccines/polio-vaccine.html RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) - Health Canada – RSV Vaccine Information - https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-health-products/vaccines/respiratory-syncytial-virus.html MMR & Varicella - PHAC – Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Varicella Chapters: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/healthy-living/canadian-immunization-guide-part-4-active-vaccines.html