Public land‑grant research flagship in Minneapolis–Saint Paul
The Kennedy administration has filed motions to expedite federal vaccine-advisory meetings ahead of the fall flu season. Courts have frozen previous immunization policy changes, while new appointees prepare to form a fresh advisory panel.
California’s Central Valley grower Cesar Mora has been locked in a legal dispute over the Monalise nectarine variety since 2023. He has recently begun giving away roughly 125,000 pounds of nectarines to the public instead of letting the harvest rot, citing an ongoing lawsuit with Giumarra Brothers Fruit Co. The effort has drawn thousands of visitors and sparked debate about plant-breeders’ rights and patenting, with a trial scheduled for July 20.
Researchers report a lab-made, membrane-bound system called SpudCell that can feed, grow, replicate genetic material, and divide. The work demonstrates a complete cell-like cycle in a synthetic chassis, using viral components for replication and translation, and points toward future modular engineering while acknowledging remaining challenges.
The cycleospora outbreak has grown, with Michigan reporting nearly 1,000 cases and Ohio, New York, and other states seeing rising counts. The illness causes watery diarrhea and can last weeks; health departments are investigating potential foodborne sources and urging safe handling.
The cyclosporiasis outbreak has grown, with 4,173 confirmed cases across 41 states and more than 7,400 cases awaiting confirmation. Michigan reports the highest counts, tied to lettuce and greens; investigations continue as federal and state agencies work to identify the source. Public health officials urge caution with leafy greens and emphasize proper washing and cooking where possible.
University of Minnesota research shows driving at posted speed limits could save millions in fuel costs daily, cut emissions, and add less than a minute to commutes. The study analyzed 120 million US trips on highways 45 mph or higher, finding speeding is common but yields negligible time savings.
Wildfire smoke from Canadian and U.S. fires has created unhealthy air across the Midwest, Northeast and beyond. Official alerts urge residents to stay indoors as air-quality deteriorates. Climate-linked fires are intensifying, with conditions likely to persist and spread smoke further south and east.