This story appeared in The Logoff, a daily newsletter that helps you stay informed about the Trump administration without letting political news take over your life. Subscribe here.Welcome to The Logoff: The Supreme Court heard arguments about a birthright citizenship case today that are really about two questions: Does President Donald Trump have the power to end a core American ideal? And how much power do lower court judges have to block Trump’s agenda?What’s going on with birthright citizenship? On his first day in office, Trump issued an executive order aimed at ending birthright citizenship, the principle that people born in the US (almost always) immediately become US citizens. Trump’s order is an obvious violation of the 14th Amendment, and states successfully sued in multiple lower courts to block it, starting a process that brought it to the Supreme Court today.Is the Supreme Court going to uphold birthright citizenship? None of the justices defended Trump’s anti-birthright order during arguments, and several of them suggested it was blatantly unconstitutional.So what’s the issue? The hearing was less about whether the order was constitutional than about whether lower court judges had overstepped their authority when they blocked the policy nationwide. Multiple Supreme Court justices today seemed sympathetic to that argument, suggesting some limits on these nationwide injunctions could be coming. But we won’t know for sure until the ruling comes down, which could take weeks.What’s the big picture? Long-term, birthright citizenship appears almost certain to survive. That’s important, because birthright citizenship is critical to the concept that America is held together by a shared commitment to our democratic system, rather than by genetic inheritance.But if the Supreme Court limits the scope of the judges’ order, it may mean that some of Trump’s policies — even ones that are eventually found unconstitutional — get to go into effect while they work their way through the legal system.And with that, it’s time to log off…Yesterday I wrote about how we can make life better and are doing so all the time. Today I’m excited to surface another example: a new “gene-editing therapy” treatment that has given this baby a second chance at life in what the New York Times describes as “medical history.” As one doctor put it: “It really is sort of limitless in terms of what the possibilities are.” And that’s something worth celebrating. Thanks for reading, and I’ll see you back here tomorrow.You’ve read 1 article in the last monthHere at Vox, we're unwavering in our commitment to covering the issues that matter most to you — threats to democracy, immigration, reproductive rights, the environment, and the rising polarization across this country.Our mission is to provide clear, accessible journalism that empowers you to stay informed and engaged in shaping our world. By becoming a Vox Member, you directly strengthen our ability to deliver in-depth, independent reporting that drives meaningful change.We rely on readers like you — join us.Swati SharmaVox Editor-in-ChiefSee More:

The New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) has voted unanimously to designate the Modulightor Building Apartment Duplex—Paul Rudolph’s former Manhattan home at 246 East 58th Street—an interior landmark. The landmarked residential duplex is sited on the third and fourth floors of the Modulightor Building. Notable interior design features are the staircase and built-in shelving units that house books, and other collected items. This news comes two years after the Modulightor Building itself was declared a New York City individual landmark in 2023. Now, both the exterior and the apartment duplex are protected under the Landmarks Law. The Modulightor Building itself was declared a New York City individual landmark in 2023. (Courtesy Paul Rudolph Institute for Modern Architecture) “We are enthusiastic for this designation not only for its spatially rich and light-filled Modern design but also because of the intimacy of the space and how Rudolph’s hand and belongings can be found nearly at every turn,” Docomomo US executive director Liz Waytkus said in a statement. “It is so meaningful that Modulightor, which houses the Paul Rudolph Institute for Modern Architecture, continues to host open house events, encourages dialogue and offers a unique New York experience,” Waytkus added. New York City Councilmember Keith Powers supported the decision, crediting the Paul Rudolph Institute for Modern Architecture with hosting “regular open houses accessible to our community to learn about its unique design, and to explore the amazing world of architecture.” The apartment duplex takes up the third and fourth floors. (Courtesy NYC Landmarks Preservation Commmison) The Modulightor Building takes its name from a lighting fixture company Rudolph cofounded. It was designed in 1989 and completed in two phases. It originally had only four floors, with the apartment duplex taking up the upper half. Between 2010 and 2016, architect Mark Squeo added two more floors to the top, and a roof deck. Sarah Carroll, LPC chair, credited the apartment duplex as a “remarkable example of late 20th century interior design.” “Its spatial complexity, innovative use of light, and carefully crafted architectural details reflect Rudolph’s unique vision and enduring influence,” Carroll said. “With today’s designation, we preserve a vital example of New York City’s rich design heritage, and ensure this special space will continue to inspire architects, designers, and visitors alike for generations to come.”

Pictured above: A media room designed by Robin Henry, featuring an RT Facts lamp with custom shade.Let’s be honest: lampshades don’t always get the love they deserve. But this small design detail can totally transform the look and feel of a room. The right shade can elevate a lamp from basic to brilliant, soften a space with warm ambient light, or make a bold statement all on its own. And now that lampscaping—the idea of using multiple lamps (table, floor, and task) to layer light throughout a space instead of relying on harsh overheads—is officially a thing, knowing how to pick the best shade for your lamp feels more essential than ever. It's all about creating ambiance and mood, and it starts with choosing the right topper.Whether you're going classic, playful, minimalist, or maximalist, there’s a shade out there just waiting to light up your life. (See what we did there?) Don’t be afraid to mix and match lamp bases and shades for a custom, curated look. A sculptural base with a pleated or patterned shade? Yes, please. A sleek brass lamp with a bold-colored linen shade? Instant upgrade. Lampshades are an easy, affordable way to refresh your decor without a full-on overhaul—so have fun with it. Just don’t forget to consider size, shape, and material to make sure your lamp’s glow-up is as good as it gets. We asked interior designers to enlighten us (we really couldn’t help ourselves) on how to pick the perfect lampshade and ensure the scale is on point.Related StoriesChoose a SizeNicolas GourguechonFollowing the rule of thumb, the shade-to-base ratio of this entryway lamp in designer Devin Kirk’s own home is perfectly balanced.Amy NeunsingerTwo light sources mean two different shades and fittings in the Quadrille Arbre de Matisse adorned guest room of this home designed by Mark D. Sikes.Size definitely matters—at least when it comes to lampshades. First things first: proportions. A too-small shade looks awkward, and a too-large one can overwhelm the base. As a rule of thumb, according to interior designer and author Lauren Liess, "a lampshade should be roughly two-fifths of the total height of the full lamp, including the shade." So, if your lamp is 30 inches tall, aim for a 20-inch shade. That said, “there’s always an exception,” Liess adds. Retro styles often play with scale and can look fantastic with oversized or unusually shaped shades. A tall shade on a short, squat base? Totally works—just embrace the proportions. Width-wise, the shade should typically match the height of the base. And yes, it should always cover the bulb socket and any hardware. This is not the time for exposed necks. Speaking of hardware, not all shades work with all lamps, so fittings matter. The most common is a spider fitter, which works with lamps that have a harp and finial. If your lamp doesn’t have a harp, try an UNO fitter (it attaches directly to the socket). And for chandeliers or small accent lamps, clip-on shades are a quick and easy option. Just make sure whatever you use sits level and snug—wobbly lamp syndrome is never chic.Related StoryChoose a ShapeNathan SchroderA crisp white drum adorns a statement lamp base, making it stand out against the charcoal draperies in the dining room of this Dallas home designed by Studio Thomas James.Eric PiaseckiA stark white sculptural base paired with a simple tapered shade stands out while still letting the faux moiré painted walls shine in this Westchester County, NY, farmhouse designed by Robin Henry.Lampshades come in all shapes, and each one sets a different tone. Drum shades—those modern cylindrical beauties—are perfect for both contemporary and midcentury styles. “The drum is versatile enough for both modern and traditional interiors,” says Liess. Whitney Tingle, director of interior design at Christopher Architecture & Interiors, loves using oversize drum shades in linen to soften bold, sculptural bases with understated texture. Empire, coolie, and other tapered shade styles, which slope from a narrow top to a wide base, are timeless and elegant. Liess recommends them for chunkier, rounder lamp bases—think genie bottles or spherical silhouettes. For something romantic and soft, look no further than bell shades. Their graceful curves bring a vintage-inspired, feminine touch to more traditional spaces. Nicolas GourguechonFor his own home, designer Devin Kirk matched a square lamp shade with a vintage, metallic base of similar shape for an impactful lighting detail in this sophisticated family room.Lisa Romerein/Otto"In one of my favorite master bedrooms, this patterned shade adds dimension and an unexpected wit while staying traditional." — Michael S. SmithOn the other end of the spectrum, square and rectangular shades lend structure and sharpness, and they’re best used on lamps that also have a square or rectangular shape, according to Liess. Short on space? Oval shades are a smart solution. They’re ideal for lamps with distinct front-and-back silhouettes and add a polished feel without taking up extra room. And then, there are pleated shades—the darlings of traditional design. “They make a space feel decorated,” says Liess, who calls them an “old-guard designers’ staple.” Tingle recommends customizing pleated shades with color and pattern for maximum personality, especially when paired with a simple brass base.Related StoryChoose a MaterialFrancesco Lagnese"Zuber wallpaper is too expensive to not use every square inch of it, so we made shades from leftover scraps." — Tom ScheererBrie WilliamsBasic white lampshades were swapped for custom Euro-style “skirted” versions in a striped pattern that echoes the ridges of the lamp base in this primary bedroom by Heidi Woodman.Material doesn’t just determine the look of your shade—it defines the quality and style of the light itself. Paper shades are minimal and clean, often found in Scandinavian and Japandi-inspired interiors. They're especially charming in pendant or hanging styles. Designer Tom Scheerer has even used leftover wallpaper to create custom paper shades, giving his space a "surrealist touch." Fabric shades—linen, cotton, or silk—are the most versatile. Linen and cotton diffuse light beautifully, making any space feel soft and inviting. Silk ups the drama, casting a flattering, luxe glow that's perfect for bedrooms or formal living areas. These materials can work with virtually any shape or lamp style. Lampshade skirts, like those seen in interior designer Heidi Woodman's space, are also a fun option when using fabric for shades.Want something a little more modern and edgy? Metal shades cast directional light that's great for task lighting—perfect on a desk or reading lamp. Just a heads up from Liess: Metal shades can heat up, so skip them in nurseries or kid-centric zones. Or you can add unexpected texture and an instant coastal feel with a shade made out of rattan. Related StoryChoose a Color and PatternStephen KarlischIn her own home, designer Shazalynn Cavin-Winfrey used Coquette fabric by Kelly Wearstler on the walls, bed, and lampshades for the lighting on the bookshelf, while the bedside lamps are paired with custom lampshades from Shades from the Midnight Sun.Simon Watson"I love Pierre Frey’s Le Manach Balmoral and, inspired by French bedrooms, I used it all over. Custom-covered shades add so much." — Ellen NivenThis is where you get to play. If your lamp base is doing most of the talking, stick with a neutral shade—think white, beige, or soft gray. These tones complement almost everything without drawing too much attention. But if you want your shade to be the star, don’t hold back. Patterned or brightly colored shades can instantly energize a room. Want to go full-on, pattern-drenching maximalist? Try matching your shade fabric to drapery, pillows, or even wallpaper. “It becomes more than just a lighting element,” says Tingle. “It transforms into a cohesive design feature, seamlessly tying into the overall narrative of the space.” Frank Frances StudioDesigner Courtney McLeod paired a Broome lampshade with a Wildwood lamp for this sultry primary bedroom in her clients’ downtown New York apartment.And yes, we’re here for the moody, sexy glow of a dark shade too. It’s perfect for intimate nooks or elegant bedrooms where atmosphere is everything.Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

Mike Rupp (left) and Shawn Henderson debut Pyrion, a new lighting collection available through Hostler | Burrows.With the debut of Pyrion, designer Shawn Henderson and Mike Rupp of Rupp Studio introduce a lighting collection that transforms tactile yet minimal table and floor lamps into collectible design pieces. Rooted in sculptural minimalism, each piece takes the form of a pyramid, its surface hand-finished with a spray metal technique that mimics the rich patina of cast bronze. Complementing this architectural form are handwoven shades from Colombian atelier VERDI, crafted from Yaré vine and metallic threads. They infuse each fixture with a tactile contrast of earthiness and refinement.The collaboration is a study in balance, shaped by a shared design language. “Pyrion came out of a shared love for restraint and richness—how one shape, when made with intention, can feel both powerful and quiet,” says Rupp.Ethan HerringtonThe pyramid informs the collection’s hand-polished lamp bases and custom shades created in partnership with VERDI.In this exclusive Q&A, Henderson, a member of ELLE DECOR’s A-List, discusses the origins of Pyrion, his obsession with proportion, and how a unique design tête-à-tête helped create this notable collaboration. Available exclusively through Hostler | Burrows in both New York City and Los Angeles.ELLE DECOR: HOW DID YOU FIRST BECOME ACQUAINTED WITH MIKE? AND WHAT INSPIRED A LIGHTING-SPECIFIC COLLECTION?Shawn Henderson: Mike and I have been friends for many years and have collaborated on design throughout much of that time. Casual conversations gradually turned into a shared curiosity about doing something creative together. We both feel there’s a real void in the market for special lighting, so it felt like the right place to begin—designing lamps that sit at the intersection of architecture, sculpture, and atmosphere, all things we’re naturally drawn to in our work.Ethan HerringtonPyrion is made up of three distinctive lamps in three shade colors. Pictured above is the Pyrion Table Lamp.WHAT WERE YOUR MAIN SOURCES OF INSPIRATION FOR THE COLLECTION? We kept coming back to the idea of a singular, architectural shape—something clean and elemental, but not cold. We were thinking about ancient forms, like pyramids and obelisks, and how to reinterpret that kind of presence in a way that feels modern and quiet.HOW DID YOU BOTH BEGIN THE DESIGN PROCESS? It started with a shape—literally a triangle. We sketched, talked through proportions, passed ideas back and forth. It was very collaborative but intuitive. We were both aligned in wanting to do less, not more—to find strength in simplicity and let the materials do the work.AND, THIS LED TO PYRAMIDS. WHAT’S MEANINGFUL TO YOU ABOUT THIS SHAPE? There’s something timeless and grounded about a pyramid. It’s a shape that feels rooted and powerful, but also quiet. We liked that tension. Architecturally, it’s incredibly stable—and symbolically, it carries a sense of permanence and intention, which aligned with how we wanted these pieces to feel.Ethan HerringtonEach lamp is hand finished and features lamp shades made of Yaré threads.TELL US A BIT MORE ABOUT YOUR MATERIAL CHOICES FOR THE COLLECTION? We used Vero metal, which is a hand-applied liquid metal coating. It allowed us to get the feel and finish of cast metal, but with more control over weight and form. The process is incredibly hands-on—each base is polished by hand, so the surface has that human touch to it.THERE IS A TACTILITY TO THE CORDED LAMPSHADES. HOW DID YOU COME TO WORK WITH THIS UNIQUE MATERIAL? We partnered with VERDI, a Bogotá-based atelier that creates beautiful textiles from natural materials and metal. When we saw what they were doing with Yaré and metallic threads, we knew it was the right match. The fiber comes from the Colombian Amazon, and it has this amazing strength and texture—woven with copper or steel, it creates something that’s both wild and refined. It felt like the perfect counterpoint to the sculptural metal base.Ethan HerringtonThe Pyrion Floor Lamp transforms illumination into sculpture.WHAT'S IT LIKE TO WORK WITH A FELLOW INTERIOR DESIGNER?It’s kind of like finishing each other’s sentences—but visually. There’s a shorthand. We both understand proportion, materiality, restraint. There’s also a shared understanding of how pieces need to live in a room—not just how they look on a pedestal. That makes for a really fluid and grounded collaboration.This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Lena Dunham–following the success of her 2012 comedy-drama series Girls–is my Roman Empire. Everyone knows the story: the published essays dissecting the sudden end of her long-term relationship with producer Jack Antonoff; the widespread criticisms of Girls for its lack of diversity; the poorly received comments about abortion. We witnessed the public turn on Dunham, branding her one of the most controversial writers of her time. But what was she feeling during that wave of backlash?  On July 10, Dunham and her husband, Luis Felber, will offer a loose interpretation of what life was like when they first met in 2021. If it’s anything like her past work, the series will be packed with comedy, emotional honesty and sharp introspection. As Dunham put it in a Variety interview about meeting Felber: “When I met my husband, I was dazzled by just how much baggage two people could bring to the table.” The highly anticipated series, Too Much, co-written by Dunham and Felber, premieres on Netflix on July 10.  “Co-created by Dunham and Luis Ferber, Too Much centers on Jessica (Meg Stalter) a New York workaholic in her mid-thirties, reeling from a broken relationship that she thought would last forever and slowly isolating everyone she knows. When every block in New York tells a story of her own bad behaviour, the only solution is to take a job in London, where she plans to live a life of solitude like a Bronte sister. But when she meets Felix (Will Sharpe) – a walking series of red flags – she finds that their unusual connection is impossible to ignore, even as it creates more problems than it solves. Now they have to ask themselves: do Americans and Brits actually speak the same language?” Read more at Deadline A period romance about two young artists that fall in love in Paris just before becoming recognized as cultural icons– yes, please; plus, the Bill Pohlad directed project, Miles and Juliette, will be produced by none other than Mick Jagger– double yes!  Just in time for the recent wave of buzz surrounding new movies during the Cannes Film Festival, Damson Idris, who is currently filming opposite Brad Pitt in Paramount’s upcoming fantasy film Children of Blood and Bone, has been set to play Miles Davis, alongside Anamaria Vartolomei as Juliette Gréco in Pohlad’s latest project.  “According to the project’s description, Miles & Juliette follows ‘22-year-old Miles Davis (Idris) on a transformative trip to Paris in 1949, where he falls into a passionate romance with Juliette Gréco (Vartolomei), the French singer, actress, and Left Bank icon. What begins as an intimate affair blossoms into a profound connection between two young artists — just before they became cultural legends.’” Read more at The Hollywood Reporter On Sunday, Sony Pictures Television was able to secure global distribution rights to Jennifer Ames and Steve Turner’s relationship comedy series, The Miniature Wife.  The series features a star-studded cast of regulars and recurring characters, with Elizabeth Banks and Emmy-winner Matthew Macfadyen in the leading roles. You’re probably thinking: What do Ames and Turner mean by the miniature wife? The Media Res produced comedy series is actually based off of author Manuel Gonzalez’s short story of the same name about a man who accidentally shrinks his wife.  Join our mailing list Get the best of Den of Geek delivered right to your inbox! “The relationship comedy series explores the shifting power dynamics between spouses as a technological mishap triggers the ultimate marital crisis, pitting them against each other in a battle for dominance. It will air on Peacock in the U.S.”  Read more at Variety Tuesday marked the start of the 2025 Cannes Film Festival. Long-awaited projects from Wes Anderson and Ari Aster are set to premiere as well as six female directed films in the Official Competition.  Last year, Sean Baker snagged the Palme d’Or (Golden Palm), which is the highest prize awarded to the director of the Best Feature Film of the Official Competition, for Anora– which later won the Academy Award for Best Picture on March 2. Who will win this year’s Palm d’Or, and will the films featured at Cannes be an early indicator for the 2026 awards season like last year? We’ll have to see, but for now, even if you can’t attend the festival, keep a close eye on the daily happenings in Cannes over the next two weeks.  “Pundits complained last year’s Cannes was a light affair, but that had to do with the bottleneck created by the strikes, for one. Many auteurs return to the Croisette this year to make for a highly anticipated festival.” Read more at IndieWire The film that I’m the most excited to hear about following its premiere at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival is by far Ethan Coen’s upcoming dark comedy, Honey Don’t! The film follows Margaret Qualley as Honey O’Donahue, a small-town private investigator, who looks into strange deaths tied to a mysterious church. Who’s the priest of that deadly church? Captain America, of course!  Though it’s not in competition, the film will premiere in Cannes on the final day of the festival, as part of the midnight screenings. Though I’ll have to wait until Aug. 22 to see the dark comedy in theaters, I have a feeling there will be a lot of buzz surrounding the film following its premiere.  “Once again starring Margaret Qualley, this time as a lesbian private investigator on the trail of a cultist played by former Captain America Chris Evans, Ethan Coen’s latest, co-written alongside longtime collaborator and wife Tricia Cooke, looks to be a dark comedy through and through, firmly of a piece with Drive-Away Dolls.”  Read more at Empire Watch the trailer of HONEY, DON’T! below:

The Famous, Feathered Dinosaur Archaeopteryx Could Fly, Suggests New Study of a ‘Beautifully Preserved’ Fossil The Chicago Archaeopteryx features more soft tissue and delicate skeletal details than any known fossil of its kind, and paleontologists discovered it has a set of feathers key to flight in modern birds The Chicago Archaeopteryx, seen under UV light, shows soft tissues alongside the skeleton. Delaney Drummond Archaeopteryx—a small, feathered dinosaur that lived around 150 million years ago—changed how humans understand the world, “maybe more than any other fossil,” as Jingmai O’Connor, a paleontologist at Chicago’s Field Museum, tells the New York Times’ Asher Elbein. That’s because fossils of Archaeopteryx, which are considered by many to be the oldest known birds, “proved Darwin right” by confirming that all birds are dinosaurs, according to a Field Museum statement. Thanks to an exceptionally preserved and prepared fossil named the Chicago Archaeopteryx recently acquired by the Field Museum, O’Connor and her colleagues have revealed more crucial insight into the species—including that it likely could fly. They detailed their work in a study published Wednesday in the journal Nature. As the Field Museum’s preparators worked on the pigeon-sized Chicago Archaeopteryx, they realized that the fossil included more soft tissues and delicate skeletal details than any other known Archaeopteryx specimen. From previous fossils, they already knew the dinosaur had asymmetric feathers, which are vital to creating thrust in modern, flying birds. But the hard slab of limestone around this specimen had also preserved a key layer of feathers called tertials that had never been documented before in Archaeopteryx. “It’s important that this is the first time these feathers have been seen,” John Nudds, a paleontologist at the University of Manchester in England who didn’t participate in the study, tells the Guardian’s Hannah Devlin. “These new feathers seen in this beautifully preserved specimen—as well as the asymmetric feathers—confirms it could fly.” An illustration shows an Archaeopteryx with tertial feathers that might have helped it to fly. Michael Rothman In modern birds, tertial feathers are crucial to flight, because they cover the space between the bird’s body and its wings. Without them, wings can’t generate lift. In fact, flightless feathered dinosaurs closely related to birds, but not quite birds themselves, didn’t have tertial feathers, according to the statement. Their wing feathers ended at their elbows. While paleontologists don’t know exactly when feathered, landbound dinosaurs gained the ability to fly, most scholars agree that Archaeopteryx is the earliest known bird. “People hypothesized that [the animal] probably had tertials,” O’Connor tells Science News’ Carolyn Gramling. Not only does the Chicago Archaeopteryx finally confirm this hypothesis, but it also indicates that tertials could have played an important evolutionary role in the development of feathered flight, she adds. “Archaeopteryx isn’t the first dinosaur to have feathers, or the first dinosaur to have ‘wings.’ But we think it’s the earliest known dinosaur that was able to use its feathers to fly,” O’Connor says in the statement. That’s despite the fact that “by modern standards, it was a very poor flyer,” she adds to Science News. The Chicago Archaeopteryx is housed at the Field Museum. Delaney Drummond / Field Museum Other notable features the researchers documented include bones in the roof of the animal’s mouth, which provide insight into its skull; scales on the bottom of its toes, which suggest it still spent a lot of time on the ground; and soft tissue on its hands. This last feature indicates that “the third digit could move independently, supporting long abandoned claims from the ’90s that Archaeopteryx could use its hands to climb,” O’Connor explains to Gizmodo’s Isaac Schultz. The team was able to reveal so many telling details thanks to their meticulous fossil preparation, which they conducted with the help of CT scanning and ultraviolet light to make sure they didn’t mistake any part of the fossil for rock and accidentally remove it. A fossil collector discovered the Chicago Archaeopteryx sometime before 1990 in limestone deposits near Solnhofen, Germany, where all known Archaeopteryx fossils originate. It was privately owned until the Field Museum’s purchase. Get the latest stories in your inbox every weekday.

New Jersey Transit urged riders to reach their destinations before the end of the day Thursday or risk being stranded, as last-minute talks continued in a bid to avert a rail strike by train engineers that would affect some 350,000 commuters in New Jersey and New York City. The labor dispute is stressing out some Manhattan commuters and already disrupting travel to Shakira concerts Thursday and Friday at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Amid the uncertainty over whether the strike would happen, the transit agency canceled train and bus service at the stadium. The system’s advisory provided riders with details on contingency plans that would take effect if engineers walk off the job at 12:01 a.m. ET Friday. The agency plans to increase bus service, saying it would add “very limited” capacity to existing New York commuter bus routes in close proximity to rail stations and will contract with private carriers to operate bus service from key regional park-and-ride locations during weekday peak periods. However, the agency noted that the buses would not be able to handle close to the same number of passengers—only about 20% of current rail customers—so it is has urged people who can work from home to do so if there is a strike. NJ Transit—the nation’s third largest transit system—operates buses and rail in the state, providing nearly 1 million weekday trips, including into New York City. A walkout would halt all NJ Transit commuter trains, which provide heavily used public transit routes between New York City’s Penn Station on one side of the Hudson River and communities in northern New Jersey on the other, as well as the Newark Airport, which has grappled with unrelated delays of its own recently. Wages have been the main sticking point of the negotiations between the agency and the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen. The union says its members earn an average salary of $113,000 a year and that an agreement could be reached if agency CEO Kris Kolluri agrees to an average yearly salary of $170,000. NJ Transit leadership, though, disputes the union’s data, saying the engineers have average total earnings of $135,000 annually, with the highest earners exceeding $200,000. If the walkout happens, it would be the state’s first transit strike in more than 40 years. It comes a month after union members overwhelmingly rejected a labor agreement with management. The parties met Monday with a federal mediation board in Washington to discuss the dispute, but both sides and the board have declined to comment on whether any progress has been made in subsequent talks this week. —Bruce Shipkowski, Associated Press

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. Scientists bamboozled by "ice piracy" where non-living glaciers are "stealing" ice Sayan Sen Neowin @ssc_combater007 · May 15, 2025 16:52 EDT Image by Tobias Bjørkli via PexelsScientists have spotted a surprising change in Antarctica—one glacier is pulling ice away from another in a process researchers call "ice piracy." This shift, once thought to take centuries or even millennia, has happened in less than 18 years, according to a new study from the University of Leeds published in The Cryosphere on May 8. Using satellite data, researchers examined eight ice streams in the Pope, Smith, and Kohler (PSK) region of West Antarctica between 2005 and 2022. They found that seven of the streams had sped up, with Smith West Glacier showing the biggest increase at 87%. But Kohler West Glacier, in contrast, had slowed by 10%. The reason? Kohler West’s ice flow had shifted toward Kohler East Glacier, which was thinning and moving faster. Over time, this caused the ice divide between the Dotson and Crosson Ice Shelves to shift eastward, changing how much ice reaches these floating ice platforms. Dr. Heather Selley, the study's lead author, explained what's happening. “We think that the observed slowdown on Kohler West Glacier is due to the redirection of ice flow towards its neighbor—Kohler East. This is due to the large change in Kohler West’s surface slope, likely caused by the vastly different thinning rates on its neighboring glaciers.” Kohler East’s rapid movement pulls in ice from Kohler West, a process Selley described as "ice piracy." “We didn’t know ice streams could ‘steal’ ice from each over such a short period, so this is a fascinating discovery,” she said. The team used satellite tracking techniques to measure how fast the glaciers were moving by monitoring surface features like crevasses and rifts. They also studied ice thinning rates with data from the European Space Agency’s (ESA) CryoSat mission. The study was done in collaboration with the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) and the UK Centre for Polar Observation and Modelling (CPOM), with additional data from ESA, NASA, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, and the Canadian Space Agency. Co-author Pierre Dutrieux, a climate researcher at BAS, explained why this matters. “This study provides an interesting demonstration of ice piracy, where flow into one glacier gradually switches to flow into another glacier, as the ocean melts the grounding zone and re-configures ice flow.” The shifting ice flow is affecting Dotson and Crosson Ice Shelves, two floating platforms that help stabilize Antarctica’s ice sheet. Dotson Ice Shelf is about 30 miles wide, roughly the distance from Leeds to York, while Crosson Ice Shelf spans about 40 miles—the distance from Leeds to Manchester. Both shelves have already lost a lot of ice in recent decades, and this new change could impact their stability even further. Professor Anna Hogg, a study co-author, described the consequences. “The changes in flow direction have substantially altered the ice mass flux into Dotson and Crosson Ice Shelves, likely playing an important role in maintaining Dotson and accelerating the deterioration of Crosson.” Sea levels are already rising, and Antarctica’s ice plays a key role in that process. Scientists estimate that more than 410 million people worldwide could be at risk from sea-level rise by 2100. Data shows that global sea levels have increased by more than 10 cm over the last decade, and shifting ice flow could make the situation worse. Dr. Martin Wearing, an ESA scientist, emphasized how critical satellite technology is for tracking polar changes. “This new study highlights the unique ability of satellites to provide both the temporal and spatial coverage required to assess change in the polar regions. Using data from Copernicus Sentinel-1 and ESA's Earth Explorer CryoSat, the team has revealed the complex evolution of ice flow in part of West Antarctica over the past few decades. Understanding these changing dynamics and what drives them is crucial for improved projections of future ice-sheet change and contributions to sea-level rise.” This research adds to growing concerns about Antarctica’s changing ice flow patterns and how they are influenced by ocean warming, changes in air temperature, and snowfall variations. By showing that glaciers can redirect their ice flow much faster than expected, scientists are gaining new insights into how Antarctica’s ice sheet might continue changing—and what that could mean for the rest of the planet. Source: University of Leeds, The Cryosphere This article was generated with some help from AI and reviewed by an editor. Tags Report a problem with article Follow @NeowinFeed

When arsenic is mentioned, many people associate it with a bygone poison. The type of quiet killer used in a murder mystery set on a train somewhere in Victorian England. It seems like a problem of the past.However, arsenic is a naturally occurring substance that can contaminate groundwater and food irrigated with tainted water. And in an alarming new study, researchers have found that climate change is impacting the level of arsenic that people are ingesting. Given that arsenic is a carcinogen, it’s primed to become a lethal killer. Billions of people are at risk of developing arsenic-induced diseases.Why Arsenic Levels are Rising in Rice In a 2025 study in The Lancet, an international team of researchers revealed the results of a study that measured two components associated with climate change — increased carbon dioxide (CO2) levels and surface temperatures — in rice paddies in China.“One important chemical aspect that has been known about rice is its ability to accumulate arsenic, leading to an important and crucial question: Can CO2 and temperature affect arsenic concentration, and if so, what are the health consequences?” says Lewis H. Ziska, an associate professor in environmental health sciences at the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University. The study was the first of its kind. Although scientists have long understood how both inorganic and organic arsenic can make their way into food or water, they weren’t sure how climate change might influence arsenic levels.To find out, the researchers grew rice in controlled paddies in China from 2014 to 2023. To a certain extent, the research team expected to find some arsenic in the rice because it grows in flooded paddies and absorbs arsenic from the water.The research team also expected the CO2 levels and surface temperatures would increase because climate change scientists have charted a projection of the likely increase. But would increased CO2 levels and temperatures lead to higher arsenic levels? And what might that mean if people eat the tainted crop? Impacts of Eating ArsenicThe study found that the increased CO2 levels and temperatures indeed lead to higher concentrations of arsenic. The researchers’ rice paddies were representative of rice paddies in Asia, which means that what happened in their paddies is likely happening in others around the region.Higher arsenic rates in rice are a major health concern. Arsenic is a known carcinogen. When found in drinking water, there is an increased risk of bladder and skin cancer. Other studies have found that ingesting arsenic can lead to cancer in the digestive tract, hematopoietic system, kidneys, liver, or lymphatic system.Problematically, billions of people can now be considered at risk for arsenic-related cancers. More than half of the world’s population depends on rice as a staple food. Scientists are concerned that the increased arsenic in a staple food like rice could lead to a spike in future cancer cases throughout Asia.Rice Consumption in the U.S. But what does this mean for the U.S. food supply? Rice consumed in the U.S. comes from the Arkansas Grand Prairie, Gulf Coast, Mississippi Delta, or Sacramento Valley. These crops have not been tested by scientists to determine how CO2 levels and surface temperatures are impacting the arsenic concentrations. But if climate change can raise arsenic levels in Asia, Ziska says it can happen in the U.S. as well.“It seems likely given the biogeochemistry of how rice can accumulate arsenic when grown under flooded (paddy) conditions,” Ziska says.It’s a research area that Ziska says needs more attention, both in terms of long-term study support and public awareness. Many people don’t realize that climate change has the ability to alter the food supply by creating conditions that are ripe for toxins.“Climate change isn’t just about wildfires and sea-level rise and storms of the century. It’s also affecting a food staple — rice — that is consumed by half the world’s population every day. Maybe we should pay attention,” he says. This article is not offering medical advice and should be used for informational purposes only.Article SourcesOur writers at Discovermagazine.com use peer-reviewed studies and high-quality sources for our articles, and our editors review for scientific accuracy and editorial standards. Review the sources used below for this article:National Cancer Institue. ArsenicEmilie Lucchesi has written for some of the country's largest newspapers, including The New York Times, Chicago Tribune and Los Angeles Times. She holds a bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Missouri and an MA from DePaul University. She also holds a Ph.D. in communication from the University of Illinois-Chicago with an emphasis on media framing, message construction and stigma communication. Emilie has authored three nonfiction books. Her third, A Light in the Dark: Surviving More Than Ted Bundy, releases October 3, 2023, from Chicago Review Press and is co-authored with survivor Kathy Kleiner Rubin.

Cutting onions can be a tearful experienceFoster.r/Getty Images If you find yourself crying when chopping onions, physicists have found a possible solution – but professional chefs probably aren’t going to like it. When onions are cut open, they spray a mixture of sulphur-rich compounds into the air, one of which is syn-propanethial-S-oxide, a chemical that triggers the nerves in the eye responsible for producing tears. Sunghwan Jung at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, and his colleagues used a high-speed camera to analyse in detail the spray produced when…