China dismissed the possibility that the COVID-19 virus leaked from a lab, after the CIA said it now favors the so-called lab leak theory over natural transmission. Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told reporters that it is extremely unlikely the pandemic was caused by a lab leak. She said this conclusion has been widely recognized by the international community, including the scientific community, and was reached by the joint China-WHO expert team from field visits. Mao did not say where the virus originated, only that any judgment should be made by scientists. The CIA’s new assessment, though it was made with low confidence, reignited the debate over the origins of COVID-19.
RFK Jr. Cabinet Position Senate Hearing Begins
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s confirmation hearing for the position of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary commences today, but his confirmation is uncertain due to his controversial stances, particularly his anti-vaccine views. Kennedy’s crusade against obesity, processed foods, and Big Pharma could help or hurt his nomination as well. These views have sparked opposition from both sides of the political aisle, including Democrats and Republicans, notably his own cousin Caroline Kennedy, the former US Ambassador to Japan. If confirmed, RFK Jr.’s leadership at HHS could potentially lead to drastic changes within the department.
Trump, Musk Offer Federal Employees Eight Months’ Pay to Leave Now
President Trump is offering all 2 million federal employees eight months’ pay if they resign by Feb. 6. The offer excludes postal, immigration, and national security workers. The announcement comes as Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency, led by billionaire Elon Musk, plans to reduce the size of the civil service. The American Federation of Government Employees criticized the move, and Senator Tim Kaine called it a “trick.” Musk defended the offer, stating that it’s the maximum allowed without Congressional approval.
Delayed REM Sleep Could Be Early Dementia Warning
Researchers have found a potential link between delayed rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and Alzheimer’s disease. REM sleep, the phase where vivid dreams occur, is crucial for memory consolidation. A delay in entering REM sleep could disrupt this process and increase the risk of Alzheimer’s. A study published in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia found that individuals with Alzheimer’s disease tend to take longer to enter REM sleep. This delay was also associated with higher levels of toxic brain proteins (amyloid and tau) and lower levels of a beneficial brain protein (BDNF), all of which are hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease.
Costco Strike Looms, Possible Picket Lines at Stores
Costco Wholesale, the membership-only warehouse club, is on the brink of a major labor dispute. The Teamsters Union, representing approximately 18,000 Costco store employees, has set a deadline of Friday to reach a new contract agreement. If an agreement isn’t reached, the union has authorized a strike that could significantly disrupt Costco’s operations. The potential strike comes at a time when Costco is enjoying strong financial performance. The company has reported record profits in recent quarters, driven by strong sales and membership growth.
