The Olympics in Paris have been making headlines, especially with concerns about the cleanliness of the Seine River where athletes are swimming. Despite efforts to clean up the river, there have been reports of high bacterial counts, leading to some athletes getting sick. It’s a reminder that the safety of the water can change from day to day.
In other Olympic news, astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams are still stuck on the International Space Station due to delays with the return spacecraft. NASA announced that they won’t be sending another crewed mission until at least September 24, causing uncertainty about when Butch and Suni will be able to come back to Earth.
On the environmental front, the EPA has taken action to immediately pull a pesticide called DCPA from circulation due to concerns about its impact on thyroid health and fetal development. This move marks the first time in almost 40 years that the EPA has exercised its authority in this way.
Additionally, a study from the Cleveland Clinic has raised concerns about the artificial sweetener erythritol, suggesting that it could increase the risk of cardiovascular problems. The study showed that consuming erythritol led to a significant increase in blood clot formation, highlighting potential risks associated with sugar-free products containing this sweetener.
Finally, a new theory about the construction of the pyramids has been put forward by a private research institute called Paleotechnic. They suggest that ancient Egyptians may have used hydraulic lifts powered by the Nile to build the pyramids. However, this theory has been met with skepticism from experts in the field, who point out the lack of historical evidence to support such a claim.
Overall, these stories highlight the importance of safety in sports, the environment, and our food choices, as well as the ongoing quest to unravel the mysteries of ancient civilizations. Stay tuned for more updates on these and other science news stories.
