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Health & Wellbeing

1. “Cancer breakthroughs mean disease ‘no longer a death sentence’”

A detailed report from The Times features Professor Sir Stephen Powis, outgoing National Medical Director of NHS England. Highlights include:

UK cancer survival has doubled in the past 50 years; half of patients now live at least ten years post-diagnosis .

The NHS is rolling out personalized immunotherapies and mRNA-based cancer vaccines, planned for up to 10,000 patients in the next five years, targeting cancers like skin, lung, and pancreatic .

Focus on genetic profiling and precision medicine—tailoring treatments based on tumour DNA .

Foresees prevention gains via HPV vaccine (aiming to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040) and reducing smoking‑related cancers .

Powis warns that aging populations and economic pressures could strain the NHS, even as he champions its workforce diversity and training reforms .

Why it matters: This is a major milestone in modern oncology—cancer is shifting from a terminal diagnosis to a treatable chronic condition, thanks to powerful new tools like immunotherapy and genetic targeting.

2. ‘Sunday scaries’ is real health threat — increasing your risk of heart attack”

A study out of the University of Hong Kong, published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, reveals:

Experiencing anxiety or stress on Mondays—even among retirees—leads to a 23% increase in cortisol levels, detectable up to two months later .

High cortisol is linked to heart disease, hypertension, insulin resistance, and immune dysfunction, and may underlie the higher rate of heart attacks seen on Mondays .

Researchers emphasize that this is not purely occupational stress, but a deeply ingrained cultural pattern with measurable physiological impacts .

Why it matters: It gives hard evidence for how societal routines—like the weekly grind—can trigger harmful chronic stress responses, affecting even non-working individuals.

Technology & Innovation

Samsung’s Galaxy Z‑Series & AI-Powered Devices

Galaxy Z Fold 7 & Z Flip 7 lineup

Launched at Galaxy Unpacked on July 9 in Brooklyn. The Z Fold 7 (“thinnest & lightest ever”) features:

Dimensions: 8.9 mm folded, 4.2 mm unfolded; weighs 215 g .

Displays: 8″ inner + 6.5″ cover; 21:9 aspect ratio, Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2, IP48 rated .

Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy, paired with Android 16 + One UI 8 .

Camera: First-in-series 200 MP main sensor + AI-powered ProVisual Engine, 10 MP cover, 12 MP telephoto, 12 MP ultrawide .

Battery: 4,400 mAh dual-cell with 25 W wired / 15 W wireless charging .

AI & Security: Google Gemini Live multimodal AI; Samsung KEEP, Knox Matrix, and post-quantum Wi‑Fi crypto .

No S‑Pen support: Removed to improve durability and achieve slimmer build .

Pricing & availability: Starts at US $1,999.99 (256 GB/12 GB), AU $2,899; pre-orders from July 9, shipping from July 25 .

Galaxy Z Flip 7: Features a 6.9″ foldable display, thinner profile (13.7 mm), longer video playback (~31 h), AI-assisted outfit/meal suggestions, upgraded camera with ProVisual Engine .

Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE: Budget foldable version, Exynos 2400, 50 MP main camera + ultra-wide/10 MP selfie, AI editing tools, One UI 8, post-quantum Wi‑Fi, 4,000 mAh battery; priced at ~$899/€999, available July 25 .

Galaxy Watch 8 series: Includes vascular load & antioxidant tracking, fitness coaching, and AI integration; Watch Ultra adds durability and long battery life .

U.S. Carrier Bundles

AT&T offers trade-in deals up to US $1,100 credit, plus bundle specials on Watch 8 and Tab A9+ 5G when purchasing Z Fold 7 or Z Flip 7 .

Why it matters: Samsung is pushing foldable design, AI integration, and post-quantum security in flagship devices—signaling a shift toward AI-first mobile computing with enhanced privacy and durability. The impressive hardware and early AI additions mark a major leap for mainstream mobile innovation.

Quantum Science Gains Momentum

International Year of Quantum Science & Technology (IYQ 2025)

2025 officially designated by the UN to celebrate 100 years of quantum mechanics .

UNESCO and scientific societies (APS, IEEE, etc.) are hosting events, public outreach, and capacity building globally .

Industry involvement: Microsoft leads a “Quantum‑Ready” initiative; Google, IBM, Quantinuum collaborating .

Commercial quantum efforts

Google anticipates real-world quantum applications within five years, citing uses in materials science, drug discovery, and energy .

Microsoft unveiled its Majorana 1 chip, a step toward scalable, lower-error topological qubits, indicating progress toward practical quantum computing .

IBM outlined a roadmap aiming for a practical quantum computer by 2029 .

EU is urging increased private investment in quantum tech, following €11B public financing, aiming to lead the sector by 2030 .

Impact & outlook:

McKinsey estimates the quantum tech market could reach $100B+ by 2035, spanning computing, sensing, and communication .

Governments and public-private initiatives worldwide (e.g., India’s National Quantum Mission) are funding innovation and workforce development .

Why it matters: Quantum technologies are shifting from theoretical research to practical deployment. With events, funding, and global collaboration underway, 2025 marks the beginning of serious commercialization—potentially leading to breakthroughs in industries like healthcare, energy, and finance.

Food & Culinary

Author: Tan Sri Son

Paella: The Heart of Spanish Cuisine

Paella is more than just a dish—it is a symbol of Spanish culture, tradition, and unity. Originating from the sunny region of Valencia, paella has become a beloved culinary treasure not only throughout Spain but across the world. Its colorful appearance, rich aroma, and diverse ingredients reflect the vibrancy and diversity of Spanish life.

The word paella actually refers to the wide, shallow pan used to cook the dish, and over time, it became synonymous with the meal itself. Traditionally, the original Valencian paella was made with rabbit, chicken, green beans, and snails, flavored with saffron and rosemary. Rice, of course, is the foundation—usually a short-grain variety like Bomba or Calasparra, which absorbs flavor without losing its texture.

As paella spread beyond Valencia, it adapted to local tastes and ingredients. The seafood paella, for example, is now one of the most internationally recognized versions, often including prawns, mussels, calamari, and clams, simmered in a rich seafood broth. Mixed paella, combining meat and seafood, has also gained popularity. Regardless of the version, one golden rule remains: never stir the rice once it starts cooking. This allows the creation of "socarrat", the delicious crispy layer of rice at the bottom of the pan, considered the hallmark of a well-cooked paella.

Paella is not merely a meal—it is a social event. Traditionally cooked outdoors over an open flame, it brings people together. Families and friends gather around the pan, sharing stories as the rice slowly simmers and the flavors meld. In Spain, paella is often enjoyed during Sunday lunches or festive gatherings, reinforcing its status as a dish that nourishes both the body and the soul.

In recent years, paella has gained global fame, featured in high-end restaurants and home kitchens alike. While modern versions may introduce creative twists, many chefs and Spaniards still emphasize the importance of respecting the traditional methods and ingredients. The dish remains a point of pride, particularly in Valencia, where competitions are held to determine the best and most authentic paella chefs.

In conclusion, paella is more than just a culinary delight—it is a celebration of Spanish heritage, community, and passion. Whether enjoyed in a rustic village or a metropolitan restaurant, paella continues to connect people through its warmth, flavor, and rich cultural history.

Fashion & Beauty

Author: Mikh

Top Trends for Summer 2025

1. Bermuda Shorts & Sporty Prep

Bermudas are replacing hot pants—polished, mid-length tailored shorts now reign supreme .

The sporty-prep aesthetic—think polo shirts, capri leggings, athletic bras paired with pleated skirts—blends comfort with sophistication .

2. Boho & Crochet Revival

Crochet and boho styles are booming—oversized crocheted dresses and tops are making waves in resort and streetwear .

Suede boho-chic sets are also trending, especially in matching blazer-and-skirt combinations .

3. Retro Polka Dots & Pearl Accents

Polka dots continue their comeback, adorning everything from minis to dresses .

Pearls—far from accessories—are now woven into garments, adding a refined, timeless flair .

4. Quiet Luxury & Sculptural Minimalism

The “quiet luxury” movement favors high-quality, understated pieces—clean lines, split hems, and structured minimalism dominate .

Sculptural tailoring is front and center: think architectural dresses, minimalist blazers, and modern trousers .

5. Coastal Cool & Nautical

A modern take on nautical style features Breton stripes, boat shoes, shell jewelry, and breezy sailor-inspired elements .

6. Butter Yellow & Bold Colors

Nostalgic '50s butter yellow is gaining traction—not just in interiors, but in fashion too .

Vibrant hues like guava pink, lime green, bubblegum, and tropical blues are energizing the summer palette .

7. Kick-Flares & Statement Sneakers

Kick-flare pants (stretchy flares) are outpacing track pants in streetwear rankings .

Ditch minimalist sneakers—the trend is now toward bold, colorful statement kicks .

Entertainment

Author: Mikh

The Greatest Concert of All Time: Queen at Live Aid, 1985

In the vast history of live music, there have been countless unforgettable performances, but one concert continues to stand above the rest—Queen’s legendary set at Live Aid on July 13, 1985. Held at Wembley Stadium in London, this performance wasn’t just a musical highlight; it became a cultural phenomenon, forever etched in the collective memory of millions. It was not only the pinnacle of Queen’s career but also widely regarded by critics, musicians, and fans alike as the greatest live concert performance of all time.

Live Aid was a global benefit concert organized by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure to raise funds for famine relief in Ethiopia. Broadcast simultaneously around the world, it reached over 1.9 billion viewers across 150 countries—nearly 40% of the world’s population at the time. Yet, out of all the artists who graced the stage—David Bowie, Elton John, U2, The Who, and Paul McCartney—Queen’s 20-minute set stole the show entirely.

What made Queen's performance so extraordinary wasn’t just their musical excellence, but the magnetic presence of Freddie Mercury. With unmatched charisma and powerful vocals, Mercury turned a stadium of 72,000 people into a unified chorus. Beginning with “Bohemian Rhapsody” and ending with the thunderous “We Are the Champions,” Queen’s setlist was a masterclass in pacing, energy, and audience engagement. Mercury’s iconic “Ay-oh!” call-and-response with the crowd is now considered one of the most defining moments in rock history.

Technically, the band was at its peak. Brian May’s guitar work was flawless, Roger Taylor’s drumming crisp and explosive, and John Deacon’s bass lines subtly held the performance together. More than just a concert, Queen’s set at Live Aid revived their career, reminded the world of their genius, and even helped boost the event’s donations.

The performance has been so influential that it was recreated almost scene-by-scene in the 2018 film Bohemian Rhapsody, introducing a whole new generation to the sheer magic of that day. Critics from Rolling Stone, BBC, and MTV have all ranked Queen at Live Aid as the best live performance in rock history.

In conclusion, while many concerts have wowed audiences and made headlines, Queen at Live Aid remains unmatched. It was more than a show—it was a statement of unity, music’s power, and the spirit of performance at its absolute best. Even decades later, it continues to inspire artists, move fans, and remind us what it means to truly own a stage.