Researchers in Sweden found that a blood-thinning drug called NOAC, used for irregular heartbeat, may slow memory and thinking decline in people with both atrial fibrillation and Alzheimer's disease. The study showed that patients on NOACs had slower cognitive decline and fewer risks like stroke or death compared to those on warfarin or no treatment.
Key Facts
The study was done by Karolinska Institutet in Sweden and published in the European Heart Journal.
It included 7,308 patients diagnosed with both atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat) and Alzheimer's disease.
Patients were divided into three groups: those taking NOACs (newer blood thinners), warfarin (older blood thinner), or no blood thinners.
Those on NOACs experienced a slower decline in cognitive ability, measured by a memory and thinking test called MMSE.
NOAC patients also had lower rates of death, stroke, blood clots, and fractures than patients without blood thinners.
Warfarin lowered some risks but caused more major bleeding compared to NOACs.
The study was observational, so it cannot prove NOACs directly cause slower decline, and other factors may have influenced results.
Researchers recommend more studies to confirm these findings.
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National weather experts say there is more than a 90% chance that this year's El Niño will become a "super" El Niño, which means it will be very strong. This weather event affects global weather patterns, including in the United States.
Key Facts
Forecasters updated their prediction on Thursday.
The chance of a "super" El Niño this year is now over 90%.
A "super" El Niño is the strongest kind of El Niño.
El Niño is a weather pattern that warms the Pacific Ocean near the equator.
It can cause unusual weather around the world, including in the US.
The last strong "super" El Niño occurred in 1950 or later.
Experts are monitoring when it will reach its peak strength.
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Singer Becky G talks about how her new album combines her music with her support for social causes, like immigration. She shares her journey from a young singer helping her family to a global music star collaborating with top artists.
Key Facts
Becky G is a multi-platinum singer from Inglewood, California.
She started singing at age 9 and became the main financial supporter of her family as a teen.
Her new album "Baraja Bendita" mixes different sides of her personality and means "a blessed deck of cards."
Becky G’s music has been streamed over 28 billion times worldwide.
She is currently touring with Latin music star Karol G.
One of her early hits, "Shower," recently reached over 1 billion streams on Spotify.
She openly discusses her past relationship challenges and believes relationships require ongoing effort.
In her song "EPA," she uses visuals to address issues like immigration raids.
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Romania has stopped using its only nuclear power plant because very low water levels in the Danube River, caused by hot weather, make it unsafe to cool the reactors. This shutdown will last at least 10 days, and the low water levels also affect hydroelectric power and river traffic in Europe.
Key Facts
Romania’s Cernavodă nuclear plant, producing about 20% of the country’s electricity, was shut down due to low Danube River levels.
The second reactor was disconnected just before midday on Thursday; the first reactor was shut down earlier in July.
The Danube’s water level is at its lowest in 30 years in some countries.
Low water prevents the plant’s cooling system from working properly because the intake can’t reach enough water.
Romania is using solar, wind, coal, gas power, and imports to cover the electricity shortfall.
Hungary’s nuclear plant on the Danube has not shut down yet but faces similar risks.
Europe’s rivers, including the Rhine, have very low water, impacting transport and power generation.
Climate change is causing hotter temperatures and more heatwaves in Europe, adding pressure on water resources and agriculture.
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The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are working to stop a new kind of drone used by Hezbollah in Lebanon. These drones are hard to detect because they use fiber-optic cables to send real-time video, making it easier for Hezbollah to attack Israeli troops from a safe distance.
Key Facts
Hezbollah has started using fiber-optic first-person view (FPV) drones since March, which are small, cheap, and hard to detect.
These drones do not emit electronic signals, making them difficult for Israel’s usual defense systems like Iron Dome to stop.
The IDF is trying new methods to fight these drones, including remote weapons systems like the SMASH Hopper and the Arbel system.
Israeli soldiers have also been given shotguns and special fragmenting bullets to better hit these drones.
The IDF uses large amounts of netting to physically catch the drones before they can reach soldiers.
Each Israeli squad now includes a soldier tasked with watching for drone attacks from the sky.
The IDF is looking at solutions other countries have used to handle this new drone threat.
This new tactic from Hezbollah marks the first time they have a better chance against Israeli soldiers in battle.
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A passenger train derailed near Lewes in East Sussex in the afternoon, causing several rail routes to close. Emergency services responded quickly to the scene, helping passengers and advising people to avoid the area.
Key Facts
A passenger train derailed near Lewes, East Sussex just before 4 pm.
At least two train carriages tipped over, with passengers seen on top of them.
Several railway routes in the area were closed after the accident.
Emergency services, including paramedics and fire crews, arrived quickly to assist.
Travelers in the area were asked to allow up to 60 extra minutes for their journeys.
Network Rail, Southern Rail, and British Transport Police are involved in the response.
The UK Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, expressed concern and thanked emergency teams.
Further updates were promised as more information becomes available.
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Heavy rain caused serious flooding and traffic problems near Tokyo, Japan, leading to the death of one person. The Japan Meteorological Agency warned people about floods and landslides in several areas, and tens of thousands of homes lost power.
Key Facts
Record-breaking rain hit eastern Japan, especially near Tokyo and in Chiba prefecture.
Flooding affected roads, homes, and traffic, with some trains stopped.
One person died in Ichikawa city due to the flood.
Two people were rescued from a flooded car in nearby Kashiwa city.
The Japan Meteorological Agency warned residents in 14 areas to prepare for floods and landslides.
About 220,000 people were told to move to safer places.
Heavy rain followed a tropical storm that caused injuries and blackouts the day before.
Around 68,000 homes lost electricity because of the flooding.
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Rescuers in Colombia are urgently searching for survivors trapped under rubble after a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake. The death toll has reached at least 265 people, with hundreds more missing, as efforts focus on the crucial first days after the quake to find those still alive.
Key Facts
A 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck Colombia on Monday, causing severe damage.
At least 265 people have died, and hundreds are missing.
Rescue teams work mainly in cities like Cali, Pereira, Manizales, and Quibdó.
The first 48 to 72 hours after an earthquake are critical to find survivors.
Rescuers call for silence to hear possible signs of life in the rubble.
Nearly 500 people are officially reported missing; civilian reports suggest over 4,200 missing.
More than 25,800 families have been affected by the earthquake.
The government and aid groups are working to help the hardest-hit communities.
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Separatist fighters in northern Mali have released 82 soldiers, some of whom were captured during attacks in April. The Malian army confirmed the freed soldiers are safe, while separatist leaders said the release was for humanitarian reasons.
Key Facts
82 Malian soldiers were released by separatist groups in northern Mali.
Some of these soldiers had been held captive since as early as 2023.
The soldiers were captured during coordinated attacks on April 25, targeting key locations including Bamako airport and other cities.
The Malian military confirmed the freed soldiers are now safe and receiving care.
Mohamed Elmaouloud Ramadane is a spokesperson for the separatist Azawad Liberation Front who confirmed the release.
Mali has faced ongoing violence for over ten years, involving groups linked to al-Qaida and ISIS, plus Tuareg separatists.
The April attacks were carried out by an alliance of JNIM militants and Tuareg separatists.
Despite the release, 118 Malian soldiers remain captive.
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A Yemeni commercial ship was hit by three ballistic missiles fired by the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, killing six people and injuring at least nine. The attack caused chaos as a second missile struck while rescue efforts were happening, highlighting rising violence in the region and threats to a key global trade route.
Key Facts
Three ballistic missiles struck the Yemeni cargo ship Tihama near the Bab al-Mandeb Strait on August 10, 2026.
Six people were killed and at least nine were injured in the attack.
The attack worsened when a second missile hit during ongoing rescue efforts.
Survivors described intense fire, panic, and severe damage on the ship.
The Bab al-Mandeb Strait connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and handles about 12% of world trade.
The Houthis have increased attacks on Yemeni government forces and Saudi oil facilities recently.
The Houthis declared a blockade on Saudi-linked ships in the strait, responding to Saudi actions against Yemen.
The attacks could destabilize the fragile ceasefire and risk expanding conflict in the Middle East.
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Lawyers for the "Birmingham Four," four men convicted of terrorism offenses in the UK, hope new information from an undercover policing inquiry will help reopen their case. The men were arrested after a covert police operation involving a fake delivery company and an undercover officer named "Vincent," who is alleged to have planted evidence.
Key Facts
The four men—Khobaib Hussain, Naweed Ali, Mohibur Rahman, and Tahir Aziz—were convicted of plotting a terrorist attack in the UK about ten years ago.
Police created a fake delivery company called Hero Couriers to catch two of the men.
An undercover officer named "Vincent" worked undercover with access to the men and the case.
Evidence such as a fake handgun, a partially assembled pipe bomb, and a meat cleaver with writing on it were found in Naweed Ali's car.
Lawyers claim the undercover officer planted this evidence, but the claim was denied by the officer and rejected in court.
A special inquiry into undercover policing uncovered cases where officers fabricated evidence, showing how such fake evidence could have been used.
The lawyers have submitted new information to the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) asking for the convictions to be reviewed.
Support groups and family members called on the CCRC to review and reopen the case, citing a lack of transparency in the investigation process.
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Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema voted in the capital city, Lusaka, as he seeks a second term in office. The election will show whether his efforts to improve the economy can address public worries about higher living costs.
Key Facts
President Hakainde Hichilema is running for a second term as Zambia’s president.
He cast his vote in Lusaka, the capital city of Zambia.
The election focuses on economic issues, especially the rising cost of living.
President Hichilema has introduced economic reforms during his first term.
Voters will decide if these changes have made a positive difference.
The outcome will shape Zambia’s political and economic future.
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A French citizen named Yann Vezilier, who was sentenced to 20 years in prison in Mali for allegedly planning a coup, has been pardoned by Mali's President Assimi Goïta. Vezilier was accused of working for French intelligence to destabilize the Malian government, but Mali has now allowed him to leave the country.
Key Facts
Yann Vezilier was sentenced to 20 years in prison in Mali for allegedly plotting a coup.
He was accused of acting for the French intelligence service alongside some Malian army officers and soldiers.
Mali’s President Assimi Goïta granted Vezilier a presidential pardon.
The pardon does not change the court’s judgement but allows Vezilier to leave Mali immediately.
France denies that Vezilier was working as a spy in Mali.
Mali has been facing a security crisis since 2012 due to Islamist militant groups.
The Malian government broke ties with France and now works with Russian allies against militants.
The political situation in Mali remains unstable with postponed elections and dissolved political parties.
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The UK experienced its hottest day of the year with temperatures reaching 38.1°C in southern England during the fifth summer heatwave. Across Europe, extreme heat caused wildfires, droughts, and disruptions to power plants, with countries like France, Spain, Hungary, and Romania facing serious impacts.
Key Facts
The UK recorded a provisional temperature of 38.1°C at Kew Gardens, the highest of the year so far.
Europe faced its fifth heatwave, with some places nearing 40-41°C, including Spain and France.
Many areas in the UK, including London and Wales, had unusually high temperatures between 35°C and 37.1°C.
An amber extreme heat warning was issued for much of England due to health risks.
Spain and France experienced severe wildfires worsened by dry conditions and high temperatures.
Nearly three-quarters of England and all of Wales are currently in drought, straining water supplies.
Low water levels on the Danube River have forced reductions in power plant operations in Hungary and Romania.
Experts link the increased heatwaves and droughts to climate change caused by burning fossil fuels.
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The Eurovision Song Contest organizers updated their rules so that if the winning country is involved in an armed conflict or a serious political situation that could affect safety, it cannot host the next contest. This change was made to ensure the event remains safe and secure.
Key Facts
The winning country in Eurovision must host the contest the following year unless it is involved in an armed conflict.
Participation in "sensitive geopolitical situations" also makes a country ineligible to host.
These rule changes were announced by the European Broadcasting Union on August 12, 2026.
The update came after the annual review of contest rules.
The goal is to protect the safety and security of participants and audiences.
This is the first time such a rule has been introduced for Eurovision hosting rights.
The contest involves countries across Europe and is a major cultural event.
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Tropical Storm Lala is heading toward Hawaii’s Big Island and could bring strong winds and heavy rain this weekend. Officials warn the storm may cause flooding, mudslides, and dangerous travel conditions.
Key Facts
A hurricane watch is in effect for parts of Hawaii’s Big Island, including Hawaiian Ocean View Estates, Naalehu, and Pahala.
Tropical Storm Lala currently has winds of 40 miles per hour and is expected to become nearly a hurricane by Saturday.
Winds could reach 45 to 60 miles per hour, with gusts up to 75 miles per hour.
Heavy rain of 5 to 10 inches or more is expected, raising the risk of extreme flooding.
Flooding could damage homes, roads, and bridges and may cause evacuations and water rescues.
Dangerous mudslides and rockslides may occur in mountainous areas.
There is a chance of isolated tornadoes as the storm nears.
Residents are advised to prepare now and watch for official updates and warnings.
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A woman bought a used camera on eBay and found undeveloped film inside. When the film was developed, a man who helps return lost photos used social media to find the people in the pictures, reuniting them with memories from around 2003.
Key Facts
A woman bought a secondhand Canon IX240 camera on eBay that contained undeveloped film.
Matt Tighe, from Austin, Texas, helps return lost photos found in thrift stores or secondhand items to their original owners.
The Canon IX240 was released in 1996, and the photos were dated between 2003 and 2004 using details seen in the pictures.
After sharing the photos on TikTok, Tighe received about 150,000 views and messages from people in the images.
Victoria Leeson, one of the women in the photos, connected with an old co-worker through the discovery.
The photos showed a 2003–2004 restaurant party celebrating the end of a TV production in Leeds, England.
Seeing the photos brought back strong memories for Leeson, including thoughts of her late father and her past career.
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A person was fined in Norway's Svalbard for using a ship's foghorn to wake a sleeping polar bear. The fine was imposed because local rules protect polar bears from being disturbed.
Key Facts
The incident took place in Svalbard, a group of islands about 1,000 km from the North Pole.
Someone on a boat used a foghorn to wake a sleeping polar bear on land.
The person was fined 50,000 Norwegian kroner (about £3,890).
Svalbard has rules forbidding unnecessary disturbance of polar bears, protected since 1972.
Around 250 polar bears live in the Svalbard area, based on a 2015 count.
The person accepted the fine without dispute.
In 2024, a tourist was fined for approaching a walrus too closely in the same region.
The Svalbard Environment Act requires all activities to avoid disturbing local wildlife like polar bears, seals, whales, reindeer, and arctic foxes.
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Fighting in Yemen has increased recently after a 2022 truce had slowed down the war between the pro-Iran Houthis and the Saudi-backed Yemeni government. The Houthis have launched attacks on civilians, military sites, and Saudi oil facilities, raising fears that the conflict may become a full-scale war again.
Key Facts
The 2022 truce ended heavy fighting between the Houthis and Yemeni government forces but did not lead to a full peace agreement.
Recent Houthi attacks include strikes on the port of al-Makha, a commercial vessel in the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, and Saudi Aramco’s Jazan oil refinery.
At least 30 government soldiers were killed in attacks by Houthis using drones and rockets.
Yemeni government leader Rashad al-Alimi warned the Houthis that attacks will be met with responses, but he left open the option for political dialogue.
The Houthis took control of Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, in 2014 and have since fought for power against the government.
Rising tensions followed U.S. and Israeli actions against Iran, which supports the Houthis.
Saudi Arabia fears the Houthis may block the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, a key shipping route, and has started a new international alliance to protect Red Sea shipping.
The conflict affects global oil shipments because Saudi Arabia relies on routes through the Red Sea to export oil safely.
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The number of homeless children living in temporary housing in England has reached a new high, with 177,530 children affected. The government and housing charities say the housing shortage and high rents are major causes, and efforts are underway to build more affordable homes.
Key Facts
The number of homeless children in England living in temporary accommodation rose by 5% in one year to 177,530.
This marks the 18th straight quarter that the number has increased.
Overall households living in temporary accommodation grew by nearly 4% in the same period.
The number of children living in bed and breakfast (B&B) accommodation has fallen by half.
Some families have spent longer than the legal six-week limit in B&Bs, which are often unsuitable for long stays.
Rising private rent prices and housing supply issues are cited as major challenges for families.
The Labour government has promised to build 1.5 million new homes in this Parliament but is not currently on track.
The new Prime Minister Andy Burnham pledged to launch the biggest council house-building program since the post-World War II era.
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