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The sale of acitrón, a traditional Mexican sweet made from endangered barrel cactuses, is illegal because these cactuses are at risk of extinction. Despite the ban, acitrón is still popular and used in traditional dishes like chiles en nogada, reflecting its cultural importance in Mexico.
Key Facts
Acitrón is a candy made from a type of barrel cactus called biznaga.
The Mexican government banned acitrón sales in the early 2000s due to the risk of the biznaga cactus going extinct.
Despite being illegal, acitrón is still commonly sold in markets like the Merced market in Mexico City.
Acitrón is used in making chiles en nogada, a traditional Mexican dish.
The National Autonomous University of Mexico maintains barrel cactuses, highlighting their cultural importance.
There are over 150 species of biznaga, and most are endangered in the wild.
Biznaga cactuses grow very slowly, sometimes just millimeters each year.
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The Sunday Puzzle on NPR's Weekend Edition challenges listeners to solve a puzzle involving phrases where the first word starts with "P" and the second with "RO." The article provides examples and a new challenge question for the audience to answer.
Key Facts
The puzzle is called P-Ro phrases, focusing on two-word phrases where the first word begins with P and the second word begins with RO.
Examples include POT ROAST, a slow-cooked beef dish.
Clues given relate to various topics, such as a 1970s craze and a famous baseball player from Cincinnati.
Last week's puzzle involved rearranging the phrase "EASTERN TIME" to find a place observing that time zone.
The answer to last week's challenge was "Empire State."
The new puzzle challenge involves changing letters in an actress's name to reveal a location.
NPR invites listeners to submit their answers for a chance to participate on-air.
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A library in Skipton, North Yorkshire, allows people to borrow items like tools, sports equipment, and more instead of just books. This Library of Things aims to reduce waste and save money by lending items that people usually use only occasionally. Members pay a small yearly fee and can borrow over 600 different items.
Key Facts
The Library of Things opened in Skipton, North Yorkshire, in July 2024.
Residents can borrow items such as tools, tents, and sports equipment.
The library promotes sustainability by encouraging people to borrow instead of buy.
Members pay a yearly subscription fee of £10 and can borrow items for a small additional fee.
The library has more than 600 items available, with over 1,500 loans completed since opening.
Popular items include hedge trimmers, dehumidifiers, and power tools.
Some items are available for free, while more valuable equipment has a small borrowing fee.
Around 500 people have joined the library since it opened.
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Poland temporarily closed part of its airspace near Warsaw due to unexpected military activity as NATO increased its presence in the Baltic Sea. This action comes amid tensions between Russia and Ukraine, with Russian strikes on Ukraine and drone activity observed in Denmark and Norway. Poland and NATO are taking precautionary measures to secure their airspace and protect citizens.
Key Facts
Poland briefly closed its airspace southeast of Warsaw due to military activity.
This action coincided with Russia launching new strikes against Ukraine.
NATO announced upgrades to its mission in the Baltic Sea in response to drone incidents in Denmark and Norway.
Polish and NATO aircraft have responded to protect airspace.
Russian drones entered Polish airspace earlier this month, which led to NATO's first direct military engagement with Russia since the Ukraine invasion.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov warned of a "decisive response" to any aggression.
Drone activity has led to airport closures and heightened tensions in Denmark and Norway.
The European Union plans to enhance border security with a "drone wall" to address these threats.
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Two major storms, a hurricane and a tropical storm, are currently active in the Atlantic Ocean. The storms are not expected to hit the U.S. directly but could affect the Caribbean, Bermuda, and parts of the U.S. East Coast with heavy rain and flooding. South Carolina has declared a state of emergency in preparation for potential impacts from Tropical Depression 9.
Key Facts
Two storms, Hurricane Humberto and Tropical Depression 9, are active in the Atlantic.
Neither storm is expected to make direct landfall in the U.S.
Tropical Depression 9 is expected to affect the Bahamas and may bring storm conditions to Florida and the Carolinas.
Hurricane Humberto has winds up to 160 mph and will move past Bermuda, affecting areas including Puerto Rico and Bermuda with dangerous surf.
A significant weather threat exists along the Florida and Carolina coasts with possible flooding.
South Carolina declared a state of emergency as a precaution.
The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season has produced nine tropical cyclones, with three reaching major hurricane status.
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The article discusses concerns about declining birth rates and the implications of an aging population. Experts debate how this could affect the number of working-age people who support older generations and explore potential policy solutions.
Key Facts
Declining birth rates are a concern for many governments globally.
The U.S. is considering policies like a "baby bonus" to encourage more births.
Lower birth rates mean fewer workers to support the elderly through pensions and healthcare.
Economist William Frey highlights the potential impact of low fertility on economic growth.
Sociologist Karen Guzzo believes fears about low birth rates may be exaggerated.
The U.S. fertility rate is projected to remain below the replacement level.
Populations are aging due to past baby booms, notably in the U.S. and Europe.
Adjustments in pension and healthcare systems could help manage the challenges of an aging population.
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NATO is facing challenges as drones from neighboring regions, suspected to be linked to Russia, enter its airspace. Experts warn that NATO is not fully prepared to deal with this kind of modern warfare involving drones. Recent drone activity in Poland has raised concerns and led to emergency talks among NATO members.
Key Facts
NATO airspace has been breached by drones, which some experts link to Russia.
These drone incursions are considered serious violations and highlight NATO's unpreparedness.
Drones have evolved into smaller, cheaper, and more maneuverable forms since their first use by the U.S. during the 21st century's early wars.
Poland recently reported drones from Belarus and Ukraine crossing into its territory.
This event led Poland to call for Article 4 emergency discussions within NATO.
The drones involved in the recent incidents were not believed to be armed.
The drones are thought to be similar to Russia's Geran model, which is connected to Iranian drone technology.
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The Israel-Premier Tech cycling team will not participate in Italy's Giro dell’Emilia race due to safety concerns related to pro-Palestinian protests. Organizers made the decision following disruptions at a recent cycling event in Spain. Protests arose due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza.
Key Facts
Israel-Premier Tech cycling team excluded from Giro dell’Emilia race in Italy.
The decision was made for safety reasons after disruptions by pro-Palestinian protesters at a race in Spain.
The Giro dell’Emilia will take place on October 4 and will finish in Bologna, Italy.
Organizers are worried about potential disruptions due to the race's repeated circuit design.
Protests in Italy have highlighted opposition to Israel's actions in Gaza.
Bologna's local government supported the decision, criticizing Israel's actions in Gaza.
European football body UEFA is considering excluding Israel's football team from competitions due to the conflict.
Eurovision members may vote on excluding Israel from future contests over the situation in Gaza.
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A Russian attack using drones and missiles on Kyiv, Ukraine, killed at least four people and injured over 10 others. This assault targeted civilian areas, including residential buildings and infrastructure, and came shortly after the UN General Assembly week. Ukrainian officials reported extensive damage and casualties across several regions.
Key Facts
A Russian drone and missile attack hit Kyiv, Ukraine, killing at least four people.
At least 10 people were injured in the attack in Kyiv.
The assault targeted civilian areas, including residential buildings.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy stated that nearly 500 drones and over 40 missiles were used in the attack.
Besides Kyiv, regions like Zaporizhzhia, Khmelnytskyi, Sumy, Mykolaiv, Chernihiv, and Odesa were also targeted.
At least 40 people were wounded across Ukraine, with three children among the injured in Zaporizhzhia.
The attack caused significant damage to more than 20 locations in Kyiv, including a kindergarten and medical facility.
The attack occurred shortly after the UN General Assembly week, where Russia's foreign minister addressed global leaders.
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Some women who used the birth control shot Depo-Provera reported developing non-cancerous brain tumors called meningiomas. Research suggests a higher risk of these tumors with prolonged use of the injection. Legal actions have been initiated against the manufacturer, Pfizer, by women who argue that they developed these tumors due to the shot.
Key Facts
Depo-Provera is a birth control injection made by Pfizer.
Two women, Sandra Somarakis and Nicole Ryan, used Depo-Provera for over a decade and later developed meningiomas.
Meningiomas are non-cancerous brain tumors.
Research from the University of British Columbia suggests that using Depo-Provera for more than one year increases the risk of meningiomas by 3.5 times compared to other hormonal contraceptives.
Approximately 24.5% of sexually active women have used injectable contraceptives according to the CDC.
Somarakis underwent surgery and radiation for her tumors and experienced significant long-term side effects.
Nicole Ryan also developed a meningioma and faced permanent side effects after surgery.
Ongoing lawsuits against Pfizer claim the injection is linked to an increased risk of meningioma.
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New data shows that support for the British monarchy is declining among younger generations, particularly among Gen Z and their millennial parents. This trend could affect how children in Generation Alpha, currently growing up, view the monarchy in the future. The historical context reveals how public support has fluctuated over the years, influenced by major events such as those involving Princess Diana.
Key Facts
King Charles III faces a challenge as support for the monarchy declines, especially among Gen Z and millennial parents.
Gen Alpha, born between 2010 and 2024, may grow up with less support for the monarchy if current trends continue.
Recent studies indicate many British first-time parents support replacing the monarchy with a democratically elected head of state.
Historical data from the 1980s showed strong support for the monarchy, with 86% of Britons seeing it as important.
The public's view on the monarchy experienced a significant drop in the 1990s after issues involving Princess Diana.
In 1998, only 27.7% of people thought having a monarchy was "very important," although overall support remained above 50%.
The late 1990s and early 2000s showed a dip in royal popularity, often due to public disinterest rather than opposition.
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Thousands of people in Argentina protested against the killing of three young women, whose deaths were linked to a drug-trafficking gang. The murders were livestreamed on social media, and police arrested five suspects, although a suspected leader is still missing. The victims were thought to have been punished for breaking gang rules.
Key Facts
Three young women, aged 15 and 20, were killed in Argentina, sparking widespread protests.
The killings were broadcast live on social media and linked to a drug gang.
Police have arrested five people but a suspected leader, a Peruvian man, is not yet caught.
The victims were misled to think they were going to a party but were actually targeted.
The bodies were found in a southern suburb of Buenos Aires five days after they disappeared.
A video of the crime was found after one suspect revealed it during questioning.
Local officials released a photo of the suspect believed to be the gang leader.
Femicide, or the killing of women due to their gender, is a significant issue in Argentina, with one woman killed by a man every 36 hours.
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A stampede at a political rally in Tamil Nadu, India, resulted in the death of 36 people and injured 40 more. The rally was held for Vijay, a popular actor turned politician. The incident occurred as people tried to approach Vijay's vehicle, leading to chaos in the large crowd.
Key Facts
The stampede happened at a rally for Vijay, a popular actor and politician in Tamil Nadu, India.
At least 36 people died, including eight children, and 40 were injured.
The rally took place in the district of Karur and drew tens of thousands of attendees.
The chaos started when supporters fell while trying to get close to Vijay's bus.
High temperatures and Vijay's late arrival contributed to the disordered situation.
An official investigation was ordered to understand the cause of the stampede.
Vijay expressed sorrow for the victims and their families on social media.
Such stampedes are not uncommon in India due to large gatherings.
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Singer Florence Welch had emergency surgery after experiencing a life-threatening ectopic pregnancy in August 2023. She continued performing despite unknowingly suffering from serious internal bleeding.
Key Facts
Florence Welch had an ectopic pregnancy, a condition where a fertilized egg grows outside the womb.
During this condition, her fallopian tube ruptured, causing internal bleeding.
Welch was on stage performing when she felt unwell but completed the show.
She needed emergency surgery to remove the affected fallopian tube.
The condition can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.
One in 90 pregnancies in the UK are ectopic, according to the NHS.
Symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy can include pain on one side of the abdomen and shoulder pain.
Welch is a member of the music group Florence and the Machine and plans to release a new album in October.
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Thousands of people protested in Buenos Aires, Argentina, over the murder of two young women and a teenage girl. The alleged drug gang committed these acts and livestreamed them online. The protest called for more action against drug-related violence.
Key Facts
Thousands protested in Buenos Aires against the killing of two women and a teenage girl.
The victims were murdered and tortured by an alleged drug gang.
The murders were livestreamed on Instagram, seen by 45 account members, but Meta, Instagram's parent company, disputed this.
The bodies were found in a yard in Buenos Aires five days after the victims went missing.
The victims were reportedly lured into a van and killed for allegedly violating gang rules.
Five suspects have been arrested, including one who allegedly provided logistical support.
A 20-year-old Peruvian suspect is accused of masterminding the crimes and remains at large.
The protest highlighted concerns about increasing drug-related violence in Argentina.
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Malaysia’s former Prime Minister, Mahathir Mohamad, turned 100 and continues to actively engage with political and global issues. In an interview, he expressed strong views on the violence in Gaza, comparing it to historical genocides and criticizing Israel's actions. Mahathir has long been a supporter of the Palestinian cause and advocates for a two-state solution to the conflict.
Key Facts
Mahathir Mohamad celebrated his 100th birthday and remains active in political discussions.
He described the violence in Gaza as a genocide and compared it to other historical atrocities.
Mahathir criticized Israel for its actions against Palestinians in Gaza.
He supports a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine but thinks it is far from being realized.
Mahathir has been a vocal advocate for the Palestinian cause throughout his political career.
He has previously been criticized for making statements deemed "anti-Semitic."
Mahathir believes the conflict in Gaza will be remembered for generations.
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The United Nations has reimposed sanctions on Iran using a "snapback" mechanism from a 2015 nuclear deal. These sanctions aim to freeze Iranian assets abroad, halt arms deals, and stop the development of Iran's ballistic missile program, as Iran faces economic hardships and tensions with Israel and the United States.
Key Facts
The United Nations reimposed sanctions on Iran due to its nuclear program.
These sanctions will freeze Iranian assets overseas and ban arms deals with Tehran.
The "snapback" mechanism is part of the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers.
Iran's economy is struggling, with its currency at a record low, affecting food prices.
Tensions with Israel and potential conflict with the United States are increasing.
Iran still keeps a stockpile of uranium enriched up to 60% purity.
The sanctions prevent certain actions by China and Russia at the U.N. Security Council.
Iran has restricted the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) from monitoring its nuclear sites.
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The UK, France, and Germany have reinstated United Nations sanctions on Iran, urging the country to avoid increasing tensions and to engage in talks. Iran's president argued against the sanctions, calling them unfair and reiterated that the country does not aim to develop nuclear weapons. The sanctions came back after Iran expanded nuclear activities and limited cooperation with international inspectors following the U.S. withdrawal from a previous nuclear deal in 2016.
Key Facts
The UK, France, and Germany reinstated UN sanctions on Iran due to its nuclear activities.
These sanctions were originally lifted a decade ago as part of an international deal.
Iran increased nuclear activities after the U.S. exited the deal in 2016.
The three European countries expressed a preference for diplomacy but cited Iran’s lack of cooperation.
The United Nations sanctions include economic and military restrictions.
Iran is accused of not allowing inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Iran’s president insists that the country is not seeking to develop nuclear weapons.
Iran is holding consultations with its ambassadors to the UK, France, and Germany.
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The UK has successfully grown its first rice crop in paddy fields in East England. This experiment aims to explore the possibility of growing new crops in the UK as the climate changes. Researchers are testing different rice varieties to see if they can become a sustainable option in the future.
Key Facts
The rice crop was grown in East England as part of a climate change experiment.
Nadine Mitschunas is the UK's first rice grower in this trial.
The project involves four small paddy fields with nine varieties of rice.
The rice varieties originate from countries like Brazil, Colombia, Italy, and the Philippines.
This summer was the hottest in the UK since records began in 1884.
The trial is led by the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology (UKCEH).
The research explores future agriculture possibilities if the UK climate continues warming.
Peat soil in the area, which is drying out, contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.
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Ukrainian drones attacked an oil station in Russia, causing a fire and stopping operations. Russian forces have taken more territory in eastern Ukraine, and both Russia and Ukraine blame each other for attacks on a nuclear power plant. NATO is increasing military measures in the Baltic Sea region following drone sightings, and Ukraine is planning to purchase more weapons from the United States.
Key Facts
Ukrainian drones hit an oil station in Russia, leading to a fire and operations halt.
Russia's military claimed capture of three villages in eastern Ukraine.
Both countries blame each other for attacks on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.
NATO is enhancing its presence in the Baltic Sea with an air-defense ship.
Latvia and Lithuania requested NATO to boost protection due to Russia's alleged airspace violations.
Norway is investigating drone sightings near its key military base.
Ukraine plans to buy $90 billion of US weapons and has received a Patriot air defense system.
Russia warned NATO and the EU of a strong response to any aggression, according to its foreign minister.
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