Next Week in Science, October 23, 2025
Mole day!
Check out our coverage of the most impressive number-themed day of the year
But, of course, there are other things in the research.
And what’s in the news
How Amazon provides a marketplace for worthless stem cell supplements
A study by Canadian researchers found that hundreds of stem cell supplements sold on Amazon and other platforms falsely claim health benefits without scientific evidence, exploiting regulatory loopholes. This highlights the lack of effective oversight in the supplement industry, allowing companies to market their products using misleading scientific language.
Anti-science bills hit statehouses, stripping away public health protections built over a century
Over 420 anti-science bills targeting essential public health measures like vaccines and fluoride have been introduced across the U.S. this year, with around 30 enacted in 12 states. This movement, spearheaded by individuals linked to RFK Jr., risks undermining decades of public health progress and could lead to increased disease outbreaks.
Making Medications Available?
Mark Cuban has launched Cost Plus Drugs, an online pharmacy aiming to reduce drug prices by offering significant discounts, challenging the traditional pricing strategies of the pharmaceutical industry. While currently limited in reach and impact, this initiative is a notable effort from a billionaire to address the systemic issue of high drug costs in the U.S.
Machine learning predictions of climate change effects on nearly threatened bird species (Crithagra xantholaema) habitat in Ethiopia for conservation strategies
A recent study using advanced machine learning models predicts significant habitat loss for the near-threatened Salvadori serin in Ethiopia by 2050 and 2070 due to climate change. Unless conservation measures are taken, the availability of suitable habitats for C. xantholaema could decline by over 70%, posing a severe threat to its survival.
