Water fluoridation cut tooth decay in Queensland children, study shows, but most councils have decided against it

Adani has firmly denied allegations from the Australia Institute that it sold coal below market rates, which reportedly caused Queensland to miss out on significant royalty revenues. The claims suggest that customers paid an average of $102 per tonne in the last financial year, raising concerns about the financial implications for the state. This situation is crucial as it highlights the ongoing debate over resource management and the economic impact on local communities, especially in a region heavily reliant on mining revenues.

The Manitoba youth advocate is urging the provincial government to take stronger action to support children affected by wildfires. This call to action is crucial as it highlights the need for targeted assistance to mitigate the impact of such disasters on young people, ensuring their well-being and future.

Recent research from the mental health charity Mind reveals a troubling increase in stigma surrounding mental health in England. Alarmingly, one in seven people now express fear about living near someone with a mental health issue, a figure that has nearly doubled. Even more concerning is that one in ten individuals would refuse to live next to someone who has recovered from mental illness. This rise in stigma not only highlights societal fears but also underscores the urgent need for awareness and education to foster understanding and acceptance.

A recent study suggests that nearly 70% of US adults could be classified as obese under a new definition that challenges the traditional BMI measurement. This shift in understanding is significant because the current BMI standard, which labels individuals with a BMI of 30 or higher as obese, fails to account for differences between fat and muscle. Medical experts are advocating for a more accurate way to assess obesity, highlighting the importance of this issue in public health discussions.

In a concerning development, researchers have found that tropical rainforest trees in Queensland, Australia, have made a world-first switch from being a carbon sink to a source of carbon emissions. This shift could have significant implications for global climate change, as these forests play a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide. The findings highlight the urgent need for climate action and raise alarms about the health of these vital ecosystems.

The Queensland government has come under fire for blaming the police for allegedly overstated figures regarding a drop in crime rates. This controversy raises questions about the accuracy of crime reporting and the accountability of law enforcement agencies. It matters because public trust in the police and government relies heavily on transparent and truthful statistics, which can influence policy decisions and community safety.

A recent study reveals that many students are concerned that artificial intelligence is undermining their ability to learn effectively. One in four students believes that AI makes it too easy to find answers, leading to fears that it stifles creativity and hinders the development of essential skills. This research, commissioned by Oxford, highlights a growing anxiety among pupils about the impact of technology on their education, raising important questions about how schools can balance the benefits of AI with the need for critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

The Quebec government is contemplating the establishment of a sperm donor registry following an investigation by Noovo, which uncovered that three men from the same family have fathered hundreds of children through sperm donations. This move could enhance transparency and accountability in the sperm donation process, ensuring that donor information is accessible to families and children born from these donations. It highlights the need for regulations in reproductive technologies and the implications for family dynamics.

Recent research highlights the therapeutic benefits of group singing for new mothers experiencing postnatal depression. This innovative approach not only helps alleviate symptoms but is also cost-effective for the NHS. By fostering a sense of community and providing emotional support, group singing empowers these women, giving them a renewed sense of voice and connection during a challenging time. This finding is significant as it opens up new avenues for mental health treatment, emphasizing the importance of creative therapies in recovery.

Congressional Democrats are stepping up to protect the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program by introducing a new bill aimed at securing its funding amid the ongoing federal government shutdown. This initiative is crucial as it ensures that low-income women and children continue to receive essential nutritional support, highlighting the importance of government assistance during challenging times.

Recent research suggests that reducing speed limits from 50km/h to 30km/h could significantly enhance cyclist safety without greatly impacting commute times. An expert highlighted that a cyclist struck by a vehicle traveling at 50km/h has only a 10% chance of survival, whereas at 30km/h, that chance jumps to 90%. This change could lead to safer roads for cyclists, encouraging more people to ride and promoting a healthier, more environmentally friendly mode of transport.

A recent study reveals that individuals who quit smoking in middle age can significantly reduce their risk of developing dementia, bringing it down to levels comparable to those who have never smoked. This research, involving over 9,000 participants from England and the US, shows that quitting smoking can halve the decline in verbal fluency and slow memory loss by 20%. This finding is crucial as it highlights the profound impact of lifestyle choices on cognitive health, encouraging more people to consider quitting smoking for better brain health.

Canada is taking a tough stance against Stellantis, threatening legal action over the company's decision to shift Jeep production to the U.S. This move could breach agreements made with the Canadian government to keep manufacturing operations in Ontario. Industry Minister Melanie Joly has expressed concerns that such a shift could jeopardize jobs and economic stability in the region, highlighting the importance of maintaining local production.

Recent viral posts falsely claim that ICE agents zip-tied a toddler during an immigration crackdown in Chicago. However, the footage actually shows a father playing with his son in a game of 'cops and robbers' filmed in 2024. This misinformation highlights the dangers of spreading unverified claims, especially regarding sensitive topics like immigration, and underscores the importance of fact-checking in today's digital age.

NATO defense chiefs are reportedly pushing for a change in engagement rules that would permit the shooting down of Russian planes. This development raises significant concerns about escalating tensions between NATO and Russia, as it suggests a more aggressive military stance that could lead to dangerous confrontations in the air. The implications of such a shift could affect international relations and security in the region, making it a critical issue to watch.

The Women's Champions League match between Chelsea and Paris FC is underway at Stamford Bridge, with kick-off at 8pm BST. This event is significant as it showcases top-level women's football, drawing attention to the growing popularity and competitiveness of the women's game. Fans can follow live updates and scores, highlighting the excitement surrounding this match.

In a recent statement, President Trump indicated that Israel could resume military actions in Gaza if Hamas does not adhere to the ceasefire agreement. This comes as Hamas struggles to locate the remaining bodies of hostages. The situation remains tense, and Trump's comments highlight the fragile nature of the ceasefire, emphasizing the ongoing complexities in the region. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as they impact humanitarian efforts and the broader geopolitical landscape.

Australia's Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke is set to announce a significant crackdown on crypto ATMs that have been linked to money laundering and other serious crimes. This move is crucial as it aims to enhance financial security and combat illegal activities that exploit digital currencies. By addressing these issues, the government is taking a proactive stance to protect citizens and maintain the integrity of the financial system.