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Tuesday, 5:23 AM

August 12, 2025

Good morning news friend! Explore how today’s moments are shaping the world you’ll see tomorrow. 📰🌟

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US-China Trade Truce Extended

The US and China extended their tariff truce for 90 days, delaying duty increases scheduled for August 12. US tariffs on Chinese goods remain at 30%, Chinese tariffs on US goods at 10%, avoiding potential spikes to 145% and 125%.

The extension protects US retailers ahead of the holiday season and eases restrictions on certain US companies. US imports from China fell nearly 50% in June 2025 versus June 2024; exports to China declined 20%.

The US trade deficit with China narrowed by 70% over five months to its lowest since 2004. Key issues like intellectual property and subsidies remain unresolved, but talks continue toward a broader trade agreement.

Sources: Reuters, AP News, Bloomberg, BBC.

Trump Federalizes D.C. Police

President Trump federalized Washington, D.C.'s police, deploying 800 National Guard troops and placing the force under Attorney General Pam Bondi’s control for 30 days under the Home Rule Act.

This bypassed local officials despite violent crime in D.C. dropping 35% in 2024 and 26% further through July 2025, with about 1,584 incidents so far. About 120 FBI agents and 50 deputy marshals support patrols.

D.C. Mayor Bowser criticized the move and noted continued crime and homelessness declines. Legal challenges have been filed, and Congressional Democrats aim to restore local control amid broader debates over executive power and federal intervention in Democratic-led cities.

Sources: Reuters, AP News, Whitehouse, NYTimes, AXIOS.

Deadly Blast at U.S. Steel Plant

A powerful explosion on August 11, 2025, at U.S. Steel’s Clairton Coke Works in Pennsylvania killed two workers and injured at least 10. The blast damaged two coke oven batteries, which were shut down, while the rest of the plant continued operating.

Emergency responders advised nearby residents to stay indoors, though no harmful sulfur dioxide increase was detected. The cause remains under investigation. Clairton, the largest U.S. coke plant, produces 4.3 million tons annually and employs about 1,300–1,400 workers.

U.S. Steel, recently acquired by Nippon Steel, has a history of accidents and safety violations at this site. The company pledged a thorough investigation and reinforced its safety commitment.

Sources: Bloomberg, Bloomberg, Reuters, AP News, Wtae.

Trump Nominates E.J. Antoni to Lead BLS

President Trump nominated Heritage Foundation economist E.J. Antoni to lead the Bureau of Labor Statistics after firing commissioner Erika McEntarfer following weak July jobs data and downward revisions for May and June.

Antoni has criticized the BLS, raising concerns about political influence over key economic data.

The BLS faces challenges including budget cuts of $56 million for 2026, staffing declines, and increased reliance on imputed prices in inflation measures. Economists warn Antoni’s partisan background may undermine trust in employment and inflation statistics.

Trump asserts Antoni will deliver “honest and accurate” data, but experts note routine revisions and no evidence of prior data manipulation.

Sources: Reuters, AXIOS, NYTimes, Nbcnews.

Needle-Free Vaccines?

Researchers developed a needle-free vaccine delivery using dental floss targeting the junctional epithelium between teeth and gums. This method, tested on mice with flu vaccines, triggered stronger mucosal antibody responses than under-the-tongue vaccines and matched nasal delivery in flu protection.

It works for proteins, inactivated viruses, peptides, and mRNA vaccines, unaffected by eating or drinking post-application. A human trial with floss coated in fluorescent dye showed about 60% delivery to gum pockets. The technique avoids nasal vaccine risks, is easy to administer, and cost-competitive.

Limitations include inapplicability for infants without teeth and reduced effectiveness in gum disease or oral infections. Clinical trials are planned.

Sources: SciTechDaily, Nature, DiscoverMag, Popsci.

Bye Bye Teflon

Engineers developed a non-stick coating matching Teflon’s oil and water repellency using minimal short-chain PFAS molecules (-CF₃) bonded to silicone polymers (PDMS).

This coating achieves grade 6 oil repellency across fabrics, metals, and porous materials, resisting heat up to 200°C, water jets, and acidic/basic conditions. The smallest PFAS molecule used does not bioaccumulate and breaks down into low-toxicity trifluoroacetic acid, with minimal emissions estimated.

While some experts remain cautious about long-term effects, this coating offers a safer alternative to traditional PFAS-based coatings. The technology aims to be scaled for commercial use, with the ultimate goal of PFAS-free, higher-performing non-stick coatings.

Sources: SciTechDaily, Zmescience, Sciencedaily.

“A man ought to learn a lesson from the humble bee: go about your business making the sweetest honey you can, but always keep a sharp sting ready for any fool who tries to upset the hive.”

Did you know we also write in-depth deep dives? They are long, packed with insights, and have received rave reviews. If you’re up for a detailed, action-packed read, check them out:

• The Science of Longevity

• Metabolic Syndrome Nation

• Surge in Fraud Cases in the Age of DeepFakes

Baked with love,

Anna Eisenberg ❤️