Stopped by the always amazing @texasbookfest.bsky.social and ran into @michaelerard.bsky.social, whose new book I've been dying read.

The secret to happiness.

Acknowledging a role for animal research is leading to pushback from animal rights activists. We need to articulate (again) the essential roles of animal research, welcome legitimate ways of reducing animal use, and remain vigilant about sources of misinformation online.🧪

In a June interview on NPR, Kleinstreuer acknowledged again that animal studies remain important.

www.wbur.org/onpoint/2025...

Looking at the publication itself, and where other sources are covering the story, I notice that first, they are unfamiliar sources. Second, they don't quote any contrary opinions. Third, they favorably quote PETA. All red flags.🧪

Kleinstreuer has indeed made a career of identifying non-animal models, and wants to advance that work. The discussion in the workshop is really focused around animal toxicity testing, which tbh is not a terrible idea.🧪
www.youtube.com/watch?v=vz1u...

Life-history theory suggests aging is due to alleles that offer short-term benefits & long-term costs; this paper is a dramatic illustration in ant castes. This is a good way to think about stress, stress-related disease, & accelerated aging among humans.

One my favorites! I love that they have curled tails and spots.

Something exciting to share: My weird book has a home at Algonquin Books! Excited to work with Madeline Jones and grateful for the help from Matt McGowan!

This adorable little timer is the best addition to my office so far this year.

Madrid, Rome.

This means something.