News for the insatiably curious.
In partnership with
Good morning, it's Saturday, Oct. 24. A prehistoric virus could explain why chimpanzees didn't develop brains like ours. First time reading? Join millions of insatiably curious readers. Sign up here.
Also in today's Digest: the final stages in the search for the new James Bond (Quick Hits), a New York couple opens open a raccoon rehabilitation center (Humankind), the best suburb in America (Etc.), and much more.
Don’t keep us a secret: Share the email with friends, or share via SMS/social.
One Big Headline
Evolution's Viral Twist
A viral pandemic that spread roughly five to seven million years ago may be responsible for differences between human and chimpanzee brains, according to a study published this week.
Chimpanzees are humans' closest evolutionary relatives, sharing nearly 99% of the same genes. Yet, the human brain is roughly three times larger, a difference whose origins have puzzled scientists for decades (scroll for diagram). The new study identified a fragment of viral DNA present in chimpanzees but absent in humans that appears to impair genes vital to brain development. Researchers believe an ancient retrovirus, similar to HIV, inserted its genetic material into the primates' genomes, allowing it to be passed through subsequent generations. Humans, however, may have been protected by an antiviral protein that blocked the virus, ultimately giving them an evolutionary advantage.
Separately, another study out this month found that chimpanzees are less likely to steal food from their friends than their enemies. Experts say the finding may shed light on the roots of fairness and friendship.
In partnership with Pendulum
Scientists Cracked the Gut-GLP-1 Connection
If you’re looking for a probiotic backed by real science, meet Pendulum, founded by PhD scientists who cracked the gut-GLP-1 connection, and figured out how to bring live Akkermansia muciniphila to the probiotics market.
Their breakthrough uncovered one of the most beneficial strains for naturally curbing cravings, then developed the technology to deliver it in a bioavailable way, so it arrives in your colon where it can actually work. They’ve improved countless lives with their Metabolic Daily probiotic, powered by Akkermansia muciniphila. This probiotic strengthens the gut lining, improves digestive health, and helps metabolize carbs.* With 100s of 5-star reviews, 4.5K+ mentions of Akkermansia in scientific publications, and 29K+ medical professional recommendations for Pendulum, the science speaks for itself.
1440 readers can save up to 48% off their first order (discount auto-applied at checkout, HSA/FSA eligible).
*Based on preclinical studies
This product is not intended for weight loss
Please support our sponsors!
Quick Hits
Justice Department sues to block Alaska Senate results if incumbent loses.
Federal lawyers argue another candidate with the same name as incumbent Republican Sen. Dan Sullivan could mislead voters. Alaska's Supreme Court previously rejected an attempt to remove the other Dan Sullivan from the ballot. Recent polls show former Democratic Rep. Mary Peltola narrowly ahead of Sen. Sullivan. (More)
Separately, the Justice Department charged two former FBI officials with lying to Congress about their roles in the agency's Hunter Biden investigations. (More)
New York City bans horse-drawn carriages in Central Park.
The city council voted to eliminate all horse-drawn carriages by June 2028, ending a yearslong battle between animal welfare activists and a local transportation union (debate 101, w/video). The fight intensified this summer after an 18-year-old tourist died in a carriage accident. The ban leaves questions about the livelihoods of roughly 200 carriage industry workers and the care of 180 carriage horses. (More)
Melania Trump helps broker localized Russia-Ukraine ceasefire, White House says.
The temporary ceasefire will reportedly allow civilian evacuations and aid deliveries to Oleshky next week. The Ukrainian city lacks electricity, heat, food, and running water, with several roads impassable. As winter approaches, conditions are growing more precarious for the roughly 2,000 residents—down from 24,000 before the war. (More)
Separately, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says Starlink isn't fully functional, despite reports President Donald Trump asked Elon Musk to lift restrictions. (More)
Israel orders full lockdown of occupied West Bank after shooting attack.
The Israeli military said two of its soldiers were killed in a shoot-out that also left two suspected Palestinian gunmen dead. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said soldiers will conduct home searches for "terrorist infrastructure" in the Hebron neighborhood where the suspects lived. The operation comes ahead of Israel's general election, which will determine whether Netanyahu stays in power. (More)
French officials deploy 70,000 law enforcement officers ahead of planned protests.
The Louvre and several other major museums will be closed as demonstrators plan to take the streets again to protest rising living costs (see France's economy in eight charts). At least 3,000 storefronts were looted or vandalized in last week's protests. The US State Department has issued a security warning for Americans traveling to Paris for tomorrow's NFL game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and New Orleans Saints. (More)
Final tests begin for the new James Bond.
Three to five actors have reportedly reached the final audition round to play James Bond in Amazon MGM Studios' upcoming movie directed by "Dune" filmmaker Denis Villeneuve. The men vying to replace Daniel Craig are believed to include "Slow Horses" actor Jack Lowden, "The Crown" actor Josh O'Connor, and "Fantastic Beasts" actor Callum Turner. (More)
Did you know the real James Bond was a bird scientist, not a spy? (More, w/video)
Humankind
New York couple opens raccoon rehabilitation center, estimates they have saved more than 800 raccoons to date. (More, w/photos)
Climate activists install floating wetlands across a British harbor to revive wildlife populations. (More)
Midwest NICUs dress their tiny patients up for an annual Halloween costume contest. (More, w/photos)
NBA point guard quietly cofounds an insoles company inspired by his own foot injuries; product spreads by word of mouth rather than traditional endorsements. (More)
Utah woman who lost her uterus to cancer becomes a mother with the help of her mother-in-law, who served as her surrogate. (More)
In partnership with Quince
Winter Wear That Will Win You Over
Searching the racks at a new store, you find a winter coat you love. The excitement builds … the quality materials … then you see the price tag. A gut punch.
With Quince, you can probably find a similar coat for a fraction of the price. Their winter collection is made at vetted factories—many of which produce for luxury brands. Think: Merino wool coats, responsibly-sourced down puffers, and buttery-soft leather bombers.
Scroll the full collection here for your new favorite piece or holiday gift ideas. Free shipping + 365 days of returns always.
Humankind(ness)
Today, we're sharing a story from reader Kris B. in Astoria, Oregon.
"I admired a knit hat at a rally I was attending and asked the woman if she had knit it. She said no, her mother-in-law did. Then she smiled and handed me the hat, saying she could always get another one and her mother-in-law would be happy to know her work was admired."
Humankind(ness) is a reader-built corner of joy. So, what act(s) of kindness did you experience this week? Tell us here. And if this story made you smile—share our email (copy URL here).
Etcetera
Compare your net worth to others your age.
Why some sunsets are so much prettier than others.
Four ancient Greek comedies that are still funny today.
The Kelly Clarkson bird artist finally broke his silence.
Five sneaky ways stores make you spend more. (w/video)
Some people think they're werewolves. It's a real medical condition.
Cost of raising a child in every US state.
... and a Virginia town was just named the best US suburb.
Earth is getting rounder. Here's why.
Saunas are making a comeback. Is the wellness hype true? (w/audio)
How planes fly without air traffic control. (w/video)
In partnership: How to make winter a little more bearable (and chic).*
The case for not trying to be your best self.
Midwest-style pizza is taking off nationwide. (No, not deep-dish.)
Most Clicked This Week: How to tell if someone is lying.
Historybook: Black Thursday US stock market crash, exchange falls roughly 11% in one day (1929); Jackie Robinson dies (1972); Rapper Drake born (1986); Rosa Parks dies (2005); Bloody Friday worldwide stock market crash with several major indexes dropping about 10% in single day (2008).
* Please support our sponsors.
"The most luxurious possession, the richest treasure anybody has, is his personal dignity."
— Jackie Robinson
Behind the Name. Why 1440? The printing press was invented around the year 1440, spreading knowledge to the masses and changing the course of history. More facts: In every day, there are 1,440 minutes. We’re here to make each one count.
Want to connect with 4.7 million insatiably curious minds? Become a 1440 partner here.
Need a breather? Snooze this email for 30 days.
1440 Media 111 N Canal St, Suite 1210 Chicago, IL 60606
Copyright © 2026, 1440 Media, All rights reserved.
Unsubscribe from this email or update my subscription preferences.