Latest news with #Boa
Time of India
6 days ago
- General
- Time of India
34-million-year-old snakes discovered in US reveal surprising clues about evolution
A rare snake discovery in western Wyoming has revealed four nearly complete snake fossils dating back 34 to 38 million years, providing rare insights into snake evolution, anatomy, and behaviour. The fossils, identified as a new species called Hibernophis Breithaupti, were uncovered in a fine layer of mudstone and are among the most intact ever found. Preserved with skulls, ribs, and over 200 vertebrae still in place, these ancient snakes offer a glimpse into how modern boas may have evolved and even hint at early forms of social behaviour like communal hibernation. 34-million-year-old snakes: A rare and perfect discovery in US Unlike most snake fossils, which are usually limited to disjointed vertebrae and rib fragments, these four specimens were almost fully articulated. Their exceptional condition allowed scientists to map their entire skeletal structure from head to tail, something rarely achieved with snake fossils. This discovery has opened new avenues for understanding how various skeletal features develop and function in both juvenile and adult snakes. A new species: Hibernophis Breithaupti Initially mistaken for known genera such as Ogmophis and Calamagras, further examination revealed consistent differences in jaw shape, tooth arrangement, and vertebral features. These distinctions led scientists to classify them as a new species, Hibernophis Breithaupti. Small in size, these snakes were likely burrowers. The discovery of differently sized specimens provided a rare chance to observe both juvenile and adult stages within a single species. Insights into Boa evolution Through detailed anatomical comparisons and DNA analysis, scientists placed Hibernophis close to the Boa family. The findings suggest that early boas were modest in size and had already started diversifying by the Oligocene period. The articulated spines allowed researchers to trace how individual bones change during growth, a breakthrough for evolutionary biology and museum fossil classification. Evidence of social behaviour The four snakes were found curled together in what is believed to be a hibernaculum, a winter shelter used for group hibernation. This is particularly fascinating, as such communal behavior is rare among modern reptiles. The fossil arrangement mirrors behavior seen in modern garter snakes, suggesting that group sheltering for warmth may have existed tens of millions of years ago. Preserved by volcanoes and mud The snakes owe their pristine condition to unique geological events. Volcanic ash clouds and seasonal flooding quickly buried their underground shelter in fine sediment, creating airtight conditions ideal for fossilization. These perfect preservation circumstances allowed researchers to study the snakes' bones in detail and make groundbreaking conclusions. Rewriting the snake family tree The discovery of Hibernophis Breithaupti not only enriches our understanding of snake evolution but also challenges previous assumptions about their social behavior and development. As paleontologists continue to study the specimens, these ancient snakes may help rewrite significant chapters in the evolutionary history of reptiles.
Daily Record
01-06-2025
- Daily Record
Pervert paramedic who exposed himself and sent porn to colleagues dodges prison
Gavin Boa bombarded two junior female colleagues with porn and explicit messages over a seven-month period and exposed himself while on shift. A pervert paramedic who exposed himself to a colleague at an ambulance depot has avoided prison. Gavin Boa bombarded two junior female colleagues with porn and explicit messages over seven months while working in Paisley and asked one woman to have sex with him. The 32-year-old pressured one woman into showing him her breasts after being called out to see a sick patient and sent her images of his genitals. In May, Boa was found guilty of five sex offences after a trial at Paisley Sheriff Court. Last week he was ordered to do 150 hours of unpaid work, banned from contacting his two victims for a period of 12 months and also added to the sex offenders register for two years. His professional paramedic registration has been suspended and he now faces a hearing of the Health and Care Professions Tribunal (HCPT) to decide whether to remove it. A HCPT spokesman said: 'It is standard practice for a regulator to wait until the end of criminal proceedings before finalising its investigations.' The trial heard from one of Boa's victims who said she 'froze' when the paramedic exposed himself to her while they were on a break from jobs at the Paisley ambulance base. The woman described how she had been on shift with him on December 3, 2023, and his behaviour was 'out of control' from the start. She said he had asked her for s ex twice during their 12-hour shift and demanded she show him her breasts before he would move the ambulance on from being called out to a sick patient. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. The woman said: 'He wouldn't move the ambulance until I did. I felt completely ashamed.' When they returned to the depot on Craw Road, he exposed himself and performed a sex act. said sexualised behaviour was part of the 'culture' at the ambulance service. Following his conviction Scottish Ambulance Service chiefs put up posters in bases across the country warning staff against sexual harassment. The move was blasted by politicians who said more had to be done to protect workers, particularly women, who were being subjected to harassment. A Scottish Ambulance Service spokesperson said: 'Any form of sexual misconduct is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated in the Scottish Ambulance Service.
CNN
30-05-2025
- Health
- CNN
The 15 best men's running shorts for maximum comfort, according to actual runners
Men's running shorts quick picks Breezy shorts with a supportive liner: Janji Men's AFO 5-Inch Middle Shorts Do-it-all gym shorts: Ten Thousand Interval Shorts For race day: Rabbit Speedsters Half Tights The best running shorts for men might not shave a minute off your mile time, but they will keep you cool, comfortable and supported. 'As a coach, I've seen so many newer runners tolerate discomfort without realizing their gear is part of the problem,' said Alysha Flynn, founder of and coach at What Runs You. 'The best shorts should support your run, not distract from it.' But finding the perfect fit can be a struggle if you don't know what you're looking for. That's where this guide comes in. After interviewing seasoned runners and testing popular models, I compiled a list of the 15 best men's running shorts. Janji Men's AFO 5-Inch Middle Shorts Janji thought of everything with these lined shorts, which were so lightweight and breezy that I forgot they were there during runs. But storage is where they shine. The zippered back pocket is perfect for an ID card or phone, and the snug fit keeps pocket bounce minimal. There's also a clever internal pocket with a built-in carabiner for your house key. Choose from the original design, or spend a little more for extra gel storage with the AFO Men's Elite Split Shorts Mike Hamberger, a running coach and All-American triathlete who's tested at least 50 different running shorts over the past 25 years, said nothing beats Boa. The brand's Elite Split shorts feature a short 1-inch inseam, polyester mesh liner and a single pocket, prioritizing minimalism and breathability over storage and coverage. Boa also features some wacky designs, if you want bananas or donuts on your short 5-Inch Vento Training Shorts Senior testing editor Rick Stella avoids short shorts but makes an exception for Bandit's Vento. 'They are extremely comfortable, even during long-distance runs, and have several pockets for storing things like keys or a few credit cards (you can stash your phone, but I often keep my phone at home when I run),' he said. As pricey as they are, Stella added that they're worth the cost and will 'be your go-to running shorts for years.' Vuori Kore Shorts 'These shorts are like a summer version of joggers for guys,' said Phil Young, the owner of Fleet Feet Davenport in Iowa. 'I can run, lift or dress them up and wear them out and about.' He prefers them with a 5-inch inseam, but you can also grab the stretchy, lined shorts in 7-inch and 9-inch Stride Running Shorts Flynn turns to two brands for men's running shorts: Nike and Lululemon. She specifically highlighted this 2-in-1 pair from Nike, which boasts four pockets, including zippered storage in the back to secure your phone or keys. They're made from a lightweight, stretchy blend of polyester and spandex, and include mesh panels for improved airflow. Tracksmith Men's Session Shorts 'If I could sum up Tracksmith's Session Shorts with one word, it would be 'comfortable,'' Stella said. 'I've often kept wearing them for hours after a run because they deliver that much comfort.' That's thanks to their lightweight construction and the nylon and elastane liner that 'just feels good' and doesn't ride up during runs. 'I have a few pairs of these in my running kit and always look forward to their turn in the rotation,' Stella added. Brooks Sherpa 5-Inch Shorts When Young needs 'a go-to, everyday pair' for his runs, he grabs the Brooks Sherpa. They are equipped with plenty of storage and lightweight materials, and reasonably priced, especially when they are on sale. Ten Thousand Interval Shorts With the Interval Shorts, Ten Thousand designed a do-it-all pair of gym shorts that Los Feliz Running Club founder Warren Tardif calls 'nearly perfect.' While every pair comes with stretchy, moisture-wicking fabric, a secure waistband and vents for extra breathability, you can choose from three different inseam sizes, and lined and linerless models. Ten Thousand also carries the Session Shorts, a lighter, pared-down model designed specifically for our review Lululemon 7-Inch Pace Breaker Linerless Shorts Flynn also recommends Lululemon's Pace Breaker shorts, which are available in three inseam lengths, and lined and linerless configurations. Whatever version you choose, they all feature low-bounce pockets and a hidden storage compartment for keys or Robbins All In Shorts When CNN Underscored outdoors, sustainable living and pets editor —and avid trail runner — Kai Burkhardt suits up for runs, hikes or days at the lake, he opts for Royal Robbins' All In Shorts. 'They're super lightweight and have three pockets (including a small zippered one on the thigh), and they are quick-drying,' he said. They're also made from recycled nylon, making them a great choice for runners who strive to live Armour Men's UA Vanish Woven 6-Inch Shorts 'I only buy new athletic shorts if I can get them for dirt cheap at an outlet,' said associate testing writer Joe Bloss. Though his favorite budget pair from Under Armour has been discontinued, he said these are close. 'I wear them for running, walking, chilling — they're simply comfortable lightweight shorts great for any use.' Alo 5-Inch Repetition Shorts I initially ordered these for a piece I was writing about hiking shorts but realized they'd be a better fit here. The linerless design is simple — you get three zippered pockets and a drawstring — but Alo nails the basics, especially when it comes to the comfy but tight waistband and soft, stretchy fabric. Those qualities make them great for runs, but I think of them more as all-purpose athletic shorts for gym sessions and chill days at home. A24 Gym Shorts A film and TV production company is the last place you'd expect to find great running shorts, but copy chief Daniel Toy said he's fallen in love with these 'comfy, breezy shorts" from A24. 'The deep pockets are great for carrying running essentials without having to worry about dropping anything," he said, "and the mesh style offers maximum breathability during midsummer or moonlit jogs.' Nike Lava Loops Dri-FIT ADV Running Tights '[Compression shorts] can have lots of pockets and usually are better to avoid chafing,' said Duy Nguyen, a Nike partner and co-founder of Koreatown Run Club in Los Angeles, California. The Lava Loops are his tights of choice, as they offer plenty of security, minimal bounce and lots of storage, thanks to seven well-placed pockets. Rabbit Speedsters Half Tights Need a pair for race day? Try these half tights from Rabbit. 'These shorts make me want to go fast!' Young said, who added that the 'pockets are executed wonderfully without adding bulk.' Runners also benefit from the shorts' UPF 50+ protection, which will keep your thighs sunburn-free. If there's one thing I've learned covering exercise gear, it's that personal preference plays a big role. That's true for men's running shorts too. But the athletes I spoke to also shared a few nonnegotiables that everyone should look for, regardless of taste. And that starts with comfort and fit. 'You want a pair that moves with you, doesn't chafe and offers features like a secure waistband, sweat-wicking fabric and, ideally, extra pocket storage for training essentials like fuel,' Flynn said. 'You want them to feel like they disappear once you're moving.' In practice, that means looking for lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric, flat seams (aka flatlock stitching) and a drawstring to keep the waistband secure, she added. You can shop from afar, relying on product reviews and descriptions, but Nguyen recommends getting hands on the shorts and asking yourself some important questions: Would these shorts weigh me down? Would they be comfortable on my skin? If you're still unsure, you may have to run in them to know if they're a good fit, Nguyen said. Beyond fit, let the type of running guide your choices, Young said. 'If you need pockets for a longer run or to carry a key if not starting from home, you need to anticipate those things,' he said. Nguyen agrees, noting that inseam length, pockets and liners come down to personal preference for him. 'I don't necessarily need so many pockets and extra fabric when I'm doing a speed workout on a track,' he said. 'On the flip side, I definitely do if I have a longer run to hold gels or even to sneak in a shorter run in between errands.' No matter how or where you train, you should never compromise on fit and comfort. The variety in design of running shorts has 'accelerated pretty rapidly,' Young said, so there should be something for everyone. 'If you start a run and wish your shorts were different, or finish a run and are mad about your shorts, you need new shorts.' The following FAQs have been answered by running experts Phil Young, Alysha Flynn and Duy Nguyen. What are the pros and cons of men's running shorts with liners? What are the pros and cons of men's running shorts with liners? 'It seems that most men have moved away from traditional briefs to boxer briefs, and wearing a boxer brief with running shorts can end up looking or feeling silly,' Young said. 'So, with a built-in liner, the need to fuss over an undergarment is reduced.' Liners can also add a layer of security and warmth in colder weather, he added. Some liners can be uncomfortable, though, Flynn said, plus some male runners prefer to wear their own base layer or compression shorts. Should men's running shorts have short or long inseams? Should men's running shorts have short or long inseams? That depends on what you like, Flynn said, adding that 'longer inseams can help prevent thigh chafing, but it really depends on your build and the type of running you're doing.' What are the differences between compression and split shorts? What are the differences between compression and split shorts? 'Compression shorts fit close-to-skin, like a legging or tight, whereas a split short generally has a more flowy fit, often with a small inseam around 3 inches,' Young said. Nguyen added that compression shorts typically offer more storage and security, and are less likely to chafe, though they can leave some feeling restricted or exposed. Meanwhile, he described split shorts as 'the runner's loincloth,' with the advantages being a breezy and open feeling but less storage and a potentially hit-or-miss liner. Should men's running shorts have pockets? Should men's running shorts have pockets? Whether you're looking at men's or women's running shorts, the number of pockets you need depends on the length of your run. For shorter runs, treadmill running, races under an hour and other occasions where you don't need to carry anything, pockets aren't critical, Young said. However, they are important 'if you're going out on a longer run and need to carry fuel with you,' Nguyen said. Running belts are also an option for more storage. For this article, we consulted the following experts for their professional insights. Alysha Flynn, founder and coach at What Runs You, which supports everyday runners with coaching and community-driven training plans Mike Hamberger, running coach and doctoral candidate in cognitive motor neuroscience Duy Nguyen, co-founder of Koreatown Run Club in Los Angeles, California Warren Tardif, founder of Los Feliz Running Club in Los Feliz, California Phil Young, owner of Fleet Feet Davenport in Davenport, Iowa CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this guide, associate writer Maxwell Shukuya sought recommendations from experienced athletes and CNN Underscored staffers. Having covered the best men's shorts and best hiking shorts, Shukuya also supplemented this piece with his own product testing expertise.
Daily Record
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
ITV This Morning chaos as BGT star drops trousers live on air
Jordan Banjo appeared on ITV This Morning to promote his new podcast which ended in him pulling down his trousers live on air Diversity star Jordan Banjo left This Morning hosts Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard in floods of tears as the dancer unexpected dropped his trousers on live TV. The star appeared alongside his older brother Ashley Banjo and co-star Perri Kiely to chat and promote their new podcast - as he revealed he already had a tribute to them project tattooed on his leg. Speaking to presenters Cat and Ben, Jordan revealed that in one episode he was dared to either hold a snake or get a tattoo, the Mirror reports. "My options were to hold a Boa constrictor for 30 seconds or get a tattoo of the podcast logo without knowing whether it would be successful or not," Jordan said. "It's on my leg. I will show you it if you want?" In response, Cat jokingly began chanting: "Get it out, get it out!" Jordan apologised for having to remove his trousers to reveal the inking, prompting Cat to cheekily remark: "We didn't choose the snake, did we?" The dancer then replied, laughing: "It's never been called that before!" The podcast, titled Brothers Uncovered, sees Jordan, Perri and Ashley asking each other hilarious questions weekly, as well as a regular feature of game 'Would You Rather?', which resulted in Jordan's forfeit - the podcast tattoo. Earlier this year, Jordan appeared on the panel of Loose Women with an all-male line-up discussing the hot topics of the day and sharing their personal experiences for a special episode. During the show, Jordan opened up about his previous battle with alcohol addiction - something he had previously kept hidden. "When we went into lockdown, I started drinking and it became a daily thing. Once it becomes a habit, it's a hard thing to break," he revealed. He continued: "This going to sound so stupid. I was 28 in lockdown. This is going to sound dumb, but it was like I was 16 or 17. It was like, 'Hang on a minute. I can just drink this and feel drunk and a bit merry!' "It became constant, constant, constant until it go to the point where in November 2023, I had to cut drinking cold." He also revealed that it got to the point where he was hiding how much he was drinking from his wife, influencer Naomi Courts, sharing: "It got to the point where I was having dinner with my wife and I'd take my plate out to the kitchen and and I was secretly topping up, hoping I didn't get caught. "I'm up early for radio and I'd say to my wife, 'I'll stay in the spare room so I don't wake you up'. And I'm in there having drinks."
Daily Mirror
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
This Morning chaos as Britain's Got Talent star drops trousers on live TV
Diversity's Jordan Banjo left hosts Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard in fits of giggles on This Morning when he unexpected dropped his trousers on live TV. The star appeared alongside his brother Ashley and co-star Perri Kiely to chat about their new podcast - and revealed that he had already tattooed its name onto his leg. "My options were to hold a Boa constrictor for 30 seconds or get a tattoo of the podcast logo without knowing whether it would be successful or not," Jordan said about one episode of the podcast. "It's on my leg. I will show you it if you want?" At which point, Cat chanted: "Get it out, get it out!" As Jordan apologised for needing to take his trousers down to show it, Cat cheekily said: "We didn't choose the snake did we?"
