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The UK is facing a growing obesity crisis, with nearly two-thirds of adults classified as overweight or obese. In recent weeks, discussions around tackling this problem have intensified, with Health Secretary Wes Streeting advocating for the widespread use of new weight-loss drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro. These medications, which have already shown remarkable results in helping people lose between 15-22% of their body weight, could be game changers for public health and the NHS. Streeting's recent suggestion to offer these drugs to unemployed individuals with obesity is particularly bold. The idea is that by helping people manage their weight, these medications could not only improve health outcomes but also assist individuals in returning to work, alleviating both the personal and economic costs associated with obesity. The economic burden of obesity in the UK is staggering, with the NHS currently spending an estimated £6 billion annually on obesity-related diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension. Weight-loss drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro are promising because they directly address one of the root causes of these chronic diseases—excessive body weight. Clinical trials have shown their effectiveness, with Mounjaro achieving as much as 22.5% weight loss in some patients. This is a significant reduction that can help prevent or alleviate many obesity-related conditions, reducing the need for costly treatments, surgeries, and medications. Moreover, these drugs could have a long-term ripple effect on the NHS. Fewer patients requiring treatment for obesity-related diseases would mean reduced pressure on hospitals, clinics, and medical professionals. This is particularly crucial as the NHS grapples with ongoing budget constraints and workforce shortages. In the long run, this could free up resources to address other pressing healthcare needs while also improving patient outcomes. But the benefits don't stop with healthcare savings. There is also a strong economic argument for supporting the use of weight-loss drugs. By helping people manage their weight, the drugs could reduce absenteeism from work due to obesity-related illness. The recent pilot study in Greater Manchester aims to explore this further, investigating how weight-loss treatments impact both health outcomes and employment status. In a society where obesity can be a barrier to employment, giving people the tools to manage their weight could help them re-enter the workforce and contribute to the economy. The recent £279 million investment from Eli Lilly, the manufacturer of Mounjaro, shows a commitment to exploring how weight-loss drugs can be integrated into healthcare systems effectively. This partnership with the government will fund real-world studies of these medications, providing crucial data on their long-term effects and benefits. The government’s approach of testing these drugs in a clinical setting before wider rollout will ensure that any ethical, financial, or logistical concerns are addressed early on. However, these medications alone are not a silver bullet. As some health experts have pointed out, there are broader societal issues contributing to obesity that need to be addressed, such as food environments that promote unhealthy eating habits. While weight-loss drugs offer a powerful tool in combating obesity, they must be part of a broader strategy that includes education, access to healthy food, and lifestyle support. In conclusion, the introduction of Wegovy and Mounjaro in the UK holds immense promise for improving public health, reducing NHS costs, and even boosting the economy by getting people back into work. While there are challenges to be navigated, including ensuring equitable access and addressing the root causes of obesity, these drugs could be the catalyst for a major shift in how the UK approaches obesity management. The benefits could be monumental, both for individuals struggling with their weight and for the wider healthcare system that supports them.

Hurricane Helene , one of the most destructive storms in recent years, swept through the southern U.S., bringing catastrophic flooding and devastation. Tennessee was particularly hard hit, where the disaster took a tragic turn at Impact Plastics , a manufacturing plant in Erwin. Reports and lawsuits allege that some workers were allegedly forced to remain at the plant as floodwaters rose, leading to several deaths. This case has raised questions about workplace safety laws in the U.S. compared to the UK, especially in emergencies. The Impact Plastics Case: A U.S. Employment Tragedy During the peak of Hurricane Helene, employees at Impact Plastics allege they were ordered to stay at work despite the worsening flood conditions. Survivors and families of the victims, such as Johnny Peterson and Bertha Mendoza, have filed wrongful death lawsuits  against the company, accusing them of negligence in failing to evacuate workers on time. These families claim that management prioritized production over safety, a charge now under investigation by state authorities. In the U.S., this tragedy has highlighted the limitations of at-will employment  and the potential for employers to exploit the system. Under at-will employment, companies can dismiss employees for any reason—or no reason at all—without notice. This flexibility, however, does not absolve employers from following Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)  regulations, which require them to provide a safe working environment. If it is proven that Impact Plastics ignored these standards, the lawsuits could result in significant financial penalties and legal repercussions for the company. U.S. Employment Law: At-Will Employment and Safety Regulations While at-will employment  gives U.S. companies the right to terminate employees freely, it comes with legal responsibilities to ensure worker safety. OSHA mandates that employers must prevent hazards and protect employees from danger, particularly during emergencies like natural disasters. However, as seen in the case of Impact Plastics, where workers were allegedly forced to stay in a dangerous environment, the law can sometimes fall short of protecting workers from extreme situations. The lawsuits now facing Impact Plastics claim that management's failure to act and protect its employees resulted in preventable deaths. If OSHA finds that the company violated its safety protocols, Impact Plastics may face severe penalties beyond the civil lawsuits filed by the victims' families. UK Employment Law: A Stronger Safety Net for Workers In contrast, UK employment law  offers far stronger protections for workers, especially regarding job security and workplace safety. The UK does not have an equivalent to at-will employment. Instead, employees are hired under permanent or fixed-term contracts  and are protected from arbitrary dismissal by laws that require a formal and justified process for firing workers. One of the UK's central protections is the right against unfair dismissal , provided by the Employment Rights Act 1996 . Workers cannot be dismissed without good cause, particularly after two years of service, and employers must follow a defined procedure before terminating an employee. These protections would prevent a UK employer from arbitrarily terminating workers or requiring them to work under unsafe conditions without significant legal consequences. The UK also has stringent workplace safety regulations under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 , which places a legal obligation on employers to ensure the safety of their employees. Had a similar incident occurred in the UK, where a company allegedly forced workers to stay in dangerous conditions, it would face immediate investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) . UK law requires employers to conduct thorough risk assessments and provide safe evacuation plans in emergencies. The Evolution of UK Employment Law UK employment law has evolved over centuries, shaped by labour movements, industrialization, and societal shifts toward human rights. Early labour protections emerged during the Industrial Revolution when unsafe working conditions in factories sparked the need for regulation. The Factories Act 1833  was one of the earliest laws aimed at improving workplace safety. The labour movement grew through the 20th century, culminating in stronger worker protections, such as the Employment Protection Act of 1975 , which introduced key rights like redundancy payments, notice periods, and protections against unfair dismissal. These laws were further refined with the Employment Rights Act of 1996 , creating a modern framework that emphasizes both job security and worker safety. Learning from the Tragedy The Impact Plastics case underscores the importance of worker safety and the potential dangers of unchecked employer authority in the U.S., especially in high-risk situations like natural disasters. While at-will employment  offers flexibility, it can leave workers vulnerable if employers do not prioritize safety. In contrast, the UK's employment laws, built through years of labour activism and government reform, offer a far stronger safety net. The UK's emphasis on fair dismissal procedures and strict health and safety regulations ensures that workers are better protected in emergencies. As the lawsuits against Impact Plastics proceed, the case may spark discussions about the need for stronger employment laws in the U.S., particularly in times of crisis.

Hurricane Milton, a Category 5 storm, recently ravaged Florida's west coast. With wind speeds peaking at 180 mph, it is one of the most powerful hurricanes in recent memory. Milton unleashed catastrophic damage, including flooding, downed power lines, and structural destruction as it made landfall near Siesta Key as a Category 3 hurricane. The devastation has been immense, and while the immediate concern is Florida, hurricanes of this magnitude can have far-reaching impacts beyond the U.S., including potential effects on British weather patterns. How Hurricanes Can Affect British Weather Though Britain is not located in the tropics, the remnants of hurricanes like Milton can still reach its shores. When these storms travel across the Atlantic, they often weaken and lose their tropical characteristics but can still interact with other weather systems, causing major disruptions. For instance, hurricanes can influence the jet stream, the powerful winds high in the atmosphere that guide weather patterns across the Atlantic. A disrupted jet stream can bring wet, stormy weather to the UK, with heavy rainfall and strong winds. This phenomenon is known as an "extratropical transition," where a former hurricane combines with other low-pressure systems. Over the years, there have been several examples of hurricanes affecting Britain, demonstrating how these tropical storms can significantly alter the UK’s weather. Historical Hurricanes That Affected Britain The Great Storm of 1987  is one of the most well-known examples of a hurricane system impacting the UK. While it was not directly a tropical cyclone, it had origins in the remnants of Hurricane Floyd. This unexpected storm caused widespread destruction across England and northern France, uprooting millions of trees, damaging homes, and resulting in numerous fatalities. The storm was notorious for its meteorologists' underestimation and the surprise it brought to Britain. Hurricane Ophelia (2017)  was another example of a hurricane impacting the UK. Ophelia reached Ireland and parts of Scotland with hurricane-force winds after transitioning into an extratropical cyclone. The storm brought strong gusts, disrupted transport, and left thousands without power. In 2019 , Hurricane Lorenzo  brought heavy rain and gusty winds to parts of Ireland and the UK after transitioning into a post-tropical storm. Though it didn’t cause catastrophic damage, it disrupted travel and demonstrated that hurricanes, even weakened, can reach Britain and cause significant weather anomalies. The Science Behind Hurricanes: How They Form and Strengthen Hurricanes, like Milton, form under specific conditions: warm sea surface temperatures (typically above 26.5°C), high humidity, and low wind shear. As the warm, moist air rises from the ocean’s surface, it cools and condenses, forming clouds and releasing latent heat. This process fuels the storm, allowing it to intensify. Milton, like other powerful hurricanes, was able to undergo rapid intensification due to favourable environmental conditions, particularly in the Gulf of Mexico, where waters were unusually warm. One of the alarming trends in recent years is that more hurricanes are experiencing this rapid intensification, partly due to rising sea surface temperatures. Warmer oceans not only provide more energy for storms but also enable them to grow larger and more destructive. This pattern is becoming more common as the climate continues to warm. The Case of the Missing Snow Crabs: A Warning About Rising Sea Temperatures One stark example of the effects of rising ocean temperatures is the mysterious disappearance of 10 billion snow crabs in Alaska’s Bering Sea. This unprecedented event has alarmed scientists and fishery managers alike. Snow crabs, which are highly sensitive to water temperature, appear to have migrated or died off due to rising ocean temperatures, which have made their natural habitat uninhabitable. The Bering Sea, typically cold enough to sustain large snow crab populations, has been warming at an alarming rate. Scientists believe this warming is linked to climate change, as higher global temperatures cause the oceans to absorb more heat. The disappearance of the crabs is a clear example of how rising sea temperatures are disrupting marine ecosystems. In the case of hurricanes, this same warming trend is providing storms like Milton with more fuel, making them more intense and dangerous. The loss of the snow crabs also has significant economic and ecological consequences. Snow crabs are a crucial species in the food chain, and their sudden disappearance could disrupt the balance of the marine ecosystem in the Bering Sea. This situation underscores the broader impacts of climate change, from ecological shifts to extreme weather events. The Future: More Hurricanes, Bigger Impacts If the current trajectory of climate change continues, hurricanes like Milton may become increasingly frequent and intense. Warmer oceans, rising sea levels, and shifting atmospheric conditions create a perfect storm for these extreme weather events to thrive. The potential for more powerful hurricanes to make landfall, combined with their increasing ability to cross the Atlantic, raises concerns for regions far beyond the tropics. In the UK, while direct hits from hurricanes remain rare, the country is not immune to their secondary effects. As hurricanes continue to intensify, Britain may experience more frequent extreme weather tied to the remnants of these storms. Whether it’s heavier rainfall, stronger winds, or altered weather patterns, the UK could see a rise in storm-related disruptions in the years to come. A Call for Action and Hope for Safety Hurricane Milton is a stark reminder of the growing intensity of natural disasters fueled by climate change. As Florida grapples with its immediate effects, the world must acknowledge the far-reaching consequences of these storms and their connection to the warming planet. From disappearing snow crabs to devastating hurricanes, the signs are clear: the climate is changing, and it’s creating more extreme conditions. While we hope everyone in Florida stays safe in the wake of Hurricane Milton, we must also take this as a call to action. Without significant steps to mitigate climate change, hurricanes like Milton will only become more frequent, posing even greater threats to communities worldwide. Britain may be thousands of miles from the hurricane’s landfall, but the ripple effects of such storms are undeniable. Now, more than ever, it is crucial to address the global climate crisis before more lives, economies, and ecosystems are lost.

In today’s tech-driven world, figures like Mark Zuckerberg, Jack Dorsey, and Evan Spiegel are often hailed as the epitome of the “self-made” entrepreneur—the people who supposedly came from nothing and built revolutionary social media companies and became billionaires through sheer talent and determination. But while their stories of innovation and success are certainly impressive, the portrayal of these individuals as coming from humble or disadvantaged backgrounds can be misleading. In reality, many of these tech founders had significant financial, educational, and social advantages, starting off in positions of relative privilege compared to the vast majority of people. The “Rags-to-Riches” Tech Billionaire: Narrative vs. Reality The idea of the "self-made billionaire" is a powerful narrative. It's appealing because it implies that anyone, no matter their circumstances, can achieve astronomical success through hard work and ingenuity. This narrative is often applied to tech founders like Zuckerberg (Meta/Facebook), Dorsey (Twitter/X), Spiegel (Snapchat), and others, but it doesn't tell the whole story. The truth is that many of these individuals had access to resources and opportunities that are far out of reach for the average person, giving them a considerable head start. Take the UK as an example. According to data, only 30% of people in the UK earn £30,000 or more  annually. Yet, the founders of these multi-billion-dollar companies often grew up in households that comfortably fell into this income bracket or higher, positioning them well above the median population in terms of financial security and opportunity. This hardly constitutes "coming from nothing." A Closer Look at Key Figures Mark Zuckerberg: The “Self-Made” Billionaire of Facebook Mark Zuckerberg is frequently positioned as a brilliant coder who started Facebook in his Harvard dorm room with nothing more than an idea and a laptop. But this story omits key details about his background. Zuckerberg’s father was a successful dentist, and his mother was a psychiatrist. He grew up in Dobbs Ferry, New York, an affluent suburb, and attended Phillips Exeter Academy, one of the most prestigious private schools in the country. While Zuckerberg was undoubtedly talented, his family’s financial situation allowed him access to elite education and networks that many others could never afford. When Facebook began to grow, Zuckerberg had the luxury of being able to drop out of Harvard, knowing that his financial safety net would cushion any early failures. This privilege allowed him to take risks that many entrepreneurs from less wealthy backgrounds simply couldn’t. Evan Spiegel: The Billionaire Behind Snapchat Evan Spiegel, co-founder of Snapchat, came from an even more privileged background. He was born into a wealthy family in Los Angeles; his father is a prominent lawyer. Spiegel attended Stanford University and had access to top-tier resources that helped him develop his tech skills. His financial background also gave him the freedom to experiment with entrepreneurial ideas without the immediate pressure of earning a living. In media portrayals, Spiegel is often highlighted for his innovative ideas and entrepreneurial success, but it’s important to note that his wealth and connections played a significant role in his ability to get Snapchat off the ground. While Spiegel’s skills are undeniable, his starting point in life put him well ahead of the average person. Jack Dorsey: From St. Louis to Silicon Valley Jack Dorsey, co-founder of Twitter (now X), grew up in a middle-class family in St. Louis, Missouri. While his upbringing was not as affluent as Spiegel’s, Dorsey still had access to resources that facilitated his rise. He showed an early interest in coding and was able to leverage his skills into jobs in the tech industry, but like Zuckerberg and Spiegel, Dorsey’s family background allowed him the stability to take risks. Dorsey’s journey is often depicted as that of a scrappy outsider who carved out success through sheer perseverance. Yet, his financial stability and early tech experience gave him a platform from which to launch Twitter—advantages that most people, especially those from low-income backgrounds, simply don’t have. The Reality of “Self-Made” in Tech While it's true that these tech billionaires built their companies through hard work and innovation, it’s equally true that they were not starting from the bottom. The media sometimes paints them as underdogs who defied the odds, but in reality, they were far more fortunate than the majority of people. Their backgrounds offered them access to education, social networks, and, in some cases, financial backing that enabled them to take entrepreneurial risks. The notion of the "self-made" billionaire is problematic because it reinforces the idea that anyone can achieve immense wealth if they work hard enough. While talent and determination are crucial, factors like family wealth, education, and social connections play an enormous role in entrepreneurial success—especially in an industry as competitive and expensive as tech. Comparing Their Starting Points to the Average Person To truly understand the level of privilege these founders enjoyed, consider this: the median household income in the UK  is around £31,000 . This means that 70% of the population earns less than £30,000 annually , with many families struggling to cover basic living expenses. Starting a company like Facebook or Snapchat requires not only skills and vision but also time, space, and resources to take risks and potentially fail before finding success. For someone from a lower-income background, the risk of failure is often too great to bear. Without a financial safety net, taking time off to build a startup—or dropping out of university like Zuckerberg—isn’t an option. Even if they had the skills, most people lack the financial backing to fully explore their entrepreneurial potential. In contrast, individuals like Zuckerberg, Dorsey, and Spiegel had a foundation of financial security that allowed them to pursue their ideas without the immediate pressure of earning a living. Reframing the Narrative It’s important to recognize the talent and hard work of tech founders like Zuckerberg, Dorsey, and Spiegel, but it’s equally important to acknowledge the role that privilege played in their journeys. Their stories are not typical of the average person’s experience. While they are often depicted as "self-made," the reality is that they started from a position of considerable advantage, financially and socially. The myth of the "self-made" tech billionaire oversimplifies the complex interplay of opportunity, privilege, and innovation. Recognizing this truth allows for a more honest conversation about entrepreneurship, wealth, and the barriers that many people face in trying to achieve success in the tech world. For the majority of people—those earning less than £30,000 annually—the path to becoming a billionaire isn’t just about hard work or having a great idea; it’s about overcoming a structural disadvantage that many of these tech founders never had to face.

My adventure at university is continuing and, whilst it’s full on, with many lectures and extra work, I’m loving it. My adventure at university is continuing and, whilst it’s full on, with many lectures and extra work, I’m loving it. Going to university means meeting new people I wouldn’t necessarily encounter. Coming from a working-class town in Yorkshire, the ‘posh rugby lad’, with Rugby lad culture, is a type I’ve not met until now—I wish I never had. Arrogant, entitled, privileged young men, unfortunately, ruin the experience of university somewhat. It’s not every posh boy, but it does seem that the majority carry a disdain for working-class people—they don’t even try to hide their disrespectful opinions. They think they’re better than most other university students because Daddy paid their tuition fees. With the greatest of respect, we’re all at the same Russell group university. We all achieved the required grades to get there. Just because I’ve been loaned the tuition fees does not make me any less entitled to a place on my course. Luckily, because I’ve chosen to study computer science, the rugby lads aren’t constantly around me. Had I been on an engineering or economics course, however, my lecture theatre would’ve been full of Schöffel jackets, signet rings and mullets. Is this a generalisation? Yes. But generalisations are usually correct! This isn’t a depiction of every ‘rugby lad’, of course. I’ve met some rugby players who are genuine, kind, respectful people—but I do feel they’re in the minority. The consequence of the ‘posh boy’ culture means that some freshers, who would’ve liked to have played rugby at university, have become disengaged; they’ve looked elsewhere for something to do in their downtime. Some have turned to American Football, which appears to perpetuate a positive culture that allows for fun and banter whilst still remaining respectful. In other words: normalcy. The disrespect these posh rugby lads give women is of particular concern to me. Whilst it isn’t obvious at first, should you find yourself in a pub with a group of them, watch how they treat girls. Whilst their behaviour isn’t abusive, they appear to project a sense of ownership. They often throw their arms around females’ necks, in what I consider an almost aggressive manner, in order to assert their dominance. What infuriates me is how those around them accept their actions. The women they mix with don’t seem to have an issue with it— probably because they’re used to it—but when a rugby lad tries to do the same with a girl from a working-class background, she, quite rightly, reprimands their pathetic behaviour. I’m not alone in my opinion. As I write, I’m surrounded by my flatmates who are working hard on their many different courses; they all agree that most rugby lads are disrespectful, or at the very least, irritating. Alcohol is definitely a factor in determining the level of respect these young men are able to show. Whilst sober, they can appear normal, and I can actually enjoy having a conversation with them. When drunk, however, their Dutch courage is far too high, and their sense of entitlement becomes intolerable. It’s a shame, as I really enjoy watching rugby, but as soon as a drop of booze hits these guys’ bloodstreams, I don’t want to be in their company, as they simply resort to disrespecting or belittling anyone who’s not one of them. I’ll conclude by again reiterating that there are exceptions to every rule. Whilst ‘posh rugby lads’ are not my favourite type of person, that doesn’t make them awful human beings. It’s just a case of different upbringings—and this is why university is so good. It brings people together from all walks of life. Learning how to accommodate and appreciate others is one of the greatest lessons available at university…it’s just not on the curriculum.

A few days ago, like many others my age, I found myself mindlessly scrolling through TikTok. In the midst of this digital detour, a familiar clip caught my attention: a 45-second snippet from Dexter, season one. Instantly, memories of the dark and captivating show flooded back. Dexter, with its unique twist on the crime drama formula, follows the life of a forensic expert who moonlights as a vigilante serial killer. The series masterfully combined psychological drama and thrilling suspense, as viewers were constantly on edge, wondering if Dexter would be caught or if he'd continue balancing his double life. So, naturally, it being TV Gold, I decided to revisit it. Once again, I was pulled into Dexter's world—watching him struggle to control his urges, manage his personal life, and wrestle with his growing understanding of human emotion. Everything was just as gripping as I remembered... until I reached season 6. For anyone familiar with the show, it's no secret that this is where Dexter started its infamous decline. The storytelling faltered, and the final season's ending is still regarded as one of the most disappointing conclusions in TV history. But Dexter isn't the only show to fall victim to this curse. Many series, once beloved, have suffered from sudden drops in quality or finales that left fans feeling betrayed. In this article, I'll explore some of the biggest offenders—shows that, like Dexter, failed to stick the landing after soaring to early success. The Walking Dead After finishing The Walking Dead, it’s hard not to feel like the show lost its way. In the beginning, it was an intense, character-driven drama set against the backdrop of a zombie apocalypse, with real emotional weight behind every death and decision. The stakes were high, and the early seasons kept us on edge, wondering who would survive and how the group would navigate a world torn apart by the undead. But as the seasons dragged on, the magic faded. Storylines became repetitive, characters seemed to be stuck in endless cycles of conflict, and the tension that once defined the show slowly fizzled out. What started as a groundbreaking series with gripping moments ended up feeling more like a long, drawn-out battle that never quite delivered the payoff we’d been waiting for. Lost: And then there’s Lost, a show that, for a while, felt like it was rewriting the rules of television. It wasn’t just a drama, it was a puzzle. The characters, the cryptic Dharma Initiative, the ever-present smoke monster, and the constant flashes between past, present, and future had viewers hooked. Week after week, it had fans theorising about everything from the meaning of the island to the fate of each survivor. We all became armchair detectives, analysing every detail, convinced that it was all leading to some grand revelation. But as the seasons progressed, cracks started to show. Plotlines became more convoluted, and it felt like the writers were piling on mysteries without offering satisfying explanations. By the time we reached the finale, what was once a show driven by its intricate mysteries collapsed under the weight of them. The ending was deeply polarising, what should have been a mind-blowing resolution ended up being a confusing spiritual conclusion that left far too many questions unanswered. Why was the island so special? What was the purpose of the countless twists? And what happened to half of the things we spent seasons obsessing over? For many, Lost wasn’t just a disappointment, it was a betrayal. After six seasons of investing in the characters, the lore, and the endless mysteries, fans were left with a conclusion that felt like it abandoned the very things that made the show so compelling in the first place. It wasn’t just about unanswered questions; it was about the feeling that all that suspense and excitement had led nowhere. The show that started as a cultural phenomenon ended with one of the most divisive finales in TV history. How I Met Your Mother: How I Met Your Mother was a sitcom that captured hearts with its humour, quirky characters, and narrative structure that kept fans hooked. The show’s premise—a father recounting the long story of how he met his kids’ mother—was a clever twist that gave the series emotional depth beyond the usual sitcom fare. For nine seasons, we followed Ted and his friends through their highs and lows, eagerly anticipating the moment he would meet "the one." As the seasons progressed, fans became deeply invested, not just in the romantic journey, but in the friendships and life lessons woven throughout. But when the much-anticipated finale arrived, it left many viewers disappointed. After all the build-up surrounding the mother, she was introduced only to be quickly written out, dying off-screen. In a final twist, the story pivoted back to Robin, Ted’s original love interest, undoing much of the character development and emotional investment in Ted’s journey. What could have been a heartwarming conclusion felt rushed and out of sync with the show’s previous messages. Fans were left feeling cheated, as years of storytelling and character growth were overturned in a matter of minutes. The finale didn’t just underdeliver—it reshaped the entire narrative, leaving a once-beloved show with one of the most divisive endings in TV history. Game Of Thrones: Game of Thrones was a cultural phenomenon, renowned for its intricate storytelling, complex characters, and shocking twists. For much of its run, the show masterfully blended political intrigue, epic battles, and morally ambiguous characters, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. It wasn’t just the spectacle that drew people in—it was the rich, layered narrative that left fans debating theories and dissecting every detail between seasons. From the brutal power struggles of Westeros to the looming threat of the White Walkers, Game of Thrones felt like it was building toward an epic, unforgettable conclusion. But in its final season, the show’s momentum came to a screeching halt. With just a few episodes to wrap up years of intricate plotlines, the pacing felt rushed, and character arcs that had taken seasons to develop were abruptly abandoned. Daenerys Targaryen’s sudden descent into madness, Jaime Lannister’s unexpected reversal, and the underwhelming resolution of the White Walker threat all left fans reeling. The once carefully plotted political intrigue gave way to hasty decisions that felt out of sync with the slow-burn storytelling the show was known for. The final episode, in particular, was a point of contention, as the fate of the Iron Throne and the series' main characters left many feeling unsatisfied. What could have been a legendary, lasting legacy was instead marred by an ending that felt rushed and disjointed, turning one of the greatest TV shows of all time into one of the most controversial.

A generic trademark (sometimes called a genericised trademark or proprietary eponym) is a brand name that becomes so synonymous with a particular item that it effectively ‘becomes’ that item. The best examples of generic trademarking (in the UK) are Hoover and Sellotape. Hoover, in particular, is the most generic term for a vacuum cleaner in the United Kingdom. So much so that, when I worked for a high street electronics retailer, customers would come in and ask for a ‘Dyson Hoover’ or ‘LG Hoover’.  This can be both a blessing and a curse. It's nice to think that your brand or product is so synonymous with a particular item that people don't refer to it any other way; however, it can mean losing legal trademarking and protection over that name.  ‘ Sellotape ’, owned by a company in Winsford, Cheshire, is a generic term for adhesive tape. ‘Trampoline’ is originally a trademark of the Griswold-Nissen Trampoline and Tumbling Company. Both companies have lost any legal protection against their brand names being used as generic terms for the items they’re associated with.  Many companies today will seek any means necessary to stop their trademarks and products becoming generic. The biggest of these is Google.  Google have actively discouraged various publications from referring to web searches as ‘googling’, to avoid their brand becoming a generic trademark. In fact, both the UK’s Oxford English Dictionary and the US’s Websters Dictionary define google (all lower case) as a verb with the meaning ‘to use the Google search engine to obtain information on the Internet.’ Some companies have fallen foul of their own hubris on certain products. The Otis Elevator Company lost both trademarks for ‘elevator’ and ‘escalator’ because they excessively used the terms in their own advertising campaigns. This saw the public use the term whenever they referred to a ‘vertical cable transport machine’ or ‘motor driven staircase’. When Westing House Electric Corporation made their own escalators, the courts and trademark office concluded that, as Otis had used its own trademarks in a generic way, the terms would be subject to genericisation, which allowed Westing House and anyone so inclined to use the names freely. Generic terms can be country- and even age-based. My daughter, who’s thirteen, turned to me recently and asked for a ‘band-aid’ to cover a blister. I would have asked for a ‘plaster’, a word derived from the company name Elastoplast, which is the biggest seller of adhesive bandages in the UK. My daughter, however, watches a lot of US television and (with my approval) some American YouTube channels; these use the term ‘band-aid’ to describe adhesive bandages.  Below are more generic trademarks, some of which may surprise you: Aspirin Still trademarked in several countries, but it’s now a generic term for basic pain relief tablets.  Airfix Used in the UK to describe plastic scale model kits that are put together by hand.  Astroturf Artificial grass, trademarked by Monsanto Company. Biro Used commonly in the UK to describe a ballpoint pen. Owned by Societe Bic. Bubble wrap Common term for inflated/cushioned packaging-type material. Trademark owned by the Sealed Air company. Cashpoint A common way to describe cash machines; this trademark is owned by Lloyds Bank. ChapStick Lip balm brand owned by Pfizer. Comic Con A shortened term used for comic book conventions, this is actually a trademark owned by San Diego Comic-con international.  Dictaphone Used to describe a dictation machine trademarked by Nuance Communications.  Ditto This was initially used to describe the Spirit Duplicator, which was manufactured by the Ditto Corporation of Illinois. It was initially a term for ‘copying’. Filofax Term used to describe a personal organiser, the trademark was originally owned by the Letts Filofax Group.  Frisbee A flying disc toy initially created by Wham-O. Hoover Widely used as a noun and verb for a vacuum cleaner.  Hula Hoop Another trademark by Wham-O. Jacuzzi Referring to a hot tub or whirlpool bath created by the Jacuzzi company. JCB Commonly used in the UK to refer to an excavator with both a front loader and backhoe. Owned by J. C. Bamford. Lava lamp Refers to a liquid motion lamp made by Mathmos.  Mace Term used for pepper spray. Memory stick Owned by the Sony corporation, it’s typically used to refer to all USB flash drives. Nintendo Used mainly in the 1980s and early 90s to refer to a Video Games Console. ‘He’s been playing Nintendo,’ was a common phrase.  Onesies Used to describe an adult bodysuit and was initially trademarked by the Gerber Products company. Photoshop Photoshop is a software program owned by Adobe, though it’s often used a term for any software that edits photos. Ping Pong Trademarked by Jaques and Son and later passed to Parker Bros, who still try to enforce the trademark in the US. Plasticine Modelling clay that has a putty-like substance to it. Often used for clay animation.  Powerpoint Slide show presentation software owned by the Microsoft corporation. Used commonly to refer to all presentations.  Pritt Stick Owned by Henkel, it’s common in the UK to be as a generic term for any glue stick. Rollerblade A specific type of inline skate made by Nordica.  Scalextric Generic term, mainly in the UK, to describe slot car races. Owned by the Hornby Railway company. Stanley Knife A utility knife popularised by Stanley Works in the UK. Styrofoam The common term for polystyrene foam. Incorrectly used in the US for disposable cups plates and coolers, which are actually made from a different type of polystyrene.  Super Glue A name for the Cyanoacrylate adhesive made by the Super Glue Corporation, the term is interchangeable for all brands of glue. Tannoy Commonly used in the UK for any Public Address (or PA) system. Tannoy was a British manufacturer of loudspeakers and PA systems. Tarmac Used to describe asphalt road surfaces. Surprisingly, the trademark is owned by the Tarmac company. Thermos A vacuum-insulated flask initially trademarked by Thermos GmbH. Tipp-Ex Common in the UK to refer to any brand of white correction fluid. Owned by Tipp-Ex GmbH & Co. Tupperware Trademarked by Earl Tupper after they made plastic storage containers popular in the 1940s.  Uber A relatively new term for any online taxi service.  Vaseline Often used by consumers as a generic term for petroleum jelly. Owned by Unilever. Velcro Still trademarked by Velcro Companies, this has become a verb for a hook-and-loop fastening. Walkman Sony Corporation lost the use of this trademark in Austria in 2002, as it was deemed to have passed into common use. Used to describe a personal stereo player (usually, the cassette variant).  Zeppelin This is a common term used to describe a rigid airship that was initially developed by German company Luftschiffbau Zeppelin. The company is still in operation today with over 7000 employees.  Zimmer Frame Many walking frames are referred to as Zimmer Frames, the trademark for which is owned by Zimmer Holdings.

On Friday the 20th of September, McDonalds fans across the UK received an email that would later become a major point of conversation. The email appeared to be sent out by mistake to people who had signed up for the McDonald’s marketing emails for new promotions but what made this email different to previous ones was the content of it. The email was simply titled “McRib_Test.email” and featured an image that linked to a 404 page on the McDonald’s website with the image being simply titled “McRib_Image_Final_Final_16.10.24.jpg”. This has led fans to believe the beloved limited time item might be making a return to British shores. The McRib made its UK debut in 1981, not long after it was introduced in the United States. McDonald’s hoped that the sandwich, featuring a boneless pork patty moulded to look like ribs, would be a hit in the UK as it had been in select markets in the U.S. However, it failed to resonate with British consumers, possibly due to differing tastes and unfamiliarity with barbecue flavours that weren't as widespread in the UK at the time. By 1985, the McRib was quietly pulled from UK menus due to low demand, marking the end of its initial run. While it vanished in the UK, its cult following in the U.S. began to grow, slowly turning the sandwich into a beloved (and missed) item, known for its scarcity After three decades of absence, the McRib made a brief but celebrated return to the UK in 2015. This limited-time promotion lasted only five weeks, during which die-hard fans and curious newcomers flocked to McDonald’s to try the fabled sandwich. Its return was part of a global McDonald’s strategy to generate excitement by reintroducing popular discontinued items for short periods. But why is the McRib so elusive in the UK compared to America where it routinely reappears? Well it's not just a clever marketing plot, it turns out its a logistical issue. The primary reason McDonald’s UK has limited the McRib’s availability is tied to how their kitchens are set up. The McRib patty is made from pork, and McDonald’s UK restaurants generally lack the grill capacity to cook pork and beef products at the same time. Since McDonald’s typically prioritises beef burgers, offering the McRib on a permanent basis would require significant changes to their cooking processes. Maybe McDonald’s have found a solution to this issue which could be why the item is rumoured to reappear in October or maybe this was just a way to generate buzz and get people talking and thinking about McDonalds again after the company has had a slump in profits in 2024.

The Humble Origins: KêChiap in Ancient China In today’s world, it’s hard to imagine a kitchen without a bottle of ketchup nestled among the condiments. It’s the beloved companion of fries, burgers, and all things grilled. But little do most people know, the journey of ketchup started long before tomatoes and burgers even existed. Our story begins centuries ago, not in America or Europe, but in the bustling markets of ancient China. There, among the fragrant herbs and spices, merchants traded a peculiar sauce known as “kêchiap.” Unlike the thick, red ketchup we recognize today, this sauce was dark, thin, and salty. It was made from fermented fish, brine, and spices—a far cry from the sweet tomato concoction now adorning modern dinner tables. This early version of ketchup was highly prized for its umami-rich flavour, the kind that made even the simplest dishes more delicious. Crossing Oceans: British Sailors and the Birth of Ketchup in Europe As kêchiap spread across Southeast Asia, it took on new names and forms. Sailors from the British Empire, always on the lookout for new flavours to take home, stumbled upon this sauce in the 17th century while trading in Malaysia and Indonesia. Fascinated, they decided to bring back the recipe to England. Back home, British cooks began experimenting, trying to recreate this exotic sauce using ingredients available in their own cupboards. However, without the proper fish and spices of Southeast Asia, they had to improvise. Mushrooms, walnuts, oysters—nothing was off limits in the pursuit of that savoury depth. For decades, ketchup in England was more likely to resemble a tangy mushroom sauce than anything we’d put on a burger today. The Tomato Revolution: Ketchup Takes a New Turn Then came the tomato. In the early 19th century, this curious fruit was still a novelty in Europe and America. Enter James Mease, an American horticulturist, who in 1812 penned what is believed to be the first recipe for tomato ketchup. His version mixed tomato pulp with brandy and spices, setting the stage for a transformation that would change ketchup’s fate forever. But there was still a problem. Early tomato ketchups lacked the shelf life needed to be stored for long periods, often turning rancid. Preserving Perfection: Vinegar, Sugar, and the Modern Ketchup Recipe Along came the mid-1800s, and with it, an innovation that would solidify ketchup’s place in culinary history: vinegar. By adding vinegar to the mix, manufacturers found they could extend the sauce’s life. To balance the acidity of the vinegar and tomatoes, sugar was added. This tweak made the sauce not only last longer but also gave it the sweet, tangy flavour profile that began to capture the hearts—and taste buds—of the masses. Heinz and the Rise of Commercial Ketchup By the late 19th century, the Heinz company, known for its commitment to quality, began mass producing tomato ketchup, bottling the new and improved recipe for households across America. Unlike its early fermented fish sauce ancestor, Heinz ketchup was smooth, sweet, and thick—perfect for dipping, dolloping, and spreading. It quickly became a household staple, finding its way to dinner tables, diners, and fast food restaurants around the globe. A Condiment with an Unexpected Past And so, what started as a fermented fish sauce in ancient China has taken an extraordinary culinary journey across centuries and continents, transforming into the iconic tomato ketchup we now know and love. It’s a story of adaptation and global influence, proof that even the simplest of condiments can have a rich and surprising history. Next time you reach for that bottle of ketchup, remember that you’re tasting the legacy of sailors, chefs, and centuries of flavour experimentation—a condiment with an unexpected past, now living on in its perfect place beside fries and burgers.

As a long-time Warhammer 40,000  fan and a self-proclaimed fanboy of the grimdark universe, I’ve been eagerly awaiting Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 . After spending several hours diving into both the single-player and multiplayer modes, I can confidently say this game ticks all the boxes for what I love about the Warhammer 40K  franchise—gore, absurd violence, and religious fanaticism. Whether you're a veteran of the lore or new to the world of 40K, this game brings the brutality and richness of the universe to life in spectacular fashion. A Return to the Grimdark Future Developed by Saber Interactive and published by Focus Entertainment, Space Marine 2  is the highly anticipated sequel to the original Space Marine  game. Released for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, this third-person action game places you once again in the power-armoured boots of Lieutenant Titus, a character who has undergone significant changes since the events of the first game. Titus, once Captain, was demoted to Lieutenant after being censured for his exposure to Chaos during the events of the original Space Marine . His censure and subsequent fall from grace add depth to his character, and it’s fascinating to see how the narrative addresses this as Titus returns to the battlefield to defend humanity. The Imperium of Man, as always, is in peril, and it’s up to the Ultramarines, led by Titus, to fend off a massive Tyranid invasion. Space Marine 2 Story and Setting In Space Marine 2 , Titus faces the Tyranid Swarm, a biological horror that consumes everything in its path. The game takes players to various stunningly crafted locations, from war-torn cities to alien-infested worlds. Saber Interactive has done a remarkable job of capturing the grim beauty of the Warhammer 40K  universe, where every battlefield feels monumental and suffocatingly hopeless—exactly as it should in a universe defined by eternal war. The story focuses on Titus' redemption and his role as a battle-hardened veteran. The fact that he was demoted adds a layer of intrigue to the plot, showing that even Space Marines, the Imperium’s greatest defenders, are not immune to the machinations of the Inquisition. Gameplay and Co-op Excellence One of the highlights for me has been the cooperative experience. Last night, my brother and I spent several hours playing the PvE section called ‘Operations’, and it was nothing short of fantastic. The missions are beautifully designed and expertly set up for players versus computer play. As we fought alongside other Ultramarines, battling endless waves of Tyranids, the sense of scale and danger was palpable. The three-player co-op mode is fluid and engaging, allowing friends or random players to team up online to take down the Tyranid hordes. The tactical synergy required for this co-op makes it a highly satisfying experience, especially as each player’s chosen Space Marine class complements the others. In addition to the PvE Operations, Space Marine 2  also features a solid single-player campaign, where you can play solo or bring friends along to experience the carnage in co-op mode. This option adds an extra layer of replayability, allowing for multiple approaches to each mission depending on your team setup. Multiplayer Mayhem Beyond the co-op campaign, Space Marine 2  boasts a 12-player PvP mode called Eternal War , which is perfect for those looking for competitive multiplayer action. In this mode, players can choose between different Space Marine classes, such as Tactical, Assault, Vanguard, Sniper, Heavy, and Bulwark. Each class has its unique abilities and gear, offering a diverse experience that’s deeply customizable. What’s more, players can unlock Chapter presets or even kitbash their own custom Space Marine Chapters, adding a fun layer of personalization to the gameplay. The PvP battles are intense, with various factions going head-to-head, including Ultramarines versus Heretic Legionaries, each class offering specific combat advantages. The frenetic pace of these multiplayer skirmishes is further enhanced by the wide variety of maps and free updates promised by the developers, which include new enemies and weapons to keep things fresh. Why Every 40K Fan Should Play This Game For me, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2  is an absolute joy to play. It captures the essence of the 40K universe—relentless warfare, towering Space Marines, and a galaxy in eternal conflict. The visceral combat, deep customization, and stunning environments all add to the immersive experience that fans of Warhammer 40K  have come to expect. Whether you’re a fan of the Adeptus Astartes, a lore enthusiast, or just love an action-packed game with breathtaking visuals, Space Marine 2  should be on your radar. Even if you’re not particularly fond of Space Marines, the sheer scale and spectacle of this game make it a must-play for anyone invested in the Warhammer 40K  universe. This is a game made by fans, for fans, and it delivers in every aspect. For any die-hard Warhammer 40K  fan, Space Marine 2  is not just a game—it’s an essential experience that brings the grim darkness of the far future to life in a way that few other games have. Prepare to dive into the madness, and remember: in the grim darkness of the far future, there is only war. Space Marine 2 is available from several online stores including the Microsoft Store , the PS Store and Steam

According to Paul Young, co-owner of Spiffy, The Happiness Shop, we should build time into our busy schedules to worry. This may sound a strange thing to do; however, unnecessary worrying affects many people, and it can have a detrimental effect on their lives.   Human beings, in their caveman days, worried only about where their next meal was coming from, and ensuring they were not on the menu of hungry sabre-toothed tigers on the prowl. The worry as to whether their basic needs would be met was still inherent in Homo Sapiens in 10,000BC, which isn’t that long ago when you consider that they first appeared approximately 288,000 years prior.   In 2022AD, food is plentiful. We also have heat, shelter, clean(ish) air, access to clean water, clothing and the safety to go to sleep at night, etc. Most human beings’ needs on our planet today are easily met.   We don’t often find ourselves in life-threatening situations in the modern world; however, our brains have not adapted to this shift. They may not need to be concerned about sabre-toothed tigers, but that doesn’t mean they switch off. Instead, they create worries and problems for their hosts to solve.   There’s a well-known piece of advice relating to stress: will what you’re fretting over matter in five years’ time?  If it’s not significant enough to impact your life in the not-too-distant-future, it’s not worth worrying about in the here and now, experts claim.   I get the premise behind that well-meaning advice, but often, I don’t feel in control of my worry. I suffer from acute anxiety in a number of real-life situations; however, once I’m out of, or away from, these scenarios, my anxiety disappears. Aimless worrying, in comparison, tends to stick around.   Though I don’t sit and worry for hours on end, as a woman of a certain age, I’m not immune to the menopausal hormone drop that occurs between 2am and 4am. Should I wake during this time window, I may as well not bother trying to get back to sleep—and this is when my worrying mind is most active.   In the early hours, I worry about job-related work I’ve to complete the next day, even though I know it will all be in hand when I get going. I worry about the life admin I’ve to sort. I worry about little details that are important and which I’d forgotten, and I worry whether I’ll still remember them when I wake up. I worry about my kids, even though they’re both adults with their own lives. Like everyone, I worry about money and whether I’m spending too much. I worry about things I’ve said, the things I’ve done. I ultimately worry that my worries are preventing me from getting much-needed sleep.   It's exhausting.   Young suggests setting time aside to address your worries rather than letting them pop up whenever they please. When you are able to concentrate on them, he recommends writing down your concerns on a piece of paper, so that you can scrutinise them properly. He believes this will give you some perspective, and seeing them written down may also make it easier to apply logic, which will help you determine the most appropriate solution. It’s important to remember that there’s only so much of your daily life that’s within your control. You’re not responsible for the emotions/actions of other people or outside influences such as the economy and the weather. Your first task, therefore, it to eliminate any worry about such things—it’s simply a waste of your energy if you can’t do anything about the outcome. What will happen will happen, regardless of any mental anguish you extol.   Young suggests that freelancing individuals can particularly benefit from this approach. As people who tend not to have a regular income, finances may be a particular worry amid the current cost-of-living crisis.   If worries are left to fester, they can affect an individual’s focus, which will have its own detrimental impact on their productivity, which surely makes Young’s suggestions worth a try.   Paula Gardner of the The Good Therapy Practice  agrees that freelancers can be more susceptible to worry, which could be, she suggests, a result of remote working. When working from a shared office space or your employer’s business premises, it’s satisfying to physically shut the door on your working day. This sense of closure helps individuals exercise their boundaries, which may be a task more difficult for remote workers, whose home lives and working environments exist in the same space.   Because we don’t have to hunt for our food anymore or switch into survival mode umpteen times a day, we need to give our mind enough to do so that it doesn’t turn rogue and create mountains out of molehills. Read, take up a hobby, practice mindfulness, go for a walk, or just zone out in front of the TV if this is distracting enough for you. Get into a good routine before bedtime to ensure a decent night’s sleep—such as no phones or tablets in the bedroom, a relaxing bath, a milky drink…there are lots of suggestions online in this regard, just find what works for you.   Worrying for worry’s sake is unhealthy and a waste of your time. Put pen to paper and proactively tackle your concerns head on.

The long-anticipated showdown between Manchester City and the Premier League has officially begun. A legal saga four years in the making is now set to unfold as the current Premier League champions face an unprecedented 115 charges of financial misconduct. This case could not only shake the foundations of Manchester City but also redefine the financial landscape of English football. The consequences? Potentially game-changing for the Premier League and beyond. The Stakes: More than Just a Points Deduction While football clubs have previously faced sanctions for financial mismanagement, Manchester City’s case is of an entirely different magnitude. The accusations date back to the 2009-10 season and encompass a broad spectrum of alleged violations. From financial dealings with sponsors linked to club owners to understated player and managerial contracts, these charges paint a picture of systematic rule-breaking. If the club is found guilty, the repercussions could be seismic. While a points deduction is the most likely immediate consequence, the spectre of more severe penalties looms large. The idea of title stripping—potentially erasing some of the club's glory years—or even expulsion from the Premier League are on the table. A ruling of this scale could throw the current season into chaos and forever alter the club’s history. Comparisons to Past Offenders: How Does Manchester City Stack Up? City isn't the first club to find itself in hot water over financial rule breaches. The recent case involving Everton Football Club provides an intriguing point of comparison. In 2023, Everton was found guilty of breaching the Premier League's profit and sustainability rules. Their punishment was a 10-point deduction—significant, but not nearly as earth-shattering as what Manchester City could face. Everton’s violations were largely centred around accounting practices and financial losses over a specific period. In contrast, Manchester City’s case covers a nine-year span, with allegations including failure to disclose full manager remunerations, potentially through secret contracts. Manchester City's Defence: Confidence or Bluff? Manchester City maintains a steadfast public front. The club has welcomed the independent commission, eager to present its “comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence.” Club manager Pep Guardiola has echoed the club’s position, emphasising the importance of due process and asserting that "everyone is innocent until guilt is proven." For City, the stakes are not just about maintaining their place in the Premier League but safeguarding their reputation as one of the elite footballing giants of the modern era. A Verdict That Could Shake Football to Its Core While the hearing is set to last around ten weeks, the decision, expected early next year, could become a watershed moment in football history. The potential penalties—points deductions, fines, or even relegation—could serve as a stern warning to other clubs about the strict enforcement of financial regulations. But if Manchester City is cleared of all charges, it would highlight the limitations of the current regulatory system and force the Premier League to reconsider its approach to financial governance. The outcome might also open a floodgate of legal battles. Rival clubs who feel disadvantaged by Manchester City’s alleged financial misconduct could seek compensation, potentially leading to a series of lawsuits that further entangle the league in legal complexities. Comparisons to UEFA's Past Financial Scrutiny This isn’t the first time Manchester City has faced accusations of financial foul play. In 2020, UEFA handed the club a two-year ban from European competitions for alleged breaches of Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations, a decision that was later overturned by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). However, City still received a €10 million fine for obstructing the investigation. The Premier League's current charges go even further, suggesting potential systematic rule-breaking over a longer period. The club's prior brush with UEFA adds an extra layer of tension, as the ongoing case could either validate or undermine the integrity of financial regulations in European football. Conclusion: The Wait for Justice As the hearing gets underway, football fans and clubs around the world are watching with bated breath. Manchester City’s fate hangs in the balance. Whether the club emerges vindicated or faces unprecedented sanctions, the decision will undoubtedly set a precedent for how financial conduct in football is scrutinised and punished in the future. Should City be found guilty, it would serve as a clear signal that no club, no matter how powerful or successful, is beyond the reach of the rules. However, an acquittal would raise serious questions about the Premier League’s ability to govern its clubs and enforce financial fair play. In either scenario, English football is bracing itself for a defining moment. The game is changing, and today marks the start of its most pivotal trial.