theSkimm - Daily Skimm: They ran out of spuds

Who’s giving off ‘zombie’ a few weeks early…

Stanford scientists. Yesterday, researchers published a study on human brain cells injected into rats. The study took seven years. And started when Stanford University researchers took baby rats and injected their brains with human brain cells. The tissue successfully managed to mix with the rat brain tissue, and voilà: rat-human brain combos that could respond to experiments — like knowing a blue light meant they’d get water. But researchers say this is just the start. The ultimate goal is to understand how certain mutations affect the brain. And study things like autism and schizophrenia to come up with new treatments. New Halloween costume unlocked.

…Oh and also in their zombie era: these scientists. Yesterday, a separate study showed how scientists grew human and mice brain cells in a lab and trained them to play the ‘70s video game ‘Pong.’ Next up: the scientists want to test how the cells perform while drunk. Because what could go wrong?

Who’s getting a boost…

Kids. Yesterday, the FDA and the CDC signed off on updated COVID-19 booster shots for 5- to 11-year-olds. ICYMI, Pfizer and Moderna have tweaked their recipes to target Omicron subvariants BA.4 and BA.5, as well as the original COVID-19 strain. Now, kids as young as 5 are cleared to get the Pfizer dose. And kids 6 and up can get Moderna’s booster. But that’s only for kids who got their primary series — or their last booster — two months before. The hope is for the updated boosters to add an extra layer of protection against potential future surges. Pfizer boosters are expected to be available by next week, while the Moderna doses are already available in pharmacies and doctors’ offices.

...Oh and speaking of: long COVID. A new study found that 1 in 20 people who got COVID-19 haven’t fully recovered from the virus — even six to 18 months later. But those who were asymptomatic were unlikely to suffer long-term effects, and vaccines can offer protection.

Who’s facing repercussions…

Davante Adams. Yesterday, the Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver was charged with misdemeanor assault. This is after he pushed a photographer following Monday’s loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in a now-viral video. Now, the photographer says the attack caused him whiplash, headache, and a “possible concussion.” Adams apologized, blaming it on “frustration” combined with the photographer “literally just running in front" of him as he exited the field. Adams will have to appear in court next month and could also face NFL discipline. 

…Oh and speaking of the NFL: Tua Tagovailoa. Yesterday, the Miami Dolphins QB returned to practice nearly two weeks after being carried off the field on a stretcher from signs of brain injury. According to NFL Media, he participated in training in “non-contact” activity — but the news is still raising questions about the NFL’s brand new approach to handling brain injuries.

Who’s speaking out…

Eric André and Clayton English.

While Tom Brady’s relationship may or may not be in a pickle…

His new venture is a big dill.

What's tired of going with the "pink tax" flow...

CVS.