SUMMARY:

Researchers at Mississippi State University, led by Assistant Professor Matthew Ballinger, have discovered a new parasitic wasp species, Syntretus perlmani, which lays its eggs in the abdomen of fruit flies. The wasp embryo hatches inside the living fly and emerges roughly 18 days later, resembling an alien creature. This terrifying process leaves the fly alive for several hours post-emergence. The research, published in Nature, revealed this unique behavior, as previous studies focused on wasps attacking immature life stages. This discovery may also help control fruit fly populations, which are commonly considered pests.

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SUMMARY: The Mississippi Book Festival concluded its largest event yet, attracting 37,000 book lovers. Held in September, this year’s festival featured over 40 panels, writing workshops, and opportunities for readers to purchase signed books. Notable highlights included a standing-room-only panel with two-time National Book Award winner Jesmyn Ward, moderated by LeVar Burton. Other celebrated authors showcased their new works, adding to the festival’s vibrant atmosphere. For those unable to attend, all sessions were recorded and will be available for free on the festival’s website. The organizers expressed gratitude to sponsors, volunteers, and attendees for making the 10th festival memorable.

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SUMMARY: Mike Williams, a standout prep basketball player, has committed to Jackson State University to play for his father, former NBA star Mo Williams, who is now the college’s head coach. After winning a state championship with Jackson Academy, Mike transferred to Germantown High School, where his recruitment gained momentum. Despite interest from schools like Mississippi State and LSU, he chose to join his father, expressing gratitude in a heartfelt Instagram announcement. Ranked as Mississippi’s No. 2 combo guard and the No. 133 overall recruit for 2025, Mike joins a legacy of family competition similar to that of Deion Sanders and his sons.

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