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Inside Alabama Politics
Welcome to a new edition of Inside Alabama Politics! And a special welcome to new subscribers who have found your way here. For those who are new here, longtime Alabama politico David Azbell authored a great post on his Art of Alabama Politics about the history of IAP going back to its founder, Bessie Ford. […]
City Watch Coffee owner detained by ICE, faces deportation to Cambodia
Ratha San, co-owner of the popular City Watch Coffee, faces deportation by ICE. His wife shares the impact it's having on his family and the business.
I was planning to skip the Pixel 11. These 5 upgrades changed my mind
I compared the new Google Pixel 11 with the Pixel 9, and these upgrades have convinced me that it's finally time to make the jump.
Congo starts Ebola vaccinations for health workers
Democratic Republic of Congo on Thursday began vaccinating frontline health workers with a vaccine approved for a different Ebola species, as authorities seek to contain the country's largest and deadliest Ebola outbreak on record.
Rochester to inspect 14,500 homes and business properties
Rochester is launching a five-year property review program. Here is what owners need to know about upcoming inspections.
The first phone with three 200MP cameras (!) is coming soon, and we have high hopes
The first phone with three 200MP cameras is apparently in the works, and this includes a 200MP ultrawide camera.
Giant Costco-exclusive game day TVs start at $280 for members only
Looking for a bigger screen for football season? These Costco-exclusive Hisense TVs offer premium features, large displays and added warranty coverage.
Why Michigan is a top state for new business survival
"I think it's hard to say whether it's indicative of long-term success," said Alex Rainville, who teaches at the University of Michigan-Dearborn.
Why Michigan startups are finding success
Nick Joe Kelley, owner and founder of Elite Paint Home Renovations, at a customer’s home in New Baltimore, Aug. 25, 2026.
The Literacy Crisis Reaches Dog-Bear Science
“New analysis of more than 300 bear encounters suggests our canine companions often increase odds of conflict and rarely serve as early warning systems many recreationists assume,” reads a subhead in Mountain Journal. The thing is, that study reaches no such conclusion. But you have to read beyond the abstract to understand that. Mountain Journal is not alone. Let’s look at a brief list of takeaways published elsewhere just to establish that none of them seem to know how to read science. Wes Siler’s Newsletter is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Subscribe Here’s CBC: “A new peer-reviewed study, The Canine Conundrum: Is a Dog a Help or Hindrance in Bear Country?, dug into conflicts similar to what the video depicts, by analyzing 326 reported human-bear conflicts from 1901 to 2023 involving dogs.” “The study found 54 per cent of conflicts were started by dogs. In the encounters researchers included in the study, five people and 56 dogs were killed, and 170 people were injured.” “Lana Ciarniello, an independent researcher who co-authored the study, said researchers found when a person goes hiking with at least one other person, the odds of a negative bear encounter decrease by 50 per cent.” “However, when a dog is involved, the chances of a negative bear encounter increase because ‘a dog really adds a chaotic factor into the mix of recreation,’ said Ciarniello.” Again, the study finds no data supporting that conclusion. “Hiking with your pet dog may make you feel safer in bear country—but a hiker’s recent encounter and a new study prove that the numbers don’t add up,” writes Backpacker, which is now part of Outside. The numbers don’t add up to support this take. There’s plenty more examples, but all are equally dumb, so I’ll stop there. How did so many people get this so wrong? Three reasons: 1) the study is published behind a paywall, with only the abstract freely available. 2) the methodology sets out to create work relevant to a hyper-specific audience, not the public. And 3) the dataset studied is almost absurdly limited and doesn’t bear (get it?!) comparison to wider information. Let’s work through all three. The Problem is Money I understand the irony, since I’m writing about this on a subscription-model newsletter, but information wants to be free. The study is published by The Wildlife Society and costs $16 to access. Reprinting it is specifically prohibited by the terms of use, so I can only share snippets and my conclusions with you here. Having worked as a journalist for 24 years, I can report with some authority that journalists are both lazy and cheap. I don’t think it’s a stretch to say that much of the material you’re seeing written about this study is drawn from the freely-available abstract (above) only, and not a deep dive into its methodology or data. And that’s a problem, because abstracts are where researchers are able to break from their numbers and editorialize their opinions about conclusions. So what’s getting reported isn’t based on numbers, it’s based on an opinion designed for a specific audience, not the general public. Hell yeah ladies, kick that bear’s ass. The Methodology is Designed to Support a Predetermined Conclusion One of the biggest issues with the science that everyone likes to cite about bear spray’s efficacy is that no one understands that study was designed for a specific audience, looking for a specific answer. And since that audience is not the public, and our safety was not the question being asked, its conclusion is rendered irrelevant to our needs. Yes, I’m talking about Efficacy of Bear Deterrent Spray in Alaska, which was created by Tom Smith and Stephen Herrero, two of the same scientists who put together this dog-bear conflict analysis. In the spray study, the purpose was to present relevant agencies with the information they needed to issue their field workers with bear spray. As such, incidents where people were unable to access the spray or similarly failed to get it deployed in time were excluded from the results, and only incidents they deemed successful were included. Could a ranger roll down their vehicle’s window and scare a bear away from a dumpster by spraying it? Turns out the answer was yes, and that was good enough for the purposes of that study. The sample size of actual bear attacks—the thing you and I would want bear spray to provide a solution to, was too small to draw conclusions from, and didn’t indicate success in that role. Is a Dog a Help or Hindrance in Bear Country? has similar limitations. “Insights provided here are intended to help wildlife managers create effective guidelines regarding the presence of domestic dogs in bear habitat,” is explained clearly by the study’s text. To conduct the study, Smith and Herrero went looking for publicly available reports of dog-bear conflicts: “All incidents included in our analysis involved at least one bear, one dog, and one person who was at immediate risk of injury (e.g., not in a protective structure such as a cabin or vehicle), injured, or killed,” explains the report’s methodology. Why is that a problem? “We recognize that data used in this study are biased in that people generally only report adverse interactions with bears, not benign ones. Consequently, we assume that for the most part, people and their dogs pass through bear country without incident.” As was the problem with the bear spray study, people are drawing conclusions here from a study that was never intended to be relevant to the general public. The Smith-Herrero database famously excludes Alaska’s Defense of Life and Property records, which are elsewhere considered the largest and most authoritative source on human-bear conflict. The Dataset is Absurdly Limited A 2009 study conducted by the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife estimates that each year there are at least 43,000 documented complaints of human-bear conflict across North America. Is a Dog a Help or Hindrance in Bear Country? Examined those reports for years ranging from 1901 to 2023, and only managed to find 326 such incidents that met the criteria explained above. Let’s do some quick math, poorly. 43,000 incidents x 122 years = 5,246,000 total incidents of documented human-bear conflict. Smith and Herrero were only able to find 326 incidents that met their criteria for dog+human+bear+risk or occurrence of injury. That means there’s a 0.006 percent chance that the study’s conclusion—that dogs make bear encounters more dangerous—even gets a chance of occurring. And remember, that’s only in documented conflicts. There’s no way to know how many people across North America run into a bear in any given year without any conflict, but it’s probably safe to assume that the total number is well in excess of 43,000. And, dig deeper into the study and you can find further restrictions that skew its conclusions even more. “While the people involved in these incidents did not report the level of training their dogs had received, it is our assumption that most were untrained companion dogs as opposed to well-trained bear dogs, such as Karelians and livestock guardian breeds that have proven to be significant aids in bear country,” the study’s methodology explains. And that’s a problem, because an ongoing study here in Montana is finding that the simple presence of a Kangal like our youngest dog Teddy can reduce visits to private property from grizzly bears by 87.8 percent. In addition to being a badass, Teddy is also a companion animal. And in my admittedly limited sample size of the three dogs currently present in our living room, she’s no more effective than her mutt brothers. Plenty of people own a dog capable of deterring bears, even if they didn’t set out to own a bear dog. The real purpose of this study appears to be a recommendation that leashes are mandated and recreationists pursue training in their deterrent of choice. But that doesn’t make for sensational headlines. Are There Any Real Takeaways Here? Let’s throw some numbers around, just to try and get our hands around what the larger picture might look like for bears and dogs here. The American Veterinary Medical Association estimates that 42.6 percent of American households own a dog. The Canadian Animal Health Institute says roughly 35 percent of households in Canuckistan own a dog. In an attempt to create the worst possible result for dogs, let’s run with that 35 percent number. And given that outdoorsy and rural people are more likely to both own a dog, and have bear encounters, let’s just make a giant assumption and apply that number to those 43,000 conflicts documented annually. If 35 percent of 43,000 human-bear encounters involve a dog, then we can assume that at least 15,050 dog-bear conflicts are occurring annually in North America. 15,050 x 122 = 1,836,100. Smith and Herrero were only able to find 326 incidents that met their human, dog, chance or occurrence of injury criteria across 122 years. And only 170 documented human injuries. So, with all the obvious caveats about these numbers in no way describing reality beyond narrow study parameters, what they actually found is that your risk of injury if your dog tangles with a bear is only 0.009 percent. I’ll take those odds next time I’m hiking my dogs in bear country. Top photo: “Superintendent Horace Albright, eating pancakes with bears, at Lake Lodge, Yellowstone National Park.” NPS. A journalist with more than two decades of experience working around the world, Wes Siler is here to cut through the outrage and disinformation to bring you the factual, insightful, actionable reporting you need to understand what’s going on. Upgrading to a paid subscription supports this reporting, and buys personal access to Wes, who will help you save money on gear, plan outdoor adventures, and prepare for real life, and who promises he’s less salty in real life than he sometimes comes across as on the Internet. Wes Siler’s Newsletter is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Subscribe
El Niño is being supercharged by climate change, study finds
It's one of the biggest questions in climate science: Is human-caused climate change making El Niños worse? A new study weighs in.
Democrats hand Trump one power they spent years fighting
Senate Democrats voted to give Trump limited tariff authority in exchange for Russia sanctions, a move some warn he could exploit against trade partners.
Ex-Fox 2 reporter Kellie Rowe shares mental health update via TikTok
The reporter left the Southfield station earlier this month.
Prominent general contractor's Austin office raided by federal authorities
Federal authorities raided Cadence McShane Construction Co.'s Austin, San Antonio and Plano offices on Aug. 26, the Austin Business Journal has learned.
State report shows increase in new businesses in Shelby Co, slower housing market
The Secretary of State's office and the University of Tennessee released the 2026 Second Quarter Business & Economic Indicators report.
Prosecutor says Lindsay Clancy trial is about her actions, not the mental health system
Democrats want to draw more safe House seats. It could cost Black lawmakers.
Republicans have added more than a dozen conservative-leaning House districts, giving them a shot at keeping their threadbare majority.
Mamdani reaches out to CEOs to boost city economy; what it means
Some of the biggest names include Chobani CEO Hamdi Ulukaya, New York Liberty CEO Keia Clarke, Etsy CEO Kruti Patel Goyal and Pat Wang, CEO of Healthfirst.
GTA 6 Leaks Could Be Over As Leaker Cashes Out Memecoin
It seems a pretty small prize for gaining the attention of the world's authorities
Brevard's newest food destination. Lakeside Social welcomes first guests
Lakeside Socialopens Aug. 27, featuring six dining concepts, two bars, live entertainment and year-round community events.
New renderings show future hospital expansion at Corewell Troy
Construction at the Troy hospital is expected to begin next summer and the building is to open in 2031.
GLP-1s may have a host of other health benefits. Just ask these people
Here is what scientists currently know about GLP-1s, and where hype may be getting ahead of the evidence.
Party politics loom large in non-partisan Tallahassee Commission race
Tallahassee candidates PJ Perez and Tom Derzypolski are clashing over their past party affiliations ahead of the runoff.
Like Lindsay Clancy, I begged for help. Doctors didn't listen.
Like Lindsay Clancy, I knew something was wrong, but my words weren't enough to receive the health care I so desperately needed.
Automakers enter energy storage business as data centers face backlash
Concerns related to the environment, energy demands and the impact of AI's expansion fuel the pushback.
In this red state, cattle ranchers are fuming. They blame Trump.
Some cattle ranchers in Montana are sounding off on President Trump's decision to import 300K metric tons of foreign beef.
Scene Calendar: Hip-hop artist Juvenile, Cuban art at the Harn
Gainesville and Alachua County offer museum exhibits, live music, Artwalk, cultural events and family activities throughout the week and beyond.
Texas cyclospora cases jump past 500, with 71 total hospitalizations
The usual cyclospora season is winding down and state health authorities expect it to wrap up early September.
Ballard, Bayh, Engling, Shillings to debate tonight. Get live updates here.
Republican Max Engling, Democrat Beau Bayh, Independent Greg Ballard and Libertarian Lauri Shillings will appear at the Indy Chamber HobNob for the first of at least two secretary of state debates.
FDA authorizes first 2-in-1 wearable of its kind for patients with diabetes
The first of its kind continuous monitoring device from Abbott tracks glucose and ketone levels at the same time.
Dolly Parton's business empire lives on. What's still to come?
The entertainer was still working until her final days, with a hotel, museum, coffee line and other ventures in motion. Here's what comes next.
Doctors win big at medical arbitration. Will your insurance bill soar?
Arbitration has protected consumers from medical billing disputes. But experts warn consumers could pay with higher health insurance premiums,
Vanderbilt Health mourns passing of global icon Dolly Parton
Legendary songwriter, singer, actress, author, and businesswoman, Parton will be remembered for her lasting impact on the lives of millions through her support of everything from pediatric cancer care to infectious disease research at Vanderbilt Health.
Michigan's Tri-Share childcare cost-sharing program becomes permanent
Michigan's Tri-Share program is a first in the nation childcare cost-sharing program that lawmakers recently made permanent with bipartisan support.
New Texas poll shows tight Senate race, GOP pulling ahead for governor
Talarico leads Paxton 42-39 in the new UT/Texas Politics Project poll. Abbott leads Hinojosa in the governor's race, and data center opposition holds.
'Our grief is not raw material' for Husted Senate ad, family says in call for removal
A central Ohio family who died in a fiery car crash is front and center in an Ohio Senate race ad − and their relatives want it taken down.
2 Albany Co. businesses fail underage drinking compliance check
On Tuesday, the New York State Liquor Authority announced that two businesses failed their underage drinking compliance check on August 20. According to the SLA, Noor Mart in Watervliet and Island …
A bike ride across the Gordie Howe bridge gave me hope for civility
Free Press Contributing Columnist Randy Essex describes a bike ride across the Gordie Howe bridge amid acrimony between the two nations.
Tom Tiffany touts business success, but for years owed no taxes
Tom Tiffany, now the GOP candidate for governor, and his business went years without paying state income taxes, Department of Revenue records show.
Sensitive Information Exposed in Nutex Health Data Breach
Nutex Health has informed the SEC that it recently detected unauthorized access and data exfiltration.
Perplexity launches a local AI agent with zero token costs
Perplexity has launched "Portable Computer" — a new agentic AI that runs locally on NVIDIA hardware and saves token costs.
SoCal man with guillotine arrested near U.S. Supreme Court building
A San Diego County man who allegedly drove around with a guillotine in the back of his pickup truck has been arrested near the U.S. Supreme Court Building, authorities say.
Enough with the podcasts. We elected politicians, not influencers.
From bikini pics to podcast launches, our elected officials are increasingly obsessed with becoming influencers – chasing followers while the actual job of governing gets left behind.
Scientists Stunned: “Earth Life” Could Be Hiding in Unexpected Lunar Regions - Futura-Sciences
Earth Life on the Moon: Not Just a Sci-Fi Dream Once upon a time, up until the twentieth century, science-fiction authors loved to imagine the Moon as a cosmic neighbor bustling with extraterrestrial life. Fast forward a few decades, and our Moon lost its spot as top alien hangout to...
US appeals court blocks FCC plan to expand discounted political advertising rates
The U.S. Court of Appeals on Tuesday blocked a move to extend discounted broadcast television advertising rates to political party and joint fundraising committees.
As Clancy trial unfolds, AHN program offers hope for mothers in crisis
As the Lindsay Clancy trial unfolds, Pittsburgh experts and advocates say early intervention and specialized care can save families.
Dolly Parton didn’t talk much about politics. It was by choice.
'I am not political, and I refuse to get caught up in political things,' Parton said in a 2020 interview with USA TODAY.
Finally something Dems and GOP agree on: Parton was an American legend
Democrats and Republicans mourn death of Dolly Parton
Why business owners are suing Zohran Mamdani
The initiative is one of Mamdani's main promises, with its first store expected to open in 2027. But why are some business owners against the move?
Dolly Parton's death ripples across sports, where she stole the show
Singer, actress and philanthropist Dolly Parton died Aug. 25, 2026, at 80. She stole the show in the sports realm, as she did in so many walks of life.
'Money Out of Politics' proposal headed to Michigan's November ballot
The proposal would ban political spending by major corporate players in Michigan, including DTE and Consumers Energy.
Genshin Impact Studio Lean Into Elden Ring In Its New Action-RPG
Nodus Fall takes place in a world where 'divine authority has crumbled'—sound familiar?
Derrick Van Orden turns out deepfakes to lampoon Rebecca Cooke
Republican Derrick Van Orden has used deepfakes on his social media accounts to lampoon 3rd Congressional District opponent Rebecca Cooke.
3-alarm fire destroys San Jose tire business with collapsed roof, charred inside
A large fire completely charred Baja Tires in San Jose, prompting a large response from firefighters, who were able to salvage the surrounding buildings, authorities said.
Nothing unveils Nothing OS 5.0 built on Android 17, but there's bad news for older phones
Nothing OS 5.0 brings dynamic themes, essential AI tools, Android 17 features, and a dedicated Glyph app to compatible phones.
New concert venue coming to this Arizona 'entertainment desert'
The Nox, a 2,000-capacity concert venue designed from the ground up in Mesa, is spearheaded by the family behind Potato Barn Unique Home Furnishings.
Although research on animal production and climate is growing, bringing science to the field remains challenging
A research group from the University of São Paulo analyzed over 1,600 articles and found that research increased by 9.5% annually between 1974 and 2025. The authors advocate for regionalized solutions and public policies to bridge the gap between evidence and implementation.
Iowa author’s debut book ‘Hacked By You’ a romance-thriller
Shellsburg author Emily Scheer combined high-stakes cybercrime and suspense in her debut novel, “Hacked by You.” Learn how she brought Natasha and Zade's story to life and check out her upcoming events.
GOP Iowa governor candidate Zach Lahn touts economic populism at event
Republican governor candidate Zach Lahn presented an agenda to Iowa business leaders that he said was built around an “economic sort of populism.\
Shop 15 easy entertainment upgrades for the ultimate fall watch party
Refresh your living room for fall with TVs, soundbars and home entertainment from top retailers. Here's 15 items to shop.
IndyStar's politics team will embark on another statewide reporting tour. Here's where
Last year, IndyStar's politics team went on a statewide reporting tour to hear from Hoosiers about their top issues. We're back for a second year.
Enough with the podcasts. We elected politicians, not influencers.
Nancy Mace posed in a bikini. Gavin Newsom launched a podcast. AOC and Bernie Sanders are TikTok stars. Can they start doing the jobs we pay them for?
Beyond Scatter celebrates one year with community open house
Beyond Scatter celebrates its first anniversary in Lancaster with an Aug. 27 open house featuring music and ADHD resources.
Howey: When disaster strikes, Hoosiers need FEMA, not politics
In not a single instance did one of our first responders ask these folks whether they were a Republican or Democrat before stepping onto the boat.
Governor recognizes YWCA Central Indiana's century of service
The Governor's Century Business Award highlights YWCA Central Indiana's work since its founding in Muncie in 1911.
No time to work out? How to still lose weight
What you eat – and how much you eat – typically has a much greater impact on the numbers you see on the scale.
Eclipse watching and portable planetarium for Liberty Science Center
The Liberty Science Center in Jersey City celebrates its portable planetarium Aug. 25, then welcomes the eclipse with a "SpongeBob" laser show Aug. 27
Google's clever Android 17 motion sickness feature is finally rolling out
Google is gradually rolling out the new Motion Assist feature on Android 17 devices, starting with Pixel phones.
Nick Saban on Protect College Sports Act: ‘It’s certainly 100 times better than what we have now’
As the 2026 season nears, the Protect College Sports Act is one of the bigger issues hanging over college football. The act was co-authored by Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) and Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), only to be opposed by conferences like the Big Ten and SEC. There are supporters, though, and one of the bigger […]
Dead cats, abandoned animals found inside grooming business; owner wanted by police
An Alabama woman is wanted by police on felony animal cruelty charges after authorities discovered several dead cats and abandoned live animals inside her grooming business.
Dead cats, abandoned animals found inside grooming business; owner wanted by police
An Alabama woman is wanted by police on felony animal cruelty charges after authorities discovered several dead cats and abandoned live animals inside her grooming business.
Dead cats, abandoned animals found inside grooming business; owner wanted by police
An Alabama woman is wanted by police on felony animal cruelty charges after authorities discovered several dead cats and abandoned live animals inside her grooming business.
Michigan must reject antisemitism in political discourse
The atmosphere for Jews in our state feels toxic. We feel under attack, scapegoated, misunderstood and deeply uncertain about the future
Oregon Health Authority approves Samaritan’s affiliation with MultiCare Health System, advancing investment in local healthcare
Samaritan Health Services has received approval from the Oregon Health Authority for its proposed affiliation with MultiCare Health System.
Christine Chasse Analyzes AI Governance in Health Care in Two Publications
Spencer Fane attorney Christine Chasse authored the article AI in Health Care: The Governance Gap, recently published by Health IT Answers and Corporate
WA author Emiko Jean continues detective series with new novel
Emiko Jean spoke with The Seattle Times about assimilation, motherhood and writing from the unnerving intimacy of the second person.
Hospice nurses at Minnesota-based Allina Health vote to authorize 7-day unfair labor practice strike
Guide to SC GOP Senate runoff between Darline Graham, Ralph Norman
Voters decide between Darline Graham and Ralph Norman in the August 25 Republican Senate runoff election.
Five Best Books on the Human Side of Science
The author of “Lost in Curiosity” on tales of lab mishaps, fieldwork adventures and personal sacrifices in the pursuit of good data.
Democratic U.S. Rep. Hillary Scholten blasts Hasan Piker for targeting Moss
Rep. Hillary Scholten said Hasan Piker's rhetoric \
Gov. Reeves Announces Investment In Mental Health Services For Mississippi Youth » Office of Governor Tate Reeves
Gov. Tate Reeves today announced the state of Mississippi is deploying $3,375,709 to support expanded mental health services for children, adolescents and young adults who were negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Through the Community Development Block Grant CARES Act Coronavirus Relief (CDBG‑CV) program, the Mississippi Development Authority has approved targeted funding to modernize treatment environments and establish new programming focused on long-term recovery.
HOMETOWN HEALTH: U.S. sees sharp rise in type 2 diabetes among children and teens
The study’s authors said the findings should be a wakeup call for parents to support healthy eating and daily physical activity for kids.
Sudan’s conflict worsening, UN political and peacebuilding chief warns
On 24 August, the Security Council held a briefing on Sudan at the request by Denmark to discuss the protection of civilians and the humanitarian consequences of the ongoing conflict. “The consequences of this conflict will be long-lasting and should shock us all,” said Rosemary DiCarlo, Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs.Civilians face one of the worst humanitarian crises, she said, as they deal with frequent drone attacks against markets, schools, fuel stations and water infrastructure, and the rainy season. Some 13 million people have fled their homes, but access challenges have made it impossible to confirm the true death toll, "it is likely to be in the hundreds of thousands", she said. “Brutal mass killings and atrocities, abductions of women and girls and mass rapes are recurring patterns,” she warned.In North Kordofan, drone attacks continue as both parties compete for control of strategically important towns, she said, reiterating deep concern at the imminent risk of large-scale atrocities by the Rapid Support Forces in and around El abdede. Drone strikes near Tina, on Sudan’s border with Chad, where the refugee influx has intensified pressure on already scarce land, have led to violent disputes over resources. Plus numerous armed movements are pursuing their own territorial and political interests. The UN continues to support efforts of the QUAD - United States, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, United Arab Emirates – for a humanitarian truce. And it is working with the Quintet partners, the African Union, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the League of Arab States, and the European Union to help advance a viable political path. “Our goal is to build confidence in the political path and pave the way for an inclusive Sudanese-led dialogue for a shared vision for the country’s future,” she said. Sudanese authorities have also bolstered efforts to support civilian dialogue. “Their desire for an inclusive and durable peace is clear,” she said. Both parties must now make concrete commitments on releasing of prisioners, particularly vulnerable groups such as women and children. “The Personal Envoy will travel to Sudan shortly to advance these conversations," she said.
Mozambique strengthens regulation of medicines and imported vaccines, boosting health protection
Mozambique has reached a major milestone in strengthening the regulation of medicines and imported vaccines, with its national regulatory authority recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as having a stable, well-functioning and integrated regulatory system.The Autoridade Nacional Reguladora de Medicamentos de Moçambique (ANARME) has achieved Maturity Level 3 (ML3) for the regulation of medicines and imported vaccines under WHO’s global classification of national regulatory authorities.Mozambique becomes the 10th country in Africa to reach ML3, joining Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania and Zimbabwe and marking further momentum in strengthening regulatory systems across the region.For people in Mozambique, stronger regulation means greater assurance that medicines and vaccines are appropriately evaluated for quality, safety and efficacy and monitored throughout their lifecycle. It also strengthens the country’s ability to identify and respond to safety concerns and substandard or falsified products, while supporting timely access to quality-assured health products.“Mozambique’s achievement is the result of sustained investment in regulatory capacity that will deliver crucial benefits for public health,” said Dr Sylvie Briand, WHO Chief Scientist and Assistant Director-General a.i. for Health Systems, Access and Data. “Strong regulatory systems protect people, build confidence in health products and help countries respond more effectively to evolving public health needs and challenges. Mozambique’s progress also contributes to advancing regulatory capacity across Africa and promoting more equitable access to safe and quality-assured medicines and vaccines.”Building a stronger regulatory systemMozambique’s achievement follows years of sustained efforts to build the institutions and capabilities needed for effective regulation.WHO worked closely with ANARME throughout this process, assessing the national regulatory system and supporting the authority in addressing identified gaps and strengthening priority areas.WHO evaluates national regulatory systems using its Global Benchmarking Tool (GBT), which assesses the regulatory functions required to ensure the quality, safety and efficacy of medical products. These include registration and marketing authorization, licensing, market surveillance and control, pharmacovigilance, regulatory inspection, laboratory testing and oversight of clinical trials, as applicable. WHO’s maturity levels range from 1 to 4. Reaching ML3 confirms a stable, well-functioning and integrated regulatory system, while ML4 represents an advanced system focused on continuous improvement.Benefits for Mozambique and the African continentAn ML3 regulatory system can support more timely and predictable regulatory decisions, reinforce safety monitoring and help ensure that health products entering and remaining on the market meet appropriate standards.It also creates greater opportunities for regulatory cooperation and reliance – approaches that help authorities make use of the work and decisions of trusted regulators, reduce unnecessary duplication and allocate limited resources more efficiently, while maintaining rigorous standards for quality, safety and efficacy.As the first Portuguese-speaking country in Africa to reach ML3, Mozambique’s experience can also contribute to strengthening regulatory systems and fostering greater cooperation, knowledge sharing and reliance among Portuguese-speaking countries and across the African continent. Its achievement further reinforces a more connected African regulatory ecosystem, providing a solid foundation on which the newly established African Medicines Agency can build to advance regulatory convergence and cooperation across the region.Strengthening confidence in regulatory recognitionMozambique’s achievement comes as WHO strengthens the process through which the performance of national regulatory systems is recognized.The newly established Technical Advisory Group on Regulatory Systems Strengthening (TAG-RSS) brings together independent international experts to advise WHO on whether recommendations concerning regulatory authorities reaching ML3 and ML4 and WHO-Listed Authorities, are supported by the findings of WHO evaluation processes. Its recommendations provide an additional level of independent assurance, strengthening the impartiality, transparency and credibility of WHO’s recognition process.Mozambique is among the first countries to achieve ML3 following consideration and recommendation by the TAG-RSS. As part of the same TAG-RSS process, South Africa was recommended to retain its ML3 status for the regulation of vaccines manufactured, imported or distributed in the country, following an additional WHO assessment. This extends the recognition first granted in 2022 and underscores the sustained performance of the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA).The two recognitions highlight continued progress in strengthening regulatory systems across Africa, as well as the importance of continued performance, improvement and assessment in sustaining regulatory maturity.WHO will continue working with ANARME and SAHPRA to sustain these gains and support continuous improvement as science, technologies and public health needs evolve.
Pork, politics and the governor race collide at 2026 Iowa State Fair
The mostly wholesome State Fair scenes belied the intensity of the race as campaigning ratchets up and negative ads fly in the Iowa governor's race.
Economic Development Forum returns to Downtown Memphis Aug. 25-27
The Economic Development Forum will be at the Renansant Convention Center from Aug. 25 through Aug. 27.
Purdue students get firsthand look at health-care innovation
A new Parkview-Purdue immersion program gives students hands-on exposure to hospital technology, patient care and innovation.
Massive entertainment complex opens in Springfield
Legends Entertainment is now open in Springfield, offering bowling, arcade games, local food and more for visitors.
Google wants $1,099 for the Pixel 11 Pro — here's how I paid only $399
At $1,099, the new Pixel 11 Pro can be a tough sell. Thankfully, I just bought one for only $399. Here's how I pulled it off.
Legends Entertainment is now open to the public
A brand-new entertainment space off in Springfield offers bowling, arcade and outdoor fun to the public with a local-favorite food court.
Android Pulse app may already be on your phone, and now we know what it does
Google's mysterious Android Pulse app is showing up in the Play Store, and it could help spot apps that drain battery or hog resources.
State cash to aid Fair Lawn businesses slowed by PSE&G River Road work
Mayor Cristina Cutrone said she sent a letter to the utility requesting that all road work in any business district be done after prime hours
'The Scoop' is a sharp, addictive satire of the media machine
Author Erin Van Der Meer gained insider perspective and in-depth experience as a journalist, which served her well in writing the bitingly satirical debut novel, "The Scoop." It’s an irresistible,
Feeling Taiwan: Emotions, Knowledge, and the Politics of Everyday Life
Written by Po-Han Lee, Alvaro Martinez-Lacabe, and Yu-chin Tseng. This special issue, featuring the co-editors and authors of the recently published edited volume, Feeling Taiwan, explores how em…
Americans bought 12% less soda under new SNAP restrictions, study says
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A deep dive into climate change
Some policymakers continue to question the science of climate change, despite the growing evidence of significant damage to life on land and in the ocean.Katja Matthes, director of the GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel in Germany, believes the ongoing attempts to politicise climate science and discredit researchers are hindering international cooperation and public understanding. The ocean provides clear evidence of the extent to which changes are occurring, she says.“We are seeing severe, unprecedented and accelerating changes in the ocean — warming ocean temperatures, acidification and oxygen depletion — that are destabilising the most important system that makes life on this planet possible,” Matthes explains. Visible signs of these changes include the melting of ice sheets in the Arctic and Greenland. Deeper down, the growing frequency of hypoxia — or oxygen-deprived “dead zones”, where marine life can no longer survive — in the Baltic and record-high Mediterranean surface temperatures are indicators of the “dramatic warming” of the ocean, she adds.The ocean, which covers around 70% of the Earth’s surface, acts as a vital carbon sink, absorbing around 30% of the planet’s carbon dioxide (CO2) and 90% of the excess heat. However, the global ocean surface temperature has risen by an average of half a degree Celsius since 1982, according to the EU Copernicus observatory. More significant rises have been recorded in the Mediterranean, Black, Baltic and other shallower seas.Some ocean temperature increases do occur naturally, such as during El Niño events. But sustained rises can trigger extreme weather on land — including droughts, floods and catastrophic storms — while also harming marine ecosystems. Only 10% of marine species have been studied, Matthes notes, “so the consequences might be even more severe than we know.”Fostering European cooperation amid uncertaintyMatthes, who holds a doctorate in meteorology, is a professor of atmospheric physics as well as director of GEOMAR. She serves as one of Kiel’s ambassadors to Science Comes to Town (SCTT), an EU-funded programme that aims to promote science’s role in society and strengthen cross-border collaboration in research, innovation and sustainability. SCTT is hosted by the coastal cities of Kiel, Brest (in France) and Split (in Croatia).The SCTT project also provides a platform for raising awareness and understanding between scientists and the public about major issues, such as climate change. Having worked on both sides of the Atlantic, Matthes is frustrated by recent attempts to erode decades of international climate collaboration and question the credibility of research. Earlier this year, the US administration delivered a major blow to global cooperation by withdrawing from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and other global climate organisations, claiming they were “contrary to the interests of the United States.”In addition, a US Department of Energy (DOE) report cast doubt on the latest IPCC climate assessment, which was published in 2024. As a contributing author to the IPCC study, Matthes says the DOE sought to discredit scientists like herself. “Climate change is not a matter of opinion, it really exists and we are witnessing dramatic changes,” she notes. “It’s not climate change as a whole that is being targeted, but scientists and their research.”Other US actions have also hit home for Matthes, who spent three years at the US National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) in Boulder, Colorado. The White House has announced plans to close the facility, a move that was “pretty tough” due to the German scientist’s personal connections with the staff and their reputation for excellence.Changing the narrative on climate changeEurope’s scientific community remains a driving force on climate research and collaboration. As one of the world’s leading marine research institutions, GEOMAR attracts students from more than 50 countries and plays an important role in global observation initiatives that contribute to understanding and protecting the ocean basins. At a European level, GEOMAR works closely with other top marine research facilities, including France’s Ifremer, an SCTT partner in Brest. GEOMAR has also developed innovative and safe strategies for removing unexploded wartime munitions from the seabed, which release toxic substances that pose a danger to humans and the marine environment. Through the Horizon Europe MMinE-SwEEPER project, this knowledge has been transferred to the European level.These initiatives are examples of how local action can have a global impact, Matthes says, and how Europe can strengthen climate research and partnerships. “This is a chance for Europe to step up and work on climate cooperation and agreements,” she notes. “Climate change is an international problem and a real threat, and we need more speed on climate action than we have now.”Matthes believes her fellow scientists need to communicate that climate change is not only a threat, but an opportunity to find solutions. “We need to change our narrative and expand our strategic alliances with those who are willing,” she says, “and luckily there are a lot of willing people and countries.”Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.
A deep dive into climate change
Some policymakers continue to question the science of climate change, despite the growing evidence of significant damage to life on land and in the ocean.Katja Matthes, director of the GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel in Germany, believes the ongoing attempts to politicise climate science and discredit researchers are hindering international cooperation and public understanding. The ocean provides clear evidence of the extent to which changes are occurring, she says.“We are seeing severe, unprecedented and accelerating changes in the ocean — warming ocean temperatures, acidification and oxygen depletion — that are destabilising the most important system that makes life on this planet possible,” Matthes explains. Visible signs of these changes include the melting of ice sheets in the Arctic and Greenland. Deeper down, the growing frequency of hypoxia — or oxygen-deprived “dead zones”, where marine life can no longer survive — in the Baltic and record-high Mediterranean surface temperatures are indicators of the “dramatic warming” of the ocean, she adds.The ocean, which covers around 70% of the Earth’s surface, acts as a vital carbon sink, absorbing around 30% of the planet’s carbon dioxide (CO2) and 90% of the excess heat. However, the global ocean surface temperature has risen by an average of half a degree Celsius since 1982, according to the EU Copernicus observatory. More significant rises have been recorded in the Mediterranean, Black, Baltic and other shallower seas.Some ocean temperature increases do occur naturally, such as during El Niño events. But sustained rises can trigger extreme weather on land — including droughts, floods and catastrophic storms — while also harming marine ecosystems. Only 10% of marine species have been studied, Matthes notes, “so the consequences might be even more severe than we know.”Fostering European cooperation amid uncertaintyMatthes, who holds a doctorate in meteorology, is a professor of atmospheric physics as well as director of GEOMAR. She serves as one of Kiel’s ambassadors to Science Comes to Town (SCTT), an EU-funded programme that aims to promote science’s role in society and strengthen cross-border collaboration in research, innovation and sustainability. SCTT is hosted by the coastal cities of Kiel, Brest (in France) and Split (in Croatia).The SCTT project also provides a platform for raising awareness and understanding between scientists and the public about major issues, such as climate change. Having worked on both sides of the Atlantic, Matthes is frustrated by recent attempts to erode decades of international climate collaboration and question the credibility of research. Earlier this year, the US administration delivered a major blow to global cooperation by withdrawing from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and other global climate organisations, claiming they were “contrary to the interests of the United States.”In addition, a US Department of Energy (DOE) report cast doubt on the latest IPCC climate assessment, which was published in 2024. As a contributing author to the IPCC study, Matthes says the DOE sought to discredit scientists like herself. “Climate change is not a matter of opinion, it really exists and we are witnessing dramatic changes,” she notes. “It’s not climate change as a whole that is being targeted, but scientists and their research.”Other US actions have also hit home for Matthes, who spent three years at the US National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) in Boulder, Colorado. The White House has announced plans to close the facility, a move that was “pretty tough” due to the German scientist’s personal connections with the staff and their reputation for excellence.Changing the narrative on climate changeEurope’s scientific community remains a driving force on climate research and collaboration. As one of the world’s leading marine research institutions, GEOMAR attracts students from more than 50 countries and plays an important role in global observation initiatives that contribute to understanding and protecting the ocean basins. At a European level, GEOMAR works closely with other top marine research facilities, including France’s Ifremer, an SCTT partner in Brest. GEOMAR has also developed innovative and safe strategies for removing unexploded wartime munitions from the seabed, which release toxic substances that pose a danger to humans and the marine environment. Through the Horizon Europe MMinE-SwEEPER project, this knowledge has been transferred to the European level.These initiatives are examples of how local action can have a global impact, Matthes says, and how Europe can strengthen climate research and partnerships. “This is a chance for Europe to step up and work on climate cooperation and agreements,” she notes. “Climate change is an international problem and a real threat, and we need more speed on climate action than we have now.”Matthes believes her fellow scientists need to communicate that climate change is not only a threat, but an opportunity to find solutions. “We need to change our narrative and expand our strategic alliances with those who are willing,” she says, “and luckily there are a lot of willing people and countries.”Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.
Sharing Stories About Author Philip K. Dick at Saturday CSUF Science Fiction Festival
The Philip K. Dick Festival 2026 took place over four days and included panels, lectures, readings, and film screenings split between CSUF’s library and the Fullerton Marriott.