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‘Disgusting and despicable’: Congressman Vindman reacts to Secy. Hegseth criticizing the media for covering fallen soldiers
James Talarico wins the Texas Democratic Senate race. The real challenge lies ahead.
After the state representative won the Senate primary, he joined a list of other promising progressives who have captured the left’s fancy.
Operation Epic Fury survives Senate challenge as Republicans close ranks behind Trump
Senate Republicans largely blocked a war powers resolution targeting President Donald Trump's ongoing military operations in Iran, despite lingering questions on what comes next.
Three Reasons John Cornyn Is Fighting for His Political Life
The veteran Texas senator faces what promises to be a bruising runoff with the state attorney general challenging him from the right. But he had a stronger showing than expected.
Healthcare Is AI’s Hardest Test
The real challenge isn’t whether AI works. It’s knowing when, writes William Warr.
'THE STORY OF EVERYTHING' PRESENTS GROUNDBREAKING EVIDENCE THAT HAS REIGNITED THE DEBATE OVER SCIENCE, ORIGINS, AND THE EXISTENCE OF GOD IN THEATRES NATIONWIDE FROM FATHOM ENTERTAINMENT APRIL 30-MAY 6
A new feature documentary is about to challenge everything you thought science had settled about the origin of the universe—and the existence of God. The Story of Everything arrives in theatres nationwide April 30–May 6 from Fathom Entertainment, the leading specialty distributor of content to theatrical partners worldwide. The Story of Everything will bring to the big screen stunning new evidence from cosmology, physics, and molecular biology that its creators say demands a radical rethinking o
The stories behind this year’s Business Awards and Hall of Fame changemakers
The Business Awards & Hall of Fame recognize more than success. They honor the changemakers—people who saw a need, challenged the status quo and built something lasting, often quietly and patiently. In doing so, they helped reshape the economic and civic fabric of the Capital Region and beyond. This year’s honorees reflect that idea in […]
Apple Launches $599 MacBook Neo, Threatening Windows PC Market
Apple Inc. rolled out the $599 MacBook Neo in its biggest push yet into low-end laptops, aiming to challenge Windows PCs and Chromebooks for budget-minded shoppers.
US air defenses may not be able to intercept many of Iran’s one-way drones
Trump administration officials told lawmakers during a closed-door briefing on Capitol Hill Tuesday that Iran’s Shahed attack drones represent a major challenge and US air defenses will not be able to intercept them all, according to a source in the briefing.
Five Global Teams Awarded $125 Million to Take on the Toughest Challenges at the Frontiers of Cancer Science
BOSTON, March 04, 2026--Cancer Grand Challenges, a global initiative co-founded by the National Cancer Institute in the US and Cancer Research UK, today announced a major $125m commitment to propel cancer research into uncharted territory. Five pioneering international teams will each receive up to $25m over approximately five years to tackle some of the most ambitious and unanswered questions in cancer.
Douglass freshman Damani Oliver rises over A.P. Inter-City Baptist
Michigan high school basketball: Freshman Damani Oliver pushed Detroit Douglass past Allen Park Inter-City Baptist in the D-4 regional semifinals.
Iran Made Secret Outreach After Strikes, Highlighting Trump’s Challenge
President Trump is beginning to consider what sort of Iranian government might come next, as the U.S.-Israeli assault continues.
IPL 2026: Chinnaswamy to host 5 RCB games
Royal Challengers Bengaluru will play their IPL home matches at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, starting March 28. Bengaluru will also host a playoff and the IPL final. However, RCB will fulfill a commitment by playing two home games in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, as agreed with the state government.
Talarico Triumphs as G.O.P. Heads to Runoff: 6 Takeaways from Texas
James Talarico won the state’s Democratic primary for Senate, while Senator John Cornyn faces a runoff against Ken Paxton, his right-wing challenger.
Rep. Dan Crenshaw loses to GOP primary challenger Steve Toth in Texas
Texas state Rep. Steve Toth won the Republican congressional primary over U.S. Rep. Dan Crenshaw, NBC News and the Associated Press reported.
Oxfordshire pupil with health needs left stranded in classrooms
Parents complain the health part of an EHCP plan for schools cant be challenged in court.
The Business of Lily Allen
With West End Girl, Lily Allen has reclaimed her pop throne while delivering record-breaking streams, a sold-out tour, and millions in earned media value for luxury brands lining up to share her spotlight.
Allam calls for recount in primary with Foushee for central N.C. House seat
Nida Allam challenged Valerie Foushee in 2022, but the congressional district has since been redrawn.
Republican Buckhout will challenge Democrat Davis for U.S. House seat
The recently redrawn eastern North Carolina district is the last remaining competitive U.S. House race in the state.
Mysterious 'little red dots' discovered by James Webb telescope may be the first stars in the universe on the verge of collapse
A new study suggests that "little red dots" spied by the James Webb Space Telescope could be the universe's short-lived first generation of gigantic stars, challenging an existing theory.
Crenshaw says political enemies came out 'with their knives' as Texas GOP primary looms
Texas GOP primary heats up as Rep. Dan Crenshaw faces Republican challenger Steve Toth, despite lacking key endorsements from Sen. Ted Cruz.
WHO EPI-WIN webinar: Women in Health Emergencies
This webinar is held in alignment with the International Women’s Day commemoration on 8 March. It celebrates the tremendous contributions of women and girls in shaping a more equitable future, while also shining a light on the persistent challenges that must be overcome to achieve meaningful gender equality in emergency settings.
Small Business
This brand-new documentary series takes viewers inside small businesses to break down what they earn, what they spend, how they grow, and what it takes to stay profitable. We explore everything from payroll to marketing—all told through the voice of the business owner, as they show us the systems, challenges, and decisions that shape their bottom line.
GOP congressman enters Texas primary fighting to keep his job after allegations of an affair
Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales of Texas is seeking to fend off a primary challenge that comes as he faces calls to resign over allegations of having an affair with an aide
Portland City Council to accept new Storefront Support Program for businesses
Portland City Council is set to approve a new program aimed at helping nearly 3,500 businesses address crime and other ongoing challenges.
I flew to Dubai for my birthday, got stranded after US strikes on Iran
Shanice Day, a Houston native, faces challenges returning from Dubai after a US-Israel strike on Iran disrupted her birthday trip plans.
North Carolina House Primary Includes Divisions on Iran War, Israel and A.I.
A new ad from a progressive challenger, Nida Allam, attacks Representative Valerie Foushee over financial backing she has received from defense contractors and the A.I. industry.
Experience pop folk magic with Dar Williams at the Englert
Singer-songwriter Dar Williams’ forthcoming studio album, “Hummingbird Highway,” illustrates a period of rebirth and renewal in 2025. Despite a challenging battle with breast cancer and political unrest, Williams demonstrates resilience and gratitude.
US Speeds Up Signing Of Bilateral Health Agreements, DRC Lawyers Challenge Minerals Deal
The United States has moved at speed to secure several new bilateral health Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) in the past week, including, for the first time,
Netflix Promises ‘Creative and Explosive Science Challenges’ in New Mark Rober Series ‘Schooled!’
Content creator turned Netflix star Mark Rober is launching a new competition series for the streamer titled “Schooled!” Rober, a former NASA engineer, will also exec produce the series alongside Scot...
Science of Fitting In: Do Best Friends or Popular Peers Shape Teen Behavior?
As kids enter adolescence, peer influence splits in two—often in ways adults miss. Following 543 middle schoolers for one semester, researchers found that best friends shape teens’ inner lives, from emotional struggles to academic challenges, while popular peers influence public, status-driven behaviors like social media use and weight concerns.
Science of fitting in: Do best friends or popular peers shape teen behavior?
As kids enter adolescence, peer influence splits in two—often in ways adults miss. Following 543 middle schoolers for one semester, researchers found that best friends shape teens’ inner lives, from emotional struggles to academic challenges, while popular peers influence public, status-driven behaviors like social media use and weight concerns. Far from being easily swayed, adolescents navigate peer influence strategically—an insight frequently overlooked by parents and educators.
Virginia’s new public health leaders take the helm as state agencies weather uncharted waters
Two men with deep experience in health care policy and practice have recently been tapped to oversee Virginia’s public health agencies, as health care remains a top concern for residents and an ongoing challenge for state and federal lawmakers.
Why John Cornyn, a Senate GOP stalwart, could lose his Texas primary
The four-term senator is determined to prevail Tuesday against two challengers who view him as a relic of the George W. Bush era. The race could go to a runoff in May.
EXCLUSIVE, Cox Science Center in West Palm Beach names new CEO
Former Mississippi Aquarium CEO and president Kurt Allen will start his tenure as head of the Cox Science Center and Aquarium on March 9 in West Palm Beach.
Global webinar on core public health capacities to conduct ship inspections and issue ship sanitation certificates
Ships cross borders every day, connecting countries and serving as a backbone of the global economy. However, outbreaks onboard can disrupt maritime traffic, leading to significant economic and operational negative consequences. Without strong public health capacities to detect, prevent, and respond to public health risks on board ships, maritime travel can also become a pathway for the spread of infectious diseases. To support countries in strengthening these capacities, the World Health Organization (WHO) convened a two-day webinar on 11–12 February, bringing together more than 700 ship inspectors, port health officers, and public health authorities, primarily from the African, Eastern Mediterranean, and European Regions. The webinar came at a pivotal time. With the amended International Health Regulations entering into force on 19 September 2025, the need to focus on public health preparedness has never been greater. Strengthening public health capacities at borders, including onboard conveyances, is a cornerstone of global health security and central to the amended IHR.“The high level of attendance and active participation throughout the two days of the webinar highlighted the growing demand for technical guidance and capacity-building support in ship inspection and issuance of ship sanitation certificates”, said Dr Ninglan Wang, Head of the Borders, Mass Gatherings and Health Protection Measures (BMM) Unit at the Health Emergency Preparedness Department at WHO headquarters. “The dynamic interactions among experts and countries underscored the value of continued cross-border collaboration in the maritime sector and knowledge exchange in this area”. Conducting regular public health inspections on board ships for the issuance of ship sanitation certificates (SSCs) in accordance with the IHR requirements is crucial for ensuring that ships meet specific health standards, thereby minimizing the risk of the international spread of diseases via maritime traffic. These certificates, mandated by the IHR, require ports to have trained personnel who can identify and control public health risks on board vessels and apply recommended control measures. This standardized global procedure not only ensures compliance with the IHR but also promotes consistency in health practices across ports worldwide. SSCs are the globally-recognized tool used to prevent and control known public health risks on ships, providing a common way to register and communicate public health events and measures taken on board between all stakeholders involved in this process, including public health authorities in ports and ship operators. Only SSCs issued by ports authorized by national authorities to issue such certificates are considered valid. As per the IHR, all States Parties are required to send to WHO their list of authorized ports (available here) and to keep it updated. However, many Member States continue to face practical challenges, such as limited resources, high staff turnover, and competing priorities. These realities underscore the value of platforms such as this webinar, which foster collective learning, peer-to-peer exchange, and practical solutions to help countries build and sustain the capacities required under the IHR.Over the two days, participants engaged in presentations and discussions covering a wide range of technical and operational topics, such as the overarching international legal framework governing ship sanitation; considerations for pre-inspection planning; risk assessment factors by type of vessel; the completion and issuance of SSCs and evidence report forms; or practical insights on the inspection of various technical areas, such as food safety, medical facilities, water systems, or vector control, among others. In addition, public health authorities from the Netherlands, Morocco, and Tanzania shared case studies to showcase their practical application of these IHR requirements in their respective countries. Given its success, WHO plans to replicate similar sessions in the future to reach additional time zones and regions and cover other pressing border health-related topics, ensuring that Member States can continue benefiting from these opportunities to share knowledge and expertise.
Mendoza’s Business Honors Program fosters principled community
Created with a mission to challenge its students with extra rigorous coursework and specialized programming, Mendoza’s Business Honors Program prepares students for not only business-related ventures but also ethical practices.
Scientists Create Powerful New Form of Aluminum That Could Replace Rare Earth Metals
Researchers have uncovered an unusual new form of aluminium that challenges long-held assumptions about how this common metal behaves. Researchers at King’s College London have identified an unusual new form of aluminum, one of the most abundant metals in Earth’s crust. The discovery points to a
The decline in healthy life expectancy in Britain should shock us all
Letters: Alan Walker and Ian Garner respond to the news that healthy life expectancy of both women and men has fallen
Six Flags Entertainment (FUN) Is Down 6.6% After Deep 2025 Losses And Investor Exit Has The Bull Case Changed?
In February 2026, Six Flags Entertainment reported its fourth-quarter and full-year 2025 results, showing quarterly revenue of US$116.97 million and a quarterly net loss of US$92.38 million, while full-year revenue reached US$3.10 billion with a much larger full-year net loss of US$1.60 billion. The earnings release, combined with Broyhill Asset Management’s exit after citing integration challenges, weather exposure, pressure on lower-income guests, and leadership changes, has sharpened...
Flutter Entertainment Reassesses Growth As FanDuel Predicts Faces Regulatory Tests
Flutter Entertainment, NYSE:FLUT, missed recent revenue expectations and issued guidance for 2026 that some investors view as cautious. The company has launched FanDuel Predicts, expanding into prediction markets at a time when regulators are paying closer attention to the sector. These moves come as competition in online wagering and prediction products intensifies, raising questions about Flutter Entertainment's next phase of growth. For shareholders, the backdrop is already challenging...
Iran could face political and societal challenges if the regime collapses
NBC News' Richard Engel reports on the aftermath of the strikes the United States and Israel conducted on Iran and the political and societal challenges and changes that could come next.
Textbooks challenged by new discovery about how cells divide
Scientists have uncovered a surprising new way that giant embryonic cells divide—without relying on the classic “purse-string” ring long thought essential for splitting a cell in two. Studying zebrafish embryos, researchers found that instead of forming a fully closed contractile ring, cells use a clever “mechanical ratchet” system.
Entertainment lawyer Allen Grubman has big stars on his roster
While BigLaw certainly has appeal for lawyers, it lacks the lure of big stars, at least the kind attorey Allen Grubman represents. Mariah Carey, Elton John, Lady Gaga, Robert De Niro and Bob Iger have all retained the entertainment lawyer from Crown Heights, Brooklyn, in New York City.
Dad’s health matters too: Texas A&M research reveals paternal choices shape a child’s lifelong health
Research from Texas A&M shows that a father's health before conception significantly affects his child's lifelong health outcomes, challenging decades of focus solely on maternal health.
Old Apollo rocks reveal new clues about the moon's ancient magnetic field
Their study challenges the longtime belief that the moon's magnetic field remained strong for long stretches of time.
1,200 Emory interprofessional students team up to confront Atlanta’s health challenges | Emory University
First-year students from Emory’s schools of medicine, nursing and public health formed 115 cross-disciplinary teams that worked together to address health challenges facing Atlanta communities during IPE-ACTS Day 2026.
Deep roots, strong communities: Farm Stress Summit focuses on mental health challenges in Georgia’s rural farmers
MACON, Ga.– Georgia farmers, farm family members, agricultural community members and agricultural mental health stakeholders will meet at the fifth annual 2026 Georgia Farm Stress Summit to connect…
White Earth Nation first Minnesota tribe to receive national accreditation for health care
As rural health care across the state faces challenges to funding and services, the Public Health Accreditation Board has awarded White Earth Nation's health care system national accreditation.
Dudley, Allen lead Louisiana Tech over Missouri State, 72-70
RUSTON, La. (AP) DJ Dudley led Louisiana Tech with 27 points and Will Allen made a go-ahead layup while being fouled with eight seconds left as the Bulldogs defeated Missouri State 72-70 on Thursday night.
Las Vegas casino group Caesars weighs takeover interest
Company’s shares have fallen to a five-year low after being absorbed into smaller rival in 2020
In Texas, Crenshaw faces primary challenger, a test for MAGA
Representative Dan Crenshaw, who has at times clashed with President Trump and his allies, is facing a conservative challenger in Tuesday’s primary.
Tariffs. Loans. ICE. Immigrant business owners face plenty of hurdles under Trump administration
Businesses operated and owned by immigrants all over the Boston area face a slew of challenges that were shared at a recent roundtable with Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley.
The End of Language As We Know It? Scientists Challenge 60 Years of Linguistic Research
An international team proposes replacing Hockett’s feature checklist with a model of language as a dynamic, multimodal, and socially evolving system.
Jody Allen to football guys amid Seahawks sale: Business as usual ‘let’s rip it’
Nothing changes this offseason into defense of the Super Bowl title, the team’s chair tells GM John Schneider and coach Mike Macdonald.
Hone Health Launches "Death To Midlife," Challenging the Language of Aging
Following a full-page open letter ad in the February 22, 2026 Sunday edition of The New York Times calling for the symbolic death of the word "midlife," Hone Health, the leader in longevity intelligence and personalized care, unveils a bold national campaign today: "Death To Midlife." Both an immersive pop-up experience and a cultural statement, the campaign includes a national digital "bury a word" activation on Hone's website, celebrity and influencer social activation, and a public installati
Is the Florida redistricting process delayed — or dead on arrival? Even Republicans aren't sure
Florida was eager to join Donald Trump's redistricting push. But will a legal challenge stop the process and leave campaigns racing?
Will drivers still make a difference in F1 in 2026?
Have F1's new rules damaged its status as the ultimate challenge? Andrew Benson assesses what the drivers are having to do differently and whether skill still matters.
Mental health is declining globally. Where in Europe suffers the most?
Young adults are facing worse mental health and daily life challenges, driven by weak family bonds, low spirituality, early smartphone use, and high ultra-processed food consumption.
Yankees news: Spring training games show ABS success
Yanks proving strong on challenges; CC’s No. 52 to be retired; the next steps for Warren; predicting the Opening Day roster.
25th Navajo Nation Council
Delegate Johnson applauds Navajo Pine students’ innovation at science fair NAVAJO, N.M. –Council Delegate Casey Allen Johnson recently demonstrated his support for science, technology, engineering,...
Bracketology: UConn still has challengers for fourth No. 1 seed, can Purdue or Iowa State make a charge?
Here is how the NCAA Tournament picture is shaping up entering Wednesday night's action
Why Simple Daily Habits Matter More Than Big Health Resolutions
NEW YORK, Feb. 25, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- (Feature Impact) Most people don’t set out to ignore their health. It usually slips down the list somewhere between the morning alarm and the last email of the day. Breakfast gets rushed or skipped. Exercise is postponed until tomorrow. Sleep is cut short to catch up on everything else. By the end of the week, healthy intentions are still there, but the follow-through feels harder than expected. For many, the challenge is not motivation but finding hab
Ninja Gaiden 4: The Two Masters DLC Arrives on March 4 - New Weapons, New Enemies, and New Challenges
We’re excited to announce that The Two Masters DLC for Ninja Gaiden 4 will be released on March 4, 2026 - find out all the details inside.
The Next Gen Of Scientists Can’t Save The World If We Don’t Train Them
NASA’s Artemis missions highlight a bigger challenge: Are U.S. schools preparing students with the scientific thinking skills needed for an AI-driven future?
2026 NFL combine: Garrett Nussmeier, CJ Allen among 10 prospects with something to prove in Indianapolis
Opportunity awaits inside Lucas Oil Stadium for these invitees
Hospitals fighting measles confront a challenge: Few doctors have seen it before
As U.S. hospitals face an increasing risk of encountering measles, and pressure to immediately spot it, health care workers face an unusual barrier: Many don’t know what it looks like.
North Carolina businesses fall short in defense contracts
Last Thursday, I was at RTI International in RTP to hear Peter Singer talk about “The Story of the Future: What Trends Most Challenge National Security Leaders?” Singer, who grew up in Charlotte, has a doctorate from Harvard. He is Strategist and Senior Fellow at New America. He has been named by Defense News as […]
Americans trust vaccines, school mandates, rejecting Trump agenda, Reuters/Ipsos poll finds
A bipartisan majority of Americans believe vaccines are safe and that children should receive them to attend school, according to a new Reuters/Ipsos poll, illustrating the challenges President Donald Trump's administration faces to win broad support for upending decades of health policy.
Trump heads weakened into a season of tough political challenges
President Trump is in a precarious position with the 2026 midterm elections just ahead, but he and his supporters express confidence.
Science Confirms It: Your 40s Are Officially the Most Exhausting Decade
Research highlights 4 major changes that make this period the most challenging part of midlife. But fear not, you won’t always be so unbelievably tired.
Colorado is turning its back on agriculture
Colorado’s farmers and ranchers already face significant challenges, including volatile commodity prices, rising input costs, labor shortages and unpredictable weather. They should not also have to contend with a state legislature that increasingly seeks to regulate how they protect crops and livestock. Yet that is precisely what Senate Bills 26-062 and 26-065 represent: a top-down […]
Patients hit dead ends with insurance 'ghost networks.' Now, some are suing.
A recent lawsuit is challenging one company, EmblemHealth, over its so-called ghost network of mental health providers.
Rhodes Business Students Triumph in Investment Research Competition
Rhodes College students Cole McNair ’26, John Mori ’26, Jason Rubinstein ’27, Graham Allen ’26, and Ismail Malik ’26 secured first place at the Mid-South competition of the Chartered Financial Analysts Institute Research Challenge held Feb. 21 in Memphis.
Sen. Ted Cruz endorses GOP primary challenger to Rep. Dan Crenshaw in Texas
Cruz backed state Rep. Steve Toth over the incumbent in next week's Texas Republican primary election.
The big question looming over Trump's State of the Union: From the Politics Desk
Plus, the challenging midterm environment facing Trump and the Republican Party.
Small businesses that challenged Trump’s tariffs begin refund push
Fresh off their Supreme Court victory, a group of small businesses that challenged President Trump’s global tariffs formally commenced their refund push on Tuesday. I…
N.Y. House Republicans urge meeting with Hochul to discuss state's challenges
Gov. Hochul has not met with the GOP delegation since February 2023.
Google acquires AI music platform - and Suno challenger
Google has acquired ProducerAI, the AI music creation platform formerly known as Riffusion, bringing the startup and its team into Google Labs. The deal was announced on Tuesday (February 24) via a…
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate DLC character Alopex now available alongside free update
Super Evil Megacorp has released Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate downloadable content character Alopex for XXX, as well as a free update that adds new rooms, arcade challenges, and ga…
Recent studies challenge Kennedy’s claims about vaccines, Tylenol and antidepressants
The Trump administration has pledged to conduct its own studies, but research continues to contradict its claims.
Hospitals fighting this virus confront a challenge – few doctors have seen it
As the Carolinas near 1,000 cases, health care workers who’ve never seen this vaccine-preventable disease can get caught by surprise.
Hospitals Fighting Measles Confront a Challenge: Few Doctors Have Seen It Before
As the number of cases grows to about 1,000 in the Carolinas, health care workers who’ve never seen the vaccine-preventable disease can get caught by surprise.
The war on science: resisting and rebuilding at a crucial juncture
Peter Staley’s talk at the opening session of the Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI 2026) in Denver was a grim post-mortem of one of the most challenging years in recent HIV history – an ‘annus horribilis’ – a phrase Queen Elizabeth II used to describe 1992 and The Lancet applied to 2025.
AMC Entertainment Holdings (AMC) Posts Q4 Loss That Challenges Bullish Margin Narratives
AMC Entertainment Holdings (AMC) just posted its FY 2025 numbers with Q4 revenue of US$1,288.3 million, a basic EPS loss of US$0.25, and net income excluding extra items showing a loss of US$127.4 million, while trailing 12 month figures sit at US$4.8 billion of revenue, a basic EPS loss of US$1.34, and a net loss of US$632.4 million. Over recent quarters, the company has seen quarterly revenue move from US$862.5 million in Q1 2025 to between roughly US$1.3 billion and US$1.4 billion through...
Houston’s Kelvin Sampson reacts to getting humbled by tough schedule
Houston coach Kelvin Sampson gave proper credit to Kansas after their much-anticipated matchup at Allen Fieldhouse on Monday.
Trump's big speech will be delivered to a changed nation and a Congress he has sidelined
One year back in office, Trump has emerged as a president defying conventional expectations. He has executed a head-spinning agenda, upending priorities at home, shattering alliances abroad and challenging the nation's foundational system of checks and balances.
The need for science diplomacy in a fragmenting world
After receiving a US science diplomacy prize, Chemistry World talks to Martyn Poliakoff and Richard Catlow about global scientific challenges, their love of technicians and being astounded by children's questions
Agentic AI and the rise of in silico team science in biomedical research
Nature Biotechnology - This study examines the emerging use of agentic artificial intelligence (AI) in biomedical research, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that may inform the design...
Trump faces a skeptical public and myriad challenges ahead of State of the Union address
President Donald Trump on Tuesday night will get his highest-profile opportunity to convince skeptical Americans that his policies are working — and that a promised economic golden age is right around the corner.
The Crossword, Feb. 23: It's An Art, Not A Science (Themeless)
It’s time to wrap up the month with a challenging themeless. Keep an eye out for tricky clues and fun wordplay. This week’s puzzle was constructed by Kelsey Dixon and Alex Boisvert, and edited by Hoang-Kim Vu. Alex is a crossword constructor from California who is so uncomfortable writing anything positive about himself that he wanted to do…
The challenge of the current generation of Black politicians
Black political power has reached a high point, with record numbers of Black members in the House and Senate, but Black voters are still asking what Black political power has done for them, as they…
California Democrats back establishment candidates despite progressive pushback
California Democrats endorsed aging incumbents and party insiders over grassroots challengers, disappointing progressives.
How 3 business owners train their AI agents to be better employees
Three founders who rely mostly on AI share how they've built workflows and prompts to train their AI tools to push back and challenge their ideas.
De-Extinction: Can Science Really Bring Species Back to Life?
Extinction has always been treated as the final full stop in evolutionary history. De-extinction is now challenging that assumption.
Early Galaxy S26 Ultra hands-on video reveals bad news for S Pen fans
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra doesn't have a Bluetooth S Pen, and it looks like the same fate may have befallen the Galaxy S26 Ultra.
Which EU country is best at digital health records?
Most European countries have made progress in access to electronic health records. Despite this progress, there is still room for improvement. Low levels of digital health literacy in some countries remain another key challenge.
PRET for impact: Advancing pandemic preparedness in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
IN THE SPOTLIGHT PRET for impact: Advancing pandemic preparedness in the Democratic People’s Republic of KoreaThe Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPR Korea) is making significant progress in strengthening pandemic preparedness, with dedicated support from the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Office (SEARO) and the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PC).Aligned with the WHO Global Influenza Strategy and the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Framework Partnership Contribution High‑Level Implementation Plan III (2024–2030), the country is strengthening its capacity to prepare for and respond to influenza and other respiratory threats. In early 2025, a core team from the Ministry of Public Health of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) participated in a two‑day virtual workshop, which included a mini‑simulation exercise. The workshop was organized by WHO SEARO in collaboration with the Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) Secretariat at WHO headquarters and the WHO Country Office for the DPRK. Read more A REGIONAL CONSULTATION GUIDES WHO SEARO IN DEVELOPING A ROADMAP FOR IMPLEMENTING THE PREPPAREDNESS AND RESILIENCE FOR EMERGING THREATS (PRET) INITIATIVE BASED RESPIRATORY PATHOGEN PANDEMIC PREPAREDNESSInfluenza and other respiratory pathogens with pandemic potential continue to pose major public health risks globally. To strengthen regional preparedness and response, Member States of the WHO South‑East Asia Region (SEAR) convened in Colombo, Sri Lanka, to review and provide input on the draft Roadmap and Action Framework for Broad Respiratory Pathogen Pandemic Planning (2026–2031). Supported through the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PC) funds, the proposed roadmap aims to advance robust, integrated preparedness and response capacities for influenza and other respiratory threats across SEAR. This work is aligned with the Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) initiative and the SEAR Strategic Roadmap on Health Security and Health System Resilience for Emergencies Read moreSRI LANKA’S USE OF ANTIVIRALS TO REDUCE THE SEASONAL INFLUENZA BURDEN Sri Lanka is strengthening its influenza response by placing greater emphasis on rapid testing, timely treatment, and integration with maternal health services. With support from WHO, the country is building a stronger evidence base on the burden of influenza and the value of vaccination, advancing a holistic approach to protect vulnerable populations and enhance pandemic preparedness. To reduce hospitalizations and deaths from seasonal influenza, Sri Lanka is taking proactive steps to expand access to rapid diagnostic testing and ensure prompt initiation of treatment. National clinical guidelines recommend the use of oseltamivir for individuals at high risk of complications, helping prevent severe illness and shorten the duration of infection. This strategy not only saves lives but also supports local pharmaceutical production, contributing to a reliable supply of antivirals for both seasonal outbreaks and future pandemics.Read moreBHUTAN BOOSTS PANDEMIC INFLUENZA READINESS WITH PANDEMIC INFLUENZA PREPAREDNESS FRAMEWORK PARTNERSHIP CONTRIBUTION SUPPORTED TRAINING AND SIMULATIONSOriginally developed in 2012, the National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NIPPRP) has long served as Bhutan’s central framework for managing influenza threats. In 2024, the plan underwent a comprehensive update to reflect evolving global and regional guidance, lessons learned from the COVID‑19 pandemic, and new capacities developed under the PIP Framework. The revised NIPPRP is now more clearly aligned with Bhutan’s broader emergency and disaster risk management structures, ensuring a coordinated, whole‑of‑government approach to pandemic response. As part of efforts to strengthen national pandemic preparedness, Bhutan conducted three national‑level training sessions followed by simulation exercises on influenza pandemic preparedness and response at five sentinel hospitals between April and May 2025, with support from the PIP Partnership Contribution (PC). These activities brought together more than 140 health professionals and key partners from across the country, with a focus on operationalizing the updated NIPPRP and enhancing readiness at key frontline facilities. Read moreSTRENGTHENING INFLUENZA SURVEILLANCE: WHO BRINGS TOGETHER INFLUENZA EXPERTS FROM SOUTH-EAST ASIA AND WESTERN PACIFIC REGIONSThe World Health Organization (WHO) convened the 18th Bi‑regional Meeting of National Influenza Centres (NICs) and Influenza Surveillance for the WHO South‑East Asia and Western Pacific Regions from 9–11 September 2025. Hosted by the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Office (SEARO), the meeting brought together representatives from Member States, Territories, and Areas across both regions, alongside experts from the WHO Collaborating Centres for Reference and Research on Influenza in Australia and Japan, the WHO Collaborating Centre for Studies on the Ecology of Influenza in Animals in the United States, quadripartite partners (WOAH and FAO), and other technical counterparts. The consultation provided a platform to review progress, share experiences, and outline priorities for strengthening influenza and respiratory pathogen surveillance across the two WHO regions.Read moreNETWORKS AND TECHNICAL PARTNERSHIPSSTRENGTHENING PANDEMIC READINES: SOUTH-EAST ASIA ADVANCES UNITY STUDIES UNDER THE PANDEMIC INFLUENZA PREPAREDNESS INITIATIVEThe WHO Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) Investigations & Studies initiative, also known as Unity Studies, provides a standardized, globally coordinated framework to support these efforts. Originally developed for influenza and adapted during COVID-19, Unity Studies enable countries to conduct rapid, nationally led investigations and studies to assess transmissibility, severity, susceptibility, and intervention effectiveness. To better prepare for future influenza pandemics, WHO has recently launched a network of sites which will be ready to conduct these investigations and studies rapidly in the event of a pandemic, or epidemic of an emerging or re-emerging respiratory pathogen. The WHO South-East Asia Region now hosts six sites of WHO GISRS Unity Studies across the five countries including Sri Lanka, strengthening regional capacity for early pandemic investigations. From 13–16 July 2025 in Colombo, the Global Public Health Summit offered an opportunity to advance this agenda. Read moreSTRENGTHENING PANDEMIC PREPAREDNESS THROUGH UNITY STUDIES: REAL-WORLD APPLICATIONS FROM INDIA IN WHO’S SOUTH-EAST ASIA REGION As countries continue to strengthen their pandemic preparedness through investments in resilient health systems during the interpandemic period, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) Investigations & Studies Global Initiative, Global Initiative, commonly known as Unity Studies, remains a vital framework for respiratory pathogen pandemic preparedness. These standardized epidemiological protocols enable countries to rapidly generate high‑quality data on transmissibility, infection severity, population immunity, and the effectiveness of public health interventions. To highlight how Unity Studies protocols are being adapted and applied in national settings, WHO Headquarters, together with WHO Regional Offices, including the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Office (SEARO), hosted a global webinar. The session showcased case studies from India and the United Kingdom (UK), demonstrating innovative approaches to respiratory virus surveillance and pandemic readiness. Read moreSTRENGTHENING REGIONAL INFLUENZA SURVEILLANCE AND PREPAREDNESS: WHO SEARO HOSTS HIGH-LEVEL WEBINAR AMID RISING H5 THREATS In response to the increasing detection of avian influenza A(H5) cases in humans globally and within the WHO South‑East Asia Region, the WHO Regional Office for South‑East Asia (SEARO) convened a regional webinar on 25 July 2025 to review preparedness mechanisms, strengthen surveillance pathways, and promote timely reporting of unusual respiratory events. The virtual session brought together more than 50 participants from Ministries of Health, National Influenza Centres (NICs), National IHR Focal Points (NFPs), WHO Headquarters, WHO Country Offices across the Region, and WHO Collaborating Centres (CCs) for influenza. The webinar provided an opportunity to share situational updates, discuss surveillance gaps, and reinforce coordination mechanisms critical for early detection and rapid response to avian influenza threats. Read moreOther Key PIP Updates (July-December 2025)MEMBER STATES:Bangladesh drafted and conducted a series of Core Group Meetings in 2025 to review and update the National Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan for Respiratory Pathogens. In addition, the country carried out Rapid Response Team (RRT) trainings on seasonal and avian influenza and other re‑emerging infectious diseases. Bangladesh also updated its epidemiological data‑training programme for physicians at sentinel surveillance sites, using a revised epidemiological data‑collection tool.Bhutan revised and updated its National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NIPPRP) in 2025 and developed a national Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for influenza outbreak management. DPR Korea conducted a nationwide simulation exercise in July 2025 to support the update of its National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan (2019). This followed a PRET‑based virtual orientation and mini‑simulation exercise held in May 2025 by SEARO and the WHO PRET Secretariat. The comprehensive exercise, conducted across central and provincial levels, assessed strengths and gaps in pandemic influenza preparedness and response. The feedback gathered has been incorporated into the revised draft plan to address identified weaknesses and strengthen overall readiness.India conducted a targeted nationwide online re‑orientation training on review and updates to the influenza portal for all State Surveillance Officers (SSOs) and relevant officials using the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP). The training emphasized correct marking and reporting of influenza samples as “unsubtypable” or “not subtyped” where applicable, to ensure accurate national surveillance.Maldives conducted simulation exercises in three atolls based on its existing National Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NPPRP). The country plans to conduct similar exercises in three additional atolls after updating the NPPRP in 2026. In addition, Maldives conducted training on FluID and FluMart as part of a broader data‑management training package for Ministry of Health and Health Protection Agency officials, aimed at improving routine reporting to WHO platforms and the DHIS2 system.In Myanmar, technical support was provided to the National Influenza Centre (NIC) through dedicated human‑resource support (January–December 2025) to sustain data management and laboratory detection capacity for influenza and other emerging and re‑emerging respiratory viruses. This support also included strengthening genomic sequencing capacity.Nepal conducted a consultative workshop on the National Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NPPRP) in July 2025. The workshop engaged key stakeholders from multiple sectors to review lessons from past pandemic responses, assess current mechanisms, and gather critical inputs for strengthening national preparedness. Key recommendations included revising the 2019 NPPRP and developing an updated Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan aligned with emerging risks, national priorities, and relevant international frameworks. Nepal also held a two day workshop dedicated to advancing the National Action Plan for Genomic Surveillance, aimed at reinforcing the country’s capacities for early detection and monitoring of emerging respiratory pathogens.Sri Lanka received the final report from WHO on the feasibility assessment for conducting an Influenza Burden of Disease (BoD) study in the country. The assessment, conducted from 28 April to 9 May 2025, included a desk review of existing data sources, document review, visits to sentinel surveillance sites, and key informant interviews. The study identified critical data sources required for a future BoD assessment, as well as their availability and quality. Officials from the Epidemiology Unit, the National Influenza Centre (NIC), and SARI/ILI sentinel hospitals across the country participated in the assessment.Timor Leste conducted on‑the‑job training and monitoring activities at two sentinel surveillance sites to strengthen surveillance and laboratory capacity for the detection of SARI, ILI, ARI, and other respiratory infections. REGIONAL OFFICE:SEARO conducted a Member States Consultation on the first draft of the Regional Roadmap and Strategic Action Framework for implementing WHO’s PRET‑based broad respiratory pathogen pandemic planning for 2026–2031. The consultation took place on 29–30 October 2025 during the final two days of the Regional PIP PC Annual Review and PRET Meeting in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Participants included representatives from Member States, WHO Country Offices, WHO SEARO, WHO Headquarters, partner agencies, and invited multidisciplinary technical experts. They reviewed the draft and provided detailed feedback, which has since been incorporated into a revised version. The consultation helped shape a shared regional vision for robust, PRET‑aligned pandemic preparedness, building on country‑level progress, addressing existing gaps and challenges, and aligning with global and regional health security frameworks. The publication is planned for release during the SEAR regional committee in 2026.SEARO documented the evolution of the National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Planning process in the Region, tracing its development from its origins as a planning tool for responding to avian influenza outbreaks in 2006, through the experiences of the 2009 and 2019 pandemics, to the current status. The document outlines the way forward for respiratory pathogen pandemic planning across all 10 SEAR countries, aligning future national plans with WHO’s PRET Framework for broad respiratory pathogen pandemic preparedness.The Infectious Hazard Management (IHM) Unit has drafted the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Guidance on Influenza Prevention and Control, aligned with the Global Influenza Strategy and other regional initiatives. The draft is currently under review. Although this technical product was developed in response to a request from the Ministry of Public Health of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (MoPH‑DPRK), SEARO is finalizing it for use not only in DPRK but also across all Member States in the Region.The Immunization and Vaccine Development (IVD) Unit, in collaboration with WHE/SEARO, completed a regional landscape analysis on key barriers, challenges, and opportunities for the introduction of seasonal influenza vaccination in WHO South‑East Asia Regional (SEAR) countries.Additionally, the Immunization and Vaccine Development (IVD) Unit has completed a regional landscape analysis of influenza vaccine procurement systems across the WHO South‑East Asia Region (SEAR).KEY MEETINGS AND PUBLICATIONSMEETINGS:Six-month progress review of the implementation of the PIP-PC workplans in SEAR, focusing on Outputs 1 and 2 for the period January to June 2025, and held virtually across three sessions on 4, 8, and 10 July 2025. Read moreAnnual Regional Meeting (Hybrid) on Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PC) and WHO’s Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) Implementation in SEAR in Colombo, Sri Lanka, 27 to 30 October 2025. Read more18th Bi-regional Meeting (Virtual) of National Influenza Centres (NICs) and influenza surveillance in WHO South-East Asia and Western Pacific Regions from 9 to 11 September 2025. Read morePUBLICATIONSImplications of influenza A virus surveillance in Southeast Asian Region countries: a scoping review of approaches for the surveillance of swine influenza viruses at human-swine interfaces. Read moreAnnual South-East Asia regional meeting on operational planning for implementation of global influenza strategy and preparedness for respiratory viruses in 2025 Report on annual review meeting of implementation of pandemic influenza preparedness (PIP) partnership Contribution (PC) Fund in South-East Asia Region and the simulation exercise on PRET Status of influenza in who south-East Asia Region
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