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Capcom provides a first look at Ingrid's in-game render before the debut of her gameplay trailer tonight for Street Fighter 6
Ingrid is the next character coming to Street Fighter 6 as DLC. She's set to be the final challenger of Season 3.Needless to say, fans are already discussing the rumors surrounding the Season 4 lineup. While that rumor ...
FSU expert explains how FIFA World Cup will be another turning point for sports economics
The upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup represents another significant evolution in how global sporting events are monetized, shifting away from traditional
FSU expert explains how FIFA World Cup will be another turning point for sports economics
The upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup represents another significant evolution in how global sporting events are monetized, shifting away from traditional
How Teaching Wilderness Science in Yellowstone Inspired a Fantasy Novel in Victorian London
It was around sundown when, after putting my eighth graders in their tents for quiet time, the grizzly bear came charging into camp. This was not a totally unusual occurrence in Yellowstone—after…
Appleton area high school sports results for Tuesday, April 21
High school softball, baseball, soccer, golf and tennis teams were in action.
Who are the Democrats hoping to run against Rep. Warren Davidson?
Two Butler County Democrats are competing for the chance to unseat Republican Rep. Warren Davidson this May.
Top 10 things to do this weekend, festival season kickoff edition
Find the best places to be this weekend in Cincinnati, from Asian Food Fest to Jane Austen Festival to belated Earth Day celebrations.
Dan Eggen, who shaped politics coverage at The Post, dies at 60
He helped guide Pulitzer Prize-winning projects, including coverage of Russian election interference in 2016 and the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.
‘Prolific’ PDX business burglar gets 5 years, DA says
Prosecutors said the man stole at least $3,000 from a liquor store, bong shop, game store and storage unit.
Responding to Today's Gaps for Tomorrow's Health Emergencies: 2026 Ready or Not Report
Join Trust for America’s Health (TFAH) for a Congressional Briefing and National Webinar on the latest information on public health emergency readiness and findings from TFAH’s upcoming report, Ready or Not 2026: Protecting the Public’s Health from Diseases, Disasters, and Bioterrorism – releasing May 7th. The past year alone saw the U.S. facing the most […]
Framework’s first eGPUs turn its laptop into a desktop PC
Only power users need apply — and you’ll have to shut down the laptop before you plug or unplug.
Xbox cuts Game Pass prices but new Call of Duty games will no longer hit the service on day one
Effective immediately, both Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass will be a bit cheaper.
CommUnity Conference to spotlight civic health, engagement across Wisconsin and beyond
The University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh will bring together students, community members and civic leaders for a day of dialogue, learning and connection at the upcoming CommUnity Conference, focused on strengthening civic health at the local, state and global levels.
Clearwater $50M entertainment project takes shape
A $50M entertainment project in downtown Clearwater will feature a seven-screen multiplex, dining and attractions aimed at boosting activity along Cleveland Street.
V10 Entertainment To Handle Pay 1 & Downstream Sales On Ketchup Movies Including ‘Coyote vs. Acme’
EXCLUSIVE: Ketchup Entertainment has entered into a distribution partnership with V10 Entertainment for the latter to sell the pay-1 window and downstream rights to Ketchup’s movies, including the upc...
V10 Entertainment To Handle Pay 1 & Downstream Sales On Ketchup Movies Including ‘Coyote vs. Acme’
EXCLUSIVE: Ketchup Entertainment has entered into a distribution partnership with V10 Entertainment for the latter to sell the pay-1 window and downstream rights to Ketchup’s movies, including the upc...
New York Giants open voluntary three-day minicamp
The New York Giants open their voluntary three-day minicamp on Tuesday in East Rutherford.
Shaky political science: using "simulated" elections over real-world elections
[Dear DSOS readers – this article is the latest in our “Shaky Political Science” series. In our 38 page report, “Shaky political ‘science’ misses mark on ranked choice voting,” released in early December, we examined over 40 studies focused on ranked choice voting. We found that many of these studies suffered from puzzling research methodologies, poorly constructed surveys, unrealistic simulated elections, cherry picked data, and faulty analyses that often were contradicted by results from real-world elections (a link to our full paper is here). Here are links to the first three articles in our series: the first one summarizing the overall results of our report, the second one analyzing a study co-authored by University of Minnesota academic Larry Jacobs, which was one of the most error-prone of all the research we reviewed in our report, and a third article showing an admirable example of two political scientists holding two other political scientists accountable for their flawed, sloppy research]. In this fourth article in our “Shaky Political Science” series, we shine a spotlight on seven studies that were web-hosted and funded by New America’s Political Reform Program and its Electoral Reform Research Group (the ERRG is an ad hoc committee headed by New America’s Political Reform Program and joined by the American Enterprise Institute, the Unite America Institute and Stanford University’s Center on Democracy, Development, and the Rule of Law). This research consortium has been led by Lee Drutman, senior fellow with New America’s Political Reform Program. These seven studies are simply not credible from any objective standard about how political “science” is supposed to illuminate our understanding of either ranked choice voting or politics in general. The feature that six of these seven studies have in common is that they all used surveys – artificial, simulated elections -- to attempt to say something cogent or interesting about ranked choice voting (RCV) elections. None of them used real world data from actual RCV elections – either the 1000+ elections in the US or the many thousands of elections from places like Australia, Ireland and elsewhere where RCV has been used for 100 years. While a few of these studies conclude with some mixed positives about RCV, our analysis here is content neutral. The idea that, with a political reform like RCV, you can ask respondents in a mock, artificial election to vote with that method, with only the barest of explanation about how RCV works or its likely impacts (i.e. no spoiler candidates, majority winners, voters liberated to pick their favorite candidates, coalition-building), and then ask them their thoughts/reactions about voting in that system, with fake candidates and no real campaigning, no real exposure to an actual election or actual candidates, rests on some very puzzling assumptions. The findings of these seven studies actually are contradicted by the findings from many other studies based on real-world RCV elections. These New America studies also failed to list the real-world RCV studies in their own citations, instead including those studies that reinforced their conclusions. The seven studies featured in this article were chosen because they form a cohesive cohort which precisely illustrates one of the main points of our research paper, namely that using surveys, i.e. artificial elections, or mathematical/theoretical models, instead of real-world data, is in fact “shaky political science.” Below are summaries of our analysis of five of the seven New America studies. You can read our complete analysis of all seven studies at our paper, “Shaky political ‘science’ misses mark on ranked choice voting.” Choosing to “Vote As Usual” by Andre Blais, Carolina Plescia, and Semra Sevi. New America. (Blais et al., 2021). This study, web-hosted and funded by New America’s Political Reform Program and its Electoral Reform Research Group, used two surveys in which respondents completed ballots for simulated elections using plurality, approval, RCV and point (Score) voting. In both cases the authors provided the respondents with only minimal explanation of each method. For example, the entire explanation for RCV was “For this vote, rank the candidates from your first to your last choice (you do not need to rank them all). This is called the ranked vote.” That’s it. The study did not provide any context or explanation to survey respondents about why she/he might want to rank multiple candidates. Participants were not even told that ballots would be tabulated using an “instant” runoff, not to mention any description of RCVs ability to eliminate the spoiler effect or liberate voters to rank their favorite candidates without fear of helping the “greater evil” candidate to win. That’s like taking an iPhone back in time to 1970 and asking someone if they like it better than their rotary phone without explaining how it works. Their first survey targeted states that held 2020 Super Tuesday Democratic primaries and used the real candidates’ names in the survey; the second survey used fictitious candidates. In other words, they surveyed respondents who had only ever participated in plurality elections, had no history or background with using RCV or any of the other methods, had no clue about its likely impacts, and did not communicate how the alternative methods would be counted, and then asked them: “How satisfied are you with using each system?” Predictably, the winner was plurality elections, the system used for president, Congress, gubernatorial and state legislative elections – in other words, the method they have been using, year after year, all their voting lives. With so little explanation of RCV and its impacts, this study is simply not credible in discovering anything useful about real-world RCV elections. It merely shows that a basic voter education campaign is needed when adopting a new election system. Additionally, the result contradicts many other post-election surveys following real RCV elections, asking opinions from voters who had just participated in a RCV election, that showed a great deal of satisfaction with RCV (see details on that in Studies 22-25 in our paper, as well as the four studies cited in the review for Study 28). Share Other studies on “satisfaction” and “understanding” make similar mistakes, in terms of basing their surveys on inadequate explanation to respondents and lack of education about context. How could any survey ever hope to measure accurately, in essence simulate a real-world election, without actual campaigning candidates, the media writing about those candidates, organizations endorsing candidates and voters being inundated with crucial information? More than anything, what these “studies” based on surveys show is that if you ask voters about something they don’t know very much about, and fail to adequately educate them, their responses will unsurprisingly reflect their confusion. Equally puzzling is that New America’s Electoral Reform Research Group, headed by political scientist Lee Drutman, found this to be a credible enough study that they not only published it but highlighted it in Drutman’s own discussion of research related to ranked choice voting. This pattern was repeated in study after study featured by New America’s Electoral Reform Research Group. For example in Ranked-Choice Voting and Political Expression: Voter Guides Narrow the Gap between Informed and Uninformed Citizens by Cheryl Boudreau, Jonathan Colner, and Scott MacKenzie, the researchers based their analysis on a survey which found that respondents who were asked to vote in a simulated RCV election, with minimal explanation of RCV or how it works, displayed less evidence of being informed about how to use RCV effectively, with the least informed voters ranking fewer candidates. As pointed out under the study above, in a real election voters are informed by a wide variety of methods, including public education by the election administration, by interested political groups, the media, and the candidates themselves who benefit from voters being aware of how to vote in the new system. In Support for Ranked-Choice Voting across Race and Partisanship by Joseph Anthony, David C. Kimball, Jack Santucci and Jamil Scott, the researchers used respondents from different parties and races voting in simulated plurality and RCV elections, who indicated their satisfaction with each voting method. Instead of using real world election results, the authors fell back on the easy, armchair and less reliable academic research methodology of making up mock elections. As with the other studies, little explanation was given of how RCV works or what its implications might be (electing majority winners or eliminating spoilers, for example). Unsurprisingly, this study found that respondents were not very satisfied with RCV. However, when the authors added an explanation that RCV has a tendency to elect more women and people of color, they found that this greater explanation increased the preference for RCV. The more voters were familiar with it, and the more they understood potential positive impacts – surprise! -- the more they were open to switching away from the status quo. Of note, the results from this study are thoroughly contradicted by a number of other studies whose data was obtained from real RCV elections with real voters. Those studies show a great deal of satisfaction with RCV. More “fake election” research An interesting wrinkle on this “research by fake elections” approach, which only served to illustrate how unreliable such “research” can become, was taken in Ranked-Choice Voting, Runoff, and Democracy: Insights from Maine and Other U.S. States by Joseph Cerrone and Cynthia McClintock_,_ also web-hosted and funded by New America’s ERRG. It gets high marks for creativity, but an eye-roll for thinking this could possibly add anything meaningful to our understanding of real world RCV elections. This study tried to determine whether RCV, plurality or two-round runoff elections provided greater voter satisfaction and acceptance of election results. To determine that, the authors conducted a survey asking if voters were satisfied with a fictional newspaper report of an election, with three different versions given to respondents – plurality, runoff and RCV, with variations of Republican/Democrat winners and variations of “come-from-behind” winners,” i.e. candidates not initially in first place but who win the “runoff.” Again, a minimal explanation of RCV or how it works was given, and the survey showed that respondents had the greatest unfamiliarity with RCV than the other methods. The unsurprising result? Respondents were much more satisfied with “come-from-behind” victories in a traditional two-round runoff election than in RCV, even though RCV is also a runoff system but with a single round of counting. Interestingly, the dissatisfaction with RCV disappeared for those who were more familiar with RCV. In fact, among those respondents who were “very familiar” with RCV, they were equally satisfied with RCV, runoff and plurality. Surprise, surprise. Again, what this study revealed, more than anything, is not only the inadequacy of the explanation for RCV given by the authors of this study, but the failure of the research format itself, thinking that such an artificial mock election could somehow simulate what actually happens in the real world in a real RCV election. Those four studies reviewed above are fitting examples of inadequate and shaky political “science.” Other studies reviewed in our paper from the New America/Electoral Reform Research Group cohort which also used mock elections included: Ranked-Choice Voting is an Acquired Taste by Joseph Anthony and David C. Kimball. New America. (Anthony et al., 2021). Ranked-Choice Voting is No Refuge for Extreme Candidates by Melissa Baker. New America. (Baker, 2021). Also included in this New America cohort is Does Ranked-Choice Voting Reduce Racial Polarization? by Yuki Atsusaka and Theodore Landsman, which actually did use real-world election results data but applied an odd and unconventional methodology to the data which relied on shaky assumptions and non-real-world scenarios that were too divorced from reality. To determine levels of “racially polarized voting,” the researchers imagined “ethnic parties,” by which they mean political parties for each ethnic group, which was especially odd since the election data they were using came from nonpartisan RCV races. But then they made an even odder assumption, namely that since race and ethnic characteristics of studied voters were not available, the authors tried to infer that information based on who voters selected and the racial make-up of voters in each district. This amounted to little more than vague and ambiguous guesswork dressed up with a bunch of mathematical equations used to give it a veneer of scientific appearance. Indeed, it seemed to assume racial polarization in order to prove racial polarization. Based on this questionable methodology, the authors concluded that RCV doesn’t reduce racial polarization. But the premise of this study missed an obvious reality: since RCV incentivizes more candidates to run and can result in more diverse fields of candidates, one would expect more racially-polarized voting in voters’ top rankings, not less, because more voters would have someone on that ballot who represents their racial or ethnic identity and more freedom to vote for their real first choice. By encouraging more diverse candidates and eliminating the spoiler effect, RCV facilitates voting for a favorite candidate of your own race and then selecting a second choice with the best likelihood of winning. The real measure is what voters do with their additional rankings – do they consider other candidates and vote “for the best of the rest”? This study didn’t tell us anything useful about that. But readily available data shows this is common in real RCV elections, and candidates act on this knowledge by engaging with voters outside their racial group. So the authors of this study failed to consider or account for what actually happens in real-world elections, and their conclusions are tainted by this failure. New America has contributed a great deal over the past 2.5 decades to our understanding of many policy areas, including politics and political reform (full disclosure: Steven Hill, one of the authors of this article and of the “Shaky Political Science” research paper and series, is a former senior fellow and former director of New America’s political reform program, 2005-2010). So it was especially disappointing that New America funded and published such a large batch of dubious studies about ranked choice voting. The stated praiseworthy goal of its Electoral Reform Research Group was to inspire new academic research about ranked choice voting that would shed light and help the public better understand the impacts of RCV. Instead, the ERRG research did just the opposite. It produced dubious research that created more confusion and misinformation. In so doing, New America’s political reform program contributed to “shaky political science.” Steven Hill and Paul Haughey Share Upgrade to $5 subscription Thanks for reading DemocracySOS, a reader-supported digital portal for the pro-democracy movement. Subscribe for only $5 per month to receive full benefits and to support our work. Subscribe
Propel gift empowers aging business management innovation
A $50,000 gift from Propel Insurance is helping WSU’s Granger Cobb Institute expand brain health screenings, end-of-life care training, and workforce education to improve healthy aging outcomes in the region.
Propel gift empowers aging business management innovation
A $50,000 gift from Propel Insurance is helping WSU’s Granger Cobb Institute expand brain health screenings, end-of-life care training, and workforce education to improve healthy aging outcomes in the region.
Steam Controller one step closer to launch after Valve teases ‘unboxing’ video with announcement pending
Another Steam Controller clue has been spotted online, as a mysterious 'unboxing' video appears on SteamDB ahead of launch.
'We're the best servants anyone could dream of!' AI superintelligence has no need to enslave humans because we're already bowing to it
A future AI would have no need to rid the world of humanity because we're incredibly useful. But if it did want to shrug us off, this is how it would likely play out.
Latest Leak Reveals Xbox Helix Will Effectively Just Be a PC With No Custom APU
When Microsoft announced the next-gen Xbox Project Helix, it confirmed what had been long rumored—that Helix would be a console-PC hybrid, just like Valve's upcoming Steam Machine, able to play both PC and Xbox games. Although it has not yet been confirmed what shape this hybrid experience will take...
'Love on the Spectrum' star Abbey Romeo's mom reveals true reason behind split from David Isaacman
'Love on the Spectrum' star Abbey Romeo's mom, Christine Romeo, finally let fans inside her daughter's split from David Isaacman, whom she met on the show's first season and dated for nearly 5 years.
WhatsApp tests ‘Plus’ subscription that adds stickers and more for a few bucks a month
Like Snapchat Plus, but for WhatsApp.
Most fashion mannequins are about a size 2. The Met Gala exhibit is making room for diverse bodies
The upcoming fashion exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art examines “the dressed body” in art over the centuries | KMBZ
OpenAI Takes Aim at Google with New Image Model
If you’ve been on X or Reddit in recent weeks, you’ve likely seen images created by an upcoming model from OpenAI floating around. Sharp-eyed people have pointed out that the new model is potentially being tested with some ChatGPT users and on leaderboards under code names.The images generated ...
Public Services Committee to review 1,260-acre Cox Ranch business park annexation
CHEYENNE, Wyo. — City Council members will consider supporting a resolution to overrule the Cheyenne Planning Commission today as they weigh a proposed
NFL Draft Prospect Profile: Texas A&M's KC Concepcion
Concepcion has roots in Western New York, spending his first five years of life in Rochester.
ID@Xbox Presented by IGN April 2026 Showcase Announced: Here's How to Watch and What to Expect
IGN is proud to partner once again with ID@Xbox for another exciting showcase on April 23, 2026, that will feature such indie games headed to Xbox and PC as Mistfall Hunter, There Are No Ghosts at the Grand, Aphelion, and Solo Leveling Arise Overdrive. Here's everything you need to know and how you can watch this showcase with us.
Therapist unpacks social media’s impact on teen mental health, friendships
Child and adolescent family therapist Darby Fox discusses new research on how teens perceive social media. Many credit Snapchat with helping friendships, but most report online harassment and bullying.
Pragmata surpasses 1m copies sold in just two days
In just two days after release, Capcom's latest game - Pragmata - has surpassed 1m units sold.
How AI is becoming a 'game changer' for RI's health care systems
Electronic record keeping is the bane of many a doctor. It’s onerous and leads to physician burnout. Could AI help fix this problem?
Nvidia (NVDA) Denies PC Business Takeover News as Foxconn Results Boost Stock
Nvidia Corporation (NASDAQ:NVDA) is one of the 10 Best Major Stocks to Buy According to Wall Street Analysts. On April 14, Nvidia Corporation (NASDAQ:NVDA) denied reports that it is in talks to acquire any PC maker. A company spokesperson said that the media report is false and confirmed that NVDA is not involved in any […]
Taiwan business group urges Beijing, Taipei to keep politics out of trade
The head of one of Taiwan's top business groups said on Monday both Beijing and Taipei should leave politics out of resuming normal trade and tourism exchanges, after China unveiled new incentives for the island.
Taiwan business group urges Beijing, Taipei to keep politics out of trade
The head of one of Taiwan's top business groups said on Monday both Beijing and Taipei should leave politics out of resuming normal trade and tourism exchanges, after China unveiled new incentives for the island.
There's a new Republican congressman running in Butler County
Rep. Mike Turner is running for reelection in Ohio's 10th Congressional District, which will soon include parts of Butler County.
Michigan Democrats seek to mend old divides at contentious convention
The Israel-Gaza war remains a flashpoint within the Michigan Democratic Party, as demonstrated by the ouster of a pro-Israel official on Sunday.
A Deep Dive into Hawai‘i’s Shell Jewelry Industry
The journey of a seashell from the reef to a pendant on a gold chain is a fascinating tale made increasingly relevant as a burgeoning business takes shape. Three Hawai‘i artisans who make jewelry from shells talk about their craft as well as the ethics of shelling for commerce and for personal collections.
OnePlus just turned its next phone into an Android gaming handheld
OnePlus' upcoming Ace 6 Ultra smartphone doubles up as a gaming handheld thanks to a snap-on controller accessory.
Xiaomi 18 Pro Max leak reveals Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro and more details
Details have leaked about an upcoming Xiaomi phone, which is expected to be the Xiaomi 18 Pro Max. The device is said to bring notable upgrades, including the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipset.
Goonya Monster spin-off games launch April 27 for Switch, PC
MUTAN’s Goonya Monster spin-off games—the hopping action game Toad’s Soul Hopper, runner game Pirarucu’s Money Rush, shooting game Snail’s Knock Out, and balance physi…
Michigan Democrats pick Savit over McDonald for attorney general nominee
Washtenaw County Prosecutor Eli Savit defeated Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald at a Michigan Democratic Party state convention on Sunday.
Advancing epidemic and pandemic preparedness through research readiness: SEAR Unity Studies Network Sites chart the way forward in 2026
On 25 March 2026, WHO Regional Office for the South‑East Asia Region (SEARO) convened the first meeting of the SEAR Chapter of the Unity Studies Network Meeting in 2026 to take stock of progress and plan next steps for strengthening epidemic and pandemic preparedness across the Region. The meeting focused on reviewing the ongoing adaptation of selected, standard Unity Study methodologies, sharing field implementation experiences from 2025, and identifying key priorities to guide collaborative work in 2026.Held virtually, the meeting brought together representatives from six Unity Studies network sites across five countries (Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand) as well as participants from all three levels of WHO.The meeting took place against the backdrop of ongoing regional efforts in South‑East Asia to strengthen early investigations and studies for epidemic and pandemic preparedness, with a focus on pandemic influenza and other emerging respiratory pathogens with epidemic and pandemic potential. In this context, and as part of preparedness for the rapid generation of evidence, the WHO Health Emergencies Programme in SEAR (WHE/SEAR) encourages Unity Studies sites to adapt prioritized, standardized Unity Study protocols to their national contexts. This approach supports the generation of timely and reliable evidence to inform public health decision‑making during epidemics and pandemics.These efforts are supported through a combination of experience sharing, participation in the global Unity Studies network webinars, capacity‑building of the national public health workforce, and regional collaboration that promotes inter‑country, inter‑agency, and inter‑ministerial action. In parallel, sites are encouraged to explore diversified funding sources to help sustain research preparedness over the long term.Discussions highlighted the importance of WHO’s catalytic financial support through the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contributions (PIP‑PC). When combined with national and institutional resources, this support enables countries and sites to maintain continuity of activities at a core level and remain prepared to respond rapidly and effectively to future epidemics and pandemics.Regional and Global Updates: Opening the session, Dr Pushpa Ranjan Wijesinghe, Programme Area Manager, Pandemic and Epidemic Management (PEM) Unit, WHO Health Emergencies Programme, highlighted the progress made in operationalizing the Unity Studies Network across the Region and acknowledged the collaborative efforts of WHO at all three levels, together with country unity studies sites. He emphasized the availability of limited but catalytic funding through the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PIP‑PC) workplan at SEARO to sustain network activities in 2026, while encouraging sites to leverage additional funding sources to expand implementation.Representing SEARO, Dr Ashok Basnet, consultant, Pandemic Influenza Preparedness reported that, at the regional level, the Unity Studies Network currently includes six sites across five countries: Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. He noted that in 2025, catalytic funding supported protocol adaptation, training, and pilot implementation. In addition, a regional Unity Studies symposium held during the Global Public Health Summit in Sri Lanka strengthened and advocated collaboration between the Unity Studies site, national decision‑making forum, relevant technical units of the ministry of health, WHO and other partners.The symposium also highlighted the role of early investigations and studies as a key component of a multi‑source surveillance system needed at country level to generate a broad range of evidence. It underscored the critical role of country Unity Studies sites and similar research entities in generating evidence to support public health decision‑making during epidemics and pandemics.Participants of the WHO GISRS Unity Studies Sites Network- SEAR Chapter Meeting 2026 (Photo credit- PEM/WHE/SEARO). SEARO also updated participants on ongoing efforts to develop a regional Unity Studies webpage and to promote participation in global knowledge‑sharing platforms, including webinars and the WHO Community of Practice. Priorities for 2026 include supporting the implementation of Unity protocols, strengthening collaboration and experience sharing across sites, documenting and publishing findings, integrating Unity Studies activities as a component of multi-source national surveillance systems, and building workforce capacity.Dr Nickle Boddington of the Global Influenza Programme (GIP) at WHO Headquarters, which coordinates the Unity Studies Network globally, provided updates on global Unity Studies activities, noting that the network has expanded to 16 sites worldwide. New and updated protocols, including rapid clinical severity assessment tools and standardized data platforms, are being developed to support implementation. The global Community of Practice has also been launched to facilitate technical exchange, and continued support will be provided to sites for protocol adaptation, ethical approvals, and readiness for early investigation during outbreaks. Updates from Unity Studies sites in SEAR in 2025Unity Studies sites shared progress and experiences in implementing protocols across diverse country contexts. Sites initiated activities in 2025 using catalytic funding from SEARO, complemented by the mobilization of internal national resources. The Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Bangladesh, reported the adoption and piloting of investigation protocols on non‑seasonal influenza and emerging respiratory diseases during recent avian influenza outbreaks, demonstrating a multi‑source funding approach involving government, WHO and One Health partners.The Hamdard Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (HIMSR), New Delhi, India, highlighted the piloting of household transmission investigation studies, the expansion of the national Unity Studies network, and the contribution of study findings to global evidence through published outputs. The All-India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, India, shared experiences from large‑scale seroprevalence studies conducted during the COVID‑19 pandemic, recent efforts to strengthen national Unity network sites through training activities, and plans to initiate multi‑centre studies on respiratory viruses.Similarly, Prince of Songkla University, Thailand, highlighted its experience in developing integrated surveillance and diagnostic protocols for multiple respiratory pathogens, enhancing readiness for targeted investigations of emerging threats. The University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka, reported ongoing engagement with the Ministry of Health and exploration of additional funding sources to initiate studies. Meanwhile, the National Public Health Laboratory, Nepal, provided updates on continued coordination with national stakeholders to initiate implementation, despite delays related to the country context.Across sites, shared experiences underscored the importance of protocol adaptation, multisectoral collaboration, and sustainable funding to operationalize Unity Studies and generate evidence for public health action.Discussions and Way ForwardThe meeting reinforced key priorities for 2026, including strengthening unity studies protocol implementation, enhancing collaboration, knowledge sharing, integrating research as a component of national multi-source surveillance systems, and ensuring that generated evidence informs public health decision‑making. Participants also emphasized the importance of documentation, visibility, and leveraging multiple funding sources, and agreed on the following action points.Unity Studies Sites and WHO Country Offices:Advance adoption and implementation of at least one Unity protocol, continuing activities initiated in 2025 with catalytic funding, supplemented with other sources of funding where feasible.Document site-specific experiences, outcomes, and lessons learned; participate in regional and global knowledge-sharing platforms including WHO webinars and the Community of Practice.Work closely with ministries of health to establish unified national platforms for translating generated evidence into national public health decision-making. WHO Country Offices may facilitate technical support and complementary, synergistic funding opportunities where feasible. WHO Regional OfficeCoordinate with WHO Country Offices to support implementation of core unity studies activities by network sites through catalytic funding and provide technical guidance and virtual engagement opportunities throughout 2026.Facilitate the participation of all Unity Studies sites in the regional meeting on Unity Studies implementation in October 2026, to be held back‑to‑back with the Annual SEAR Regional PIP‑PC Meeting; develop and host a SEAR Unity Studies website; and mobilize support from academic institutions within the SEAR Unity Studies Network to support the development of regional manuscripts that showcase Unity Studies activities to scientific audiences and promote knowledge‑sharing.Explore complementary funding opportunities and partnerships to sustain and expand network activities across the Region.WHO HeadquartersProvide global technical guidance, updated protocols, and toolkits to support the implementation of Unity Studies in SEAR.Facilitate engagement of SEAR sites in global webinars, the Community of Practice, and opportunities to showcase their work.Support joint publications, inclusion of SEAR experiences in global outputs, and identification of additional funding and collaborative opportunities to strengthen Unity Studies activities.
Is Mark Williams playing for Suns on Sunday?
Here's the latest on Mark Williams' status for the Suns' Game 1 matchup against the Thunder.
Why evergreen Forrest is Celtic's enduring influencer
Veteran winger James Forrest remains Celtic's constant, the great survivor and the enduring influencer, writes Tom English.
Athan Kaliakmanis Visits Several NFL Teams Before Upcoming Draft
Kaliakmanis visits several NFL teams with the hopes of getting drafted
Appleton area high school sports results for Saturday, April 18
High school softball, soccer, baseball and golf teams were in action.
Laramie County health and food inspections (4/10/26–4/16/26)
CHEYENNE, Wyo. — The Cheyenne-Laramie County Health Department inspects restaurants, bars, convenience stores, delis, grocery stores, bed and breakfasts
The Next Three Canon EOS R Cameras: Launch Dates and Key Specs
reparing for a new Canon body? Here is a clear breakdown of the expected launch timeline and feature sets for the upcoming EOS R8 V, R8 Mark II, and R7 Mark II.
Ryan Reynolds on Business Ventures, Blake Lively and ‘Deadpool’
In part one of this Sunday Sitdown Live, Ryan Reynolds joins Willie Geist in front of a packed crowd to discuss the rapid rise of Wrexham A.F.C., his many business ventures like his Maximum Effort, the young audience he’s found at home for his “Deadpool” franchise and what’s next for the superhero. Reynolds also shares support for his wife Blake Lively and reveals how he is feeling about his upcoming 50th birthday milestone. (Sponsored by More to Parkinson’s and brought to you by Acadia Pharmaceuticals Inc. Venue sponsored by City Winery)
Plans Advancing For New Health/Workforce Training Hub In Humboldt Park
Updated plans have been revealed for the upcoming health and job training hub at 3446 West North Avenue in Humboldt Park.
AI's taste test
Anthropic says Claude Opus 4.7 is more tasteful on work tasks.
Rare Cooler Master GeForce RTX 5080 shows up at repair shop, turns out it wasn't even broken
Limited Cooler Master RTX 5080 sent for repair after PSU swap What do you do when you install new hardware and see a spark inside your PC? The last thing
Playnix launches Steam Machine competitor with Radeon RX 9060 XT 16GB, now costs €1140
Playnix gaming PC pairs a 65W Ryzen 5 with a 150W Radeon RX 9060 XT Playnix is now on sale through the company’s official store as a console-style Linux
Xbox gets 30 new games next week
Next week, another 30 new Xbox games, including Vampire Crawlers and first-party Xbox title Kiln, launch across Xbox consoles and PC.
This week in SC politics: Governor candidates itching to debate
GOP leaders have finalized who will make the cut for the upcoming Republican gubernatorial debate — a decision that could shape the race before many voters fully tune in ahead of the June primary.
Things to do in Cincinnati this week, April 20-26
If you're looking for the best events happening in Cincinnati, you're at the right place. Find your next concert, game, festival or family event.
Simi Valley explosion was effects for new ‘Jackass’ movie, Johnny Knoxville says
An explosion that sent a pillar of smoke rising over the hills near the Simi Dog Park in Simi Valley Friday was special effects for the upcoming “Jackass” sequel, “Jackass” star Johnny Knoxville an…
Apple AirPods Max 2 vs. Bose QuietComfort Ultra vs. Sony WH-1000XM6: Who Wins High-End ANC?
We tested the latest premium noise-cancelleing cans from Apple, Bose, and Sony. Here’s how they stack up on price, performance, and features. And boy, is it a close race!
Apple's upcoming AirPods Pro 3 variant could debut a groundbreaking new feature
Earlier this year, Apple acquired a secretive startup: Q.ai, for over 2 billion dollars. It’s the companies second largest acquisition...
macOS 27 Will Mark the End of an Era
During its Platforms State of the Union segment at WWDC 2025, Apple revealed that macOS 26 Tahoe is the final major macOS version for Intel-based Macs. The upcoming macOS 27 release will be compatible with Apple silicon Macs only, meaning that you will need a Mac with an M-series chip or a MacBook Neo with an A18 Pro chip in order to install the software update. macOS 27 should be available in beta starting in June, and the update will likely be widely released in September.
Top Stories: 'iPhone Ultra' Rumors, Mac Mini and Mac Studio Shortages, and More
It was another busy week of Apple news and rumors, with upcoming Apple product categories like the foldable iPhone and smart glasses featuring prominently in the news.
The AI apps are coming for your PC
Plus: Coachella week two, Beef season two, the DJI Osmo Pocket 4, and more in this week’s Installer newsletter.
Indiana primary will test Trump's control over Republican Party after redistricting defiance
President Donald Trump's influence on the Republican Party is facing a test in Indiana's upcoming primary | News-Talk 1380 WAOK
Arsenal u21s to face Manchester City in PL2 play-off
Arsenal under-21s now know the scale of their Premier League 2 play-off test, with a trip to Manchester City setting up another meeting with the side that ended last season’s run.Photo by Lewis Stor...
World of Warcraft private server Stormforge is shutting down as Blizzard builds pressure on fan alternatives
The Stormforge developers confirm that its private WoW servers will be shut down in May after a Cease and Desist from Blizzard's legal team.
PCC Notes: Engineering and Physical Science Club presents at symposium
WINTERVILLE — Eight members of the Pitt Community College Engineering and Physical Science Club presented an academic research poster during the 2026 NC Space Symposium this month in Raleigh.
Damaged boxwood plants? Try these alternatives
Box Tree Moths are affecting gardens throughout the state and country Last year these insects were spreading out of these communities more aggressively. When they invade the truly catch homeowners off guard.
What to know about the Democrats running to represent Southwest Ohio
Incumbent Democratic Rep. Greg Landsman will face challenger Damon Lynch IV in the May primary for Ohio's 1st District.
‘Starting In April’—Microsoft Changes Windows Update After 15 Years
Security certificates on more than a billion Windows PCs expire in 8 weeks — check yours now.
Microsoft Expands Xbox Mode to Windows Laptops, PCs, and Tablets
We recently reported on Microsoft renaming the Xbox Full-Screen Experience to Xbox mode and subsequently updating the gaming UI with new display options for gaming handhelds. Most recently, though, Microsoft has announced that it will be bringing that console-like UI to more devices. Many of these d...
Appleton area high school sports results for Friday, April 17
High school softball, baseball, soccer and golf teams were in action.
Update on MHS Women and Children’s Hospital
Memorial Health System said construction is progressing as planned on its Women’s and Children’s Hospital in Belpre.
Kash Patel’s Erratic Behavior Could Cost Him His Job
The FBI director has alarmed colleagues with episodes of excessive drinking and unexplained absences.
Steam Giving Away 4 PC Games for Free
Steam is giving away four PC games for free, but those interested only have a limited time to download the free games.
Healthy diet, higher lung cancer risk? Deciphering surprising link in new study
Researchers have found a link between healthier diets containing fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and higher rates of early onset lung cancer in nonsmokers. Here's what experts say about these findings.
Previewing the 2026 NC legislative session
ABC11's Sean Coffey and N&O politics reporter Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi talk about what to look for in the upcoming session of the North Carolina General Assembly.
Deep South Equipment finds natural fit in Lafayette
It’s easy to find Deep South Equipment’s Lafayette location; just look for the gorilla. The Louisiana-based equipment dealer and service provider opened at 122 Southpark Road in late 2024 and decided to keep the well-known gorilla statue from the previous owner, George’s Lift Trucks. CONNECT WITH US Top executives: John Parsons, Owner & President; Patrick […]
A love triangle and a volcanic 'Erupcja' that spotlights Poland
“Erupcja” opens April 17 in theaters in New York and LA
PCC Notes: Engineering and Physical Science Club students present poster at symposium
WINTERVILLE — Eight members of the Pitt Community College Engineering and Physical Science Club presented an academic research poster during the 2026 NC Space Symposium this month in Raleigh.
Apple to Unveil iOS 27 in June With These New Features Beyond Siri
Apple is expected to unveil iOS 27 during its WWDC 2026 keynote on June 8, and the update should be released in September. Below, we outline some of the new features that are rumored to be coming with iOS 27, beyond the long-awaited more personalized version of Siri. iOS 27 will reportedly support 5G satellite internet connectivity, although this functionality might be limited to the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro models with Apple's next-generation C2 modem.
The release date for Ubisoft's Assassin's Creed: Black Flag remake, Resynced, seems to have leaked, and it's reportedly not very far away
The release date for the upcoming Assassin's Creed: Black Flag remake seems to have leaked, and the game is reportedly setting sail this summer.
Ella Spillane connects business and wilderness
As the weather warms up, check out how WSU alumna Ella Spillane is turning her love of the outdoors into a global business with Trailbound Yoga.
The travellers mapping their holiday by the stars
From cruises to girls' trips, astrocartography – a once-niche form of astrology – is shaping how some travellers choose where to go next.
Engineering, game design faculty turn nuclear science into interactive learning experience
At Kennesaw State University, learning about nuclear energy isn’t limited to textbooks and lectures. Researchers are developing a video game that helps users understand how reactors operate through hands-on experience. At the center of the project titled “Simulating the AP1000: An Educational Game to Promote Understanding of Nuclear Energy Safety and Sustainability” is a collaboration between engineering and game design faculty. The initiative focuses on turning complex nuclear concepts into an interactive learning experience.
iPhone 18 Pro's Four Rumored Colors Revealed, Including 'Dark Cherry'
A source said to be familiar with Apple's supply chain today revealed the color options Apple is planning for the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the upcoming foldable iPhone. Image via Macworld. The information comes from Macworld, which says the signature new color for this year's Pro models will be Dark Cherry, a deep wine-like red. While other sources had previously reported on a "Dark Red" option, the hue is said to be considerably closer to wine than a brighter red.
Brain health: Staying more active during the day helps retain brain volume
Older adults with a more fragmented circadian rest-activity rhythm lost more brain volume in areas typically affected by Alzheimer’s disease, research has found.
Need new plants after the winter freeze? Check out these gardening events
Brevard gardeners faced a winter freeze that damaged plants. Two upcoming events offer trees, plants and resources for replanting.
Fantasy Bundesliga: Scout squads for Matchday 30
Bulinews' Fantasy Bundesliga writers have each put together a squad of 10 outfield players for the upcoming matchday.Managers have full freedom with formations, but squads can’t exceed 110M, can onl...
Nebraska men’s basketball transfer Sam Orme looking to make an impact
Nebraska men's basketball got former Belmont Bruin, Sam Orme for their upcoming season. After losing Berke Büyüktuncel to teh transfer portal, Orme is just what they needed.
Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter launches September 17
Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter will launch for PlayStation 5, Switch 2, Switch, and PC via Steam on September 17 worldwide, Falcom and GungHo Online Entertainment announced. In the west, Trails in t…
Here are the Republicans running for Congress in Ohio's 1st District
There's a crowded Republican primary this year of candidates hoping to unseat incumbent Cincinnati Democratic Rep. Greg Landsman.
Peltola posts massive campaign fundraising, but Republicans maintain cash advantage in Alaska congressional races
In the Senate race, Mary Peltola raised close to $9 million in funds, but has less cash on hand than Dan Sullivan.
What to know about the Hamilton County commissioner primary debate
A Hamilton County commissioner primary debate featured sparring between three Democratic candidates about public safety and affordable housing.
Hot ticket: Rodeo kicks off and Fleet Week takes flight
Pretty Fly for a Smart Guy: Dexter Holland, lead singer of The Offspring and a molecular biologist, will headline an upcoming installment of Space Center Houston‘s Thought Leader Series.
'Avengers: Doomsday' footage, 'Mandalorian' opening unveiled at CinemaCon
The Walt Disney Co. has staged a major presentation at CinemaCon, showcasing new footage from upcoming films. They revealed the opening of the new Star Wars movie and scenes from “Avengers:...
\'Avengers: Doomsday\' footage, \'Mandalorian\' opening unveiled at CinemaCon
The Walt Disney Co. has staged a major presentation at CinemaCon, showcasing new footage from upcoming films. They revealed the opening of the new Star Wars movie and scenes from