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Kristen Mellen
First Bank Chicago, one of the five largest privately held banks in Chicago, is pleased to announce Kristen Mellen has been promoted to Systems and Applications Support Officer. In this role, Kristen leads process improvement initiatives that enhance client experiences with our products and services. She provides ongoing support throughout the Bank for system configuration and application implementations. Kristen joined the Bank in 2017.
Another health system is coming to Onondaga County soon, with room for 2,000 new primary patients
The new providers will see patients ages 5 and older.
Opinion | An arbitrary rule change is threatening America’s health care system
An ’80s-inspired student loan tweak will make it harder to enter advanced nursing roles.
A hidden force beneath the Atlantic ripped open a 500 kilometer canyon
Far beneath the Atlantic Ocean, about 1,000 kilometers off Portugal’s coast, lies a colossal underwater canyon system that dwarfs even the Grand Canyon. Known as the King’s Trough Complex, this 500-kilometer stretch of trenches and deep basins formed not from rushing water, but from dramatic tectonic forces that once tore the seafloor apart.
Duplin students excel at regional science fair
Students from Duplin County Schools won multiple awards at the Southeast Regional Science and Engineering Fair at the University of North Carolina Wilmington on Feb. 7, the school system announced.
Little Fish, Big Decisions: How Science Guides Actions in the Delta
California’s water system is one of the most complex and important in the world. It delivers water to millions of people across the state and supports ecosystems that are vital to California’s environmental health.
Checks and balances aren’t working under Trump, growing majority says
On the eve of President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address, two-thirds of Americans say the system of checks and balances that divides power between the White House, Congress and the courts is not working well, according to the latest PBS News/NPR/Marist Poll.
Starwatch: Jupiter shines steady in Gemini
Solar system’s largest planet remains a brilliant, unwavering beacon, forming a striking trio with Castor and Pollux
Board Of Health Greenlights Septic Systems For 19-Bedroom Elder…
Nantucket Current is the island's leading online news source. We deliver the news, stories, and people of Nantucket, unbiased and unfiltered.
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
Trump tried to troll Greenland's free public health care system with U.S. Navy hospital ships still in dock. 'It’s a no thank you from here'
"That is a deliberate choice — and a fundamental part of our society,” Nielsen said. "That is not how it works in the USA, where it costs money to see a doctor.”
Apple's rumored new MacBook sounds like a nightmare for budget Windows laptops
A cheaper entry point into the Apple ecosystem
Thanks but no thanks: Trump’s hospital ship plan provokes defense of Greenland health care system
U.S. President Donald Trump said he would deploy a hospital ship to Greenland, alleging that many people there are sick and not receiving care, even though both of the U.S. Navy’s hospital ships are currently docked at a shipyard in Alabama.
Curling faces identity crisis as cheating controversy forces rethink of regulations
After being shaken by claims of cheating at the Winter Olympics, curling finds itself between a rock and a hard place as it looks to regulate an increasingly competitive sport while keeping alive the long-standing honour-based system it so cherishes.
New oxygen gel could prevent amputation in diabetic wound patients
Chronic wounds often spiral out of control because oxygen can’t reach the deepest layers of injured tissue. A new gel developed at UC Riverside delivers a continuous flow of oxygen right where it’s needed most, using a tiny battery-powered system. In high-risk mice, wounds healed in weeks instead of worsening. The innovation could dramatically reduce amputations—and may even open doors for lab-grown organs.
Triceratops had a giant nose that may have cooled its massive head
Triceratops’ massive head may have been doing more than just showing off those famous horns. Using CT scans and 3D reconstructions of fossil skulls, researchers uncovered a surprisingly complex nasal system hidden inside its enormous snout. Instead of being just a supersized nose for smelling, it likely housed intricate networks of nerves and blood vessels—and even special structures that helped regulate heat and moisture.
Galaxy AI turns into a multi-agent ecosystem, adds deep integration with Perplexity AI
The improved system will allow you to work with multiple AI agents seamlessly, without needing to switch between apps or repeat commands.
Galaxy AI Expands Multi-Agent Ecosystem To Give Users More Choice and Flexibility
Samsung continues to evolve its AI experience by adding a new AI agent across the Galaxy ecosystem to make everyday interactions easier
Mississippi health system shuts down clinics statewide after ransomware attack
The attack was launched on Thursday and prompted hospital officials to close all of its 35 clinics across the state.
Cuba says US oil blockades are pushing healthcare system to the brink
Cuba’s Health Minister says the country is headed to a catastrophic humanitarian crisis, saying the US blockade of oil on his country is rendering hospitals helpless and puts thousands of lives at risk.
Designing a systemic intervention for student loneliness and social connectedness using a mixed-methods, co-creation approach
npj Mental Health Research - Designing a systemic intervention for student loneliness and social connectedness using a mixed-methods, co-creation approach
Cuba’s health care system pushed to the brink by US fuel blockade, Cuban minister says
HAVANA (AP) — Cuba’s debilitated health care system has been pushed to the brink of collapse by the U.S. blockading the country’s oil supply, a Cuban official said Friday. The country’s medical sys…
Cuba’s health care system pushed to the brink by US fuel blockade, Cuban minister says
Cuban officials say a U.S. fuel blockade is pushing Cuba’s health system toward collapse and putting lives at risk.
Cuba's health care system pushed to the brink by US fuel blockade, Cuban minister says
Cuban officials say a U.S. fuel blockade is pushing Cuba’s health system toward collapse and putting lives at risk
Cuba's health care system pushed to the brink by US fuel blockade, Cuban minister says
Cuban officials say a U.S. fuel blockade is pushing Cuba’s health system toward collapse and putting lives at risk.
Why does women's pain last longer than men's? A new study offers an answer
The research suggests that men’s immune systems have a better mechanism for shutting off pain, which could explain why women have more chronic symptoms.
Phaedra Solutions Announces New Rapid AI Services for Accelerated Business Outcomes
Phaedra Solutions, a leading AI development and consultancy firm, has unveiled its new rapid AI development model designed to help startups and enterprises implement AI systems more quickly and efficiently.Dubai, United Arab Emirates--(Newsfile Corp. - February 20, 2026) - Phaedra Solutions, a leading AI development and consultancy firm, has unveiled its new rapid AI development model designed to help startups and enterprises implement AI systems more quickly and efficiently. The company's new..
Community Health Systems Q4 Earnings Call Highlights
Community Health Systems (NYSE:CYH) executives said the hospital operator’s fourth-quarter results came in line with updated expectations, citing sequential margin expansion, a modest improvement in payer mix, and continued cost controls. On the company’s fourth-quarter and full-year 2025 earnings c
Club Grid Disrupting the Nightlife and Entertainment Industry by Launching First All-In-One Cloud Infrastructure Platform for Nightlife Venues, Modernizing a $175B Global Industry
Club Grid officially launches a groundbreaking all-in-one cloud platform built specifically for nightlife venues, streamlining operations, management, analytics, fraud prevention, and payment infrastructure into one enterprise-grade system designed to maximize revenue, unlock AI-driven intelligence, and scale a multi-billion-dollar industry.West Palm Beach, Florida--(Newsfile Corp. - February 18, 2026) - Club Grid is officially disrupting the nightlife industry with the launch of the first fully
Quantum computer breakthrough tracks qubit fluctuations in real time
Qubits, the heart of quantum computers, can change performance in fractions of a second — but until now, scientists couldn’t see it happening. Researchers at NBI have built a real-time monitoring system that tracks these rapid fluctuations about 100 times faster than previous methods. Using fast FPGA-based control hardware, they can instantly identify when a qubit shifts from “good” to “bad.” The discovery opens a new path toward stabilizing and scaling future quantum processors.
UMass Memorial Health stops surgeon from doing transgender surgeries. Why?
Alford joined the the health system in 2023, and has done more than 40 surgeries for patients 18 to 73 years old.
Good health care shouldn’t require private donations
Boston Community Pediatrics proves that accessible, humane primary care is possible — but only because donors are subsidizing an insurance system that won’t.
Meta "Explicitly Separating" Horizon Worlds From Quest & Focusing On Third-Party Apps
Meta says it's "explicitly separating" Horizon Worlds from Quest, in a blog post assuring developers that it's committed to the VR ecosystem.
Creator franchise profile From social channels to entertainment ecosystems
The creator economy is moving into a new phase where audience ownership, rather than audience reach alone, is the primary driver of growth. Social platforms remain critical for discovery and scale, but their revenue-share models and control over audience relationships limit how much value creators can capture.
How strep throat may trigger autoimmune disease
Growing research suggests the bacteria left behind by the common childhood infection may trick the immune system into attacking both the invader and the body's own cells.
Judge orders takeover of health care operations in Arizona prisons after years of poor care
A federal judge has ordered a takeover of health care operations in Arizona’s prisons and will appoint an official to run the system after years of complaints about poor medical and mental health care.
Google says its AI systems helped deter Play Store malware in 2025
Google said it prevented 1.75 million bad apps from going live on Google Play during 2025, a figure that's down from previous years.
State Infrastructure Can Strengthen Suicide Prevention in Health Systems
State governments that establish suicide prevention infrastructure foster the advancement of sustainable, evidence-based practices within their states’ hospitals and health systems. Recent examples of effective infrastructure include the authorization of comprehensive prevention policies and programs, dedicated funding streams, coordinated leadership, and robust data systems with suicide statistics.
Trump administration slashes away at science, but scientists are pushing back
Pulling the plug on the National Center for Atmospheric Research is part of a "systematic destruction" of American science.
After leaving WHO, Trump officials propose more expensive replacement to duplicate it
HHS proposes spending $2 billion a year to re-create systems the U.S. accessed through the WHO at a fraction of the cost, according to officials briefed on the matter.
Accelerating Science with Digital Twins
Researchers at Berkeley Lab are building digital twins that link physical systems with AI-informed models to accelerate discovery.
Health First turns to Epic emeritus docs to streamline EHR go-live
The four-hospital Florida health system's enterprise implementation was daunting, as any health IT leader knows. But getting outside, at-the-elbow help made for a smoother, safer and more controlled transition. The CMIO describes the big switch.
United States Gift Card Business and Investment Report 2026: A 320+ Billion Market by 2030 Featuring Walmart, Amazon, Costco, Home Depot, Target, Apple, CVS, Sycamore Partners, Kroger, Publix
The US gift card market offers opportunities in four main areas: repositioning gift cards as ecosystem instruments to enhance brand loyalty, embedding them in apps for seamless transactions, using them as controlled corporate spending tools, and bolstering fraud controls. Focus on digital transformation and integration into payment ecosystems is key. U.S. Gift Card Market U.S. Gift Card Market Dublin, Feb. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "United States Gift Card Business and Investment Opportun
‘We’re no longer attracting top talent’: the brain drain killing American science
As Trump slashes science funding, young researchers flee abroad. Without solid innovation, the US could cease to have the largest biomedical ecosystem in the world
Singapore Alternative Lending Business Market Report 2026-2029: BNPL and Embedded Finance Market Intensifies as Atome, Grab PayLater and Shopee SPayLater Compete with Bank-Led Instalment Expansion
Key market opportunities in Singapore's alternative lending include BNPL standardization favoring accredited providers, embedding SME credit within digital ecosystems, tightening digital acquisition standards, and expanding private credit funding pathways. These shifts could enhance regulatory compliance, market reach, and investment potential. Singaporean Alternative Lending Market Singaporean Alternative Lending Market Dublin, Feb. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Singapore Alternative Lendin
United States and Madagascar to Implement $175 Million Five-Year Health MOU - U.S. Embassy in Madagascar
United States and Madagascar to Implement $175 Million Five-Year Health MOU U.S. and Malagasy health officials are convening in Antananarivo for a two-day joint review process, marking the first major step in implementing the strategic health cooperation framework established in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two countries in December 2025. The MoU outlines the structure and terms of U.S. support to Madagascar’s health sector from 2026 through 2030, with a total commitment of $134,305,000 from the U.S. Government and $41,216,252 from the Government of Madagascar working jointly to address malaria, maternal and child health, polio and global health security issues. This approach reflects the America First Global Health Strategy by prioritizing effective, results-driven cooperation that advances mutual health security and supports Madagascar’s progress toward self-reliance and independence from foreign assistance. The events bring together U.S. Government health experts and Madagascar’s Ministry of Public Health leadership to conduct a comprehensive review of seven major health programs currently supported by United States funding, discussing current activities, and developing recommendations for programs to align with the signed Memorandum of Understanding, which advances both the America First Global Health Strategy and the Government of Madagascar’s goals. “This memorandum sets the course for U.S. strategic cooperation and support to Madagascar’s health sector over the next five years,” said Chargé d’Affaires Stephanie Arnold at the workshop’s opening. This review will help determine how to maximize the effectiveness and impact of these programs, ensuring resources provided by U.S. taxpayer dollars are used wisely,” she added. “By working together to address global health challenges, we demonstrate America’s leadership and commitment to a safer, healthier world, making both the United States and Madagascar healthier and stronger.” Under President Trump’s leadership, the United States is implementing a Global Health Strategy for foreign assistance that emphasizes increased host country ownership, resilient health systems and human resource capacity to reduce dependency, maintaining frontline support to reduce infectious disease threats, and strong performance monitoring systems for accountability and service delivery. “Diseases do not respect borders, and when we support Madagascar’s capacity to detect, prevent, and respond to infectious disease threats, we are contributing to global health security that benefits communities both here and in the United States,” Arnold emphasized, noting that “The MoU represents a commitment to transparency, accountability, and results.” The United States recognizes the commitment of Malagasy leadership in prioritizing investment of time and significant resources on the healthcare of their own citizens. With recent changes in leadership, Madagascar has an opportunity to strengthen governance, improve performance, and move forward toward greater self-reliance, particularly in the healthcare sector. Through strategic focus and thoughtful collaboration under this MoU, U.S. health programs in Madagascar will deliver meaningful results that advance both countries’ interests while supporting Madagascar’s journey toward greater self-reliance and a healthy future.
Salem VA to make upgrades to health care infrastructure
The Salem VA Health Care System announced on Wednesday the beginning of infrastructure upgrades.
Davids Hosts Johnson County Small Business Roundtable to Discuss Growth, Challenges
OVERLAND PARK, KS – Today, Representative Sharice Davids hosted a roundtable discussion with Johnson County small business owners and economic development leaders to talk about the successes and challenges facing local businesses and to highlight new data on the region’s growing small business ecosystem. She has hosted similar discussions in each of the other counties across Kansas’ Third District to ensure local perspectives are shaping her work in Congress.
Microsoft Unveils Glass Storage System Lasting 10,000 Years
Project Silica uses femtosecond lasers to encode data into borosilicate glass, storing 4.8 terabytes--roughly two million books--on a single coaster-sized plate.
DAV announces new partnership with Solace Health supporting veterans’ care
ERLANGER, Ky. – DAV (Disabled American Veterans) is proud to announce a new partnership with Solace Health as its first new partner in 2026. The partnership is supported by a donation from Solace Health to advance DAV’s mission of empowering veterans to lead high-quality lives. The collaboration brings together two organizations focused on helping veterans receive timely, coordinated, high-quality care, regardless of where they receive it. While many veterans receive care through the VA, which offers an integrated and coordinated whole-health model, others receive some or all of their care through private health systems using Medicare or other insurance benefits. These veterans often need help to understand health insurance rules, manage their treatment, and navigate between multiple health care systems. “Disabled veterans often have complex health challenges, and DAV’s advocacy work strives to minimize barriers to timely, high-quality care, primarily within VA., but increasingly between VA and private providers,” said DAV CEO and National Adjutant Barry Jesinoski. “Our partnership with Solace Health can offer support for veterans who are eligible for VA care and Medicare, particularly those who split their care between the VA and private health systems. Veterans who don’t use VA at all can also benefit from the care coordination services that Solace Health provides, usually with little or no out-of-pocket cost to them.” Solace Health provides professional health care advocacy services, connecting patients with experienced advocates who help schedule appointments, explain benefits, coordinate care among providers, and manage administrative burdens with private health care systems, thereby allowing veterans and their families to focus on health and recovery. “For many veterans, the fight doesn’t end when service does,” said Jeremy Gurewitz, CEO and co-founder of Solace Health. “Veterans living with serious medical conditions often encounter a private health care system outside of the VA that is fragmented and difficult to navigate. Through this partnership with DAV, Solace Health advocates can help cut through red tape, improve care coordination, and simplify scheduling of medical appointments. We’re proud to support DAV in helping veterans to successfully navigate health care systems so that veterans, particularly disabled veterans, receive the care they have earned.” DAV provides a lifetime of support for veterans of all generations, their families, caregivers, and survivors. Each year, DAV’s no-cost programs and services help more than 1 million veterans access the benefits and health care they have earned, connect with meaningful employment, and ensure their voices are heard on Capitol Hill. About DAV DAV is dedicated to ensuring our promise is kept to America’s veterans. DAV does this by helping veterans and their families access the full range of benefits available to them, fighting for the interests of America’s injured heroes on Capitol Hill, providing employment resources to veterans and their families, offering programs and services to empower them, and educating the public about the great sacrifices and needs of veterans transitioning back to civilian life. A nonprofit organization with nearly 1 million members, DAV was founded in 1920 and chartered by the U.S. Congress in 1932. About Solace Health Veterans face complex health challenges, and the path to care is far harder than it should be. They deal with fragmented services and providers, each with unique requirements and paperwork. Solace Health advocates—healthcare experts with 16 years’ experience on average—help veterans navigate this landscape when they need it most. Advocates schedule appointments, explain benefits and keep doctors aligned. They take the lead on calls and documentation, and their no-homework ethos eases burdens on veterans and their families. Solace Health is covered by Medicare and Medicare Advantage, and most veterans pay little or nothing out of pocket. We’re honored to support DAV members.
iOS 26.4 Brings CarPlay Support for ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini
With iOS 26.4, CarPlay users will be able to use third-party chatbots with CarPlay. AI services like Claude, Gemini, and ChatGPT will be accessible through the CarPlay system for the first time. Apple's CarPlay Developer Guide [PDF] lists voice-based conversational apps as a supported app type starting with iOS 26.4. Apple is implementing a new voice control screen that will let apps provide visual feedback for voice-based conversational apps.
Many health systems suffer from AI 'execution paralysis,' study shows
New research from HIMSS and Guidehouse shows more than half of hospitals surveyed not yet able to deploy AI at scale. It highlights some steps providers can take to overcome a lack of operational readiness for artificial intelligence transformation.
Day in the Life of Health Home Care Coordinator Sheryl Goldberg - NYC Health + Hospitals
Across New York City’s five boroughs, in homes filled with stories and challenges, NYC Health + Hospitals’ Care Coordinators arrive as a personalized support system. Their visits carry more than...
According to science, the most efficient and economical heating system is… - Futura-Sciences
In 2015, the Paris Agreement set a goal to reduce global temperatures by 2°C compared to pre-industrial levels. This called for a reevaluation of fossil fuel combustion and its environmental impact. A thorough comparative study Researchers from the Technical University of Munich conducted a comparative analysis of 13 heating systems,...
Philadelphia launches real-time air quality monitoring system: "This is public health in action"
Five Berkeley Lab Scientists Receive DOE Early Career Research Awards
Five scientists from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) have received Early Career Research Program (ECRP) awards from the Department of Energy. The ECRP program, now in its 16th year, was established to bolster the nation’s scientific workforce by supporting exceptional researchers at the outset of their careers, when many scientists do their most formative work. Recipients use the funding to pursue projects that have the potential to solve scientific challenges and advance the country’s STEM capabilities. To be eligible for the program, a researcher must be an untenured, tenure-track assistant or associate professor at a U.S. academic institution, or a full-time employee at a DOE national laboratory or Office of Science user facility, who is within 10 years of having earned their doctorate. Awards to an institution of higher education will be approximately $875,000 over five years, and awards to a DOE national laboratory or Office of Science user facility will be approximately $2,750,000 over five years. This year’s Berkeley Lab awardees and their projects are listed below: Timon Heim: Better detectors for more powerful particle colliders Timon Heim is a staff scientist in the Physics Division. His ECRP project will develop a new type of detector that can track the particles generated by collisions in particle colliders with high spatial and temporal resolution. Current detectors in use at high-energy colliders, like the ATLAS detector at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN, can track the trajectory and measure momentum of particles, but they can’t track a particle’s time of arrival with sufficient precision to discern from which of the many particle interactions they originate. Heim’s proposed technology — called a 4D tracking detector, because it captures data about particles’ positions in space and time — aims to solve this challenge, allowing researchers to glean more precise data from collision experiments to uncover new insights into fundamental forces and potentially discover new particles. The enhanced capabilities of 4D detectors will be a necessity for experiments at future colliders, such as the Muon Collider or Future Circular Collider. The project will develop custom microelectronics that process the signal of a pixelated silicon sensor that can register charged particles passing through it in an extreme radiation environment that these colliders produce during operation. The goal is to measure individual particles’ position with 50-micro-meter spatial and 50 pico-second (one trillionth of a second) temporal precision, for an incoming flux of around 1 billion particles per second per square centimeter. Harrison Lisabeth: Studying underground processes to unleash abundant energy Harrison Lisabeth is a research scientist in the Energy Geoscience Division focused on combining real-world experiments and AI to guide development of geothermal energy systems. His project will explore how deep underground rock formations – where geothermal wells are dug – are stressed by chemical reactions of the minerals and mechanical strain from movements in the Earth. A better understanding of subsurface stresses is essential to engineer safe and reliable geothermal wells that access the heat of deep rocks to produce electricity. It is estimated that the U.S. could generate ten times the amount of energy needed to power the grid using geothermal sources. Lisabeth plans to simulate how minerals grow, dissolve, and influence the behavior of surrounding rock in geothermal reservoirs by tracking chemical changes in rock samples under pressure in the lab. The project will also develop machine learning models to predict geologic strain based on field measurements and refine existing models that describe how common rock types deform under stress. Combining these approaches, Lisabeth hopes to develop a framework to predict stress to improve stability and longevity of geothermal wells. Daniel Carney: Pushing the quantum boundaries of particle measurement Daniel Carney is a staff scientist in the Physics Division who uses quantum information science to study particle physics and gravity. At very small scales, “quantum noise” — random fluctuations from the act of measurement — can drown out faint signals from rare processes. Carney’s ECRP project, “Fundamental Physics at the Quantum Limits of Measurement,” aims to build a new mechanical quantum sensor that can measure extremely small particle interactions below the limits of that quantum noise. The approach uses lasers to hold a tiny bead containing radioactive atoms; when one decays, the system measures the bead’s motion and the energy of any particles emitted. The experiment’s initial goal is to search for heavy sterile neutrinos, hypothetical particles predicted by some extensions of the Standard Model. The system could also help measure the mass of the neutrino, study the way particles interact through the electromagnetic and weak forces, and hunt for low-mass dark matter — all unsolved mysteries in particle physics. Callum Wilkinson: Using machine learning to demystify neutrinos Callum Wilkinson is a staff scientist in the Physics Division and part of the international Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE) hosted by Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory. DUNE will create an intense beam of neutrinos that interact in detectors in Illinois and, after an 800-mile journey through the earth, in massive detectors in South Dakota. By precisely measuring neutrinos and how they change, researchers will get a better understanding of their fundamental properties and whether they are responsible for why there is so much more matter than antimatter in our universe. Wilkinson’s ECRP project will apply two machine learning techniques to improve the analysis of DUNE’s data and enhance the experiment’s precision. One approach will look for hidden patterns in how neutrinos interact and produce low-energy particles, while the other will help correct for distortions in what the detectors record. The methods will be tested on one of DUNE’s prototype detectors and could be used in other neutrino experiments, improving their measurements and helping scientists build better models. Aditi Krishnapriyan: Machine learning methods that scale as datasets grow Aditi Krishnapriyan is a faculty scientist in Berkeley Lab’s Applied Mathematics and Computational Research Division (AMCR) and assistant professor at UC Berkeley. Her project, awarded through UC Berkeley, will develop machine learning methods that scale with dataset size for modeling complex, multi-scale phenomena. The resulting tools can be applied in a wide range of research, including the study of new electrolytes for batteries or the examination of molecular interactions. ### Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) is committed to groundbreaking research focused on discovery science and solutions for abundant and reliable energy supplies. The lab’s expertise spans materials, chemistry, physics, biology, earth and environmental science, mathematics, and computing. Researchers from around the world rely on the lab’s world-class scientific facilities for their own pioneering research. Founded in 1931 on the belief that the biggest problems are best addressed by teams, Berkeley Lab and its scientists have been recognized with 17 Nobel Prizes. Berkeley Lab is a multiprogram national laboratory managed by the University of California for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science. DOE’s Office of Science is the single largest supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States, and is working to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. For more information, please visit energy.gov/science.
Galaxy phones are suddenly getting Google Play system updates again
Google’s Play system updates haven’t touched Samsung Galaxy devices in some time, dating back to mid-2025. According to more than...
SGMC Health Honors Carswell as Health System Hero
SGMC Health has named Dee Dee Carswell, a cook at SGMC Health Lanier, as its February Health System Hero, recognizing her dedication
At the Olympics and beyond, women's sports media outlets are writing their own playbooks
Alongside the historic growth of women’s sports, the women’s sports media ecosystem is likewise flourishing, and outlets like TOGETHXR, The GIST, Just Women’s Sports, The IX Sports, GOALS and Good Game with Sarah Spain are expanding their reach and reshaping the industry.
Messes around every corner: A year under new ownership, former Steward hospitals continued to bleed
The acquiring health care systems knew they faced a tough situation, but few expected the takeovers to be this hard.
Samsung phones finally getting a new Google Play System update
Select Samsung Galaxy smartphones and tablets are getting a new Google Play System update, which is dated January 1, 2026.
Samsung teases Galaxy S26 camera as ‘brightest’ and ‘easiest’ ever, thanks to AI
Samsung is continuing its Galaxy S26 teasers with a new post highlighting “an end-to-end” camera experience that’s brighter and easier...
Lone Star College launches VetHUB to help disabled veteran-owned businesses
The Lone Star College System is launching a new initiative aimed at boosting state contracting opportunities for businesses owned by service-disabled veterans.
Breakthrough CRISPR system could reverse antibiotic resistance crisis
Antibiotic resistance is racing toward a global crisis, with “superbugs” projected to cause over 10 million deaths annually by 2050. Now, scientists at UC San Diego have unveiled a powerful new CRISPR-based tool that doesn’t just fight resistant bacteria—it can actively strip away their drug resistance. Inspired by gene drives used in insects, the technology spreads a genetic “fix” through bacterial populations, even inside stubborn biofilms that shield microbes from antibiotics.
Some users report Windows 11’s February update, KB5077181, is failing to install and causing a range of system issues
A small number of users report installation failures and post-update issues, putting update reliability back in the spotlight.
Ohio State nurses' union calls to remove Wexner's name from health system
The union said Wexner's documented relationship with Jeffrey Epstein raises \
Contra Costa Health nurses demand County Board of Supervisors prevent drastic budget cuts, stop imminent cuts to services
RNs will hold a picket outside the Contra Costa Regional Medical Center in Martinez, Calif., on Thursday, Feb. 19, to demand hospital and county leaders move funding to save our health system, maintain services, and reverse the dangerous dismantling of the enhanced care management program.
Amazon pulls the plug on Blue Jay warehouse robot
Amazon shutters Blue Jay robot as it transitions to Orbital, a new modular warehouse system enhancing same-day delivery capabilities.
Google shares how Android 17 is making everything run smoother
Google shares the technical details behind its new system to reduce missed frames in Android 17, now in beta testing.
Samsung reportedly can’t even buy its own Exynos chips for less, adding to Galaxy S26 price hike
Surfacing reports suggest that Samsung held out as long as it could in previous years, but current RAM and chip...
Where in the world are people proud of their nation’s politics and economy, and why?
When people in 25 countries were asked what makes them proud of their country, at least some cited their political system and economy.
RWJBarnabas Health Names Odette Perriel Senior Vice President of Support Services
RWJBarnabas Health, the largest, most comprehensive academic health care system in New Jersey, has appointed Odette Perriel, MS, as Senior Vice President, Support Services. In this role, Ms. Perriel will oversee support services functions across RWJBarnabas Health facilities for Food & Nutrition, Environmental Services, and Patient Transportation.
New student loan limits could threaten diversity in nursing and public health programs
The proposal marks a severe escalation in what health experts say is the erosion of the U.S. health care system under the Trump administration.
Introducing Fenway Health’s New 3D Mammography Machine
We’re proud to introduce our new Pristina Via 3D mammography system — an investment in clearer answers, earlier detection, and a better patient experience. ...
NASA fired three rockets into the northern lights and the results are stunning
NASA has pulled off a high-flying aurora investigation, launching three rockets into the glowing northern lights over Alaska. One mission targeted mysterious dark patches called black auroras, while the twin GNEISS rockets created a 3D scan of the aurora’s electrical currents. All rockets reached their planned altitudes and returned strong data. The result: an unprecedented look at how these dazzling light shows are wired from space to sky.
Trump Required Hospitals To Post Their Prices for Patients. Mostly It’s the Industry Using the Data.
Politicians have pushed for price transparency in health care. But instead of patients shopping for services, it’s mostly health systems and insurers that are using the information, as fodder for negotiations over pay.
Local county environmental services to extend business hours due to outage
The Montgomery County Environmental Services has extended its business hours to accommodate customers in making payments due to an outage that has affected their vendor payment system.
Scientists warn! Gulf Stream collapse could trigger severe global disruption | - The Times of India
Science News: Scientists are again examining the strength of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation, the vast ocean system that moves warm water northwards.
Android Gets a New “Local File Backup” Feature for Google Drive
Google updated its Google System Services Release Notes page today and it introduces a new feature that adds some sort of local file backup via Google Drive. The specifics... #Google #GoogleDrive
Allegheny Health Network and Heritage Valley Health System plan merger
Allegheny Health Network and Heritage Valley Health System are planning a merger that would expand AHN's presence in Beaver County, adding two hospitals to its network.
Baystate announces elimination of over 100 positions
The region’s largest healthcare system has announced more job cuts.
Temple Health and Fox Chase Cancer Center Welcome Dr. James Stuart Ferriss as New Head of Gynecologic Surgical Oncology
Temple Health and Fox Chase Cancer Center are pleased to announce the hiring of James Stuart Ferriss, MD, FACOG, FACS, as System Chief of Gynecologic Oncology at Temple Health and Fox Chase Cancer Center.
Scientists discover "time crystals" that defy Newton’s third law
“Our system is remarkable because it’s incredibly simple,” said paper author and physicist David Grier of New York University.
Sutter Health adds AI decision support to healthcare workflows
With an artificial intelligence-powered medical search and decision support platform, the health system's physicians can access the latest clinical evidence for use in patient care.
We're creating cutting-edge AI science tools for Google DeepMind—and 3 million researchers across 190+ countries
Five years ago, our AlphaFold AI system solved the 50-year grand challenge of protein structure prediction. But that's not the whole story.
Novitec Admits This V12 Ferrari Actually Needed One More Thing
The multi million dollar Daytona SP3 gains power from a redesigned exhaust system that still uses the stock tailpipes
iOS 27 'Rave' Update to Clean Up Code, Could Boost Battery Life
Apple's iOS 27 update will prioritize cleaning up the operating system's internals, with engineers making changes that could result in better battery life, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. The effort is said to be similar to what Apple did with its Snow Leopard Mac update years ago, and will involve removing old code, rewriting existing features, and subtly upgrading apps to improve performance. The result should hopefully be a "snappier, more responsive" OS, says Gurman.
Robert Brenner, MD, President and CEO, Valley Health System, Honored by NJBIZ for His Impact on Healthcare in New Jersey
Valley Health System congratulates Robert Brenner, MD, MMM, FACHE, President and Chief Executive Officer of Valley Health System, for his recognition on the 2026 NJBIZ Power 100 list.
One in three people carry this brain parasite but the body has a kill switch
A parasite that may already be hiding in your brain has a shocking survival trick: it can infect the very immune cells sent to destroy it. Yet most people never get sick, and new research from UVA Health reveals why. Scientists discovered that when Toxoplasma gondii invades CD8+ T cells — key defenders of the immune system — those cells can trigger a self-destruct mechanism powered by an enzyme called caspase-8. By sacrificing themselves, the infected cells also wipe out the parasite inside them.
Idaho legislators face a choice between mental health programs that work or more reckless cuts
The Idaho Legislature can't claim to be concerned about prison overcrowding while cutting off the front-end systems that keep people out of it in the first place, write guest columnists Beth Markley and Donna Brundage.
Anti-system voters are turning on Trump over Epstein
And young Republicans are particularly enraged.
She moved to France and her $36,000 asthma drug dropped to $3,000
High medical bills, safer systems, and better quality of life are driving a growing wave of health-motivated expats.
Axis Health cuts three Durango staff members
Three staff members were laid off this week from Axis Health System’s Durango Integrated Healthcare clinic as part of a broader restructuring effort that eliminated a total of 13 positions across 11 c...
Scientists sound alarm over 'silent pandemic' that could kill more people than cancer by 2050: 'No one is speaking about it'
"Future mortality will depend on how health systems, policymakers, and societies address the risks now."
A Little Grime Can Boost Kids’ Health. But What Kind? | Science Friday
You may have heard that a little dirt is good for kids. It helps them build up their immune systems, and sets them on a path to future health. But what kind of filth does the trick? P...
Accelerating AI innovation in healthcare: real-world clinical research applications on the Mayo Clinic Platform
npj Health Systems - Accelerating AI innovation in healthcare: real-world clinical research applications on the Mayo Clinic Platform
Windows 11 KB5077181 fixes boot failures linked to failed updates
Microsoft says it has resolved a Windows 11 bug that caused some commercial systems to fail to boot with an "UNMOUNTABLE_BOOT_VOLUME" error after installing recent security updates, with the fix delivered in the February 2026 Patch Tuesday update.
How does Fort Worth help curtail health care costs? Panel to explore solutions
Fort Worth Report’s Candid Conversation event will bring health care system leaders to discuss local solutions on Feb. 18.
America can avoid a public health crisis by saving this one alert system
U.S. policymakers use a secret weapon to uncover widespread threats to public health. This tool enabled them to discover that Americans had high blood lead levels from leaded gasoline. It warned th…