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Clinton Halts Epstein Deposition After Republican Leaks Photo of Her Testifying
Hillary Clinton, the former secretary of state, had requested a public hearing if she was going to be forced to testify in the House Oversight Committee’s investigation, but the G.O.P. chairman had refused.
Gemini can now automate some multi-step tasks on Android
Gemini on Android will be able to automate tasks involving rideshare requests, or grocery or food delivery, says Google.
Requests swamp Ohio sports stadium fund as Cleveland soccer joins rush
Bengals, Blue Jacks, Guardians, Cavs, Cleveland soccer facilities among those lining up for state help
WhatsApp is finally working on scheduled messages
Meta is at last bringing scheduled messages to WhatsApp, delivering on one of the app’s most-requested features.
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
Venezuela receives more than 1,500 amnesty requests under new law
More than 370 political prisoners have already been granted amnesty under the US-backed legislation.
Suspended Napa County deputy who shared nude images of wife taken without her knowledge requests mental health diversion
Napa County sheriff’s Deputy James Fotherby is requesting mental health treatment as an alternative to potential jail time.
Speaker Johnson denies request for Jesse Jackson to lie in honor at the Capitol
The Republican-led House said Jesse Jackson cannot lie in honor in the U.S. Capitol. The NAACP criticized the decision.
Nevada legal battle against prediction markets it calls ‘unlicensed sports gambling’ is moving forward
A Nevada appeals court denied Kalshi’s request to block the state from taking civil action against it.
Planned Parenthood rolls out vasectomies at Mass. health centers
A playful Valentine’s Day announcement unveiled the long-requested service.
Tuning in: Music (and politics) by Request?
As we’ve included more voices in Music by Request, we sometimes get requests that are explicitly political or have a particular point of view about polarizing current events.
Lawmakers say they’ve been stonewalled by DHS, undercutting attempts to hold Trump officials accountable
Lawmakers who oversee the Department of Homeland Security say the agency has repeatedly stymied their requests for information in recent months, with even some Republicans alleging they’ve had phone calls go unanswered and data requests left to languish.
WhatsApp launches one of its most requested features for groups
WhatsApp just announced that Group Message History is rolling out now, which Meta says is one of its “most requested features.”
Today's podcast episode: The Consumerization of Small Business Lending: Federal and State Regulations Accelerate
On today’s Consumer Finance Monitor podcast, we are releasing an episode about a timely and wide-ranging discussion on one of the most significant and
Google Home's latest update brings long-requested automation tweaks and more
Google Home is getting a new update with several tweaks for automations, including new pre-defined actions, feedback tool, and more.
Avowed Celebrates Anniversary with Massive Update - and Comes to PlayStation 5
Happy anniversary Avowed! Today's major content update is packed with community-requested features, quality-of-life improvements, and much more for all platforms.
Google Messages is quietly addressing one of its most requested features
Don't want to copy the whole message? Soon, you won't have to.
Kennedy Promises Action, Though Not Regulation, on Ultraprocessed Foods
The health secretary said the Food and Drug Administration would “act on” a request from a former F.D.A. commissioner to close a loophole on food safety.
Infant Botulism Outbreak Testing Handled by Minnesota Public Health Laboratory
The final months of 2025 saw a national outbreak in infant botulism cases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
TAD: Remember to File Required Business Personal Property Renditions
If you cannot file your rendition by April 15, businesses must request an extension in writing via mail or through the Tarrant Appraisal District's website’s online account service no later than April 15, 2026.
Mecca Sports Bar in Denver under investigation for alleged prostitution
A Denver bar called Mecca Sports Bar has been under investigation for prostitution for several years. It's coming to light now because the city's Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection requested a hearing for the bar about their liquor license and dance cabaret license. Both are in limbo.ore arrests have been made.
It took two years, but Google released a YouTube app on Vision Pro
App arrives months after Google requested takedowns of third-party options.
Gillibrand urges FTC to examine impacts of AI on older Americans
The junior New York senator requested a briefing on the FTC’s inquiry into generative AI companions.
Google expands tools to let users remove sensitive data about themselves from Search
Users will be able to more easily request the removal of results that include private information or non-consensual explicit imagery.
Oversight chair Comer requests wide range of business documents from Ilhan Omar’s husband
The sharp valuation of two companies owned in part by the lawmaker’s husband, Tim Mynett, has led Trump to suggest Omar has committed fraud.
KB5074105: Windows 11 asks for admin access to open Storage settings, but breaks Temporary files cleanup for some files/folders
Windows 11 KB5074105 adds a UAC prompt for Storage settings, but Settings can’t clean Windows Update files anymore.
Democrats just handed RFK Jr. billions more than he asked for. It was a big risk.
Lawmakers rejected huge health cuts President Donald Trump requested. Kennedy’s diverting the funds to pet projects and red states.
Warner calls on Tulsi Gabbard to testify about Georgia election center search
Gabbard said in a letter posted to social media Monday that the president had requested she be present at the search
James Harden Shockingly Requests Trade From Clippers: Report
Los Angeles Clippers All-Star James Harden and the team are trying to find a deal by Thursday's trade deadline.
Toy Association Advocates for Science-Based Approach to California Microplastics Review
On January 30, The Toy Association™ submitted comments to the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) in response to the agency’s request for information regarding consumer products that contain or generate microplastics, including c
Trump says federal government won’t step into protests in Democratic-led cities ‘until they ask us for help’
President Donald Trump said Saturday that he has instructed Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem not to intervene in protests or unrest in Democratic-led cities unless local officials formally request assistance, amid criticism over heavy-handed immigration enforcement tactics used by the feds.
Trump says federal government won’t step into Democratic-led city protests ‘until they ask us for help’
President Donald Trump said Saturday that he has instructed Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem not to intervene in protests or unrest in Democratic-led cities unless local officials formally request assistance, while vowing an aggressive federal response to protect government property.
Judge blocks additional citizenship provisions in latest setback to Trump's election executive order
A federal judge has blocked certain federal agencies from requesting citizenship status when distributing voter registration forms
NotebookLM's Best Feature Is Finally Available On iOS And Android
NotebookLM has proven to be an incredibly popular AI tool for Android and iOS users, and now it's finally getting its most requested feature.
Ferris wheel, Berglund Center, Science Museum; Rasoul requests $600k from General Assembly for study to improve Roanoke
Delegate Sam Rasoul is requesting $600,000 from the General Assembly to evaluate improvement ideas for Roanoke, including a Ferris wheel on Center in the Square. Rasoul emphasizes the importance of creative investment for Roanoke's redevelopment, focusing on feasibility and structural studies.
Prosecution requests July 1 state trial for Mangione in health care executive's killing
Defense attorneys for Luigi Mangione, charged with fatally shooting UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in 2024, said the date is unrealistic with a federal case also pending.
Chicago mother claims unsafe conditions in apartment are harming her children's health
A mother of four living in a subsidized housing apartment on the 4800 block of North Avers says unsafe conditions inside her unit are putting her children’s health at risk — and despite months of repair requests, she says little has changed.
Oklahoma education department seeks $23M budget increase to address rising health benefit costs
Oklahoma's new state superintendent, Lindel Fields, has requested an additional $23 million from lawmakers to address rising health benefit costs in the education budget.
Autism Science Foundation Releases Request for Applications for 2026 Undergraduate Summer Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders
New York, NY — January 27, 2026 — The Autism Science Foundation (ASF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and funding innovative autism research, has released its 2026 Request for Applications for Undergraduate Summer Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders, a competitive funding opportunity designed to support undergraduate students pursuing basic or clinical autism research during
Iowa politics: Proposal would require all Iowa police officers to cooperate with ICE
House File 2041 says local and state agencies "shall cooperate and work with United States immigration and Customs Enforcement and any other federal immigration-related agencies when requested.”
Your BitLocker-secured Windows PC isn't so secure after all - unless you do this
Microsoft says it may give your encryption key to law enforcement upon a valid request. Here's how to protect your privacy.
Scotland replace Bangladesh at T20 World Cup after boycott
Scotland will replace Bangladesh after their request to play their matches outside of India was denied by the ICC
WhatsApp to let users share recent chat history with new group members
This frequently requested feature is now available to a small set users who have access to the WhatsApp beta on TestFlight.
Titans request interview with Cowboys' assistant for DC job
The Tennessee Titans have requested an interview with Dallas Cowboys defensive line coach Aaron Whitecotton for defensive coordinator opening.
'The ultimate insult': Trump diminishing NATO's Afghanistan involvement causes distress in UK
Trump said in an interview in Davos on Thursday that he wasn't sure NATO would support the United States if and when requested. He said that troops "stayed a little back a little off the front lines."
Industrial rezoning near Ankeny clears hurdle
The Polk County Zoning Commission recommended that supervisors deny the request.
Alarm as US mulls prioritising citizens in research funding
A senior White House official said the Trump administration is considering ways to prioritise research funding to American citizens, triggering alarm in the research community that the country could destroy its century-long status as a magnet for overseas talent.Michael Kratsios, director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), said last week that it is “important for us to continue to emphasise the use of federal R&D dollars towards American scientists and technologists that are staffed by Americans in their labs.” Asked about support for Chinese students during a Congressional hearing, Kratsios went on to say that in future funding announcements, the OSTP would “emphasise” that “we're funding American students.”The precise meaning of his impromptu comments, and what they could mean in policy terms, isn’t yet clear. The OSTP did not respond to multiple requests for clarification from Science|Business.But given that US science and technology has relied on overseas talent for the past century, Kratsios’s words have alarmed former US science officials.Immigrants have made up around 30-40% of US Nobel Prize winners since the 1940s, for example. Except for some sensitive projects, countries typically grant research funding on a nationality-blind basis, lest they deter foreign scientists from immigrating. “If director Kratsios’s statements are taken literally and become official policy of the White House, [research-intensive] universities will likely have to close labs if not entire research divisions,” said David Biggs, a former science and technology official in the US State Department. In their most extreme interpretation, Kratsios’s comments would imply that foreign scientists established in the US would see access to funding curtailed. This would “result in many world-leading professors who work in the United States in fields that this administration considers a priority (like fusion energy, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing) leaving the country,” said Cole Donovan, a former US science diplomat, and now associate director at the Federation of American Scientists.CripplingHowever, given the context of the conversation, Kratsios may have been referring more narrowly to funding for doctoral or postdoctoral students. At the hearing, he said he wanted to see labs staffed by US citizens. But even this would have devastating consequences for the US science system, say former officials, because the country is so dependent on early-career foreign researchers. Recent statistics show that nearly half of those in the US with a PhD in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) are considered short-term visitors, or non-residents in the official terminology. If this included residents who are not yet citizens, the proportion would likely be even higher. “Foreign PhD students are really a significant and core part of the university STEM workforce, and postdocs is similarly large,” said Donovan. Preventing US-based academics from hiring them from overseas would be a serious blow, he said. “If it's the case that this administration intends to limit funding to labs staffed only with US citizens, the effect will be to cripple the American scientific enterprise,” said Chris Marcum, a former OSTP official. “To think that these researchers can simply be replaced is a pipe dream. The labs will close,” said Marcum. Go elsewhereAround half of US-trained postdocs are foreign-born, said Biggs. “If these top international students cannot get funding to do their research, or even if they hear that funding for foreign students has been greatly restricted and will be super competitive, they will no longer choose to study in the US and will go elsewhere.” It’s unclear for now if Kratsios’s comments will translate into a real policy shift. But they could add to turmoil in the US science system since Donald Trump took over as president one year ago. Related articlesNIH turmoil risks reciprocal EU-US access to health research fundingUS set to close office responsible for global science and technology dealsTrump halts new NIH grants to international health-research partnersSince then, nearly 8,000 grants at the National Institutes of Health and National Science Foundation have been frozen or terminated, Naturereports. Courts have overturned most of these cancellations, but the disruption caused remains significant. Both those agencies have also dished out around a quarter fewer grants this year than normal, the journal reported. International student enrolment is also down by 17%. The Trump administration also proposes to cut research budgets by around a third, although Congress may mollify the cuts.
Alarm over US plan to prioritise citizens in research funding
The US’s leading science official has said the country will focus its research spending on scientists with US citizenship, triggering alarm that the country could destroy its century-long status as a magnet for overseas talent.Michael Kratsios, director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), said last week that it is “important for us to continue to emphasise the use of federal R&D dollars towards American scientists and technologists that are staffed by Americans in their labs.” Asked about support for Chinese students during a Congressional hearing, Kratsios went on to say that in future funding announcements, the OSTP would “emphasise” that “we're funding American students.”Kratsios’s precise meaning, and what it could mean in policy terms, isn’t yet clear. The OSTP did not respond to multiple requests for clarification from Science|Business.But given that US science and technology has relied on overseas talent for the past century, Kratsios’s words have stunned former US science officials.Immigrants have made up around 30-40% of US Nobel Prize winners since the 1940s, for example. Except for some sensitive projects, countries typically grant research funding on a nationality-blind basis, lest they deter foreign scientists from immigrating. “If director Kratsios’s statements are taken literally and become official policy of the White House, [research-intensive] universities will likely have to close labs if not entire research divisions,” said David Biggs, a former science and technology official in the US State Department. In their most extreme interpretation, Kratsios’s comments would imply that foreign scientists established in the US would see access to funding curtailed. This would “result in many world-leading professors who work in the United States in fields that this administration considers a priority (like fusion energy, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing) leaving the country,” said Cole Donovan, a former US science diplomat, and now associate director at the Federation of American Scientists.CripplingHowever, given the context of the conversation, Kratsios may have been referring more narrowly to funding for doctoral or postdoctoral students. At the hearing, he said he wanted to see labs staffed by US citizens. But even this would have devastating consequences for the US science system, say former officials, because the country is so dependent on early-career foreign researchers. Recent statistics show that nearly half of those in the US with a PhD in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) are considered short-term visitors, or non-residents in the official terminology. If this included residents who are not yet citizens, the proportion would likely be even higher. “Foreign PhD students are really a significant and core part of the university STEM workforce, and postdocs is similarly large,” said Donovan. Preventing US-based academics from hiring them from overseas would be a serious blow, he said. “If it's the case that this administration intends to limit funding to labs staffed only with US citizens, the effect will be to cripple the American scientific enterprise,” said Chris Marcum, a former OSTP official. “To think that these researchers can simply be replaced is a pipe dream. The labs will close,” said Marcum. Go elsewhereAround half of US-trained postdocs are foreign-born, said Biggs. “If these top international students cannot get funding to do their research, or even if they hear that funding for foreign students has been greatly restricted and will be super competitive, they will no longer choose to study in the US and will go elsewhere.” It’s unclear for now if Kratsios’s comments will translate into a real policy shift. But they could add to turmoil in the US science system since Donald Trump took over as president one year ago. Since then, nearly 8,000 grants at the National Institutes of Health and National Science Foundation have been frozen or terminated, Naturereports. Courts have overturned most of these cancellations, but the disruption caused remains significant. Both those agencies have also dished out around a quarter fewer grants this year than normal, the journal reported. International student enrolment is also down by 17%. The Trump administration also proposes to cut research budgets by around a third, although Congress may mollify the cuts.
What’s in Congress’ sweeping health care deal: PBM reform, telehealth, science funding
The health department would get $116.8 billion in funding, a modest increase over 2025 but $33 billion more than Trump requested.
Duke sues star QB Darian Mensah in wake of last-minute transfer portal entry request
Mensah led the Blue Devils to an ACC title in 2025 and is expected to be the transfer portal's most coveted quarterback upon entry
Cyberpunk 2077 VR mod flatlines, after CD Projekt file DMCA strike and request its creator drop their paywall
A paid Cyberpunk 2077 VR mod has had a DMCA takedown filed against it by CD Projekt.
Stiddy surge: Denver sports store flooded with requests following Broncos QB update
Just west of Empower Field at Mile High, a rush for new Denver Broncos gear kicked off within moments of the team announcing that Jarrett Stidham will replace the injured Bo Nix as Sunday's AFC Championship starter.
Minnesota bags almost all of requested $200M federal grant to boost rural health care
The state must distribute $193 million to rural health care providers and prove the money improves care in 2026 before it can ask for more in 2027.
Report: Chiefs are requesting permission to interview Eric Bienemy
Kansas City’s former offensive coordinator is a candidate to return.
Steelers complete first known head coach interview
The Pittsburgh Steelers completed their first known head coach interview as the list of requests grows.
GOP request to stop Whitmer admin from spending blocked funds granted
A Court of Claims judge stopped the spending of funding previously disapproved by House Republicans as a legal battle over that move plays out.
Arlington Heights to Springfield: Pass megaproject bill or wave goodbye to Bears
Arlington Heights Mayor Jim Tinaglia said the Bears' request for stadium property tax certainty is a reasonable ask from a franchise proposing the largest private development in the state's history.
When a credit report can hurt your chances of being hired
A background check can sink a job offer if prospective employers don’t like what they see. While they can request to have a lot of information about a job candidate’s past included in such a report, increasingly they are no longer allowed to request people’s credit history.
Congress passes bill to fund U.S. science agencies, rebuffing Trump’s requested cuts
The Senate voted to provide billions more to NASA, NOAA and the National Science Foundation than the president had asked for.
Jonathan Kuminga requests trade from Warriors on the first day he's eligible to be dealt
Jonathan Kuminga's time with the Warriors appears to finally be over.
Smithsonian hands over documents as its leader works to balance “principal and pragmatism” in facing White House demands
As the Smithsonian faced a deadline to comply with the White House’s request for extensive documents about its museum exhibitions, Lonnie Bunch III, the historian who leads the institution, has been treading a careful line between maintaining independence and complying with the Trump administration’s demands.
NFL head coach interview requests tracker: Updates, news and rumors
The latest news, rumors and updates for NFL coaching changes and searches.
Mobile Health Unit at Forest Public Library
The Mobile Health Unit will be providing services at Forest Public Library. Request an appointment and get more information.
Facing $25M request, Oregon lawmakers again propose delaying historic campaign finance law
State officials have less than a year to stand up key provisions of the law.
KHSAA requests judging review for state cheerleading competition
KHSAA officials are working with judges who oversaw a state cheerleading competition after concerns arose about scoring.
Judge rejects fired Rockstar staff's request for interim relief
The employment tribunal found it unlikely that workers were primarily fired for their union activity
Oakland community calls on city to prevent illegal dumping, citing health impacts
On the 311 Service Request Hotline, the city of Oakland reported more than 25,000 calls for service at illegal dumping sites in 2025. And so far this year, they received more than 150 calls.
NFL ignores 49ers' playoff scheduling request for divisional round
San Francisco will be playing on short rest against Seahawks
Hamburg accuse former sporting director of not complying with investigation into sexual harassment allegations
Hamburg originally announced Kuntz’s departure on January 2, stating that he requested a release from his contract after Christmas.
Western Pacific Region achieves milestone: 19 countries complete comprehensive health information system assessments
The Health Information and Digital Health (HID) unit in the WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific has successfully supported 19 countries, covering 99% of the Region’s population, to conduct comprehensive health information system (HIS) assessments, surpassing the regional target of 15 set for 2025 and advancing efforts toward universal health coverage. Using SCORE, a technical package of essential interventions, recommended actions, tool and resources developed by WHO and partners to address challenges in meeting HIS needs, these assessments systematically assess health data availability and quality, enabling countries to monitor trends, identify and respond to emerging health challenges, and improve policies and programmes for healthier families, communities and societies. The first round of SCORE assessments were conducted between 2019-2021 in 14 countries in the Region and over 130 countries globally. The second round of SCORE assessments were conducted between 2024-2025.SCORE assessments are a key priority identified by Member States and WHO at all levels, including within WHO-Country/Multi-Country Cooperation Strategies, the Regional Vision Weaving Health for Families, Communities and Societies in the Western Pacific Region (2025–2029), and the WHO Fourteenth General Programme of Work (GPW 14, 2025–2028). Within the Regional Vision, implementing SCORE assessments is a key action for technology and innovation to advance health equity (strand 5).The SCORE for Health Data technical package is based on five key interventions, represented by the acronym SCORE. Interventions S, C and O focus on strengthening core data sources. Survey (S) covers population-based health surveys, surveillance systems and censuses, including their capacity to monitor health-related SDGs. Count (C) focuses on birth, death and cause of death registration as parts of a functional CRVS system. Optimize (O) addresses routine health service data and key health service inputs such as health financing and health workforce.Interventions R and E focus on data use for action. Review (R) examines regular analytical reviews of health sector progress and performance, together with national analytical capacity. Enable (E) looks at the policy, governance, and digital foundations needed to support effective data use.The Western Pacific Region shows relatively strong performance in the Review (R) and Count (C) interventions. Most countries in the Region demonstrate good analytical reporting and institutional capacity for analysis and learning. More than two-thirds of countries show more mature CRVS systems, driven by improvements in birth and death registration. However, medical certification of cause-of-death remains a key gap, with limited or low coverage in over half of countries in the Region.Performance under the Survey (S) intervention is mixed. While surveillance systems are generally strong, several countries in the Region continue to face challenges in implementing their surveys and censuses. Monitoring health-related SDGs is still a challenge for more than a third of countries in the Region.The greatest challenges are observed in the Optimize (O) and Enable (E) interventions. More than half of countries have lower maturity levels in routine health service and resource systems. Two-thirds of countries also face challenges with effective use of data and evidence for policy and action, largely due to gaps in digital infrastructure, governance and legislation for health data systems, and especially in data and sharing.  As part of the SCORE methodology, multi-stakeholder consultations and validation workshops were conducted in many countries to review findings and plan strategies for HIS strengthening. The HID unit continues to provide targeted support to facilitate dialogue and assist countries in developing HIS improvement plans. These plans guide governments and partners to align investments and coordinate efforts for maximum impact.WHO also assists countries with tailored technical support to address key gaps as requested by countries/national health authorities. SCORE assessments should be conducted periodically to monitor progress in HIS strengthening, although progress across addressing gaps identified in SCORE should be continually tracked as countries implement improvements.Additional countries will be supported to implement SCORE in 2026. The Regional Vision delivery-for-impact target, endorsed by Member States, is for all countries and areas to have implemented SCORE assessments and have an increased SCORE index by 2029 while WHO is aiming for 80% of Member States in the Region to conduct round two assessments. Countries yet to complete assessments are therefore encouraged to contact the HID unit at the WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific for tailored support.The implementation of SCORE HIS assessments in the Western Pacific Region was supported by The Gates Family Foundation.
Mobile Health Unit at Amex Food and Deli
The Mobile Health Unit will be providing services at Amex Food and Deli. Request an appointment and get more information.
Raiders request interview with 2 rising star Rams offensive assistants
Raiders request interview with 2 rising star Rams assistants
Venezuela releases imprisoned political figures and activists, which Trump says U.S. requested
President Donald Trump said in a TV interview the releases came at the request of the United States and praised the government of acting President Delcy Rodríguez.
Google Photos may finally let you choose when your pictures are backed up
Google Photos is getting a touch of Expressive UI and a long-requested feature.
iPhone Air 2 could get two of the most requested feature upgrades
Apple may have fixes coming for iPhone Air 2 that address two major concerns with the first model. Here are the details.
Sean Combs Requested a Pardon in a Letter, but Trump Is Unimpressed
President Trump told The New York Times in an interview that he was not considering pardoning the music mogul.
State assemblyman calls on N.Y. comptroller to investigate National Grid charges
State Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara sent a formal request to state Comptroller Tom DiNapoli calling for a review.
House, Senate lawmakers ignore requested Trump cuts at key science agencies
Congressional appropriators tossed aside the Trump administration’s requested cuts at NOAA, NIST, NSF and NASA in fiscal year 2026 funding bills released Monday.
NFL coach, GM interview tracker: Interview requests, updates, rumors
The latest news, rumors and updates for NFL coaching changes and searches.
Spotify is finally bringing your friends’ Listening Activity to mobile
Spotify is adding Listening Activity and Request to Jam to its mobile app.
Introducing Listening Activity and Request to Jam in Messages on Spotify
We know people use Spotify not just to listen, but to share the songs, podcasts, and audiobooks they love with their friends and family. When we launched Messages last year, we gave users a place to do that right in the app. Since then, almost 40 million users have sent nearly 340 million messages, showing...
NFL interview requests tracker: Who are teams targeting as their new head coach, GM and more?
T20 World Cup 2026: Bangladesh refuse to travel to India and request matches be moved amid political tensions
Bangladesh will not travel to India for the T20 World Cup next month "under current conditions" and request their matches be moved elsewhere.
Russia files diplomatic request asking US to stop pursuing oil tanker
Russia filed a formal diplomatic request that the United States stop pursuing an oil tanker originally bound for Venezuela that has evaded US custody for almost two weeks, two sources familiar with the matter told CNN.
Claremont zoning board to review home winemaking business request
Homeowner in Claremont seeks special exception to establish a home winemaking business, offering wine production, sales, and educational experiences.
Arts and Entertainment Agenda, Jan. 2-8
Shelly Berg & Tierney Sutton ‘By Request Only,’ Jan. 2 Paul JAS Center presents Shelly Berg & Tierny Sutton on Friday, Jan. 2, at 6:30 and 8:45 p.m. as part of the winter JAS Café...
The year the Capitol Christmas tree was delivered by a senator
The voice on the phone was familiar, but the request was not. It was the latter part of September 2000. The person on the other end of the line was U.S. Sen. Ben Nighthorse Campbell. Over the years I had a number of calls with Ben as he served in different elected roles, so I was […]
Trump administration retreats in Newsom lawsuit over National Guard deployment
In a brief filing with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit on Tuesday, Justice Department lawyers said they no longer oppose lifting a partial administrative stay and formally withdrew their request to keep California National Guard under federal control while the appeal proceeds.
Nintendo explains how Metroid Prime 4 came to be, talks development challenges - game was a request from Nintendo of America
Nintendo has provided some noteworthy insight into the origins of Metroid Prime 4: Beyond as well as challenges with the project. Metroid Prime 4 is one of the more fascinating games the company has put out in recent years, and its development cycle is a big reason why. Although the game was announced in 2017, it only just released this...
Google May Finally Let Users Change Embarrassing Old Gmail Addresses
Updated support pages in multiple languages suggest a long-requested feature is quietly rolling out worldwide.
Georgia requests $1.4B to transform rural health care
The Kemp administration is applying for a one-time federal grant to be awarded by New Year's Eve to fund the GREAT Health program.
Google is rolling out a new feature allowing users to change their Gmail address
Google says it is rolling out a feature that lets users change their Gmail addresses in a long-requested update to their email policy.
New York Enacts FAIR Business Practices Act Expanding State Consumer Protection Law
On December 19, New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed into law S8416, amending New York’s General Business Law to enact the Fostering Affordability and
Gemini will let you keep working in other apps as it processes your request
You should soon be able to resume using an app after activating Gemini, without having to start over with Gemini from scratch.
Georgia health officials map out $1.4 billion plan for new federal rural health funds
State officials have introduced a $1.4 billion plan to improve rural health outcomes over the next five years under the federal Rural Health Transformation Program created as part of this summer’s budget reconciliation bill. In a 96-page application, officials from the state’s Department of Community Health requested funds to improve access to primary and specialty […]
Trump denies Colorado disaster aid for wildfires, prompting accusations of ‘political games’
Colorado politicians on both sides of the aisle are pushing back after President Donald Trump’s administration denied two disaster declaration requests that would have unlocked federal funds for recovery efforts. Gov. Jared Polis said in...
Ask Pinstripe Alley: Yankees mailbag questions request
Let’s get one last mailbag in for 2025, shall we?
Colorado governor accuses Trump of playing 'political games' after FEMA denies disaster requests
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis accused President Donald Trump of playing "political games" after FEMA denied disaster relief for wildfires and flooding.
Colorado governor accuses Trump of playing "political games" after disaster request denials
Abigail Jackson, a White House spokesperson, said Trump responds to each request for federal disaster assistance “with great care and consideration, ensuring American tax dollars are used appropriately and efficiently"