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Scientists Say Most Snake Species Are Cannibals, Breaking a Basic Law of Nature
A study analyzed 503 documented cases of serpent cannibalism and found that the behavior can be seen in different snakes across the world in different contexts, whether between mates, siblings, or rivals.
Expert Q&A: Why climate health research matters more than ever under new federal stance
UC Berkeley’s Dr. David J. X. González on what the recent reversal of the “Endangerment Finding” means for public health.
Announcing a Transformational Gift for Mental Health - UCLA Office of the Chancellor
Chancellor Frenk shared this message with the Bruin community. Dear Bruin Community: We are pleased to announce a landmark $100 million gift from Stewart and Lynda Resnick that will help expand world-class behavioral health care at UCLA Health and support...
Talking Up the Science of Food Systems
With an academic foundation rooted in animal and poultry science, Bavisha Gulabrai is leveraging a doctorate in agricultural education and human sciences to help people better understand how food is produced and why those practices matter.
Sarah McCammon joins Third Way as Senior Fellow
Third Way welcomes journalist Sarah McCammon to the organization as a Senior Fellow, adding a fresh voice to its Moderate Power Project, the largest new center-left effort to bolster moderates since the 2024 election.
WPP's turnaround plan: 3 key takeaways on what it means for staff
There are big changes ahead at WPP. The British ad group is simplifying its structure and planning hundreds of millions of dollars in cost savings.
Will drivers still make a difference in F1 in 2026?
Have F1's new rules damaged its status as the ultimate challenge? Andrew Benson assesses what the drivers are having to do differently and whether skill still matters.
Davidson wins 67-56 against Duquesne
PITTSBURGH (AP) Parker Friedrichsen scored 16 points as Davidson beat Duquesne 67-56 on Wednesday night.
She showed warnings of a failing behavioral health system in rural AZ. Her crisis turned deadly.
"She was failed by the system as much as society was." As Angela Bouck crossed the center line in a fatal 2025 crash, her history of bipolar disorder & lack of a mental competency evaluation reveals a breakdown in Arizona’s behavioral healthcare system.
How prison staffing shortages are driving away mental health staff
Correctional officers are leaving their jobs at federal prisons. And when these prisons are understaffed – psychologists and other staff are asked to act as guards. Recent reporting from The Marshall Project says it’s pushing mental health professionals out of prisons. For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Email us at considerthis@npr.org.This episode was produced by Jason Fuller and Karen Zamora, with audio engineering by Ted Mebane.It was edited by Jeanette Woods and Courtney Dorning.Our executive producer is Sami Yenigun.
Hiring vs. contracting becomes a high-stakes business decision
As companies navigate growth, uncertainty and rising labor costs, deciding between hiring an employee or engaging an independent contractor has become a strategic choice, not just an HR one, Fast Company writes. A panel of executives outlines 14 considerations, from whether the work is core and ongoing or project-based and time-bound. The guidance centers on […]
Is the FCC 'equal time' rule leading to media censorship
The Federal Communications Commission is investigating ABC over its show The View's airing of an interview with a Texas politician. Stephen Colbert moved his interview with the same candidate off broadcast, all because of the FCC’s "equal time" rule. We discuss the rule, possible changes to it, and how it could all affect the way Americans get their information.This episode: voting correspondent Miles Parks, media correspondent David Folkenflik, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro.This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.
What The 2026 State Of The Union Signals For Small Business
What the 2026 State of the Union means for small businesses navigating delayed budgets, regulatory changes and economic pressure.
Javier Palomarez, USHBC President, Warns State of the Union Is Disconnected from Small Business Reality
WASHINGTON, Feb. 25, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Last night’s State of the Union address focused heavily on economic momentum, stock market performance, energy policy, immigration enforcement, and tariffs. While President Trump emphasized record market highs and economic resilience, recent polling among Hispanic business owners suggests a widening gap between macroeconomic indicators and kitchen-table reality. According to the United States Hispanic Business Council (USHBC)’s most recent survey of
Compromises for affordability ahead: Code leak spills details on new MacBook
Nobody claimed it was going to be equivalent to a MacBook Pro or even a MacBook Air. A code leak details the budget MacBook having an A18 Pro chip, limits on charging, no True Tone, and more.
House votes down Senate air safety legislation
The aviation safety bill would have required aircraft to carry advanced location tracking technology, which could have prevented last year’s deadly midair collision
Scientists Just Caught Trees Firing Off Ultraviolet Sparkles During Thunderstorms
Scientists have observed "coronae" on treetops for the first time, confirming the phenomenon occurs in the wild.
Science Policy Education Should Start on Campus
Although modern science has only been around for a few centuries, we’ve become quite adept at training students in the scientific method
Economists, business leaders react to Trump's State of the Union speech
Business leaders and top economists weighed in on Trump's inflation claims, tariff push, and his plan for a federally backed retirement savings plan.
WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region and Pan American Health Organization sign agreement to strengthen hospital resilience
25 February 2026 (EMRO/PAHO)—WHO’s Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean (EMRO) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) have signed a Memorandum of Arrangement to strengthen collaboration on making hospitals safer and better prepared for health emergencies and disasters. At a time of growing instability and constrained resources, this collaboration positions hospitals as a dependable anchor for communities, ensuring they remain open, functional, and capable of delivering life-saving care when it matters most.
Baseball Entertainment
I got to Saturday’s Jeff Davis baseball game a little late, but just in time to witness what turned out to be some of the most entertaining moments of Jeff Davis’ 6-5 win over Callaway. It was an odd event. Odd because Jeff Davis and Callaway have two of the best small town baseball programs…
Having to pee makes you scientifically better at video games
Plus what space smells like and other weird things we learned this week.
World Baseball Classic: Risky business for Phillies' rotation?
The Phillies send more starters to the WBC than any club. Here’s what that means for a rotation already navigating uncertainty.
Promises made, payments collected: Dozens of Iowa families want answers from Ignit Sports
DES MOINES, Iowa — A youth sports dream has seemingly unraveled for dozens of Central Iowa families after a Grimes-based sports facility abruptly shut its doors, allegedly leaving athletes wi…
Luke Thompson and Yerin Ha Are a Dashing Duo in London, Plus Snoop Dogg, Kate Hudson, Octavia Spencer and More
Luke Thompson and Yerin Ha are a dashing duo in London, plus Snoop Dogg, Kate Hudson, Octavia Spencer and more. From London to Los Angeles, and everywhere in between, see what your favorite stars are up to
Handicapping a Gavin Newsom-Kamala Harris presidential fight
The Democrats rose together through San Francisco politics, sharing donors and, for a time, campaign strategists. A fight for their party's nomination would bring their private jostling into the open.
EU’s tech ban; China’s mysterious Nantianmen project: 7 science highlights
From a leading biologist leaving US for China to a semiconductor breakthrough, here are some highlights from SCMP’s recent science reporting.
Trump staged a State of the Union spectacle. But he couldn’t escape political gravity
President Donald Trump went to a hockey victory party on Tuesday night and a State of the Union Address broke out.
Trump’s State of the Union left some viewers unconvinced that he’ll lower cost of living, CNN poll finds
President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address drew largely positive marks from a heavily Republican audience, according to a CNN poll conducted by SSRS.
Robinson, Edmonds lead TCU over Arizona State 90-78
FORT WORTH, Texas (AP) Micah Robinson scored 20 points, Xavier Edmonds added 17 and TCU rolled to a 90-78 victory over Arizona State on Tuesday night.
Hill, Ball State beat UMass 74-73 in OT
MUNCIE, Ind. (AP) Davion Hill scored 26 points and Armoni Zeigler made the game-winning layup with 16 seconds left in overtime and Ball State beat UMass 74-73 on Tuesday.
Gavin Stone and Dodgers perfect so far this spring
Gavin Stone had a really promising first outing in his return from shoulder reconstruction surgery
Why did AI ‘science fiction’ spur market panic? We asked a behavioral-finance expert to find out.
Amid high AI valuations and fears of software displacement, a blog post from Citrini Research ignited a selloff as investors tried to front-run the exit
‘Teen takeover’ that sparked gun violence impacts Jacksonville Beach businesses
A weekend “teen takeover” event in Jacksonville Beach erupted in violence as gunfire injured five teenagers, prompting a swift police response and forcing local businesses to lock down, disrupting a nearby music festival and leaving the community shaken.
WBD considers partnering with David Ellison, Paramount over Netflix
David Ellison's Paramount Skydance has a new offer for WBD that may force Netflix to pay more money, or drop its pursuit altogether.
Touchscreen OLED MacBook Pro Coming in 2026 With Dynamic Island and Redesigned macOS Controls
The rumored touchscreen OLED MacBook Pro that Apple has in development will adopt the iPhone's Dynamic Island and a hole-punch camera, reports Bloomberg. The Dynamic Island will replace the notch, leaving more available screen space for content. As with the iPhone's Dynamic Island, the Mac Dynamic Island will be interactive and it will contextually expand based on the app or Mac feature in use. Apple is updating macOS to make it more touch friendly.
Atrium Health Navicent ends December visitor and masking restrictions at 7 a.m. tomorrow
Atrium Health Navicent will be easing masking and visitor policies amid the decline in respiratory illnesses.Starting tomorrow at 7 a.m., all Atrium Health loc
State of the Union offers Trump a chance to make the case for his foreign policy approach
President Donald Trump's State of the Union address is expected to tilt heavily on domestic issues, but it's also a chance for the Republican to make the case for his foreign policy efforts to Americans who are increasingly demonstrating uneasiness about his priorities.
How one AI company is helping businesses navigate Trump’s new tariff chaos following the Supreme Court ruling
Plus Anthropic accuses Chinese AI rivals of using Claude's answers to train their own models
Paramount bets that politics, price will win it Warner Bros.
David Ellison’s new bid puts the media scion back in the running for a company that should have been his from the start.
US re-asserts 2025 strikes ‘obliterated’ Iran’s nuclear programme
The White House comment comes after a senior Trump aide said Iran is a week away from having material for nuclear bomb.
Your next Mac Mini might be made in the US
It's the latest example of Tim Cook leaning into the made-in-America theme as Apple navigates tariffs during Trump's second term.
FedEx joins other U.S. companies, seeks a full refund after Trump tariffs are ruled illegal
FedEx said in a filing with the U.S. Court of International Trade that they have "suffered injury" from having to pay the tariffs
Octavia Spencer Talks New Film 'Tow,' Prioritizing Her Health, More
Actor Octavia Spencer joins TODAY to talk about her new movie, “Tow,” with a star-studded cast, including Rose Byrne, Ariana DeBose and more. She also reflects on 14 years since winning an Oscar for her role in “The Help.” Then, she discusses living with type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure and how she's raising awareness about the related risks and the importance of testing for early signs of kidney damage. (Sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim)
Louisiana ranks last in the U.S. for women and children health. See how other states compare.
A 2025 report on women and children's health finds encouraging gains in children's well-being across a range of measures, as well as in some maternal health behaviors. However, these advances were offset by worsening mortality rates among children of all ages and continued increases in maternal mortality. See the state data.
Cardinal Health report highlights cost savings and provider confidence in biosimilars
/PRNewswire/ -- Cardinal Health (NYSE: CAH) today released its 2026 Biosimilars Report: Driving access and patient outcomes in physician practices, which...
Exclusive: Handl Health raises $14.2M for health plan AI
As self-insured employers navigate price increases, the company is aiming to offer customers more customization.
Essay: Gavin Newsom: They told me it was political suicide. I did it anyway
In an exclusive excerpt from his new memoir, Governor Gavin Newsom recalls how George W. Bush’s 2004 State of the Union inadvertently sparked a revolution in California civil rights.
Why Gavin Newsom refuses to be a "bystander" in this political moment
What does the Democratic leader see for himself in the years to come?
Increased mental health demands extend to Ohio medical professionals
Ohio’s mental health landscape is consistently seeing increases in demand, including among medical professionals like nurses and physicians, who are asking for more help.
Senne Lammens: David Moyes makes bold claim about United goalkeeper
Manchester United registered a hard-fought win away to Everton, opening up a three-point lead over Chelsea and Liverpool.Benjamin Sesko came off the bench to score United’s winner with a first-time ...
Former Eagles offensive coordinator joins the Rams
Philadelphia’s former OC and QB coach is leaving the division.
Newsom blasted by CA GOP Chair over viral clip labeled 'racist' by critics: 'He should be embarrassed'
California GOP chairwoman accuses Gov. Gavin Newsom of condescending remarks after viral clip showed discussing his poor SAT score with Atlanta mayor.
Finally off the schneid, Mavericks face struggling Nets
In the month that passed between their last two wins, the Dallas Mavericks tweaked their roster by dealing Anthony Davis and lost Cooper Flagg to a foot injury, but still finished games with the same frustrating result until Sunday night.
Understanding human behaviour for pandemic preparedness with epigames
Nature Health - Understanding human behaviour for pandemic preparedness with epigames
Google cuts access to Antigravity for some OpenClaw users citing malicious usage
What this does highlight is the disconnect between companies like Google and OpenClaw users. OpenClaw offered many interesting possibilities for creating workflows with agents.
Adolescent Social Health May Foretell Loneliness, Aggressive Behavior, Study Suggests
Teens who are lonely and those who experience conflict in their home life are more likely to act aggressively toward peers or become victims themselves. These are some of the findings in a new University of California, Davis, study that creates a detailed picture of children’s social lives by identifying patterns and predictors of adolescent social health.
Adolescent social health may foretell loneliness and aggressive behavior
Teens who are lonely and those who experience conflict in their home life are more likely to act aggressively toward peers or become victims themselves. These are some of the findings in a new University ...
Dirty Business review – if this doesn’t incite righteous anger over our filthy water then nothing will
Based on the true story of amateur sleuths appalled at the dumping of sewage in our rivers, this drama starring David Thewlis is a blast of controlled fury – and could become the next Mr Bates vs the Post Office
Google Antigravity falls to Earth under OpenClaw-fueled compute load
: Company tries to curb strain by banning customer accounts for 'malicious' usage
Former Chuck E. Cheese Entertainment CEO Takes Same Post With Topgolf
Plus: Former Topgolf CEO named to same role with Oh YAAS, Vista Bank appoints new south Dallas president and more.
Significant component of Leaving Certificate science exams risks student safety, report finds
Department of Education advised to pause AAC implementation immediately on health and safety grounds
Science of Behavior Analysis Conference
Caldwell University to Host New Jersey Association for Applied Behavior Analysis’s Science of Behavior Analysis Conference Caldwell, NJ – Caldwell University is delighted to host the New Jersey Association for […]
Health Savings Accounts Can Be a Bad Deal for Low-Income Marketplace Enrollees
In the wake of their actions that have worsened health care affordability, President Trump and Republicans in Congress have pushed to expand health savings accounts (HSAs). But this doubles down on an inequitable coverage model.
Oregon’s Behavioral Health Talent Council releases final report
Many parts of Oregon lack mental health care providers, especially in rural counties.
RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group Raises the Final Steel Beam for New Multi-Specialty Center in Howell
RWJBarnabas Health raised the final steel beam of its new three-story, 67,000-square-foot Multi-Specialty Center on January 21, alongside joint venture partners New Jersey Imaging Network, Seaview Orthopaedics, and Family First Urgent Care.
Two Argonne scientists receive 2025 DOE Early Career Research Awards
Two Argonne scientists, David Kaphan and Yong Zhao, have been named to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Early Career Research Program for separate projects in catalysis and nuclear physics.
The growing number of US scientists moving to Spain: ‘My colleagues are having a very hard time’
One in three recipients of the state-funded Atrae program comes from the United States
PlayStation is Having a Big Sale on PS5 Games, Accessories and More at PS Direct This Week
You can currently save on PS5 games, accessories, and more in a brand new promotional sale at PS Direct this week.
Former F.B.I. Official, Ousted Under Trump, Will Run for Congress in Maryland
David Sundberg, who led the Washington Field Office, is joining a crowded Democratic primary for Steny H. Hoyer’s open House seat.
Did E! Entertainment's 2026 BAFTA Awards Airing Edit N-Word Moment?
It doesn't seem E! edited the moment when Tourette syndrome campaigner John Davidson yelled the N-word at Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo.
Richard E. Grant discovered his best friend had betrayed him after 29 years of friendship
Why Richard E. Grant immediately cut off a friendship of 29 years, leaving him 'absolutely devastated.'
Green, Popoola guide Tulsa to 100-74 romp over UTSA
TULSA, Okla. (AP) David Green had 27 points, Ade Popoola scored 26 with 10 rebounds and Tulsa beat UTSA 100-74 on Sunday.
iOS 26.3.1 Update for iPhones Coming Soon as 'Apple Experience' Nears
Apple's software engineers are testing iOS 26.3.1, according to the MacRumors visitor logs, which have been a reliable indicator of upcoming iOS versions. iOS 26.3.1 should be a minor update that fixes bugs and/or security vulnerabilities, and it will likely be released within the next two weeks. Last month, Apple released iOS 26.2.1 with bug fixes and support for the second-generation AirTag.
Mavs 134, Pacers 130: The Tankathon Bowl series begins
Things have changed a lot in four months for the Mavs. The last time the Dallas Mavericks faced the Indiana Pacers, Anthony Davis, the prized return in the Luka Dončić...
Zimbabwe rolls out long-acting HIV drug, among first countries to do so
Zimbabwe, where HIV has led to tens of thousands of deaths over the past two decades, is one of the first countries to roll out lenacapavir, a long-acting drug that authorities hope will slow new infections.
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
Plasma proteomic profiles linked to suicidal behaviors
Nature Mental Health - Using plasma proteome profiles from over 53,000 UK Biobank participants, Zhang et al. examined proteins associated with suicidal behavior and investigated pathways that could...
Uniting to respond to mental health impacts of digital violence
Technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV), from doxxing and cyberstalking to cyberbullying and online harassment, is reshaping how women and girls navigate digital spaces. Globally, an estimated 23% of women have experienced digital violence. In Indonesia, reported cases of TFGBV reached 1,791 in 2024, a 40.8% increase from the previous year. Yet very few survivors seek help, leaving lasting effects on their mental health and wellbeing. As part of the multi-UN agencies UNiTE campaign for the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Health (MoH) co-hosted a talk show on 6 December 2025 to spotlight this urgent issue. The event brought together voices from Meta, the Indonesian Clinical Psychologist Association and Dr Vivi Syarif, a WHO Fides content creator, creating a cross-sectoral dialogue on the magnitude and mental health impact of digital violence. The talk show introduced psychological first aid as a vital initial intervention that communities can provide to survivors. This intervention aligns with the Psychological First Aid: Guide for Field Workers, a framework that has been standardized for over a decade. The "look, listen, link" approach focuses on ensuring safety and urgent needs, reassuring survivors and connecting them to appropriate services. In addition to this public health approach, Meta also outlined mechanisms to respond to digital violence and reaffirmed its commitment to building safer digital spaces by continuously updating community guidelines based on user feedback. Such collaborative discussions help connect community engagement initiatives with daily digital life. They empower audiences not only to understand how the health sector and industry are responding, but also to educate others, promote first-line support and encourage referrals to appropriate help. By fostering awareness and engagement, these dialogues strengthen collective resilience against digital violence. Written by Jessie O. Yunus, National Professional Officer (Gender, Equity, Rights and Disability Inclusion), WHO Indonesia
Trump Administration Ending Humanitarian Aid to Seven African Countries
The State Department will let lifesaving projects expire because “there is no strong nexus between the humanitarian response and U.S. national interests,” according to an internal email.
Gavin Newsom discusses a potential 2028 matchup with Kamala Harris and why his son doesn’t want him to run
California Gov. Gavin Newsom, launching a book tour widely seen as a prelude to a presidential run, discussed the possibility of running against former Vice President Kamala Harris, another longtime figure in California politics.
Antarctica’s Gravity Hole Growing Stronger, Scientists Find
Scientists found that rock movements under Antarctica are correlated to major changes in Antarctica's climate over millions of years.
Dating has been hard as an American living in another country
Dating and finding love abroad has been hard as an American living in Paris. The language barrier and cultural differences are tough to navigate.
Exiled Iranian princess: Islamic regime 'has never been this close' to falling, people 'begging' Trump to help
Exiled Iranian princess Noor Phalavi said Iran's regime has never been weaker than it is now and urged action against Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Atrium Health's too-suburban ER
Atrium Health plans were revealed this past week for a new freestanding emergency room at North Davidson Street and Belmont Avenue.
Pols & Politics: Massachusetts AG Andrea Campbell ditches X due to ‘hate, disinformation’
AG Andrea Campbell is leaving X, a social media platform that she claims “promotes hate, disinformation, and the exploitation of our kids.” Also, a popular political newsletter serving Massachusett…
A stage-3 cancer diagnosis shaped how I worked at Netflix and Meta.
David Ronca's cancer battle reshaped his career, including at Netflix. He learned to prioritize work-life balance and intentional productivity.
Casino Icon Caesars Entertainment Navigates Debt and Digital Transition as Progeny 3 Exits
Caesars is known for packed casino floors and bright Las Vegas lights, but the company is also working to strengthen its balance sheet and improve digital profitability. As debt levels decline and online betting operations mature, investors are watching whether the next phase can unlock more stable growth.
Casino Icon Caesars Entertainment Navigates Debt and Digital Transition as Progeny 3 Exits
Caesars may be known for packed casino floors and bright Las Vegas lights, but the company is also working to strengthen its balance sheet and improve digital profitability. As debt levels decline and online betting operations mature, investors are watching whether the next phase can unlock more stable growth.
Over 100 food service employees to be laid off
UF Health is hiring a company to take over food services, leaving hundreds of employees without a job.
AMD Seemingly Stops Driver Updates for Ryzen Z1 Extreme Processor
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Steelers' Aaron Rodgers decision gets unfortunate timeline update
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Jesse Jackson transformed the study of Black politics
Jesse Jackson transformed the study of Black politics. Beyond his legacy as a civil rights leader, Jackson inspired empirical research on Black opinion and political behavior.
Travis Kelce, Patrick Mahomes reportedly sued by sneaker company for copyright infringement
The Kansas City Chiefs' duo owns a steakhouse, 1587 Prime, that's at the center of the lawsuit.
Dodgers on Deck: Saturday, February 21 at Angels
The first game of the spring for the Dodgers is finally here on Saturday afternoon, with a bus ride to Tempe to face the Angels at Diablo Stadium. Yoshinobu Yamamoto gets the start for the Cactus League lid-lifter (hat tip to Bill Plunkett), making what will be his only start before leaving next week to […]