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Job-Based Health Plan Costs Rise, With Little Relief in Sight
Employers saw their healthcare premiums rise 5% this year — and some passed on that burden to workers — as the cost of family coverage in job-based insurance exceeds $28,000 for family plans.
Amy Acton opens up about her painful childhood after an attack ad featuring her estranged mother
Amy Acton was talking school budgets, local hospitals and generational farming at a farm event in northwest Ohio when she called on an attendee and asked her if there was anything she wanted to share.
The top 10 Senate seats most likely to flip, less than two weeks before the midterms
With the November election in sight, Democratic excitement about the party winning control of the US Senate is running high, but it’s far from a sure bet.
Exclusive: How small businesses are really using AI around the country
Companies nationwide, big and small, are figuring out how best to incorporate AI.
Entertainment
Cumberland Theatre will present “The Pillowman,” an award-winning psychological thriller by Martin McDonagh, through Oct. 25. Directed by Nick Hrutkey, the production features Pierce Bunch, Aaron Civello, Brian Records, and
In Era of Runaway Health Inflation, Employers Scramble to Keep Costs in Check
New data shows cost of family health plan rose 5%, while workers’ contributions rose 9%.
High health costs squeeze workers, even if you have good insurance through a job
About 157 million Americans get their health insurance through work. A survey of employers shows a moderate price uptick this year, but workers still say health costs are a top concern.
Workers Now Pay $7,471 on Average Annually for Family Health Coverage, Up 9% or $621 from 2025, Benchmark Employer Health Benefits Survey Finds
Workers are paying on average$7,471 annually toward the premiums for employer-sponsored family health benefits this year, which is up 9%, or $621, from 2025, per KFF’s annual benchmark health benefits survey of large and small employers. The burden of family premiums hits particularly hard for workers at small firms with less than 200 workers.
Purdue leaders connect with NYC alumni to discuss the future of business
Two hundred New York City-based Purdue alumni and friends gathered Oct. 13 for a reception at the New York Athletic Club overlooking Central Park. Dubbed “Boilermakers in the Big Apple…
Political communications expert discusses Vivek Ramaswamy's controversial ad
NPR's Steve Inskeep speaks with political communications expert Jacob Neiheisel from the University of Buffalo about Vivek Ramaswamy's controversial ad.
'World Class' - Celtic Player Solution to Martin O'Neill's Problems
The Celtic player has one 'world class' attribute that will remind fans of a certain Kyogo Furuhashi.
'Working Lab' helps Norwich small business owners
Global City Norwich and Foundry66 are accepting applications for a 12-week program to help local businesses grow.
AI as the next political divide
We have a guest post today from our friends at Focaldata, with whom we have done polling before. They have been doing a lot of work on attitudes towards AI and how this is affecting politics on both sides of the Atlantic. In this post, they explore exclusive new polling – with a whole set of fascinating charts on how voters’ views are developing and why. In particular, the authors explore why the debate is currently so much more polarised by party in the US than in the UK, to the benefit of the Democrats. Subscribe Focaldata HQ is located in Shoreditch, east London. To access the office from the Shoreditch High Street Overground station, you have to walk under the bridge at Braithwaite Street. We mention this not as a navigational aid, but because the posters above caught our eye over the summer. Since June, the area has been the centre of a fiercely contested debate around the construction of a data centre on the Truman Brewery estate on Brick Lane, less than 200 metres from our office. It was one of the first ‘US-style’ protest movements around AI data centres the country has seen, and may not be the last. These protests served as the catalyst for our forthcoming report, examining whether AI could become the next political divide on both sides of the Atlantic. We wanted to understand what was driving the emerging politics of AI and whether the dynamics at play in the US offer clues as to how the British debate will evolve. Over the last month, we polled 3,851 people across the UK and US about their views on AI. Our research found striking similarities between the two countries: for instance, both electorates are evenly split on their views towards AI development, with just over a third in favour (37% in each country), a similar number opposed, and the remainder somewhere in the middle or unsure. Statistically speaking, there is no difference in overall sentiment towards AI between the UK and US. Under the hood, demographic patterns also look largely the same in the two countries, with millennials, degree holders, full-time workers and those who describe themselves as financially comfortable more pro-AI than the rest of the country. Despite this convergence in overall attitudes, there is a striking divergence in how much of a politicised issue AI has become. In the US, attitudes are increasingly split by political affiliation and the issue has become the latest front in the seemingly interminable culture war, playing a role in the upcoming midterms. This stark political polarisation of AI has not happened in the UK – at least not yet. In what follows, we test several hypotheses for why the two countries are so far apart on a political basis. Understanding which hypothesis is correct will give us an indication of where the British dynamics go next.
Radiologist FDA leader believes generative AI should be evaluated like human docs
Rick Abramson, MD, director of the FDA’s Digital Health Center of Excellence, recently spoke during a panel held in Boston by industry lobbying group AdvaMed.
The iPhone Duo’s crease gets a lot more visible after 10,000 folds.
YouTuber Tim Pan put the new Apple foldable through a total of 11,500 folds, a thousand of which were in freezing conditions. Like Joanna Stern, he found the hinge holds up well, but like any other foldable, the crease gets a lot more visible (and a bit more even after only 500), matte display or not. [Image: https://platform.theverge.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/Screen-Shot-2026-10-22-at-09.09.47-AM.png?quality=90&strip=all]
Chancellor to pitch budget at wealth creators
John Healey is expected to cut red tape requirements, particularly for smaller businesses
Vaisala Viewlinc Cloud Suite supports life science innovation from laboratory to regulated operations
Vaisala Viewlinc Cloud Suite Vaisala Viewlinc Cloud Suite and Care for Viewlinc enable professional-quality monitoring as critical operations evolve. Vaisala, a global leader in measurement instruments and intelligence, introduces Viewlinc Cloud Suite, a cloud-based environmental monitoring offering designed to help organizations establish professional-quality monitoring from day one and build on the same platform as their requirements evolve. The launch is complemented by Vaisala Care for Viewl
On Main Street, Goldman Sachs makes a big bet on AI
The Wall Street giant says it’s teaming up with OpenAI, Google, Meta and Anthropic to help small businesses embrace artificial intelligence.
Walker Kessler's Lakers debut couldn't have gone much better
He makes all 12 shots and finishes with 26 points, nine rebounds and two blocked shots in dominating victory over the Warriors in season opener.
Whoop and Abu Dhabi partner on preventative health
Will Ahmed, CEO of Whoop speaks to CNBC's Dan Murphy in Abu Dhabi, discussing the firm's collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Department of Health, and the outlook for the company.
Inside Amer Sports: Making and moving the product
Follow Amer Sports products from manufacturing in Romania to distribution in Germany, powered by skilled people, precise processes, and technology.
Five Women Shaping Hawai‘i’s Tech Future
From telecommunications and artificial intelligence, five women are challenging and reshaping how technology is built, used and taught in Hawai‘i.
Beşiktaş vs Crystal Palace: Preview, Team News And Expected Lineups
Crystal Palace prepare for Beşiktaş in bumper Europa League tie.
Money in politics puts residents on the backburner
Endless outside spending in L.A. elections disenfranchises voters.
Where to watch Sixers vs. Cavs: Channel, live stream, time, TV schedule for LeBron James Philadelphia debut
Here's everything you need to know about Sixers vs. Cavs, including TV channel and streaming options for Philadelphia's home opener.
Burning through Türkiye's GDP: The high cost of fossil fuel PM2.5 pollution on public health – Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air
Türkiye’s reliance on fossil fuels is generating massive air pollution health costs both within the country and throughout the region. This report finds that fossil fuels account for more than half (52%) of Türkiye’s population exposure to PM2.5 air pollution. The cumulative health impacts are estimated to cost the Turkish economy approximately USD 55 billion each year, equivalent to 4.1% of national GDP in 2024. The pollution is also responsible for roughly 26,500 deaths per year in the country, including deaths from cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, lung cancer, stroke, and diabetes.The impacts begin at the very start of life, with fossil-fuel-derived PM2.5 pollution contributing to an estimated 8,000 preterm births, 8,200 low-birthweight infants, 5,100 new cases of childhood asthma, and 6,500 emergency-room visits for asthma each year in Türkiye.Beyond the estimated deaths each year in Türkiye, air pollution from the country’s fossil fuel emissions also contributes to deaths and economic losses in neighbouring countries. In 2024, these emissions were estimated to cause: 32,000 deaths and USD 2.1 billion in economic burden in Egypt; 1,700 deaths and USD 0.2 billion in economic burden in Syria; 800 deaths and USD 0.8 billion in economic burden in Iraq; 500 deaths and USD 4.5 billion in economic burden in Israel; and 400 deaths and USD 1.5 billion in economic burden in Greece.Türkiye currently has no national ambient air-quality standard for PM2.5, despite the substantial health burden associated with exposure to the pollutant. Figure — The percentage of annual PM2.5 emissions in Türkiye’s fossil fuel emissions, using the EMEP emission inventory and EMEP MSC-W chemical transport model Key findings Türkiye’s fossil fuel emissions (from domestic sources as well as international aviation and shipping) account for 52% of population exposure to PM₂.₅ nationwide. PM2.5 pollution attributable to Türkiye’s fossil fuel use is responsible for approximately 26,500 deaths in the country every year, including deaths from cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, lung cancer, stroke, and diabetes. Children are among the most affected, with fossil fuel-derived PM2.5 pollution contributing to an estimated 8,000 preterm births, 8,200 low-birth-weight infants, 5,100 new cases of childhood asthma and 6,500 emergency room visits for asthma each year. The cumulative health impacts of fossil fuel-derived PM2.5 pollution are estimated to cost the Turkish economy approximately USD 55 billion each year, equivalent to 4.1% of national GDP in 2024. Transboundary pollution attributable to Türkiye’s land-based fossil fuel emissions also leads to thousands of deaths in five neighbouring countries, with estimated economic burden per year (as of 2024) reaching USD 2.1 billion in Egypt (3,200 deaths), USD 0.2 billion in Syria (1,700 deaths), USD 0.8 billion in Iraq (800 deaths), USD 4.5 billion in Israel (500 deaths), and USD 1.5 billion in Greece (400 deaths). Türkiye currently has no national ambient air quality standard for PM2.5, despite the substantial health burden associated with exposure to the pollutant. Reducing fossil fuel use and emissions across Türkiye’s energy, transport and industrial systems would deliver substantial air quality and public health benefits by reducing exposure to PM2.5 and preventing associated illness and deaths. Figure — Annual deaths attributable to Türkiye’s land-based fossil fuel emissions in the five most affected countries, based on 2024 emissions
MVP MMA On Netflix One And Done?
Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano was the first live MMA event to ever feature on Netflix. It may also be the last for quite some time. Jake Paul and Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) intended to disrupt the MMA world with their collaboration with the streaming giant, but Netflix has fallen on hard times. Its stock […]
From Penn State teammates to business partners, the Clifford brothers’ paths continue
Growing up playing football, Liam Clifford never thought he’d follow his older brother, Sean, to Penn State. Sean had arrived in Happy Valley in 2017, and Liam wanted to carve
Haunted histories help boost restaurant visitors
Two Spokane restaurants are turning ghost stories into business opportunities by using haunted histories, themed dining experiences, and seasonal events to attract customers.
Longtime jeweler revives former store, jewelry business
The proprietor of a former estate jewelry store that was open for about a decade in the 2000s has reopened it with some eager apprentices.
Lavender Heights businesses form alliance to push for changes to Sacramento parking rules
The Fitbit Edge doesn't have NFC, and Google just revealed why
The Fitbit Edge launched earlier this month, but does this new wearable have NFC? Here's what Google told us.
The subtle ways a lack of vitamin D affects you
As winter approaches in the northern hemisphere and the days get darker, our bodies are suffering more than we realise. We need sunlight on our skin to produce the vital vitamin D, which is important for bone and muscle health and immune function, but there’s just not enough strength in the sun at this time of year to do it.
Florida mayor charged with stealing COVID-19 business relief funds
Kissimmee Mayor Eva Jacquelyn Espinosa was arrested on allegations that she stole tens of thousands of dollars in COVID-19 relief funds.
The young entrepreneurs giving Japan's old businesses a second life
Japan's aging small-business owners need someone to carry on their work. These entrepreneurs are answering the call.
Nestle beats sales forecasts as it excludes seized Russian business
By Alexander Marrow LONDON, Oct 22 (Reuters) - Nestle reported better-than-expected organic sales growth for the third quarter on Thursday and said it had excluded its Russian unit from consolidated financial accounts after Moscow seized the business....
Nestle third quarter organic sales beat forecast, deconsolidates Russian business
By Alexander Marrow LONDON, Oct 22 (Reuters) - Nestle reported better than expected organic sales growth for the third quarter on Thursday and said it had deconsolidated its Russian business after Moscow seized control of Nestle's Russian assets last...
Buccaneers Have an Extremely Crowded Wednesday Injury Report
The Bucs have a lot of players on their first injury report of the week as they prepare for a showdown with the Carolina Panthers.
New Business Spotlight: Simpson’s Meats brings farm-to-table tradition to Belltown
A new addition to Belltown Commons is bringing a little old-fashioned butcher-shop service to one of Northwest Knox County’s growing communities. Simpson’s Meats Butchery & Market opened its second Knoxville-area retail location Sept. 28 at Belltown Commons in Powell, offering fresh beef, pork, chicken, specialty cuts and prepared foods. The locally owned business has deep […]
In New Mexico governor’s race, Deb Haaland’s historic bid tests Democrats' political hold
(AP) — If Deb Haaland wins New Mexico’s race for governor this year, she’ll make history as the first Native American woman to lead a state. But first she has to convince New Mexicans that they should...
In New Mexico governor’s race, Deb Haaland’s historic bid tests Democrats' political hold
If Deb Haaland wins New Mexico’s race for governor, she’ll make history as the first Native American woman to lead a state.
In New Mexico governor’s race, Deb Haaland’s historic bid tests Democrats' political hold
If Deb Haaland wins New Mexico’s race for governor, she’ll make history as the first Native American woman to lead a state.
Baby manta rays stick to the shallows to avoid sharks and orca
Adults can reach 30 feet long and weigh over 4,400 pounds, but coastal areas offer the young fish space to grow.
The New Rules of Global Brand Growth
Last week, BoF, ESW and Shopify gathered senior fashion and retail executives from Thom Browne, Reebok, Alo Yoga, Harvey Nichols, Bang & Olufsen and more in London to discuss how brands can win back consumer spend, protect margins and localise in a climate where global growth requires more consideration than ever.
Allegheny County's mandate on paid parental leave draws strong reactions from small businesses
Page County Health Department unveils renovations at open house
The Page County Health Department hosted an open house on Wednesday following recent building renovations.
Tyrese Haliburton Leads Pacers' 4th Quarter Comeback Over Pelicans
Tyrese Haliburton and the Indiana Pacers are starting the season off 1-0 with a win over the New Orleans Pelicans.
Klobuchar, Demuth tangle over what they’ve done in politics, what they would do as governor
A probable final debate in Minnesota’s race for governor had Democrat Amy Klobuchar and Republican Lisa Demuth scrutinizing the records and plans of the other.
The Timashev Technology Towers will bring business to Ohio State
Ohio State broke ground on the Timashev Technology Tower on Tuesday, marking a new phase for students’ education and investment opportunities for the university. The eight-story and 103,000-square-foot building will bring students, research, startups, large companies and a center for software innovation all together, said University President Ravi Bellamkonda. “The building being set in the […]
Haverhill, Southern New Hampshire Chambers Plan Joint Business After Hours
The Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce is joining with the Southern New Hampshire Chamber of Commerce for Business After Hours next week at Wicked Sticky Designs. Members of the two chambers will network; get a behind-the-scenes look at Wicked Sticky Designs, producer of wide format printing, vehicle wraps, fleet graphics, banners and decals; and enjoy
Glendale business shooting leaves 1 injured, suspect in custody
Glendale Police are investigating a shooting near 43rd Avenue and Bethany Home Road at a business that left one person seriously injured. The shooting prompted a major police response outside a Fry's grocery store.
Rapid Recap: Wizards 128, Bucks 116
The Bucks dropped the season opener in Washington, but there was plenty to be happy about.
[COVER STORY] Kids on stage: How young is too young to debut in K-pop?
A2O LITE, a K-pop act that debuted last week, gained attention not only because its debut single "Neon" topped Melon's Top 100 chart about 29 hours...
Inside the Orlando Magic's Opening Night Loss
The Orlando Magic received a big performance from Paolo Banchero, but it was not enough to secure a win at home to open the 2026-27 NBA season.
Hal Steinbrenner’s says he’s OK with Aaron Judge’s call for Yankees to go ‘all in’ for title
Some Yankees bosses may have been irked by Aaron Judge questioning whether they have gone all in, but Hal Steinbrenner says he was not one of them.
Dodgers announce decision on Shohei Ohtani after injuries
Shohei Ohtani’s first full season as a two-way player in three years didn’t end the way he or the Los Angeles Dodgers wanted, as injuries piled up and the Dodgers were swept out of the playoffs. But it sounds like the two-time defending champions are getting some good news on the health front, leading to…
See the stars arriving for Dolly Parton tribute show
See who stepped onto the red carpet for a Dolly Parton tribute show celebrating the country music icon and her legacy.
NFL Legend Tom Brady Makes Clear Choice Between Patriots, Bills
Tom Brady ranked the 4-2 New England Patriots higher than the 5-1 Buffalo Bills in his latest NFL power rankings.
Friedman: Dodgers Offseason “Business As Usual”
The Dodgers are "business as usual" financially despite the investigations and questions about owner Mark Walter's financial situation.
Will Kings Defeat Clippers, Improve Season Opener Record?
Forty-one years after a historic debut, injury-depleted rosters collide as Sacramento’s new-look trio aims to snap an opening-night skid against a short-handed Los Angeles squad.
AIPAC halts endorsements and direct contributions to candidates
The pro-Israel lobbying group and influential political funder announced it would no longer endorse candidates or give directly to campaigns. AIPAC's affiliated super PAC, though, will continue.
NYT Strands hints, answers for October 22, 2026
Every hint, nudge and outright answer you need to complete today's NYT Strands puzzle.
Big Las Vegas show closures mark a transitional time for Strip entertainment
A time of change can be sad, when you’re thinking about what might be lost, but it’s also a time of opportunity.
Proposed business district would put the Arts District’s future in property owners’ hands
The once-niche creative refuge of Downtown Las Vegas has transformed into a busy local hangout, but the neighborhood’s business owners, residents and artists are asking a familiar question: Is this place still for us?
Airbnb cracks down on checkout chore lists as hosts face new limits
Airbnb's new checkout rules bar hosts from asking guests to strip beds, wash dishes or do laundry, but some reasonable requests are still allowed.
Comcast planning significant jobs cuts as part of reorganization
Comcast Corp. is planning a significant number of job cuts as part of an overall restructuring of its cable-TV, broadband and wireless businesses, according to people familiar with the company’s
Mexican Mafia member found dead in California state prison cell
Richard Buchanan, a reputed Mexican Mafia from the San Diego area, died in prison Tuesday morning, authorities said. Guards found Buchanan unresponsive in his cell at Kern Valley State Prison,
Lakers forwards Ziaire Williams and Matisse Thybulle grab final two starting spots
The veteran forwards are defensive specialists who join Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves and Walker Kessler against Golden State in season opener.
What Does Tulane Need From Trace Johnson This Weekend?
The Green Wave signal-caller had a solid showing in his first career start, but there's always room for improvement.
Domestic violence arrest follows standoff at Livermore downtown business
Livermore police on Wednesday arrested a man who allegedly barricaded himself inside a downtown business while officers were responding to a domestic violence call.
Man Buys $299K Rolls-Royce for $39K, Fixes It With Cardboard on Drive Home
YouTuber Tyler Hoover, the creator of Hoovies Garage, bought a 2011 Rolls-Royce Ghost for just $39,000, then attempted to drive the aging luxury sedan nearly 1,000 miles from Detroit, Michigan, to his home in Kansas. ... Read more
Canada's youngest generation is off to a healthy start, but screen time is a challenge
Canada's youngest generation is off to a good start for being physically active, but there's also room to grow, according to a first-ever national assessment focused on children under age 5, led by a ...
Panelist says immigration enforcement campaign adds challenges for Hispanic businesses
SPRINGDALE -- While any business can be affected by rising operating costs or tax burdens, Hispanic business owners in Northwest Arkansas are facing added challenges related to enhanced immigration enforcement efforts, according to Geovanny Sarmiento, constituent relations manager for the city of Rogers.
Defense contractor cuts ribbon as first in Omaha Airport Business Park
A defense contractor and manufacturing company cut the ribbon Wednesday on a second North Omaha location. It's the first in the Omaha Airport Business Park.
Chinese vice premier meets foreign representatives attending International Science Council meeting
Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau
What International Business Machines (IBM) Said on Its Q3 Earnings Call
International Business Machines (NYSE:IBM) reported third-quarter 2026 revenue growth of 6% at constant currency, led by accelerating software sales, infrastructure demand and modest consulting growth. The company said operating pre-tax margin expanded 70 basis points and diluted operating earnings
Community Health Alliance opens new 988 call center in Fairfield
A new facility that supports behavioral health and crisis response services has officially opened in Butler County.
Buccaneers HC on Rookie WR: 'We Really Gotta Use Him.”
Todd Bowles and Zac Robinson aim to unleash Ted Hurst, a dynamic rookie wideout averaging 15.3 yards per catch, to spark Tampa Bay’s offense.
Private business fortunes reveal overlooked source of wealth and inequality in America
A majority of Americans blame billionaires for the nation's ever-growing income and wealth divide. But economists Eric Zwick and Owen Zidar say there's a much larger but little-known cadre of very rich ...
What to stream: Add best horror films of 2026 to your spooky...
Build your spooky-season watchlist with 2026 horror picks including “Obsession,” “Backrooms,” “Send Help” and “The Bride!,” now streaming or available to rent.
Unfinished business fueling Billings West football's 8-0 campaign
BILLINGS, Mont -- The Billings West High football team has turned the disappointment of last year’s state championship loss into motivation for an undefeated 2026 campaign.
Jameis Winston reacts to losing job to J.J. McCarthy
The New York Giants have had a revolving door at the quarterback position this season. Jaxson Dart opened the season as the starter, but lost his season to a brutal knee injury. A veteran journeyman was inserted into the roll to replace Dart, but after he struggled with interceptions, a common theme throughout his career,…
Santa Fe officials tout behavioral health unit changes; critics say more needed
Changes to the unit will include a new name and career ladder, but its budget and operating hours will be the same.
Kansas Premium Meats shuts down, cites ‘lack of business’
A Pottawatomie County store specializing in offering locally-raised meats is shutting down permanently.
Bad interpretation of the Bible creates stupid conflicts between science and religion. (It’s poetry, not a textbook.)
Scripture functions best when it stays in its lane. The authors of the Christian scriptures were writing the gospel. The gospel was meant to be “good news” for all, not bad news for most. But somehow…
St. Johns County fire crews battle large fire at golf cart business near US-1
Reported fire at St. Augustine golf cart business per St. Johns County Fire Rescue
Healthcare, small business advocates urge reversing healthcare cuts, boost Democrats
Healthcare and small business advocates crossed Wisconsin Wednesday to call on the federal government to reverse policies they said were thwarting healthcare access and support Democrats running for C...
Healthcare, small business advocates urge reversing healthcare cuts, boost Democrats
Advocates called on Congress to restore Medicaid and Affordable Care Act insurance premium subsidies and criticized Republicans.
Healthcare, small business advocates urge reversing healthcare cuts, boost Democrats
Advocates called on Congress to restore Medicaid and Affordable Care Act insurance premium subsidies and criticized Republicans.
Girls Can Be Left Out of Elementary-Age Sports
TRURO — Seven girls in third and fourth grade from across the Outer Cape signed up to play soccer this fall, but none of them took the field when games […]
Muncy Delivers Resilient Season as Dodgers’ Longest-Tenured Player
Max Muncy remained a key contributor for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2026, while establishing himself as one of the club’s most experienced leaders.
Midterms and Iran: Congress could change hands, but Trump would still control the war
On January 10, 2007, President George W. Bush announced a surge of tens of thousands of additional troops to Iraq — among the least popular decisions of his presidency. As a senior adviser, I watched from National Security Adviser Stephen Hadley’s West Wing office.
Scientists discover a surprising secret behind the human brain’s wrinkles
Scientists have discovered why common marmosets have unusually small, smooth brains despite starting development much like other primates. The secret lies in subtle changes to brain-building cells that slow neuron production, revealing new clues about how the large, folded human brain evolved.
Commission announces plan for polar hub to step up research coordination
The European Commission plans to develop an EU polar research hub to strengthen coordination and improve the alignment between science and policy. The objective, according to a Commission official, is to “better connect research, observation and scientific infrastructure, improve access to research resources and strengthen coordination with stakeholders, including Indigenous people.”Announced in a new EU Arctic strategy on October 20, there is little detail yet on how the hub will be implemented, only that it will “reinforce and expand” the European Polar Coordination Office (EPCO), which is hosted and managed by the European Polar Board (EPB) at Umeå University in Sweden. EPCO was born from the EU-PolarNet projects funded through Horizon 2020 and currently coordinates the EU Polar Cluster, a network of EU-funded collaborative polar projects.While the practical details remain to be defined, the decision sends “a clear and positive signal,” said Maria Grigoratou, head of EPCO and executive secretary of EPB. “By reinforcing EPCO, the Commission has an opportunity to build on the legacy of EU-PolarNet 2, strengthen European polar research coordination and expand cooperation with a broader range of Arctic stakeholders,” she told Science|Business.The move has been welcomed by the polar research community. “The polar research hub could play an important role in connecting existing research communities, observation systems and infrastructure, and in bringing scientific knowledge closer to policymaking, in cooperation with local communities and Indigenous people,” said Katrine Moland Hansen, director of operations at Norway’s Nansen Environmental and Remote Sensing Center.But money will be an issue. “It is clear that EPCO will need more resources and structure to function well and to make research reach policymakers,” said Kati Lindström, vice-chair of the Polar Research Committee of the Estonian Academy of Sciences. “European polar research is big if we pool the resources, and it should not only be left to enthusiastic scientists to develop networks of strategic importance in their free time.”The Arctic strategy makes a point of saying that local communities should have a greater involvement in Arctic science. “All EU Arctic research consortia are mandated to invite Indigenous people representatives to participate in projects,” it reads. “The EU also supports research that is directly led by Indigenous communities and address their challenges.”It also underlines the importance of reinforcing collaboration with like-minded partners such as Norway, Iceland, Canada, the UK, Japan and South Korea, as well as deepening its engagement with NATO. This includes the US, with which “the EU is committed to continuing a pragmatic transatlantic engagement based on shared interests and values.”Related articlesViewpoint: Does Europe dare to invest in the Arctic?Anchor Greenlanders in Arctic climate research, experts tell EU ahead of policy updateFor Moland Hansen, this open and inclusive approach to cooperation is encouraging. “The Arctic is also a strong example of why equal participation of associated countries in EU funding instruments matters.”Overall, she finds the new Arctic strategy to be ambitious, timely and comprehensive. “We particularly welcome the recognition that climate change, environmental protection, security, resilience and competitiveness are closely interconnected,” she said. “Research, observations and forecasting capabilities are essential to understanding the rapid changes taking place in the Arctic and addressing these challenges together.”Security focusWhile the Arctic strategy foregrounds security, with pledges to protect undersea cables, boost satellite monitoring, deploy more icebreakers and improve military mobility, the polar community is satisfied that environmental concerns have not been forgotten.“It is inevitable that there is a strong security angle to the EU Arctic strategy, but the impact of climate change and need for climate mitigation and resilience is also strongly recognised and includes a pledge to stay the course on climate commitments,” said Sian Prior, lead advisor to the Clean Arctic Alliance, a coalition of campaigning non-profit organisations.“We need to remember that by the time the next Multiannual Financial Framework comes to an end, in 2034, the polar regions, especially the Arctic region, will be living under a new reality when it comes to ecosystem processes, when it comes to the climate,” Grigoratou went on. “And that will affect any ambition that humans may have in the region.”Lindström agreed. “All aspects of European security are dependent on climate change in the Arctic and consequently, on climate science,” she said. “We cannot close our eyes to issues like energy security, critical minerals, northern shipping routes, dual-use technologies and others. However, it remains to be seen how well the promises to protect the environment and Indigenous rights will hold when faced with critical mineral extraction under the Critical Minerals Act.”
Tracking tsunamis triggered by extreme weather
As much of Western Europe faced record-breaking temperatures and extended drought this summer, Croatia experienced another weather event that could also set a worrisome precedent.Over the course of two weeks, a series of meteorological tsunamis (meteotsunamis) struck Croatia’s Adriatic coast, alarming both residents and tourists. Social media posts showed flooded seaside promenades and people walking through knee-deep water. Fortunately, no deaths or major damage were reported.In a world where natural disasters seem to be increasing, meteotsunamis — tsunamis caused by rapid weather changes – rarely make headline news. But warming sea temperatures and changing atmospheric conditions may help explain why these phenomena could become more common, especially in shallower seas and inland lakes with wide coastal shelves.“We have definitely become more aware of them, and there have been a lot more reports of these events in the last 10 years,” says Jadranka Šepić, an associate professor of environmental physics at the University of Split whose research focuses on efforts to track meteotsunamis in real time. She is also one of Croatia’s ambassadors for Science Comes to Town (SCTT), a European Commission-funded programme aimed at making research more accessible to the public.Šepić sees two possible reasons for the apparent increase in meteotsunamis. One is that photos and videos shared on social media are providing more empirical evidence, while rising air and sea temperatures could also play a role. The geophysicist “cannot say with certainty” that warming is a contributing factor because research is still ongoing. “But I can say that previously in Croatia we might have had one exceptionally strong event every 10 or 15 years, and one strong event every five years, and within 15 days this summer we had five strong events,” Šepić notes. “This is not typical.”‘A fist against the sea surface’Unlike tsunamis that are triggered by underwater earthquakes or volcanoes, meteotsunamis are caused by sudden changes in atmospheric pressure combined with other rapidly developing weather events, such as thunderstorms. The effect “is like pushing a fist against the sea surface,” Šepić explains. The resulting oscillation intensifies as it reaches shallower water, and “can be far more destructive than a wind-driven wave because meteotsunamis are accompanied by very strong currents than can penetrate much deeper inland.” The meteotsunami, she continues, “then behaves the same as a tsunami — they slow down and grow as the sea shallows, and then grow further in places like harbours due to further shallowing and narrowing. When they come ashore, they can be very destructive — taking everything with them out to sea and then taking it back.”Croatian research institutions have tracked such sea oscillations since the 1930s because the relatively shallow Adriatic Sea is prone to meteotsunamis. The strongest recorded so far was in June 1978, according to the Adriatic Meteotsunami Catalogue, which is supported by the European Research Council (ERC), Croatian Science Foundation and the country’s leading research institutions. During that event, six-metre-high waves flooded the coastal town of Vela Luka on Korčula Island, causing major damage.Other meteotsunami “hotspots” in Europe include the Mediterranean Sea as well the Atlantic coastal shelves off France, Portugal and Spain. In June 2006, a meteotsunami with five-metre-high waves swept through the harbour of Ciutadella in Spain’s Balearic Islands, causing widespread damage to boats. Several less powerful events were reported in the Balearics and off the coast of Spain this summer, leading to some beach closures.Forecasting is challenging because of how quickly meteotsunamis can develop and their uncertain trajectory. Šepić is involved in two ERC-funded research projects — SHExtreme and MeD-Track — aimed in part at strengthening monitoring and real-time data collection. Access to accurate and immediate information is essential for early-warning systems.Early exposure to meteotsunamisŠepić first learned about meteotsunamis from her parents while growing up in Croatia. She later had the opportunity to investigate these events during her master and doctoral studies in geophysics at the University of Zagreb. The geophysicist has also conducted research at the Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries in Split, the University of the Balearic Islands in Palma de Mallorca and the Institute of Ocean Science in the Canadian province of British Columbia.Projects like SCTT are important to raise awareness about research and inspiring young people to pursue studies and careers in science, notes Šepić. She credits her colleagues at the University of Split and the Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries for their community outreach and engagement in the European project, which includes partner universities and institutions in Brest (France) and Kiel (Germany). As an example of town-gown collaboration, Šepić highlights her own university’s ‘Oceanographers on the Island’ programme. This initiative offers workshops and hands-on learning for children living on numerous Croatian islands.“It is a great privilege for Split to be involved in a project like Science Comes to Town, which is the first of its kind in the European Union," Šepić says. As for encouraging new generations of scientists, “This is a great effort, and I hope that we will see an effect in a few years.”Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.
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Area establishments announce Halloween entertainment
IRON MOUNTAIN — Halloween is the perfect excuse to dress up, dance the night away and enjoy some spooky-season fun. Area establishments are embracing the holiday with a lineup of Halloween-themed entertainment. — Lakeside Bed & Breakfast of Florence, Wis., will host “Murder at the Costume Ball” on Friday and Saturday, featuring a four-course dinner, […]