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Amazon’s new Fire TV user interface gets you to what you want to watch—even faster
The redesigned Fire TV experience debuts alongside our first-ever lifestyle TV, the Amazon Ember Artline, and a transformed Fire TV mobile app.
RWJBarnabas Health and Englewood Health Sign Definitive Agreement
RWJBarnabas Health and Englewood Health have signed a Definitive Agreement whereby Englewood will become a part of RWJBarnabas Health. Learn more
Standing Rocks County Park offers winter sports options in central Wisconsin
Standing Rocks County Park provides winter sports opportunities for families and outdoor enthusiasts in central Wisconsin, featuring three ski hills designed for beginners and learners.
LG Rolls Out Its W6 Wallpaper OLED TV With Ultra-High Brightness
The W6 is a wireless TV designed to sit flush on the wall and is claimed to be reflection-free.
AI may not need massive training data after all
New research shows that AI doesn’t need endless training data to start acting more like a human brain. When researchers redesigned AI systems to better resemble biological brains, some models produced brain-like activity without any training at all. This challenges today’s data-hungry approach to AI development. The work suggests smarter design could dramatically speed up learning while slashing costs and energy use.
A simple chemistry trick could end forever plastic
Seeing plastic trash while hiking inspired a Rutgers chemist to rethink why synthetic plastics last forever while natural polymers don’t. By mimicking tiny structural features used in DNA and proteins, researchers designed plastics that remain durable but can be triggered to fall apart naturally. The breakdown speed can be precisely tuned, from days to years, or switched on with light or simple chemical signals. The discovery could reshape everything from food packaging to medicine delivery.
The next election will be decided by America’s sick
America’s sick will decide the 2026 midterm elections, as the American health care system is designed to put profits over patients and two-thirds of all bankruptcies are medical, while ACA pr…
Mamdani revokes Israel-related executive orders signed by Adams, directs team to focus on housing in first acts as mayor
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani used his executive powers to revoke a handful of orders put into place by his predecessor after the former mayor was federally indicted, including a directive that expanded the definition of antisemitism and another that barred city employees and agencies from boycotting or divesting from Israel.
Supporting Keiki Health With a $50 Wellness Incentive
The Department of Human Services (DHS) is encouraging families statewide to participate in the Hawai‘i Child Wellness Incentive Program (HCWIP), a pilot initiative designed to support regular well-child checkups and […]
Friday Bird Droppings: The Orioles didn’t get Imai
The Japanese righty signed with the Astros, taking another SP candidate off the board for the Birds.
St. Raphael’s Church announces season of dining and entertainment
St. Raphael’s Episcopal Church has announced a full lineup of special events for the 2026 season, marking a joyful return to the church’s parish hall. With a mix of beloved traditions and exciting live entertainment, the season is designed to keep the community well fed and thoroughly entertained. “We are thrilled to be back in […]
SSM Health and UnitedHealthcare Reach Temporary Deal to Keep Missouri Patients In-Network
Missourians covered by UnitedHealthcare can breathe a sigh of relief. SSM Health and UnitedHealthcare have signed a letter of agreement, extending their contract for 30 days after months of negotiations and a looming December 31st deadline. The temporary deal means more than 140,000 Missourians with UnitedHealthcare commercial or Medicaid plans can continue seeing SSM Health […]
Georgia Southern’s Care Station project launched in downtown Statesboro to improve access to health products and testing
Georgia Southern University’s Institute for Health Logistics & Analytics (IHLA) has unveiled the Care Station project, a new initiative designed to improve access to over-the-counter health products for the local community.
12 African countries the US has signed $16 billion in health agreements with
The United States has allocated over $16 billion in health agreements with African countries during Trumps presidency
SSM Health and United Healthcare reach temporary agreement
SSM Health and UnitedHealthcare have reached a temporary agreement. The organizations signed a 30-day letter of agreement.
SSM Health, UnitedHealthcare announce update in contract dispute
SSM Health and UnitedHealthcare have signed a letter of agreement on a new contract.
Raising the Bar: New York Expands Consumer Protection Law with FAIR Business Practices Act
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has signed into law the most significant update to New York’s consumer protection law in 45 years — the Fostering Affordability and Integrity through Reasonable Business…
US Signs $16 Billion of Health Agreements With African Nations
The US signed a health agreement with Ivory Coast bringing the total value of bilateral deals President Donald Trump’s administration has done in Africa since withdrawing from the World Health Organization to more than $16 billion.
Radio Iowa's top sports stories of 2025
Two major coaching changes highlighted 2025. After 10 years and seven bowl trips at Iowa State, Matt Campbell resigned to become the new head coach at Penn State. He left as ISU’s all-time leader in wins. “One of the hardest moments of my life was to walk in and leave so many of our great […]
Disney to integrate Hulu and Disney+ in 2026
Hulu isn't going away but the integration, announced earlier this year, is designed to boost Disney+'s offerings
US commits $480m in health funding to Ivory Coast, the latest to sign 'America First' health deals
The United States and Ivory Coast have signed a health deal that would require the U.S. to commit $480 million to the West African nation’s health sector.
US commits $480m in health funding to Ivory Coast, the latest to sign 'America First' health deals
The United States and Ivory Coast signed a health deal Tuesday requiring the U.S. to commit $480 million to the West African nation’s health sector as part of “America First” global health funding pacts that mirror the Trump administration’s foreign policy. It is the latest agreement the U.S. has entered with more than a dozen African countries, most of them hit by U.S. aid cuts, including Ivory Coast.
US Commits $480m in Health Funding to Ivory Coast, the Latest to Sign 'America First' Health Deals
ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast (AP) — The United States and Ivory Coast signed a health deal Tuesday requiring the U.S. to commit $480 million to the West African nation’s health sector as part of “America First” global health funding pacts that mirror the Trump administration’s foreign policy. The signing in ...
LG is taking on Samsung's 'The Frame' with its new 'Gallery TV'
Ahead of CES 2026, LG has announced its new “Gallery TV” which is designed to take on Samsung’s popular “The...
America’s Year of Health-Care Chaos Will Have These Consequences
The unprecedented turmoil at the US’ top health agencies, under the leadership of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., is sure to have a long-term impact on the well-being of Americans. Although Kennedy’s mantra has been to “Make America Healthy Again,” the most visible changes he and his allies have made within the Department of Health and Human Services in 2025 appear, in practice, designed to do the opposite.
An open science resource for accelerating scalable digital health research in autism and other neurodevelopmental conditions
Nature Neuroscience - This paper describes the Simons Sleep Project, an open resource designed to accelerate research into the sleep and daily behaviors of autistic children using synchronized...
After hammering Russian ships on the open ocean, Ukraine's drone boats appear to be taking the fight into new waters
Ukraine has used its pioneering naval drones to hit Russian targets like expensive warships. Now it has a growing fleet designed to fight on rivers.
I visited Target's newly remodeled SoHo store, designed to showcase its style. It was a whole new experience.
Target unveiled its revamped SoHo New York City store, featuring immersive displays, apparel, and interactive shopping experiences.
HKSH Medical Group and Southern University of Science and Technology Collaborate for Medical and Medical Physics Training, Enhancing Medical Education and Research Innovation
HKSH Medical Group ("HKSH") and Southern University of Science and Technology ("SUSTech") officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding ("MOU") on 15 December 2025, a significant initiative to deepen collaboration between Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland in the fields of medicine and medical physics.
4 more African nations secure $2.3bn US health funding under America First strategy
The United States has signed four new Global Health Cooperation Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with Ethiopia, Botswana, Sierra Leone and Madagascar, marking a major expansion of Washington’s health engagement in Africa under President Donald Trump’s America First Global Health Strategy
Australia’s Star Entertainment sees fresh executive departures as CFO, COO exit
Embattled Australian casino operator Star Entertainment said on Monday its Chief Financial Officer Frank Krile has resigned and will be leaving the firm, effective immediately.
Panthers sign former 1st-round pick to active roster
The Panthers signed former first-round pick Isaiah Simmons from the practice squad before their Week 17 matchup vs. the Seahawks.
Business express concern about Ohio’s THC beverage regulations change
Governor DeWine previously signed Senate Bill 56 that banned all weed products from being sold outside licensed dispensaries.
Before This Physicist Studied the Stars, He Was One
Brian Cox once toured as a keyboardist in major rock and pop bands. Now he’s a particle physicist on a new world tour with a dazzling show he designed in an era of science disinformation and denial.
petgugu to Showcase Its AI-Driven Pet Health Ecosystem at CES 2026, Featuring the World’s First Self-Flushing Smart Cat Toilet
LAS VEGAS, Dec. 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- petgugu, a leading pet technology company focused on AI- and robotics-enabled intelligent care systems, will introduce its full AI Pet Health Ecosystem at CES 2026 (January 6–9, 2026), at Booth 53162 in the Venetian Expo Halls A–D. The ecosystem is designed to help families better understand and manage their pets’ well-being through continuous monitoring, data insights, and automated hygiene technologies. AI Pet Health Ecosystem: A Data-Driven Framewo
Almost half of the top MLB free agents remain unsigned
The Cubs still have plenty of time to put one (or more!) of these players under contract.
Billionaire Warren Buffett Had An 'Unconventional' Marriage That Lasted 52 Years. The Trio Even Sent Out Signed Christmas Cards—'Everybody Was Happy'
Warren Buffett is one of those rare billionaires everyone feels like they know. He still lives in the same modest Omaha home he bought in 1958. He eats McDonald's and drinks Cherry Coke like lunch is a personal investment strategy. In a world full of private jets and vast estates, his choices are weirdly relatable — almost comforting. But even familiar figures can have unsuspected personal chapters, and Buffett's love life is one that defies tidy labels. In 1952, Buffett married Susan Thompson,
An OpenAI engineer outlines her one-week hiring sprint, from outreach on Monday to a signed offer on Friday
An OpenAI engineer breaks down OpenAI's fast, "no-nonsense" hiring process, from Monday outreach to a Friday signed offer.
Orlando Pirates academy product secures fresh PSL move
ExclusiveBucs academy graduate joins new PSL clubPhoto: Orlando Pirates @ XFoot Africa understands that Orlando Pirates academy product Katlego Cwinyane has signed for Betway Premeirship outfit Orbit ...
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
Business leaders sign up to support antisemitism commission’s report
About three dozen Mass. executives signed letter supporting state antisemitism effort.
Vikings claim former Colts backup QB off waivers
According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the Minnesota Vikings have claimed recently waived Indianapolis Colts backup quarterback Brett Rypien off waivers, with starter J.J. McCarthy (hand) already out this week: Before this past Monday’s primetime game, the Colts waived Rypien, who had previously been signed to the active roster a week prior to serve as […]
US signs health agreements with African nations, warns against nonperformance
The U.S. signed four new global health memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with Madagascar, Sierra Leone, Botswana, and Ethiopia, which total nearly $2.3 billion in funding, the State Department said on Tuesday.
Advancing the America First Global Health Strategy Through Landmark Bilateral Global Health MOUs - United States Department of State
On December 22 and 23, the United States signed four additional new, landmark global health Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with Madagascar, Sierra Leone, Botswana, and Ethiopia, reinforcing U.S. leadership that delivers measurable results for the American people and puts America First by directly countering global infectious disease threats and reducing foreign dependence on U.S. taxpayers. […]
WHO updated recommendations on HIV clinical management: recommendations for a public health approach
This document provides an overview of the updated World Health Organization recommendations for HIV clinical management, which focus on optimizing antiretroviral therapy, preventing vertical transmission, and enhancing tuberculosis prevention among individuals with HIV. These updates are intended to support global initiatives aimed at ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. Key changes include the introduction of new antiretroviral drugs and regimens, revised postnatal prophylaxis and breastfeeding guidelines for managing infants at risk of vertical transmission, and the endorsement of shorter tuberculosis preventive treatments to improve efficacy and adherence. The recommendations are designed to simplify and advance HIV care, promote equity, and contribute to improved health outcomes and quality of life for individuals living with HIV. The updated guidance will be incorporated into the forthcoming revision of the antiretroviral therapy chapter within the Consolidated Guidelines on HIV Prevention, Testing, Treatment, Service Delivery, and Monitoring: Recommendations for a Public Health Approach.
Editorial: Property tax politics
Ohio lawmakers have put their stamp on property tax reform with five bills signed into law Friday by Gov. Mike DeWine. Legislators from both parties ...
US signs new health deals with 9 African countries that mirror Trump's priorities
The U.S. government has signed health deals with at least nine African countries. These new deals reflect the Trump administration's priorities and its focus on mutual benefits.
US Signs New Health Deals With 9 African Countries That Mirror Trump's Priorities
JOHANNESBURG (AP) — The U.S. government has signed health deals with at least nine African countries, part of its new approach to global health funding, with agreements that reflect the Trump administration’s interests and priorities and are geared toward providing less aid and more mutual ...
Trump expedites marijuana reclassification: Ohio cannabis businesses to benefit
President Donald Trump signed an executive order Thursday directing the attorney general to expedite the reclassifying of marijuana from a Schedule I down to a Schedule III substance in the Controlled Substances Act.
Certified Incubator Success Stories: Meridian Technology Center North | Small Business University - Oklahoma Department of Commerce
The Small Business University is designed to empower existing small business owners with the skills needed to thrive through classes, workshops and resources.
Winter Science Series brings hands-on learning to Flossmoor Library
The Flossmoor Public Library kicked off its new Winter Science Series on Dec. 18, welcoming young learners for an hour of hands-on experiments focused on the science behind snow, ice and everything winter. The program was created and organized by Youth Services Librarian Krystal Webb who designed the workshop to[Read More...]
Ottumwa schools expand brain health program to junior high
Ottumwa High School's Brain Health Room program, designed to help students manage emotions, has expanded to the junior high school, offering a safe space for students to reset.
Martin, Diaz officially signed
Two relievers were officially added to the 40 man roster this past week
Rival Roundup, Vol. 75: South Side Surprise
Christmas is a-comin’, and the goose is getting fat. So, too, are the wallets of those lucky few who signed contracts with Central division teams this week. And as an early Christmas present to me, we actually got ourselves some headlines this weekend!
U.S, Nigeria sign $5.1 B health MOU, largest co‑investment under America First strategy
The United States has signed a five-year, $5
The Ellisons add TikTok's U.S. business to their entertainment empire
TikTok has signed a deal to sell its U.S. operations to a group of investors led by Larry Ellison, the billionaire ally of Trump whose family media and entertainment empire just got bigger.
The Ellisons add TikTok's U.S. business to their entertainment empire
TikTok has signed a deal to sell its U.S. operations to a group of investors led by Larry Ellison, the billionaire ally of Trump whose family media and entertainment empire just got bigger.
Strengthening U.S.-Nigerian Health Cooperation under the America First Global Health Strategy - U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Nigeria
Strengthening U.S.-Nigerian Health Cooperation under the America First Global Health Strategy The United States signed a five-year, $5.1 billion bilateral health cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Federal Republic of Nigeria December 19 to advance the America First Global Health Strategy, supporting resilient, self-reliant, and durable health systems while promoting accountability and shared responsibility. Under the five-year MOU, the United States intends to commit nearly $2.1 billion in health assistance, with nearly $3.0 billion in new domestic health expenditures by the Government of Nigeria over the same five-year period. This represents the largest co-investment any country has made to date under the America First Global Health Strategy and underscore Nigeria’s commitment to greater national ownership of its health system. Under the MOU, the United States will continue to support surveillance and outbreak response, laboratory systems, health commodities; frontline healthcare workers, and data systems. Nigeria faces significant health challenges, including one of the highest maternal and child mortality rates globally and approximately30 percent of the global malaria burden. U.S. assistance under the MOU will expand access to affordable, preventive and curative services for HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis (TB), malaria, polio, and maternal and child health, strengthening health outcomes across Nigeria. The MOU places a strong emphasis on Christian faith-based healthcare providers, recognizing their indispensable role in delivering care to communities in need. Nigeria’s more than 900 faith-based clinics and hospitals serve more than 30 percent of the country’s 230 million people, often in areas where healthcare facilities are limited or absent. The MOU provides approximately $200 million in dedicated support to strengthen and support these Christian facilities, enhance workforce capacity, and expand access to integrated HIV, TB, malaria, and maternal child health services. Investments in Christian faith-based health institutions are uniquely positioned to complement public-sector facilities and reinforce Nigeria’s overall health infrastructure. The MOU was negotiated in connection with reforms undertaken by the Government of Nigeria to prioritize the protection of Christian populations from extremist violence. As with all U.S. foreign assistance, the President and Secretary of State retain the right to pause or terminate programs that do not align with U.S. national interests, and the United States expects Nigeria to continue making measurable progress in combating religiously motivated violence against Christian communities. This five-year MOU is the latest of several health cooperation MOUs signed in Africa this month. The United States will continue to sign multi-year Bilateral Agreements on Global Health Cooperation with countries receiving U.S. health assistance to advance the America First Global Health Strategy.
Hochul signs police mental health counseling law
NEW YORK – Governor Kathy Hochul signed into law the Lieutenant Joseph Banish Mental Health Act, establishing formal and confidential peer-to-peer support counseling but sets exceptions for the disclosure of communications that contain a threat of suicidal or an expression of suicidal ideation, a threat of bodily harm or death, an admission of criminal conduct, […]
Expanding Faith-based Healthcare in Nigeria through the America First Global Health Strategy - United States Department of State
Today, the United States Department of State signed a five-year bilateral health Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Federal Republic of Nigeria to strengthen Nigeria’s health system, with a strong emphasis on promoting Christian faith-based health care providers. Under this MOU, the Department of State, working with Congress, intends to commit nearly $2.1 billion to […]
Padres pitcher Michael King: "unfinished business" in San Diego
San Diego Padres starting pitcher Michael King says he has "unfinished business,", a big reason he signed a 3-year contract to return to Petco Park.
SURF Project Bridges Data Divides in Health Care
Under the mentorship of Ph.D. student Venkatesh Sivaraman, Ziyong Ma spent the summer developing a tool designed to help clinicians query medical databases without needing programming expertise.
CTSI to host three-part virtual mini-series on team science
Penn State Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI) will host a three-part virtual mini-series focused on team science, led by Susan Simkins, director of Team Science with Penn State CTSI. Designed for researchers, staff and leaders working in collaborative environments, the series will provide practical, evidence-based strategies to help teams function more effectively and avoid the misalignment that often can slow down good science.
Why Do A.I. Chatbots Use ‘I’?
A.I. chatbots have been designed to behave in a humanlike way. Some experts think that’s a terrible idea.
Trump signs order to expand access to marijuana, lower taxes on cannabis businesses
President Donald Trump signed an executive order that puts in motion the reclassification of marijuana as a Schedule III drug.
Governor Ivey Signs Executive Order Establishing Alabama Rural Health Transformation Advisory Group -
MONTGOMERY – Governor Kay Ivey on Thursday signed Executive Order No. 741 to establish the Alabama Rural Health Transformation Advisory Group. The Advisory Group will advise the governor on the progress, policy development and implementation of Alabama’s Rural Health Transformation … Continued
Trump signs order expediting marijuana reclassification after lobbying from cannabis industry
President Donald Trump signed an executive order Thursday to expedite the reclassification of marijuana – an effort to increase research on its medical use but not fully legalize it.
Washington County Department of Business and Economic Development Shares New $10 Million State Investment and Resource Platform for Small Businesses
HAGERSTOWN, MD (December 18, 2025) The Washington County Department of Business and Economic Development is sharing new opportunities for local entrepreneurs and small business owners following Governor Wes Moore’s announcement of a $10 million statewide investment and the launch of the Maryland Community Business Compass—a new online platform designed to help businesses start, grow, and expand. The Maryland Community […]
Elle Duncan leaves ESPN for Netflix, will host sports and cultural live events
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Elle Duncan has signed a multi-year deal with Netflix to host its sports and other cultural live events.
Christiana Care, Virtua Health scrap regional care system plans
The two major healthcare networks signed a letter of intent "to explore the co-founding of a regional not-for-profit health system" back in July.
ChristianaCare, Virtua Health reverse course on merger
ChristianaCare and New Jersey-based Virtua Health terminated a letter of intent they signed this summer, ending their potential merger.
Follow the Money Episode 2: Inside the Sports Media Biz with Sam McCleery and Steve Hellmuth
Welcome to the Sports Video Group’s new interview series, Follow the Money, designed to help SVG members and sponsors have a deeper understanding of ...
Fox Entertainment Studios Signs Jeffrey Levine and Bronson Canyon Pictures To First-Look Deal
Fox Entertainment Studios signed Jeffrey Levine and his production company Bronson Canyon Pictures to a multi-year first-look deal.
House GOP passes narrow health care package, letting key Obamacare subsidies expire
House Republicans on Wednesday approved a narrow package designed to lower health care costs for some Americans in the coming years – marking a win for leadership even as some of their own members complain it falls woefully short of tackling rising prices in 2026.
House passes GOP health care bill without ObamaCare subsidy extension
House Republicans on Wednesday passed a partisan package of health care policies designed to provide a conservative alternative to extending the expiring ObamaCare subsidies. The legislation …
House advances GOP health care package that doesn’t include ObamaCare subsidy extension
The House advanced a GOP health care bill Wednesday, even as moderate Republicans signed a Democratic discharge petition to extend the Affordable Care Act subsidies in an act of defiance against le…
In leadership-defying move, Republican backs Democratic push to extend key Obamacare subsidies
GOP centrist Brian Fitzpatrick dramatically stepped up his public battle against Republican leadership this morning as he signed onto a Democratic effort to force a vote on extending soon-to-expire enhanced Obamacare subsidies.
Safeguarding Global Health Security in Cameroon through the America First Global Health Strategy - United States Department of State
The United States and the Government of Cameroon signed a bilateral health Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to expand significant health gains and advance global health security under the landmark America First Global Health Strategy. The MOU puts Americans first by safeguarding our nation from infectious disease threats, while also supporting Cameroon to build robust, self-reliant […]
Is Becton Dickinson Now an Opportunity After Diagnostics Expansion and 2026 Business Separation Plans?
If you have been wondering whether Becton Dickinson is quietly turning into a value opportunity or just a value trap, you are not alone. This breakdown is designed to give you a clear, no jargon view of where the stock really stands. The share price has bounced 5.6% over the last week and 3.7% over the past month, even though it is still down 11.7% year to date and 10.2% over the last year. This mix often signals shifting expectations around growth and risk. Recent headlines have focused on...
Evolv Expands Sports & Entertainment Presence in Southern California with Deployment of Evolv Express® at Pechanga Arena San Diego
WALTHAM, Mass., December 16, 2025--Evolv Technologies Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: EVLV), a leading security technology company pioneering AI-based solutions designed to create safer experiences, today announced that its flagship product, Evolv Express®, has been deployed at Pechanga Arena San Diego ("PASD"), the premier multi-purpose sports and entertainment venue located in downtown San Diego, California. Express uses advanced sensor technology and AI to detect concealed threats and identify the pe
One Big Beautiful Bill Act Complicates State Health Care Affordability Efforts
The federal budget bill President Donald Trump signed into law in July is creating uncertainty for states trying to rein in health care spending. In California, a lawsuit by the hospital industry challenging state spending caps cites the law, which will slash Medicaid spending, as one of many financial pressures.
“The faces of CERN” at the Globe of Science and Innovation
Originally created for the Cité des métiers, the exhibition “The Faces of CERN: People Advancing Science” will be displayed in CERN's Globe of Science and Innovation from December 17, 2025 to March 1, 2026. From 25 to 30 November, CERN was the guest of honour at the Cité des métiers, held at Geneva’s Palexpo. During the fair more than 112,000 visitors had the opportunity to discover the CERN stand and exhibition, talk to those who advance science on a daily basis and explore the world of CERN through a range of immersive activities. Designed by interior design students from IPAC Design Geneva, the exhibition was inspired by the birth of the World Wide Web at CERN. Woven together from reusable ribbons and modular structures, symbolises a living network where ideas, knowledge, and collaboration come together. Come and immerse yourself in this network, where each thread tells a story of curious collaboration and showcases your talents. Free admission | Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m
Gavin Newsom hires former CDC officials to work as public health consultants for state of California
Susan Monarez was fired as the CDC’s director and Dr. Debra Houry resigned as the agency’s chief medical officer and deputy director.
Spesh brings alt-comedy out of coffee shop backrooms and into the mainstream
A new Silver Lake production company launches unpolished, unconventional comedy specials designed to break streaming industry molds.
Bulgaria’s rocky road to the euro
Government has resigned just 20 days before the nation joins the eurozone
John Whitmire will no longer receive Harris County Democrat's endorsements
Precinct chairs signed on to a resolution asking the party to deny Houston Mayor John Whitmire endorsements after he participated in a GOP fundraiser.
Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua agree to fight in 2026
The long-awaited fight between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua has been signed for 2026.
FDA approves first new antibiotics to treat gonorrhea in decades, with hope to combat drug resistance
For the first time in decades, the US Food and Drug Administration has signed off on new antibiotics to fight gonorrhea. The approvals come at a critical moment: The sexually transmitted infection is growing harder to treat, and cases continue to climb nationwide.
NSF announces new initiative to launch and scale a new generation of transformative independent research organizations to advance breakthrough science
The U.S. National Science Foundation Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships (NSF TIP) on Friday announced the launch of a new initiative designed to launch and scale a new generation…
These new 2026 health care laws are taking effect in Pa., N.J. and Del.
Bills on diagnostic breast cancer testing, GLP-1 medications, lead paint and breastfeeding were signed into law.
Supporting Breakthrough Health Advancements in Eswatini Under the America First Global Health Strategy - United States Department of State
Today, the United States and the Government of the Kingdom of Eswatini signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on global health cooperation that includes strategic investments to strengthen national health efforts, leverage American technology, and facilitate the long-term sustainability of Eswatini’s health system. The Department of State, working with Congress, intends to provide up […]
Cook County property tax incentives need a refresh: study
A new study could lay the groundwork for big changes to Cook County's incentive programs designed to spur economic development.
Science and Innovation | Medical Technologies Designed for All
Abbott’s strong culture of science and innovation in the service of human health makes us one of the most innovative healthcare companies in the world.
Local business owner introduces monthly hands-on AI workshops
GRAND JUNCTION Colo. (KREX)- A local business owner and educator is launching a new AI training series designed specifically for small business owners in Grand Junction. Nick Gumpert, owner of the UPS Store on 12th Street and Patterson Road, is introducing a monthly lineup of hands-on artificial intelligence workshops beginning in February. Gumpert said after […]
Lurie expands inpatient psychiatric unit amid ongoing youth mental health care shortage
The four new beds and 20 new staffers are designed for kids with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities. The $4.5 million addition is a first for the state but can't fill the major dearth in youth psychiatric beds across Illinois.
Ars Live: 3 former CDC leaders detail impacts of RFK Jr.’s anti-science agenda
Join us Tuesday, December 16, at 2 pm ET to hear from leaders who resigned in protest.
Sports360, the newest immersive exhibition at the Science Center, opens this weekend
The 9,500-square-foot Sports360 exhibition is designed to immerse visitors in the science of athletic performance.
CNBC Sport: Utah breaks the private equity seal with historic $500 million investment
Utah may have designed a template for other schools to bring in private capital to help fund their athletic programs.
Steelers sign fourth-year offensive tackle ahead of Week 15
The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed OT Dylan Cook to the active roster off the practice squad ahead of the Week 15 matchup against the Miami Dolphins.
The New WHO Pandemic Treaty and Global Health Governance: Incorporating Common but Differentiated Responsibilities into PABS - Georgetown Journal of International Affairs
On May 20, 2025, the World Health Assembly unanimously adopted the World Health Organization (WHO) Pandemic Agreement, an international treaty designed to strengthen pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response. The product of three years of arduous negotiations, the treaty marks a new era of global cooperation in public health. However, core aspects of the agreement remain unresolved—notably the Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing (PABS) System, which is intended to ensure equitable access to pandemic-related materials and benefits. To support the successful implementation of the WHO Pandemic Agreement, the principle of “common but differentiated responsibilities” should be formally incorporated into the negotiating agenda of the PABS annex. Introduction For the first time, an international treaty has enshrined the principle of “One Health,” the compelling idea that the health of animals, humans, and the environment all contribute to pandemic risks. SARS (2003), H1N1 (2009–10), Ebola (2014–16), and COVID-19 all emerged through zoonotic spillover from animal hosts—respectively, civets, hogs, and bats. Together, they underscore the need for a coordinated, cross-sectoral approach. The Pandemic Agreement responds to this call, requiring state parties to acknowledge the ecological interplay and commit to a comprehensive “One Health” strategy. Specifically, Article 5 charges governments to address “the drivers of pandemics and the emergence and re-emergence of infectious disease at the human-animal-environment interface,” including wild animal markets, deforestation, and antibiotic overuse. Yet the effectiveness of this “One Health” vision depends equally on the free flow of scientific information and data among countries and institutions. Just as environmental and animal health factors have been neglected in past global frameworks, so too has data sharing been marginalized, despite its centrality to timely detection and response. The Pandemic Agreement takes an important step by requiring governments to enhance data collection and cooperate with the World Health Organization (WHO). However, these provisions will remain aspirational without a robust Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing (PABS) annex. The PABS system will determine whether countries and researchers can rapidly exchange pathogen samples and genetic data while ensuring equitable access to resulting research and development, including diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines. Without such mechanisms, the treaty’s promise to operationalize “One Health” and strengthen global preparedness will risk becoming largely symbolic, echoing earlier failures to translate shared principles into coordinated action. Equity Concerns When the 2025 Health Assembly adopted the Pandemic Agreement, it left the difficult question of access to pathogens and the sharing of resulting benefits to be addressed in a separate agreement. Negotiations on this separate agreement, PABS, are now underway in Geneva. Yet governments remain divided over fundamental questions of equity between the countries that primarily contribute to the system and those that primarily draw from it—and consequently benefit. For example, wildlife in countries bordering the equator is likely to produce PABS materials, but companies in Europe are likely to use them to develop lucrative products. The most likely contributor countries are likely to be those biodiverse countries around the equator, such as Brazil, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Indonesia, where the number of human-mammalian viral host interactions is large. Conversely, countries most likely to benefit from this material are those with the technology, investors, and infrastructure to capitalize on genomic data, such as the United States, EU member states, and Japan. This imbalance reflects a broader pattern seen in prior international frameworks. Now, as in the past, the wealthiest countries in the world (a useful heuristic is membership of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)) disproportionately benefit from systems in which pathogens and genomic sequencing data are contributed to a common source. Under the International Agreement on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (the “Plant Treaty” or “Seed Treaty”) and the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Framework, companies from Europe and North America disproportionately withdraw biological samples and data for development into lucrative medical products. Their governments and companies have both statutory and contractual claims to the products that those companies correspondingly produce. PABS appears poised to follow the same pattern. The text calls for strong language on access to pathogens and associated data, but the corresponding benefits that should flow to poorer countries are couched in equivocal or non-binding language. Common but Differentiated Responsibilities To address these inequities, the principle of “common but differentiated responsibilities” should be formally incorporated into the negotiating agenda of the PABS annex. Common but differentiated responsibilities are often a feature of climate change negotiations. The basic principle is that, even though all countries should reduce carbon emissions, governments that became rich and powerful through massive carbon emissions (e.g., France, the United Kingdom, the United States) should have a greater obligation to address the resulting crises. Applied to PABS, it would require that governments hosting and supporting companies developing lucrative products carry greater obligations toward the cost of running the PABS system; share benefits or final medical products; and transfer technology to help countries worldwide develop their own capacities to innovate and manufacture vaccines during an emergency. For example, an annex could mandate that any company based in an OECD country that withdraws PABS material would be obligated to donate the resulting diagnostics, therapeutics, or vaccines to the WHO during a public health emergency or pandemic. Questions remain about how robust those donations would be, but the principle is that they should deliver highly significant lifesaving benefits to be equitably shared. Theoretically, this approach mirrors the PIP Framework, in which companies withdrawing influenza samples are required to pay half of the operating costs. In practice, however, the framework has fallen short. The PIP Framework Secretariat has struggled to secure payments from companies, with companies often disagreeing over how much is owed. Additionally, without another pandemic influenza to test the strength of the agreement during a public health emergency, corporate compliance with sharing mechanisms remains unknown. Even if these limitations did not characterize the PIP Framework, partially paying for operating expenses does not address the inequity in access to genetic data and pathogen samples that left less developed countries last in line for COVID-19 vaccines (and, before them, H1N1). Common but differentiated responsibilities would go further, addressing governments’ legitimate grievances regarding information sharing. It would make withdrawals of PABS material and resulting products more transparent, building trust across the board. Enforcement and Enduring Success A key implication of this approach is that the governing mechanism of the PABS must have real enforcement authority. The WHO Pandemic Agreement delegates its core governance responsibilities to a Conference of the Parties (COP)—a governing body composed of one representative from each participating government, similar to those established under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. The proposed WHO Pandemic Agreement COP is charged with oversight functions but ultimately possesses no real authority to compel a government to take any action it does not wish to take. The text does not give the COP the ability to, for example, sanction a party that does not comply with either textual obligations or PABS provisions. In other words, there are no effective mechanisms in place to ensure compliance. Perhaps just as significant, establishing a meaningful enforcement mechanism within the PABS system would strengthen the WHO’s credibility and its ability to ensure compliance across global health governance. By setting a precedent for accountability, such a mechanism could enhance the organization’s authority not only within the Pandemic Agreement but also in enforcing the revised International Health Regulations and other frameworks for public health emergencies. Conclusion The PABS annex can—and should—be different. It should establish clear responsibilities for funding as well as for sharing the diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines that result from contributions to the system. The system, in turn, must include a dedicated body empowered to hold governments and the corporations they sponsor accountable for their responsibilities before, during, and after pandemics. Doing so would restore trust in the broader agreement, which was eroded as commitments were repeatedly diluted while parties scrambled to meet their own self-imposed deadlines during the Pandemic Agreement negotiations. A robust PABS Annex would cement a grand social bargain. Wealthier countries and their corporations would gain unimpeded access to scientific information essential for developing and manufacturing lifesaving medical products. As such, they would stand to gain considerable economic benefit. Yet that privilege must be matched with responsibility. The grand bargain must include not only the right to innovate, but also the duty to ensure that innovation serves all. As medical products are developed and produced through collective contributions, every person must have equal access. All human beings deserve an equitable chance to survive—to save their own life, the lives of their families, and the well-being of their communities. … Sam Halabi, JD, MPhil, is the Bette Jacobs Endowed Professor at Georgetown University’s School of Health and the Director of the Center for Transformational Health Law at Georgetown Law. He serves as the co-lead for the WHO’s Working Group on Regulatory Consideration on AI and Health’s training workstream. He earned his JD from Harvard, his MPhil from Oxford, and undergraduate degrees from Kansas State University. Lawrence Gostin, LLD (Hon.), JD, BA, is University Distinguished Professor and Founding Director and Timothy and Linda O’Neill Professor of the O’Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law. He is the author of Global Health Security: A Blueprint for the Future (Harvard University Press, 2021); Global Health Law (Harvard University Press, 2014); Public Health Law: Power, Duty, Restraint (University of California Press, 3rd ed., 2016); Public Health Law and Ethics: A Reader (University of California Press, 3rd ed., 2018); Law and the Health System (Foundation Press, 2014); Principles of Mental Health Law & Practice (Oxford University Press, 2010). He also directs the WHO Collaborating Center at Georgetown University. Image Credit: United States Mission Geneva, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons