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Merck Evolves Human Health Operating Structure to Support Portfolio Execution
RAHWAY, N.J., February 23, 2026--Merck Evolves Human Health Operating Structure to Support Portfolio Execution
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
Double-phase metasurface operators for all-optical image processing
Light: Science & Applications - We propose metasurface operators leveraging double-phase encoding and polarization multiplexing enable compact, all-optical analog computing for high-resolution...
Agritourism Growth Drives Insurance Demand As On-Farm Entertainment Operations Grow, So Do Farmers' Risks
By Allen Laman As farmers diversify their operations in the face of volatile markets and unpredictable weather conditions, an agribusiness insurance
Bausch Health Weighs China Aesthetics Push Against ARESTIN Milestone And Debt
Bausch Health Companies (NYSE:BHC) agreed to acquire Shibo's aesthetics distribution business in China, expanding its presence in that market. The company marked the 25th anniversary of its ARESTIN® product, highlighting its long-running role in the portfolio. ARESTIN® has been introduced into additional markets, including Canada and Puerto Rico, alongside adjustments to Bausch Health's capital structure. Bausch Health Companies, listed as NYSE:BHC, operates across eye health,...
A Vikings Offseason Quarterback Strategy
The Minnesota Vikings are looking to bolster their quarterback room this offseason with at least one quarterback capable of competing for the starting job. There remain enough doubts about J.J. McCarthy’s durability and readiness to operate Kevin O’Connell’s offense that the Vikings are actively pursuing other options to compete for the starting job and possibly […]
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.
PLNU celebrates 25th anniversary of free healthcare clinic for uninsured patients
The Health Promotion Center operates twice a week at Mid City Church of the Nazarene with PLNU faculty and students offering free healthcare.
WNC small business operators react after Supreme Court rejects Trump tariffs
In a 6-3 ruling, the Supreme Court said President Donald Trump's global tariffs are illegal on Friday, Feb. 20.
Kansas Senate maneuvers to limit business operators' liability in negligence lawsuits
Kansas Senate passes bill restricting property owners' negligence liability if a person claiming injury was harmed while intending to commit a crime.
Community Health Systems Q4 Earnings Call Highlights
Community Health Systems (NYSE:CYH) executives said the hospital operator’s fourth-quarter results came in line with updated expectations, citing sequential margin expansion, a modest improvement in payer mix, and continued cost controls. On the company’s fourth-quarter and full-year 2025 earnings c
German business lobby warns of unfair trade practices by China
German business bosses warned on Friday of what they called destabilising and unfair global business practices by China, ahead of a visit to Beijing by Chancellor Friedrich Merz in which he is expected to focus on cooperation opportunities.
PPL Corporation reports 2025 earnings results; provides business plan update through 2029, extending EPS growth targets
Announces 2025 reported earnings (GAAP) of $1.59 per share. Achieves earnings from ongoing operations of $1.81 per share – 7.1% growth over 2024. Provides 2026...
Club Grid Disrupting the Nightlife and Entertainment Industry by Launching First All-In-One Cloud Infrastructure Platform for Nightlife Venues, Modernizing a $175B Global Industry
Club Grid officially launches a groundbreaking all-in-one cloud platform built specifically for nightlife venues, streamlining operations, management, analytics, fraud prevention, and payment infrastructure into one enterprise-grade system designed to maximize revenue, unlock AI-driven intelligence, and scale a multi-billion-dollar industry.West Palm Beach, Florida--(Newsfile Corp. - February 18, 2026) - Club Grid is officially disrupting the nightlife industry with the launch of the first fully
Married L.A. County couple charged with operating large-scale sex services business
A married couple in Los Angeles County was arrested and charged with allegedly owning and operating a large-scale online sex services business. The suspects were identified as Kebin Dong, 38, and W…
Delco Council ends Crozer Health disaster declaration
Delaware County Council has ensured that “ambulance coverage is intact and operational” following the collapse of Crozer Health.
Judge orders takeover of Arizona prison health care operations after years of violations
The decision on Thursday by U.S. District Judge Roslyn Silver came after her 2022 verdict that concluded Arizona had violated prisoners’ rights by providing inadequate care that led to suffering and preventable deaths.
Large banner of Trump unfurled at Justice Department headquarters
The DOJ has traditionally operated with a degree of separation from the White House to prevent the department's powers from being abused for political purposes.
Trump's immigration operation leaves Minnesota divided: From the Politics Desk
Plus, a key lesson from AOC's trip to Munich.
Judge orders takeover of health care operations in Arizona prisons after years of poor care
A federal judge has ordered a takeover of health care operations in Arizona’s prisons and will appoint an official to run the system after years of complaints about poor medical and mental health care.
Lakers hiring Dodgers exec as new president of business operations
Lon Rosen, a longtime Dodgers executive, is joining the Lakers front office. Here's what to know.
Live Nation Entertainment Full Year And Fourth Quarter 2025 Results
In 2025, the bond between artists and their global fan bases reached new heights, fueling another year of double-digit growth. As artists continue to unlock untapped markets and headline the world’s most iconic stadiums, we’ve built momentum that carries us into a record-breaking 2026. We’re not just building venues; we’re crafting world-class stages designed to elevate the artist’s vision and their connection to fans. By strategically expanding our global footprint and investing in premium, upgraded infrastructure, we provide the canvas for career-defining performances. This investment doesn’t just drive ticket sales—it revitalizes local economies and cements our venues as cultural anchors. With a deep pipeline of large-scale shows and ticket demand continuing its ascent, we are positioned for another year of double-digit operating income and AOI growth in 2026. Our commitment to being the ultimate partner for artists ensures we are set to compound this double-digit growth for years to come. – Michael Rapino, President and CEO
Lakers hire Dodgers exe to replace longtime president of business...
The Los Angeles Lakers have hired Lon Rosen as president of business operations, who served as the Dodgers' executive vice president and chief marketing officer since 2012.
Lon Rosen to take over business operations for the Lakers
Tim Harris, who was part of the organization for more than three decades, will be replaced by new owner Mark Walter's business partner with the Dodgers.
Demolition tears into Portland suburb mall to make way for sports center, major renovation
Contractors have fenced off the Tigard shopping mall’s southern parking lot in recent weeks and are tearing into the property’s fortress-like walls where Sears used to operate.
Flutter Entertainment to Report Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2025 Financial Results and Host a Conference Call on February 26, 2026
DUBLIN and TORONTO, Feb. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Flutter Entertainment (“Flutter”) (NYSE:FLUT, LSE:FLTR), the leading online sports betting and iGaming operator, today announced that it will release its fourth quarter and full year 2025 financial results after market close on February 26, 2026 at 4:05 p.m. EST (9:05 p.m. GMT). All related materials will be available through the “Investors” section of the Flutter website at www.flutter.com. Flutter management will host a conference call on F
Nestlé to Shed Ice-Cream Business in Shake-Up
The food giant plans to sell its remaining ice-cream operations as it slims down its structure to focus on four main categories.
Golf Entertainment Group Inc. Announces Upgrade to OTCQX Best Market
Golf Entertainment Group Inc. (OTC: GLFE) (the “Company”), a leading owner and operator of golf-related leisure and entertainment businesses, today announced...
Elemental Royalty Closes the Sale of Its Nordic Business Unit to Goldsky Resources
Denver, Colorado--(Newsfile Corp. - February 19, 2026) - Elemental Royalty Corporation (TSXV: ELE) (NASDAQ: ELE) ("Elemental" or "the Company") is pleased to announce the closing of the previously announced sale of its Nordic operational platform to Goldsky Resources Corp. (TSXV: GSKR) ("Goldsky") (see the EMX Royalty News Release dated June 2, 2025). Goldsky, formerly known as First Nordic Metals Corp., is a longstanding partner and operator on multiple Elemental royalty properties in Sweden...
ICE drawdown may be too late for small businesses like El Sazon
Operation Metro Surge kept many people of Latino and East African descent home, afraid to go to work or out to shops and restaurants. This caused a drastic drop in revenue for small businesses, which are now seeking aid.
CVC Is Working With Goldman Sachs on €1 Billion Marina Business Sale
CVC Capital Partners PLC is working with Goldman Sachs Group Inc. to explore a sale of Mediterranean marina operator D-Marin, people familiar with the matter said.
Nestle to Shed Ice-Cream Business in Major Shakeup
The food giant plans to offload its ice-cream business and consolidate other major areas of its operations around four main categories.
United States and Madagascar to Implement $175 Million Five-Year Health MOU - U.S. Embassy in Madagascar
United States and Madagascar to Implement $175 Million Five-Year Health MOU U.S. and Malagasy health officials are convening in Antananarivo for a two-day joint review process, marking the first major step in implementing the strategic health cooperation framework established in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two countries in December 2025. The MoU outlines the structure and terms of U.S. support to Madagascar’s health sector from 2026 through 2030, with a total commitment of $134,305,000 from the U.S. Government and $41,216,252 from the Government of Madagascar working jointly to address malaria, maternal and child health, polio and global health security issues. This approach reflects the America First Global Health Strategy by prioritizing effective, results-driven cooperation that advances mutual health security and supports Madagascar’s progress toward self-reliance and independence from foreign assistance. The events bring together U.S. Government health experts and Madagascar’s Ministry of Public Health leadership to conduct a comprehensive review of seven major health programs currently supported by United States funding, discussing current activities, and developing recommendations for programs to align with the signed Memorandum of Understanding, which advances both the America First Global Health Strategy and the Government of Madagascar’s goals. “This memorandum sets the course for U.S. strategic cooperation and support to Madagascar’s health sector over the next five years,” said Chargé d’Affaires Stephanie Arnold at the workshop’s opening. This review will help determine how to maximize the effectiveness and impact of these programs, ensuring resources provided by U.S. taxpayer dollars are used wisely,” she added. “By working together to address global health challenges, we demonstrate America’s leadership and commitment to a safer, healthier world, making both the United States and Madagascar healthier and stronger.” Under President Trump’s leadership, the United States is implementing a Global Health Strategy for foreign assistance that emphasizes increased host country ownership, resilient health systems and human resource capacity to reduce dependency, maintaining frontline support to reduce infectious disease threats, and strong performance monitoring systems for accountability and service delivery. “Diseases do not respect borders, and when we support Madagascar’s capacity to detect, prevent, and respond to infectious disease threats, we are contributing to global health security that benefits communities both here and in the United States,” Arnold emphasized, noting that “The MoU represents a commitment to transparency, accountability, and results.” The United States recognizes the commitment of Malagasy leadership in prioritizing investment of time and significant resources on the healthcare of their own citizens. With recent changes in leadership, Madagascar has an opportunity to strengthen governance, improve performance, and move forward toward greater self-reliance, particularly in the healthcare sector. Through strategic focus and thoughtful collaboration under this MoU, U.S. health programs in Madagascar will deliver meaningful results that advance both countries’ interests while supporting Madagascar’s journey toward greater self-reliance and a healthy future.
Daniel Miller
Daniel Miller is a reporter at POLITICO covering the intersection of entertainment, media, sports, technology and politics.Part of POLITICO’s California team since 2026, he examines how Hollywood and Southern California function as engines of political power. Daniel also covers the rainmakers, dealmakers and cultural figures who shape policy debates, elections and public life far beyond the state’s borders.Daniel previously spent 13 years at the Los Angeles Times, most recently as an enterprise reporter in the newspaper’s Metro department, where he worked on investigations and features. He wrote about allegations of sexual misconduct at L.A.’s Magic Castle, chronicled the cratering ventures of a celebrity vegan chef and detailed themystery of a missing million-dollar pocket watch once owned by J.P. Morgan. In 2019, he wrote, reported and hosted "Larger Than Life," an award-winning podcast about the life of an enigmatic L.A. street racer.He previously covered the business of entertainment for The Times, examining the fraught political ties between the Walt Disney Co. and the city of Anaheim, probing the world of second-tier talent agents operating on Hollywood’s fringes and uncovering allegations involving several #MeToo figures.Daniel was named Journalist of the Year at the 2015 National Arts & Entertainment Journalism Awards and, a year later, received the L.A. Press Club’s Entertainment Journalist of the Year award. He was also a finalist for the 2016 Loeb Awards for "Selling Stardom," a series on unscrupulous Hollywood operators. His narrative reporting has been honored by organizations including the Society for Features Journalism, the National Association of Black Journalists and the Motor Press Guild.Daniel began his career reporting in Southern California, writing for the Ventura County Star, the Los Angeles Business Journal and the Hollywood Reporter. He attended Beverly Hills High School and UCLA. He lives in Los Angeles.
Unpaid taxes at center of popular Harrisburg venue’s closure
a development that owners of the popular concert venue and bar cited as their reason the operations are shutting down.
Water agencies voice continued concerns about health of Stagecoach Reservoir
Upper Yampa Water Conservancy District, which owns and operates Stagecoach Reservoir, continues to address two major issues regarding the reservoir’s future related to the proposed 6,100-acre Stagecoach Mountain Ranch development — water supply and water...
Hims & Hers Announces Agreement to Acquire Eucalyptus, Accelerating Its Vision to Become the Leading Global Consumer Health Platform
Eucalyptus is a consumer healthcare leader in Australia, the UK and Germany, with expanding new operations in Japan and Canada. Hims Hers Health, Inc. (NYSE: HIMS), the leading health and wellness platform, today announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Eucalyptus, an international leader in digital health, accelerating the company’s ability to bring access to high-quality, personalized care to more people across the world. As its US business continues to grow, Hims Hers will be well-positioned, upon closing of the acquisition, to expand into Australia and Japan and deepen its presence in the UK, Germany, and Canada. The terms of the transaction have been structured to preserve the financial flexibility of the company, ensuring continued control over balance sheet management and capital allocation. As its US business continues to grow, Hims Hers will be well-positioned, upon closing of the acquisition, to expand into Australia and Japan and
Nestlé Weighs Reducing Exposure to Ice Cream Business
Nestlé SA is considering further reducing its footprint in the ice cream business, as new Chief Executive Officer Philipp Navratil reviews the company’s sprawling operations, people with knowledge of the matter said.
Many health systems suffer from AI 'execution paralysis,' study shows
New research from HIMSS and Guidehouse shows more than half of hospitals surveyed not yet able to deploy AI at scale. It highlights some steps providers can take to overcome a lack of operational readiness for artificial intelligence transformation.
From Operation Breadbasket to presidential politics, here's how Rev. Jesse Jackson shaped Chicago
A protege of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., civil rights activist Rev. Jesse Jackson left an indelible mark on Chicago. WBEZ's Somer Van Benton has the story of his legacy in the city.
Five Berkeley Lab Scientists Receive DOE Early Career Research Awards
Five scientists from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) have received Early Career Research Program (ECRP) awards from the Department of Energy. The ECRP program, now in its 16th year, was established to bolster the nation’s scientific workforce by supporting exceptional researchers at the outset of their careers, when many scientists do their most formative work. Recipients use the funding to pursue projects that have the potential to solve scientific challenges and advance the country’s STEM capabilities. To be eligible for the program, a researcher must be an untenured, tenure-track assistant or associate professor at a U.S. academic institution, or a full-time employee at a DOE national laboratory or Office of Science user facility, who is within 10 years of having earned their doctorate. Awards to an institution of higher education will be approximately $875,000 over five years, and awards to a DOE national laboratory or Office of Science user facility will be approximately $2,750,000 over five years. This year’s Berkeley Lab awardees and their projects are listed below: Timon Heim: Better detectors for more powerful particle colliders Timon Heim is a staff scientist in the Physics Division. His ECRP project will develop a new type of detector that can track the particles generated by collisions in particle colliders with high spatial and temporal resolution. Current detectors in use at high-energy colliders, like the ATLAS detector at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN, can track the trajectory and measure momentum of particles, but they can’t track a particle’s time of arrival with sufficient precision to discern from which of the many particle interactions they originate. Heim’s proposed technology — called a 4D tracking detector, because it captures data about particles’ positions in space and time — aims to solve this challenge, allowing researchers to glean more precise data from collision experiments to uncover new insights into fundamental forces and potentially discover new particles. The enhanced capabilities of 4D detectors will be a necessity for experiments at future colliders, such as the Muon Collider or Future Circular Collider. The project will develop custom microelectronics that process the signal of a pixelated silicon sensor that can register charged particles passing through it in an extreme radiation environment that these colliders produce during operation. The goal is to measure individual particles’ position with 50-micro-meter spatial and 50 pico-second (one trillionth of a second) temporal precision, for an incoming flux of around 1 billion particles per second per square centimeter. Harrison Lisabeth: Studying underground processes to unleash abundant energy Harrison Lisabeth is a research scientist in the Energy Geoscience Division focused on combining real-world experiments and AI to guide development of geothermal energy systems. His project will explore how deep underground rock formations – where geothermal wells are dug – are stressed by chemical reactions of the minerals and mechanical strain from movements in the Earth. A better understanding of subsurface stresses is essential to engineer safe and reliable geothermal wells that access the heat of deep rocks to produce electricity. It is estimated that the U.S. could generate ten times the amount of energy needed to power the grid using geothermal sources. Lisabeth plans to simulate how minerals grow, dissolve, and influence the behavior of surrounding rock in geothermal reservoirs by tracking chemical changes in rock samples under pressure in the lab. The project will also develop machine learning models to predict geologic strain based on field measurements and refine existing models that describe how common rock types deform under stress. Combining these approaches, Lisabeth hopes to develop a framework to predict stress to improve stability and longevity of geothermal wells. Daniel Carney: Pushing the quantum boundaries of particle measurement Daniel Carney is a staff scientist in the Physics Division who uses quantum information science to study particle physics and gravity. At very small scales, “quantum noise” — random fluctuations from the act of measurement — can drown out faint signals from rare processes. Carney’s ECRP project, “Fundamental Physics at the Quantum Limits of Measurement,” aims to build a new mechanical quantum sensor that can measure extremely small particle interactions below the limits of that quantum noise. The approach uses lasers to hold a tiny bead containing radioactive atoms; when one decays, the system measures the bead’s motion and the energy of any particles emitted. The experiment’s initial goal is to search for heavy sterile neutrinos, hypothetical particles predicted by some extensions of the Standard Model. The system could also help measure the mass of the neutrino, study the way particles interact through the electromagnetic and weak forces, and hunt for low-mass dark matter — all unsolved mysteries in particle physics. Callum Wilkinson: Using machine learning to demystify neutrinos Callum Wilkinson is a staff scientist in the Physics Division and part of the international Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE) hosted by Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory. DUNE will create an intense beam of neutrinos that interact in detectors in Illinois and, after an 800-mile journey through the earth, in massive detectors in South Dakota. By precisely measuring neutrinos and how they change, researchers will get a better understanding of their fundamental properties and whether they are responsible for why there is so much more matter than antimatter in our universe. Wilkinson’s ECRP project will apply two machine learning techniques to improve the analysis of DUNE’s data and enhance the experiment’s precision. One approach will look for hidden patterns in how neutrinos interact and produce low-energy particles, while the other will help correct for distortions in what the detectors record. The methods will be tested on one of DUNE’s prototype detectors and could be used in other neutrino experiments, improving their measurements and helping scientists build better models. Aditi Krishnapriyan: Machine learning methods that scale as datasets grow Aditi Krishnapriyan is a faculty scientist in Berkeley Lab’s Applied Mathematics and Computational Research Division (AMCR) and assistant professor at UC Berkeley. Her project, awarded through UC Berkeley, will develop machine learning methods that scale with dataset size for modeling complex, multi-scale phenomena. The resulting tools can be applied in a wide range of research, including the study of new electrolytes for batteries or the examination of molecular interactions. ### Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) is committed to groundbreaking research focused on discovery science and solutions for abundant and reliable energy supplies. The lab’s expertise spans materials, chemistry, physics, biology, earth and environmental science, mathematics, and computing. Researchers from around the world rely on the lab’s world-class scientific facilities for their own pioneering research. Founded in 1931 on the belief that the biggest problems are best addressed by teams, Berkeley Lab and its scientists have been recognized with 17 Nobel Prizes. Berkeley Lab is a multiprogram national laboratory managed by the University of California for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science. DOE’s Office of Science is the single largest supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States, and is working to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. For more information, please visit energy.gov/science.
NEW NFIB REPORT: How Energy Costs Impact Small Businesses
WASHINGTON, D.C. (Feb. 18, 2026) – The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) released its new Small Business Energy Survey. The report is based on a nationwide survey of small business owners, providing insight into the types of energy used and how energy costs impact business operation
Health Catalyst Appoints Ben Albert as Chief Executive Officer
Health Catalyst, Inc. (Nasdaq: HCAT) ("Health Catalyst" or the "Company"), a leading provider of data and analytics technology and services to healthcare organizations, today announced that Ben Albert, the Company's President and Chief Operating Officer (COO), was appointed to serve as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and as a member of Health Catalyst's Board of Directors ( "Board"), effective February 12, 2026.
Main Street's FanDuel Sports Network RSNs set for April shutdown
RSN operator Main Street has issued notices to employees warning of company’s expected demise at end of NBA and NHL regular seasons.
Some states push back on Trump recruiting local officers to aid immigration enforcement
Ten states — all led by Democrats — now have statewide policies prohibiting law enforcement officers from cooperating in one of the primary programs Trump is using to carry out his agenda of mass deportations.
Trump administration backs Kalshi and Polymarket as states move to ban prediction markets
The Trump administration is throwing its support behind the prediction market operators Kalshi and Polymarket in a critical legal battle between the growing prediction market industry and states that wish to ban these platforms.
Minneapolis City Council to vote on $7 million for small business support
The Minneapolis City Council will vote Thursday on a $7 million relief fund for small businesses that are losing money during the federal immigration operation.
HMAC announces closure, forced by dispute with city over unpaid entertainment taxes
Harrisburg Midtown Art Center announced its closure on Tuesday, stating it couldn’t procure essential operating licenses from the city after failing to pay its entertainment taxes. “We acknowledge that entertainment tax is owed,” HMAC, which initially opened in 2009, wrote on Facebook. The venue has already been effectively closed for the past two weeks, according […]
ICE meltdown, Pennsylvania politics, Epstein files, more
We’ll break down the biggest national stories from the battle over DHS funding to the Epstein files and midterm election security. Plus, a look at the local pushback over ICE cooperation and detention centers and two of Pennsylvania’s hottest races.
Giants' Buster Posey sees similarities between himself, fellow player-turned-executive Andrew Luck
San Francisco Giants president of baseball operations Buster Posey said he sees similarities between himself and Stanford general manager Andrew Luck.
Owner of FanDuel Sports Network announces layoffs in Minnesota
Main Street Sports Group, the owner of FanDuel Sports Network, is planning to close its Minneapolis operations and lay off approximately 20 employees this spring.
Minnesota Democrats demand reparations from ICE after losing $18 billion to Somali fraud
Minnesota Democrats seek federal reparations after ICE operations while allegedly ignoring $18 billion in fraud losses to taxpayers from social programs.
Expedition 74 Expands to Seven as Science Speeds Up
The seven-member Expedition 74 crew is in its first full week together aboard the International Space Station following Saturday’s arrival of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-12 mission. The orbital septet is resuming its full complement of advanced space science and lab maintenance as the Crew-12 quartet familiarizes itself with station operations.
Blue Clay Health Launches Patient and Family Advisory Committee Chaired by Dr. James Gillespie
Blue Clay Health today announced the launch of its inaugural Patient and Family Advisory Committee (PFAC), a strategic body designed to embed the patient perspective into the core of the company's operations and clinical product development.
Earth Science Tech, Inc. (ETST) Reports Third Fiscal Quarter 2026 Results
Revenue of $8.4 million, up 14.1% year-over-yearGross profit margin of 76.3%, up 71 bps year-over-yearNet income of $910,000, up 341% year-over-yearGenerated positive cash from operations of $1.2 million fiscal year-to-datePeaks, the company’s telemedicine platform, surpasses $2.0 million in revenue in less than a year, scaling from $248,000 into a high‑margin growth platformReduced outstanding shares of common stock by 3.6% year over year through share repurchasesGeographic expansion underway w
In a financial pinch, major health insurers are turning to AI for help
Facing shrinking profits and higher costs, health insurers are accelerating adoption of AI throughout their sprawling operations.
Business associations and their legislative asks as MN grapples with economic losses following Operation Metro Surge
Entertainment Look-A-Head: Concerts, movies, new releases
This week offers plenty of entertainment, including new releases, local concerts, and music at The Side Bar, The Union, Stuart’s Opera House and the West End Ciderhouse.
US Homeland Security Department’s funding negotiations stall
Democrats have called for a ban on immigration agents wearing masks and are pushing for more oversight of operations.
How Maryland Democrats are thwarting Wes Moore’s political ambitions
"The operations of his political tentacles are weak," says one Democratic strategist. "His inside political network is weak.”
JMU business student owns and operates junk removal service
Colin Wright, a northern Virginia native, spends his free time away from school helping people get rid of their unwanted junk through his business, Colin’s Haul’n.
Operation Ready Military Mobile App Launches, Delivering Science-Backed Training Built for Those Who Serve
Operation Ready, a new military readiness mobile app created by renowned exercise scientist Dr. Jim Stoppani, has officially launched, delivering a structured, science-backed training program designed specifically for military personnel and tactical athletes. Built for performance, durability and real-world readiness, the standalone app provides a complete 12-week strength and conditioning plan tailored to the physical demands of service members, with no subscription required.
Is Sustainability a Supply Chain Bottleneck?
As fashion races to meet stricter environmental targets, brands are discovering that responsible sourcing brings new operational constraints — reshaping timelines, costs and supplier relationships across the global supply chain.
iOS 27 'Rave' Update to Clean Up Code, Could Boost Battery Life
Apple's iOS 27 update will prioritize cleaning up the operating system's internals, with engineers making changes that could result in better battery life, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. The effort is said to be similar to what Apple did with its Snow Leopard Mac update years ago, and will involve removing old code, rewriting existing features, and subtly upgrading apps to improve performance. The result should hopefully be a "snappier, more responsive" OS, says Gurman.
Visa Expands Small Business Support And Cross Border Reach With New Deals
Visa (NYSE:V) has launched "Visa & Main," a new platform aimed at supporting U.S. small businesses. The company is working with Lendistry on a US$100 million working capital facility for eligible entrepreneurs. Visa has entered a milestone partnership with UnionPay International to extend Visa Direct reach into Chinese Mainland. Visa, a global payments network, is moving beyond card transactions into tools that support small business operations and access to funding. The "Visa & Main"...
Rubio meets Orbán in Budapest as US and Hungary are to sign a civilian nuclear pact
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is meeting Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán in Budapest as the two countries move to sign a civilian nuclear cooperation deal
After nearly a year of business, Lehigh Valley furniture store kicks off closing sale
A destination for beds, sofas and other home furnishings is winding down operations.
A Look At Madison Square Garden Entertainment (MSGE) Valuation After Strong Second Quarter Earnings
Madison Square Garden Entertainment (MSGE) just posted second quarter results that caught investor attention, reporting revenue of US$459.94 million and net income of US$92.72 million, along with higher earnings per share from continuing operations. See our latest analysis for Madison Square Garden Entertainment. The latest earnings release and the extended Infosys partnership come on top of a strong run in the shares, with a 90 day share price return of 38.42% and a 1 year total shareholder...
Angela Pitter Takes Care of Business, and Empowers Others To Do the Same
Whether she’s advising businesses on their digital presence or volunteering within the Newton community, entrepreneur and community leader Angela Pitter operates under the same mindset: if something can be made better, she will be the one to get it done.
China Built A Shape-Shifting Robot That Can Grow Like A Human
A new robot out of China can change its shape by inflating or deflating, and its creators hope it can be put to use for search and rescue operations.
Solid Snake Joins Rainbow Six Siege in Operation Silent Hunt
New Metal Gear Solid crossover season launches March 3; Operator gadget and loadout details inside.
A ghost rises in Madison Opera’s splendid ‘Everlasting Faint’
Running again Sunday in Capitol Theater, Scott Gendel and Sandra Flores-Strand’s opera revives a notorious murder with beautiful staging and music.
Law enforcement officers shouldn’t wear masks
Should police wear masks? Denver’s City Council thinks no — and is even trying to outlaw it for federal agents operating in the city (because if there’s one thing municipal governments do well, it’s bossing around Washington). Like so many issues where people quickly polarize to one extreme or the other, this issue is nuanced. […]
Melco Resorts & Entertainment (MLCO) Is Down 12.9% After Return To Quarterly Profitability And Record Five-Star Awards
In February 2026, Melco Resorts & Entertainment reported fourth-quarter 2025 results showing revenue rising to US$1,293.27 million and a swing from a US$20.27 million net loss to a US$60.64 million net income, supported by stronger gaming performance in Macau and Cyprus. Alongside this financial improvement, Melco secured a record 19 Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Awards and maintained about US$2.40 billion of liquidity, underscoring both operational strength and brand positioning across its...
Trump has chipped away at the long-standing wall between church and state. It’s just the beginning
A series of faith initiatives championed by the White House has led to a systematic religious revival within the government’s operations, culture and policy.
As Lenten season approaches, US Catholics straddle faith, advocacy, politics
Ash Wednesday arrives with questions for Christian critics and supporters as Trump administration’s mass immigration operations continue.
Google sets accelerated Android 17 release schedule
Besides replacing Developer Previews, the Android 17 Beta cycle is operating on a faster release schedule.
Sick Detainees Describe Poor Care at CoreCivic ICE Facilities
Problems at detention centers operated by CoreCivic extend far beyond recent measles outbreaks.
Business on Harry Hines shut down in multi-agency enforcement operation
This comes roughly 10 days after officials announced the expansion of Project Safe Neighborhoods to battle violent crime, drug trafficking and human...
Minneapolis nonprofit creates fund to help businesses impacted by Operation Metro Surge
Nonprofit helping to fund Minneapolis businesses hurt by Operation Metro Surge
Federal raid shuts down Harry Hines adult bookstore
Federal agents halted operations at an adult bookstore as part of a probe into drug and prostitution activities in Dallas.
February 13, 2026
An evolutionary biologist weighs in on mating and dating in the age of apps. Is pair bonding passé? Is single the new married? Plus, the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider, or RHIC, has ceased operation. What’s next for particle physics? Add, researchers are homing in on how kids reap long-term health benefits from getting dirty, whether cuddling furry pets or playing with friends.
A Climate Supercomputer Is Getting New Bosses. It’s Not Clear Who.
The National Science Foundation said management of the machine, used by researchers for forecasts, disaster warnings and pure science, would be transferred to a “third-party operator.”
They ran a Fort Worth cattle business. It was a $220 million fraud operation, prosecutors say
Pascagoula business shut down after prostitution operation, man charged with human trafficking, police say
Asian Acupressure has its business license revoked and has been condemned.
Wendy’s takes sharp U-turn back to its core business
The chain’s same-store sales fell 11.3% in Q4 as executives embark upon a turnaround plan focused on menu, marketing, and operations
This Beaverton family business puts coffee shop and taco restaurant under one roof
Kasa Coffee and Tacos Fita, operated by an engaged couple and their family, has become a community hub since opening in January.
Senate approves bill to protect business franchisees' religious beliefs, operating days
It prohibits a franchisor from requiring existing franchisees with sincerely held religious beliefs to operate on religious days. There are a few exceptions, including when an original franchise agreement required operation on a religious day.
Provenir Launches Comprehensive Decision Intelligence Platform with New Agentic AI Features to Supercharge Business Performance and Agility
PARSIPPANY, N.J., February 13, 2026--Provenir, a global leader in AI risk decisioning, today announced the launch of its comprehensive decision intelligence platform with new agentic AI features to supercharge business performance and operational agility.
Dubai’s DP World replaces chairman amid scrutiny over Epstein ties
The head of one of the world’s largest port operators has been replaced following revelations of ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The best recent science fiction, fantasy and horror
Nowhere Burning by Catriona Ward; Pagans by James Alistair Henry; Pedro the Vast by Simón López Trujillo; Operation Bounce House by Matt Dinniman; A Beast Slinks Towards Beijing by Alice Evelyn Yang
TMRW Sports ‘to run' NFL flag football league
Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy’s venture to operate new competition backed by US$32m investment from NFL owners.
A Pilot Fired Over Kristi Noem’s Missing Blanket and the Constant Chaos Inside DHS
Secretary faces fire for confrontational immigration crackdown and self-promotional style; White House to wind down Minnesota operations.
Aid on the way for small businesses
Relief to the tune of $10 million could be on the way for some small businesses in Minnesota hurt by Operation Metro Surge.
RFK Jr. shakes up leadership team
The health secretary said Medicare Director Chris Klomp will now oversee all department operations.