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Trump and Kennedy Seek To Relax Safeguards for AI Healthcare Tools
For years, the Department of Health and Human Services built standards to make sure electronic health records were user-friendly and offered transparent advice to doctors. Now they’re relaxing those standards, and doctors and critics in the hospital industry are worried.
French hantavirus patient is critically ill and on an artificial lung as outbreak grows to 11
Three people on the cruise died, including a Dutch couple that health officials believe were the first exposed to the virus while visiting South America.
Doozy of a Patch Tuesday includes 30 critical Microsoft CVEs
The good news: no 0-days. The bad news: busy week ahead for Microsoft admins
Hantavirus outbreak tests Trump officials who criticized covid response
Some top administration health figures had publicly questioned the credibility of the agencies that are now central to explaining a new and uncertain threat.
Rex Reed, longtime film critic and journalist, dies at 87
The well-known film critic and journalist Rex Reed has died at 87. A publicist says he passed away Tuesday at his Manhattan home after a short illness. Reed was a
Rex Reed, longtime film critic and journalist, dies at 87
The well-known film critic and journalist Rex Reed has died at 87. A publicist says he passed away Tuesday at his Manhattan home after a short illness. Reed was a
Jen Kiggans, Virginia Republican, Faces Uproar Over Radio Host’s Racist Remark About Jeffries
Representative Jen Kiggans, a Republican in a tough re-election fight, faced criticism after she agreed with comments by a local radio host that included a racist line about Hakeem Jeffries, the Democratic minority leader.
Howard Schultz takes a jab at Seattle after moving to Miami
Former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz criticized the city and its mayor in a Wall Street Journal opinion piece.
How AI Is Reshaping Entrepreneurship for Gen Z and Small Business Owners
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming entrepreneurship by lowering barriers like cost, connections, and expertise. As a result, 77% of founders say it’s now accessible to start and grow a business regardless of background. Gen Z is driving this shift, with 73% managing multiple income streams and using AI to start and grow businesses. The result is a rise in flexible “portfolio careers,” where networks, personal branding, and digital tools are key to success. Key findings from LinkedIn’s research: 77% of founders say entrepreneurship is accessible regardless of background 73% of Gen Z entrepreneurs have multiple income streams 69% of founders say entrepreneurship is more achievable than ever 75% of entrepreneurs say networks are critical to success 68% of Gen Z entrepreneurs say AI is important to their business How are Gen Z entrepreneurs reshaping business? New research from LinkedIn shows how the use of AI, shifting career priorities, and evolving definitions of success are reshaping how businesses are started and grown. Gen Z is leading a shift toward more flexible ways of working, with nearly three-quarters (73%) of Gen Z entrepreneurs reporting multiple income streams, compared to 56% of Gen X. This highlights growth in “portfolio careers” designed to build resilience and create greater control over work and income. How is AI making entrepreneurship more accessible? AI and digital tools are making entrepreneurship more accessible, lowering traditional barriers such as cost, connections, and expertise. More than three-quarters (77%) of founders say entrepreneurship is accessible regardless of background, while 69% say it is more achievable today than ever before. Younger entrepreneurs are driving this change, with more than two-thirds (68%) of Gen Z entrepreneurs reporting that AI and digital tools are important to their business, more than twice the rate of Baby Boomers (27%). Nearly one in five (18%) Gen Z entrepreneurs say AI made starting their business feel possible. AI is also helping small business owners compete for talent: 57% of US entrepreneurs say that AI can help them compete with larger companies to find and attract better candidates. Related: The AI Edge for Entrepreneurs
College sports expansion frenzy: Winners and losers as NCAA Tournament field grows, CFP takes critical step
Postseason expansion will inalterably change the complexion of college sports
EMA welcomes political agreement on Critical Medicines Act | European Medicines Agency (EMA)
Act to improve availability, production and supply of critical medicines in the European Union
Trump honors Indiana at White House, jokes about Curt Cignetti: ‘Who is Curt?’
President renewed his criticism of college sports, but acknowledged that for Indiana, "it seems to be working for you."
Former Starbucks CEO calls out Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson over 'hostile' business environment
Former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz criticized the city where he built his coffee empire.
Wake County Public Health to offer back-to-school vaccine clinics this summer
While the current school year is winding down, Wake County Public Health is already working to make it easy for families to check a critical task off their list for next year – getting their child's required vaccinations. The County is hosting monthly vaccine clinics to help students get the immunizations they need as they head back to class in the fall.
Political expert slams Bernie Sanders proposed ‘data center moratorium’ bill under guise of AI safety
Government Accountability Institute executive director Seamus Bruner analyzes Sen. Bernie Sanders’, I-Vt., artificial intelligence criticisms on ‘The Bottom Line.’
Trump is normalizing things that would have been scandals in his first term
President Donald Trump is once again looking for loyalty in all the wrong places. But he’s now spent a decade gradually upping the provocations and wearing down his critics’ willingness to raise a fuss.
Trump nominates Cameron Hamilton to lead FEMA, a year after he was fired from the role
The nomination suggests a shift in the administration’s stance on FEMA, which has faced criticism from President Donald Trump.
April B shares the latest in entertainment headlines
Dua Lipa may be suing Samsung, and Chris Brown responds to critics about his new album.
Billy Bob Thornton pushes back on celebrity activism: ‘I don't know anything about politics’
Billy Bob Thornton criticizes celebrity activism at awards shows, saying stars should "get your little award" instead of pushing personal beliefs.
UNC Health plans Wilmington hospital
UNC Health plans to create a community hospital on a 62-acre proposed site in New Hanover County, pending regulatory approvals, according to an announcement Monday morning. “Planned for the southeast corner of South 17th Street and Shipyard Boulevard, the site was selected for its accessibility and its geographic infill capacity in serving a rapidly growing region,” according to the release. “This project marks a significant step forward in UNC Health’s commitment to improving access to primary care and specialty care closer to home.” Officials said the proposed hospital would offer a range of specialties, including emergency care, cardiology, oncology, OBGYN and more. While the not-for-profit, state-owned health system’s officials are planning the hospital, the proposal still requires state approval through North Carolina’s certificate of need (CON) process before it can become a reality. UNC Health is targeting an opening date of 2030, the release stated, and “will continue to engage openly with local community leaders and residents and share updates as plans evolve and progress is made towards achieving CON approval.” The state’s CON law requires healthcare providers to obtain a CON from the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services before developing or offering what the department’s website dubs “a new institutional health service.” The term encompasses a wide range of facilities, including hospitals. The news of UNC Health’s Wilmington plans follows the recent addition of Ernie Bovio to UNC Health. Bovio, who had served as president of the Novant Health Coastal Region since 2024, became regional president of UNC Health’s Southeast Coastal Region in April. “This is an important first step in our commitment to ensuring that families in Wilmington and the surrounding areas have access to the high-quality, compassionate care they deserve – right here at home,” Bovio stated in the release. “As I’ve listened to my own neighbors and community members across the region, I’ve heard a clear message: Wilmington is ready for more choice in healthcare – and UNC Health is ready to deliver it.” According to the release, Wilmington Health – one of the largest independent, physician-owned practices in Southeastern North Carolina – also supports the project, and its providers are expected to participate on the medical staff of the new facility. “Wilmington Health has served this community for more than 50 years, and we know firsthand that our patients are interested in choice,” stated Jeff James, CEO of Wilmington Health, in the release. “We strongly support UNC Health’s plan to bring a new community hospital to our region – closing critical gaps in specialty care and ensuring families across our region have options to access the services they need, right here at home.”
The New Lego Batman Game Has Reportedly Been Made Playable Early By Accident
One lucky fan preloaded the game, only to find out they could play it.
New statement identifies critical gaps in the science guiding e-cigarette regulation
A new research statement published in the May 2026 issue of the journal CHEST, highlights significant gaps in the scientific evidence needed to effectively regulate electronic cigarettes (ECs) and protect ...
Scientists Question Trust in AI Over Colleagues
The Conversation publishes an article by researchers at the Institute for Basic Science arguing that rapid adoption of AI in laboratories risks eroding scientific culture and human relationships. The article cites **AlphaFold** as an example of an AI tool that dramatically sped protein-structure prediction, and it notes a broader boom in national initiatives to integrate AI into science, per The Conversation. The authors warn that early-career researchers may outsource troubleshooting and critical evaluation to AI, which could weaken independent thinking and collegial critique. Editorial analysis: For practitioners, the piece highlights trade offs between productivity gains and the social practices that sustain reproducible research.
Illinois road investment impact business competitiveness
Illinois road conditions drive higher costs, delays and safety risks for businesses statewide. Learn why sustained investment is critical.
The missing cybersecurity leader in small business
With the average cyberattack costing SMBs over $250,000, Georgianna Shea and Cason Smith argue that virtual and fractional CISOs are no longer optional. Discover why federal support for high-level security leadership is critical to protecting the backbone of the American economy.
Why investing in Illinois roads is critical for business competitiveness
A look at how deteriorating Illinois roads impact supply chains, business costs and economic growth across Chicago and downstate regions.
National Academy of Sciences experts denounce Trump’s NSF board purge
In an open letter, thousands of researchers criticized the White House’s firing of the research agency’s board as ‘an alarming attack’ on U.S. science
Allegheny Health Network unveils new medical helicopter. What to know
This $55M investment in 4 new LifeFlight helicopters offers improved service for critical patients.
'Can it really be clear and obvious?'
In Sunday's critical encounter between West Ham and Arsenal he was presented with a decision that could decide the fate of two clubs. England spent two minutes 41 seconds poring over every angle of the footage, checking the possible foul, the potential penalties. Arsenal have been the kings of it all season, crowding and surrounding goalkeepers at corners, finding ways to create space and score goals from set-pieces.
CACI Wins Navy Contract Supporting MSC Business Systems
In 2024, CACI received a bridge contract to maintain the MSC’s lifecycle support platform for critical software-intensive systems.
Red Sox’s Jarren Duran deletes Instagram account after criticizing NBC Sports’ Michael Holley
If you can’t take the heat, stay off Instagram. On Friday, NBC Sports Boston’s Michael Holley expressed doubts about the Boston Red Sox’s honesty regarding Roman Anthony’s ongoing injury situation. “I understand why all teams do it, but let’s just be honest. All teams lie. They lie about injuries, they just do,” said Holley. “Tell me…
Union-funded anti-Spencer Pratt ad sparks backlash as critics say it could help him
LA unions spent $221,000 on a political ad attacking Republican Spencer Pratt's mayoral campaign, but critics say the messaging could backfire.
Vanderbilt University chancellor warns schools are too political
Vanderbilt University chancellor Daniel Diermeier criticizes schools for prioritizing political activism over education on 'Fox News Live.'
Marc Theissen warns Democrats embracing ‘politics of envy’ amid AOC’s criticism of billionaires
The ‘Fox News Sunday’ panel debates Democratic messaging on billionaires and the party’s shift toward socialism.
macOS 27: Two More Changes Leaked Ahead of WWDC Next Month
macOS 27 will have a "slight redesign" compared to macOS Tahoe, along with an option to automatically group tabs in Safari, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. In his Power On newsletter today, Gurman said the design changes will help to address some of the criticism surrounding macOS Tahoe's new Liquid Glass interface. In particular, the changes should improve overall readability. "Apple aims to address the shadows and transparency quirks," he said.
Chicago Teachers Union wants $8.5 million dues hike to fund politics
“Has your brand become toxic?” This was a pointed question from WGN Political Editor Tahman Bradley, posed to Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates in a recent interview. Her immediate response: “I don’t understand the question.” When pressed, Gates added, “The Chicago Teachers Union is not a political party, it is a labor union.” But internal union documents show CTU leadership is trying to skim $8.5 million more from teacher paychecks explicitly for politics, while trying to silence union members critical of Gates’ leadership. Under the proposed dues hike, Chicago teachers would see up to $800 more per year flow from their paychecks to union coffers. The union already takes in more than $40 million a year, mostly from dues. And it spends less than 18 cents of every dollar on teacher representation. The No. 1 reason for the proposed dues hike? Politics. “We must win a majority of the first 21 person fully elected school board in November,” reads the first point in CTU’s member FAQ document.1 This directly contradicts CTU’s promise to members about how leadership uses dues money. The official CTU handbook tells members that the union does not use dues money for politics, so if they are interested in funding political activity, they should consider voluntary donations to CTU’s political action committee. “Our dues are not used for political purposes,” according to the handbook. “So our PAC relies on extra contributions from our members to support progressive candidates and to impact elected officials at the city, county and state levels.” This kind of double-speak is one reason members are concerned about another constitutional change slipped into the dues hike vote, which will take place on May 20-21: an attempt to stop members from holding the union accountable. A proposed amendment to the union constitution tries to place limits on when members may bring a lawsuit against the union for violating members’ rights.2 This provision is clearly a response to members’ lawsuit against union leadership regarding Gates’ years-long refusal to publish audited financial statements. The judge in that case has repeatedly denied the union’s attempts to dismiss it. Teachers opposed to these changes have been circulating this flier, urging members to vote no. What will CTU members get in return for millions of dollars in additional dues? If the 2024 school board elections are any indication—not much. CTU leadership’s record on school board races may not inspire confidence among members. A Chicago Policy Center analysis of a dozen affiliated PACs found CTU spent nearly $2.9 million on school board races in 2024. Of that spending, more than $2.1 million (75%) went to losing candidates. And while CTU-backed candidates lost six of the nine competitive seats overall, they fared worse in their biggest-spending races, losing five of six contests in which the union and its affiliates put up more than $250,000 for their candidate. The Chicago school board elections take place Nov. 3.3 Is another $8.5 million enough to clean up a toxic reputation? Not likely. Update on federal tax credit scholarship: Last week, Democratic New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said she plans to opt into the federal tax credit scholarship program. If Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker follows suit, Illinois could unlock $1 billion in donor money statewide for both public- and private-school students. If Illinois does not opt in, that money will flow to other states. The Last Ward reported in February on how Illinois Democrats could unlock at least $100 million in new resources for Chicago public-school students by opting in. Update on the investigation into how Chicagoans learned about a meeting to hike their property taxes: The Last Ward reported in January on an absurd, taxpayer-funded investigation into how local media learned of a planned Chicago school board meeting to hike the district’s property tax levy. That investigation is now complete. Lawyers interviewed two dozen witnesses, and found nothing. Update on Illinois’ muni debt crisis: My colleague Joe Tabor last week published a must-read piece in Crain’s Chicago Business about how Illinois recently rejected south suburban Harvey’s request to be designated a “distressed city.” The saga shows why the state must implement a better structure to assist insolvent local governments, including allowing for the option to pursue debt relief via Chapter 9 bankruptcy. The Last Ward reported in October on how Harvey is tipping the first domino in Illinois’ municipal debt crisis. Mincing Rascals: I joined the Mincing Rascals podcast to discuss the SAFE-T Act, the millionaires tax, and more. My “green light” recommendation: Force Majeure (2014). 1 Notably, the No. 2 reason cited is “resources to fund a state-wide millionaires tax campaign in order to fully fund the state’s school funding formula.” The constitutional amendment necessary to implement a progressive income tax in Illinois recently died in the Illinois House, meaning this question would not appear on the ballot until 2028 at the earliest. 2 There is seemingly no single-subject rule for CTU constitutional amendments. So members only get one vote on the full package. One cannot vote “yes” on the dues hike and “no” on the restriction of members’ rights, for example. 3 Illinois law grants far too much power over local government to unelected officials like Gates. State lawmakers should fix that.
Trends and challenges in higher education
Americans are both proud and critical of our higher educational system. More American universities are highly ranked than those in other countries. More international students come here than to any other country. And basic research at U.S. universities has earned more patents and Nobel Prizes than elsewhere. Yet trust in colleges and universities has dramatically declined. Costs have dramatically increased and more parents […]
New House bill aims to peel back banana regulations in childcare
A new bipartisan bill passed in the House is aiming to eliminate childcare regulations that critics in the industry say have gone bananas.
Big donors backed Harris in 2024. For 2028, they're not so sure
Though few in the party want to criticize Harris, few appear ready to endorse her. Conversations about her prospects often come down to one thing: Democrats' anxiety about winning.
"Yeah 'Beard', what chatter?" - Patrick Beverley trolls James Harden's critics after his bounce back performance in Game 3
James Harden finally showed up when the Cavs needed him the most.
Defiant Dubois sheds quitter tag to write new narrative
Daniel Dubois faced questions over his heart and mentality before facing Fabio Wardley, but silenced his critics by overcoming adversity to become WBO heavyweight champion.
Wardley vs Dubois: How new heavyweight champion silenced his critics
Daniel Dubois faced questions over his heart and mentality before facing Fabio Wardley, but silenced his critics by overcoming adversity to become WBO heavyweight champion.
Alaska Republicans reelect Carmela Warfield as party chair
Warfield defeated a challenger who criticized Republicans serving in bipartisan coalitions in the Alaska Legislature.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy returns to reality TV roots, sparking criticism and questions
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy’s new reality show, filmed with his family over the last seven months, has sparked criticism amid high gas prices, in addition to raising ethics questions.
Scientists say a critical Atlantic ocean current is weakening and the world could feel the impact
Scientists have uncovered strong evidence that a major Atlantic Ocean current system tied to global climate is weakening. The slowdown has been detected across a vast region of the North Atlantic over nearly two decades. Since this ocean circulation helps regulate weather and temperatures, changes could affect storms, rainfall, sea levels, and even winter conditions in parts of Europe and North America.
How MAGA Sheriff Chad Bianco is shaking up the 2026 California gubernatorial primary
Riverside Sheriff Chad Bianco's says he will restore law and order to California if he is elected governor. Critics say his record proves otherwise.
San Francisco 49ers Not Awarded Compensatory Pick for Jauan Jennings
The Vikings snatched up Jauan Jennings on a $13 million deal, but a critical timing technicality leaves San Francisco empty-handed despite losing their veteran wideout to Minnesota.
San Diego Police union criticizes budget, claims it prioritizes politics over safety
Nintendo Announces $50 Switch 2 Price Increase as Pokémon Pokopia Crosses 4 Million Sales
Pokémon Pokopia is widely known to have been a successful launch for Nintendo, with the life sim having recently climbed its way to the top of Metacritic's 2026 game rankings with an impressive 89 Metacritic score. Now, recent financial filings indicate that Pokopia has been more than simply a criti...
Trump slammed as ‘enemy of the American people’ after enraging small business owners
PresidentDonald Trump is facing online backlash after the White House promoted a Small Business Week event praising his administration’s support for small businesses, with critics accusing him of dama...
Rory McIlroy speaks out on LIV Golf losing funding; DeChambeau and Rahm's possible paths back to the PGA Tour
McIlroy has long been one of LIV's biggest critics, but he's open to stars returning -- so long as they want to
One Critical Factor Predicts Longevity Better Than Diet or Exercise, Study Finds
It's vital for almost every aspect of our well-being.
Iran’s injured supreme leader out of public view but still shaping strategy, US intel assesses
US intelligence assesses that Iran’s new supreme leader is playing a critical role in shaping war strategy alongside senior Iranian officials, according to multiple sources familiar with the intelligence. The reports found that precise authority within a now-fractured regime remains unclear, but that Mojtaba Khamenei is likely helping direct how Iran is managing negotiations with the US to end the war.
Donald Trump again attacks ABC's Rachel Scott: 'Such a stupid question'
Donald Trump lambasted ABC's Rachel Scott over what he said was a 'stupid question' from 'one of the worst reporters,' after previously criticizing her at an event for Black journalists.
Discord is back after a major outage.
For more than an hour on Friday, many people were having trouble connecting to Discord, with the platform showing a message saying that there were “increased API errors.” Discord confirmed it was investigating issues at 3:08PM ET, and by 6:38PM ET, it reported that all “critical functionalities have recovered for all users.” Updates: Discord says the issues are resolved. [Image: https://platform.theverge.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/05/slack-upload-1778269131728.png?quality=90&strip=all]
White House prepares to replace FDA leader Marty Makary amid agency turmoil
FDA Commissioner Marty Makary has faced criticism over his leadership of the agency that oversees vaccine and drug approvals.
East Africa Might Break Off From the Continent Sooner Than Scientists Thought—and a New Ocean May Fill the Gap
A new study suggests that a rift in Kenya and Ethiopia has reached a critical stage in the split-up process, and that water may flood it in a few million years
White House hosting anti-abortion activists amid Trump backlash
Senior Trump aides will host anti-abortion activists for a meeting at the White House on Friday, in an effort to temper growing criticism over the administration’s priorities, a person familiar with the matter told CNN.
Helldivers 2 devs respond to criticism with Q&A after recent Steam reviews tank to ‘Mostly Negative’
Helldivers 2 players have criticized Arrowhead Game Studios for some time. An official response from the devs promises many improvements.
U.S. and Zambia Feud: Trump Health Aid Deal Stalls Over Critical Minerals
The tussle put a spotlight on the administration’s attempt to replace the United States Agency for International Development with a new, “America First” alternative.
German Business Leader Criticizes Merz for Poor Reform Record
The head of Germany’s Chambers of Commerce and Industry sharply criticized Chancellor Friedrich Merz for his poor reform record, calling the conservative leader’s ruling coalition dysfunctional and unreliable.
‘People should be talking about it’: moves to curtail vaccine information obscures important science, doctors say
Quashed studies, halted publications and canceled research threaten damage to public health, critics say
Science diplomacy lessons from a North Korean volcano
Mount Paektu, a mythic, active volcano on the border between North Korea and China, is almost the epitome of a scientific challenge that crosses political lines. In 946 CE, it erupted in one of the five biggest volcanic events of the past 10,000 years, kicking up huge quantities of ash and sending destructive mud flows down river channels for hundreds of kilometres. Should this happen again, the entire region, including easternmost Russia, South Korea and even Japan could be hit. “It’s definitely got the potential to be big,” said James Hammond, a professor of geophysics at Birkbeck, University of London. An eruption on the scale of 946 would have “huge regional impact.” For the past 15 years, Hammond has helped lead a groundbreaking collaboration with North Korean scientists to study the volcano, navigating scientific sanctions, tough export controls on scientific equipment and a long, pandemic-enforced exodus from the country. Although he seems more at home on far-flung research expeditions – before speaking to Science|Business, Hammond was camping out on a Greenland ice sheet – he has also advised the European Commission on its changing science diplomacy strategy. His long experience with North Korea has made Hammond sceptical of blanket bans on science collaboration, no matter the country.This is a live question in Europe, where in the wake of Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, institutional ties with Russian universities were almost entirely severed, although some scientists fear this could undermine our understanding of climate change’s impact on the Arctic. Here, Hammond tells the story of the Mount Paektu mission and the policy lessons he takes from it. Ominous rumblingsThe genesis of Hammond’s collaboration came in 2002, when Mount Paektu began to rumble ominously. Earthquake activity picked up and the volcano began to emit unusual gases. North Korean scientists took notice. “People felt we need to know more about this volcano,” said Hammond. In 2011, North Korean vulcanologists put out a request for international expertise to help them learn more. At the time, Hammond and his collaborator, Clive Oppenheimer, were working on a vulcanology project in another sanctioned country, Eritrea, and so decided to answer the call. Within a month, they had flown into Pyongyang. “It was pretty incredible,” recalls Hammond (left). “We were made to feel like honoured guests, and invited to official celebrations.” The scientific opportunity was huge. Paektu is unusually positioned, a thousand kilometres from where tectonic plates rub against each other in the Pacific. “It was an incredibly interesting volcano, but not much research had been done, at least not in the international community,” he said. “There was so much we felt we could do. And we had these partners that were super keen to engage.”The mission received an unusual visitor in the form of volcano-obsessed filmmaker Werner Herzog, who accompanied Hammond and Oppenheimer while directing his 2016 film Into the Inferno about volcanos across the world. Four days into the trip, the German director delivered a long speech about reunification to his North Korean hosts, recalls Hammond. “He got to the heart of the Koreans and how they felt, and how they thought, in a way that I'm not sure I ever will,” he said. UN sanctionsHowever, Hammond realised he’d been “naïve” about how difficult it would be to collaborate with North Korea, which was sanctioned far more heavily than Eritrea. “We didn’t fully appreciate the all-encompassing nature of restrictions,” he said. In 2016, as tensions escalated over Pyongyang’s nuclear tests, a United Nations resolution banned all joint scientific work with North Korea. However, the UN sanctions did allow countries to request carve outs, and the UK successfully requested an exemption for Hammond’s work. Related articlesEU pushes for joint science diplomacy, but care needed to avoid gridlock, experts sayRussia severs its last ties with German scienceAnchor Greenlanders in Arctic climate research, experts tell EU ahead of policy updateExport controls have also delayed Hammond’s work. In one case, it took 18 months to get approval from the UK government to take seismometers, which measure earthquakes, to North Korea. “It was frustrating,” he said. “But they didn’t just say no.” However, one instrument, called an induction coil, used to measure how the earth conducts electricity, was blocked entirely because it can in theory be used to detect submarines. Karaoke bondingSince the collaboration started in 2011, Hammond has visited the country around 15 times, although the pandemic closed off North Korea for more than five years. A trip last November was Hammond’s first since the outbreak. Despite this lengthy interlude, Hammond has deep bonds in the country. The North Korean scientists Hammond works with are somewhat isolated, as they struggle to access the latest research papers and travel to international conferences. That said, they are “excellent geophysicists” and are “very well trained in the field,” he said. Over karaoke and chats about their families, “we’ve made friendships, for sure,” he said. The authorities have to sign-off things like the placement of seismometers, for example, but Hammond said these requests have been approved. “Everything that we've asked for within a scientific context has been delivered.”Scientific backchannels? These kind of personal links between scientists across political lines are one purported benefit of science diplomacy. During the Cold War, some historians argue, scientific contact between the US and Soviet Union laid a groundwork of trust for other cooperation, such as on arms control. Hammond agrees that backchannel contacts to North Korean geophysicists are hardly likely to defuse a military crisis on the Korean peninsula, but the simple fact of the scientific collaboration makes contacts between diplomats that little bit easier. “It creates opportunities to understand each other a little bit better,” he said. “When maybe you have those more difficult discussions as diplomats, it's coming from a slightly better place.” Cutting tiesDrawing lessons from the Mount Paektu mission for today’s links with Russian science isn’t simple. The analogy is far from exact, Hammond said, “because one is essentially a Cold War, versus a pretty hot war in the case of Russia.” But Hammond’s broader argument is that the challenges we face, such as climate change, pandemics, biodiversity loss, pollution and so on, have globalised in an unprecedented way, making blanket shutdowns in collaboration with any country unwise.He’s somewhat critical of the UN scientific sanctions imposed on North Korea in 2016, even though they did allow for exceptions. “I think a blanket halt to some of these things, when we face big global challenges [. . .] that’s quite a risky thing to do,” he said.Institutional endorsement?European academics are still by and large free to work individually with Russian counterparts. However, official, institutional partnerships have largely ended. Shortly following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Russian university rectors wrote a public letter endorsing the war, meaning European universities fear official collaboration could also be seen as a kind of endorsement. Hammond acknowledges there is a risk of legitimising regimes, and state-controlled universities, through scientific cooperation. “That’s the trade off you have to make,” he said. Strategic projectsWith Russia, instead of giving a green light to restart all Arctic science, a middle ground might be firing up a few carefully selected “strategic” projects, said Hammond. After all, European countries are still collaborating with Russia on the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor, an experimental nuclear fusion plant in the south of France. However, even if Europe did try to revive Arctic science with Russia, there’s no guarantee Russian scientists would play ball. A series of high-profile arrests of physicists in Russia accused of sharing their findings with the outside world has made collaboration fraught. Even before the invasion of 2022, “the Russian regime made it increasingly difficult, and this sort of discouraged people,” Dag Rune Olsen, rector of the Arctic University of Norway, told Science|Business last year.
Chief Justice John Roberts says Supreme Court is not political
Chief Justice John Roberts said Supreme Court justices are not political actors amid criticism over major rulings and voting rights decisions
Rudy Giuliani’s Spokesperson Gives Update on His Health
The former New York mayor was hospitalized with pneumonia in critical condition.
Chief Justice Roberts defends Supreme Court against charges of partisan rulings
Chief Justice John Roberts on Wednesday lamented what he framed as a widespread misunderstanding of the Supreme Court’s work, pushing back on criticism that many of the court’s highest-profile cases wind up with conservative outcomes.
World Patient Safety Day 2025 Webinar on Goal 4: Prevent health care-associated infections
Webinar Series on the World Patient Safety Day GoalsSafe care for every newborn and every childPatient safety for newborns and children remains a critical global health priority. Children are particularly vulnerable to preventable harm due to developmental factors, dependency on caregivers, complex medication dosing requirements, diagnostic uncertainty, and increased susceptibility to health care-associated infections.Ensuring safe care for every newborn and every child is therefore essential to improving health outcomes and strengthening quality of care across health systems.The World Patient Safety Day 2025 campaign, under the theme:“Safe care for every newborn and every child: Patient safety from the start!”emphasizes the importance of embedding patient safety principles early in life and across the continuum of maternal, newborn and child health services.The campaign identifies five priority goals, calling for coordinated action by governments, health professionals, professional associations, civil society, and families globally.Webinar 4: “Prevent health care-associated infections”Thursday 7 May 2026, 14.00–15.30 CESTJoin this five-part webinar series on the Patient Safety Goals for safe care for every newborn and every child, featuring global experts and practitioners discussing real-world implementation, challenges, and solutions to reduce avoidable harm.The webinar will address the following topics:• Why infection prevention and control is essential for safe newborn and childcare• How Goal 4 can be implemented in practice at the point of care• What health care workers, leaders, managers, and policymakers can do to Prevent healthcare-associated infections.Registration linkDownload the flyer
Lockheed opposes Northrop bid to remove firewall on solid rocket motor business
Northrop argues that a 2018 consent order is hampering its ability to ramp up solid rocket motor production needed for critical munitions.
National Science Foundation Awards CAREER Grant to Villanova Engineering Professor
Villanova University is an Augustinian Catholic community where students think critically, act compassionately and succeed while serving others.
State of Insecurity: New poll shows Mass. middle class is more squeezed than ever
The results are a warning shot for the Bay State’s political class, who have touted their efforts to make the state more affordable during a critical midterm election year.
Assassin's Creed Multiplayer Leak Criticized by Ubisoft, After Fan Admits Editing Image Using AI
Ubisoft has criticized the posting of a leaked screenshot from its under-wraps multiplayer Assassin's Creed game, which had been altered using AI.
Exclusive: Deleted tweets reveal new surgeon general pick criticized Trump and RFK Jr. health policies
Just two months before she was selected as President Donald Trump’s nominee for surgeon general, Dr. Nicole Saphier suggested the administration was hiding that measles was spreading widely enough in the United States for the country to lose its “elimination” status until after the midterm elections.
Exclusive: Deleted tweets reveal new surgeon general pick criticized Trump and RFK Jr. health policies
Just two months before she was selected as President Donald Trump’s nominee for surgeon general, Dr. Nicole Saphier suggested the administration was hiding that measles was spreading widely enough in the United States for the country to lose its “elimination” status until after the midterm elections.
Critical Palo Alto Firewalls Vulnerability Exploited in the Wild to Gain Root Access
Palo Alto Networks has disclosed a critical buffer overflow vulnerability in PAN-OS software, tracked as CVE-2026-0300, that is already being actively exploited in the wild.
Centra hosts ribbon cutting on new behavioral health facility
On Tuesday morning, Centra leaders cut the ribbon on the Centra Behavioral Health Hospital to help meet a critical need in our community.
Michigan may force hospitals to disclose savings from drug cost program
The federal 340B program was meant to reduce drug costs for patients, but, according to some critics, instead it’s lining the budgets of big hospital systems. Others argue it’s keeping the little guys afloat.
Defiant border czar brushes away MAGA critics, says ‘mass deportations are coming’
White House border czar Tom Homan on Tuesday brushed off critics within President Donald Trump’s base who say the administration is not deporting enough people, while vowing to “flood the zone” with immigration officers in jurisdictions which pass legislation limiting cooperation with federal enforcement.
Zambia blasts the U.S. over a $2 billion health deal in exchange for critical minerals
Zambia accuses the U.S. of linking a $2 billion health assistance deal to access to its rich mineral resources.
Skills gained from navigating the unknown
In moments of panic, Emma Davidson learned that asking for help isn’t a weakness but a key to success. Davidson, a senior in agronomy and seed science, exemplified resilience and courage when unexpectedly stepping into a leadership role at the Iowa State University Seed Science Center. Her critical action of noticing her supervisor’s absence led to a lifesaving wellness check at his home.
Zambia blasts the US over a $2 billion health deal in exchange for critical minerals
HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP) — Zambia is accusing the United States of tying a $2 billion deal for critical health assistance to access to the southern African nation's rich mineral assets, and calling the outgoing U.S. ambassador's allegations of corruption “mischievous” and “undiplomatic."
Zambia blasts the US over a $2 billion health deal in exchange for critical minerals
Zambia accuses the U.S. of linking a $2 billion health assistance deal to access to its rich mineral resources
Obama admits 'genuine tension' in marriage over pressure to stay in politics
Former President Barack Obama says his role as President Donald Trump's most high-profile critic has created tension in his marriage with former first lady Michelle Obama.
Sports Daily: Royals stay hot early in critical stretch
The Royals are right back in it, continuing a recent hot streak with a series-opening win against Cleveland.
Two hantavirus cases confirmed, five more suspected on stranded cruise ship
Among the seven cases, three people have died, one is critically ill and three have mild symptoms, the WHO says.
IKEA Is Making a Massive Customer Service Mistake, and It’s a Warning for Every Modern Business
Companies that hand off critical moments to third parties to save a few bucks are sacrificing future sales and brand equity.
States Eye Aid To Prop Up Distressed Hospitals Amid Federal Medicaid Cuts
Hundreds of hospitals nationwide are bracing for Medicaid cuts as a result of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Some state lawmakers are eyeing loans and other forms of financial aid to distressed hospitals in rural and urban areas, as healthcare providers warn of cuts to critical services and scramble for funding.
HSBC hit by $400m UK fraud-related charge; Rachel Reeves ‘clashed with Scott Bessent’ over Iran war criticism
Rolling coverage of the latest economic and financial news
Lightning strike likely sparked massive fire that destroyed USF St. Pete marine science lab, officials say
University of South Florida officials now believe a lightning strike sparked the massive fire that tore through the marine science lab on the St. Petersburg campus, as concerns grow over the loss of decades of research and critical equipment.
FDA details Class I catheter recall due to safety risk
The FDA first shared a warning about this issue back in April. Now, the agency has shared a critical update.
With ex-patients dying, Idaho was ‘flipping couch cushions’ to restore this program
Lawmakers cobbled together the money to restore a critical mental health program. But not all patients can be found, and its future is murky.
Giuliani breathing on his own while hospitalized with pneumonia: spokesperson
He remains in critical but stable condition, his spokesperson said.
Apple Plans to Let Users Build Their Own Passes in iOS 27 Wallet App
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Zambia says US health deal must be uncoupled from minerals access
Zambia's government said on Monday that it opposed a U.S. attempt to tie health funding to access to critical minerals, giving details for the first time about why negotiations with Washington over two proposed agreements have stalled.
Zambia Says US Health Deal Must Be Uncoupled From Minerals Access
LUSAKA, May 4 (Reuters) - Zambia's government said on Monday that it opposed a U.S. attempt to tie health funding to access to critical minerals, giving details for the first time about why negotiations with Washington over two proposed agreements have stalled. Zambia's Foreign Minister ...
Insight: Warned off vaccine actions, Kennedy seeks quick health wins ahead of midterms
U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is aiming for quick wins on new health initiatives to help Republicans in November’s midterm elections, after the White House asked him to pivot from a widely criticized campaign to rewrite U.S. vaccine policy, senior administration officials told Reuters.
The Idea That Reshaped Identity Politics Has a Complicated Backstory
Kimberlé Crenshaw gave us the terms “intersectionality” and “critical race theory.” Her new memoir shows that she isn’t done fighting over what they mean.
Former NYC Mayor Giuliani hospitalised in ‘critical condition’
Spokesman says Giuliani in 'critical but stable' condition as President Trump hails 'true warrior'.
‘Restart And Shut Down’—Microsoft Confirms Windows Update ‘Disruption’
Check your PC now as these critical Windows Update changes go live.
Donald Trump’s Dental Visit Sparks Health Speculation from Critics
President Donald Trump's unscheduled Florida dental visit Saturday drew health speculation from Dr. Jonathan Reiner and other critics on X.
Jarrett Allen silences critics with the game of his life
Despite constant calls to trade him and complaints that he's not the man the Cleveland Cavaliers need, Jarrett Allen steps up huge in the game of his life as the Cavs defeat the Toronto Raptors and move on to Round 2.