SCROLL NEWS / DISCOVERY
Search headlines
Find the stories shaping the conversation.
Results for " ETH " 9,298 found 🔀 AI-powered Shuffle
Entertainment Highlights: Film festival aims to offer ‘something for everyone’
WHITE RIVER JUNCTION — For just over two decades, the annual White River Indie Film Festival has served as a gathering place to catch the latest independent projects from Upper Valley filmmakers and those working farther afield. In recent iterations of WRiF, programming has swelled to include not just movies but other art forms and […]
Small Business Admin. IG Testifies on Fraud in Small Business Relief Programs
Small Business Administration Inspector General William Kirk and Pandemic Response Accountability Committee Executive Director Kenneth Dieffenbach testify on fraud in small business relief programs before the Senate Small Business Committee.
How two churches forged Jasmine Crockett and James Talarico’s politics
In the Senate Democratic primary, Talarico has made his church’s ethos of compassion central to his campaign, while Jasmine Crockett is tapping into the civic power of Black churches.
Samsung Unveils Galaxy S26 Series: The Most Intuitive Galaxy AI Phone Yet
With powerful hardware working together with an industry-leading camera system and intuitive AI experiences, everyday tasks have never been easier and faster
Cowboys add renowned pass rush specialist coach BT Jordan
The Cowboys coaching staff is really coming together.
‘Feeding Tampa Bay’ expands care with new health clinic
A new approach to fighting hunger in the Tampa Bay area is focusing on something bigger than food alone: overall health.
Essentia Health-Duluth Clinic welcomes Elizabeth LaFrance to practice physiatry
Elizabeth LaFrance, a certified physician assistant practicing physiatry, is thrilled to join the Essentia Health-Duluth Clinic.
Science Policy Education Should Start on Campus
Although modern science has only been around for a few centuries, we’ve become quite adept at training students in the scientific method
Hartford HealthCare committed to advancing health equity in Connecticut
HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) — In honor of Black History Month, Hartford HealthCare is highlighting its ongoing commitment to advancing health equity across Connecticut. Elisabeth Michel, director …
How Democrats reorganized their State of the Union resistance
The Democrats tried something new to rebut Trump’s address.
Milford teen, Marcelo Gomes, leaves State of the Union after DHS tweet
This week, Gomes met with members of Congress and talked about his experience in detention before attending Trump’s speech as Rep. Seth Moulton's guest.
The brutal business of the NFL: Martin Emerson Jr. and J.O.K. face uncertain futures after Browns’ combine re
Andrew Berry's carefully worded comments at the NFL Combine cast serious doubt on whether either beloved Browns player will suit up for Cleveland again.
Water supplies in rural Nepal could be cleaned by harnessing the power of the sun, scientists claim
A new method for cleaning household water supplies in rural communities in Nepal is being developed by an international team of scientists. The solution removes harmful bacteria from the water by inserting ...
2026 NFL combine: Garrett Nussmeier, CJ Allen among 10 prospects with something to prove in Indianapolis
Opportunity awaits inside Lucas Oil Stadium for these invitees
NI budget: 'little political appetite to seize the moment', NI Fiscal Council
NI's budget watchdog has raised doubts about whether Stormont ministers will be able to agree a budget.
Driving large-scale hearing and balance research through data science investments, and an update on NIDCD’s January Advisory Council meeting
Enabling access to large-scale multimodal databases is essential to advancing science across all institutes at NIH. As both datasets and analytical methods become more complex, proper data infrastructure can enable multidisciplinary research efforts at a scale greater than that of individual studies alone. In line with NIH-wide strategic plans, NIDCD is making investments in data science that address long-standing research gaps, provide important resources for the research community, and preserve and protect participant privacy and data security.
Will Ethiopia be part of Israel’s ‘hexagon’ alliance rivalling its enemies?
Israeli President Herzog is in Addis Ababa days after high-level delegations from Turkiye and Saudi Arabia also visited.
Handicapping a Gavin Newsom-Kamala Harris presidential fight
The Democrats rose together through San Francisco politics, sharing donors and, for a time, campaign strategists. A fight for their party's nomination would bring their private jostling into the open.
Seahawks GM 'catching up' after Super Bowl, clears air on Kenneth Walker
A little more than two weeks since winning Super Bowl 60, the Seattle Seahawks' general manager can bask in the glory. But barely bask.
NI's Coulter to turn professional in the summer
Northern Ireland golfer Beth Coulter confirms that she will turn professional after competing in her second Augusta National in the summer.
Seatmate politics - Live Updates
So much for interparty solidarity. Reps. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), who earlier in the day telegraphed plans to sit together during the State of the Union, have evidently abandoned that idea. State of the UnionMassie wrote on X before Trump’s address that he was seated on the Republican side of the chamber. Khanna is sitting next to former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. But Reps. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) and Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.), who often work together, are seated together along with some other Republicans. Mia McCarthy contributed to this report.
Scientists finally solve the mystery of the horse whinny
Horses have a vocal trick no one fully understood until now. Scientists have discovered that when a horse whinnies, it produces two completely different sounds at the same time. One is a deep tone created by vibrating the vocal folds, similar to how humans sing. The other is a high-pitched whistle generated inside the larynx, something never before confirmed in a large mammal. This rare ability, known as biphonation, likely helps horses send multiple emotional signals in a single call.
Cavs vs. Knicks open gamethread
The Cavs will look to stay undefeated in the James Harden Era.
iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max Expected to Feature Smaller Dynamic Island
The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will have a smaller Dynamic Island, according to Bloomberg. Over the past year, there have been mixed rumors about whether the iPhone 18 Pro models will continue to feature a Dynamic Island or have a hole punch camera with under screen Face ID and no Dynamic Island, but the latest information suggests we're not getting rid of the Dynamic Island just yet.
WBD considers partnering with David Ellison, Paramount over Netflix
David Ellison's Paramount Skydance has a new offer for WBD that may force Netflix to pay more money, or drop its pursuit altogether.
Buss: When 'health education' expands to sex, lines blur
The real issue isn’t whether Michigan has separated sex education from general health ed on paper — it has.
Spears Business assistant professor Dinkel wins research awards for legal ethics papers
Dr. Christopher Dinkel, an assistant professor of legal studies in OSU’s Spears School of Business Department of Management, recently won regional and international awards for his legal ethics research. His findings have significant implications for both attorneys and business scholars.
Opinion: More than the Game: The rise of sports betting culture
It’s Sunday night, and anticipation hangs in the air as people gather around their TVs, hoping their parlay finally hits. But what drives this obsession with sports betting? Is it the adrenaline of watching your favorite player execute a seamless play, the conversation and community that form around the game, or something else — because...
A Century Of Plenty: Business Leaders Role In The Next Era Of Progress
A new era demands new decisions. Business leaders need to rethink strategy, invest in productivity, and harness AI to unlock a century of plenty.
The war on science: resisting and rebuilding at a crucial juncture
Peter Staley’s talk at the opening session of the Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI 2026) in Denver was a grim post-mortem of one of the most challenging years in recent HIV history – an ‘annus horribilis’ – a phrase Queen Elizabeth II used to describe 1992 and The Lancet applied to 2025.
‘Something special for the city’: Four New Orleans schools in Division I finals doubleheader
Seated in the stands at Strawberry Stadium in Hammond, Stella Junius dreamed of playing in this kind of matchup.
As Rep. Julia Letlow runs for Senate, late disclosure of 210 stock trades draws scrutiny
It ties into a larger debate over whether members of Congress should be able to trade individual stocks.
Interesting non-roster positional candidates at Yankees camp to watch
Paul DeJong, Braden Shewmake and Seth Brown are all longshots to make the active roster out of Yankees spring training.
Fat or Skinny Fat: Both Can Harm Your Health | Join the Anti-Obesity Health Base: Outsmart the Obesity Threat Together
Hong Kong is a world-renowned food paradise, offering everything from local snacks like fish balls and egg waffles to Michelin-starred culinary experiences. However, maintaining a healthy weight amidst fast-paced lifestyles, high pressure, and even genetic factors has become a relentless battle. Excessive fat accumulation poses significant health risks, and even those with a seemingly slender physique can fall into the trap of obesity. Today, obesity is no longer just a cosmetic concern; it is c
Special election could delay large Greeley entertainment district development
Voters in Greeley will decide Tuesday whether to repeal already-approved zoning for a massive entertainment district and housing development on the city’s western edge. The proposed development spans...
Shrouded Sky - Patch Notes 1.17.0
ARC Raiders is a multiplayer extraction adventure, set in a lethal future earth, ravaged by a mysterious mechanized threat known as ARC.
Rethinking Food As A Small Business Economy
America’s food system operates as a small business economy. Here’s why investing in food entrepreneurs matters for economic resilience and local stability.
2026 Business Leaders of the Year
Central Massachusetts is full of amazing professionals, each with their own unique skills, talents, and dedication to their companies, industries, and communities. You could make a strong case for hundreds of them to be considered as WBJ’s Business Leader of the Year. Yet, to actually win the award, you need to have that little something extra: a magic spark, an insight no one else sees, years of knowledge that pay off with the right decision at the right time, a leadership style inspiring people to follow, a push for a paradigm shift at a stagnant organization. Business Leader of the Year is WBJ’s oldest award, launched in 1982 when Herb Dunnington of First Safety Fund Bank won the sole award. In the decades since, BLOY has expanded to honor winners from different corners of the economy: small businesses, large businesses, nonprofits, innovation, families. Each of the six winners this year has that something special setting them apart as true leaders in our Central Massachusetts business community: Neelu Mohaghegh’s creativity, Nick Haritos’ compassion, Nicolette Sacco’s adaptability, Julie Bowditch’s energy, Sean Rose’s steadiness, the Vaccaro family’s culture. You can read more about each of them through the links below.
Men's basketball AP poll: Duke jumps to No. 1 after knocking off Michigan in upset weekend
The top two teams in last week's poll both lost on Saturday, something that hadn't happened in more than a year.
Exploring The Natural World With Elizabeth Kolbert
Join SciFri Book Club to discuss Kolbert's "Life on a Little-Known Planet."
“Do something you love” | BPS students visit Revs for education on careers in sports
More than 20 students from BPS mentorship program took tour of Gillette Stadium
3 Amazon AI data centers planned for north Louisiana: ‘Something unlike we have ever seen’
“The massive amount of development that will result in this is something unlike anything that we've ever seen.” Here’s what we know.
81% of Americans Say Money Controls Politics – Can a Constitutional Amendment Fix It?
Polls consistently show that nearly all Americans across the political spectrum agree that there is too much money in politics – whether from foreign sources, corporations, or so-called “dark money” groups.
Reading the enemy: How genome science is reshaping the fight against wheat stem rust
In 2013, farmers in the highlands of Ethiopia began to notice something unsettling: a familiar variety of wheat was failing in an unfamiliar way. Stems weakened, plants collapsed, and fields that had ...
First Army embraces Holistic Health and Fitness program
The Army has changed how it approaches fitness and now embraces a method that includes physical aspects, as well as nutrition, mental health, sleep, and...
New off-Broadway show stars Elizabethtown native, viral TikTok husband-and-wife dancers
Perhaps you're not in love with your job, or your relationship is feeling a little rocky.
WBJ names the 2026 Business Leaders of the Year
Each of the six winners this year has that something special setting them apart as true leaders in our Central Massachusetts business community.
Republicans see political gold in Mamdani property tax proposal
Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s (D) “last-resort” proposal to raise property taxes in New York City has political observers questioning whether his gambit to get New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) to back a wea…
Trump’s approval rating with independents hits a new low ahead of the State of the Union
When President Donald Trump gives his State of the Union address Tuesday, he will face a public that increasingly questions his priorities and expresses broad doubts about whether his proposed policies are helping the nation, according to a new CNN poll conducted by SSRS.
A new era for Dutch politics with Rob Jetten set to be sworn in as prime minister
The Netherlands is getting a new minority government led by Rob Jetten, the country’s youngest-ever prime minister
A new era for Dutch politics with Rob Jetten set to be sworn in as prime minister
The Netherlands is getting a new minority government led by Rob Jetten, the country’s youngest-ever prime minister.
French artist JR's installation will transform Paris' oldest bridge into a giant cave
French artist JR, popular for his large-scale projects from photographs to graffiti and street art, wants Parisians to do something unusual: stop for an immersive experience on the city’s oldest bridge, Pont Neuf.
League sources nonetheless continue to indicate, loud …
League sources nonetheless continue to indicate, loud …
Shockoe Bottom businesses split on reopening after shooting
Some businesses in Shockoe Bottom are torn on whether to keep their shops open after Saturday’s shooting that killed two people and injured seven others.
This is why you should stop connecting your Smart TV to WiFi and what you should do instead
If your Smart TV struggles to stream flawlessly, it could be because your WiFi signal isn’t quite up to the job, but there is another way
Your Personal Free Netflix and other Top 5 Tech you Absolutely Need in 2026
Last year I put together a list of products everyone absolutely needed to own in 2025. It included basic stuff, AirTags, GaN chargers, and even some slightly complex gadgets like NAS devices to help you cut the cord on cloud storage subscriptions. This year's list expands on the same philosophy from last year - make
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
Mayor Gerard Hudspeth turns his political focus to GOP bid for Denton County commissioner
Gerard Hudspeth, who's in his last term as mayor of Denton, is working to secure the Republican nomination for Denton County Precinct 4 commissioner. He's facing the incumbent and two
Uniting to respond to mental health impacts of digital violence
Technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV), from doxxing and cyberstalking to cyberbullying and online harassment, is reshaping how women and girls navigate digital spaces. Globally, an estimated 23% of women have experienced digital violence. In Indonesia, reported cases of TFGBV reached 1,791 in 2024, a 40.8% increase from the previous year. Yet very few survivors seek help, leaving lasting effects on their mental health and wellbeing. As part of the multi-UN agencies UNiTE campaign for the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Health (MoH) co-hosted a talk show on 6 December 2025 to spotlight this urgent issue. The event brought together voices from Meta, the Indonesian Clinical Psychologist Association and Dr Vivi Syarif, a WHO Fides content creator, creating a cross-sectoral dialogue on the magnitude and mental health impact of digital violence. The talk show introduced psychological first aid as a vital initial intervention that communities can provide to survivors. This intervention aligns with the Psychological First Aid: Guide for Field Workers, a framework that has been standardized for over a decade. The "look, listen, link" approach focuses on ensuring safety and urgent needs, reassuring survivors and connecting them to appropriate services. In addition to this public health approach, Meta also outlined mechanisms to respond to digital violence and reaffirmed its commitment to building safer digital spaces by continuously updating community guidelines based on user feedback. Such collaborative discussions help connect community engagement initiatives with daily digital life. They empower audiences not only to understand how the health sector and industry are responding, but also to educate others, promote first-line support and encourage referrals to appropriate help. By fostering awareness and engagement, these dialogues strengthen collective resilience against digital violence. Written by Jessie O. Yunus, National Professional Officer (Gender, Equity, Rights and Disability Inclusion), WHO Indonesia
Editorial: Sausalito’s Rose was strong, independent presence in Marin politics
Ms. Rose marched to her own drummer. She was studiously well-formed and methodically careful, practical and caring.
'Some of them have accuracy that's close to zero': Experts unpack the promise and pitfalls of genetic tests aimed at consumers
Live Science spoke with a bioethicist and sociologist about emerging genomic technologies, including those that enable parents to "score" and "select" IVF embryos.
Tech companies are making their robots cute to try and win over humans
Whether they’re delivering food or folding your laundry, consumer-facing robots are increasingly being designed to be more palatable to the humans who interact with them.
Apple testing new 'deep red' color for iPhone 18 Pro, no 'fun colors' for iPhone Fold: report
iPhone 18 Pro is still well over half a year away. Nonetheless, we have some interesting new color rumors for...
Curling faces identity crisis as cheating controversy forces rethink of regulations
After being shaken by claims of cheating at the Winter Olympics, curling finds itself between a rock and a hard place as it looks to regulate an increasingly competitive sport while keeping alive the long-standing honour-based system it so cherishes.
Rare 'planetary parade' will return to the evening sky this week — but you'll have to look at exactly the right time
Six planets will shine together in the evening sky on Feb. 28. Here's how to get the best view before they disappear.
Why Norway is dominating the Winter Olympics and what could US learn
Norway’s director of elite sport sounded a little hoarse when he answered the phone to CNN Sports. Tore Øvebrø said he had just caught a cold, but he admitted that his raspy voice might also have something to do with his cheering over the last two weeks.
What Gallup polls teach us about presidents
The Gallup organization, founded by George Gallup, announced Feb. 11 they will no longer conduct their well-known polls that rate whether the Americans approve or disapprove the way presidents handle the job. Gallup began these polls in the late 1930s but did not conduct them during World War II. The Gallup staff has said no […]
Local school district takes part in mental health summit
The Real Talk Mental Health Summit brought together students from Trotwood-Madison schools in grades 8 through 12 for a day of education, empowerment, and healing.
Local businesses raising money for family of Tipp City woman killed in deadly shooting
“This community is a tight-knit community. We all stick together, and it was just a horrible thing that happened.”
Bethune-Cookman defeats Alabama A&M 85-76
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (AP) Jakobi Heady had 19 points in Bethune-Cookman's 85-76 win over Alabama A&M on Saturday.
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.
Businesses celebrate win at Supreme Court over Trump on tariffs
Thousands of companies - not just those that sued the Trump administration - will now decide whether to pursue refunds.
Businesses celebrate win at Supreme Court over Trump on tariffs
Thousands of companies - not just those that sued the Trump administration - will now decide whether to pursue refunds.
Scientists Suggest That Igniting Oil Spills to Create Fire Tornadoes Might Actually Be Good for the Oceans
A bold new experiment probed whether controlled fire tornadoes could be an effective tool for cleaning up oil spills.
Moth art exhibit brings science and creativity together at UAB
The collaboration with the Birmingham Zoo highlights how nature can inspire learning in new ways.
GameThread: Tigers vs. Yankees, 1:05 p.m.
Detroit Tigers vs. New York Yankees Time/Place: 1:05 p.m., George M. Steinbrenner Field – Tampa, FLSB Nation Site: Pinstripe AlleyMedia: MLB.TV (free), Tigers Radio Network TIGERS YANKEES Jahmai Jones – RF Jasson Dominguez – LF Kevin McGonigle – SS Aaron Judge – RF Gleyber Torres – 2B Ryan McMahon – 3B Colt Keith – 3B Paul Goldschmidt […]
Kate Walsh recalls first 'Grey's Anatomy' scene with Eric Dane: 'He was so handsome...but can this guy act?'
While paying tribute to her late 'Grey's Anatomy' costar Eric Dane, Kate Walsh looked back on their first scene together: 'I believe it was his first scene on the show too and he was nervous,'
Liza Minnelli says mom Judy Garland tried to kick her off stage during joint performance as a teen: 'Mama fumed'
Liza Minnelli says her mother, Judy Garland, tried to kick her off stage when they performed together during her teen years: 'I just kept singing to wild applause as Mama fumed.'
Opinion: It is time to take politics out of school safety conversations
MCPS should bring back the School Resource Officer program
Katseye girl group's Mannon Bannerman steps away to focus on health
The six-person girl group say the decision was made following "open and thoughtful conversations together".
‘I’m tired of getting kicked in the teeth’: How child care costs could swing a key US House district
Dana Eldridge and Paul Miller opened their first day care center in 2005 after nearly a decade of running a popular martial arts summer school. Over the next 15 years, they opened four more locations and expanded from school-aged children to including infants and toddlers. At its peak, Active Learning Centers enrolled about 1,000 kids.
I Found the Best Electric Toothbrush for My Sensitive Teeth
The best electric toothbrush reduces plaque and gingivitis, encourages you to brush long enough, and prevents overzealous scrubbing.
Full Court Press (2/20/26)
NORTHEAST KANSAS (KSNT) – The postseason is almost here. A thrilling Friday night across Northeast Kansas as many area teams prepare for Sub-State. Girls Topeka 58, Emporia 40 Silver Lake 68, St. Marys 31 Washburn Rural 40, Hayden 38 Highland Park 62, Sumner 11 Shawnee Heights 65, Turner 14 Holton 47, Sabetha 33 Perry-Lecompton 46, […]
Colorado GOP officers set competing meetings to hold ‘no-confidence’ votes on state chair Brita Horn
Once again, members of the Colorado Republican Party’s central committee have scheduled separate, competing meetings to consider whether the state GOP’s governing body supports its chair, but this time neither meeting will be held under a bridge. State GOP Chair Brita Horn on Feb. 14 issued a formal call for an online meeting on March […]
New Shelbyville entertainment center aims to bring families together
A new family entertainment destination is now open in Shelbyville.
Designing a systemic intervention for student loneliness and social connectedness using a mixed-methods, co-creation approach
npj Mental Health Research - Designing a systemic intervention for student loneliness and social connectedness using a mixed-methods, co-creation approach
In Berlin, there are movies, there's politics and there's talk about it all
Buzz around whether the city's film festival would take a stance on the war in Gaza has dominated conversation in recent days.
Yahoo Sports: Victor Wembanyama remains locked in after All-Star Game performance: 'We’re fighting for something'
The young star keeps pushing as the Spurs are now just 2.5 games behind the defending champion Thunder.
Scientists Shot Lasers at Charles Darwin’s Preserved Specimens. For Real.
A new method is giving researchers a better understanding of what’s been in those jars all these years.
Trump lashes out at Supreme Court justices who struck down his tariffs
A 6-3 majority struck down one of President Donald Trump's favored methods to impose tariffs.
Video: Venezuela Releases Political Prisoners, With Conditions
Since Nicolás Maduro’s capture by the United States, Venezuela has released hundreds of political prisoners and approved a new amnesty law, although the restrictions on those freed have raised questions about whether this signals real change. Our international correspondent Simon Romero describes what’s happening.
Culture Council: Cultivating Integrity for Long-Term Business Success
Leading by example means demonstrating the behaviors, attitudes and work ethic you expect from others, thereby setting a positive standard for your team or colleagues.
Sporting KC signs defender Ethan Bartlow as a free agent
Sporting Kansas City has signed 26-year-old defender Ethan Bartlow via free agency, the club announced today. Bartlow spent preseason on trial with Sporting KC and has signed a one-year MLS contract through the 2026 season with club options through June 2027 and the 2027-2028 season. Bartlow spent the first five
Teddy Riley says he no longer plans to work with R. Kelly
The veteran R&B producer and musician said an idea to collaborate with Kelly "is not something that will move forward."
Supreme Court strikes down Trump tariffs
The Supreme Court fast-tracked a case over whether President Donald Trump's "Liberation Day" tariffs.
Woody Sports a Bald Spot in New Trailer for 'Toy Story 5'
A new trailer is out for “Toy Story 5” which shows the iconic characters, including Woody, Buzz and Rex all back together, with Woody even sporting a bald spot. The movie hits theaters in June.
Project Quack Teaches Computer Science Students How to Build
Every year, new computer science students arrive at Stony Brook with the same quiet question: How do I start building something real? Project Quack was created for those students, but it doesn’t end with them. Hosted by the student-run organization Stony Brook Computing Society (SBCS), the mentorship program reflects a shift within the organization itself: from