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The Eukaryotic Pathogen, Vector and Host Informatics Resources (VEuPathDB), a database containing detailed molecular information on parasites and fungi that cause infectious diseases, has lost funding from the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NI-AID). The database, which had 46,000 unique users per month in over 150 countries, provided valuable information for researchers studying diseases like malaria and leishmaniasis. While two new platforms funded by NI-AID claim to serve the same needs, many scientists argue that they do not adequately replace VEuPathDB's capabilities. Temporary funding has been secured to keep the database online for one year, but long-term sustainability remains uncertain. [Extracted from the article]

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is facing criticism for its guidelines advising parents to avoid foods with genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Critics argue that the advice ignores scientific evidence supporting the safety of GMOs and creates unfounded fears that organic products are the only safe option. The guidelines, published in Pediatrics, raised concerns about potential health risks from residues of the weed killer glyphosate, which is used on genetically engineered crops. However, regulators in the US and Europe have deemed glyphosate at current levels in food to be safe. Some experts believe the guidelines are fearmongering and not based on good science. The AAP report authors focus on glyphosate because of its widespread use in genetically modified crops, but the US National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine have found no evidence of adverse health effects from GMOs or glyphosate residues. The AAP guidelines have had an impact, with Mexico citing them in a trade dispute with the US over genetically modified corn imports. However, critics argue that the guidelines are flawed and do not reflect the scientific literature. They believe that the AAP is prioritizing caution and children's health, but others argue that the guidelines are confusing and may create unnecessary worry. Low-income families may face barriers in accessing organic foods due to financial constraints. It is important for parents to feel comfortable and safe with the food choices they can access. [Extracted from the article]

The article announces the Frontiers Planet Prize's all-male awardees, including Mark New, Peter Haase, and Ellen Welti, highlighting gender bias and systemic inequities in science, with efforts underway to improve diversity in nominations.

The article focuses on the challenges of securing funding for interdisciplinary research that addresses the intersection of climate change and human health. Topics include the difficulties faced by researchers like Ryan Harp in finding adequate financial support, the lack of dedicated funding for transdisciplinary projects, and the frustration with grant review panels that struggle to evaluate such diverse efforts effectively.

The article focuses on a recent paper highlighting the debate between physiologists and epidemiologists over the impact of humidity on heat-related health risks. Topics include the differing conclusions of these research camps, the potential implications for climate change projections, and the importance of resolving this debate to improve heat advisories and cooling methods.

The use of aborted fetal tissue has sparked controversy in the United States, but many scientists say it is essential for studies of HIV, development and more., Author(s): Meredith Wadman Author Affiliations: Massimo Berge/Lighthouse/SPL Every month, Lishan Su receives a small test tube on ice from a company in California. In it is a piece of liver [...]

The article focuses on the controversial reinstatement of developmental biologist, Bruce Blumberg at the University of California, Irvine (UCI), following allegations of sexual harassment. It is reported that despite findings supporting the claims against him, Blumberg returned to teaching with imposed restrictions, prompting criticism from faculty and experts who argue that the disciplinary measures are insufficient to protect students and uphold accountability in academia.

The article focuses on Colorado State University's construction of a new vivarium to study bats, funded by NIAID, aimed at understanding how bats harbor viruses like SARS-CoV-2 and Nipah, potentially aiding in the development of treatments for human diseases. It mentions despite its pandemic prevention goals, the project faces opposition due to concerns over biosafety and the origins of SARS-CoV-2.

The article offers information on the U.S. government's decision to cut off funding for the EcoHealth Alliance, citing mishandling of a grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Topics include the suspension of all federal grants to EcoHealth and the proposed debarment from future funding, with NIH and other agencies providing the majority of EcoHealth's budget.

The article focuses on Samuel Pierre, a research physician from Haiti's GHESKIO center, who faced challenges continuing his HIV/AIDS research due to the recent turmoil in Haiti, including gang violence and the closure of the international airport, yet remains determined to resume his work once conditions improve. It mentions despite ongoing chaos and violence, a network of physicians and scientists, including those from GHESKIO and the University of Florida.

The article focuses on the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisory committee's unanimous vote on Pfizer's vaccine efficacy against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in infants. Topics include its Safety concerns arose with an increased rate of premature births; GlaxoSmithKline's trial of an RSV vaccine in pregnant individuals was halted due to similar concerns; and the FDA will consider the split vote in deciding whether to approve the vaccine in August.

There are almost as many firearms in the United States as there are citizens. Garen Wintemute is one of few people studying the consequences., Author(s): Meredith Wadman Author Affiliations: RAMIN RAHIMIAN/GETTY IMAGES FOR NATURE With his crisp blue suit and wire-framed spectacles, Garen Wintemute hardly looked frightening as he stepped to the podium last [...]

With his crisp blue suit and wire-framed spectacles, Garen Wintemute hardly looked frightening as he stepped to the podium last month to address a conference on paediatric emergency medicine in [...]