Trump's Science Panel: Billionaires Outnumber Scientists
President Trump's newly established science and technology advisory council is drawing significant attention due to its unusual composition. Despite its crucial role in shaping national scientific and technological policy, the panel notably features nine prominent tech billionaires, contrasted with the inclusion of just a single practicing scientist. This striking disparity has led many observers to highlight what they perceive as a "glaring hole" in the council's overall expertise and balance.
The lopsided representation raises questions about the council's ability to provide comprehensive, unbiased scientific counsel. Critics suggest that an overwhelming presence of business magnates and a stark underrepresentation of core scientific professionals could potentially skew the panel's priorities, possibly favoring commercial interests or technological innovation over fundamental scientific research and broader societal impact.
Fresh materials — Science News
Suspected Pneumonic Plague Case Sparks Outbreak Fears
Russian authorities reported a pneumonia death of unknown cause in an employee at a Siberian lab that studies infectious diseases. The World Health Organization (WHO) is monitoring the situation and collaborating with Russian health officials. The WHO stated that while the woma
Gene Therapy and Special Goggles Restore Limited Vision
A new experimental treatment, coupled with custom-designed goggles, is allowing some blind individuals to perceive their surroundings. This advancement enables them to locate doorways and identify objects.
Extinct Crocodilian Fossils Discovered in Great Sphinx Limestone
Fossils of an extinct crocodilian, identified as Herugavialis, were found embedded in the limestone quarried for the Great Sphinx. Notably, this ancient reptile, much like the iconic statue it shares its origin stone with, appears to be missing its nose. The discovery of Herugavialis with
Blockbuster Retatrutide Trial: A New Benchmark for Weight-Loss Drugs
The experimental weight-loss drug retatrutide has reached a significant milestone: a Phase 3 clinical trial showed participants with type 2 diabetes losing up to 49.6 pounds, or over 20 percent of their body weight. Eli Lilly, the drug's developer, reported this as a first for the field.
NASA Pursues Uncrewed and Crewed Missions with Boeing's Starliner
Boeing's Starliner spacecraft will attempt to fly NASA astronauts to space again, this time following an uncrewed test flight to the International Space Station (ISS). NASA administrator Bill Nelson announced that the capsule is scheduled for an uncrewed mission as early as December. This represe
TikTok promotes home remedy that risks botulism
A homemade concoction of garlic fermented in honey, trending on TikTok for its supposed immune-boosting properties, carries a serious risk of causing botulism, according to health experts. Influencers on the platform are promoting this mixture in numerous videos, claiming it