#reduce nsf

[mariacallous]

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump on Tuesday abruptly walked back his directive to federal agencies to fire thousands of probationary employees, a stunning reversal that comes days after a federal judge ruled that the president’s ongoing mass firings of federal workers are probably illegal.

In a new memo delivered to the heads of all federal agencies, the Office of Personnel Management ― the human resources agency of the federal government ― says it doesn��t actually have to comply with its previous instructions to fire all probationary employees, or people who have generally held their jobs for a year or less. Instead, per this memo, federal agencies have until Sept. 13 to come up with their own plans for reducing staff.

“OPM requests that agencies not issue any agency-specific rules until such rules have been reviewed and approved by OPM,” reads the revised guidance to federal agencies, issued by OPM acting Director Charles Ezell.

Trump’s walk-back means the heads of federal agencies don’t have to plow ahead with more haphazard firings of essential staff, but it’s not clear what this means for the thousands of employees who have already been fired.

The administration’s new directive comes after U.S. District Judge William Alsup last week ordered OPM to inform several federal agencies that it had no authority to direct them to carry out mass firings, and that such actions were likely illegal.

That ruling has already resulted in some federal agencies scrambling to rehire people they just fired. One of those agencies, the National Science Foundation, is currently trying to reinstate 84 employees it had fired as part of OPM’s directive. One of those 84 people told HuffPost on Monday that he and several of his colleagues learned they were getting their jobs back not from NSF, but from other coworkers and via the press.

“What a joke, finding out from colleagues and online – and not directly,” said this employee, who requested anonymity so he doesn’t get fired again.

Federal labor unions have filed lawsuits aimed at blocking the probationary firings and getting workers reinstated, arguing the White House had usurped Congress’ control over spending and violated rules that govern federal layoffs.

Julie Wilson, general counsel of the National Treasury Employees Union, told HuffPost on Tuesday that the probationary firings are “indisputably a reorganization attempt” and that the administration had failed to follow proper procedures, including giving workers notice.

“The government has not followed any of those [rules] in terminating employees to date, to include the mass firing of probationary employees,” Wilson said.

[blacknedsoul-blog]

Medical information about Lenore's hips

Okay, not a funny thing: I fucked up my back around December. And after an MRI and a full spine x-ray, they kicked me in the ass to send me to a kinesiologist. And my thought was “well, if they're going to torture me with physical therapy, at least I'll end up with fanfic material”. Don't worry, I'm fine now and my kinesiologist had fun answering my questions about a 2D character with fucked up hips.

So I decided to sort out in one post the information my kinesiologist gave me and some other stuff I got from researching around.

Possible symptoms

Okay, this post is based on the following information provided by buddy @ghostselkie.

According to the places where she shows pain in the comic, it is very likely that Lenore fractured her pelvis this way.

The sacrum is a wedge-shaped bone that sits at the back of the pelvis between the hip bones. Five vertebrae in a person's spine fuse together to make this bone. They get progressively smaller toward the center, giving the bone its triangular shape. Since Lenore suffered a trauma fracture because a fucking tree fell on her, this would be a high-energy fracture, which would give her the following symptoms:

Hip and lower back pain

Reduced sphincter control

Pain, bruising and swelling throughout the immediate area. On the other hand, the Ilium fracture is much less common and in associated literature appears to be a bit more “harmless” than other hip fractures, since in some cases it may not even need surgery. However, she may have the following symptoms:

Bowel impaction (unable to go to the bathroom)

Open wounds (this does not appear to be her case in the comic)

Soft tissue detachment (bruising, hematomas and muscle tearing) You can find more information about this here and here.

Treatment, rehabilitation and repercussions on daily life

Okay, let's move on to the part where my kinesiologist was having a bit of a discussion with his colleagues.

In a modern day AU, Lenore would have received a pelvis surgery where she would have definitely had screws put in. This would have sent her straight into a post-operative physical rehabilitation process of several months. How long? 6 months minimum.

In this process, Lenore would have regained strength in the muscles that were damaged, regained control of the nerves that were shredded and taken steps to live pain free.

This is where my kinesiologist and one of his colleagues differed somewhat. Apparently, pelvic injuries are tricky because, although the pelvis is pretty tough and has a good margin to heal, it's also hard to get things 100% right, so: although they both agreed that Lenore would walk again, my kinesiologist said that with enough rehab she could live without problems with, perhaps, occasional pain if she overstressed herself (something that could also hurt her). But one of his colleagues was more skeptical and commented that she would probably need a Canadian elbow permanently.

Now, in the canon of when she was alive, she would have received neither an operation nor rehabilitation. This means that, although the broken bones fused together well since the doctors were able to identify the site of the break and immobilize Lenore so she could heal, without the screws it is very likely that something was slightly off and that is why she seems to be limping a bit. Add to this that, without physical rehabilitation, Lenore lacks strength in the muscles that were first damaged and then lost strength due to lack of use when she was prostrate, plus her nerves must also have suffered and make it difficult for her to control the damaged area well.

That is the reason why, for example, when Annabel falls and she holds her, it hurts: Lenore's muscles need assistance to support her own body weight and forcing them beyond that is like you overexerting yourself in a way you are not physically prepared for: something is going to tear, damage or break.

Consequences in ✨spicy✨ subjects

Here's a Pluto protector of NSFW content, what's below it talks about the consequences to Lenore's sex life of getting hurt in this way.

Of course, I researched this online and didn't ask my kinesiologist. You can find the full articles here, here and here.

Basically, Lenore is fortunate to be a lesbian woman because ideally her hips should remain static and not be pressured, which would be quite complicated if her partner were a male because penetrative sex puts a LOT of pressure on the hips.

In short, this is all a matter of posture to avoid any damage.

If Lenore is being top, she can either sit her partner on her lap (this while she is sitting in a chair or on the bed with her feet flat on the floor), ask her partner to lie down in a position where Lenore can lie on her side on her sore side and touch her without moving too much, or hug her partner from behind while they are both lying down.

If she is being bottom, it may help to have a cushion placed on her pelvis to keep things from moving, to lie on her side, and if her legs are spread apart, this should be done very carefully.

In both cases, her and her partner standing is also a quite friendly posture for her hip problems.

Also, but not least: Lenore cannot do scissors. There is no way this could not seriously hurt her, so it is completely out of the question.

[covid-safer-hotties]

Also preserved in our archive

A wearable electrical nerve stimulation device can provide relief to people experiencing the persistent pain and fatigue linked to long COVID, a study co-led by UCLA and Baylor College of Medicine researchers suggests.

Long-COVID, a complex and lingering condition following COVID-19 recovery, affects approximately 1 in 13 adults in the U.S. Symptoms such as widespread pain, fatigue, and muscle weakness often continue to disrupt daily activities, including walking and basic tasks.

The study, published in the peer-reviewed Scientific Reports, focused on a wearable Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) device, which uses low-voltage electrical currents to reduce pain, fatigue, and mobility issues associated with long-COVID.

The project was co-led by Dr. Bijan Najafi, research director of the Center for Advanced Surgical & Interventional Technology at UCLA Health and co-director of NSF IUCRC Center to Stream HealthCare in Place (C2SHIP), who said the device could have wider applications.

"While this study focused on managing pain and fatigue caused by long COVID, it may also have potential applications for addressing similar symptoms in individuals with other respiratory diseases, those who have experienced extended ICU stays and developed post-hospitalization weaknesses, and conditions involving chronic fatigue and pain, such as fibromyalgia or chemotherapy-related side effects," Najafi said. "But further studies are needed to confirm these potential uses."

In the study, 25 participants with chronic musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and gait difficulties were assigned either a high-dose (active) TENS device or a low-dose (placebo) device. Both groups used the TENS device for three to five hours daily over a four-week period.

Researchers measured participants' pain levels, fatigue, and walking performance before and after the therapy period. Findings indicated that the high-dose TENS group experienced notable improvements in pain relief (26.1% more relief compared to placebo) and walking ability (8% during fast walking), suggesting that wearable TENS therapy may help reduce long-COVID's impact on daily life.

The high-dose TENS group also reported a slightly higher perceived benefit (71.2%) compared to the low-dose group (61.4%), underscoring the potential of wearable TENS technology to support long-COVID recovery.

One factor in the study's success was likely the high rate of daily device usage, Najafi said. The wearable nature of the TENS device allowed participants to use it seamlessly throughout the day, without disrupting their routines.

"This wearable TENS system offered immediate, on-demand relief from pain and fatigue, making it easy to integrate into daily activities," Najafi said.

He also cautioned that more research is needed. "This study provides some hope for finding an effective, non-invasive solution for managing lingering COVID-19 symptoms that continue to affect millions," he said. "But our sample size was limited, so further research is needed to confirm these findings."

Study co-authors are Alejandro Zulbaran-Rojas, Rasha Bara, Myeounggon Lee, Miguel Bargas-Ochoa, Tina Phan, Manuel Pacheco, Areli Flores Camargo, Syed Murtaza Kazmi, Mohammad Dehghan Rouzi, Dipaben Modi, and Fidaa Shaib of Baylor College of Medicine.

More information: Alejandro Zulbaran-Rojas et al, Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation for fibromyalgia-like syndrome in patients with Long-COVID: a pilot randomized clinical trial, Scientific Reports (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-78651-5 www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-78651-5

[cinemaocd]

The NSF, the principal source of funding for most sceintific research in the United States, has been gutted. They have abolished all the divisions and are reducing the number of programs to receive funding drastically. Sorta feeling like early retirement might be coming sooner rather than later...

[follow-up-news]

The National Science Foundation fired 168 employees on Tuesday. According to an NSF spokesperson, the firings are to ensure compliance with President Trump's executive order aimed at reducing the federal workforce in the name of efficiency. Prior to the firings, about 1,700 staff worked at NSF, managing their $9 billion federal budget that funds research on everything from astrophysics to civil engineering. Staff were called to an emergency meeting at 10 a.m. ET, held on Zoom and in person, where they were told by Micah Cheatham, NSF's chief management officer, that they'd be terminated by the end of the day, without severance. According to sources who were present, NSF Director Sethuraman Panchanathan, who ordered the firings, did not attend the meeting.

[personalitynexus]

Reduced Muse List for my Mental Health!

I'm sorry in advance if a muse you wanted me to write isn't listed. I need to cut back for my own mental health and due to time constraints.

Riku

Aqua

Angeal Hewley

Shino "Sinon" Asada

Avatar Korra

Ren Amamiya/Akira Kurusu/Joker

Grand Summoner Yuna

Rukia Kuchiki

Maka Albarn

Mjr. Motoko Kusanagi

Saeko Busujima

NSF\/\/ only muses on appropriate blogs

Juno Townsend

The Dryad

Tsunade Senju

[darkmaga-returns]

Chime In

The tool Chime In was previously called “Course Correct.” UW-Madison developed Course Correct as an anti-“misinformation” dashboard for journalists, as The Federalist previously reported. The NSF awarded the project $5 million starting in 2022. According to the grant description, it hoped to “scale Course Correct into local, national, and international newsrooms…” 

The program was renamed to Chime In “more than a year ago,” university spokesman John Lucas previously told The Federalist. Chime In is housed in UW-Madison’s Center for Communication and Civic Renewal, and aims to “counter vaccine hesitancy.”

As The College Fix reported in 2023, the program conducted “pilot testing… on issues including: raw milk, genetically modified foods, vaccine safety, fluoride in water, Covid-19, and sunscreen safety.” The project could also collude with media to manipulate the public narrative.

“Once journalists evaluate the size and reach of these misinformation networks detected by the dashboard, they work with Course Correct staff to develop and rapidly test messages that will reduce the flow of misinformation,” reads the project’s NSF description. “Course Correct will seed the affected misinformation network with sponsored social media posts…”

[biopractify]

Scholarships & Grants for Biotechnology & Life Sciences Students

📌 Scholarships & Grants for Biotechnology & Life Sciences Students: A Complete Guide (2024-2025)

🔬 Are you a Biotechnology or Life Sciences student looking for funding opportunities to support your education? Scholarships and grants can help reduce financial stress and allow you to focus on research, studies, and innovation.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best scholarships & grants for biotechnology and life sciences students, including eligibility criteria, application tips, and deadlines.

🎯 Why Apply for Scholarships & Grants?

Scholarships and grants are free money—they do not need to be repaid like student loans. They can cover: ✔ Tuition fees ✔ Research projects & lab expenses ✔ Conference travel & workshops ✔ Living expenses

🔹 Many biotech scholarships focus on students pursuing genetics, bioinformatics, microbiology, biomedical sciences, and molecular biology.

🏆 Top Biotechnology & Life Sciences Scholarships (2024-2025)

1️⃣ National & International Scholarships

📌 Fulbright Foreign Student Program (Global)

Eligibility: Master's & PhD students

Funding: Full tuition, travel, living expenses

Deadline: Varies by country

Apply: https://foreign.fulbrightonline.org/

📌 Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarships (Europe)

Eligibility: Master’s students

Funding: Tuition + monthly stipend

Deadline: December–January

Apply: https://www.eacea.ec.europa.eu/scholarships/erasmus-mundus_en

📌 Commonwealth Scholarships (UK)

Eligibility: Students from low/middle-income Commonwealth countries

Funding: Full tuition, travel, living costs

Deadline: October (Annual)

Apply: https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/apply/

📌 DAAD Scholarships (Germany)

Eligibility: Master’s & PhD students

Funding: Full tuition + living stipend

Deadline: October (Annual)

Apply: https://www.daad.de/en/study-and-research-in-germany/scholarships/

2️⃣ Scholarships for Biotechnology Students (USA & Canada)

📌 National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship

Eligibility: US citizens pursuing STEM PhDs

Funding: $37,000 stipend + research support

Deadline: October

Apply: https://www.nsfgrfp.org/

📌 American Association of University Women (AAUW) Fellowships

Eligibility: Women in STEM (international students can apply)

Funding: $18,000–$30,000

Deadline: November

Apply: https://www.aauw.org/resources/programs/fellowships-grants/

📌 Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Scholarships

Eligibility: Graduate students in health & life sciences

Funding: Varies

Deadline: December

Apply: https://cihr-irsc.gc.ca/

3️⃣ Scholarships for Developing Countries

📌 Gates Cambridge Scholarships (UK)

Eligibility: International students pursuing a master’s or PhD

Funding: Full tuition + stipend

Deadline: October

Apply: https://www.gatescambridge.org/

📌 TWAS Fellowships (For Developing Countries)

Eligibility: PhD & postdoc students in science & technology

Funding: Full funding for research

Deadline: Various

Apply: https://twas.org/opportunities/fellowships

📌 Rotary Foundation Global Grant

Eligibility: Graduate students in life sciences & medicine

Funding: Up to $30,000

Deadline: Rolling applications

Apply: https://www.rotary.org/en/our-programs/scholarships

💰 Grants for Research & Innovation in Biotechnology

Apart from scholarships, biotech students can apply for grants to fund research projects.

🔹 Research Grants & Fellowships

✔ Wellcome Trust Grants (UK & Global) ✔ NIH Grants (USA) ✔ European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO) Grants ✔ Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) UK

➡ Tip: Always check university websites and government research portals for grant announcements.

📄 How to Apply for Biotechnology Scholarships Successfully?

✅ 1. Start Early – Many scholarships have strict deadlines (October–January). ✅ 2. Write a Strong Personal Statement – Highlight your research interests and passion. ✅ 3. Get Recommendation Letters – Ask professors & mentors. ✅ 4. Meet Eligibility Criteria – Check country, GPA, and degree requirements. ✅ 5. Tailor Your Application – Avoid using the same essay for all scholarships.

🔎 Final Thoughts: Where to Find More Scholarships?

📌 University Scholarship Portals – Check your university's website for funding options. 📌 Government & NGO Grants – Look for STEM scholarships in your country. 📌 Websites for Scholarship Search:

Scholarships.com

FastWeb

DAAD Scholarship Database

💡 Have questions? Drop them in the comments below! Let’s help more biotech & life sciences students find funding! 🎓🔬

📢 Want More Updates on Scholarships & Grants?

✔ Follow this page for the latest funding opportunities in Biotechnology & Life Sciences! ✔ Share this guide with students who might need it!

🚀 Good luck with your scholarship applications! 🚀

📌 Scholarships & Grants for Biotechnology & Life Sciences Students: A Complete Guide (2024-2025)

🔬 Are you a Biotechnology or Life Sciences student looking for funding opportunities to support your education? Scholarships and grants can help reduce financial stress and allow you to focus on research, studies, and innovation.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best scholarships & grants for biotechnology and life sciences students, including eligibility criteria, application tips, and deadlines.

🎯 Why Apply for Scholarships & Grants?

Scholarships and grants are free money—they do not need to be repaid like student loans. They can cover: ✔ Tuition fees ✔ Research projects & lab expenses ✔ Conference travel & workshops ✔ Living expenses

🔹 Many biotech scholarships focus on students pursuing genetics, bioinformatics, microbiology, biomedical sciences, and molecular biology.

🏆 Top Biotechnology & Life Sciences Scholarships (2024-2025)

1️⃣ National & International Scholarships

📌 Fulbright Foreign Student Program (Global)

Eligibility: Master's & PhD students

Funding: Full tuition, travel, living expenses

Deadline: Varies by country

Apply: https://foreign.fulbrightonline.org/

📌 Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarships (Europe)

Eligibility: Master’s students

Funding: Tuition + monthly stipend

Deadline: December–January

Apply: https://www.eacea.ec.europa.eu/scholarships/erasmus-mundus_en

📌 Commonwealth Scholarships (UK)

Eligibility: Students from low/middle-income Commonwealth countries

Funding: Full tuition, travel, living costs

Deadline: October (Annual)

Apply: https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/apply/

📌 DAAD Scholarships (Germany)

Eligibility: Master’s & PhD students

Funding: Full tuition + living stipend

Deadline: October (Annual)

Apply: https://www.daad.de/en/study-and-research-in-germany/scholarships/

2️⃣ Scholarships for Biotechnology Students (USA & Canada)

📌 National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship

Eligibility: US citizens pursuing STEM PhDs

Funding: $37,000 stipend + research support

Deadline: October

Apply: https://www.nsfgrfp.org/

📌 American Association of University Women (AAUW) Fellowships

Eligibility: Women in STEM (international students can apply)

Funding: $18,000–$30,000

Deadline: November

Apply: https://www.aauw.org/resources/programs/fellowships-grants/

📌 Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Scholarships

Eligibility: Graduate students in health & life sciences

Funding: Varies

Deadline: December

Apply: https://cihr-irsc.gc.ca/

3️⃣ Scholarships for Developing Countries

📌 Gates Cambridge Scholarships (UK)

Eligibility: International students pursuing a master’s or PhD

Funding: Full tuition + stipend

Deadline: October

Apply: https://www.gatescambridge.org/

📌 TWAS Fellowships (For Developing Countries)

Eligibility: PhD & postdoc students in science & technology

Funding: Full funding for research

Deadline: Various

Apply: https://twas.org/opportunities/fellowships

📌 Rotary Foundation Global Grant

Eligibility: Graduate students in life sciences & medicine

Funding: Up to $30,000

Deadline: Rolling applications

Apply: https://www.rotary.org/en/our-programs/scholarships

💰 Grants for Research & Innovation in Biotechnology

Apart from scholarships, biotech students can apply for grants to fund research projects.

🔹 Research Grants & Fellowships

✔ Wellcome Trust Grants (UK & Global) ✔ NIH Grants (USA) ✔ European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO) Grants ✔ Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) UK

➡ Tip: Always check university websites and government research portals for grant announcements.

📄 How to Apply for Biotechnology Scholarships Successfully?

✅ 1. Start Early – Many scholarships have strict deadlines (October–January). ✅ 2. Write a Strong Personal Statement – Highlight your research interests and passion. ✅ 3. Get Recommendation Letters – Ask professors & mentors. ✅ 4. Meet Eligibility Criteria – Check country, GPA, and degree requirements. ✅ 5. Tailor Your Application – Avoid using the same essay for all scholarships.

🔎 Final Thoughts: Where to Find More Scholarships?

📌 University Scholarship Portals – Check your university's website for funding options. 📌 Government & NGO Grants – Look for STEM scholarships in your country. 📌 Websites for Scholarship Search:

Scholarships.com

FastWeb

DAAD Scholarship Database

💡 Have questions? Drop them in the comments below! Let’s help more biotech & life sciences students find funding! 🎓🔬

📢 Want More Updates on Scholarships & Grants?

✔ Follow this page for the latest funding opportunities in Biotechnology & Life Sciences! ✔ Share this guide with students who might need it!

🚀 Good luck with your scholarship applications! 🚀

[mariacallous]

Nada Fadul’s love for science and medicine began early. As a child, the aspiring physician-scientist had observed her father, a doctor, treat patients at his primary care office. Later, as an undergraduate student at the University of Maryland, Fadul had the opportunity to work in a lab developing nanotherapies for ovarian cancer. Through these experiences and a strong cadre of mentors, she “felt really inspired to pursue both research and medicine,” she says.

To gain more lab experience before applying to joint MD-PhD programs, Fadul had decided to apply to the National Institutes of Health’s postbaccalaureate program, which offers full-time research positions to recent college graduates considering careers in medicine or STEM. But in early February, she received an email stating that the program had been completely paused. “There’s always some changes when the administration changes, but I didn’t expect the changes to hit so close to home and to affect my hopes and plans for the upcoming year,” Fadul says.

Changed plans, lost opportunities, worries for the future—these are all things that current and prospective scientists across the country now face on a day-to-day basis. Since January, a rapid-fire slurry of executive orders have driven huge cuts to federal funding, hiring freezes, and thousands of layoffs across the research sector, with thousands more job losses expected. For students and graduates, the knock-on effect is a big reduction in opportunities to gain the experience and placements needed to enter and progress in the field.

During the lifespan of a scientist, there are several critical steps. For many, the first is to gain research experience during college—whether through working in a university laboratory or through summer research programs. From there, some take gap years (with the NIH postbaccalaureate program previously a popular option) to pursue even more research. Then comes an application to graduate school, completing graduate school, and possibly doing a postdoctoral fellowship. After all of that, only some end up as research faculty at institutions—where they embark on a decades-long saga of grant applications, many of which are for federal funding from the NIH or National Science Foundation (NSF).

It’s a process that already forces young scientists to compete for a limited number of spots at each stage of training. Many, like Fadul, seek out extra research opportunities to ready their applications. The process of simply applying to graduate school is “five to ten years in the making,” says a current post-baccalaureate scholar at the NIH, who requested anonymity due to fear of retribution. “I think that for almost all of the applicants, this is their dream, and this feels like their livelihood.” In the space of two months, it is a career pathway that has rapidly narrowed.

After the administration’s initial memos indicating that a federal funding freeze was imminent in late January, graduate programs across the US began reducing the number of admitted students. To track what exactly was happening, faculty and students began compiling a comprehensive list of universities and their associated program reductions—based on word of mouth and reported evidence. Among many others, this included a 20 percent reduction at MIT’s biology graduate program, an estimated 20 percent reduction at Duke’s biomedical graduate programs, and a 30 percent reduction at UC San Diego’s biological sciences program—from 25 places down to 17.

“If we went on business-as-usual and admitted a normal class size, then we’d have students we couldn’t support in the program,” says Kimberly Cooper, a developmental biologist at UCSD and associate director of the biology PhD program. One of her undergraduate mentees wasn’t admitted to any graduate programs this year. That mentee hopes to become an unpaid volunteer to continue working in a lab “because she wants to do this so badly,” Cooper adds. “That’s another concern I have—that we may be moving back to a place where research was really only for people that have independent finances to be able to do it.”

Jeremy Berg, a former director of the NIH’s National Institute of General Medical Sciences, has tracked the disbursement of NIH T32 grants—training grants that directly support graduate and postdoctoral research. Since February of this year, only two new T32 grants have been awarded. For comparison, 69 grants were made from February to March of last year. While March is not necessarily the month where T32 grant-awarding peaks, the lack of activity has Berg concerned for the future.

The lack of NIH training grants is in line with trends from the NSF, where awards from the Directorate for STEM Education appear to have slowed to a near-complete stop. In comparison to the NIH, the NSF funds research that can be non-biomedical in nature and runs the Graduate Research Fellowship Program—which provides support for thousands of graduate students each year. GRFP awards are usually made in April, and it’s unclear how they will be impacted this year. “It’s a terrible signal to send to students who decided they want a career in science and have been waiting their whole life to go to graduate school,” says Berg.

The instability in training-grant disbursement, coupled with the NIH’s new policy on capping indirect costs—which pay for critical functions like lab maintenance, equipment, and administrative support—have not just affected trainees, but also the faculty whose labs rely on graduate students and postdoctoral scholars’ work. Federal grants provide a significant portion of many laboratories’ funding, says Ran Blekhman, a geneticist at the University of Chicago whose lab is almost entirely funded by the NIH. This uncertainty has forced many scientists, particularly those early in their careers, to pivot their focus from simply doing science to trying to make their science—and their careers—survive.

Blekhman, whose research group studies the human microbiome, has always looked for non-federal sources of funding. But money from, say, private foundations often does not support basic science or has an unsustainably low-indirect-cost ceiling, which ordinarily would have been covered by NIH funding before the new indirect-cost cap. “My feeling is that everybody’s already been looking everywhere,” Blekhman says. “It’s not like there is a new pot of money that no one was aware of.”

To keep the lights on in the lab, contingency plans abound. Cooper, who has four NIH proposals in limbo, recently helped one of her postdoctoral scholars apply for a fellowship in Europe to continue her research. Blekhman is thinking about how many students he can reasonably support in the future, should cuts hit his lab.

Even among the uncertainty, many students remain deeply committed to pursuing careers in science. Robert Schwartz, a college and graduate essay consultant, says that some students he works with are taking a few extra gap years in European laboratories, in the hopes that more US funding will open up in the future. As Fadul figures out which schools to apply to, her list of federally funded MD-PhD programs has gotten shorter, while the list of MD programs (which do not rely as directly on federal funding) has gotten longer. But the uncertainty is “not going to stop me, and I don’t think it’s going to stop my peers, either,” she says.

In the meantime, Cooper, Blekhman, and others are focusing on ways to better support and educate their trainees—not only about how federal funding works, but also how to keep going. “We just want people in the lab to do their great science without having existential dread about how they get paid,” Cooper says.

[zerowaterpure]

Zero Water Filter: Pure Water for Healthier Living

In today’s world, clean drinking water is no longer just a necessity; it’s a luxury in many places. With rising concerns over water contamination, investing in a reliable drinking water filter for your home is one of the smartest decisions you can make. Among the numerous options available, the Zero Water Filter stands out as a top choice, ensuring that your family has access to safe and pure water.

What is a Zero Water Filter?

The Zero Water Filter is a revolutionary product designed to deliver the purest drinking water by removing virtually all dissolved solids (TDS). It uses advanced filtration technology to ensure that your water is free from impurities, chemicals, and contaminants. Whether you're at home or traveling, the Zero Water Filter ensures that every sip of water is clean and safe.

Why Choose Zero Water Filters?

When it comes to water filters, not all products are created equal. The Zero Water Filter in Netherlands is specifically engineered to outperform standard filters by providing an impressive five-stage filtration system. Here’s why it’s worth considering:

Superior Filtration TechnologyUnlike conventional water filters, the Zero Water Filter uses a five-stage ion-exchange process that removes 99.6% of all dissolved solids. This ensures that your drinking water is not only clean but also tastes great.

Certified for SafetyThe Zero Water Filter is NSF-certified, which guarantees that it meets rigorous safety and performance standards. It effectively removes lead, mercury, and other harmful contaminants.

Convenient DesignZero Water offers a range of products, from pitchers and dispensers to portable filters, making it easy to find a model that suits your needs. Whether you need a drinking water filter for home or something for on-the-go, Zero Water has you covered.

Zero Water Filter Price: Is It Worth It?

One of the key questions consumers ask is, “What is the Zero Water Filter price, and is it worth the investment?” The price of a Zero Water Filter varies depending on the model and size. While it may be slightly higher than traditional water filters, the exceptional filtration performance and long-term benefits make it a worthwhile investment. With Zero Water, you’re not just buying a filter—you’re investing in your health and peace of mind.

For example, Zero Water pitchers start at around €30-€40, with replacement filters available at affordable prices. Considering the quality and effectiveness of the product, it offers excellent value for money.

Water Filter Options in the Netherlands

For those living in the Netherlands, having a reliable water filter in the Netherlands is especially important. While the country is known for its high-quality tap water, many households still prefer to use additional filtration systems to enhance the taste and remove any lingering impurities.

The Zero Water Filter is an excellent choice for Dutch households, thanks to its proven ability to remove both visible and invisible contaminants. Its compact design and ease of use make it a popular option for families across the country.

Benefits of a Drinking Water Filter for Home

Investing in a drinking water filter for home offers numerous benefits:

Healthier Water: Filters like Zero Water remove harmful substances, ensuring that you consume only the purest water.

Improved Taste: By eliminating chlorine, metals, and other contaminants, your water will taste better than ever.

Cost Savings: Over time, using a water filter is far more cost-effective than constantly buying bottled water.

Eco-Friendly: Reduce your plastic waste by ditching single-use water bottles and relying on a reusable filter system.

Conclusion: Choose Zero Water for Pure Drinking Water

When it comes to choosing the best drinking water filter, the Zero Water Filter is a standout option. Its advanced filtration technology, excellent reviews, and competitive pricing make it a favorite among households worldwide. Whether you live in the Netherlands or elsewhere, having a reliable water filter is essential for safeguarding your family’s health.

[malka-lisitsa]

⭐️

MY EXPERIENCE IN THE ROLEPLAYING COMMUNITY

⭐️ my roleplay pet peeves

Oh youre just setting me up for hate arent you Kenz?

Biggest one is people who do not actually know their characters. God OOC actions drive me INSANE. JUST MAKE AN OC.

People who pick a single aspect of their character and reduce them completely to that. Example: People who play Elena like a Saint, people who play Katherine as a slut, people who play Stefan as ONLY RIPPER AND OR DEPRESSED RIPPER ADJACENT.

People who play villain characters and then cherry pick what they would and wouldnt do, yes my guy you are writing a monster who has and will continue to do terrible things. You do not have to write them out but they absolutely did happen and you dont get to just take that away bc they make you uncomfortable. Write a different character if you dont like that one being shitty like that.

GIANT GIFS

"Removed from canon and written in-" Just say AU interpretation.

one line in reply to three paragraphs. try a LITTLE BIT guys.

PEOPLE WHO CANCEL PEOPLE AND ACTORS WHO DID SOMETHING FUKKIN YEARSD AGO AND HAVE BEEN UNPROBLEMATIC SINCE. CHILL. PPL MAKE MISTAKES. FUCKING CHILL.

pr0n blogs

People who come after people for writing a villainous character doing villainous things. If it's IC THEN ITS IN CHARACTER. GET OVER IT. GOD are you also gonna write a letter to the show writers? And the actor for having the AUDACITY to do it on tv? Actually if you do this to rp blogs you probably would, please dont. Leave ppl alone.

banned FC lists (even tho I myself will not rp with other Ninas fc characters)

I WOULD put Anon hate on here but really I like tearing them apart. I actually havent gotten any in a while and I do hope shes doing ok. I hope you found peace hun, glad to see you've evolved.

PEOPLE WHO CHANGE FC OF CHARACTERS FOR NO REASON. (and for reasons Idk it just irks me when ppl change canon fc Idk.)

Theres more but I already look like an elitist and I absolutely am, wont even deny that fact. So there you go LKMNFDSK<F NSF.

[royalrampionengineer]

A quick addition, but I’m in graduate school in the biomedical sciences at a research university and we were all just warned about job freezes at the VA (including non-paid volunteers) and abrupt reduction/removal of funds for certain research programs meant to recruit and support diverse students. There’s talk of much much reduced funding for research from the NIH/NSF. (Which also means a dramatic cut in the number of graduate students any lab dependent upon these funding sources can hire. And so in 3, 5, 10 years, we’ll have less and less highly qualified research scientists.)

Trump has ordered the FDA, CDC and NIH to "pause communications with the public" until February 1st, with includes new regulations, announcements, press, we posts and more until they are "approved by a political appointee". Please keep your eyes on this. Trump is about to fuck up FDA shit again and we may potentially see a radical change in regulations on our health and food.

Some in my circle were talking about subscribing to European FDA communications and only taking medications and advice vetted in Europe until then or for the foreseeable future.

[ashtok711]

How to Select Durable and Efficient Kitchenware Equipment for Home and Commercial Use

Whether you're outfitting a home kitchen or launching a commercial food venture, choosing the right kitchenware equipment is a critical step. The right tools not only make cooking more efficient but also impact food quality, safety, and overall productivity. With a market flooded with options, selecting kitchenware equipment that is both durable and efficient requires thoughtful consideration.

In this guide, we’ll explore key factors to help you choose high-quality kitchenware equipment that stands the test of time—whether for daily family meals or high-volume restaurant service.

1. Understand Your Usage Needs

Before you make any purchases, assess how and where the kitchenware equipment will be used:

Home Use: For everyday cooking, prioritize versatility, compact design, and ease of cleaning.

Commercial Use: For restaurants or catering, focus on heavy-duty performance, speed, and compliance with hygiene standards.

Identifying the intensity and frequency of use will help you avoid under- or over-investing.

2. Material Matters

One of the most important factors influencing durability is the material of the equipment:

Stainless Steel: A top choice for both home and commercial kitchens due to its resistance to corrosion, heat, and stains. It’s ideal for cookware, mixing bowls, and cutlery.

Cast Iron: Excellent for retaining heat, perfect for frying and grilling. It’s durable but requires seasoning and proper maintenance.

Aluminum: Lightweight and affordable but may react with acidic foods unless anodized.

Non-Stick Coatings: Great for easy food release, but should be used carefully to avoid damage.

Always choose food-grade and BPA-free materials to ensure health and safety.

3. Check for Efficiency Features

Efficiency in the kitchen means saving time, energy, and effort. Modern kitchenware equipment often includes features that make cooking more streamlined:

Ergonomic Handles: Reduce strain during long hours of use.

Multi-functional Designs: Tools like food processors, combo ovens, or adjustable slicers minimize the need for multiple devices.

Induction Compatibility: Equipment that works on various cooktops, including induction, adds versatility.

Especially in commercial settings, efficient equipment translates to faster prep times and smoother operations.

4. Look for Certification and Warranty

When buying kitchenware equipment for commercial use, it’s essential to look for industry certifications like NSF, ISO, or FDA approval. These indicate that the products meet health, safety, and performance standards.

Additionally, opt for brands that offer warranties. This not only gives peace of mind but also reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in their product's durability.

5. Size and Storage Considerations

Select equipment that suits your kitchen’s layout and available storage space:

In a home kitchen, compact, stackable tools and modular organizers are ideal.

In a commercial kitchen, prioritize equipment that can handle bulk cooking while being easy to access and clean.

Avoid overcrowding with unnecessary items. Instead, invest in high-quality essentials that serve multiple purposes.

6. Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance

Kitchen hygiene is non-negotiable. Choose kitchenware equipment with smooth surfaces, minimal joints, and dishwasher-safe parts. Equipment that’s difficult to clean can harbor bacteria and reduce longevity.

In commercial kitchens, go for items with removable parts and easy-to-disinfect surfaces to maintain cleanliness in high-turnover scenarios.

Conclusion

Investing in the right kitchenware equipment is more than just a financial decision—it’s about enhancing the overall cooking experience, whether in your personal kitchen or a busy restaurant. By focusing on material quality, ergonomic design, efficiency, and ease of maintenance, you can ensure that your kitchen tools work for you for years to come.

Durable and efficient kitchenware equipment is the backbone of any successful kitchen. Choose wisely, and your investment will pay off in convenience, performance, and lasting value.

[market-trends-bykr]

Food Testing and Certification Market to Reach USD 28 B by 2034

The Food Testing and Certification Market ensures food safety from farm to table covering chemical, microbiological, allergen, and authenticity testing. As of 2024, this market held an estimated value of USD 11.05 billion and is forecast to reach USD 28.4 billion by 2034 at a CAGR of around 10.4%. Key regional leaders include North America and Asia-Pacific. Blockchain, AI, and certification standards like ISO 22000, FSSC 22000, HACCP, and GLOBALG.A.P are reshaping market dynamics.

To Get Sample Report: https://www.datamintelligence.com/download-sample/food-testing-and-certification-market

Market Drivers & Growth Opportunities

Stringent Regulations & Standards Governments worldwide, including the US FDA, EU bodies, and Japanese regulators, are enforcing tougher food safety regulations and requiring accredited levels of testing and adherence to standards like ISO 22000 and FSSC 22000.

Consumer Confidence & Traceability Consumers increasingly demand transparency on food origin, production methods, allergen safety, and ethical claims (organic, non-GMO, halal). Blockchain-enabled traceability is gaining ground.

Frequent Foodborne Outbreaks High-profile contamination incidents have led to sudden spikes in testing demand, particularly in high-regulation markets like the US and Japan.

Rapid Testing Tech Methods like PCR, immunoassays, and biosensors are gaining traction for faster, on-site results. Japan is investing 5–6% annually in PCR-based and rapid diagnostics.

Digital & AI-Enabled Inspection AI and IoT systems are enhancing real-time monitoring and predictive risk analysis, especially in Japan’s high-tech food industry.

Rise in Certification Types Demand is growing for global and specialty certifications such as ISO 22000, GLOBALG.A.P, FSSC 22000, halal, kosher, and clean-label certifications. ISO 22000 certification is present at over 51,000 global sites.

Regional Market Insights

United States

North America remains the largest market, with strong investment in food safety labs and certification bodies like NSF and AOAC. Recent suspension of milk quality proficiency testing by the FDA has spurred demand for third-party testing and accreditation.

Japan

The food safety testing market in Japan was approximately USD 945 million in 2024, expected to grow at 5.8% to USD 1.61 billion by 2033. Drivers include frequent foodborne incidents, known cases of pesticide and GMO contamination, strict MHLW regulations, and adoption of PCR and immunoassays.

Asia-Pacific

Projected growth at over 8.6% CAGR through 2027. China and India lead volume growth, while Japan emphasizes digital integration, rapid assays, and robust certification infrastructure.

Europe

Driven by strong regulatory alignment with FSSC 22000, HACCP, and GLOBALG.A.P, Europe supports high certification penetration across its food supply chains.

Industry Trends

Digital Traceability Solutions Blockchain integration for end-to-end traceability in supply chains is accelerating adoption, especially in premium and export-driven markets.

AI and IoT Monitoring High-income markets like Japan are investing in AI and IoT-based food quality monitoring and defect detection.

Remote Digital Audits Post-pandemic digital audit capabilities reduce delays and costs in certification processes.

Private-Sector Certification Growth Certification programs from AOAC, NSF, GLOBALG.A.P, and others remain crucial in food safety assurance beyond mandatory regulation.

Challenges

Rising Costs High costs of advanced testing, AI deployment, and ISO accreditation affect small and medium enterprises.

Regulatory Fragmentation Varying standards across regions create complexity in global trade for food exporters.

Skill and Infrastructure Gaps Emerging markets lack access to advanced testing laboratories and qualified personnel, limiting capacity.

Strategic Opportunities

Expand Rapid Testing Platforms Deploy portable and PCR-based kits across emerging and export markets.

Enable Digital Certification Ecosystems Promote blockchain-QC integration in high-value exports (dairy, meat, produce).

Support SME Accreditation Offer scalable, cost-effective ISO 22000 and ISO 17025 lab programs for small processors.

Target Specialty Certifications Capitalize on certifications like halal, non-GMO, and allergen-free in niche consumer markets.

Leverage Tech Partnerships Collaborate with AI and IoT vendors to develop real-time compliance tools.

Outlook & Conclusion

The food testing and certification market is forecast to nearly triple to USD 28.4 billion by 2034, driven by stringent regulations, rising consumer expectations, and digital technology adoption. The United States leads due to advanced infrastructure, while Japan and Asia-Pacific showcase rapid growth fueled by testing investments and traceability enforcement. Market leaders who pivot toward digital innovation, scalable certifications, and emerging-market solutions will gain a competitive edge in ensuring global food safety and consumer confidence.

[etakeh]

Here's a lesson in how fucked AI is making things:

I just looked up "does zero filter pfas" and the ai result:

Yay awesome it can be filtered out 100% by the filter I use! Yay thanks google AI!

except if you actually go to the Zero website

Even the company who brags about removing EVERYTHING from water won't claim to remove PFAS.

The most it will say is it's "the only water filter NSF certified to reduce PFAs, lead, and other heavy metals in drinking water".

[indoorverticalfarmingnews]

Clevite Elastomers Joins U.S. Research Consortium to Explore Domestic Natural Rubber Production

Key Takeaways Clevite Elastomers, part of Tenneco’s Performance Solutions group, has joined the TARDISS project to support U.S. natural rubber innovation. The NSF-funded project is led by The Ohio State University with a $26 million, 5-year grant. The initiative aims to reduce U.S. dependence on imported rubber, primarily sourced from Southeast Asia. Research focuses on crops like guayule,…