Top diplomats from ASEAN nations met in Vientiane, Laos, alongside representatives from the U.S., China, Russia, Japan, India, and Australia to address regional tensions, including the Myanmar crisis and South China Sea disputes. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed economic cooperation and humanitarian issues, while ASEAN members expressed concerns over China's maritime claims, which have led to conflicts with Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Brunei.

Survivors of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bombings, known as hibakusha, share their harrowing experiences as a warning against nuclear warfare. The bombings resulted in approximately 140,000 deaths in Hiroshima and at least 74,000 in Nagasaki by the end of 1945. Many survivors, now elderly, continue to advocate for nuclear disarmament, fearing the escalation of global conflicts. The documentary "Atomic People" will air on July 31.

In southern Ethiopia's Gofa district, two landslides have resulted in at least 257 confirmed deaths, with estimates potentially reaching 500. The disasters, triggered by heavy rains, buried homes and rescue workers. Meselesh Gosaye lost her husband and two sons during the rescue efforts. Local officials report that 15,000 people may need relocation to prevent future incidents. Recovery efforts continue as families search for missing loved ones.

A group of 45 American doctors and nurses has written an open letter to President Biden and Vice President Harris, detailing their experiences treating injured children in Gaza. They demand an immediate ceasefire and arms embargo, citing over 39,000 Palestinian deaths since Israel's military offensive began on October 7. The letter highlights the collapse of Gaza's healthcare system and warns of potential epidemics affecting children.

In 2024, many people report feeling unwell, experiencing frequent infections, including a summer wave of Covid-19, with around 3,000 hospitalizations linked to the virus. A resurgence of whooping cough has also been noted, with nine deaths this year. Vaccination rates have declined, contributing to increased susceptibility to preventable diseases. Experts suggest that overall health issues and heightened awareness post-pandemic may exacerbate these feelings of illness.

The CDC's H5N1 bird flu test has faced issues, including a faulty component that sometimes requires retesting. Despite this, the agency claims the tests are reliable and has developed a workaround. The outbreak has infected at least 13 farmworkers this year, raising concerns about the reliance on a single testing supplier. The CDC plans to distribute 1.2 million improved tests soon, pending FDA approval.

The Ukrainian Olympic team is set to send its smallest delegation ever to the 2024 Paris Olympics due to the ongoing war with Russia, which has resulted in the deaths of hundreds of athletes. A memorial display in central London honors these athletes, highlighting the impact of the conflict on Ukraine's sports community.

In July 2024, temperatures above the east Antarctic coastline rose by approximately 50°C due to a Sudden Stratospheric Warming (SSW) event, a phenomenon rare in the Southern Hemisphere. This warming could influence Australia's weather through August and into spring, potentially leading to stormy conditions and changes in temperature patterns. The event marks the strongest recorded SSW for a Southern Hemisphere winter.

Cambodian online marketplace Huione Guarantee, linked to the ruling family, is reportedly facilitating money laundering and selling "detention equipment" for scammers, targeting victims globally, including Australians. A UK report revealed over $11 billion in cryptocurrency transactions since 2021, with many listings aimed at cyber scam operators. Following the report, law enforcement froze $29.62 million in cryptocurrency linked to fraudulent activities.

Labour's Energy Secretary Ed Miliband confirmed the UK will honor an £11.6 billion overseas climate aid pledge made before the 2021 Cop26 summit. This commitment aims to re-establish the UK as a leader in global climate discussions ahead of upcoming summits Cop29 and Cop30. Currently, 55% of the pledged funds remain unspent, raising concerns about meeting the target.

This summer, NASA welcomed interns with teaching experience to enhance classroom access to its data. Notable projects include creating braille materials for low-vision students and integrating creative writing into science lessons. Interns, aged 16 to 61, aim to engage students with real NASA data, fostering curiosity among the Artemis Generation. The initiative supports educational development in science and literacy.

Astronomers have detected the first high-confidence emission line from a gamma-ray burst (GRB), specifically the BOAT (Brightest Of All Time), observed in October 2022. This emission line, linked to matter-antimatter collisions, has a statistical significance of one in half a billion. The spectral emission lasted about 40 seconds, peaking at 12 MeV, marking a significant milestone in GRB research after 50 years of study.

Poland's parliament has approved a bill allowing border guards to use firearms in self-defense against migrants, raising human rights concerns. NGOs argue the changes violate standards, while the government cites rising threats from migrant gangs. Since 2021, 7,317 migrants were returned to Belarus, with 130 reported deaths in the border zone. Public support for tougher border security measures remains high, with 86% backing the use of weapons.

NASA's Arctic Radiation Cloud Aerosol Surface Interaction Experiment (ARCSIX) mission is studying summer sea ice melt over the Arctic Ocean, focusing on the impact of changing ice and atmospheric conditions on global climate. The mission involves flights over Greenland, collecting data on sea ice, clouds, and aerosols. Initial findings include unexpected layers of aerosol particles and a phenomenon dubbed "sea ice sandwich." The research aims to enhance climate modeling and understanding of Arctic changes.

As the November election approaches, experts express concerns about climate change's impact on extreme weather, public health, and infrastructure. The planet recently recorded its warmest day, highlighting the urgency. Issues include financial strains on the National Flood Insurance Program and the need for continued federal investment in climate solutions. Experts emphasize the importance of bipartisan approaches to address these challenges effectively.

Researchers at Fudan University have demonstrated that AI can transform random noise into a useful tool for synchronizing physical oscillators, as published in Physical Review E. This study reveals that machine-learning-generated noise can enhance energy-saving synchrony, potentially benefiting energy regulators and power grid management. The findings highlight a novel approach to utilizing noise in complex systems, advancing the understanding of dynamical behaviors in nonlinear physics.

The 2024 Paris Olympics, founded on ideals of peace, are increasingly influenced by global geopolitics. Tensions arose on July 24 over U.S. investigations into a Chinese doping scandal. Russia faces a ban due to its Ukraine war, while athletes from smaller nations may gain political recognition. Experts anticipate protests and disruptions, reflecting the politicization of international sporting events amid ongoing global conflicts.

Researchers at the Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut für Molekulare Pharmakologie have discovered a new interaction network involving the protein AP180, crucial for endocytosis in neurons. Using solution NMR spectroscopy, they analyzed AP180's 600 disordered amino acids, revealing interactions with clathrin and the adaptor protein complex AP2. This study, published in Nature Communications, enhances understanding of endocytosis, which is vital for neurotransmitter transport and linked to neurodegenerative diseases.

The UK government will not challenge the International Criminal Court's (ICC) arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, following a May statement from the ICC's chief prosecutor regarding potential war crimes. The ICC is also pursuing warrants for Hamas leaders and Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant. The court has received 70 submissions from various countries on this matter, with a decision expected by autumn 2024.

Umicore Rechargeable Battery Materials Inc. has halted construction of its $2.76 billion battery components plant in Loyalist Township, Ontario, due to declining electric vehicle (EV) sales. The project, which began in 2023, was expected to receive up to $551.3 million from the federal government and $424.6 million from the provincial government. Umicore cited a significant downturn in EV market conditions affecting the supply chain.

China remains the world's largest emitter of greenhouse gases but is emerging as a leader in climate diplomacy. At a recent meeting in Wuhan, nearly 30 countries discussed global climate negotiations ahead of COP29. China's renewable energy capacity has surged, with wind and solar growing significantly. In 2023, China sold over 7 million electric vehicles domestically and exported 1.2 million, reflecting its commitment to a low-carbon economy.

A $1 billion federal science facility, the TerraCanada National Capital Area project, will be constructed at the National Research Council in Ottawa, housing around 450 employees. Contracts for design and construction have been awarded to AECOM Canada and EBC Inc., respectively. Construction is set to begin in 2026. Additionally, a $600 million Transportation Safety and Technology Science project will also be developed at the site.

The Kremlin welcomed Donald Trump's characterization of Russia as a "war machine" that defeated Napoleon and Hitler, but expressed skepticism about his potential return to the presidency. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov noted that Trump, like other U.S. political figures, has contributed to anti-Russian sentiment and sanctions during his previous term. The comments followed Trump's remarks in a call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.

The European Medicines Agency has rejected the Alzheimer’s drug Leqembi, developed by Eisai and Biogen, due to concerns over rare brain swelling side effects. The committee's decision follows the drug's approval in the US, where it is projected to generate $154 million in revenue this year. Approximately 50 million people globally are affected by Alzheimer’s, with 6.9 million in the EU.

President Joe Biden's administration has achieved significant milestones in both economic and foreign policy areas. With six months remaining in his term, analysts are beginning to assess his potential legacy, noting that he has often been underestimated throughout his political career. The full impact of his presidency remains to be seen as global conditions continue to evolve.

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory have produced the first atomic movies capturing the rearrangement of atoms in a quantum material transitioning from an insulator to a metal. This breakthrough, published in *Nature Materials*, reveals a new material phase and enhances understanding of ultrafast transitions, potentially aiding the development of advanced materials for computing and energy storage. The study utilized X-ray free-electron laser technology for unprecedented observation of atomic movements.

Airbus Helicopters has been awarded a 13-month contract by the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) to lead a concept study for the Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability (NGRC) project. The study will analyze two integrated concepts for a medium multi-role helicopter, involving partners like RTX’s Collins Aerospace and Raytheon. Participating nations include France, Germany, the UK, the US, Ireland, and Italy.

Recent studies led by Ted Schuur from Northern Arizona University reveal that Arctic permafrost is warming three to four times faster than the global average, significantly increasing carbon emissions. This region, which stores one-third of the world's soil organic carbon, could contribute an additional 10%-20% to future climate change by 2100, impacting global warming targets set by the Paris Agreement.

The Supreme Court of Canada ruled that Ontario and Canada have failed to uphold treaty obligations to the Anishinaabe of the upper Great Lakes for 150 years. The unanimous decision criticized the lack of increased resource extraction revenues since 1875, stating it undermines the Crown's honour. The ruling mandates negotiations for retrospective and future revenue increases but does not provide a settlement.

Vanderbilt University researchers have created nanoparticles that enhance the immune response against melanoma and breast cancer in mice. Published in ACS Nano, the study focuses on lipid nanoparticles delivering a nucleic acid that activates the RIG-I pathway, typically used to combat viral infections. This approach shows promise for future human cancer treatments, building on the success of mRNA vaccines.

Japanese honeybees (Apis cerana japonica) have developed a unique defense mechanism against invading ants, using their wings to slap the intruders. A study published in *Ecology* found that this wing-slapping behavior was observed using high-speed cameras, with success rates of 50-33% against certain ant species. The research raises questions about the behavior's prevalence and whether it is innate or learned.

The Australian federal government will permanently protect the Jabiluka uranium mine site by incorporating it into Kakadu National Park, following the refusal of a 10-year lease extension requested by Energy Resources Australia. The lease, held for 42 years, expires on August 11. This decision marks a significant victory for the Mirarr traditional owners, who have opposed mining at the site for decades.

Democrats have united following President Biden's recent announcement, marking a significant moment in the party's dynamics. The article emphasizes the unpredictability of political events, suggesting that polls may not accurately reflect future outcomes. It also highlights the importance of focusing on current lessons rather than speculative predictions. Additionally, the newsletter includes book recommendations and a recognition of a distinguished individual.

Nearly 600 people fled Amatenango la Frontera, Mexico, to escape violent drug cartel shootouts, seeking refuge in Guatemala. Many arrived in the impoverished hamlet of Ampliacion Nueva Reforma, where locals provided food and shelter. The ongoing conflict between powerful cartels has led to multiple displacements, with reports of intimidation and extortion affecting local communities. Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo is coordinating a humanitarian response.

Researchers at Penn State have developed a switch to control "kink states," which are electrical conduction pathways in semiconductors, crucial for quantum electronics. This innovation allows for the regulation of electron flow in devices like sensors and lasers. The study, published in *Science*, demonstrates that these kink states can maintain quantized resistance even at elevated temperatures, enhancing their potential for future quantum information applications.

Eighty countries, including China, Canada, and Nigeria, reached an agreement on global digital commerce rules, covering e-signatures and online fraud protection, after five years of negotiations. Coordinators Australia, Japan, and Singapore announced a "stabilized text," praised by the EU and Britain. The U.S. expressed concerns, stating more work is needed. Ninety-one of the WTO's 166 members participated in the talks, with some countries voicing reservations.

At the ICHEP conference in Prague, the ATLAS collaboration presented findings from LHC Run 3, analyzing heavy-ion collisions at 5.36 TeV. They searched for magnetic monopoles and long-lived particles but found no evidence, setting the best limits on monopole production rates below 120 GeV. The results also established strict limits on long-lived supersymmetric partners, enhancing methodologies for future searches in particle physics.

A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that folded peptides conduct electricity better than unfolded ones. Researchers at the Beckman Institute found that peptides with a secondary structure, specifically the 3 10 helix, enhance electron transport, crucial for cellular processes. The study utilized single-molecule experiments, molecular dynamics simulations, and quantum mechanics to confirm these findings, which may inform the design of molecular electronic devices.

NASA's Hubble Space Telescope has captured a detailed image of the spiral galaxy NGC 3430, located 100 million light-years from Earth in the constellation Leo Minor. The galaxy features a bright core and distinct spiral arms, with star formation occurring due to gravitational interactions with nearby galaxies. NGC 3430 is classified as an SAc galaxy, contributing to Edwin Hubble's influential 1926 classification of galaxies.

The Biden administration has opted not to defend two affirmative action programs aimed at benefiting minority businesses, instead implementing new race-neutral rules. These programs, established over 40 years ago, were central to Biden's racial equity agenda initiated on his first day in office. Recent court rulings have challenged their legality, prompting the administration's shift away from defending them.

ABL Space Systems lost its second RS1 rocket during pre-flight testing due to "irrecoverable" damage from a residual pad fire after a static fire test. The RS1, designed to lift 1.35 metric tons at $12 million, previously failed during its debut flight in January 2023. Meanwhile, Ursa Major plans to invest $10.5 million in Ohio for a new R&D center focused on solid rocket motors, supported by a $4 million grant.

Kaspersky, the Moscow-based antivirus company, has proposed a third-party review of its code to the US government in a bid to lift a ban on its products, which accounted for nearly 10% of its global revenue in 2023. The proposal, aimed at ensuring no Kremlin access to its software, was rejected. Kaspersky also offered the same framework to the EU amid rising US-Russia tensions.

Researchers at Yale University have developed a new method for mechanically detecting individual nuclear decays, as detailed in *Physical Review Letters*. This technique utilizes sensitive micron-scale sensors to detect forces from emitted particles, including neutral ones. Initial experiments successfully identified individual nuclear decays, potentially advancing studies in particle physics, dark matter, and nuclear processes. The method could detect rare events, such as decays occurring once a day.

Maine has received a $69 million grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce, part of the $575 million Climate-Ready Coasts initiative, to enhance climate resilience in underserved communities. The funding will support nature-based solutions, strengthen working waterfronts, and improve public infrastructure. Key activities include training on flood risks and updating regulatory frameworks. This is Maine's largest climate grant to date, funded by the Inflation Reduction Act.

Australia, Canada, and New Zealand's leaders have issued a joint statement calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, citing a "catastrophic" humanitarian situation. They urged Israel to heed the International Court of Justice's ruling on its occupation of Palestinian territories. Since October, nearly 40,000 Palestinians have died, with 1.9 million displaced and 495,000 facing severe food insecurity amid ongoing hostilities.

A survey of 500 cybersecurity leaders reveals that 87% are moving away from secure email gateways (SEGs) due to evolving cyber threats. In the past year, 94% of organizations faced email security incidents, with 91% experiencing data loss. As Microsoft 365 enhances its email security, integrated cloud email security (ICES) solutions are emerging to address advanced threats that SEGs may miss, highlighting a shift in email security strategies.

In 2024, a significant number of people are participating in elections globally, despite rising authoritarianism. Political freedom is reportedly declining, with more individuals living under authoritarian regimes. In Venezuela, voters are set to cast ballots in an election criticized for lacking fairness, yet it may provide an opportunity to express discontent with the current government.

Ukrainian engineers have developed a drone-dropped device named Artemida to neutralize Russia's Okhota seismic sensor, which triggers antipersonnel mines from up to 90 meters away. The Okhota system, designed to detonate multiple mines sequentially, poses significant risks to soldiers. Artemida mimics human footsteps, tricking the sensor into activating its mines harmlessly. The Okhota minefield system was originally developed in the 1970s.

NATO has labeled China a "decisive enabler" of Russia's war in Ukraine, highlighting the transfer of dual-use equipment, including machine tools. Oree Laser, a Chinese manufacturer now under U.S. sanctions, exemplifies this support. China's exports of machine tools to Russia more than doubled in 2022, according to United Nations trade data, indicating significant contributions to Russia's military capabilities.

The opioid crisis in Canada is exacerbated by partisan politics, with Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre alleging a "secret plan" for national decriminalization of hard drugs, based on a federal briefing document. The Liberal government maintains that decriminalization will only proceed with provincial support. Since 2023, British Columbia has had a decriminalization pilot, while other provinces face rising overdose deaths. Nearly $2.6 billion has been allocated for mental health initiatives.

A recent Angus Reid poll reveals that 66% of Canadians believe a second Donald Trump term would be "bad news" or "terrible news" for Canada. Concerns include potential negative impacts on U.S.-Canada relations, global stability, and climate change efforts. The poll, conducted with 1,435 adults, has a margin of error of ±2.5%. Canadians are particularly wary of Trump's potential cabinet choices and their implications for trade and security.

Ottawa Community Housing (OCH) and Hydro Ottawa have launched several energy-saving projects, including 37 solar arrays capable of generating 500,000 kilowatt hours. Plans include installing 260 heat pumps and building automation systems. OCH, which provides 15,000 homes for over 32,000 tenants, aims to reduce emissions by 96% by 2040. A successful electric car-share program has also been implemented for residents.

The World Health Organization (WHO) is sending over 1 million polio vaccines to Gaza after the virus was detected in wastewater samples. The region has seen over 39,000 deaths and widespread health system collapse amid ongoing conflict. Vaccination rates have dropped from 99% to 86%, leaving many children unprotected. Only 16 of 36 hospitals are operational, exacerbating the health crisis.

One year after a military coup in Niger, the country faces worsening security and economic crises. The junta's severance of ties with international partners has led to sanctions affecting nearly half of Niger's budget. Violent attacks have surged, with fatalities rising from 770 to 1,599. The junta's grip on power tightens amid deteriorating conditions, while support from former allies remains uncertain.

Ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics, the French government transported hundreds of migrants and homeless individuals from the city center to temporary accommodations, citing safety and cleanliness. This operation, involving armed police, has drawn criticism as "social cleansing." Activists report that over 12,500 people have been displaced, raising concerns about the future of these communities amid rising anti-immigrant sentiment in France.

Apple fell out of the top five smartphone sellers in China for the first time in four years during Q2 2024, with its market share declining to 13.6%. Meanwhile, Huawei and Xiaomi gained ground, contributing to an 8.9% year-on-year increase in China's smartphone shipments to 71.6 million units. Apple’s decline is attributed to intensified competition and government scrutiny.

Venezuela faces potential political change as President Nicolás Maduro, in power since 2013, may lose the presidency amid ongoing economic turmoil and political repression. The opposition, after years of protests and government crackdowns, is gaining momentum. This shift comes after a decade marked by severe economic decline and internal strife within the opposition, raising questions about the future of Maduro's regime.

Greece's wildfire season, extending from April to November, has intensified due to climate change, with over 73,000 hectares burned in 2023. Criticism of the government's firefighting response highlights a lack of prevention strategies. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced millions spent on firefighting resources, yet experts like Elias Tziritis argue that community-focused prevention is essential to combat the growing threat of mega-fires.

The Pentagon has identified an additional $2 billion in accounting errors related to military aid sent to Ukraine, raising the total misvalued aid to $8.2 billion, according to a government report. The errors stem from unclear accounting definitions and the use of "replacement value" instead of "depreciated value." The Government Accountability Office has recommended clarifying valuation definitions and updating guidance for military aid.

NASA's Perseverance rover has discovered a rock named "Cheyava Falls" in Jezero Crater, containing organic molecules and markings potentially indicative of past biological activity. Sampled on July 21, the rock measures 3.2 by 2 feet and is part of the Mars Sample Return mission, which faces budget concerns, with costs estimated between $8.4 billion and $10.9 billion, delaying sample return to Earth until 2040.

Indonesia is seeking to limit Chinese ownership in nickel mining projects to qualify for US tax breaks under the Inflation Reduction Act. Currently, 80-82% of Indonesia's battery-grade nickel output is from majority Chinese-owned firms. The country, which produces 57% of global refined nickel, aims to negotiate new investment deals with Chinese companies as minority stakeholders to attract IRA tax credits.

Tensions are escalating between the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the United States ahead of the Paris Olympics due to a US law, the Rodchenkov Act, aimed at combating doping. This law, passed unanimously in 2020, allows US authorities to investigate doping conspiracies involving US athletes. WADA may sanction the US Anti-Doping Agency, potentially jeopardizing future Olympic hosting rights for the US.

Google DeepMind's AI models, AlphaProof and AlphaGeometry 2, reportedly solved four out of six problems from the 2024 International Mathematical Olympiad, earning a score of 28 out of 42 points. This achievement marks the first time an AI has reached such performance in the competition. However, the models required extensive time and human assistance for problem translation, raising questions about their capabilities.

North Korean hackers, identified as Anadriel or APT45, have launched a global cyber espionage campaign targeting NASA, US military bases, and defense firms to steal classified military secrets. A joint advisory from the US, UK, and South Korea highlights the ongoing threat, with the FBI offering a $10 million reward for information on one alleged hacker. The operation aims to support North Korea's nuclear ambitions.

A recent global tech outage caused by a faulty CrowdStrike software update disrupted millions of computers, affecting air travel, hospitals, and banks. Cybersecurity experts warn that such incidents are likely to recur, driven by increasing cybercrime and the interconnectedness of digital networks. Calls for analog backups in critical infrastructure have emerged, highlighting vulnerabilities in modern systems. The incident underscores the ongoing risks in cybersecurity management.

Researchers from Washington University in St. Louis have quantified the solar absorption of black carbon in pyrocumulonimbus clouds, which are formed by intense wildfires. Their study found that black carbon particles in these clouds absorb sunlight twice as effectively as those from smaller fires. PyroCbs contribute 10% to 25% of black carbon in the lower stratosphere, affecting global climate dynamics. The findings were published in *Nature Communications*.

The U.K. government has established Great British Energy, a state energy company, to advance clean energy initiatives. It will collaborate with the Crown Estate, which owns significant seabed areas around Britain, to develop offshore wind projects. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced this partnership on July 25, 2024, marking a step towards sustainable energy development under the Labour government.

As the Paris Olympics approach, the city is under unprecedented security measures following two assaults on Australians. The French government has restricted access around the Seine River, requiring passes for entry. Israeli athletes face 24-hour security due to threats, while geopolitical tensions affect participation, notably with Russian and Belarusian athletes competing under neutral flags. Protests and political expressions by athletes remain a concern for the IOC.

Drones have become a pivotal technology in the Ukraine war, with Ukraine producing over 3,000 first-person view drones daily. Both sides are rapidly innovating, with Russia launching 80-100 Shahed drones nightly. Ukraine employs a network of 9,500 mobile phone sensors for detection, achieving an 80% interception rate. The conflict has spurred advancements in drone capabilities, countermeasures, and autonomous systems, reshaping modern warfare.

California Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order to expedite the removal of homeless encampments statewide. The order aims to address the growing homelessness crisis, which affects over 170,000 individuals in California. The initiative includes increased funding for housing and support services, as well as collaboration with local governments to implement the removals effectively. The order reflects ongoing efforts to manage the state's homelessness challenges.

Research from Trinity College Dublin indicates that electrical currents can enhance the effectiveness of the body's cancer-fighting cells. The study found that applying electrical stimulation to immune cells significantly improved their ability to target and destroy cancer cells. This discovery could lead to new therapeutic approaches in cancer treatment, potentially increasing the efficacy of existing immunotherapies.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has issued a call to action addressing the rising threat of extreme heat, which has intensified due to climate change. The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) reports that global temperatures are projected to rise by 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels by 2030. This increase poses significant risks to health, agriculture, and water resources, affecting millions worldwide.

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine reveals that a twice-yearly injection, Sunlenca, was 100% effective in preventing new HIV infections among 5,000 women in South Africa and Uganda. In contrast, 2% of participants using daily prevention pills contracted HIV. Gilead, the drug's manufacturer, is awaiting results from male trials before seeking broader approval. Current HIV infections globally stand at 1.3 million annually.

Bangladesh is gradually returning to normalcy after over a week of violent protests against a government job quota system, resulting in nearly 200 deaths. The Supreme Court recently reduced the quota for war veterans from 30% to 5%. A curfew remains in place, with limited internet access restored in some areas. Approximately 27,000 soldiers have been deployed to maintain order amid ongoing tensions.

The EU plans to propose indefinite immobilization of Russian central bank assets to address US concerns over a $50 billion loan to Ukraine. This measure aims to ensure repayment from profits generated by €260 billion in frozen assets. G7 leaders agreed on the loan in June, with expected annual profits of €3 billion. The proposal requires unanimous approval from EU member states, complicating negotiations.

GSK, Pfizer, and Moderna face a potential decline in adult respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine sales in the US, dropping from $4.7 billion to $1.7 billion by 2030, according to Airfinity. The CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices limited vaccine recommendations to those over 75 and at-risk individuals aged 60-74, impacting projected revenues for GSK's Arexvy and other vaccines.