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The Download: dismantling US science leadership, and reproductive care cuts

Feb 21, 2025 - technologyreview.com
The article discusses several pressing issues in technology and global affairs. It highlights the dismantling of America's scientific leadership due to cuts by the Trump administration, which could have long-term impacts on health care and technology access. Additionally, it addresses the potential death of 8,000 pregnant women due to US aid cuts affecting reproductive care worldwide. The article also explores the challenges of expanding telehealth in the US, despite its growth during the pandemic.

In the technology sector, the article notes the gutting of the US's AI Safety Institute amid mass firings, the rapid growth of OpenAI's ChatGPT, and Ukraine's claim of sabotaging Russian drones. It also mentions the FTC's inquiry into Big Tech censorship, the unveiling of new AI software for household robots, and ongoing uncertainties about the origins of covid-19. Other topics include the rise of in-office work post-pandemic, strategies to combat scam texts, and Amazon's acquisition of the James Bond franchise. The article concludes with a discussion on light pollution and the potential benefits and challenges of using LEDs to address it.

Key takeaways:

  • The US's scientific leadership is being dismantled due to personnel and program cuts by the Trump administration, potentially causing long-lasting damage to health care and technology access.
  • US aid cuts could result in over 8,000 pregnant women dying from complications related to pregnancy and childbirth in 90 days if funding is not reinstated.
  • Telehealth faces significant challenges despite its growth during the pandemic, limiting its accessibility for patients needing specialized care.
  • Light pollution from LEDs is a growing concern, affecting human health and wildlife, and requires careful planning to mitigate its impact.
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