The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is contemplating the implementation of a new requirement for blood banks to adopt a test capable of detecting malaria parasites in certain blood donors. Seeking input from independent advisors, the FDA aims to strike a balance between achieving zero transfusion-related malaria cases and ensuring accessibility to blood donation.

Malaria, identified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a significant global health challenge, recorded staggering figures in 2022, with 249 million cases and over 608,000 deaths.

Although malaria doesn’t pose a significant threat to the US blood supply compared to some other nations, approximately 28 million US residents travel to malaria-endemic regions annually. As travel increases and the planet warms, experts predict a potential rise in malaria cases in the US, despite aggressive mosquito control measures.

Historically, the US effectively tackled malaria, notably during World War II when a concerted effort to combat mosquitoes led to a drastic reduction in cases. By 1949, malaria was no longer considered a significant health issue in the US, with the WHO declaring the country malaria-free in 1970. However, sporadic cases persist, mainly travel-related.

In March, the FDA approved the Cobas malaria test, a pivotal development in screening donor blood for malaria parasites. While transfusion-related malaria cases are rare, they can lead to severe complications and even death.

The FDA acknowledges the complexity of current guidelines, which rely on donor history questionnaires. These questionnaires, while useful, have limitations, leading to the disqualification of healthy potential donors. The FDA estimates that between 50,000 to 160,000 donors are deferred annually, with many not returning to donate even when eligible.

To address these challenges, the FDA is exploring two main strategies: selective testing based on malaria history and travel, or universal testing followed by selective testing of at-risk donors. While most advisory committee members favor the former approach, concerns remain about the logistical and practical aspects of widespread testing.

During a public comment period, leaders from blood supply organizations urged the FDA to approach guideline changes cautiously. While acknowledging the potential of the new malaria test to improve blood safety and donor availability, they stressed the need for evidence-based decisions and flexible testing strategies.

The committee refrained from voting on proposed strategies, with the FDA committing to consider the discussion in its decision-making process. As the FDA weighs changes to its guidance, the goal remains clear: to enhance blood safety while ensuring the continued availability of blood donations.

In a whirlwind of comedic triumphs, Nikki Glaser seized the spotlight with razor-sharp wit and infectious humor. The week kicked off with her unforgettable performance roasting none other than Tom Brady on Netflix, a moment that catapulted her into the hearts of thousands of new fans and even landed her a spot on ESPN’s “The Pat McAfee Show.”

Yet, amidst the flurry of success, Glaser remains grounded, reflecting on the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry. “I’ve never felt like when are people going to get it? I’m not one of those people,” she shared in a recent interview. “I always feel like I am getting what I deserve.”

Preparation was key for Glaser as she honed her material for both the Brady roast and her upcoming HBO stand-up special, “Someday You’ll Die.” From late-night sets in Los Angeles to collaborating with a dedicated team of writers, Glaser approached each project with unwavering dedication and a commitment to excellence.

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Her new special promises to delve into the complexities of life, from navigating societal pressures to grappling with personal demons. “It’s just a look at my life right now as I’m approaching 40 and all my friends are having kids and starting families, getting married,” she explained. “[The special explores] how I suffer with depression, even though my life is great, my fear of death, my longing for it at times, with really hard jokes in between.”

With “Someday You’ll Die” two years in the making, Glaser is eager to share her honest and raw perspective with audiences, offering a glimpse into her world with a blend of humor and introspection.

As her week of career highs draws to a close, Nikki Glaser stands poised at the precipice of new beginnings, ready to leave an indelible mark on the world of comedy.

In the wake of a trilogy that concluded with Caesar’s triumphant leadership, the resurrection of the “Planet of the Apes” franchise in “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” faced a daunting challenge: how to breathe new life into a beloved saga without a predetermined roadmap. Yet, against all odds, this latest installment manages to surpass expectations, offering a captivating blend of homage to its source material and a fresh, muscular narrative that revolves around the richly ape-centric concept.

Set several centuries into the future, the film begins with a deliberate pace, establishing a world that is both familiar and yet entirely new. With characters and plotlines reset from scratch, the narrative takes its time to unfold, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in a world teeming with possibility. While the premise of the film initially seems straightforward – a young tribal descendant embarks on a quest to rescue his captured brethren – the story quickly expands, weaving in additional layers of complexity and intrigue.

Audiences, of course, will ultimately decide the fate of “Planet of the Apes,” a franchise that has endured for over half a century since Charlton Heston first uttered those iconic words. Under the stewardship of Disney, the series has evolved once again, navigating the delicate balance between honoring its legacy and forging new ground. In this latest iteration, the story revolves around Noa, voiced with conviction by Owen Teague, whose peaceful existence is shattered by the ruthless forces of Proximus Caesar, portrayed with menacing fervor by Kevin Durand.

Director Wes Ball and writer Josh Friedman masterfully navigate the complexities of this brave new world, deftly setting the stage for a gripping adventure that is as thought-provoking as it is visually stunning. From moments of humor to clever nods to the original film, “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” is a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of a timeless franchise.

Yet, perhaps the film’s greatest achievement lies in its ability to take a familiar blueprint and breathe new life into it, revitalizing the franchise for a new generation of audiences. While Andy Serkis’s absence is keenly felt, the film manages to stand on its own, offering a compelling vision of a world where apes reign supreme.

In an industry where cash grabs often reign supreme, “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” serves as a reminder that even the most well-worn concepts can be reinvigorated with ingenuity and ambition. Whether audiences embrace this bold new chapter remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the limitless possibilities of cinematic imagination.

In a candid conversation on David Duchovny’s podcast “Fail Better with David Duchovny,” legendary entertainer Bette Midler opened up about one of her career misses, the 2000 CBS sitcom “Bette.” With a career filled with hits, Midler’s discussion shed light on the complexities of navigating the television landscape and the challenges she faced with the ill-fated show.

Midler didn’t mince words when she labeled “Bette” as “a big, big mistake,” acknowledging that her motivations were misguided from the start. Admitting her lack of understanding of the television industry, Midler confessed to being unprepared for the fast-paced environment and hierarchical structure that came with it.

One pivotal moment in the show’s tumultuous journey came with the departure of Lindsay Lohan, who was initially cast as Midler’s daughter in the pilot episode. Lohan’s exit after the pilot left Midler grappling with the chaotic aftermath, as the show underwent significant changes that she hadn’t anticipated.

Reflecting on her experience, Midler expressed regret for not standing up for herself and her show when faced with challenges. She admitted that she underestimated the importance of contracts and the gravity of the situation, which ultimately led to her dismissal from the show.

The pressures of the production schedule also took a toll on Midler, who found the pace of making the show to be taxing both physically and mentally. A memorable appearance on David Letterman’s late-night talk show, where Midler candidly described filming as “the worst thing that’s ever happened” to her, further compounded her difficulties.

Ultimately, Midler’s tenure on “Bette” came to an abrupt end when she was fired after expressing her frustrations publicly. Despite being relieved to be released from the project, Midler’s experience with the show served as a valuable lesson in the pitfalls of the entertainment industry.

Through her candid reflections, Bette Midler’s journey with “Bette” offers a poignant reminder of the complexities and challenges that even seasoned professionals face in their careers.

In an exclusive interview on the illustrious red carpet of Vogue’s Met Gala, Ariana Grande unfolded her profound odyssey while filming the highly anticipated cinematic adaptation of “Wicked.” With an effervescent aura and a gleam in her eye, Grande articulated how this venture transcended the realms of ordinary filmmaking to become a profoundly transformative experience.

For Grande, stepping into the role of Glinda, the Good Witch of the South, was akin to stepping into a cherished childhood dream. “It was just the most extraordinary, transformative, and beautiful experience I’ve ever had,” she shared, her voice brimming with genuine emotion. From the moment she donned Glinda’s iconic gown to the final scene, Grande was enveloped in a whirlwind of magic and wonder.

Reflecting on her longstanding affection for “Wicked,” Grande confessed, “I love the project so much more now than I ever did, and I’ve loved it since I was 10 years old.” The opportunity to breathe life into this beloved character was a dream come true for the multi-talented artist, and her passion radiated through every frame of the film.

Central to Grande’s journey was her collaboration with Cynthia Erivo, who portrays Elphaba, the misunderstood Wicked Witch of the West. Grande spoke candidly about the profound impact Erivo had on her, both personally and professionally. “Working with Cynthia and getting to know and love her has changed my life as well,” she revealed, underscoring the transformative power of artistic synergy.

As Grande reminisced about her time on set, she described it as “happy and special,” teasing fans with tantalizing hints about what’s to come. “You’ll see a little something very soon,” she teased with a mischievous grin. Indeed, fans were treated to a first-look trailer during the Super Bowl in February, igniting a frenzy of excitement and anticipation.

At the Met Gala, Grande stunned in a light pink gown by designer Jonathan Anderson, a subtle nod to the hues of pink and green synonymous with “Wicked.” The gown, crafted from mother of pearl, epitomized the ethereal elegance that defines Glinda’s character.

Set against the backdrop of a vibrant and immersive world, the cinematic adaptation of “Wicked” promises to enchant audiences with its spellbinding narrative. Exploring the untold story of Oz before Dorothy’s arrival, the film delves into the complexities of friendship, identity, and destiny. With a star-studded cast including Jeff Goldblum, Michelle Yeoh, Jonathan Bailey, and Bowen Yang, the stage is set for an unforgettable cinematic spectacle.

“Wicked: Part 1” is slated to premiere on November 27, marking the beginning of a captivating journey into the heart of Oz. As audiences eagerly await the unfolding of this epic saga, Ariana Grande’s reflections offer a glimpse into the magic and wonder that awaits in this transformative cinematic odyssey.

Taylor Swift’s latest album, “The Tortured Poets Department,” has made an astounding debut, skyrocketing to the top spot on the Billboard 200 albums chart. The 31-song double album has sold an impressive 2.61 million equivalent album units in the U.S. during its first week, with traditional album sales accounting for 1.914 million of that total.

Expressing her gratitude on Instagram, Swift remarked, “My mind is blown. I’m completely floored by the love you’ve shown this album.” With this achievement, “Tortured Poets” becomes Swift’s 14th album to claim the No. 1 spot, tying her with Jay-Z for the second-most No. 1 albums by a recording artist, just behind The Beatles.

The success of “Tortured Poets” adds to Swift’s remarkable track record as she now holds the record for the most No. 1 albums on the Billboard 200 among female recording artists. Impressively, 14 out of Swift’s 15 albums have reached the top spot, with her self-titled debut album being the only exception.

In addition to its chart-topping performance, “Tortured Poets” also marks Swift’s biggest first-week sales to date, surpassing the record set by “1989 (Taylor’s Version)” last year. Notably, the album also boasts the second-biggest single-week album sales by units earned, trailing only behind Adele’s “25.”

Swift’s success extends beyond album sales, with “Tortured Poets” breaking historical records on major music streaming platforms. It became the first album to surpass 300 million streams in a single day and reached one billion streams in a week on Spotify alone. Additionally, the album saw the largest streaming week for an album ever, according to Billboard.

With 31 songs from “Tortured Poets” in play, Swift stands poised to break even more records on the Billboard Hot 100 songs chart. She has already cemented her status as one of the most influential artists in music history, with numerous achievements on the charts.

Overall, “The Tortured Poets Department” not only marks another triumph in Taylor Swift’s illustrious career but also underscores her enduring impact and influence in the music industry.

In the upcoming tennis drama “Challengers,” directed by Luca Guadagnino, audiences are in for a captivating exploration of love, ambition, and the complexities of relationships. Starring Zendaya, Josh O’Connor, and Mike Faist, the film promises to deliver a gripping narrative set against the backdrop of the competitive world of professional tennis.

Zendaya portrays Tashi Duncan, a tennis prodigy whose life takes a dramatic turn when she faces a career-threatening injury. As she navigates the challenges of her injury and transitions into coaching, Tashi finds herself entangled in a compelling love triangle with childhood friends and fellow tennis talents, Art and Patrick, played by Faist and O’Connor respectively.

The dynamics between the characters are fraught with tension and emotion, as they grapple with their desires, ambitions, and the consequences of their choices. Zendaya describes the experience of portraying Tashi as an opportunity to delve into the complexities of her character, challenging herself to empathize with Tashi’s journey and motivations.

O’Connor echoes Zendaya’s sentiments, expressing his sympathy for all three characters as they navigate the intricacies of their relationships. He describes the film as a modern interpretation of the complexities of love and co-dependency, where pain and beauty intertwine.

Behind the camera, director Luca Guadagnino brings his signature style to the screen, delivering a visually stunning and emotionally resonant cinematic experience. For Zendaya, who also serves as a producer on the film, collaborating with Guadagnino provided a new opportunity to explore her passion for filmmaking.

The dedication of the cast to their roles is evident in their commitment to a rigorous 12-week tennis training program led by former professional player turned coach, Brad Gilbert. Through their efforts, they bring authenticity and depth to their portrayals of professional tennis players, further immersing audiences in the world of “Challengers.”

As the film prepares for its release, anticipation is high for the impact it will have on audiences. With its compelling narrative, stellar performances, and exploration of universal themes, “Challengers” is poised to be a must-watch for cinephiles and tennis enthusiasts alike.

Kevin Bacon has fulfilled his promise to return to Payson High School in Utah, the iconic location where the beloved 1984 film “Footloose” was shot. This momentous occasion comes after months of dedicated efforts by the school’s students, who initiated the #BacontoPayson social media campaign in hopes of convincing the actor to attend their final prom.

The students’ campaign included recreating scenes from the movie and choreographing videos, all aimed at capturing Bacon’s attention and securing his presence at their event. Their persistence paid off, as Bacon graced the school’s football field on Saturday to address the enthusiastic crowd.

Reflecting on the students’ relentless determination, Bacon expressed his initial surprise at the campaign, remarking, “When I first heard about this Bacon to Payson thing, I was like, ‘Wow, this is crazy.’ But you were all just tireless.” He commended their unwavering commitment and acknowledged being persuaded by their efforts.

In addition to his heartfelt gratitude, Bacon lauded the students for channeling their enthusiasm into a meaningful cause. As part of their endeavor to entice Bacon back to campus, the school pledged to create 5,000 essential resource kits for his Sixdegrees.org foundation, which supports underserved communities. This initiative, known as “Footloose40,” aims to pack and distribute up to 40,000 kits, furthering the foundation’s impactful work.

During his visit, Bacon was presented with an honorary diploma from Payson High School and engaged in various activities with the students. He even revisited his locker from the movie, capturing moments of nostalgia and camaraderie.

“Footloose,” released nearly four decades ago, continues to resonate with audiences, depicting Bacon’s character’s efforts to challenge a small town’s ban on dancing. The film’s enduring legacy was palpable as Bacon’s return to the high school reaffirmed its significance, proving that after 40 years, the prom remains an iconic setting for getting “footloose.