By Nancy Lapid
Recent research highlights a troubling trend in the way diversity is addressed in NIH grant proposals. An analysis of 17,701 NIH grants from 2024 to 2025 shows a sharp decline in the use of language reflecting ethnic, racial, and gender diversity. This drop is significant—about 25% less diversity-related terminology was used in applications during this period.
This shift likely arises from new executive orders that restrict diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) funding, leading researchers to self-censor. Many scientists reported that they feel pressured to omit such language to avoid scrutiny from the government. In fact, a detailed look at 1,967 grants showed that terms linked to diversity were removed ten times more often than other words.
Experts note that this trend could have long-lasting impacts on research. Dr. Sarah Smith, a spokesperson from Harvard Medical School, emphasizes that these changes limit the ability of scientists to consider diverse populations in their studies, which is vital for ensuring that research benefits everyone.
On a different note, owning a dog has been linked to improvements in mental health. A study published in iScience reveals some interesting insights. Researchers found that living with dogs can alter the gut microbiome of their owners, leading to positive mental health outcomes.
In this study, teenagers who had dogs showed differences in their oral microbiomes compared to those without pets. The team also experimented with laboratory mice, introducing them to bacteria from dog-owning teenagers. The mice exhibited greater social behavior, like more interactions with their cage mates. Lead researcher Takefumi Kikusui suggests that dogs may foster empathy and prosocial behavior through their influence on gut bacteria.
As we delve deeper into these findings, the link between our pets and mental well-being becomes clearer. Owning a dog could not only enhance companionship but also promote healthier social interactions and emotional support.
