Uganda's Underwear Crisis: Millions Going 'Commando'

Uganda is facing an underwear crisis, with a significant portion of its population unable to access new undergarments. A report by the Uganda Revenue Authority for 2017/2018 revealed that the country imported only 36,746 pieces of men's underwear and 178,646 pieces for women, which is insufficient for the population. The shortage has been attributed to tax evasion and smuggling, rather than a lack of demand. The medical community, represented by Dr. Michael Baganizi, suggests that while underwear is not medically necessary, it serves hygiene and fashion purposes. The importation of used underwear has been condemned and banned by the East African Community, and the URA has been active in impounding such goods. Despite the social implications of the shortage, the government has not yet provided incentives to boost local textile production to meet this basic need.

This is a story about a Ugandan official who was recently dismissed from the World Bank.

Leading the Field: The Interdisciplinary Approach of ACS Chemical Biology

The article discusses the impact of interdisciplinary research in chemical biology, highlighting the role of ACS Chemical Biology journal and its Editor-in-Chief, Laura Kiessling. Kiessling emphasizes the importance of having a forum for scientists trained in both chemistry and biology for proper peer review and evaluation of research papers. The journal has been at the forefront of publishing significant research, including tackling antibiotic resistance and fostering new antimicrobial strategies. A Special Issue on Epigenetics is set to be published, curated by Tatiana Kutateladze. Kiessling also mentions the diverse international team of Associate Editors and the rigorous manuscript selection process. Additionally, the article touches on Kiessling's other roles, including her work at Quintessence Biosciences, her mentorship activities, and her involvement in community outreach. The ACS Chemical Biology Lectureship is also mentioned, which honors significant contributions to chemical biology research.

Personify: Profile of ACS Member and Undergraduate Student Taryn Dooms

The article profiles Taryn Dooms, a 20-year-old former journalism enthusiast who shifted her career focus to science, influenced by a charismatic teacher at the Paul Lawrence Dunbar Magnet School. Dooms, who grew up in Mobile, Alabama, faced personal tragedy with the murder of her brother and was raised by her supportive mother. She has achieved several 'firsts', including being the first African American female to graduate with an advanced honors diploma and an IB diploma from her high school. Dooms is currently the president of the Tuskegee American Chemical Society Chapter and juggles multiple roles, including tutoring and working at Zoghby's Uniforms. She is passionate about chemistry and has conducted research on eco-friendly water treatment methods. Her mentor, Dr. Russell Albert, has been a significant influence on her academic and personal life. Dooms aspires to become a cosmetic chemist and is actively pursuing a career in that field. The article also touches on her vibrant social media presence and her extroverted personality, which she considers a strength in her field.