(2022-01-01). [Correspondence] Caution required with use of ritonavir-boosted PF-07321332 in COVID-19 management. thelancet.com We read with interest the news that the UK Government has announced deals to procure the oral antivirals for SARS-CoV-2, molnupiravir (Lagevrio, Merck [Branchburg, NJ, USA]) and ritonavir in combination with PF-07321332 (Paxlovid, Pfizer [New York, NY, USA]).1 Although we welcome further partnership between the government and pharmaceutical industry in the provision of effective agents to manage the COVID-19 pandemic, we urge caution with the widescale use of ritonavir, given its propensity for causing clinically significant drug—drug interactions with commonly prescribed and over-the-counter medications.
(2021-12-31). Will 'Godless liberalism' Force Russia to Close Its 'Window on the West'? strategic-culture.org 
The problem is finding a way to shield the vulnerable, particularly the youth, from adverse influences without restricting personal freedoms. | For centuries, Russia has been open to adopting popular Western traditions, but as the invasive cultural weed known as progressive liberalism enters the scene, Moscow is now forced to rethink the level of its engagement. With the internet and ubiquitous social media, however, such a cultural distancing will not be easy. | Russian Tsar Peter the Great (1672-1725), from the vantage point of his newly built capital of Saint Petersburg, encouraged his fellow Russians to em…
(2021-12-31). Repealing Section 230: Giving Mark Zuckerberg What He Wants? cepr.net I have been engaging on Twitter recently on my ideas on repealing Section 230. Not surprisingly, I provoked a considerable response. While much of it was angry ad hominems, some of it involved thoughtful comments, especially those from Jeff Koseff and Mike Masnick, the latter of whom took the time to write a full column …
(2021-12-31). COVID-19 Deaths Continue to Decline in Venezuela. orinocotribune.com 
This Wednesday, December 29, was the 654th day of the pandemic in Venezuela, with a considerable drop in the number of deaths in the last 24 hours. In that span of time Venezuela reported 203 new COVID-19 infections—200 by community transmission and three imported, in addition to two deaths. This was reported by the Minister of Communication and Information, Freddy àëáñez, via Twitter. | With this update, Venezuela has 444,186 confirmed cases and 5,331 deaths overall during almost two years of pandemic. Of this total, 5,657 are active cases, 4,657 are being treated in the public health system, and 1,00…
(2021-12-31). Eric Swalwell shares private conversation with man who threatened his life on Twitter. salon.com The man said he gets his news from Tucker Carlson and Joe Rogan…