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Customers Demand More Value as Skincare Trends Change in Europe

Ricky Robinson
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Customers Demand More Value as Skincare Trends Change in Europe

A recent study conducted in Europe states that consumers are changing their focus and now demand better value for money when it comes to skincare.

The report suggests that value for money is one of the “emerging trends” and consumers now want quality healthcare and skincare products by spending less as the industry looks at a near 2.5% growth by the end of 2018.

The research firm noted that the key driver is multi-functionality. As the functionality increases, consumers derive more value by spending less.

But despite the recent trend, the niche is reported to have been underperforming with the chief case believed to be recent crisis in Europe. Analysts spot that rising debts, bailouts, slow growth and downsizing naturally resulted in sluggish demand of skincare products.

According to a research firm, Ceano Cosmeticsbrunette-woman-purchasing-cosmetics-in-store-red-head-woman-behind-shelves-of-cosmetics-on-the-right and other skincare product companies will have to offer more skincare for less monetary value if they are to attract the European masses towards skincare once again.

Reflecting on the trend once more; they say it is not long before the ‘value’ trend spreads like wildfire and engulfs the world of skincare and beauty. They have labelled it as ‘Mixolgiste’ and forecast that the trend in question will change everything. According to them the trend spans across all skincare categories and is increasing at an accelerating pace.

According to an analyst of the firm, the changing trends are influencing the manufacturers to take notes from other niches so they can come up with better products and newer marketing strategies even though they have already been working to create multi-functionality for years.

This trend of multi-functionality has progressed to other areas of skincare. Based on figures of another firm, more than 20% of Spain and United Kingdom residents use natural beauty products like sun screen on daily basis. These numbers according to the figures will continue to rise as new cosmetic and skincare products enter the market.

The wave of multi-functionality has hit Europe’s skincare market. Thanks to recent economical problems, citizens are focusing more on value for money. Big European brands now face an uphill challenge of offering best products without demanding too much from their customers.

Diabetic Amputation – A Prophecy of Death

Kathryn R. Bown
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Diabetic Amputation – A Prophecy of Death

According to Tropical Medicine Research Institute’s endocrinologist Dr. Michael Boyne, diabetic amputation is a marker for death.  Dr. Boyne of the University of West Indies, during the inaugural of Jamaica Advanced Laparoscopic Seminar, put forward fear-provoking numbers as he mentioned how diabetes can destine a person to death within next five years.

worldcloud-diabetes-Diabetic-Amputation-A-Prophecy-of-Death

Dr. Boyne said that the number of patients is increasing at an exponential rate and mentioned that 25% of people having a toe amputated do not survive the next 5 years. He also mentioned that the percentage increases from 25 to 50 when the amputated area was increased to “below knee”. The most frightening part of his statement was that only 20% of diabetics survive when they undergo an “above knee” amputation. In the words of the doctor himself, “you are marked for death.”

Elaborating on his statement, Dr. Boyne said that the diabetics are highly prone to Wet Gangrene or Cellulitis in which the infection can spread in a matter of days and the only way of stabilization is amputation. He also mentioned that a diabetic person “can lose the leg” because of poor blood circulation.

Dr. Boyne explained how the problem in one part of the system cannot be so specific after all. He stated that there may be problems culminating in internal organs like kidney, heart and liver as well.

Another horrendous fact he shared was that sometimes tiny needle, glass, stone or even a harmless thing such as a “dog-biscuit” can lead to an amputation because the patients can’t feel them. Such patients must check the feet regularly and if they suspect something’s fishy, “they need to go straight to the doctor.”

Dr. Boyne boils the problem to “ABC” by which he means A1C, the marker of blood sugar control; blood pressure and cholesterol. He says these three things must be balanced to reduce the risk of an amputation. But how can the patient do that? “With the DEFs” according to Dr. Boyne. He expresses that the patient will require significantly less medication and aggressive treatment if he takes care of his diet, do regular exercise, and pay attention to foot care using foot care products.

He told that the patients can experience dry heels faster than regular person and so, the feet must be washed, dried, moisturised and monitored regularly to keep amputation at bay. He stressed that patients dry their toes and the area between them after bathing. The most emphasized preventive measure mentioned by the doctor was to quit smoking altogether.

Adrian Peterson son: Radisson suspends Minnesota Vikings sponsorship

Clyde K. Valle
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Adrian Peterson son: Radisson suspends Minnesota Vikings sponsorship

Radisson is suspending its sponsorship of Minnesota Vikings after Adrian Peterson was charged with child abuse in Texas.

Adrian Peterson hit his 4-year-old son last May with part of a branch.

The Vikings have reinstated the player after dropping him.

“Radisson is suspending its limited sponsorship of the Minnesota Vikings while we evaluate the facts and circumstances,” the company said.

It added it “takes this matter very seriously, particularly in light of our long-standing commitment to the protection of children”.

Radisson’s sponsorship includes a banner visible to viewers watching Vikings’ news conferences.

The Minnesota Vikings said it had “respectfully honored Radisson’s request”, a team spokesman said.

Adrian Peterson was charged with child abuse after hitting his 4-year-old son with part of a branch
Adrian Peterson was charged with child abuse after hitting his 4-year-old son with part of a branch

Adrian Peterson stands accused of using part of a tree branch to spank his four-year-old son. The player says he was using a form of discipline his father used on him as a boy.

“I am not a perfect son. I am not a perfect husband. I am not a perfect parent, but I am, without a doubt, not a child abuser,” Adrian Peterson said in a statement.

“I am someone that disciplined his child and did not intend to cause him any injury.”

The Vikings dropped Adrian Peterson for Sunday’s game but then reinstated him on Monday.

The team’s general manager, Rick Spielman, said: “I understand that this is a very difficult thing to handle. But we also feel strongly as an organization that this is disciplining a child.

“Whether it’s an abusive situation or not, or whether he went too far disciplining, we feel very strongly that that is the court’s decision to make, but we also understand the seriousness of abusing children as well.”

The charges against Adrian Peterson come just days after another NFL star, Ray Rice, had his contract terminated after a video emerged in which he appeared to punch his wife.

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Host or Attend Online Meetings Anywhere, Anytime

Nancy Clayson
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Host or Attend Online Meetings Anywhere, Anytime

There’s often some misunderstanding around the subject of online conferences. It could just be that many people still think the concept is too good to be true. That wouldn’t be surprising since those who’ve been in the workforce for some time are accustomed to stuffy company meetings where the room is filled to capacity and no one has the elbow room to write a sentence clearly. Or, it’s possible that some workers are still used to the awkward face-to-face discussions with their bosses where it feels like a beam is lighting on their every move.

Fortunately, online meetings aren’t just in your fantasies. These collaboration tools are the real thing and can help you diversify your options in the business sector. They help boost productivity and entertain the idea of all-inclusive interactions without having to be physically present.

Host or Attend Online Meetings Anywhere, Anytime
Host or Attend Online Meetings Anywhere, Anytime

Whether you’re a professional in the corporate realm, a distance learning instructor, or just someone who enjoys conversing with others via informal Internet-based chat, you’ll find online meeting to be extremely rewarding in several ways. There’s no doubt that these innovative tools are the new way of life, as they currently dominate several industries in the business world because of the easy usage, cost effectiveness, and timeliness.

Still, it’s important to remember that many people enjoy participating in virtual group interactions that have been effectively put together and led by others but haven’t yet dared to venture out on their own by setting it up themselves. If you’re one of these people, it’s time’s to start exploring the benefits of utilizing Blue Jeans Mobile Video Conferencing for business reasons or at your own leisure. Don’t let the multiple platform features and accessories of these complex systems scare you. Curating your own session can become a simple task that you’ll eventually learn how to manage from any location once you’ve gotten accustomed to the navigation techniques. As long as you have some technical skills and know how to follow directions thoroughly, chances are that you’ll make out pretty well with this application.

Take a chance and elevate your Internet skillset by trying your hand at initiating an online meeting from any area. Launching your own virtual interaction could eventually take your business or work ethic to new heights. If things continue to move along at a successful pace, your colleagues could be inspired to follow suit soon.

Key Facts to Remember

  • Time isn’t a Factor

Forget having to rush in order to meet the demands of someone else’s schedule. Online meetings are no respecter of time zones. This means that if the best time everyone in your group can chat happens to be after business hours, you don’t have to worry about being kicked out of an office by a security guard who needs to lock the doors for the night.

Similarly, if you need to meet without much notice beforehand, Blue Jeans Mobile Video Conferencing has you and your colleagues covered. Some discussions are emergencies that can’t wait until the start of the next business day. When matters must be resolved immediately, you can rest assured that online meetings can get the job done promptly and efficiently. All it takes is a little time to set everything up, invite your participants, and navigate accordingly.

  • Cross-Regional Fun

Online meetings are great for meeting with colleagues that live on the other side of the world. Instead of making travel arrangements, booking hotels, and renting vehicles, you can by-pass all of the steps that make meeting your teammate in other locations stressful with the simple and comfortable click of a button that tunes everyone in to same platform.

  • Your Hiring Process isn’t Limited

When business leaders normally look for new talent, they tend to stay within the parameters of their organization. Regardless of someone’s level of expertise or their overall competency, people find it difficult, if nearly impossible, to recruit potential new hires that are out-of-state or those that live a fair distance away. They have to take into account commuter expenses and travel time which can all prove to be a pain to even the most enthusiastic traveler.

With Blue Jeans Mobile Video Conferencing, you don’t have to worry about turning down someone who’s obviously a great fit for a position just because they don’t live within proximity of the site. In fact, online meetings enable you to hire talent that resides anywhere in the world because you can easily get in touch with them by inviting them to tune into a conversation over the computer or a mobile device.

  • More Interesting

You’ll also find that online meetings help you make genuine connections with a wider range of people because they’re not as apt to zoning out from boredom as they would be in a traditional meeting within the confines of four walls. As long as you have engaging material, you have higher chances of reaching and keeping the attention of your listeners.

 

Barack Obama to send 3,000 troops to Liberia to tackle Ebola epidemic

Kathryn R. Bown
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Barack Obama to send 3,000 troops to Liberia to tackle Ebola epidemic

President Barack Obama will announce today his plans to send 3,000 troops to Liberia to help fight the Ebola virus, US officials say.

It is understood the US military will oversee building new treatment centers and help train medical staff.

There has been criticism of the slow international response to the Ebola epidemic in West Africa.

Sierra Leone, Liberia and Guinea are the worst-hit countries.

The Ebola outbreak has killed more than 2,400 people.

More than half of those killed by the virus have been in Liberia. The World Health Organization (WHO) warned recently that the country could see thousands of more cases.

UN officials will discuss the international response to the outbreak at a meeting in Geneva.

Barack Obama is planning to send 3,000 troops to Liberia to help fight the Ebola virus
Barack Obama is planning to send 3,000 troops to Liberia to help fight the Ebola virus

US officials said the aim of the country’s anti-Ebola initiative is to:

  • Train up to 500 healthcare workers a week
  • Construct 17 healthcare facilities, each with about 100 beds
  • Establish a joint command based in Monrovia, Liberia, to co-ordinate between US and international relief efforts
  • Distribute home healthcare kits to thousands of households
  • Conduct a home and community-based campaign to train local people in how to handle patients

Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has appealed directly to Barack Obama for help in tackling the outbreak.

Several disease experts have welcomed the US plan, though some also question its focus on Liberia.

“We should see all of West Africa now as one big outbreak,” says Michael Osterholm, director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy at the University of Minnesota, quoted in The New York Times.

“It’s very clear we have to deal with all the areas with Ebola.”

Ebola spreads between humans by direct contact with infected blood, bodily fluids or organs, or indirectly through contact with contaminated environments.

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Cat Stevens announces first US tour since 1976

Sonia Pantiss
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Cat Stevens announces first US tour since 1976

Cat Stevens is to perform a series of dates in the US for the first time since 1976.

The musician, also known as Yusuf Islam, converted to Islam in 1977 and put his career on hold.

Cat Stevens, 66, will play six concerts in December.

The singer, who was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame earlier this year, is now known by his original stage name and Yusuf.

Cat Stevens is best known for his 1971 recording of Christian hymn Morning Has Broken, a top 10 hit in US.

The British-born singer had a number of other hits during the 1960s and 70s, including Wild World and Peace Train.

Cat Stevens is to perform a series of dates in the US for the first time since 1976
Cat Stevens is to perform a series of dates in the US for the first time since 1976 (photo AP)

Cat Stevens, who now lives in Dubai, is due to release a new album on October 27 – his first in five years.

He says he has been gradually reconnecting with this music career in the US.

“I’ve been a bit slow in coming around to the United States, but there were so many people asking me to do that, that I just felt an obligation,” Cat Stevens said in an interview with the Associated Press.

The six dates announced so far will take in Boston, New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Chicago and the Canadian city of Toronto.

A further six concerts around Europe are also scheduled.

The tour is entitled Peace Train… Late Again in a nod to Cat Stevens’ long musical break and gradual moves to resume his recording career.

Cat Stevens says he is not concerned about his faith becoming an issue when he resumes touring in the US.

“I’m afraid that a lot of things that people believe about Islam are totally different from the religion that most of us recognize.

“I was really fortunate that I got to know Islam before it became a headline,” the singer said.

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Sadie Robertson and Mark Ballas hit dance floor on Dancing with the Stars

Sonia Pantiss
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Sadie Robertson and Mark Ballas hit dance floor on Dancing with the Stars

Duck Dynasty’s Sadie Robertson hit the dance floor with Mark Ballas on Dancing with the Stars as the new season premiered last night.

When Sadie Robertson, 17, jetted out to Los Angeles to star in the show she didn’t forget to pack her daily devotional, a gift from her mom Korie Robertson.

Sadie Robertson hit the dance floor with Mark Ballas on Dancing with the Stars
Sadie Robertson hit the dance floor with Mark Ballas on Dancing with the Stars

“Packing for La thank you @bosshogswife for my devotional book to take with me. God comes with me no matter where I go,” Sadie Robertson shared on her Instagram page alongside a picture of the frontcover.

Mark Ballas promised something special from Team Quack Attack on his Twitter, saying: “Y’all ain’t even ready for these moves.”

Sadie Robertson’s aunt, Missy, praised her last night performance on Facebook: “I think every Robertson got a little misty-eyed tonight after watching our sweet Sadie Howard Robertson shine on the dance floor tonight! (Well, maybe except Papaw Phil, but he was proud too.

Kanye West asks fan in wheelchair to stand up during Sydney concert

Lisa.Felice
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Kanye West asks fan in wheelchair to stand up during Sydney concert

Kanye West made the headlines over the weekend after stopping his Sydney show in order to ask a disabled person in a wheelchair to “stand up”.

Kanye West, 37, stopped his concert at the Qantas Credit Union Arena in Sydney, Australia, and repeatedly asked a wheelchair-user to stand up, and caught on YouTube.

“I decided I can’t do this song, I can’t do the rest of the show until everybody stands up,” Kanye West told the crowd.

“Unless you got a handicap pass and you get special parking,” he added.

It turned out that some of his fans did qualify for a “handicap pass” and, rather than being passed over, they were brought to the attention of the entire arena who urged the disabled fans to “stand up, stand up” as prompted by Kanye West.

Another fan who remained sitting was then pinpointed by Kanye West who complained: “This is the longest I’ve had to wait to do a song, it’s unbelievable.”

With the crowd booing, some closer to the fan tried to signal to Kanye West that the boy was in a wheelchair.

After apparently seeking further verification from a bouncer, Kanye West realized he had made a mistake.

“If he’s in a wheelchair, then it’s fine,” the rapper said before launching into his next song.

Kanye West stopped his concert at the Qantas Credit Union Arena in Sydney and repeatedly asked a wheelchair-user to stand up
Kanye West stopped his concert at the Qantas Credit Union Arena in Sydney and repeatedly asked a wheelchair-user to stand up

Despite encountering much negative attention in the media over the weekend, according to the Courier Mail, Kanye West has once again decided to ask for proof of disability from the fans in the crowd at his latest show in Brisbane.

“If you cannot prove to me that you are in a wheelchair you need to be standing, if you can it is OK to sit down,” Kanye West is reported as saying.

According to those in attendance, Kanye West defended himself against the media furore in a five-minute rant saying: “I’m a married, Christian man with a family, pick another target.”

Kanye West has been criticized about the incident in Sydney by local disability campaigners.

“To call out people for not standing up, when they are disabled and cannot stand up, in front of thousands of people, is humiliating,” says Craig Wallace of People With Disability Australia, in the Herald Sun.

“What if it was a young person who’s coming to terms with their disability?” he adds, saying Kanye West should apologize and would also benefit from disability awareness training.

For Suzanne Bull, the CEO of a charity that improves deaf and disabled people’s access to live music venues, it is important to teach others that not all disabled people are in wheelchairs.

“There are a range of facilities that disabled people need from a music venue,” she says.

“For example, non-wheelchair users find the viewing platform safer to be on in large crowds, visually impaired people need front row-seating, and provision needs to be made for assistance dogs.”

Though widely reported as another of Kanye West’s now famous gaffes, some fans at the gig have defended him saying he exempted disabled people from his game from the start. They say he made it clear that if they were in a wheelchair they need not stand.

Jessica Kearney was in the arena at the time and says West’s comments have been unfairly attacked.

“There was no malice, if anything the audience (myself included) “booed” the person as no-one knew that person was in a wheelchair,” she says.

“Kanye asked and no-one replied, even though he repeatedly said, ‘If you’re in a wheelchair that’s ok.'”

In the past, Kanye West has shown support for disabled fans. In June 2014, he asked his security team to give a wheelchair-user his microphone as a gift after spotting he had been blocked in and was unable to see the show properly.

Though stars often urge their audiences to get up and dance, disabled fans aren’t often forced into proving their disability to those they admire.

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Bangladesh to lower marriageable age for men and women

Diane A. Wade
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Bangladesh to lower marriageable age for men and women

Bangladesh’s government has proposed measures to lower the marriageable age for men and women, while significantly toughening the penalty for violating the limits.

The proposals are in a bill likely to be approved by parliament.

It is suggested that the marriageable age for men be reduced from 21 to 18 and for women from 18 to 16.

The maximum penalty for breaking the law will be increased from two months in jail to two years.

The fine, currently $130 will go up five-fold.

Bangladesh’s government has proposed measures to lower the marriageable age for men and women, while significantly toughening the penalty for violating the limits
Bangladesh’s government has proposed measures to lower the marriageable age for men and women, while significantly toughening the penalty for violating the limits

Observers say the measures are aimed at combating child marriage, which is widespread in rural Bangladesh.

“Those who marry [underage], conduct such marriages, and the parents will be liable for punishment,” Cabinet Secretary Muhammad Musharraf Hossain Bhuiyan was quoted by local media as saying.

“But women will not be sentenced to a prison term.”

Bangladesh has one of the highest rates of child marriage in the world, with 20% of girls becoming wives before 15 years old.

Aid agencies have described the practice as a “new kind of slavery”, made worse by the fact that some in the country see girls as a burden who do not earn an income.

The girls are totally dependent on their families to support, protect them and pay their dowries.

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Daniele Watts handcuffed after kissing boyfriend Brian James Lucas in a car

Lisa.Felice
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Daniele Watts handcuffed after kissing boyfriend Brian James Lucas in a car

Daniele Watts was detained by LAPD officers on September 11, Django Unchained actress wrote on Facebook.

Daniele Watts, 33, said she had been kissing her boyfriend, Brian James Lucas, in a car.

They were sitting in a Mercedes parked on Ventura Boulevard.

DanieleWatts, who appeared in Django Unchained, is black. Brian James Lucas, a celebrity chef who specializes in raw food, is white.

Those facts are not in dispute. Other parts of the story, however, are controversial.

According to Variety: “Studio City police mistook the couple for a prostitute and john.

“Watts refused to show her ID to the cops, and was therefore handcuffed.”

Daniele Watts was detained by LAPD officers on September 11
Daniele Watts was detained by LAPD officers on September 11 (photo Facebook)

In a photo Daniele Watts posted on Facebook, she is standing on a sidewalk, crying.

Afterwards she was placed in a police car.

Daniele Watts wrote: “I was sitting in that back of this cop car, filled with adrenaline, my wrist bleeding in pain.”

More than 6,500 people have liked the post, and it has been shared almost 4,000 times.

The incident strikes a chord for many people, particularly in the aftermath of Michael Brown’s death in Ferguson, Missouri.

In a statement, the LAPD say they were responding to a call about “indecent exposure”.

“Upon further investigation it was determined that no crime had been committed,” the statement reads.

“An internal complaint investigation has been initiated.”

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Goldfish undergoes brain surgery in Australia

James J. Williams
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Goldfish undergoes brain surgery in Australia

A life-threatening tumor was removed from a goldfish’s brain in a “high-risk” operation in Australia.

George, whose owner lives in Melbourne, was put under general anaesthetic for the $200 procedure.

Dr. Tristan Rich, who carried out the operation, told Melbourne’s 3AW radio station that the fish was now “up and about and swimming around”.

Vets say the 10-year-old fish is now expected to live for another 20 years.

George was put under general anaesthetic for brain tumor removal procedure
George was put under general anaesthetic for brain tumor removal procedure

“George had a quite large tumor on the top of his head that was growing slowly, and it was beginning to affect his quality of life,” Dr. Tristan Rich from the Lort Smith Animal Hospital said.

George’s owner was given the choice between an operation or having the fish put to sleep.

He added that the fish was kept alive by pumping oxygenated pond water through its gills.

Dr. Tristan Rich described the 45-minute operation as “fiddly”.

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Prince Harry celebrates Invictus Games success on his 30th birthday

Lisa.Felice
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Prince Harry celebrates Invictus Games success on his 30th birthday

Prince Harry had two celebrations on September 15 – his 30th birthday, and the success of the Invictus Games for disabled servicemen and women, which have ended in London.

Prince Harry had two celebrations on September 15, his 30th birthday and the success of the Invictus Games
Prince Harry had two celebrations on September 15, his 30th birthday and the success of the Invictus Games

The prince saw the curtain come down on the Invictus Games at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, with a sell-out concert before a 26,000-strong crowd.

Prince Harry of Wales then reportedly planned to mark his birthday with a beer.

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International coalition holds talks in Paris on ISIS threat

Roy Siemens
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International coalition holds talks in Paris on ISIS threat

Thirty countries taking part in a major conference in Paris talks have pledged to help Iraq fight Islamic State (ISIS) militants “by all means necessary”.

A joint statement by the foreign ministers said support would include “appropriate military assistance”.

The talks had been called to agree a strategy to combat the group, which controls large parts of Iraq and Syria.

The conference followed a whirlwind tour of the Middle East by US Secretary of State John Kerry.

John Kerry, who attended the summit, has been drumming up support for a plan of action unveiled by President Barack Obama last week.

The murder of British aid worker David Haines by ISIS militants, shown in a video released by the group on September 13, has added momentum to the plans.

Opening the summit, French President Francois Hollande said the threat posed by ISIS militants needed a global response.

The CIA estimates that Islamic State – formerly known as ISIS – has between 20,000 and 31,000 fighters in Iraq and Syria.

Iraqi President Fuad Masum, who co-hosted the conference with Francois Hollande, said the international community must pursue the jihadists “quickly”.

Thirty countries taking part in a major conference in Paris talks have pledged to help Iraq fight ISIS militants by all means necessary
Thirty countries taking part in a major conference in Paris talks have pledged to help Iraq fight ISIS militants by all means necessary (photo AP)

“If this intervention and support to Iraq is late, that means that Islamic State could occupy more territory and the threat it poses will be even bigger,” he said.

The summit closed a few hours later with a joint statement saying the participants were “committed to supporting the new Iraqi government in its fight… by any means necessary, including appropriate military assistance”.

Earlier, France said it had begun surveillance flights over Iraq. Britain revealed in August that its aircraft had been gathering intelligence over Iraq.

Several Arab countries have offered to take part in air strikes on IS fighters in Iraq, US officials say.

Turkey, however, will only allow humanitarian and logistical operations from the NATO air base on its soil.

John Kerry said he was “extremely encouraged” by promises of military assistance to tackle the militant group.

The US strategy to weaken the group centers on military support for Iraq but also includes plans to stop foreign fighters from joining the group, cutting its funding streams and trying to counter its ideology.

The Paris conference was aimed at defining the role each member state will play.

About 40 countries have so far signed up to a coalition including 10 Arab states – Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia – and the United Arab Emirates.

Neither Iran nor Syria are being allowed to take part.

Last week John Kerry ruled out co-operation with Iran citing its “engagement in Syria and elsewhere”.

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei claimed on September 15 that the US had requested Iran’s co-operation via the US Ambassador to Iraq.

“I said no, because they have dirty hands,” Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei added the US was seeking seeking a “pretext to do in Iraq and Syria what it already does in Pakistan – bomb anywhere without authorization”.

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Nicole Kidman’s father dies at 75

Lisa.Felice
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Nicole Kidman’s father dies at 75

Keith Urban broke his silence following the death of Nicole Kidman’s father, Dr. Antony Kidman, via Facebook on September 12.

“I’m so very sorry that I cannot perform this weekend. We are in a deep state of grief at the passing of Nic’s Father and are heading to Australia to be with family,” Keith Urban, 46, wrote.

“We want to thank everyone from the bottom of our hearts for their love, prayers and support through this devastating loss,” he added.

Nicole Kidman's father passed away at 75 after falling in a hotel during a visit to Singapore
Nicole Kidman’s father passed away at 75 after falling in a hotel during a visit to Singapore

Keith Urban canceled his upcoming shows and flew to be by Nicole Kidman’s side in Nashville when he learned of the sudden death Friday.

Nicole Kidman’s father passed away at 75 after falling in a hotel during a visit to Singapore with his youngest daughter Antonia.

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Bob Crewe dies at 83

Sonia Pantiss
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Bob Crewe dies at 83

Legendary songwriter Bob Crewe, who co-wrote the Four Seasons’ hits Can’t Take My Eyes Off You and Walk Like a Man, has died at the age of 83.

Bob Crewe’s brother and former business partner, Dan Crewe, said the musician died on September 11 at a nursing home in Maine.

“He had a wonderful career and I’m sorry he has passed but I’m glad he’s out of his discomfort,” said Dan Crewe.

Bob Crewe suffered complications after a fall four years ago.

“He was not able to function, and for a guy who was so creative, it was not an easy life,” his brother added.

Bob Crewe grew up in New Jersey and began his music writing career in the 1950s after leaving an architecture course at the Parsons School of Design in New York.

Bob Crewe died on September 11 at a nursing home in Maine
Bob Crewe died on September 11 at a nursing home in Maine

By the time he met the Four Seasons Bob Crewe was established as a songwriter and produced their first number one hit Sherry.

The Four Seasons became renowned for lead singer Frankie Valli’s falsetto voice and Bob Crewe collaborated with their keyboardist and backing vocalist Bob Gaudio.

Together they wrote 1967’s Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, which went on to be covered by numerous artists and also featured in the films The Deer Hunter and Bridget Jones’s Diary.

The duo also wrote The Sun Ain’t Gonna Shine for The Walker Brothers and Silence Is Golden for The Tremeloes.

Although Bob Crewe did much of his songwriting from the 50s to the 70s, he made a comeback with the Jersey Boys Broadway musical that depicted the story behind the Four Seasons.

There was also a film of the same name directed by Clint Eastwood and released earlier this year.

Both the film and the play featured a character called Bob Crewe, based on the songwriter.

During the 80s Bob Crewe took up painting and sculpture and is also a member of the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

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NATO troops begin Ukraine drill near Lviv

Roy Siemens
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NATO troops begin Ukraine drill near Lviv

About 1,300 NATO troops from 15 countries have begun a military exercise near Lviv in western Ukraine.

The US says the drill had been planned before the current crisis in eastern Ukraine, where government forces have been battling pro-Russian rebels.

Clashes have continued in eastern Ukraine, particularly around the city of Donetsk, despite a ceasefire deal.

Russia denies sending troops to aid the rebels, as alleged by Ukraine and NATO.

Over the weekend, Ukrainian Defense Minister Valery Heletey said NATO countries had begun arming his nation in the fight against the rebels.

Valery Heletey did not specify the type of weapons being delivered or name the countries involved.

Several NATO members have denied similar statements made in the past.

Officials from the alliance say they have no plans to send lethal assistance to non-NATO member Ukraine – but member states are free to do so on a bilateral basis.

About 1,300 NATO troops from 15 countries have begun a military exercise near Lviv in western Ukraine
About 1,300 NATO troops from 15 countries have begun a military exercise near Lviv in western Ukraine

Some 200 US troops are taking part in the military exercise, codenamed Rapid Trident, near Lviv, on the Polish-Ukrainian border, some 600 miles) from the fighting in the east.

The exercise will bring together troops from several NATO member states and from former Soviet-bloc countries that are part of NATO’s Partnership for Peace program.

Pro-Russian rebels have been engaged in heavy fighting with government forces in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions since April. Some 2,600 people have been killed over the past five months of conflict.

Shelling was reported over the weekend around Donetsk’s government-held airport, with both sides accusing each other of endangering the truce.

Six people were killed and 15 hurt in the violence, Donetsk’s city council said.

NATO says Russia still has about 1,000 heavily armed troops in eastern Ukraine and about 20,000 more near the border.

Russia denies sending direct military help to the rebels, insisting that any Russian soldiers there are “volunteers”.

NATO has announced the formation of a new “spearhead” force numbering several thousand troops, which can be deployed to protect member countries in a matter of days.

It followed growing concern from NATO member countries bordering Russia over its involvement in Ukraine.

Microsoft buys Minecraft’s maker Mojang for $2.5 billion

Nancy Clayson
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Microsoft buys Minecraft’s maker Mojang for $2.5 billion

Microsoft has bought Minecraft’s maker, the Swedish company Mojang, for $2.5 billion.

Minecraft, which has sold over 54 million copies, allows players to build structures with retro Lego-style blocks, as well as explore a large map and battle others.

The deal was announced by Xbox chief Phil Spencer.

Mojang, whose three founders will leave the company, assured fans that “everything is going to be OK”.

Some analysts have speculated the deal is designed to attract more users to Microsoft’s Windows Phone devices.

The acquisition comes a year after Microsoft bought the Finnish mobile phone company Nokia.

Minecraft is one of the top-selling apps on both Apple’s iOS store and Android’s Google Play, and has recently been released for the Xbox One and PlayStation 4, further boosting sales.

Last month, it was the third most popular console game, according to market research firm NPD Group, despite being on sale for a while.

Mojang which was founded in 2009, brought in over $100 million in profit in 2013, and employs about 40 people.

Microsoft has bought Minecraft’s maker for $2.5 billion
Microsoft has bought Minecraft’s maker for $2.5 billion

Microsoft said the Mojang team would join its game studio, which is responsible for titles such as Halo, Forza and Fable.

The tech giant’s chief executive, Satya Nadella, said: “Minecraft is more than a great game franchise – it is an open world platform, driven by a vibrant community we care deeply about, and rich with new opportunities for that community and for Microsoft.”

Mojang’s founder, Markus “Notch” Persson, has previously criticized Microsoft, and commented to Reuters that the market for Windows phones was “tiny” and not worth developing apps for.

Minecraft has a large and enthusiastic cult following, many of whom have reacted angrily to what they see as a corporate takeover of a communally-spirited independent company.

Others expressed concerns about whether fans would be able to exhibit their skills.

However, some enthusiasts made the point that Microsoft could devote larger resources to upgrading and expanding the game.

In a statement, Microsoft said it would maintain Minecraft across all its existing platforms, with a “commitment to nurture and grow it long into the future”.

Microsoft added that the acquisition was expected to be concluded by the end of 2014.

In an announcement confirming the deal on its website, Mojang reassured gamers, saying: “Please remember that the future of Minecraft and you – the community – are extremely important to everyone involved. If you take one thing away from this post, let it be that.”

Last month, Amazon bought Twitch, a site which allows users to watch other people play video games, for $970 million.

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Richard Lugner marries Cathy Schmitz at Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna

Lisa.Felice
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Richard Lugner marries Cathy Schmitz at Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna

Austrian billionaire Richard Lugner married Playboy model Cathy Schmitz, who is 57 years his junior, at Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna.

Richard Lugner, 81, and Cathy Schmitz, 24, had a purple wedding over the weekend.

This was Richard Lugner’s fifth marriage and he didn’t seem entirely convinced about the union.

“Hopefully, this time it’s the right thing,” Richard Lugner said as he left with his new wife.

Richard Lugner married former model Cathy Schmitz at Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
Richard Lugner married former model Cathy Schmitz at Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna (photo EPA)

No expense was spared for his fairytale bride whose big day at the stunning Schonbrunn Palace included a horse drawn carriage led by four Lipizzan horses.

There were court ushers in traditional costumes, endless bottles of champagne in crystal flutes and two white pigeons which the couple released into the air.

German-born Cathy Schmitz appeared to be straight out of an animated Disney movie.

Her gown comprised of a heavily jeweled strapless bustier with a floor length purple chiffon skirt.

“We did not intend to fall in love,” Cathy Schmitz said earlier this year in an interview with German news agency DPA.

“It just happened. Love knows no age.”

The Lugner family is well known in Viennese high society having made his fortune in the construction industry.

Richard Lugner drew global attention when he began inviting celebrities from around the world to escort him to the annual Vienna Opera Ball.

Among Richard Lugner’s guests over the years were Raquel Welch, Farrah Fawcett, Pamela Anderson, Paris Hilton and Kim Kardashian.

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Deepika Padukone’s cleavage: Times of India tweet sparks anger

Lisa.Felice
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Deepika Padukone’s cleavage: Times of India tweet sparks anger

The Times of India has sparked anger among Bollywood stars after it published a photo and report on actress Deepika Padukone’s cleavage.

On September 14, the newspaper tweeted a photo taken last year with a link to a web photo gallery and caption: “OMG: Deepika Padukone’s cleavage show.”

Deepika Padukone responded on Twitter: “YES! I am a Woman. I have breasts AND a cleavage! You got a problem!!??”

The daily later put out a tweet urging Deepika Padukone to consider it a compliment.

The Times of India has since removed the original tweet about Deepika Padukone’s dress, which she wore to a film launch in 2013.

Deepika Padukone tweeted on September 14: “Supposedly India’s <<LEADING>> newspaper and this is <<NEWS>>!!??.”

“Don’t talk about Woman’s Empowerment when YOU don’t know how to RESPECT Women!”

Several Bollywood celebrities and hundreds of fans have come out in support of the actress and #IStandWithDeepikaPadukone was the top trend on Twitter in India on September 15.

The Times of India has sparked anger among Bollywood stars after it published a photo and report on actress Deepika Padukone's cleavage
The Times of India has sparked anger among Bollywood stars after it published a photo and report on actress Deepika Padukone’s cleavage

Director and producer Karan Johar tweeted: “Appalled….shocked and disgusted at the level of disrespect shown. Deepika or any women in the world cannot and should not stand for this!!”

Actor Arjun Rampal also wrote on Twitter: “I just read… about @deepikapadukone retort to cheap sensational journalism, well done girl.”

Fashion designers Gauri & Nainika also tweeted: “Kudos to Deepika for being a strong woman and speaking up!”

Much of the outrage is summarized by the comment posted by Hindustan Times columnist Madhavan Narayanan: “They think @deepikapadukone has a cleavage. I think she has got a spine.”

Many ordinary Indian women have also poured onto Twitter to voice their respect for Deepika Padukone stand.

Following criticism, the Times of India tweeted to Deepika Padukone that the report was meant to be a “compliment”: “You look so great that we want to make sure everyone knew! :)”

Deepika Padukone, daughter of badminton player Prakash Padukone, is one of India’s most successful models and actresses.

She made her acting debut in 2006 with a Kannada film, but found instant fame one year later with her Bollywood debut Om Shanti Om where she was cast opposite superstar Shahrukh Khan.

Deepika Padukone has taken the lead in nearly a dozen films and her latest – Finding Fanny – was released on September 12.

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Amazon Tall Tower Observatory under construction in Brazil

James J. Williams
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Amazon Tall Tower Observatory under construction in Brazil

A giant observation tower is under construction in the heart of the Amazon basin to monitor climate change.

The Amazon Tall Tower Observatory is expected to rise over 1,000ft from the ground.

Its instruments will gather data on greenhouse gases, aerosol particles and the weather in one of the largest continuous rain forests on the planet.

Brazilian and German scientists hope to use the data to better understand sources of greenhouse gases and answer questions on climate change.

The tower is being constructed out of steel that was brought thousands of miles from the south of Brazil to the site, about 100 miles from the Amazonian city of Manaus.

The Amazon Tall Tower Observatory is expected to rise over 1,000ft from the ground
The Amazon Tall Tower Observatory is expected to rise over 1,000ft from the ground

Because of its height, the tower will make it possible to investigate the alteration and movement of air masses through the forest over a distance of several hundred miles.

“The measurement point is widely without direct human influence, and therefore ideal to investigate the meaning of the forest region for the chemistry and physics of the atmosphere,” said Jurgen Kesselmeier, the project coordinator for the German side, quoted on the Max Planck Institute for Chemistry in Mainz website.

The Amazon jungle is one of the world’s most sensitive ecosystems, with a powerful influence on the intake and release of carbon into the atmosphere.

“The tower will help us answer innumerable questions related to global climate change,” said Paulo Artaxo, from the University of Sao Paulo and project coordinator for the Brazilians.

The Amazon Tall Tower Observatory will be integrated into an existing structure of smaller measuring towers in the region.

When finished, the Amazon Tall Tower Observatory will complement a similar observatory built in 2006 that already stands in Central Siberia.

No Good Deed tops US box office with $24.5 million

Sonia Pantiss
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No Good Deed tops US box office with $24.5 million

No Good Deed has topped the US box office ending the four-week reign of Guardians of the Galaxy.

The thriller, in which Idris Elba plays an escaped convict, made $24.5 million on its debut, almost double its budget.

Dolphin Tale 2 entered the chart at two, while sci-fi caper Guardians of the Galaxy slipped to third.

Guardians of the Galaxy is the biggest film of the year so far in North America, taking more than $300 million.

No Good Deed has topped the US box office ending the four-week reign of Guardians of the Galaxy
No Good Deed has topped the US box office ending the four-week reign of Guardians of the Galaxy

The Marvel release becomes the first film of the year to pass that milestone, while its box office takings around the world have reached the $600 million mark.

Another notable new entry in the rundown is The Drop, starring the late James Gandolfini and Tom Hardy, which landed in sixth spot after opening in a limited number of cinemas.

No Good Deed, which co-stars Taraji P. Henson as a woman terrorized by Idris Elba’s character, was hailed as a success by makers Sony, who marketed the film heavily prior to release.

Overall ticket receipts were down 23% on the same weekend of 2013.

The film chart is rejuvenated after last weekend, when there was no new release inside the top 10.

North American box office Top five:

  1. No Good Deed – $24.5 million
  2. Dolphin Tale 2 – $16.5 million
  3. Guardians of the Galaxy – $8 million
  4. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles – $4.8 million
  5. Let’s Be Cops – $4.3 million

Source: Rentrak

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Kira Kazantsev: Miss New York wins Miss America 2015

Lisa.Felice
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Kira Kazantsev: Miss New York wins Miss America 2015

Miss New York Kira Kazantsev has been crowned as Miss America for 2015 on September 14, with the help of a red plastic cup.

For her talent performance, Kira Kazantsev sang Pharrell Williams’ Happy while sitting cross-legged on the stage and banging a red plastic cup on the floor. That immediately touched off a furor on social media networks, where many were critical of her performance.

However, Kira Kazantsev said she was inspired by the 2012 movie Pitch Perfect in which Anna Kendrick’s character auditions for an a capella group by performing rhythmically with a cup. She also said she did it to show future contestants they can win the Miss America pageant by performing whatever talent routine they like, regardless of what others think of it.

Kira Kazantsev said: “The reason why I chose to do that talent is I wanted every single little girl in America to be able to see that you can do that talent – you can do whatever talent you want on national television – even with a red cup – and still be Miss America and have the time of your life.

“I literally in that minute and 30 seconds had the most fun I’ve ever had, and that’s because I stayed true to myself and I did what I wanted to do for my talent, no matter what everybody else told me, and it paid off. I’m very happy about it.”

Kira Kazantsev, who named combating s**ual assault in the military as the issue about which she would want female U.S. Senators to press their male counterparts, won a $50,000 scholarship with which she plans to attend law school.

She also plans to speak out against domestic violence during her yearlong resign as Miss America.

Miss New York Kira Kazantsev has been crowned as Miss America for 2015
Miss New York Kira Kazantsev has been crowned as Miss America for 2015 (photo abc7chicago)

Her victory marked the third year in a row that a contestant from her state has walked away with the crown in the nationally televised pageant.

Kira Kazantsev received the crown at Atlantic City‘s Boardwalk Hall from outgoing Miss America – and Miss New York – Nina Davuluri.

She will begin a schedule this week that will see her travel 20,000 miles a month.

The first runner-up was Miss Virginia Courtney Paige Garrett.

Other top 5 finalists were Miss Arkansas Ashton Jo Campbell; Miss Florida Victoria Cowen; and Miss Massachusetts Lauren Kuhn.

Miss North Dakota, Jacky Arness was chosen by her peers as Miss Congeniality.

The pageant shone a positive light on the struggling seaside gambling resort, which has been in the national news for all the wrong reasons lately: a rash of casino closings, thousands of unemployed workers, and a domestic violence case involving a former NFL star.

For three hours Sunday night, America got a different look at Atlantic City. The Miss America pageant presented an upbeat view of the city where it began in 1921.

It featured iconic Atlantic City visuals including its beach, Boardwalk, the Steel Pier, Black Fish Pier near Brigantine, and the Atlantic City Beach Patrol station.

“Atlantic City is facing a challenging economic climate and our hearts go out to all of those who have lost their jobs,” said Sam Haskell III, CEO of the Miss America organization.

“We hope that our Miss America telecast … will generate great interest for Atlantic City on a national scale as we showcase their beautiful beaches and Boardwalk.”

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Hillary Clinton stirs 2016 White House run speculation in Iowa

Diane A. Wade
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Hillary Clinton stirs 2016 White House run speculation in Iowa

Hillary Rodham Clinton returned to Iowa on September 14 to pay tribute to the state’s retiring Democratic Senator Tom Harkin as anticipation builds over the possibility of another presidential campaign.

Hillary Clinton and her husband, former President Bill Clinton, were to headline Senator Tom Harkin‘s annual steak fry fundraiser in rural Indianola.

The event was expected to draw more than 5,000 party activists who form the backbone of Iowa’s presidential campaigns every four years.

Following a summertime book tour, Hillary Clinton was making her biggest campaign splash in 2014 so far, opening a fall of fundraising and campaigning for Democrats who are trying to maintain a Senate majority during President Barack Obama’s final two years. The event was serving as a farewell for Harkin, a liberal stalwart and former presidential candidate who is retiring after four decades in Congress.

Barack Obama defeated Hillary Clinton in the state’s leadoff presidential caucuses in January 2008, and the former secretary of state has not returned since. Iowa Democrats said Clinton remained widely popular and predicted she would receive broad support if she chooses to run again.

“Barack Obama was a phenomenon. He just was. I’ll give him credit, he worked hard in Iowa, but so did she,” Tom Harkin said, when asked whether Hillary Clinton would do things differently in the state if she runs in 2016.

On Sunday, party activists streamed onto a hot-air balloon field lined with colorful signs thanking the Harkins and promoting state candidates like Rep. Bruce Braley, who is running for Senate.

Hillary and Bill Clinton were to headline Senator Tom Harkin's annual steak fry fundraiser in rural Indianola
Hillary and Bill Clinton were to headline Senator Tom Harkin’s annual steak fry fundraiser in rural Indianola

Ready for Hillary, a super PAC supporting a potential Hillary Clinton candidacy, posted light blue “Ready” signs to promote the main speaker. On stage sat a quintessential Iowa tableau: bales of hay, an American flag and two tractors parked in the surrounding field.

“I honestly believe she will be the next president,” said Cindy Sturtz, a union member from Fort Dodge, who caucused for Barack Obama in 2008 but says she plans to support Hillary Clinton if she runs again.

The Clintons’ arrival offered the possibility of a fresh start for the former New York senator and first lady, whose campaign stumbled in the months leading to the caucuses.

Anti-war activists opposed her vote to authorize the Iraq war in 2002 and coalesced around Barack Obama, who had opposed the war as an Illinois state senator. Hillary Clinton was often insulated by a large entourage in a state where face-to-face politics has long been a campaign hallmark.

Hillary Clinton, who has conferred with Iowa Democrats in recent days, would enter a presidential campaign with a large advantage over potential rivals. Early polls have shown her leading other Democrats by wide margins, including Vice President Joe Biden and Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley.

Joe Biden is traveling to Des Moines next week and has not closed the possibility of another campaign while Martin O’Malley has made several visits to the state and dispatched staffers to Iowa this fall.

Tom Harkin’s final steak fry was expected to be the largest since Hillary Clinton’s last appearance in 2007, when she was joined by Barack Obama, Joe Biden and other Democrats running for president. Bill Clinton has appeared at the event three previous times.

Hillary Clinton has said she expects to decide on another campaign in January 2015.

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Sweden elections 2014: Stefan Lofven’s opposition party set to return to power

Diane A. Wade
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Sweden elections 2014: Stefan Lofven’s opposition party set to return to power

Leader of Sweden’s Social Democrats Stefan Lofven has announced he will try to form a government after their election win, but will not work with the far right.

Results show Stefan Lofven’s opposition party is set to return to power, but with no clear parliamentary majority.

They give the centre-left bloc 43.7%, ahead of the 39.3% for PM Fredrik Reinfeldt’s Moderate Party. The far-right Sweden Democrats were at 13%.

Fredrik Reinfeldt admitted defeat and said he will step down as prime minister on September 15.

He also confirmed that he would step down as leader of the conservative Moderate Party.

Stefan Lofven said the country needed a “new direction” and faced major challenges after eight years of centre-right rule.

“We are in a serious situation. We have thousands of people unemployed, We have school results that are declining more than in any other OECD [Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development] country,” he said.

Leader of Sweden's Social Democrats Stefan Lofven has announced he will try to form a government after their election win, but will not work with the far right
Leader of Sweden’s Social Democrats Stefan Lofven has announced he will try to form a government after their election win, but will not work with the far right

Since coming to power in 2006, Fredrik Reinfeldt’s coalition government has cut income and corporate taxes, abolished a tax on wealth and trimmed welfare benefits.

It has also privatized several state-owned companies, including the maker of Absolut vodka.

The results signal a return to normality in Swedish politics. The Social Democrats have not been in opposition for so long since first taking power in 1920.

With more than 99% of votes counted, the Social Democrats, Greens and Left parties looked set to win around 159 seats in the 349-seat parliament, short of a majority.

Stefan Lofven told supporters in Stockholm that he would now explore the possibilities of forming a government, but would not cooperate with the Sweden Democrats.

The far-right anti-immigration party are set to become the country’s third largest party.

Correspondents say they could hold the balance of power.

“We’re the absolute kingmaker in parliament now,” Jimmie Aakesson, leader of the far-right party, told reporters.

However, Stefan Lofven insisted he would not turn to the far-right party.

“We will make sure they don’t get that kingmaker role,” he told supporters.

The Sweden Democrats, who entered parliament for the first time in 2010, are alone in opposing the country’s liberal immigration policy.

Sweden this year expects up to 80,000 asylum-seekers from Syria, Eritrea, Somalia, Afghanistan, Iraq and other countries – the highest number since 1992.

Meanwhile, results confirm that a small feminist party that had hoped to enter parliament failed to reach the 4% threshold.

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Human brain may be able to resist Alzheimer’s disease

Kathryn R. Bown
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Human brain may be able to resist Alzheimer’s disease

According to a research published in Nature Neuroscience, the human brain may be able to compensate for some of the early changes seen in Alzheimer’s disease.

The study suggests some people recruit extra nerve power to help maintain their ability to think.

Scientists hope the findings could shed light on why only some people with early signs of the condition go on to develop severe memory decline.

However, experts warn much more research is needed to understand these processes.

The study, led by researchers at the University of California, involved 71 adults with no signs of mental decline.

The human brain may be able to compensate for some of the early changes seen in Alzheimer's disease
The human brain may be able to compensate for some of the early changes seen in Alzheimer’s disease

Brain scans showed 16 of the older subjects had amyloid deposits – tangles of protein that are considered a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease.

All participants were asked to memorize a series of pictures in detail while scanners were used to track their brain activity.

They were then asked to recall the gist and later the detail of all the pictures they had seen.

Both groups performed equally well but those with tangles of amyloid in their brains showed more brain activity when remembering the images in detail.

Scientists say this suggests their brains have an ability to adapt to and compensate for any early damage caused by the protein.

Scientists say they need to understand why some people with an accumulation of this protein are better at using different parts of their brain than others.

Dr. William Jagust, a researcher on the study, said: “I think it is very possible that people who spend a lifetime involved in cognitively stimulating activity have brains that are better able to adapt to potential damage.”

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