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Deepwater Horizon oil spill: BP found guilty of gross negligence

Clyde K. Valle
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Deepwater Horizon oil spill: BP found guilty of gross negligence

BP has been found guilty of “gross negligence” in the lead-up to the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

The New Orleans judge ruling could potentially cost BP billions more in compensation payments.

Judge Carl Barbier also found BP subcontractors Transocean and Halliburton “negligent”.

The 2010 oil spill was the worst in US history, and BP has set aside $43 billion to cover fines, legal settlements, and clean-up costs.

BP said in a statement that it “strongly disagrees” with the ruling and that it would appeal to a higher court.

“The law is clear that proving gross negligence is a very high bar that was not met in this case,” the company said.

BP shares fell 6% after the ruling was announced.

BP has been found guilty of gross negligence in the lead-up to the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico
BP has been found guilty of gross negligence in the lead-up to the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico (photo AP)

Judge Carl Barbier said BP should shoulder 67% of the blame for the 2010 spill, with drilling rig owner Transocean responsible for 30% and cement company Halliburton responsible for 3%.

He ruled that BP will be “subject to enhanced civil penalties” due to its “gross negligence” and “willful misconduct”.

The ruling could quadruple the civil penalties that BP must pay as a result of the spill to an estimated $18 billion.

Under the US Clean Water Act, a ruling of negligence would have meant BP was liable to pay $1,100 per barrel of oil spilled; gross negligence increases the penalty to $4,300 per barrel.

In its most recent annual report, BP said it had set aside $3.5 billion for this case – an indication the firm had expected a more lenient ruling.

BP emphasized in its statement that it planned to argue during penalty proceedings for the lesser penalty.

In 2012, BP agreed to accept criminal responsibility for the disaster and agreed to pay $4.5 billion to the US government, thus settling its criminal liability in the spill.

Now, legal efforts have focused on the amount of civil penalties the firm must pay, both to businesses and individuals affected by the spill and to cover environmental clean-up costs.

Also in 2012, BP reached a $9.2 billion civil settlement and agreed to put $20 billion into a trust to pay to businesses and individuals.

However, legal proceedings have continued after BP said it had been forced to pay compensation to some businesses and individuals who were not directly affected.

It is not clear what impact Judge Carl Barbier’s ruling will have on the legal wrangling over that settlement fund.

A date to determine the total number of barrels of oil that were spilled in 2010 as well as a final civil penalty has not yet been announced.

US government experts have estimated a total of 4.2 million barrels spilled into the Gulf; BP has said the figure is closer to 2.45 million.

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Joan Rivers dead: Comedienne dies aged 81

Lisa.Felice
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Joan Rivers dead: Comedienne dies aged 81

Joan Rivers has died at the age of 81, daughter Melissa Rivers has announced.

The comedienne had been on life support in Mount Sinai Hospital since having a cardiac arrest in New York last week.

In a statement, her daughter said Joan Rivers died surrounded by family and friends, and she thanked hospital staff for their “amazing care”.

Joan Rivers stopped breathing during a procedure on her vocal chords at an outpatient clinic on August 28.

Joan Rivers died on Thursday, September 4, at 1.17 PM
Joan Rivers died on Thursday, September 4, at 1.17 PM (photo Getty Images)

Melissa Rivers’ statement said: “My mother’s greatest joy in life was to make people laugh. Although that is difficult to do right now, I know her final wish would be that we return to laughing soon.”

On September 3, Melissa Rivers issued a brief statement that her mother had been moved from Mount Sinai Hospital’s ICU into a private room, without any comment concerning Joan Rivers’ condition or prognosis.

Joan Rivers died on Thursday, September 4, at 1.17 PM.

Joan Rivers was best known for her stand-up comedy, for co-hosting the E! celebrity fashion show Fashion Police, and for starring in the reality series Joan & Melissa: Joan Knows Best? alongside her daughter Melissa Rivers.

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WHO: Suicide happens every 40 seconds

Kathryn R. Bown
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WHO: Suicide happens every 40 seconds

According to a significant report by the World Health Organization (WHO), a person dies by taking their own life every 40 seconds.

The WHO said suicide was a “major public health problem” that was too often shrouded in taboo.

The UN health agency wants to reduce the rate of suicide by 10% by 2020, but warned just that 28 countries have a national suicide prevention strategy.

Campaigners said there needed to be more education in schools.

The WHO analyzed 10 years of research and data on suicide from around the world.

It concluded:

  • Around 800,000 people kill themselves every year
  • It was the second leading cause of death in young people, aged 15 to 29
  • Those over 70 were the most likely to take their own lives
  • Three-quarters of these deaths were in low and middle income countries
  • In richer countries, three times as many men as women die by suicide

It said limiting access to firearms and toxic chemicals was shown to reduce rates of suicide.

The WHO wants to reduce the rate of suicide by 10 percent by 2020
The WHO wants to reduce the rate of suicide by 10 percent by 2020 (photo Wikipedia)

And that introducing a national strategy for reducing suicides was effective yet had been developed in only a minority of countries.

Dr. Margaret Chan, the director general of the World Health Organization, said: “This report is a call for action to address a large public health problem, which has been shrouded in taboo for far too long.”

Social stigma attached to mental health disorders is known to stop people seeking help and can ultimately lead to suicide.

The WHO also attacked the reporting of suicide in the media, such as the details revealed about the death of Hollywood actor Robin Williams.

There was also a call for countries to provide more support for people who had previously made a suicide attempt as they were the most at-risk group.

Dr. Alexandra Fleischmann, a scientist in the department of mental health and substance abuse at WHO, said: “No matter where a country currently stands in suicide prevention, effective measures can be taken, even just starting at local level and on a small-scale.”

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IFA 2014: Samsung unveils Galaxy Note Edge and Gear VR headset

Nancy Clayson
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IFA 2014: Samsung unveils Galaxy Note Edge and Gear VR headset

Samsung has unveiled its virtual reality headset Gear VR and Galaxy Note Edge, a smartphone whose screen bends around one of its sides.

The new kit was revealed at this year’s IFA tech show in Berlin.

In addition to the Gear VR and Galaxy Note Edge, Samsung also showed off the fourth standard version of its large-screened Note smartphone, which introduces an ultraviolet light sensor.

The announcements come at a time when Samsung Electronics is perceived to be on its back foot.

In July the division reported a 20% year-on-year drop in its net profit and dozens of executives voluntarily agreed to return part of their bonuses.

Samsung’s smartphone market share fell from 32.2% in the April-to-June quarter of 2013 to 24.9% in the same period this year, according to research firm IDC, despite the fact it has one of the biggest ranges of handsets.

By contrast, its Android rivals Lenovo, Huawei, Xiaomi and Motorola all made gains.

At IFA, DJ Lee, Samsung Electronic’s marketing chief, said his company was “focused on accelerating the speed of innovation” and promised to “never slow down”.

The virtual reality headset is the result of an alliance with Facebook-owned Oculus and acts as an add-on for the Galaxy Note 4.

It uses the phone’s 5.7in screen and speakers, and adds a focal adjustment lens – allowing it to adjust for near and farsighted eyes – and a variety of sensors to track head movements.

Samsung has unveiled its Galaxy Note Edge smartphone whose screen bends around one of its sides
Samsung has unveiled its Galaxy Note Edge smartphone whose screen bends around one of its sides (photo Samsung)

Samsung said the machine would offer a 96-degree field of view, giving an experience similar to looking at a giant 175in screen from 6.5ft away.

The Gear VR will be sold with a microSD card containing a small collection of 360-degree videos and virtual reality games.

Samsung said the point of wrapping the screen of the Galaxy Note Edge around its side was to offer a new way to access frequently used apps and alerts, which would be useful at times when the rest of the screen was obscured by a protective cover.

It acts as a kind of scrollable dock or toolbar that can be controlled with a swipe of the thumb.

One expert suggested the functions offered by the Gear VR and Galaxy Note Edge might take a while to reach their full potential.

Samsung appears to recognize that of its new devices, the Galaxy Note 4 is likely to be the bestseller, calling it the “hero of the day”.

Galaxy Note Edge is the same size as its predecessor, but now features a “quad HD” screen with 550 pixels per inch, meaning it should in theory present more detail than most of its rivals.

Boosting screen resolution takes a toll on battery life, but the company was keen to promote that it had included “fast charging” technology.

It said the Note 4 would take about 30 minutes to bring its battery up to a 50% charge, versus a 55 minute wait for the Note 3.

Samsung said other changes included:

  • an improved S Pen stylus that provides “a more natural brush effect”
  • better noise cancellation to help make calls from loud environments
  • an improved fingerprint scanner
  • a higher-resolution front camera for selfies that is now 3.7 megapixels

The most unusual feature, however, is the inclusion of what Samsung says is the “world’s first UV sensor in a mobile device”.

The component provides users with a built-in way to track their exposure to sunlight if they keep the device outside of their pocket or bag.

However, Netatmo’s June – a bracelet that wirelessly transmits UV levels to connected smartphones – may offer a more practical solution for consumers wanting this feature.

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Phil Robertson talks about ISIS on Hannity show

Sonia Pantiss
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Phil Robertson talks about ISIS on Hannity show

Duck Dynasty’s Phil Robertson talked to Fox News’ Sean Hannity on September 2 about the killing of two American journalists by the ISIS militants and offered his solutions for how to handle it.

“Why is it when we’re not even over there in the Middle East, why do they continue to slaughter each other?” asked Phil Robertson.

The Duck Dynasty patriarch went on Fox News show Hannity to talk about his new book, UnPHILtered, but addressed the news first.

After citing some bible passages, Phil Robertson told Sean Hannity his view of the situation.

“In this case you have to convert them, which I think would be next to impossible, I’m not giving up on them, I’m just saying convert them or kill them. One or the other.”

Phil Robertson went on Fox News show Hannity to talk about his new book, UnPHILtered
Phil Robertson went on Fox News show Hannity to talk about his new book, UnPHILtered (photo Fox News)

Phil Robertson, 68, said ISIS is like “street gangs, street thugs on steroids”.

He added that it’s not like battling a “standing country with an army. This is more like worldwide gang warfare. My opinion is we’re going to have to deal with this group way more harshly than we have up to this point”.

However, Phil Robertson’s first choice for handling ISIS would be Jesus.

“I’d much rather have a Bible study with all of them and show them the error of their ways and point them to Jesus Christ,” he said.

“However, if it’s a gunfight and a gunfight alone, if that’s what they’re looking for, me personally, I am prepared for either one,” Phil Robertson added.

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CMA Awards 2014: Miranda Lambert leads nominations with 9 nods

Sonia Pantiss
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CMA Awards 2014: Miranda Lambert leads nominations with 9 nods

Miranda Lambert leads this year’s CMA Awards nominations with nine nods in seven categories.

Miranda Lambert, 30, is up for evening’s most prestigious honor, entertainer of the year, with husband Blake Shelton.

The singer is also vying for her fifth consecutive female vocalist of the year trophy.

Miranda Lambert also has nominations in major categories including album of the year, for Platinum, as well as song and single of the year for Automatic.

Only Alan Jackson previously had more nominations in a single year, with 10 nods in 2002.

“I woke up in NYC this morning to such great news!” Miranda Lambert told the Associated Press.

“Not only am I so happy to be nominated, but I’m happy to celebrate my husband’s and friends’ nominations.”

Miranda Lambert leads this year's CMA Awards nominations with nine nods in seven categories
Miranda Lambert leads this year’s CMA Awards nominations with nine nods in seven categories (photo Getty Images)

Miranda Lambert’s nine nominations puts her definitively ahead of the rest of this year’s contenders. Dierks Bentley earned five nominations and Eric Church and Keith Urban have four apiece.

Dierks Bentley’s five nominations mark a career best for the singer, whose latest album marks the death of his father and birth of his son.

“It was totally unexpected,” said Dierks Bentley.

“Dude, I’m not the guy who gets nominated. I’m the guy who knows the guy who gets nominated.”

Keith Urban, George Strait and Luke Bryan join Miranda Lambert in the high-profile entertainer of the year category.

“The criteria for entertainer is a mix of things, but I guess for me I’ve always considered it to be hopefully, primarily, about the kind of show that we put on and entertaining people at the live concerts,” Keith Urban told the Associated Press.

“I know it’s about more than that, but for me it’s really been about that, about putting on a tour,” said Urban, a judge of TV talent show American Idol.

Keith Urban and Luke Bryan also go to head-to-head for album of the year with Fuse and Crash My Party respectively. Dierks Bentley’s Riser and Church’s The Outsiders complete the nominees.

Carrie Underwood and Brad Paisley will host the awards ceremony on November 5 in Nashville, Tennessee.

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ECB cuts benchmark interest rate to 0.05%

Clyde K. Valle
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ECB cuts benchmark interest rate to 0.05%

The European Central Bank (ECB) has cut its benchmark interest rate by 10 basis points to 0.05%, and introduced new stimulus measures.

The ECB had earlier cut its rate from 0.25% to 0.15% in June, and also became the first major central bank to introduce negative interest rates.

It will also launch an asset purchase program, which will buy debt products from banks.

It is hoped this move will add liquidity to the financial system and revive lending.

The move falls short of a program of buying government bonds – a process known as quantitative easing (QE), and one which the US Federal Reserve has undertaken.

ECB chief Mario Draghi said that QE had been discussed by the bank.

“Some of our governing council members were in favour of doing more than I’ve just presented, and some were in favor of doing less,” he said.

“So our proposal strikes the mid-road…. a broad asset purchase program was discussed, and some governors made clear that they would like to do more.”

The ECB has been under pressure to kick-start the eurozone economy, as manufacturing output has slowed and inflation has fallen to just 0.3%.

The ECB has cut its key interest rate to lowest ever level
The ECB has cut its key interest rate to lowest ever level

Referring to one element of the new stimulus program, the purchase of asset-backed securities (ABS), Mario Draghi said: “The Eurosystem will purchase a broad portfolio of simple and transparent asset-backed securities with underlying assets consisting of claims against the euro area non-financial private sector under an ABS purchase program.

“This reflects the role of the ABS market in facilitating new credit flows to the economy and follows the intensification of preparatory work on this matter.”

Mario Draghi also gave an update on the ECB’s forecasts for the eurozone economy.

The new predictions warned of slower growth, of 0.9% in 2014, and of 1.6% in 2015.

Meanwhile the forecast for inflation was cut to 0.6% rising to 1.1% in 2015, and well short of the ECB’s target of close to, but below, 2.0%.

After the latest news was announced the euro fell to $1.2996, the lowest since July 2013 and the first time it has fallen below $1.30 since then.

As was the case after the ECB’s last rate cut in June, Mario Draghi again said that cuts had reached “the lower bound”.

The main benchmark refinancing rate determines what banks pay the ECB for credit, and affects what banks charge companies to borrow.

The central bank also cut its deposit rate, what banks pay to keep their money at the central bank, to minus 0.2% from minus 0.1%.

It is hoped that this measure will encourage banks to lend to business, rather than sit on their cash.

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NATO Summit Wales 2014: Western leaders criticize Russia over Ukraine crisis

Diane A. Wade
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NATO Summit Wales 2014: Western leaders criticize Russia over Ukraine crisis

Russia has been criticized by western leaders for its “destabilizing” influence on the crisis in Ukraine, at the start of a NATO summit in Wales.

NATO and the UK warned that pressure on Russia would be increased if it did not change course in eastern Ukraine.

Prior to the summit, Ukraine’s President Petro Poroshenko briefed US and EU leaders on earlier discussions on a cease-fire plan with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Some 2,600 people have died in fighting between Ukrainian troops and rebels.

The West says it has evidence that Vladimir Putin is supporting the separatists with training and arms, and has sent Russian troops across the border. Russia denies the accusation.

The conflict has forced more than a million people from their homes in eastern Ukraine, according to the UN estimates.

Ukrainian government forces have recently suffered several losses, after rebels launched offensives in both the Luhansk and Donetsk regions, and further south around the city of Mariupol on the Azov Sea.

Reports are emerging that the separatists have begun shelling the outer defenses of Mariupol.

NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen told reporters the summit in Wales is taking place in a dramatically changed security environment, with Russia attacking Ukraine
NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen told reporters the summit in Wales is taking place in a dramatically changed security environment, with Russia attacking Ukraine (photo Reuters)

At least two military vehicles were seen on fire in the area, and eyewitnesses spoke of gunfire.

In a separate development, President Petro Poroshenko said “the implementation” of his peace plan – which includes a bilateral cease-fire – could start on September 5.

Petro Poroshenko said this depended on planned talks in Minsk between representatives of Ukraine, Russia, the pro-Russian rebels and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).

During the two-days of talks, NATO leaders are also set to discuss the rise of Islamic State (ISIS), and Afghanistan where Taliban militants launched a deadly attack on a government compound on September 4.

Earlier today, NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen said the summit was taking place in a “dramatically changed security environment”, with Russia “attacking Ukraine”.

“We are still witnessing unfortunately Russian involvement in destabilizing the situation in eastern Ukraine,” he told journalists in Newport ahead of the summit’s official launch.

Correspondents say the summit is NATO’s most important for decades, as leaders faced the question of whether the alliance is equipped to deal with 21st Century challenges.

NATO is expected to approve plans to create a rapid response force composed of several thousand troops from member states, able to deploy within 48 hours.

European leaders are also set to discuss a new round of tougher economic measures against Russia.

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Jerry Sandusky case: New abuse lawsuit filed against former Penn State assistant coach

Clyde K. Valle
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Jerry Sandusky case: New abuse lawsuit filed against former Penn State assistant coach

A new abuse lawsuit has been filed against former Penn State assistant coach Jerry Sandusky.

The new accuser claims he was abused about six years ago.

The case was filed in Philadelphia last month by Williamsport attorney Bret Southard, whose client was identified only by his initials, The Centre Daily Times reported.

The lawsuit claims Jerry Sandusky abused the boy during a shopping trip in 2008 or 2009, and after they attended a Penn State game in 2008 against Coastal Carolina University.

The trip would have come around the time law enforcement officials began investigating Sandusky in late 2008, based on a complaint involving a student in central Pennsylvania. They charged him in 2011.

Jerry Sandusky was convicted in 2012 for abusing ten boys and is serving a lengthy state prison sentence
Jerry Sandusky was convicted in 2012 for abusing ten boys and is serving a lengthy state prison sentence (photo ABC News)

Bret Southard told the newspaper his client represents a new case. The lawsuit seeks $550,000, along with punitive damages and interest. Penn State previously settled 26 cases for nearly $60 million.

The lawsuit describes the boy as a participant in The Second Mile, the charity for at-risk children Sandusky founded, the newspaper reported.

Second Mile official David Woodle said the charity would “engage with them and try just to understand what’s there and take it through the legal process”. He said The Second Mile now exists only as the owner of real estate that is currently for sale.

Jerry Sandusky, 70, was convicted two years ago for abusing ten boys and is serving a lengthy state prison sentence.

The lawsuit said the accuser was among the boys listed as Second Mile participants on a document taken from Jerry Sandusky’s home during the investigation. Some of the names had check marks next to them.

Steven Sotloff’s family speaks for first time

Diane A. Wade
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Steven Sotloff’s family speaks for first time

Steven Sotloff’s family has spoken publicly for the first time since a video of his killing was released by ISIS militants.

The family said that Steven Sotloff gave his life to covering the suffering of people in war zones, but was “no hero”.

Vice President Joe Biden said that Islamic State militants who killed him and another American journalist, James Foley, would be pursued “to the gates of hell”.

Speaking at a press conference in Florida, Steven Sotloff family spokesman Barak Barfi said that Steven “wanted to give voice to those who had none”.

He said that Steven Sotloff “was no war junkie and did not want to be a modern-day Lawrence of Arabia”.

“From the Libyan doctor in Misrata who struggled to provide psychological services to children ravaged by war, to the Syrian plumber who risked his life by crossing regime lines to purchase medicine, their story was Steve’s story. He ultimately sacrificed his life to bring their story to the world,” Barak Barfi said.

“Today we grieve but we will emerge stronger. We will not allow our enemies to hold us hostage with the sole weapon they possess: Fear.”

Steven Sotloff was kidnapped in Aleppo, Syria, in August 2013 and held captive by ISIS militants
Steven Sotloff was kidnapped in Aleppo, Syria, in August 2013 and held captive by ISIS militants (photo Facebook)

Barak Barfi said that Steven Joel Sotloff was “torn between two poles” – his love of home life and his passion for the Arab world.

He said that the Sotloff family’s prayers went out to the family of Jim Foley, who was similarly killed last month.

“Like Steve he suffered but his jailors never broke him. He was an inspiration to others held in prison.”

The tribute to Steven Sotloff came after President Barack Obama vowed that the US would not be intimidated following the release of a video tape of his murder by ISIS militants.

Barack Obama said the US would build a coalition to “degrade and destroy” ISIS.

Vice-President Joe Biden said that the US would not stop until the militants are brought to justice.

He said the American people “are so much stronger, so much more resolved” than any enemy can understand.

ISIS has seized large swathes of territory in Iraq and Syria in recent months, declaring a new caliphate, or Islamic State, under leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi.

The US has launched more than 120 air strikes in the past month to try to help Kurdish forces curb the Islamic State advance.

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Michael Brown shooting: Ferguson state of emergency formally lifted

Nancy Clayson
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Michael Brown shooting: Ferguson state of emergency formally lifted

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon has formally lifted the state of emergency that he had declared in Ferguson last month.

Jay Nixon had declared state of emergency on August 19, following demonstrations against the killing of black teenager Michael Brown by white policeman Darren Wilson.

Michael Brown, 18, was shot dead after being stopped for jaywalking.

Jay Nixon said people were “getting back to their normal routines” and the order was no longer needed.

“This progress is a testament to the efforts of community and faith leaders, working alongside state and local law enforcement officers, to bring peace to the streets of Ferguson and much-needed stability to its citizens,” the governor said in a statement.

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon has formally lifted the state of emergency that he had declared in Ferguson last month
Missouri Governor Jay Nixon has formally lifted the state of emergency that he had declared in Ferguson last month (photo Reuters)

Michael Brown was killed on August 9 after white police officer Darren Wilson stopped him and a friend for walking in the middle of the street.

Eye-witnesses have said Michael Brown raised his hands in a gesture of surrender before he was shot multiple times by Darren Wilson.

Police accounts have disputed this, saying there was a struggle between Michael Brown and Darren Wilson which led to the shooting.

Many local residents saw the crime as an example of white police brutality.

Ferguson’s police force is more than 90% white, while its population is more than 60% black.

Protestors say police officer Darren Wilson, who has been place on administrative leave, has not been adequately punished.

A St Louis County grand jury has begun hearing evidence about the killing and will decide whether or not to charge Darren Wilson with a crime.

The US Justice Department has opened its own investigation into the shooting of Michael Brown.

Last week, the Ferguson police began using body cameras to record interactions with the public.

Michael Bloomberg is back in charge at his company Bloomberg LP

Clyde K. Valle
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Michael Bloomberg is back in charge at his company Bloomberg LP

Michael Bloomberg has returned to the helm of Bloomberg LP, the data and financial news company he founded more than three decades ago.

The former New York mayor still owns 88% of the company, and is taking up the role less than a year after leaving City Hall.

Michael Bloomberg will be replacing Daniel Doctoroff, who steps aside as president and CEO at the end of the year.

Both men indicated the decision was mutual after realizing there was no room at the top for both of them.

“I never intended to come back to Bloomberg LP after twelve years as Mayor,” Michael Bloomberg said in a statement.

“However, the more time I spent reacquainting myself with the company, the more exciting and interesting I found it – in large part, due to Dan’s efforts.

“I have gotten very involved in the company again and that led to Dan coming to me recently to say he thought it would be best for him to turn the leadership of the company back to me.

“It was a gracious and thoughtful offer and one that I finally accepted after significant pushback and great reluctance.”

Michael Bloomberg launched his namesake company after being fired from investment bank Salomon Brothers
Michael Bloomberg launched his namesake company after being fired from investment bank Salomon Brothers

Michael Bloomberg added that Daniel Doctoroff “expertly guided Bloomberg LP through the worst financial crisis of our generation”.

Daniel Doctoroff has led Bloomberg for the past seven years, first as president and then as chief executive in 2011.

Prior to joining Bloomberg LP, Daniel Doctoroff worked as New York City’s Deputy Mayor for Economic Development and Rebuilding for six years.

Daniel Doctoroff said: “I love the company and have deep respect and affection for Mike, so leaving is not an easy decision, but it is the right one for the company, for Mike and for me at this stage of my life.

“It is and has always been Mike’s company and given his renewed interest and energy, it only makes sense for him to retake the helm.”

Michael Bloomberg, 72, launched his namesake company after being fired from investment bank Salomon Brothers and is now worth about $33 billion, according to Forbes magazine.

Many had been expecting him to focus on philanthropy work such as gun control and public health after leaving government.

But after spending an increased amount of time at its headquarters, Michale Bloomberg said he will lead the company “with support from the existing leadership team” but without taking Daniel Doctoroff’s titles.

Bloomberg LP makes most of its income from the computer terminals that it sells to financial institutions and currently has 321,000 terminal subscribers. It also provides legal, government and energy data.

The company holds more than a third of the financial information market and saw revenues rise to over $9 billion in 2014.

The New York-based company has also been aggressively expanding its news offerings by hiring over 500 reporters and editors.

In recent years, Bloomberg LP re-launched its television channel and acquired Businessweek magazine, which is now named Bloomberg Businessweek.

Al-Qaeda announces creation of its Indian wing

Roy Siemens
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Al-Qaeda announces creation of its Indian wing

In a video posted online, al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri has announced the creation of an Indian branch of his militant group to “raise the flag of jihad” across South Asia.

In the 55-minute video posted online, Ayman al-Zawahiri pledged renewed loyalty to Afghan Taliban leader Mullah Omar.

Correspondents say his stated allegiance is an apparent snub to Islamic State (ISIS) militants.

ISIS is challenging al-Qaeda to lead worldwide Islamist militancy.

Announcing the formation of “al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent” using a mixture of his native Arabic and Urdu widely spoken in Pakistan, Ayman al-Zawahiri appeared eager to regain some of the limelight, correspondents say.

“[Al-Qaeda] is an entity that was formed to promulgate the call of the reviving imam, Sheikh Osama Bin Laden. May Allah have mercy upon him,” Ayman al-Zawahiri said.

He urged the “umma”, or Muslim nation, to “wage jihad against its enemies, to liberate its land, to restore its sovereignty and to revive its caliphate”.

Al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri has announced the creation of an Indian branch of his militant group
Al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri has announced the creation of an Indian branch of his militant group

Ayman al-Zawahiri said “al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent” would be good news for Muslims in Burma, Bangladesh and in the Indian states of Assam, Gujarat and Jammu and Kashmir, where they would be rescued from injustice and oppression.

A spokesperson for India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) told the Associated Press that the statement was “a matter of serious concern”.

“But there is nothing to worry about. We have a strong government at the federal level,” the spokesperson said.

Counter-terrorism experts say al-Qaeda’s ageing leadership is vying with ISIS to recruit followers after the success of militants in the Middle East in attracting young followers worldwide by conquering large amounts of territory across Iraq and Syria.

ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi describes himself as a “caliph” – or head of state – and has called for the support of all Muslims around the world.

The two groups fell out in 2013 over the ISIS expansion into Syria, where Baghdadi’s followers have carried out decapitations, crucifixions and other forms of capital punishment.

On September 3, it emerged that Pakistani militants linked to IS have been distributing pamphlets in the north-western city of Peshawar calling on people to support their idea of creating an Islamic caliphate.

The material, published in the Pashto and Dari languages, urges people to support ISIS in its fight for a grand Islamic rule.

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Ebola outbreak: More than 1,900 people died in West Africa

Kathryn R. Bown
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Ebola outbreak: More than 1,900 people died in West Africa

More than 1,900 people have now died in West Africa’s Ebola outbreak, the World Health Organization (WHO) says.

WHO head Margaret Chan said there were 3,500 confirmed or probable cases in Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia.

“The outbreaks are racing ahead of the control efforts in these countries,” she said.

On September 4, the WHO is holding a meeting to examine the most promising treatments and to discuss how to fast track their testing and production.

Disease control experts, medical researchers, officials from affected countries, and specialists in medical ethics will all be represented at the meeting in Geneva.

The WHO has previously warned that more than 20,000 people could be infected before the outbreak of the virus is brought under control.

Margaret Chan described the outbreak as “the largest and most severe and most complex we have ever seen”.

More than 1,900 people have now died in West Africa's Ebola outbreak
More than 1,900 people have now died in West Africa’s Ebola outbreak

“No one, even outbreak responders with experience dating back to 1976, to 1995, people that were directly involved with those outbreaks, none of them have ever seen anything like it,” she said.

At least 40% of the deaths have occurred in three weeks leading up to September 3, the WHO says.

Yesterday Nigeria reported two further cases in the city of Port Harcourt.

There had previously only been one case outside the city of Lagos, where five people have died from the virus.

“The outbreak of Ebola virus disease in Port Harcourt has the potential to grow larger and spread faster than the one in Lagos,” the WHO warned.

Also on September 3, the first British person to contract Ebola during the outbreak was discharged from hospital after making a full recovery.

On September 2, medical charity Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) warned that a global military intervention was needed to combat the outbreak.

MSF condemned the global response so far as “lethally inadequate” and said the world was “losing the battle” to contain the outbreak.

It has called for military and civilian teams capable of dealing with a biological disaster to be deployed immediately, as well as for more field hospitals with isolation wards to be set up, trained healthcare workers to be sent to the region and air support to move patients and medics across West Africa.

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Andrew Madoff dies from mantle cell lymphoma aged 48

Nancy Clayson
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Andrew Madoff dies from mantle cell lymphoma aged 48

Andrew Madoff died on September 3 at the age of 48 after a long battle with cancer, his lawyer announced.

The son of convicted fraudster Bernard Madoff suffered from mantle cell lymphoma.

“Andrew Madoff has lost his courageous battle against mantle cell lymphoma,” lawyer Martin Flumenbaum said.

“He died peacefully at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center on September 3, 2014, surrounded by his loving family.”

Bernard Madoff, now 76, is serving a 150-year prison sentence after pleading guilty to operating a massive Ponzi scheme estimated to have cost investors $17 billion in lost principal. He used to steal from thousands of average investors, charities, celebrities and others worldwide.

Andrew Madoff died from mantle cell lymphoma aged 48
Andrew Madoff died from mantle cell lymphoma aged 48 (photo Getty Images)

His other son, Mark Madoff, committed suicide on December 11, 2010, on the second anniversary of his father’s arrest.

Both Madoff sons denied knowing about the fraud and were never criminally charged in connection with the scheme.

Mark and Andrew Madoff worked at the market-making and proprietary trading division of their father’s Manhattan-headquartered business.

Bernard Madoff’s younger brother, Peter Madoff, 68, who ran the market-making division of the family business, pleaded guilty to doctoring records in 2012 and was sentenced to a 10-year prison term.

Ruth Madoff, 73, the Ponzi scheme architect’s wife, has not been charged. Like her sons, she has maintained she had no knowledge of the fraud.

Andrew Madoff’s funeral arrangements will be private, the attorney said.

According to the Lymphoma Research Foundation, mantle cell lymphoma is a relatively rare blood cancer that got its name because the tumor cells originate from the “mantle zone” of the body’s lymph nodes.

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Joan Rivers update: Comedienne moved out of intensive care

Lisa.Felice
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Joan Rivers update: Comedienne moved out of intensive care

Melissa Rivers has announced in a brief statement on September 3 that her mother, Joan Rivers, has been moved into a private room and is “comfortable”.

“My mother has been moved out of intensive care and into a private room where she is being kept comfortable. Thank you for your continued support,” Melissa Rivers wrote.

The update on Joan Rivers’ health condition came a day after Melissa Rivers said her mother remains on life support.

Joan Rivers, 81, was rushed to Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York after she stopped breathing during throat surgery at her doctor’s office.

Joan Rivers has been moved out of intensive care and into a private room at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York
Joan Rivers has been moved out of intensive care and into a private room at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York (photo Getty Images)

The comedienne was later placed in a medically-induced coma.

On September 2, Melissa Rivers wrote: “On behalf of my mother and our family, we are extremely grateful for all the love and support we’ve received. At this time she does remain on life support.”

“I know my mother would be overwhelmed by the continued outpouring of kindness and I want to thank everyone for keeping us in their prayers.”

Here Comes Honey Boo Boo Season 5 to premiere in January 2015

Lisa.Felice
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Here Comes Honey Boo Boo Season 5 to premiere in January 2015

Honey Boo Boo and her family, Mama June Shannon, dad Mike “Sugar Bear” Thompson and sisters Jessica (“Chubbs”), Anna (“Chickadee”) and Lauryn, will return for a fifth season premiering in January 2015.

Here Comes Honey Boo Boo reality show on TLC features the family of child beauty pageant contestant Alana “Honey Boo Boo” Thompson, now 9.

The show is primarily filmed in and around their rural hometown of McIntyre, Georgia.

Honey Boo Boo and her family will return for a fifth season premiering on TLC in January 2015
Honey Boo Boo and her family will return for a fifth season premiering on TLC in January 2015 (photo TLC)

Here Comes Honey Boo Boo averaged 1.8 million viewers in Season 4, which ended on August 14 — down from 2.5 million viewers the season before (January through March 2014), according to Nielsen.

The show’s inaugural season, which aired from August 2012 through February 2013, averaged nearly 3 million viewers.

Here Comes Honey Boo Boo was originally spun off from Toddlers & Tiaras, on which Alana Thompson appeared.

Libyan military jet crashes near parliament building in Tobruk

Nancy Clayson
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Libyan military jet crashes near parliament building in Tobruk

A military jet has crashed near the Libyan parliamentary building in the eastern city of Tobruk, causing a huge inferno and killing a child and at least two other people, officials say.

The MiG-21 fighter jet hit a block of flats near the new parliamentary building after developing a “technical fault”, a security official said.

The aircraft was controlled by forces loyal to ex-General Khalifa Haftar who have been battling Islamist militias.

The Islamist-linked Libya Dawn group seized the capital, Tripoli, last week.

The MiG-21 fighter jet hit a block of flats near the new parliamentary building in Tobruk after developing a technical fault
The MiG-21 fighter jet hit a block of flats near the new parliamentary building in Tobruk after developing a technical fault

Parliament had earlier relocated to Tobruk, more than 620 miles away, because of the deteriorating security situation in Tripoli.

Witnesses said the jet was flying at a low altitude and smoke was billowing out of its engine before it crashed into an apartment block and burst into flames, the AFP news agency reports.

The plane came down on September 2 around 0.6 miles from the seat of parliament, killing at least two residents and a co-pilot, Reuters news agency reports.

The dead included a child, but the co-pilot survived, an unnamed security official is quoted by AFP as saying.

Libya has been hit by instability since an array of militia groups, backed by NATO air strikes, overthrew long-serving ruler Col. Muammar Gaddafi in 2011.

The militia groups, many of whom are allied to rival politicians, have been fighting for power among themselves.

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France cancels Mistral warships delivery to Russia over Ukraine crisis

Diane A. Wade
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France cancels Mistral warships delivery to Russia over Ukraine crisis

France has decided to stop the delivery of the first of two Mistral navy assault ships to Russia over Ukraine crisis.

President Francois Hollande’s office blamed Moscow’s recent actions in Ukraine.

France had until now resisted pressure to halt the delivery.

It has said conditions are “not right” for delivery as it needed to respect an existing contract, to which EU sanctions could not apply retroactively, and that it would have been too costly to cancel.

The Vladivostok, the first of the two helicopter carriers, was expected to have been delivered to Russia by late October.

The second, the Sevastopol, was to have been sent next year, although no mention of it was made in Francois Hollande’s statement.

France has decided to stop the delivery of the first of two Mistral navy assault ships to Russia over Ukraine crisis
France has decided to stop the delivery of the first of two Mistral navy assault ships to Russia over Ukraine crisis (photo Wikipedia)

Francois Hollande’s office said today’s remarks by the Russian and Ukrainian presidents about a possible cease-fire were not enough to allow France to give it the go-ahead.

“The president of the republic has concluded that despite the prospect of ceasefire, which has yet to be confirmed and put in place, the conditions under which France could authorize the delivery of the first helicopter carrier are not in place,” it said in a statement.

Earlier on Wednesday, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said he had agreed a “cease-fire process” with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.

Vladimir Putin said he hoped a peace deal could be reached by Friday, when representatives of Russia, Ukraine and the rebels meet in Minsk for talks

The pro-Russian rebels have said they support Vladimir Putin’s proposals, but that they do not trust Petro Poroshenko to maintain a ceasefire.

It is not clear whether any truce is being observed on the ground.

Meanwhile, in Estonia, President Barack Obama sought to reassure the Baltic states that they would be protected by NATO, and said that Washington would stand by Ukraine.

Valerie Trierweiler swallowed sleeping pills after confronting Francois Hollande over Julie Gayet affair

Lisa.Felice
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Valerie Trierweiler swallowed sleeping pills after confronting Francois Hollande over Julie Gayet affair

Valerie Trierweiler has revealed in her newly released tell-all book that she swallowed sleeping pills after confronting President Francois Hollande over his affair with actress Julie Gayet.

France’s former first lady’s account of their break-up has been revealed in excerpts of a book published by Paris Match magazine.

Photos of Francois Hollande’s liaison with Julie Gayet appeared in January 2014.

Valerie Trierweiler, 49, describes how she snapped after hearing about the affair and wanted to escape.

Francois Hollande’s break-up with Valerie Trierweiler captivated France for weeks at the start of 2014 and such was the secrecy surrounding her book that it was printed in Germany.

Until now Valerie Trierweiler has said little about how their relationship ended and the contents of her book, Thank You For This Moment.

Even President Francois Hollande only found out about it on September 2.

Valerie Trierweiler has revealed she swallowed sleeping pills after confronting Francois Hollande over his affair with Julie Gayet
Valerie Trierweiler has revealed she swallowed sleeping pills after confronting Francois Hollande over his affair with Julie Gayet (photo AFP)

“The Julie Gayet story is the top headline on the morning bulletins,” Valerie Trierweiler’s account in Paris Match begins.

“I crack up. I can’t listen to that. I rush into the bathroom. I grab the little plastic bag which has sleeping pills in. Francois has followed me, he tries to snatch the bag. I run into the bedroom.

“He snatches the bag which tears. Some pills spill on the ground. I reach out to pick some up, I swallow what I can. I want to sleep, I don’t want to live through the coming hours. I want to escape, I lose consciousness.”

After pictures were published by Closer magazine of Francois Hollande arriving at a flat for meetings with Julie Gayet, Valerie Trierweiler was admitted to hospital in Paris where she spent a week.

At the time, French media quoted a friend of Valerie Trierweiler saying that she had taken “one pill too many” but denying she had tried to commit suicide.

Valerie Trierweiler then continued her recuperation at the presidential residence at Versailles before the couple formally separated.

Julie Gayet, 42, successfully sued Closer magazine in March for breaching her privacy.

Before beginning a relationship with Valerie Trierweiler, Francois Hollande had four children with Segolene Royal, a former Socialist presidential candidate who joined the French government this year and is now environment minister.

In one extract in Paris Match – the magazine that journalist Valerie Trierweiler worked for before and during her time as first lady – she describes how Francois Hollande initially admitted only that the affair had gone on for more than a month. Eventually, Valerie Trierweiler discovered it had lasted an entire year.

Valerie Trierweiler also takes a swipe at Francois Hollande’s Socialist credentials, claiming that while he has created an image of disliking the rich, “in reality the president doesn’t like the poor”.

“He, the man of the left, talks about <<the toothless ones>> in private, very proud of his humorous streak.”

The hashtag “SansDents” fast became a top-trending French-language topic on Twitter on September 3 just behind “Trierweiler”.

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Theodore Wafer sentenced to 17 years in prison for killing Renisha McBride

Nancy Clayson
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Theodore Wafer sentenced to 17 years in prison for killing Renisha McBride

Theodore Wafer, who killed an unarmed black woman who banged on his door at night, has been sentenced to 17 years in prison.

Theodore Wafer, 55, was convicted of the second-degree murder of Renisha McBride, 19, who was drunk when she crashed her car near his home in suburban Detroit.

Before sentencing, Theodore Wafer apologized to Renisha McBride’s family and said: “I will carry that guilt and sorrow forever.”

The case raised the issue of the use of guns in self-defense in the US.

Theodore Wafer was convicted of the second-degree murder of Renisha McBride
Theodore Wafer was convicted of the second-degree murder of Renisha McBride

The nine-day trial had looked at whether Theodore Wafer had a reasonable belief that his safety was under threat when he was woken in the night by a pounding on his door.

He told the court he had shot Renisha McBride because he feared his life was in danger.

However, a jury rejected Theodore Wafer’s claim of self-defense and he was convicted last month of murder, manslaughter and a gun-related charge.

Renisha McBride knocked on Theodore Wafer’s door at about 4:30 AM, having crashed her car into a parked car about half a mile away three hours earlier. A post-mortem examination found that she was extremely drunk.

There was some speculation after the tragedy whether race might be a factor, with some likening it to the shooting of unarmed Florida teenager Trayvon Martin, but race did not figure in the trial.

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Big Brother Africa 2014 delayed by house blaze

Sonia Pantiss
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Big Brother Africa 2014 delayed by house blaze

The launch of this year’s Big Brother Africa reality show has been delayed by a “devastating” blaze at its purpose-built studios in Johannesburg, South Africa.

The show, due to start on September 7, has been put off while producers “urgently” seek alternative facilities.

No-one was hurt in the fire and its cause will remain unknown until an investigation gets underway.

Contestants from 14 African countries were due to take part in the ninth series of the reality show.

It was due to run for 91 days before crowning a winner to succeed last year’s winner, Dilish Matthews from Namibia.

This year’s victor stands to win $300,000, the same as the prize pot in 2013.

Big Brother Africa new season has been delayed by a devastating blaze at its purpose-built studios in Johannesburg
Big Brother Africa new season has been delayed by a devastating blaze at its purpose-built studios in Johannesburg

Big Brother makers Endemol South Africa and M-Net said efforts to find another complex in which to film the show would be difficult at such short notice due to its “highly technical infrastructure” which is not “immediately available”.

“Every effort will be made to find a solution as quickly as possible to ensure that Africa’s biggest reality show will continue,” they added.

Channel 24 said that production had already hit complications as contestants from Ghana faced visa entry problems and were being replaced with Ghanaians already resident in South Africa.

The participation of Rwanda – for the first time – and Sierra Leone also had to be scrapped, it reported.

The new edition of the show was due to be shown across Africa via satellite television.

Big Brother has been a popular draw since it started in 2003, and has produced winners from Tanzania, Angola, Nigeria, Namibia, Zimbabwe and South Africa.

The first winner, Cherise Makubale, came from Zambia.

In 2010, Big Brother hit the headlines around the world after a male contestant was removed from the compound for punching a female housemate.

South African producers had initially allowed Hannington Kuteesa to remain on the show, prompting protests.

Piers Morgan leaves CNN after four years

Lisa.Felice
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Piers Morgan leaves CNN after four years

Piers Morgan has quit CNN after four years, despite being offered a chance to extend his tenure there.

Piers Morgan, 49, said on Twitter that he has decided to “try pastures new” after the station’s boss asked him to remain for another two years.

The deal would have seen him host a series of 40 interview specials.

Piers Morgan took over from veteran talk show host Larry King, but his show was axed in March due to falling ratings.

The primetime program launched in January 2011 to audiences of around two million, but they dwindled to some 270,000.

Piers Morgan has quit CNN after four years, despite being offered a chance to extend his tenure there
Piers Morgan has quit CNN after four years, despite being offered a chance to extend his tenure there

He said: “I had a fantastic time in my four years at CNN and have huge respect for Jeff [Zuckerberg, CNN boss] and all the people who work there.”

In December 2012, thousands of Americans lobbied for his deportation from the country after he advocated gun controls in the wake of the Connecticut school shootings.

Piers Morgan continued to be an ardent opponent of the gun lobby while on air and said as he left CNN: “I haven’t finished with you lot yet.”

Shortly after Piers Morgan made his debut on CNN, his predecessor Larry King said that he had been “oversold” to US TV audiences.

“He’s certainly not bad. He’s certainly an acceptable host. He asks good questions, maybe he interrupts a little too much at times. I think he may have been oversold,” said the veteran broadcaster.

He has yet to give any indication of his next career move, also writing on his Twitter feed: “Ironically, my transfer window just opened.”

Piers Morgan also confirmed his contract had come to an end on September 2 but added: “@piersmorgan left @CNN a long time ago.”

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Study: All diets have similar results

Kathryn R. Bown
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Study: All diets have similar results

According to a new research, all diets – from Atkins to Weight Watchers – have similar results and people should simply pick the one they find easiest.

The study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, analyzed data from 48 separate trials.

The Canadian team concluded that sticking to a diet was more important than the diet itself.

Obesity experts said all diets cut calories to a similar level, which may explain the results.

Diets go in and out of fashion on a regular basis, with a current debate around the relative benefits of low carb and low fat diets.

Scientists at McMaster University in Ontario and the Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute in Toronto analyzed data from 7,286 overweight dieters.

The range of diets covered included, Atkins, South Beach, Zone, Biggest Loser, Jenny Craig, Nutrisystem, Volumetrics, Weight Watchers, Ornish and Rosemary Conley.

All diets have similar results and people should simply pick the one they find easiest
All diets have similar results and people should simply pick the one they find easiest

It showed that after 12 months, people on low carbohydrate and low fat diets both lost an average of 16lb. Those on low carb meal plans had lost slightly more at the six-month marker.

The report said: “The differences [between diets] were small and unlikely to be important to those seeking weight loss.”

It concluded: “Our findings should be reassuring to clinicians and the public that there is no need for a one-size-fits-­all approach to dieting because many different diets appear to offer considerable weight loss benefits.

“Our findings suggest that patients may choose, among those associated with the largest weight loss, the diet that gives them the least challenges with adherence.”

However, the study did not look at wider health issues, such as levels of cholesterol, which may vary according to diet.

Prof. Susan Jebb, from the University of Oxford and a government advisor on obesity, said diets were more similar than they appeared, advocating cutting calories to 1,500 a day, sticking to strict meal times and avoiding biscuits, cakes and chocolate.

“The issue is about adherence and it’s how closely and how long can you keep sticking to the plan over time that matters.

“That probably means finding the right diet for you, rather than one being so particularly better than the others.”

Prof. Susan Jebb said people should try to match diets to their lives.

Vegetarians would struggle more with a high protein, low carb diet, while people living on their own may find liquid (instead of meals) diets easier than those who would still have to cook for a family.

Petro Poroshenko and Vladimir Putin agree on cease-fire process in Ukraine

Diane A. Wade
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Petro Poroshenko and Vladimir Putin agree on cease-fire process in Ukraine

Ukraine announces that President Petro Poroshenko has agreed with Russian President Vladimir Putin by phone on a “cease-fire process” for the east.

His office initially reported that a “permanent cease-fire” had been agreed but later revised its statement.

The Kremlin stressed Vladimir Putin had not agreed to a cease-fire as Russia was not party to the conflict.

President Barack Obama has expressed solidarity with Baltic member-states of NATO on a visit to Estonia.

Barack Obama is in the Estonian capital Tallinn with President Toomas Hendrik Ilves of Estonia and the leaders of Latvia and Lithuania, all former Soviet states which joined NATO a decade ago.

A NATO summit opening in Wales on September 4 is expected to back plans for a rapid response force.

Meanwhile, the rebels in Ukraine’s eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk have said that there can be no cease fire until the government withdraws its forces.

The earlier version of the statement on the Ukrainian presidential website read: “Their conversation resulted in agreement on a permanent cease-fire in the Donbass region [the regions of Donetsk and Luhansk].”

Petro Poroshenko has agreed with Vladimir Putin by phone on a cease-fire process for eastern Ukraine
Petro Poroshenko has agreed with Vladimir Putin by phone on a cease-fire process for eastern Ukraine

However, this has now been changed to: “Their conversation resulted in agreement on a process for ceasing fire in the Donbass region.”

The statement adds that Petro Poroshenko and Vladimir Putin “reached a mutual understanding on steps leading to peace”.

In its statement, the Kremlin said a phone conversation had taken place on September 3 between the two presidents in which their points of view had “coincided significantly” on possible ways to end the crisis.

President Vladimir Putin’s spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, clarified for Russian news agency RIA Novosti: “Putin and Poroshenko did not agree a cease-fire in Ukraine because Russia is not party to the conflict, they only discussed how to settle the conflict.”

A rebel spokesman told the same agency the rebels did not believe Petro Poroshenko was in complete control over Ukrainian forces in the east.

A spokeswoman for EU Foreign Policy chief Catherine Ashton said that work on new sanctions against Russia was continuing because the cease-fire had not been confirmed.

More than 2,600 civilians and combatants have been killed and more than a million people have fled their homes since fighting erupted in eastern Ukraine in April, when pro-Russian separatists there declared independence.

Russia has denied accusations by the West and the Ukrainian government that it is sending troops and military equipment over the border to support the separatists, who recently gained the upper hand against government forces.

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