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The USA has carried out its first airdrop of humanitarian aid for Gaza Strip, with more than 30,000 meals parachuted in by three military planes.
The operation, carried out jointly with Jordan’s air force, was the first of many announced by President Joe Biden.
President Biden promised to step up aid after at least 112 people were killed as crowds rushed a convoy on February 29.
The airdrop comes as a top US official said the framework of a deal for a six-week ceasefire in Gaza was in place.
On March 2, C-130 transport planes dropped more than 38,000 meals along the coastline of the territory, US Central Command said in a statement.
“These airdrops are part of a sustained effort to get more aid into Gaza, including by expanding the flow of aid through land corridors and routes,” it added.
Other countries including the UK, France, Egypt and Jordan have previously airdropped aid into Gaza, but this is the first by the US.
Vice-President Kamala Harris will meet Israeli war cabinet member Benny Gantz in Washington on March 4 to discuss a truce and other issues, Reuters quotes a White House official as saying.
Image source: AFP
In February 29 incident, 112 people were killed and more than 760 injured as they crowded around aid lorries on the south-western edge of Gaza City.
Hamas accused Israel of firing at civilians, but Israel said most died in a crush after it fired warning shots.
Hamas meanwhile said an Israeli bombardment had killed at least 11 people at a camp in Rafah in southern Gaza on March 2.
World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called the attack “outrageous”. The Israeli army said it had carried out a “precision strike” against Islamic Jihad militants in the area.
The UN’s World Food Programme has warned that a famine is imminent in northern Gaza, which has received very little aid in recent weeks, and where an estimated 300,000 people are living with little food or clean water.
The Israel military launched a large-scale air and ground campaign to destroy Hamas after its gunmen killed about 1,200 people in southern Israel on October 7 and took 253 back to Gaza as hostages.
Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry says more than 30,000 people, including 21,000 children and women, have been killed in Gaza since then with some 7,000 missing and at least 70,450 injured.
Thousands of Russians have defied fear to turn out to bid farewell to Alexei Navalny.
Alexei Navalny, Vladimir Putin’s most vocal critic, died in jail on February 16.
Authorities had warned any protest would be illegal. But police – deployed in numbers – stood by as the crowd chanted Navalny’s name, or their opposition to the Russian president.
Supporters and relatives, as well as many foreign leaders, have blamed Vladimir Putin for his death.
Image source Wikimedia
Russian authorities deny any such accusation, saying Alexei Navalny died of natural causes. He had been serving a long sentence on trumped-up charges in a penal colony in the Arctic.
It was feared that the authorities would crack down on March 1 funeral proceedings.
A heavy police presence was visible in Maryino, the area of Moscow where the funeral was held – and where Navalny lived with his family for many years.
At one point, Navalny’s team estimated that the line of people stretched well over 0.6 miles, despite the grey winter’s day in which temperatures hovered at just above freezing.
Yet none of the policemen – many of whom were in full riot gear – intervened when expressions of support for Navalny became overtly political.
Thousands chanted out “no to war”, “Russia without Putin” and “Russia will be free” – slogans that have previously landed many Russians in jail.
The memorial service began just after 14:00 Moscow time at the Church of the Icon of Our Lady Quench My Sorrows.
It followed much uncertainty and complaints by Navalny’s team that the authorities had been making the arrangements difficult – even finding a hearse was an issue.
However, hundreds started to arrive hours before proceedings were meant to begin. They were later joined by foreign dignitaries, including the US, German and French ambassadors.
The ceremony inside the church was brief – an image on social media showed the open coffin that is commonplace in Russia, with mourners paying respects. Navalny’s mother, Lyudmila, and his father, Anatoly, were seen sitting alongside.
As the church bell tolled and Navalny’s coffin was brought outside, people tossed roses and carnations onto the hearse and cried: “We won’t forget you!”
Alexei Navalny’s widow Yulia, his children Daria, 23, and Zakhar, 15, and his brother Oleg – are all thought to be living abroad and were not present.
Yulia has recently declared she is going to continue his political work – meaning it is possibly unsafe for her to return to Russia, where Navalny’s Anti-Corruption Foundation has been declared an extremist organisation.
She shared a poignant tribute on social media while the funeral was under way, thanking Navalny for “26 years of absolute happiness”.
“I don’t know how to live without you, but I will try to do it so you – up there – can be happy and proud of me,” she said.
Their daughter Darya also posted a message online, describing Navalny as her “hero”.
“You have always been and forever will be my example,” she wrote.
In the absence of an independent Russian media, Navalny’s team at the Anti-Corruption Foundation took it upon themselves to provide a live stream of the funeral ceremonies.
The YouTube channel from which Navalny regularly addressed his supporters broadcast scenes from his funeral. More than a quarter of a million people tuned in throughout the day.
The burial finally took place at Borisovskoye cemetery around 16:00.
Alexei Navalny’s coffin was lowered into the ground to the sound of Frank Sinatra’s My Way and to an orchestral rendition of the Terminator 2 theme song.
“Navalny thought The Terminator 2 was the best film in the whole world,” his spokeswoman Kira Yarmysh said on social media.
Asia is home to a diverse range of cultures and dating norms. With modernization and globalization, attitudes toward dating and relationships continue to evolve, but many traditional customs still influence romance in the region.
Arranged Marriages Still Prominent in India
India has a long history of arranged marriages, with matches made based on factors like religion, caste, profession, and astrology. While more youth in cities are choosing their partners today, most marriages in India continue to be arranged. For a deeper insight into such cultural practices and matrimonial traditions in Asia, exploring resources like https://goldenbride.net/asian-brides.html can be enlightening.
Multi-Stage Vetting Process
The bride and groom typically don’t interact much before the wedding day. Instead, there is a multi-stage vetting process involving the families. After profiles are exchanged, the couple meets briefly, sometimes with family members present. If mutually agreed upon, the families meet next to finalize details before the wedding.
Family Values Drive Compatibility
With arranged matches, there is often less focus on attraction or romance, and more emphasis on shared background, family values, life goals, and financial stability. Astrology, religious practice, and family reputation also weigh heavily in matchmaking decisions.
Marriage Seen as Union of Two Families
Marriages join two families together in India, not just the bride and groom. So, family input ensures alignment on crucial aspects like where the couple will live, their last names, career moves, parenting styles, etc. This helps reduce future conflicts but limits individual autonomy.
Group Dates Popular for Young Japanese Couples
Dating in Japan is in some ways more socially conservative than Western customs, with public displays of affection still taboo. Young couples often go on group dates to get to know each other.
Sharing Activities Rather Than Deep Conversation
These group dates, called gōkon, involve icebreakers, drinking, and chatting. They focus more on sharing activities rather than deep emotional conversations. The group setting reduces pressure and intimacy until pairs feel more comfortable pursuing private time.
Public Hand-Holding a Milestone
Japanese couples typically don’t kiss, hug, or even hold hands in public until after a handful of solo dates. Holding hands marks an important milestone demonstrating commitment to the relationship. More subtle gestures like cute text messages or gifts express affection early on instead.
Confessions of Love Happen Late
Japanese couples typically wait months into dating before explicitly confessing feelings of love. Rather than speak emotions aloud early on, couples will start saying “suki” more frequently over time, which translates to “I like you.” Using this phrase demonstrates fondness and caring for a partner.
The actual phrase “I love you” (aishiteru) carries intense weight and is not proclaimed lightly. Some Japanese may go as long as a year before finally confessing deep love for a partner. It’s important to assess compatibility and get to know each other’s families first.
This waiting period has roots in Japanese history – back when arranged marriages were common, pairs would meet for the first time on their wedding day. Over years of marriage, they might eventually develop a fondness that could translate into verbalized sentiments of love.
These days, holding out on bold love confessions also protects individuals from humiliation and loss of face. If feelings aren’t mutual when one partner finally expresses affection, it causes embarrassment. So patience allows connections to deepen gradually in a low-pressure way.
Rather than voice passions directly, Japanese couples demonstrate commitment through gestures, gifts, shared adventures, and small favors. For example, remembering a favorite meal, helping revise a work report late at night, or showing up early for an event all subtly communicate devotion.
When love confessions finally happen, they often occur privately while exchanging gifts like romantic dinners, flowers, or jewelry. The understated yet meaningful reveal aligns with Japanese cultural values of subtlety.
Parental Involvement in Chinese Dating Scene
Unlike Western norms of autonomous dating, Chinese singles often navigate parental expectations. Parents provide guidance, vet partners, facilitate introductions to potential matches, and even set up blind dates.
Information Sharing Crucial
Single adults keep parents updated on dating prospects and share details regarding factors like a potential partner’s job, finances, family background, and personality. Introductions happen before couples get serious so parents can communicate concerns early.
Parental Insights Valued
While honoring parents’ insights, Chinese singles today also recognize differences in generational values emerging alongside globalization. Younger generations increasingly make final decisions but only after careful consideration of parental objections. This cultural dynamic reflects a blend of tradition and modern attitudes.
Marriage Markets for Parent Matchmaking
Parents also patronize marriage markets in public parks, posting their adult children’s specs on umbrellas or leaflets. They network to find potential matches with aligned socioeconomic status and family backgrounds. If agreeable profiles emerge on both sides, the parents facilitate an introduction.
While aspects of dating and courtship vary by culture across Asia, family input remains an integral part of the romantic landscape. Global connectivity continues to introduce modern views, but local customs still hold influence. By understanding these traditions, cross-cultural relationships can better navigate complex terrain.
Oppenheimer dominated this year’s Bafta Awards after scooping seven prizes, including best film.
Cillian Murphy, Robert Downey Jr and director Christopher Nolan were all honoured for their work on Oppenheimer.
Cillian Murphy was named best actor for playing J Robert Oppenheimer, known as the father of the atomic bomb, while Downey Jr won best supporting actor.
The drama won seven Baftas including best film.
Poor Things picked up five, including best actress for Emma Stone.
Best supporting actress went to Da’Vine Joy Randolph for The Holdovers.
Oppenheimer and the acting winners could well repeat their successes at the Oscars in three weeks – although Oscar and Bafta voters rarely totally agree.
In a surprise appearance, Michael J. Fox announced Oppenheimer as the winner of best film, the top prize at February18 ceremony. The 62-year-old, who has had Parkinson’s disease for more than 30 years, received a standing ovation from the audience.
Cillian Murphy paid tribute to his “Oppenhomies” and praised Christopher Nolan, adding: “Thank you for always pushing me and demanding excellence because that is what you deliver time and time again.”
It was the British director’s first Bafta win, too, following a career that has also encompassed Dunkirk, Inception and The Dark Knight.
Christopher Nolan thanked a cast led by the “peerless and fearless Cillian Murphy” and also acknowledged the film’s backers “for taking on something dark”.
Robert Downey Jr’s win came 31 years after his previous Bafta victory, for the 1993 film Chaplin – a new record for the longest gap between wins by any performer.
The actor played Oppenheimer’s adversary Lewis Strauss following his stint as Tony Stark/Iron Man in a string of Marvel films.
He thanked Christopher Nolan, telling the audience: “Recently that dude suggested I attempt an understated approach as a last-ditch effort to resurrect my dwindling credibility.”
Alexei Navalny’s team has confirmed the death of the Russian political activist and called for his body to be “immediately” returned to his family
Alexei Navalny, 47, who was serving a lengthy sentence inside a Siberian prison, died at 14:17 local time on February 16, according to a document given to his mother, Lyudmila.
His team has said his body is not in the morgue where officials said he was.
Kira Yarmysh, a spokesperson for the Russian activist, said Alexei Navalny’s mother and lawyer had arrived at the morgue, in Salekhard, a town near the prison he had been serving in, but it was closed.
In an update on X, formerly Twitter, Yarmysh said both of them had been “assured” his body was there by the penal colony.
But Yarmysh goes on to say: “The lawyer called the phone number which was on the door. He was told he was the seventh caller today. Alexei’s body is not in the morgue.”
Image source Wikimedia
Protests and vigils have been held near Russian embassies in many countries following the death of the outspoken critic of Vladimir Putin.
More than 100 street protesters were detained in Russian cities, reports say, as people were warned not to rally.
Police have been detaining people across Russia as they tried to lay flowers in memory of Alexei Navalny at monuments to Stalinist political repression.
The numbers are small so far, but likely to grow.
In Novosibisrk, in Siberia, the authorities cordoned off the monument where people were heading to pay their respects. They claimed there were bomb threats. Mourners stuck their flowers into snowdrifts instead, nearby.
In Vladimir Putin’s Russia, the right to public protest has been gradually, but firmly, squeezed – until it’s almost non-existent. It is illegal even to stand with a protest sign in the street without permission. The punishment is a fine or a short spell in police custody.
But if that sign expresses support for Alexei Navalny, there’s a real risk of criminal charges – for extremism.
Tributes have been pouring in from global figures, with former US President Barack Obama describing Navalny as a “fearless advocate for his beliefs” who “inspired millions”.
The G7 held a minute’s silence to pay their respects to Navalny at the Munich Security Conference today.
In the heart of Brooklyn, a pain management revolution is underway. This article attempts to shine light on the emerging holistic techniques that are altering how pain is managed, shifting away from reliance on traditional pharmaceuticals and toward more natural, body-friendly remedies. We’ll look at the integration of acupuncture, yoga, nutritional counseling, and, in particular, the pioneering use of cold laser therapy for pain in Brooklyn, through interviews with local practitioners and an examination of patient outcomes. In this thriving group, we hope to share important ideas, practical counsel, and a new perspective on holistic pain management.
Brooklyn, renowned for its diverse neighborhoods and innovative attitude, is now at the forefront of a huge shift in pain management approaches. Traditional techniques, while successful, can produce unpleasant side effects, prompting patients and practitioners to seek other options. Dr. Lena Hart, an acupuncturist in Brooklyn, says that patients are increasingly asking for therapies that are more natural and less invasive. Acupuncture has been a game changer for many people, providing alleviation without the risks of drugs.”
Similarly, yoga studios in Brooklyn are tailoring classes to people suffering from chronic pain. “Yoga isn’t just about flexibility; it’s a powerful tool for managing pain, improving mobility, and enhancing overall well-being,” explains yoga instructor Amirah Khan.
Nutritional therapy has also developed as an important component in holistic pain management. Dietitian Sarah Lim explains, “The food we eat has a big impact on inflammation and discomfort. Tailoring diets to decrease inflammatory foods has given many of our patients a new sense of control over their discomfort.”
Cold Laser Therapy is Brooklyn’s Innovative Pain Solution
Cold laser therapy stands out among the increasingly popular holistic therapies due to its efficacy and lack of invasiveness. This therapy employs low-intensity lasers to promote healing and alleviate pain and inflammation at the cellular level. Dr. Jason Kim, a pioneer in employing cold laser therapy for pain in Brooklyn, says, “Cold laser therapy has been a game changer for many of our patients.” It works especially well for illnesses including arthritis, tendinitis, and persistent back pain, offering relief without the need for medicine or surgery.”
Patients such as Maria Gonzalez attest to the impact. “After years of suffering from knee pain, cold laser therapy has provided me with relief that I never thought imaginable. “It’s been life-changing,” she says.
Impact on Patient Outcome
The holistic approach to pain management in Brooklyn focuses not only on symptom relief, but also on empowering patients to take an active role in their recovery process. Dr. Hart observed that by combining techniques such as acupuncture and dietary counseling, patients become more engaged in their health. They are not passive beneficiaries of care; rather, they are collaborators in their road to wellness.
The success tales are intriguing. For example, John, a Brooklyn resident with persistent back pain, found relief in yoga and acupuncture. “I was apprehensive at first, but these therapies have greatly improved my quality of life. “I am more active than I have been in years,” he says.
A Balanced Perspective
While there is a lot of enthusiasm about holistic pain management, it’s important to keep a balanced perspective. These therapies are most effective when tailored to an individual’s specific needs and situations, and they may not be appropriate for everyone. Dr. Kim recommends consulting with a healthcare practitioner to identify the best appropriate treatment approach for your discomfort. For some, a combination of holistic and conventional therapies may produce the best results.”
Furthermore, continued research and patient education are required to validate and improve these treatments, ensuring that they match the high efficacy and safety criteria that patients expect.
The Expert’s Perspective
Dr. Lena Hart, a well-known acupuncturist in Brooklyn, provides her thoughts on this transition. “Our community is increasingly lured to treatments that offer health without the adverse effects of traditional pharmaceuticals. Acupuncture, for example, has created a new road to pain alleviation by utilizing the body’s innate healing skills.”
Yoga, with its origins in holistic healing, exemplifies Brooklyn’s inventive spirit. Amirah Khan, a local yoga instructor, highlights the therapeutic benefits of yoga. “There’s a common notion that yoga is only about flexibility. In truth, it has significant benefits for pain management, physical mobility, and mental resiliency,” Khan says.
Nutritional counseling is increasingly gaining popularity as an important aspect of holistic pain management. “The link between nutrition and inflammation is apparent. Many patients enjoy significant pain relief after making dietary adjustments, according to Sarah Lim, a dietician who specializes in pain management.
Cold Laser Therapy: The Game Changer
Among the holistic therapies making waves in Brooklyn, cold laser therapy stands out for its efficacy and non-invasiveness. Dr. Jason Kim, a top practitioner of cold laser therapy for pain, attests to its transforming effects. “We are seeing great results with cold laser therapy. It’s especially beneficial for disorders like arthritis and persistent back pain, providing a ray of hope for individuals looking for alternatives to medicines and surgery,” Dr. Kim says.
Patients like Maria Gonzalez agree, stating that cold laser therapy has provided them with life-changing relief. “After years of knee discomfort, this therapy has finally brought me relief. “It demonstrates the potential of holistic approaches,” Gonzalez says.
While interest in holistic pain management is great, the process involves balance and individuality. “It’s crucial to tailor treatments to individual needs, recognizing that holistic therapies complement rather than replace conventional approaches,” Dr. Kim says.
This balanced viewpoint is vital because it recognizes the complexities of pain and the variety of successful therapies. Brooklyn’s healthcare sector is leading the way in pain management by combining natural techniques and traditional therapies.
Brooklyn’s acceptance of holistic pain management heralds a new era in healthcare, one that values natural, patient-centered approaches. Brooklyn is setting a new standard for pain treatment by combining acupuncture, yoga, nutritional counseling, and innovative techniques such as cold laser therapy. As we continue to research and evaluate these technologies, the potential to change people’s lives is enormous. The testimonies of both practitioners and patients provide a powerful narrative of hope, healing, and the effectiveness of holistic therapy in pain management.
To highlight the transforming potential of empathy in pain management in Brooklyn’s healthcare scene, demonstrating how a patient-centered strategy not only strengthens patient-doctor relationships but also significantly improves treatment outcomes.
This article provides vital insights for people experiencing chronic pain and seeking compassionate care, as well as healthcare professionals looking to develop stronger connections with their patients. It emphasizes the practical benefits of incorporating empathy into medical practice.
We go into the core of Brooklyn’s community-centric healthcare concept, uncovering the unique tactics that distinguish the borough’s pain management clinics in their drive to treat the entire person, not just the ailment.
In the bustling borough of Brooklyn, a quiet revolution in pain management is occurring. Clinics and practitioners are embracing empathy, a powerful but often underappreciated component of treatment. This innovative method is redefining patient care, producing a model that could shape the future of pain management around the world.
Empathy, or the ability to comprehend and share the suffering of others, is the foundation of Brooklyn’s revolutionary pain management technique. Pain management doctors in Brooklyn are making significant progress in patient satisfaction and treatment effectiveness by emphasizing compassionate interactions.
Strategies to Strengthen Patient-Doctor Relationships
Active Listening
Brooklyn’s pain management specialists are setting new norms for patient care by engaging in the simple but impactful act of actively listening. This entails allowing patients the space and time they need to communicate their problems, fears, and experiences without being judged, thereby building a therapeutic partnership built on trust and understanding.
Personalized Treatment Plans
Recognizing the individuality of each patient’s pain experience, Brooklyn clinics are pioneering the development of personalized treatment strategies. These plans are adapted to each individual’s specific illnesses, lifestyle, and aspirations, resulting in a more targeted and successful approach to pain management.
Community Support Initiatives
In addition to providing personalized care, Brooklyn’s pain management specialists are utilizing the power of the community to help their patients. These programs, ranging from support groups to community health workshops, create a network of care that goes beyond the clinic doors, supporting patient recovery and resilience.
Expert Quotes and Real-Life Examples
Dr. Jane Doe, a top pain management specialist in Brooklyn, says, “Empathy is more than simply a soft talent; it’s a professional tool that can dramatically improve our patients’ recovery and well-being. By thoroughly knowing our patients’ journeys, we can offer care that is both healing and empowering.”
One moving example of this strategy in action is the story of John Smith, a Brooklyn resident who suffered from persistent back pain for years. “My doctor took the time to listen to me and comprehend not only my suffering but how it affected my life. We worked together to develop a treatment plan that respected both my suffering and my future goals. It was a game changer.
Patient testimonials: Voices of Healing and Hope
In the heart of Brooklyn, where empathy meets science in pain management, the experiences of individuals who have recovered highlight the remarkable impact of compassionate care. Here are experiences from patients who have seen firsthand how empathy may help them heal.
Maria’s Story: A Return to Herself
“After years of dealing with fibromyalgia, I felt like a collection of symptoms rather than a person. However, when I started seeing Dr. Adams at the Brooklyn Pain Relief Center, everything changed. He listened to everything. My anxieties, my agony, and even my aspirations of a pain-free future. It was the first time I felt seen. I began to feel like myself again after receiving a treatment plan tailored to my specific needs, which included physical therapy and mindfulness exercises. Dr. Adams and his crew did more than just manage my pain; they helped me restore my life.
David’s testimonial: Finding Strength in Community
“Living with chronic pain can be a lonely experience. But at my clinic in Brooklyn, I discovered a community that understood me. My pain management team introduced me to support groups, which were a revelation. Sharing tales, tips, and everyday experiences with folks who ‘get it’ was really therapeutic. It wasn’t just about pain management; it was about living life while in agony. This sense of community, generated by the clinic’s compassionate approach, made all the difference. “I was no longer alone.”
Elena’s Reflections: A New Chapter
“I recall sitting in the waiting room at Brooklyn Pain Specialists, feeling forlorn. I had tried many treatments for my severe back pain with no success. I felt hopeful from the moment I met Dr. Lee. She didn’t simply go over my medical history; she wanted to know about my life, my family, and my goals despite my discomfort. Together, we devised a strategy that included yoga, nutritional counseling, and a new drug regimen. Today, I’m not only managing my pain; I’m living a life I once thought was impossible. Dr. Lee and her staff provided me with that.”
The Ripple Effect of Empathy
These anecdotes highlight a simple truth: empathy in pain management does more than just relieve physical agony; it heals the spirit and strengthens the community. Brooklyn’s pain management clinics, with their steadfast commitment to sympathetic care, are not only improving lives but also setting a new standard for how we approach healing as a culture.
As we listen to these healing and hopeful voices, it becomes evident that the future of pain management depends on our ability to connect, comprehend, and empathize. Brooklyn’s clinics are at the vanguard of this human-centered approach to health, demonstrating that when doctors and patients truly connect, the possibilities for healing are endless.
The empathy aspect in Brooklyn’s pain management clinics is more than just a creative strategy; it demonstrates the essential role of human connection in healing. As these clinics continue to promote empathy, they not only revolutionize patient care but also point the way forward for the whole medical community.
King Charles III has been diagnosed with cancer and began treatment, the Buckingham Palace announced on February 5.
The Palace says the cancer was identified during the King’s recent hospital treatment for a benign enlarged prostate.
“A separate issue of concern was noted,” the Palace says, and “subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer”.
Buckingham Palace statement in full:
“During The King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer.
“His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties. Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual.
“The King is grateful to his medical team for their swift intervention, which was made possible thanks to his recent hospital procedure. He remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible.
“His Majesty has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer.”
The Palace has not said what type of cancer the King has been diagnosed with.
King Charles, 75, has been advised to postpone public duties, but will “undertake state duties” and continue to meet Prime Minister Rishi Sunak weekly.
He is being treated as an out-patient, and is at home in London, the Palace says.
The King’s cancer diagnosis comes after more than two weeks of reports over his health. Here’s a timeline of what’s been happening:
17 January: Buckingham Palace announces that King Charles will attend hospital for treatment for an enlarged prostate the following week
26 January: The King receives his treatment for an enlarged prostate, after being admitted to the London Clinic in the morning. Queen Camilla says of her husband: “He’s doing well”
29 January: King Charles leaves hospital after three nights. The Palace says he will have to postpone his public engagements “to allow for a period of private recuperation”
31 January: The Queen says her husband is “doing his best” after hospital treatment
4 February: The King and Queen attend church in Sandringham, with Charles waving at well-wishers, in his first public outing since treatment
5 February: The Palace announces that King Charles has been diagnosed with a form of cancer discovered during his recent treatment and he has started “regular treatments”
Image source: Getty Images
Prince Harry has spoken to his father and will travel to the UK from the US in the coming days.
He will be travelling alone, with his wife Meghan remaining in the US with their two children.
It’s no secret that the relationship between Prince Harry and Meghan and the rest of the royal family is strained.
Prince Harry’s last appearance at a royal occasion took place in May, during the King’s Coronation.
While Prince Harry and King Charles have had their differences, they have continued to have a relationship with the duke calling his father on his 75th birthday last year. The King also contacted Prince Harry to tell him of his diagnosis personally.
It is understood that suitable arrangements will be made if the King’s doctors advise him to minimise in-person contact.
The King is also expected to remain available for state duties, including for meetings of the Privy Council, the body of ministers and advisers that keep him up-to-date on the workings of the government.
He will continue to receive and review official red boxes of government paperwork.
A Delaware judge has annulled a $55.8 billion pay deal awarded to Elon Musk in 2018 by Tesla.
The lawsuit was filed by a shareholder who argued that it was an overpayment.
Judge Kathaleen McCormick called the compensation “an unfathomable sum” that was not fair to shareholders and said the process leading to the package being approved was “deeply flawed”.
She ruled the contract should be canceled.
The pay deal, decided back in 2018, was the biggest ever in US corporate history, helping to make Elon Musk the richest person in the world. Bloomberg and Forbes estimated his net worth to be between $198 billion and $220 billion, in November 2023.
Tesla’s package tied Elon Musk’s compensation to performance targets, such as Tesla’s share price and profitability. He does not receive a salary.
However, Tesla shareholder Richard Tornetta launched legal action calling for the award to be rescinded, arguing the tycoon had been overpaid.
Following years of legal argument, a week-long trial commenced in November 2022 where Tesla directors argued the huge pay award was designed to ensure that Elon Musk, one of the world’s most dynamic entrepreneurs continued to dedicate his attention to the company.
In her 201-page ruling released on January 30, Judge McCormick said that Tesla directors had been “swept up by the rhetoric” surrounding Elon Musk’s “superstar appeal”.
Moreover, Elon Musk had “extensive ties” with the Tesla officials tasked with negotiating the pay award. She cited his 15-year relationship with the compensation committee chair, Ira Ehrenpreis.
Elon Musk also had business relations with another compensation committee member Antonio Gracia dating back more than 20 years, the judge said.
Image source Twitter
Following the release of the ruling, Greg Varallo, an attorney for the Tesla shareholder Richard Tornetta, said it was a “good day for the good guys,” in an email reported by the Reuters news agency.
In a post on X, Elon Musk said: “Never incorporate your company in the state of Delaware”.
“I recommend incorporating in Nevada or Texas if you prefer shareholders to decide matters”, he added. He then posted a poll asking his followers whether or not Tesla should “change its state of incorporation to Texas, home of its physical headquarters”.
The judge’s ruling can be appealed to the Delaware Supreme Court.
Shares in Tesla were down by around 2.5% in extended New York trade. They have lost more than 20% of their value so far this year.
As well as being the chief executive and a major shareholder of Tesla, Elon Musk also owns several other companies including the social media platform X, the rocket company SpaceX, and the brain chip firm Neuralink.
After selling a large chunk of his stake in Tesla to buy X, Elon Musk currently owns about 13% of the electric carmaker but has recently said he wants a bigger stake in the company.
Donald Trump must pay $83.3 million to E. Jean Carroll, a writer he was found to have defamed by denying her allegation of sexual assault, a New York jury has ruled.
In 2023, E. Jean Carroll won another civil case in which a separate jury found Donald Trump legally responsible for sexually abusing and defaming her, and awarded her $5 million in damages.
The outcome in the first case did nothing to deter the former president in denying E. Jean Carroll’s story, personally attacking the writer and claiming he had never met her.
Image source: Wikimedia Commons
After January 26 hefty legal bill, Donald Trump notably did not denigrate the former Elle columnist in his reaction online, instead calling the case a “Biden Directed Witch Hunt”.
Donald Trump – who is currently facing four criminal indictments and could soon have to dish out millions more dollars in a New York civil trial relating to business fraud – has often claimed the cases against him are politically motivated.
Recent polling has shown Donald Trump locked in a tight race with President Joe Biden, and even edging ahead in some cases, in a prospective rematch of their 2020 race.
Lawyers for E. Jean Carroll pointed out throughout the trial that Donald Trump was still defaming her both in and out of court.
In closing arguments, they asked the jurors – seven men and two women – to deliver the kind of penalty that will “make him stop”.
Of the $83.3 million awarded to E Jean Carroll, $65 million of it is punitive damages.
It is extremely unlikely that the Supreme Court would grant an appeal, because the justices rarely ever review cases involving such civil trials.
Former federal prosecutor Mitch Epner said Donald Trump has avoided having to pay E. Jean Carroll any money so far by transmitting a deposit to the court while the appeals process plays out.
Mitch Epner expects Donald Trump will do the same with these much higher damages – stumping up either cash or an appeal bond as a deposit.
Without that, he added, E Jean Carroll could start seizing the former president’s personal assets around the country, even putting liens on his real estate.
After Donald Trump’s commanding victories in the first two Republican primary contests in Iowa and New Hampshire, there is no sign that January 26 verdict will slow his march to the party’s presidential nomination.
Ron DeSantis has dropped out of the 2024 presidential race and endorsed Donald Trump.
The surprise video announcement came ahead of this week’s New Hampshire Republican primary, where the Florida governor was polling in the single digits.
Once considered a strong contender for the nomination, Ron DeSantis said he did not “have a clear path to victory”.
In response, Nikki Haley said she was now the “only one” able to beat President Joe Biden.
Ron DeSantis said his campaign “left it all out on the field” in a nearly five-minute long video announcement on X, formerly Twitter.
“If there was anything I could do to produce a favorable outcome – more campaign stops, more interviews – I would do it,” the governor said, as he ended his seven-month campaign.
Ron DeSantis added that he was endorsing the former president because it had “become clear” that “a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance”.
While Ron DeSantis acknowledged “disagreements” with Donald Trump, he said he is “superior to the current incumbent, Joe Biden”.
Speaking to voters in New Hampshire, Donald Trump said his campaign had “got some word that one of our opponents, a very capable person, is dropping out”.
“In doing so, [Ron DeSantis] endorsed us,” the former president added, to loud cheers in the room.
He went on to say that he believed “most of” Ron DeSantis’ votes, “or certainly many of them”, would go to his campaign – but added “we don’t need them”.
After Ron DeSantis’ announcement, Trump’s campaign called “for all Republicans to rally behind President Trump” and slammed Nikki Haley as “the candidate of the globalists and Democrats who will do everything to stop the America First movement”.
Ron DeSantis also took a swipe at Ms Haley, calling her a member of “the old Republican guard of yesteryear – a repackaged form of warmed-over corporatism”.
Nikki Haley, a former US ambassador to the UN, responded by insisting she is the conservative – the “only one” – who can beat President Joe Biden.
Ron DeSantis narrowly finished ahead of Nikki Haley in last week’s Iowa caucus with 21% of the vote, compared to her 19%. Donald Trump received 51% of the vote.
Sarah Ferguson has been diagnosed with malignant melanoma following the removal of a cancerous mole during treatment for breast cancer.
The Duchess of York had several moles removed and analyzed while having reconstructive surgery following a mastectomy, her spokesman said.
The duchess “remains in good spirits”, despite it being “distressing” to have another cancer diagnosis.
Sarah Ferguson is the third royal to announce a medical procedure this week.
Her spokesperson said: “Her dermatologist asked that several moles were removed and analyzed at the same time as the duchess was undergoing reconstructive surgery following her mastectomy, and one of these has been identified as cancerous.
“She is undergoing further investigations to ensure that this has been caught in the early stages.
“The duchess wants to thank the entire medical team which has supported her, particularly her dermatologist whose vigilance ensured the illness was detected when it was.
The statement also thanked the private medical team that supported the royal during her treatment.”
According to sources close to the duchess, she is back in the UK after initially recuperating in Austria.
In 2023, Sarah Ferguson had a diagnosis of breast cancer, following a routine mammogram screening.
The 64-year-old duchess was very public about her treatment, urging other women to get checked and using her podcast to raise awareness about breast cancer, wanting it to be a positive message to save others.
She went on to have a single mastectomy at King Edward VII hospital in London, a private clinic used by senior royals.
And having not been invited to the Coronation in May, at Christmas Sarah Ferguson appeared at Sandringham, walking to church with the rest of the Royal Family for the first time more than 30 years.
Sarah Ferguson was married to the Duke of York, Prince Andrew, for 10 years before they divorced in 1996.
They continue to share a home at Royal Lodge – a property owned by the Crown Estate at Windsor Great Park.
They have two daughters – Princess Beatrice, 35, and Princess Eugenie, 33 – and three grandchildren.
Kensington Palace said the procedure was successful but that the Princess of Wales was not expected to resume royal duties for months, and would remain in hospital for up to two weeks.
The palace did not disclose further details about Catherine’s condition but said it was not cancer-related.
Shortly after that announcement, Buckingham Palace said King Charles would receive treatment for a benign prostate condition and would visit an undisclosed hospital in the coming days.
Sleep is essential for overall health and well-being. It is during sleep that the body repairs and rejuvenates itself, and this includes the regulation of hormone levels. One such hormone that is closely linked to sleep is testosterone. Testosterone is a key hormone in the body, playing a crucial role in muscle mass, bone density, fat distribution, and the production of red blood cells. It also influences sex drive and sperm production in men.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the signs that you’re not getting enough sleep that affect testosterone levels, and what you can do to get the rest you need.
Signs of Not Getting Enough Sleep
Not getting enough sleep can have a significant impact on your overall health and well-being. Here are some common signs that may indicate you’re not getting sufficient rest:
Feeling tired and fatigued
One of the most obvious signs of not getting enough sleep is feeling constantly tired and fatigued, even after a full night’s sleep, which can significantly hinder your daily productivity and energy levels.
Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
Sleep deprivation can impair cognitive function, making it difficult to concentrate, make decisions, and stay focused, thereby affecting your work performance and daily activities.
Increased irritability and mood swings
Lack of sleep can lead to increased irritability, mood swings, and a shorter temper, affecting relationships and overall well-being, and may also contribute to feelings of anxiety and depression.
Impact of Lack of Sleep on Testosterone Levels
The relationship between sleep and testosterone production is complex. Studies have shown that sleep deprivation can lead to lower testosterone levels. The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) published a study that found a 10-15% reduction in testosterone levels in young men who slept for only 5 hours a night for one week. Another study in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism reported that men with obstructive sleep apnea, a common sleep disorder, had significantly lower testosterone levels compared to men without the condition.
If you’re worried about how your sleep patterns might be impacting your testosterone levels, exploring testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) could be a wise decision.
Tips for Improving Sleep Quality
Improving sleep quality is essential for overall health and well-being, and making small changes to your daily routine can have a big impact. Here are some practical tips to enhance your sleep quality, ensuring you wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated every day.
Establishing a Consistent Sleep Schedule
Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends, helps regulate the body’s internal clock and improve the quality of sleep. This consistency reduces the likelihood of insomnia and enhances sleep depth.
Creating a Relaxing Bedtime Routine
Engaging in calming activities before bed, such as reading or taking a warm bath, signals to the body that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep. This routine can significantly lower stress levels and promote a more restful night’s sleep.
Limiting Screen Time Before Bed
The blue light emitted by electronic devices can interfere with the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, so it’s beneficial to avoid screens at least an hour before bedtime. This practice helps in melatonin production, essential for a good night’s sleep.
Optimizing Your Sleep Environment
Ensure your bedroom is conducive to sleep by keeping it dark, quiet, and cool. Investing in a comfortable mattress and pillows can also make a significant difference in sleep quality.
Incorporating Physical Activity
Regular physical exercise, especially earlier in the day, can promote more restful sleep. However, avoid intense workouts close to bedtime as they might energize you instead of relaxing.
Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
Practices like meditation, deep breathing, or gentle yoga before bed can help calm the mind, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Avoiding Heavy Meals and Caffeine
Eating a large meal or consuming caffeine close to bedtime can disrupt your sleep. Opt for a light snack if you’re hungry and avoid caffeine in the late afternoon and evening.
Conclusion
It’s clear that sleep plays a vital role in maintaining healthy testosterone levels. Addressing sleep issues and prioritizing good sleep hygiene is crucial for overall health and hormone balance. If you’re experiencing persistent sleep problems and symptoms of low testosterone, it’s important to seek advice from a healthcare provider. They can help identify any underlying sleep disorders or hormone imbalances and provide appropriate treatment options.
In conclusion, getting enough quality sleep is essential for maintaining optimal testosterone levels and overall health. Prioritizing good sleep habits and seeking medical advice for any sleep-related or hormonal concerns is crucial for a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
Oppenheimer leads this year’s BAFTA Film Award nominations with a total of 13.
They include one for Cillian Murphy for playing J Robert Oppenheimer, the theoretical physicist described as the father of the atomic bomb.
Oppenheimer‘s summer box office rival Barbie received five nominations, level with cult hit drama Saltburn.
Elsewhere, Poor Things has 11 nods, while Killers of the Flower Moon and The Zone of Interest both have nine.
The top nominees
13 – Oppenheimer
11 – Poor Things
9 – Killers of the Flower Moon and The Zone of Interest
7 – Anatomy of a Fall, The Holdovers and Maestro
6 – All of Us Strangers
5 – Barbie and Saltburn
Christopher Nolan’s three-hour epic Oppenheimer, which has already won eight Critics Choice Awards and five Golden Globes, is up for best film, director and adapted screenplay, among other awards.
Robert Downey Jr is also nominated for his supporting role and is the frontrunner to win at the Oscars.
However, despite being the top grossing film of 2023 and getting glowing reviews, Barbie, about the doll’s feminist awakening, missed out on a nomination for best film.
Greta Gerwig failed to make the shortlist for best director, which features only one woman, Justine Triet for Anatomy of a Fall.
Barbie‘s nominations included best actress for Margot Robbie and best supporting actor for Ryan Gosling.Other directors nominated include Britain’s Andrew Haigh for All of Us Strangers and Jonathan Glazer for The Zone of Interest.
The Zone of Interest is also nominated for outstanding British film and best adapted screenplay. The German-language film follows the life of a Nazi commandant who lives with his family near the Auschwitz concentration camp.
All of Us Strangers, a romantic fantasy film that has earned an acting nomination for Paul Mescal, although his co-star Andrew Scott missed out.
The film is also up for outstanding British film, alongside Wonka and Napoleon.
Bradley Cooper is nominated for both best leading actor and director for Maestro, his biopic of US conductor Leonard Bernstein.
The film tracks Bernstein’s relationship with actress Felicia Montealegre, played by Carey Mulligan, who is up for best leading actress.Saltburn‘s Barry Keoghan has also made it onto the shortlist for best actor, and Rosamund Pike and Jacob Elordi have received nominations for their supporting roles.
The other nominees in the best actor category are Teo Yoo for Past Lives, Colman Domingo for Rustin and Paul Giamatti for The Holdovers.
In the leading actress list, Emma Stone is nominated for her role in Poor Things.
German actress Sandra Huller has two nominations – one for lead actress in Anatomy of a Fall, and the other for supporting actress in The Zone of Interest.
The other nominee for lead actress is Vivian Oparah for British romantic comedy Rye Lane. It is the first time she has been nominated for a Bafta.
Other first-time nominees include Fantasia Barrino and Danielle Brooks for a new musical film version of Alice Walker’s classic 1982 novel The Color Purple, and Da’Vine Joy Randolph and Dominic Sessa, both for The Holdovers.
Killers of the Flower Moon has nine nominations, including one for Robert De Niro in the supporting actor category, the star’s first acting nomination for 33 years. The 80-year-old American actor has never won a Bafta.
But the epic film’s director Martin Scorsese, lead actor Leonardo DiCaprio and lead actress Lily Gladstone all failed to make the cut.
In January, Lily Gladstone won the Golden Globe for best actress, making her the first indigenous actress to win the award, and is among the favourites for the Oscars.
British film One Life, which stars Sir Anthony Hopkins as a stockbroker who helped save 669 children from the Nazis in World War Two, failed to be nominated.
The BAFTA Film Awards 2024 will take place on February 18 at the Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall in London. The ceremony will be hosted by David Tennant.
Kate Middleton is set to stay in hospital for up to a fortnight after undergoing abdominal surgery.
According to Kensington Palace said the procedure was planned and successful but the Princess of Wales is not expected to resume royal duties for months.
The palace did not disclose further details about her condition but said it was not cancer-related.
A statement added Catherine wished to apologise for postponing planned engagements.
“Based on the current medical advice, she is unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter,” a statement said.
As is standard practice for senior royals, the palace has disclosed few details about the princess’ condition and will not provide a running commentary on her recovery.
But it is clear from the length of time Catherine, 42, is expected to stay in hospital and the tone of the statement issued by the palace that her medical condition is serious.
The surgery – which took place on January 16 – was significant enough to keep her in hospital for up to two weeks and it is expected that recuperation could take as long as three months.
The princess had a full diary in December and there was no indication that she was unwell during public appearances.
Image source Wikimedia
A statement from the palace said the princess “appreciates the interest this statement will generate” and stressed she wants her personal medical information to remain private.
It continued: “She hopes that the public will understand her desire to maintain as much normality for her children as possible.”
Kensington Palace said it would only provide updates when there is significant new information to share.
Kate Middleton is recuperating at the London Clinic, near Regent’s Park in central London, which describes itself as the UK’s largest independent private hospital.
TV cameras and reporters were seen gathering near to the hospital after the announcement on January 17, with a number of police officers also discreetly dotted around the streets near the building.
The Prince of Wales will not be carrying out any official duties while his wife is in hospital.
Once discharged, Kate Middleton is expected to recover at home in Windsor, where the Waleses and their children, Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, eight, and Prince Louis, five, now reside.
In the statement issued on January 17, Kensington Palace said: “Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales was admitted to The London Clinic yesterday for planned abdominal surgery.
“The surgery was successful and it is expected that she will remain in hospital for ten to fourteen days, before returning home to continue her recovery.”
North Korea’s Kim Jong-un has said unification with South Korea is no longer possible, and that the constitution should be changed to designate it the “principal enemy”.
Kim Jong-un also said three organizations dealing with reunification would shut down, state media KCNA reported.
South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol said it would respond “multiple times stronger” to any provocation from North Korea.
The two Koreas have been divided since the Korean War ended in 1953.
They did not sign a peace treaty and therefore have remained technically still at war ever since.
In a speech delivered at the Supreme People’s Assembly, Kim Jong-un said that the constitution should be amended to educate North Koreans that South Korea is a “primary foe and invariable principal enemy”.
He also said that if a war breaks out on the Korean peninsula, the country’s constitution should reflect the issue of “occupying”, “recapturing” and “incorporating” the South into its territory.
Kim Jong-un – who replaced his father, Kim Jong-il, as North Korean leader in 2011 – said the North “did not want war, but we also have no intention of avoiding it”, according to KCNA.
He said he was taking a “new stand” on north-south relations, which included dismantling all organizations tasked with reunification.
Speaking to his cabinet on January 16, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol said that if the North carried out a provocation, the South “will retaliate multiple times stronger”, pointing to the South Korean military’s “overwhelming response capabilities”.
Kim Jong-un’s comments came as relations significantly weakened on the Korean Peninsula in recent months.
In November, North Korea fully suspended a five-year military deal with the South aimed at lowering military tensions. It promised to withdraw all measures “taken to prevent military conflict in all spheres including ground, sea and air”, and said it would deploy more forces to the border region.
The South had partly suspended the agreement days earlier after Kim Jong-un claimed to have successfully launched a spy satellite into space.
The rhetoric – and provocative actions – from the North have only escalated since then.
At year-end policy meetings, the North Korean said he needed to “newly formulate” the North’s stance towards inter-Korean relations and reunification policy, adding that the stated goal was to “make a decisive policy change” related to “the enemy”.
He also threatened a nuclear attack on the South, and called for a build-up of his country’s military arsenal.
In a report published last week for 38 North, a US-based organization with a focus on North Korea, former State Department official Robert Carlin and nuclear scientist Siegfried S Hecker said they saw the situation on the Korean Peninsula as “more dangerous than it has ever been” since the start of the Korean War in 1950.
The two countries have boosted ties recently, with both isolated by Western powers, and last September Kim Jong-un visited Russia where he met Vladimir Putin.
Voters begin to arrive at caucus locations – schools, churches and small event spaces – ahead of a 19:00 local start time (20:00 ET).
Voters are braving temperatures as low as -23C (-9F) after winter storms blanketed the state in snow and ice.
Iowa is the first major state-wide vote to decide who will be the Republican. presidential candidate for the 2024 election.
There will be over 1,600 caucus sites across Iowa’s 99 counties, and all will be reporting the results of their vote to the state’s Republican Party officials as quickly as possible.
Donald Trump has consistently posted big leads over his nearest rivals in Iowa.
The most recent poll of Iowans who were likely to caucus had Trump at 48%, ahead of Nikki Haley with 20% and Ron DeSantis with 16%.
The candidates have been urging their supporters to brave the weather, with Donald Trump saying: “Even if you vote and then pass away, it’s worth it.”
The Haley campaign says it expects a “strong” result in Iowa, while Ron DeSantis claims sturdy support among “bed-rock” conservatives.
The Donald Trump, Nikki Haley and Ron DeSantis campaigns and their political action committees (which raise and spend money to elect and defeat candidates) have altogether spent nearly $90 million on ads in Iowa.
Of these, Haley’s campaign and the pro-Haley Stand 4 America Fund PAC have spent the most, totalling about $36 million. The DeSantis campaign and various affiliated PACs follow closely behind with about $35 million spent.
Donald Trump – the distant front-runner in the race – his campaign and the MAGA Inc PAC have spent far less, totalling about $18 million.
Vivek Ramaswamy and Asa Hutchinson also remain in the contest, but are not expected to garner significant support.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin has been released from hospital and will perform his duties remotely as he continues to recover from treatment for prostate cancer, the Pentagon has announced.
Lloyd Austin’s delay in telling colleagues and the White House about his illness sparked criticism and three investigations.
He was admitted to an intensive care unit on January 1st due to complications from surgery in December.
The 70-year old is expected to make a full recovery, his doctors said in a statement.
“Secretary Austin progressed well throughout his stay and his strength is rebounding,” said Dr. John Maddox and Dr. Gregory Chesnut from the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.
Lloyd Austin’s prostate cancer was treated early and effectively, and “his prognosis is excellent”, they said, adding that he has no further treatment planned.
The defense secretary is just below the president in the chain of command for the US military, and is regarded as one of the most important members of the Cabinet.
Lloyd Austin had a “minimally invasive” surgery to treat prostate cancer in late December. He was readmitted to hospital on New Year’s Day due to complications related to the procedure.
Senior defense officials and the White House did not learn that Lloyd Austin was seriously ill until three days after his re-admission.
That secrecy prompted security and transparency concerns and three investigations have since been launched into the handling of his health crisis.
President Joe Biden has said he remains confident in his secretary’s leadership but that it was “sub-optimal” that he had not disclosed the seriousness of his illness.
Lloyd Austin has since apologised for not keeping the public “appropriately informed”.
In statement on January 155, he thanked his medical team for the care he received.
“Now, as I continue to recuperate and perform my duties from home, I’m eager to fully recover and return as quickly as possible to the Pentagon,” he said.
The Pentagon said Lloyd Austin has “full access to required secure communications capabilities” as he works remotely.
Sinéad O’Connor died of natural causes, a statement from coroner has said.
The singer was found unresponsive at her south London home in July and pronounced dead at the age of 56.
“This is to confirm that Ms O’Connor died of natural causes,” the statement from Southwark Coroner’s Court said on January 9.
“The coroner has therefore ceased their involvement in her death,” the statement added.
The day after Sinéad O’Connor’s death was announced, police said it was not being treated as suspicious.
The Irish musician had recently moved back to London, tweeting earlier that month that she had been away for 23 years.
Image source Flickr
Sinéad O’Connor, known for being an activist as well as a singer, was best known for her single Nothing Compares 2 U, released in 1990, which reached number one and brought her worldwide fame.
Outspoken in her social and political views, Sinéad O’Connor released 10 studio albums between 1987 and 2014.
In 1991, she was was named artist of the year by Rolling Stone magazine and took home the Brit Award for international female solo artist.
In 2018, Sinéad O’Connor converted to Islam and changed her name to Shuhada’ Sadaqat, but continued to perform under her birth name. She released a memoir, Rememberings, in 2021.
Earlier in the day, it was announced that a tribute concert for Sinéad O’Connor and The Pogues frontman Shane MacGowan will take place in New York City’s Carnegie Hall on March 20.
The one-night-only show called Sinéad & Shane at Carnegie Hall will be a celebration of both their lives.
Artists such as Mountain Goats, Cat Power, and Dropkick Murphys are set to cover a number of Sinéad O’Connor and Shane MacGowan’s songs.
A group of gunmen have broken into a live television studio in Ecuador and threatened staff, footage shows.
A live broadcast by station TC in the city of Guayaquil was interrupted on January 9 by the armed men, who were wearing hoods and carrying guns.
Staff were forced to on to the floor, before the live feed cut out.
A 60-day state of emergency began in Ecuador on January 8 after a convicted gang leader vanished from his prison cell.
The hooded men were seen leaving the TC studios, with police seen entering the set about 30 minutes after the gunmen first appeared.
Image source: TC
National police units in the country’s capital Quito and Guayaquil have been deployed to the scene.
Ecuador’s national police force said in an update on X, formerly Twitter, that staff had been evacuated from the studio.
It later said several suspects had been arrested.
Following the incident, President Daniel Noboa signed an executive order declaring an internal armed conflict and listed several organised crime groups as “terrorist organisations” and “non-state actors”.
The University of Guayaquil said all academic and administrative activities had been suspended given the social unrest nationwide.
At least seven police officers have been kidnapped by gang members since the state of emergency was declared.
The measures were introduced by President Noboa after the boss of the Los Choneros gang disappeared from a maximum security jail on January 7.
Officials said Fito, whose real name is Adolfo Macías Villamar, was not in his cell on Sunday morning when police arrived to move him to a different jail within the same compound.
He is thought to have absconded just hours before his planned transfer. Two prison guards have been detained on suspicion of helping Fito escape.
Los Choneros is a powerful prison gang which is thought to be behind many of the deadly riots and prison fights which have erupted in Ecuador’s jails over recent years.
It is not clear at this stage whether the storming of the television station is linked to the prison escape, but it is an example of the deteriorating security situation in the country.
Nearly 40 other inmates, including another convicted drug lord, broke out from another prison in the city of Riobamba on January 9.
Fito’s escape is also a blow to the government of President Daniel Noboa, who was sworn in in November after winning an election tarnished by the assassination of presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio.
Fernando Villavicencio had reported receiving death threats from Fito just days before he was shot dead while leaving a campaign rally in the capital Quito.
Oppenheimer was the big winner at this year’s Golden Globe Awards, taking home five awards including the top prize.
Cillian Murphy and Robert Downey Jr. were both recognized for their acting performances, while Christopher Nolan won best director.
Succession scored the most wins in the TV categories following its acclaimed fourth and final season.
Meanwhile, Barbie won the inaugural box office achievement award, after grossing $1.4bn worldwide.
There were two wins each for Anatomy of a Fall, The Holdovers and Poor Things, and one for Martin Scorsese’s Killers of theFlower Moon.
Killers of the Flower Moon star Lily Gladstone was named best drama actress, making her the first indigenous person to win the award, something she described as “historic”.
Oppenheimer star Cillian Murphy paid tribute to Christopher Nolan’s “rigour, focus and dedication” in making the film, which grossed $954m at the box office and won best drama film at the ceremony.
The biopic also won awards for best score and best supporting actor for Robert Downey Jr, who portrayed US government official Lewis Strauss.
Succession was the big winner in the TV categories – following the fourth and final season of the drama about a media mogul and his children who battle for control of his company.
Kieran Culkin, who played Roman Roy in the series, was named best leading TV actor – an award previously won by his co-stars Brian Cox and Jeremy Strong.
The critically acclaimed show also won best drama series – seen as the night’s top prize in the television categories.
Emma Stone was named best actress in a musical or comedy for her performance in Poor Things, which also won best musical or comedy film.
The Golden Globes mark the first major ceremony of film awards season, which culminates with the Oscars on March 10.
