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Cairo Attacks: Nine Killed Outside Coptic Church and Store

Roy Siemens
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Cairo Attacks: Nine Killed Outside Coptic Church and Store

Nine people have been killed in Egypt during two attacks on Coptic Christians in Helwan district, south of Cairo, the interior ministry has said.

According to the interior ministry statement, 6 civilians and a policeman died when a gunman tried to storm a church but was intercepted and arrested.

It said the gunman had previously attacked a Coptic-owned shop in the same area, killing two brothers.

The interior ministry revised an earlier account given by the health ministry.

The initial report said 12 were dead, and suggested there were two attackers. It said one had been killed, and the other fled but was later captured.

More than 100 Christians have been killed in Egypt in 2017, with most attacks claimed by the local branch of ISIS.

Security forces have reinforced checkpoints in place around Cairo in response to the attacks.

Earlier this week, they announced plans to protect festivities around the New Year and, on January 7, Coptic Christmas. They include the deployment of rapid-reaction forces, combat troops and jamming equipment.

Image source Reuters

Egypt Church Attacks: President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi Declares Three-Month State of Emergency

Egypt bombs ISIS targets in Libya following killings of 21 Coptic Christians

According to the interior ministry statement, the first attack on December 29 took place at a household appliances shop. Then the attacker headed to the Saint Mina Coptic church, where he attempted “to trespass the church’s perimeter security”.

It said that seven people, including an auxiliary policeman, had been killed and four injured as the gunman opened fire at the church.

The attacker also had an explosive device, a machine gun and 150 rounds, it added.

The ministry suggested he was known to security services, saying he was “one of the most active terrorist elements and he carried out several terrorist attacks which resulted in the martyrdom of a number of policemen and civilians”.

However, the interior ministry account contradicts earlier ones from officials and witnesses, who spoke of a higher death toll and more than one attacker.

Video footage has also emerged appearing to show one gunman lying dead at the scene and another alleged attacker fleeing in a red car.

Egypt is a Muslim-majority country and its Christian minority – mostly members of the Coptic Orthodox Church – make up around 10% of the population.

Donald Trump Believes He Will Be Treated Fairly By Robert Mueller’s Investigation

Nancy Clayson
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0
Donald Trump Believes He Will Be Treated Fairly By Robert Mueller’s Investigation

During an interview with the New York Times, President Donald Trump has said he believes he will be treated “fairly” by the investigation into alleged Russian meddling in the US election.

There has been tension between the White House and the inquiry and President Trump has had to deny planning to fire lead investigator Robert Mueller.

The president again denied there had been any collusion with Russian officials.

He said he did not know how long the inquiry would take, but it had made the US “look very bad”.

The interview took place at the president’s golf club in West Palm Beach in Florida.

President Trump insisted he had the right to begin or end any justice department investigations.

He said of Robert Mueller, the special counsel: “I think he’s going to be fair.”

Image source WhiteHouse.gov

President Donald Trump Denies He Is Planning to Fire Robert Mueller

Robert Mueller Accused of Unlawfully Obtaining Emails

According to the New York Times, President Trump had denied 16 times during the interview that there had been any collusion with Russia.

US intelligence agencies believe Russia tried to tip the presidential election in favor of Donald Trump – a charge denied by both Moscow and the president.

The president has labeled Robert Mueller’s investigation a “witch hunt” while other Republicans accuse it of bias.

Donald Trump repeated his allegation that Democrats had invented the issue “as a hoax, as a ruse, as an excuse for losing an election”.

He said he was not concerned about when the inquiry would finish as he had nothing to hide.

However, the president added: “It makes the country look very bad, and it puts the country in a very bad position. So the sooner it’s worked out, the better it is for the country.”

He repeated his comments from May that the investigation was “hunting the US terribly”.

President Trump said the matter had angered his supporters, adding: “My base is stronger than it’s ever been.”

Liberia Elections 2017: Soccer Legend George Weah Wins Presidency

Diane A. Wade
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Liberia Elections 2017: Soccer Legend George Weah Wins Presidency

Former African soccer star George Weah has been elected as Liberia’s president.

With nearly all ballots from December 26 run-off vote counted, George Weah is well ahead of his opponent, Vice-President Joseph Boakai, with more than 60% of the vote.

As news of George Weah’s victory emerged, his supporters began celebrating in the capital Monrovia.

George Weah will succeed Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa’s first elected female president, in Liberia’s first democratic handover in decades.

After the results were announced, he tweeted: “My fellow Liberians, I deeply feel the emotion of all the nation.

“I measure the importance and the responsibility of the immense task which I embrace today. Change is on.”

George Weah starred at top-flight European soccer clubs Paris St-Germain (PSG) and AC Milan, before ending his career in England with brief stays at Chelsea and Manchester City.

He is the only African to have won both FIFA World Player of the Year and the prestigious Ballon D’Or.

Image source Wikipedia

Ebola 2014: Liberia holds postponed elections

George Weah, 51, entered politics after his retirement from the game in 2002 and is currently a senator in Liberia’s parliament.

His former club, PSG, congratulated him on Twitter.

Liberia, founded by freed American slaves in the 19th Century, has not had a smooth transfer of power from one elected president to another since 1944.

George Weah won the first round of the presidential election in October with 38.4% of the vote, compared with the 28.8% won by second-placed Joseph Boakai, 73. The failure of any candidate to secure an outright majority forced the run-off.

On December 28, the National Elections Commission (NEC) said that with 98.1% of the run-off vote counted, George Weah had won 61.5% of the vote while Joseph Boakai was far behind with 38.5%.

Legal challenges delayed the vote to replace Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, and turnout was low – put at 56% by election officials.

However, election observers have praised the conduct of the poll.

More than two million people were eligible to cast their ballots from Liberia’s population of 4.6 million.

St Petersburg Store Explosion Injures at Least 10

Roy Siemens
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0
St Petersburg Store Explosion Injures at Least 10

An explosion at a store in Sankt Petersburg, Russia, has injured at least ten people.

According to officials, one person was said to be in serious condition after the detonation of an improvised explosive device (IED).

Russian President Vladimir Putin described the explosion, at the Perekrestok supermarket chain on December 27, as a terrorist act.

No group has said it carried out the attack, which officials say produced a blast equivalent to 200g (7oz) of TNT.

Russia’s investigative committee said the home-made device was packed with lethal components.

Image source Wikipedia

St Petersburg Subway Explosion Kills 11

The explosion took place in an area of the supermarket that housed lockers for storing bags.

The property was quickly evacuated and there were no reports of a fire, but images circulating on social media in Russia showed extensive damage in an area of the store close to the tills.

President Putin commented on the explosion at a military awards ceremony on December 28. Officials had earlier suggested the attack was being treated as attempted murder.

Earlier this month, Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump spoke by phone after information provided by the CIA helped Russian security services foil an attack on St Petersburg’s Kazan cathedral.

At the time, Russia’s Interfax news agency reported that a group had been planning attacks at a number of sites. Several people were reportedly detained.

In April, an explosion on the St Petersburg subway system killed at least 13 people and injured more than 50 others.

Staying On Top Of Business Finances Like The Pros

Dana R
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Staying On Top Of Business Finances Like The Pros

Running a business presents many different challenges. But maintaining good financial health is easily the most important. Without money, the entire venture will crash and burn. Unfortunately, only a small percentage of entrepreneurs ever truly master this factor. This is the chief reason why so many fail.

Entrepreneurs can learn a lot from analyzing other successful business owners. This is especially true when it comes to the financial management. Adopt the five simple points below, and you’ll be running the venture like a pro in no time.

Image source

Don’t leave it to chance. The best business owners share many traits, and an attention to detail and control is up there. Tackling situations without that tight grasp only increases the chances of problems surfacing. Nowadays, monitoring all elements is easy thanks to accounting and tax software and other key tools. Likewise, tracking overheads to see where money is being wasted should give you a far better shot at ongoing success. After all, kicking the bad habits ASAP is a habit shared by all modern success stories.

Don’t be afraid to borrow. Cash flow problems often stop businesses from reaching their goals. This is because the slower progress sees the company fall behind its competitors. Customers won’t stay loyal if you don’t give them a reason too, which will spell disaster. Services like Businesslineof.credit allow you to acquire extra funds in a responsible manner. With the door to expansion and growth fully open, the immediate and long-term revenue will look far greater. This should result in increased financial stability too.   

Don’t waste time. We’ve all heard the phrase that time is money, and it’s true. Therefore, one of the most valuable skills you could ever master revolves around efficiency. Upgrading the communication links will make the team and money work harder. Investments into automated services ranging from stock management to client care will work well. Ultimately, you do not have the same level of resources as those big companies. Therefore, using yours in the best manner is crucial. Do not forget it.

Image source

Don’t spend for the sake of it. Many entrepreneurs make investments based on preconceived ideas of what seems right. In truth, the only moves worth making are the ones focused on maximized profits. For starters, you can find out about things you don’t need on a PC at Computershopper.com. Meanwhile, price comparisons on energy rates and ongoing services can see you reduce needless spending. When combined with cutting the gimmicks and other superfluous items, the business will run smoother than ever.

Don’t buy when you can rent. We live in a world where ownership is seen as essential. In business, though, successful asset management revolves largely around making money work harder. In many cases, it’s far simpler and more affordable to rent things. Not only does this ease the initial strain on your pocket, but it allows you to stay up to date with crucial features. The depreciation of vehicles, machines, and other tech features is very high. As such, your immediate and long-term situations will thank you for opening your eyes to rentals and running contracts. Purchasing assets is still useful at times. As with everything, finding the balance is key.

#MeToo: Corey Lewandowski Accused of Assault

Nancy Clayson
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0
#MeToo: Corey Lewandowski Accused of Assault

President Donald Trump’s former campaign manager, Corey Lewandowski, has been accused of assault by singer Joy Villa.

According to Joy Villa, Corey Lewandowski hit her twice on the backside during an event in Washington last month.

The singer told media she spoke to the police on Christmas Eve, having been persuaded to launch a formal complaint by friends.

Corey Lewandowski has not responded to media’s requests for comment.

The accusations are the latest in a long line of harassment and assault claims linked to celebrities, politicians and companies, which have gathered pace in the past year, particularly following the downfall of film producer Harvey Weinstein.

According to Associated Press, Joy Villa said: “I was initially fearful to come forward with this.”

She said she did not want to embarrass Corey Lewandowski’s family or hers.

Image source Wikimedia

Corey Lewandowski Out as Donald Trump’s Campaign Manager

Corey Lewandowski: Donald Trump’s Campaign Manager Charged with Assaulting Journalist

Joy Villa, who is a vocal Trump supporter and wore a “Make America Great Again” dress to the 2017 Grammy Awards, was at a gathering at Trump International Hotel when she posed for a photograph with Corey Lewandowski, whom, she says, she had never met before.

The singer alleges Corey Lewandowski hit her once on the buttocks, and when she asked him to stop and joked about reporting him for harassment, he did it again. She said he laughed, adding: “I work in the private sector.”

Joy Villa said the hard slaps felt “disgusting and shocking and demeaning”.

Politico first reported on the incident last week, saying they had talked to a witness who spoke out before Joy Villa did.

Joy Villa has previously said she is considering running for Congress – and President Donald Trump has tweeted his support.

Donald Trump fired Corey Lewandowski as campaign manager in June 2016.

Earlier last year, Corey Lewandowski was charged with battery after allegedly yanking a female reporter out of Donald Trump’s way after a campaign event. The charges were later dropped.

Barack Obama Interviewed by Prince Harry

Lisa.Felice
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Barack Obama Interviewed by Prince Harry

Former President Barack Obama has been interviewed by Prince Harry on BBC Radio 4.

Prince Harry, the fifth in line to the UK’s throne, is one of several prominent figures who are guest-editing Today program over Christmas period.

Barack Obama warned against the irresponsible use of social media and how such actions were distorting people’s understanding of complex issues, and spreading misinformation.

The former president expressed concern about a future where facts are discarded and people only read and listen to things that reinforce their own views.

He said: “One of the dangers of the internet is that people can have entirely different realities. They can be cocooned in information that reinforces their current biases.

“The question has to do with how do we harness this technology in a way that allows a multiplicity of voices, allows a diversity of views, but doesn’t lead to a Balkanization of society and allows ways of finding common ground.”

President Donald Trump is a prolific user of Twitter, but Barack Obama did not mention him by name.

Donald Trump has been accused of overusing Twitter and following only a narrow range of users, though he maintains it allows him to connect directly with the American people.

Image source obamalibrary.org

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Barack Obama suggested face-to-face contact would help counteract extreme views.

He said: “Social media is a really powerful tool for people of common interests to convene and get to know each other and connect.

“But then it’s important for them to get offline, meet in a pub, meet at a place of worship, meet in a neighborhood and get to know each other.

“Because the truth is that on the internet, everything is simplified and when you meet people face-to-face it turns out they’re complicated.”

The former president added: “It’s hard, being in the public eye is unpleasant in a lot of ways. It is challenging in a lot of ways.

“Your loved ones are made vulnerable in ways that might not have been true 20 years ago or 30 years ago.

“So it is a sacrifice that I think everybody has to be at peace with when they decide to go into politics. But, ultimately, I think the rewards of bringing about positive change in this world make it worthwhile.”

Barack Obama pays tribute to the support of his family, especially his wife Michelle, describing how glad he is that she was “my partner throughout that whole process”.

He compared his time in office to being a relay runner: “If you ran hard, you did your best and you were able to pass that baton successfully and the world was a little better then you had done your job.”

He cited ObamaCare – ensuring more people can afford basic healthcare – as a major achievement.

“What an enormous blessing it is to say that 20 million Americans have health insurance that didn’t have it before.”

Prince Harry’s program focused on issues such as the armed forces, mental health, youth crime and climate change.

Brazil Expels Venezuela’s Charge D’Affaires

Diane A. Wade
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Brazil Expels Venezuela’s Charge D’Affaires

Brazil has expelled Venezuela’s charge d’affaires Gerardo Delgado.

It came days after Venezuela’s decision to expel the Brazilian ambassador to Caracas, Ruy Pereira.

Venezuela said Brazil had acted illegally in impeaching its former left-wing president, Dilma Rousseff.

On December 23, Venezuela also expelled Canada’s charge d’affaires, accusing him of interfering in internal affairs.

On December 25, Canada announced that Venezuela’s Ambassador Wilmer Barrientos Fernández, who was already abroad, would not be allowed to return.

Venezuela’s charge d’affaires in Ottawa, Ángel Herrera, was also asked to leave.

Relations with Brazil have deteriorated since President Michel Temer took office in 2016, following Dilma Rousseff’s dismissal by Congress for fiscal irregularities.

Image source Wikimedia

Canada Expels Venezuela’s Ambassador and Charge D’Affaires

Venezuela Expels Brazilian Ambassador and Canadian Charge D’Affaires

Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro described her impeachment as “a right-wing coup”.

On December 23, the head of Venezuela’s powerful Constituent Assembly, Delcy Rodriguez, said that “diplomatic relations with Brazil will not be restored until the government reinstates the constitutional order it has effectively broken”.

The Brazilian government said the move showed “once again the authoritarian nature of President Maduro’s administration”.

Brazil and Canada have both become outspoken critics of President Maduro.

They accuse Nicolas Maduro’s socialist government of harassing the opposition and violating human rights.

Canada imposed sanctions on senior Venezuelan officials a few months ago.

Brazil and Canada were among many countries critical of President Maduro’s decision to convene a Constituent Assembly, which effectively replaced the opposition-controlled National Assembly.

The announcement prompted mass street protests, which killed more than 120 people in four months.

Venezuela’s opposition boycotted the poll in July and also held an unofficial referendum in which they said more than seven million Venezuelans had voted against the constituent assembly.

Nicolas Maduro’s six-year term ends in 2019. He is due to run for re-election in 2018.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWATFKCu8wM

Striking A Balance Of Self-Reliance And Humble Help

Dana R
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Striking A Balance Of Self-Reliance And Humble Help

It takes a lot of guts to start your own business. Everyone has the tools and opportunity to do so but proportionally speaking, very few people go through with it. It takes someone with special character and resolve even to consider putting their financial future in question. But that is exactly what you’re doing when you open up a small business and go for it; chasing your dreams. This is why so many entrepreneurs are cautious in accepting help or at least sceptical. It’s understandable for many reasons because it’s your money on the line and it’s also a pride thing. But those who are willing to learn from those more successful open their mind to new possibilities and start looking at situations from a different angle. At the same time, expert advice is never cheap and one way or another you will end up paying something for it. Tipping the scales in favor of one way over the other doesn’t need to happen.

Image by Shannon Hall

Joining a community

You’re not alone both directly and indirectly. All the types of business classes or sizes in the world, small and medium-sized businesses have the largest communities. There are so many people just like you in your position, going through the same trials and tribulations. One benefit to you might be to join a forum or group that specializes in small businesses in the same industry as you’re in. You can talk on message boards online, communicate via social media groups on Facebook and Twitter as well as go to meetups in person. Almost like an unofficial union, these groups can come to your aid in the form of legal advice as small businesses don’t usually have the funds for highly qualified lawyers. You’re also dealing with the government’s rules and regulations and knowing the ins and outs would be to your advantage.

Photo by pxhere

Handling your own money

Apart from the exciting journey of dreaming up, starting, and running a business the only thing more exciting are the financial benefits. Having your own business means you’re in charge of how much you earn, and it’s all down to how hard you work and the success that goes along with it. It’s great not having a set annual salary, but this makes a precedent for the rest of your financial activities as a business owner. As nothing is set in stone, it can get complicated to understand and organize your revenue and expenditures. You should consider taking an online course of msc accounting and finance to better understand the roles and function of accounting and finance in a number of business settings, including the for-profit and nonprofit sectors. You don’t need to a have a similar background to take the course in the first place, so it’s great for those looking to avoid hiring a financial advisor and do it their way.

Building a business from the ground up is incredibly exciting and liberating for the soul. But don’t get carried away with a whimsical outlook on life as there are ever-increasing challenges between you and your goals. Striking a good balance between self-reliance and an acceptance of help from others is a fantastic way to keep all the plates spinning.

Canada Expels Venezuela’s Ambassador and Charge D’Affaires

Diane A. Wade
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0
Canada Expels Venezuela’s Ambassador and Charge D’Affaires

Canada has expelled Venezuela’s ambassador to Ottawa, Wilmer Barrientos Fernández, and its charge d’affaires, Ángel Herrera.

Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland said the move was in retaliation for the expulsion of its ambassador to Caracas over the weekend.

Venezuela had accused Canada of meddling in its internal affairs.

In response, Canada has criticized the government of President Nicolás Maduro over its human rights record.

More than 120 people were killed in Venezuela during months of anti-government protests earlier this year.

Image source misionvenezuela.org

Chrystia Freeland in a statement: “Canadians will not stand by as the Government of Venezuela robs its people of their fundamental democratic and human rights, and denies them access to basic humanitarian assistance.”

“We will continue to work with our partners in the region to apply pressure on the anti-democratic Maduro regime and restore the rights of the Venezuelan people.”

She said Wilmer Barrientos Fernández was already abroad and would not be allowed to return, while Ángel Herrera had been asked to leave.

Venezuela Expels Brazilian Ambassador and Canadian Charge D’Affaires

US Extends Travel Ban to North Korea, Venezuela and Chad

Canada had already imposed sanctions on senior Venezuelan officials in a move which angered the Venezuelan government.

On December 23, the head of Venezuela’s powerful Constituent Assembly, Delcy Rodríguez, announced Venezuela was declaring Canada’s charge d’affaires to Caracas, Craig Kowalik, persona non grata.

Delcy Rodríguez accused Craig Kowalik of “permanent and insistent, rude and vulgar interference in the internal affairs of Venezuela”.

Venezuela also expelled the Brazilian ambassador, Ruy Pereira, over the alleged violation of the rule of law by its government.

The US imposed sanctions on Nicolas Maduro and the Trump administration labeled the Venezuelan president a “dictator”.

The opposition has accused Nicolas Maduro and his predecessor, the late Hugo Chávez, of destroying the country’s economy with their socialist policies.

Venezuela has one of the world’s highest inflation rates and for years has suffered from a shortage of basic goods, including medicines.

Nicolas Maduro’s six-year term ends in 2019. He is expected to stand for another term in elections scheduled for 2018.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHsIQlALWZU

Meghan Markle Joins Royal Family for Christmas Day Service

Lisa.Felice
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Meghan Markle Joins Royal Family for Christmas Day Service

Meghan Markle has joined the Royal Family for the Christmas Day service at Queen Elizabeth’s Norfolk estate.

Prince Harry and his fiancée arrived at a carol service at St Mary Magdalene Church in Sandringham along with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

Queen Elizabeth returned after missing last year’s service due to a heavy cold.

Princes Philip and Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles also attended, along with other members of the family.

Image source Wikimedia

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Wedding Date Set for May 19, 2018

Why Meghan Markle Won’t Become a Princess?

After the service, Meghan Markle joined members of the family in greeting the crowds.

According to specialists, if royal tradition from previous years was followed, the family will have exchanged presents on Christmas Eve and awoken to a stocking of small gifts and fruit at the end of their beds.

Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip also attended an early Holy Communion service at the church.

They will return home for a traditional turkey lunch, before watching the Queen’s speech together.

This year, the Queen will pay tribute to London and Manchester for the manner in which they dealt with this year’s terror attacks, as well as praising Prince Phillip for his support in the year of the couple’s 70th wedding anniversary.

Is The Health Care System Doing More Bad Than Good?

Dana R
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Is The Health Care System Doing More Bad Than Good?

The American healthcare system is one that seems to be under constant scrutiny. If we’re being honest, pretty much every healthcare system in the world seems to be under scrutiny. Unless you’re paying to go private, there always seems to be something wrong. But with millions of people to treat each day, and the population growing each day, it is easy to see why sometimes the healthcare system does mess up. But is it fair of us to use this as an excuse for their wrong doings? Well this is something that has long been debated for years. A lot of people believe the healthcare system should always be doing its best and never making mistakes, this is what they’re there for after all. Others realise the strain that it is put under on a daily basis, and believe that issues are going to keep arising whether we like it or not. But what are your views? If you’re undecided about whether our healthcare system is doing more bad than good, then we’re here to help you make a decision.

healthcare

Image Source

The Bad

We might as well start with the bad first. There is a fair amount of bad going on in the healthcare system, and don’t the media let us know about it. One of the biggest issues we’re facing at the minute is the shortage of staff compared to the rising number of the population. But how can this be helped when doctors have to go to college for seven years before they qualify, and nurses have to attend college before they can too. It is this long winded process that can sometimes put people off the prospect of becoming either a nurse or doctor. The UK’s healthcare service, the NHS, is in an ever worst state of affairs in terms of staffing. They’re having to bring over nurses and doctors from foreign countries, but now even that is not working due to the fears they will be thrown back out again due to brexit. But, the US isn’t far off this. The only difference is the fact that our healthcare service is privatised. This generally means there is more people pumping money into the service to try and find the best service possible. But due to the staffing issues, the best service is not always given.

The staffing issues leads us on to another common issue found in the healthcare service. Blunders made by the doctors and nurses. This could be anything from the wrong diagnosis, the wrong medication given, or releasing a patient too early. You’d be surprised at how many people actually have this done to them. But this is where the argument comes into play that it is not the doctors or nurses fault. They’re doing the best they can, and they spend 12 hour shifts rushing around constantly trying to make sure everyone is cared for. Surely this is going to lead to a mistake or two along the way? But then this is where the bad press comes from.

The press rarely ever seems to focus on the good and hard work the healthcare service is doing. They just wait for something to go wrong so they can scrutinise them. A lot of people go down the route of suing as well, and so they should. Even though it is nearly always the case that it was a complete accident, medical negligence is still a huge issue, and one that needs to be solved sooner rather than later. A medical malpractice lawyer will see hundreds and hundreds of cases each year about different things that have gone wrong with people due to medical negligence. The healthcare system then ends up having to pay out large amounts in order to cover the compensation. It is often the case that they pay more than they should just to try and keep the victim from going to the press about their issue. The last thing they need is bad press.

The Good

The good often outweighs the bad when it comes to our healthcare service. They save millions of lives each year, without them we wouldn’t be where we are today. One of the best things about our healthcare service is also one of the worst. Having it privatised and having to pay for medical treatments means you see a lot less people walking in with really minor injuries that could be treated at home. One of the biggest issues the NHS has is their waiting rooms being clogged up with people who don’t even need to be there. This is purely because it is free. But, the fact that you do have to pay so much for healthcare treatments is one of the reasons why so many people in the US die each year.

One of the best things our healthcare service brings us is the cure and prevention of injuries and diseases. There’s so much extensive research going on each year that saves the lives of people all around the world. America is renowned for its medical capabilities, so many people fly out here year round to get the specialist treatments their countries can’t offer. The fact we’re at the forefront of medicine is pretty great. The money being pumped into the research is constant, and each day big strides are being made to cure some of the worst diseases known to man.

One of the final things that is just so great about healthcare is the hard work and dedication the staff put in to make sure they give the best care possible. At this time of year most of us will be off for the holidays and enjoying time with their family. But this is something nurses and doctors and other healthcare professionals just don’t get to do. They work hard and long shifts, and are often on their feet for most of the day or night. They’re always striving to make sure they do the best for the people they’re caring for, and that’s something that really needs to be admired.

Peru: Former President Alberto Fujimori Pardoned

Diane A. Wade
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Peru: Former President Alberto Fujimori Pardoned

Peru’s former President Alberto Fujimori has been pardoned by current President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski on health grounds in a move that has prompted angry protests.

Alberto Fujimori, 79, who is serving 25 years for human rights abuses and corruption, was moved from prison to hospital because of health problems on December 23.

President Kuczynski denied pardoning the former leader as part of a deal with his party last week to avoid his own impeachment.

Police in the capital Lima clashed with protesters after the news emerged.

Two members of Pedro Pablo Kuczynski’s party in the Peruvian Congress, Vicente Zeballos and Alberto de Belaunde, resigned in protest at the pardon.

Meanwhile, supporters of the former president, who led Peru from 1990 to 2000, celebrated outside the city hospital where he was being treated.

Image source Wikimedia

Alberto Fujimori: Peru jailed ex-president’s health worsening

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Alberto Fujimori is admired by some Peruvians for combating Maoist rebels but his critics considered him a corrupt dictator.

His son, Kenji Fujimori, tweeted video of himself breaking the news of the pardon to his father in his hospital bed and wishing him a Merry Christmas.

A statement from President Kuczynski’s office said he had decided to grant a “humanitarian pardon to Mr. Alberto Fujimori and seven other people in similar condition”, without naming the others.

According to the statement, doctors had “determined that Mr. Fujimori suffers from a progressive, degenerative and incurable illness and that prison conditions represent a grave risk to his life”.

Alberto Fujimori was transferred from his cell to a clinic suffering from low blood pressure and an irregular heartbeat, doctors said.

Kenji Fujimori said earlier that his father would probably not go home for several days.

The conservative Popular Force (FP) party, led by Albert Fujimori’s daughter, Keiko Fujimori, controls Congress and on December 21 tried to impeach President Kuczynski over a corruption scandal.

However, her brother Kenji split the FP vote, allowing President Kuczynski to stay in power and prompting the accusation that Alberto Fujimori’s release had been promised in exchange.

Leftist politician Veronika Mendoza labeled the president’s decision as treason: “To save his own skin he [President Kuczynski] cut a deal with Fujimori’s supporters.”

Pedro Pablo Kuczynski denied the claim.

In 2007, Alberto Fujimori was sentenced to six years in jail for bribery and abuse of power, but two years later was sentenced to another 25 years in prison for human rights abuses committed during his time in office.

The former president was convicted of authorizing killings carried out by death squads.

On December 24, police reportedly fired tear gas at dozens of protesters who turned out to protest at news of the pardon, waving pictures of victims of the counter-insurgency campaign.

Jose Miguel Vivanco, executive director of Human Rights Watch in the Americas, tweeted: “I regret Fujimori’s humanitarian pardon.

“Instead of reaffirming that in a state of law there is no special treatment for anyone, the idea that his liberation was a vulgar political negotiation in exchange for Pedro Pablo Kuczynski maintaining power will remain forever.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OWOcfIUFD-A

Tunisia: Emirates Airline Banned form Landing in Tunis

Nancy Clayson
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Tunisia: Emirates Airline Banned form Landing in Tunis

The UAE Emirates airline has been banned from landing in Tunisia’s capital, Tunis, after a number of Tunisian women were prevented from boarding its flights.

The ban comes amid widespread anger in Tunisia, with rights groups condemning “racist and discriminatory” measures.

The Tunisian transport ministry said the measure would stay in place until Emirates was able to “operate flights in accordance with law and international agreements”.

In response, the UAE said “security information” had caused the delays.

Emirati Foreign Minister Anwar Gargash tweeted on December 24: “We contacted our Tunisian brothers about security information that necessitated taking specific procedures.

“We highly value Tunisian women and respect them.”

Image source Wikimedia

Laptop Ban No Longer Applies on Emirates Flights to US

Emirates Airline cancels order for 70 Airbus A350’s

According to Tunisian government officials, the UAE had banned Tunisian women from flying to or transiting through its territory.

On December 22, the Tunisian government said it had asked the UAE ambassador to clarify what was happening and had been told that the measures had been temporary and had already been lifted.

According to local media, Tunisian women had been blocked from boarding Emirates flights to Dubai over several days.

Some Tunisian women said their journeys to the UAE had been delayed and some that their visas had to undergo additional examination, the AFP reported.

Tunisia has been trying to improve relations with the UAE that were damaged by its 2011 revolution.

Its ruling Ennahda party also has links to Qatar, which has been cut off by the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain over its alleged support for terrorism.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UdEHhzWfO6s

Santa Tracker 2017

Nancy Clayson
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https://santatracker.google.com/tracker.html

North Korea Describes Latest UN Sanctions as “Act of War”

Roy Siemens
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North Korea Describes Latest UN Sanctions as “Act of War”

The latest UN sanctions imposed on North Korea have been described by Pyongyang as an “act of war”.

A North Korea’s foreign ministry statement said the measures were tantamount to a total economic blockade, the official KCNA news agency reported.

The statement added that strengthening North Korea’s deterrence was the only way to frustrate the US.

On December 22, the UN Security Council imposed the new sanctions on North Korea in response to Pyongyang’s ballistic missile tests.

The US-drafted resolution – unanimously backed by all 15 Security Council members – includes measures to cut North Korea’s petrol imports by up to 90%.

North Korea is already subject to a raft of sanctions from the US, the UN and the EU.

Image source Wikimedia

UN Imposes New Sanctions on North Korea over Ballistic Missile Tests

Alleged North Korean Economic Agent Arrested in Australia

Characteristically bellicose, North Korea described the latest UN sanctions “as a violent breach of our republic’s sovereignty and an act of war that destroys the peace and stability of the Korean peninsula and a wide region: “The United States, completely terrified at our accomplishment of the great historic cause of completing the state nuclear force, is getting more and more frenzied in the moves to impose the harshest-ever sanctions and pressure on our country.

“We will further consolidate our self-defensive nuclear deterrence aimed at fundamentally eradicating the US nuclear threats, blackmail and hostile moves by establishing the practical balance of force with the US.”

The US said it was seeking a diplomatic solution to the issue and drafted this new set of sanctions, including deliveries of petrol products will be capped at 500,000 barrels a year, and crude oil at four million barrels a year; all North Korean nationals working abroad will have to return home within 24 months under the proposals, restricting a vital source of foreign currency.

There will also be a ban on exports of North Korean goods, such as machinery and electrical equipment.

The UN sanctions came in response to North Korea’s November 28 firing of a ballistic missile, which the US said was its highest yet.

President Donald Trump has previously threatened to “totally destroy” North Korea if it launches a nuclear attack while North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has described the American president as “mentally deranged”.

Venezuela Expels Brazilian Ambassador and Canadian Charge D’Affaires

Diane A. Wade
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Venezuela Expels Brazilian Ambassador and Canadian Charge D’Affaires

Brazilian Ambassador to Caracas Ruy Pereira and Canadian charge d’affaires Craig Kowalik have been expelled by Venezuela’s powerful Constituent Assembly.

The move was announced by the Constituent Assembly President Delcy Rodriguez.

Delcy Rodriguez accused Brazil of violating the rule of law and Canada of interfering in Venezuela’s internal affairs.

Both countries have strongly criticized the move.

The decision to expel Ambassador Ruy Pereira may have been triggered by Brazil’s recent complaint that President Nicolás Maduro was “constantly harassing the opposition”.

Canada imposed sanctions on senior Venezuelan officials a few months ago.

Venezuela’s diplomatic relations with Brazil have deteriorated since Brazil’s President Michel Temer replaced left-wing leader Dilma Rousseff.

Dilma Rousseff’s impeachment was described by Nicolas Maduro as a “right-wing coup”.

Image source Wikimedia

Venezuela’s Main Opposition Parties Banned from 2018 Presidential Election

Venezuela Crisis: Argentine Airlines Becomes Latest Carrier to Suspend Flights to Caracas

US Extends Travel Ban to North Korea, Venezuela and Chad

Delcy Rodriguez said at a news conference on December 23: “Diplomatic relations with Brazil will not be restored until the government reinstates the constitutional order it has effectively broken.”

In response, the Brazilian government said the move showed once again the authoritarian nature of President Maduro’s administration.

Delcy Rodriguez accused Craig Kowalik of “permanent and insistent, rude and vulgar interference in the internal affairs of Venezuela”.

Relations with Canada have been difficult for months. Earlier this year, Ottawa imposed sanctions on Venezuelan officials for alleged human rights violations and corruption.

Last month, Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza said that the sanctions were illegal and accused the Canadian government of “shameful and utter submission to Donald Trump’s administration”.

In response, Canada said to the expulsion of its charge d’affaires by saying it would not be cowed into easing pressure on the Maduro government.

Brazil and Canada were among many countries critical of President Maduro’s decision to convene a Constituent Assembly, which effectively replaced the opposition-controlled National Assembly.

The announcement prompted mass street protests, which killed more than 120 people in four months.

The opposition boycotted the poll in July and also held an unofficial referendum in which they said more than seven million Venezuelans voted against the constituent assembly.

The EU and major Latin American nations have said they will not recognize the new body.

Meanwhile, the US imposed sanctions on President Maduro and the Trump administration labeled him a “dictator”.

Nicolas Maduro’s six-year term ends in 2019. He is due to run for re-election next year.

The opposition has accused President Maduro and his predecessor, the late Hugo Chavez, of destroying Venezuela’s economy with their socialist policies.

Venezuela has one of the world’s highest inflation rates and for years has suffered from a shortage of basic goods, including medicines.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5jtdrr0-3VY

Thomas Fire Becomes Largest Blaze in California’s History

Nancy Clayson
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Thomas Fire Becomes Largest Blaze in California’s History

The deadly Thomas fire which has destroyed more than 700 homes in California is now the largest blaze in the state’s recorded history.

The wildfire has burned more than 1000sq km – an area greater than New York City, Brussels and Paris combined.

It broke out in Santa Paula in early December and has moved west towards the coast, one of several major fires in California in recent months.

Thousands of firefighters have been deployed to bring it under control.

Most of California’s largest wildfires have been recorded this century. According to scientists, the warming climate and spread of buildings into wilderness areas have contributed.

Image source Wikimedia

Thomas Fire: California Governor Jerry Brown Brands Wildfires as New Normal

The Thomas fire slowly eclipsed previous record-setting blazes, finally overtaking the 2003 Cedar fire in San Diego County, which burned 273,246 acres.

It follows a series of deadly fires in the state’s wine country in October that burned more than 10,000 homes and killed more than 40 people.

The Thomas fire has destroyed more than 1,000 buildings and claimed the life of one firefighter – Cory Iverson, a father of one from San Diego whose wife was expecting another child.

It is now moving slower because of rain and less wind.

State fire agency Cal Fire says the Thomas fire is now 65% contained and expected to continue to slow. Controlled burns by firefighters may cause some temporary expansion, it said.

Seven of California’s 10 largest fires on record have occurred since 2000. Two were in the 1970s and the earliest was in 1932 – the Matilija fire which, like the Thomas fire, burned through Ventura County.

Tropical Storm Tembin Kills at Least 100 in Philippines

Nancy Clayson
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Tropical Storm Tembin Kills at Least 100 in Philippines

At least 100 people are reported to have been killed as Tropical Storm Tembin hit the southern Philippines, with dozens more missing.

Tropical Storm Tembin brought flash flooding and mudslides to parts of Mindanao island.

Two towns badly hit were Tubod and Piagapo, where a number of homes were buried by boulders.

Tembin, with winds of up to 50 mph, has now passed across Mindanao and is heading towards the southern tip of Palawan before moving further west.

The Philippines suffers regularly from deadly tropical storms, although Mindanao is not often hit.

Tropical Storm Tembin, known as Vinta in the Philippines, started lashing Mindanao on December 22, with a state of emergency declared in some parts, including the Lanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur regions.

Image source Wikimedia

Typhoon Nock-Ten Heads Toward Philippines Capital

Super Typhoon Haima Hits Philippines Killing Four People

According to the Philippine Daily Inquirer, quoting disaster management officials, there were at least 62 fatalities in Lanao del Norte, another 46 in Zamboanga del Norte and at least 18 in Lanao del Sur.

Tubod police officer Gerry Parami told the AFP news agency that there had been at least 19 deaths in the town, which is in Lanao del Norte.

He said: “The river rose and most of the homes were swept away. The village is no longer there.”

Gerry Parami said volunteers were digging through mud to try to recover bodies in the village of Dalama.

Another official told AFP that at least 10 people had died in the town of Piagapo, 6 miles east of Tubod.

“We’ve sent rescuers but they’re making little progress due to the rocks,” Saripada Pacasum said.

More deaths were reported in the towns of Sibuco and Salug.

Power outages and the loss of communication lines have hampered rescue efforts.

After Storm Tembin skirts the southern edge of Palawan it is forecast to travel west, south of the Spratly Islands, reaching southern Vietnam in about three days

A week ago, Tropical Storm Kai-Tak hit the central Philippines, killing dozens.

The region is still recovering from Typhoon Haiyan, which killed more than 5,000 people and affected millions in 2013.

How the Shortage of Healthcare Professionals Could See a Spike in New Entrants

Dana R
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How the Shortage of Healthcare Professionals Could See a Spike in New Entrants

Another dark cloud of shortage has gathered over the U.S. health and care sector. This is perhaps due to the increasing number of senior citizens and a consequent spike in retirement figures, coupled with stricter qualification requirements for some healthcare professions.

As the US population ages, an increasing number of healthcare professionals are needed to take up jobs in hospitals, home care, healthcare facilities, and other places. Yet, there’s a short supply of qualified workers to fill those jobs. Statistics from the American Hospital Association show that more than 80% of hospitals are seriously in need of more healthcare staff, especially in nursing, pharmacy, dentistry, laboratory technology, radiology technology, and maintenance staff.

For example, according to the American Dental Association (ADA), the dentist-to-population ratio in the country is 60.8 to 100,000; although the number of practising dentists per capita is expected to grow steadily.

Also, there are presently 120,000 vacant positions for registered nurses throughout the country, which have seen emergency wards being shut down, an increasing delay in surgeries, and an a rise in the number of patients lacking adequate care.

Nursing is currently the largest profession in the US health sector. The recruitment of registered nurses has been estimated to grow by 16% from 2014 to 2024 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Employment of nurse anesthetists and nurse midwives are expected to grow by 31%.

The American Nurses Association, ANA has predicted that more than 1 million nurses may be needed by the U.S. by 2022 to cover for retiring nurses and provide care to the aged generation. The number of patients getting access to healthcare is outpacing the number of nurse influx in the sector.

Currently, there are roughly 1 million nurses above the age of 50 and in the next 10-15 years, one-third of the present workforce will have hit retirement. By 2024, the number of nurses evaluated to retire will be 700,000.

Though health care cost has been estimated to grow in the coming years, it does not reduce the number of people in need of it. For instance, over the 10 years, the senior population in Maines is expected to grow by 37%.

What all of these imply is that more healthcare professionals are leaving the sector than the number required to replace them, and with the increase in demand for health services, the result of the combination of both circumstances will certainly not be good.

The rise in nomadic healthcare staff

The shortage crisis is becoming a propellant for a looming exodus. Most healthcare staff are getting frustrated with the pile up of work and the lack of extra hands, which could see them leave their jobs for hospitals with stronger staff structure.

Some hospitals are suffering from this in the sense that bigger hospitals are poaching nurses with hefty sign-on bonuses and more tempting incentives.

On the surface, it’s good news that the number of vital healthcare staff that graduated and joined the labour force has more than doubled in recent years. However,  with the current developments, that number isn’t exactly sizing up.

Most hospitals have desperately turned to a makeshift workforce over the years due to a dip in registered key healthcare staff. During the recent shortage crisis, recruiting healthcare professionals and retaining them proved to be a nightmare and as such, nomadic staff were in high demand – touted as a 20-year high in 2015

For instance, travel nurses tend to be used by hospitals to fill the gap created by the absence of resident nurses, expansion of hospital wards, a large influx of patients or in cases of strikes and union boycotts.

They are qualified nurses that prefer the free and flexible work life. While some merely enjoy the prospect of broadening their experiences by working in several facilities, others give in to the pinches of wanderlust. Some travel nurses are those that have retired from traditional nursing and wish to still be in the profession, while others just get sick of hospital politics.

A regular travel nurse is employed by a staffing agency or a similar health care provider and normally commits to a 13 week contract, a duration which can be lessened, stretched or renewed at the demand of the institution engaging their services.

Generally, recruiting nomadic healthcare professionals removes the obligation to pay for staff entitlements such as pension, allowances, paid time off and the likes.

More so, specialized healthcare roles could be filled from the ambulatory workforce. Some positions over time have been branded hard-to-fill or difficult-to-fill, and nomadic healthcare staff are the answer to the issue. These specialists help to stop the coverage gap when turnover of patients are high in special-need departments.

Whenever a job duration has been completed, the nomadic healthcare professional naturally looks for job in another institution, and the cycle continues.

In the near future, with the current situation hovering around, the trend is expecting an impending boom.

And it could mean other things: The rise for their demand could also see an increment in payment and extra demands for bonuses and work flexibility.

But not just for the itinerant healthcare staff. The regular professionals could also enjoy a decent pay rise. If their hospitals are unwilling to do so, they have the option to jump ship and embrace other opportunities.

According to Cecil Luong of Tigersmile Dentistry, “The trend is emerging as an industry and is also looking to become more powerful and change the face of recruitment. Nomadic healthcare professionals will get the best of both worlds since they are looking at a future where they can dictate the terms of their employment and workload.”

Finally


While the debate goes on among policy makers regarding long-term solutions, the gap in the availability of nomadic key healthcare staff is widening. Hospitals have no better alternatives than to recruit readily available qualified workers, even if they are the travelling ones.

The need to reduce healthcare staff-to-patient ratio has been there for a long time and this need might send more key specialists on the road.

UK launches inquiry into the safety of vaping

Dana R
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UK launches inquiry into the safety of vaping

With over 3 million active vapers, vaping is more popular in the UK than anywhere else. MPs recently launched an inquiry amidst worry that people are becoming addicted to vaping and re-normalizing smoking.

The goal of the Science and Technology committee is to understand the benefits and risk of e-cigs and the suitability of current regulations for vaping devices. According to the chair of the committee, MP Norman Lamb, “There are significant gaps in research guiding sale and regulation.”

The inquiry is to determine if vaping is a valuable tool that reduces the number of conventional smoking or a new form of smoking. The MPs also want to know the implications vaping could have on public finance and NHS costs.

More than half of British vapers have quit smoking

A recent study by Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) shows that vaping has helped more than half the population of vapers to quit smoking. It was encouraging news for the vaping industry which objective is to help reduce the exposure of smokers to cancer-causing substances.

The survey reveals that the public overestimated the dangers to vaping as only 13% of the respondents think that vaping was less harmful than smoking. However, there are still nine million active smokers in the UK and most have not tried an e-cig. ASH chief executive Deborah Arnott advised that smokers understand that vaping is less harmful than smoking.

Another report by the British Medical Journal suggests that vapers are more likely to quit smoking successfully. A report that surveyed 161,054 people in the US over a 15-year period found a higher cessation rate among vapers with 65% who tried to quit.

The study reflects the situation in the UK where smoking rates have dropped dramatically especially among young adults. It was recommended by Public Health England as one of the best tools to help smokers struggling to quit.

While explaining that vaping is a safer and cleaner alternative, Jason of BeautySchoolsDirectory said that: “most cigarette smokers often don’t  quickly realise  that the habit ruins looks too, besides also being bad for the lungs, heart, brain and even sex life.”

According to medical science, smokers are four times more likely as nonsmokers to have bags under the eye. Smoking cigarettes can also cause or increase the risk of other skin problems such as psoriasis, icky teeth, tooth loss, yellow fingers, scarring, thinner hair, premature aging and wrinkles, skin cancer, warts, stretch marks and loss of natural glow.

 

Study suggests vaping rates among UK youths are low

One of the major worries of the parliamentary committee is the vaping habit among young people in the UK.  A recent study that collected data from five surveys shows that e-cigs among youths who have never smoked are noticeably lower.

A lead author of the study, Linda Bauld stated that the rumours about e-cigs re-normalizing smoking are not true. The analysis of the study included the entire UK with thousands of young respondents and clear conclusion that experimentation with e-cig has not led to regular use.

Prof John Britton from the University of Nottingham thinks the inquiry provides the perfect opportunity to clear all misconceptions about e-cigs. He believes e-cigs have revamped smoking patterns and provided public health benefits for ex-smokers.

In August, Public Health England released a report that vaping was 95% less harmful than cigarettes and urged people to start vaping. The report was accepted by ASH, British Medical Association, Royal College of Physicians of London and other reputable bodies.

Concerns about vaping in the UK

The parliaments concerns are not completely unfounded as recent study by researchers at the University of Stirling found that young people experimenting with vaping are more likely to start smoking cigarettes.

While this was the first in the UK, other studies in the US had similar results. The study used a large representation of respondents from vapers and smokers alike, yet, it has some weakness. It relied on self-reporting survey known to produce questionable results.

Big tobacco companies such as Imperial Brands PLC and British American Tobacco are spending billions of dollars on research and cigarette alternatives as the market for traditional cigarettes dwindles in developed counties.

Prior to the inquiry, the UK had a lenient approach to vaping, which helped the industry grow to £1.1 billion and BAT forecasting sales of their vapor products to double to $1.3 billion or more in 2018.

In May, new legislation was introduced to limit the sale of e-cigs and related products. It came with stricter testing to ensure ingredients are thoroughly investigated. Certain additives are banned due to concern over their effectiveness and fear that it encourages non-smokers to take up the habit.

Reactions to the vaping inquiry

Neeraj Bhardwaj, CEO of LotoLabs says that E-cigs have achieved more success in helping people quit without alleviating the risk of addiction by using fast, clean vaporizers.

Arnott, ASH chief executive welcomed the inquiry and said ASH would submit evidence in response. E-cig industry is a fast-moving market and policies should be founded on best evidence available. She also posits that e-cigs are not the only solution to cigarette smoking with other methods like tobacco regulations and taxation working well in the past.

What should vapers do about the inquiry?

Vaping enthusiast and active vapers in the UK hope that advocacy groups like IBVTA and New Nicotine Alliance will submit sound evidence that influences the decision making of the committee. Meanwhile, vapers who have MPs in the committee can contact them, share their personal stories and the effect vaping had on their smoking habits.

UN Imposes New Sanctions on North Korea over Ballistic Missile Tests

Roy Siemens
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UN Imposes New Sanctions on North Korea over Ballistic Missile Tests

The UN Security Council has imposed tough new sanctions on North Korea in response to ballistic missile tests.

President Donald Trump praised the decision in a tweet: “The United Nations Security Council just voted 15-0 in favor of additional Sanctions on North Korea. The World wants Peace, not Death!”

The US-drafted resolution includes measures to cut North Korea’s petrol imports by up to 90%.

China and Russia, North Korea’s main trading partners, voted in favor of the resolution.

North Korea is already subject to a raft of sanctions from the US, the UN and the EU.

Nikki Haley, the US ambassador to the UN, said the sanctions sent an “unambiguous message to Pyongyang that further defiance will invite further punishments and isolation”.

She described North Korea as “the most tragic example of evil in the modern world”.

Photo AP

US Urges World to Cut Diplomatic and Trade Ties with North Korea

US Declares North Korea A State Sponsor of Terrorism

The Chinese foreign ministry described the situation on the peninsula as “complex and sensitive” and called on all sides to “exercise restraint and make active efforts to ease tensions”.

The US said it was seeking a diplomatic solution to the issue and drafted this new set of sanctions, including: deliveries of petrol products will be capped at 500,000 barrels a year, and crude oil at four million barrels a year; all North Korean nationals working abroad will have to return home within 24 months under the proposals, restricting a vital source of foreign currency. There will also be a ban on exports of North Korean goods, such as machinery and electrical equipment.

Tensions have risen this year over North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs, which it has pursued despite pressure from world powers.

The UN sanctions came in response to North Korea’s November 28 firing of a ballistic missile, which the US said was its highest yet.

President Trump has previously threatened to “totally destroy” North Korea if it launches a nuclear attack. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has described President Trump as “mentally deranged”.

Jerusalem Issue: Mahmoud Abbas to Reject Any US Peace Plan with Israel

Roy Siemens
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Jerusalem Issue: Mahmoud Abbas to Reject Any US Peace Plan with Israel

Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas has announced he will not accept any US plan for peace with Israel, after it recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.

President Abbas’ comments came after a UN General Assembly vote effectively repudiated President Donald Trump’s controversial declaration.

The US has for the past few months been drafting a new peace plan, though it has not divulged any details.

Meanwhile, two Palestinians were killed in clashes with Israeli troops amid fresh protests over Jerusalem’s status.

The men, both in their 20s, were shot dead in the east of the Gaza Strip, according to the Palestinian health ministry. Israel said it was investigating.

There have been violent confrontations on the border between Israel and Gaza, as well as across the occupied West Bank, for the past three Fridays.

Palestinians clashed with troops in places including Bethlehem as the city, the traditional birthplace of Jesus, prepared for Christmas.

Image source Wikimedia

Jerusalem Issue: UN Resolution Rejects Donald Trump’s Declaration

Jerusalem Issue: Donald Trump Threatens to Cut Financial Aid to UN Resolution Supporters

Mahmoud Abbas reiterated that he no longer accepted the US as a mediator in the peace process with Israel. He also rebuffed a new US framework for peace being developed by President Trump’s Middle East envoy, Jared Kushner, before it has been launched.

The Palestinian leader told a news conference in Paris: “The United States has proven to be a dishonest mediator in the peace process and we will no longer accept any plan from the United States.”

While the details of the US plan are not known, it has been devised for months and there has been an expectation it will be publicly launched in early 2018.

The last round of US-brokered peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians collapsed amid acrimony in April 2014.

Mahmoud Abbas has been emboldened by the outcome of the vote at the UN, which rejected any changes to the status of Jerusalem.

Yesterday’s vote came three days after the US used its power of veto to block a similar resolution at the world body’s smaller, but more powerful, Security Council.

The US had warned countries not to support the latest resolution, threatening to cut off financial aid anyone who backed it.

However, the UN resolution still passed with a decisive majority, as most nations, including the US’ allies, voted in its favor.

Main Reasons Why to Consider Business Funding in Texas

Dana R
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Main Reasons Why to Consider Business Funding in Texas

Generally speaking, small business loans are designed to sustain the activities of small and medium companies or to come to their rescue in difficult moments. Experts recommend that you apply for business funding only when the context requires such a financial movement. From renovating to upgrading your equipment, from hiring more help to improving your advertising campaigns, the money can be used for boosting up the number of your business. Unfortunately, due to today’s economic situation, a small cash advance can sometimes be the right solution to solve any problem that appears on the way. On the other side, applying is simple: all you have to do is access the funding calculator and then receive a personalized offer. The truth is that when you need help, you are granted help, who said is complicated to obtain financing for your business in Texas?

When it comes to boosting the numbers of your business, the simplest solution is to consider the possibility of applying for small business loans. For example, if you have a monthly credit card flow of $10,000 then you can easily obtain $500,000 in a short period and without too many papers. So, why should you consider applying for packages of business financing? Well, the answers can be varied, but they all conclude to the same purpose: to improve the activity of your business!

Let’s take some examples to understand why and when you need business financing. Which are the circumstances that request such an intervention? As specialists point out, even the simplest reasons can be a good excuse,’ so to say, to learn more about convenient small business loans. For example, these loans can be used for renovating or expanding the working space or changing and upgrading the current equipment and technologies. This can bring you more clients and improve consolidate your position in the market.

On the other hand, small business loans in Texas can be used for redesigning advertising and marketing campaigns. You can schedule a special event, print some flyers or design particular promotional items: with business financing all this can become true before you know it. Not to mention that you also invest in modern marketing strategies such as blogging, mobile marketing and so on: it’s a world to be discovered!

Also, many entrepreneurs in Texas decide to use small business loans for all sorts of emergency funding. Whether you need it for current payrolls left back because of a debt of a client or to cover unexpected expenses, this money has multiple uses. To know exactly just how much you can request, all you have to do is enter your data and the monthly gross of your business. You may be required to ask also the location, the years of experience or whether you accept or not credit cards.

The procedures don’t take too much and are quite easy to handle. So, don’t waste any more time: apply today for a special loan and step forward to a life of success and fulfillment.

Artificial Intelligence vs. Machine Learning vs. Deep Learning

Dana R
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Artificial Intelligence vs. Machine Learning vs. Deep Learning

Artificial intelligence, machine learning and deep learning are three terms you’re going to hear a lot in the coming years. The artificial intelligence market is gaining ground at an explosive annual compound growth rate of 57.2 percent and will be worth $35.87 billion by 2025. Meanwhile, the $1.41 billion machine learning market is growing at an impressive CAGR of 44.1 percent and will be worth $8.81 billion by 2022. At the same time, the deep learning market is increasing at a CAGR of 65.3 percent and will be worth $1.7229 billion by 2022.

As these high CAGR rates indicate, all three of these markets are growing simultaneously, a reflection of their close relationship. But at the same time, the differing values for the size of these markets illustrate that they are not interchangeable, with AI representing the largest and most general of the three categories and deep learning representing the smallest and most specialized. Here’s a closer look at what these three technologies are, how they relate to each other and how they differ.

ai

Artificial Intelligence: Automating Routine Tasks

Artificial intelligence is the broadest of the three terms, including machine learning and deep learning as subsets. AI is a branch of computer science that uses computers to copy and automate human cognitive tasks such as logical deduction, mathematical computation, language processing and sensory perception.

An ultimate goal of artificial intelligence research is general AI, which envisions an artificial brain that could replicate all human cognitive functions, like androids in movies. But most AI research focuses on specific applications of AI. A familiar example of AI is intelligent personal assistants such as Apple’s Siri or Amazon’s Alexa. Other examples include computers that play chess, spam filters and self-driving cars and drones.

Machine Learning: Making AI Flexible

Machine learning is a specialized application of artificial intelligence that enables computer programs to behave more flexibly than traditional AI. Traditional AI instructs programs to run set routines following predetermined rules that yield predictable outcomes. In contrast, machine learning uses probability to analyze patterns in data, testing a range of mathematical models that fit the same set of data until settling on a pattern than represents a best approximation. By “learning” from data in this way, machine learning can yield a more flexible range of outcomes than traditional AI.

Machine learning is typically used to analyze trends in data, make future predictions based on those trends, or suggest decisions based on how probable trends match up against a desired outcome. Qualcomm’s Artificial Intelligence platform uses machine learning for applications such as comparing scans of your fingerprints or face with those of a user trying to access your mobile device in order to verify that it’s really you. It also can interpret the audio in your surrounding area to detect and eliminate background noise and predict voice patterns.

Another common application of machine learning is when Netflix makes movie recommendations based on your previous viewing. Machine learning can also be used to adjust website options to user preferences, prevent credit card fraud or teach robots how to navigate.

Deep Learning: Using Data to Discover Patterns

Deep learning is an even more specialized application of AI and machine learning that uses artificial neural networks to find patterns in big data. Modeled on the way the human nervous system accepts and processes sensory input, neural networks process digital input through a series of layers before generating output. In each layer, a digital signal is assigned a logical or mathematical value that measures how closely the input corresponds to a desired outcome, such as how closely an image matches a target image. Each layer transforms the initial signal and passes it on for further assessment by another layer until a final output is generated. This multiple layering provides the “deep” aspect of deep learning.

Deep learning is extremely useful for pattern matching. A pioneering application of deep learning was Google teaching a neural network to identify images of cats by browsing YouTube videos. Other deep learning applications include computer vision, speech recognition and natural language processing.

Artificial intelligence, machine learning and deep learning are closely related but distinct technologies. AI, the most general of the three, automates routine tasks, while machine learning opens up more flexible probability-based analysis, predictive modeling and decision-making; and deep learning applies artificial neural networks to machine learning in order to train computers to find patterns in data. All three technologies are poised for explosive growth over the next five years, and they will become increasingly common in the home, at work and where we shop.

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