Home Blog Page 286

Israeli Griffon Vulture Cleared of Spying in Lebanon

Roy Siemens
-
0
Israeli Griffon Vulture Cleared of Spying in Lebanon

The Israeli vulture detained in Lebanon on suspicion of spying for Israel has been returned home after UN peacekeepers intervened.

The huge vulture, which has a 6ft 5in wing span, flew over the border from an Israeli game reserve and was caught by Lebanese villagers on January 26.

They became suspicious as the griffon vulture had a tracking device attached to its tail.

The bird is part of a conservation project to reintroduce raptors to the Middle East.

Wildlife officials say the vulture was brought from Spain in 2015 and set free about a month ago in the Gamla Nature Reserve in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.

Tel Aviv University is involved in tracking the bird, and as well as a GPS transmitter, it had tags on its wings and an engraved metal ring on its leg saying: “Tel Aviv Univ Israel”.Israel griffon vulture detained in Lebanon

Wildlife officials in Israel were alerted to its capture when photos of the tied-up bird appeared on social media.

“In a discreet operation with the Lebanese and with the great help of UN forces and the UN liaison unit, the Israel Nature and Parks Authority was able to return the vulture that was caught a few days ago by villagers of Bint Jbeil, Lebanon,” an Israeli statement released on January 29 said.

The Lebanese media says the villagers freed the vulture after it became clear it was not on a spying mission.

After its ordeal the vulture was weak and was being treated for minor injuries, officials said.

However, it is not the first time a griffon vulture has been taken to be an agent of the Israeli spy agency Mossad.

Saudi Arabia captured one, also with a Tel Aviv University tracker, in the desert city of Hyaal in 2011, sparking rumors of a “Zionist plot” that were dismissed by Israeli officials.

Hillary Clinton Email Scandal: 22 Messages Contain Top Secret Information

Diane A. Wade
-
0
Hillary Clinton Email Scandal: 22 Messages Contain Top Secret Information

According to the State Department, 22 emails sent through Hillary Clinton’s unsecured home server while she was secretary of state contained government secrets.

The messages were “top secret” and could not be released, the State Department adds.

Spokesman John Kirby said the emails were not marked classified at the time they were sent.

Hillary Clinton’s use of a personal email as secretary of state has dogged her bid for the US presidency.

The former first lady, who is seeking the Democratic nomination for the 2016 election, has been under fire for using a private computer server for work emails while in office.

On Hillary Clinton’s request, thousands of those emails have been released by the State Department, but this is the first time her messages have been labeled classified at any level.Hillary Clinton email scandal 2016

Her campaign reacted angrily to the announcement, demanding that the emails be released in full.

“This appears to be over-classification run amok,” it said in statement.

It comes three days before Hillary Clinton competes in the Iowa presidential caucuses – the first time the public will cast their votes in the run-up to November’s election.

Messages were marked “top secret” because they would cause “exceptionally grave” damage to national security if disclosed, the State Department said.

Intelligence officials told the Associated Press that the 37 pages being withheld concerned so-called “special access programs” – clandestine projects such as drone strikes or government eavesdropping.

It was unclear whether Hillary Clinton sent “top secret” messages or only received the information.

Previously, sensitive information has been redacted from the published messages, but John Kirby said the “top secret” emails would not be released, even in part.

Hillary Clinton’s opponents have accused her of putting US security at risk by using an unsecured computer system.

She has admitted that her decision to use a private email server at her New York home was a mistake.

The State Department released another batch of Hilalry Clinton’s emails on January 29.

The department has yet to release about 7,000 pages of emails from Hillary Clinton’s private server.

Officials in the State Department have asked for additional time to vet the messages because of the recent snowstorm that hit Washington.

They have asked to release the final batch messages on February 29, which is after the Iowa caucuses and the New Hampshire primary.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Jr7J_IOnj8

1MDB Scandal: $4 Billion Stolen from Malaysian State-Owned Fund

Diane A. Wade
-
0
1MDB Scandal: $4 Billion Stolen from Malaysian State-Owned Fund

According to a Swiss prosecutor, about $4 billion may have been stolen from the Malaysian state-owned fund 1MDB.

The 1MDB fund was set up in 2009 to pay for major new economic and social developments in the country.

In 2015, Swiss authorities opened an investigation into 1MDB after it amassed more than $11 billion of debt.

Switzerland’s attorney general said on January 29 there were “serious indications that funds have been misappropriated from Malaysian state companies”.

Some of the money, the office of Michael Lauber said, had been transferred to Swiss accounts held by Malaysian former public officials and current and former public officials from the United Arab Emirates.

“To date, however, the Malaysian companies concerned have made no comment on the losses they are believed to have incurred,” the attorney general’s statement said.1MDB scandal Malaysia 2016

Michael Lauber called on Malaysian authorities to give full judicial assistance to their Swiss counterparts.

A Swiss investigation into 1MDB was opened last year, citing “suspected corruption of public foreign officials, dishonest management of public interests and money laundering”.

In a statement on January 30, 1MDB said it “remains committed to fully co-operating with any lawful authority and investigation”, but had not yet heard from any foreign legal authorities.

Regulators in the US and Hong Kong are also reported to be investigating 1MDB.

The 1MDB’s advisory board is chaired by Malaysian PM Najib Razak, who launched the fund soon after taking office in 2009.

In July 2015, Malaysia’s then-Attorney General Abdul Gani Patail linked a donation of $681 million made to Najib Razak’s account with companies and bodies which had ties to 1MDB.

Abdul Gani Patail was replaced, and, after an investigation, his successor last week cleared Najib Razak of corruption saying that the money was a personal donation by the Saudi royal family to the prime minister’s private bank account.

“I am satisfied that there is no evidence to show that the donation was a form of gratification given corruptly,” said Attorney-General Mohamed Apandi Ali.

Most of the money was later returned, he said.

Malaysia’s anti-corruption commission said it would seek a review of the attorney-general’s decision.

David Bowie Will: Iman and Kids Share $100 Million Estate

Sonia Pantiss
-
0
David Bowie Will: Iman and Kids Share $100 Million Estate

David Bowie’s $100 million estate will go to his widow, Iman, and his kids, according to the singer’s will which has been filed in New York.

Iman was left $50 million along with the home they shared in New York. The rest is shared between David Bowie’s son and daughter.

It was also revealed that David Bowie had requested that his ashes be scattered in Bali in a Buddhist ritual.

David Bowie died of cancer on January 10 at the age of 69.

The singer’s will was filed in a Manhattan court on January 29 under David Bowie’s legal name, David Robert Jones.David Bowie will

The star’s personal assistant, Corinne Schwab, was left $2 million and another $1 million went to a former nanny, Marion Skene.

David Bowie’s son, Duncan Jones, and daughter, Alexandria Zahra Jones, both received 25% of the estate. Alexandria was also left a home in upstate New York.

In the will, written in 2004, David Bowie asked that he be cremated in Bali but if that was “not practical”, then his ashes be scattered there anyway “in accordance with the Buddhist rituals”. It is not clear if the scattering has already taken place.

David Bowie’s body was cremated on January 12 in New Jersey, according to a death certificate filed with the will.

At the time it was reported that no family or friends were present at the ceremony, in accordance with the singer’s wishes.

Princess Cristina of Spain Loses Appeal in Tax Evasion

Diane A. Wade
-
0
Princess Cristina of Spain Loses Appeal in Tax Evasion

Princess Cristina of Spain has lost an appeal to have the two charges she faces of tax evasion dropped.

A court in Palma ruled that Princess Cristina must stand trial in a case involving her husband’s business dealings.

If found guilty, the sister of King Felipe could face a maximum of eight years in jail.

Princess Cristina has denied knowledge of the alleged embezzlement scam that also involves her husband, Inaki Urdangarin, and 16 other defendants. They all deny the charges.

The case was launched in 2010 and has become highly symbolic of perceived corruption among Spain’s elites, including the royal family.

In 2015, King Felipe stripped his sister and Inaki Urdangarin of their titles, the Duke and Duchess of Palma de Mallorca.

Princess Cristina now lives in Switzerland, but remains the sixth in line to the Spanish throne and is the first member of the royal family to go on trial.

The princess’s lawyers argued that as public prosecutors had refused to press charges against her, the counts should be dismissed.

The three judges agreed to continue with the prosecution using the evidence filed by the anti-corruption group, Manos Limpias, meaning “Clean Hands”.Princess Cristina tax evasion

The charges relate to the real estate company Aizoon that she owned with her husband, a former Olympic handball medalist.

Princess Cristina is accused of making personal use of Aizoon funds for paying for clothes and dance lessons for the couple’s children as well as work on the couple’s Barcelona mansion, which reduced the company’s taxable profits.

Inaki Urdangarin is alleged to have used the non-profit Noos Institute sports foundation he ran as a vehicle to win falsely inflated contracts from regional government bodies, before channeling the money to personal accounts via tax havens.

Noos is alleged to have received more than €6 million ($6.5 million) of public money, most of it from the Balearic Islands and Valencia regional governments.

If found guilty, Inaki Urdangarin could face 19 years and six months in jail.

Hearings into the case will resume next month in Palma.

US Economy Slows in Q4 2015

Clyde K. Valle
-
0
US Economy Slows in Q4 2015

The US economy slowed sharply in Q4 of 2015, growing with an annualized rate of 0.7% comparing with the same quarter a year ago, official figures show.

The rate of growth marks a sharp slowdown from the 2% growth recorded in Q3 of 2015.

According to the Department of Commerce, one reason for the slower growth was a slowdown in consumer spending.

Export growth was also slower as the strong dollar made US goods more expensive outside the country.US economic growth Q4 2015

Energy sector investment continued to plummet, with spending on mining exploration, wells and shafts down 38.7%, a slightly less dramatic fall than the 47% drop seen in Q3.

Overall, investment in the sector was down 35% in 2015, the largest drop since 1986.

Unseasonably mild weather held back some consumer spending, with another brake on growth from manufacturers who needed to run down surplus stock rather than make new goods.

Both factors are seen as temporary.

Overall, the US economy grew by 2.4% in 2015, and is expected to pick up steam to give a similar growth figure this year.

On January 27, the Federal Reserve said that growth had “slowed late last year” but that employment had picked up.

At the end of 2015, the Fed was sufficiently confident in the strength of the US economy to raise rates for the first time since 2006.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PvhyhW36ybU

Getting The Most From Your Trip To Europe

Dana R
-
0
Getting The Most From Your Trip To Europe

Antiquarium

The Munich Residenz (Wikimedia)

Travelling to Europe, wherever you go, is quite the experience. The rich history, varied multiculturalism and cuisine all make for a trip that you won’t easily forget. Like any vacation, you’re probably wondering how you can make the most of the time. There are a lot of answers I could offer here, but there are a few big things you should keep in mind for Europe. Here’s how to get the most from your trip.

First of all, look for ways to save money. As fascinating as Europe is, many of its more populated areas aren’t exactly cheap. If you’re planning on using a phone out there, then get a European SIM card. Getting a data plan for your SIM will allow you to get up maps and book excursions much easier. It will also ensure you don’t spend a fortune through your American plan. Keep an eye on the exchange rate too. Euros, pounds and Scandinavian crowns fluctuate in value pretty often. If there’s a big change before your trip, seize the opportunity. Take your time looking for hotels, too. Hotels in European cities can be horribly expensive. Check out Hotwire hotels for some pretty good deals.

If you want to hit several European locations, then travel by train or bus as opposed to flying. Although this takes a little longer, Europe has some truly stunning countryside. Europe is a big continent, and those long trips will allow you to meet some interesting characters. Hopefully there won’t be too much of a language barrier there! Travelling by train or bus is also significantly cheaper than by air, and if you book in advance you can save an absolutely incredible sum! By using train routes, you’ll also be dropped off in the centre of your final destination. This will help you avoid all the hassle of an airport, and make orientation easier once you arrive.

Finally, research the things you want to see. Having a plan that’s far too rigid can ruin the feeling of a trip. However, Europe is one of those areas where there’s things that you simply can’t miss out on. Sit down with your travelling buddy, and make a list of all the specific places you want to check out. This will help you keep the pace, and avoid any nagging regrets when you’re back on the other side of the Atlantic. If your trip is going to span the continent, you should pack light as well. Bring money rather than things. If you have timetables you need to stick to, you don’t want to be scrambling to pack everything up and risk losing something important. Keep some empty space in your cases, and you’ll have more room to fit souvenirs!

I hope these tips will help you make the most of your trip around this incredible continent. Although preparation is important for any kind of trip, don’t let it dull down your experience. Every country in Europe is full of exciting things to discover. Play things by ear every now and then. You won’t regret it!

Geometry Used by Babylonians 1,400 Years Before Greeks

James J. Williams
-
0
Geometry Used by Babylonians 1,400 Years Before Greeks

A recent study suggests that geometry was being used by the Ancient Babylonians at least 1,400 years earlier than previously thought.

The new study, published in Science, shows that the Ancient Babylonians were using geometrical calculations to track Jupiter across the night sky.

Previously, the origins of this technique had been traced to the 14th Century.

The study’s author, Prof. Mathieu Ossendrijver, from the Humboldt University of Berlin, Germany, said: “I wasn’t expecting this. It is completely fundamental to physics, and all branches of science use this method.”

The Ancient Babylonians once lived in what is now Iraq and Syria. The civilization emerged in about 1,800 BC.Geometry ancient Babylonians

Clay tablets engraved with their Cuneiform writing system have already shown these people were advanced in astronomy.

However, this latest research shows they were also way ahead when it came to maths.

It had been thought that complex geometry was first used by scholars in Oxford and Paris in Medieval times.

They used curves to trace the position and velocity of moving objects.

Now scientists believe the Babylonians developed this technique around 350 BC.

Prof. Mathieu Ossendrijver examined five Babylonian tablets that were excavated in the 19th Century, and which are now held in the British Museum’s archives.

The script reveals that they were using four-sided shapes, called trapezoids, to calculate when Jupiter would appear in the night sky, and also the speed and distance that it travelled.

Prof. Mathieu Ossendrijver said that there was evidence that the Greeks used a “more straightforward” form geometry, which dealt with the spatial relationships between the Earth and the planets rather than the concepts of time and velocity.

Apple Recalls Millions of AC Power Plugs over Safety Concerns

Nancy Clayson
-
0
Apple Recalls Millions of AC Power Plugs over Safety Concerns

Apple is voluntary recalling millions of its two-prong AC wall plugs after incidents of them breaking and causing electric shocks.

The tech giant said it knew of 12 such incidents and asked customers to stop using them.

The plugs came with Macs and other iOS devices sold in Continental Europe and five other countries around the world between 2003 and 2015 and were included in the Apple World Travel Adapter kit.

Apple said customer safety was its “top priority”.Apple charger recall 2016

The recall relates to plugs for: Continental Europe, Argentina, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea.

It does not affect plugs for: US, Canada, UK, Japan, China.

Affected users can exchange their plug at their local Apple store or request a replacement via the website.

In 2015, Apple urged owners of one of its Beats loudspeaker systems to stop using the kit because it posed a fire risk.

In 2014, Apple offered a free exchange for one model of USB iPhone chargers sold in Europe between 2009 and 2012, after a few cases of overheating.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qJk1GyeTOXU

Bank of Japan Introduces Negative Interest Rate for First Time

Clyde K. Valle
-
0
Bank of Japan Introduces Negative Interest Rate for First Time

The Bank of Japan (BoJ) has adopted a negative interest rate in a surprise move.

The benchmark rate of (-0.1%) means that commercial banks will be charged by the central bank for some deposits.

The BoJ hopes this will be a disincentive to banks to save and prompt them to lend in another attempt to counter the continuing economic slump in the world’s third-largest economy.

The eurozone also has negative interest rates, but this is a first for Japan.

It is a move that has been on the cards for Japan’s stagnating economy for well over 10 years.

The decision to go negative came after a narrow 5-4 vote at the Bank of Japan’s first meeting of the year on January 29.Bank of Japan negative interest rate

“The BoJ will cut interest rates further into negative territory if judged as necessary,” the Bank of Japan said, adding it would continue as long as needed to achieve an inflation target of 2%.

Some analysts have cast doubt over how effective the rate cut will be.

In a press conference, the BoJ’s governor Haruhiko Kuroda said the weakening growth rate of the global economy was the main factor behind the move: “Japan’s economy continues to recover moderately and the underlying price trend is improving steadily… further falls in oil prices, uncertainty over emerging economies, including China, and global market instability could hurt business confidence and delay the eradication of people’s deflationary mindset.”

Earlier in the day, fresh economic data had again highlighted concerns over economic growth. The December core inflation rate was shown to be at 0.1% – far below the central bank’s target.

Asian shares jumped and the yen fell across the board in reaction to the announcement. Japanese banks though saw their shares drop on the news as lenders are likely to see their margins squeezed even more.

The decision comes in addition to the BoJ’s massive asset-buying program, which over the past years has failed to boost growth.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T1HWpFa_u9o

GOP Debate 2016: Rivals Mock Donald Trump over No-Show

Diane A. Wade
-
0
GOP Debate 2016: Rivals Mock Donald Trump over No-Show

Donald Trump’s absence the final Republican debate before the Iowa caucuses was mocked by his rivals, who tried to fill the space vacated by the frontrunner’s boycott by attacking each other on immigration and other issues.

The New York billionaire decided to withdraw after Fox News refused to drop debate host Megyn Kelly, whom he accused of bias.

Donald Trump held a rally nearby – in honor of war veterans – that threatened to overshadow the debate itself.

On February 1, voters in Iowa are due to pick their presidential nominee for each party.

Days ahead of that critical test, Donald Trump’s absence on the stage in Des Moines was keenly felt by his seven rivals in the race to be Republican presidential nominee.

Texas Senator Ted Cruz addressed it with humor in the opening minutes by throwing mock insults at his rivals.

“I’m a maniac and everyone on this stage is stupid, fat and ugly, and Ben [Carson], you’re a terrible surgeon,” he said.

Former Florida Governor Jeb Bush also poked fun at Donald Trump – his chief tormenter in previous debates – by saying how much he missed him.Fox News debate January 2016

Elsewhere in Des Moines at the same time, Donald Trump led a raucous rally in honor of the country’s war veterans.

“When you’re treated badly, you have to stick up for your rights,” he said, referring to his row with Fox.

Fox News released a statement saying that Donald Trump offered to appear at the debate if the broadcaster contributed $5 million to his charities, but they refused.

Data released by Google after the debate suggested that search interest in Donald Trump still far surpassed the other candidates.

Many observers on social media thought the event was duller without Donald Trump.

Some of the night’s most heated moments were provided during exchanges about immigration.

Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio were both forced to explain video clips of previous statements that appeared to be at odds with their hard-line campaign pledges.

They then turned on each other, with Marco Rubio saying immigration was “the lie that Ted’s campaign is built upon”.

An Iraq war veteran who came to the US from Mexico as a child appeared via YouTube to tell the candidates that “some of the comments in this campaign make us question our place in this country”.

Jeb Bush applauded Dulce Candy and said “we should be a welcoming nation”.

The Iowa caucuses on February 1 are seen as the first real test of the election campaign, and the beginning of a series of state-by-state contests to choose delegates for both Republicans and Democrats.

Unlike a primary, which is a traditional election featuring secret ballots on polling day, the caucuses in Iowa are meetings of registered party voters and activists where they discuss the candidates and then vote.

LaVoy Finicum: FBI Releases Video of Oregon Militiaman Shooting

Diane A. Wade
-
0
LaVoy Finicum: FBI Releases Video of Oregon Militiaman Shooting

The FBI has released footage of the shooting of Oregon militiaman Robert “LaVoy” Finicum.

LaVoy Finicum was killed by police on January 26.

The video shows the militiaman reached for a handgun before he was shot.

LaVoy Finicum was a key player in an armed anti-government protest at a wildlife reserve in the state.

The footage released by the FBI shows Robert Finicum’s vehicle careering into a snowbank in an attempt to avoid a roadblock.

It comes to a stop after narrowly missing a police officer and LaVoy Finicum steps out. After briefly raising his hands, he appears to reach for his pocket, where the gun was reportedly later found, and is shot dead.LaVoy Finicum shooting Oregon

The white pickup truck carrying LaVoy Finicum (it is not clear if he was driving) was stopped on Oregon’s Highway 395 on Tuesday afternoon in a joint operation between the FBI and Oregon State Police.

A jeep was also stopped. The two vehicles contained members of an armed militia which earlier this month occupied the Malheur national wildlife refuge in protest over sentences handed to two local ranchers convicted of arson.

Both cars were initially stopped. Ammon Bundy – the leader of the occupation – stepped out of one vehicle along with another protester, Brian Cavalier, and the driver, who has not been named. Ammon Bundy and Brian Cavalier were arrested.

Ryan Payne, another member of the occupation, exited the white pickup but LaVoy Finicum remained inside. About three minutes later, the white pickup sped off, with police in pursuit.

It then crashed into a snow bank in an attempt to clear the roadblock and LaVoy Finicum was shot. Three other occupants of the vehicle exited after police fired a tear gas-like substance inside. They were Ammon Bundy’s brother Ryan, Shawna Cox and another woman who has not been named.

Once they had been held by police, officers gave medical attention to LaVoy Finicum, some 10 minutes after he had been shot. Three more loaded guns were found in the vehicle, the FBI says.

Greg Bretzing, the special agent in charge of the FBI in Oregon, said the agency had decided to release the full, unedited video “in the interest of transparency”.

Four people remain at the wildlife reserve, near the city of Burns, Greg Bretzing said.

Several people have left since Ammon Bundy, speaking through his lawyer on January 27, urged the remaining protesters to stand down.

Greg Bretzing said: “I want to acknowledge the stress and disruption that the occupation of the refuge has caused has to the people of Harney County. We know this is difficult. We know that you want this concluded as soon as possible. We are doing everything we can to bring this to a resolution safely and quickly.”

What Is Zika Virus?

Kathryn R. Bown
-
0
What Is Zika Virus?

The Zika virus is spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which also carries dengue fever and yellow fever.

It was first discovered in Africa in the 1940s but is now spreading in Latin America

Scientists say there is growing evidence of a link to microcephaly that leads to babies being born with small heads.Zika outbreak Americas

The Zika virus can lead to fever and a rash but most people show no symptoms, and there is no known cure.

The only way to fight Zika is to clear stagnant water where mosquitoes breed, and protect against mosquito bites.

Zika was first detected in Uganda in 1947, but has never caused an outbreak on this scale.

Brazil reported the first cases of Zika in South America in May 2015.

Most cases result in no symptoms and it is hard to test for, but WHO officials said between 500,000 and 1.5 million people had been infected in Brazil.

The Zika virus has since spread to more than 20 countries in the region.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QaNBgXYy0ZM

Zika Outbreak: Up to 4 Million People Could Be Infected in Americas in 2016

Kathryn R. Bown
-
0
Zika Outbreak: Up to 4 Million People Could Be Infected in Americas in 2016

Between three and four million people could be infected with Zika virus in the Americas in 2016, the World Health Organization (WHO) predicts.

Most will not develop symptoms, but the Zika virus, spread by mosquitoes, has been linked to brain defects in babies.

Meanwhile the US says it hopes to start vaccine trials in people by the end of the year.

According to WHO director general Dr. Margaret Chan, Zika had gone “from a mild threat to one of alarming proportions”.

Dr. Margaret Chan has set up a Zika “emergency team” after the “explosive” spread of the virus.

The emergency team will meet on February 1 to decide whether Zika should be treated as a global emergency.

The last time an international emergency was declared was for the Ebola outbreak in West Africa, which has killed more than 11,000 people.

Zika was first detected in Uganda in 1947, but has never caused an outbreak on this scale.

Brazil reported the first cases of Zika in South America in May 2015.

Most cases result in no symptoms and it is hard to test for, but WHO officials said between 500,000 and 1.5 million people had been infected in Brazil.

The virus has since spread to more than 20 countries in the region.Zika outbreak Americas

At the same time there has been a steep rise in levels of microcephaly – babies born with abnormally small heads – and the rare nervous system disorder Guillain-Barre syndrome.

The link between the virus and these disorders has not been confirmed, but Dr. Margaret Chan said it was “strongly suspected” and was “deeply alarming”.

She also warned the situation could yet deteriorate as “this year’s El Nino weather patterns are expected to increase mosquito populations greatly in many areas”.

One hospital in Recife, north-east Brazil, had gone from dealing with an average of five cases of microcephaly a year to 300 in the past six months.

Earlier, doctors writing in the Journal of the American Medical Association said Zika had “explosive pandemic potential” and said the WHO’s failure to act swiftly on Ebola probably cost thousands of lives.

In a statement to the executive board meeting of the WHO, Dr. Margaret Chan said: “The level of concern is high, as is the level of uncertainty.

“Questions abound – we need to get some answers quickly.

“For all these reasons, I have decided to convene an Emergency Committee.

“I am asking the Committee for advice on the appropriate level of international concern and for recommended measures that should be undertaken in affected countries and elsewhere.”

Officials from the US National Institute of Health (NIH) said they had two potential Zika vaccines in development.

One that is based on an experimental West Nile vaccine could be repurposed for Zika and enter clinical trials by the end of 2016, Dr. Anthony Fauci from NIH said.

Dr. Anthony Fauci said talks were already taking place with pharmaceutical companies, but a vaccine would not be widely available for several years.

Meanwhile Dr. Anne Schuchat, from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) confirmed there had been 31 cases of Zika in the US – all linked to travel to the affected areas.

At a news conference, White House spokesman Josh Earnest said the US response to the virus so far had been “consistent with the kind of threat that could be out there”.

“At this point, here in the United States, the risk of a disease spread by mosquitoes is quite low, the January temperatures in North America are quite inhospitable to the mosquito populations.”

“But, obviously that’s going to change,” he added.

Dr. Carissa Etienne, the regional-director for the WHO Pan American Health Organization, said the link between the abnormalities and Zika had not been confirmed.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WaM7kfK_iME

Barbie Gets Three New Body Types in 2016

Lisa.Felice
-
0
Barbie Gets Three New Body Types in 2016

Barbie is getting three new body types in 2016.

Mattel, the company behind the iconic plastic toy doll model, is adding “tall, curvy and petite” body shapes to its line-up of the fashion dolls.

Several skin tones, eye colors and hair styles will also be added to the collection, Mattel said.

Barbie’s figure has come under fire for years, with critics arguing it set an unrealistic body image for girls.

With the new body shapes, the toy makers say they are “offering girls choices that are more reflective of the world they see today”.

In 2015, Mattel introduced 23 new dolls to its so-called Fashionistas line with varied skin and hair colors, and a much touted flat foot – replacing Barbie’s signature heels.

Photo Mattel
Photo Mattel

With this year’s update, the Barbie Fashionistas line will feature:

  • 33 new dolls
  • 30 hair colors
  • 24 hairstyles
  • 22 eye colors
  • 14 face shapes
  • 7 skin tones
  • 4 body shapes – original, plus tall, curvy and petite

Mattel executive Evelyn Mazzocco said in a statement: “We are excited to literally be changing the face of the brand – these new dolls represent a line that is more reflective of the world girls see around them – the variety in body type, skin tones and style allows girls to find a doll that speaks to them.”

The new dolls will go on sale in the spring of 2016 worldwide.

However, true to life, Mattel warned that “not all clothes will fit all dolls”.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K566TSSS2Po

Joseph Fiennes to Play Michael Jackson in 9/11 Road-Trip Movie

Sonia Pantiss
-
0
Joseph Fiennes to Play Michael Jackson in 9/11 Road-Trip Movie

Actor Joseph Fiennes says he was “shocked” to be cast as Michael Jackson in a TV show for Sky Arts.

Joseph Fiennes plays Michael Jackson in the comedy about a supposed road trip taken by the singer, Marlon Brando and Elizabeth Taylor after the 9/11 terror attacks.

Some fans have reacted angrily to the casting, but Joseph Fiennes said he thought Michael Jackson was “probably closer to my color than his original color”.

Sky Arts said producers had “creative freedom” in the casting.

Joseph Fiennes said he believed Michael Jackson – who died in 2009 – had a “pigmentation issue” with his skin, so the issue of race should not come into play.

However, the actor told Entertainment Tonight: “I’m a white, middle-class guy from London – I’m as shocked [about the casting] as you might be.

“It’s a light comedy look. It’s not in any way malicious. It’s actually endearing. And the more I actually looked at Michael – it’s great, as an actor, to have so much to copy and look at in interviews – the more I kind of fell in love with him.”Joseph Fiennes to play Michael Jackson

Describing the plot of the 30-minute program – titled Elizabeth, Michael and Marlon – Joseph Fiennes said: “Michael and two of his best buddies, Elizabeth Taylor and Marlon Brando, happened to be in New York the night before 9/11.

“It was a concert Michael was giving, and Brando was introducing him on stage.

“I don’t know if this is an urban legend or if it’s true, but the three of them couldn’t get out because air space was shut down, so the three of them jumped in a car and went on a road trip.”

Stockard Channing, who is best known for her roles in TV drama The West Wing and musical Grease, is playing Elizabeth Taylor in the comedy with Brian Cox starring as Marlon Brando.

There has been a backlash on Twitter to the casting, with some using the hashtag #whitewashing and others claiming they thought the story was actually from satirical magazine The Onion.

CNN entertainment reporter Chris Witherspoon posted a 1993 Michael Jackson interview with Oprah Winfrey, in which he discussed rumors he had wanted a white child to play him in a TV commercial, telling the presenter: “Why would I want a white child to play me? I’m a black American (…) I am proud of my race. I am proud of who I am.”

Angela Bassett, who played Tina Turner in biopic What’s Love Got to Do With It, joked on Twitter she had “ordered violet contacts” and was “ready” to play Elizabeth Taylor after Sleepy Hollow star Orlando Jones suggested she play the actress.

The story about the road trip first came to light in a 2011 Vanity Fair article, which quoted a former employee of Michael Jackson as saying: “They actually got as far as Ohio – all three of them, in a car they drove themselves!”

Marlon Brando was said to have annoyed his friends by wanting to stop at nearly every fast food restaurant they passed on the way.

However, one of Elizabeth Taylor’s assistants dismissed the claims, saying the actress had actually stayed in New York and visited Ground Zero in the days after the attack.

Elizabeth, Michael and Marlon will be broadcast later this year as part of a series on unlikely stories from the history of arts and culture.

Akira Amari: Japan’s Economy Minister Resigns amid Corruption Allegations

Diane A. Wade
-
0
Akira Amari: Japan’s Economy Minister Resigns amid Corruption Allegations

Japan’s Economy Minister Akira Amari has announced he is resigning amid corruption allegations.

Akira Amari unexpectedly made the announcement at a press conference in Tokyo on January 28.

He again denied personally receiving bribes from a construction company, as had been alleged by a Japanese magazine.

The development will be seen as a significant blow for PM Shinzo Abe.

Akira Amari, who has been minister of state for economic and fiscal policy since late 2012, has been widely described as one of Shinzo Abe’s most trusted members of parliament.

As Japan’s lead negotiator for the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) agreement, Akira Amari was expected to travel to New Zealand next week to sign the agreement.

Photo Reuters
Photo Reuters

He was also regarded as the architect of Abenomics – Shinzo Abe’s plan to pull the world’s third largest economy out of deflation.

Akira Amari will be replaced by Nobuteru Ishihara, formerly the country’s environment minister.

A local magazine had reported last week that Akira Amari and his aides were given money and gifts worth some 12 million yen ($101,000) by a construction company in return for some favors linked to land ownership.

Akira Amari said he did receive money which he wanted declared as a political donation, however, he said some of it was mishandled by his staff.

Japan’s economy, which has been struggling with deflation for nearly two decades, avoided a technical recession in Q3 of 2015.

“Japan is finally emerging from deflation,” Akira Amari told the press conference, as reported by Reuters.

“We need to pass legislation through parliament for steps to beat deflation and create a strong economy as soon as possible.

“Anything that hampers this must be eliminated, and I’m no exception,” Reuters reported him as saying.

“I, therefore, would like to resign as minister to take responsibility [for what my aide has done],” he said, according to Reuters.

Akira Amari is the fourth member of Shinzo Abe’s cabinet to resign amid allegations of bribery, among other issues.

Pm Shinzo Abe has apologized for the latest resignation.

Top 3 Best Places To Live In 2016

Dana R
-
0
Top 3 Best Places To Live In 2016

It’s a new year, and many people are considering a fresh start. January sees a high number of people moving to a new country, and a new home. But, where are the best places to live, in 2016? I did some research and found out the top three countries to live in:

Singapore

(Credit: https://goo.gl/zatTDS)

Singapore

As discovered in a recent article on this site, Singapore tops the quality of life index. This means it’s arguably the best place to live in, in the whole world. It’s no secret that the economy is extremely stable, and there are few financial worries. Singapore jobs are also in high demand, because of the excellent economy. Loads of companies are starting to do business there, so more and more jobs are being created. It’s a very modern place to live, with the central city area full of skyscrapers and office buildings. The real estate market is booming in this South East Asia state, and living conditions are very high. Singapore also happens to be a very safe place to live and bring up children. There’s rarely any street violence, and the schools are remarkably good. All in all, it’s a quite phenomenal place to live.

tower-bridge

(Link: https://goo.gl/WC76u4)

United Kingdom

The UK is made up of four different countries; Wales, England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. The standard of living in the UK is very high; it’s amongst the best in Europe. London is the capital city of England and a focus point of the United Kingdom. There’s a very big business scene, with some of the world’s top companies setting up shop in London. All around the UK, you’ll find job opportunities. It’s a great place to move to if you’re looking for work. And, you can add to that the quality of education. There are tonnes of top class universities in the UK, making it a perfect place for keen students. Okay, the weather isn’t great, but I think free healthcare makes up for that, don’t you? With the NHS, UK residents can get a lot of their health care without having to pay a single penny. The United Kingdom is certainly a great place to live, and, you get a pick of four countries, so there’s a lot to explore too.

nature

(pixabay: https://goo.gl/r9Kj59)

Canada

Canada is widely regarded as one of the best countries in the world to live in. This is down to a growing reputation, established over many years. People that live in Canada get to experience one of the best economies in the world. On top of this, they have an incredible healthcare system that sees a high life expectancy rate. Also, it’s seen as one of the safest and nicest places to visit. Many people go on holiday to Canada and never want to leave. For such a big country, it has a staggeringly low murder rate, which is a very good thing. Canadians are stereotypically known for being very apologetic and well mannered. So, you can bet that you’ll be living around friendly, amicable, people. When it comes to life satisfaction, this country has a very high rate. The majority of Canadian residents are more than happy with their life.

EU Refugee Crisis: Sweden May Reject up to 80,000 Asylum Applications

Diane A. Wade
-
0
EU Refugee Crisis: Sweden May Reject up to 80,000 Asylum Applications

Sweden’s Interior Minister Anders Ygeman has said that his country may reject the asylum applications of up to 80,000 refugees and should prepare to deport them.

Anders Ygeman said charter aircraft would be used to deport the refugees but it would take several years.

Some 163,000 refugees applied for asylum in Sweden in 2015, the highest per capita number in Europe.

The numbers have fallen significantly since Sweden imposed tighter border controls in 2016.

Along with Germany, Sweden is a prime destination for refugees and other refugees entering the EU illegally.

Of the approximately 58,800 asylum cases processed in Sweden in 2015, 55% were accepted.

Of those facing expulsion, Anders Ygeman was quoted in Swedish media as saying: “We are talking about 60,000 people but the number could climb to 80,000.”Refugees in Sweden

He later tweeted to say he had not taken a position on how many refugees had grounds for asylum, it being a matter for the authorities and the courts.

Sweden earlier this week became the latest of a number of European nations to see tensions over migrants heightened by violence. A 15-year-old asylum seeker was arrested in Molndal, near Gothenburg, after a 22-year-old asylum centre employee was stabbed to death.

More than one million refugees and migrants travelled to Europe in 2015, most fleeing conflicts in Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan.

The UN says another 46,000 people have arrived in Greece so far this year, with more than 170 killed making the dangerous crossing from Turkey.

In the latest such accident, at least 11 migrants drowned – mostly children – after their boat capsized off the island of Samos, the Greek coast guard says. Several are still missing.

On January 27, a draft European Commission report said Greece “seriously neglected” its obligations to control the external frontier of Europe’s passport-free Schengen zone.

Greek government spokeswoman Olga Gerovasili accused the Commission of “blame games” and said it had failed to act on a program agreed in 2015 to relocate tens of thousands of migrants and refugees stranded in Greece.

Denmark has also faced criticism this week after approving legislation to seize the valuables of refugees in the hope of limiting the influx of migrants.

Zika Virus Has Explosive Pandemic Potential

Kathryn R. Bown
-
0
Zika Virus Has Explosive Pandemic Potential

American specialists have urged the World Health Organization (WHO) to take urgent action over the Zika virus, which they say has “explosive pandemic potential”.

Writing in the Journal of the American Medical Association, the scientists called on the WHO to heed lessons from the Ebola outbreak and convene an emergency committee of disease experts.

They said a vaccine might be ready for testing in two years but it could be a decade before it is publicly available.

Zika, linked to birth defects as microcephaly, has caused panic in Brazil.

Thousands of people have been infected there and it has spread to some 20 countries.

Brazilian President Dilma Roussef has urged Latin America to unite in combating the virus.Zika virus pandemic potential

Dilma Rousseff told a summit in Ecuador that sharing knowledge about the disease was the only way that it would be beaten. A meeting of regional health ministers has been called for next week.

In the JAMA article, Daniel R. Lucey and Lawrence O. Gostin say the WHO’s failure to act early in the recent Ebola crisis probably cost thousands of lives.

They warn that a similar catastrophe could unfold if swift action is not taken over the Zika virus.

“An Emergency Committee should be convened urgently to advise the Director-General about the conditions necessary to declare a Public Health Emergency of International Concern,” Daniel R. Lucey and Lawrence O. Gostin wrote.

They added: “The very process of convening the committee would catalyze international attention, funding, and research.”

White House spokesman Josh Earnest said on January 27 the US government intended to make a more concerted effort to communicate with Americans about the risks associated with the virus.

There is no cure for the Zika virus and the hunt is on for a vaccine, led by scientists at the University of Texas Medical Branch.

The researchers have visited Brazil to carry out research and collect samples and are now analyzing them in a suite of high-security laboratories in Galveston, Texas.

Facebook Reports Doubled Profits in Q4 2015

Nancy Clayson
-
0
Facebook Reports Doubled Profits in Q4 2015

Facebook has reported more than doubled profits in the fourth quarter of 2015.

The social media giant’s net profit for the three months to December rose to $1.56 billion, up from $701 million.

Facebook also said that 80% of its advertising revenue in that period came from mobile advertising, up from 69% a year earlier.

Shares jumped 8.7% in after-hours trading in New York on the better than expected results.

Revenue for the full year jumped 44% to $17.9 billion, with net profit rising about $800 million to $3.7 billion.Facebook profit report Q4 2015

The results mean that Facebook has now beaten analysts’ expectations for ten consecutive quarters.

Rob Sanderson, an analyst at MKM Partners, described the growth as phenomenal.

The number of monthly active users rose 14% to 1.59 billion in the fourth quarter compared with the same period in 2014, with 1.44 billion accessing Facebook on mobile devices – a 21% increase.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg said that 2015 was a “great year for Facebook. Our community continued to grow and our business is thriving”.

Mark Zuckerberg returned to work on January 25 after taking two months of paternity leave following the birth of his baby daughter.

Samsung Reports Lower Profits as Smartphone Sales Fall in Q4 2015

Nancy Clayson
-
0
Samsung Reports Lower Profits as Smartphone Sales Fall in Q4 2015

Samsung profits have been hit by falling sales for its smartphones and semiconductors.

The “difficult business environment and slowing IT demand” sent net profit for Q4 of 2015 down by 40% to 3.2 trillion won ($2.7 billion).

The tech giant warned it would be difficult to maintain profits this year at the same level as 2015.

Samsung revenue for 2015 fell 5.6 trillion won to 200.6 trillion won ($165.5 billion) compared with the previous 12 months.

Strong competition from cheaper Chinese rivals such as Xiaomi and Huawei at the bottom of the market, as well as Apple at the premium end, has dented Samsung’s smartphone sales.Samsung profits Q4 2015

The Galaxy S6, the most recent top-of-the-range handset launched in April 2015, failed to excite consumers and the company has struggled to maintain market share.

Samsung forecast single-digit percentage growth in both smartphone and tablet sales amid “softening demand and intensifying competition”.

“Despite this challenging environment, the company will focus on increasing smartphone shipments and maintaining a double-digit margin through releases of competitive devices,” Samsung said in a statement.

Samsung’s other core business, semiconductors, has also met headwinds following weaker demand for personal computers.

The company makes components for the iPhone, which is itself facing a slowdown in sales.

Apple said on January 26 it expected to report the first year-on-year decline in iPhone sales in the current quarter.

Samsung Electronics shares fell 2% in Seoul.

Fox News Fires Back at Donald Trump over Megyn Kelly Debate Boycott

Diane A. Wade
-
0
Fox News Fires Back at Donald Trump over Megyn Kelly Debate Boycott

Fox News has responded to Donald Trump after his decision to boycott the final Republican debate on January 28.

The network said in a statement that Donald Trump’s decision is “unprecedented” and accused him of “terrorizing” debate host Megyn Kelly.

Donald Trump clashed with Megyn Kelly at a Fox News debate in 2015 and had demanded she be removed from today’s panel.

The billionaire’s decision to pull out has been mocked by his Republican rivals.

The debate is the final one before the first real test of the election campaign, the Iowa caucus on February 1 when voters in the state pick their presidential nominee.Donald Trump and Fox News debate

“Capitulating to politicians’ ultimatums about a debate moderator violates all journalistic standards, as do threats,” the Fox News network said in a statement.

“We’re not sure how Iowans are going to feel about him walking away from them at the last minute, but it should be clear to the American public by now that this is rooted in one thing – Megyn Kelly.”

It added: “We can’t give in to terrorizations toward any of our employees.”

Megyn Kelly accused Donald Trump of misogyny in the first debate in August 2015 and he responded the next day by accusing her of having blood “coming out of everywhere”. He denied he was referring to menstruation.

Donald Trump, who leads the Republican field, quit the debate on January 28 after Fox put out a sarcastic statement that questioned his ability to deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Fox responded by accusing Donald Trump of “viciously attacking” Megyn Kelly, threatening her and spending four days trying to get her removed.

Republican presidential candidate Senator Ted Cruz mocked Donald Trump for his announcement.

Ted Cruz challenged Donald Trump to a one-on-one debate and taunted him on Twitter using the hashtag #DuckingDonald.

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

France’s Justice Minister Christiane Taubira Resigns amid Terror Row

Diane A. Wade
-
0
France’s Justice Minister Christiane Taubira Resigns amid Terror Row

France’s Justice Minister Christiane Taubira has resigned shortly before plans to strip people convicted of terrorism of their citizenship go before parliament.

Christiane Taubira was known to disagree with the controversial proposals.

The citizenship plans were put forward after the November 13 Paris attacks in which 130 people were murdered.

“Sometimes staying on is resisting, sometimes resisting means leaving,” Christiane Taubira tweeted.

Christiane Taubira, one of France’s few senior black politicians, has been replaced by Jean-Jacques Urvoas who is seen as a supporter of the constitutional change and an ally of PM Manuel Valls.

Born in French Guiana, Christiane Taubira, 63, has suffered racist taunts from the far-right during her time as justice minister.Christiane Taubira resignation

Her left-wing leanings have put her increasingly at odds with official policy, especially after the November attacks – when the president announced a much tougher line on terrorism.

A communiqué from the Elysee Palace said that President Francois Hollande had accepted the justice minister’s decision to resign.

“They agreed on the need to bring her role to an end at a time when debate on constitutional revision begins in the National Assembly, today,” the statement read.

Manuel Valls presented the reforms before a committee at the National Assembly on January 27 before they were due to go before parliament next week.

The reforms include the right to declare a state of emergency under the constitution, which would make it easier for the French government to adopt strict powers such as police raids and house arrests.

The government aims to extend the three-month state of emergency imposed after the November attacks when it expires on February 26.

In his communiqué, President Francois Hollande praised Christiane Taubira’s part in pushing through same-gender marriage laws.

Last month the justice minister made plain her distaste of the plan to strip citizens with dual nationality of their French citizenship, arguing it “would not help the fight against terrorism in any way”.

Christiane Taubira said the plan was being dropped only for it be announced the following day by the prime minister with her appearing beside him.

Manuel Valls described the reform as a “strong symbolic act against those who have excluded themselves from the national community”.

The proposals put by Manuel Valls before the National Assembly committee on Wednesday made no mention of dual nationals, apparently in response to criticism that it could lead to two types of nationality and to people being stigmatized.

However, the French government has made clear that no-one should be made stateless as a result of the reform, implying that it could only ever be used against people with dual citizenship.

Colin Vearncombe Dead: Black Dies after Car Crash Aged 53

Sonia Pantiss
-
0
Colin Vearncombe Dead: Black Dies after Car Crash Aged 53

Colin Vearncombe, who performed under the name Black, has died at the age of 53, two weeks after being injured in a car crash.

The singer, whose 1987’s single Wonderful Life was a top 10 hit around the world, suffered head injuries in the crash in Ireland on January 10, and was placed in an induced coma.

Black died on January 26 surrounded by his family in hospital, his publicist said.

His wife Camilla said she was “deeply grateful” to staff who cared for him.Colin Vearncombe dead at 53

Colin Vearncombe, who was in intensive care at Cork University Hospital, “died peacefully” with his family at his side “who were singing him on his way”, a statement said.

“Colin received the best possible care from the expert and highly professional staff there and we are deeply grateful for everything they did,” his wife and three sons said in a statement.

Born in Liverpool in 1962, Colin Vearncombe had his first top 10 hit with the single Sweetest Smile in June 1987 when he was 25 years old.

The singer’s second hit song Wonderful Life, which he had previously released but only got to number 72 in the charts, made the top 10 in the UK, Switzerland, Germany, France, Austria, the Netherlands and Italy.

However, despite having found fame, Colin Vearncombe later said “the pop star life” was not as he had imagined it.

Wonderful Life has since been used in numerous advertisements and films, and has been covered by artists including Tina Cousins and Katie Melua.

The album of the same name sold more than 1.5 million copies and peaked at number three.

Although he is best known for Wonderful Life and another 1980s single Sweetest Smile, Colin Vearncombe released 15 albums under his own name.

In 2015, he returned to his original stage name for a crowd-funded album, Blind Faith, which received positive reviews.

He has also published poetry and staged exhibitions of his paintings in south-west Ireland, where he lived in later life.

Hundreds of fans wrote messages of support on Black’s Facebook page following the crash.

Black’s publicist said there would be a private funeral, as well as a memorial service for him in Liverpool “as we know there are many, many people who will want to celebrate Colin’s life and work”.

1...285286287...1,234Page 286 of 1,234