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How Technology Can Reduce the Number of Medical Errors

Kathryn R. Bown
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How Technology Can Reduce the Number of Medical Errors

The number of medical negligence claims in the UK is rising, and so is the cost to the NHS. Medical negligence claims arise from all fields of medicine and surgery, and come from failures to diagnose, failures to treat, or errors made during surgery. It is patients, not doctors, who bear the brunt of a medically negligent act, but fortunately the increasing use of medical technologies to assist doctors and surgeons is helping to reduce the number of errors that occur.

The NHS sees all too many of the effects of medical malpractice, with lawsuits on the rise. In the 2013/2014 financial year alone, the NHS received an unparalleled number of medical negligence claims, with over 1000 claims per month. The NHS has now increased the fund it has to deal with medical negligence claims from £8.7 billion in 2010, to £15.7 billion in 2014.

Many people probably see medical negligence claims arising from botched surgeries, and it is true that patient injury from orthopaedic and general surgery are some of the largest areas of medical negligence claims in the UK, along with negligence in obstetrics. However, the evidence is conflicting. A 2011 study found that neurosurgeons and cardiovascular surgeons were the groups most likely to be sued, while another found that the specialties most represented in medical negligence claims were internal medicine (the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of adult diseases), and family medicine (what your family doctor or GP does). It does seem like the reasons for medical malpractice suits being brought are spread across the board, and may not always be surgical errors, but instead may be failures to diagnose a condition, or failures to treat that condition effectively.

Technological improvements are constantly providing new ways to improve and maintain the quality of patient care. This is extremely important, as poor quality care can lead to negative outcomes and ongoing injuries that cause pain and suffering. This isn’t just a few people, either: according to Patient Claim Line, a team of medical negligence experts, 61% of people who suffered medical negligence suffer from constant pain. Apple’s increasing number of health-related apps and technologies such as the Apple Watch are just one piece of the puzzle in trying to solve these problems, but they are an indicator of how in the modern day we are moving towards technological solutions to solving our these issues.

There are a number of new technologies in several different fields that can help to alleviate the influx of medical negligence and the accompanying claims to the NHS. First, clinical decision support systems are one type of technology that can assist doctors and other medical practitioners to make the best medical decisions for their patients. Their effectiveness is controversial, however, with several studies showing that the software did not help doctors as much as it was intended to. Other studies have shown huge benefits, so its usefulness is still up for debate.

The second type of up and coming similar technology has been likened to the black box on airplanes. Like a black box it will collect information, and will provide surgeons with a live analysis and advice on the progress of an operation. One of the researchers on this project, Teodor Grantcharov, notes that around 20 errors occur per surgery. Part of the reason, he thinks, is that once surgeons are finished with their training, there isn’t as much professional oversight over the surgeon’s work. The technology works by using a setup of cameras and microphones, and the patient data such as heart rate and blood pressure is fed from the relevant machines into the black box as well. This technology can hopefully bring down the patient injury rates from the orthopaedic and general surgery categories mentioned above.

All in all, there are numerous potential technological helpers that doctors and surgeons will soon have access to, and we can only hope that they decide to use them. Patients suffer from medication mistakes, misdiagnosis, or unnecessary treatments that all reduce their quality of life and introduce the potential for ongoing pain. As medical technology becomes more widely available, doctors should adopt these measures to prevent increased harm and suffering to the general public who desperately rely on their high-quality and mistake-free services.

Turkey Elections 2015: Recep Tayyip Erdogan Urges Parties to Form New Government

Diane A. Wade
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Turkey Elections 2015: Recep Tayyip Erdogan Urges Parties to Form New Government

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has urged political parties to “leave egos aside” and form a government as soon as possible.

It is the first time President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has spoken publicly since his ruling AKP lost its parliamentary majority on June 7.

Speaking in the capital Ankara, the president said all sides must respect the election outcome “as the will of the people”.

The AKP is now likely to try to form a coalition, but no party has indicated it is willing to join forces with it.

Breaking his silence at a graduation ceremony for international students, Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned that history would judge anyone who left Turkey in political limbo.President Recep Tayyip Erdogan Turkey elections 2015

Recep Tayyip Erdogan said: “We cannot leave Turkey without a government, without a head.”

He added that he hoped political parties would “prefer solution rather than crisis”.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan said he would do his part in finding a solution and that nobody should doubt he will carry out his duties within the constitution.

The AKP secured 41% of the vote in Sunday’s election, a sharp drop compared to the 2011 vote.

The party has 45 days after the final official election results are declared to form a government – but that declaration is yet to happen.

If no coalition deal is reached, a fragile minority government and early elections loom.

Earlier, PM Ahmet Davutoglu said the AKP was open to all options but warned that history had shown coalition governments were not suitable for Turkey.

“We’ve used the coalition eras of the 1970s and 1990s as an example to show that coalitions are not suitable for Turkey and we still stand by that stance,” Ahmet Davutoglu told a meeting of AKP officials.

He added that in the “current political picture” the AKP were “the only party that can come up with realistic solutions”.

Ahmet Davutoglu resigned earlier this week after the AK Party lost its parliamentary majority for the first time in 13 years, but President Recep Tayyip Erdogan asked him to stay on until a new government is formed.

Securing a working coalition will be tough, with opposition parties likely to demand limits on President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s role.

In the build up to the election, the president had been seeking a two-thirds majority to turn Turkey into a presidential republic.

However, the pro-Kurdish People’s Democratic Party (HDP) upset Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s ambitions by crossing the 10% threshold and securing seats in parliament for the first time.

On June 11, HDP co-leader Selahattin Demirtas said his party was open to working with other opposition parties but ruled out forming a coalition with the AKP.

“Pulling Turkey into early election debates right away will not help. We believe Turkey has to continue on its way by forming a coalition,” he told reporters in Ankara.

Selahattin Demirtas also said that the jailed leader of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), Abdullah Ocalan, was ready to make a call for disarmament and that a peace process with the militants should soon move forward.

He said the HDP, which has played a central role in peace talks, had visited Abdullah Ocalan on the island prison of Imrali and would be applying to make another visit soon.

The peace process with Abdullah Ocalan was launched by Recep Tayyip Erdogan in 2012 in a bid to end a three-decade conflict that has killed more than 40,000 people.

Christopher Lee Dies in London Aged 93

Sonia Pantiss
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Screen legend Christopher Lee has died aged 93.

Christopher Lee, who made his name playing Dracula and Frankenstein in the Hammer horror films, appeared in more than 250 movies.

The English-born actor was best-known for his villainous roles – including Scaramanga in James Bond and evil wizard Saruman in The Lord of the Rings.

Christopher Lee’s other credits include The Wicker Man and Star Wars.

The veteran actor is reported to have died on June 7 at Chelsea and Westminster hospital in London, after being hospitalized for respiratory problems and heart failure.

A Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea council spokesman said: “We can confirm that the Register Office issued a death certificate for Mr. Christopher Lee on Monday June 8, Mr. Lee died on Sunday June 7.”

Christopher Lee was knighted in 2009 for services to drama and charity and was awarded a BAFTA fellowship in 2011.

The British Film Institute (BFI) tweeted, as the news broke on June 11: “We are deeply saddened to hear that Sir Christopher Lee has passed away.”

Born into affluence in London in 1922, Christopher Lee traced his lineage to Charlemagne, the first Holy Roman Emperor.

After public school he served in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve during the Second World War, where he was mentioned in dispatches.

Christopher Lee’s screen career began when he joined the Rank Organization in 1947, training as an actor in their so-called “charm school”.

His 6ft 4in frame and pointed features often typecast him as a bad guy. His distant cousin Ian Fleming, author of the James Bond books, wanted him to play Dr No in the film of the same name – but that role went to Joseph Wiseman.

Christopher Lee eventually starred as Scaramanga in 1974’s The Man With The Golden Gun.

He also played Fu Manchu in a series of films in the 1960s.

The Lord of the Rings trilogy and the Star Wars prequels – in which he played the nefarious Count Dooku – were the most successful movies of his career from a commercial standpoint.

Christopher Lee also demonstrated his versatility in comedies like 1941 and Gremlins 2.

His other films included 1959’s The Hound of the Baskervilles, The Three Musketeers (1973), and Jinnah – which he considered to be one of his most important films (1997).

A lover of opera, Christopher Lee launched his singing career in the 1990s, with an album of Broadway tunes, including I Stole The Prince from Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Gondoliers, and Epiphany from Sweeney Todd.

He also enjoyed an unlikely heavy metal career. In 2010, his album Charlemagne: By the Sword and the Cross won a Spirit of Metal Award from Metal Hammer magazine.

Sir Christopher Lee marked his 92nd birthday by releasing an album of heavy metal cover versions.

Eating Nuts Could Cut Risk of Early Death

Kathryn R. Bown
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Eating Nuts Could Cut Risk of Early Death

A Dutch study suggests that eating half a handful of nuts every day could substantially lower the risk of early death.

Previous studies had already indicated a link with cardiovascular health, but this is the first to look at specific nuts and diseases.

Maastricht University researchers found a 23% lower chance of death during the 10-year study in people eating at least 0.3oz (10g) of nuts or peanuts a day.

There was no benefit for peanut butter, which is high in salt and trans fats.Nuts could lower early death risk

More than 120,000 Dutch 55-to-69-year-old men and women provided dietary and lifestyle information in 1986, and then their mortality rate was looked at 10 years later.

The premature mortality risk due to cancer, diabetes, respiratory and neurodegenerative diseases was lower among the nut consumers.

There was an average 23% lower risk of 10-year mortality across all diseases, with a decrease of: 45% for neurodegenerative disease, 39% for respiratory disease, 30% for diabetes.

Prof. Piet van den Brandt, who led the study, published in the International Journal of Epidemiology, said: “It was remarkable that substantially lower mortality was already observed at consumption levels of 15g of nuts or peanuts on average per day.”

The researchers had taken into account the mitigating factor that nut consumers ate more fruit and vegetables and that women who ate nuts were often leaner, and adjusted the results accordingly, Prof. Piet van den Brandt said.

Nuts contain monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, various vitamins, fiber, antioxidants and other bioactive compounds.

Tim Hunt: Nobel Laureate Resigns from UCL Role over Gender-Segregated Labs Comments

James J. Williams
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Tim Hunt: Nobel Laureate Resigns from UCL Role over Gender-Segregated Labs Comments

Nobel Prize winner Tim Hunt, who said that scientists should work in gender-segregated labs, has resigned from his position as honorary professor at University College London (UCL).

Sir Tim Hunt made comments about the “trouble with girls” in science because they cause men to fall in love with them.

UCL said Tim Hunt – a Royal Society fellow – had resigned from his position within its faculty of life sciences.

Tim Hunt, 72, also said at a conference in South Korea that women in labs “cry” when criticized and “fall in love” with male counterparts.Nobel Prize winner Tim Hunt resigns from UCL role

A statement from the university read: “UCL can confirm that Sir Tim Hunt FRS has resigned from his position as honorary professor with the UCL faculty of life sciences following comments he made about women in science at the World Conference of Science Journalists on June 9.

“UCL was the first university in England to admit women students on equal terms to men, and the university believes that this outcome is compatible with our commitment to gender equality.”

Tim Hunt – who was awarded the Nobel prize in physiology or medicine in 2001 for his work on how cells divide – reportedly told the World Conference of Science Journalists in Seoul, South Korea: “Let me tell you about my trouble with girls.

“Three things happen when they are in the lab: you fall in love with them, they fall in love with you, and when you criticize them they cry.”

The British biochemist, who was knighted in 2006, said the remarks were “intended as a light-hearted, ironic comment” but had been “interpreted deadly seriously by my audience”.

Tim Hunt also admitted that he had a reputation for being a “chauvinist”.

Randy Rogers’ Newborn Daughter Dies Six Days After Birth

Sonia Pantiss
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Randy Rogers’ Newborn Daughter Dies Six Days After Birth

Randy Rogers’ infant daughter, Rumer Rain, has died on June 9, just six days after her birth.

The Randy Rogers Band frontman and his wife Chelsea welcomed their baby girl on June 3, when the country singer tweeted the great news: “Newest member of the Rogers family, Rumer Rain. It’s a good day, friends.”Randy Rogers newborn daughter dead

On June 10, Randy Rogers announced the sad news on his Facebook page: “Rumer Rain Rogers, daughter of Randy and Chelsea Rogers, passed away last night at Seton Memorial Hospital in Austin, Texas. Rumer died of natural causes, in her parents loving arms, just days after her birth.

“During this time of grieving, the family asks that individuals wishing to offer condolences make a donation to the children’s charity of their choosing. The family thanks you for your love and support.”

Randy Rogers also shared the devastating news with his Twitter followers on the same day, writing: “We are sad to say that Rumer Rain Rogers passed away last night. She was well loved, well cared for and in her parents loving arms.”

Rumer Rain was Randy and Chelsea Rogers’ second child. The couple welcomed daughter River in 2013.

David Sweat and Richard Matt: New York Prison Escapees Fled to Vermont

Nancy Clayson
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David Sweat and Richard Matt: New York Prison Escapees Fled to Vermont

Convicted murderers David Sweat and Richard Matt, who are on the run for five days after breaking out of prison in New York, may now have fled to Vermont, investigators believe.

David Sweat, 34, and Richard Matt, 48, cut their way out of prison using power tools.

Police believe the men thought Vermont would be a “cooler” destination with fewer officers on their tail, Governor Peter Shumlin said.

Vermont was working to get the “dangerous men” locked up, officials said.New York prison escapees David Sweat and Richard Matt

Addressing some of the 450 officers involved in the search New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said: “Follow every lead you have.

“Follow them as if it’s the lead that’s going to break the case. I am confident we are going to find them, the only question is when.”

The manhunt in northern New York and surrounding areas has now extended to campsites and boat slips in neighboring Vermont.

Governors Peter Shumlin and Andrew Cuomo held a joint press conference outside the maximum security prison from where the men escaped, Clinton Correctional Facility.

Referring to the unspecified information about the men’s whereabouts, Peter Shumlin said: “New York was going to be hot. Vermont would be cooler, in terms of law enforcement.”

Police confirmed on June 10 that they had interviewed “one woman in particular” who may have befriended the inmates and had a role in David Sweat and Richard Matt’s escape, but would not go into detail.

That woman “may had had some role in assisting them”, said New York State police Superintendent Joseph D’Amico.

An unnamed source told CNN earlier that woman is Joyce Mitchell, who worked at the prison tailor shop.

Joyce Mitchell had planned to pick up Richard Matt and David Sweat after they escaped but changed her mind at the last minute.

She has not been arrested or charged, and her son has said his mother would not have helped the prisoners escape.

Richard Matt was given a jail term of 25 years to life for beating a man to death in 1997.

David Sweat was serving a life sentence without parole for the murder of Broome County Sheriff’s Deputy, Kevin Tarsia.

Hot Dog Pizza Bites: Pizza Hut Launches New Menu Item in US Restaurants

Nancy Clayson
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Hot Dog Pizza Bites: Pizza Hut Launches New Menu Item in US Restaurants

Pizza Hut is launching Hot Dog Pizza Bites on June 18 at its 6,300 US restaurants in a move to boost the chain’s sales.

Hot Dog Pizza Bites features 28 “premium hot dog bites,” which are baked into the crust and meant to be pulled off and dipped in mustard.

Pizza Hut, which is owned by Yum! Brands Inc., is still contending with sluggish sales and hopes the new item will help draw customers.Pizza Hut launches Hot Dog Pizza Bites

Yum CEO Greg Creed has said he isn’t happy with how the pizza chain has performed since it debuted a new menu last year. In the most recent quarter, Pizza Hut’s same-store sales were little changed from a year earlier. Greg Creed said the chain hadn’t been effective with its marketing and that it may have lost sight of “mainstream pizza customers” in favor of chasing millennials.

Pizza Hut has about 1.5 million of the new pies available and will sell them until July 11, or until supplies last.

The chain, which first introduced a pizza made with crust stuffed with hot dogs in some Asian markets in 2011, has sold it at restaurants in the UK, Thailand, Australia, Canada and the Middle East. In earlier versions, the hot dogs were hidden inside the crust, running lengthwise.

The updated US design has the hot dogs peeking out of pretzel-style bites, which form the outer crust.

Pizza Hut spokesman Doug Terfehr said: “Our US fans have been asking for it ever since they saw it pop up around the world.

“We wanted to do it in a way that matched what the consumer would expect from these products, which they definitely love on their own.”

Meet The Chinese Inventor Who Invented The E-Cigarette To Quit Smoking

James J. Williams
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Meet The Chinese Inventor Who Invented The E-Cigarette To Quit Smoking

Hon Lik, a pharmacist from north-eastern China’s Shenyang, invented the e-cigarette as a way to quit his heavy smoking after the habit killed his father. However, the pharmacist hasn’t managed to quit — instead he now smokes both e-cigarettes and regular cigarettes, though he smokes only tobacco as he has to make sure the flavor of his devices is right. Before his e-cigarettes became popular, Hon’s efforts were focused on making it simpler for patients to take traditional Chinese remedies like ginseng or deer antler.

He had taken out patents on pills before he came up with the idea of patenting e-cigarettes in the world’s most lucrative market — not China (there still isn’t much interest in e-cigarettes there) but in the US. In China, Hon isn’t a celebrity, nor is he particularly rich. He says he lives in an average house and did not buy the car, a Volvo SUV, that he drives. He had already been successful through his work for a very niche, small scale company that he worked for before he developed the e-cigarette. He and his family were fairly well rewarded, and they don’t have to work much anymore. The car is, in fact, owned by Fontem Ventures, the Dutch subsidiary of UK firm Imperial Tobacco.

Fontem spent $75 million to buy Hon’s patents in 2013 — specifically, it purchased the patents from a Hong Kong company called Dragonite which Hon established many years earlier along with a Chinese investor. While Hon only received a tiny fraction of the $75 million, he is now employed by Fontem as a consultant. The company flies him around the globe to discuss the e-cigarette’s birth. Hon invented the e-cigarette in order to quit smoking, and he speaks of a global social problem which he thinks he can help the world solve.

While many think big tobacco wants to use the e-cigarette to re-normalize smoking, Hon feels differently, noting that in his view the e-cigarette is an alternative to cigarette smoking. At the moment many e-cigarettes and related devices like the shisha pen are sold over the Internet, but Hon is hopeful they will make more inroads into shops. He believes using existing distribution channels like tobacconists will make it easier for consumers to buy the devices. On the subject of municipalities banning or contemplating banning ‘vaping’ — the practice of smoking e-cigarettes — in public places, he feels the moves are “fear driven” and probably based on “over-concern.”

Hon observes that across US and the UK, consensus has started to solidify that non-smokers don’t start using the devices and those who switch to e-cigarettes usually don’t go back to regular tobacco. To understand the e-cigarette’s social usefulness, Hon tells a story from Chinese folklore. Thousands of years ago, so the story goes, a man now seen as a hero looked at a large area where floods were costing many people their lives and homes. The man’s name was Daya. Daya didn’t build dykes in order to hold the water back. Instead, he used channels and pumps to let the water go where it would be useful. By recognizing the real risks and changing the normal way of thinking, Daya set China on the course to becoming a rich agricultural nation.

Victoria Siegel Struggled with Prescription Drugs Addiction Prior to Her Death

Lisa.Felice
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Victoria Siegel Struggled with Prescription Drugs Addiction Prior to Her Death

Victoria Siegel struggled with an addiction to prescription drugs prior to her death, a family representative said on June 8.

Victoria Siegel, the 18-year-old daughter of Queen of Versailles documentary stars David Siegel and Jackie Siegel, was found unresponsive at about 2 p.m. on June 6 by a housekeeper at the family compound on Green Island Cove in Windermere, Florida.

She was transported to Health Central Hospital where she was pronounced dead, according to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. According to the family rep, the Siegel family was attending a wedding in Park City, Utah, when the incident occurred.

David and Jackie Siegel and their seven kids are “devastated and heartbroken by the loss of their beloved Victoria”.

The family’s representative said: “They are hurt, deeply wounded and they are grieving. Victoria was a beautiful spirit with a wonderful smile who was greatly loved, and will be deeply missed.” She “had a history of seizures and was prescribed medication for this condition. Unfortunately she became dependent and struggled with this condition. She voluntarily underwent rehabilitation and was working hard to address this problem,” the rep added.Victoria Siegel death Queen of Versailles

David and Jackie Siegel had planned to return to Orlando on June 7, to begin a family cruise on June 8.

“David and Jacqueline were immediately notified and returned to Orlando the same day,” the family rep explained.

An autopsy had been performed and the cause of Victoria’s death is pending until other test results are received.

Autopsy reports could take about 10 to 12 weeks to complete.

The family rep also said: “It is likely that Victoria ingested one or more drugs prior to her death.”

“However, we cannot determine at this time whether or not the drugs she took were in fact prescribed medication, something else, or where and how these drugs may have been obtained.”

Jacqueline Siegel confirmed Victoria’s death via Facebook on June 7.

“The family is deeply appreciative of the outpouring of support that they have received and request that their privacy be respected while they mourn their loss,” the rep said.

The billionaire couple, David and Jackie Siegel, is best known for starring in Lauren Greenfield’s 2012 documentary, Queen of Versailles, which followed the couple as they built a second 90,000-square-foot mansion, called the Versailles House. The building could be finished by David Siegel’s 80th birthday in May 2016.

David and Jackie Siegel and their eight kids – including Victoria – most recently appeared on Celebrity Wife Swap on June 3.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IEraenx-r6c

Grey: Manuscript of EL James’ Upcoming Fifty Shades Stolen from Publisher

Sonia Pantiss
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Grey: Manuscript of EL James’ Upcoming Fifty Shades Stolen from Publisher

The manuscript of E.L. James’s upcoming Fifty Shades of Grey novel, Grey, has been stolen from publisher Random House ahead of its publication.

Police has launched an investigation after the publisher discovered a copy of Grey had gone missing on June 8.

It is feared thieves may leak the novel, or sell extracts to the media.

Grey, which re-tells the first installment of the hit trilogy from billionaire Christian Grey’s point of view, is due to be released next week.Grey by EL James stolen

Random House and solicitors for the publisher would not give any other information about the missing book.

A publisher’s spokesman said: “We have no comment to make due to an ongoing police investigation.”

A spokesman for Kent Police said: “Officers are making inquiries after receiving a report that a book had been stolen on June 8.”

The Fifty Shades of Grey trilogy has sold more than 125 million copies worldwide since the first book’s release in 2011.

When announcing the release of Grey last week, E.L. James said she wrote the new book after “thousands of readers” had written to her requesting to hear Christian Grey’s point of view.

Grey will be published on June 18 – Christian Grey’s birthday.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vHX4P0pLU4

Johanna Colon: Video of 6-Year-Old Girl Channeling Aretha Franklin Becomes Viral

Nancy Clayson
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Johanna Colon: Video of 6-Year-Old Girl Channeling Aretha Franklin Becomes Viral

Sassy six-year-old Johanna Colon stole the show as she channeled Aretha Franklin for her tap dance recital, which was set to the iconic singer’s hit Respect.

The video of Johanna Colon’s dance recital has gone viral since her mother, Elissa Colon, from Raleigh, North Carolina, uploaded video of her performance on her Facebook page on June 8.

Photo Facebook
Photo Facebook

Elissa Colon captioned the video: “Johanna channeling Aretha Franklin!”

The video shows Johanna and two other girls standing with their backs to the audience.

The original clip has been viewed more than 23 million times.

Elissa M. Colon wrote on her Facebook page on June 10: “I am so proud of all 3 of these little dancing divas! They did such an amazing job and I can’t believe how much buzz their dance is getting!”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y9vto-eWPaY

Pope Francis Approves Creation of Child Abuse Tribunal

Diane A. Wade
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Pope Francis Approves Creation of Child Abuse Tribunal

Pope Francis has created a tribunal to hear cases of bishops accused of covering up child abuse by priests.

The unprecedented move followed a recommendation from Pope Francis’ newly-created panel on clerical abuse.Pope Francis creates child abuse tribunal

Victims’ groups have long called for the Vatican to do more to make bishops accountable for abuse on their watch.

In 2014, the UN strongly criticized the Vatican for failing to stamp out child abuse and for allowing cover-ups.

A statement from the Vatican said the department would come under the auspices of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.

The tribunal’s aim would be “to judge bishops with regard to crimes of the abuse of office when connected to the abuse of minors”, the statement added.

The Vatican panel which recommended the step was created to help dioceses improve abuse prevention measures and help victims.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KKYqUPz4SnU

World Cup 2026: Bidding Process Suspended Amid FIFA Corruption Scandal

Clyde K. Valle
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World Cup 2026: Bidding Process Suspended Amid FIFA Corruption Scandal

The 2026 World Cup bidding process has been delayed amid corruption allegations around the 2018 and 2022 tournaments.

According to FIFA secretary general Jerome Valcke, it was “a nonsense” to begin the process in the current climate.

The vote to decide who will host the 2026 World Cup is due to take place in Kuala Lumpur in May 2017.

The US is front-runner to stage the tournament, but Canada, Mexico and Colombia are also thought to be interested.

Russia and Qatar were selected to host the 2018 and 2022 World Cups by a secret ballot of FIFA’s 22 executive members in December 2010.FIFA World Cup 2026 bidding suspended

Meanwhile Swiss prosecutors are investigating alleged financial irregularities surrounding the bidding process. Both Russia and Qatar have denied any wrongdoing.

Soccer’s world governing body had planned to inform its member federations this week of the bidding schedule for 2026, but Jerome Valcke said: “Due to the situation, I think it’s nonsense to start any bidding process for the time being.”

Speaking in the Russian city of Samara, Jerome Valcke also defended FIFA’s handling of a $10 million payment from the South African government towards a Caribbean Diaspora legacy program.

US prosecutors allege the payment was a bribe to help secure the 2010 World Cup for South Africa.

The South African government insists it was a legitimate payment to promote Caribbean football.

Jerome Valcke said: “It was not FIFA’s money. It was a request from official South African authorities and the South African Football Association (SAFA). As long as it is in line with rules we do it.

“I don’t understand what’s the problem and why I am such a target in this question.”

FIFA President Sepp Blatter has announced he will step down from his role, amid the ongoing allegations of corruption in the governing body, including the indictment of 14 people on corruption charges by US authorities.

Sepp Blatter is expected to be replaced at an election on December 16.

When faced with questions over his own future, Jerome Valcke said: “You – the media – have decided that after Blatter I am the head to be cut, fine, but don’t say it is because of this $10 million.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8w1QXHU0jfw

Luxor: Seven Die in Suicide Attack at Karnak Temple

Roy Siemens
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Luxor: Seven Die in Suicide Attack at Karnak Temple

At least seven people died after a suicide bomber has blown himself up near the ancient Temple of Karnak in the Egyptian city of Luxor, police say.

Local media reported that three assailants were killed in the attack and that four bystanders were injured.Luxor Karnak Temple suicide attack 2015

The assailants reportedly tried to storm a barricade at Karnak Temple, one of Egypt’s most popular tourist sites.

Two of the attackers are believed to have been shot dead by police, but a third passed through barricade and detonated an explosive device.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack, but jihadist militants have killed hundreds of security forces and government personnel since the military overthrew President Mohamed Morsi in 2013.

Last week, two members of Egypt’s tourism and antiquities police force were shot dead on a road near the pyramids at Giza.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AVc5iCx6K0A

James Last Dies in Florida Aged 86

Sonia Pantiss
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James Last Dies in Florida Aged 86

German-born composer and big band leader James Last has died in Florida on June 9 at the age of 86.

James Last’s manager said he died at his home “peacefully and in the presence of his family”.

He sold millions of records with his trademark “happy music”.

James Last appeared at the Royal Albert Hall in the spring as part of a farewell tour he announced after becoming seriously ill last year.James Last dead at 86

The illness, which took a “life-threatening” turn last September, apparently forced James last to face the fact that “a man full of plans, needs to not just slow down but give up his life on tour altogether”.

James Last said the tour would give him the opportunity to bid farewell to his fans.

“The main thing is that my fans have the best concerts of their lives and we will make this our <<happiest>> concert yet,” he said when he announced the tour in February.

James Last started his music career in the 1960s, making instrumental recordings as James Last and His Orchestra – a big band with additional strings and a choir.

Over his career James Last produced 75 hit albums in Britain alone, and at his peak, was creating two albums a month.

Work With Your Auto Insurance Provider to Determine Liability

Dana R
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Work With Your Auto Insurance Provider to Determine Liability

Whenever an automobile is involved in an accident, the people involved are sure to become emotional. If the accident involves injuries or significant damages, then those emotions might be very high. Unfortunately, the right time to gather information for Pflugerville insurance agents is within those first emotion-laden moments. A lot of facts and proof will need to be gathered in order to determine who is liable. If you are able to gather our wits, any information you can gather now may help you to help your insurance provider get your reimbursement on its way.

auto-insurance
Photo Source: masterherald.com

Establishing Fault Versus Liability

Even if it seems obvious who was at fault in an accident, proving liability to the insurance companies can be difficult. To efficiently work with your insurer, you’ll need to prepare a strong argument to support your version of the circumstances. There are some valuable types of information to gather and share with your agent to improve the amount and speed of compensation you receive.

Ask for Copies of Police Reports

If the police come to the scene of the accident, an officer is likely to make a report. Ask the officer if you can get a copy of that report after it has been filed. If an officer doesn’t arrive, you and the other parties to the accident may have to report to the nearest police station. You can also get copies of those documents for your Pflugerville insurance provider. These reports often provide evidence regarding:

  • Distracted driving
  • Speeding
  • The presence of drugs or alcohol
  • The use of a cellphone
  • Inattentiveness

With these reports, you are more likely to get an accident liability report within less time.

Gather Facts While They Are Fresh

There are many details regarding the accident that might seem startlingly clear in the moment, but when your adrenalin drops, you may just want to forget about the whole thing. While you are at the scene and everything is fresh in your mind, take note of some important details:

  • The other driver’s license plate number
  • Contact information of everyone involved and witnesses
  • The date and time of the accident
  • Location information, such as the street name
  • A description of damages done to any of the vehicles

The Pflugerville insurance company might also appreciate any pictures that you are able to take or details such as what the weather was like or the order of events leading up to the accident.

Familiarize Yourself with Local Traffic Laws

Brush up on your knowledge of local traffic laws. If you can provide any evidence to show that the other driver was violating local vehicle codes, then you and your Pflugerville insurance company will have an easier time negotiating for reimbursement from the other party.

Comparative Negligence and Apportioned Damages

There are some accidents where establishing who is at fault and liable will be easy. This include rear end and left-turn collisions. These cases are almost always settled swiftly. However, other instances take a closer look. For example, when road or traffic conditions are part of the equation or if both drivers were distracted, then principles of comparative negligence may be brought into the situation. When this happens, then your ability to work with the Pflugerville insurance company can improve their ability to apportion fault and determine liability.

FIFA Corruption Scandal: New President May Be Named on December 16

Clyde K. Valle
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FIFA Corruption Scandal: New President May Be Named on December 16

FIFA President Sepp Blatter’s 17-year reign at the soccer’s governing body could come to an end on December 16, 2015.

Representatives from all 209 member associations will be invited to Zurich to vote in a new presidential election.

Sepp Blatter, 79, resigned as FIFA’s president just four days after being re-elected last month.FIFA President Sepp Blatter 2015

The Swiss tended his resignation amid two corruption probes of his organization.

Seven FIFA officials were arrested on May 27 following a dawn raid on a luxury hotel in Zurich.

They were among 14 officials and associates indicted by US authorities on racketeering and bribery charges.

Swiss prosecutors have also begun a criminal investigation into how the rights for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups were awarded.

There is a long list of potential successors for Sepp Blatter.

Among the possible candidates is Prince Ali bin al-Hussein, who lost out to Sepp Blatter in last month’s election.

Germanwings Plane Crash: First Victims’ Remains Return to Germany

Diane A. Wade
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Germanwings Plane Crash: First Victims’ Remains Return to Germany

The first victims’ remains of Germanwings plane crash have arrived in Dusseldorf, Germany, where they will be returned to families for burial about 11 weeks after the disaster that killed all 150 people onboard.

Lufthansa sent 44 coffins by cargo plane on Tuesday night from Marseille.

Elmar Giemulla, a lawyer for some of the families, said the arrival of the remains would give relatives “closure”.

Co-pilot Andreas Lubitz is believed to have intentionally flown the Airbus A320 into the French Alps in March, killing 150 people.

Photo Reuters
Photo Reuters

Sixteen of the victims were from the Joseph-Koenig-Gymnasium school in Haltern and were returning from an exchange trip in Barcelona when the plane crashed.

Families will be allowed to visit the coffins inside a hangar in Dusseldorf on Wednesday, June 10.

Elmar Giemulla told AFP: “The families are in denial. They cannot and do not want to realize that their children are dead.

“It will be brutal when they see the coffins tomorrow, but it is necessary, because they need closure.”

The remains of the rest of the victims will be sent back over the coming weeks. The passengers were from 18 countries, including Australia, Argentina and Japan, but most of those on board were either Spanish or German.

The repatriation of some of the bodies was delayed last week because of errors on the death certificates in France.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fYm5z_m4RbI

Aung San Suu Kyi Makes China Debut Visit

Diane A. Wade
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Aung San Suu Kyi Makes China Debut Visit

Myanmar’s opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi is expected to begin her first visit to China on June 10, at a time of tension between the two countries.

Aung San Suu Kyi will meet President Xi Jinping and PM Li Keqiang, but no other details have been provided.

Relations between Myanmar (also known as Burma) and China have cooled in recent years, partly because of violence near their mutual border.

Myanmar has been fighting rebels in its eastern Kokang region, which borders China’s Yunnan province.

China is concerned about violence spilling over the border. At least five people in Yunnan died in March when an aircraft from Myanmar dropped a bomb on a sugar cane field.

China sent patrols to the border in response.

The Chinese government department handling Aung San Suu Kyi’s visit would not be making any details of the trip public nor inviting media, other than state media, to any events.Aung San Suu Kyi China visit

This visit is meant to improve ties between Myanmar’s opposition leader and China but she will be closely watched for various issues.

Many are already calling on Aung San Suu Kyi to recognize her similarities to fellow Nobel Peace prize winner Liu Xiaobo during her visit.

Chinese dissident and writer Liu Xiaobo is serving an 11-year sentence for “inciting subversion of state power”.

While Myanmar’s military junta was under Western sanctions and Aung San Suu Kyi was under house arrest, China remained a loyal ally.

Since reforms were introduced in 2011, the government of President Thein Sein has allied itself closely with the US, although China continues to help develop major infrastructure projects in Myanmar.

Given the possibility that Aung San Suu Kyi’s party will do well in upcoming elections, Beijing is determined to put pragmatism first and build a relationship with a woman whose politics it deplores, she adds.

As head of the opposition National League for Democracy (NLD), Aung San Suu Kyi is expected to play a key role in the presidential elections this November.

Aung San Suu Kyi is unlikely to run for president, however, as a clause in the constitution blocks her from standing because her husband and children are foreign citizens.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-x_Um4LS13U

THE EFFECT OF THE WORLD’S BIGGEST SPORTING EVENTS ON HOST CITIES

Dana R
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THE EFFECT OF THE WORLD’S BIGGEST SPORTING EVENTS ON HOST CITIES

From the Olympics to the Super Bowl, large sporting events can take a toll on the cities that host them. If you’re interested in sport management, you’ll be interested to see the effect recent large scale events have had economically and socially on cities like London, Sochi, and New Jersey:


Adelphi Sports Management Online

Two Nuns Survive Three Days Trapped in Elevator

Nancy Clayson
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Two Nuns Survive Three Days Trapped in Elevator

Two nuns of the Marist Sisters religious order have been rescued from an elevator in Rome after being trapped for nearly three days without food and water.

The 69-year-old from New Zealand and a 58-year-old Irish nun have been rescued on June 8 after they got stuck in an elevator during a power outage on June 5.

They cried out for help but there was no-one in the building over the weekend, Italian media said.Marist Sisters nuns trapped in Rome elevator

They were discovered on June8 by a cleaner who called police after ringing the doorbell and receiving no reply.

According to Il Messaggero, the police entered the building and called out if anyone was there and the nuns replied: “Yes, we are here, in the elevator.”

The two nuns later said they had “prayed so much” while trapped, the publication said.

They were taken to a nearby hospital where they were treated for dehydration.

The Marist Sister House hosts visitors to Rome from religious missions around the world.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AWArMEFU5Dw

FIFA Corruption: Wanted Suspect Alejandro Burzaco Hands Himself in Italy

Clyde K. Valle
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FIFA Corruption: Wanted Suspect Alejandro Burzaco Hands Himself in Italy

Alejandro Burzaco, who is wanted by the US in connection with the investigation into allegations of corruption at soccer’s governing body FIFA, has turned himself in to police in Italy.

The Argentine was the president of Argentine sports marketing firm Torneos y Competencias and one of 14 current and ex-FIFA officials and associates indicted over the scandal.

Interpol had issued an alert requesting Alejandro Burzaco’s arrest.

Alejandro Burzaco disappeared following the arrest of seven FIFA executives on May 27.Alejandro Burzaco arrested in Italy

Swiss media reported that Alejandro Burzaco was not in his room when police acting on extradition requests from US authorities raided a hotel in the Swiss city of Zurich, but was having breakfast and so was not arrested.

Alejandro Burzaco, who also has Italian citizenship, walked into a police station in the northern Italian city of Borzano along with his two lawyers on June 9.

He is being held in a cell in Borzano police station, officials told Spanish news agency EFE.

The DoJ alleges that Alejandro Burzaco conspired to win and keep hold of lucrative media rights contracts from regional football federations by paying up to $110 million in bribes.

An Argentine judge ordered Alejandro Burzaco’s arrest after he was named in the US indictment for racketeering conspiracy and corruption.

Judge Marcelo Martinez de Giorgi warned Alejandro Burzaco and two more indicted Argentine sports executives, Hugo and Mariano Jinkis, that they would be considered fugitives if they did not turn themselves in.

The whereabouts of father and son Hugo and Mariano Jinkis is currently unknown.

Interpol issued “red notices” for their arrest, along with Alejandro Burzaco and three others, on June 1.

Alejandro Burzaco was dismissed from Torneos y Competencias on June 3.

Torneos y Competencias has denied any involvement in the alleged bribery.

Victoria Siegel Cause of Death to Be Revealed in Two Months

Lisa.Felice
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Victoria Siegel Cause of Death to Be Revealed in Two Months

Victoria Siegel’s cause of death will be revealed in 8-10 weeks, the medical examiner’s office told RadarOnline.com.

Victoria Siegel, the 18-year-old daughter of Queen of Versailles stars David and Jackie Siegel, was found unresponsive by a housekeeper at her parents’ Seagull Island mansion on Green Island Cove on Saturday afternoon.

She was taken to a nearby hospital where she was later pronounced dead.

Victoria was the second eldest of David and Jackie Siegel’s eight children.

Despite rumors that Victoria Siegel overdosed on drugs before her shocking death, District Nine Medical Examiner’s Office spokesperson Sherry Blanton told RadarOnline: “All we have released is that it is a pending cause and manner of death,” adding that OD reports are just “speculation.”

Sherry Blanton said the cause of death will likely remain undetermined for the next two months while examiners complete testing, the Orlando, Florida, based office.

Photo Facebook
Photo Facebook

Jackie Siegel confirmed the sad news on her Facebook page on June 7.

According to reports, Victoria Siegel had returned home from rehab just weeks before her passing, leading many to believe her tragic death was drug-related.

Orange County Sheriff spokesman Jeff Williamson said: “The victim’s father has informed investigators that he will be making a statement in the coming days regarding the death of his daughter, and is requesting privacy at this time.”

David Siegel, 80, is the billionaire founder of the timeshare company Westgate Resorts.

Jackie and David Siegel gained fame and notoriety after the 2012 release of the documentary Queen Of Versailles which followed their attempts to build the self-proclaimed “largest home in America”.

The couple started the project in 2004 but it was stalled after David Siegel’s business was hit by recession.

David Siegel’s construction is back on and the sprawls 90,000ft and is expected to be complete by 2016. It has been valued from anywhere between $65 million to $75 million.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5exrnfTwZHY

Jeremy Clarkson: Trailer of Final Top Gear Appearance Released

Clyde K. Valle
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0
Jeremy Clarkson: Trailer of Final Top Gear Appearance Released

Top Gear trailer for Jeremy Clarkson’s final appearance has been released by the BBC.

The episode will feature two films shot before Jeremy Clarkson was suspended from Top Gear and eventually sacked.

To Gear co-presenters Richard Hammond and James May return to the studio to present links from the studio, with Jeremy Clarkson noticeably absent.

No date has been given for transmission, and the broadcaster has yet to decide how Top Gear may return.

Top Gear was pulled from the schedules after Jeremy Clarkson’s suspension for attacking a producer earlier this year.

Footage shot for the three remaining episodes has now been compiled in to one extended program.Jeremy Clarkson final Top Gear episode

It contains two films which, in classic Top Gear style, feature cheap bangers, caravans and a race to the finish line for the three presenters to avoid a forfeit.

Earlier this week, rumors circulated that Chris Evans was being groomed to take over the Top Gear hotseat from Jeremy Clarkson, after the Radio 2 DJ revealed he was making a “Top Gear sequence”.

It later emerged that the film was part of Chris Evans one-off edition of TFI Friday, in which his friend Jeremy Clarkson will appear.

Chris Evans has ruled himself out of the Top Gear job on a number of occasions.

There has also been speculation that the show could return with a different guest host every week.

It was reported last week Richard Hammond and James May had been offered £1 million ($1.5 million) deals to stay with the BBC, although they themselves have seemed to distance themselves from returning.

Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May have been appearing together in a series of live shows, which were originally meant to be under the Top Gear banner, but have since been rebranded Clarkson, Hammond and May Live and stripped of all BBC branding.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k3hpadkfn_Y

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