Home Blog Page 632

5 Uses for Cloud Software in your Business

Ricky Robinson
-
0
5 Uses for Cloud Software in your Business

From an interesting concept just a few years ago, cloud software has now been adopted by many businesses looking to reap the benefits of the many advantages offered by the medium of computing.

How it works
Cloud software is a major development in computing that allows for on demand services and applications. The term cloud is basically a metaphor for the internet, a virtual world with almost limitless possibilities. Cloud software is hosted on the internet, allowing it to be supplied and used instantaneously. Cloud software is offered by some of the biggest names in computing, including McLaren Software and IBM.

Cloud computing
Cloud computing

Here are five ways that you can use cloud software in your business:

1. Increase Flexibility
Cloud computing doesn’t require the installation of software with discs, all the data is hosted on the internet. Once it has been developed by the provider, the cloud software is ready to be used by a business. This makes cloud software available on demand, meaning that a company using the variety of computing can be more flexible and able to react quicker to a given situation.

2. Reduce Costs
Cloud technology mitigates the need for developers to write endless data onto discs.
This cuts down on time, an advantage that is passed onto the customer in the form of reduced costs. In this way, cloud software can be used to cut out a significant area of expenditure for a business, and there are economic benefits too.

3. Easily send large files
Owing to the boundlessness of the internet, cloud software can be used to exponentially increase the space that a business has in which to keep files. This extra space can also be used to increase the ease with which large files can be sent. With traditional computing, a large file is generally sent via email, however, many services have limits relating the maximum file size that can be handled. Cloud software, such as a cloud drive, allows for large files to simply be placed on the internet, where they wait to be picked up by the recipient, cutting out the complications of sending a large file.

4. File Backup
A major risk when using traditional computing is the potential for hardware to malfunction. This can cause large amounts of data to be lost. Even if the data is retrieved, this can be a very long and drawn out process, and some data may still be missing. With data stored using cloud software, the potential for lost data is greatly reduced. When using cloud software, the process of backing up data is scheduled and completed automatically. Moreover, the recovery process is cheaper and around four times faster than the process required for data recovery of physical memory.

5. Accessible from anywhere
Perhaps the biggest advantage of cloud software is that it is available wherever there is wireless connectivity, which can be almost anywhere these days. Whether working from home or working in the field, employees and clients of a business can get to the data they need instantly and hassle free.

CES 2014: A New Year unveils new technology

Ricky Robinson
-
0
CES 2014: A New Year unveils new technology

The New Year has started with a bang at the ever-popular International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), which takes place in Las Vegas every year. It might only be January but technology companies everywhere have already revealed some of their most prized gadgets from lightweight ultrabooks to hybrid laptops, so what have we go to look forward to over the coming year?

Revolutionary convertibles and laptops

If you’re a fan of highly portable devices with exquisite capabilities, you’re in luck. Multinational technology company Lenovo used the trade show to display a host of convertibles and laptops that are sure to get your blood pumping. That’s right, as well as Lenovo’s quirky little ThinkPad 8 tablet which sports an 8.3 inch 1080p display, boasts a quad-core Intel Bay Trail processor, can be used with a keyboard base and handles Windows 8.1 with ease, you can also get hold of slightly larger gadgets such as the detachable Windows 8 hybrid Miix 2.  Ideal for anyone who enjoys the portability of a tablet and the reassurance of a laptop, this multi-functioning invention has it all and is great for both business and pleasure. Consumers can also get their hands on Yoga 2 (an updated version of the original IdeaPad Yoga) as well as a new version of the Flex, the Flex D series.

Lenovo X1 Carbon
nokia_fan /  CC BY-NC

What’s more Lenovo have also paid homage to traditional notebooks with both the Z and Y series boasting sleek and efficient 14 and 15.6 inch models. While the Z series includes a host of breathtaking features including an Intel Core i7 processor, optional 1080p display, optional Nvidia 840 graphics and an impressive 16GB of RAM if needed, the Y series is sure to capture the interest of gamers everywhere. The latter comes complete with an Intel Core Processor, Nvidia GTX or AMD Radeon R9 M270 graphics and 3840×2160 display, which makes for a great gaming experience.

Futuristic mock-ups and concepts

As well as impressive designs that are sure to improve the world of computing, CES has also seen a host of headline-grabbing concepts including bendable TVs. Yes, you heard right. This year, Samsung not only announced two series of LED LCD curved TVs, which got people talking but they also showed off a rather swanky bendable TV. The demo model was an 85-inch LED LCD with 45 resolution and had the ability to transform from a flat screen to a curved screen with just a push of a button – pretty cool huh? One can only imagine what such a device would cost as no price was given. Other futuristic designs included BMW’s driver-less car, which not only had the ability to detect the presence of objects but could also steer, accelerate and break without any human intervention. Amazingly, the system can even counter-steer if the car slips on a wet road to prevent it from doing a 180. Made up of a Lateral Control Unit and a Longitudinal Control Unit, each played its part to determine the motion of the vehicle and are central to autonomous vehicles.

Every year, exciting developments come from CES and it seem like 2014 is no different so keep a look out for these outstanding creations.

Tyre safety tips

Ricky Robinson
-
0
Tyre safety tips

The only parts of a car that should be in contact with the road are the tyres. They act as a cushion between the road and the body of the vehicle, often functioning at high speeds, and are vital to the safety of the vehicle. Here are some tips for keeping tyres in top condition.

Tyre Pressure

A tyre can only function properly if it is correctly inflated. The air inside a tyre gives it structure and allows the tyre to provide cushioning and traction. Conversely, an underinflated tyre is a potential safety hazard, and also increases friction between the outer tyre and the road, slowing a car down and decreasing its fuel efficiency. Tyre pressure can be checked at car dealerships such as T W White & Sons, where professionals will be able to give advice on appropriate pressure levels. Alternatively, you can check tyre pressure yourself with a gauge at a petrol station. The recommended tyre pressure for a particular tyre should be indicated on the wheel itself or on a label on the driver’s doorframe. Tyre pressure should be checked every month and before every long distance journey.

Car tyres
Niklas Emmerich Photography /  CC BY-NC-SA

Tread Depth

In order to maintain optimum levels of grip, a tyre must have a sufficient amount of tread. The legal limit in the UK for tread is at least 1.6 mm across 75% of the tyre, owners of cars with less tread than this face a fine of up to £2,500 per offending tyre. It is particularly important to have good levels of tread when driving in unfavourable conditions, such as when there is a lot of water on the road or when it is icy. The 20 pence technique allows you to quickly check if you have sufficient tread. If, when a 20p piece is placed between the tracks of the tread, the inner rim of the coin is still visible, then the tyre may have insufficient tread and may need replacing. When checking tread levels, it is also important to look out for abnormal wear and damage such as cracks and bulges in the tyre.

Rotate Tyres

Very often, over the lifetime of a car it may end up turning in one direction more than the other. For instance, when turning clockwise at a roundabout, as we do in Britain, this increases the instances of turning right. Front wheel drive cars, such as  may also be harsher on the front tyres during breaking. These and other tendencies can cause uneven wear on tyres, creating an imbalance in the way a car handles. To avoid this, and to get the maximum life out of each individual tyre, it is important to rotate tyres every 6,000 miles, or as instructed in the owner’s manual.

Use the right tyre

A tyre may be in perfect condition but if it is used in an inappropriate environment it may not be able to function to the best of its abilities. In very wet conditions, special tyres with water dispersing tread can heavily reduce the likelihood of aquaplaning. Meanwhile, snow tyres have very wide tread that improves grip on snow but can result in heavy wear in normal conditions. For a review of the best winter tyres, visit autoexpress.co.uk.

Are Willie and Korie Robertson planning to leave Duck Dynasty?

Sonia Pantiss
-
0
Are Willie and Korie Robertson planning to leave Duck Dynasty?

According to new reports, Willie and Korie Robertson are planning to leave Duck Dynasty show.

A source told the National Enquirer  that Willie and Korie Robertson are headed in different directions.

“It looks like big trouble is brewing in their marriage,” the source said.

Willie and Korie Robertson have been married for 22 years. Although there is no indication that divorce is imminent, a split would put their $30 million fortune at risk.

New reports claim Willie and Korie Robertson are planning to leave Duck Dynasty show
New reports claim Willie and Korie Robertson are planning to leave Duck Dynasty show

Korie Robertson, 40, reportedly wants to move to Los Angeles where she can turn her four kids into stars, while her husband wants to stay in backwoods Louisiana and may want to kick off a career in politics, the source said.

Korie is also said to believe that their 16-year-old daughter Sadie will find it easier to expand her budding modeling career in Los Angeles.

Although Willie denied this summer that he planned to go into politics, “Willie got a taste of the big political arena when he attended the president’s recent State of the Union Address as a guest of Louisiana Rep. Vance McAllister,” said the source.

Willie and Korie Robertson, who have their own fortunes and also own a slice of the family’s  lucrative duck call business empire, would suddenly find  an estimated $30 million in play if they land in divorce  court, according to an insider.

[youtube HKw31q9wvBw 650]

Duck Dynasty infinity scarf available on Duck Commander website

Sonia Pantiss
-
0
Duck Dynasty infinity scarf available on Duck Commander website

Duck Commander, the company behind Duck Dynasty reality show, launched an infinity scarf perfect for your wardrobe.

Gray with black, the scarf wears Duck Commander logo.

Duck Commander launched an infinity scarf perfect for your wardrobe
Duck Commander launched an infinity scarf perfect for your wardrobe

The scarf is made 100% from polyester and can be purchased from Duck Commander’s website for $14.95.

Duck Dynasty stars at Denney For Idaho event in Nampa

Sonia Pantiss
-
0
Duck Dynasty stars at Denney For Idaho event in Nampa

Duck Dynasty’s Phil, Miss Kay, Al, and Lisa Robertson will be part of a Denney For Idaho event in Nampa.

Dubbed Happy, Happy, Happy: An Evening with A&E’s Duck Dynasty, the  family event will take place at at Idaho Center Arena on March 29.

Duck Dynasty’s Phil, Miss Kay, Al, and Lisa Robertson will be part of a Denney For Idaho event in Nampa
Duck Dynasty’s Phil, Miss Kay, Al, and Lisa Robertson will be part of a Denney For Idaho event in Nampa

The Robertson family will talk about their business, their lives, family values and America’s Heritage.

General Event Tickets can be purchased at the Idaho Center Box Office (icTickets.com)

A limited number of VIP tickets available at www.denneyforidaho.com. VIP tickets are $500 per person and will feature a meet & greet and photo opportunity with the Robertsons as well as Hors d’oeuvres prior to the main evening event.

Date:

03/29/2014 – 5:30pm to 8:00pm

Location:

Idaho Center Arena
16200 N Idaho Center Blvd,
Nampa, ID 83687

NY judge rules for Chevron in Ecuador case

Clyde K. Valle
-
0
NY judge rules for Chevron in Ecuador case

Lawyers representing Amazonian villagers in Ecuador used bribes to secure compensation worth billions of dollars from Chevron, a US judge has ruled today.

The latest ruling means that the Amazonian villagers cannot use US courts to enforce the ruling against Chevron.

Chevron had been found guilty in Ecuador of causing environmental damage to the Lago Agrio region.

The legal team says they will appeal.

In 2011, an Ecuadorean judge ordered Chevron to pay $18.2 billion for “extensively polluting” the Lago Agrio region.

Ecuador’s highest court last year upheld the verdict against Chevron, but reduced the amount of compensation to $9.5 billion.

The alleged environmental damage was done by Texaco between 1964 and 1990. Texaco was later acquired by Chevron.

Chevron has always maintained that it cleaned up the area before handing over the oil field to the Ecuadorean government.

Lawyers representing Amazonian villagers in Ecuador used bribes to secure compensation worth billions of dollars from Chevron
Lawyers representing Amazonian villagers in Ecuador used bribes to secure compensation worth billions of dollars from Chevron

The oil company argued that it only lost the case because the legal team representing the villagers paid nearly $300,000 in bribes in Ecuador.

US district judge Lewis Kaplan in New York has now ruled that Steven Donziger’s legal team used “corrupt means” to win the 2011 case.

Lewis Kaplan described the evidence against Steven Donziger’s team as “voluminous”.

Chevron’s chief executive, John Watson, hailed the ruling as “a resounding victory for Chevron and its shareholders”.

The legal team representing the Ecuadorean villagers has also sued Chevron in Brazil, Argentina and Canada.

But Chevron believes the US judge decision will help them fight their case in other courts.

Some 30,000 local residents, including five different Amazonian tribes, began the lawsuit against Texaco in 1993.

The plaintiffs say that the oil company knowingly dumped 18 billion gallons of toxic waste water and spilled 17 million gallons of crude oil into the rainforest during its operations in north-east Ecuador.

They say the affected area covers 1,700 sq miles on the border with Colombia.

Local residents believe the pollution has led to health problems such as cancer and birth defects.

[youtube z54JA3HbTpM 650]

Russia test-fires intercontinental ballistic missile amid Crimea tension

Roy Siemens
-
0
Russia test-fires intercontinental ballistic missile amid Crimea tension

Russia says it has test-fired an intercontinental ballistic missile, as tension continues over Ukraine’s Crimea region.

A Topol RS-12M missile was launched from Russia’s Kapustin Yar test range near the Caspian Sea to the Sary Shagan range in Kazakhstan, it said.

It comes after the US accused Russia of an “act of aggression” in Crimea.

The US said it was given advance notice of the missile launch, as required by bilateral arms treaties.

The Topol was fired at 22:10 local time, the defense ministry in Moscow said, adding: “The aim of the launch was to test a promising intercontinental ballistic missile payload.”

A Topol RS-12M missile was launched from Russia's Kapustin Yar test range near the Caspian Sea to the Sary Shagan range in Kazakhstan
A Topol RS-12M missile was launched from Russia’s Kapustin Yar test range near the Caspian Sea to the Sary Shagan range in Kazakhstan

The nuclear-capable missile reached its target successfully, it said.

Tests of the missile, one of Russia’s newest, are not unusual but the timing of the launch if confirmed, is likely to alarm observers of the crisis with Ukraine.

Moscow is in de facto control of the Crimean peninsula after troops thought to be Russian or pro-Russian took control of strategic points in recent days.

Troops are surrounding Ukrainian military bases and other installations, while two Ukrainian warships are reported to be blocked by a Russian ship in the port of Sevastopol.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has denied the troops are Russian, saying they are “local self-defense forces” loyal to Moscow, protecting the bases from “nationalists” and “anti-Semites”.

Vladimir Putin said Viktor Yanukovych, who was ousted as Ukraine’s president in late February after months of protest, remained the legitimate leader, though he admitted that he had “no political future”.

Kiev and the West have accused Russia of mounting an invasion of Crimea, which has a majority Russian-speaking population.

[youtube Xy_IdjUlRLI 650]

Oscar Pistorius trial day 2: Second key witness heard fight on murder day

Clyde K. Valle
-
0
Oscar Pistorius trial day 2: Second key witness heard fight on murder day

A second key witness in Oscar Pistorius’ trial has told the court in Pretoria she was awoken by the sounds of a fight early on February 14, 2013.

Paralympic champion Oscar Pistorius, 27, has pleaded not guilty to intentionally killing his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp.

Oscar Pistorius shot dead Reeva Steenkamp, 29, at his home, saying he mistook her for an intruder.

His neighbor, Estelle Van Der Merwe, said the row had lasted about an hour.

“It seemed like somebody was involved in a fight,” said Estelle Van Der Merwe, who lives in the same gated Pretoria housing estate as Oscar Pistorius.

“People were talking in loud voices.”

The argument woke her at about 01:56 local time and lasted about an hour. After that, she heard four loud sounds in succession.

Oscar Pistorius has pleaded not guilty to intentionally killing girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp
Oscar Pistorius has pleaded not guilty to intentionally killing girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp (photo Reuters)

Estelle Van Der Merwe was the second witness to take the stand at the murder trial of Oscar Pistorius, which began at the high court in on Monday.

She said she had been irritated by the noise of the argument and placed a pillow on her head “in hope of falling asleep again”.

Tuesday’s hearing adjourned not long after the third witness, Charl Peter Johnson – husband to the first witness Michelle Burger – had taken the stand.

The second day of the trial began with defense lawyer Barry Roux quizzing Michelle Burger about her account of hearing a woman’s screams, a man calling for help and then four gunshots.

The defense line was clear that as Reeva Steenkamp was in a closed toilet with a closed window, the screams the witness said she heard could not have come from her.

Oscar Pistorius was in the bathroom where the window was open so the screams must have come from him.

Barry Roux also suggested expert evidence would prove that Reeva Steenkamp would have been unable to scream between shots.

When details of the bullets hitting her head were read out, Oscar Pistorius’s head dropped into his hands.

At the start of proceedings on Monday, Barry Roux read out a statement from the athlete, giving his version of events of how Reeva Steenkamp had died, saying he believed his girlfriend was in bed when he shot at the toilet door.

State prosecutors say Oscar Pistorius planned the killing and shot Reeva Steenkamp after a row.

[youtube uadnpxsXaKY 650]

Singapore becomes world’s most expensive city to live in 2014

Nancy Clayson
-
0
Singapore becomes world’s most expensive city to live in 2014

Singapore is the world’s most expensive city to live in 2014, according to an Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) survey.

The city has topped 131 cities globally on the EIU list.

Singapore’s strong currency combined with the high cost of running a car and soaring utility bills contributed to its topping the list.

The city is also the most expensive place in the world to buy clothes.

Singapore replaces Tokyo, which topped the list in 2013.

Other cities making up the top five most expensive cities to live in are Paris, Oslo, Zurich and Sydney, with Tokyo falling to sixth place.

The EIU’s Worldwide Cost of Living Survey is a relocation tool that uses New York City as a base. It looks at more than 400 individual prices.

The top 10 cities this year have been dominated by Asian and Australasian cities as well as some in Europe.

Most Asian cities that top the list are there for predominantly higher costs of groceries. Tokyo is still at the top of the list for everyday food items.

Singapore is the world's most expensive city to live in 2014
Singapore is the world’s most expensive city to live in 2014

However, not all Asian cities are tough on the wallet.

India’s major cities – including Mumbai and New Delhi – were found to be among the least expensive in the world.

Mumbai’s prices are kept low by large income inequality.

The low wages of many of the city’s workers keep spending low, and government subsidies have helped them stay that way.

Outside of the subcontinent, Damascus in Syria saw the largest drop, becoming the fourth cheapest city in the world as the country’s ongoing conflict has led to plummeting prices.

While the EIU’s survey takes into account the cost of living, other firms employ different research methods.

Mercer conducts research to determine the most expensive cities for expatriate living.

It found that in 2013, Luanda, Angola was the hardest on expatriate wallets due to the difficulty of finding adequate secure housing, and the high price of imported goods.

Top 5 most expensive cities:

  1. Singapore, Singapore
  2. Paris, France
  3. Oslo, Norway
  4. Zurich, Switzerland
  5. Sydney, Australia [youtube 1hIpf76Re50 650]

Abdul Fattah al-Sisi to run for Egypt’s presidency

Diane A. Wade
-
0
Abdul Fattah al-Sisi to run for Egypt’s presidency

Field Marshal Abdul Fattah al-Sisi has indicated he will run for Egypt’s presidency.

Abdul Fattah al-Sisi was quoted by the state news agency Mena as revealing that “official procedures” regarding his candidacy were expected in the coming days.

It is the clearest indication yet that Abdul Fattah al-Sisi will stand in the election which is scheduled to take place by mid-April.

The field marshal led the overthrow of President Mohamed Morsi in July.

Field Marshal Abdul Fattah al-Sisi has indicated he will run for Egypt’s presidency
Field Marshal Abdul Fattah al-Sisi has indicated he will run for Egypt’s presidency

He has been widely expected to resign and declare a presidential bid since the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces (SCAF) gave its public support at the end of January.

Correspondents say Abdul Fattah al-Sisi would be likely to win, given his popularity and the lack of any serious rivals.

The field marshal commented on his prospective candidacy in a speech at a graduation ceremony at the Egyptian Military Academy in Cairo.

Abdul Fattah al-Sisi said he could “not turn his back on calls by the majority of Egyptians for him to run for president”, Mena reported.

[youtube nEvOdq7AL4g 650]

Nicaragua: Daniel Ortega appears in public after death speculation

Diane A. Wade
-
0
Nicaragua: Daniel Ortega appears in public after death speculation

Nicaragua’s President Daniel Ortega appeared in public after a 10-day absence which had led to rumors about his health.

Daniel Ortega appeared on Monday greeting newly appointed Nicaraguan Cardinal Leopoldo Brenes at the airport in the capital, Managua.

Referring to the rumors, the president told the cardinal he had “carried out the miracle of resurrecting me because a lot people thought I was dead”.

Daniel Ortega, a former Sandinista rebel, is serving his third term in office.

Nicaragua’s President Daniel Ortega appeared in public after a 10-day absence which had led to rumors about his health
Nicaragua’s President Daniel Ortega appeared in public after a 10-day absence which had led to rumors about his health (photo AFP)

There had been feverish speculation about his state of health after he began missing official ceremonies after February 21.

On February 26, Daniel Ortega had been expected to attend an event commemorating the 1978 indigenous uprising in Monimbo, in which his brother was killed.

The following day, Ecuadorean President Rafael Correa cancelled a planned trip to Nicaragua, citing scheduling problems on the side of the Nicaraguan government.

Some rumors circulated on social media saying Daniel Ortega had health problems and was receiving treatment in Cuba, while others said he had died days previously on the Communist-run island.

[youtube T8lhiuiXgOI 650]

First patient with Carmat artificial heart dies 75 days after operation

Kathryn R. Bown
-
0
First patient with Carmat artificial heart dies 75 days after operation

The first patient fitted with a Carmat artificial heart in France has died.

The 76-year-old man, who has not been named, died 75 days after the operation in Paris.

The bioprosthetic device, made by French company Carmat, is designed to replace the real heart for up to five years.

It is intended to help patients who are in the advanced stages of heart failure.

At this late stage of the disease, the damaged organ can no longer pump enough blood for the body to function normally.

When the device was fitted, the patient was said to have only a few weeks, or even days to live.

It’s not known whether his death was due to any malfunction of the artificial heart or the patient’s severe ill-health.

Three more patients in France with terminal heart failure are scheduled to be fitted with the artificial heart.

The Carmat heart is designed to work for five years
The Carmat heart is designed to work for five years

The clinical trial will be considered a success if they survive for at least a month.

A further trial of another 20 patients will examine to what extent the device improves their quality of life.

Eventually the company hopes to get a European license for the prototype heart, which is expected to cost around $240,000.

The Carmat device weighs nearly 2 pounds, three times that of a human heart. It is powered by an external lithium battery pack, which the patient wears on a belt.

It is made from a combination of synthetic materials, surrounded by a plastic shell.

Inside the heart, some of the surfaces which come into contact with blood are made from cow heart tissue, which are less likely to cause clots to form.

The patient trials follow many years of laboratory research and extensive animal studies.

The Carmat heart is designed to work for five years.

Artificial hearts have been used for decades, but usually as a means of helping a failing heart to pump blood around the body.

Several companies are working on devices which entirely take over from the damaged organ until a donor heart becomes available.

[youtube 3qRus0aIeeo 650]

[youtube 52N1spX_yvg 650]

Rob Ford appears on Jimmy Kimmel Live

Lisa.Felice
-
0
Rob Ford appears on Jimmy Kimmel Live

Rob Ford’s appearance Monday night on Jimmy Kimmel Live was the culmination of months of wooing by the talk show host to get the Toronto mayor to appear as a guest.

Rob Ford laughed off Jimmy Kimmel’s suggestion that he get help for his drinking problem and was reported to be upset about his appearance on the talk show.

The mayor tossed T-shirts to the audience to loud applause as he came on stage after Jimmy Kimmel introduced him by saying “our first guest tonight has tripped, bumped, danced, argued and smoked his way into our national consciousness”.

Jimmy Kimmel told Rob Ford that if he’s an alcoholic, and drinking enough that he would try crack cocaine in his 40s, “and you don’t remember it, maybe that’s something that you might want to think about, like talking to somebody”.

Rob Ford shot back his head and laughed before saying he “wasn’t elected to be perfect”.

Rob Ford appeared Monday night on Jimmy Kimmel Live
Rob Ford appeared Monday night on Jimmy Kimmel Live

The Toronto mayor made international headlines last year when he acknowledged having smoked crack cocaine while in a drunken stupor. He continues to draw attention for his erratic behavior, but has resisted pressure to step down and is seeking re-election in October.

Earlier during the segment, Rob Ford and Jimmy Kimmel left their seats during the segment to watch a series of videos depicting the mayor of Canada’s largest city in a variety of embarrassing scenes, including a cell phone video of Ford ranting about wanting to kill someone. Rob Ford said he didn’t know who he was talking about in the video.

Jimmy Kimmel also played several other videos, including one from a city council meeting in which he mimes a drunk driver and another that shows him dumping and throwing – not handing – candy canes to children during a Santa Claus parade. The red-faced mayor stood next to a video screen and was asked to comment about each of them.

Before the show, Rob Ford had said that his appearance on Jimmy Kimmel’s show was intended to promote Toronto’s film industry, describing his city as Hollywood North.

[youtube Nzbq7iBvoJs 650]

[youtube TOBvGFvsgEc 650]

[youtube Jym-K1KoGqM 650]

[youtube BfhmjPRpsTg 650]

Oscars 2014 watched by 43 million viewers in US

Sonia Pantiss
-
0
Oscars 2014 watched by 43 million viewers in US

This year’s Oscars ceremony, hosted by Ellen DeGeneres, was watched by 43 million TV viewers in the US.

According to broadcaster ABC, it was the biggest audience for the Academy Awards in a decade.

The audience was 6.4% bigger than last year when the event was fronted by Seth McFarlane, according to ratings figures from Nielsen.

The most recent biggest TV audience was 43.6 million in 2004, when The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King cleaned up.

The most watched Oscars ceremony on television came in 1998, when the triumph of Titanic with 11 Academy awards was seen by 55.3 million viewers.

This year’s Oscars ceremony, hosted by Ellen DeGeneres, was watched by 43 million TV viewers in the US
This year’s Oscars ceremony, hosted by Ellen DeGeneres, was watched by 43 million TV viewers in the US

Last year’s choice of irreverent host Seth McFarlane drew criticism from some quarters. Ellen DeGeneres – hosting the event for the second time – was seen as a safer pair of hands.

Ellen DeGeneres received mixed reviews for this year’s ceremony, but her tenure was seen as a step away from recent attempts to draw in younger audiences.

Despite this, data from ratings trackers Nielsen suggested that there was an increase of 1% in the 18 to 34-year-old audience bracket.

Regardless of the critics’ views, Ellen DeGeneres’ staged a “selfie” photograph with several of the stars in the audience which was a hit on social media, setting the record for the most re-tweets on Twitter – more than two million.

Ellen Degeneres declared she wanted to break the record for the most re-tweeted photograph in history, featuring herself surrounded by the front row talent – and best supporting actress winner Lupita Nyong’o’s brother.

She broke the record within the hour, and in doing so, broke Twitter’s servers too.

Twitter said that 14.7 million Oscar-related tweets were sent worldwide during the telecast.

[youtube BQPfQRPMgYU 650]

Vladimir Putin: No need yet to send Russian troops into Ukraine

Diane A. Wade
-
0
Vladimir Putin: No need yet to send Russian troops into Ukraine

President Vladimir Putin says there is no need yet to send Russian troops into Ukraine, but he has not ruled out doing so.

Russia reserves the right to use “all means” to protect citizens in Ukraine, he told a news conference.

Russian and Ukrainian troops in Crimea are involved in a tense stand-off.

Vladimir Putin called the toppling of Ukraine’s President Viktor Yanukovych in the capital Kiev an “anti-constitutional coup and armed seizure of power”.

The Russian president said “militants” had plunged the country into “chaos”. He also said Ukrainian “nationalists” and “anti-Semites” were roaming the streets of Kiev and other cities.

Vladimir Putin says there is no need yet to send Russian troops into Ukraine, but he has not ruled out doing so
Vladimir Putin says there is no need yet to send Russian troops into Ukraine, but he has not ruled out doing so

If Russian-speaking people in eastern Ukraine asked for Russia’s help then Moscow would respond, he said.

In Crimea pro-Russian armed men and civilians are surrounding Ukrainian military bases – not Russian soldiers, he said.

Viktor Yanukovych had agreed to all that the opposition wanted, Vladimir Putin said.

Vladimir Putin insisted that Viktor Yanukovych was still the legitimate president.

There were only three legal means to remove a president, he said: death, personal resignation or impeachment.

Viktor Yanukovych fled to Russia, and Vladimir Putin told the news conference: “I don’t think he has a political future.”

Russia had helped Viktor Yanukovych for “humanitarian” reasons, Vladimir Putin said, “otherwise he’d just have been killed”.

[youtube qS23Z9HeBb8 650]

Oscar Pistorius trial day 2: Defense lawyers question neighbor Michelle Burger

Clyde K. Valle
-
0
Oscar Pistorius trial day 2: Defense lawyers question neighbor Michelle Burger

The second day of Oscar Pistorius’ trial in South Africa begins with his defense lawyers questioning a neighbor who told a court in Pretoria that heard a woman’s “terrible screams” on February 14, 2013.

Oscar Pistorius has pleaded not guilty at the start of his trial for the murder of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp.

The Paralympic champion shot dead the 29-year-old model and reality TV star at his home, saying he mistook her for an intruder.

Oscar Pistorius’ neighbor, Michelle Burger, said cries for help were followed by shots.

“She screamed terribly and she yelled for help. Then I also heard a man screaming for help. Three times he yelled for help,” Michelle Burger told the high court in the capital on the first day of the trial.

Oscar Pistorius’ trial in South Africa begins with his defense lawyers questioning a key witness
Oscar Pistorius’ trial in South Africa begins with his defense lawyers questioning a key witness

Michelle Burger said she called security and then heard four gunshots.

Double amputee Oscar Pistorius, 27, won gold at the London 2012 Paralympic Games and also competed at the Olympics.

For the first time in South Africa, parts of the trial are being televised live, although Michelle Burger’s testimony, in Afrikaans, is being relayed in audio.

Some witness testimony is being excluded from TV broadcasts, although audio of the entire trial is being broadcast.

The court was briefly adjourned as questioning began on the second day of the trial over concerns Michelle Burger’s photograph was shown on television on Tuesday.

Judge Thokozile Masipa warned that no photographs of witnesses from any sources were to be used by the media and any violators would not be “treated with soft gloves”.

Today, Oscar Pistorius’ defense lawyer Barry Roux began his remarks by outlining what he would focus on with Michelle Berger’s testimony: her credibility and reliability.

On Monday, Oscar Pistorius pleaded not guilty to all charges, including the “willful and intentional murder of Reeva Steenkamp” as the trial began.

[youtube 0bFDaTnyvuE 650]

Anger may trigger heart attack or stroke

Kathryn R. Bown
-
0
Anger may trigger heart attack or stroke

According to a new research, anger may trigger a heart attack or stroke, with a “danger window” of about two hours following an outburst.

The US researchers, who trawled medical literature, say rage often precedes an attack and may be the trigger.

They identified a dangerous period of about two hours following an outburst when people were at heightened risk.

But they say more work is needed to understand the link and find out if stress-busting strategies could avoid such complications.

People who have existing risk factors, such as a history of heart disease, are particularly susceptible, the researchers told the European Heart Journal.

In the two hours immediately after an angry outburst, risk of a heart attack increased nearly five-fold and risk of stroke increased more than three-fold, the data from nine studies and involving thousands of people suggests.

Anger may trigger a heart attack or stroke, with a danger window of about two hours following an outburst
Anger may trigger a heart attack or stroke, with a danger window of about two hours following an outburst

The Harvard School of Public Health researchers say, at a population level, the risk with a single outburst of anger is relatively low – one extra heart attack per 10,000 people per year could be expected among people with low cardiovascular risk who were angry only once a month, increasing to an extra four per 10,000 people with a high cardiovascular risk.

But the risk is cumulative, meaning temper-prone individuals will be at higher risk still.

Five episodes of anger a day would result in around 158 extra heart attacks per 10,000 people with a low cardiovascular risk per year, increasing to about 657 extra heart attacks per 10,000 among those with a high cardiovascular risk, Dr. Elizabeth Mostofsky and colleagues calculate.

Elizabeth Mostofsky said: “Although the risk of experiencing an acute cardiovascular event with any single outburst of anger is relatively low, the risk can accumulate for people with frequent episodes of anger.”

It’s unclear why anger might be dangerous – the researchers point out that their results do not necessarily indicate that anger causes heart and circulatory problems.

Experts know that chronic stress can contribute to heart disease, partly because it can raise blood pressure but also because people may deal with stress in unhealthy ways – by smoking or drinking too much alcohol, for example.

The researchers say it is worth testing what protection stress-busting strategies, such as yoga, might offer.

Non-Stop tops North American box office with $30 million

Sonia Pantiss
-
0
Non-Stop tops North American box office with $30 million

Thriller Non-Stop, in which Liam Neeson plays a federal air marshal, has topped the North American box office chart.

Liam Neeson’s character must stop a string of murders on an international flight.

The film took $30 million at US and Canadian cinemas between Friday and Sunday, according to studio estimates.

Non-Stop took $30 million at US and Canadian cinemas over the weekend
Non-Stop took $30 million at US and Canadian cinemas over the weekend

Son of God took $26.5 million to reach second place. The film is adapted from the History Channel’s mini-series The Bible, about the life of Jesus.

The film, which surpassed box office predictions, stars Portuguese actor Diogo Morgado as Jesus and was made by reality TV producer Mark Burnett.

The success of Non-Stop and Son of God pushed The Lego Movie down to third place after three weeks in the top spot.

The Lego Movie made $21 million over the weekend, taking its North American box office total to $209 million.

George Clooney’s World War II drama The Monuments Men was a distant fourth, earning $5 million.

The Monuments Men was followed by 3 Days to Kill, in which Kevin Costner plays an over-the-hill international spy, which took $4.9 million.

[youtube jiHDJ19A3dk 650]

Viktor Yanukovych asked Moscow to send troops in Crimea

Roy Siemens
-
0
Viktor Yanukovych asked Moscow to send troops in Crimea

Russia’s UN envoy Vitaly Churkin has claimed that ousted Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych asked Moscow to send troops across the border to protect civilians.

Vitaly Churkin told a Security Council meeting that Viktor Yanukovych wrote President Vladimir Putin on Saturday.

Thousands of Russian troops have been deployed to Ukraine’s Crimea region.

Russian troops have also been holding military exercises near Ukraine’s borders, but now Vladimir Putin has ordered them back to base, the Kremlin says.

Ukraine said Russia had set a deadline for its forces in Crimea to surrender by 03:00 GMT. So far there have been no reports of any incidents.

Russia has denied issuing any ultimatum.

The Kremlin has argued in favor of the intervention, which has sparked outrage and threats of economic sanctions from the US and EU.

Western ambassadors dismissed Russia’s arguments as groundless.

US Secretary of State John Kerry is on his way to Kiev to meet Ukraine’s new leaders and show support for the country’s sovereignty.

Meanwhile, Ukraine’s UN envoy Yuriy Sergeyev says Russia has deployed about 16,000 troops to the peninsula.

Vitaly Churkin told a Security Council meeting that Viktor Yanukovych wrote Vladimir Putin asking for troops in Crimea
Vitaly Churkin told a Security Council meeting that Viktor Yanukovych wrote Vladimir Putin asking for troops in Crimea

Ukrainian defence sources accused Russia’s Black Sea Fleet chief Aleksander Vitko of threatening a full-scale assault if they did not surrender by dawn on Tuesday.

A Russian spokesman later denied that any ultimatum had been issued.

Ukrainian military personnel besieged in their bases waited nervously for the deadline to pass, many of them preparing for an attack by Russian troops and pro-Moscow militias.

However, a deputy commander at one of Ukraine’s units, named only as Major Lisovoy, told local ATR TV that there were no attempts to storm the base.

“We’re all in high spirits, ready to defend our base. There was no official ultimatum, it was done indirectly via mobile phones. I want peace and stability, and for Ukraine to be a united country.”

The Kremlin has established de facto military control in Crimea. There are growing fears that it might try to seize more land in eastern Ukraine, where a number of people support closer ties with Moscow.

Ukrainian officials say reports suggest there is also a Russian military build-up near Ukraine’s eastern border.

Meanwhile, the Pentagon said it was putting on hold all military-to-military engagements between the US and Russia. These include exercises, bilateral meetings, port visits and planning conferences.

At the UN in New York, Vitaly Churkin offered the Security Council a copy of the letter Viktor Yanukovych had sent.

Vitaly Churkin said Viktor Yanukovych had described Ukraine as on the brink of civil war, with civilians being persecuted simply for speaking Russian.

Ukraine’s officials deny this, pointing out that an overwhelming majority of people in Crimea and well as in a number south-eastern cities in Ukraine’s mainland speak Russian in their day-to-day lives.

Vitaly Churkin quoted from the letter: “I would call on the president of Russia, Mr Putin, asking him to use the armed forces of the Russian Federation to establish legitimacy, peace, law and order, stability and defending the people of Ukraine.”

He reiterated Moscow’s view that Viktor Yanukovych is Ukraine’s legitimate leader, not interim President Oleksandr Turchynov.

Western ambassadors refused to accept Russia’s justification, continuing to accuse Moscow of violating international law.

[youtube X3-4Bzjutm0 650]

Rolls-Royce deals put on hold during India bribery inquiry

Clyde K. Valle
-
0
Rolls-Royce deals put on hold during India bribery inquiry

Indian government has put on hold all deals with Rolls-Royce until it completes an investigation into bribery allegations against the company, the Press Trust of India (PTI) reported.

A federal agency is probing allegations that Rolls-Royce paid bribes for supply of aircraft engines.

Rolls-Royce said it would “cooperate fully” with Indian authorities.

The company is the world’s second biggest manufacturer of aircraft engines.

India’s defense ministry had put on hold all “existing and future” contracts with Rolls-Royce pending the results of an investigation by the country’s Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the purchase of jet fighter engines in a deal worth $1.6 billion, PTI reported.

Indian government has put on hold all deals with Rolls-Royce until it completes an investigation into bribery allegations against the company
Indian government has put on hold all deals with Rolls-Royce until it completes an investigation into bribery allegations against the company

The Rolls-Royce engines were supplied to the state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) between 2007 and 2011, reports said.

“There was an internal vigilance report [by HAL] that suggested there were discrepancies in the deal. The CBI will look into that,” the AFP news agency quoted a defense official as saying.

A Rolls-Royce spokesman said the company would cooperate with the inquiry.

“We have repeatedly made clear that we will not tolerate misconduct of any sort,” PTI quoted the spokesman as saying.

Rolls-Royce said last year that the UK’s Serious Fraud Office (SFO) was investigating allegations of possible bribery in China and Indonesia.

Last month, two people were arrested in London as part of an SFO investigation into the firm’s activities in Asia.

The office said at the end of last year it had opened a formal investigation into the engine maker about bribery and corruption in overseas markets.

The Rolls-Royce probe is the latest controversy to hit India’s defense purchases.

[youtube X-45Z2HCNLY 650]

Webster Lucas sues McDonald’s for $1.5 million over napkin dispute

Nancy Clayson
-
0
Webster Lucas sues McDonald’s for $1.5 million over napkin dispute

Webster Lucas is suing McDonald’s for a lack of napkins after only receiving one at his local restaurant in Pacoima, California, TMZ reported.

When he asked for more, Webster Lucas claims he was denied.

The man told the manager on duty: “I should have went to eat at the Jack-in-the-Box because I didn’t come here to argue over napkins. I came here to eat.”

Webster Lucas is suing McDonald’s for a lack of napkins after only receiving one at his local restaurant in Pacoima
Webster Lucas is suing McDonald’s for a lack of napkins after only receiving one at his local restaurant in Pacoima

According to Webster Lucas, who is African American, the manager then made a racially-motivated remark, allegedly saying something about “you people.” The manager is reportedly Latino.

After the verbal disagreement, Webster Lucas emailed the general manager of the McDonald’s to say that the incident caused him “mental anguish”, which has prevented him from working.

The general manger offered Webster Lucas free burgers, but he instead decided to sue McDonald’s for $1.5 million.

[youtube iXZ0dBXNCJ8 650]

Russia gives 12-hour ultimatum to Ukrainian troops in Crimea

Roy Siemens
-
0
Russia gives 12-hour ultimatum to Ukrainian troops in Crimea

Russia’s military has given Ukrainian forces in Crimea an ultimatum until dawn on Tuesday to surrender or face an assault.

The head of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet Aleksander Vitko set the deadline and also threatened two warships, Ukrainian officials said.

However, Interfax news agency later quoted a fleet spokesman who denied that any ultimatum had been issued.

Moscow has said its troops are needed in Crimea to protect civilians.

Russia's military has given Ukrainian forces in Crimea an ultimatum until dawn on Tuesday to surrender or face an assault
Russia’s military has given Ukrainian forces in Crimea an ultimatum until dawn on Tuesday to surrender or face an assault (photo Reuters)

The Kremlin says people in Crimea have come under threat from “ultra-nationalists” since pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovych was ousted last month.

Russia is now said to be in de facto control of the Crimea region.

Ukraine has ordered full mobilization to counter the intervention.

No shots have yet been fired in the region, which has a majority of Russian speakers and a largely pro-Russian local government.

But the captain of one of the threatened warships told Ukrainian TV his men were prepared to fight and would not surrender.

The trouble began last month when pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovych was ousted following months of street protests.

Russia claims its military is protecting human rights in Crimea, but Kiev, the US and Western Europe have condemned the actions.

Ukraine’s PM Arseniy Yatsenyuk said earlier that any attempt to seize Crimea would fail, urging allies to give economic and political support to his government.

[youtube c61Y4RWvhvY 650]

Jennifer Lawrence denies she is taking hiatus from Hollywood

Lisa.Felice
-
0
Jennifer Lawrence denies she is taking hiatus from Hollywood

Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein recently hinted that Jennifer Lawrence wants to take time off from her hectic work schedule.

Jennifer Lawrence, 23, has denied she is taking a hiatus from Hollywood as she enjoyed a series of successes thanks to her roles in The Hunger Games and X-Men franchises, as well as her Oscar-winning turn in Silver Linings Playbook.

Harvey Weinstein recently hinted that Jennifer Lawrence wants to take time off from her hectic work schedule
Harvey Weinstein recently hinted that Jennifer Lawrence wants to take time off from her hectic work schedule

However, during an interview with MTV News on the red carpet at Sunday’s Oscars, the American Hustle star insisted she is not ready to give up her time in the spotlight just yet.

She joked: “That’s just Harvey [Weinstein] being an idiot. No, he’s not being an idiot, I don’t know. I would like to take a year off, that would be a dream. I’d like to if I could.”

Jennifer Lawrence is currently filming The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Parts 1 and 2.

Ellen DeGeneres opening monologue at Oscars 2014

Lisa.Felice
-
0
Ellen DeGeneres opening monologue at Oscars 2014

Ellen DeGeneres took full advantage of Jennifer Lawrence’s repeated inability to stay upright in her opening monologue at Sunday night’s Oscars.

In her second go-round as the master of ceremonies for The Academy, Ellen DeGeneres reminded the audience that Jennifer Lawrence fell as she went to retrieve her award for Best Actress at last year’s Oscars.

“I am not going to bring up what happened last year,” she teased.

Ellen DeGeneres took full advantage of Jennifer Lawrence's repeated inability to stay upright in her opening monologue at Sunday night's Oscars
Ellen DeGeneres took full advantage of Jennifer Lawrence’s repeated inability to stay upright in her opening monologue at Sunday night’s Oscars

“It’s ridiculous, I mean something like that happens, and it’s embarrassing, and people just talk about it. It’s just, you know… for those of you who don’t know what I’m talking about, Jennifer Lawrence last year, she fell on the way up, tripped. I don’t know if she got caught on the tip of the dress, but… let’s show the clip.”

She didn’t show it, but she made sure that everyone knew that Jennifer Lawrence was caught slipping again this year.

Other highlights included making fun of June Squibb’s age by intimating that she’s hard of hearing, calling Liza Minnelli “sir” and joking that, if 12 Years a Slave didn’t win best picture, the whole Academy was racist.

[youtube IGxA13d1_8E 650]

1...631632633...1,245Page 632 of 1,245