Sunday, December 31, 2017

Homes That Sold for Less Than $500,000


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Statement knitwear: The only fashionable message you need this season

<p>New Delhi [India], Dec 31 (ANI): The mercury has officially dropped which means it's time to warm up to cozy winter wear. And what's winter wear without some trusty knits?</p><p>This winter, it's all about versatility, utility and style. Three words that go oh-so-perfectly together. The new season knits embody all that and more. They are bold, bright, and blend in while standing out.</p><p>Sanhita Dasgupta, Myntra Fashion Stylist, shares tips and trends that you can go with.</p><p>-Graphic content: Skip playing it safe; it doesn't take much to wear your attitude on your sleeves, especially when you have graphic knitwear at your disposal. From eye-catchy slogans to ultra-intricate patterns - pick knits that strike your fancy and stay fashionably warm.</p><p>-Paint the town: Welcome the big, bold stripes in bright hues! They are sure to liven up those gloomy mornings, and add that much-needed freshness to break your love for dark and earthy (also to mention - overdone) winter shades.</p><p>- Shape of you: Pull over these smart snuggles in geometric shapes and patterns. Certainly a break from the monotonous monotones, these styles add a much artistic vibe to your winter moods. If a casual and offbeat style is your go-to, then this one's for you.</p><p>Dos & Don'ts:</p><p>Keep it simple - that's the fundamental rule to ace your winter look with knits. Go for basic bottom wear, preferably in neutral hues to bring out a pleasant contrast. Corduroy has made a successful comeback this season, so go ahead and give it a shot. Remember to layer up with accessories such as mufflers or beanies, it's winter after all!(ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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WBO intensifies #FreeBalochistan campaign in New York

<p>New York City (New York) [USA], Dec 31 (ANI): The World Baloch Organisation (WBO) has established billboards, carrying the slogan '#FreeBalochistan from human rights abuses by Pakistan,' across the iconic Times Square, here.</p><p>The campaign, highlighting Pakistan's kidnappings, torture and massacres in occupied Balochistan and the Baloch people's right to self-determination, kicked-off with more than 100 Taxi-cabs.</p><p>The billboards are up in the heart of New York City and will remain as the New Year's Eve is celebrated.</p><p>The organisers of the campaign, demanding the freedom of Balochistan from the clutches of Pakistan, said they wanted to make the people across the world aware about the gross violation of rights of the people of Balochistan by Islamabad.</p><p>"The adverts seek to raise awareness about the plight of the secular Baloch people who have suffered gross human rights abuses by the Pakistani authorities for several decades," one of the organisers, Nabi Baloch, said.</p><p>He added, "We demand freedom and urge the United States and the United Nations to ask Pakistan about the human rights violation of Baloch people in the country."</p><p>The awareness campaign in New York City comes after a successful month of implementing the campaign in London, United Kingdom and Geneva in Switzerland.</p><p>Pakistan has not allowed the international press, human rights monitors and aid agencies to enter Balochistan.</p><p>The campaign launched on December 20, will run for a month, during which the WBO will continue to highlight the dire situation in Balochistan.(ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Sydney seaplane: Six dead as aircraft crashes in river

The aircraft is said to be lying in 13 metres of water and police divers are at the scene.

Indian superstar Rajinikanth tells fans he is entering politics

The film superstar says he will form a party to "change the political system" in Tamil Nadu state.

Sydney seaplane: Six dead as aircraft crashes in river

The aircraft is said to be lying in 13 metres of water and police divers are at the scene.

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Eating more fibre can help you trim your waistline

<p>London [UK], Dec 31 (ANI): Scientists have discovered that eating more fibre can help trim one's waistline and combat obesity.</p><p>Fibre can be found in whole grains, fruit, vegetables and legumes, and it is recommended we consume around 30g a day.</p><p>In the research, the scientists revealed that fibre intake could affect weight, as well as blood sugar, insulin sensitivity and bowel health.</p><p>The study points out that the food group can be as important to a healthy diet as counting calories.</p><p>This is because fibre helps promote gut health by being consumed as fuel by 'good' bacteria during digestion.</p><p>They discovered that low-fibre diets led to weight gain, high blood sugar, and insulin resistance in mice.</p><p>Talking about the research, Gunnar C Hansson, a study author from the University of Gothenburg in Sweden, said, "Diets that lack fibre alter the bacterial composition and bacterial metabolism, which in turn causes defects to the inner mucus layer, something that triggers inflammation and ultimately metabolic disease."</p><p>In May, another study had revealed that a high-fibre diet could ease painful knee osteoarthritis.</p><p>After looking at the diets of 4,051 people, they discovered that a high cereal fibre intake reduced symptoms.</p><p>The study was published in journal Cell Host & Microbe.(ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Year-end travel gets more affordable in 2017

<p>New Delhi [India], Dec 31 (ANI): Tariffs in hotels across top leisure destinations in India are 6% lower this December than last year.</p><p>According to an analysis done by OYO, a network of budget hotels in India, while hotels in a majority of holiday destinations have become more affordable than before, there are some destinations witnessing higher tariffs, due to sustained traveller interest and constraints of quality hotels.</p><p>The data indicates that room tariffs have come down in Darjeeling (29%), Srinagar (23%), Kovalam (22%), Lonavala (16%), and Jaisalmer (15%) due to high demand.</p><p>Hill-stations witnessed the greatest drop in tariffs, thanks to emergence of new guest houses and alternate branded hospitality accommodation. Kasauli and Gangtok tariffs are nearly 30% lower, while Dharamshala (-13%), Lonavala (-16%) and Ooty (-10%) are between 10-15% lower than tariffs at the same time last year. On the other hand, Mount Abu (30%) and Pachmarhi (33%) are charging 30% higher than last year.</p><p>On the whole, pilgrimage destinations have seen stable tariffs. Notable exceptions are Vrindavan (+7%), Puri (+9%), Rameswaram (+8%) and Mysore which witnessed the steepest increase at 18%. Tariffs in Shirdi, Aurangabad and Ajmer went down by 20%.</p><p>Beach towns have also seen tariffs go up, led by Mahabalipuram (22%), Kanyakumari (14%) and Goa (13%). Alleppey (-17%) and Kovalam (-22%) witnessed the steepest drops.(ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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2 Killed in Iran as Official Says Protesters Will ‘Pay the Price’


By MARTIN FACKLER from NYT World http://ift.tt/2lq9LJm

Niagara Falls becomes ice-covered spectacle

Temperatures are set to remain below minus 10 degrees Celsius in the area for the next week.

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Niagara Falls becomes ice-covered spectacle

Temperatures are set to remain below minus 10 degrees Celsius in the area for the next week.

Iran protests: 'Iron fist' threatened if unrest continues

After three days of demonstrations, the country's Revolutionary Guard threatens a crackdown.

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Call for tech giants to face taxes over extremist content

Internet firms are "ruthless profiteers" who fail to fight terrorism, the security minister says.

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Britons will feel pride in 2018, says Theresa May

The prime minister says 2017 was a turbulent year, but insists she is making progress on Brexit.

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Labour 'staking out centre ground', says Jeremy Corbyn

The "old political consensus is finished", the Labour leader says in his new year message.

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Hogmanay event will go ahead in full despite storm

Scotland is expected to be battered by winds of up to 80mph on New Year's Eve.

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Man killed in Call of Duty ‘swatting’ hoax

A man has been arrested after an alleged prank call led to police shooting dead a 28-year-old man.

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New Year Honours 2018: Praise for stars on list

A Bee Gee and ballerina are among those awarded, while Sir Paul McCartney hails "best pal" Ringo Starr.

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Trump's Russia inquiry 'started by Australian tip-off'

An Australian diplomat was told about "dirt" on Hillary Clinton in a London bar, reports say.

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County Durham child dies after Egypt pool incident

The girl was flown back to the UK but died on 26 December, five days after the accident.

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One treated after fire in Manchester block of flats

One person was taken to hospital due to smoke inhalation after the fire in the city centre.

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Nerves of steel: High up on China's power lines

Workers on some of the highest electricity cables in the world give a new meaning to "power walking".

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Black Lives Matter activist dies at 27

She became a Black Lives Matter activist after her father died while under police restraint.

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Newspaper headlines: Adonis hits out and 'Dad's Army border force'

Sunday's papers feature Lord Adonis calling for a minister to resign and claims of a new volunteer border force.

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When a drag king met a drag queen

Sequins, sexuality and stereotyping - when drag queen Dave Lynn met drag king Sammy Silver.

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How fake news plagued 2017

False stories, pictures and video were widely shared, sowing confusion about the biggest news stories of the year.

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Cheer up Luv - How photo project highlights harassment

Women are speaking out about sexual harassment through photographer Eliza Hatch's powerful project Cheer Up Luv.

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A look back at the town of Cumbernauld

Cumbernauld was a new town built to house people from the nearby overcrowded city of Glasgow. We revisit to see how it has fared as a community.

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Missed this week's entertainment news?

Take a look at some of the week's biggest stories in the world of arts and entertainment.

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Pen pals defy age gap to become friends

Five months since their first letters, a group of schoolchildren and care home residents finally meet up.

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What next for Brexit in 2018?

What are the key dates and developments to watch out for as Britain and the EU move forward?

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How people kept their New Year pledges

The inspirational stories from around England to get you off to a good start in 2018.

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Can Hull build on its UK City of Culture status beyond 2017?

As 2017 draws to a close can Hull build on its cultural year?

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In memoriam: Entertainment and arts figures we lost in 2017

A look back at some of the arts and entertainment figures who died in 2017.

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The future of international justice

After the end of the tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, will wider worldwide justice be done?

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The best science long reads of 2017 (part two)

The second part of our selection of the best science and environment reads this year.

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For Trump, a Year of Reinventing the Presidency


By PETER BAKER from NYT U.S. http://ift.tt/2lxPReO

Kristaps Porzingis’s 30 Points Help Knicks Top Pelicans and End Skid


By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS from NYT Sports http://ift.tt/2CrIRIl

Susan Romeo, Peter Moesta


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Rosanna Perretta, Robert Menna


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Merav Silverman, Ian Ramsay


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Marisa Franklin, Raphael Graybill


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Kira Ramani, Kevin Hernandez


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Kelly Jones, Daniel Howell


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Katherine Davis, Michael Golden


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Jessica Perez, Daniel Suvor


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Erica Andersen, Jonathan Donenberg


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Elizabeth Nugent, Nicholas Lotito


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Bette Marston, Brian Canter


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Ava Bastian, Stephanie Lizza


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Anthony Sibilia, Joseph Marino


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Ann Nguyen, Andrew Dewhurst


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Alicia Franck, Brinkley Serkedakis


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What’s on TV Sunday: New Year’s Eve Celebrations and Dave Chappelle


By ANDREW R. CHOW from NYT Arts http://ift.tt/2En6ouL

Greek Prime Minister Seeks to Block Asylum for Turkish Officer


By NIKI KITSANTONIS from NYT World http://ift.tt/2Cqfuc5

Corrections: December 31, 2017


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Job posted to Hacker News: Join the Muse (YC W12) as Our Lead Dev Ops Engineer

Join the Muse (YC W12) as Our Lead Dev Ops Engineer
by KMinshew | on Hacker News.


How to set your fitness goal for 2018

<p>New Delhi [India], Dec 31 (ANI): It's no surprise that many of us pick staying fit as a New Year's resolution.</p><p>Having a healthy lifestyle is what we all desire and try to keep it usually at the top of our priority list, but it is also one of the toughest things to accomplish.</p><p>Here are some simple tips by Arushi Verma, Co-founder, FITPASS that will help you stay motivated.</p><p>Be specific - Getting healthy and fit is a vague goal. So, in the coming year, be specific if you want to lose weight/ inches or you want to gain weight depending on your BMI or you want to bulk up i.e., strengthen your muscles and core.</p><p>Measurable - Sometimes, adding a number is all you need to achieve your goal with dedication. So, if you want to lose or gain weight, define how much.</p><p>Attainable - While adding a number, one should keep in mind that getting and staying fit requires a lot of efforts, so it's good to take baby steps at the starting. The key to achieving any long-term goal is to first start with achieving short term goals in the same path.</p><p>Relevant - Set goals depending upon where you are in your life. Your friend might be able to do loads of gym training but that does not mean you can too. Every 'body' is different; every 'body' has its uniqueness and limitations. Set goals depending upon what you and your body can take.</p><p>Time bound - Opting for a healthy lifestyle takes time and efforts but your goals of getting and staying fit should include a deadline too. While setting your goal, you must keep in mind the specifications of it. "For instance, if you want to lose weight and you are just starting, with proper diet and exercise losing 5kgs in 30 days makes sense," said Verma.</p><p>Regular short-term goals - If you are not sure you can achieve goals monthly, start with goals on regular basis like taking a walk every day for 30 minutes or drinking minimum three litres of water every. These short term goals go a long way in achieving your long term goals. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Pak defends Palestinian envoy's presence at Hafiz Saeed's event

<p>Islamabad [Pakistan], Dec 31 (ANI): Pakistan has defended Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief and 26/11 Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed's participation in the rally held in support of Palestinians.</p><p>Pakistan also came out in support of Palestinian ambassador to Islamabad, Waleed Abu Ali, who attended the event held in Rawalpindi, after he was recalled from his post.</p><p>Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) spokesperson said in a statement: "Contrary to the impression being created, United Nations (UN) proscription does not place any restrictions on the freedom of expression. The people and the Government of Pakistan respect the Palestinian Ambassador's active participation in events organised to express solidarity with the people of Palestine."</p><p>Citing that Pakistan had always supported the two-state solution, the statement added that the Ambassador of Palestine has participated in many of the meetings held in the country and that the public meeting, in question, was 'yet another demonstration of the Pakistani strong sentiments in support of the Palestinian cause.'</p><p>"The rally was attended by thousands of people from all walks of life. More than 50 speakers addressed the rally, including Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) founder chief Hafiz Saeed," the statement added.</p><p>Pakistan's defence has come after the Government of India said the Palestinian envoy's association with Saeed was "unacceptable".</p><p>Palestine on Saturday called back its Ambassador in Pakistan after he was seen in the company of Saeed.</p><p>Palestinian Ambassador to India Adnan Abu Al Haija, after India objected to Waleed Abu Ali's attending the event, told ANI: "We are supporting India in its fight against terrorism and because of that my government decided to directly call our Ambassador to go back home and not to be a Palestine ambassador to Pakistan anymore."</p><p>He also assured India Palestine would deal with the matter appropriately. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Nawaz Sharif arrives in Saudi, to discuss "matters of national interest"

<p>Islamabad [Pakistan], December 31 (ANI): Pakistan's former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who arrived in Saudi Arabia on Saturday night, will hold meetings with the royal family on what his party described as "matters of national interest."</p><p>"Mian Sahib's visit is that of national interest as it has nothing to do with his personal interest. It will not be good to talk about the matters of sensitive nature before they take final shape," the Dawn reported, citing, a close aide to Sharif, Senator Pervaiz Rashid, as saying.</p><p>Dismissing and dubbing the reports of efforts being made to have another National Reconciliation Order (NRO) as "absurd", Rashid said, "Those claiming that an NRO is being prepared should at least know that it is signed secretly and not so openly."</p><p>On Saturday the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) president flew to Saudi Arabia by a foreign airline from the Allama Iqbal International Airport of Lahore. Sharif was welcomed at Riyadh airport by Khan Hasham bin Siddique, the country's ambassador to Saudi Arabia.</p><p>This comes in the backdrop of chief minister of Pakistan's Punjab province and his brother Shahbaz Sharif and Railways Minister Khawaja Saad Rafique are already present there.</p><p>Shahbaz Sharif is reportedly believed to have been preparing the premise for the visit of his elder brother.</p><p>Nawaz and Shehbaz are expected to meet the Saudi crown prince and other senior officials of the Kingdom today.</p><p>The Sharif brothers are also likely to tour London after concluding their trip to the Kingdom, according to the reports. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Road mishap claims 10 lives in southwest Mexico

<p>Mexico City [Mexico], December 31 (ANI): At least ten persons have lost their lives in a multi-vehicle crash, in which two cars and a motorbike collided, on the southwestern Mexican coast, near the famous tourist hot spot of Acapulco.</p><p>Several media reports stated that, according to the authorities, the accident happened on a highway between Acapulco and the beach city Zihuatanejo in the state of Guerrero.</p><p>The state of Guerrero's civil protection communications center stated that it was yet unclear if any tourists were among the victims of the crash and among the dead are two kids, aged one and four.</p><p>Other victims were aged between 26 to 76 years old.</p><p>The highway along the Pacific Coast is typically busier than usual at year-end, when tourists flock to beaches for vacations.</p><p>On December 20, About 12 people were killed, including eight Americans, while several were injured when a tourist bus crashed in Mexico.</p><p>Two of those killed in the attack were Swedes, while one was Canadian and one was Mexican, the local media quoted tourism ministry of the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, as saying.(ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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No need to gym, if you abide by this tip

<p>London [UK], December 31 (ANI): In a world, where being fit has become a 'mantra' for everyone, a balanced diet is the most essential thing people need to take care of.</p><p>And now a doctor has revealed that people don't need to sign up to a gym as a balanced diet of plenty of vegetables, fish, dairy and healthy fats can do wonders for their waistline, reports Daily Express.</p><p>Dr. Aseem Malhotra also revealed that people can maintain fitness with lots of brisk walking, says the top doctor.</p><p>Cutting sugar and refined carbohydrates, like cakes, pasta and pizzas, is also key to good health.</p><p>Dr Malhotra noted, "It is clear that diet and lifestyle are far more powerful than drugs or taking to the gym. Lifestyle changes such as consuming less sugar are more powerful than any medication doctors can prescribe. You cannot outrun a bad diet - this should be what doctors are advising their patients. Eating junk food and then trying to beat the bulge with heavy workouts is a waste of time."</p><p>Enjoying dark chocolate and a glass of wine in moderation, however, would be beneficial to health, said Dr Malhotra.</p><p>He also explained that following a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle can transform a person's health in just 21 days, reducing the risk of heart disease and diabetes and increasing longevity. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Pain free insulin patches discovered for diabetes patients

<p>London [UK], December 31 (ANI): If you are one of those who are suffering from Diabetes, then we might have some important news for you.</p><p>In a new research, a group of scientists have created the special patch which stimulates the body's own insulin production - and is completely pain-free.</p><p>According to Daily Express, the game-changing invention delivers a natural substance extracted from brown algae - completely removing the need for painful and unpleasant daily injections.</p><p>Patients would apply the patch once a week and it would automatically stimulate the body to produce the required insulin.</p><p>The patch would work by delivering a naturally produced substance, derived from brown algae, via microneedles.</p><p>Dr Richard Leapman, scientific director of the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIBIB) in Maryland, US, where the patch has been developed, said, "This experimental approach could be a way to take advantage of the fact that persons with type 2 diabetes can still produce some insulin. A weekly microneedle patch application would also be less complicated and painful than routines that require frequent blood testing."</p><p>The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) estimates around 371 million people in the world suffer from diabetes so this new patch will be very welcome.</p><p>The easier delivery method may mean more people get treated and prevent diabetes related conditions such as blindness, heart attacks and amputations.</p><p>At the moment they have to undergo injections to regulate insulin levels.</p><p>However, according to the research team, insulin therapy is still not managed well in half of all cases.</p><p>So they argue that the new patch would offer a viable and painless alternative and unlike insulin injections, it need not be applied so often. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Ukraine post office hostages freed

<p>Kharkiv [Ukraine], December 31 (ANI): The Ukranian police has freed all the eleven hostages, including children, who were being held at a post office in Ukraine's city of Kharkiv.</p><p>Police arrested the hostage-taker after hours-long standoff.</p><p>"All the hostages in Kharkiv have been released and the attacker arrested. I have instructed the local authorities to provide all necessary assistance to those affected," the Russian news agency TASS reported, citing Ukraine's President Pyotr Poroshenko, as saying, in a Twitter post.</p><p>None of the hostages were harmed.</p><p>Five of the hostages which included three women and two children were released early.</p><p>According to Ukrposhta Deputy CEO Oleksandr Pertsovskyi, three of 11 captives were the workers of Ukrposhta. The others were members of the public, the local media reported.</p><p>In earlier reports, the police said that the man stated that he had firearms and explosives, but made no immediate demands.</p><p>President Petro Poroshenko, in a Facebook statement, has expressed gratitude to the police and the national security service for taking part in the operation. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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"Women are Pak's favourite tool to silence dissidents"

<p>Vancouver [Canada], December 31 (ANI): The head of the World Baloch Women Forum (WBWF), Prof Naela Quadri Baloch has stated that "Violation of women is Pakistan's favourite tool to silence dissidents at home and "unfortunately, the Baloch story and sufferings are lost in the crevices of geopolitics and grand strategy."</p><p>"Over the past seven decades, the Baloch of Pakistan have suffered all imaginable crimes against humanity including the dishonour of women. Baloch women have suffered doubly, running their households in the absence of their menfolk and suffering abduction, torture, rape, and murder at the hands of the Pakistan army," she, wrote in a statement.</p><p>"Until 1971, we were not the only targets of Pakistan's army, though. Our Bangladeshi sisters suffered equally, if not more than us. Their story is well-documented and better known in the rest of the world as Bangladesh was fortunate to secede from the genocidal Pakistanis state," she added.</p><p>Referring to the ill treatment of the wife and mother of Kulbhushan Jadhav, during the meeting, on December 25 in Pakistan, the Baloch activist, wrote, "Last week the world got a glimpse of what we live through on a daily basis in Pakistan."</p><p>Prof Naela expressed that the wife and mother of Kulbhushan Jadhav, an Indian national kidnapped from Iran and falsely accused of spying, came to meet him in Pakistan.</p><p>"What happened was perhaps unexpected for Indians and people in other civilised societies, but was nothing out of order for the depraved Pakistani state. Abandoned by the world, perhaps no one knows better than us what it means to suffer indignities at the hands of the authorities in Pakistan," she said.</p><p>"The Jadhav family was humiliated at each and every step and their religious and cultural beliefs were trampled upon by the Pakistani government. All this happened despite the fact that the visitors were accompanied by a senior Indian diplomat," she added.</p><p>Underscoring that "Baloch mothers and sisters empathise with the Jadhav family" and also "condemn Pakistan's depravity in the strongest possible terms," Prof Naela said, "Pakistan continues to shock civilised societies across the world with its medieval barbarism. But the world community has to understand that abduction, rape, torture, murder, exploitation, and loot is the only mode of interaction between the Pakistani state and people."</p><p>"Hopefully, India and the world will wake up after this incident, assuming yet another reminder was needed after all these years, and isolate Pakistan from the international community. The sooner the artificial state of Pakistan is dismantled the better for its people and the whole world. Otherwise Pakistan will continue to blackmail the rest of the world using its nuclear weapons," she added. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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ISI behind ill-treatment of Jadhav's family: Hafiz Saeed's aide

<p>Islamabad [Pakistan], December 31 (ANI): A top aide of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) chief Hafiz Saeed has claimed that Pakistan's intelligence agency ISI had stage-managed every move during Kulbhushan Jadhav's meeting with his mother and wife in Islamabad earlier this week.</p><p>Addressing at a crowd in Rawalpindi, LeT founder Maulana Ameer revealed an ugly nexus between the ISI and the Pakistan government.</p><p>"ISI and Pakistan government humiliated Jadhav's family during their visit to Islamabad. They also made Jadhav face his family across a glass wall," said Ameer.</p><p>"India had requested Pakistan to allow Jadhav's mother and wife to meet him. Pakistan showed mercy and invited them. India thought that they would meet Jadhav face to face on a sofa but the ISI didn't allow it," added Ameer.</p><p>He also claimed the ISI had suspected that something was being hidden by Jadhav's wife Chetnakul in her shoes and the authorities had made her remove it. She was also forced to change her clothes, remove her sindoor and mangalsutra and her hair pin.</p><p>There was a glass screen between Jadhav and his family during the entire meeting and they spoke through an intercom device. Jadhav's mother Avanti was also not allowed to speak in their mother tongue.</p><p>Earlier on Tuesday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said Pakistan disregarded the cultural and religious sensibilities of Jadhav's family.</p><p>Jadhav was arrested in Balochistan, Pakistan, over charges of alleged involvement in espionage and subversive activities for India's intelligence agency - the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW).</p><p>India, however, maintains that Jadhav was former Indian Naval Officer and was kidnapped from Iran where he had business interests after retiring from the Indian Navy.</p><p>On April 10, 2017, Jadhav was sentenced to death by a Field General Court Martial (FGCM) in Pakistan.</p><p>On May 18, 2017, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) stayed the hanging, after India approached it against the death sentence.</p><p>India has appealed to the court to impose emergency measures for Jadhav's execution to be suspended until the legal battle in Hague concludes, while also accusing Pakistan of violating the Vienna Convention by failing to provide him with consular access and for being in breach of international human rights law.</p><p>Pakistan has repeatedly rejected India's plea for consular access to Jadhav at the ICJ, alleging he was not an ordinary person and had entered the country with an intent of spying and carrying out sabotage activities. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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115 bodies unearthed in Syrian mass grave

<p>Damascus [Syria], December 31 (ANI): The Syrian authorities on Saturday unearthed around 115 bodies discovered from a mass grave in northern Syria.</p><p>According to Syria's Sana news agency, the bodies were found in the northern Syrian province of Raqqa. The bodies are of civilians and soldiers killed by the Islamic State (IS) militants, who had been controlling the city before their downfall late this year.</p><p>The authorities confirmed that the bodies were left out in the open before the locals buried them overnight. Also, another mass grave has been discovered by the authorities and work is currently on to retrieve the bodies.</p><p>In October this year, the Syrian army and the United States-(US) backed Syrian Democratic Forces captured Raqqa, which was the de facto capital of the IS. Other areas of Raqqa were also recovered from the dreaded terrorist group.</p><p>The Syrian authorities are inspecting the areas once controlled by the IS to unveil more atrocities committed by the terrorist group.</p><p>Syria has been embroiled in a civil war since 2011. Protesters have been long demanding the resignation of Syrian president Bashar al-Assad over his autocratic rule. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Moderate quake jolts the Caribbean

<p>Port-of-Spain [Trinidad and Tobago], December 31 (ANI): An earthquake of magnitude 4.7 struck the Caribbean Islands on Saturday evening.</p><p>According to local media reports, the quake occurred at 7:44 pm (local time) and was felt 39 km north-west of St John's city in Antigua and Barbuda and about 68 km east of Basseterre, the capital of St Kitts and Nevis. The depth of the quake was 81 km.</p><p>However, no damage or casualties were reported. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Zambian president orders military to contain cholera

<p>Lusaka [Zambia], December 31 (ANI): Zambian President Edgar Lungu on Saturday directed the military to help fight the spread of cholera, which has killed 41 people in the Zambian capital so far.</p><p>According to World Health Organisation (WHO), as quoted by local media reports, the outbreak began on September 28 and made more than 1,500 people sick. It appeared to die down by October 20, with fewer than five patients reported weekly until November 5. However, the number of cases surged, with 136 people being affected since November 26.</p><p>Presidential spokesman Amos Chanda said in a statement late on Friday that the president believed emergency measures were needed to contain the waterborne disease, which also included the closure of some markets in the city.</p><p>"The president is deeply concerned at rampaging advance of the epidemic and has therefore called on the defence forces to join other stakeholders and thoroughly clean up Lusaka. The outbreak was initially confined to densely populated parts of Lusaka where poor sanitation can aid its transmission, but the disease had now spread to low-density areas," Chanda said.</p><p>"The outbreak was initially linked to contaminated water from shallow wells but investigations revealed that the spread was being propagated through contaminated food. In the last two weeks, three traders from Soweto market have died from cholera and 18 more are currently under admission in various cholera treatment centres," Chanda added, referring to Zambia's largest street food market.</p><p>Chanda said all markets, bars, restaurants and other public places that pose a risk of further transmission of cholera would be closed until they met hygiene standards. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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arachi police kills 5 suspected IS militants

<p>Karachi [Pakistan], December 31 (ANI): The Karachi police killed five suspected Islamic State (IS) militants in an encounter here on Saturday.</p><p>According to the Dawn, authorities received a tip-off from an intelligence agency, on an alleged militant hideout in Gharibabad located in the outskirts of the city. The police then conducted a raid and in the ensuing encounter, five militants with links to the dreaded terrorist group have been killed.</p><p>One of the slain militants was identified as Qari Habibullah alias Abdul Salam Burmi.</p><p>"The killed militant was involved in targeted killings of police, armed forces, members of Shia community and Christian community. He was involved in several terror acts, including armed attacks on workers and women in Sohrab Goth area in 2003," said Ahmed.</p><p>Separately, five more suspected militants belonging to the banned Lashkar-i-Jhangvi (LJ) were arrested after they planned to assassinate a prominent person belonging to the Shia community.</p><p>The police have seized a 8mm rifle and 9mm pistol each and two 30-bore pistols from the hideout.</p><p>As per latest reports, the investigation is currently underway. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Putin greets PM Modi, President Kovind in New Year message

<p>Moscow [Russia], December 31 (ANI): Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday greeted the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind in his annual New Year message.</p><p>In a press release from the Kremlin, Putin noted that the passing year has been marked with an important milestone in the Indo-Russian relations, as it completed 70 years.</p><p>Appreciating the outcome of bilateral contacts in 2017, the Russian President expressed confidence in further advancing the privileged strategic partnership between Russia and India in politics, trade, economy, science, technology and culture as key areas in the upcoming year.</p><p>Putin also praised on India's expanding constructive cooperation within the United Nations (UN), BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and other multilateral bodies in the interests of solving current regional and global issues. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Russia detains St Petersburg explosion mastermind

<p>St Petersburg [Russia], December 31 (ANI): Russia's security agency on Saturday detained the mastermind of the St Petersburg explosion that took place on Wednesday.</p><p>In a press release quoted by TASS, it said, "On December 30, 2017, the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation spotted and detained the organizer and perpetrator, who detonated an improvised explosive device on December 27 in a salesroom of the Perekrestok supermarket in St. Petersburg.The suspect has been handed over to the Russian Investigative Committee."</p><p>At least 10 people were injured on December 27, when a blast occurred inside a locker of a grocery store at an entertainment complex. The Islamic State (IS) later claimed responsibility for the attack. Russia's President Vladimir Putin described the blast as a 'terrorist act'.</p><p>Russia on Friday also amended its law in order to crack on terrorist activities in the country and to stringently punish those who finance terrorism or recruit terrorists. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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5 Pak soldiers missing after avalanche in Siachen

<p>Islamabad [Pakistan], December 31 (ANI): At least five Pakistani army personnel went missing on Saturday after an avalanche hit the Siachen Glacier.</p><p>The Pakistan army has started a rescue operation in the area with the help of locals. Heavy machinery will be also used to speed up the rescue operations, reported the Express Tribune.</p><p>However, the army has still not confirmed any casualties.</p><p>Avalanches and landslides are common at the Siachen Glacier, also known as the world's highest battlefield, with temperatures dropping to as low as minus 50 degrees Celsius. Around 10 Indian soldiers were hit by an avalanche in February last year.</p><p>Both India and Pakistan have had repeated border skirmishes at the glacier for the last three decades. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Trump condemns suppressing of protesters in Iran

<p>Washington D.C [USA], December 31 (ANI): United States President Donald Trump on Saturday condemned the arrests of the protesters in the ongoing anti-government protests in Iran.</p><p>In a series of tweets, Trump warned Iran that the 'world is watching' and the people of Iran wanted a change in its regime.</p><p>He tweeted, "Oppressive regimes cannot endure forever, and the day will come when the Iranian people will face a choice. The world is watching!"</p><p>"The entire world understands that the good people of Iran want change, and, other than the vast military power of the United States, that Iran's people are what their leaders fear the most....", tweeted Trump, on the oppressive regime of President Hassan Rouhani's government in Iran.</p><p>According to the Independent, Trump has repeatedly taken aim at Iran, denouncing its government as a 'fanatical regime' and accusing it of violating an international agreement aimed at curbing Iran's nuclear program, refusing to certify its compliance with the 2015 deal.</p><p>Protesters in different cities of Iran have raised anti-government slogans, over alleged corruption and rising prices that have plagued the people of the country earlier in this week. Scores of protesters have been arrested. Also, three protesters were reportedly shot dead by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in central Iran.</p><p>The outbreak of unrest reflects the growing discontent over rising prices and alleged corruption by the government, as well as concern over the country's costly involvement in regional conflicts such as Syria and Iraq.</p><p>Iran backs Syria's embattled president, Bashar al-Assad, in his country's civil war, the Shia militants in Iraq, the Houthi rebels in Yemen and Hezbollah group in Lebanon. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Pak clears air on its Palestine Ambassador sharing dais with Saeed

<p>Islamabad [Pakistan], December 31 (ANI): Regarding the participation of the Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan in a public meeting held in support of Palestinians, a foreign ministry of Pakistan spokesperson said that the country's unambiguous and steadfast support to the Palestinian cause was well known.</p><p>It also said that Pakistan has always supported the two-state solution, with East Jerusalem being the capital of the Palestinian State. Pakistan's unequivocal position was demonstrated in the rejection of the United States (US) decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.</p><p>Since then, a number of public rallies and meetings have been held in Pakistan. The Ambassador of Palestine has participated in many of these meetings. The public meeting held yesterday was yet another demonstration of the Pakistani strong sentiments in support of the Palestinian cause. The rally was attended by thousands of people from all walks of life. More than 50 speakers addressed the rally, including Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) founder chief Hafiz Saeed.</p><p>The spokesperson added that: "Contrary to the impression being created, United Nations (UN) proscription does not place any restrictions on the freedom of expression. The people and Government of Pakistan respect the Palestinian Ambassador's active participation in events organized to express solidarity with the people of Palestine."</p><p>Palestine on Saturday called back its Ambassador in Pakistan after he was seen in the company of Saeed.</p><p>"We are supporting India in its fight against terrorism and because of that my government decided to directly call our Ambassador to go back home and not to be a Palestine ambassador to Pakistan anymore," Palestinian Ambassador to India Adnan Abu Al Haija told ANI.</p><p>His statement has come after a photograph of Palestine's Pakistan envoy Waleed Abu Ali sharing a platform with Saeed at a rally in Rawalpindi had appeared earlier on the social media.</p><p>The Government of India has strongly conveyed to the Palestinian side that the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistan's association with terrorist Saeed is "unacceptable".</p><p>The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has conveyed the concerns to Haija as well as to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates in Ramallah, State of Palestine. Palestine has also assured India that it will deal with this matter appropriately.</p><p>The MEA earlier said: "It was also conveyed that Palestine highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India."</p><p>Saeed is accused of masterminding the Mumbai 26/11 attacks that claimed 166 lives. He carries a bounty of 10 million US dollars (approx. Rs 66 crore) and continues to exercise a lot of influence in religious circles of Pakistan. Also, he has recently been released from the house arrest after a Pakistani court cited lack of evidence against him in the Mumbai attack case.</p><p>India has protested against Pakistan time and again for 'harbouring a terrorist' like Saeed. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Shireen Mazari's daughter slams DG ISPR

<p>Islamabad [Pakistan], Dec 30 (ANI): The daughter of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Shireen Mazari once again targetted the Army, but this time Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Maj Gen Asif Ghafoor was on her radar.</p><p>Imaan Mazari, daughter of the pro-military Pakistani leader, on Saturday tweeted, "Our Prime Minister resigned. Our Law Minister resigned. You know who really SHOULD resign? @OfficialDGISPR. He has brought immense disgrace to his office & cast doubt on the role of the armed forces as non-political. He is a liability not only for the armed forces but 4 Pakistan."</p><p>Earlier this month, Imaan held the Army responsible for the capitulation of the Pakistani government to the demands of Islamists protesting against a perceived "blasphemy".</p><p>The protests brought the government to its knees after blocking the highway between Islamabad and Rawalpindi for 22 days.</p><p>The eventual surrender of the government led to the Pakistani law minister's resignation.</p><p>She roasted the Pakistan Army in a self-recorded video that went viral after she uploaded it on Twitter.</p><p>"Since Pakistan's army is capable of understanding only the language of terror and religious fanatics like Khadim Rizvi, I decided using their language to get their attention," Imaan said in the video.</p><p>"Shame on the army that finances the activities of the terrorists, who have burnt down Islamabad and have plans to burn the entire country," she added.</p><p>However, reacting to Imaan's video, Shireen said she does not share the view her daughter had expressed. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Here's how you can get that glow this New Year's Eve

<p>New Delhi [India], Dec 30 (ANI): New Year's Eve is a special occasion to spend some quality time with your friends and family.</p><p>While you start gearing up for the party celebrations, a good beauty regimen must be your priority in order to look beautiful and feel awesome.</p><p>So, what should you do to get perfect party look?</p><p>Here are a few suggestions from health experts that might help.</p><p>-Stick to a healthy diet</p><p>It is easy to indulge in high calorie unhealthy diet in the festive season. This very tendency to eat heavy food tends to weaken your digestive system.</p><p>Stick to fresh juices and warm water throughout this season to provide your skin with the nutrition and hydration it needs.</p><p>"Best skin diet is one that involves eating vegetables for every meal and some juice atleast once a day. Food that helps in skin strengthening should include Omega-3 fatty acids (soybeans and walnuts), collagen boosting vitamin C (bell peppers, strawberries, citrus fruits, broccoli etc) and antioxidant rich vitamins A and E (almond butter, sweet potatoes, carrots). Low-glycaemic diet is beneficial for acne-prone skin. Also, aloevera juice, wheat grass, pomegranate and consumption of good amount of water is recommended," said Dietitian, Deepika Dua, Mutation Diet Clinic New Delhi.</p><p>Furthermore, heavy intake of alcohol might lead to weight gain and make you look puffy and dull. It is better to either avoid or take in small quantity.</p><p>-Transform Your Skin Routine</p><p>According to Dr. Neha Mittal Batra, Cosmetic Physician at Dermaworld Skin & Hair Clinic, "In the winters, for a properly moisturised skin, it is essential to shift to face wash and cream that suits the weather. One should go for a non-foaming cleanser which does not have sulphates in it, as a protection against making your skin look parched."</p><p>"Also, it is essential to exfoliate the skin. Use an exfoliating mask on your face and your hands, as well as on your lips. One should not forget to wear a sunblock. The sun is just as strong in the winter as in the summer, so wearing a sunscreen is just as important to prevent tanning. Wear at least SPF 30 with a UVA protection of PA++ to prevent skin darkening," she added.</p><p>-Get a Good 'Skin Glow 'Treatment</p><p>Batra suggests that some treatments can also provide bright and glowing skin.</p><p>̢ۢ Hydrafacial MD: For a beautiful, clean and healthy skin, this is the treatment for you. Not only does this treatment help in scientific and sterile clean up for your face but also nourishes your skin with multiple vitamins, hyalironic acids, honey and salicylic acid.</p><p>̢ۢ Spectra peel: It is called Hollywood spectra laser peel because of its ability to not only rejuvenate your face but also make it at least two tones lighter by instantly removing your tanning and giving long lasting results.</p><p>̢ۢ Nanopore Microneedling: This treatment is a combination of peels, nanopore micro needling and mesotherapy. Needling through this procedure is painless and without any downtime, giving you resurfacing and glow at the same time.</p><p>̢ۢ Cinderella Sparkle: This treatment can be done on the same day of New Year's Eve giving you glowing, bright and improved complexion. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Iran protests: 'Iron fist' threatened if unrest continues

After three days of demonstrations, the country's Revolutionary Guard threatens a crackdown.

Trump's Russia inquiry 'started by Australian tip-off'

An Australian diplomat was told about "dirt" on Hillary Clinton in a London bar, reports say.

Police shoot man dead after alleged Call of Duty 'swatting' hoax

The 28-year-old was shot by police after his address was allegedly given to police in prank call.

Greece seeks to cancel Turkish pilot's asylum

The helicopter pilot was among eight Turkish soldiers to flee after the 2016 failed coup there.

Nepal bans solo climbers from Mount Everest under new rules

New regulations also prohibit double amputee and blind climbers from scaling the world's highest peak.

Egypt's Morsi sentenced to three years for insulting the judiciary

Mohammed Morsi has been detained since he was overthrown in 2013.

St Petersburg supermarket bombing suspect arrested

So-called Islamic State has said it was behind the supermarket blast, which injured several people.

Eric Garner death: Activist daughter Erica dies aged 27

She became a Black Lives Matter activist after her father died while under police restraint.

Padmavati: Controversial film 'cleared by Indian censor board'

The controversial period epic has sparked protests across India by Hindu and caste groups.

Sue Grafton: Alphabet crime author dies aged 77

Sue Grafton's series of murder mystery 'alphabet' novels have been translated into 26 languages.

Unrest at protests in many Iran cities

Footage from the town of Dorud shows a crowd carrying what appears to be a wounded man.

Call of Duty ‘swatting’ death explained

A man has been arrested after an alleged prank call led to police shooting dead a 28-year-old man.

How I divorced Islamic State

The ex-wife of an American leader in the Islamic State group describes her journey out of extremism.

Nerves of steel: High up on China's power lines

Workers on some of the highest electricity cables in the world give a new meaning to "power walking".

'I just want to see my mum'

Deen Mohammed Noori, a Rohingya, goes from Bradford to a refugee camp in Bangladesh to see his mum.

Parents prank daughter with joke Christmas present

Parents of a Lorde fan turned her request for concert tickets into a joke that delighted social media.

Vin Diesel named 2017's biggest box office draw

Vin Diesel, Dwayne Johnson and Gal Gadot top a list of 2017's top-grossing actors.

Teenage kicks

Teenage environmentalist Autumn Peltier will speak in front of the UN General Assembly this spring.

2018 and Brexit

What are the key dates and developments to watch out for as Britain and the EU move forward?

Justice denied?

After the end of the tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, will wider worldwide justice be done?

Shared shame

The case of Tyler Haire, a 16 year old locked up for years without trial, reveals a deeper problem.

Saturday, December 30, 2017

Pandas, U.F.O.s and Other Curiosities from Britain’s National Archives


By PALKO KARASZ from NYT World http://ift.tt/2ltec5p

New Year Honours 2018: Barry Gibb, Ringo Starr and Darcey Bussell head list

The Bee Gee and the Beatle become Sir Barry and Sir Ringo while the Strictly judge is now Dame Darcey.

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Brexit infecting government, says Lord Adonis

Lord Adonis quit his government role with an attack on Theresa May's strategy for leaving the EU.

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Iranian protests: World is watching response, US warns

The White House says Iran should respect the rights of protesters who have taken to the streets.

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Ashes: Steve Smith century steers Australia to draw against England

England are denied by yet another century from Australia captain Steve Smith as the fourth Ashes Test in Melbourne ends in a draw.

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Millennials to enjoy 'inheritance boom'

But a think tank says inheritance will come too late to help young people on to the housing ladder.

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Cardboard tents distributed to Brussels homeless

The tents were designed by jobseekers and made using donated cardboard by a prison workshop.

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£60m fund to make more British kids' TV

The cash will help commercial broadcasters make more home-grown children's programmes.

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New Year's travel chaos looms as rail strikes hit

A long-running RMT dispute will see strikes cancel and delay journeys for 24 hours.

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Holiday promotions can be misleading, says Which?

In half the cases it looked at, Which? found holidays were no more expensive after the promotion period ended.

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Grenfell council apology over payment error

Ten households made homeless by the fire did not receive promised Christmas relief payments.

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Birmingham - what's to love as it gets ready for 2022?

Things you should know about Britain's second city as it prepares for the 2022 games.

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Australia rugby star Karmichael Hunt faces drugs charge

Karmichael Hunt was arrested in Brisbane after being found with a white powder, reports say.

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Thai fraudster sentenced to 13,275 years in prison

Pudit Kittithradilok admits duping thousands of victims through a Ponzi-style investment scheme.

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Man City's Vincent Kompany graduates with MBA

Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany has graduated with a Masters in Business Administration.

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Knighthood for Nick Clegg in New Year Honours list

The former deputy prime minister is knighted, alongside several current MPs.

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Jilly Cooper 'did not expect CBE'

The author and journalist says she was not expecting to be awarded a CBE in the New Year Honours.

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Polling expert Curtice 'didn't see knighthood coming'

The political scientist has been involved in election analysis for decades and is a regular on TV.

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BEM for organ donation campaigner, 18

Lucia Mee, who has had three transplants, wants organ donation to be taught in schools.

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New Year Honours: MBE for carer who fostered more than 100 children

Stella Tomkinson, from Nuneaton, said she was "really lucky" to watch so many children grow up.

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MBE for author of 'instruction manual' for autism

Deborah Brownson's experience as the parent of two autistic boys inspired book and support campaign.

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England women cricketers among sporting honours

England women's World Cup-winning cricketers and British and Irish Lions captain Sam Warburton are recognised in the New Year Honours.

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The Papers: 'Saturday knight fever' as New Year Honours revealed

Saturday's papers are dominated by New Year Honours, with Bee Gee Barry Gibb and the Beatles drummer Ringo Starr given knighthoods and Strictly's Darcey Bussell becoming a Dame.

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Who plays the piano at the railway station?

BBC News spent a day at St Pancras station and came across some real talent.

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'I just want to see my mum'

Deen Mohammed Noori, a Rohingya, goes from Bradford to a refugee camp in Bangladesh to see his mum.

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Mishal Husain comes face-to-face with AI and the Mishalbot

Presenter Mishal Husain comes face-to-face with robot her, the Mishalbot.

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The real women of professional wrestling

The real women of professional wrestling on their love for life inside the ring.

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Iranian protests: World is watching response, US warns

The White House says Iran should respect the rights of protesters who have taken to the streets.

North Korea: South seizes ship amid row over illegal oil transfer

South Korea's revelations come after China denied US claims of allowing oil shipments to the North.

Australia rugby star Karmichael Hunt faces drugs charge

Karmichael Hunt was arrested in Brisbane after being found with a white powder, reports say.

Egypt attack: Gunman targets Coptic Christians in church and shop

A gunman launched a double attack on a Coptic area, killing nine, says Egyptian interior ministry.

Thai fraudster sentenced to 13,275 years in prison

Pudit Kittithradilok admits duping thousands of victims through a Ponzi-style investment scheme.

Argentina father jailed for keeping daughter as 'sex slave'

Domingo Bulacio is jailed for 12 years for raping his daughter over decades, fathering eight children.

Fox News Breaking News Alert

Fox News Breaking News Alert

State Department releases Huma Abedin emails found on Anthony Weiner's laptop

12/29/17 3:26 PM

Fox News Breaking News Alert

Fox News Breaking News Alert

Sue Grafton, writer behind Kinsey Millhone Alphabet Series, dead at 77

12/29/17 2:42 PM

Fox News Breaking News Alert

Fox News Breaking News Alert

Child playing with stove caused fatal Bronx fire, NYC fire chief says

12/29/17 10:33 AM

For Young Coaches, Tradition Is Among the Toughest Opponents


By RORY SMITH from NYT Sports http://ift.tt/2CaScrd

What’s on TV Saturday: ‘High Maintenance’ and ‘Mean Girls’


By SARA ARIDI from NYT Arts http://ift.tt/2zP4xLI

Free Your Mind? ‘Black Mirror’ Isn’t Too Hopeful


By JAMES PONIEWOZIK from NYT Arts http://ift.tt/2zOmjPh

What Happened at the Bronx Fire


By SARAH ALMUKHTAR, KENAN DAVIS and DEREK WATKINS from NYT N.Y. / Region http://ift.tt/2Ee8w7Q

City of the Future? Humans, Not Technology, Are the Challenge in Toronto


By IAN AUSTEN from NYT World http://ift.tt/2CnMjUr

20 Great Reads You Probably Missed in 2017


By THE NEW YORK TIMES from NYT World http://ift.tt/2CkSMlr

Summoned by a Prank Call, Police in Wichita Kill a Man at His Front Door


By MITCH SMITH from NYT U.S. http://ift.tt/2Ca9WmG

10 Falsehoods From Trump’s Interview With The Times


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Judge Says Pennsylvania Election Districts Give Republicans an Edge, but Are Not Illegal


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Quotation of the Day: Soldier Died Trying to Save One More


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Sharif is a liar, says ANP

<p>Peshawar [Pakistan], Dec 30 (ANI): Awami National Party (ANP) President Asfandyar Wali Khan has accused former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif of making false promises to the people of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) for the merger with Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P).</p><p>"Nawaz Sharif is a liar. I have never seen such a person in my whole life. He has forgotten all those promises he made with the people of Fata," The Express Tribune quoted Asfandyar, as saying while addressing a party worker's convention in PK-17, Charsadda on Friday.</p><p>He further accused the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) government of ignoring the FATA and KP under the China-Pakistan-Economic-Corridor (CPEC).</p><p>The ANP president said Fata and K-P had been ignored in the CPEC despite tall claims, adding, "Sharif promised me that only the people of Fata will have right over their resources but like his other promises, it has also been ignored."</p><p>"At the behest of only two persons - Maulana Fazlur Rehman and Mehmood Khan Achakzai - the PML-N government is delaying giving the people of Fata their basic rights," he added.</p><p>Asfandyar also announced that his party will be contesting the general elections 2018 alone.</p><p>Earlier in October, Balochistan president of Awami National Party (ANP), Asghar Khan Achakzai, alleged the Pakistan Government of ignoring the province under the CPEC, saying the development process and all resources were being diverted towards Punjab.</p><p>He further alleged that the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) was giving all of its attention to Punjab for the electoral benefit.</p><p>The CPEC project comprises a network of railways, roads and pipelines that would connect Pakistan's port city of Gwadar in the province of Balochistan, with the Chinese city of Kashgar in landlocked Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR).</p><p>The human rights activists have, time and again, spoken about and highlighted the growing atrocities of Pakistan on the indigenous people of Balochistan and deteriorating human rights situation as a result of the CPEC. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Pak SC absolves man after 9 yrs of imprisonment

<p>Islamabad [Pakistan], Dec 30 (ANI): A Pakistani man, accused of blasphemy, has been absolved of the charges against him after having spent over nine years in jail.</p><p>Pakistan's Supreme Court absolved the 58-year-old of the blasphemy charges for want of evidence, reported the Dawn.</p><p>The star witness in the case was a person suffering from hearing and speech impairment and, therefore, could not even be termed a witness under the Evidence Act, argued the defence counsel.</p><p>After hearing the arguments, a Supreme Court bench absolved the accused of the charges with the observation that the person, who misleadingly alleged others of desecration of the Holy Quran, in fact committed blasphemy.</p><p>The man was arrested for allegedly desecrating pages of the Holy Quran in a mosque in 2008.</p><p>The man was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2009.</p><p>The Lahore High Court upheld the sentence in 2014. Pakistan's Supreme Court took up the case the same year and provided the accused a state counsel, the report said. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Two, including gunman, dead in California shooting

<p>California [USA], Dec 30 (ANI): Two persons, including a gunman, have been killed in a shooting at a Southern California law office.</p><p>The two-storey building is home to several law offices.</p><p>The shootings occurred near Long Beach Boulevard and San Antonio Drive in the Bixby Knolls neighbourhood, the LA Times reported.</p><p>The third person, who was shot in a law office, is hospitalised and is in a stable condition, city's Mayor Robert Garcia, said in a Twitter post.</p><p>The police, in a press conference, said all three people involved were male adults and employees of a law firm at the location.</p><p>The Long Beach Police underscored it was not an active shooter situation, contrary to the initial reports.</p><p>The incident, which the authorities have branded as a workplace shooting, witnessed massive police presence in Bixby Knolls in Long Beach. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Russia amends law to crack on terrorism

<p>Moscow [Russia], December 30 (ANI): Russia on Friday amended its law in order to crack on terrorist activities in the country and to stringently punish those who finance terrorism or recruit terrorists.</p><p>According to Xinhua, the amendments of the Criminal Law were published on Russia's official website of legal information. These were signed by the Russian president Vladimir Putin.</p><p>As per the new amendments, suspects convicted of funding terrorism or recruiting terrorists will face eight to 20 years in jail, along with a hefty fine of 300,000 roubles to 700,000 rubles or a life imprisonment, if the charges are more severe.</p><p>The amendments also introduced a 'propaganda of terrorism' to the Criminal Law, and the convicted will face five to seven years in prison with a fine of 300,000 roubles to one million roubles.</p><p>Before the amendments were made, such criminals will face a prison term of up to ten years.</p><p>Earlier, Russian Federal Security Service director Alexander Bortnikov had said that the terrorists from the Middle East were attempting to penetrate Russia and other countries after defeats in Syria and Iraq.</p><p>The amendments comes at a time when an explosion rocked a supermarket in St Petersburg on Wednesday, injuring 10 people. The Islamic State (IS) claimed responsibility for the attack. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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3 killed in Houston shootout, gunman kills self

<p>Houston [USA], December 30 (ANI): At least three people were shot dead, when a gunman opened fire at an automotive industry in south-west Houston, before turning the gun on himself.</p><p>According to local media reports, the gunman opened fire suddenly at Bermer Plus building on South Post Oak in Houston, killing three in the process, before committing suicide.</p><p>The investigation is underway and the motive behind the attack is unknown. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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ISIS outsourcing terror attacks to outfits in Pakistan, says expert

<p>New York [United States], Dec.30 (ANI): Unless Pakistan increases its efforts to outlaw, eliminate and foil Islamist terrorism on its soil, and also takes appropriate steps to protect the minority Christian community from attacks by fundamental elements such as the ISIS, Lashkar-i-Jhangvi, Jamaat-ul-Ahrar and the Taliban, such elements will continue to gain a menacing foothold across the country, an expert based in Islamabad has said.</p><p>In an article published by the website of the New York-based Gatestone Institute, an international policy council and think tank, Kaswar Klasra, a journalist based in Islamabad, Pakistan, has said that Christians, who make up just two percent of Pakistan's population, are the most vulnerable victims of this threat posed by the ISIS with the help of existing terror outfits.</p><p>In the article, Klasra reveals that over the past year-and-a-half, the ISIS has coordinated and claimed responsibility for six attacks, the latest taking place on December 17, when a suicide-bombing at a church in Quetta left at least nine worshippers dead and more than 50 seriously wounded.</p><p>Klasra quotes Sarfraz Bugti, Balochistan's Home Minister, as saying that the casualties could have been higher had Pakistani security forces not responded swiftly to the attack on the Bethel Memorial Methodist Church -- where 400 men, women and children were attending Sunday services.</p><p>The previous terror attacks taking place in Pakistan for which the ISIS has claimed responsibility are as follows:</p><p>- August 8, 2016: A suicide bomber killed at least 70 people and wounded more than 100 in an attack on a crowd of lawyers and journalists gathered in a government hospital in Quetta to mourn a lawyer who had been murdered earlier in the day. The attack was claimed by a joint ISIS-Taliban faction.</p><p>- October 24, 2016: ISIS claimed responsibility for an attack on a police training college in Quetta. The assault, committed by three heavily armed terrorists against sleeping cadets, left more than 60 dead and more than 165 others wounded.</p><p>- February 16, 2017: An ISIS-affiliated suicide bomber blew himself up at a Sufi shrine in Pakistan's Sindh province, killing more than 90 worshippers and wounding more than 300.</p><p>- April 18, 2017: The Pakistani army foiled a planned Easter suicide bombing against Christians in Lahore. Given the amount of explosives recovered from the perpetrators, had the attack succeeded, there would have been mass casualties.</p><p>- May 12, 2017: An ISIS suicide bombing on the convoy of the deputy chairman of the Pakistani Senate, traveling on the National Highway in the Mastung District of Baluchistan, left at least 28 people dead and 40 wounded.</p><p>- August 12, 2017, an ISIS suicide bombing on a convoy of the Pakistani military in Quetta left 15 people dead - among them eight soldiers - and 40 others wounded.</p><p>He concludes by saying that incidents like Quetta will be repeated as long as steps are not taken to put an effective and efficient counter-terrorism strategy in place. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Political uncertainty in Brazil ahead of 2018 polls

<p>Brasilia [Brazil], December 30 (ANI): Brazil has plunged in a period of political uncertainty ahead of the general elections in October 2018, with no clear candidates on sight.</p><p>This comes after former Brazilian President, Dilma Rousseff was impeached last year, in order to pursue more business-friendly policies, and the designation of Vice President Michel Temer as president, Xinhua reported.</p><p>The Brazilian populace had high expectations from Temer to turn things around, but so far, hasn't. Also, at 77 years, age is not on his side. Corruption scandals and power struggles have tainted Brazil's most popular political figures, making the people more sceptical of their system of government than ever before.</p><p>Former President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who served the country from 2003 to 2010, continues to enjoy the support of progressive Brazilians as the head of the Workers' Party (PT).</p><p>However, Silva has been convicted of accepting bribes from a construction firm, which might hurt his chances of running for re-elections if he loses the appeal. A Brazilian court is expected to rule on his appeal on January 24. Silva was convicted in July of corruption and money laundering as part of Brazil's massive graft investigation.</p><p>Political scientist Luciano Dias said that it would be likely the court will uphold his sentence.</p><p>"That means he will be pigeonholed by the Clean Record Law, meaning that he will be ineligible in Brazil to hold any public office for eight years," said Dias.</p><p>"But Lula is still going to play a leading role (in the elections) because the PT controls about 12 percent of the national vote. All leftist parties in Brazil together represent around 20 percent of votes," added Dias.</p><p>With Silva likely to be out of the political scene soon, this will lead to the coming up of new candidates, who can become the next president of Brazil.</p><p>"The main scenario is a fragmented scenario. Should Lula not be able to run, that is going to distribute the votes among many candidates. For me, the novelty would be to see him absolved, but that's less likely," said Ricardo Caldas, a professor of political science, at the University of Brasilia.</p><p>The new logical favourite for the post could be Sao Paulo State Governor Geraldo Alckmin. A member of the centrist Brazilian Social Democracy Party, Alckmin is a popular figure in Brazil. He ran for the president before, but lost by a scant margin to Lula in a 2006 runoff. However, he is also facing serious charges of corruption linked to public sector contracts.</p><p>Another favourite would-be candidate after Silva could be former military officer Jair Bolsonaro, who has been dubbed as Brazil's 'Donald Trump'.</p><p>"Bolsonaro is really a surprise. He is more popular than one would expect from a candidate with his characteristics. However, it's tough to say whether he is going to maintain this level of votes when the campaign really gets underway," Dias explained.</p><p>For Caldas, the contest will pit a government-sanctioned candidate that promises to continue the social security reforms Temer is pursuing against a moderate centre-left candidate that may embrace some, though not all, of those reforms.</p><p>It is to be seen that which candidate Temer would recommend for the post of president. Political observers in Brazil time and again mentioned that there should a leader, who should be 'dynamic, clean and canny'. The leader should also save Brazil's already drowning economy with 'long-term and corruption-free economic reforms', which had been in a recession period for three years between 2013 and 2016. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Quick fixes to help you glow at your wedding

<p>New Delhi [India], December 30 (ANI): Everyone wants a clear growing skin when you walk down the aisle. But how do you achieve that as skin issues are giving you nightmares.</p><p>Fret not! There is a lot you can do to sort out your skin woes and glow like a goddess on your wedding.</p><p>Here are some quick fixes, suggested by Dr. Prabhu Mishra, ceo, co-founder, StemGenn, that you could resort to look ravishing.</p><p>- Moisturise more: Moisturising creams, which rehydrate the top layer of the skin and seal in the moisture, should be the first weapon in your beauty cabinet to combat dry skin and get the glow back. Find a moisturiser that's oil-based- oil creates a protective layer on the skin that retains more moisture and use it liberally every day before your D-day. Apply while the skin is still damp to seal in the moisture. Almond oil is also an effective moisturiser.</p><p>- Say No to Soap: Soaps, especially perfumed soaps, strip away natural oils. Say no to soap till Diwali. Use hydrating cleansing milk. Better still, use a wheat bran and malai paste to scrub and clean your face. If you just can't do without soap, choose a moisturising one. Always use a soft towel for your face.</p><p>- Don't Forget Sunscreen: Busy with the wedding shopping? Don't forget to slather sunscreen. Apply generously on your face and your hands before stepping out in the sun. Reapply frequently if you are doing extended wedding shopping.</p><p>- Keep Well Hydrated: Drinking water helps your skin look youthful. Water is good for your overall health and this is reflected in your skin tone and texture as well. Your benefit from the fluids you drink is passed on to your skin making it soft and supple.</p><p>- Retinoids can help: Worrying about your dark circles? You think they will mar your Diwali brightness. Use Retinoids. They stimulate the production of collagen. Regular use of a retinol cream till Diwali will reduce the dark circles. Cucumbers, tomatoes, potatoes, are also excellent solutions for getting rid of dark circle. Another simple home remedy is using cold tea bag. Repeat the remedy twice a day to get rid of dark circles. But remember, nothing works without discipline. Be regular; be persistent with your skincare regime.</p><p>- CO2 Laser Treatment: In addition to the above general fixes, you could opt for CO2 laser treatment to rejuvenate your skin and restore its youthfulness. It is, today, a popular cosmetic option for retexturing and tightening facial skin. So you can say bye bye brown spots, hello pink baby skin this Diwali. The best part is that the downtime is just about 5 days so you are well in time for Diwali!</p><p>- Lipokraft Treatment: If your problem is deeper -- acne and scars -nothing to worry;there are good solutions available. LIPOKRAFT is an advanced treatment that reduces scars using Adipose Derived Stem Cells. The LIPOKRAFT Skin Rejuvenation treatment is a holistic and natural procedure to restore skin youthfulness. This treatment helps restructure new skin, allowing skin lesions to get gradually reduced and be replaced by fresh skin. The USP of this treatment is that it simple and painless and confidence boosting. At the end of it, you acquire healthy, smooth and glowing skin. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Ditch conventional gifting options: Virtual gifting on cards

<p>New Delhi [India], December 30 (ANI): Gifting has always been the best way to express love, gratitude, appreciation and good wishes.</p><p>Gone are the days when people used to buy gifts and personally give them. In the past, rising income levels, changing consumption patterns, nuclearisation of families, emigration, work-life balance have led to a sharp change in the nature and form of gifting.</p><p>With technology playing a pivotal role, virtual gifting has become the latest trend:</p><p>1) Gifting booze was never this easy as, URBar, by The Beer Cafe allows people to gift booze. The Beer Cafe- India's largest alco-beverage chain, has launched 'URBar', a virtual bar which allows patrons to reserve, consume and gift their favourite brands to friends, family and colleagues. One can explore from a wide selection of alco-beverage, pre-pay and stock them in 'URBar'.</p><p>To relish the gift, one has to simply download the app and start consuming. Bottles of popular brands such as Old Monk, Bacardi White, Chivas Regal 12 Year, Johnnie Walker, Black Label, Smirnoff, and Absolut can be reserved, as can cases and kegs of premium beers such as Kingfisher, Bira 91, Foster's, Heineken, Corona Extra, and Hoegaarden.</p><p>2) Mondelz India, a part of Mondelz International, a leading global snacking powerhouse has tied up with Amazon.in to set up India's first virtual chocolate and sweet store. With the vision of being easily available, the company has enhanced the gifting experience for consumers, where one can purchase not only the conventional gift packs but exclusive e-commerce packs as per the relevant occasion, as a part of Mondelez India's Joy Delivery offering.</p><p>3) On the other hand, Easter Egg, a blockchain technology-enabled platform that allows people to gift vouchers across geographies in real-time, choosing from restaurants, spas and other options. One being anywhere in the world having friends or family in Bengaluru, Pune or Singapore, can gift them digital vouchers to varied experiences from a beer to a foot massage or a trip to an organic farm or a museum. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Japanese couple arrested after confined daughter found dead

<p>Osaka [Japan], December 30 (ANI): In a shocking incident, a Japanese couple were arrested after their 33-year-old daughter was found frozen to death in a confined room of their house.</p><p>According to Fox News, the couple Yasutaka Kakimoto and Yukari Kakimoto were arrested by the Osaka Prefectural Police Department on Friday over the suspicion of illegally disposing of a body.</p><p>The couple, while recording their statements, at an Osaka police station, admitted to keeping their daughter, Airi Kakimoto, in a windowless room for about 15 years, since she was ill.</p><p>"Our daughter was mentally ill and, from age 16 or 17, she became violent, so we kept her inside the room," Airi's parents told the police.</p><p>The room Airi's parents kept her in had a double door that could not be unlocked from inside and was equipped with about 10 cameras outside. The area was also barricaded with a six-foot fence.</p><p>The couple also said that they used to feed Airi once a day and made her drink water through a tube. The police later found that the young woman was found in 'a state of extreme malnutrition.'</p><p>The parents discovered that their daughter died on December 18, but did not report it until December 23. According to the police, Airi appeared to have died from 'exposure to the cold.'</p><p>There have been other reports of parents in Japan allegedly murdering their children, who are specially-abled when looking after them becomes a burden. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Heavy security cover in NYC's Time Square ahead of New Year's Eve

<p>New York [USA], December 30 (ANI): The New York Police Department (NYPD) on Friday announced that there would be heavy security cover in the Times Square area of New York City in the upcoming New Year's Eve celebrations.</p><p>According to the New York Times, concrete barriers, a special explosive detecting device and sniffing dogs are some of the security measures the NYPD has taken for the annual ball drop ceremony in Times Square.</p><p>In the wake of recent terror and gun attacks in New York and elsewhere in the US, the NYPD is taking no chances and is pulling out all the safety stops in its bid to keep the city safe.</p><p>According to the security plan, trucks and other commercial vehicles would not be allowed near Times Square and other prominent places, which will see a huge footfall by tourists and locals. Access restrictions will begin as early as 11 am from Sunday for the ceremony and revellers must pass through one of 12 entry points. Those who leave before the ceremony finishes will not be allowed re-entry again. Backpacks, large bags, umbrellas and alcoholic beverages will be prohibited inside the viewing area.</p><p>Arrangements such as check gates and magnetometers on sniffer dogs would be installed that detect airborne particles from explosives after a person carrying or wearing them has left an area. Also, armed officers will guard every hotel located in the Times Square. The hotel rooftops would be guarded by counter-sniper teams.</p><p>"There's a huge responsibility on all of us to keep New York safe. We understand why we are a target. Because of our success, terrorists want to disrupt us," said city mayor de Blasio.</p><p>"We must have the help of the people in the city. Any one New Yorker can save countless lives," added de Blasio.</p><p>De Blasio and Police Commissioner James O'Neill said that there was no known specific threat against the city, but stressed the need to be vigilant at all times.</p><p>Nearly two million people are expected to flock in Times Square to witness the big ball drop ceremony, and usher in the New Year celebrations thereafter.</p><p>"People will be safe and they should feel safe too. We will ensure New York has a safe enjoyable New Year's Eve," O'Neill said.</p><p>New York City and the US have been put on a high alert since September last year, after a bomb blast occurred in the city and the nearby New Jersey, injuring 31 people. It was followed by a vehicle-ramming attack in Ohio State University in November 2016.</p><p>In 2017 alone, vehicle-ramming attacks were reported in Virginia and New York City, which injured scores. The shootout at a concert in a Las Vegas hotel on October 31 was the deadliest of all the attacks, since 9/11. It left 58 people dead and injured more than 500 people. The Islamic State (IS) later claimed the attack. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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3-yr-old boy playing with stove caused NYC's Bronx fire

<p>New York [USA], December 30 (ANI): The fire at New York City's Bronx area, which occurred earlier on Friday, was caused by a three-year-old boy who was playing with a gas stove.</p><p>According to Daniel A Nigro, the city fire commissioner, who was quoted by the New York Times, the boy who turned on the gas stove inadvertently had a history of being fascinated with gas burners.</p><p>"The boy playing with the stove in a first-floor apartment screamed when the fire began, sending his mother rushing into the kitchen as it filled with smoke and flames, She ran out of the apartment with the boy and a 2-year-old child, but left the door open, allowing fire to shoot out of the kitchen and into the stairwell,"</p><p>said Nigro.</p><p>Nigro also said that the department gets 75 to 100 referrals a year about children that have issues with playing with or being fascinated by fire. He called the fire, "historic in its magnitude."</p><p>At least 12 people died, including a baby, after a fire broke out at an apartment building in New York. The building is located near Fordham University and the Bronx Zoo.</p><p>"This is the worst fire in New York City history in at least a quarter-century," NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio said earlier.</p><p>More than 170 New York City firefighters reportedly responded to the scene of the fire. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Taking Topiramate in pregnancy ups oral cleft risk in babies

<p>Washington D.C. [USA], Dec. 28 (ANI): Taking a high dose of the drug Topiramate during the first trimester of pregnancy may increase risk of cleft lip or cleft palate in newborns by three times, warns a study.</p><p>Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health suggested that using the anti-epileptic drug topiramate in early pregnancy, particularly at the high doses used for epilepsy, increases the risk of oral cleft.</p><p>Topiramate is been increasingly prescribed over the last decade not only to prevent seizures, but also to treat bipolar disorder and migraine headaches.</p><p>Study author Elisabetta Patorno from BWH Division of Pharmacoepidemiology & Pharmacoeconomics said the results suggest that the increased risk of oral clefts is most pronounced in women taking higher doses of Topiramate to treat epilepsy.</p><p>"Low doses of topiramate may also increase the risk of oral clefts but to a lesser extent," Patorno added.</p><p>The team examined the risk of oral cleft - including cleft palate or cleft lip - among three groups: infants born to women who had taken topiramate in their first trimester; infants born to women who had taken the drug lamotrigine (an unrelated drug used to treat bipolar disorder and epilepsy); and infants who had not been exposed to anti-epileptic medications in utero.</p><p>They found that the risk of oral cleft was approximately three times higher for the topiramate group than for either the lamotrigine or the unexposed group.</p><p>The results indicated that women taking higher dose Topiramate (median 200-mg daily dose), the risk was much higher - 12.3 for every 1,000 live births.</p><p>Corresponding author Sonia Hernandez-Diaz from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health said that the best course may be to avoid prescribing high doses of topiramate to women of childbearing age unless the benefits clearly outweigh the risks.</p><p>The research appears in journal of Neurology.(ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Gunman kills 3 in Cairo

<p>Cairo [Egypt], Dec 29 (ANI): At least three people, including two policemen, were killed after a gunman opened fire outside a Coptic Christian church in Southern Cairo on Friday.</p><p>According to the local media reports, the police has shot down the gunman at St Mina's Church in Helwan, Egypt.</p><p>Earlier on Sunday, two people were killed and eight injured after unknown assailants opened fire at a cafe in Cairo.</p><p>As per the reports, Cairo's security chief headed for the scene. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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South Korea seizes Hong Kong vessel for transferring oil to North

<p>Seoul [South Korea], Dec. 29 (ANI): South Korea has seized a Hong Kong-flagged oil tanker returning after allegedly transferring oil to North Korea.</p><p>The South Korean news agency Yonhap quoted the officials as saying on Friday that the authorities took and searched the vessel, Lighthouse Winmore, when it entered the country's Yeosu Port on November 24 after transferring 600 tons of refined petroleum to a North Korean vessel on October 19.</p><p>A ship-to-ship transfer of any goods to North Korea has been prohibited by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) as per the Resolution 2375, adopted in September.</p><p>The ship, loaded with the Japanese refined petroleum, was claimed to be heading to Taiwan.</p><p>However, the vessel not going to its claimed destination transferred the oil to North Korean vessels in international waters in the East China Sea.</p><p>"The actions taken will be reported to the UNSC sanctions committee on North Korea in the future," according to the authorities. "This marks a typical case of North Korea shrewdly circumventing UNSC sanctions by using its illegal networks."</p><p>South Korea gas shared the details with the United States for further investigation. (ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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Bilawal Bhutto brands Musharraf "Killer", "coward"

<p>Islamabad [Pakistan], December 29 (ANI): Pakistan People's Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has branded General Pervez Musharraf a coward and a killer, saying that "besides Shaheed Benazir, Musharraf also had Nawab Akbar Bugti killed."</p><p>"We all are here in Pakistan despite threats to our lives because we are not coward but he who is coward has escaped and not ready to face a trial," the Dawn quoted Bilawal Bhutto, as saying.</p><p>"If he is really a brave soldier as he portrays himself to be, he should come here and face the cases registered against him," Bilawal Bhutto added while speaking to media personnel after inaugurating a hall, named after his grandfather Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, at the Sukkur Press Club.</p><p>This comes in the backdrop of Musharraf asking Bilawal Bhutto to man up and stop resorting to sloganeering like women.</p><p>"I am seeing it on the various channels that on the death anniversary of Benazir Bhutto, leaders of Peoples Party especially Bilawal Bhutto, is targeting me in front of the crowd by resorting to sloganeering. I would just ask him to stop resorting to sloganeering and be a man enough. Also, do not talk like kids. Is there evidence against me?" Musharraf is seen saying it in the clip shown on Samaa TV.</p><p>Bilawal Bhutto leveled allegations against the 74-year-old retired general for the murder of his mother Benazir Bhutto as the country observed her 10th death anniversary on Wednesday.</p><p>Bilawal Bhutto raised the "Musharraf's a murderer!" slogan in front of the charged crowd of PPP supporters in the southern Pakistani town of Garhi Khuda Bakhsh.(ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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8 killed, 4 injured in airstrikes in Afghanistan

<p>Kabul [Afghanistan], Dec 29 (ANI): At least eight Taliban militants have been killed and five others injured in a series of airstrikes conducted in southern Uruzgan province of Afghanistan.</p><p>Afghanistan's Khaama Press news agency quoted local officials as saying on Friday that the airstrikes have been carried out in the vicinity of Tarinkot city.</p><p>Confirming the death toll, Uruzgan police chief Abdul Qari Omari said Afghan Air Force had carried out the attacks.</p><p>Taliban has not commented on the incident so far.</p><p>A counter-terrorism operation is going on Uruzgan, which is among the insurgent's strongholds.(ANI)</p><br/><center><em><p>This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI</p></em></center>

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