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Earth’s Inner Core ‘Unambiguously’ Slowing Down, Study Finds

noreply@blogger.com (Wixtin News) — Sun, 16 Jun 2024 08:05:00 +0000

Earth’s Inner Core ‘Unambiguously’ Slowing Down, Study Finds

A new study has found "unambiguous evidence" that Earth's inner core began slowing its rotation in 2010 compared to the planet’s surface. Researchers suggest this change could alter the length of a day on Earth by fractions of a second.

The Earth's inner core is a solid sphere composed of iron and nickel, suspended within the liquid outer core of molten metals and held in place by gravity. Together with the mantle and crust, these form the Earth's three layers. Due to its inaccessibility, researchers study the core by analyzing seismic waves from earthquakes.

John Vidale, a professor of Earth Sciences at the University of Southern California and the study's corresponding author, noted that initial seismogram data hinted at the change. Additional observations confirmed that the inner core had indeed slowed down for the first time in decades.

This finding is controversial within the scientific community, as some studies have suggested the inner core rotates faster than the Earth's surface. The spin of the inner core is influenced by the magnetic field from the outer core and gravitational effects within the mantle.

The latest study indicates that the inner core is reversing its direction relative to the surface due to rotating slower than the mantle for the first time in about 40 years. Vidale asserts that their study provides the most convincing resolution to this debate.

Earlier this year, another study in the journal Nature found that climate change-driven melting of ice in Greenland and Antarctica was also affecting Earth's rotation. Geophysicist Duncan Agnew from the University of California San Diego showed that the Earth’s liquid core was slowing down, causing the solid Earth to rotate faster. This has led to fewer 'leap seconds' being added to Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) in recent decades. Since 1972, leap seconds have been periodically added due to irregularities in Earth's rotation.

The latest study examined seismic data from 121 repeating earthquakes between 1991 and 2023 in the South Sandwich Islands, a region prone to violent earthquakes. Data from Soviet nuclear tests between 1971 and 1974, and multiple French and American nuclear tests, were also included in the analysis.

Ukraine War Briefing: Russian Proposals Ignored at Swiss Peace Summit, Says Germany

noreply@blogger.com (Wixtin News) — Sun, 16 Jun 2024 07:24:00 +0000

Ukraine War Briefing: Russian Proposals Ignored at Swiss Peace Summit, Says Germany

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz dismissed Vladimir Putin's peace plan at the Swiss summit, calling it insincere. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy expressed optimism about the summit's potential, though expectations for major progress remain low. Key nations like China were absent, and Russia was not invited.

World leaders from over 90 countries gathered at Lake Lucerne to support Ukraine’s peace initiatives. Scholz noted that G7 leaders ignored Putin’s proposal, which included Ukraine surrendering four provinces, ceasing fighting, and abandoning its NATO ambitions, considering it a distraction. Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Kenya pointed out that Russia’s absence was a significant challenge. The Kremlin criticized the West's reaction to Putin’s proposals as unconstructive.

A draft summit declaration attributed the destruction in Ukraine to Russia’s "war" and emphasized the importance of respecting Ukraine’s territorial integrity, controlling the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, and accessing its seaports. The declaration, dated June 13, avoided the term "aggression" in describing Russia’s actions. Sunday's discussions will focus on nuclear safety, navigation freedom, food security, and humanitarian issues, including Black Sea shipping, prisoners of war, civilian detainees, and deported children.

U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, standing in for President Joe Biden, announced over $1.5 billion in aid for Ukraine, including $500 million for energy assistance and $324 million for emergency energy infrastructure. Additionally, $379 million in humanitarian aid will help refugees and those impacted by the war.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni clarified that the EU would not directly contribute to a $50 billion loan for Ukraine, which will be funded by interest from $230 billion in frozen Russian assets, with contributions from the U.S., Canada, UK, and possibly Japan.

Finland’s President Alexander Stubb stressed the need for a follow-up conference, citing Finland’s history with Russia and their shared 1,300-kilometer border.

On Saturday, Russian shelling killed three and injured five in Ulakly village, Donetsk, damaging buildings and vehicles. Ukrainian shelling in Shebekino, a Russian border town, resulted in five deaths and several injuries, according to Belgorod’s governor. These reports remain unconfirmed.

Swedish fighter jets intercepted a Russian military aircraft that briefly violated Sweden’s airspace near Gotland island. Sweden’s Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom condemned the violation and summoned Russian embassy officials.

In Slovakia, Peter Pellegrini, an ally of Ukraine-skeptic Prime Minister Robert Fico, was sworn in as president, solidifying Fico’s power. Fico missed the ceremony due to recovering from a gunshot wound sustained while greeting supporters in Handlova on May 15.

Indian Passport Holders: Visit 52 Countries Visa On Arrival

noreply@blogger.com (Wixtin News) — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 11:19:00 +0000

Indian Passport Holders: Visit 52 Countries Visa On Arrival

Expanded Visa-Free Travel Options for Indians

Here are 52 countries where Indian passport holders can travel without a visa.

1. Armenia

2. Bahrain

3. Bolivia

4. Botswana

5. Cambodia

6. Cape Verde

7. Comoros

8. Djibouti

9. Ethiopia

10. Fiji

11. Gabon

12. Guinea-Bissau

13. Indonesia

14. Iran

15. Iraq (Basra)

16. Jordan

17. Kazakhstan

18. Kenya

19. Laos

20. Madagascar

21. Malawi

22. Maldives

23. Mauritania

24. Mauritius

25. Mozambique

26. Myanmar

27. Namibia

28. Nepal

29. Nigeria

30. Oman

31. Palau

32. Rwanda

33. Saint Lucia

34. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

35. Samoa

36. Senegal

37. Seychelles

38. Sierra Leone

39. Somalia

40. Sri Lanka

41. Suriname

42. Tanzania

43. Thailand

44. Timor-Leste

45. Togo

46. Trinidad and Tobago

47. Tunisia

48. Tuvalu

49. Uganda

50. Vanuatu

51. Zambia

52. Zimbabwe

The respect for the Indian passport is increasing globally, with many countries now providing visa-free entry for Indian tourists. Currently, Indian passport holders can obtain visas on arrival in 62 countries. Visa-free travel means no prior visa application is needed; entry is granted by the immigration officer upon arrival.

Belgium PM Alexander De Croo Resigns After Party Defeat in EU Elections

noreply@blogger.com (Wixtin News) — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 10:54:00 +0000

Belgium PM Alexander De Croo Resigns After Party Defeat in EU Elections

Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo has resigned following his party's significant loss in the recent national and European parliamentary elections, as reported by CNN.

Announcement and Reaction

De Croo, 48, struggled to contain his emotions while announcing his resignation in Brussels on Sunday night. "I was the figurehead of this campaign. This is not the result I had hoped for, and I therefore take responsibility for this result. It was not meant to be," he told the media. He further stated, "As of tomorrow, I will be resigning as prime minister and I will fully concentrate on current affairs."

Election Results

According to a poll by RTBF, cited by CNN, De Croo's Open VLD party performed poorly in the European Parliament elections, securing only 5.8% of the vote. The far-right Vlaams Belang party and the Flemish nationalist N-VA party both received approximately 14% of the vote, indicating a strong showing for these groups.

Future Steps

In his resignation speech, De Croo emphasized the necessity for Belgium to have a new government with full powers to tackle its responsibilities. He pledged to ensure a "proper transfer" of power to his successor.

Broader EU Context

Voting across the European Union's 27 member states has concluded, with the final votes cast in Italy. The EU elections are the world's second-largest democratic exercise, with nearly 400 million voters selecting 720 members of the European Parliament. The outcomes of these elections will influence policies on critical global issues such as climate change, defense, migration, and international relations with major powers like China and the United States.

Since the last European elections in 2019, the geopolitical landscape has shifted dramatically. The Russian invasion of Ukraine has brought conflict close to the EU's borders, highlighting the union's crucial role in maintaining regional peace and stability. Ukraine's aspiration to join the EU further adds to the geopolitical complexities facing the union.

UK Teen's Lung Collapses After Vaping the Equivalent of 400 Cigarettes a Week

noreply@blogger.com (Wixtin News) — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 10:42:00 +0000

UK Teen's Lung Collapses After Vaping the Equivalent of 400 Cigarettes a Week

A 17-year-old girl from the UK, Kyla Blythe, was hospitalized after a hole burst in her lung due to vaping the equivalent of 400 cigarettes a week. The incident occurred on May 11 during a sleepover at a friend's house when Blythe collapsed and turned blue.

The Incident and Medical Response

Excessive vaping caused a small air blister, known as a pulmonary bleb, on Blythe's lung to burst, leading to the collapse. She underwent a five-and-a-half-hour surgery to remove part of her lung. Her father, Mark Blythe, expressed his terror, stating, "It was life-threatening. She was so close to having a cardiac arrest."

Vaping Habits and Realization

Ms. Blythe began vaping at age 15, influenced by her peers and believing it to be harmless. She consumed an entire 4,000-puff vape weekly. Reflecting on the experience, she said, "I honestly thought they were harmless and wouldn't do anything to anyone." The ordeal has since scared her away from vaping.

Warning to Others

Her father urged young people to "throw away vapes because it's not worth it." According to Action on Smoking and Health (ASH), vaping's popularity is rapidly increasing among children, with the number of those who have tried it nearly doubling to 20% in 2023. Alarmingly, children under five are also getting addicted and hospitalized due to collapsed lungs. Additionally, vaping poses risks such as stunted brain growth in teenagers due to toxic chemicals like lead and uranium found in the devices.

Giorgia Meloni, Italian PM and Far-Right Leader, Wins European Parliament Polls, Becomes Key Player in Europe

noreply@blogger.com (Wixtin News) — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 10:33:00 +0000

Giorgia Meloni, Italian PM and Far-Right Leader, Wins European Parliament Polls, Becomes Key Player in Europe

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's Brothers of Italy party secured 28% of the votes in the European elections, bolstering her political influence. This outcome surpassed their performance in the 2022 general elections and came at the expense of Matteo Salvini's League party, which saw its share drop to 8.5%. The center-left Democratic Party gained 24.5%, while the Five Star Movement fell to 10.5%.

Election Results

Projections by state broadcaster RAI, based on nearly 70% of the votes counted, confirmed the Brothers of Italy party's status as the leading political force in the country. This result surpasses the 26% vote share they garnered in the 2022 general elections.

Meloni’s victory has come at a cost to her governing partners in Rome. Matteo Salvini's League party, which led the 2019 EU elections with over 34% of the vote, plummeted to just 8.5%. Forza Italia, previously a junior partner, achieved over 9%.

Opposition Performance

On the opposition front, the center-left Democratic Party secured 24.5%, while the populist Five Star Movement saw a significant decline to 10.5%, a drop of seven points from 2019.

Impact on EU Leadership

Meloni's personalized campaign has positioned her as a formidable figure within the EU, where far-right parties have made substantial gains. This shift has posed significant challenges to leaders such as French President Emmanuel Macron.

Meloni’s Response

At her party headquarters, Meloni expressed pride in the results. “I'm proud that we are heading to the G7 and to Europe with the strongest government of all,” she stated. She described the outcome as “extraordinary” and pledged to use the momentum for future initiatives.

Future Challenges

Despite this support, Meloni's government faces challenges, particularly with Italy's precarious public finances and the upcoming 2025 budget. Giovanni Orsina, director of the school of government at LUISS University in Rome, remarked, “Meloni gets out of these elections stronger, first of all because this is a government that has not lost consensus, which is quite unique in Europe.”

European Parliament Representation

The Brothers of Italy party is projected to secure 23 to 25 seats in the European Parliament, a significant increase from the six seats they held after the 2019 elections. This gain underscores Meloni’s ascent from a minor opposition figure to a central player on the European stage.

PM Modi to Visit Italy for G7 Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the Group of Seven (G7) Summit in Italy, set for June 13-15. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni extended the invitation to Modi in April. The G7, an informal forum, includes Italy, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the UK, and the USA, along with the European Union, represented by the Presidents of the European Council and the European Commission. Italy took over the G7 Presidency on January 1, 2024, and will hold it until December 31, 2024.

The Surge of the Far-Right in the 2024 EU Elections: Implications for Europe

noreply@blogger.com (Wixtin News) — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 10:19:00 +0000

The Surge of the Far-Right in the 2024 EU Elections: Implications for Europe

The 2024 European Parliament elections marked a significant shift in the political landscape, with far-right parties making substantial gains and unsettling traditional power structures across the EU bloc. This election cycle, held every five years, is a crucial indicator of public sentiment and carries long-term implications for EU policies and governance.

France: National Rally's Triumph

In France, Marine Le Pen’s National Rally secured nearly one-third of the votes, establishing itself as the dominant ultra-nationalist group in the forthcoming Parliament. French President Emmanuel Macron’s party suffered a heavy defeat, prompting him to call for snap legislative elections. Macron acknowledged the loss, stating, “I’ve heard your message, your concerns, and I won’t leave them unanswered.” Le Pen’s National Rally, which garnered over 30 percent of the vote, nearly doubled the support for Macron’s pro-European centrists, who received less than 15 percent. Le Pen declared, “We’re ready to turn the country around, ready to defend the interests of the French, ready to put an end to mass immigration.”

Germany: AfD's Ascendancy

In Germany, Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s center-left Social Democrats fell to a projected 14 percent, trailing behind the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), which surged to second place with 16.5 percent. AfD leader Alice Weidel expressed her elation, stating, “After all the prophecies of doom, after the barrage of the last few weeks, we are the second strongest force.”

Italy: Brothers of Italy's Victory

Italy saw Premier Giorgia Meloni’s Brothers of Italy party achieve the highest percentage of votes, with 28.5 percent. This significant victory solidified Meloni’s position as a key figure in the far-right movement in Europe.

Hungary: Fidesz's Continued Strength

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s nationalist Fidesz party secured 43 percent of the vote, though this was a decline from previous elections. Orbán commented, “Right is good. To go right is always good. Go right!” This sentiment resonated across several countries, with far-right parties appealing to voters on issues like immigration and national sovereignty.

Netherlands, Slovakia, and Other Nations

In the Netherlands, Geert Wilders’ Party for Freedom won six seats, a notable increase. Similarly, in Slovakia, the liberal and pro-Western Progressive Slovakia topped the vote, defeating the leftist Smer party led by populist Prime Minister Robert Fico.

Spain’s opposition Popular Party (PP) led with 34 percent of the vote, outperforming Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s Socialists, who received 30 percent. The far-right Vox party, despite being challenged by a new extremist party led by a social media influencer, still managed to secure six seats.

In Greece, the ruling New Democracy party maintained a comfortable lead with just under 28 percent of the vote, despite a decline. The hard-right populist Greek Solution party increased its support to 9.5 percent.

Central and Eastern Europe

In Poland, the centrist Civic Coalition, led by Prime Minister Donald Tusk, won decisively with over 38 percent of the vote, while the far-right Confederation party garnered nearly 12 percent, marking a significant setback for the national conservative Law and Justice party.

The Czech Republic’s Euroskeptic ANO movement, led by former Prime Minister Andrej Babiš, triumphed with 26 percent of the votes, surpassing the center-right Together coalition’s 22 percent.

Implications for the EU

The rise of far-right and euroskeptic parties now means they control a significant portion of the European Parliament. The European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) and the Identity and Democracy (ID) groups will collectively hold 131 seats. If these groups unite, they could form the second-largest bloc in Parliament, influencing EU policies on migration, security, and climate change.

Impact on EU Policy and Governance

The election results reflect a broader trend of increasing support for far-right and nationalist parties across Europe. This shift is likely to put pressure on EU policies, particularly in areas like migration, security, and climate change. Christian Democratic leader Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the results' significance, stating, “We are by far the strongest party. We are the anchor of stability.” However, the gains by far-right parties suggest a potential shift in legislative priorities and a more contentious political environment.

The EU elections highlighted growing discontent with traditional parties and a move towards more radical solutions. With far-right and nationalist parties gaining ground, the future of EU governance and policymaking faces a period of uncertainty and potential transformation. The coming years will be critical in determining how the EU responds to these internal shifts and the growing influence of the far-right.

Pause in Mexico vs. Uruguay because to a homophobic yell

noreply@blogger.com (Wixtin News) — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 10:35:00 +0000

Pause in Mexico vs. Uruguay because to a homophobic yell

Due to the activation of the anti-discrimination protocol at 52', when the South American squad was already leading Tricolor 4-0, the Mexico vs. Uruguay match was halted for a short while.

In contrast to previous matches, Raúl Rangel, the Mexican goalie, was the target of the yell. When the Chivas player cleared the ball, the spectators at Empower Field at Mile High appeared as though they were attempting to kick out the soccer stadiums.

The crowd was instructed to stop making those kinds of gestures, and the game was stopped for a short while as a result. According to procedure, in the event that a homophobic yell is heard, the stadium will first be used to attract attention to the public. If the behavior continues, the game will then be suspended and paused for a short while.

Now, the action started when Uruguay displayed Jaime Lozano's team. The Marcelo Bielsa-led team defeated the Mexican squad with four goals in fifty minutes.

Raúl Rangel made his debut for the National Team as a goalkeeper, making him one of the most prominent. Along with the score, the supporters started jeering every member of Jaime Lozano's squad because they were easily surpassed by the Uruguayan player.

Despite the positive response from the supporters to the encounter against Marcelo Bielsa's team, Mexico made the decision to employ substitute players for the match against Uruguay. For a stadium that can hold more than 70,000 people, more over 50,000 tickets were sold.

In addition, the referee in Denver terminated the game minutes early because the Mexican supporters had invaded the playing field.

On social media, the Mexican National Team was also criticized. Along with the questioning of players like Henry Martín and Hirving Lozano, the name of Guillermo Ochoa became a trend.

Lok Sabha Election Results: BJP Leads but Falls Short of Majority

noreply@blogger.com (Wixtin News) — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 06:17:00 +0000

Lok Sabha Election Results: BJP Leads but Falls Short of Majority

New Delhi: Results for 542 of the 543 Lok Sabha seats have been announced by the Indian Election Commission. The Congress got 99 seats while the BJP won 240. 542 seats were counted, with the BJP's Mukesh Dalal winning the Surat seat without a challenge.

Results in the Beed constituency in Maharashtra are still to be announced, however Bajrang Manohar Sonwane, the NCP candidate, is leading Pankaja Munde, the BJP candidate.

Despite suffering severe defeats in three Hindi-dominated states, the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) secured a majority in the Lok Sabha, paving the way for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to lead the government for a third term in office. Many people viewed the election as a vote on Modi's level of popularity.

With 240 seats gained, the BJP—whose candidates ran on Modi's behalf—fell short of a majority and would require the backing of partners in the NDA to assume government. Compared to the 303 and 282 seats the party won in 2019 and 2014, respectively, this represents a significant drop.

The NDA cleared the halfway point with the help of important allies like N Chandrababu Naidu's Telugu Desam Party (TDP), which has 16 seats in Andhra Pradesh, and Nitish Kumar's JD(U), which has 12 seats in Bihar.

The opposition INDIA bloc's Congress increased its number of seats from 52 in 2019 to 99, reducing the BJP's majority in Rajasthan and Haryana.

With its 37 seats in Uttar Pradesh, the Samajwadi Party raised the spirits of the INDIA bloc, while the Trinamool Congress (TMC), another important opposition party, increased its number of seats in West Bengal to 29 from 22 in 2019. In West Bengal, the BJP, which had secured 18 seats in the previous Lok Sabha elections, was able to secure only 12 seats this time.

The BJP-led NDA had expected and exit polls had predicted a landslide victory, but that was not what happened.

This world's greatest democratic exercise took place over seven periods, from April 19 to June 4, with over 640 million votes counted.

SBI considers raising $3 billion in funding for FY2025 – Specifics

noreply@blogger.com (Wixtin News) — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 05:46:00 +0000

SBI considers raising $3 billion in funding for FY2025 – Specifics

The biggest lender in the nation, State Bank of India, has announced that a proposal for fundraising will be discussed at a board meeting later this month. The information was provided by the state-run bank through an exchange filing.

As to the company's statement on BSE, the bank intends to raise $3 billion in funding for the 2024–25 fiscal year. On June 11, the board of the bank will convene.

Through a public offering or private placement of senior unsecured notes in US dollars or any other convertible currency throughout FY2-24-25, the funding will be completed in one or more tranches.

"To examine the status and decide on long-term fundraising in single/multiple tranches of up to US$ 3 Billion (US$ Three Billion) under Reg-S/144A, through a public offer and private placement of senior unsecured notes in US Dollar or any other major foreign currency during FY 2024-25," the PSB stated in a filing.

Live updates on the price of Hindustan Unilever's shares: Hindustan Unilever is up 6.77% today with 6.57% One-Day Exchanges

noreply@blogger.com (Wixtin News) — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 05:36:00 +0000

Welcome to the Hindustan Unilever Stock Liveblog, your ultimate resource for real-time updates and analysis on a leading stock.

Stay ahead in the market with our detailed coverage of Hindustan Unilever, including the latest traded price of 2687.0, market capitalization of 586,528.47, trading volume of 4,607,353, price-to-earnings ratio of 57.07, and earnings per share of 43.74.

Gain a comprehensive understanding of Hindustan Unilever's performance through our blend of fundamental and technical indicators.

Stay informed with breaking news that may impact the stock's direction. Our liveblog provides you with the insights and knowledge necessary for confident investment decisions.

Don't miss out on the latest updates as Hindustan Unilever continues to impact the market. Data points are updated as of 05-06-2024 10:24 IST.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024 - 'Those Who Brought Ram' Lose Ayodhya

noreply@blogger.com (Wixtin News) — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 05:26:00 +0000

Losing the Ayodhya seat was perceived as a significant setback for the saffron party, especially given the involvement of its top leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

The BJP, which had coined the slogan 'Jo Ram ko Laye Hain, Hum Unko Layenge' (We will bring back to power those who have brought Lord Rama home) for the Lok Sabha elections, faced its greatest humiliation in Uttar Pradesh when it lost the Ayodhya Lok Sabha seat to its archrival, the Samajwadi Party (SP), by over 48,000 votes.

SP candidate Awadhesh Prasad, who was an MLA from the Milkipur assembly seat within the Ayodhya Lok Sabha constituency, defeated BJP nominee Lallu Singh by 48,104 votes, according to official sources.

The loss of the Ayodhya seat was particularly disheartening for the saffron party, especially as its prominent leaders, including Modi and Adityanath, had not only taken credit for the Ram Temple construction but also suggested that the temple would be demolished if the I.N.D.I.A alliance came to power.

BJP leaders believed that the Ram Temple consecration ceremony on January 22, where Modi consecrated Ram Lala, had swayed public opinion in their favor. They also highlighted the development of the temple town during their tenure.

However, state party leaders acknowledged that the BJP failed to recognize the discontent among the electorate in the constituency towards Lallu Singh, who, many felt, had neglected to stay in touch with the people, relying instead on Modi's influence to secure victory.

Earlier reports from Ayodhya indicated that caste factors would play a crucial role in the election outcome and that the fervor from the Ram Temple consecration ceremony had diminished considerably.

In an attempt to rekindle the momentum from the consecration ceremony, Modi held a roadshow in Ayodhya on May 5.

The SP, mindful of the caste dynamics in Ayodhya, fielded Awadhesh Prasad, who belonged to the 'Pasi' (Dalit) community, which had a significant presence in the constituency. Prasad, a sitting MLA from Milkipur, was known for his clean image and was considered a mass leader.

"The defeat in Ayodhya is really painful... we never expected it," remarked a state BJP leader.

Managing Children's Sugar Consumption: Tips for Parents and Caregivers

noreply@blogger.com (Wixtin News) — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 13:02:00 +0000

Reducing sugar intake in children's diets is crucial for preventing chronic diseases and establishing lifelong healthy eating habits. Both naturally occurring sugars (found in fruits, vegetables, grains, and dairy) and free sugars (added sugars and those in honey, syrups, and fruit juices) need to be managed.

Health Impact of Excessive Sugar Consumption

Dr. Abhishek Chopra, a Consultant Neonatologist and Paediatrician at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, highlights several health risks associated with excessive sugar intake:

Obesity and Chronic Diseases: High sugar consumption, especially from sugary drinks, is linked to obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and type 2 diabetes.
Digestive Issues: Excessive fruit juice can lead to chronic diarrhea, bloating, and poor growth due to malabsorption.
Dental Problems: Free sugars increase the risk of tooth decay and acidity.
Nutrient Deficiency: Sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) can replace essential nutrients like calcium, iron, and vitamin A in children's diets.

Recommendations for Sugar Intake

Dr. Chopra advises focusing on reducing free and added sugars rather than total sugars due to their link with weight gain, obesity, and dental issues. The European Nutrition Committee recommends that free sugar intake should be less than 5% of total energy intake for children and adolescents (ages 2-18), and even lower for infants and toddlers. Specific recommendations are:

Ages 2-7 years: 15-20 grams of sugar per day.
Ages 7-13 years: 22-27 grams per day.
Ages 13-19 years: 27-37 grams per day.

Healthy Sugar Consumption Practices

According to Dr. Chopra, there is no nutritional requirement for free sugars in infants, children, or adolescents. He suggests:

Consuming sugars in natural forms such as human milk, unsweetened dairy products, and fresh fruits.
Avoiding sugar-containing drinks in bottles for infants and discouraging children from drinking sugary beverages before bedtime.
Consuming sugars as part of main meals rather than snacks.

Recommended Beverages

Water is the best beverage for children. Dr. Chopra recommends replacing sugary beverages, fruit-based smoothies, and sweetened dairy products with water or unsweetened milk products. While artificial sweeteners can reduce weight gain, their long-term health effects are not yet fully understood.

Potential Side Effects of Sugar on Children

Excessive sugar intake can lead to various health issues in children, including:

Dental Issues: Sugary drinks and candies can cause tooth decay and cavities.
Obesity: High sugar foods and drinks can lead to weight gain and obesity.
Type 2 Diabetes: Large amounts of sugar can contribute to insulin resistance.
Nutritional Deficiencies: Sugary snacks can displace nutrient-rich foods, leading to deficiencies.
Behavioral Issues: Some studies suggest a link between high sugar intake and behavioral problems like hyperactivity.
Chronic Diseases: Excessive sugar consumption in childhood can increase the risk of heart disease and metabolic disorders later in life.
Poor Dietary Habits: Regularly consuming sugary foods can establish poor dietary habits early on.

Tips for Managing Sugar Intake

Offer whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains instead of sugary snacks.
Choose water or milk as primary beverages and limit sugary drinks.
Read food labels to avoid high added sugar content.
Encourage mindful eating habits and model healthy behaviors.

By managing sugar intake and promoting a balanced diet, parents and caregivers can support the long-term health and well-being of children.

Zelenskiy of Ukraine rules the Asia security forum while China and Taiwan exchange jabs.

noreply@blogger.com (Wixtin News) — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 07:32:00 +0000

Zelenskiy of Ukraine rules the Asia security forum while China and Taiwan exchange jabs.

Reuters was the first to report that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy would make an unplanned appearance at Asia's largest security conference, marking his second visit to the region since Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Zelenskyy spoke on the final day of the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, wearing his usual olive green T-shirt. He urged for support and participation in an upcoming peace summit in Switzerland.

"We believe our world wants to be united and act in harmony," he told the audience of formally dressed delegates and military personnel.

Zelenskyy's presence was the main highlight on Sunday, especially after China's defense chief, Li Shangfu, criticized Taiwan's "separatists," provoking a strong reaction from Taipei.

Zelenskyy was disappointed he couldn't meet with the Chinese delegation and accused Beijing of discouraging countries from attending the peace summit.

"Unfortunately, China is trying to prevent countries from coming to the peace summit," he said.

Earlier, Li Shangfu warned that peaceful "reunification" with Taiwan was becoming less likely and vowed to stop the island from gaining independence. China claims Taiwan as its territory, a claim strongly opposed by Taipei. Recently, China conducted military drills around Taiwan following the inauguration of President Lai Ching-te, labeled a "separatist" by Beijing.

"Separatists have made extreme statements betraying the Chinese nation and their ancestors. They will be shamed by history," Li said. He emphasized that while China seeks peaceful reunification, the People's Liberation Army is prepared to maintain national unity.

Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council criticized Li's comments as "provocative and irrational," reiterating that China has never ruled the island. The council said China's threats violate the UN Charter.

A U.S. official, speaking anonymously, noted that Li's speech offered no new insights. "For three years, new Chinese defense ministers have come to Shangri-La and given speeches contradicting the PLA's coercive actions. This year was no different," the official said.

Li's speech followed remarks by U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who stressed the importance of the Indo-Pacific region to U.S. security, even as the country deals with security assistance for Ukraine and the war in Gaza.

"The United States can only be secure if Asia is secure," Austin said. "That's why the U.S. has long maintained a presence in this region."

Li and Austin had their first face-to-face meeting on Friday during the conference, lasting over an hour.

Israel advises Maldivian citizens to depart after an entry ban

noreply@blogger.com (Wixtin News) — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 07:19:00 +0000

Israel advises Maldivian citizens to depart after an entry ban

In response to the Maldives government's recent modification to its rules prohibiting Israeli people from entering, the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs has advised Israeli residents living there to depart.

A Maldivian cabinet meeting took place to make this decision in response to popular protest over Israeli actions in the Gaza Strip.

The Ministry warned Israelis with second passports not to go to the Maldives, noting that it would be hard to help Israelis who run into trouble there.

Every year, about 15,000 Israeli tourists travel to the Maldives. In response to the situation in Gaza, the Maldives, which welcomes over a million tourists each year, decided to impose this embargo.

Mexico casts ballots in a race that could produce the nation's first female president.

noreply@blogger.com (Wixtin News) — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 07:09:00 +0000

Mexico casts ballots in a race that could produce the nation's first female president.

MEXICO CITY — On Sunday, Mexicans will likely elect the country's first female president, choosing between a former academic committed to continuing the current leader's populist policies and an ex-senator and tech entrepreneur who promises to intensify efforts against deadly drug cartels.

Nearly 100 million people are registered to vote in this election, which will replace outgoing President Andrés Manuel López Obrador. Voters will also elect governors in nine of the country’s 32 states, and choose candidates for both houses of Congress, thousands of mayoral positions, and other local posts. These elections, marked by violence, are the largest in the nation’s history.

This election is widely viewed as a referendum on López Obrador, a populist who has expanded social programs but failed to significantly reduce cartel violence in Mexico. His Morena party currently controls 23 of the 32 governorships and holds a simple majority in both houses of Congress. The Mexican constitution prohibits presidential reelection.

Early turnout appeared high in the capital, with long lines of voters under clear skies.

Morena aims to secure a two-thirds majority in Congress to amend the constitution and eliminate what it calls inefficient and wasteful oversight agencies. The opposition, running in a loose coalition, argues that such a change would threaten Mexico's democratic institutions.

Both leading presidential candidates are women, which means Mexico will have its first female president. A third candidate from a smaller party, Jorge Álvarez Máynez, is trailing significantly.

Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum, running with the Morena party, leads in the race and has pledged to continue all of López Obrador’s policies, including a universal pension for the elderly and a program that pays youths to apprentice.

Opposition candidate Xóchitl Gálvez, whose father was Indigenous Otomi, rose from selling snacks on the street in her poor hometown to become a successful tech entrepreneur. Running with a coalition of major opposition parties, she left the Senate last year to criticize López Obrador’s “hugs not bullets” policy towards drug cartels and has pledged to take a tougher stance on crime.

The main issues for voters are persistent cartel violence and Mexico's middling economic performance.

In the neighborhood of San Andres Totoltepec, homemaker Stephania Navarrete watched electoral officials and media gather where frontrunner Claudia Sheinbaum was set to vote. Despite doubts about López Obrador and his party, she plans to vote for Sheinbaum.

“Having a woman president, for me as a Mexican woman, will break the limitations placed on us in certain professions,” she said. While she supports Sheinbaum’s social programs, her primary concern is the increase in cartel violence. “Security is the major challenge. Crime levels were supposed to decrease, but they’ve increased instead. While I don’t completely blame the president, it is partly his responsibility."

Julio García, a 34-year-old office worker in Mexico City's San Rafael neighborhood, is voting for the opposition. “I’ve been robbed at gunpoint twice. We need a change in direction and leadership,” he said, noting the early high turnout in his neighborhood.

In Iztapalapa, Mexico City’s largest borough, 76-year-old Angelina Jiménez came to vote "to end this inept government that says we’re doing well while so many are dead." Concerned by the violence plaguing Mexico, she plans to vote for Gálvez, who has vowed to confront the cartels. “(López Obrador) says we’re better, but it’s not true. We’re worse."

López Obrador claims to have reduced historically high homicide rates by 20% since taking office in December 2018, but this is contested, with the real rate appearing to have declined by only about 4% over six years.

About 675,000 Mexicans living abroad are registered to vote, though traditionally only a small percentage have participated. Voting is not mandatory in Mexico, and turnout has hovered around 60% in recent elections, similar to recent U.S. presidential elections. However, the 2020 U.S. election saw a turnout of 67%, its highest in decades.

Like the upcoming November rematch between Biden and Trump in the U.S., Sunday’s election highlights deep divisions in Mexico over the country’s direction, including security strategy and economic growth.

Beyond the control of Congress, the race for Mexico City’s top post, considered equivalent to a governorship, is also significant. Sheinbaum is the latest in a line of Mexico City mayors, including López Obrador, who have run for president. Governorships in populous states such as Veracruz and Jalisco are also attracting attention.

Polls opened at 8 a.m. and will close at 6 p.m. (0000 GMT Monday) in most of the country. The first preliminary results are expected by 9 p.m. (0300 GMT Monday) after the last polls in different time zones close.

Israel says it's 'not a good deal' with Biden's Gaza offer, according to Netanyahu's assistant

noreply@blogger.com (Wixtin News) — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 06:53:00 +0000

Israel says it's 'not a good deal' with Biden's Gaza offer, according to Netanyahu's assistant

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's aide announced that Israel has accepted a US-proposed framework to end the Gaza war, despite Netanyahu's reservations about the deal. The aide, Ophir Falk, stated in an interview with The Sunday Times that while the deal is "not a good deal," Israel is keen on securing the release of all hostages.

According to Falk, many details still need to be finalized, particularly concerning the release of hostages and the dismantling of Hamas, which Israel considers a genocidal terrorist organization.

US President Joe Biden outlined the proposal on May 31, which includes an initial six-week ceasefire, a partial Israeli military withdrawal, and the release of some hostages. The plan aims for a permanent cessation of hostilities and envisions a future in Gaza without Hamas in power. The negotiations are being mediated through intermediaries.

Facing increasing pressure after Biden's proposal, Netanyahu's government must navigate the three-phase plan. The first phase involves a complete ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from densely populated Gaza areas. During this phase, Hamas is expected to release hostages, including women, the elderly, and the wounded, in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.

In the second phase, all remaining hostages, including male soldiers, would be released, and Israeli forces would withdraw from Gaza. The third phase proposes a major reconstruction effort for Gaza, which has been heavily damaged by the conflict.

Microsoft debuts its first Windows 11 beta build

noreply@blogger.com (Wixtin News) — Sat, 31 Jul 2021 11:47:00 +0000

Microsoft debuts its first Windows 11 beta build

American tech giant Microsoft, on Friday, released the first beta version of Windows 11, available to those enrolled in its Windows Insider Program, after releasing it for developers over the last month.

According to The Verge, until now, getting access to Windows 11 meant installing the developer preview, which Microsoft said was for “highly technical users” as it has “rough edges.”

The company said with builds being validated by Microsoft, this beta release is less volatile, though it’s still probably something you’ll want to install on a test machine or second partition.

For starters, to install the beta you’ll need a compatible computer.

Figuring out if your hardware will work with the next version of Windows has been notoriously tricky to pin down, but Microsoft’s article about preparing for Insider builds directs people to its system requirements page.

The company has said that it will be paying close attention to how well 7th Gen Intel and AMD Zen 1 CPUs work during the testing period, so it’s possible those systems could be allowed to run the beta but not the final release.

For those who want to switch from the developer preview to this new beta build, you can do so by going to Settings — Windows Update — Windows Insider Program, then clicking on Choose your Insider Settings.

Usually doing so requires a complete OS re-install, but according to the Windows Insider Twitter account, it’ll be possible to do in place for a “short period of time.” It’s probably best to hop on that as soon as you can if you don’t need to stay on the developer channel.

Though Microsoft said that the Beta Channel releases are more stable than developer channel ones, they are still betas. There will likely be bugs, crashes, and missing features.

As per The Verge, Microsoft even has a whole list of current issues in its blog post, which also said that the ‘Teams Chat’ feature that’s available for some in the developer channel isn’t currently available for beta users yet.

Best 7 Fruits Weight Loss: That May Help Shed Those Extra Kilos

noreply@blogger.com (Wixtin News) — Sat, 31 Jul 2021 11:30:00 +0000

Fruits are storehouse of nutrients that help benefit our overall health. Here are 7 such fruit options that can help promote weight loss.

Best 7 Fruits That May Help Shed Those Extra Kilos Weight Loss

If you are on a weight loss journey, then you know how difficult it is to control food cravings and maintain the calorie count. While we try our best to exercise daily and follow a strict diet, but there are times when sweet cravings overpower our mind. This is when fruits come to our rescue.

Fruits are majorly low in calories and have natural sugar that further helps satiate our sweet cravings and keep us full for long. Considering this, we bring you 7 fruits that can easily be a part of your weight loss diet.

Take a look:

Apple

This fruit is low in calorie and high in fiber and is known to aid weight loss.

Kiwi

Kiwi is a storehouse of fiber, vitamin C, E, antioxidants and more that helps burn fat and shed those extra kilos.

Pear

This vitamin C rich fruit is full of fiber that helps you keep full for long. This fruit is also known to keep cholesterol levels in check.

Orange

The sweet and tangy orange has a good amount of nutrients and is low in calories. Orange is considered a negative calorie fruit, which means, it contains fewer calories than your body generally requires.

Watermelon

Watermelon helps you keep hydrated and is considered to be a great option to include in a weight loss diet.

Tomato

Tomatoes are known to increase the production of carnitine - an organic chemical known to play a crucial role in boosting metabolism and aiding weight loss.

Guava

It is high in dietary fiber that keeps you full for long. Guava is also known to have low glycaemia index, which allows for a delayed release of sugar into the bloodstream. This improves insulin activity as well as weight management.

Microsoft Defends Fortnite Maker In Apple Fight

noreply@blogger.com (Wixtin News) — Mon, 24 Aug 2020 10:11:00 +0000

[WN] - Microsoft came to the defense of the maker of video game sensation Fortnite on Sunday, saying in a court filing that Apple's moves to cut off the company from programming tools would hurt other game creators and players as well.

Epic Games is locked in a legal battle with Apple after trying to dodge commission payments due to the tech giant, prompting the iPhone maker to pull Fortnite from its online store.

Apple also threatened to cut off Epic's access to its programming tools needed to maintain "Unreal Engine", a software platform that was developed by Epic and which is used by many video game studios to create graphics.

In a filing to the California court handling the case between Epic and Apple, a Microsoft manager said Unreal Engine "is a critical technology for numerous game creators including Microsoft".

"Apple's discontinuation of Epic's ability to develop and support Unreal Engine for iOS or macOS will harm game creators and gamers," wrote Kevin Gammill, Microsoft's general manager of gaming developer experiences.

Apple has alleged that the Fortnite maker deserves to lose its access to the programming tools because it violated the terms of their contract.

At the heart of the fight is the 30 percent that Apple takes on the revenue generated by companies to distribute their apps through its online store.

Epic Games filed a lawsuit against Apple last week after the tech giant took Fortnite off its App Store for releasing an update that dodges revenue sharing.

The latest version contains a payment system that lets player transactions bypass the App Store, preventing Cupertino-based Apple from collecting its typical 30 percent cut.

Epic has asked a judge to make Apple put Fortnite back in the App Store until the matter is resolved in court.

Gold Prices Fall For 4th Straight Day, Down Over Rs 4,000 From Month High

noreply@blogger.com (Wixtin News) — Mon, 24 Aug 2020 09:52:00 +0000

[WN] Gold and Silver Prices continued to fall in India for the fourth consecutive day on Monday, tracking global markets as risk sentiment improved after the US drug regulator authorized the use of blood plasma as a treatment option for Covid-19 patients and the dollar held firm.

On the Multi Commodity Exchange of India (MCX), October gold futures were down 0.3% to Rs 51,865 per 10 gram. September silver futures on MCX also fell to nearly 1% to Rs 66,426 per kg.

Prices of the yellow metal have gone down in four days at around Rs 1,700 per 10 gram. Gold had dropped 0.3% while September silver futures declined 1% in the previous session. Gold is down more than Rs 4,300 per 10 gram after hitting a high of about Rs 56,200 per 10gm August 7.

According to Kotak Securities, gold may continue to witness choppy trade unless there are fresh triggers but buying interest may emerge at lower levels. It added that weaker consumer demand in India and China is also weighing on gold prices.

In global markets, spot gold was down 0.3% to $1,934.13 per ounce by 0317 GMT after hitting a one-week low of $1,910.99 on Friday. US gold futures eased 0.2% to $1,942.90.

“Weighing a little bit on immediate sentiment is virus-positive news that has helped stocks and other risk assets go higher today,” Stephen Innes, chief market strategist at financial services firm AxiCorp told Reuters, adding that gold was in consolidation ahead of Jackson Hole.

Asian stocks extended gains after the US Food & Drug Administration authorized the use of blood plasma from patients who have recovered from Covid-19 as a treatment for the disease.

Investors are now waiting for US Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell’s speech at Jackson Hole on Thursday for any hints about how aggressively the central bank will try to manage the long-term recovery from the coronavirus pandemic.

“The US central bank should reiterate its pledge for ultra-low rates, providing some support for gold,” Avtar Sandu, a senior commodities manager at Phillip Futures, said in a note. “The central bank may be expected to signal greater tolerance for above-target inflation keeping real interest rates low,” Sandhu said.

Lower US interest rates put pressure on the dollar and bond yields, increasing the appeal of non-yielding bullion.

Donald Trump Hails FDA’s Authorization Of Plasma Treatment For Covid-19

noreply@blogger.com (Wixtin News) — Mon, 24 Aug 2020 09:40:00 +0000

[WN] - The FDA, explaining its decision, cited early evidence suggesting blood plasma can decrease mortality and improve the health of Covid-19 patients when administered in the first three days of their hospitalization.

President Donald Trump on Sunday hailed FDA authorization of a coronavirus treatment that uses blood plasma from recovered patients, a day after accusing the agency of impeding the rollout of vaccines and therapeutics for political reasons.

The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) announcement of its “emergency use authorization” of the treatment came on the eve of the Republican National Convention, where Trump will be nominated to lead his party for four more years.

“This is what I’ve been looking to do for a long time,” Trump told an unusually brief White House news conference. “Today I’m pleased to make a truly historic announcement in our battle against the China virus that will save countless lives.”

The FDA, explaining its decision, cited early evidence suggesting blood plasma can decrease mortality and improve the health of patients when administered in the first three days of their hospitalization.

The agency also said it determined this was a safe approach in an analysis of 20,000 patients who received the treatment. So far, 70,000 patients have been treated using blood plasma, the FDA said.

“It appeared that the product is safe and we’re comfortable with that and we continue to see no concerning safety signals,” Peter Marks, director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, told reporters in a conference call.

A day before the FDA’s announcement, Trump tagged the agency’s Commissioner Stephen Hahn in a Twitter post in which he said, “The deep state, or whoever, over at the FDA is making it very difficult for drug companies to get people in order to test the vaccines and therapeutics.” “Obviously, they are hoping to delay the answer until after November 3rd. Must focus on speed, and saving lives!”

Trump is looking to boost his lagging poll numbers during the Republican convention this week, and progress in treatments or an effective vaccine to gain control of the virus would aid his re-election chances.

At least 5,686,377 cases of Covid-19 have been reported in the United States, according to a Reuters tally, and more than 176,000 Americans have died.

Michael Steele, who served as chairman of the Republican National Committee from 2009 to 2011, said the Trump administration was putting politics ahead of science.

“This is not about good science or even your health, it’s about his re-election,” Steele wrote on Twitter.

Plasma is the element of blood that carries water, enzymes, and blood cells throughout the body. It also carries the antibodies humans form to fight off disease and boost immunity.

Covid-19 patients have been receiving convalescent plasma for several months through clinical trials at medical centers such as New York’s Mount Sinai Hospital and Johns Hopkins.

Supplies of plasma are limited because they require that a recovered Covid-19 patient donate blood and that it matches the blood type of the recipient. Reuters reported that Covid-19 plasma supplies are dwindling, with the American Red Cross saying its stockpile of plasma for Covid-19 patients declined 70% in July.

US regulators provided emergency authorization for Gilead Science Inc’s redeliver as a therapeutic treatment for Covid-19 earlier this year. Reuters reported that a senior administration official said therapeutic drugs that are being studied specifically for Covid-19 could be authorized for use and making doses by fall.

The White House declined to comment on a separate report in the Financial Times that the administration is considering fast-tracking an experimental Covid-19 vaccine being developed by Astra Zeneca Plc and Oxford University for use in the United States ahead of the Nov. 3 elections.

One option being explored would involve the FDA awarding emergency use authorization in October to the potential vaccine, which was developed by Oxford and licensed to AstraZeneca, the FT.

A spokeswoman for AstraZeneca denied the company had discussed an Emergency Use authorization for its potential vaccine with the US government and said it would be premature to speculate on that possibility.

The company said the late-stage Phase 2 and Phase 3 trials for its vaccine candidate are still ongoing in Britain and other markets globally and that it did not anticipate efficacy results until later this year.

There are no approved vaccines for Covid-19, but AstraZeneca’s shot, called AZD1222, is widely seen as one of the leading candidates.

Attorney General's No To Contempt Plea Against Actor Swara Bhasker

noreply@blogger.com (Wixtin News) — Mon, 24 Aug 2020 09:30:00 +0000

The Attorney General's nod is a must before filing a contempt petition in the top court.

The Attorney General of India has declined permission to an advocate to file a contempt plea against actor Swara Bhasker for comments on the Supreme Court's verdict in the Babri Masjid and Ayodhya land dispute case; the comments were described by the petitioner as "derogatory", "scandalous" and an "attack on the institution".

The Attorney General's nod is a must before filing a contempt petition in the top court.

Attorney General KK Venugopal said the comment was the "perception of the speaker" and did not "offer any comment on the Supreme Court itself or say anything that would scandalize or tend to scandalize... the authority of the Supreme Court".

"In my opinion, this statement does not constitute criminal contempt," the Attorney General said.

The statement, reportedly made at an event in Mumbai, was written out in the Attorney General's letter: "We are living in a country where the Supreme Court states that the demolition of the Babri Masjid was unlawful and, in the same judgment, rewards the same people who brought down the mosque".

In November last year, the Supreme Court had ruled that the formerly disputed land in Ayodhya belonged to the deity Ram Lalla, or the infant Lord Ram.

The court, however, also said that the razing of the 16th century Babri Masjid in December 1992 was unlawful and a "calculated act of destroying a place of public worship".

In his statement today the Attorney General said the "statement in the first part appears to be a factual one and is the perception of the speaker".

The second comment made by Ms. Bhasker, also written out in the Attorney General's letter today, said that "we are ruled by a government that doesn't believe in our Constitution. we are ruled by police forces that do not believe in the Constitution. it seems we are now in a situation where our courts are not sure whether they believe in the Constitution."

She goes on to say that the way forward had been "shown to us" by numerous civil society protests led by students and women, in particular.

The comment has been seen by many as a reference to protests such as the one led by women in Delhi's Shaheen Bagh against the controversial Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).

The protest made international headlines with protesters agitating against the "anti-Muslim" CAA, NRC (National Register of Citizens), and NPR (National Population Register).

Passed last year, the government said the CAA would help persecuted minorities from three Muslim-majority nations - Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh.

Ms. Bhasker was also outspoken in her support of the student community in the national capital for their role in the protests. The actor, who is a graduate of Delhi's Jawaharlal Nehru University, praised students for "waking up the entire country".

The Attorney General's refusal to proceed with a criminal contempt case against Ms. Bhasker comes days after lawyer-activist Prashant Bhushan was held guilty of the same charge. Mr. Bhushan, the court ruled, had crossed a line in making comments about the judiciary.

Mr. Bhushan, in his defense, said he considered the tweets "as an attempt for working for the betterment of the institution", and that open criticism was necessary to safeguard democracy in India. The Attorney General had clarified in court that his views are not of the government but were personal ones.

An unimpressed Supreme Court gave Mr. Bhushan up to three days "to reconsider" his statement and sought an unconditional apology by August 24.

WhatsApp Multi-Device Support: Here’s When The Feature Will Roll Out

noreply@blogger.com (Wixtin News) — Sat, 25 Jul 2020 10:33:00 +0000

[WN] - WhatsApp multi-device support said to be called Linked devices feature. Here's when it will be available for everyone.

WhatsApp recently released its v2.20.196.8 beta for Android, which reportedly brings a highly anticipated feature. According to a report by WABetaInfo WhatsApp v2.20.196.8 beta for Android consists code for the heavily rumored multiple device feature.

Screenshots of the feature show the UI for the multiple device feature. In the screenshots, the feature is named ‘Linked Devices’.

The new feature will allow WhatsApp users to log in to multiple devices, without having to log out from the previous device. At the time of launch, WhatsApp will allow users to sign in to four devices to sync at once. The feature will be made accessible through the three dots icon found on the top right corner of the app.

When is WhatsApp Linked Devices feature coming?

The ‘Linked Devices’ feature is currently under development and is not live for anyone. This means even if you have the latest beta version of the app installed on your smartphone you will not be able to use the feature.

For now, there is no guarantee when the company will launch the feature. It might be in a few days or months.

Currently, we only have the screenshots provided by WABetaInfo, which showcase the UI of the feature. However, keep in mind that there might be multiple changes made to it before its public release.

According to an earlier report, the WhatsApp Web screen was showing the string “Use WhatsApp on other devices” and apart from this, if you were to install a fresh copy of WhatsApp, a new loading screen would appear asking users to connect to a Wi-Fi network before proceeding to the setup process.

If the user were to ignore the prompt, the app shows a message stating, “Using mobile data may be slow and may use a large amount of your data plan.”

How can you use WhatsApp on multiple devices right now?

There is no knowledge as to when WhatsApp will release its Linked Devices feature to the world. However, if you want to use your WhatsApp account on multiple devices now, here’s a nifty trick that will help you in doing just that.

Open a web browser like Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and more.
Set the browser to open the desktop versions of websites from the browser settings.
Visit web.whatsapp.com.
Scan the QR code that shows up on the web page using your WhatsApp Web QR code scanner.
This will open up your WhatsApp on any of your devices.

Keep in mind, that you will always have to keep the main device that has your WhatsApp installed always connected to the internet as the web interface communicates directly with the app to send and receive messages.

OnePlus Nord Gets Yet Another Pre-Release Update, With July Security Patch

noreply@blogger.com (Wixtin News) — Sat, 25 Jul 2020 10:27:00 +0000

[WN] - It's not unusual to see phone makers prepare day one software updates for their new phones, which will be waiting to be installed once the first customers take them out of the box. And yet, OnePlus has really outdone itself with the Nord.

The handset, which got announced earlier this week but will only go on sale in early August, is now already receiving its second software update.

This is OxygenOS 10.5.2, and it brings with it the July security patches. Additionally, the recently unveiled OnePlus Buds get an easier pairing system when used with the Nord, and for India, Dailyhunt supports 90Hz refresh rate.

The process of starting up the camera app with gestures has been optimized, as has video calling performance, and the power efficiency for the front camera when shooting video at 4K60.

The camera experience has been improved overall, and the same can be said for system stability. "General issues" were fixed too.

We'd give you the usual warnings about staged rollouts, but only reviewers have this phone at the moment, so that's a moot point.

We're pretty sure that this update will in fact be waiting for you to install it the second you take your brand new OnePlus Nord out of the box next month.

While you wait for that moment, why not read through our hands-on review of the device, to get better acquainted with it?