<p>Researchers at Cambridge University in the UK have shown that an Artificial Intelligence model created by them can predict whether people with early signs of dementia will remain stable or develop Alzheimer’s disease. The AI model managed to make accurate predictions in four out of five cases, which is three times better than in clinical trials.</p>

<h2><strong>How significant is use of AI in predicting Alzheimer's and dementia onset?</strong></h2>

<p>Costly and often dangerous procedures are requited to detect dementia and Alzheimer's. Non-invasive methods like this AI tool will help in avoiding misdiagnosis.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-explained-is-forgetfulness-a-key-indicator-of-alzheimers-disease-experts-tell-when-to-seek-help-733275" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-explained-is-forgetfulness-a-key-indicator-of-alzheimers-disease-experts-tell-when-to-seek-help-733275&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiZy6zZsNOHAxUjd2wGHZpxEXQQFnoECAAQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2wa6vf9HrmV4PMmBEnpUvH&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-explained-is-forgetfulness-a-key-indicator-of-alzheimers-disease-experts-tell-when-to-seek-help-733275" target="_blank">Explained: Is forgetfulness a key indicator of&nbsp;<b>Alzheimer's</b>&nbsp;disease</a></p>

<p>The Cambridge team said in a release that the new method "could reduce the need for invasive and costly diagnostic tests while improving treatment outcomes early when interventions such as lifestyle changes or new medicines may have a chance to work best."</p>

<p>Finding out Alzheimer's in earl stage can be crucial in its management and treatment.</p>

<h2><strong>How it was done: AI model predicts onset of dementia and Alzheimer's disease</strong></h2>

<p>The AI model was created using data cohort of some 400 patients in the US, from their cognitive tests and structural MRI scans showing grey matter atrophy, the Cambridge University release said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The AI model distinguished between people with stable mild cognitive impairment and those who progressed to Alzheimer’s disease within a three-year period.&nbsp;It accurately identified individuals who went on to develop Alzheimer’s in 82% of cases. It also idenfitied those who didn’t develop symptoms in 81% from cognitive tests and an MRI scan alone.</p>

<p><strong>Video:&nbsp;European medicines watchdog rejects new Alzheimer's drug</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/european-medicines-watchdog-rejects-new-alzheimers-drug-744701/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We’ve created a tool which is much more sensitive than current approaches at predicting whether someone will progress from mild symptoms to Alzheimer’s," said Zoe Kourtzi of Cambridge University in the release.</p>

<p><strong>What is Dementia? What is Alzheimer's Disease?&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Dementia is a series of conditions involving memory loss, cognitive degeneration that affects more than 55 million people annually.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/trending/world-alzheimers-day-2023-history-significance-theme-and-early-symptoms-of-alzheimers-disease-638118" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/trending/world-alzheimers-day-2023-history-significance-theme-and-early-symptoms-of-alzheimers-disease-638118&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiZy6zZsNOHAxUjd2wGHZpxEXQQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2gjo4LuZhPNVoMWnPVBk7G&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/world-alzheimers-day-2023-history-significance-theme-and-early-symptoms-of-alzheimers-disease-638118" target="_blank">World&nbsp;<b>Alzheimer's</b>&nbsp;Day : History, significance, theme</a></p>

<p>The main cause of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, which accounts for 60-80% of cases.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Researchers at Cambridge University in the UK have shown that an Artificial Intelligence model created by them can predict whether people with early signs of dementia will remain stable or develop Alzheimer’s disease.

Researchers at Cambridge University in the UK have shown that an Artificial Intelligence model created by them can predict whether people with early signs of dementia will remain stable or develop Alzheimer’s disease. The AI model managed to make accurate predictions in four out of five cases, which is three times better than in clinical trials. How significant is use of AI in predicting Alzheimer's and dementia onset? Costly and often dangerous procedures are requited to detect dementia and Alzheimer's. Non-invasive methods like this AI tool will help in avoiding misdiagnosis. Also read: Explained: Is forgetfulness a key indicator of Alzheimer's disease The Cambridge team said in a release that the new method "could reduce the need for invasive and costly diagnostic tests while improving treatment outcomes early when interventions such as lifestyle changes or new medicines may have a chance to work best." Finding out Alzheimer's in earl stage can be crucial in its management and treatment. How it was done: AI model predicts onset of dementia and Alzheimer's disease The AI model was created using data cohort of some 400 patients in the US, from their cognitive tests and structural MRI scans showing grey matter atrophy, the Cambridge University release said. The AI model distinguished between people with stable mild cognitive impairment and those who progressed to Alzheimer’s disease within a three-year period. It accurately identified individuals who went on to develop Alzheimer’s in 82% of cases. It also idenfitied those who didn’t develop symptoms in 81% from cognitive tests and an MRI scan alone. Video: European medicines watchdog rejects new Alzheimer's drug × "We’ve created a tool which is much more sensitive than current approaches at predicting whether someone will progress from mild symptoms to Alzheimer’s," said Zoe Kourtzi of Cambridge University in the release. What is Dementia? What is Alzheimer's Disease? Dementia is a series of conditions involving memory loss, cognitive degeneration that affects more than 55 million people annually. Also read: World Alzheimer's Day : History, significance, theme The main cause of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, which accounts for 60-80% of cases. (With inputs from agencies)

AI tool predicts Alzheimer's disease onset better than clinical trials. Here is how it works

<p>US law enforcement agents have arrested at least 14 people in a sex trafficking sting operation during Comic-Con, the annual entertainment event in California's San Diego county. Working under cover, the joint operation of the San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force (SDHTTF) along with other agents identified trafficers and victims in the operation from last Thursday to Saturday (July 25-27) .&nbsp;</p>

<p>At least 10 victims&nbsp;were rescued from the trafficking ring, which included a minor aged only 16.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How the San Diego Comic-Con sex trafficking sting unfolded</strong></h2>

<p>According to a release from California Attorney General Rob Bonta's office, the operation targeted sex buyers as well as traffickers.</p>

<p>The joint investigation team "identified and arrested more than a dozen individuals participating in these illegal acts in our city over the weekend," said the release.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/video-women-on-bike-harassed-by-men-on-flooded-road-in-lucknow-4-arrested-746125">Video: Woman on bike harassed by men on flooded road in Lucknow; 4 arrested</a></p>

<p>It said that law enforcement agents "worked undercover as sex buyers to identify and contact potential victims of trafficking and arrest their traffickers." They also&nbsp;posted undercover advertisements soliciting sex to arrest sex buyers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to authorities, there are around 5,000 people falling victim to sex trafficking in San Diego county.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Unfortunately, sex traffickers capitalise on large scale events such as Comic-Con to exploit their victims for profit,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta in the release. “These arrests send a clear message to potential offenders that their criminal behavior will not be tolerated.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sees-rise-in-diy-abortions-as-women-turn-to-desperate-measures-post-roe-v-wade-reversal-745985">US sees rise in 'DIY abortions' as women turn to desperate measures post-Roe: Study</a></p>

<p>“There is no more insidious crime than human trafficking,” the release quoted San Diego Sheriff Kelly Martinez as saying. “The coercion and violence which enslaves people for profit and places them into forced labour or sex is criminal."</p>

<p>Christopher Davis, acting special agent in charge for HSI San Diego said, "When people use these events as an opportunity to prey upon minors... our law enforcement partners will find you and bring you before a court of law to face criminal charges. There is no place for alleged predators to operate in our city.”</p>

<h2><strong>What is Comic-Con?</strong></h2>

<p>Comic-Con International is a comic book, movie, video game and pop culture event that invites over 100,000 people to San Diego every year.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
The event, known for its cosplay and big release announcements of movies, games and TV series, as well as star interactions, was being used by traffickers to peddle the sex trade.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US law enforcement agents have arrested at least 14 people in a sex trafficking sting operation during Comic-Con, the annual entertainment event in California's San Diego county.

US law enforcement agents have arrested at least 14 people in a sex trafficking sting operation during Comic-Con, the annual entertainment event in California's San Diego county. Working under cover, the joint operation of the San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force (SDHTTF) along with other agents identified trafficers and victims in the operation from last Thursday to Saturday (July 25-27) . At least 10 victims were rescued from the trafficking ring, which included a minor aged only 16. How the San Diego Comic-Con sex trafficking sting unfolded According to a release from California Attorney General Rob Bonta's office, the operation targeted sex buyers as well as traffickers. The joint investigation team "identified and arrested more than a dozen individuals participating in these illegal acts in our city over the weekend," said the release. Also read | Video: Woman on bike harassed by men on flooded road in Lucknow; 4 arrested It said that law enforcement agents "worked undercover as sex buyers to identify and contact potential victims of trafficking and arrest their traffickers." They also posted undercover advertisements soliciting sex to arrest sex buyers. According to authorities, there are around 5,000 people falling victim to sex trafficking in San Diego county. “Unfortunately, sex traffickers capitalise on large scale events such as Comic-Con to exploit their victims for profit,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta in the release. “These arrests send a clear message to potential offenders that their criminal behavior will not be tolerated.” Also read: US sees rise in 'DIY abortions' as women turn to desperate measures post-Roe: Study “There is no more insidious crime than human trafficking,” the release quoted San Diego Sheriff Kelly Martinez as saying. “The coercion and violence which enslaves people for profit and places them into forced labour or sex is criminal." Christopher Davis, acting special agent in charge for HSI San Diego said, "When people use these events as an opportunity to prey upon minors... our law enforcement partners will find you and bring you before a court of law to face criminal charges. There is no place for alleged predators to operate in our city.” What is Comic-Con? Comic-Con International is a comic book, movie, video game and pop culture event that invites over 100,000 people to San Diego every year. The event, known for its cosplay and big release announcements of movies, games and TV series, as well as star interactions, was being used by traffickers to peddle the sex trade. (With inputs from agencies)

Sex sting at San Diego Comic-Con: 14 buyers, traffickers arrested, 16-year-old girl among victims

<p>Australia has started the world's first immunotherapy sessions for babies with peanut allergy, a food reaction that could be fatal in some cases. The oral immunotherapy will be started in five states, making it available for the first time in hospitals and ouside of the clinical trials. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Babies aged under 12 months who have peanut allergy can undergo the&nbsp;immunotherapy. Australia's National Allergy Centre of Excellence (NACE) hopes to extend it to more areas if it is effective.</p>

<p>Noting that there has been no widely available treatment for peanut allegey, director &nbsp;of NACE Prof Kirsten Perrett said the new therapy sessons aim "to change the way the most common food allergy in Asustralian children is managed."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/zombie-viruses-hidden-in-ancient-genes-may-have-accelerated-cancer-study-745570">Zombie viruses hidden in ancient genes may have accelerated cancer: Study</a></p>

<p>"Ultimately, we want to change the trajectory of allergic disease in Australia so that more children can go to school without the risk of a life-threatening peanut reaction," Australian Broadcasting Corporation quoted Perrett as saying.</p>

<h2><strong>What is peanut allergy immunotherapy?</strong></h2>

<p>The treatment involves giving carefully measured doses of peanut powder to the babies over a period of time.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-shows-strong-links-between-losing-loved-ones-and-ageing-745671">Study shows 'strong links' between losing loved ones and biological ageing</a><br />
<br />
Eventually, the children will reach a "maintenance dose" which can be continued for two years before stopping to see if the treatment has been effective, ABC quoted programme lead Dr Tim Brettig as saying.</p>

<h2><strong>What is peanut allergy?</strong></h2>

<p>One of the most common food allergies, peanut allergy happens when body identifies peanuts or peanut-containing food as harmful and generates an immune reaction.</p>

<p>The allergy symptoms include rashes, vomiting, hives, swelling, sneezing, asthma attack, abdominal pain, drop in blood pressure, diarrhea.</p>

<p>In worst cases, it could lead to cardiac arrests.<br />
<br />
<em>(with inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Australia has started the world's first immunotherapy sessions for babies with peanut allergy, a food reaction that could be fatal in some cases. The oral immunotherapy will be started in five states, making it available for the first time in hospitals and ouside of the clinical trials.

Australia has started the world's first immunotherapy sessions for babies with peanut allergy, a food reaction that could be fatal in some cases. The oral immunotherapy will be started in five states, making it available for the first time in hospitals and ouside of the clinical trials. Babies aged under 12 months who have peanut allergy can undergo the immunotherapy. Australia's National Allergy Centre of Excellence (NACE) hopes to extend it to more areas if it is effective. Noting that there has been no widely available treatment for peanut allegey, director of NACE Prof Kirsten Perrett said the new therapy sessons aim "to change the way the most common food allergy in Asustralian children is managed." Also read: Zombie viruses hidden in ancient genes may have accelerated cancer: Study "Ultimately, we want to change the trajectory of allergic disease in Australia so that more children can go to school without the risk of a life-threatening peanut reaction," Australian Broadcasting Corporation quoted Perrett as saying. What is peanut allergy immunotherapy? The treatment involves giving carefully measured doses of peanut powder to the babies over a period of time. Also read: Study shows 'strong links' between losing loved ones and biological ageing Eventually, the children will reach a "maintenance dose" which can be continued for two years before stopping to see if the treatment has been effective, ABC quoted programme lead Dr Tim Brettig as saying. What is peanut allergy? One of the most common food allergies, peanut allergy happens when body identifies peanuts or peanut-containing food as harmful and generates an immune reaction. The allergy symptoms include rashes, vomiting, hives, swelling, sneezing, asthma attack, abdominal pain, drop in blood pressure, diarrhea. In worst cases, it could lead to cardiac arrests. (with inputs from agencies)

World's first immunotherapy for peanut allergy in babies starts in Australia

<p>JD Vance had rubbed the wrong furs with his remarks on 'cat ladies', and Kamala Harris is milking it like a happy kitten, with her supporters organising events&nbsp;to promote her campaign for US president.</p>

<p>Vance, the running mate of Republican candidate Donald Trump, set the cat among pigeons after defending his original remarks made in 2021 that appeared to target a now-very agitated group: pet-owning women without children.</p>

<p>He had said in 2021 that Democratic politicians were "a bunch of childless cat ladies with miserable lives".</p>

<p>Those remarks were raked up online recently, leading to sharp reactions from Hollywood celebrities like Jennifer Aniston. A meme fest followed targeting the 39-year-old Republican vice presidential candidate, who later defended it as a "sarcastic comment."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, pet lovers who call themselves "cat ladies" are organising video calls to support Harris. On Tuesday, such a Zoom call was organised by the group Pet Lovers Fur Kamala.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-backs-vance-in-childless-cat-ladies-controversy-says-he-said-that-because-family-is-good-745520">Trump backs Vance in 'childless cat ladies' controversy, says he said that because 'family is good'</a></p>

<p>It was hosted by Christine Pelosi, the daughter of Nancy Pelosi and chair of Florida Democratic party Nikki Fried with the former US house speaker herself in attendance. The event featured slide shows of pet pictures and the music by Abba.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The cat ladies are striking back," said Nancy Pelosi, as per a report in The Guardian, adding Vance didn't realise "what an opportunity he was giving us, and what he would unleash."</p>

<h2><strong>What exactly did JD Vance say about cat ladies: the full quote</strong></h2>

<p>In the original 2021 remarks, made&nbsp;while Vance was campaigning for a Senate seat in Ohio,&nbsp;he had named Harris among people who do not have children.</p>

<p>Harris, who is married to Douglas Emhoff, does not have children of her own. Emhoff has two children from his previous marriage.</p>

<p>In the 2021 remarks, Vance had said that the US was being run "by a bunch of childless cat ladies who are miserable at their own lives and the choices that they've made and so they want to make the rest of the country miserable too".</p>

<p>"The entire future of the Democrats is controlled by people without children. How does it make any sense we've turned our country over to people who don’t really have a direct stake in it?"</p>

<h2><strong>Vance stands by his remarks</strong></h2>

<p>Last week, in different interviews, Vance said his comments from 2021 were not aimed at those who do not have children. "People are focusing so much on the sarcasm and not on the substance of what I actually said. The substance of what I said, Megyn...it's true," Vance told host Megyn Kelly last Friday (July 26).</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US Elections: JD Vance slams Harris, VP takes swipe at Trump</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-elections-jd-vance-slams-harris-vp-takes-swipe-at-trump-743582/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"This is about criticising the Democratic party for becoming anti-family and anti-children," he told Kelly. "Having children, becoming a father, becoming a mother... changes your perspective," said Vance, who is father to three kids.</p>

<p>He claimed that "our entire society" has become "sceptical and hateful towards the idea of having kids."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


JD Vance had rubbed the wrong furs with his remarks on 'cat ladies', and Kamala Harris is milking it like a happy kitten, with her supporters organising events to promote her campaign for US president.

JD Vance had rubbed the wrong furs with his remarks on 'cat ladies', and Kamala Harris is milking it like a happy kitten, with her supporters organising events to promote her campaign for US president. Vance, the running mate of Republican candidate Donald Trump, set the cat among pigeons after defending his original remarks made in 2021 that appeared to target a now-very agitated group: pet-owning women without children. He had said in 2021 that Democratic politicians were "a bunch of childless cat ladies with miserable lives". Those remarks were raked up online recently, leading to sharp reactions from Hollywood celebrities like Jennifer Aniston. A meme fest followed targeting the 39-year-old Republican vice presidential candidate, who later defended it as a "sarcastic comment." Now, pet lovers who call themselves "cat ladies" are organising video calls to support Harris. On Tuesday, such a Zoom call was organised by the group Pet Lovers Fur Kamala. Also Read: Trump backs Vance in 'childless cat ladies' controversy, says he said that because 'family is good' It was hosted by Christine Pelosi, the daughter of Nancy Pelosi and chair of Florida Democratic party Nikki Fried with the former US house speaker herself in attendance. The event featured slide shows of pet pictures and the music by Abba. "The cat ladies are striking back," said Nancy Pelosi, as per a report in The Guardian, adding Vance didn't realise "what an opportunity he was giving us, and what he would unleash." What exactly did JD Vance say about cat ladies: the full quote In the original 2021 remarks, made while Vance was campaigning for a Senate seat in Ohio, he had named Harris among people who do not have children. Harris, who is married to Douglas Emhoff, does not have children of her own. Emhoff has two children from his previous marriage. In the 2021 remarks, Vance had said that the US was being run "by a bunch of childless cat ladies who are miserable at their own lives and the choices that they've made and so they want to make the rest of the country miserable too". "The entire future of the Democrats is controlled by people without children. How does it make any sense we've turned our country over to people who don’t really have a direct stake in it?" Vance stands by his remarks Last week, in different interviews, Vance said his comments from 2021 were not aimed at those who do not have children. "People are focusing so much on the sarcasm and not on the substance of what I actually said. The substance of what I said, Megyn...it's true," Vance told host Megyn Kelly last Friday (July 26). Watch: US Elections: JD Vance slams Harris, VP takes swipe at Trump "This is about criticising the Democratic party for becoming anti-family and anti-children," he told Kelly. "Having children, becoming a father, becoming a mother... changes your perspective," said Vance, who is father to three kids. He claimed that "our entire society" has become "sceptical and hateful towards the idea of having kids." (With inputs from agencies)

JD Vance's 'childless cat ladies' comments lead to Kamala Harris fans organising pet lover events

<p>Do you love your bacon? Then take note: a new study has suggested that eating processed food can add to dementia risk. The study is based on some 130,000 subjects whose eating habits were tracked by US researchers over 40 years.</p>

<h2><strong>What did the study find?</strong></h2>

<p>The study was done on 130,000 health workers including nurses over a period of 43 years. Their diet information was tracked every 2-4 years with questions like how much of bacons, hot dogs, sausages, salami and sandwich meat they had in this period, The Guardian said in a report.</p>

<p>The study, presented to an Alzheimer’s Association conference in the US recently, found that 11,000 participants developed dementia during the follow-up.</p>

<p>The Guardian, citing the research, said that two servings of processed red meat per week raised cognitive decline risk by 14 per cent in the study subjects, as opposed to three servings per month.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjV16e3odGHAxWJkq8BHfffAH8QxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/frequently-nose-picking-leading-cause-of-progressive-dementia-study-687765" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/science/frequently-nose-picking-leading-cause-of-progressive-dementia-study-687765&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjV16e3odGHAxWJkq8BHfffAH8QxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">Frequent nose-picking leading cause of progressive dementia: Study - Science News</a></strong><br />
<br />
"By studying people over a long period of time, we found that eating processed red meat could be a significant risk factor for dementia,” said lead author Dr Yuhan Li, an assistant professor at the Brigham and Women’s hospital in Boston.</p>

<p>Li, who conducted the study at the Harvard TH Chan school of public health in Boston recommended that dietary guidelines should include recommendations to promote brain health.</p>

<h2><strong>How to reduce risk of dementia if you love processed red meat</strong></h2>

<p>According to the study, risk of dementia can be reduced by a good 23 per cent if one replaces one daily serving of processed red meat with nuts, beans or tofu, The Guardian report said. The risk can also be reduced if processed red meat is consumed along with nuts, beans or tofu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Processed red meat had already been linked to risks of cancer, heart disease and type 2 diabetes.</p>

<h2><strong>What is dementia?</strong></h2>

<p>The Alzheimers' Association defines dementia as&nbsp;"a general term for&nbsp;loss of memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking abilities that are severe&nbsp;enough to interfere with daily life." It is not a specific disease but a set of debilitating conditions involving cognitive decline, often associated with age.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Does body composition affect risk for dementia?</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-does-body-composition-affect-risk-for-dementia-744231/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>According to World Health Organization,&nbsp;more than 55 million people have dementia worldwide. Every year, there are nearly 10 million new cases, as per the UN health agency.</p>

<p>There will be an estimated 153 million people living with dementia by 2050, a three-fold rise from current levels.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Do you love your bacon? Then take note: a new study has suggested that eating processed food can add to dementia risk. The study is based on some 130,000 subjects whose eating habits were tracked by US researchers over 40 years.

Do you love your bacon? Then take note: a new study has suggested that eating processed food can add to dementia risk. The study is based on some 130,000 subjects whose eating habits were tracked by US researchers over 40 years. What did the study find? The study was done on 130,000 health workers including nurses over a period of 43 years. Their diet information was tracked every 2-4 years with questions like how much of bacons, hot dogs, sausages, salami and sandwich meat they had in this period, The Guardian said in a report. The study, presented to an Alzheimer’s Association conference in the US recently, found that 11,000 participants developed dementia during the follow-up. The Guardian, citing the research, said that two servings of processed red meat per week raised cognitive decline risk by 14 per cent in the study subjects, as opposed to three servings per month. Also read: Frequent nose-picking leading cause of progressive dementia: Study - Science News "By studying people over a long period of time, we found that eating processed red meat could be a significant risk factor for dementia,” said lead author Dr Yuhan Li, an assistant professor at the Brigham and Women’s hospital in Boston. Li, who conducted the study at the Harvard TH Chan school of public health in Boston recommended that dietary guidelines should include recommendations to promote brain health. How to reduce risk of dementia if you love processed red meat According to the study, risk of dementia can be reduced by a good 23 per cent if one replaces one daily serving of processed red meat with nuts, beans or tofu, The Guardian report said. The risk can also be reduced if processed red meat is consumed along with nuts, beans or tofu. Processed red meat had already been linked to risks of cancer, heart disease and type 2 diabetes. What is dementia? The Alzheimers' Association defines dementia as "a general term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life." It is not a specific disease but a set of debilitating conditions involving cognitive decline, often associated with age. Watch: Gravitas: Does body composition affect risk for dementia? × According to World Health Organization, more than 55 million people have dementia worldwide. Every year, there are nearly 10 million new cases, as per the UN health agency. There will be an estimated 153 million people living with dementia by 2050, a three-fold rise from current levels. (With inputs from agencies)

Do you love your bacon? Eating processed red meat can add to your dementia risk, suggests large study

<p>Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of Hamas, was assassinated reportedly by an Israeli strike in Iran, where he had gone to attend the inauguration of new president Masoud Pezeshkian. It is not clear when he was killed, but the confirmation from the Palestinian militant group came in the early hours of Wednesday (Jul&nbsp;31), a day after Haniyeh&nbsp;attended Pezeshkian inauguration.</p>

<p>The Hamas statement said it “declares...brother leader Ismail Haniyeh a martyr," adding that he was killed “in a Zionist airstrike on his residence in Tehran after he participated in the inauguration of Iran’s new president.”</p>

<p>This could be the most important kill for Israel, which at the time of this report has neither confirmed nor denied its involvement. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had earlier vowed revenge for the October 7, 2023 terror attacks by Hamas and other Palestinian groups on Israeli soil that left at least 1,175 people dead and nearly 251 people taken hostage. The Israeli invasion of the Palestinian enclave Gaza followed, with nearly 40,000 people killed.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-leader-ismail-haniyeh-killed-in-tehran-irgc-confirms-fatal-attack-on-his-residence-745761">Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh killed in a ' treacherous Zionist raid' in Tehran: IRGC confirms fatal attack</a></p>

<p>Now, a video has emerged, apparently showing Haniyeh watching the October 7 attacks and celebrating.</p>

<h2>What the video shows</h2>

<p>In the undated video whose location is not clear, Haniyeh, who spent most of his time in Qatar, was seen standing in front of a flat-screen TV which appears to show the Arabic channel al-Jazeera reporting on the October 7 attacks.</p>

<p>Moments later, he is seen organising a prayer of thanks. Haniyeh and a group of men then kneel to pray.</p>

<p><br />
Watch the video below<br />
<br />
<em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify content posted on social media.</strong></em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The leader of Hamas, Ismail Haniyeh, was filmed watching the attack against Israel on Al Jazeera TV, ecstatic with the ongoing terrorist attack he invites everyone present to kneel and pray to Satan Allah <a href="https://t.co/l6VXhe4NIm">pic.twitter.com/l6VXhe4NIm</a></p>
— LawFD🇧🇷🇮🇹🇵🇹 (@LauFelipe1) <a href="https://twitter.com/LauFelipe1/status/1710977536744690141?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Who was Ismail Haniyeh?</strong></h2>

<p>Before and during the war, Haniyeh was the political voice of Hamas and led several negotiations with Israel mainly held in Qatar, where he lived most of the time.</p>

<p>He rose to prominence from his starting days as an activist for the Palestinian cause. Born in 1962 in a Palestinian refugee camp then controlled by Egypt, the chairman of the Hamas political bureau is a graduate in Arabic literature.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Hamas Chief Ismail Haniyeh along with his bodyguard killed in Tehran, IRGC confirms in statement</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hamas-chief-ismail-haniyeh-along-with-his-bodyguard-killed-in-tehran-irgc-confirms-in-statement-745808/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>After the elections held in Palestinian territories in 2006, Haniyeh was named prime minister of Palestine, but he was dismissed by Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas the next year. Haniyeh continued to be the leader of Palestinians in Gaza from 2006 till 2017 when the role was passed on to Yahya Sinwar.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of Hamas, was assassinated reportedly by an Israeli strike in Iran, where he had gone to attend the inauguration of new president Masoud Pezeshkian.

Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of Hamas, was assassinated reportedly by an Israeli strike in Iran, where he had gone to attend the inauguration of new president Masoud Pezeshkian. It is not clear when he was killed, but the confirmation from the Palestinian militant group came in the early hours of Wednesday (Jul 31), a day after Haniyeh attended Pezeshkian inauguration. The Hamas statement said it “declares...brother leader Ismail Haniyeh a martyr," adding that he was killed “in a Zionist airstrike on his residence in Tehran after he participated in the inauguration of Iran’s new president.” This could be the most important kill for Israel, which at the time of this report has neither confirmed nor denied its involvement. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had earlier vowed revenge for the October 7, 2023 terror attacks by Hamas and other Palestinian groups on Israeli soil that left at least 1,175 people dead and nearly 251 people taken hostage. The Israeli invasion of the Palestinian enclave Gaza followed, with nearly 40,000 people killed. Also Read: Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh killed in a ' treacherous Zionist raid' in Tehran: IRGC confirms fatal attack Now, a video has emerged, apparently showing Haniyeh watching the October 7 attacks and celebrating. What the video shows In the undated video whose location is not clear, Haniyeh, who spent most of his time in Qatar, was seen standing in front of a flat-screen TV which appears to show the Arabic channel al-Jazeera reporting on the October 7 attacks. Moments later, he is seen organising a prayer of thanks. Haniyeh and a group of men then kneel to pray. Watch the video below Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify content posted on social media. The leader of Hamas, Ismail Haniyeh, was filmed watching the attack against Israel on Al Jazeera TV, ecstatic with the ongoing terrorist attack he invites everyone present to kneel and pray to Satan Allah pic.twitter.com/l6VXhe4NIm — LawFD🇧🇷🇮🇹🇵🇹 (@LauFelipe1) October 8, 2023 × Who was Ismail Haniyeh? Before and during the war, Haniyeh was the political voice of Hamas and led several negotiations with Israel mainly held in Qatar, where he lived most of the time. He rose to prominence from his starting days as an activist for the Palestinian cause. Born in 1962 in a Palestinian refugee camp then controlled by Egypt, the chairman of the Hamas political bureau is a graduate in Arabic literature. Watch: Hamas Chief Ismail Haniyeh along with his bodyguard killed in Tehran, IRGC confirms in statement After the elections held in Palestinian territories in 2006, Haniyeh was named prime minister of Palestine, but he was dismissed by Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas the next year. Haniyeh continued to be the leader of Palestinians in Gaza from 2006 till 2017 when the role was passed on to Yahya Sinwar. (With inputs from agencies)

Ismail Haniyeh assassinated. A video of Hamas leader watching Oct 7 attacks on Israel resurfaces

<p><strong>Paris Olympics 2024:&nbsp;</strong>After days of delay, Paris Olympics triathlon events finally started on the much-polluted river Seine on Wednesday (July 31). But the river is continuing to be a mane for President Emannuel Macron, with a host of internet comments and memes hilariously highlighting the 'poop-filled' river's poor water quality.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/macrons-intimate-kiss-and-hug-with-sports-minister-at-olympics-causes-stir-netizens-call-it-indecent-745765">Macron's intimate kiss and hug with sports minister at Olympics causes stir, netizens call it 'indecent'</a></p>

<p>One of them showed President Macron emerging in the middle of dirt and slush in river Seine, while another showed an ogre giving an interview after emerging from the river.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">So did Napoleon Macron actually jump into the Seine today to celebrate the dubious awarding of the 2030 Winter Games, that violates the Olympic Charter?<br />
<br />
Will IOC Sun King Thomas Bach also jump into the Seine?<br />
<br />
So many questions!<br />
<br />
Stay tuned, subscribe:<a href="https://t.co/fALVB37Cvg">https://t.co/fALVB37Cvg</a> <a href="https://t.co/8qj8fcWSOT">pic.twitter.com/8qj8fcWSOT</a></p>
— SPORT &amp; POLITICS (@JensWeinreich) <a href="https://twitter.com/JensWeinreich/status/1816167699829207107?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Check out the host of memes below<br />
&nbsp;</h2>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/10NewsFirstSyd?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@10NewsFirstSyd</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Sandra_Sully?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Sandra_Sully</a> Bwhahaha! The ALP worried about risky nuclear energy. Wait til they see the triathletes after a swim in The Seine ........ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/10NewsFirst?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#10NewsFirst</a> Hilarious! <a href="https://t.co/PXCu8NlaN3">pic.twitter.com/PXCu8NlaN3</a></p>
— MLo (@MLoParis) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLoParis/status/1818544866982514767?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The river's polluted state has been an ongoing issue. French political leaders and Paris Olympics organisers have continously assured that the Seine was clean enough to hold the swimming events.</p>

<p>The Paris Mayor&nbsp; Anne Hidalgo promised to swim in the river but postponed it several times before finally taking the dip on July 17.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="de">Wie die Seine Olympia buchstäblich in die Sch.... ritt <a href="https://t.co/DIMXJ0mPQR">https://t.co/DIMXJ0mPQR</a></p>
— newsflix_at (@Newsflix_at) <a href="https://twitter.com/Newsflix_at/status/1818545307103150576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>That happened a day after the sports minister&nbsp;Amelie Oudea-Castera swam in the river. Her videos of slipping while gingerly entering the river, and then falling into the water went viral. But she put up a brave front, presenting a rosy picture of the visibly brown river in a subsequent interview, appearing in full black body suit and swimmer's cap.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics</a> triathletes tomorrow after swimming in the Seine. <a href="https://t.co/1aUz6HaVdM">pic.twitter.com/1aUz6HaVdM</a></p>
— Joseph Surtees (@jj_surtees) <a href="https://twitter.com/jj_surtees/status/1818546301199376649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera was, meanwhile, mired in another controversy, after some found her public, intimate kiss with Macron during the opening event to be indecent.</p>

<p>The women's triathlete event of Wednesday happened after concerns about the water quality had delayed the event for several days.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Paris Olympics 2024: History-maker Manu Bhaker speaks to WION after winning second Olympic medal</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/paris-olympics-2024-history-maker-manu-bhaker-speaks-to-wion-after-winning-second-olympic-medal-745846/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Ahead of the men's triathlon, tests had shown that there were elevated levels of bacteria in the water, including E. Coli.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
It has been raining in Paris, which added to the wastewater in the river.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/French?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#French</a> Emmanuel Macron and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Paris?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Paris</a> Mayor Anne Hidalgo were supposed to swim in the Seine river ..Parisians poop in the river to protest<br />
<br />
Minister Amélie Oudea-Castera dived into the poop filled River Seine to prove that the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympic2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympic2024</a> can be held<br />
<br />
What a pleasure, she says. <a href="https://t.co/Xexn3X83lo">pic.twitter.com/Xexn3X83lo</a></p>
— kaffir (@Kaffirophobia1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kaffirophobia1/status/1817094853756391634?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Some 1.4 billion euros were spent on infrastructure building ahead of the Olympics, including for the cleanup of the Seine river.</p>

<p>Presence of E. coli in the water means sewage contamination. Some types of this bacteria can be harmful to health and cause diarrhea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There are plans to relocate marathon swimming events scheduled on August 8-9 if the water level does not improve.<br />
<br />
Earlier measurements had shown that E. coli levels&nbsp;were at 985 units per 100 millilitres which was above the regulated cap.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Paris Olympics 2024: After days of delay, Paris Olympics triathlon events finally started on the much-polluted river Seine on Wednesday (July 31). But the river is continuing to be a mane for President Emannuel Macron, with a host of internet comments and memes hilariously highlighting the 'poop-filled' river's poor water quality.

Paris Olympics 2024: After days of delay, Paris Olympics triathlon events finally started on the much-polluted river Seine on Wednesday (July 31). But the river is continuing to be a mane for President Emannuel Macron, with a host of internet comments and memes hilariously highlighting the 'poop-filled' river's poor water quality. Also Read: Macron's intimate kiss and hug with sports minister at Olympics causes stir, netizens call it 'indecent' One of them showed President Macron emerging in the middle of dirt and slush in river Seine, while another showed an ogre giving an interview after emerging from the river. So did Napoleon Macron actually jump into the Seine today to celebrate the dubious awarding of the 2030 Winter Games, that violates the Olympic Charter? Will IOC Sun King Thomas Bach also jump into the Seine? So many questions! Stay tuned, subscribe:https://t.co/fALVB37Cvg pic.twitter.com/8qj8fcWSOT — SPORT & POLITICS (@JensWeinreich) July 24, 2024 × Check out the host of memes below @10NewsFirstSyd @Sandra_Sully Bwhahaha! The ALP worried about risky nuclear energy. Wait til they see the triathletes after a swim in The Seine ........ #10NewsFirst Hilarious! pic.twitter.com/PXCu8NlaN3 — MLo (@MLoParis) July 31, 2024 × The river's polluted state has been an ongoing issue. French political leaders and Paris Olympics organisers have continously assured that the Seine was clean enough to hold the swimming events. The Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo promised to swim in the river but postponed it several times before finally taking the dip on July 17. Wie die Seine Olympia buchstäblich in die Sch.... ritt https://t.co/DIMXJ0mPQR — newsflix_at (@Newsflix_at) July 31, 2024 × That happened a day after the sports minister Amelie Oudea-Castera swam in the river. Her videos of slipping while gingerly entering the river, and then falling into the water went viral. But she put up a brave front, presenting a rosy picture of the visibly brown river in a subsequent interview, appearing in full black body suit and swimmer's cap. The #Olympics triathletes tomorrow after swimming in the Seine. pic.twitter.com/1aUz6HaVdM — Joseph Surtees (@jj_surtees) July 31, 2024 × Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera was, meanwhile, mired in another controversy, after some found her public, intimate kiss with Macron during the opening event to be indecent. The women's triathlete event of Wednesday happened after concerns about the water quality had delayed the event for several days. Watch: Paris Olympics 2024: History-maker Manu Bhaker speaks to WION after winning second Olympic medal Ahead of the men's triathlon, tests had shown that there were elevated levels of bacteria in the water, including E. Coli. It has been raining in Paris, which added to the wastewater in the river. #French Emmanuel Macron and #Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo were supposed to swim in the Seine river ..Parisians poop in the river to protest Minister Amélie Oudea-Castera dived into the poop filled River Seine to prove that the #Olympic2024 can be held What a pleasure, she says. pic.twitter.com/Xexn3X83lo — kaffir (@Kaffirophobia1) July 27, 2024 × Some 1.4 billion euros were spent on infrastructure building ahead of the Olympics, including for the cleanup of the Seine river. Presence of E. coli in the water means sewage contamination. Some types of this bacteria can be harmful to health and cause diarrhea. There are plans to relocate marathon swimming events scheduled on August 8-9 if the water level does not improve. Earlier measurements had shown that E. coli levels were at 985 units per 100 millilitres which was above the regulated cap. (With inputs from agencies)

Paris Olympics: Will polluted river Seine be the 'water loo' of President Macron? Check out the meme fest

<p>Donald Trump has joined the bandwagon of criticism against the Olympics opening ceremony in Paris, calling it a "disgrace" and describing the drag performance that appeared to some as mocking the last supper of Jesus Christ a "terrible thing".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I thought that the opening ceremony was a disgrace, actually," Trump, the Republican candidate for US presidential race in November, said on Fox News.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-agrees-to-sit-with-fbi-for-victim-interview-about-assassination-attempt-745348">Trump agrees to sit with FBI for ‘victim interview’ about assassination attempt</a></p>

<p>The contentious display which appeared to a section of Christian community as depicting the famous painting 'Last Supper' by Leonardo Da Vinci has become a talking point since the Olympics opened in Paris this past weekend.</p>

<p>Asked if he would allow such a ceremony in 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles if he is the president at the time, Trump answered in the negative.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-shooter-thomas-crooks-was-spotted-by-cops-nearly-100-minutes-before-shooting-report-745175" target="_blank"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Trump shooter Thomas Crooks was spotted by cops nearly 100 minutes before shooting: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>“We won’t be having a ‘Last Supper’ as portrayed the way they portrayed it the other night," Trump told the Fox News host. "Look, I’m for everybody. I’m very open-minded...but what they did was a disgrace.”</p>

<p>“I mean, they can do certain things. I thought it was terrible,” Trump added.</p>

<h2><strong>'Last Supper' drag show in Olympics: What is the controversy all about?</strong></h2>

<p>A section of the Christian community and some right-wing groups felt that the display which included drag performers was mocking Jesus Christ and depicted the Last Supper.<br />
However, the Olympics ceremony's art director Thomas Jolly told French news channel BFM TV that the drag set was based on Greek mythological characters including the God of mirth, Dionysus.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-rally-shooter-was-spotted-by-cops-nearly-100-minutes-before-shooting-says-report-745443/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Dinysus is considered the god of alcohol, fruits and festive spirit among other things.</p>

<p>The Olympics organisers on an X post said the interpretation of the Greek God Dionysus "makes us aware of the absurdity of violence between human beings."<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The interpretation of the Greek God Dionysus makes us aware of the absurdity of violence between human beings. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Paris2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Paris2024</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OpeningCeremony?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OpeningCeremony</a> <a href="https://t.co/FBlQNNUmvV">pic.twitter.com/FBlQNNUmvV</a></p>
— The Olympic Games (@Olympics) <a href="https://twitter.com/Olympics/status/1816929100532945380?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>“There is Dionysus who arrives on this table. He is there because he is the god of celebration in Greek mythology,” Jolly was quoted as saying.<br />
<br />
“The idea was to have a pagan celebration connected to the gods of Olympus. You will never find in me a desire to mock and denigrate anyone.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Donald Trump has joined the bandwagon of criticism against the Olympics opening ceremony in Paris, calling it a "disgrace" and describing the drag performance that appeared to some as mocking the last supper of Jesus Christ a "terrible thing".

Donald Trump has joined the bandwagon of criticism against the Olympics opening ceremony in Paris, calling it a "disgrace" and describing the drag performance that appeared to some as mocking the last supper of Jesus Christ a "terrible thing". "I thought that the opening ceremony was a disgrace, actually," Trump, the Republican candidate for US presidential race in November, said on Fox News. Also read: Trump agrees to sit with FBI for ‘victim interview’ about assassination attempt The contentious display which appeared to a section of Christian community as depicting the famous painting 'Last Supper' by Leonardo Da Vinci has become a talking point since the Olympics opened in Paris this past weekend. Asked if he would allow such a ceremony in 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles if he is the president at the time, Trump answered in the negative. Also read | Trump shooter Thomas Crooks was spotted by cops nearly 100 minutes before shooting: Report “We won’t be having a ‘Last Supper’ as portrayed the way they portrayed it the other night," Trump told the Fox News host. "Look, I’m for everybody. I’m very open-minded...but what they did was a disgrace.” “I mean, they can do certain things. I thought it was terrible,” Trump added. 'Last Supper' drag show in Olympics: What is the controversy all about? A section of the Christian community and some right-wing groups felt that the display which included drag performers was mocking Jesus Christ and depicted the Last Supper. However, the Olympics ceremony's art director Thomas Jolly told French news channel BFM TV that the drag set was based on Greek mythological characters including the God of mirth, Dionysus. × Dinysus is considered the god of alcohol, fruits and festive spirit among other things. The Olympics organisers on an X post said the interpretation of the Greek God Dionysus "makes us aware of the absurdity of violence between human beings." The interpretation of the Greek God Dionysus makes us aware of the absurdity of violence between human beings. #Paris2024 #OpeningCeremony pic.twitter.com/FBlQNNUmvV — The Olympic Games (@Olympics) July 26, 2024 × “There is Dionysus who arrives on this table. He is there because he is the god of celebration in Greek mythology,” Jolly was quoted as saying. “The idea was to have a pagan celebration connected to the gods of Olympus. You will never find in me a desire to mock and denigrate anyone.” (With inputs from agencies)

Trump calls Olympics opening ceremony a 'disgrace', 'Last Supper' drag show a 'terrible thing'. Here's why

<p>William Calley, a former US Army officer and convicted mass murderer who was the face of My Lai massacre during Vietnam War, has died at the age of 80. He was considered the face of My Lai massacre, one of the most horrible&nbsp;episodes in America's futile invasion of Vietnam at the height of Cold War in the 1960s.</p>

<p>Calley died on Sunday (July 28) after leading a relatively obscure life since being released from house arrest in the 1970s. Here is the story of My Lai massacre, and the only man held accountable for it.</p>

<h2><strong>What was My Lai massacre?</strong></h2>

<p>My Lai massacre, which took place on&nbsp;16 March 1968, was one of the biggest killings carried out by the US Army during the Vietnam War. At least 504 people were killed in two places My Lai and My Khe in southern Vietnam, according to Vietnamese records while the US recorded 347 killings, only in My Lai.<br />
<br />
William Calley was the only American convicted in the massacre, which is considered a war crime.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/my-lai-massacre-photographer-laments-us-carnage-fifty-years-on-36082" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/my-lai-massacre-photographer-laments-us-carnage-fifty-years-on-36082&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiPq6G3_M2HAxVWR2wGHZgIHQ4QFnoECAAQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2tEE4fjH6fmK3fwZ6-m3EM&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/my-lai-massacre-photographer-laments-us-carnage-fifty-years-on-36082" target="_blank">My Lai massacre photographer laments US 'carnage' fifty years on</a></p>

<p>During the massacre, scores of innocent civilians were shot down in the Son Tinh district and their homes burnt by the American forces.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Many of the My Lai massacre victims were women and children. It is estimated that out of the 504 killed, there were 282 women including 17 who were pregnant, 173 children including 53 infants and 60 elederly men.</p>

<h2><strong>Who was William Calley?</strong></h2>

<p>William Laws Calley Jr, the Florida native was the only American army officer convicted for the My Lai massacre.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelans-clash-with-police-following-disputed-election-results-745388">Venezuelans clash with police following disputed election results</a></p>

<p>Born in Miami in 1943, Calley started his military career after basic combat training, and was soon deployed in Vietnam in 1967. He was considered an average officer who could not even read maps. He was involved in fights with fellow soldiers, as per records, including one with US Marines in which shots were fired.</p>

<h2><strong>The My Lai Murder trial of William Calley</strong></h2>

<p>The murders came to light after being concealed from the world for 13 months, when the GI Ron Ridenhour described it in his letters to&nbsp;the US president and the top army brass the atrocities committed by the US troops in Vietnam. After an investigation, Calley was put to trial.<br />
<br />
Initially during the trial, Calley claimed that the deaths in My Lai were a result of an air strike. Soon, with more testimonies against him, Calley was charged for murdering 109 South Vietnamese people, but was eventually convicted for only 22 murders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Calley told the court that he had instructions to shoot everyone in the village, as they were all part of the rebel militia, Viet Cong.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/man-arrested-after-stabbing-incident-in-uks-southport-several-casualties-reported-745283">Teen arrested after stabbing incident in UK's Southport; two children killed</a></p>

<p>Calley was sentenced to life in prison for 22 counts of premeditated murder and assault with intent to commit murder. But his sentence was commuted twice, to 20 years first and then to 10 years. It was then commuted to three years of house arrest by then president Richard Nixon.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


William Calley, a former US Army officer and convicted mass murderer who was the face of My Lai massacre during Vietnam War, has died at the age of 80. He was considered the face of My Lai massacre, one of the most horrible episodes in America's futile invasion of Vietnam at the height of Cold War in the 1960s.

William Calley, a former US Army officer and convicted mass murderer who was the face of My Lai massacre during Vietnam War, has died at the age of 80. He was considered the face of My Lai massacre, one of the most horrible episodes in America's futile invasion of Vietnam at the height of Cold War in the 1960s. Calley died on Sunday (July 28) after leading a relatively obscure life since being released from house arrest in the 1970s. Here is the story of My Lai massacre, and the only man held accountable for it. What was My Lai massacre? My Lai massacre, which took place on 16 March 1968, was one of the biggest killings carried out by the US Army during the Vietnam War. At least 504 people were killed in two places My Lai and My Khe in southern Vietnam, according to Vietnamese records while the US recorded 347 killings, only in My Lai. William Calley was the only American convicted in the massacre, which is considered a war crime. Also read: My Lai massacre photographer laments US 'carnage' fifty years on During the massacre, scores of innocent civilians were shot down in the Son Tinh district and their homes burnt by the American forces. Many of the My Lai massacre victims were women and children. It is estimated that out of the 504 killed, there were 282 women including 17 who were pregnant, 173 children including 53 infants and 60 elederly men. Who was William Calley? William Laws Calley Jr, the Florida native was the only American army officer convicted for the My Lai massacre. Also read: Venezuelans clash with police following disputed election results Born in Miami in 1943, Calley started his military career after basic combat training, and was soon deployed in Vietnam in 1967. He was considered an average officer who could not even read maps. He was involved in fights with fellow soldiers, as per records, including one with US Marines in which shots were fired. The My Lai Murder trial of William Calley The murders came to light after being concealed from the world for 13 months, when the GI Ron Ridenhour described it in his letters to the US president and the top army brass the atrocities committed by the US troops in Vietnam. After an investigation, Calley was put to trial. Initially during the trial, Calley claimed that the deaths in My Lai were a result of an air strike. Soon, with more testimonies against him, Calley was charged for murdering 109 South Vietnamese people, but was eventually convicted for only 22 murders. Calley told the court that he had instructions to shoot everyone in the village, as they were all part of the rebel militia, Viet Cong. Also read: Teen arrested after stabbing incident in UK's Southport; two children killed Calley was sentenced to life in prison for 22 counts of premeditated murder and assault with intent to commit murder. But his sentence was commuted twice, to 20 years first and then to 10 years. It was then commuted to three years of house arrest by then president Richard Nixon. (With inputs from agencies)

Who was William Calley, the only US Army officer convicted of My Lai massacre during Vietnam War?

<p>Forever chemicals, a group of dreaded pollutants,&nbsp;are being found in all kinds of places, even inside human wombs. But imagine a simple solution: A 100 per cent 'cleanup' using LED lights. Is that even possible?</p>

<p>If an experiment made by scientists in Japan is an indication, LED light exposure along with a cocktail of chemicals can isolate, separate and remove the dangerous parts in forever chemicals, scientifically called Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFAS.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/comet-of-the-century-is-set-to-blaze-past-earth-heres-how-you-can-watch-it-with-naked-eyes-745504">‘Comet of the century' is set to blaze past Earth. Here's how you can watch it with naked eyes</a></p>

<p>The researchers reportedly managed to 'clean up' the forever chemicals at room temperature, and that too overnight, or just eight hours to be precise.</p>

<h2><strong>Cleaning up forever chemicals with LED: How it works&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>For the experiment, researchers at Japan’s Ritsumeikan University used a&nbsp;mixture made of cadmium sulfide nanocrystals, triethanolamine and water. The forever chemicals were then put into this mixture, and exposed to LED lights of 405-nanometer wavelength, burning at around 100 degrees Fahrenheit temperature.</p>

<p>The PFAS used in this experiment were perfluorooctanesulfonate or PFOS.</p>

<p>The aim was to start a photocatalytic reaction that eventually breaks down and separates the fluorine irons of the forever chemicals. The experiment proved to be a success, as per a report in New Atlas.</p>

<p>Not only was the separation and removal of these pollutants done, but the chemical process also freed up some parts of the dreaded PFAS that can be put to good use. These are fluorine ions, which can be used for industrial products.</p>

<h2><strong>What are 'forever chemicals or PFAS'?</strong></h2>

<p>PFAS is the name given to a bunch of chemicals that are resistant to water and extreme heat.</p>

<p>This is possible because of the presence of carbon-fluorine bonds in them.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-find-rare-rock-art-in-caves-of-amazon-telling-different-tale-of-humans-and-animals-745500">Scientists find rare rock art in caves of Amazon telling different tale of humans and animals</a></p>

<p>While they are used in a number of products like water-proof cloths, non-stick cookware and foam used by firefighters, their very resilient qualities also make them dangerous. They are resistant to heat and would require at least 400 degrees Fahrenheit to burn. This makes their disposal near-impossible. PFAS are generally buried in landfills to prevent their further exposure.</p>

<p>Once ingested, they can stay in the human body 'forever', hence the name forever chemicals.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Forever chemicals, a group of dreaded pollutants, are being found in all kinds of places, even inside human wombs. But imagine a simple solution: A 100 per cent 'cleanup' using LED lights.

Forever chemicals, a group of dreaded pollutants, are being found in all kinds of places, even inside human wombs. But imagine a simple solution: A 100 per cent 'cleanup' using LED lights. Is that even possible? If an experiment made by scientists in Japan is an indication, LED light exposure along with a cocktail of chemicals can isolate, separate and remove the dangerous parts in forever chemicals, scientifically called Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFAS. Also read: ‘Comet of the century' is set to blaze past Earth. Here's how you can watch it with naked eyes The researchers reportedly managed to 'clean up' the forever chemicals at room temperature, and that too overnight, or just eight hours to be precise. Cleaning up forever chemicals with LED: How it works For the experiment, researchers at Japan’s Ritsumeikan University used a mixture made of cadmium sulfide nanocrystals, triethanolamine and water. The forever chemicals were then put into this mixture, and exposed to LED lights of 405-nanometer wavelength, burning at around 100 degrees Fahrenheit temperature. The PFAS used in this experiment were perfluorooctanesulfonate or PFOS. The aim was to start a photocatalytic reaction that eventually breaks down and separates the fluorine irons of the forever chemicals. The experiment proved to be a success, as per a report in New Atlas. Not only was the separation and removal of these pollutants done, but the chemical process also freed up some parts of the dreaded PFAS that can be put to good use. These are fluorine ions, which can be used for industrial products. What are 'forever chemicals or PFAS'? PFAS is the name given to a bunch of chemicals that are resistant to water and extreme heat. This is possible because of the presence of carbon-fluorine bonds in them. Also read: Scientists find rare rock art in caves of Amazon telling different tale of humans and animals While they are used in a number of products like water-proof cloths, non-stick cookware and foam used by firefighters, their very resilient qualities also make them dangerous. They are resistant to heat and would require at least 400 degrees Fahrenheit to burn. This makes their disposal near-impossible. PFAS are generally buried in landfills to prevent their further exposure. Once ingested, they can stay in the human body 'forever', hence the name forever chemicals. (With inputs from agencies)

LED lights in room temperature can 'clean up' forever chemicals overnight, suggests study

<p>After the Paris Olympics opening ceremony, the drag artist Barabara Butch was mocked online and was given death threats over a controversial set that some felt was a display of the Last Supper of Jesus Christ. Now, after days of cyber-bullying, Butch is moving court against her detractors.</p>

<p>Butch is filing "several complaints against these acts, whether committed by French nationals or foreigners and intends to prosecute anyone who tries to intimidate her in the future,"&nbsp;said Butch's attorney Audrey Msellati.<br />
<br />
In a statement shared on Instagram on Monday (Jul&nbsp;29), Msellati noted that Butch has been the target of an "extremely violent campaign of cyber-harassment and defamation."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-paris-olympics-2024-triathlon-postponed-to-wednesday-due-to-seine-pollution-in-another-setback-for-organisers-745402">Paris Olympics 2024: Triathlon postponed to Wednesday due to Seine pollution in another setback for organisers</a></p>

<h2><strong>Barbara Butch reacts to online haters</strong></h2>

<p>In an Instagram post accompanying her lawyer's statement, Barbara Butch said she was honoured to have taken part in the Olympics opening ceremony while hitting back at her critics.</p>

<p>"My heart is still broken and I thank you for all the love and strength you have given me since then," she said, as per an auto-translation of the post originally made in French.</p>

<p>"Through my DJ career and militantism, I have always promoted love and inclusivity - for me, it is what will save the world, even when it falls apart.</p>

<p>"However, today I am the target of an umpteenth cyber-bullying - particularly violent one. If at first, I decide not to speak on it to let the haters get off, the messages I receive are becoming more and more extreme," she wrote.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Some people don't like me, I exist. I’ve never been ashamed of who I am and I own it all - including my artistic choices," Butch added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"All my life I’ve refused to be a victim: I will not shut up. I'm not afraid of those who hide behind a screen, or a pseudonym, to vomit their hatred and frustrations. I will fight them with no trembling."</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Barbara Butch?</strong></h2>

<p>Barbara Butch is an artist-activist and DJ who appeared in a drag performance as part of the opening ceremony of the Olympics in Paris this past weekend. The drag show was criticised by a section of Christians and the right wing as mocking the Last Supper of Jesus Christ, while the Olympics organisers said it was depicting the Greek God of joy, Dionysus.</p>

<p>According to her lawyer, Barbara Butch received death threats and was warned of "torture and rape".&nbsp;</p>

<p>She was also targeted with "anti-Semitic, homophobic, sexist, and grossophobic insults," said Msellati.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After the Paris Olympics opening ceremony, the drag artist Barabara Butch was mocked online and was given death threats over a controversial set that some felt was a display of the Last Supper of Jesus Christ.

After the Paris Olympics opening ceremony, the drag artist Barabara Butch was mocked online and was given death threats over a controversial set that some felt was a display of the Last Supper of Jesus Christ. Now, after days of cyber-bullying, Butch is moving court against her detractors. Butch is filing "several complaints against these acts, whether committed by French nationals or foreigners and intends to prosecute anyone who tries to intimidate her in the future," said Butch's attorney Audrey Msellati. In a statement shared on Instagram on Monday (Jul 29), Msellati noted that Butch has been the target of an "extremely violent campaign of cyber-harassment and defamation." Also read: Paris Olympics 2024: Triathlon postponed to Wednesday due to Seine pollution in another setback for organisers Barbara Butch reacts to online haters In an Instagram post accompanying her lawyer's statement, Barbara Butch said she was honoured to have taken part in the Olympics opening ceremony while hitting back at her critics. "My heart is still broken and I thank you for all the love and strength you have given me since then," she said, as per an auto-translation of the post originally made in French. "Through my DJ career and militantism, I have always promoted love and inclusivity - for me, it is what will save the world, even when it falls apart. "However, today I am the target of an umpteenth cyber-bullying - particularly violent one. If at first, I decide not to speak on it to let the haters get off, the messages I receive are becoming more and more extreme," she wrote. "Some people don't like me, I exist. I’ve never been ashamed of who I am and I own it all - including my artistic choices," Butch added. "All my life I’ve refused to be a victim: I will not shut up. I'm not afraid of those who hide behind a screen, or a pseudonym, to vomit their hatred and frustrations. I will fight them with no trembling." Who is Barbara Butch? Barbara Butch is an artist-activist and DJ who appeared in a drag performance as part of the opening ceremony of the Olympics in Paris this past weekend. The drag show was criticised by a section of Christians and the right wing as mocking the Last Supper of Jesus Christ, while the Olympics organisers said it was depicting the Greek God of joy, Dionysus. According to her lawyer, Barbara Butch received death threats and was warned of "torture and rape". She was also targeted with "anti-Semitic, homophobic, sexist, and grossophobic insults," said Msellati. (With inputs from agencies)

Olympics drag artist Barbara Butch takes online haters to court after opening ceremony controversy

<p>When Nicolas Maduro Moras took over charge at Venezuela after the untimely death of revolutionary socialist leader Hugo Chavez in 2013, not many expected him to have such a long stint at the helm. On Sunday (July 28), Maduro, the 61-year-old former bus driver declared himself the victor the contentious presidential election of the South American nation. This will be his third consecutive term, which lasts for another six years.</p>

<p>The election results were immediately rejected by opposition leader Maria Corina Machado. Maria herself was banned by Madoro's regime from contesting, and instead the&nbsp;opposition fielded&nbsp;Edmundo Gonzalez. The opposition is claiming that Gonzalez&nbsp;&nbsp;won 70 per cent of the vote. But for now, Maduro appears to be firmly in the driver's seat yet again, all set for a third term as president.</p>

<h2>Who is Nicolas Maduro?</h2>

<p>Maduro was born into a working class Roman Catholic family in Caracas. His father was a prominent trade unionist.</p>

<p>A bus driver by profession, Maduro was part of Hugo Chavez's United Socialist Party. Having risen through its trade union, he was elected to the country's parliament, the National Assembly, for the first time in 2000.</p>

<p>Soon Maduro became the right hand man of Chavez, who was a fan of Che Guevera, and had led 'silent coups' to become president. The positions Maduro held over time include the president of National Assembly (2005-06) and foreign minister (2006-13) before becoming the vice president under Chavez (2012-13). &nbsp;</p>

<p>Eventually after Chavez died of cancer, Maduro took charge as president in 2013, winning the special presidential election.</p>

<h2>Not a smooth ride for the former bus driver</h2>

<p>But power was not a smooth ride for the leader of the oil-rich country. Venezuela has been for years the site of political experimentations by the US, which saw it as part of the sphere of influence and was averse to a communist leadership in the country. Like it did in the case of Cuba and Chile, and numerous other Latin American countries during much of the Cold War era, the US tried to oust Maduro in a number of ways, including by supporting and propping up alternative leaders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prominent among such leaders was the former speaker of the Venezuelan parliament Geaido. He was feted in the US and at one point gave a tough challenge to Maduro, but the socialist party machinery managed to weather that storm too.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-election-president-nicolas-maduro-wins-third-term-745123"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Venezuela election: President Nicolas Maduro wins third term, opposition rejects result</strong></a></p>

<h2>Venezuela under Maduro: A nation under siege</h2>

<p>What could have been one of the richest nations due to its oil wealth, Venezuela continued to languish in poverty under Maduro. But his ground support among the working classes remained strong, something that helped him maintain a firm grip on power. Venezuela faced immense inflation, with its currency highly devalued, and natural resources like petroleum nationalised by the Maduro regime. Essential goods shortages had led many Venezuelans to flee the country, particularly to neighbouring Colombia.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>Under Maduro's regime, at least seven million people have fled the country and more than 20,000 people died in extrajudicial killings according to human rights observers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-presidential-elections-2024-incumbent-nicolas-maduro-wins-third-term-745164"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Venezuela Presidential Elections 2024: Incumbent Nicolas Maduro wins third term</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-presidential-elections-2024-incumbent-nicolas-maduro-wins-third-term-745164/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Facing down the Opposition, the Maduro way</h2>

<p>Maduro has ruled with an iron fist, inspite of multiple protests challenging him. Those include the mainly middle class agitations in 2014. In 2015, the National Assembly was won by opposition parties, yet Maduro held on to power, with the so-called Supreme Tribunal, the National Electoral Council and the armed forces on his side.</p>

<p>He quelled a recall effort in 2016, led by the speaker of the opposition-led National Assembly Juan Guaidó. He had done this by making the Supreme Tribunal remove the powers of the assembly, which had led to further protests in 2017. To solve the constitutional crisis created by this situation, Maduro made efforts to rewrite the constitution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At one point, there was even a strange situation of 'two presidents' in Venezuela. While Maduro was sworn in as president after the May 2018 presidential elections, the opposition-led National Assembly declared its leader Guaido as interim president. The tussle continued for four years, with Guaido explicitly backed by the US, which even invited him to the Congress.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


When Nicolas Maduro Moras took over charge at Venezuela after the untimely death of revolutionary socialist leader Hugo Chavez in 2013, not many expected him to have such a long stint at the helm.

When Nicolas Maduro Moras took over charge at Venezuela after the untimely death of revolutionary socialist leader Hugo Chavez in 2013, not many expected him to have such a long stint at the helm. On Sunday (July 28), Maduro, the 61-year-old former bus driver declared himself the victor the contentious presidential election of the South American nation. This will be his third consecutive term, which lasts for another six years. The election results were immediately rejected by opposition leader Maria Corina Machado. Maria herself was banned by Madoro's regime from contesting, and instead the opposition fielded Edmundo Gonzalez. The opposition is claiming that Gonzalez won 70 per cent of the vote. But for now, Maduro appears to be firmly in the driver's seat yet again, all set for a third term as president. Who is Nicolas Maduro? Maduro was born into a working class Roman Catholic family in Caracas. His father was a prominent trade unionist. A bus driver by profession, Maduro was part of Hugo Chavez's United Socialist Party. Having risen through its trade union, he was elected to the country's parliament, the National Assembly, for the first time in 2000. Soon Maduro became the right hand man of Chavez, who was a fan of Che Guevera, and had led 'silent coups' to become president. The positions Maduro held over time include the president of National Assembly (2005-06) and foreign minister (2006-13) before becoming the vice president under Chavez (2012-13). Eventually after Chavez died of cancer, Maduro took charge as president in 2013, winning the special presidential election. Not a smooth ride for the former bus driver But power was not a smooth ride for the leader of the oil-rich country. Venezuela has been for years the site of political experimentations by the US, which saw it as part of the sphere of influence and was averse to a communist leadership in the country. Like it did in the case of Cuba and Chile, and numerous other Latin American countries during much of the Cold War era, the US tried to oust Maduro in a number of ways, including by supporting and propping up alternative leaders. Prominent among such leaders was the former speaker of the Venezuelan parliament Geaido. He was feted in the US and at one point gave a tough challenge to Maduro, but the socialist party machinery managed to weather that storm too. Also read | Venezuela election: President Nicolas Maduro wins third term, opposition rejects result Venezuela under Maduro: A nation under siege What could have been one of the richest nations due to its oil wealth, Venezuela continued to languish in poverty under Maduro. But his ground support among the working classes remained strong, something that helped him maintain a firm grip on power. Venezuela faced immense inflation, with its currency highly devalued, and natural resources like petroleum nationalised by the Maduro regime. Essential goods shortages had led many Venezuelans to flee the country, particularly to neighbouring Colombia. Under Maduro's regime, at least seven million people have fled the country and more than 20,000 people died in extrajudicial killings according to human rights observers. Watch | Venezuela Presidential Elections 2024: Incumbent Nicolas Maduro wins third term × Facing down the Opposition, the Maduro way Maduro has ruled with an iron fist, inspite of multiple protests challenging him. Those include the mainly middle class agitations in 2014. In 2015, the National Assembly was won by opposition parties, yet Maduro held on to power, with the so-called Supreme Tribunal, the National Electoral Council and the armed forces on his side. He quelled a recall effort in 2016, led by the speaker of the opposition-led National Assembly Juan Guaidó. He had done this by making the Supreme Tribunal remove the powers of the assembly, which had led to further protests in 2017. To solve the constitutional crisis created by this situation, Maduro made efforts to rewrite the constitution. At one point, there was even a strange situation of 'two presidents' in Venezuela. While Maduro was sworn in as president after the May 2018 presidential elections, the opposition-led National Assembly declared its leader Guaido as interim president. The tussle continued for four years, with Guaido explicitly backed by the US, which even invited him to the Congress. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Nicolas Maduro, Venezuela's bus driver-turned-president, who won yet another term?

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Vinod Janardhanan

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.