Director of Centre for Disease Control Robert Redfield contradicted President of the United States, Donald Trump, over the possible availability of coronavirus vaccine.

US Health body contradicts Trump's claim on vaccine arrival

According to a report, The United States is set to sell Taiwan $7 billion worth of weapons. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you how Taiwan is gearing up to take on China.

Gravitas: US could sell Taiwan $7 Billion worth of arms

The US Commerce Department said it will issue an order Friday that will bar people in the United States from downloading Chinese-owned messaging app WeChat and video-sharing app TikTok starting on September 20. Commerce officials said the ban on new U.S. downloads of TikTok could be still rescinded by President Donald Trump before it takes effect late Sunday as TikTok owner ByteDance races to clinch an agreement over the fate of its US operations.

WION Dispatch: US to block TikTok downloads from September 20

Taiwan scrambled fighter jets on Friday as 18 Chinese aircraft buzzed the island, including crossing the sensitive mid-line of the Taiwan Strait, in an escalation of tensions as a senior U.S. official held talks in Taipei.

China had earlier announced the start of combat drills near the Taiwan Strait, denouncing what it called collusion between the island, which it claims as part of its territory, and the United States.

U.S. Undersecretary for Economic Affairs Keith Krach arrived in Taipei on Thursday for a three-day visit, the most senior State Department official to come to Taiwan in four decades - which China had said would prompt a "necessary response".

Beijing has watched with growing alarm the ever-closer relationship between Taipei and Washington, and has stepped up military exercises near the island, including two days of large-scale air and sea drills last week.

With a U.S. presidential election looming in November, Sino-U.S. relations are under huge strain from a trade war, U.S. digital security concerns and the coronavirus pandemic.

Taiwan said 18 Chinese aircraft were involved on Friday, a far larger number than it has previously announced for such encounters.

"Sep. 18, two H-6 bombers, eight J-16 fighters, four J-10 fighters and four J-11 fighters crossed the midline of the TaiwanStrait and entered Taiwan`s southwest ADIZ," the defence ministry said in an English-language tweet.

"ROCAF scrambled fighters, and deployed air defence missile system to monitor the activities." The ROCAF, Taiwan`s air force, has scrambled frequently in recent months in response to Chinese intrusions.

The ministry showed a map of the flight paths of Chinese jets crossing the Taiwan Strait mid-line, which normally combat aircraft from both sides avoid passing through.

Taiwan`s Liberty Times newspaper said Taiwan air force jets had scrambled 17 times on Friday morning over four hours, warning China`s air force to stay away.

It also showed a picture of missiles being loaded onto an F-16 fighter at the Hualien air base on Taiwan`s east coast.

At a press conference on Friday morning a Chinese defence ministry spokesman said Beijing was "holding actual combat exercises near the Taiwan Strait" when asked how Beijing would respond to Krach's visit.

"This is a legitimate and necessary action taken to safeguard China's sovereignty and territorial integrity in response to the current situation in the Taiwan Strait," Ren Guoqiang told reporters.

Ren also warned that the Chinese army had "sufficient ability" to counter any external threat or challenge from Taiwan separatists.

Beijing considers Taiwan part of its territory, to be absorbed into the Chinese mainland — by force if necessary.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/real-possibility-of-war-taiwan-calls-for-global-coalition-against-china-328167">Also read|&nbsp;'Real possibility of war': Taiwan calls for global coalition against China</a>

Relations between the United States and China are at their lowest point in decades, with the two sides clashing over a range of trade, military and security issues as well as the coronavirus pandemic.

China's Communist leadership baulks at any recognition of Taiwan — which has been ruled separately from China since the end of a civil war in 1949 — and has mounted a decades-long policy of marginalising the democratic island.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-defends-military-drills-near-taiwan-after-it-condemns-serious-provocation-327845">Also read|&nbsp;China defends military drills near Taiwan after it condemns 'serious provocation'</a>

Ren accused the United States of "frequently causing trouble" over Taiwan, which he said "is purely China's internal affairs, and we won't tolerate any external interference".

In recent weeks, Taiwan has reported a sharp rise in incursions by Chinese jets into its air defence identification zone.

Washington's increased outreach to Taiwan under US President Donald Trump has become yet another flashpoint between China and America, with US cabinet member Alex Azar visiting last month.

Washington said Krach was visiting Taiwan to attend a memorial service for late president Lee Teng-hui. He will also meet with foreign minister Joseph Wu, and is scheduled to join President Tsai Ing-wen for dinner at her official residence Friday.

Chinese fighter jets briefly crossed the mid-line of the Taiwan Strait last month as the U.S. Health Secretary Alex Azar was in Taipei, and last week China carried out two days of large-scale drills off Taiwan`s southwestern coast.

The United States, like most countries, has official ties only with China, not Taiwan, though Washington is the island`s main arms supplier and most important international backer.

This week, the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations had lunch with Taiwan`s top envoy in New York. China`s U.N. mission said it had lodged "stern representations" over the meeting.

(with inputs from agencies)

Taiwan scrambled fighter jets on Friday as 18 Chinese aircraft buzzed the island, including crossing the sensitive mid-line of the Taiwan Strait, in an escalation of tensions as a senior U.

Taiwan scrambled fighter jets on Friday as 18 Chinese aircraft buzzed the island, including crossing the sensitive mid-line of the Taiwan Strait, in an escalation of tensions as a senior U.S. official held talks in Taipei. China had earlier announced the start of combat drills near the Taiwan Strait, denouncing what it called collusion between the island, which it claims as part of its territory, and the United States. U.S. Undersecretary for Economic Affairs Keith Krach arrived in Taipei on Thursday for a three-day visit, the most senior State Department official to come to Taiwan in four decades - which China had said would prompt a "necessary response". Beijing has watched with growing alarm the ever-closer relationship between Taipei and Washington, and has stepped up military exercises near the island, including two days of large-scale air and sea drills last week. With a U.S. presidential election looming in November, Sino-U.S. relations are under huge strain from a trade war, U.S. digital security concerns and the coronavirus pandemic. Taiwan said 18 Chinese aircraft were involved on Friday, a far larger number than it has previously announced for such encounters. "Sep. 18, two H-6 bombers, eight J-16 fighters, four J-10 fighters and four J-11 fighters crossed the midline of the TaiwanStrait and entered Taiwan`s southwest ADIZ," the defence ministry said in an English-language tweet. "ROCAF scrambled fighters, and deployed air defence missile system to monitor the activities." The ROCAF, Taiwan`s air force, has scrambled frequently in recent months in response to Chinese intrusions. The ministry showed a map of the flight paths of Chinese jets crossing the Taiwan Strait mid-line, which normally combat aircraft from both sides avoid passing through. Taiwan`s Liberty Times newspaper said Taiwan air force jets had scrambled 17 times on Friday morning over four hours, warning China`s air force to stay away. It also showed a picture of missiles being loaded onto an F-16 fighter at the Hualien air base on Taiwan`s east coast. At a press conference on Friday morning a Chinese defence ministry spokesman said Beijing was "holding actual combat exercises near the Taiwan Strait" when asked how Beijing would respond to Krach's visit. "This is a legitimate and necessary action taken to safeguard China's sovereignty and territorial integrity in response to the current situation in the Taiwan Strait," Ren Guoqiang told reporters. Ren also warned that the Chinese army had "sufficient ability" to counter any external threat or challenge from Taiwan separatists. Beijing considers Taiwan part of its territory, to be absorbed into the Chinese mainland — by force if necessary. Also read| 'Real possibility of war': Taiwan calls for global coalition against China Relations between the United States and China are at their lowest point in decades, with the two sides clashing over a range of trade, military and security issues as well as the coronavirus pandemic. China's Communist leadership baulks at any recognition of Taiwan — which has been ruled separately from China since the end of a civil war in 1949 — and has mounted a decades-long policy of marginalising the democratic island. Also read| China defends military drills near Taiwan after it condemns 'serious provocation' Ren accused the United States of "frequently causing trouble" over Taiwan, which he said "is purely China's internal affairs, and we won't tolerate any external interference". In recent weeks, Taiwan has reported a sharp rise in incursions by Chinese jets into its air defence identification zone. Washington's increased outreach to Taiwan under US President Donald Trump has become yet another flashpoint between China and America, with US cabinet member Alex Azar visiting last month. Washington said Krach was visiting Taiwan to attend a memorial service for late president Lee Teng-hui. He will also meet with foreign minister Joseph Wu, and is scheduled to join President Tsai Ing-wen for dinner at her official residence Friday. Chinese fighter jets briefly crossed the mid-line of the Taiwan Strait last month as the U.S. Health Secretary Alex Azar was in Taipei, and last week China carried out two days of large-scale drills off Taiwan`s southwestern coast. The United States, like most countries, has official ties only with China, not Taiwan, though Washington is the island`s main arms supplier and most important international backer. This week, the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations had lunch with Taiwan`s top envoy in New York. China`s U.N. mission said it had lodged "stern representations" over the meeting. (with inputs from agencies)

Taiwan scrambles jets as 18 Chinese planes buzz island

Krach, the highest-level State Department official to visit the island in decades, is to meet Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen and other senior officials

China threatens necessary response to US-Taiwan meet

Prosecutors in Washington have charged a US citizen for joining the so-called Islamic State group in Syria, according to a statement from the Justice Department Wednesday.&nbsp;

The charges allege that Lirim Sylejmani conspired to provide and provided material support to IS, which the United States has classified as a terrorist organization, between 2015 and 2019.&nbsp;

The department also claimed he received military training from the self-styled caliphate.&nbsp;

"The defendant is a US citizen who abandoned the country that welcomed him to join ISIS in Syria," acting US Attorney Sherwin said in the statement of Sylejmani, who was born in Kosovo. "He will now be held accountable for his actions in an American courtroom."

Sylejmani was captured by the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) last year, according to the statement, before facing investigation by the FBI's Washington Field Office Joint Terrorism Task Force.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-brings-back-child-trapped-in-syria-dominic-raab-327904">Also read| UK brings back child trapped in Syria: Dominic Raab</a>

The question of how to handle captured foreign IS fighters has vexed Western governments, with the US vying for European countries to repatriate and try their own citizens.&nbsp;

Nations such as France and Britain reject the return of battle-hardened supporters of the ultra-violent IS group, which has claimed responsibility for a slew of grisly attacks against civilians.

Some European governments, including Britain, have revoked the citizenship of a number of citizens over alleged IS links.&nbsp;

But the US has pushed back against these approaches.&nbsp;

"Leaving them in the desert is not an effective solution. It makes it more likely they're going to find their way back to the battlefield, and accepting that risk is not being tough on terrorism," the US State Department's counterterrorism coordinator Nathan Sales told a meeting in Brussels last year.&nbsp;

Plus, it could put an undue burden on Middle Eastern countries already dealing with their own former IS-fighter citizens, according to the US.&nbsp;

The EU-backed Genocide Network this spring advocated that returning IS foreign fighters should be charged with war crimes under international law — such as genocide or crimes against humanity — in addition to whatever terrorism charges they may face at home.&nbsp;

As of May, some 2,000 fighters were still detained by Syrian forces and another 1,000 were in detention in Iraq, many of them European citizens mainly from France, Britain and Germany.

Prosecutors in Washington have charged a US citizen for joining the so-called Islamic State group in Syria, according to a statement from the Justice Department Wednesday.

Prosecutors in Washington have charged a US citizen for joining the so-called Islamic State group in Syria, according to a statement from the Justice Department Wednesday. The charges allege that Lirim Sylejmani conspired to provide and provided material support to IS, which the United States has classified as a terrorist organization, between 2015 and 2019. The department also claimed he received military training from the self-styled caliphate. "The defendant is a US citizen who abandoned the country that welcomed him to join ISIS in Syria," acting US Attorney Sherwin said in the statement of Sylejmani, who was born in Kosovo. "He will now be held accountable for his actions in an American courtroom." Sylejmani was captured by the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) last year, according to the statement, before facing investigation by the FBI's Washington Field Office Joint Terrorism Task Force. Also read| UK brings back child trapped in Syria: Dominic Raab The question of how to handle captured foreign IS fighters has vexed Western governments, with the US vying for European countries to repatriate and try their own citizens. Nations such as France and Britain reject the return of battle-hardened supporters of the ultra-violent IS group, which has claimed responsibility for a slew of grisly attacks against civilians. Some European governments, including Britain, have revoked the citizenship of a number of citizens over alleged IS links. But the US has pushed back against these approaches. "Leaving them in the desert is not an effective solution. It makes it more likely they're going to find their way back to the battlefield, and accepting that risk is not being tough on terrorism," the US State Department's counterterrorism coordinator Nathan Sales told a meeting in Brussels last year. Plus, it could put an undue burden on Middle Eastern countries already dealing with their own former IS-fighter citizens, according to the US. The EU-backed Genocide Network this spring advocated that returning IS foreign fighters should be charged with war crimes under international law — such as genocide or crimes against humanity — in addition to whatever terrorism charges they may face at home. As of May, some 2,000 fighters were still detained by Syrian forces and another 1,000 were in detention in Iraq, many of them European citizens mainly from France, Britain and Germany.

US charges citizen with providing support to IS

US President Donald Trump again contradicted his own health officials' coronavirus statements -- this time on the importance of mask wearing and the timing for a vaccine.

US Prez Trump contradicts CDC chief on COVID vaccine distribution

Joe Biden is leading Donald Trump in the national polls for the presidential election. But that doesn’t guarantee the Democratic candidate victory.

According to a recent survey Indian-Americans prefer Biden over Trump; Watch Report

Donald Trump unveils Coronavirus vaccine distribution plan

US Election 2020: Joe Biden holds lead over Trump among Indian-American voters

Palestinian militants fired rockets from Gaza into Israel on Tuesday, the Israeli military said, at same time as Israel and two Gulf Arab states signed normalisation agreements at the White House in Washington.

Palestinians fire rockets into Israel during signing of normalisation agreements

US President Donald Trump has dismissed concerns over climate change on a visit to fire-ravaged California

President Trump dismisses concerns over climate change; Blames forest management for crisis

US President Donald Trump, UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, Abdullatif bin Rashid Al-Zayani, the foreign minister of Bahrain, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu signed the Abraham Accord

A strategic realignment of West Asian countries | Historic Abraham accord signed

Hurricane Sally picked up strength as it edged towards the US Gulf Coast early Wednesday, with forecasts of drenching rains that could provoke "historic" and potentially deadly flash floods.

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) said coastal areas in Alabama, Mississippi and Florida were in the sights of the storm, that was packing maximum sustained winds of around 105 miles (165 kilometers) per hour by midnight local time (0500 GMT).

The storm — previously downgraded to Category 1 — had strengthened again to Category 2, it said.

"Historic life-threatening flooding likely along portions of the northern Gulf coast," the Miami-based center had warned late Tuesday, adding the hurricane could dump up to 20 inches (50 centimeters) of rain in some areas.

About 75,000 homes in Alabama and Florida were already without power Tuesday evening, according to the Weather Channel, and video posted to social media appeared to show some areas had started to flood.

<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/us-mandatory-evacuations-ordered-as-hurricane-sally-is-expected-to-hit-mississippi-louisiana-327655/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

At 0500 GMT, Sally was about 65 miles south of Mobile, Alabama and heading north at a crawling pace of two miles per hour in the Gulf of Mexico, though the storm was expected to pick up speed through Wednesday.

Sally is one of five tropical cyclones in the Atlantic Ocean — a phenomenon only recorded once before, in September 1971, according to meteorologists.

Alabama governor Kay Ivey told a press conference: "We are looking at record flooding, perhaps breaking historic levels. And with rising water comes a greater risk for loss of property and life.

"I urge you in the strongest way possible to evacuate if conditions permit and seek shelter elsewhere as possible today."

Ivey had declared a state of emergency Monday ahead of Sally's arrival.

President Donald Trump, speaking on "Fox &amp; Friends," compared Sally to Hurricane Laura, which battered Texas and Louisiana, as well as the Caribbean, just a few weeks ago.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sally-strengthens-to-hurricane-bears-down-on-us-gulf-coast-327583">Also read:&nbsp;Sally strengthens to hurricane, bears down on US Gulf Coast</a>

Record year

"This one is smaller but it's a little bit more direct, but we have it under control," he said. "We have it under watch very strongly."

Earlier, he tweeted: "We are fully engaged with State &amp; Local Leaders to assist the great people of Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi."&nbsp;

He urged people in the storm's path to "listen to State and Local Leaders."

Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves had also declared a state of emergency ahead of the approaching storm.

He said the storm surge projections were "worrisome with anywhere from five to eight feet of coastal surge."

Governor John Bel Edwards of Louisiana, which is still recovering after Hurricane Laura made landfall in the state as a Category 4 storm, told residents Monday to be prepared.

"Be smart and be safe," he tweeted.

At a hurricane refuge in Pascagoula, a coastal town in eastern Mississippi, 50-year-old evacuee Cliton Shepherd was hoping the area could avoid the worst.

"I don't think the wind is going to hurt anything, hopefully. I pray that it doesn't. But that's the main thing, you know, hoping and praying for the best, that's all we can do."

There have been so many tropical storms in the Atlantic this year that the UN's World Meteorological Organization, which names the tempests, is about to run out of names for only the second time in history.

The last time was in 2005, the year Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans.

The latest Atlantic storm, Hurricane Paulette, pounded the island of Bermuda on Monday with Category 2 winds and heavy rains, according to the NHC.

The center also said Tropical Storm Teddy, currently positioned in the mid-Atlantic, was expected to become a hurricane.

Hurricane Sally picked up strength as it edged towards the US Gulf Coast early Wednesday, with forecasts of drenching rains that could provoke "historic" and potentially deadly flash floods.

Hurricane Sally picked up strength as it edged towards the US Gulf Coast early Wednesday, with forecasts of drenching rains that could provoke "historic" and potentially deadly flash floods. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) said coastal areas in Alabama, Mississippi and Florida were in the sights of the storm, that was packing maximum sustained winds of around 105 miles (165 kilometers) per hour by midnight local time (0500 GMT). The storm — previously downgraded to Category 1 — had strengthened again to Category 2, it said. "Historic life-threatening flooding likely along portions of the northern Gulf coast," the Miami-based center had warned late Tuesday, adding the hurricane could dump up to 20 inches (50 centimeters) of rain in some areas. About 75,000 homes in Alabama and Florida were already without power Tuesday evening, according to the Weather Channel, and video posted to social media appeared to show some areas had started to flood. × At 0500 GMT, Sally was about 65 miles south of Mobile, Alabama and heading north at a crawling pace of two miles per hour in the Gulf of Mexico, though the storm was expected to pick up speed through Wednesday. Sally is one of five tropical cyclones in the Atlantic Ocean — a phenomenon only recorded once before, in September 1971, according to meteorologists. Alabama governor Kay Ivey told a press conference: "We are looking at record flooding, perhaps breaking historic levels. And with rising water comes a greater risk for loss of property and life. "I urge you in the strongest way possible to evacuate if conditions permit and seek shelter elsewhere as possible today." Ivey had declared a state of emergency Monday ahead of Sally's arrival. President Donald Trump, speaking on "Fox & Friends," compared Sally to Hurricane Laura, which battered Texas and Louisiana, as well as the Caribbean, just a few weeks ago. Also read: Sally strengthens to hurricane, bears down on US Gulf Coast Record year "This one is smaller but it's a little bit more direct, but we have it under control," he said. "We have it under watch very strongly." Earlier, he tweeted: "We are fully engaged with State & Local Leaders to assist the great people of Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi." He urged people in the storm's path to "listen to State and Local Leaders." Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves had also declared a state of emergency ahead of the approaching storm. He said the storm surge projections were "worrisome with anywhere from five to eight feet of coastal surge." Governor John Bel Edwards of Louisiana, which is still recovering after Hurricane Laura made landfall in the state as a Category 4 storm, told residents Monday to be prepared. "Be smart and be safe," he tweeted. At a hurricane refuge in Pascagoula, a coastal town in eastern Mississippi, 50-year-old evacuee Cliton Shepherd was hoping the area could avoid the worst. "I don't think the wind is going to hurt anything, hopefully. I pray that it doesn't. But that's the main thing, you know, hoping and praying for the best, that's all we can do." There have been so many tropical storms in the Atlantic this year that the UN's World Meteorological Organization, which names the tempests, is about to run out of names for only the second time in history. The last time was in 2005, the year Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans. The latest Atlantic storm, Hurricane Paulette, pounded the island of Bermuda on Monday with Category 2 winds and heavy rains, according to the NHC. The center also said Tropical Storm Teddy, currently positioned in the mid-Atlantic, was expected to become a hurricane.

Hurricane Sally gains strength as it nears southern US

The World Trade Organization found on Tuesday that the United States breached global trading rules by imposing multibillion-dollar tariffs in President Donald Trump's trade war with China, a ruling that drew anger from Washington.

WTO: United States broke trade rules with 2018 tariffs on China

The President pointed out that these were the only two peace deals between Israel and the Arab States in more than a quarter of a century.

US President Donald Trump promises to protect Palestine

A World Trade Organization panel ruled Tuesday that Trump administration tariffs on $200bn worth of Chinese goods are illegal

WTO says US tariffs on Chinese goods violated international trade rules

After almost 25 years, the 45th president of the united states has recreated history at the south lawn of the white house. UAE & Bahrain sign a historic peace deal with Israel.

Israel, UAE and Bahrain sign Abraham accord

The splitting headaches began when smoke from wildfires rolled in around Tim Hunt's suburban Seattle home. Next came a debilitating fatigue.

As deadly wildfires rage across the U.S. West, Hunt and others are struggling with some of the world's worst air pollution.

"I get out of bed to eat and drink water, and go back to bed," said the 64-year-old retired software engineer, who suffered lung damage in 2017 from a bad case of the flu. "It’s like there’s not enough oxygen in the air."

Enormous plumes of ash and smoke have spread from the region, where nearly 5 million acres were ablaze on Tuesday, compounding the public health crisis of the coronavirus pandemic.

In California, levels of lung-polluting particulate matter have jumped far beyond the summertime norm, bathing skies in eerie tones of orange and sepia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/trump-dismisses-climate-concerns-blames-poor-forest-management-for-western-wildfires-327587" hreflang="en">Trump dismisses climate concerns, blames 'poor' forest management for Western wildfires</a>

Hospitals in hard-hit Oregon report a 10% increase in emergency room visits for breathing problems. Doctors are being inundated with calls from worried patients.

"It's really putting a burden on our asthmatic patients," said Dr. Paul Williams, an allergy and immunology specialist in Everett, Washington. "They're calling us more often and they're requiring additional medications."

Air pollution, in the case of wildfire measured by the amount of fine particulate matter swirling in the air, is considered a serious health hazard linked to diseases including asthma, lung cancer, heart disease and early death.

Pollution has hit historic levels in five Oregon cities - Portland, Eugene, Bend, Medford and Klamath Falls, the state said Tuesday.

"I can't see out my window past two cars," said Dr. Gopal Allada, a pulmonologist who teaches at Oregon Health &amp; Science University School of Medicine. Allada's office is swamped with calls from patients experiencing breathing problems and asking for advice on what to do about symptoms that include coughing, wheezing, throat irritation, headache and racing heartbeat.

"We're just trying to field the calls," Allada said. "I would have loved to have had more people answering phones."

In Washington where Hunt lives, the air quality on Tuesday ranged from unhealthy to hazardous at every site monitored by the state.

Residents were stuffing towels in door cracks or sleeping in face masks to cope.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/dozens-remain-missing-as-wildfires-torch-millions-of-acres-in-us-west-327272" hreflang="en">Dozens remain missing as wildfires torch millions of acres in US West</a>

Particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometers, known as PM2.5, is the key measure for harmful air pollution. The particles are smaller than the width of a human hair, small enough to burrow deep into a person's lungs and even find its way into the bloodstream.

Wildfire smoke mostly carries particulates from burning trees and plants, which are already harmful.

But smoke from devastated communities can also contain toxic chemicals from burned plastic and other manmade materials in cars and buildings such as asbestos, synthetic rubber compounds and heavy metals. These can then pollute not only air but nearby waterways or soils.

A Reuters analysis of California air quality data showed moderate to hazardous air quality on Sunday and Monday at all but about 20 of more than 120 sites monitored by environmental officials, even as some smoke started to abate. About 40 sites, including San Luis Obispo along the Pacific Coast and large swaths of the agricultural Central Valley and Sierra Nevada foothills, had higher levels of pollutants than usual for six days running, state data showed.

In San Francisco, an area usually spared poor air because of its proximity to the San Francisco Bay and Pacific Ocean, levels of PM2.5 pollution have been three times California's standard limit of 35 micrograms per cubic meter for at least six days.

"I can't recall a time when we've had this amount of smoke for this long a time," said Sylvia Vanderspek, chief of the Air Quality Planning Branch of the California Air Resources Board.

COMPOUNDING COVID-19

The worldwide COVID-19 pandemic is also complicating efforts to help people at risk for lung and breathing problems, said Dr. Afif El-Hasan, a pediatrician in Southern California who volunteers with the American Lung Association.

Wildfire pollution can make people more susceptible to COVID-19, he said, and the best masks for filtering smoke are the same N-95 face coverings desperately needed by doctors and nurses treating COVID patients, making medical professionals hesitant to recommend that patients buy them.

It has also been difficult to help people find respite from the bad air, other than to recommend staying home and indoors.

"Normally when we give air quality alerts we say where people can go," said Dylan Darling, a spokesman for the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality. "Often the Oregon coast can provide refuge or the mountains. But right now there is not a place that’s good to go for fresh air."

The splitting headaches began when smoke from wildfires rolled in around Tim Hunt's suburban Seattle home. Next came a debilitating fatigue. As deadly wildfires rage across the U.

The splitting headaches began when smoke from wildfires rolled in around Tim Hunt's suburban Seattle home. Next came a debilitating fatigue. As deadly wildfires rage across the U.S. West, Hunt and others are struggling with some of the world's worst air pollution. "I get out of bed to eat and drink water, and go back to bed," said the 64-year-old retired software engineer, who suffered lung damage in 2017 from a bad case of the flu. "It’s like there’s not enough oxygen in the air." Enormous plumes of ash and smoke have spread from the region, where nearly 5 million acres were ablaze on Tuesday, compounding the public health crisis of the coronavirus pandemic. In California, levels of lung-polluting particulate matter have jumped far beyond the summertime norm, bathing skies in eerie tones of orange and sepia. Also read: Trump dismisses climate concerns, blames 'poor' forest management for Western wildfires Hospitals in hard-hit Oregon report a 10% increase in emergency room visits for breathing problems. Doctors are being inundated with calls from worried patients. "It's really putting a burden on our asthmatic patients," said Dr. Paul Williams, an allergy and immunology specialist in Everett, Washington. "They're calling us more often and they're requiring additional medications." Air pollution, in the case of wildfire measured by the amount of fine particulate matter swirling in the air, is considered a serious health hazard linked to diseases including asthma, lung cancer, heart disease and early death. Pollution has hit historic levels in five Oregon cities - Portland, Eugene, Bend, Medford and Klamath Falls, the state said Tuesday. "I can't see out my window past two cars," said Dr. Gopal Allada, a pulmonologist who teaches at Oregon Health & Science University School of Medicine. Allada's office is swamped with calls from patients experiencing breathing problems and asking for advice on what to do about symptoms that include coughing, wheezing, throat irritation, headache and racing heartbeat. "We're just trying to field the calls," Allada said. "I would have loved to have had more people answering phones." In Washington where Hunt lives, the air quality on Tuesday ranged from unhealthy to hazardous at every site monitored by the state. Residents were stuffing towels in door cracks or sleeping in face masks to cope. Also read: Dozens remain missing as wildfires torch millions of acres in US West Particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometers, known as PM2.5, is the key measure for harmful air pollution. The particles are smaller than the width of a human hair, small enough to burrow deep into a person's lungs and even find its way into the bloodstream. Wildfire smoke mostly carries particulates from burning trees and plants, which are already harmful. But smoke from devastated communities can also contain toxic chemicals from burned plastic and other manmade materials in cars and buildings such as asbestos, synthetic rubber compounds and heavy metals. These can then pollute not only air but nearby waterways or soils. A Reuters analysis of California air quality data showed moderate to hazardous air quality on Sunday and Monday at all but about 20 of more than 120 sites monitored by environmental officials, even as some smoke started to abate. About 40 sites, including San Luis Obispo along the Pacific Coast and large swaths of the agricultural Central Valley and Sierra Nevada foothills, had higher levels of pollutants than usual for six days running, state data showed. In San Francisco, an area usually spared poor air because of its proximity to the San Francisco Bay and Pacific Ocean, levels of PM2.5 pollution have been three times California's standard limit of 35 micrograms per cubic meter for at least six days. "I can't recall a time when we've had this amount of smoke for this long a time," said Sylvia Vanderspek, chief of the Air Quality Planning Branch of the California Air Resources Board. COMPOUNDING COVID-19 The worldwide COVID-19 pandemic is also complicating efforts to help people at risk for lung and breathing problems, said Dr. Afif El-Hasan, a pediatrician in Southern California who volunteers with the American Lung Association. Wildfire pollution can make people more susceptible to COVID-19, he said, and the best masks for filtering smoke are the same N-95 face coverings desperately needed by doctors and nurses treating COVID patients, making medical professionals hesitant to recommend that patients buy them. It has also been difficult to help people find respite from the bad air, other than to recommend staying home and indoors. "Normally when we give air quality alerts we say where people can go," said Dylan Darling, a spokesman for the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality. "Often the Oregon coast can provide refuge or the mountains. But right now there is not a place that’s good to go for fresh air."

Headaches and hospital visits rise as wildfire smoke blankets western US

US Presidents have been prone to embarrassing remarks in public in past. But current President Donald Trump is considered by many to be the one to have made more than many. Latest in the series is his assertion that coronavirus pandemic will go away due to 'herd mentality'

"...you'll develop, you'll develop herd like a herd mentality. It's going to be, it's going to be herd developed and that's going to happen. That will all happen," said Trump as he was being interviewed by George Stephanopolous.

Herd mentality refers to tendency of individuals to mindlessly follow a behaviour taken up by large number of people around them.

Does this sound like a strategy to effectively combat coronavirus pandemic? Certainly not.

The correct words Donald Trump appeared to not remember were Herd Immunity.

Herd Immunity refers to resistance to a contagious disease (like coronavirus) developed in population. If herd immunity against a particular disease is developed in a population, it is considered to be safe from the disease.

In his interview with George Stephanopoulos, Trump even said that the pandemic would "go away" without a vaccine.

He repeated his claim even as startled Stephanopolous asked,"It will go away without a vaccine?"

Trump then hastily added that coronavirus would go away "quickly" if a vaccine was made available.

Donald Trump has often given extremely conflicting statements about coronavirus pandemic.

President of the US, whose decisions have global ramifications, is expected to be well informed and measured before making public statements.

However, Trump's past statements on coronavirus pandemic in the US have been surprising

He statements include 'It's just a flu', 'It will go away on its own' and many more that were unscientific and even misleading. Trump has even laughed off wearing a mask.

The US has seen 195,000 deaths due to coronavirus so far.

US Presidents have been prone to embarrassing remarks in public in past. But current President Donald Trump is considered by many to be the one to have made more than many.

US Presidents have been prone to embarrassing remarks in public in past. But current President Donald Trump is considered by many to be the one to have made more than many. Latest in the series is his assertion that coronavirus pandemic will go away due to 'herd mentality' "...you'll develop, you'll develop herd like a herd mentality. It's going to be, it's going to be herd developed and that's going to happen. That will all happen," said Trump as he was being interviewed by George Stephanopolous. Herd mentality refers to tendency of individuals to mindlessly follow a behaviour taken up by large number of people around them. Does this sound like a strategy to effectively combat coronavirus pandemic? Certainly not. The correct words Donald Trump appeared to not remember were Herd Immunity. Herd Immunity refers to resistance to a contagious disease (like coronavirus) developed in population. If herd immunity against a particular disease is developed in a population, it is considered to be safe from the disease. In his interview with George Stephanopoulos, Trump even said that the pandemic would "go away" without a vaccine. He repeated his claim even as startled Stephanopolous asked,"It will go away without a vaccine?" Trump then hastily added that coronavirus would go away "quickly" if a vaccine was made available. Donald Trump has often given extremely conflicting statements about coronavirus pandemic. President of the US, whose decisions have global ramifications, is expected to be well informed and measured before making public statements. However, Trump's past statements on coronavirus pandemic in the US have been surprising He statements include 'It's just a flu', 'It will go away on its own' and many more that were unscientific and even misleading. Trump has even laughed off wearing a mask. The US has seen 195,000 deaths due to coronavirus so far.

COVID-19 will go away because of 'herd mentality', says Donald Trump

Even as intra-Afghan talks -- or talks between Afghan government and Taliban begin in Doha, India and US have agreed that the Afghan peace process should lead to a "political roadmap and ceasefire".

This was stated in a statement of US embassy on US Special Envoy on Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad's one day Delhi visit.

During his Delhi visit, which comes four days after Intra Afghan talks ceremony in Doha, Khalilzad held meetings with India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Present in the meeting were Foreign secretary Harsh V Shringla, Joint Secretary, Pakistan Afghanistan and Iran division in MEA JP Singh.

The US read out of the meet said, "The Afghan sides should ensure their territory must not be used by any terrorist group against any other country." This is a point also raised by external affairs minister during his speech at the intra Afghan talks ceremony on Saturday which he addressed virtually. According to a UN report, 6000- 6500 Pakistani terrorists are based in Pakistan.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/taliban-will-cooperate-to-bring-back-peace-in-afghanistan-khalilzad-310750" hreflang="en">Taliban will cooperate to bring back peace in Afghanistan: Khalilzad</a>

Ambassador Khalilzad "stressed regional and international support is critical for the success of these negotiations and the implementation of any agreement" and &nbsp;"India and the United States will work together in support of this objective."

The US readout further added both sides have "similar views on the importance of long term assistance, trade, and investment for consolidating a peace agreement for the benefit of the people of Afghanistan, the region, and beyond."

India has played an important role in connectivity when it comes to Afghanistan via the Chabahar port in Iran and the India Afghanistan air corridor. It has also emerged as an important developmental partner of the country.

Meanwhile, Indian government sources told WION that, "Khalilzad appreciated India’s participation in the Intra-Afghan Negotiations.." and "briefed about the US assessment the talks and shared the US perspective on the Afghan peace process."

Both sides while discussing "future steps and possible cooperation between India and the US in furthering the Afghan peace process" also "deliberated upon how to promote regional and international cooperation with regard to Afghanistan."

Khalilzad had visited India earlier this year on May 7. This is his 5th visit to India since January 2019.

Even as intra-Afghan talks -- or talks between Afghan government and Taliban begin in Doha, India and US have agreed that the Afghan peace process should lead to a "political roadmap and ceasefire".

Even as intra-Afghan talks -- or talks between Afghan government and Taliban begin in Doha, India and US have agreed that the Afghan peace process should lead to a "political roadmap and ceasefire". This was stated in a statement of US embassy on US Special Envoy on Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad's one day Delhi visit. During his Delhi visit, which comes four days after Intra Afghan talks ceremony in Doha, Khalilzad held meetings with India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Present in the meeting were Foreign secretary Harsh V Shringla, Joint Secretary, Pakistan Afghanistan and Iran division in MEA JP Singh. The US read out of the meet said, "The Afghan sides should ensure their territory must not be used by any terrorist group against any other country." This is a point also raised by external affairs minister during his speech at the intra Afghan talks ceremony on Saturday which he addressed virtually. According to a UN report, 6000- 6500 Pakistani terrorists are based in Pakistan. Also read: Taliban will cooperate to bring back peace in Afghanistan: Khalilzad Ambassador Khalilzad "stressed regional and international support is critical for the success of these negotiations and the implementation of any agreement" and "India and the United States will work together in support of this objective." The US readout further added both sides have "similar views on the importance of long term assistance, trade, and investment for consolidating a peace agreement for the benefit of the people of Afghanistan, the region, and beyond." India has played an important role in connectivity when it comes to Afghanistan via the Chabahar port in Iran and the India Afghanistan air corridor. It has also emerged as an important developmental partner of the country. Meanwhile, Indian government sources told WION that, "Khalilzad appreciated India’s participation in the Intra-Afghan Negotiations.." and "briefed about the US assessment the talks and shared the US perspective on the Afghan peace process." Both sides while discussing "future steps and possible cooperation between India and the US in furthering the Afghan peace process" also "deliberated upon how to promote regional and international cooperation with regard to Afghanistan." Khalilzad had visited India earlier this year on May 7. This is his 5th visit to India since January 2019.

Khalilzad in Delhi: India, US agree that Afghan peace process should lead to political roadmap, ceasefire

The items include cotton, garments, hair products and electronics from five specific manufacturers in Xinjiang as well as adjacent Anhui.

US restricts imports from China's Xinjiang region for 'forced labour'

Oracle Corp on Monday confirmed that it was being considered in a partnership with ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok.

If it goes through, Oracle will become a technology partner for the Chinese firm.

Earlier on Monday, US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin had claimed that the White House had received a proposal from Oracle over the weekend for a potential partnership.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/technology/china-says-tiktok-being-encircled-and-coerced-after-bytedance-drops-sale-327468" hreflang="en">China says TikTok being 'encircled' and 'coerced' after ByteDance drops sale</a>

Earlier, Microsoft was in talks to take over US operations of TikTok, but their offer was officially rejected on Monday.

"ByteDance let us know today they would not be selling TikTok's US operations to Microsoft," the US tech giant, in a statement, said, adding that their proposal was would have been "good" for TikTok users while "protecting national security interests".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/china-would-rather-see-tiktok-us-close-than-a-forced-sale-sources-say-326947" hreflang="en">China would rather see TikTok US close than a forced sale, sources say</a>

Earlier, Microsoft was amongst the major contenders to buy TikTok after US President Donald Trump last month gave a deadline to the video-platform company of September 15 to get sold or be banned.&nbsp;

The Washington Post reported that ByteDance has chosen Oracle as a "technology partner" and news agency Reuters quoted a source, claiming there would be a restructuring rather than a sale, with Oracle responsible for handling TikTok's data of US users.&nbsp;

Reuters also reported that Walmart is still interested in investing in TikTok and discussions with ByteDance have been ongoing.&nbsp;

Oracle Corp on Monday confirmed that it was being considered in a partnership with ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok. If it goes through, Oracle will become a technology partner for the Chinese firm.

Oracle Corp on Monday confirmed that it was being considered in a partnership with ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok. If it goes through, Oracle will become a technology partner for the Chinese firm. Earlier on Monday, US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin had claimed that the White House had received a proposal from Oracle over the weekend for a potential partnership. Also read: China says TikTok being 'encircled' and 'coerced' after ByteDance drops sale Earlier, Microsoft was in talks to take over US operations of TikTok, but their offer was officially rejected on Monday. "ByteDance let us know today they would not be selling TikTok's US operations to Microsoft," the US tech giant, in a statement, said, adding that their proposal was would have been "good" for TikTok users while "protecting national security interests". Also read: China would rather see TikTok US close than a forced sale, sources say Earlier, Microsoft was amongst the major contenders to buy TikTok after US President Donald Trump last month gave a deadline to the video-platform company of September 15 to get sold or be banned. The Washington Post reported that ByteDance has chosen Oracle as a "technology partner" and news agency Reuters quoted a source, claiming there would be a restructuring rather than a sale, with Oracle responsible for handling TikTok's data of US users. Reuters also reported that Walmart is still interested in investing in TikTok and discussions with ByteDance have been ongoing.

Oracle confirms proposal to be TikTok's 'tech partner' in the US

The United States may be in for some more trouble. After inducting the world’s highest coronavirus fatalities while simultaneously witnessing one of its biggest waves of anti-racism protests in recent history, the country may be dealing with flesh-eating bacteria.

Health officials in the US state of Connecticut are issuing warnings to residents after a few people developed infections which were caused by a type of a flesh-eating bacteria. It was found in the Long Island Sound.

The infection caused by this bacteria is called "Vibrio Vulnificus". At least five people in the state have been diagnosed with the infection.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/bacteria-can-survive-cosmic-trip-international-space-station-study-323505" hreflang="en">Bacteria can survive cosmic trip: International Space Station study</a>

The infection can cause the infected to need intensive care, or in a more intense case - limb amputation. Additionally, it can also cause necrotising fasciitis, or in other words, a flesh-eating bacteria. This information was made public by the Connecticut Department of Health.

Dr Matthew Cartter, the state epidemiologist for the Health Department referred to the identification of cases as “very concerning”.

“This suggests the Vibrio bacteria may be present in salt or brackish water in or near Long Island Sound, and people should take precautions”, the New York Post reported him as saying.

One case was reported in July, while the other four were reported in August. All the cases were found in adults aged between 49 and 85. Between 2010-19, the state reported just seven cases in total, making the current number relatively way higher.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/more-cats-infected-with-coronavirus-than-previously-considered-study-326858" hreflang="en">More cats infected with coronavirus than previously considered: Study</a>

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention categorises Vibrio as the same genus of bacteria responsible for causing infections from raw and undercooked shellfish.

The extreme infection caused by them Vibrio Vulnificus is capable of causing life-threatening illnesses, especially if an open wound is exposed to an infected shellfish.

It is because of this reason that the CDC warns people with recent wounds, be it from tattoos, piercings, or surgery to steer clear of saltwater.

The United States may be in for some more trouble. After inducting the world’s highest coronavirus fatalities while simultaneously witnessing one of its biggest waves of anti-racism protests in recent history, the country may be dealing with flesh-eating bacteria.

The United States may be in for some more trouble. After inducting the world’s highest coronavirus fatalities while simultaneously witnessing one of its biggest waves of anti-racism protests in recent history, the country may be dealing with flesh-eating bacteria. Health officials in the US state of Connecticut are issuing warnings to residents after a few people developed infections which were caused by a type of a flesh-eating bacteria. It was found in the Long Island Sound. The infection caused by this bacteria is called "Vibrio Vulnificus". At least five people in the state have been diagnosed with the infection. Also read: Bacteria can survive cosmic trip: International Space Station study The infection can cause the infected to need intensive care, or in a more intense case - limb amputation. Additionally, it can also cause necrotising fasciitis, or in other words, a flesh-eating bacteria. This information was made public by the Connecticut Department of Health. Dr Matthew Cartter, the state epidemiologist for the Health Department referred to the identification of cases as “very concerning”. “This suggests the Vibrio bacteria may be present in salt or brackish water in or near Long Island Sound, and people should take precautions”, the New York Post reported him as saying. One case was reported in July, while the other four were reported in August. All the cases were found in adults aged between 49 and 85. Between 2010-19, the state reported just seven cases in total, making the current number relatively way higher. Also read: More cats infected with coronavirus than previously considered: Study The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention categorises Vibrio as the same genus of bacteria responsible for causing infections from raw and undercooked shellfish. The extreme infection caused by them Vibrio Vulnificus is capable of causing life-threatening illnesses, especially if an open wound is exposed to an infected shellfish. It is because of this reason that the CDC warns people with recent wounds, be it from tattoos, piercings, or surgery to steer clear of saltwater.

United States reports five cases of infections caused by a flesh-eating bacteria

More than 30 lost has their lives as wild fires sweeps through the US West Coast states. Most of these fatalities are from California & Oregon.

Wild fires sweeps through the US West Coast states, more than 30 lost their lives

Billionaire Mike Bloomberg will spend at least US$100 million to boost Democratic candidate Joe Biden's prospects in Florida, a battleground state that could sway the presidential election's outcome. Watch report.

US Election 2020: Biden gets $100 MN boost from Bloomberg

Two Los Angeles police officers are recovering in hospital after being shot in what police are calling an ambush. Watch report.

Los Angeles cops shot: Trump calls for death penalty for shooters | World News

Wildfires are sweeping through the US west coast states. More than 30 people have lost their lives. Watch report.

US Wildfires weep through west coast: Burnt area roughly the size of New Jersey

Farmers clashed with members of the Mexican National Guard during a protest against the decision of the Mexican government to divert water from La Boquilla dam to the US. Two people died during the clash.

2 people killed in clash over diversion of La Boquilla dam's water to US

Wildfires have killed at least 28 people in the three contiguous West Coast states since mid-August, including 19 in California. Dozens of people are missing and thousands have been displaced.

28 people dead and dozens more are missing as fires ravage the US West Coast

The United States voted against a UN resolution for a "comprehensive and coordinated response" to the COVID-19 pandemic, a text that included recognition of the WHO's leadership role, on Friday.

The country was supported only by Israel.

The measure, which has been negotiated since May, was consequently adopted by an overwhelming majority of 169 countries out of 193, with Ukraine and Hungary abstaining.

The text is called an omnibus resolution because it covers multiple aspects of the pandemic.&nbsp;

The resolution "acknowledges the key leadership role of WHO and the fundamental role of the United Nations system in catalysing and coordinating the comprehensive global response to the Covid-19 pandemic."

The text "calls for intensified international cooperation and solidarity to contain, mitigate and overcome the pandemic and its consequences." It supports UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' call in March for a ceasefire between countries in order to better facilitate the fight against the pandemic -- a request that has been little followed.

The text additionally calls for "the urgent removal of unjustified obstacles," meaning sanctions, in order to create better access to products used in combatting the virus.

It requests nations to maintain food and agricultural supply chains and encourages synching economic recovery strategies to promote sustainable development and combat climate change.

Ahead of the vote, the United States unsuccessfully attempted to remove a paragraph on protecting women in the area of sexual and reproductive health, over objections about abortion.

Libya and Iraq also voted for the paragraph's removal. However more than 120 countries voted to keep it and 25 countries abstained.

The United States withdrew from the WHO this spring, accusing the body of mismanaging the coronavirus pandemic and delaying launch of a global alert.

The United States voted against a UN resolution for a "comprehensive and coordinated response" to the COVID-19 pandemic, a text that included recognition of the WHO's leadership role, on Friday.

The United States voted against a UN resolution for a "comprehensive and coordinated response" to the COVID-19 pandemic, a text that included recognition of the WHO's leadership role, on Friday. The country was supported only by Israel. The measure, which has been negotiated since May, was consequently adopted by an overwhelming majority of 169 countries out of 193, with Ukraine and Hungary abstaining. The text is called an omnibus resolution because it covers multiple aspects of the pandemic. The resolution "acknowledges the key leadership role of WHO and the fundamental role of the United Nations system in catalysing and coordinating the comprehensive global response to the Covid-19 pandemic." The text "calls for intensified international cooperation and solidarity to contain, mitigate and overcome the pandemic and its consequences." It supports UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' call in March for a ceasefire between countries in order to better facilitate the fight against the pandemic -- a request that has been little followed. The text additionally calls for "the urgent removal of unjustified obstacles," meaning sanctions, in order to create better access to products used in combatting the virus. It requests nations to maintain food and agricultural supply chains and encourages synching economic recovery strategies to promote sustainable development and combat climate change. Ahead of the vote, the United States unsuccessfully attempted to remove a paragraph on protecting women in the area of sexual and reproductive health, over objections about abortion. Libya and Iraq also voted for the paragraph's removal. However more than 120 countries voted to keep it and 25 countries abstained. The United States withdrew from the WHO this spring, accusing the body of mismanaging the coronavirus pandemic and delaying launch of a global alert.

UN adopts coronavirus response resolution; US votes against it

us-1

Us, News on Us, stories on Us, articles on Us, Us stories at Wion, Us news, Us latest news

us 1