Tag: Weird news

The tranquil atmosphere of a local convenience store in Telford, Shropshire, was shattered on March 3, 2023, when a masked robber attempted to intimidate and steal from the LOCO Convenience Store. However, the would-be thief encountered an unexpected adversary in the form of Mairi Kerin, a 42-year-old customer with a formidable martial arts background. The incident, captured on dramatic CCTV footage, has since gone viral, showcasing Kerin’s swift and decisive actions that thwarted the robbery and earned her a Police Chief Superintendent Commendation Award.

Kerin, a medal-winning Wadokai karate enthusiast, proficient in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and boxing, was simply purchasing chocolates for her nieces when the masked man entered the store and began threatening the shopkeeper. Initially, Kerin had noticed the suspicious individual outside, clad in concealing attire, and instinctively felt something was amiss. However, she dismissed her initial judgment, attempting to rationalize the stranger’s appearance.

Moments later, the same individual entered the store, his intentions becoming immediately clear. Kerin overheard the man’s chillingly calm declaration to the shopkeeper, “I’m going to take your money.” With her phone and keys safely stowed away, Kerin prepared to intervene. Observing the robber’s bulging pockets, she suspected he was armed and knew that hesitation could be fatal.

Without a moment’s delay, Kerin seized the opportunity. She grabbed the robber’s arm and delivered two powerful kicks to his shins, forcing him to retreat. The CCTV footage vividly displays Kerin’s assertive pursuit as she chased the fleeing criminal from the store, leaving the shopkeeper in stunned disbelief.

In a subsequent interview, Kerin revealed the underlying factors that contributed to her seemingly nonchalant demeanor after the confrontation. She was wearing new high heels, attempting to break them in for a new job, and suffering from a bad back. The combination of discomfort and a general lack of enthusiasm resulted in what she described as a “John Wayne-style walk” back to the counter. However, her primary concern was for the safety of a family, a father and three children, who had exited the store just moments before the attempted robbery.

Kerin vehemently denies that her actions were driven by bravery. Instead, she attributes her confidence to 20 years of rigorous martial arts training, which has honed her skills and instilled a deep sense of self-belief. She emphasized that she has mentally prepared for such scenarios, having sparred with opponents far larger and stronger than herself. This extensive training has equipped her with the ability to assess and respond effectively to threats.

The incident was later revealed to be part of a series of robberies committed across Telford. Jordan Hickman, 29, Jake Jones, 21, and an 18-year-old accomplice were apprehended and subsequently sentenced to a combined total of 18 years in prison.

Chief Superintendent Edd Williams commended Kerin’s quick thinking and decisive actions, which prevented any harm to the shopkeeper and thwarted the robbery. He expressed gratitude on behalf of the West Mercia Police, recognizing Kerin’s “inspiring act of bravery from an upstanding member of the public.”

The CCTV footage of the incident, shared on social media by Wadokai England, has garnered over 100,000 views, captivating audiences with Kerin’s remarkable composure and martial arts prowess. Her story serves as a testament to the power of self-defense training and the potential for ordinary individuals to become extraordinary heroes in the face of adversity. Kerin’s actions highlight the importance of preparedness and the ability to act decisively when faced with danger, reminding us that even in high heels, a determined individual can make a significant difference.

A UK parliamentary committee has proposed making it a criminal offense to possess photos of a Muslim woman without her hijab, if taken without her consent. The Commons’ women and equalities committee argues these images should be treated as “non-consensual intimate images,” similar to child sex abuse material.

The proposal aims to expand the current legal definition of “intimate images” to include those considered “culturally intimate,” such as a Muslim woman without her religious headscarf. The committee argues that such images can cause significant harm to the victim.

Critics express concerns that this proposal could grant special legal protections to Islam not afforded to other religions, and that it risks overextending criminal law into cultural issues. They also question the practicality of policing such a law. The government has acknowledged previous reservations about defining “culturally intimate” images due to potential overcriminalization. The committee, however, argues that possessing these images should be criminalized to provide victims with adequate legal protection.

Louise Ryan, a 37-year-old mother of four and Avon saleswoman, died from an accidental overdose of morphine and gabapentin, a coroner’s inquest revealed. She had been taking the medications to manage chronic back pain.
On August 13, 2023, Ms. Ryan’s boyfriend, Garry Abraham-Browne, found her unresponsive in their Winchester, Hampshire home. Despite immediate CPR and paramedic intervention, she was pronounced dead at Royal Hampshire County Hospital in the early hours of August 14th.
The inquest at Winchester Coroner’s Court heard that Ms. Ryan suffered from persistent back pain and severe headaches, seeking medical help multiple times. A toxicology report confirmed fatal levels of gabapentin and a potentially fatal level of morphine in her system.
Assistant Coroner Robert Simpson noted that Ms. Ryan had a history of taking pain medication, sometimes using her boyfriend’s prescribed morphine when her own supply was depleted. Mr. Abraham-Browne acknowledged she would take his medication when in pain.
Ms. Ryan had been prescribed various painkillers, including tramadol, pregabalin, and morphine sulfate, to address her chronic pain. She also received medication for migraines.
The coroner concluded that Ms. Ryan’s death was accidental, resulting from “respiratory depression due to a drug overdose.” He determined that she was attempting to manage her pain and did not intend to take her own life, citing her text messages and internet searches which did not indicate suicidal intent.
“She didn’t intend to take an overdose, and was addressing her pain,” Mr. Simpson stated.
Her mother, Linda Ryan, paid tribute to her daughter, describing her as “a beautiful, intelligent, strong, loving woman who was very family-orientated.” She added, “I can say Lou would not have taken her medication if she would have known it would have been fatal.”

Kenya has taken a significant step in its conservation efforts by welcoming 17 critically endangered Mountain Bongos from Florida, USA. These majestic animals, representing the third generation of bongos that were originally taken from Kenya in the 1960s, arrived late Sunday night and have been transported to Meru County for quarantine and gradual reintroduction into their natural habitat.

This repatriation effort is part of a larger strategy to bolster the dwindling Mountain Bongo population in Kenya, which has alarmingly decreased to fewer than 100 in the wild. Wildlife experts affirm that the presence of these bongos in other parts of the world is a testament to their origins in Kenya. The newly arrived 17 bongos are expected to play a crucial role in breeding and revitalizing the species, potentially saving them from extinction.

Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano has outlined an ambitious plan to increase the Mountain Bongo population to over 700 by 2050. This initiative follows years of cross-national discussions and multilateral agreements. The first repatriation of Mountain Bongos occurred in 2004, and Kenya is anticipating another batch from Europe within the next three months, signaling a sustained commitment to this conservation project.

“These majestic creatures will form the foundation of a thriving population at the Marania and Mucheene sanctuary in Meru County, where they will be nurtured and gradually reintroduced into their natural habitats,” stated CS Miano. Kenya Wildlife Service Director General, Dr. Erastus Kanga, emphasized the importance of this operation in enhancing Kenya’s conservation leadership and solidifying its position as a premier tourism destination in the region.

The return of the Mountain Bongos is not only expected to contribute to biodiversity but also to stimulate economic growth through increased tourism and job creation, thereby improving community livelihoods. CS Miano expressed optimism that as the Mountain Bongo population grows, sightings of these animals will become more frequent, attracting more mountain enthusiasts and tourists.

The Mountain Bongo, a critically endangered antelope, has seen its population plummet from approximately 500 in the 1970s due to habitat loss, poaching, illegal activities, disease, and fragmented populations. The ongoing repatriation efforts represent a vital step in reversing this decline and ensuring the survival of this rare and iconic species.

A British couple’s dream life in rural France ended in tragedy earlier this month, leaving investigators puzzled over a chilling theory: did Andrew Searle, 65, murder his wife Dawn, 56, and stage a burglary before taking his own life? The couple, married just two years ago, were found dead at their villa in Les Pesquiès, near Toulouse, by a neighbor concerned about their absence while walking their dogs.
Dawn Searle, mother to Hollyoaks actor Callum Kerr, was discovered in her pajamas outside the house on February 6, her head injured and jewelry strewn around her. Inside, Andrew, a former financial investigator, was found hanging from a radiator. What first appeared to be a violent break-in—complete with overturned furniture and open drawers—has taken a darker turn as police suspect it was a setup.
The couple had relocated from Musselburgh, East Lothian, a decade ago, settling into a seemingly happy life. Friends, including the local mayor who officiated their 2023 wedding, described them as content. Yet, investigators now believe Dawn was killed inside the house on a quiet winter night, her body later dumped in the garden to mimic a robbery gone wrong. “If she’d been attacked outside, neighbors would’ve heard something,” one source said.
Prosecutor Nicolas Rigot-Muller, overseeing the case in Rodez, leans toward a “marital crime followed by suicide.” No defensive wounds were found on Andrew, and forensic tests show no signs of a third party. CCTV footage from Villefranche-de-Rouergue captured Andrew buying chocolate and lottery tickets the day before, appearing relaxed—adding to the mystery of what drove him to such an act.
Despite the murder-suicide theory, police haven’t ruled out outside involvement, and the investigation remains active. The Searles’ home, now a cordoned-off crime scene, sits silent, its swimming pool covered, as neighbors struggle to make sense of the loss. “They were lovely, always chatting,” said a local shopkeeper. “He bought Kinder bars here. I can’t believe they’re gone.”

A dispute over ugali turned fatal in Kilimani Village, Kakamega County, when a heated argument between brothers Reuben Lutaboni, 42, and Michael Lukala, 40, ended with one hacked to death on February 18, 2025.

What Happened

The brothers had returned home Tuesday evening to cook dinner in their mother’s kitchen when a disagreement erupted over the amount of maize flour to use for ugali. According to their elder brother, Peter Lukala, the quarrel escalated into violence. “They argued over how much ugali to make, and it ended with Michael’s life being taken,” Peter said. He recounted how Lutaboni grabbed an axe from the floor and struck Michael repeatedly, killing him instantly.
Their mother, Esther Akwam, witnessed the horror unfold. “Lutaboni hit Michael from behind, striking his head several times. I tried to intervene, but they overpowered me,” she said, tears in her eyes. Despite her screams for help, neighbors arrived too late—Michael lay dead in a pool of blood.

A Shocking Turn

Peter described the brothers as close, often working together on village jobs. “They were good friends. I don’t know what went wrong,” he said, puzzled by the sudden violence. Some villagers speculate an underlying feud may have fueled the attack, with the ugali dispute merely igniting long-simmering tensions.

Community Reaction

Village elder Cleophas Barasa condemned the incident, calling it a needless tragedy. “A small argument over food shouldn’t end in death. We must find peaceful ways to solve disputes,” he urged. Barasa also questioned why the middle-aged brothers still lived with their mother, suggesting, “Men over 40 should have their own homes to avoid such conflicts. Living together like this breeds tension.”

A Night to Remember

The brutal killing has left Kilimani Village reeling, with residents struggling to comprehend how a routine meal prep turned deadly. As investigations continue, the tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the cost of unresolved disputes—and the fragility of family ties strained beyond breaking.

A 14-year-old boy in Planalto, Brazil, Davi Nunes Moreira, has tragically died after injecting himself with a homemade concoction of crushed butterfly and water, reportedly in an attempt to participate in a viral online challenge. The devastating incident has sparked concerns about the growing trend of dangerous online stunts and their potentially fatal consequences.

Moreira suffered agonizing symptoms for seven days before his death at a hospital in Vitória da Conquista. He initially concealed the truth from his father, claiming he had injured himself while playing. However, as his condition rapidly deteriorated, he confessed to injecting the butterfly mixture into his right leg. His father subsequently discovered a syringe hidden beneath his pillow.

Medical professionals suspect that the boy’s death could have been caused by a variety of factors, including an embolism, a severe infection, a fatal allergic reaction, or the release of potent toxins from the crushed insect. Luiz Fernando D. Relvas, a specialist at Hospital Santa Marcelina, highlighted the uncertainty surrounding the preparation and composition of the injected substance. “We don’t know how he prepared this mixture or the size of the fragments he managed to inject into the body,” he stated. He also raised the possibility of an air embolism, a potentially lethal condition that can occur when air enters the bloodstream.

Investigators are also exploring the possibility that the butterfly’s toxins triggered a catastrophic chain reaction within Moreira’s body, leading to septic shock and organ failure. The Civil Police of Bahia are currently awaiting the results of an autopsy to determine the precise cause of death.

The tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with online challenges and the potential for severe, even fatal, consequences. It follows a similar case in Brazil where an online influencer, Thammy MC, nearly required amputation after participating in a viral trend involving ice and salt. She suffered severe injuries to her feet, highlighting the risks of blindly following online trends without considering the potential harm.

Authorities are urging parents and guardians to be vigilant about their children’s online activities and to educate them about the dangers of participating in potentially harmful challenges. They emphasize the importance of critical thinking and responsible online behavior to prevent future tragedies.

A 90-year-old British pensioner has been found dead in her home in Alhaurin el Grande, Spain, alongside her 63-year-old son. Police conducting a welfare check discovered the bodies after forcing entry into the property. While both deaths are believed to be from natural causes, local reports suggest the elderly woman may have died from starvation.

The son was reportedly his mother’s registered carer. It is unclear if he also suffered from any health issues. Paramedics had previously visited the home to assist the woman, finding her in a “terminal phase,” according to Diario Sur. Authorities are investigating the timeline of events.

The bodies have been moved to the Institute of Legal Medicine in Malaga for autopsies. The Civil Guard has stated there is no evidence of foul play. The British nationals were known to local social services, who raised the alarm.

This incident follows the recent deaths of two other British pensioners in San Fulgencio on the Costa Blanca. The 82-year-old man and 74-year-old woman, believed to be friends, were found dead in their home after social services raised concerns. Their deaths were also attributed to natural causes, with both known to suffer from chronic illnesses. That area is a popular residential estate for foreign pensioners.

Six-year-old Amelia “Millie” Ridout tragically died in June 2022 after a needle accidentally pierced a major artery during a bone marrow biopsy at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge, England. The procedure, intended to investigate a suspected blood condition, resulted in “massive, catastrophic” internal bleeding.

During the procedure, a pediatric doctor noticed a warning sign that something had gone wrong, but a consultant hematologist dismissed any concerns and instructed the doctor to continue. Shortly after, Millie went into cardiac arrest and died during emergency surgery to repair the damage.

Her father, Matthew Ridout, described feeling suicidal after the accident. He has since channeled his grief into fundraising for the neonatal intensive care unit at Luton and Dunstable Hospital, where Millie was cared for after her premature birth. He also undertook the Three Peaks challenge on her seventh birthday as a way to feel close to her. “All I want to do is be as close to Amelia on her day, with being as high as I can in different locations seemed to be the only solution,” he wrote on his fundraising page.

Mr. Ridout paid tribute to his daughter on JustGiving, saying, “Where do I begin…? What does a father say when he loses the one entirety that makes him whole?” He described Millie as a loving child who touched the lives of everyone she met. He also shared that she was born prematurely, weighing just two pounds and four ounces, and spent her first six weeks in the NICU.

Area Coroner Elizabeth Gray for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough has called for national guidelines to be established for this type of procedure. She issued a Prevention of Future Deaths report, urging the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, the British Society for Haematology, and NHS England to develop national guidelines and a standard operating procedure for bone marrow aspiration and trephine biopsies, including recommended methodology. She also called for a national database to track these procedures and their outcomes. The organizations have until April 8th to respond to the report.

The inquest heard that Millie had been diagnosed with pancytopenia. During the biopsy, the trephine needle accidentally penetrated the pelvic bone and pierced the iliac vessels, causing the fatal bleeding. A spokesperson for Cambridge University Hospitals Trust expressed their condolences and stated that they will review the coroner’s findings to improve care.

Say goodbye to hair dye? A new study from Nagoya University in Japan suggests a simple dietary solution for preventing gray hair, and it might already be in your fridge. Researchers have found that the antioxidant luteolin appears to prevent the graying process in mice, offering a potential pathway to similar results in humans.

The study, published in reputable journals, focused on the effects of three antioxidants – luteolin, hesperetin, and diosmetin – on mice bred to develop gray hair. Surprisingly, only luteolin showed a significant effect, preventing the mice’s fur from turning gray, regardless of whether the antioxidant was administered topically or orally. While their cage mates’ fur turned gray, the mice treated with luteolin maintained their original color.

Luteolin is found in several common vegetables, including celery, broccoli, carrots, onions, and peppers. This makes it easily accessible for those looking to incorporate it into their diet. Lead author Professor Masashi Kato called the results surprising, suggesting that luteolin has a unique medicinal effect on preventing graying.

Gray hair is a natural part of aging. As we age, the pigment cells in our hair follicles, responsible for hair color, begin to die. This leads to the growth of unpigmented, gray hairs. While some embrace the silver look, others seek ways to conceal it. This new research offers a potential alternative to hair dye.

The researchers were also surprised to discover that luteolin’s effect wasn’t related to the hair cycle. Instead, it appears to directly impact pigmentation. “Interestingly, luteolin had limited effects on hair cycles, indicating that its primary impact is on pigmentation rather than hair growth or shedding,” explained Professor Kato. “This targeted action makes luteolin a particularly intriguing candidate for addressing age-related hair greying.”

While the study’s findings are promising, it’s important to remember that the research was conducted on mice. However, because the graying process is similar in humans, the researchers are optimistic about the possibility of developing a similar treatment for people.

Beyond its potential for preventing gray hair, the research team is also exploring whether luteolin could play a role in preventing age-related hair loss. Dr. Takumi Kagawa, an author of the study, suggested further research into the antioxidant’s potential for addressing other age-related changes, including balding.

For those who aren’t fans of the vegetables mentioned, luteolin is also available in supplement form for topical or oral use. While further research is needed, this study offers a potentially exciting new approach to combating gray hair and other age-related hair changes.

A 17-year-old girl has tragically died after being attacked by a shark at Woorim Beach on Bribie Island, a popular tourist destination off the coast of southeast Queensland, Australia.

Emergency services responded to reports of a “serious shark bite incident” around 4:45 pm on Monday. The girl was swimming approximately 100 meters offshore when she was attacked, suffering catastrophic injuries to her upper arm and body. Despite efforts at the scene, she could not be revived. The species of shark involved is currently unknown.

Witnesses reported seeing a young girl being consoled on the shore following the attack. Lifeguards had noted increased shark activity in the area in recent weeks.

Woorim Beach is a popular spot for camping, four-wheel driving, and surfing. Authorities use drumlines and drone surveillance to monitor sharks in the area.

Moreton Bay Councillor Mark Booth expressed his condolences to the victim’s family and friends, saying, “Our hearts break for her family and friends during this unimaginable time.”

Police are preparing a report for the coroner. This is believed to be the first fatal shark attack in the Greater Brisbane region since 2006. It follows another fatal shark attack in central Queensland just weeks ago. According to the Australian Shark-Incident Database, there’s been an average of 20 shark attacks resulting in injuries annually in Australia over the past ten years.

A 50-year-old father has been found guilty of murdering his 14-year-old daughter at their home in Darlington, County Durham. Simon Vickers claimed his daughter, Scarlett, died in a tragic accident during a “playfight” in the kitchen, insisting he accidentally stabbed her with a knife.

The prosecution argued that the 11cm deep chest wound, which pierced Scarlett’s heart, was deliberately inflicted. Scarlett died from rapid blood loss on June 5th of last year.

A jury at Teesside Crown Court convicted Vickers of murder. He faces life imprisonment and will be sentenced on February 10th.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) stated that Vickers’ account was inconsistent with the evidence, arguing the wound could only have been caused if the knife was “firmly gripped.”

Emergency services were called to the family’s home on Geneva Street shortly before 11 pm on June 5th. Paramedics found Scarlett bleeding on the kitchen floor, but were unable to save her.

Vickers told police they had been “just mucking around” while his partner, Sarah Hall, cooked dinner. He claimed they were throwing objects at each other. Vickers, who worked at a manufacturing plant, maintained throughout the trial that he did not intentionally pick up a knife but accepted he must have caused the fatal injury. He reportedly told police upon his arrest, “I must be the unluckiest man in the world.”

A forensic pathologist testified that an accidental stabbing was “practically impossible,” stating the knife must have been “held firmly” to penetrate Scarlett’s clothing and chest.

The prosecution did not suggest a motive but argued that Vickers “must have been lying” to police.

Hours before her death, Scarlett posted a final TikTok video of herself in her bedroom.

Vickers, who admitted to consuming alcohol and cannabis before the incident, denied deliberately harming his daughter. He claimed the family was in a “happy” mood and looking forward to a holiday. He offered a “theory” that Scarlett may have accidentally fallen onto the knife after it hit the hotplate and protruded over the counter.

He stated, “Why would I harm my daughter? If someone held a gun to my head and told me to stab my daughter, I would be shot.”

In a 999 call, Scarlett’s mother told the operator, “We were messing about, having a fun-fight. My partner threw something and he didn’t realize.” She described her daughter as losing blood and going in and out of consciousness. Vickers could be heard in the background, distressed and calling out to Scarlett.

The prosecution argued that Vickers could not have accidentally thrown or swiped a knife into her chest, suggesting he may have been “irritated” with Scarlett after she and her mother were throwing grapes.

The defense argued that Scarlett’s death was a “tragic accident” and that Vickers had no intention of harming her. They emphasized that she was their only child and that the family had been enjoying a normal evening.

Scarlett’s death prompted an outpouring of grief. Her headteacher described her as a “lovely, respectful, and polite girl” who was popular and will be missed by everyone at school.

Anna Barker, Senior Crown Prosecutor, stated that Vickers’ account was “wholly inconsistent” with the forensic evidence. She confirmed that expert analysis indicated the wound could only have been caused by a firmly gripped knife. She also expressed condolences to Scarlett’s family.

New research suggests that the HPV vaccine may be a game-changer in the fight against cervical cancer.

A Dutch study found that administering the vaccine to women with high-risk precancerous cervical cells could prevent the development of invasive cancer. In over half of the participants, the vaccine successfully eliminated these abnormal cells.

Current Treatment

Currently, women with these precancerous cells undergo a procedure called loop excision, which can have side effects like bleeding and infection. This new approach offers a potentially less invasive and more effective treatment option. If further studies confirm these findings, it could significantly reduce the need for surgical procedures in many women. The HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing cervical cancer when administered to young people.
This study explores the vaccine’s therapeutic potential in treating existing precancerous conditions.

Study Details

The trial involved 18 women with severe precancerous cells (CIN3).
Nine participants received the vaccine, while the others underwent surgery.
In nine out of nine vaccinated women, the precancerous cells either shrank or disappeared.
After nearly two years of follow-up, none of the participants experienced a recurrence of the disease.

The study had a small sample size and a relatively short follow-up period.
Further research with larger groups and longer follow-up periods is necessary to confirm these findings.

Importance of Cervical Screening

Regular cervical screenings remain crucial for early detection and prevention of cervical cancer.
Despite the effectiveness of the HPV vaccine, women should continue to adhere to recommended screening guidelines.

A woman was tragically killed following a serious assault in West Hoe Road last night, sparking a major police manhunt for the suspected attacker.

Emergency services were called to the scene around 8:55 PM on Wednesday evening, where they found the woman seriously injured. Despite the efforts of paramedics who rushed her to Derriford Hospital, she sadly succumbed to her injuries.

Devon and Cornwall Police have launched a murder investigation and are actively searching for the male suspect, who is known to the victim. The victim’s identity has not yet been released.

A heavy police presence descended upon the scene, with armed officers and forensic teams conducting thorough investigations. Road closures and a police cordon remain in place.

Witnesses described a chaotic scene with numerous police vehicles and armed officers.

Detective Chief Inspector David Pebworth reassured the public that there is no immediate threat to the wider community. He stated that police presence in the area would be increased as the investigation continues.

A fitness trainer has shared a simple yet effective tip for shedding belly fat: ditch marathon cardio sessions and opt for a 20-minute incline walk or jog at the end of your workout.
Brandon Palmer, a popular fitness coach, believes this targeted approach is more efficient than hours of traditional cardio.
“Walking or jogging for 20 minutes at speed three on a 15 incline at the end of your session will get rid of belly fat and tone your body quicker than hours of cardio,” Palmer shared.

Why it works:

* Increased muscle engagement: Walking or jogging uphill engages more muscles, particularly in the lower body and core, leading to increased calorie burn.
* Efficient heart rate elevation: Incline training effectively elevates your heart rate, maximizing fat burning in a shorter timeframe.
* Targeted fat loss: This method specifically targets stubborn areas like the belly.
Positive feedback:
Fitness enthusiasts are praising this approach, calling it a game-changer. Many appreciate the time-efficiency and the ability to incorporate it easily into their existing workout routines.

Skepticism and considerations:

* Intensity: Some find the 15% incline challenging and suggest adjusting it based on individual fitness levels.
* Importance of diet: Numerous commenters emphasized the crucial role of a balanced diet in weight loss.

Expert opinions:

* Australian dietitian Leanne Ward warns against over-exercising and highlights the importance of a balanced diet. She recommends a combination of cardio, strength training, and adequate rest for optimal results.
* Ward emphasizes the importance of proper nutrition: She advises focusing on whole foods like lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats while avoiding excessive calorie intake.

Key takeaways:

* This 20-minute incline routine, when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise, can be an effective strategy for shedding belly fat.
* Prioritize a balanced approach: Incorporate both cardio and strength training into your routine, and prioritize adequate rest and recovery.
* Focus on nutrition: Pay attention to your dietary intake and choose whole, unprocessed foods.

 

Axel Rudakubana, 18, admitted murdering three young girls and attempting to murder others in a knife attack at a dance class in Southport, England.

On July 29, 2024, Rudakubana entered a dance class and fatally stabbed Alice da Silva Aguiar (9), Bebe King (6), and Elsie Dot Stancombe (7). Eight other children, the instructor, and a local businessman were also injured.

Guilty Plea

In court on January 20, 2025, Rudakubana pleaded guilty to three counts of murder, ten counts of attempted murder, possession of a knife, production of the biological toxin ricin, and a terrorism-related charge. The terrorism charge relates to the possession of a document titled “Military Studies In The Jihad Against The Tyrants, The Al Qaeda Training Manual.”

Background

Rudakubana moved to Banks, Lancashire, from Wales with his Rwandan-born parents and older brother. He had previous behavioral concerns at school, including an exclusion for an incident involving a hockey stick.

Aftermath

 

The attack sparked widespread unrest across the UK, with violence directed at mosques and other locations.

A highly contagious and potentially fatal virus, Marburg, is spreading in Tanzania, prompting urgent warnings from global health officials. This Ebola-like disease has already claimed eight lives out of nine confirmed cases.

Marburg, a hemorrhagic fever, causes internal and external bleeding, including from the eyes, mouth, and ears. It has a devastatingly high mortality rate of up to 88%. Currently, there are no approved vaccines or treatments available.

Symptoms and Spread

Marburg presents with sudden onset of severe headaches, fever, diarrhea, stomach pain, and vomiting. These symptoms rapidly worsen.

The virus spreads through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals, contaminated surfaces, and potentially through infected animals.

Outbreak Concerns

The outbreak is centered in the Kagera region of northeastern Tanzania, but there are concerns about potential spread to neighboring countries like Rwanda and Burundi due to significant cross-border movement.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has deployed teams to the affected area and is urging vigilance among health workers.

Previous Outbreaks

This is not the first Marburg outbreak in Tanzania. In March 2023, an outbreak in the Bukoba district resulted in several deaths.

WHO Response

The WHO acknowledges the potential for further cases and is emphasizing the importance of improved disease surveillance. They are also working to identify the source of the outbreak.

An 18-year-old has been charged with murder following a drive-by shooting outside a wake in Brent, North West London, on December 14, 2024. The victim, 44-year-old Michelle Sadio from Walthamstow, East London, was attending a nine-night ceremony at the River of Life Elim Pentecostal Church in Harlesden, near Wembley Stadium, when she was killed.

Tahjin Sommersal, 18, of Feltham, was arrested last Wednesday in connection with the incident. He has been charged with murder, two counts of attempted murder, and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. He appeared at Willesden Magistrates’ Court on Monday and is scheduled to appear at the Old Bailey.

The shooting occurred just before 9:15 pm when a car pulled up outside the church and opened fire on a group of mourners. Two men in their 30s were also injured in the attack.

Police have also arrested five other men in connection with the murder, ranging in age from 18 to 33, at addresses in Brent and Hounslow. They remain in custody.

Ms. Sadio was attending the ceremony to commemorate the life of 80-year-old Dinah Boateng, the mother of a school friend. Ms. Boateng had passed away on December 5. Ms. Sadio had stepped outside the church when she was shot.

Detective Chief Inspector Phil Clarke, who is leading the investigation, called the shooting a “senseless act of violence that resulted in an innocent woman being killed.” He added that the police are determined to bring those responsible to justice. Friends described Ms. Sadio as a “brilliant” person and mother who was a “light in the lives” of her loved ones. Ms. Sadio’s family has been informed of the charges and is being supported by specialist officers.

A French woman was scammed out of €830,000 (£697,000) by someone impersonating Brad Pitt using AI-generated images and videos. The 53-year-old interior designer, named Anne, believed she was in a relationship with the actor and sent the money for what she thought was his kidney cancer treatment.

The scam began in February 2023 after Anne shared photos of her ski trip on Instagram. She received messages from accounts posing as Pitt’s mother and then Pitt himself. Anne, who was experiencing a difficult period with her millionaire husband, developed a friendship with the fake Pitt, receiving poems and affirmations. Despite initial suspicions, the daily messages and AI-generated media convinced her the relationship was genuine.

The scam escalated when the fake Pitt proposed and promised gifts, requesting payment for customs fees. He then claimed to need money for urgent kidney cancer treatment, citing his divorce from Angelina Jolie as a reason for his inability to access funds. The scammer sent AI-generated photos of “Pitt” in a hospital bed. Throughout their communication via text and photos, the scammer avoided phone calls, a common tactic in online scams.

Anne disclosed her impending divorce and large settlement to the scammer, which prompted the increased financial requests. She eventually became suspicious after seeing photos of the real Brad Pitt with his new girlfriend, Ines de Ramon. By this point, she had sent nearly €1 million.

Anne filed a complaint in the summer of 2024, triggering a police investigation. It is unclear if she has recovered any of the money. She is currently hospitalized with severe depression.

The case has drawn attention to the dangers of online romance scams and the sophistication of AI-generated content. Social media users have expressed sympathy for Anne while also questioning how she could have been deceived. Some have highlighted the vulnerability of older people to such scams, particularly those experiencing loneliness or difficult life events.

So, you’re up again. It’s 3 AM. The siren call of the bathroom echoes through the house. You stumble in the dark, stub your toe (again), and wonder, “Is this normal? Am I turning into a human water balloon?” Fear not, fellow nocturnal travelers, because science (and some very understanding doctors) has the answers!

According to medical experts (aka the people who know way more about bladders than we do), needing to pee once a night is perfectly acceptable if you’re under 60. That’s right, one little midnight tinkle is considered par for the course. It’s called nocturia, which sounds like a fancy spell from Harry Potter, but it just means “needing to wee at night.”

Now, if you’re making more trips than a package delivery driver during the holiday season, that might be a sign of something else. We’re talking UTIs (ouch!), diabetes (double ouch!), high blood pressure, prostate cancer (triple ouch!), or even heart disease (we’re running out of ouchs!).

But don’t panic just yet! The “normal” threshold changes with age. If you’re over 70, two nightly bathroom breaks are considered pretty standard. And if you’re in your 90s? Well, four trips might be your new normal. Apparently, as we get older, our bodies decide to hold onto water like a leaky sieve. Thanks, aging!

Why does this happen? It’s all thanks to a hormone called antidiuretic hormone (ADH). This little guy is in charge of keeping us hydrated, but as we age, our bodies produce less of it. So, we end up needing to empty the tanks more often.

But here’s the thing: if your frequent bathroom trips are accompanied by other symptoms like excessive thirst, unexplained weight loss, or blurry vision, it’s time to see a doctor. These could be signs of diabetes. And if you’re experiencing chest pains, swollen ankles, and excessive sweating along with your nightly bathroom adventures, it could indicate a heart condition. Basically, if you feel like you’re auditioning for a medical drama, it’s time to call the professionals.

So, what can you do if you’re tired of playing hopscotch to the bathroom in the middle of the night? Well, you can try cutting back on caffeine, fizzy drinks, and alcohol, especially in the evening. You can also avoid drinking large amounts of fluids before bed and maybe lay off the late-night protein feasts. The NHS even suggests having your last glass of water at 8 PM instead of 10 PM. Because apparently, timing is everything when it comes to bladder control.

And finally, make sure you’re getting good sleep. Because sometimes, those nighttime bathroom trips are just your body’s way of saying, “Hey, you’re awake anyway, might as well!”

But seriously, if you’re concerned about your nighttime bathroom habits, talk to your GP. They’re the experts, and they can help you figure out if your bladder is just being dramatic or if there’s something else going on. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I hear the siren call of the bathroom…