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Steve Irwin’s daughter, Bindi, rushed to hospital with emergency medical condition – Page Six Steve Irwin’s daughter, Bindi, rushed to hospital with emergency medical condition – Page Six Steve Irwin’s daughter, Bindi, rushed to hospital with emergency medical condition Page SixBindi Irwin Misses Steve Irwin Gala Due to Unexpected Medical Emergency People.comBindi Irwin hospitalized for emergency surgery, misses annual Steve Irwin gala New York PostBindi Irwin Forced to Miss Steve Irwin Gala After ‘Emergency’ Surgery parade.comBindi Irwin undergoes emergency surgery after showing signs of ‘discomfort’ and ‘pain’ Fox News Source link #Steve #Irwins #daughter #Bindi #rushed #hospital #emergency #medical #condition #Page Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Thunderstorm and flood warning for England and Wales Thunderstorm and flood warning for England and Wales A yellow weather warning has been issued for thunderstorms, which could lead to flooding in parts of England and Wales. The warning covers areas including Wales, the Midlands, west of England, London and the South East from 12:00 BST to 22:00 on Monday, the Met Office said. Up to 50mm of rain could fall within a few hours, with a possibility of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services. England has had its driest start to spring for 69 years, the Environment Agency said earlier this month. Showers are forecast to drift in from the south in the early hours of Monday, the Met Office said. Temperatures across the board are due to remain mild in the high teens or early 20s. The Met Office said there was the “potential for minor localised issues” and flash flooding. Sunshine and settled conditions will return across the *** for the rest of the week, with temperatures forecast to reach 23C in some parts. Last week, the Environment Agency warned that water companies that more must be done to safeguard water supplies. Many places have gone without any rain for weeks, including Preston in Lancashire and parts of Fife which have been dry since mid-April. According to the *** Centre for Ecology and Hydrology’s three month Drought Index, large parts of the *** are in the ‘extremely dry’ category. Source link #Thunderstorm #flood #warning #England #Wales Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

What is a HEPA filter, and what is it used for? What is a HEPA filter, and what is it used for? If you’re shopping for a new air purifier or vacuum cleaner, you’ll likely come across the term ‘HEPA filter’. HEPA stands for ‘high efficiency particulate air’ [filter], and it’s a standard for filter effectiveness. To be called a HEPA filter, a filter must meet stringent standards in terms of what it can capture from the air that passes through it. This type of pleated, mechanical filter can be effective against a wide variety of airborne pollutants, including dust and dirt, pollen, and even viruses. In this guide we’ll look at exactly what a HEPA filter is, what it can and can’t do, and the function it performs in household appliances like vacuum cleaners and portable air purifiers. You may like What defines a HEPA filter? To carry the HEPA name, a filter should meet certain standards as to what it can capture from the air that passes through it. The requirements vary slightly depending on where you live. The ISO standard used in Europe requires the filter to be able to capture 99.95% of particles with a diameter equal to 0.3 microns, while the ASME and US DOE standards require it to be able to capture 99.97% of particles of the same size. The filtration efficiency will increase for particles with a diameter more or less than 0.3 microns. The ISO standard requires the filter to be able to capture 99.95% of particles with a diameter equal to 0.3 microns. This is the standard used in Europe. The ASME and US DOE standards require it to be able to capture 99.97% of particles of the same size. These are the standards used in the US. The term HEPA has become so common that it’s sometimes used as a generic way to describe an efficient filter. To be sure of what you’re getting, look for terms like ‘true HEPA’, and avoid ‘HEPA-style’ or ‘HEPA-like’ filters. Either it’s a HEPA filter or it isn’t; there’s nothing in between. You can also get H13 HEPA and H14 HEPA filters. These are specialized medical-grade HEPA filters that are designed to be able to capture even smaller particles. A H13 filter can capture 99.95% of particles as small as 0.2 microns, and a H14 filter can capture 99.995% of those particles. A filter must meet specific standards to be called a HEPA filter (Image credit: Future) What does a HEPA filter look like? A HEPA filter is made up of tightly woven microscopic fibers, often made from glass or plastic. It’s generally pleated, to increase the surface area. As air is pushed though the filter, the fibers trap all but the very smallest particles. There is some maintenance required to ensure that the filter keeps working as it’s meant to. Some (but by no means all) HEPA filters are washable, in which case follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. Generally, HEPA filters will need replacing completely every 6 to 12 months, depending on how they’re being used. That represents an ongoing cost, and because HEPA filters aren’t biodegradable, there’s an environmental impact too. What can a HEPA filter capture? A HEPA filter can capture a wide range of airborne pollutants, including dirt and dust, **** dander, pollen, mold, and liquid aerosol. However, the particles need to be big enough to be trapped – some very tiny fragments of pollen or **** dander might make their way through the filter, for instance. They can also be effective against viruses, within reason. There are limits to what a HEPA filter can do, though. It might be obvious, but the particles need to be pushed through the filter in order to be captured. If the filter isn’t airtight (an aspect that’s not included in HEPA testing), particles may leak through around the sides. And a HEPA filter won’t do anything for particles stuck to surfaces in your home, either. HEPA filters can’t capture all airborne pollutants. Air purifier brand Molekule explains that they’re limited in their effectiveness against VOCs (airborne chemicals that often come from off-gassing from building materials, common household products, and furnishings) because they “tend to bounce off the fiber media” in a filter. They can also struggle to capture ozone, which doesn’t stick to HEPA fibers. Your air purifier might still be effective against these types of particles, though, using other filtration methods. What does a HEPA filter do in an air purifier? Most of today’s best air purifiers will include a HEPA filter. A purifier’s main function is to remove harmful particles and improve air quality, and a HEPA filter will play a key role in that. Sometimes it’ll be combined with other types of filter to enable it to tackle a wider range of pollutants – for example, there might also be a carbon filter to absorb gases and odors. Here’s more on how air purifiers work and what air purifiers can capture. We’re talking about portable air purifiers here. It’s rare for a HEPA filter to be used as part of a general HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) system. That’s because it will restrict the airflow to a significant degree, meaning you’d need far more powerful fans to keep the air moving through the system. Many portable air purifiers will use a HEPA filter (Image credit: Future) What does a HEPA filter do in a vacuum cleaner? Some of today’s best vacuum cleaners have a HEPA filter. It tends to be the final element the airflow passes through before making its way out through the vents. Most dust and debris will go straight into the dust cup, or get caught by a pre-filter that sits in front of the motor to stop that from getting clogged. The HEPA filter would follow, to capture the tiniest particles that have made it through, and prevent them being released back into the air. In order to be effective, however, the system needs to be sealed. If it’s not airtight, the particles will leak out of any gaps that exist before the airflow reaches the exhaust port. Consider too that even if a vacuum is sealed when new, gaps can appear over time (as this Wirecutter writer found when he tested his with a smoke machine). Sign up for breaking news, reviews, opinion, top tech deals, and more. In vacuums, a HEPA filter will usually be positioned before the exhaust port (Image credit: Future) It’s also worth being aware that it’s not just the exhaust air being emitted from your vacuum that you need to consider. This 2008 study found that the action of pushing a vacuum cleaner (with or without a HEPA filter) across a carpet is enough to kick a significant volume of particles up into the air – that’s true even if it’s switched off, but especially if it’s switched on. So if you suffer from allergies, it’s best to stay out of the way while vacuuming is happening, where possible. Just because a vacuum has a HEPA filter that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a good vacuum, either. A less efficient filter will be plenty effective enough for many people, especially when used in an air-sealed system. What is a MERV rating? Another related term you might come across when looking at appliances with filters is a MERV rating. MERV stands for ‘Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values’, and it’s a measure of a filter’s efficiency at capturing larger particles between 0.3 and 10 microns. The higher the MERV rating, the better the filter is at trapping specific types of particles. So a MERV 1-4 filter can trap around 20% of particles between 3 and 10 microns in size, while a MERV 13-16 filter can be effective against particles as small as 0.3 microns. The scale goes up to MERV 20, and a filter that’s MERV 17 or above is considered a true HEPA filter. The main difference between a higher-rated MERV filter and a HEPA filter is that the latter is better at capturing tiny particles. Both will be effective against larger airborne particles. Source link #HEPA #filter Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Call for Russians to withdraw before any peace talks Call for Russians to withdraw before any peace talks After fending off attacks during a three-day weekend ceasefire declared by Russia, some Ukrainian soldiers fighting near the front line had advice for their president, Volodymyr Zelenskiy: don’t talk to Moscow until Russian troops withdraw. Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed direct talks with Ukraine just over an hour after his ceasefire ended, something Zelenskiy said was possible, but only after Moscow agreed to an unconditional 30-day ceasefire from Monday. The commander of a drone unit in Ukraine’s national guard told Reuters any talks could only start with a full Russian withdrawal to Ukraine’s borders when the country won independence in 1991. “As a soldier and a citizen of Ukraine, I believe that before we sit down at the negotiation table, we should go back to the borders of 1991,” the commander known as Chepa said in a bunker near the front line. “That’s it. Full withdrawal of all troops from the territory of Ukraine. Then when we can talk. Whatever he (Putin) is thinking of, take certain regions or divide territories, nobody has given him the right to do it.” Chepa’s views were echoed by others in the unit. Russia occupies nearly a fifth of Ukrainian territory and has repeatedly said Kyiv must recognise the “reality on the ground”. Zelenskiy has acknowledged that at least some of Ukraine’s occupied territory will have to be retaken through diplomacy. But Kyiv cannot legally recognise Russian control over any Ukrainian territory because of the constitution. Zelenskiy has said any discussion about territory can only take place after a ceasefire is in place. Putin used a late-night press conference to make his proposal for talks, which he said should be based on a draft deal negotiated in 2022, under which Ukraine would agree to permanent neutrality. That would contradict Ukraine’s constitution, amended in 2019 to include the goal of fully-fledged membership of NATO. Zelenskiy received a show of support from European powers on Saturday, when the leaders of Britain, France, Germany and Poland backed an unconditional ceasefire beginning on Monday. Chepa said he also wanted negotiations but feared they would never come about. “Yes, we do need negotiations. But he (Putin) is scared of talks,” Chepa said, adding his brigade had seen no evidence of a ceasefire over the weekend. “We have not seen any ceasefire, there were continuous attacks by howitzers, rocket launchers, they used it all. We have not experienced any ceasefire.” The Russian movements continued into Sunday, after the Russian-declared ceasefire ran out when the reconnaissance drones flew over a nearby village. “There is a lot of movement there of military as well as civilian vehicles,” Chepa said. Source link #Call #Russians #withdraw #peace #talks Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Dune Awakening: PAX East 2025 Video Dune Awakening: PAX East 2025 Video Sacey at Skewed and Reviewed shared her booth video from the floor of PAX East for the new Dune Awakening game. Source link #Dune #Awakening #PAX #East #Video Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Prospects of Saudi ties to Israel elusive as Trump seeks $1 trillion bonanza Prospects of Saudi ties to Israel elusive as Trump seeks $1 trillion bonanza By Samia Nakhoul, Humeyra Pamuk and Alexander Cornwell WASHINGTON/DUBAI (Reuters) – When U.S. President Donald Trump lands in Riyadh on Tuesday, he will be greeted with opulent ceremonies, gilded palaces and the prospect of $1 trillion in investments. But, the raging war in Gaza has denied him one goal he has long craved: Saudi-Israel normalisation. Behind the scenes, U.S. officials are quietly pressing Israel to agree to an immediate ceasefire in Gaza – one of Saudi Arabia’s preconditions for any re-start of normalization talks, said two Gulf sources close to official circles and a U.S. official. Trump’s Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff told an audience at the Israeli embassy in Washington this week that he imminently expected progress on expanding the Abraham Accords, a set of deals brokered by Trump in his first term under which Arab states including the UAE, Bahrain, Sudan and Morocco recognised Israel. “We think we will have some or a lot of announcements very, very shortly, which we hope will yield progress by next year,” Witkoff said in a video of his speech. He is expected to accompany Trump on his visit to the Middle East. However, opposition by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to a permanent stop to the war or to the creation of a ************ state make progress on similar talks with Riyadh unlikely, two of the sources said. Saudi Arabia does not recognize Israel as legitimate, meaning the Middle East’s two most advanced economies and military powers do not have formal diplomatic ties. Supporters of normalising relations say it would bring stability and prosperity to the region, while countering Iran’s influence. Establishing ties has become especially toxic for Saudi Arabia, the birthplace of Islam, since the start of Israel’s war in Gaza. As such, the issue, central to bilateral talks in Trump’s first term, has effectively been delinked from economic and other security matters between Washington and the kingdom, according to six other sources Reuters spoke with for this story, including two Saudi and two U.S. officials. The people all asked to remain anonymous to speak about sensitive diplomatic conversations. Saudi Arabia’s de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, needs the Gaza war to end and a credible path to a ************ state “before he re-engages with the issue of normalization,” said Dennis Ross, a former U.S. negotiator. In the meantime, Washington and Riyadh will focus Trump’s trip largely on the economic partnership and other regional matters, according to the six sources. Lucrative investments such as major deals in arms, mega-projects and artificial intelligence are in play, officials from both sides stressed. The approach was cemented in diplomatic talks between Saudi and U.S. officials ahead of the trip, the first formal state visit of Trump’s second term, they said. Trump’s stated aim is to secure a trillion-dollar investment in U.S. companies, building on an initial commitment of $600 billion pledged by the crown prince. The wealthy kingdom, the world’s top oil exporter, knows the ritual well: dazzle the guest, secure the favor. The goal, the sources told Reuters, is to evade diplomatic landmines and perhaps, one said, to win concessions from Trump on the Gaza war and its aftermath. “The Trump administration wants this trip to be a big deal. That means lots of splashy deal announcements and collaborations that can be sold as being good for America,” said Robert Mogielnicki, senior resident scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute, a think tank in Washington. “Normalizing ties with Israel is a much heavier lift than rolling out the red carpet for President Trump and announcing investment deals,” he said. A State Department spokesperson declined to comment on any understanding reached ahead of the trip, saying Trump “will look to strengthen ties between the United States and our Arab Gulf partners during the visits.” The Saudi government communications office did not reply to a request for comment. COURTING THE KINGDOM Before ****** launched its Oct.7 attacks on Israel – killing 1,200 people and sparking the devastating Israeli offensive into Gaza – the crown prince was finalising a landmark diplomatic agreement: a U.S. defense pact in exchange for Riyadh recognising Israel. But the scale of Israel’s campaign, killing 52,000 people and displacing 1.9 million in Gaza, forced a pause in the talks. Bin Salman accused Israel of genocide. Frustrated by the impact of Gaza’s prolonged crisis on normalization efforts, Trump could use his visit to unveil a U.S. framework to end the 18-month war, the two Gulf sources said. The plan could create a transitional government and new security arrangements for post-war Gaza – potentially reshaping regional diplomacy and opening the door to future normalization talks, they said. Underscoring the high-stakes diplomacy underway, Trump met privately with Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer on Thursday to discuss the war and nuclear talks with Iran, Axios reported. The U.S. State Department did not immediately respond to questions about Trump’s discussions on Gaza. Trump conspicuously has not announced a visit to Israel as part of his tour of the region. Two diplomats noted the U.S. president has recently refrained from talking about his “Gaza Riviera” plan that enraged the Arab world with the suggestion of resettling the entire Gazan population and U.S. ownership of the strip. In the build up to the trip, Washington has taken a number of actions that are positive for Saudi Arabia. An agreement to stop U.S. bombing of the Houthis in Yemen is in line with a Saudi ceasefire there. Washington has also delinked civil nuclear talks from the normalisation question. The stalled Saudi-U.S. defense pact, initially conceived as a formal treaty, was revived in the scaled back form of security guarantees late in the Biden presidency to bypass congressional opposition. The Trump administration has now picked up those talks, along with the discussions about a civilian nuclear agreement, three of the sources said, while cautioning that it will take time to define terms. CHINA INFLUENCE Trump’s Saudi trip is his first formal state visit and second foreign trip since his re-election, after attending the pope’s ******** in Rome. He will also visit Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. Beneath the showmanship of Trump’s visits, diplomats say, lie also a calculated U.S. effort to reassert influence and reshape economic alignments in a region where Beijing – Washington’s chief economic rival – has steadily expanded its foothold at the heart of the petrodollar system. Trump’s first trip abroad in his first term also began in Riyadh, where he unveiled $350 billion in Saudi investments. Trump commands deep trust from the Saudi leadership, rooted in the close ties during his first term – a ******* defined by large arms deals and steadfast U.S. backing for Bin Salman, even as global outrage erupted over the killing of columnist Jamal Khashoggi by Saudi agents in Istanbul. Saudi Arabia and its Gulf allies now plan to urge Trump to ease U.S. regulations that have increasingly deterred foreign investment, particularly in sectors deemed part of America’s “critical national infrastructure,” five industry sources said. In meetings with U.S. officials, Saudi ministers will advocate for a more business-friendly climate, especially at a time when China is aggressively courting Gulf capital, the industry sources said. While countering China’s economic rise may top Trump’s foreign policy agenda, it won’t be easy in Saudi Arabia. Since the launch of Vision 2030, China has become integral to the kingdom’s plans, dominating sectors from energy and infrastructure to renewables. (Reporting by Samia Nakhoul and Humeyra Pamuk in Washington; additional reporting by Alexander Cornwell in Tel Aviv and Pesha Majed in Riyadh; Writing by Samia Nakhoul; Editing by Frank Jack Daniel) Source link #Prospects #Saudi #ties #Israel #elusive #Trump #seeks #trillion #bonanza Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

*** Battles Wildfires Amid Drought Warnings *** Battles Wildfires Amid Drought Warnings Wildfires erupted across Britain over the past week amid the driest start to spring in nearly 70 years. Fires burned through forested areas in Scotland, Wales and England, coinciding with declining river levels and warnings of drought. In Scotland, a large forest fire near the village of Fauldhouse, west of Edinburgh, broke out late Saturday morning and was still burning on Sunday. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service deployed around 50 firefighters, supported by a helicopter dropping water over the woodland area. Mainland Scotland remains under an “extreme” wildfire risk warning through Monday, with officials urging the public to take precautions. Residents in nearby areas were advised by the police to keep windows and doors closed as emergency crews worked to contain the blaze. “Human behavior can significantly lower the chance of a wildfire starting, so it is crucial that people act safely and responsibly in rural environments,” officials said. In southwest Wales, a wildfire broke out on Friday evening on the Welsh Government Woodland Estate near Maerdy. Though it was brought under control, the blaze reignited in several places on Saturday morning before being extinguished on Sunday. Last week in England a major wildfire in Dartmoor, Devon, raged across more than 1,200 acres of land before being put out. Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said at the peak of the blazes, crews from 13 fire stations were deployed to the area, as well as wildlife support officers and a police helicopter. Britain is in a record-breaking year for wildfires. According to data from the Global Wildfire Information System, which tracks fires larger than about 30 hectares, more land in Britain had burned by the end of April than in any full year over the past decade. The risk has been amplified by unusually dry conditions. England has seen its driest start to spring since 1956. The Met Office, Britain’s weather service, reported that April received only 56 percent of its average rainfall, while March saw just 43 percent. In its April report, the European Union’s Copernicus climate service upgraded Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to drought warning status, following an earlier drought watch. In Ireland, a ban on using water for nonessential outdoor activities, like in gardens, was introduced last Tuesday for six weeks. The restrictions were introduced after prolonged dry weather led to sharp drops in reservoir levels. While no such bans have been put in place in Britain, England’s Environment Agency has warned of a medium risk of drought this summer if there is not consistent rainfall. Scotland is already seeing the signs of strain. The Scottish Environment Protection Agency reported falling water levels in rivers across the country, from Dumfries and Galloway in the southwest to Thurso and ****** Isle in the far north. Parts of eastern Scotland have gone nearly three weeks without significant rain. Some rain is expected to reach parts of western Scotland by Monday, but largely dry and sunny weather is forecast for the coming days, offering little relief to firefighters battling the blaze in Fauldhouse, in West Lothian. Source link #Battles #Wildfires #Drought #Warnings Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Who Are the Japanese? Shocking DNA Study Reveals the Truth – SciTechDaily Who Are the Japanese? Shocking DNA Study Reveals the Truth – SciTechDaily Who Are the Japanese? Shocking DNA Study Reveals the Truth SciTechDaily Source link #Japanese #Shocking #DNA #Study #Reveals #Truth #SciTechDaily Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Bafta TV Awards red carpet pictures Bafta TV Awards red carpet pictures Steven McIntosh Entertainment reporter Getty Images TV duo Ant & Dec, who are nominated for their last series of Saturday Night Takeaway TV stars doused themselves in suncream on Sunday, as they walked the red carpet ahead of the Bafta TV Awards. The ceremony, one of the most prestigious events in the entertainment calendar, is taking place at the sun-drenched Royal Festival Hall in London. Baby Reindeer and Mr Bates vs the Post Office are among the nominees at the ceremony, which recognises the best television of 2024. The show is recorded ahead of time and broadcast on BBC One at 19:00 BST. Here’s a selection of the stars who were walking the red carpet. Getty Images Scoop star Billie Piper played the journalist who organised Newsnight’s Prince Andrew interview Getty Images Rivals and EastEnders star Danny Dyer Getty Images Radio 1 presenter Jamie Laing, with his wife and fellow Made In Chelsea star Sophie Habboo Getty Images Toby Jones, who played the titular Alan Bates in Mr Bates vs the Post Office Getty Images Rivals and Doctor Who star David Tennant, pictured with wife Georgia Moffett PA Media JLS singer and former Strictly Come Dancing contestant JB Gill Getty Images Singer Jessie J, who is performing during the ceremony Getty Images Mr Bates vs the Post Office star Monica Dolan Getty Images Lolly Adefope, star of Ghosts and The Franchise Getty Images Emily Atack and Alex Hassell’s “naked tennis” scene in Rivals is nominated for the memorable moment award Getty Images Radio and TV presenter Clara Amfo Getty Images Alan ********, who presents The Traitors US, is the host of this year’s ceremony Getty Images Baroness Floella Benjamin, who received the Bafta Fellowship at last year’s ceremony PA Media Love Island star and I’m A Celebrity contestant Maura Higgins Getty Images TikTok personality Max Balegde Getty Images Ted Lasso star and Celebrity Race Across The World contestant Kola Bokinni, pictured with his sister, radio presenter Yinka Bokinni Getty Images Actor and comedian Mawaan Rizwan Getty Images L-R: Ruth Davidson, Beth Rigby and Harriet Harman, who jointly host political podcast Electoral Dysfunction PA Media Lenny Rush, star of comedy drama series Am I Being Unreasonable? Getty Images Poirot star Sir David Suchet, who is presenting an award during the ceremony Getty Images Hollyoaks star and Loose women panelist Kéllé Bryan Getty Images Jonathan Pryce appears in Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light, the adaptation of Hilary Mantel’s novel Source link #Bafta #Awards #red #carpet #pictures Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Hospital trials virtual reality breaks for patients Hospital trials virtual reality breaks for patients Patients will be able to leave the hospital virtually in a new trial [Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust] Patients who spend a long time in hospital will be able to virtually visit some well-known Gloucestershire landmarks thanks to a new trial aiming to improve wellbeing. The project has been launched to allow some patients to “visit” places like Gloucester Cathedral, Puzzlewood or Symonds Yat through immersive 360 video headsets. Currently, the trial is available to patients in oncology and the department of critical care across both Gloucestershire Hospitals. “We look forward to partnering with more locations including Gloucester Cathedral and Gloucester Rugby, to enhance this offering further in the coming months,” a Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust spokesperson said. Some patients struggle with long periods in hospital and its thought that having a break through virtual reality will help, reports the Local Democracy Reporting Service. “We have already curated a collection of stunning local hotspots and we are collaborating with businesses and organisations across the county to expand our library of content,” a trust spokesperson said. “So far, we have had the privilege of working with Puzzlewood, Dean Forest Railway and Bristol Zoo Project to capture some breathtaking footage.” Gloucester and Cheltenham hospital staff said they are excited to see the impact this initiative will have on patients’ well-being. Patient consent is required to use the headsets. Follow BBC Gloucestershire on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630. More on this storyRelated Internet Links Source link #Hospital #trials #virtual #reality #breaks #patients Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Sandisk teases ‘dynamite’ new SSD controller dubbed Stargate Sandisk teases ‘dynamite’ new SSD controller dubbed Stargate Sandisk’s CEO, David Goeckeler, has been boasting about a formidable new SSD controller dubbed Stargate. Combining Stargate with the latest BiCS8 Quad Level Cell (QLC) NAND, the company has a “dynamite project” in its hands, teased Goeckeler. ComputerBase reports (machine translation) that this should mean some massive capacity SSDs are on the way, scaling up to 512TB drives in 2027. We don’t have much in the way of technical details about the Stargate controller at this time, but we can read between the lines of the CEO’s statement, and ponder over previous announcements and roadmaps. “We have a new architecture coming out in the next couple of quarters that we call Stargate, new ASIC, clean sheet design and then, with BiCS 8 QLC … we just think that’s going to be a dynamite project,” ComputerBase attributes this statement to Goeckeler, taken from a recent investor Q&A session. Based on the above, it may well be that Sandisk is going to leverage the Stargate controller and BiCS8 NAND in 128TB SSDs in the new DC SN670 data center drives, starting from Q3 this year. Moreover, roadmaps indicate that Sandisk aims to market 256TB drives the next year, and double up again with 512TB drives in 2027. The DC SN670 enterprise series SSDs were previously flagged as PCIe 5.0, but there is also the possibility that Stargate will be a technology that renews the series with up to a PCIe 6.0 interface. Image 1 of 2 (Image credit: Sandisk) (Image credit: Sandisk) For these expansive data center drives with new BiCS8 QLC NAND, with capacities of 2Tb (256TB) per IC, it is expected that the new controller will be scalable to 64 dies per channel. As ComputerBase notes, that will likely mean 32 channels would be required on the 512TB drive (coming 2027). Meanwhile, current client SSDs typically only offer up to eight channels. With Computex around the corner, we hope that Sandisk can bring us up to date with what look to be rapidly developing plans for its capacious new SSDs. It would also be great to see larger capacity consumer SSD drives gain momentum via new levels of performance and affordability. Follow Tom’s Hardware on Google News to get our up-to-date news, analysis, and reviews in your feeds. Make sure to click the Follow button. Get Tom’s Hardware’s best news and in-depth reviews, straight to your inbox. Source link #Sandisk #teases #dynamite #SSD #controller #dubbed #Stargate Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

‘Thunderbolts’ Stays No. 1 With $33 Million, ‘A Minecraft Movie’ Crosses $400 Million at Domestic Box Office – Variety ‘Thunderbolts’ Stays No. 1 With $33 Million, ‘A Minecraft Movie’ Crosses $400 Million at Domestic Box Office – Variety ‘Thunderbolts’ Stays No. 1 With $33 Million, ‘A Minecraft Movie’ Crosses $400 Million at Domestic Box Office Variety‘Thunderbolts*’ still shaking up the box office New York Post’Thunderbolts*’ is an unwieldy jumble, and also the best Marvel film in a while NPR“Thunderbolts*”: An entertaining guide to dealing with guilt Denison Forum‘Thunderbolts*’ Striking $35M 2nd Weekend; ‘Sinners’ Strong $20M For 4th Frame – Box Office Update Deadline Source link #Thunderbolts #Stays #Million #Minecraft #Movie #Crosses #Million #Domestic #Box #Office #Variety Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

‘They’re showing up all over’ ‘They’re showing up all over’ Populations of Britain’s largest endangered fish species are beginning to rebound after sea anglers spearheaded conservation efforts in the area. The flapper skate, or common skate, is a member of the shark family once found off coastlines around the world, but now they’re usually only seen in the Celtic Sea and off the coast of North-West Scotland, according to the Guardian. It’s a prize catch for the anglers, since they can weigh up to 214 pounds and measure over nine feet long, but these recreational fishers are simply snapping a photo and returning them to the water. Hundreds of sea anglers campaigned for a legally mandated marine protected area specifically to protect the fish, the report detailed. Now, their photos are being uploaded to a conservation database powered by artificial intelligence, which helps track the individual fish. “The MPA and the conservation has definitely increased their numbers,” said Ronnie Campbell, a charter-boat skipper who started his own voluntary no-kill policy for skate years before the European Union banned their capture. Marine conservationists and sea anglers told the Guardian they believe the population’s rebound after years of overfishing is a direct result of the MPA and related efforts in the area. Watch now: Giant snails invading New York City? The online database, known as Skatespotter, is run by the Scottish Association for Marine Science and currently has up to 300 anglers submitting their trophy photographs, while some have been trained to scan identification tags implanted on many of the fish. The use of AI has greatly helped researchers cut the backlog of images and now holds records of almost 2,500 individual flapper skates, with 5,000 total images, according to the report. “We had a backlog of about 250 photographs in Skatespotter that we hadn’t matched, and once we got the AI working, we managed to clear that in two weeks,” said Dr. Jane Dodd, who’s involved in the project. Although AI has several environmental downsides, its application in these conservation efforts is clearly beneficial. Preserving the planet’s biodiversity helps to maintain a healthy and balanced ecosystem, and with the protection of conservationists, the flapper skate could potentially return to more shores around the world. A recent study by Dodd and project partner Dr. Steven Benjamins found that in zones across the MPA, catch data has increased by 54% to 92%. “They’re showing up all over, mostly in Scotland, but I think they’re also starting to move down south,” Campbell told the Guardian. “You can’t be wrong returning fish alive; that can never be wrong.” Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don’t miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Source link #Theyre #showing Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Why Dark Souls 2 Deserves a Second Chance in 2025 Why Dark Souls 2 Deserves a Second Chance in 2025 CrimsonWing69440d ago The problem with Dark Souls 2 was the same problem when a different director takes over for a sequel to an outstanding movie. It typically (there are exceptions) doesn’t have the feel and vision of the previous movie. I wouldn’t say Dark Souls 2 is terrible. Had Dark Souls 1 never been a thing and we got this, I think it would have been praised more. The problem is it didn’t have the Miyazaki touch to it and felt pretty derivative. The soundtrack is a banger though. Source link #Dark #Souls #Deserves #Chance Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Quakers march 300 miles to protest Trump’s immigration crackdown – The Guardian Quakers march 300 miles to protest Trump’s immigration crackdown – The Guardian Quakers march 300 miles to protest Trump’s immigration crackdown The GuardianWho are Quakers? Faith group marching 300 miles against Trump’s immigration crackdown Times of IndiaQuakers march against Trump’s crackdown on immigrants, carrying on a long tradition Los Angeles TimesNew York City to Washington, D.C huge protest march against Donald Trump. Here are what organizers are demanding MSNQuakers-New York-to-Washington March AppleValleyNewsNow.com Source link #Quakers #march #miles #protest #Trumps #immigration #crackdown #Guardian Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Creature Keeper Review – Game Rant Creature Keeper Review – Game Rant Creature Keeper is a decent excursion for old-school RPG fans, but players seeking a more robust gaming experience may be left disappointed. Source link #Creature #Keeper #Review #Game #Rant Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

US Commerce Secretary Lutnick says China talks aimed at lowering trade tensions US Commerce Secretary Lutnick says China talks aimed at lowering trade tensions WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Sunday said bilateral talks with China now underway in Geneva are intended to “de-escalate” tensions between the two superpowers, as he predicted multiple trade deals over the next few months without naming specific countries. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent “has made it clear one of his objectives is to de-escalate. You know, 145% and 125% are really – those are kind of tariffs where you are not trading with each other. So he’s there to see if we can reset the conversation,” Lutnick said in an interview on “Fox News With Shannon Bream.” Lutnick was responding to a question about Trump administration expectations for the talks. He was referring to China’s 125% retaliatory tariffs and 145% U.S. tariffs imposed as part of U.S. President Donald Trump’s drive to use trade policy to ignite more manufacturing in the United States. “For the next three months this policy is going to see trade deal after trade deal,” Lutnick said, mirroring remarks Trump has made repeatedly in defending his tariffs. He did not name which countries the United States would cement deals with during that time *******. Last week, Trump and *** Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a limited bilateral trade deal. Meanwhile, Lutnick dismissed reports of dock workers and truckers losing their jobs as a result of the tariffs. “This is just a China problem right now,” Lutnick said. “The rest of the world is 10% (tariffs). So don’t overdo it,” Lutnick said. “Prices are going to stay stable once this policy is done,” Lutnick added. (Reporting by Richard Cowan; Editing by Frank McGurty and Bill Berkrot) Source link #Commerce #Secretary #Lutnick #China #talks #aimed #lowering #trade #tensions Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Puts the Ball Back in Final Fantasy’s Court Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Puts the Ball Back in Final Fantasy’s Court Shaz from Pixel Swish: “For all its inspirations and nods to gaming’s past greats, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 never feels derivative. Instead, it stands on its own as a product that feels thoroughly unique, and is a triumphant achievement for Sandfall Interactive.” Source link #Clair #Obscur #Expedition #Puts #Ball #Final #Fantasys #Court Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Derek Carr’s wife reveals how ex-Saints QB spent first day of NFL retirement in new video – New York Post Derek Carr’s wife reveals how ex-Saints QB spent first day of NFL retirement in new video – New York Post Derek Carr’s wife reveals how ex-Saints QB spent first day of NFL retirement in new video New York PostSaints QB Derek Carr retiring from NFL after 11 seasons due to shoulder injury NFL.comCould New Orleans Saints lure Arch Manning to NFL Draft after only one starting season? CBS SportsSolak: Can the Saints’ offense find success with Tyler Shough starting as a rookie? ESPNDerek Carr gives up $30 million to retire NBC Sports Source link #Derek #Carrs #wife #reveals #exSaints #spent #day #NFL #retirement #video #York #Post Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

15 Years Ago, Skate 3 Marked the End of an Era 15 Years Ago, Skate 3 Marked the End of an Era Jenkemmag – We talked to Cuz Perry and Deran Chung, who were both a part of the original team that worked on Skate 3 and tried to squeeze as much info out of them as we could regarding the new title. They were a bit tight-lipped, but at the very least, you can read on and hear some good news from some people who are actually trustworthy on the matter. Source link #Years #Skate #Marked #Era Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

FAA weighs reducing Newark flights after hundreds of disruptions FAA weighs reducing Newark flights after hundreds of disruptions The FAA Air Traffic Control tower at Newark Liberty International Airport in Newark, New Jersey on May 7, 2025. Kena Betancur | AFP | Getty Images U.S. airlines will meet with the Federal Aviation Administration this week to discuss cutting flights at Newark Liberty International Airport after a series of equipment failures and air traffic controller shortages sparked hundreds of flight disruptions and drew more support to modernize aging U.S. aviation infrastructure. “What you see in Newark is going to happen in other places across the country,” Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said on NBC’s “Meet the Press” Sunday. “It has to be fixed.” Air traffic controllers tasked with guiding planes in and out of the New Jersey airport late last month lost the ability to see and talk to planes for about 90 seconds. Disruptions lasted for days and topped 1,000 delays after several air traffic controllers took trauma leave because of the stress of the incident, the FAA said. A similar equipment outage occurred before dawn on Friday. On Sunday, the FAA said there was a “telecommunications issue” at the same facility, forcing it to slow traffic in and out of Newark “while we ensured redundancies were working as designed.” Runway construction at Newark has added to delays, vexing executives as the busy summer travel season approaches. The outages have reignited concerns about the aging U.S. air traffic control infrastructure and persistent shortages of air traffic controllers. On Thursday, Duffy, accompanied by the CEOs of the largest U.S. airlines, unveiled an sweeping plan to modernize equipment and build new facilities. He didn’t offer a price tag, but industry officials say $31 billion is needed from Congress for upgrades and more hiring. Airlines have repeatedly pulled back flights at busy airports in and around New York City in recent years because of staffing shortfalls. United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby has been especially vocal about the need for flight cuts. The carrier operated more than 67% of the capacity at Newark, according to 2024 airport data. It said earlier this month said it would voluntarily cut 35 flights, about 10% of its daily Newark schedule, to ease strain on its operation. “In ideal weather, with full staffing and with perfectly functioning technology, the FAA tells us that the airport can only handle 77 flights per hour,” Kirby said in a note to employees last week. “And yet, the FAA regularly approves schedules of 80+ flights per hour almost every day between 3:00pm and 8:00 p.m.” “This math doesn’t work,” Kirby added in the note. “Especially when there is weather, staffing issues or technology breakdowns — the airspace, taxiways, and runways get backed up and gridlock occurs.” The meeting about schedule reductions with airlines and the FAA is set for Wednesday at 9 a.m., the FAA said late Friday. Read more CNBC airline news Source link #FAA #weighs #reducing #Newark #flights #hundreds #disruptions Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Iran, US conclude 4th round of talks over Tehran’s nuclear program Iran, US conclude 4th round of talks over Tehran’s nuclear program The flag of Iran is seen in front of the building of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Headquarters on May 24, 2021 in Vienna, Austria. Michael Gruber | Getty Images News | Getty Images DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Iran and the United States held a fourth round of negotiations Sunday over Tehran’s rapidly advancing nuclear program, just ahead of a visit by President Donald Trump to the Middle East this week. The talks ran for some three hours in Muscat, the capital of Oman, which has been mediating the negotiations, said a U.S. official. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei also said the talks took place that long and that a decision on the next round of talks is under discussion. Baghaei called the talks “difficult but useful.” The U.S. official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss the closed-door negotiations, offered a little bit more, describing them as being both indirect and direct. “Agreement was reached to move forward with the talks to continue working through technical elements,” the U.S. official said. “We are encouraged by today’s outcome and look forward to our next meeting, which will happen in the near future.” Iran insisted they only took place indirectly — possibly over internal political pressures within the Islamic Republic. The talks seek to limit Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for the lifting of some of the crushing economic sanctions the U.S. has imposed on the Islamic Republic, closing in on half a century of enmity. Read more CNBC politics coverage The fourth round comes ahead of Trump’s trip The talks again saw Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and U.S. ******** envoy Steve Witkoff lead the negotiations. They have met and spoken face-to-face in the talks, but the majority of the negotiations appear to have been indirect, with Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi shuttling messages between the two sides. Iran has insisted that keeping its ability to enrich uranium is a red line for its theocracy. Witkoff also has muddied the issue by first suggesting in a television interview that Iran could enrich uranium at 3.67%, then later saying that all enrichment must stop. “An enrichment program can never exist in the state of Iran ever again,” Witkoff told the right-wing Breitbart news site in a piece published Friday. “That’s our red line. No enrichment. That means dismantlement, it means no weaponization, and it means that Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan — those are their three enrichment facilities — have to be dismantled.” Araghchi, however, warned again that enrichment remains a red line for Iran. “This is a right of the Iranian people that is not up for negotiation or compromise. Enrichment is one of the achievements and honors of the Iranian nation,” Araghchi said Sunday before leaving Tehran. “A heavy price has been paid for this enrichment. The blood of our nuclear scientists has been shed for it. This is absolutely non-negotiable. That has been our clear stance that we have always voiced.” Iran’s 2015 nuclear deal with world powers capped Tehran’s enrichment at 3.67% and reduced its uranium stockpile to 300 kilograms (661 pounds). That level is enough for nuclear power plants, but far below weapons-grade levels of 90%. Since the nuclear deal’s collapse in 2018 with Trump’s unilateral withdrawal of the U.S. from the accord, Iran has abandoned all limits on its program and enriched uranium to up to 60% purity — a short, technical step from weapons-grade levels. There have also been a series of attacks at sea and on land in recent years, stemming from the tensions even before the Israel-****** war began. Iran faces pressures at home as talks continue Iran also faces challenges at home, exacerbated by sanctions. Its troubled rial currency, once over 1 million to $1, has strengthened dramatically due to the talks alone to around 830,000 to $1. However, the two sides still appear a long way from any deal, even as time ticks away. Iranian media broadly reported a two-month deadline imposed by Trump in his initial letter sent to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Trump said he wrote the letter on March 5, which made it to Iran via an Emirati diplomat on March 12 — putting the deadline in theory as Monday when Trump takes off from Washington for his trip to Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. Iran’s internal politics are still inflamed over the mandatory hijab, or headscarf, with women still ignoring the law on the streets of Tehran. Rumors also persist over the government potentially increasing the cost of subsidized gasoline in the country, which has sparked nationwide protests in the past. Meanwhile, the last round of talks in Oman on April 26 took place as an explosion rocked a southern Iranian port, killing dozens of people and injuring over 1,000 others. Iran still hasn’t explained what caused the blast at the Shahid Rajaei port, which has been linked to a shipment of missile fuel components to the Islamic Republic. Associated Press writer Nasser Karimi in Tehran, Iran, contributed to this report. Source link #Iran #conclude #4th #talks #Tehrans #nuclear #program Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

FAA weighs reducing Newark flights after hundreds of disruptions FAA weighs reducing Newark flights after hundreds of disruptions The FAA Air Traffic Control tower at Newark Liberty International Airport in Newark, New Jersey on May 7, 2025. Kena Betancur | AFP | Getty Images U.S. airlines will meet with the Federal Aviation Administration this week to discuss cutting flights at Newark Liberty International Airport after a series of equipment failures and air traffic controller shortages sparked hundreds of flight disruptions and drew more support to modernize aging U.S. aviation infrastructure. “What you see in Newark is going to happen in other places across the country,” Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said on NBC’s “Meet the Press” Sunday. “It has to be fixed.” Air traffic controllers tasked with guiding planes in and out of the New Jersey airport late last month lost the ability to see and talk to planes for about 90 seconds. Disruptions lasted for days and topped 1,000 delays after several air traffic controllers took trauma leave because of the stress of the incident, the FAA said. A similar equipment outage occurred before dawn on Friday. On Sunday, the FAA said there was a “telecommunications issue” at the same facility, forcing it to slow traffic in and out of Newark “while we ensured redundancies were working as designed.” Runway construction at Newark has added to delays, vexing executives as the busy summer travel season approaches. The outages have reignited concerns about the aging U.S. air traffic control infrastructure and persistent shortages of air traffic controllers. On Thursday, Duffy, accompanied by the CEOs of the largest U.S. airlines, unveiled an sweeping plan to modernize equipment and build new facilities. He didn’t offer a price tag, but industry officials say $31 billion is needed from Congress for upgrades and more hiring. Airlines have repeatedly pulled back flights at busy airports in and around New York City in recent years because of staffing shortfalls. United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby has been especially vocal about the need for flight cuts. The carrier operated more than 67% of the capacity at Newark, according to 2024 airport data. It said earlier this month said it would voluntarily cut 35 flights, about 10% of its daily Newark schedule, to ease strain on its operation. “In ideal weather, with full staffing and with perfectly functioning technology, the FAA tells us that the airport can only handle 77 flights per hour,” Kirby said in a note to employees last week. “And yet, the FAA regularly approves schedules of 80+ flights per hour almost every day between 3:00pm and 8:00 p.m.” “This math doesn’t work,” Kirby added in the note. “Especially when there is weather, staffing issues or technology breakdowns — the airspace, taxiways, and runways get backed up and gridlock occurs.” The meeting about schedule reductions with airlines and the FAA is set for Wednesday at 9 a.m., the FAA said late Friday. Read more CNBC airline news Source link #FAA #weighs #reducing #Newark #flights #hundreds #disruptions Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Europe’s ceasefire ultimatum to Vladimir Putin falters at first test – The Economist Europe’s ceasefire ultimatum to Vladimir Putin falters at first test – The Economist Europe’s ceasefire ultimatum to Vladimir Putin falters at first test The EconomistUkraine ceasefire call is aimed at forcing Putin to reveal his war goals to Trump CNNEuropean Leaders Visit Ukraine and Press Russia for a 30-Day Cease-Fire The New York TimesUkraine and allies demand 30-day ceasefire; Putin wants talks first The Washington PostMacron woke Trump before dawn to secure backing for Kyiv ceasefire plan Українська правда Source link #Europes #ceasefire #ultimatum #Vladimir #Putin #falters #test #Economist Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Woman arrested over attempted baby abduction in Blackpool Woman arrested over attempted baby abduction in Blackpool Police are investigating claims of an attempted abduction of a baby near Blackpool promenade. The baby was being pushed in their pram by their parent when a stranger approached at about 11:30 BST in Central Drive, near to Coral Island amusement centre. People nearby noticed what was happening and stepped in to help the parent, police said. The baby was unharmed. A woman has been arrested on suspicion of child abduction and police assault. A police spokesman said: “Members of the public, and the baby’s parent intervened, and thankfully the baby was unharmed.” Ch Insp John Jennings-Wharton, of Blackpool Police said: “We know that something like this can be very concerning for the community to hear about. We are in the early stages of our investigation and are working to establish the full circumstances. “We are aware of some social media posts that have been shared online. We’d encourage you not to speculate, and to understand that our enquiries are very much ongoing. “If you do have information or footage that could assist those enquiries, we ask you report them to us through the appropriate channels.” Source link #Woman #arrested #attempted #baby #abduction #Blackpool Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]