At 100 years old, Dr. Teru Kasamatsu of Wakayama Prefecture, Japan, still sees outpatients at her family-run Kasamatsu Hospital three days a week, proving that age is no barrier to dedication. The hospital, located in Kainan City, has been a central part of Kasamatsu’s life for nearly 80 years since its founding in 1909.

Born in 1925 in what is now Kinokawa City, Kasamatsu attributes her remarkable longevity to a vegetable-rich diet and keeping her mind active. “Eat lots of vegetables, like spinach, broccoli, cabbage, and okra. They help regulate blood sugar and are very good for you,” she told Yomiuri Shimbun. She also emphasizes moderating salt, eating vegetables first, staying mentally engaged, and not worrying over things beyond her control. “Things have worked out so far even without overthinking. I’ll just take it easy,” she added, as reported by Wakayama Shimpo.

Kasamatsu decided to become a doctor in high school, encouraged by her father, who wanted her to be self-reliant after witnessing many women lose their husbands during the war. She graduated in 1948 and married surgeon Shigeru Kasamatsu at age 24. When Shigeru took over the hospital from his father, Teru began working alongside him, balancing hospital duties with raising three children.

She recalls days seeing up to 120 patients and assisting in emergency surgeries, often sleepless. She managed everything—from examinations and prescriptions to bookkeeping—and even obtained a cooking license in her 30s to help when the hospital needed a cook.

Today, the hospital is run by her son, Dr. Satoshi Kasamatsu, 68, who praises his mother’s ability to “create an atmosphere where it’s easy to talk,” helping patients open up. Despite her busy life and a period of hospitalization for cancer, Teru Kasamatsu has maintained an energetic lifestyle.

She began learning piano at 70 with her husband and continues to play daily. Since her husband’s passing, she has lived alone in a house adjacent to the hospital, moving around without a cane. Her daily routine includes one to two hours of number puzzles to help prevent dementia and reading medical literature to stay up to date. She has no intention of retiring, according to Wakayama Shimpo.

Kasamatsu’s longevity coincides with a broader trend in Japan, where the number of centenarians reached 99,763 in September, marking 55 consecutive years of increase, according to the Ministry of Health. Women make up 88% of the centenarian population, with the oldest being Shigeko Kagawa, 114, from near Nara City. The oldest man is Kiyotaka Mizuno, 111, from Iwata. Of the approximately 340,000 practicing physicians nationwide as of the end of 2022, 86 are aged 98 or older.

Nguyen Manh Duong, a 22-year-old student from Hanoi, has made an extraordinary transition from specializing in chemistry to excelling in artificial intelligence, earning seven international scientific publications and securing a fully funded PhD scholarship in computer science in the United States.

Duong recently completed his undergraduate studies in data science and artificial intelligence at Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST) with a remarkable cumulative GPA of 3.94/4, graduating with the highest honors. At HUST, only 7–8% of students graduate with distinction each year (GPA ≥ 3.6/4), and achieving above 3.9, as Duong did, is exceptionally rare.

Even before officially receiving his bachelor's diploma, he was admitted to the PhD program in computer science at the University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign in March, accompanied by a full scholarship valued at approximately US$370,000 over five years. According to U.S. News & World Report, the university ranks 33rd nationally overall and 5th for computer science.

Duong’s journey began in high school at Hanoi National University of Education High School for the Gifted, where he focused on chemistry. Initially, he had no plans to study abroad or pursue research, but he described his shift to AI as "destiny." Entering HUST in 2021, a period when artificial intelligence was still emerging in Vietnam, he recognized both the promise and purpose of the field and decided to pivot his academic focus.

He gained admission to HUST through his high school performance, interview, and a second prize in the national science and engineering competition in chemistry. Surrounded by classmates with stronger backgrounds in mathematics and computer science, Duong initially felt out of his depth, but this motivated him to master AI comprehensively.

“I never studied just for grades. I always sought to truly understand,” he said. Duong pursued knowledge relentlessly, asking questions and seeking answers independently. This methodical approach helped him excel in challenging courses such as calculus and statistics, earning mostly A and A+ grades and maintaining a GPA above 3.8 from his first year.

Outside the classroom, Duong was an active participant in extracurricular activities. He served as deputy head of HUST’s events and programs club and competed in the “Mr. & Miss HUST” contest during his second year, finishing as runner-up. He also interned as an AI engineer, but found the role creatively limiting and unsuited to his ambitions.

“Even with top grades, I felt uncertain. Working for a company was restrictive, but I doubted whether I was capable enough for research,” he recalled.

In his third year, Duong sought research opportunities at HUST’s AIoT Lab. Although applications had closed, he emailed Associate Professor Nguyen Phi Le, then the lab’s head and now director of the AI4LIFE Research Institute. After an in-person interview, he was accepted. The transition from coursework to research proved challenging, requiring constant reading and adaptation, as AI is an ever-evolving field.

Under Dr. Le’s guidance and with support from senior lab members, Duong gradually acclimated. “She taught me patiently—from how to read papers to knowledge that would have taken years to acquire independently,” he said. At the lab, he collaborated with professors and experts who helped refine his research focus.

Focusing on federated learning and medical AI, Duong became lead or co-author on seven publications in prominent international venues, including the prestigious International Conference on Computer Vision. By the end of his third year, he began contemplating graduate study abroad.

To strengthen his academic profile, he initially intended to apply for programs after graduation but instead submitted a single application this year to the University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign. His choice was based on two factors: the university’s top-five ranking in computer science and the lab’s focus on medical AI. Duong had previously met several Illinois professors during a joint HUST–VinUni project.

He spent approximately three weeks preparing his application, including transcripts, research portfolio, recommendation letters, and a personal statement detailing his motivations and goals. Three mentors from Vietnam and the U.S. provided recommendations. “When I received the acceptance letter, I was overwhelmed. I had not been confident, as I started research later than many others,” he admitted.

Dr. Le described Duong as one of three AIoT Lab students this year to secure a fully funded U.S. PhD in computer science before graduation. “He is an all-rounded student with logical thinking, research capability, and strong soft skills,” she said.

Duong flew to the U.S. last month, about a month before receiving his bachelor’s degree. For now, he continues collaborating with the AIoT Lab while expanding his socio-economic knowledge to gain broader perspectives for his studies abroad. “I hope to continue publishing collaborative research with HUST labs while pursuing my PhD in the U.S.,” he said.

Vietnam is urgently mobilizing to brace for Typhoon Bualoi, which is forecast to strike the north-central coastline on Monday, coinciding with high tide and posing a severe threat to coastal defenses with waves expected to reach 5–7 meters.

During a national emergency meeting on Saturday, meteorologists reported that at noon, the storm was centered about 300 kilometers from the Paracel Islands, carrying sustained winds of 103–133 kph. Bualoi is moving west-northwest at a rapid pace of 35 kph and is projected to reach waters off Quang Tri–Quang Ngai by Sunday morning, approximately 120 kilometers from Hue.

Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Nguyen Hoang Hiep emphasized the storm’s unusual danger, noting the combination of high speed, intensifying winds, strong southwest monsoon gusts, and moisture drawn from the Bay of Bengal.

“When the storm is still 200 kilometers offshore, it can produce winds up to 166 kph. Upon landfall, winds are expected to reach 133 kph, with coastal gusts peaking at 149 kph. Its destructive effects will extend beyond central Vietnam, affecting both northern and southern regions,” Hiep said.

He highlighted the added risk of the typhoon arriving during high tide between 4 a.m. and 8 a.m. on Monday. With a tidal range of 4 meters and a storm surge of 2 meters, sea levels in Thanh Hoa and Nghe An could climb higher, generating waves up to 5–7 meters, threatening dikes, aquaculture farms, and coastal communities.

Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha compared Bualoi to Typhoon Kajiki, which struck Thanh Hoa–Ha Tinh in late August, but stressed that this storm is significantly more dangerous. “Bualoi is moving extremely fast at 35–40 kph, gaining strength over the sea after crossing the Philippines. Landfall in Vietnam is almost certain,” he said, urging local authorities to accelerate preparations.

The National Steering Committee ordered all vessels to return to shore before noon on Saturday, prohibiting fishing activity after 5 p.m. Evacuations in high-risk areas are required to be completed by 5 p.m. Sunday. Hiep warned, “Do not wait until the evening. Once strong winds begin at 7 p.m. tomorrow, it will be too late.”

The Border Guard Command reported that nearly 68,000 vessels carrying 286,000 crew members have already been guided to safe harbors. Only 143 boats remain near the Paracels, but they have been warned and are leaving.

The Ministry of National Defense has deployed Military Regions 3, 4, and 5, along with the navy, air force, coast guard, and engineering units. Over 240,000 troops and 4,000 vehicles are on standby in the predicted impact zone to assist with evacuations, reinforce dikes, harvest crops, and conduct rescue operations by land, sea, and air.

Authorities cautioned that flood defenses from Thanh Hoa to Quang Tri are under high stress. Vulnerable sections in Nghe An, Ha Tinh, and Quang Tri have been ordered to be reinforced immediately, with emergency dike-protection measures ready in case the storm peaks during high tide.

Reservoirs in Thanh Hoa, Nghe An, and Ha Tinh are being managed under inter-reservoir operation rules to prevent downstream flooding. However, some dams are already full, raising safety concerns. The Ministry of Industry and Trade is closely supervising hydropower operators to ensure water is released safely.

Telecommunications providers have pledged to maintain service, with backup systems ready in case of network failures. In Ha Tinh, expected to face a direct hit, officials plan to prevent power and communications disruptions similar to those caused by Typhoon Kajiki and are prepared to suspend classes if necessary.

Bualoi is the 10th storm in the South China Sea this year, following nine previous storms and four tropical depressions. While the most recent, Super Typhoon Ragasa, weakened into a tropical depression before reaching Vietnam and caused no damage, authorities stress that Bualoi is different: it is fast-moving, intensifying, and set to strike at peak strength, posing a significant threat to life, property, and infrastructure.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) announced on Saturday that several airports in central Vietnam—including Dong Hoi, Tho Xuan, Phu Bai, and Da Nang—will temporarily suspend arrivals on September 28–29 as Typhoon Bualoi approaches.

Specifically, flights to Dong Hoi Airport in Quang Tri Province will be halted from 1 a.m. to 10 p.m. on September 28. Tho Xuan Airport in Thanh Hoa will stop arrivals from 10 p.m. on September 28 until 7 a.m. on September 29. Phu Bai Airport in Hue is scheduled to suspend flights from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on September 28, while Da Nang Airport will halt arrivals from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. on the same day.

These four airports are expected to fall directly within Bualoi’s impact zone. Phu Bai and Da Nang, in particular, are likely to experience early gale-force winds due to the typhoon’s circulation.

In addition, the northern airports of Noi Bai (Hanoi), Van Don (Quang Ninh), and Cat Bi (Hai Phong), along with Chu Lai Airport in southern Quang Nam near Da Nang, have been advised to monitor the storm closely and implement preventive measures as necessary.

To safeguard flight operations and ensure the safety of passengers and airport personnel, the CAAV has instructed continuous staffing and strict enforcement of storm-response protocols at all civil aviation facilities.

According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, as of Saturday afternoon, Typhoon Bualoi was approximately 170 kilometers from the Hoang Sa (Paracel) Islands. The storm is projected to reach waters off Quang Tri and Hue by Sunday afternoon before continuing toward Nghe An and northern Quang Tri, carrying sustained winds of 103–133 kph.

Bualoi initially struck the central Philippines on Friday at a speed of 35–40 kph—about twice the average forward speed of typical storms in the region—resulting in at least 11 fatalities.

Typhoon Bualoi is currently moving across the East Sea at nearly double the speed typical of storms in the region, creating a rare and potentially dangerous scenario for Vietnam. Experts attribute this unusual rapidity to a combination of atmospheric and oceanic conditions that could amplify the storm’s impact.

After striking the central Philippines on Friday at speeds of 35–40 kph—almost twice the usual 15–20 kph—Bualoi entered the East Sea, internationally known as the South China Sea, three hours earlier than anticipated. It is now advancing west-northwest toward Vietnam at 30–35 kph. Historically, only a few typhoons, such as Dot in 1985, Linda in 1997, and Doksuri in 2017, have traveled this fast.

According to Truong Ba Kien, Deputy Director at Vietnam’s Center for Meteorological and Climate Research, the storm is propelled by an exceptionally strong subtropical high, which functions like a conveyor belt, pushing the typhoon forward. Additionally, a developing monsoon trough has connected with Bualoi, helping maintain both its rapid pace and a stable trajectory.

The surrounding environment is unusually conducive to Bualoi’s acceleration. The atmosphere is relatively clear, free from disruptive wind shear or turbulence, while the sea surface is warm and energetically rich. These conditions allow the storm to remain compact, potent, and fast-moving as it approaches Vietnam. Nguyen Minh Truong, Deputy Dean of Meteorology, Hydrology, and Oceanography at Hanoi University of Science, identifies three main drivers of the storm’s speed: a strong and uninterrupted steering flow in the mid-troposphere, asymmetric atmospheric processes within the storm’s core, and extensive high sea surface temperatures spanning from the western Pacific to the South China Sea.

Experts also note that the Coriolis effect, which deflects moving air and water to the right in the northern hemisphere, is reinforcing the storm’s west-northwest path. Meanwhile, the expanding subtropical high toward Vietnam is nudging Bualoi northward, increasing the likelihood of landfall in north-central provinces such as Thanh Hoa or Nghe An.

What makes Bualoi particularly dangerous is the combination of its speed and potential intensification. Forecast models indicate a greater than 50% probability that the typhoon will strengthen by two to three levels within 24 hours, potentially reaching level 13 with wind speeds of up to 149 kph or higher while still over the sea. Its rapid movement could drive strong winds further inland than usual, and if the landfall coincides with high tide at night, the risk of a severe storm surge would be extreme, Kien warns.

Heavy rainfall is also expected to affect northern and north-central Vietnam, increasing the risk of flash floods, landslides in mountainous regions, and significant urban and lowland flooding. Even after Bualoi moves into Laos, its circulation may continue to bring dangerous rainfall to western Thanh Hoa, Nghe An, and areas along the Vietnam–Laos border, particularly near hydropower dams and reservoirs.

Authorities have called for all vessels to return to shore immediately and have banned any sea trips. Preparations are underway to evacuate residents from coastal, low-lying, and landslide-prone areas, while infrastructures such as dikes, homes, schools, and hospitals are being reinforced. People are urged to secure their properties, stockpile food and clean water, and rely solely on official forecasts and warnings to ensure safety.

Eating foods rich in antioxidants and vitamins can play a crucial role in maintaining eye health, helping prevent conditions such as macular degeneration, cataracts, and night blindness. Dr. Duong Minh Phuc from the High-Tech Eye Center at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City notes that while many foods provide these benefits, it is important to consume them in appropriate amounts to maximize their effects.

1. Carrots
Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, essential for maintaining a healthy retina and improving vision in low-light conditions. Beta-carotene also helps reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts, alleviating symptoms like blurred vision, eye fatigue, and dizziness. For optimal benefits, adults should consume about 100 grams of carrots two to three times per week, while children should have 30–50 grams. Overconsumption can lead to digestive discomfort or jaundice due to excess beta-carotene that is not fully absorbed.

2. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes, especially orange varieties, are rich in beta-carotene, which protects against dry eyes and supports retinal health. They also contain vitamins C and E, along with anthocyanins in purple varieties, which help slow eye aging. Purple and yellow sweet potatoes provide lutein and zeaxanthin, which act as natural filters against harmful blue light from digital screens and sunlight. However, overconsumption may cause bloating or indigestion, and people with diabetes should be cautious due to the high starch content.

3. Beets
Beets contain lutein and zeaxanthin, which shield the retina from damage caused by blue and UV light—major contributors to macular degeneration. They are also high in natural nitrates that convert into nitric oxide, helping dilate blood vessels, improve circulation, and support retinal and optic nerve function. While beets have lower beta-carotene than carrots, they still contribute to overall eye health.

4. Turmeric
Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, offers potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that support eye health and overall well-being. It may help manage conditions such as conjunctivitis, uveitis, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and slow the progression of macular degeneration. Because curcumin is poorly absorbed, it should be consumed with black pepper, which contains piperine to enhance absorption. Excessive turmeric intake can cause nausea, stomach discomfort, or even liver damage, so moderation is important.

5. Onions
Onions may not directly improve vision, but they support eye health indirectly. They are rich in antioxidants, particularly quercetin, which reduces inflammation and protects against free radical damage that contributes to macular degeneration and cataracts. Quercetin also promotes better blood circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to the eyes, especially the retina. While onion extract may help prevent mild eye infections, it should never be applied directly to the eyes due to the risk of irritation. Dr. Phuc recommends pairing onions with foods high in vitamin A, lutein, and zeaxanthin—such as carrots, leafy greens, salmon, and eggs—to enhance eye protection.

Eating foods rich in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats, like processed meats and sugary pastries, can strain the kidneys and reduce their ability to effectively remove toxins from the body, according to WebMD.

Certain breakfast choices may harm kidney health, particularly for individuals with existing medical conditions. Reducing intake of these foods can help maintain proper kidney function.

While convenient, processed foods are typically high in salt, which can elevate blood pressure and strain the kidneys.

Consuming them frequently increases the workload on the kidneys, whereas preparing breakfast at home with fresh vegetables, eggs, and nuts provides a more nutritious and kidney-friendly alternative.

Bacon and sausages are popular breakfast items but pose risks to kidney health. The U.S. National Kidney Foundation warns that excessive consumption of processed meats increases the likelihood of chronic kidney disease due to their high sodium and phosphorus levels, which can also elevate blood pressure.

In addition, preservatives such as nitrates and nitrites found in these meats place extra strain on the kidneys. Healthier protein alternatives like eggs and beans deliver essential nutrients without burdening the body.

Many sugary breakfast cereals are packed with sugar and artificial additives that negatively affect kidney health. High sugar intake contributes to obesity and insulin resistance, both of which significantly increase the risk of kidney disease.

Opting for whole grains such as oats, buckwheat, and brown rice is a better choice, as they supply fiber, vitamins, and minerals that help maintain healthy kidney function.

Pastries and donuts are loaded with refined sugar, unhealthy fats, and simple carbohydrates, which can lead to blood sugar spikes, weight gain, and added stress on the kidneys.

Choosing whole-grain, low-fat baked options is a smarter way to satisfy morning cravings while supporting kidney health.

Bottled fruit juices often contain large amounts of added sugar and lack the fiber found in whole fruits. This deficiency in fiber can trigger blood sugar spikes and contribute to weight gain.

For better long-term kidney health, it’s preferable to eat whole fruits or prepare low-sugar juices at home.

Washing peanuts before roasting plays an important role in improving their flavor, aroma, and texture. It removes dust and impurities, reduces any undesirable earthy taste, and ensures the peanuts cook evenly, helping them remain crisp. Peanuts are rich in protein and fat, and roasting triggers chemical reactions that give them their signature golden-brown color and nutty aroma.

Roasting dry peanuts can cause uneven cooking, as the exterior heats quickly while the interior remains undercooked. Adding moisture through washing slows down heat transfer, allowing the nuts to roast evenly. In Hanoi, traditional hung liu (basil) peanuts are always washed first, and some recipes even call for rinsing with boiling water before roasting. Proper drainage is essential: excess water slows roasting, darkens the skins, and leaves the interiors moist, while steam can make cooled peanuts absorb water and lose crispness.

After washing, peanuts should be dried thoroughly—either under the sun or using a fan. Traditional hung liu peanuts are sun-dried for several hours to remove earthy flavors and ensure crispness after roasting. If sunlight is unavailable, an oven or air fryer can be used. The roasting process itself greatly affects the final texture. Start with medium heat to avoid burning or cooking too slowly. Once dry, roast the peanuts on low heat while stirring constantly until they crackle. Historically, Vietnamese households used clean yellow sand on low heat to help cook peanuts evenly.

For modern ovens or air fryers, preheat to 150°C and roast the peanuts for 10 minutes, then reduce the heat to 90–100°C for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally. After roasting, wrap the peanuts in clean paper or cloth to absorb any residual moisture and maintain crispness. Leaving them in the pan too long can result in bitterness. Allow peanuts to cool completely in a ventilated area before storing them in glass jars or airtight containers; storing them while still warm traps moisture and causes softening.

Washing peanuts before roasting can yield more aromatic and longer-lasting crunchy peanuts compared with dry roasting, provided the nuts are properly dried and roasted. In industrial processing, peanuts are sometimes soaked in a mild salt solution before roasting. This ensures even cooking, makes it easier to remove skins, and enhances flavor. In the U.S., patented nut brining methods involve soaking peanuts in a solution containing at least 10% salt for several hours, which produces crispier, tastier nuts than dry roasting alone.

Environmental factors such as weather and storage conditions also influence peanut crispness. In humid climates, roasted peanuts can absorb moisture and soften quickly. To maintain crunch, store peanuts in dry, airtight containers, optionally with food-grade desiccants. Traditionally, Vietnamese households have sealed roasted peanuts in small jars lined with dried banana leaves to preserve their texture and aroma.

Properly washed, dried, and roasted peanuts will stay crisp and flavorful longer; washing does not cause them to soften prematurely. The key lies in balancing washing, drying, roasting over medium heat while stirring, cooling in a ventilated area, and storing in airtight containers. Following these steps determines whether peanuts remain crunchy for up to a week or quickly lose their crispness.

Eating an apple every day may have significant benefits for heart health, according to recent research, by promoting the relaxation of blood vessels, reducing inflammation, protecting cells, and supporting the overall health of arteries. These effects may help maintain better blood flow, lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, and support long-term heart function.

Apples are packed with fiber and a variety of plant-based compounds, such as flavonoids—including quercetin and proanthocyanidins—ph enolic acids, and soluble fiber. These nutrients have been shown to contribute to cardiovascular health in multiple ways. Dr. John Higgins, a cardiologist at UTHealth Houston, explains that these compounds work through several complementary mechanisms to support the heart and vascular system.

One important benefit is blood vessel relaxation. Flavonoids in apples send signals to the blood vessels, causing them to widen slightly. This widening improves blood flow and reduces pressure on the heart. Another benefit is the reduction of inflammation. Apples contain polyphenols, natural antioxidants that help ease stress on arteries and combat chronic inflammation, a key factor in the development of heart disease, according to registered dietitian Cassandra Lepore in New York City.

In addition, apples protect blood vessel cells from daily oxidative damage caused by free radicals—unstable molecules in the body that can harm tissues over time. This protective effect helps maintain healthy arteries and reduces the long-term risk of cardiovascular issues. The soluble fiber in apples also supports arterial health by helping to lower cholesterol levels and maintain the flexibility of arteries, which is essential for long-term blood pressure control.

Apples are also a natural source of potassium, with each fruit containing about 150 mg. Potassium plays a critical role in relaxing the walls of blood vessels, which can help reduce blood pressure and prevent muscle cramps, according to research cited by The Independent and Harvard Medical School. By combining these properties—vascular relaxation, anti-inflammatory effects, antioxidant protection, fiber benefits, and potassium intake—apples can provide comprehensive support for cardiovascular health.

Incorporating apples into a daily diet may therefore offer a simple yet effective way to maintain heart health, protect against arterial damage, support healthy blood pressure, and reduce the risk of chronic heart-related conditions over time.

Juices rich in iron and vitamin C can improve blood health by enhancing iron absorption and helping prevent anemia, according to Times of India.

Citrus juices like orange and tangerine are high in vitamin C, which converts plant-based non-heme iron into a form the body can absorb more easily. These juices are highly acidic, so it’s best to avoid drinking them on an empty stomach, before bed, or before brushing teeth.

Beetroot juice contains folate, manganese, potassium, iron, betaine, and vitamin C. It supports liver function, helps red blood cells use oxygen efficiently, and its nitrates can widen blood vessels, improve circulation, and lower blood pressure.

Spinach juice provides iron and vitamins A and C and may aid weight loss. Pairing it with vitamin C-rich foods like oranges or red bell peppers enhances iron absorption.

Sugarcane juice offers iron, vitamins C, B1, B2, calcium, and other minerals that boost iron uptake and immunity. People with diabetes or high blood fat should consult a doctor before consuming it.

Pomegranate juice is another source of iron and vitamin C, which can help increase hemoglobin levels, a key indicator of how well blood carries oxygen.

Health experts are cautioning against drinking coconut water straight from the fruit due to potential contamination risks. Despite appearing fresh, coconuts can harbor bacteria and fungi if stored in warm, humid conditions. Microbes can enter through shell cracks or during handling, often without any visible signs of spoilage.

A 2021 case in Denmark highlights the danger: a 69-year-old man died after consuming coconut water contaminated with a toxin-producing fungus. He developed nausea, vomiting, confusion, and abnormal muscle movements, and passed away from multi-organ failure within 26 hours. Tests identified 3-nitropropionic acid (3-NPA), a fungal toxin that can severely damage the nervous system and vital organs.

Health risks from contaminated coconut water include:

Gastrointestinal distress: nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps

Neurological symptoms: dizziness, confusion, seizures, and muscle spasms

Respiratory issues: shortness of breath, chest tightness, or lung fluid buildup

Fatal outcomes: in rare cases, irreversible organ failure and death

Experts recommend consuming coconut water only when it is properly stored and handled, and advise choosing pasteurized or packaged versions to reduce the risk of contamination.

Hundreds of thousands of people across France protested on Thursday against President Emmanuel Macron’s proposed austerity measures, causing widespread disruption to public transport, schools, and daily life. Trade unions organized the demonstrations, which saw clashes with police in several cities.

The leftist CGT union claimed that over a million people took part nationwide, surpassing the 900,000 reported during a June 2023 protest over raising the retirement age from 62 to 64. French authorities reported more than 500,000 participants, including 55,000 in Paris. Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau said 309 people were detained and 26 police officers injured, noting that around 7,300 “radicalized” protesters had joined the demonstrations.

Many protesters called for Macron’s resignation, with some throwing effigies and holding placards targeting the president. Citizens expressed anger over economic inequality and the potential impact of austerity on the poorest. “Every day the richest get richer and the poor get poorer,” said Bruno Cavalier, a 64-year-old protester in Lyon.

Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu, appointed last week, attempted to ease tensions by pledging dialogue with unions and promising to scrap certain unpopular measures, including life-long privileges for former prime ministers and the elimination of two public holidays.

Authorities deployed over 80,000 police officers with drones, armored vehicles, and water cannons. Strikes disrupted services, with one in six teachers walking out and nine out of ten pharmacies closed. Commuters faced delays, particularly in Paris, where only three automated Metro lines operated normally.

Unions hailed the scale of the protests. CGT leader Sophie Binet reported 260 demonstrations across the country and thousands of workplace strikes. In Marseille and Paris, police used tear gas to disperse unauthorized protests, while in Lille, demonstrators blocked bus depots. Even students joined, holding slogans denouncing austerity.

President Donald Trump on Friday criticized U.S. media for what he called excessively negative coverage, calling it “illegal,” amid controversy over the suspension of comedian Jimmy Kimmel’s show by ABC.

“They’ll take a great story and make it bad. Personally, I think it’s really illegal,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. The 79-year-old Republican, known for his love of television, repeated his claim that coverage of him and his administration is “97 percent bad.”

Trump also praised Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chair Brendan Carr, who sparked debate over free speech by threatening possible sanctions against broadcasters airing Kimmel’s show, following the comedian’s remarks on the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. ABC later announced the show’s indefinite suspension. “Carr is an incredible American patriot with courage,” Trump said.

However, some, including Texas Senator Ted Cruz, expressed concern about government involvement in media regulation. Cruz compared Carr’s actions to a scene from Goodfellas, warning against threats that could resemble intimidation by organized crime.

Trump’s broader efforts against the media suffered a setback when a federal judge dismissed his $15 billion defamation lawsuit against The New York Times, issuing a sharply critical ruling.

A new $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applications in the U.S. will take effect on Sept. 21, the White House announced, but it will apply only per petition and not to current visa holders re-entering the country.

“This is NOT an annual fee. It’s a one-time fee that applies only to the petition,” White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said on X. She emphasized that existing H-1B visa holders outside the U.S. will not have to pay to return, and the fee will only affect applicants in the next lottery round.

The executive order, signed by President Donald Trump on Sept. 19, aims to protect American workers, who the administration says are being replaced by lower-paid foreign labor. The White House fact sheet notes that H-1B holders in IT have risen from 32% in FY 2003 to over 65% today. Exceptions may be granted “if in the national interest.”

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick initially suggested the fee might be annual, prompting concern from major companies including Microsoft, Amazon, and JPMorgan. Internal memos urged employees with H-1B visas to avoid international travel, with some returning to the U.S. quickly to avoid being caught abroad under the new rule.

The policy also directs the Departments of Labor and Homeland Security to issue guidance on enforcement, audits, and penalties, and requires revising prevailing wage levels to prioritize high-skilled, high-paid H-1B workers.

Erika Kirk, the 36-year-old widow of slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk, told mourners on Sunday that she forgives her husband’s accused killer. Speaking at a memorial service in Arizona attended by more than 60,000 people — including former U.S. President Donald Trump — she delivered a faith-centered message.

“My husband Charlie wanted to save young men just like the one who took his life,” she said, her voice breaking. “That young man — I forgive him. I forgive him because it’s what Christ did, and it’s what Charlie would do. The answer to hate is not hate.”

Charlie Kirk, 31, was fatally shot on Sept. 10 during a debate at a Utah university. Known for his prominent role in boosting Trump’s appeal among young voters, he commanded a large following through social media, his podcast, and campus appearances, where he promoted nationalist, Christian-oriented politics.

Authorities have charged 22-year-old Tyler Robinson with the shooting, alleging he targeted Kirk over what he described as “hatred” in the activist’s rhetoric. Robinson faces seven counts, including aggravated murder, and prosecutors say they will pursue the death penalty.

Copenhagen Airport, the Nordic region’s busiest hub, resumed operations early on Sept. 23 after drone activity forced a nearly four-hour suspension of all departures and arrivals. Around the same time, Oslo Airport in Norway also shut its airspace due to a drone sighting.

“The police have launched an intensive investigation to determine what kind of drones these are,” Copenhagen Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner Jakob Hansen told reporters. “The drones disappeared, and none have been recovered,” he added. Authorities in both Denmark and Norway will work together to see if the incidents are connected.

Oslo Airport closed its airspace from midnight, diverting all flights to nearby airports, according to Avinor, Norway’s airport operator.

In Denmark, police said two or three large drones were spotted near Copenhagen Airport on Sept. 22, prompting a full closure at 8:26 p.m. local time. FlightRadar reported that about 50 flights were diverted before operations resumed. The airport later warned of ongoing delays and cancellations.

These shutdowns add to recent turmoil at European airports. On Sept. 19, a cyberattack disabled check-in and boarding systems from Collins Aerospace, disrupting travel at Heathrow, Berlin, and Brussels. The disruptions spilled over into the following days.

Drone sightings have caused similar chaos before — most notably in 2018, when drones over London’s Gatwick Airport stranded tens of thousands of travelers and canceled hundreds of flights during peak holiday season.

“How are you? Guess what!” was not the kind of greeting one would expect in a call between two heads of state, but the circumstances were unusual.

While attending the UN General Assembly in New York, French President Emmanuel Macron was on his way to a meeting from UN headquarters when police suddenly stopped him. The street had been closed off to make way for the motorcade of U.S. President Donald Trump.

Surprised, Macron picked up his phone. “I’m standing in the street because everything’s blocked for you,” he told Trump in fluent English, according to footage aired by BFMTV and Brut.

The call, however, did not clear the way, so Macron continued to his meeting on foot — reportedly at the French consulate — where he had also been scheduled to dine with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Walking gave him the chance to keep the conversation going with Trump, including discussion of the situation in Gaza, in coordination with Qatar.

According to a French presidential official, who spoke anonymously, Macron used the moment to have “a very warm and friendly call” with Trump, covering several international issues.

Trump has been sharply critical of Macron’s recognition of a Palestinian state at the UN. Yet the two leaders are said to maintain a cordial personal rapport, marked by firm handshakes and symbolic gestures such as Macron’s invitation for Trump to attend the reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, even before Macron’s second term began.

A sniper opened fire on a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) field office in Dallas on Wednesday, killing one detainee and wounding two others before dying from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, officials said.

According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the gunman fired “indiscriminately” from the roof of a nearby building, striking the ICE facility and a van in the sallyport where the victims were located. DHS initially reported two detainees dead and one injured, but later corrected the toll to one dead and two critically wounded. The Mexican foreign ministry confirmed that one of the injured is a Mexican national.

Authorities have not officially released the suspect’s identity, but media outlets named him as 29-year-old Joshua Jahn. The FBI said evidence at the scene, including ammunition marked with “ANTI-ICE,” indicated he specifically targeted the agency. FBI Director Kash Patel condemned the attack, calling it “a despicable, politically motivated assault on law enforcement.”

The ICE office where the shooting occurred is a processing facility for detainees awaiting transfer to longer-term centers. The incident has fueled debate over political rhetoric surrounding ICE, which has faced sharp criticism for its role in former President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown.

“For months, we’ve been warning politicians and the media to tone down their rhetoric before someone was killed,” said ICE official Noem, urging critics to recognize the real-world consequences of heated language.

This shooting follows a series of violent incidents against immigration authorities in Texas. In July, attackers targeted an ICE center in Alvarado with fireworks and graffiti, leaving a police officer injured. Days later, a gunman armed with an assault rifle fired dozens of rounds at a Border Patrol facility in McAllen, wounding two police officers and a Border Patrol employee before being shot dead.

President Donald Trump signed an executive order Thursday outlining his plan to transfer TikTok’s U.S. operations from its Chinese owners to American and international investors, saying the deal would meet the national security standards set by a 2024 law.

According to Vice President JD Vance, the new U.S.-based entity will be worth about $14 billion — significantly less than some analysts had previously estimated.

Trump also postponed until January 20 the enforcement of the law requiring TikTok’s divestment, giving more time to finalize the sale, separate TikTok’s U.S. business from its global platform, attract investors, and secure Beijing’s approval.

The order marks progress toward a resolution but leaves major questions unresolved, particularly regarding control of TikTok’s key recommendation algorithm. Trump’s directive states that the algorithm will be retrained, supervised by security partners, and managed under the new joint venture.

“There was resistance from the Chinese side, but our priority was to keep TikTok running while protecting Americans’ data privacy as required by law,” Vance told reporters at the White House.

Trump said he had spoken with Chinese President Xi Jinping, who gave his consent to move forward. “We had a good talk, and he said go ahead,” Trump told reporters.

Neither the Chinese embassy in Washington nor TikTok immediately commented on the announcement.

TikTok, with 170 million users in the U.S., played a notable role in Trump’s reelection campaign, and the president now has 15 million followers on his personal account. The White House also launched an official TikTok account last month.

“This will be American-run from top to bottom,” Trump declared, adding that Dell Technologies founder Michael Dell, media mogul Rupert Murdoch, and several other major investors would take part in the deal.

A Paris court on Thursday sentenced former French President Nicolas Sarkozy to five years in prison after convicting him of criminal conspiracy for allegedly funding his 2007 presidential campaign with money from Libya — a verdict the conservative ex-leader condemned as “a scandal.”

The ruling marks the first time in modern French history that a former president has been ordered to serve actual prison time. In an unexpected decision, the court said the 70-year-old must serve his sentence even though he plans to appeal. His imprisonment will begin at a later date, sparing him the immediate humiliation of being escorted from the courtroom in handcuffs.

Judges concluded that from 2005 to 2007, while serving as interior minister, Sarkozy conspired to secure Libyan money in return for diplomatic favors to support his successful 2007 campaign. He was acquitted, however, of three other charges, including passive corruption, illegal campaign financing, and concealing embezzlement.

Denouncing the verdict as disgraceful for the nation, Sarkozy insisted on his innocence. “If they want me to sleep in prison, I will, but with my head held high. This injustice is a scandal,” he said, standing beside his wife, singer and model Carla Bruni-Sarkozy. He added, “What they humiliated today is France.”

Chief judge Nathalie Gavarino said the conspiracy’s purpose was to give Sarkozy an advantage in the election and to pave the way for corruption at the highest level if he became president. She called the case “exceptionally serious,” undermining public trust in institutions, and noted Sarkozy had used his ministerial role to prepare for corruption.

Sarkozy downplayed the plot as “an idea,” arguing he was convicted merely for allegedly allowing aides to pursue the notion of illegal campaign funding.

Two of Sarkozy’s close allies, former ministers Claude Guéant and Brice Hortefeux, were also found guilty of criminal association. Hortefeux was sentenced to two years but will serve the term under electronic monitoring, while Guéant received six years but was not jailed immediately due to health issues.

The court found both men had met secretly in 2005 with Abdullah al-Senoussi, intelligence chief and brother-in-law of Libyan dictator Moammar Gadhafi, who was killed in 2011. Senoussi is infamous for masterminding the 1988 Lockerbie bombing and a 1989 airliner attack over Niger.

Judges described these contacts as a “corruption pact,” noting that Sarkozy and his allies discussed Libya’s nuclear ambitions, diplomatic rehabilitation, and Senoussi’s judicial fate. While the court could not prove Libyan funds actually financed the campaign, it emphasized that under French law, a corrupt arrangement remains criminal even without money changing hands.

Sarkozy, who won the presidency in 2007 but lost reelection in 2012, has faced several scandals yet still wields influence in right-wing politics and enjoys public visibility through his marriage to Carla Bruni-Sarkozy. Allegations of Libyan financing first surfaced in 2011, when Gadhafi and Libyan media claimed millions of euros were secretly funneled into his campaign. In 2012, investigative outlet Mediapart published a Libyan intelligence memo referencing a €50 million deal, which Sarkozy dismissed as a fake and challenged in court.