Indian authorities have filed rape and murder charges against five men accused of the gang rape of a woman on a New Delhi bus. Government officials have promised new measures to protect women in the nation's capital and the crime has sparked protests and raised demands for tough new rape laws. ITN's Geraint Vincent reports.
By Reuters
Passers-by left a gang-raped Indian student lying unclothed and bleeding in the street for almost an hour, a male friend who was assaulted with her said on Friday in his first public comments on the case that provoked a global outcry.
The 23-year-old student died in the hospital two weeks after she was attacked on Dec. 16 in a private bus in New Delhi, prompting street protests over the Indian authorities' failure to stem rampant violence against women.
The graphic account from the man in a television interview is likely to add fuel to public anger over the death in a country where official statistics show one rape is reported every 20 minutes.
The woman's friend told the Zee News television network he was beaten unconscious with a metal bar by her attackers before the pair were thrown off the bus.
They lay in the street for 45 minutes before a police van arrived and officers then spent a long time arguing about where to take them, the man said.
"We kept shouting at the police, 'please give us some clothes' but they were busy deciding which police station our case should be registered at," the man said in Hindi.
Delhi police spokesman Rajan Bhagat told Reuters GPS records show the first police van reached the scene four minutes after it was were called and took the man and the woman to hospital within 24 minutes.
Neither the woman nor her friend have been named. Five men were charged with her gang rape and murder on Thursday. A court is due to consider the charges on Saturday.
Twitter anger The man's comments caused an renewed outpouring of anger on Twitter. "After reading and watching the Zee News interview i'm absolutely shocked and ashamed of being an Indian," said @BarunKiBilli.
The man called on the protests to continue, but said he wished people had come to his friend's help when she needed it.
"You have to help people on the road when they need help."
The male friend said he and the woman were attacked after an evening out watching a film.
"From where we boarded the bus, they (the attackers) moved around for nearly two and a half hours. We were shouting, trying to make people hear us. But they switched off the lights of the bus," he said, according to a transcript of the interview.
When they were thrown out, they pleaded with passers-by for help, he added in the studio interview, a blue metal crutch leaning on his chair.
"There were a few people who had gathered round but nobody helped. Before the police came I screamed for help but the auto rickshaws, cars and others passing by did not stop," the man added.
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We've talked about how amazing custom browser searches can be, but reader mdegat01 took it to the next level and submitted five even more advanced searches that make your life easier. Here's how they work.
These searches use javascript to allow for all sorts of other inputs. With these you can select text and use it in your custom search, use the current page as input, and even use your current location.
Creating them works similarly to any other custom search, but you'll be pasting code instead of a URL into Chrome or Firefox. First, copy and paste the following code as the search engine's "URL:"
However, replace the MYURL at the beginning with one of the following URLs.
Visit Google's Cache of the Current Page: If a site is down but you want to see what the page contains, you can paste this URL into the above code and add a keyword to do so from any page:
http://www.google.com/search?q=cache:%u
Search for Selected Text on Google Maps: Find the name of a cool restaurant? Instead of opening Maps and searching for it, just select the name of the restaurant, type in your keyword, and this search will map it out for you. Just paste this into the above code:
http://www.google.com/maps?q=%q%20near%20%l
Note that this one has a specific quirk in Chrome that requires you to type something after your keyword. See this post for more information. It should work normally for Firefox users.
Get Directions From Your Current Location: We've shown you how to get directions from your home location, but if you paste this into the above code, you can search for an address with your keyword to get directions from your current location:
http://www.google.com/maps?saddr=%l&daddr=%q
Add a New Event to Google Calendar Using Selected Text: Paste this into the code above, and you'll be able to select text on a page and add a new event to your Google Calendar with that text as the title:
Mdegat01 had a few other searches too, but these were our favorites. You could probably do a ton of other great stuff using his code, too, since it works basically the same as any other custom search but with other wildcards (like %h for currently highlighted text, %l for current location, and so on). For more ideas, check out mdegat01's original comment and instructions at the links below.
Four More Custom Searches You Should Enable Right Now | Original Comment
Military families have special challenges with their finances and that includes tax preparation. TurboTax has just released a new version of its tax preparation software created specifically for military filers. For a limited time, it?s free for junior enlisted personnel.
?TurboTax Military Edition was created by active reserve and retired military personnel and military spouses, and they really understand the unique challenges of filing taxes when you?re in the military,? explained spokeswoman Julie Miller. ?There are more than two million military taxpayers, and because they have a unique set of needs, we realized that we had to have a more personalized product that met those needs.?
TurboTax Military Edition gives step-by-step guidance to help service members claim every deduction and credit they?re entitled to, so they can keep more of their hard-earned money. This includes determining state of residency, filing in multiple states, deductions for relocation expenses and uniforms, combat pay, and what to do if you have a PCS (permanent change of station).
?It speaks their language,? Miller said. ?It uses the terms they?re familiar with to make it easier for them.?
TurboTax will be fully up to date with the new tax laws by early next week, Miller said.?From now through Feb. 14, this software is free for junior enlisted personnel (rank E-1 to E-5) in any branch of the Armed Forces. It?s also available during this time period for $24.95 (a $5 discount) for anyone ranked E-6 through officer.
Every military member using this TurboTax software, even the free version, can get one-on-one advice via phone or chat from one of the company?s tax experts.
Intuit, the parent company of TurboTax, also has joined with Operation Homefront to help military members who need financial support and assistance.
Through a joint fundraising effort called Mission2Match, Intuit will match up to $1 million in donations made to Operation Homefront through April 15, 2013. TurboTax customers can donate as part of their online tax preparation.
?We are asking our customers to join us and give generously to support U.S. servicemen and women and their families,? Dan Maurer, an Intuit senior vice president, said in a statement.
Donations are also being accepted on the TurboTax Facebook page and YouTube channel. Only donations made through this Mission2Match program are eligible for the company?s match. Donations will be matched a second time if donors tweet about the fundraising effort (#mission2match).
?We?ve found that many people want to support our service members, but don?t always know how,? said Jim Knotts, president and chief executive officer of Operation Homefront in a statement. ?By combining their technology and huge public reach, TurboTax is giving their customers the opportunity to provide that support exactly when it is most on their minds.?
Herb Weisbaum is The ConsumerMan. Follow him on Facebook and Twitteror visit The ConsumerMan website.
Smile: Gingivitis bacteria manipulate your immune system so they can thrive in your gumsPublic release date: 3-Jan-2013 [ | E-mail | Share ]
Contact: Cody Mooneyhan cmooneyhan@faseb.org 301-634-7104 Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology
New research published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology suggests that Porphyromonas gingivalis causes excess IL-10 production, which inhibits the immune cells interferon gamma leading to infection
A new research report published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology shows how the bacteria known for causing gum disease--Porphyromonas gingivalis--manipulates the body's immune system to disable normal processes that would otherwise destroy it. Specifically, the report shows that this pathogen prompts the production of the anti-inflammatory molecule Interleukin-10 (IL-10). This, in turn, inhibits the function of T-cells, which would otherwise help to protect the host from this particular microbial infection.
"Since greater than 50 percent of the U.S. population over 50 years-of-age develop adult periodontal disease, we hope that the results of our study will ultimately help in the development of novel treatments that could prevent or ameliorate the chronic infection caused by the pathogen P. gingivalis,'" said Jannet Katz, D.D.S., Ph.D., a researcher involved in the work from the Department of Pediatric Dentistry at the University of Alabama in Birmingham.
To make this discovery, scientists used cells from mice that were exposed to P. gingivalis. One portion of the cells was treated with an inhibiting antibody against IL-10 and the other portion of cells was not treated. All of the cells were then tested for interferon gamma production. An increase of interferon gamma production was seen in the treated cells, but no increase was found in the untreated cells. These findings suggest that the damage done by P. gingivalis happens when the immune cells of the host are first exposed to this pathogen, and further implies that for treatment to be successful, it must be started as early as possible. This study highlights the mechanism by which P. gingivalis can establish a chronic infection in the form of periodontal disease and provides insight into how the disease develops. Results also demonstrate the importance of very early intervention either by eradication of the bacterium with specifically designed therapeutics or by prevention via the development of an effective vaccine.
"Gum diseases and the infections that cause them can be incredibly stubborn and difficult to treat," said John Wherry, Ph.D., Deputy Editor of the Journal of Leukocyte Biology. "What isn't as well known is why these infections are so difficult to eradicate. These new studies now demonstrate that these bacteria go beyond merely evading our body's defenses and actually manipulate our immune systems for their own survival."
###
The Journal of Leukocyte Biology publishes peer-reviewed manuscripts on original investigations focusing on the cellular and molecular biology of leukocytes and on the origins, the developmental biology, biochemistry and functions of granulocytes, lymphocytes, mononuclear phagocytes and other cells involved in host defense and inflammation. The Journal of Leukocyte Biology is published by the Society for Leukocyte Biology.
Dalia E. Gaddis, Craig L. Maynard, Casey T. Weaver, Suzanne M. Michalek, and Jannet Katz. Role of TLR2-dependent IL-10 production in the inhibition of the initial IFN-? T cell response to Porphyromonas gingivalis. J. Leukoc. Biol. January 2013 93:21-31; doi:10.1189/jlb.0512220 ; http://www.jleukbio.org/content/93/1/21.abstract.
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?
AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert! system.
Smile: Gingivitis bacteria manipulate your immune system so they can thrive in your gumsPublic release date: 3-Jan-2013 [ | E-mail | Share ]
Contact: Cody Mooneyhan cmooneyhan@faseb.org 301-634-7104 Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology
New research published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology suggests that Porphyromonas gingivalis causes excess IL-10 production, which inhibits the immune cells interferon gamma leading to infection
A new research report published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology shows how the bacteria known for causing gum disease--Porphyromonas gingivalis--manipulates the body's immune system to disable normal processes that would otherwise destroy it. Specifically, the report shows that this pathogen prompts the production of the anti-inflammatory molecule Interleukin-10 (IL-10). This, in turn, inhibits the function of T-cells, which would otherwise help to protect the host from this particular microbial infection.
"Since greater than 50 percent of the U.S. population over 50 years-of-age develop adult periodontal disease, we hope that the results of our study will ultimately help in the development of novel treatments that could prevent or ameliorate the chronic infection caused by the pathogen P. gingivalis,'" said Jannet Katz, D.D.S., Ph.D., a researcher involved in the work from the Department of Pediatric Dentistry at the University of Alabama in Birmingham.
To make this discovery, scientists used cells from mice that were exposed to P. gingivalis. One portion of the cells was treated with an inhibiting antibody against IL-10 and the other portion of cells was not treated. All of the cells were then tested for interferon gamma production. An increase of interferon gamma production was seen in the treated cells, but no increase was found in the untreated cells. These findings suggest that the damage done by P. gingivalis happens when the immune cells of the host are first exposed to this pathogen, and further implies that for treatment to be successful, it must be started as early as possible. This study highlights the mechanism by which P. gingivalis can establish a chronic infection in the form of periodontal disease and provides insight into how the disease develops. Results also demonstrate the importance of very early intervention either by eradication of the bacterium with specifically designed therapeutics or by prevention via the development of an effective vaccine.
"Gum diseases and the infections that cause them can be incredibly stubborn and difficult to treat," said John Wherry, Ph.D., Deputy Editor of the Journal of Leukocyte Biology. "What isn't as well known is why these infections are so difficult to eradicate. These new studies now demonstrate that these bacteria go beyond merely evading our body's defenses and actually manipulate our immune systems for their own survival."
###
The Journal of Leukocyte Biology publishes peer-reviewed manuscripts on original investigations focusing on the cellular and molecular biology of leukocytes and on the origins, the developmental biology, biochemistry and functions of granulocytes, lymphocytes, mononuclear phagocytes and other cells involved in host defense and inflammation. The Journal of Leukocyte Biology is published by the Society for Leukocyte Biology.
Dalia E. Gaddis, Craig L. Maynard, Casey T. Weaver, Suzanne M. Michalek, and Jannet Katz. Role of TLR2-dependent IL-10 production in the inhibition of the initial IFN-? T cell response to Porphyromonas gingivalis. J. Leukoc. Biol. January 2013 93:21-31; doi:10.1189/jlb.0512220 ; http://www.jleukbio.org/content/93/1/21.abstract.
[ | E-mail | Share ]
?
AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert! system.
Buying that coveted piece of real estate could be the biggest purchase you will ever make in your life. Here are some tips to help you decide whether the property you?re eyeing is indeed worth purchasing.
1. Everything within easy reach
Most houses or condos are usually located in established and reputable neighborhoods. If you value time, you will want a supermarket, church, schools, hotels, and other cosmopolitan amenities including public transport all within easy reach. Consider lots in prime commercial business districts or posh subdivisions. Other choices must be within your desired lifestyle, such as those that are near white sand waterfront locations or? shopping malls, golf courses, mountain and jogging trails.
2. Location, location, location
This really dictates the value of the property especially in subdivisions around the metropolis. The same is true for condominium buildings. Whether for commercial or residential purpose, location dictates a property?s value. The economic activity within the area is also of paramount importance.
3. Budget
Your budget will dictate decision. Consider how much down payment you can afford or your equity. Moreover, do your math for mortgage capacity and the financing method you can afford and other ancillary loan charges that will be up-front considering your monthly/annual income and other expenses you or your family will have to allot.
4. Developer?s background
This is paramount considering that you will be parting with hard-earned money.? A well-reputed developer with an impeccable track record puts your money in good hands. A background check on the company and its real estate portfolio of finished projects are an excellent barometer of the reliability of the developer. These companies are expected to finish and turn-over the project to its buyers on time and at the agreed specifications.
5. Recreational facilities
Most subdivisions, especially condominium developments, are all provided with amenities to cater to your lifestyle.? These facilities may include outdoor and indoor swimming pools, Jacuzzi, fully equipped gym, children?s playground with wading pool, clubhouse, jogging path, artificial fishing pond, adjacent golf course, laundry service areas, convenience store, bookshop, DVD outlet, and the like.
These perks allow for spending quality time with yourself or your family. Choose a property that caters to the lifestyle you wish for yourself and your family.
6. House maintenance efforts
This is more popular for condo dwellers because you do not have to worry about your unit sitting empty for weeks or months. Somebody will take care of your unit when you are not there. For detached houses, service providers are also available in this everchanging world of realities. Condos are cheaper to maintain than detached houses.
7. Value for Money
Comfortable and enjoyable living is the greatest aspect to consider when purchasing a property. The high cost of maintenance makes you think twice if you really want to buy a house. You can buy a condominium unit where common area expenses are shared by all. Buying real estate is a great investment.It pays to be very cautious.
8. Sustainable green design
Most architects incorporate green design to houses and buildings either in the interior or landscape, providing visual and physical relief to dwellers. Sun shades and overhangs are expertly designed to mitigate the effects of sun and rain for weather protection. Natural lighting to minimize power consumption is primary to designers as well as green roofing and elevated gardens to produce more oxygen and filter pollution in the atmosphere.
9. Security and safety
Gated communities and complexes are secured developments. With the rising rate of crimes in the country, safety and security become of paramount importance. Controlled security gates, CCTV cameras, and even concierge services in condo buildings are features favoring urban living. The sense of security of these services have spread to subdivisions throughout the country. In most residential condominiums, the presence of fire detection and alarm system comprising smoke detectors, floor annunciators, and sprinkler systems, to name a few, makes you feel safer.
10. Leasable?
For investors, this is a build-up of their assets and higher return for their idle cash in banks. For personal users, it is a consideration if you need to transfer residence due to work or other personal reasons,
leasing your property is ensuring a return of your investment.
[unable to retrieve full-text content]Our New Pets. Meet our 7 fish and 2 frogs. This is Jude's Santa present, it was quite the operation to make this DREAM come true for Jude. He wanted Santa to bring him fish for Christmas. Challenge excepted son. :O) ...
We've talked about how amazing custom browser searches can be, but reader mdegat01 took it to the next level and submitted five even more advanced searches that make your life easier. Here's how they work. 
![[ Back to EurekAlert! ]](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/blogger_img_proxy/AEn0k_ubSsudxQ8_bnxSqhr_EFRyu8QdFfAblYoO649QGgI8_7FWo2_vYCp9LruTcomman8F2-WdVkcHT4Q33V8CXWss34cBzi2ZR5HF9te9oyA=s0-d){kind=small}
Public release date: 3-Jan-2013
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Buying that coveted piece of real estate could be the biggest purchase you will ever make in your life. Here are some tips to help you decide whether the property you?re eyeing is indeed worth purchasing.