Kelly Rowland, Tiffany Haddish, Tyler Perry were spotted at the 2019 Wearable Art.
The 2019 Wearable Art Gala held on Saturday night (June 1) at The Barker Hangar at the Santa Monica Airport in Sana Monica, California.
Hosted by Tina Knowles-Lawson and her husband Richard Lawson, this year’s event theme was “A Journey to the Pride Lands,” in honor of Disney’s upcoming CGI remake of The Lion King, which Tina‘s daughter Beyoncé stars as Nala.
The event was attended by Kelly Rowland, Michelle Williams, Tiffany Haddish, Lena Waithe, Bianca Lawson, Jesse Williams, Tyler Perry, Anthony Anderson, Magic Johnson, and more stars.
The World Health Organization is commending Algeria and Argentina for becoming the latest countries to eliminate malaria.
WHO DG Tedros Ghebreyesus said this achievement “is a model for countries working to end this disease. Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease, and can be prevented through a vaccine. In 2017, there were 219 million cases worldwide, with 400,000 malaria-related deaths, WHO reports.
Argentina and Algeria were able to eliminate malaria through improved health care. This included free diagnosis and treatments, and fast responses to outbreaks. So now, 38 countries and territories are free of malaria, and experts say it’s entirely possible to end the disease on a global scale, but there needs to be more funding.
A new born baby has become an internet sensation due to viral pictures making rounds online.
The baby was made up by her mother who cannot be identified.
A viral photo of a newborn baby with makeup is all sorts of wrong according to the court of public opinion.
The mother is unknown but the baby has become famous overnight for all the makeup splashed on her face.
The newbie is seen spotting fully drawn eyebrows outlined carefully with concealer. Dabs of foundation on her cheeks and dark berry full lips. This has outraged many social media commentators who feel it is just wrong to put makeup on a baby.
Some felt the chemicals in the product could react negatively with the baby’s skin which could have ramifications on its health. Others also taught it was totally wrong to practice makeup skills on a baby.
According to experts, applying makeup on a baby is wrong! They said this reason is not about toxic chemicals found in some makeup, but because most babies already suffer from skin conditions which makeup could worsen.
It performs a variety of essential tasks, ranging from producing proteins, cholesterol and bile to storing vitamins, minerals and even carbohydrates.
It also breaks down toxins like alcohol, medications and natural byproducts of metabolism. Keeping your liver in good shape is important for maintaining health.
This article lists the 9 best foods to eat to keep your liver healthy.
1. Cruciferous Vegetables
The weird name means vegetables like brussels sprout, broccoli, and cabbage – not a favorite among kids, but definitely worth eating for everyone, regardless of age.
This diverse group of vegetables is very beneficial to the liver. They help in all sorts of metabolic processes and enhance the detoxification function of the liver, by increasing the number of detoxification enzymes that protect the liver from damage.
2. Tea
Tea is widely considered to be beneficial for health, but evidence has shown that it may have particular benefits for the liver.
Black and green tea may improve enzyme and fat levels in the liver. However, exercise caution if you’re taking a green tea extract, as it may cause damage.
3. Coffee
Coffee is one of the best beverages you can drink to promote liver health.
Studies have shown that drinking coffee protects the liver from disease, even in those who already have problems with this organ.
Coffee increases antioxidant levels in the liver, all while decreasing inflammation. It also lowers the risk of developing liver disease, cancer and fatty liver.
4. Grapefruit
Grapefruit contains antioxidants that naturally protect the liver. The two main antioxidants found in grapefruit are naringenin and naringin.
Several animal studies have found that both help protect the liver from injury (14Trusted Source, 15Trusted Source).
The protective effects of grapefruit are known to occur in two ways — by reducing inflammation and protecting cells.
The antioxidants in grapefruit protect the liver by reducing inflammation and increasing its protective mechanisms. However, human studies, as well as those on grapefruit or grapefruit juice itself, are lacking.
5. Nuts
Nuts are high in fats, nutrients — including the antioxidant vitamin E — and beneficial plant compounds.
This composition is responsible for several health benefits, especially for heart health, but potentially also for the liver.
Nut intake has been associated with improved liver enzyme levels in patients with NAFLD. Conversely, low nut intake has been associated with a higher risk of developing the disease.
6. Olive Oil
Olive oil is considered a healthy fat because of its many health benefits, including positive effects on heart and metabolic health.
However, it also has positive effects on the liver (6Trusted Source).
One small study in 11 people with NAFLD found that consuming one teaspoon (6.5 ml) of olive oil per day improved liver enzyme and fat levels.
Studies show that olive oil consumption decreases the levels of fat in the liver, increases blood flow and improves liver enzyme levels.
7. Beetroot Juice
This juice is a source of nitrates and antioxidants called betalains, which may benefit heart health and reduce oxidative damage and inflammation.
It also protects the liver from oxidative damage and inflammation, all while increasing its natural detoxification enzymes. However, human studies are needed.
8. Prickly Pear
Prickly pear, known scientifically as Opuntia ficus-indica, is a popular type of edible cactus. Its fruit and juice are most commonly consumed.
It has long been used in traditional medicine as a treatment for ulcers, wounds, fatigue and liver disease.
Prickly pear fruit and juice may help fight hangover symptoms by reducing inflammation. They may also protect the liver from damage caused by alcohol consumption.
9. Blueberries and Cranberries
Blueberries and cranberries both contain anthocyanins, antioxidants that give berries their distinctive colors. They’ve also been connected to many health benefits.
Several animal studies have demonstrated that whole cranberries and blueberries, as well as their extracts or juices, can help keep the liver healthy.
Berries are high in antioxidants, which help protect the liver from damage. They may even improve its immune and antioxidant responses. Still, human studies are needed to confirm these results.
Former US president Barack Obama and his wife Michelle are producing for Netflix an adaptation of Michael Lewis’s book “The Fifth Risk,” a critique of Donald Trump’s rise to power.
The video-on-demand platform announced a year ago that the former US leaders had entered into a multi-year agreement to produce films and series with Netflix.
On Tuesday, Netflix unveiled the initial projects for Higher Ground Productions, Obama’s production company in partnership with the streaming service.
Among them is the adaptation of Lewis’s book in “non-fiction” form, Netflix said in a statement.
The series “aims to portray the importance of work done by everyday heroes guiding our government and safeguarding our nation”.
His latest work describes the workings of the US government while offering a picture of Trump and his team.
It portrays an elected president who has not prepared anything for his arrival in office. This President is also shows little interest in the opinions of government officials trying to help.
The book also highlights the many presidential decisions seen as questionable in putting together the administration. Also the decision of Trump to quickly install people with no prior relevant position in key positions.
Higher Ground is producing an adaptation of The New York Times feature “Overlooked,” which publishes obituaries on historical figures whose death was not reported at the time. These casualties were mainly women or minorities.
The production company is led by two women, Priya Swaminathan, and Tonia Davis. And is also tackling a feature film on Frederick Douglass, an African-American slave who went on to play a leading role in abolitionism.
President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday pronounced the dissolution of the eighth session of the National Assembly. He then announced the proclamation of the ninth session of the federal parliament billed to commence on Tuesday, June 11th.
The Clerk to the National Assembly, Mohammed Sani Omolori, confirmed this while addressing journalists in his office on Thursday.
He said, “I want to confirm that I have received proclamation from the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“The first is on the dissolution of the eight National Assembly, while the other one is on the convening of the first session of the ninth National Assembly.
“The proclamation of the dissolution of the eight National Assembly takes effect from 12 midnight of 8th June.
“By implication, from 8th of June by 12 midnight, the eight National Assembly stands dissolved.
Novak Djokovic reached his ninth Roland Garros semi-final on Thursday, sweeping past Alexander Zverev to keep his bid to become just the second man to hold all four Slams at the same time twice firmly on track.
Top seed and world number one Djokovic won 7-5, 6-2, 6-2 and will face Austrian fourth seed Dominic Thiem on Friday in what will be his 35th Grand Slam semi-final.
Thiem reached the semi-finals for a fourth successive year with a 6-2, 6-4, 6-2 victory against Russian 10th seed Karen Khachanov.
“It was a big challenge for me today but I was hitting the ball more cleanly,” said 32-year-old Djokovic.
“It’s a great joy to be in the semi-finals again.”
The problem for Djokovic now in his pursuit of a second title in Paris and 16th major is the weather.
Heavy rain is forecast to hit Paris again on Friday after Wednesday’s washout.
“I just have to keep my concentration and stay in the moment. I hope to continue like this,” said the Serb.
Nadal And Federer
Friday’s other semi-final will see Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer resume their great rivalry, meaning this is the first time the top four seeds have all reached the last four at a Grand Slam since the 2013 Australian Open.
The last time Djokovic made the semi-finals was 2016 when he went on to win the title.
He has a 6-2 career lead over Thiem and beat the Austrian in the Rome semi-finals in the run-up to Paris.
However, Thiem came out on top in the Roland Garros quarter-finals in straight sets in 2017.
Fifth seed Zverev, bidding to reach a maiden Slam semi-final and become the first German in the last-four in Paris since Michael Stich in 1996, made the stronger start.
The 22-year-old had break points in the third and fifth games of the opening set and finally broke through for a 5-4 lead.
Match highlights, Post-Match Comments
But top seed Djokovic levelled immediately before claiming the set on a Zverev double fault.
Djokovic dominated the second set as breaks in the second and eighth games were enough to tighten his grip.
The world number one saved two more break points in the opening game of the third set and again made the German pay with a break for 4-2.
Zverev’s 40th and last unforced error proved to be the final point of the one-sided quarter-final.
“I had chances in the first set but he broke back and was in control,” said the German.
“When he’s in control, he’s tough to beat. He’s number one for a reason.
“I expected more from this tournament but once the first set slipped away, it was difficult.”
The world number five finished with eight double faults while converting just one of eight break points.
Thiem was utterly dominant on Court Suzanne Lenglen, hammering 29 winners, as his erratic opponent contrived to tally 37 unforced errors and only 17 winners.
“The key was to control the points. I’ll be ready to maybe come back here tomorrow. This is one of my favourite courts in the world,” said the 25-year-old, who is chasing a maiden Grand Slam title.
Khachanov had impressed in a fourth-round victory over Juan Martin del Potro, but was never in with a chance in the quarter-final, which was delayed from Wednesday due to rain, dropping serve twice in the opening set.
He managed to get to 4-4 in the second, only to see Thiem reel off eight of the next 10 games and seal a last-four spot without even facing a break point in the match.
Over the years, various experiments and researches have been put to motion in the hopes of finding a cure that can put an end to Malaria. This time, scientists have decided to use the spider gene to genetically produce a fungus that will, in turn, produce the venom that can quickly put these mosquitoes down.
To conduct the initial testing of the fungus, the researchers created an environment that mimics the Sahara in Africa, where malaria remains to be a major public health concern. The research team reported in the journal Science.
“We are very excited about this project,” Raymond St. Leger said. He is an entomology professor from the University of Maryland and the lead author of this research. “The results are showing that something positive is going to come out of this study and we could finally save a lot of lives.”
The other researchers who are not part of the study also expressed their good praises towards the study. They said that such an advancement in technology can indeed help stop the deaths caused by malaria.
“I think this step is important in the advancement towards a real cure,” stated Marcelo Jacobs-Lorena, a professor and researcher from John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. “We need to combat malaria with something new.”
Concerns of experts
However, there are also others that expressed their concerns about this new method that might be unsafe.
“Fighting malaria is what everyone should be doing, but to use genetic engineering is just another story,” Nnimmo Bassey said as a representative of the Health of Mother Earth Foundation. They are a Nigerian advocacy group that mainly aims to find a solution for malaria.
Bassey expressed his concerns that the fungus might also cause the inadvertent death of the other organisms that could affect the balance of a fragile ecosystem.
St. Legger emphasizes that much more research needs to be conducted to further evaluate the capacity of the fungus to target only malaria-carrying mosquitoes. Before the decision of releasing it out in the wild, it is a must that we look closely into it to make sure that it doesn’t affect the ecosystem.
“Nothing will be done without the acceptance of the locals who would basically be living with the fungus in their immediate environment. We will make sure they understand the potential risks that it comes with as well as the benefits they offer,” St. Leger said.
We have heard about Muna since 2017, the Kevin Nwankwor-directed film featuring Adesua Etomi-Wellington in a lead role, with an image of her holding a sword over her head. What’s exciting about Muna is that it’s a female revenge action-thriller. It’s in season, movies revolving around women being badasses while toppling the patriarchy (Captain Marvel), or setting up a heist to pay off enormous debts (Widows), or serving cold, deadly justice to rapists (Revenge).
Muna tows a similar path. Thankfully, here’s the movie’s synopsis:
Muna is the story of a spirited girl raised by her grandmother; the last surviving member of their family. Muna’s driving desire to provide a better life for herself and grandmother in the land of milk and honey, leads to shady characters that will change the trajectory. Landing her smack dab into the hands of traffickers. That experience turns her once golden heart into one driven by stone cold revenge on those who stole her innocence. In her grand plan, love was never on the agenda. When secrets and betrayal complicate her strategy, she has a tough decision to make. Will she remain a prisoner of her past or allow love to set her free?
Trailer
The trailer, released on Tuesday morning, plays up the female revenge trope with a vibe that feels tethered to the 2011 Zoe Saldana movie Colombiana. As a child, Muna (Etomi) is trafficked away from her village and sold into a life of slavery and abuse. All grown up, Muna wants revenge and although we aren’t shown how or where she got her martial art skills from, I love how she goes about murdering those involved in having her trafficked, all cold and withdrawn demeanor. In one scene, she leaves a thinly bloody inscription of ”Stop Human Trafficking” on the forearm of a man after killing him. That’s cold.
There’s the whiff of the love complication in the trailer, and I think this has become popular with movies where women play strong characters but are ”tamed” with love and all that baggage. Wonder woman, case in point. That said, I’m still not completely convinced by the trailer but thought the combat scenes could have been better.
But it’s interesting that Etomi is playing this role, which is different from what she’s played in the past. Also, the movie stars Onyeka Onwenu, Falz, and Ebele Okaro, and from all indication, Muna should be released this year.
Almost 2,000 cases of Ebola have been reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo, as the central African nation struggles with the second largest outbreak of the disease in history.
Family members watch the deceased victim of the Ebola virus being buried on May 16, 2019 in Butembo. The city of Butembo is at the epicentre of the Ebola crisis in the DR Congo.
Health officials in the DRC said Sunday there were 1,994 reported cases of the disease, of which 1,900 have been confirmed as Ebola. So far, 1,245 people are confirmed to have died, with another 94 deaths reported.
The outbreak, which began last August, has proved difficult to bring under control because of community mistrust and violent attacks on health care workers.
Last month, the World Health Organization (WHO) said sporadic violence by armed militias, limited health care resources and difficult-to-access locations meant this outbreak was taking place in one of the “most challenging circumstances ever confronted by WHO.”
WHO epidemiologist Dr. Richard Mouzoko was killed by armed men in April while working in Butembo, in North Kivu, a province grappling with a long-term conflict and dozens of armed groups.
“Dr. Mouzoko’s death moved me profoundly,” WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a statement after the attack. “I am also profoundly worried about the situation. Cases are increasing because of violent acts that set us back each time.”
The attack took place during a coordination meeting at the hospital where Mouzoko was working.
Doctors Without Borders (Medecins Sans Frontieres) staff have also been attacked, prompting the group to suspend work in some Ebola-hit areas.
The DR Congo outbreak has affected the northeastern provinces of North Kivu and neighboring Ituri. The two provinces are among the most populous in the country and border Uganda, Rwanda and South Sudan.
Unlike the 2014 outbreak in West Africa that killed more than 11,000 people, there are now vaccines and experimental treatments for Ebola. While it warned against travel to affected areas, the WHO said the outbreak did not constitute a “public health emergency of international concern.”
Dr. Joanne Liu, international president of Doctors Without Borders, said in March that the response to Ebola had to be more community-based, treating patients as humans, “not as a biothreat.”
“People prefer to stay in the community, not go to treatment centers,” she said.
Gwenola Seroux, manager at Doctors Without Borders, warned that it was “clear that the outbreak is not under control and therefore we need a better collective effort. The virus has not spread to neighboring countries so far, but the possibility exists.”
