Author: Onu Akter

The National University Heart Centre, Singapore (NUHCS) has unveiled the PASCAL transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) procedure as a groundbreaking alternative for patients suffering from severe mitral valve disease. This innovative treatment offers a less invasive option compared to traditional open-heart surgery, significantly improving patient recovery times and reducing surgical risks. A New Alternative for Mitral Valve Disease Mitral regurgitation, a condition where the heart’s mitral valve does not close properly, affects millions of people worldwide. If left untreated, it can lead to heart failure and other severe complications. Conventional treatment often involves open-heart surgery, which carries inherent risks, particularly for…

A British couple in their 70s, who have dedicated their lives to education and humanitarian work in Afghanistan, were arrested by the Taliban earlier this month. Their children, now desperate for their release, are calling on the Taliban authorities to free Peter and Barbie Reynolds, who have been living in Afghanistan for 18 years. Couple’s Background and Detention Peter and Barbie Reynolds have long been active in Afghanistan, running Rebuild, a non-profit organization that offers education, training programs, and business support. Their work, especially focused on mothers and children, became even more critical after the Taliban re-established power in the…

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is poised to significantly invest in Kerala’s tourism sector, along with healthcare, food processing, and technology industries. This announcement was made by UAE Minister of Economy Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri during the Invest Kerala Global Summit. The investments reflect the UAE’s commitment to bolstering economic cooperation with India, with a strong focus on sustainable growth and long-term economic resilience. As the UAE celebrates its ‘Year of Community’ in 2025, these investments underscore its dedication to strengthening Indo-UAE relations. UAE’s Strategic Focus on Kerala’s Growth Sectors In a move that reinforces the robust economic ties…

The U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Australia in the SheBelieves Cup at State Farm Stadium on Sunday. The win sets up a high-stakes clash against Japan for the tournament title on Wednesday. A lightning-fast goal from Lynn Biyendolo in the opening minute gave the U.S. an early advantage, and debutant Michelle Cooper doubled the lead in the second half. Despite a late surge from the Matildas, highlighted by Michelle Heyman’s header in the 80th minute, the American squad held firm to claim the win. USWNT Displays Dominance Despite Squad Changes Head coach Twila Kilgore…

Hoima, Uganda – Health facilities in Hoima District are grappling with an overwhelming patient load as a shortage of medical workers and limited infrastructure strain healthcare services. Despite efforts to delegate cases to lower-level health centers, many residents are hesitant to seek treatment at these facilities due to inadequate staffing and resources. Growing Population, Limited Facilities As of January 2025, Hoima District’s population had reached 548,800. However, the region relies on just two Health Centre III facilities—Bugahya and Kigorobya—to serve its residents. The limited number of healthcare centers, combined with an increasing demand for medical services, has placed immense pressure…

As the war in Gaza continues, discussions about the territory’s postwar future are intensifying. The focus extends beyond reconstruction to a critical question: Who will govern Gaza? Various stakeholders—Israel, Hamas, Arab states, and international bodies—offer different governance models, but consensus remains elusive. On February 21, 2025, Gulf Arab leaders met in Riyadh with their Egyptian and Jordanian counterparts to discuss the U.S. proposal to administer Gaza under American oversight while relocating its Palestinian population. The meeting, a precursor to the March 4 Arab League summit in Cairo, ended without a joint statement, raising questions about whether Arab nations can present…

Former Indian cricket star Yuvraj Singh turned back the clock with a breathtaking catch during the India Masters vs. Sri Lanka Masters match in the 2025 International Masters League (IML) at DY Patil Stadium. At 43, Yuvraj showcased his athleticism and impeccable timing, leaving fans and fellow cricketers in awe. Yuvraj’s Sensational Catch Stuns the Crowd The moment of brilliance occurred in the eighth over when Sri Lanka’s Lahiru Thirimanne attempted a big shot off Irfan Pathan’s length delivery. Aiming for a six over long-on, Thirimanne miscalculated his shot, sending the ball high but not far enough. Yuvraj, stationed perfectly,…

Shenzhen, China – The Chinese government is reinforcing its commitment to student health with the nationwide expansion of the “one physical education (PE) class per day” policy. This initiative, first piloted in Shenzhen in 2024, has already shown promising results, particularly in reducing the rate of myopia among students. According to the Shenzhen Municipal Education Bureau, since the policy’s implementation on January 1, 2024, the overall myopia rate among children and adolescents has dropped to 55.5 percent—down 1.2 percentage points from the previous year. Additionally, the proportion of students achieving excellent physical fitness scores has increased by over 6 percentage…

ASEAN Tourists Boost China’s Tourism Industry Under New Visa-Free Policy A new visa policy has sparked a surge in tourism from Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam to China, fostering deeper cultural ties and driving economic growth across the region. On Friday, a group of 15 tourists from Thailand and Laos wrapped up a four-day visit to Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture in southwest China, marking a milestone as the first ASEAN-based tour group to explore the region under China’s latest visa relaxation policy. Their return journey via the China-Laos Railway symbolized the growing connectivity between China and its ASEAN neighbors. As of…

Aston Villa will welcome Chelsea to Villa Park on Saturday, February 22, 2025, in a crucial Premier League encounter. A victory for Unai Emery’s side would see them close the gap to just one point behind the West London outfit. However, Villa faces a challenging fixture schedule, with five matches in just 13 days, adding to their struggles with injuries and squad fatigue. Chelsea, on the other hand, will be aiming to break into the Premier League’s top four with a win. Historically, Villa Park has been a favorable venue for the Blues, as they have only suffered one defeat…