VOICE OF ASIA 1
VOICE OF ASIA
FRIDAY, March 25, 2016
28 years of dedicated service to the community
Vol. 29 No. 13 Friday, March 25, 2016 • Published Weekly from Houston • 713-774-5140 20 Pages ( 2 sections) 50 cents E-mail: voiceasia@aol.com
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FRIDAY, March 25, 2016
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Connect with us today! Visit us Online @ www.voiceofasiaonline.com
VOICE OF ASIA 28 years of dedicated service to the community
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FRIDAY, March 25, 2016
Battle Lines Drawn Over Medicare Pricing Proposal Read on Page 16 or Call 832-806-1000
Vol. 29 No. 13 Friday, March 25, 2016 • Published Weekly from Houston • 713-774-5140 20 Pages ( 2 sections) 50 cents E-mail: voiceasia@aol.com
Woman in Brussels blast photo is Indian flight attendant
N
EW DELHI, India | AFP | Wednesday 3/23/2016 - An Indian woman who was pictured covered in dust and blood after the Brussels attacks and made newspaper front pages around the world has been identified as an Indian Jet Airways employee.
A haunting photograph of a dazed Chaphekar covered in debris, that surfaced soon after two massive suicide blasts hit Zaventem Airport, became one of the most widely published images of the bombings.
The brother-in-law of the woman, Nidhi Chaphekar, told AFP Wednesday that he and his brother were set to fly out from Mumbai to join her in Brussels where she was hospitalised
In the photo, shared by millions on social media, the mother of two is seen in the tattered remains of her yellow Jet Airways jacket, missing a shoe and with blood running
The attacks, which also targeted a metro train in the city, left 31 people dead and 270 wounded.
HGH, HAF and MTS respond to anti-Hindu signs posted at Dairy Queen in Kemah
K
EMAH - Large signs at the Dairy Queen restaurant in the 1100 block of State Highway 146 in Kemah has the attention of the Hindu community as one of them depicts Hindu Gods mentions Hinduism. (See CW39 TV report on page 4) . In a joint statement of Hindus of Greater Houston (HGH) and Hindu American Foundation (HAF) stated, “While Mr. Dar has a First Amendment right to say what he wants at his own place of business, we find it disappointing that he chooses to malign Hinduism and its pluralistic ethos in the manner that he does. In times like these, signs like Mr. Dar’s only serve to contribute to ignorance and mistrust, as opposed to building bridges and understanding. We hope the customers who go to his store see past his signs and reach out to Hindus in their community to learn about their beliefs.” Sri Meenaksi Temple Society in Pearland in their statement (KPRC reported), said “Hindu philosophy allows one to respect other faiths and accommodate a broad perspective, rather than claiming monopoly of the Divine presence. We believe in ONE God, who can be worshipped in its numerous manifestations, just as water can be in the form of ice, snow, steam or flowing river. Truth is one, but the wise call it by different names.”
down her face. “Depending on when the next earliest flight out of the country is, my brother and I will be leaving by tonight or tomorrow morning,” the 40-year-old flight attendant’s brother-inlaw, Nilesh Chaphekar, told AFP by telephone. “We haven’t been able to speak to her directly yet. All we know is that she is in stable condition now. We have been kept informed by Jet (Airways),” he said, adding that “it has been a very traumatic experience”. Continued on page 4
State of shock ... flight attendant Nidhi Chaphekar (right) slumps on a bench following the bomb blast at Brussels aiport. Photo credit: Associated Press
Large turnout of Indian Americans at the farewell reception for Consul General P. Harish by Manu Shah
H
OUSTON - A measure of how well liked Consul General P. Harish and wife Nandita are with the Indo American community was clearly evident when 22 organizations came together at their farewell reception on March 19th at India House. It’s not hard to understand why. From the day he assumed charge in 2012, the CG demonstrated a willingness to reach out to the community, understand their consular issues and respond effectively even if it meant putting his own email address on the website or his staff processing emergency requests in the middle of the night. IACCGH Executive Director Jagdip Ahluwalia welcomed the packed gathering and spoke of the sense of community that was present in the room. He also Continued on page 7
Mrs. Nandita Harish addressing the gathering while Consul General of India, Houston Mr. P. Harish looks on during the dinner reception held in their honor on Saturday, March 19 at the India House. Photo credits: Bijay Dixit.
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OP-ED/COMMENTARY/ANALYSIS
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by Vishav Bharti Tribune News Service Chandigarh, India March 22
VOICE OF ASIA Publisher: Associate Publisher: Editor-in-Chief: Austin Correspondent: Print & Media Marketing: Marketing: Production: Office Manager:
How did Bhagat Singh and BR Ambedkar perceive each other?
Koshy Thomas Sherly Philip Shobana Muratee Sherine Thomas Jacob David Susan Pothanikat AR Vadlamani Priyan Mathew
Columnists: Legal: Richard M. Alderman Legal: Sharlene Sharmila Richards Research: Prof. Meenakshi Bhattacharjee Health Insurance: Sudhir Mathuria Astrology: Hardik Vyas
In an editorial by Ambedkar published in Janata on April 13, 1931, he had argued that Bhagat Singh and his comrades were hanged in deference to public opinion in England. Prof Chaman Lal, a former teacher at Jawaharlal Nehru University, said the journey to find this editorial started in 2006 during a private visit to Chennai where he found a wonderful editorial written on the hangings by freedom fighter Periyar on March 29.
VoiceofAsiaOnline.com Editor Online:
This question has been asked to chroniclers of the freedom movement a thousand times. But the finding of a piece written by Ambedkar, which was published after Bhagat Singh and his comrades’ execution, gives a new dimension to the whole issue.
Shobana Muratee
All rights reserved. No material herein or portions thereof may be published without the consent of the publisher. Voice of Asia assumes no liability resulting from action taken based on the information included herein. Published weekly by Free Press LLC, 8303 SW Freeway, Suite # 325, Houston, TX 77074. Tel: 713-774-5140. Fax: 713-7745143. Email for editorial submissions: voiceasia@aol.com; Email for advertising inquiries and submissions: ads@ voiceofasiagroup.com
Voice of Asia (USPS 010-215) (ISSN#10705058) is published every Friday (for a subscription rate of $30 per year) by Free Press LLC, 8303 SW Freeway, Suite # 325, Houston, TX 77074. Tel: 713-774-5140. Fax: 713774-5143. Periodical postage paid at Houston, Texas. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Voice of Asia, 8303 SW Freeway, Suite # 325, Houston, TX 77074
It is the policy of Voice of Asia to publish letters to the editor which evidence a variety of viewpoints. The opinions expressed in any particular letter to the editor are not necessarily those of the management. Voice of Asia welcomes letters in reply to issues raised in letters to editor. In as much letters to the editor are not articles written or researched by members of Voice of Asia, it is not the policy of the Voice of Asia to perform any investigation or confirmation of any facts or allegations contained in letters to the editor. Moreover, Voice of Asia reserves the right to edit letters to the editor as necessary to correct errors of fact, punctuation, spelling and to comply with space constraints. Although paid advertisements may appear in Voice of Asia Group Publications in print, online, or in other electronic formats, the Voice of Asia Group does not endorse the advertised product, service, or company, nor any of the claims made by the advertisement. - The Publisher
by Mabarbagallo (Newsfix CW39 TV). KEMAH, TX (March 22, 2016, ) - Dairy Queen is known to cool people off during warm weather. But signs in and around A Texas DQ in Kemah are doing the opposite, by firing some folks up. Drivers are greeted by an ominous looking sign as soon as they pull into the front parking lot. When you walk in you’ll see more posters hung by the restaurant owner, filled with more symbols and imagery. Some say the signs seem to be anti-Hinduism. Store owner Mohammad Dar, who claims he is a Muslim, spoke to us over the phone and said he does in fact have problems with Hinduism. Dar says, “Hinduism is based on racism. And that is the source of racism today in humanity.” A frequent visitor to the Dairy Queen (and friend of the owner) describes the effect the signs have on patrons. Chris Bond says,”There are certain customers that do get offended but they never take the time to actually look through the information to understand the whole situation.” Actually, it seems like many customers skip the signs completely and just order ice cream. But Hindus of Greater Houston are not laughing. The
FRIDAY, March 25, 2016
Shaheed Bhagat Singh’s Martyrdom Day Today
Ambedkar’s 1931 editorial on Bhagat Singh found “I started browsing Ambedkar’s writings to ascertain whether the latter had written something on Bhagat Singh and his comrades. I could also not find anything in 25 volumes of collected works,” he said. Then on January 30, Subodh More, a grandson of RB More, sent me the original Marathi version of the editorial. “I requested Anand Teltumbde to translate it in English,” Prof Lal said. The editorial was published in English early this month. He said, “The editorial has great value when the youth is in an uproar and the way ahead lies in the combination of the ideas of Bhagat Singh and Ambedkar.” Teltumbde,
the
English
translator of the editorial and Mumbai-based social activist in his introduction to the translation says, “The relevance of the ideas of Bhagat Singh and Ambedkar is growing. How did they perceive each other? There is no evidence of either of them saying anything about the other. However, we do know that Bhagat Singh had grappled with the Dalit question. He had written an article titled Achoot Samasya (Problem of Untouchability) at the age of 16, but it still has freshness and reflects the amazing maturity of thought to be relevant for the struggle of Dalits. Ambedkar did not write on the revolutionary movement of Bhagat Singh but has written an editorial note — Three Victims — when they were hanged. Though it does
not speak about their struggle, much less politics, it explains how their execution was influenced by political expediency back home.” Ludhiana-based nephew of martyr Prof Jagmohan Singh, says, “This editorial answers several questions. Both of them were very important figures of the freedom struggle. It has historical significance due to two reasons, one is that when a law luminary like Ambedkar says that the three youngsters were sacrificed to please public opinion, it holds a great meaning,” said Singh. The second significance, he says, is that Bhagat Singh and his compatriots his never appealed for mercy from the court.
Dairy Queen in Kemah posts signs some people claim are racist
Screen grab. Credit cw39 group states, “While Mr. Dar has a First Amendment right to say what he wants at his own place of business, we find it disappointing that he chooses to malign Hinduism.’ Dairy Queen corporate says
that while most DQ’s are independently owner and operated, they add, “We support and welcome all customers. The unfortunate actions of this individual franchisee are not representative of our iconic family brand.”
With the signs in full display at this DQ location, we’ll have to see if these statements freeze future fans. Link: http://cw39. com/2016/03/22/dairy-queenin-kemah-posts-signs-somepeople-claim-are-racist/
Woman in Brussels blast photo ... Continued from page 3 Local media citing unnamed Jet Airways sources on Tuesday identified Chaphekar and another employee who was also hurt in the blasts as Amit Motwani. The airlines in an official statement confirmed Tuesday that “two Jet Airways staff have sustained injuries in the explosion at Brussels airport”,
refraining to identify them with their full names.
that her privacy should be respected.
attacks, the Bangalore-based software firm said Wednesday.
“Based on latest updates from #Brussels, our colleagues Nidhi and Amit are recovering well. We look forward to welcome them home soon,” the airline posted on Twitter Wednesday.
“It’s sad how insensitive media & SM (social media) is being, in broadcasting @jetairways’s injured crew member’s photo. Respect her privacy please!!!,” tweeted Indian actress Gul Panag.
“We are trying to reach one employee with whom we have not been able to connect,” the IT outsourcing firm said in a statement.
Many online have criticised the publishing and sharing of Chaphekar’s photo, saying
Separately, an Indian employee of Infosys is said to be missing in the aftermath of the
Proof
Infosys said it was in touch with the missing worker’s family and authorities in the Belgian capital in an attempt to locate the employee.
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Houston Maharashtra Mandal celebrate Holi The Festival of Colors
Organizing members of HMM. by Megha Ozarker
H
OUSTON - On 20 March, 2016 Houston Maharashtra Mandal (HMM) celebrated Holi/Rangapanchmi at Bear Creek Park in Houston. HMM Committee Members greeted guests by applying dry herbal colors on their faces and wishing them “Happy Holi”. The weather was just picture perfect and sunny for adults and kids to enjoy the Holi event using dry colors and water. Attendees participated in exciting games and dances. Attendees danced on popular Bollywood and Marathi songs while children were busy playing with water. Puran Poli, prepared by HMM Member Sonali Kulkarni was offered to all attendees along with tasty thali from HMM Platinum Sponsor Maharaja Bhog. Some attendees from Pune, India commented that
they were returning back to India the next day but decided to attend HMM Holi Event. They said that HMM Holi was better organized than Holi events they have seen in India which was a great compliment for the team for the 20 hardworking and enthusiastic committee members/ volunteers. HMM would like to thank all attendees, volunteers, sponsors, and committee members who made this event so successful. On the auspicious day of Gudi Padwa, April 9th, 2016 (i.e. first day of the Chaitra month to mark the beginning of the New year and the actual date of Gudi Padwa) HMM Committee has planned an exciting and first musical event of 2016 - Apan Hyanna Aikalat Ka? It introduces new talented vocalists whom you have never heard sing before. For more information about HMM, please visit www.hmmhouston.org.
Read these and other community stories. Visit www.voiceofasiaonline.com
HMM members revel in Holi with families and friends.
Fort Bend ISD to host Small Business Enterprise Workshop, March 30
F
ORT BEND, TX Members of the local small business community are invited to attend and learn about FBISD’s SBE Program, District bid projects and services provided by LiftFund FORT BEND ISD – Fort Bend ISD invites local small business representatives to attend a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Workshop on March 30. The event will be held at FBISD’s Purchasing and Facilities Management Offices (555 Julie Rivers Dr., Sugar Land 77478), from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The workshop is provided through the District’s SBE Program approved by the FBISD Board of Trustees for construction services projects $50,000 and greater. Key components of the program are: (1) goaloriented to use certified small businesses, (2) race and genderneutral, (3) annual participation goal set for 25 percent of total amount of all SBEP-eligible contracts, and (4) participants must be small business certified by an FBISD-recognized agency/organization. During the workshop, partici-
pants will have an opportunity to hear from a representative of LiftFund, a non-profit organization that provides credit and services to small businesses and entrepreneurs who do not have access to capital from typical lending sources, such as traditional banks. Workshop participants will also learn about the various services LiftFund provides at no cost to borrowers, as well as tools and templates designed to help start-up companies obtain Small Business Administration (SBA) loans. Additionally, Robert Fazakerly, Director of Purchasing
& Materials Management will provide details regarding FBISD’s efforts to solicit small business participation in conjunction with the District’s $484 million 2014 Bond Program’s construction and renovation projects. Participants will also learn more about current and upcoming FBISD bid projects. For more information regarding the SBE workshop, call the FBISD Business Opportunity Services Hotline at (281) 6341841. To learn more about LiftFund, visit the website at www. liftfund.com.
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Large turnout ........at farewell reception of Consul General P. Harish Continued from page 3
expressed his appreciation for the CG’s immense contribution from improving consular services to championing the cause of trade between Houston and India, from encouraging Houstonians to practice Suryanamaskars to promoting Indian art and culture in Houston.
A
Heads of the various Indian American organizations in Houston with Consul General P. Harish and wife Nandita Harish at the farewell reception held at the India House. Photo credit: Bijay Dixit.
Having endeared herself to
“TWC is proud to again support this wonderful event, which inspires some of our brightest students to enter exciting STEM fields,” said TWC Chairman Andres Alcantar. “Every year I am more impressed with the creativity and talent of Texas students, who work so hard to create innovative solutions to pressing issues while gaining knowledge that will lead to a brighter Texas. I congratulate these students.” The fair, which is being hosted by The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), begins with early check-in on Thursday, March 31, and culminates with an awards presentation on Saturday, April 2, at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio. U.S. Rep. Lamar Smith will deliver the keynote address at the awards presentation.
Video messages from several organizations were played. Attendees joined in an impromptu chorus of “he’s a jolly good fellow” from the ICC group recording. Thanking the gathering for their friendship and warmth, CG P Harish stated that it is “our duty, our dharma to do what we have been sent to do.” He spoke of his efforts to improve Consular services starting from improving the facilities at the Consulate, greater accessibility and the installation of an emergency number for weekends and off duty hours so that the “consular experience is seamless.” He also spoke about the couple’s effort to attend and encourage every cultural program and faith event because Indian secularism demands the inclusiveness of every religion.
Students to Compete at 2016 Texas Science and Engineering Fair in San Antonio USTIN – More than 1,200 Texas middle and high school students will present their outstanding projects at the 2016 Texas Science and Engineering Fair (TXSEF). The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) continues its commitment to science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education and the success of tomorrow’s workforce by co-sponsoring the event for the 15th consecutive year with ExxonMobil.
Dr. Virendra Mathur shared the special relationship that India House has enjoyed with all the CG’s in Houston but acknowledged that P. Harish had brought “a new warmth, a feeling of comfort in the community” and an efficiency a previously overburdened Consulate was unable to provide. IAPAC President Karun Sreerama was given the task of introducing the CG. Rather than sticking to the CG’s official bio, he offered a “bio tribute” listing qualities like his intellectual depth, unfailing courteousness, diligence and empathy. Karun also described this as” a bitter sweet moment” for Houston because while the community was sorry to see him leave - it was pleased that he had been elevated as Indian Ambassador to Vietnam.
FRIDAY, March 25, 2016
A view of the agther at the reception. Also see in the forefront is the P. Harish’s daughter Amani. the community as much as the CG, a huge round of applause greeted Nandita as she spoke of Houston as “the best tenure they had had.” Community leader and ICC Trustee Swapan Dhairyawan who had shouldered a great deal of the event organizing thanked
all the 22 organizations for their cooperation, Madras Pavilion for the delicious dinner, Ashita Murgai for designing an attractive souvenir, Manu Shah for inter coordinating the event, Bijay Dixit for making memories on film and Darshak Thacker for the video compila-
tion and excellent sound system. He also thanked the volunteers for their assistance. Highlights of the event is scheduled for airing on TV Asia Community Roundup program on March 22nd at 10:30pm (ET) and repeated on March 23rd at 7:30pm (ET).
“We applaud the students for the commitment and innovation that their projects demonstrate,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Ruth R. Hughs. “TWC also appreciates the service of the TXSEF advisory board with STEM industry employers and public education institutions that strives to provide a setting in which outstanding students can showcase their research projects in these fields.” The Texas Science and Engi-
neering Fair is officially sanctioned by the Society for Science & the Public, the annual host of the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF). Awards will be presented to students in 17 project categories for both middle and high school divisions. “In an increasingly competitive job market, individuals with hands-on experience in STEM disciplines are highly soughtafter,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Julian Alvarez. “It is important that we continue to support the next generation of the Texas labor force by providing them with opportunities like this fair.” Winners from the science fair’s high school division will qualify for the Intel ISEF competition in Phoenix this May and the top two placers in each category will also earn a spot at the Texas Governor’s Science and Technology Champions Academy, a weeklong residential summer camp, also sponsored by TWC, which will be held this summer at Texas A&M University. The Texas Workforce Commission is a state agency dedicated to helping Texas employers, workers and communities prosper economically. For details on TWC and the services it offers in coordination with its network of local workforce development boards, call 512463-8942 or visit www.texasworkforce.org. To receive notifications about TWC programs and services subscribe to our email updates. Texas Workforce Commission;512-463-8942 , www.texasworkforce.org Equal Opportunity Employer/Program Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Relay Texas: 800-735-2988 (TDD) or 711 (Voice)
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SOUTH ASIA
VOICE OF ASIA 8
Joy for India after one-run rollercoaster T20 win Cricket:
by Trudy HARRIS
India, with one loss and one win heading into Wednesday’s match, couldn’t afford to lose if they were to keep their dream alive of becoming the first country to win the World T20 title twice.
B
ANGALORE, India | AFP | Wednesday 3/23/2016 - Ravichandran Ashwin admitted he was totally spent after India’s “rollercoaster” one-run win over Bangladesh Wednesday but warned the hosts had to up their game if they are to realise their dreams of becoming World Twenty20 champions.
But their total of 146 for seven seemed below par, thanks to some gritty bowling by Bangladesh, who were looking to beat India in this format for the first time. Al-Amin Hossain took two wickets for Bangladesh off two balls, while newcomer Shuvagata Hom claimed the critical scalp of Virat Kohli for 24.
Bangladesh came tantalisingly close to chasing down India’s total of 146 for seven, but they lost three wickets in the last three balls of a thriller in Bangalore that ended with skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni running out Mustafizur Rahman off the last ball of the match.
Indian openers Dhawan (23) and Rohit Sharma (18) put on a patient 42-run partnership before both lost their wickets in the space of six balls as they tried to accelerate.
A relieved Ashwin, who conceded just 20 runs and claimed two wickets to be man of the match, said he had never seen his teammates so worried.
Kohli and Raina put on 50 before Hom clean bowled Kohli just as he was looking dangerous. Al-Amin then struck, with Raina caught by Sabbir Rahman for 30, and Sarkar taking a spectacular diving catch on the boundary to claim Pandya for 15.
“It was a big rollercoaster game, but I think for a team to go all the way in such a game is very, very important,” the off-spinner said after accepting his match award. “We have never really got together and worried so much. I don’t have anything left, I’m drained after today’s game. I’ll just crash now.”
India’s Hardik Pandya celebrates his team’s win over Bangladesh in the ICC World Twenty20 2016 cricket match in Bangalore, India, Wednesday, March 23, 2016. (AP Photo/Aijaz Rahi).
India’s group stage victory bolsters their chances of reaching the semi-finals, but they must now defeat Australia on Sunday to secure a place in the final four.
With Bangladesh needing 10 runs off five balls in a gripping final over sent down by Hardik Pandya, Mushfiqur Rahim (11) smashed two consecutive fours, before holing out to Shikhar Dhawan on the mid-wicket boundary.
“As far as today is concerned, where we stand, I don’t think we are contenders for this tournament,” said Ashwin. “(But) if we pick up our batting and come together as a good unit I think we will be good contenders from now on.” While the victory gives India’s campaign some vital momentum, Bangladesh have no chance of progressing further after having lost all three of their group games. “I think (our) bowlers have done a great job. We were on top
till the last three balls,” a disappointed Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Mortaza said. Opener Tamim Iqbal top-scored for Bangladesh with 35 off 32 balls, before he was stumped by the Indian skipper just as he was looking dangerous. The aggressive batsman put on 44 runs with Sabbir Rahman for the second wicket, but Rahman was also stumped for 26 as he looked to carry on the momentum. Shakib Al Hasan made a quickfire 22 off 15 before he was caught by Suresh Raina at slip off Ravichandran Ashwin. Soumya Sarkar managed 21 as the required runs were gradually ticked off, but Indian spinners Ravindra Jadeja and Ashwin kept their cool under pressure and
continued to take wickets.
With two runs needed from two balls, Mahmudullah was inexplicably also caught in the deep for 18. Incoming batsman Mustafizur Rahman had no choice but to race down the wicket, after Shuvagata Hom stabbed and missed the final ball, and was run out by Dhoni. - Wild celebrations -Confirmation of the dismissal by the TV umpire sent the crowd and the Indian team into wild celebrations.
Dhoni battled to an unbeaten 13 runs off 12 balls.
FRIDAY, March 25, 2016
Iranian President to visit Pakistan this week
I
SLAMABAD, Pakistan Iranian President Hassan Rouhani will visit Pakistan this week for talks on improving relations and strengthening economic links, the foreign ministry said Wednesday. It said the lifting of sanctions on Iran following its nuclear deal with the West “has opened new avenues for enhancing economic interaction”. Rouhani would also discuss cooperation on regional and international issues during his visit on Friday and Saturday, the ministry said. Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif visited Iran in May 2014 and in January this year to try to ease tensions between Iran and Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia cut diplomatic ties with Iran in early January after protesters burned Saudi diplomatic missions in Iran. They were angry at the kingdom’s execution in early January of Shiite cleric Nimr alNimr. Pakistan is counting on a joint project with Iran to solve a long-running power crisis that has sapped economic growth
and left its 200 million people fuming at incessant electricity cuts. A $7.5-billion Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline intended to feed Pakistani power plants was inaugurated with great fanfare in March 2013. But the project immediately hit quicksand in the form of the international sanctions on Tehran, which meant that cashstrapped Pakistan struggled to raise the money to build its section. Tehran has already built its own section of the 1,800-kilometre (1,100-mile) pipeline, which should eventually link its South Pars gasfields to the Pakistani city of Nawabshah near Karachi. As part of an ambitious $46 billion economic corridor linking western China to the Middle East through Pakistan, Beijing recently started work on the section of pipeline between Nawabshah and the port of Gwadar close to the Iranian border. Once this is completed, Pakistan will build the last 80 kilometres to Iran.
New Myanmar finance chief discovers PhD is fake
Y
ANGON, Myanmar | AFP | 3/23/2016 Myanmar’s incoming finance minister said Wednesday he was shocked to discover his PhD is fake after netizens pointed out he had been a victim of a high profile scam run out of Pakistan that ensnared thousands of others. Kyaw Win was one of 18 people named on Tuesday to the incoming cabinet of democracy veteran Aung San Suu Kyi, whose National League for Democracy (NLD) will take office at the end of the month -- ending decades of militaryled rule.
The 68-year-old was one of six NLD members in Suu Kyi’s big-tent cabinet -- which also includes three army officers as well as opposition party figures.
An official CV issued by the NLD shortly after the cabinet announcement stated he held a PhD from a college in the United States called Brooklyn Park University.
Suu Kyi, who is banned from becoming president, was confirmed as foreign minister while the other roles are expected to be formally announced later in the week.
But social media users quickly pointed out that Brooklyn Park was one of a number of fake online organisations created by a Pakistani group that ran a global fraudulent degree empire out of Karachi until its exposure last year.
However local media widely published a leaked list of earmarked roles, with Kyaw Win, a career bureaucrat and adviser to the NLD’s economics committee, taking the influential finance and planning portfolio.
“I openly admit it that I studied at this fake online university in my older age,” Kyaw Win, who confirmed he would take on the finance portfolio,
Find out how colours influence your actions According to Vastu, the world of colours is unique in its own way and influences each and every action of our lives. While some colours make you want to get out of your chair and do something, others make you lethargic and want you to nestle down and relax. Some colours are so vibrant and articulate that they speak to you, while some are very quiet and peaceful. There are also colours which motivate, inspire or influence you in a positive way, whereas, there are others that create negative feelings in you. There are also some colours that emanate the desire for closeness, intimacy and love. As we all know that Holi celebrations begin with a Holika bonfire on the night before Holi, when people gather, sing and dance. The next morning is a free-for-all carnival of colours, where participants play, chase and colour each other with dry powder and coloured water. Holi, also known as the festival of colours, fun, frolic and love, is celebrated in the Spring season. The festival date varies every year, as per the Hindu calendar, on the Phalguna Purnima (Full Moon), and generally falls in the month of March. Today, it has become popular even among the non-Hindus in many parts of India and Asia. However, did you know that this festival of colours could also be celebrated in the Vastu way? Each individual has a unique taste and chooses colours according to his/her personal preferences. There are no absolutes in the world of colours. However, there are some universal principles that apply to all colours. Just as everything in this world is made up of the five basic elements of Nature, or Panchtattva, i.e., the Fire, Earth, Water, Air and Space, all colours are primarily the shades of colours of these basic five elements. This fact has been proven by Vastu Shastra and also established in the modern stream of colour psychology. For example, shades of green and yellow create a sense of being at peace and well-being, and if you are playing Holi with these colours, especially in the South-West Vastu Zone, (the Zone of Relationships and Skills) they foster interesting and open conversations between family and friends, and can dispel loneliness and depression. Therefore, shades of green and yellow are also called Nurturing Colours, and are recommended during Holi, as per Vastu. According to the documented research on Vastu Shastra in the world’s largest book of Vastu, MahaVastu Handbook, there are colours with a sense of sharpness, wittiness, uniqueness and intelligence, which are the inherent qualities of an intellectual. Therefore, these are called Intellectual Colours. Use of these colours in the right Vastu direction/zone can command respect without being overbearing. These colours are also recommended for creative studies, libraries and art galleries. Grey, shades/tones of blue and a few lighter shades of red fall in this category, as they facilitate the optimal performance from a relaxed mind. In addition to the above, there are also colours that are romantic in nature, such as red, which according to Vastu is the colour of Love. So, if you play Holi with these colours in the North-North-West Vastu Zone, or facing towards the North-North-West Zone, an intense relationship develops between you and others. Pink, purple and light orange colours also fall in the category of Romantic colours. Actually, according to Vastu Shastra, these colours also suggest purity and innocence. There are colours that impart a very refreshing and rejuvenating feeling in oneself. These colours include all the different shades of green, brown and other shades of warm earth colours. When applied in the North-North-East Zone, (the Vastu Zone of Healing), these colours facilitate better healing and immunity. So, all those, who love to play Holi with these colours should prefer playing it in the North-North-East Vastu Zone of their homes or offices. Therefore, to conclude, try celebrating and enjoying Holi, this year in the Vastu way to bring home more Love, Money, Happiness and Prosperity, as well as learn both the positive and negative effects of each colour in your life through the various documented research case studies available in the different online books and YouTube descriptions of `MahaVastu’—the Scientific, Modern, Refined and Tested Version of Ancient Vastu! The writer, Acharya Shri Chetan Patel of Houston is also CEO of MahaVastu Houston. He is fully dedicated and well equipped to guide people on every problem related with Vastu Shastra.
Chetan Patel
Chetan Patel
Head/Vastu Acharya of MahaVastu Centre, Houston Off:832-412-2827 | Cell: 832-269-9000 email at: chetan.patel@mahavastu.in or ask.hou@mahavastu.in
DIASPORA
VOICE OF ASIA 9
FRIDAY, March 25, 2016
Indian-Americans Strongly Condemn GOPIO condemns massacres in Brussels Terrorist Attacks In Brussels March 22, 2016 The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO International) joins with its many chapters in Belgium, France, Francophone and other countries, as well as other organizations, agencies, groups and institutions worldwide, in expressing its strong and unequivocal condemnation of the series of killings and attacks in Brussels, Belgium, today, on March 22, 2016 that killed at least 34 innocent people and hundreds more injured. GOPIO considers these brutal and despicable acts as unforgivable and unjustified criminal actions directed to create widespread fear among innocent citizens.
People bring flowers and candles to mourn at Place de la Bourse in the center of Brussels. The terrorist attack in Brussels claimed by the ISIS killed around 35 people and injured over 200 others. (PTI Photo).
W
ASHINGTON: Press Trust of India | March 23, 2016 Indian-American groups have condemned the terrorist attack in Brussels claimed by the ISIS that killed around 35 people and injured over 200 others.
the local police about any suspicious and radicalised individuals within their Muslim communities and groups.
The Association of Indian Muslims of America in a statement expressed its outrage and shock at the terrorist attack carried out by the Islamic State (ISIS) on civilians at the airport and a metro station in Brussels.
Indian-origin ‘Flash Crash’ Trader Faces Extradition To US
Kaleem Kawaja, executive director of the association, appealed to governments in western countries to enforce stringent security measures in public places to flush out suspected terrorists. He also appealed to authorities at all the mosques, Islamic centres and organisations in these countries to report and inform
Sending its heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, American Sikh Council
L
said such heinous acts must be condemned in the strictest manner. “We pray for a speedy and full recovery of the injured. Our prayers are with all the victims,
their families, and local community. May Almighty God lighten your burden, and grace you with hope and healing under these very difficult circumstances. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of profound tragedy and grief,” it said.
ONDON: (PTI): March 23, 2016 - Navinder Singh Sarao, a 37-yearold Indian-origin futures trader could be extradited to the US to face trial for his role in the May 2010 “flash crash” which wiped billions of dollars off the value of US shares in minutes, a UK court ruled on Wednesday.
tuted a crime in the UK. Sarao could be handed over to the US authorities to stand trial there, the judge said.
Justice which wants to extradite him on charges of wire fraud, commodities fraud and market manipulation.
A district judge ruled at Westminster Magistrates’ Court that Sarao’s alleged actions consti-
The ruling means Sarao can be sent to the US to answer 22 counts of wire fraud, commodities fraud and market manipulation carrying a maximum sentence of 380 years’ imprisonment. Sarao was arrested by British authorities on April 21 here at the request of the US Department of
Sarao is accused of contributing to events on May 6, 2010, when the Dow Jones index briefly fell nearly 1,000 points, temporarily wiping nearly USD 1 trillion off shares. The 36-minute-long crash was its biggest ever intraday slump. The US Department of Justice
We consider these killings as heinous acts against humanity, coming soon after recent brutal attacks in France and other countries. GOPIO’s global membership shares the pain and anguish of those affected and we extend our condolences to the families of the victims and offer prayers for the speedy recovery of those injured. We believe that these continuing series of senseless attacks are meant to cause terror among innocent citizens, and we affirm
that terror will not succeed as the will of decent people shall overcome such criminal acts. GOPIO commends the Government of Belgium, supports prompt and diligent efforts in providing emergency services to the survivors and their families. We fully support all measures taken by the Government and other countries to bring security, calm and confidence to the people and urge all efforts to prevent similar attacks in the future. We share in the universal belief that such callous, inhumane and uncivilized crimes have been perpetrated against innocent people in a land of freedom, which has itself been savagely wounded by the criminals. GOPIO expresses deep and abiding concern for the victims of the tragedy, their families, friends and associates. We are very confident that the people of Belgium will endure this national disaster while they retain courage, sense of dignity, pride, their values and their freedom. There is no doubt that a resilient nation as Belgium will overcome these brutal and senseless attack.
said Sarao’s activity “contributed to the market imbalance on that day” and he is accused of making a dollar 900,000 profit that day, and USD 40 million over four years by employing similar tactics.
He denies any wrongdoing and intends to appeal against the ruling, which must in any case be approved by British Home Secretary Theresa May before the extradition can take place, the BBC reported.
They have frozen USD 30 million of his assets and want him to stand trial in the US.
May has two months in which to decide, after which the appeal can be heard.
He is accused of minting millions of dollars with a computer programme that could automatically manipulate prices.
US regulators have also filed civil claims against Sarao, adding that he made USD 40 million over five years. Sarao was charged in a federal criminal complaint in the Northern District of Illinois in February 2015.
Sarao, who is wanted in the US on 22 criminal counts, traded on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange from his parents’ home near Heathrow Airport. Sarao attended the brief hearing dressed in a red jumper and black trousers and was released on bail afterwards.
US authorities allege he is guilty of “spoofing” - the practice of placing large orders that manipulate the markets and then cancelling or changing them, allowing him to buy or sell at a profit.
VOICE OF ASIA 10
FRIDAY, March 25, 2016
ONLINE .COM voiceofasiaonline.com
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VOICE OF ASIA 11
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Tel: 713-774-5140
Waisting time: paper-thin campaign India gets ‘first’ gay marriage raises questions in China bureau
Hostesses pose for selfies outside the Great Hall of the People in Beijing during the second day of the National People’s Congress on March 6, 2016 ©Johannes Eisele (AFP/File).
C
hinese women are competing online to see who can be most paper-thin. Literally. The country’s social media sphere has in recent years been swept by numerous selfie crazes featuring women eagerly demonstrating how well they can physically conform to mainstream beauty standards.
posting photos of attractive female employees holding A4 sheets bearing information on how to prevent identity theft, or admonitions against drinkdriving.
“You’re very beautiful irrespective of A4 waists or breasts that can hold up pens -- your beauty is unique, so don’t apply weird standards to yourself,” said one detractor.
The fad was termed a “fitness challenge” by the official People’s Daily newspaper on its Twitter account -- inaccessible on the mainland.
But such jibes were rare in China.
The latest example has them posting photos of A4 sheets held vertically in front of their waists to prove just how thin they are.
The country’s strict online censorship blocks numerous foreign websites and social networks such as Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
The waist is not supposed to be wider than the sheet.
On those blocked sites, many foreigners were quick to bash the Chinese trend.
The hashtag #A4Waist# had more than 110 million views as of Tuesday and over 100,000 comments on the Twitter-like Weibo social network, many from women triumphantly posting photos of themselves with their sheet of paper or bemoaning their inability to do so. “Let me show mine too!” said one, who had no trouble conforming to the demand. “Does this count as an A4 waist?” she asked. Even government organisations jumped on board, with verified police forces’ accounts
Users on Instagram and Twitter mocked it with poses behind multiple papers taped together, holding A4 sheets with bodypositive messages written on them, or using university diplomas and asking: “Does this degree make me look fat?” - Measuring beauty -Previous crazes had women placing stacks of coins in the hollows of their collarbones to prove themselves thin, or tucking a pen beneath their breasts to demonstrate the fullness of their curves.
Gay marriage and gay sex are both illegal in conservative India and homosexuality has long been a taboo subject ©Indranil Mukherjee (AFP/File).
A
HMEDABAD, India | AFP | An Indian entrepreneur has set up what is claimed to be the country’s first gay marriage bureau, seeking to arrange matches for homosexual couples.
“Chinese girls’ bodies are just equipped with thinner waists than (those foreign girls). Usually with a healthy diet and a bit of exercise it’s not hard to get an A4 waist, and one feels happy to feel a bit fit,” wrote one commentator.
said. “People think that beauty can be measured.”
Xiao Meili, a women’s rights activist who once walked 2,000 kilometres from Beijing to Guangzhou to raise awareness about sexual violence, deemed the fad “utterly boring”.
“It wasn’t very popular,” she admitted, and Chinese media found it “a bit offbeat and disgusting”.
Such contests became popular due to of a lack of knowledge about gender issues in China and because “standards of beauty are very, very, very uniform”, she said. “Everyone’s very superstitious, talking about what angle cheekbones should be at, how high a nose should be, or how many centimetres there should be between people’s eyes,” she
Nauroz festival celebrated in Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan and Turkey
Last summer Xiao started a selfie campaign of her own that encouraged women to post pictures of their unshaven armpit hair to challenge those standards.
“There’s no way the number of participants could compare with competitions like this A4 one,” she added. AFP
Benhur Samson, who previously helped foreign gay couples use surrogacy services, said he founded the agency in response to interest from clients.
“We already got over 200 enquiries and nearly two dozen people have enrolled with us.
“I was surprised to see the response from the gay people whom I came in touch with while counselling them on surrogacy issue,” he told AFP.
Enrolment costs $5,000, an unthinkably high sum for most Indians, although the fee is refundable if no match is found.
“This is how I came upon the idea of a marriage bureau for gay men and women who want to settle down with a partner.” Samson, who lives in the United States, has enlisted the help of Manvendrasingh Gohil, an openly gay Indian prince, to help sort out immigration issues. “Several gay people of Indian origin wanted an arranged marriage and were looking for partners from India,” he said.
“We are now in the process of identifying the right match for them.”
The agency conducts background checks, visits prospective partners at home and at work and provides counselling, Samson said. “I have not heard about such gay marriage bureau anywhere else (in India),” said Gohil, who is also a gay rights activist. Gay marriage and gay sex are both illegal in the conservative country and homosexuality has long been a taboo subject.
Widows play holi at Gopinath temple in Vrindavan
V
RINDAVAN, Mar 21 (PTI) Widows from Vrindaban and Varanasi today participated in a holi programme at the premises of Gopinath temple here. Amidst chanting of Vedic hymns and blowing of conch shells, the widows freely used vermilion powder in the festivi-
ties and played Holi with petals of rose and marigold.
the principal deity of Gopinath temple,” she said.
The oldest participant was 105-year-old Kanak Lata who was brought to the temple in a wheelchair.
“It is an effort to break the tradition of Hindu society where widows are not allowed to play Holi. Our effort is to replace it with a new arena in their life,” social reformer and founder of Sulabh International Bindeshwar Pathak said.
“I am thankful to organiSers who provided me an opportunity to witness Holi in front of
Iraqi Kurdish men celebrate Nowruz with a traditional dance in Akra, Iraq. ─ AFP
2
1st March 2016 Nauroz, one of the biggest festivals celebrated in Iran, Iraq, the Central Asian republics and Afghanistan, marks the first day of spring and the beginning of the year in the Persian calendar. It is calculated according
to a solar calendar, coinciding with the the vernal (spring) equinox. with this coming year marking 1395. Nauroz that many associate with the Parsi or Zoroastrian culture is actually more of an Iranian celebration.
It means ‘new day’ in Persian and is the Iranian new year. Therefore many Parsis, although they celebrate the new year and the beginning of spring by visiting family and friends, don’t always set the special table in their homes.
Widows throw flower petals during Holi celebrations at the Gopinath temple in Vrindavan. (Photo: AP).
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LEISURE
VOICE OF ASIA 12
US tourists seek preserved Cuba -and Cubans seek change only because they are tourists bait, rather than for ideological reasons.
FRIDAY, March 25, 2016
Classical Arts plans centenary tribute to MS. Subbulakshmi for its annual Spring Festival
“I don’t know the past,” the artist said. “I live in the present.” - ‘Theme park’ Cuba? -Cuba does not have the infrastructure to handle mass tourism. Some also fear unpreparedness for the darker kind of problems -- ranging from overbearing corporations to social ills like income inequality, crime and drugs -- that Cubans have previously kept largely at bay. Visitors flock to see Havana’s crumbling, picturesque streets, ride in pre-1960s American convertibles, and listen to street musicians playing romantic songs about Fidel Castro’s 1959 revolution (AFP Photo/Rodrigo Arangua).
“By the time you get big business concerns and the hotels, I think you’re going to see a very
by Sebastian Smith
H
AVANA, Cuba American Sue Pemberton rushed to Havana to experience authentic Cuba before the communist island gets swamped by capitalism. The only problem: millions of other foreigners had exactly the same idea.
M.S. Subbulakshmi
P
EARLAND, TX - Classical Arts Society of Houston will be presenting its annual spring festival for 2016 on April 2nd and 3rd. The venue for the April 2nd is the Kalyana Mantapam of Sri Meenakshi Temple in Pearland and April 3rd is the Stafford Civic Center in Stafford. These events on both dates are free and open to the public.
Already booming tourism is set to explode in the wake of President Barack Obama’s visit to Havana on Sunday, when he’ll bury an almost six decades-long conflict that left Cuba the last major undeveloped market in the Caribbean. So Pemberton, 63, joined a tour to “see it before it changes.” “I assume in a few years there’ll be a Starbucks and the McDonald’s and Subway and all the chains,” she said, while waiting for her group outside the cathedral, set in a stunning square in old Havana. Visitors flock to see Havana’s crumbling, picturesque streets, ride in pre-1960s American convertibles, and listen to street musicians playing romantic songs about Fidel Castro’s 1959 revolution. But the more they come to see a country seemingly stuck in time, the more the country changes. “For me the attraction was getting here before everyone,” said Evan Ingardia, 30, a student at the University of Washington business school, standing with two friends near a dream-like line of pink and purple open-top Cadillacs and Oldsmobiles in the city center. Yet he was aware they were probably already too late. “It’s starting to wander between what’s authentic and what’s bordering on fake.” - Floodgates crack open Tourism dominated by Canadians and Europeans is noth-
Already booming tourism is set to explode in the wake of President Barack Obama’s visit to Havana on Sunday, March 20, 2016. ing new. But the game changer was last year’s restoration of US-Cuban diplomatic relations, raising the eventual prospect of unrestricted travel from a country of 323 million barely an hour’s flight away. Last Tuesday, the Obama administration tore another hole in the already tattered US economic embargo by telling Americans they can now travel to Cuba as individuals, not just as part of approved organizations. They are still officially not tourists and have to come under one of 12 categories, such as educational activity, but the rules are now almost unenforceable. Of the 3.5 million tourists to Cuba in 2015, only 161,000 were Americans. However, this was 77 percent up on the previous year and Americans are now expected to be a major component in a growth spurt taking overall numbers to 6.8 million in 2018. “We are obliged to focus entirely on this market, because there are so many of them that we don’t have time for other
tourists,” said Nelson Calderon, a tour guide specializing in US visitors. “It’s not that we don’t want others, but we don’t have time.” - Nostalgia? No thanks The commercialization of old Havana and other Cuban attractions may disappoint tourists searching for retro-revolutionary chic. But Cubans themselves are utterly un-nostalgic, thinking only of a chance to escape their stifling existence in a brokendown communist economy. “It was an era that led to a dead end, so it’s good that it’s changing,” said Fulgencio Verderas Dias, an 80-year-old guitarist busking in a touristy street. Yaset Martin, 30, an artist selling paintings nearby, said that “developing, not standing still,” is what matters. Perfectly illustrating Cuba’s drift from its revolutionary past, Martin’s offerings included the inevitable portraits of revolutionary icon Che Guevara -- but
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different Cuba emerging,” said Nancy Roberts, a professor specializing in strategic planning at the Naval Postgraduate School in California, who was working with university colleagues in Havana. “There’s something special and unique about this place and is anyone thinking about that?” Most Cubans are overwhelmingly bullish, noting their country’s unusually high educational levels and strong sense of national identity. But filmmaker and blogger Eduardo del Llano is one of the rare voices calling on his countrymen to beware the lure of the tourist dollar. “Long term, we have to ask ourselves to what point we’re going to be turned into a communist theme park where people come to see curiosities from the distant past,” he said -- “and where we, to attract tourists, will have to dress up.”
This year is the centenary of the legendary singer late Srimathi. M.S. Subbulakshmi (MSS) who was well known across India and beyond for her classical music drenched in devotion (bhakti), characterized by a remarkable fidelity to the pitch (shruthi suddam) and emotive appeal (bhava). Her appeal was pan Indian and she was awarded the Bharath Ratna, the highest civilian honor from the Government of India. MSS and her husband, late Sri Sadasivam were also notable philanthropists and had generously donated much of the concert proceeds to charity in the truest spirit of altruism and community welfare. This festival has been conceived and curated by the renowned music critic and playwright Dr. Gowri Ramnarayan in her capacity as the Artistic Director of 2016 Houston Spring Festival of Classical Arts Society. Gowri is the grandniece of MSS and had the privilege of accompanying her in music concerts. Gowri has worked with the board members of Classical Arts Society and the local music teachers in developing the event plans. The first day of the festival on April 2nd at Meenakshi temple in Pearland will feature groups
of children singing Shlokams and Bhajans popularized by MSS like Ganesha Pancharatnam, and Venkatesha Suprabhatham among others. Then, it will be the turn of local music groups led by renowned teachers like Anuradha Subramanian, Rajarajeshwary Bhat, Chandrakantha Courtney, Chitra Dharmarajan, Manjula Rao, and Sridevi Joysula. These groups will cover classical composers like Tyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshithar, Syama Sastri, Purandaradasa, Annam Acharya, Arunagiri Nathar, Vallalar, P. Thooran, Ramaswamy Pillai, Swati Tirunal, Mirabai and Kabirdas. This will be followed by a Venu-Veena concert by Shanthala Subramanyam (Venu - Flute), Vishal Sapuram (Chitraveena), Melakaveri Balaji (Mridangam), and Sukanya Ramgopal (Ghatam). The second day of the festival, Apr 3rd, at Stafford civic center features a concert by V. Sankaranarayanan (Vocal), B.V. Raghavendra Rao (Violin), Tanjore Murugaboopathy (Mridangam), and Shree Sundar Kumar (Kanjira). This will be followed by a Children’s Tableau with audience interaction. Then it is time for the grand finale event titled Born to sing, on the life of Smt. MS Subbulakshmi. This is a concept presented and narrated by Dr. Gowri Ramnarayan and will feature Aditya Prakash and Shushma Somasekharan (Vocals),Shreya Devnath( Violin), R. Thiagarajan( Flute), and Ramesh Babu( Mridangam). The Classical Arts Society of Houston invites one and all for these great musical events. For details please check the website www.ClassicalArtsHouston.org
HEALTH, SC & TECH
VOICE OF ASIA 13
FRIDAY, March 25, 2016
Bangladesh confirms first case of Zika virus
Release of CO2 fastest in 66 million years: study
Dhaka, Bangladesh | AFP | Tuesday 3/22/2016 - A Bangladeshi man who contracted a fever 19 months ago was infected with the Zika virus, the first confirmed case in the South Asian country, health authorities said Tuesday.
was found to have the virus in his blood.
ening but has been linked to a rise in birth defects, with hundreds of babies born with unusually small heads in countries where the virus is prevalent.
Paris, France | AFP | Monday 3/21/2016 - 21:00 GMT | 754 words
The Bangladesh Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research tested blood samples from 101 patients previously thought to have dengue or other viral fevers, to see if any had been infected with Zika.
The patient has been under close observation by government health experts, Parikshit Chowdhury, a spokesman for the health ministry said.
Brazil has been hardest hit by Zika, with some 1.5 million people infected and 745 confirmed cases of the braindeforming syndrome microcephaly in children born to women infected with the virus while pregnant.
Humans are disgorging heattrapping carbon into the atmosphere 10 times faster than during any period of natural global warming in the last 66 million years, according to a study released Monday.
It found one case in the samples, which dated back to 2014 -- a 67-year-old from the southeastern city of Chittagong, who had not travelled abroad and
“He is the first known Zika virus-infected patient in Bangladesh. His condition is now fine,” Mahmudur Rahman, director of the Institute told AFP.
Authorities also tested blood samples from a further 159 people who were neighbours of or had close contact with the patient, and found no sign of the mosquito-borne Zika virus. Zika is not usually life-threat-
An experimental vaccine against dengue, the world’s most common mosquito-borne virus, was 100 percent effective in early trials and could speed up the pace of a vaccine against Zika, researchers said last week.
First US uterus transplant fails
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ASHINGTON, | AFP | 3/9/2016 The first uterus transplant to be performed in the United States failed after the recipient suffered complications that prompted doctors to remove the organ, the Cleveland Clinic said on Wednesday. “We are saddened to share that our patient, Lindsey, recently experienced a sudden complication that led to the removal of her transplanted uterus,” the hospital said in a statement that did not give the patient’s last name. She was “doing well” and “recovering” after surgery to remove the organ, it added without elaborating. The transplant, which lasted nine hours, took place on February 25. Doctors announced several days later that the operation had been a success. On Monday, the surgical team held a news conference during which the 26-year-old recipient briefly appeared smiling. The hospital said it is reviewing why the transplant failed, adding that its clinical trial -- which aims to carry out uterus transplants in 10 women -- will continue. Doctors at Sweden’s Univer-
by Marlowe HOOD
That rate far exceeds even a cataclysmic climate event 55.8 million years ago, and pushes humanity into unchartered and dangerous territory, researchers said. During the so-called the Palaeocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM), Earth’s surface temperatures climbed by more than five degrees Celsius (nine degrees Fahrenheit) within a few thousand years. With only 1C (1.8F) of warming so far, current climate change over the last two centuries -- mostly the last 50 years -- has already begun to unleash super-charged hurricanes, storm surges boosted by rising seas and devastating drought. On present trajectories, greenhouse gas emissions will heat up Earth three to four degrees Celsius by 2100. The PETM has been much scrutinised as a possible analog, or stand-in, for the potential impacts of carbon pollution.
Doctors performing the nation’s first uterus transplant on a 26year old patient at Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio in this February 24, 2016 . Reuters file photo. sity of Gothenburg were the first to successfully perform a uterus transplant in 2013. The recipient gave birth to the first child to be conceived in an implanted womb in September 2014. The Swedish team has enabled four healthy births to date.
The transplant is temporary, meant to enable women to deliver up to two children over a five-year period. The transplanted uterus must then be removed to end exposure to drugs meant to prevent women’s bodies from rejecting the transplanted organs.
“Of all the changes we have seen in 66 million years, this event is the one that most looks like anthropogenic, or manmade, warming,” said Andy Ridgwell, a paleo-climatologist at the University of Bristol in England and a co-autor of the study. The parallels are striking: massive carbon emissions, followed by rapid global warming and major loss of species. Fifty-six million years ago, those extinctions took place mainly in the ocean. Today the
so-called “sixth great extinction” is underway both in the sea and on land.
carbon tracers, called isotopes, from ocean sediment off the coast of New Jersey.
But up to now scientists couldn’t figure out how quickly carbon -- whether in the form of CO2 or, more likely, methane from the ocean floor -- had been released.
Oxygen isotopes track temperature, while carbon isotopes provide a record of C02 or methane.
“The biggest problem has been coming up with a firm timing for the PETM onset event,” Ridgwell told AFP. “How quickly the emissions occurred is absolutely critical.” Some studies had suggested the massive outpouring of carbon -- 2,000 to 4,500 billion tonnes -- took place in as little as a few hundred years. This would be marginally reassuring in so far as humanity has added about 400 billion tonnes so far, and may be able to limit the total to two or three times that, depending on how quickly the world economy can kick its carbon habit. In December, 195 nations set a target of capping warming “well below 2C,” even if many scientists say we are likely to punch through this barrier. But if the discharge of carbon 56 million years ago took place over a much longer period, that would suggest lower rates of emissions could still have dramatic consequences. - In unchartered territory -In a clever bit of chemical detective work, Ridgwell, James Zachos of the University of California at Santa Cruz, and lead author Richard Zeebe from the University of Hawaii figured out how to nail down the duration of the carbon release without having to determine when exactly when it happened. Their findings were published in Nature Climate Change. Knowing there is a lag between greenhouse gas emissions and temperature increase, they compared oxygen and
“If the carbon was released rapidly we would find in the sediment core a lag with warming,” Zeebe told AFP. “If carbon is released slowly, the climate adjusts more or less in sync.” There was no lag at all. A quick calculation showed that the carbon could not have been emitted in less then 4,000 years, or about one billion tonnes per year. By comparison, human activity -- industry, energy production, deforestation, agriculture -- is pumping out about 10 billion tonnes of carbon annually, 10 times as much. “Aside from the huge impact that killed the dinosaurs, what we are seeing now is the fastest rate of climate change in 66 million years,” said Ridgwell. This is bad news for species loss, he continued. “Ecosystem impacts tend to show up more with the rate, rather than the size, of the change in temperature,” he said. “It’s all about the rate.” What is happening on Earth today, he noted, is closer in speed to the end of the Cretaceous -- when a comet cataclysm wiped out the dinosaurs -- than it is to events such as the PETM. “We are in uncharted territory in the rate carbon is being released into the atmosphere and oceans,” commented Candace Major, program director of the Division of Ocean Sciences at the US National Science Foundation, which funded the research.
US may not need Apple’s help to crack iPhone by Jocelyne ZABLIT
& 5K RUN IN FRONT OF MINUTE MAID PARK
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OS ANGELES - The US government said Monday it may have found a way to crack the iPhone of one of the San Bernardino attackers without Apple’s help, possibly avoiding a showdown with the tech giant. In a court filing, federal prosecutors said that on Sunday, an unidentified “outside party” had demonstrated to the FBI a possible way to unlock Syed Farook’s iPhone. “Our top priority has always been gaining access into the phone used by the terrorist in San Bernardino,” Justice Department spokeswoman Melanie Newman said in a statement. “With this goal in mind, the FBI has continued in its efforts to gain access to the phone without Apple’s assistance, even during a month-long period of litigation with the company.” She said the government was “cautiously optimistic” that the latest option to recover data from the iPhone would work.
16 0 2 1 MAY 0 N O HOUST
A California federal judge who was set to preside over a hearing in the contentious case on Tuesday granted the government’s request for a delay and asked that a status report be filed by April 5.
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The new development may help avert -- at least for now -- a full-blown showdown between the US government and the world’s most valuable company that could have wide ramifications on digital security and privacy. Privacy advocates hailed the FBI’s apparent drawback in the case as a win for Apple and encryption. “With the FBI backing down on this case, this is at least a short-term win for Apple,” the Center for Democracy and Technology said in a statement.
“This has always been a case about the government attempting to mandate technological backdoors that would make all Americans less secure.” Federal prosecutors and Apple for weeks have traded a volley of legal briefs related to the FBI’s demand that the tech company help investigators unlock Farook’s work phone. The FBI says the device may contain critical information for its probe into the December 2 shooting that left 14 people dead and was the deadliest terror attack in the US since 9/11. Apple, however, has balked at a court order to help investigators, citing customer privacy and security concerns. The company, backed by security experts, civil rights advocates and other tech giants -- including Google, Facebook and Microsoft -- contends that assisting the FBI would jeopardize users’ data and set a dangerous precedent. “We need to decide as a nation how much power the government should have over our data and our privacy,” chief executive Tim Cook said, speaking at Apple headquarters to unveil a new line of iPhones and iPads. “We believe strongly we have an obligation to help protect your data and your privacy. We owe it to our customers. We will not shrink from this responsibility.” The FBI had been seeking Apple’s help in writing new software -- or what the company said was creating a “backdoor” -- that would allow investigators to circumvent the iPhone’s built-in security. - ‘Open Pandora’s Box’ -It argued that Apple is not above the law and that its request for technical assistance concerns only Farook’s work phone from the San Bernardino health de-
partment. Farook and his Pakistani-born wife Tashfeen Malik died in a firefight with police after the attack. Two other cell phones linked to the couple were found destroyed. Tech giants and civil rights advocates have warned that the case goes beyond just one phone and that if the court sides with the FBI, it would spring open a “Pandora’s Box” for human rights and digital security. “Governments trying to undermine encryption should think twice before they open this Pandora’s Box,” Sherif Elsayed-Ali, Amnesty International’s deputy director for global issues, said in a statement. “Weakening privacy online could have disastrous consequences for free societies, particularly for the human rights activists and journalists who hold our leaders to account.” Rights advocates also argue that while the FBI’s request to access the data on Farook’s phone may be legitimate, the method of accessing it raises concerns. Technology analyst Rob Enderle speculated that the undisclosed person now helping the government crack Farook’s iPhone may be an ex-Apple employee or a computer security expert. “An ex-Apple employee with the right set of skills could do this,” he told AFP, dismissing the likelihood that the tech company itself could quietly be helping authorities. “If this was Apple coming in through the back door, and it leaked, the repercussions for Apple in terms of trust would be huge.” Apple officials could not immediately be reached for comment concerning the latest twist in the case.
VOICE OF ASIA 14
Section 2
Young Life
Email: voiceasia@aol.com
White House candidates talk like school kids: study
N
ew York -When stumping for the White House, the leading candidates in the US presidential race use words and grammar typical of children in middle school, with Donald Trump the worst offender, researchers say. The Language Technologies Institute at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh found that most candidates use words and grammar typical of pupils in grades six to eight -- when children are typically aged 11 to 13. Trump, his closest Republican rival Ted Cruz, Democratic frontrunner Hillary Clinton and her left-wing challenger Bernie Sanders have deployed sim-
pler language as the campaign has gone on, the researchers found. An analysis shows that Abraham Lincoln, widely considered one of America’s great leaders -- the Republican who abolished slavery -- outclasses all the candidate and more recent presidents by displaying grammar at 11th grade level. The most recent Republican president, George W. Bush, who ordered the invasion of Iraq and was frequently mocked for use of language, had grammar at grade five level -- below that of Trump, the researchers found. Campaign speeches by presidents Lincoln, Ronald Reagan,
Bill Clinton, Bush and Barack Obama showed vocabulary of at least eighth grade level, while the current candidates range from Trump’s seventh grade to Sanders’ 10th grade level.
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The couple, who do not want to be identified, went to court on Thursday to sign their marriage licence. They were wedded in the eyes of the law but not in the view of some in Palestinian society where only a full-blown family ceremony counts and the court procedure is barely seen as anything more than a formalisation of engagement.
They went straight from court to their college, in a particularly conservative part of the West Bank, to share their joy with their fellow-students. “We wanted to celebrate the occasion with our friends,” the young man said. “I put the ring on her and held her in my arms without any violation of morals,” he added. “But shortly afterwards I learned I had been summoned before the disciplinary board.” “I did everything that was required by custom and our two families before going to the university.”
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Adrian Romoff beats Arnav Krishna to win Lifetime’s $100,000 ‘Child Genius’ contest
Trump and Hillary Clinton’s speeches showed the greatest variety, suggesting they may work harder than others in tailoring remarks to particular audiences, said Elliot Schumacher, a graduate student who worked on the study. When it came to grammar, the 2016 candidates generally had scores between sixth and seventh grades, with Trump just below sixth grade. Bush scored at a fifth grade level, the report found.
Palestinian student couple’s hug makes university blush AMALLAH, Palestinian Territories | AFP | A demure public hug by a newlywed Palestinian student couple landed them in front of a university disciplinary board, accused of “breaching moral standards and tradition,” the groom told AFP.
FRIDAY, March 25, 2016
The story of the two young lovers, photographed by the crowd in an innocent gesture of affection which offended none of those who witnessed it, prompted a debate rare on such a subject in the West Bank and swamped social media with thousands of indignant posts. “Society has taught us to be ashamed of love and hide it,” said one. The disciplinary body has yet to decide what steps to take but university sources said the board was looking for a solution which did not harm the couple’s education and a university statement said there had “never been any question of expelling them.”
Prodigy Romoff is a sophomore at the age of 10.
C
hild prodigy Adrian Romoff, who skipped six grades in school, entering his sophomore year of high school at just 10 years old, has won Lifetime’s $100,000 worth of scholarship money on reality TV contest ‘Child Genius’. In the final episode of the second season of the competition, on Thursday night, Romoff beat the Indian American contestant from Dobbs Ferry, New York, Arnav Krishna, 9, and Claire, to walk away with winner-takes all grand prize. The Lifetime PR twitter account accidentally sent out the news of Romoff’s win some 45 minutes before the episode was finished airing, meaning that live tweeters knew the results of the finale before the network was even half-way through finishing the show’s run, according to reports. Romoff began learning piano at the age of four, and his aptitude for the instrument soon
became apparent to his mother. Romoff played for Ellen DeGeneres at the age of seven, competed on “America’s Got Talent” when he was nineyears-old and he was accepted to Juilliard all before reaching double digits, reported Zap2it. Earlier, Krishna had impressed one and all with his terrific memorization and math abilities. The second edition of the competition, which premiered on Jan. 7 this year, featured some of America’s most extraordinary and gifted children as they prepped for the ultimate battle of the brains. Thecompetition was created in cooperation with American Mensa. It tests the nation’s brightest young minds on their knowledge in categories such as math, spelling, geography, and current events. Former NASA astronaut, Leland Melvin, returns as the host.
The competition is based on the popular UK format, “Child Genius: Battle of the Brightest” and is produced by Shed Media. Arnav’s mother Seema Krishna is a marketing executive, and father Vijay Krishna works as a financial services executive. According to Lifetime, Arnav’s favorite subjects are math and reading. It adds: “With an eye to becoming an architect and a mathematician when he is older, Arnav is off to a good start with successive rankings in national math competitions. Receiving a Singapore based curriculum keeps Arnav challenged, along with programs through Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth and Mensa. Always inquisitive with a researcher instinct, Arnav loves to read from his massive book collection and memorize all sorts of facts. In addition to his academic achievements, Arnav shines at tennis, playing the piano, swimming and chess.”
VOICE OF ASIA 15
Section 2
FRIDAY, March 25, 2016
B ollywood M asala Bollywood Masala
Email: editor@voiceofasiaonline.com
Shah Rukh Khan is going to play a dwarf in love in his next movie
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Busy Kangana has no time for Homi Adajania’s next
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UMBAI, PTI - Tanu Weds Manu director Anand L Rai has some big news for all you Shah Rukh Khan fans. He is making a film with the superstar where he will play a dwarf and of course, he is more than excited about it. The 44-year-old director, who is riding high on the success of his two consecutive filmsRaanjhanaa and Tanu Weds Manu: Returns, was all praise for SRK. “He is a gutsy actor. He always takes challenges. It is a delight to have him in the film. We both have liking for each other. We want to work together and we are on that process.
Kangana Ranaut
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UMBAI, (PTI) Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut will not be doing Homi Adajania’s next film primarily due to date issues.
“Shah Rukh is a very intelligent man. He makes you feel so important and responsible so it is fun to work with him. He was very happy to hear the story,” Rai told PTI. The 50-year-old Dilwale star will be seen essaying the role of a dwarf in the interesting love story and the director is planning to serve a decent dose of songs in the film. “It (story) sounds it is just about dwarf but it is much more than that. It is a much taller film. It is a very entertaining and interesting love story. I will be fool if I have Shah Rukh Khan in my film and have no romance
Homi has roped in Sushant Singh Rajput and Irrfan Khan for his next film. The “Cocktail” director was in talks with Kangana for this project but things did not work out between them.
I hope I catch up with me one day….or not. But will keep trying. “Ab Star Fan ke peeche bhaagega!!!” SRK tweet. and songs,” he said. The filmmaker is yet to finalise the lead actress for the movie. Apart from direction, Rai is excited about his upcoming projects as a producer.
“We have Nil Battey Sannata with Swara Bhaskar, Happy Bhaag Jayegi starring Abhay Deol and Diana Penty and Manmarziyan with Ayushmann Khurrana and Bhumi Pednekar.
“All three are interesting films and I am excited about it. This is the kind of cinema I want to be involved with as a producer. I am enjoying the process,” he added.
“Homi (Adajania) has narrated the (story) idea to Kangana (Ranaut) and she is keen
to work with him. But she is already committed to Hansal Mehta’s film after ‘Rangoon’. And the dates are clashing. But they have promised to work with each other in the future,” sources said. The “Queen” actress is presently shooting for Vishal Bhardwaj’s “Rangoon” alongside Shahid Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan. The 28-year-old actress will be doing Hansal Mehta’s film that is reportedly titled “Simran” and Ketan Mehta’s movie on warrior-queen Rani Laxmibai.
Akshay Kumar’s ‘Enthiran 2.0’ first look: The actor’s villanous get-up is fearsome
‘Kanavu Variyam’ Remi award winning Tamil film’s World premiere at WorldFest-Houston on April 9th
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run Chidambaram’s ‘Kanavu Variyam (Dream Factory)’ wins the Prestigious Remi Award. This award will be given in the 49th WorldFest Houston International Film Festival scheduled from April 8-17, 2016. WorldFest is the oldest Independent Film & Video Festival in the World. They discovered Spielberg (Jurassic Park, Schindler’s List), Ridley Scott (Gladiator, The Martian), George Lucas (Star Wars), Ang Lee (Hulk, Life of Pi), Francis Ford Coppola (The Godfather), John Lee Hancock (The Blind Side, Saving Mr.Banks) and others top directors with their early Premieres. Of over thousands entries, from over 43 movie-producing nations worldwide, only a few are chosen for screening. They concentrate on only the very best, selecting new American & Foreign Independent
films that truly deserve a premiere at WorldFest. ‘Kanavu Variyam’s World premiere will be at WorldFest-Houston on April 9th, 2016 at 7 PM in AMC Studio 30, 2949 Dunvale Road, Houston, TX 77063. Arun is the first Tamil director to win this prestigious recognition. In addition to playing the lead role and directing the movie, Arun has written the Story, Screenplay, Dialogues and Lyrics for ‘Kanavu Variyam’. The recognition for ‘Kanavu Variyam (Dream Factory)’, doesn’t end here. ‘Kalla Manna’ (‘Stone Or Sand’) a song Featuring in ‘Kanavu Variyam’ has won international recognition too. It has been ACCEPTED to be screened and nominated for the ‘Best Youth Focus Music Video’ and ‘Best Foreign Language Music Video’ by the ‘Bare Bones International Film &
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Akshay Kumar in the film Enthiran 2.0
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Arun Chidambaram Muisc Video Festival (17th Annual)’ scheduled from Apr 19 to 24 in Oklahoma, USA. ‘Kalla Manna’, is an eye opener for young and old of all the indoor / outdoor games children can play (instead of being couch potatoes in front of video games and television). This music video chronicles (lyrically and visually), 51 traditional games
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played in Indian villages. In addition to these prestigious International recognitions, ‘Kanavu Variyam’ has also won the Special Jury award from the National Science Film Festival held on Feb 9-13, 2016, organized by the Government of India. Dadasaheb Phalke Award winner and ace director Shyam Benegal has widely appreciated ‘Kanavu Variyam’ quoting “A fictional narrative celebrating the spirit of innovation in a young man”. Arun Chidambaram, Writer and Director of the movie ‘Kanavu Variyam,’ completed his Masters in USA and worked for JP Morgan Chase in Chicago. Arun quit his lucrative job and cozy life in the United States and returned to Chennai, India
kshay Kumar, who is playing a villain for the first time in Rajinikanth’s Enthiran 2.0, is creating waves with his look in the movie. Fans of the actor revealed Akshay’s look on social networking sites — and we can tell you that he does look fearsome! The images, which were shared to pursue his dream and passion in Cinema. Arun has also won personal accolades from the former President of India Dr.APJ.Abdul Kalam. Arun, is the son of ‘Aanazhagan’ Dr.A.Chidambaram, an Indian Sportsman, US trained Physical Culturist and a pioneer in the the field of Physical Culture in Southern India for more than 4 decades. He has been the personal Health Adviser for several VIPs in Tamil Nadu including Former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu Dr.MGR. Kanavu Variyam is produced by Dr. A.Chidambaram and Karthik Chidambaram in the banner of DCKAP Cinemas.
on Twitter, show Akshay riding a bike in the midst of a crowd, but this is Akshay like you’ve never seen him before — with a villainous scowl, grey dyed hair and red eyes and bushy, winged brows. The look resembles that of a raven. To complete the get-up, Akshay sports a black, feathered jacket. In Enthiran 2.0, Akshay plays a scientist called Dr. Richard who turns into a crow — we presume while trying out some notwell-intentioned experiments. The character arc is one that has been explored by lots of villains in superhero villains, including Dr Octavius aka Octopus in the Superman franchise. We’re sure Akshay’s evil alter ego will wreak equal damage! The makers of Enthiran 2.0 had been trying to keep Akshay’s look under wraps, reports The Indian Express. But since Akshay was shooting in full costume among the crowds at New Delhi’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, it would have been impossible to keep them from clicking his pictures on their cellphones.
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VOICE OF ASIA 16
FRIDAY, March 25, 2016
HEALTHY LIVING VOICE OF ASIA
Section 2
Email: voiceasia@aol.com
Vaccine against dengue virus is 100 percent effective: study by Kerry SHERIDAN
half given a placebo.
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IAMI | AFP | 3/16/2016 An experimental vaccine against dengue, the world’s most common mosquito-borne virus, was 100 percent effective in early trials and could speed up the pace of a vaccine against Zika, researchers said Wednesday. Dengue -- which is in the same family of flaviviruses as Zika -- infects some 390 million people each year in more than 120 countries of the world. Dengue symptoms are often mild, but more than two million people annually develop dengue hemorrhagic fever -- which can involve severe headaches, pain behind the eyes, rash, pain in the joints, muscles or bones pain, and leaking blood vessels. More than 25,000 people die of dengue hemorrhagic fever each year. “Knowing what we know about this new vaccine, we are confident that it is going to work,” said lead author Anna Durbin, associate professor in International Health at the Bloomberg School of Public Health at Johns Hopkins University. “And we have to be confident: Dengue is unique and if you don’t do it right, you can do more harm than good.” - Four strains -The vaccine candidate, known as TV003, was tested in a group of 48 people -- half of whom received the vaccine, with the other
TV003 is made by researchers at the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) from a mixture of four weakened but live viruses, targeted to each of the four serotypes of dengue. Six months after vaccination, the two groups were exposed to a weakened form of dengue serotype 2 virus, the hardest of the four dengue strains to prevent. Previous research on TV003, which has been in development for 15 years, had shown it worked well at preventing dengue 1, 3 and 4 viruses. However, the “portion of the vaccine that was designed to prevent dengue 2 did not induce as strong an immune response in people as the other three components,” said a statement from Johns Hopkins. This time, researchers looked beyond antibody response “for the evidence of actual infection: virus in the blood, rash and low white blood cell count.” Of the 41 people that remained in the study until the end, none of the 21 who were vaccinated showed any evidence of dengue. The 20 in the placebo group all had dengue virus in their blood. Eighty percent of them developed a rash, and 20 percent showed lower white blood cell counts, suggesting their bodies were fighting an infection.
Battle Lines Drawn Over Medicare Pricing Proposal
The study was done in the United States, where dengue does not circulate in the population. This helped researchers identify the vaccine’s effectiveness in people who had not been previously exposed to any strain of dengue. “The findings from this trial are very encouraging to those of us who have spent many years working on vaccine candidates to protect against dengue, a disease that is a significant burden in much of the world and is now endemic in Puerto Rico,” said Stephen Whitehead, of the NIH’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. A larger, phase III trial of TV003 began last month in Brazil. It is one of several candidate vaccines currently in clinical trials. - Zika virus -Researchers said their findings may assist in the development of a vaccine against Zika, which has been linked to surge in birth defects in Brazil. Top US health experts have said a vaccine against the mosquito-borne disease will take years to develop. “We think that this is a tool that can really accelerate vaccine development, it’s a tool that we think can be extrapolated to others flaviviruses,” said Durbin. “We hope to do this with Zika virus. There’s an urgent need for a Zika vaccine.”
Six million Americans Paracetamol ‘not have lead-tainted water effective’ against in homes, schools: report arthritis: study
W
A S H I N G T O N , 3/17/2016 - Some six million Americans have drinking water tainted with higher levels of lead than allowed by US federal guidelines, the USA Today reported on Thursday. With the nation focused on a major crisis in Flint, Michigan, where lead from aging pipes leached into the municipal water supply, the newspaper launched an investigation which found higher than acceptable lead levels in about 2,000 water systems across the United States. Tainted water was supplied to hundreds of daycare centers and schools, the report said. Children are the population most vulnerable to the pernicious effects of lead, a toxin which affects the neurological system and can lead to permanent learning delays and behavioral problems.
while a preschool in Pennsylvania recorded lead levels 14 times higher than allowed. An elementary school in Ithaca, New York tested earlier this year showed 5,000 parts per billion of lead -- a level so high it met the federal Environmental Protection Agency’s designation for “hazardous waste.” More than 8,000 children in Flint, economically devastated by shutdowns and layoffs in the car industry, were exposed to lead for more than a year before the tap water contamination was uncovered by citizen activists. The news report was published as Michigan Governor Rick Snyder prepared to appear Thursday before a congressional oversight committee probing the Flint crisis.
Higher than allowed lead levels were found in all 50 US states, USA Today reported.
Critics are calling for the resignation of Snyder, who ordered water from the Flint River to be diverted to supply water to the city, in a costcutting measure.
A sample of water drawn from one elementary school in Maine found lead levels some 42 times higher than the Environmental Protection Agency limit of 15 parts per billion,
Experts believe that the chemicallaced Flint River water corroded lead-bearing pipes, allowing large amounts of the chemical element to leach into the city’s water.
P
ARIS | AFP | 3/17/2016 - Paracetamol, a common over-thecounter pain-reliever, does not work in the treatment of osteoarthritis, a joint disorder afflicting tens of millions of elderly people, according to a study released Friday. When taken on its own to alleviate pain or enhance mobility, the drug was found to be only marginally -- and insignificantly -- better than a dummy pill, according to a broad survey of 74 clinical trials covering nearly 60,000 patients. “Our results suggest that paracetamol at any dose is not effective in managing pain in osteoarthritis,” said Sven Trelle, the main architect of the metastudy and a researcher at the University of Bern in Switzerland. Trelle and colleagues evaluated eight different non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs, taken individually in different doses and in combination with other medications. The drug that worked best for arthritis, they found, was diclofenac, sold in different countries under the brand names Voltaren, Aclonac and Cataflam. The results were published in the medical journal The Lancet. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of joint disease and the leading cause of pain among older people. It occurs when the protective cartilage on the ends of bones wears down over time, causing acute stiffness and pain. The most common joints affected are in the hands, knees, hips and spine. The condition gradually worsens, and no cure exists. Among people over the age of 60,
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ancer specialists clashed Wednesday over a Medicare proposal to test new ways to pays for drugs given in doctor’s offices and hospital outpatient clinics. The proposal by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services applies to Part B drugs, a class that covers certain cancer drugs, antibiotics and eye-care medications. Some cancer drugs are among the costliest on the market, ranging from $9,000 to $100,000 a month, according to America’s Health Insurance Plans. Last year, Medicare paid doctors and outpatient clinics $20 billion for Part B drugs. Medicare patients also pay whopping out-of-pocket costs for these drugs, through coinsurance that totals 20 percent of the drug’s price. Unlike employer-based health plans, “Medicare doesn’t have a limit on out-of-pocket spending,” says Tricia Neuman, director of the Kaiser Family Foundation’s program on Medicare policy, noting that cancer therapy can drive patients into bankruptcy. The controversy arises out of a long history of heated debate about how best to pay for medications that must be administered by doctors. The system was set up at a time when these medicines were cheap, “like BandAids and bags of saline,” says Dr. Peter B. Bach, director of the Center for Health Policy at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and formerly a senior adviser on Medicare to the Bush administration. Over time, he says, prices soared, driven by incentives that prompted doctors to prescribe higher-priced drugs and pharmaceutical companies to charge more for them. The goal now is to change those incentives and reward physicians for providing higher quality care at lower cost. When the proposal was unveiled Tuesday, Patrick Conway, the agency’s chief medical officer, said as much, noting that the purpose of the trial is to reform a payment structure that now pays doctors more for prescribing higher-priced drugs. “The current perverse incentive system doesn’t benefit patients or the system,” he said. Some cancer specialists lashed out at the plan. “This proposal is a misguided, destructive, and potentially dangerous government experiment on the cancer care that elderly patients receive,” says Nick Ferreyros, a spokesman for the Community Oncology Alliance, which represents community-based oncologists. “It is wholly focused on dollars and cents without considering quality or physician judgment.” Others say the experiment is overdue. “Remember the government isn’t saying you can’t prescribe these drugs,” says Dr. Ezekiel Emanuel, chairman of medical ethics and health policy at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. “Instead, the government is saying let’s take money out of the decision.” Under the current system, doctors are paid 6 percent over the drug’s average sale price, to cover handling and administration. The more expensive the drug, the more a doctor is paid for prescribing and administering it. “You have a drug that costs $20,000 or $30,000 and even a percent of that is gets to be a serious amount of money,” Bach says. “There’s lots of data showing it’s an incentive to use one kind of drug it affects about 18 percent of women and 9.5 percent of men. “This finding is not entirely unexpected,” noted Nicholas Moore and three colleagues from the department of pharmacology at the University of Bordeaux in southwestern France. “Paracetamol has been on the market for as long as most of us remember. It efficacy has never been properly established or quantified in chronic diseases,” they wrote in a comment, also published in The Lancet.
Sudhir Mathuria Contact: Sudhir Mathuria Licensed Professional Health Life 360 6650 Southwest Freeway Houston TX 77074 713-771-2900 www.MyMedicarePlanning.com over another.” Under the new proposal, in a trial to begin later this year, the add-on would be cut to 2.5 percent; Medicare would pay an additional flat fee of $16.80. Payments to doctors would shrink from approximately 106 percent to 102 percent, says Kaiser’s Neuman. “This is an ambitious and creative proposal. It aims to address a longstanding concern about the way in which Medicare pays for Part B drugs.” Researchers note that that the approach also has implications for drug companies, because it could prompt doctors to prescribe fewer high-priced drugs. “If you have a marketplace where you can sell more of your cancer drugs by charging more for them – because the person prescribing the drugs will make more money – that’s a reason to raise your prices,” Bach says. The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, which represents the drug industry, was quick to criticize the proposal. “Proposing sweeping changes to Medicare Part B drug reimbursement without thoughtful consideration and stakeholder input is not the right approach and puts Medicare patients who rely on these medicines at risk,” the group said in a statement. Medicare’s proposal is designed to test alternative payment methods designed to reward doctors and hospital outpatient clinics for providing better care, not more expensive care. These changes would be rolled out in certain geographic areas, where they could be measured against the status quo. “It’s just a proposal now. Stakeholders will have an opportunity to comment, and that’s the normal process,” says Topher Spiro, vice-president of health policy at the Center for American Progress, a non-partisan policy institute. Medicare plans to test new ways of paying for certain prescription drugs to lower costs for patients and reward doctors when their patients experience better results, officials said. The soaring price of drugs has become a campaign issue and the subject of a number of congressional hearings and probes. Last year alone, prescription drug spending totaled about $457 billion in the U.S., nearly 17 percent of total health spending. For Medicare, Small Business healthcare and Long Term Care contactSudhir Mathuria @ 713771-2900.
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Section 2
FRIDAY, March 25, 2016
Business VOICE OF ASIA
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IT Serve Houston Chapter meeting
IT Serve Houston Chapter, Company Executives/CEOs and Partners. Photo (s) credit: Damodhara Jammli (DJ). Key Note Speaker, Tom Nunn- President, Tom Nunn Consulting by Damodhara Jammli (DJ)
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OUSTON, TX: ITServe Alliance hosted key speakers during March 2016 monthly meet. ITServe Alliance is a largest association of IT Services organizations. The alliance is the voice of all prestigious IT companies functioning with similar interests across United States. Through the years ITServe has evolved as a resourceful and respected platform to collaborate (Startups / Projects / Job Board / Hotlist) and initiate measures in the direction of protecting common interests and ensuring collective success. The esteemed speaker of the month was Tom Nunn(President – Tom Nunn Consulting) Tom Nunn Consulting works with dedicated, smart business own-
ers, entrepreneurs and CEOs who want to make their vision of success a reality, and position their companies for substantial growth. Speaking on this occasion, Ravi Varre, President of IT Serve Alliance Houston Chapter - said, “IT Serve’s focus has been to bring industry and business thought leaders to provide strategic insights to all its members. This meet up today is in line with our vision to strengthen our relationship with business luminaries. The session by Tom will be very helpful for small and growing companies to manage their P& L”. ITServe Houston Chapter also hosted attorneys Rahul Reddy and Emily Neumann of Reddy & Neumann PC, who provided immigration updates on the OPT Rule, H1B Filings
Pakistan offers duty-free concession to woo new carmakers Islamabad, Pakistan | AFP | Monday 3/21/2016 - 13:57 GMT | 282 words Pakistan on Monday announced that foreign carmakers seeking to enter the market could import machinery for their plants duty-free, in an attempt to boost competition and cut prices for local drivers. The market has for decades been dominated by Japan’s Suzuki, Toyota and Honda who have been accused of colluding to fix prices for lower-quality versions of their models. “We have introduced this new auto policy and our objective is to address the needs of consumers and the market,” Khawaja Muhammad Asif, the country’s defence minister and head of a committee on auto policy, told a press conference. Asif said that despite a captive market, car assemblers in Pakistan failed to introduce basic features available to consumers in international markets such as airbags, anti-lock braking and emission control systems. “There is no value for money
a Pakistani car buyer gets, even after paying 2.6 million rupees (26,000 dollars) for an 1,800cc car,” Asif said. Miftah Ismail, chairman of the Pakistan Board of Investment, said the government hopes to attract two or three new players to the market. Apart from the duty-free concession for plant, the import duty on car parts for new entrants would be set at 10 percent for those items which cannot be manufactured locally and 25 percent for others. The incentives would remain in place for five years, Ismail said. Demand for cars in the South Asian giant of 200 million people is accelerating as economic growth has reached its fastest pace since 2008. Renewed investor confidence and easing inflation have spurred consumer spending. Last year a delegation from Volkswagen visited the country but the German auto giant has not yet announced plans to build a local factory.
IT Serve Houston Chapter Team: L-D Sumith Arigapudi, Badruddin Pitter, Sridhar Patibandla, Ravi Varre(Houston Chapter President), Naren Mondalreddy, Rahul Reddy, Damodhara Reddy (DJ). & 140 Dates detailed insights on P& L, Im- exchange ideas for mutually dalreddy, Sumith Arigapudi,Sai Golla, Damodhara Jammli(DJ) beneficial relationship. Satish Nannapaneni, Presi- migration, Insurance, Banking & Collection related issues. To become member of Houston ITServe Executive dent Elect, National ITServ ITServe and for further details explained that It was a dinner ITServe Alliance with chap- Team: President: Ravi Varre visit http://www.itserve.org Or event attended by all the key ters spread across United Executive Committee: executives/CEO of Houston States, conduct monthly meet- Badruddin Pitter, Naren Mon- E-mail: info@itserve.org and was an opportunity to get ings to network collaborate &
TiE Houston Rice Business Plan Competition
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ouston Rice Business Plan Competition Social Kick-off at Carrabbas - April 13th, 2016
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HOROSCOPE
VOICE OF ASIA 18
FRIDAY, March 25, 2016
Your Horoscope for the Week of March 25, 2016 READ YOUR COMPLETE HOROSCOPE
by Hardik Vyas, Astrologer Cell : 832-298-9950
ONLINE WWW.VOICEOFASIAONLINE.COM
Libra (R,T) 23 Sept to 22 Oct
Aries (A,L,E) 21 March to 20 April You could feel overwhelmed or overly sensitive, unable to make a move, but you can rise to fly again, perhaps higher than ever before. Positive flow from elderly person will set you into motion. Your motives could be challenged by those in authority, as your rewards are long overdue. You will be able to achieve success, if you trust your gut feelings and remain loyal to your principles. Your universal appeal will help you dazzle even the dullest audience. A reunion with family, or with those who feel like family, seems appropriate.
Take care of all the fine details and you will receive the praise you are looking for. You should lay your cards on the table and let those you care about know where you stand. You can get ahead financially, however the emotional side of your life may be more difficult. You’ll be able to organize functions at work and earn the admiration of higher ups. A raise or promotion may be in order. You may even meet someone who interests you more than just as a friend.
Scorpio (N,Y) 23 Oct to 21 Nov
Taurus (B,V,U) 21 April to 20 May A misunderstanding at this time may have big repercussions, which you would love to set right if only you could understand exactly what is going on! Being stubborn will only work against you. You will be in a position to help others. Give advice but hold back if they want cash. Get on with your life. New attitudes will develop through the company you keep. Take your time before making decisions. Re-direct any jangling nerves into some physical exercise if possible.
Take the plunge and get involved in a joint venture. Avoid detail-oriented tasks, try to work with others as much as possible. Try a little idea-generation and offer your assistance to colleagues. Don’t say things that may come back to haunt you. Personal problems will play on your mind. You must be willing to move on and let go of the past if you wish to get over the unpleasantness you’ve experienced. Your overhead may be causing undue stress that you can do without. .
Sagittarius (BH,F,DH,TH) 22 Nov to 21 Dec
Gemini (K,CHH,GH) 21 May to 20 June A realization that you need the love & attention of others. You’re disciplined enough to accomplish anything you want. Problems with spouse may be alarming at home front, it’s time to make first priority to family & home. You should do things that involve family reunions. Get yourself into projects that will enhance your appearance and help you change your self-image. Be careful not to manipulate a situation to your own liking. Your emotions are frenzied.
Do the best you can and try to enlist some help from other friends or relatives. Helping others will be rewarding to you. Uncertainties regarding finances may upset you. Take a stab at doing your own thing or take time off to discover what you really want to do. Don’t take on other people’s problems. Make suggestions and get on with your own life. By week’s end, things will start to turn in your favor. Past partners may re-surface, causing you some confusion.
Capricorn (KH,J) 22 Dec to 20 Jan
Cancer (D,H) 21 June to 22 July Your willingness to confide in others could get you in a little trouble. Think twice before sharing information. You may not think it’s very important, but it could be to someone else. Use discretion, and avoid saying too much. You sometimes feel like you have to do a balancing act. It’s okay to feel the security you have in your relationships, just be aware of deceit. Take this attitude wherever you go. Set your goals & focus on them full force. Help will arrive from existing networks.
You certainly are a master when it comes to learning the things that interest you, but a daydreamer when forced to listen to boring, tedious chatter. You are quick to respond and always willing to help others. You will be upset with those who don’t pull their weight, remain cool but don’t allow yourself to be used. You are used to giving your all and will be ready to blow up if you are forced to deal with lazy and inconsiderate individuals. Get sound financial advice, your cautious nature will help you to make the right choices.
Aquarius (G,S,SH) 21 Jan to 19 Feb
Leo (M) 23 July to 22 August You know how to listen to the problems facing family members. Your experience and know-how will help them get back on track. Those experiences will provide insight and awareness that will come in handy in your day-to-day life. Satisfaction will be your reward. Financial investments will also be lucrative. You can persuade others to support your plans for the future. You will not be in a position to proposition others. Consider your personal needs before your professional ones.
Pisces (D,CH,Z) 20 Feb to 20 March
Virgo (P) 23 August to 22 September You may find yourself in the public eye. A simple observation can provoke a strong response. You’ll need to have emotional contact with others. Even though your friends tend to show off their assets, you must keep a close eye on your budget. Best not to discuss your future plans with one who lacks your vision & imagination. Don’t allow them to dampen your enthusiasm. Someone with whom you have almost nothing in common may come to your aid. Utilize your ability to analyze data in order to meet deadlines, schedules.
QR
Channel your energy into making money. Debates will bring distance between you and your friends. You will be tempted to overspend, so leave money in the bank. You will gain respect and close deals by being your charming self. Don’t let anyone take you for granted. Don’t spend more than you can afford to part with. Organize activities that will include friends. You are bored with some of the connections you’ve made & need to re-evaluate things. You know your independent spirit & knowing when compassion is required. You mSpecial feelings about traditions, relationships & a new interest in financial opportunities will surface. You can start your own traditions, make plans, include everybody close to your heart. The support will give you the confidence you lack. Try to remove excess stress wherever possible, your loved ones will notice the difference, if you do. You’re not a great fan of detail but you need to focus your time properly. You could feel frustrated, or even feel personally criticized.
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VOICE OF ASIA 19
Job posting - Part time Graphic Artist ABC-13/KTRK-TV, the ABC/Disney owned television station in Houston, TX, has a parttime position for an experienced Graphic Artist for both broadcast and digital. The ideal candidate will have a degree in graphic design and professional experience using design applications, such as Adobe Creative Suite, to create content and graphics for television, web pages and social media. Qualified candidate would also be willing to assist with the station’s live studio or remote productions. We offer a collaborative and creative work environment. To be considered for the position you must apply online at disneycareers.com, ref job #351368BR Please upload a cover letter, resume, link to online portfolio, and list of references. Equal Opportunity Employer - Female/Minority/Veteran/Disability/Sexual Orientation/ Gender Identity. No Telephone Calls Please.
Houston Community College Request for Proposals (RFP) Internet Security Surveillance Services Project No. 16-32
Houston Community College Request for Proposals (RFP) Information Technology Network Access Equipment Project No. 16-33
Documents can be obtained at: www.hccs. edu/district/departments/ procurement.
Documents can be obtained at: www.hccs. edu/district/departments/ procurement.
Sealed proposals will be received in Procurement Operations (3100 Main Street, Room No. 11A06 Houston Texas 77002) until 2:00PM (local time) on Monday, April 11, 2016.
Sealed proposals will be received in Procurement Operations (3100 Main Street, Room No. 11A06, Houston, Texas 77002) until 2:00PM (local time) on Tueday, April 5, 2016.
FRIDAY, March 25, 2016
Job posting –Associate Producer Trainee KTRK-TV, the ABC O&O located in Houston, TX is accepting applications for an ASSOCIATE PRODUCER TRAINEE. This is a one-year training position. The AP Trainee will gain valuable experience in writing, graphic development and other aspects of producing a television newscast. Candidates must be willing to work overnights and weekends. College degree preferred. Preference will be given to those with previous television news experience and those with a strong desire to pursue a career as a television newscast producer. Being a journalist is not just a job, it is a way of life. Only serious candidates should apply. This is a one year training position. There is no guarantee that the trainee will be promoted to a full time staff position at the end of the training program.
For consideration all interested applicants must apply on-line at: www.disneycareers.com. Applicants must upload cover letter, resume and references. In addition, please send writing samples to: Robin Freese, KTRK-TV, 3310 Bissonnet, Houston, TX 77005. Please Reference Job ID: 351367BR on ALL materials submitted. Equal Opportunity Employer - Female/Minority/Veteran/Disability/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity. No Telephone Calls Please
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