US consumer confidence increased in August, driven by positive news on the economy and inflation. The Conference Board's index rose to 103.3 from 101.9 in July, with short-term expectations for income, business, and the job market also improving. Consumer spending, which constitutes nearly 70% of US economic activity, remains a critical focus for economists.

Deepnews has introduced a new architecture featuring a transformer-based model to score news articles, aiming to identify quality journalism more effectively. The updated algorithm, based on RoBERTa, has shown high accuracy in testing and is now accessible to the public. The model is expected to save time and money for publishers by automating the process of identifying high-quality articles, potentially increasing reader engagement and subscriptions. Future plans include training models for different types of articles and languages, starting with French.

A study conducted by Almirall revealed that 85% of respondents in the US and Europe are unaware of actinic keratosis (AK), a chronic skin condition that can lead to squamous cell carcinoma. The survey included over 2500 participants aged 35 and above from Spain, Germany, Italy, the UK, and the US. Dermatologist Girish Gupta emphasized the importance of AK awareness and the need for better education in primary care to improve diagnosis and treatment. The study also highlighted the challenges in managing AK, including accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and timely referral to secondary care.

Members of the Venezuelan diaspora in Silicon Valley are leveraging technology to address the humanitarian crisis in Venezuela. Initiatives like Code for Venezuela are organizing hackathons and mentorship programs to connect professionals with their peers in Venezuela, aiming to provide real-time data and resources to those in need. The efforts include developing chatbots, crowdsourcing scholarships, and using machine learning for disease diagnosis. Despite the ongoing challenges, these technological solutions offer a glimmer of hope and a way to utilize the skills of Venezuelan migrants to aid their home country.

Non-invasive respiratory support for neonates using bubble continuous positive airway pressure (bCPAP) systems is widely used due to its safety, cost-effectiveness, and ease of application. This study tested the feasibility of splitting a single bCPAP assembly using a T-piece splitter in a simulation model. Results showed that the pressures measured at the expiratory end of two nasal interfaces were consistent with set parameters, indicating that bCPAP splitting is a technically simple, feasible, and reliable strategy. Further testing in a simulated lung model is recommended.

Non-invasive respiratory support for neonates using bubble continuous positive airway pressure (bCPAP) systems is widely adopted due to its safety, cost-effectiveness, and ease of use. This study explores the feasibility of splitting a single bCPAP assembly using a T-piece splitter in a simulation model. Results indicate that the pressures measured at the expiratory end of two nasal interfaces were consistent with set parameters, demonstrating that bCPAP splitting is a technically simple, feasible, and reliable strategy. Further testing in a simulated lung model is recommended.

Deepnews is developing an algorithm to distinguish between high- and low-quality journalism based solely on article text. The algorithm aims to address the media industry's challenge of producing quality content amidst revenue declines and the prevalence of subpar articles. Deepnews' approach involves machine learning to score articles based on agreed-upon journalism metrics, with initial training data provided by journalism students. The company is fine-tuning its model and plans to release a beta interface for user feedback, showcasing the stark difference between its curated content and that of social media or news aggregators.

Explores the mathematical principles underlying the spread of infectious diseases, focusing on key metrics and models used to predict and control outbreaks. Highlights the importance of understanding these concepts for effective public health responses.

Venezuelans in Silicon Valley are using technology to address the humanitarian crisis in Venezuela, from tracking blackout reports to creating chatbots for medicine resources. Code for Venezuela, a group of Venezuelan tech workers, organized a hackathon to tackle challenges like scraping health data and aiding refugees. The diaspora's initiatives, including mentorship programs and cryptocurrency solutions, aim to leverage their skills to rebuild the country despite the ongoing talent drain. These efforts provide valuable insights and assistance to those affected by the crisis.

Twins born to a 31-year-old mother were referred for severe hyperbilirubinaemia at 90 hours of life. Twin 1 underwent two double volume exchange transfusions, while Twin 2 received phototherapy and a packed red blood cell transfusion. Both twins had a B positive mother and were O positive themselves. They were treated for minor blood incompatibility and sepsis, received intensive phototherapy, and were discharged after 15 days.

The article discusses a method for disabling OData batch calls during the development of a Fiori Extension app for the standard Manage Purchase Requisition app. It outlines two approaches: using the oDataModel.setUseBatch(false) API or setting the useBatch parameter to false in the app's manifest.json file. The latter is preferred for its simplicity, requiring changes in only one place. The author emphasizes the importance of re-enabling batch calls before deploying the app to maintain optimization.

Nicolas Maduro has been re-elected as Venezuela's president amid widespread allegations of election irregularities and low voter turnout. His main challenger, Henri Falcon, and other critics have disavowed the election results, calling for a new vote. The election has been criticized for its lack of legitimacy, with accusations of vote-buying and the use of state resources to support Maduro's campaign. The U.S. government has threatened further sanctions against Venezuela, which is already facing severe economic challenges, including hyperinflation and mass emigration. Despite the controversy, Maduro's supporters remain loyal, citing his fight against what he describes as an imperialist plot.

Arrests for rebellion and desertion are rising sharply in Venezuela's armed forces, a key support for President Nicolas Maduro's Socialist government, amid growing discontent over food shortages and dwindling salaries. Internal military documents reveal a significant increase in the number of soldiers detained for treason, rebellion, and desertion in the first four months of the year compared to the same period in 2017.

Arrests for rebellion and desertion are rising sharply in Venezuela's armed forces amid discontent over food shortages and low salaries. Internal military documents reveal a significant increase in detained soldiers, reflecting growing dissent. As Venezuela approaches presidential elections, the role of security forces is under scrutiny, with many soldiers planning to flee the country. The economic crisis has worsened, leading to widespread emigration, including among military personnel. Despite public support for President Maduro, internal dissent and foiled coup plots indicate underlying instability. The opposition criticizes the elections as rigged, while the government maintains they are transparent.

Arrests for rebellion and desertion are rising sharply in Venezuela's armed forces amid discontent over food shortages and low salaries. Internal military documents reveal a significant increase in detained soldiers, reflecting growing dissent. As Venezuela prepares for presidential elections, the role of security forces is under scrutiny, with many soldiers planning to flee the country. The economic crisis has worsened, leading to widespread hunger and emigration. Despite public support from military leaders, there are signs of internal unrest. The U.S. has hinted at potential military intervention, but a successful coup appears unlikely due to a fragmented opposition.

Arrests for rebellion and desertion in Venezuela's armed forces have surged amid widespread discontent over food shortages and low salaries. Internal military documents reveal a significant increase in detained soldiers, reflecting growing dissent within the ranks. As Venezuela approaches a contentious presidential election, the role of the military is under scrutiny, with many soldiers demoralized and some planning to flee the country. Despite public support from military leaders, there are signs of internal unrest, with some soldiers sympathetic to opposition protests. The economic crisis, marked by hyperinflation, has exacerbated the situation, leading to a wave of desertions. The article also touches on historical and recent coup attempts, the role of the military in the Socialist Revolution, and international perspectives on the crisis.

Arrests for rebellion and desertion are rising sharply in Venezuela's armed forces amid discontent over food shortages and low salaries. Internal military documents reveal a significant increase in the number of soldiers detained for treason, rebellion, and desertion. As Venezuela prepares for presidential elections, the role of the security forces is under scrutiny, with many soldiers planning to flee the country. The economic crisis has worsened, leading to widespread dissent within the military. Despite public support for Maduro, there are signs of internal unrest and potential for military intervention.

Venezuela's government announced that its newly launched oil-backed cryptocurrency, the petro, raised $735 million on its first day of pre-sale. President Nicolas Maduro hopes the petro will help the country evade U.S. sanctions and stabilize its economy. Despite skepticism from blockchain experts and opposition leaders, the government anticipates significant investment from international investors. The petro, backed by Venezuela's oil reserves, aims to attract investment and provide an alternative to the bolivar amidst hyperinflation and economic challenges.

Venezuela's opposition-led National Assembly reported that the country experienced a 4,068 percent inflation rate in the 12 months leading up to January, with January's inflation alone at 84.2 percent. This situation exacerbates the economic crisis, leading to severe shortages of food and medicine. The government attributes these issues to an 'economic war' while critics point to currency controls initiated by Hugo Chavez 15 years ago. The bolivar's value has plummeted, and the government, which has not published inflation data for over two years, has repeatedly raised the minimum wage, now equivalent to just over $1 per month.

Venezuela's annual inflation rate reached 4,068 percent by the end of January, according to the opposition-led National Assembly, aligning with independent economists' estimates. January alone saw an 84.2 percent inflation rate, exacerbating the economic crisis marked by severe shortages of food and medicine. The government attributes the crisis to an economic war led by the opposition and business leaders, with alleged support from Washington. Critics, however, point to strict currency controls initiated by Hugo Chavez. The bolivar has significantly devalued, and the government has not released inflation data for over two years, despite repeatedly raising the minimum wage.

The European Union has imposed new sanctions on seven senior Venezuelan officials, including travel bans and asset freezes, due to concerns over the political crisis under President Nicolas Maduro. The sanctions target individuals responsible for security forces accused of human rights abuses during the 2017 anti-government protests. Venezuelan authorities condemned the EU's actions, accusing it of subordination to the U.S. government and interventionist policies. The EU has an existing arms embargo on Venezuela but has not considered an oil embargo or blacklisting Maduro.

The European Union has imposed new sanctions on seven senior Venezuelan officials, including travel bans and asset freezes, in response to the political crisis under President Nicolas Maduro. The sanctions target individuals responsible for security forces accused of human rights abuses during the 2017 anti-government protests. Venezuelan authorities condemned the EU's actions, accusing them of being influenced by the U.S. government. The country is facing severe economic and social challenges, including shortages of food and medicine, hyperinflation, and insecurity.

The U.S. Treasury Department has warned that Venezuela's proposed 'petro' cryptocurrency could violate sanctions, potentially deterring investors. President Nicolas Maduro plans to issue 100 million petros backed by oil to circumvent U.S. sanctions and raise hard currency amid Venezuela's economic crisis. The advisory group VIBE has recommended a private sale of the cryptocurrency at a significant discount, reflecting market skepticism. Venezuela's opposition has declared the petro illegal, and there are concerns about the feasibility and legality of using oil reserves to back the cryptocurrency.

Venezuela's inflation rate soared to 2616% in 2017, according to the opposition-led National Assembly, amid severe shortages of food and medicine. December alone saw an 85% inflation rate, indicating hyperinflation. The minimum wage, despite a 40% increase, remains extremely low due to the bolivar's devaluation. President Nicolas Maduro attributes the crisis to an 'economic war' by Washington and the opposition, while critics blame government controls.

Venezuela's inflation rate soared to 2616% in 2017, according to the opposition-led National Assembly, amid severe food and medicine shortages. December's inflation alone was 85%, indicating hyperinflation. The minimum wage increase in January is insufficient due to the bolivar's devaluation. The central bank has not released economic data for two years, while the money supply grew by over 1000% last year. President Nicolas Maduro attributes the crisis to an 'economic war' by Washington and the opposition, while critics blame government controls.

Chondrodysplasia punctate (CDP) is a rare disorder with both genetic and non-genetic causes, including peroxisomal disorders, chromosomal disorders, and teratogen exposure. Recent cases have linked CDP with maternal autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus and mixed connective tissue disorder (MCTD). This report discusses a 35-week gestational age baby born to a mother with MCTD, treated with hydroxychloroquine, who exhibited mid-facial hypoplasia and bilateral talar region punctate calcification indicative of CDP. The exact mechanism remains unknown, and further research is needed to explore the association between specific antibody titres and CDP in maternal autoimmune diseases.

A 17-day-old term female baby with persistent respiratory distress was referred to a specialized center after initial management for pneumonia and pneumothorax. Detailed clinical examination suggested congenital lobar emphysema (CLE), which was confirmed by a CT chest scan. The infant underwent a lobectomy, resulting in the resolution of respiratory distress within hours post-surgery, and was subsequently discharged in stable condition.

Venezuela's monetary gold value decreased by 14% in 2017, standing at $6.626 billion by December. This decline occurred amid a severe economic crisis, with widespread food shortages and difficulties in importing basic goods. The central bank's gold reserves were valued at $1,271.03 per ounce at the end of 2017, down from $1,272.42 per ounce in 2016, and the volume of gold fell by 16% to 5.2 million troy ounces. In 2014, the central bank began swapping monetary gold to gain liquidity, and in October, a $1.7 billion gold swap with Deutsche Bank lapsed.

Hundreds of Colombians, having lived for years in the impoverished Venezuelan border village of Ernesto Guevara, were forced to flee across the River Tachira back to Colombia amid an intensifying border dispute. Venezuelan authorities marked homes with a 'D' for demolition, claiming a crackdown on smuggling and paramilitary gangs, while the displaced Colombians, including supermarket worker Darwin Arenas and single mother Luz Nelsi, denied involvement in crime. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro closed a border crossing and suspended constitutional guarantees, which was criticized by Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos as reminiscent of 'bitter episodes of humanity.' Venezuelan Governor Jose Vielma denied human rights violations, while the Colombian government is providing aid to the displaced.

Venezuela is experiencing severe economic turmoil with extreme currency devaluation and shortages of basic goods. President Nicolás Maduro, facing plummeting approval ratings, has intensified a crackdown on political opponents, including the arrest of Caracas Mayor Antonio Ledezma on charges of conspiracy. Maduro accuses the United States of supporting a coup against his government. The economic crisis is causing significant hardship for Venezuelans, with many struggling to afford basic necessities.

The mayor of Caracas, Antonio Ledezma, has been indicted on charges of conspiracy and plotting an American-backed coup against the Venezuelan government. President Nicolás Maduro criticized the United States and accused it of imperialist aggression. The arrest is seen by critics as a tactic to divert attention from Venezuela's economic problems and low approval ratings of the president. Small protests have erupted in response to Ledezma's arrest, and the situation is unfolding against the backdrop of upcoming legislative elections and a potential referendum.

The arrest of Caracas Mayor Antonio Ledezma on sedition charges has intensified Venezuela's political crisis, with opposition figures accusing President Nicolás Maduro of using the arrest to distract from the country's economic troubles and his declining popularity. Maduro, who claims the arrest is part of a U.S.-backed plot to overthrow his government, has promised to provide evidence of the alleged conspiracy. The situation has sparked protests and further polarized the nation.

In Venezuela, a policeman named Álvaro Blanco was executed by a teenager in a bakery, highlighting the extreme dangers faced by police officers in the country. The incident underscores the high rate of police killings, driven by criminals seeking to steal their weapons. The article details the perilous conditions in Caracas' slums, where police officers like Manuel Ángel and José Albornóz work under constant threat, earning meager wages. The weak justice system and overcrowded, lawless prisons exacerbate the situation, with only a small percentage of crimes being solved. Despite numerous anti-crime initiatives, the government has made little progress in curbing violence.

President Donald Ramotar of Guyana announced that general elections will be held on May 11, following his suspension of Parliament in November to avoid a no-confidence vote. Ramotar expressed confidence in winning the election and regaining a majority in Parliament. His People’s Progressive Party, which has been in power for over 20 years, faces competition from a rising multiethnic third party. The two main parties in Guyana have historically aligned along racial lines.

In Guyana, a multiethnic movement has emerged to challenge the traditional racially divided politics. The Alliance for Change, a new political party, has gained support from both Afro- and Indo-Guyanese, advocating for merit-based politics and economic progress. President Donald Ramotar's suspension of Parliament to avoid a no-confidence vote has sparked protests and highlighted the country's political tensions. The movement reflects a shift towards more inclusive politics, with significant implications for the upcoming elections and the potential end of over two decades of Indo-Guyanese rule.

Teenagers in San Cristóbal, Venezuela, have been leading protests for over a month, ignited by crime and economic hardship. The protests, which began after a student was robbed, have spread nationwide, highlighting issues such as high inflation, shortages of basic goods, and government repression. President Nicolas Maduro faces strong opposition, with protesters calling for significant political change. Despite the unrest, Maduro maintains control, leveraging the legacy of his predecessor, Hugo Chávez. The opposition remains divided on strategy, with leaders like Leopoldo López and Henrique Capriles taking different approaches.

Currency controls in Venezuela, introduced by Hugo Chávez in 2003, have created a black market where foreign currency is sold at rates significantly higher than the official exchange rate. This has led to economic disparities, with those having access to foreign currency benefiting immensely, while locals struggle with high inflation and scarcity of basic goods. The black market allows for cheap international travel and arbitrage opportunities, exacerbating the divide between the wealthy and the poor. Critics argue that the government's policies have failed to curb inflation and capital flight, instead fostering corruption and economic distortions.

In Guyana, calypsonian Lester Charles, known as De Professor, faced government backlash after his song 'God Nah Sleep' criticized corruption. The song's success in a national competition led to government minister Robeson Benn demanding its ban, highlighting ongoing ethnic tensions and accusations of censorship in the country.

The article is part of a series exploring Venezuela, focusing on an artisanal diamond mine located in the Amazon Jungle. It provides insights into the mining activities and the region's significance.

Venezuela faces deepening political chaos as legislators brawl in the National Assembly and rival marches take place in Caracas following the narrow election victory of President Nicolás Maduro. Tensions remain high with opposition leader Henrique Capriles Radonski and his supporters refusing to recognize Maduro's win, alleging election fraud. The National Assembly's president, Diosdado Cabello, has barred opposition legislators from speaking, leading to violent confrontations. Amidst the turmoil, Maduro and his wife attended a Cirque du Soleil performance, drawing criticism from Capriles. The National Electoral Council's limited review of election records has been dismissed by Capriles as insufficient.

Following the first presidential election since Hugo Chávez's death, violent clashes erupted in Caracas between police and opposition supporters protesting Nicolás Maduro's narrow victory over Henrique Capriles Radonski. The opposition, alleging fraud, called for a recount and peaceful protests, while Maduro also urged peaceful demonstrations. The violence has already resulted in seven deaths, with more protests expected in the coming days.

Nicolás Maduro narrowly won Venezuela's presidency, succeeding Hugo Chavez. The election results were contested by opposition leader Henrique Capriles Radonski, who cited numerous irregularities. Maduro's slim victory margin suggests a tenuous hold on power, with potential internal conflicts and increased opposition pressure. The article highlights the political turmoil and challenges facing Maduro, including maintaining Chavez's legacy and addressing the country's high crime rates.

In Caracas, around 40 students are on a hunger strike protesting the National Electoral Council's perceived bias towards the United Socialist Party of Venezuela. They support Henrique Capriles Radonski in the upcoming presidential election against interim president Nicolas Maduro. The protesters were attacked by pro-government supporters, and Maduro has blamed the US for the violence. Maduro, leveraging Chavez's legacy, faces criticism for his dramatic statements and governance. The opposition, led by Capriles, seeks fair elections and media access, highlighting Venezuela's economic and social crises.

Venezuelans are mourning the death of President Hugo Chávez and facing an uncertain future. The article highlights the public sentiment and the political transition challenges that lie ahead for the Venezuelan government.

President Hugo Chávez of Venezuela died after a prolonged battle with cancer, leaving the nation in political turmoil. Vice President Nicolás Maduro announced the death, leading to immediate public unrest and heightened security. Chávez's death raises questions about the future of his socialist revolution and the political landscape in Venezuela and Latin America. The Constitution mandates a new election within 30 days, likely pitting Maduro against opposition leader Henrique Capriles Radonski. The article also touches on the strained relations between Venezuela and the United States, with recent expulsions of American military attachés. Chávez's illness and secretive treatment are detailed, highlighting the uncertainty and tension in the country during his final days.

A violent clash between inmates and National Guard soldiers at the Uribana prison in Barquisimeto, Venezuela, resulted in the death of 61 people and injuries to 120, with most casualties being prisoners. The violence erupted during a search for weapons by troops aiming to establish order in the overcrowded and chaotic facility, where inmates typically have control over many aspects of life, including access to guns and drugs.

President Hugo Chávez of Venezuela won re-election, defeating Henrique Capriles Radonski with 54 percent of the vote. Despite health concerns and a more robust opposition, Chávez secured a new mandate to continue his socialist policies. His victory sparked celebrations among supporters in Caracas, although the future of his presidency remains uncertain due to his cancer treatment.

HispanTV, Iran's new Spanish-language channel, aims to extend Iran's cultural and economic influence in Latin America, particularly among U.S. opponents like Venezuela and Cuba. Despite its ambitious goals, the channel faces significant challenges, including limited accessibility, lackluster programming, and a reputation for biased reporting. The channel's content often criticizes the United States and Israel while promoting Iran's perspective, but it struggles to attract a significant audience. The article questions the effectiveness of HispanTV in strengthening Iran-Latin America relations and suggests it may primarily serve as a propaganda tool.

President Hugo Chávez made a surprising return to Venezuela after undergoing cancer surgery in Cuba, appearing on state television and addressing his followers. His return, timed with Venezuela's Independence Day celebrations, was seen as a strategic move to bolster his image and eliminate pessimism among his supporters. While some Venezuelans celebrated his return, others expressed discontent. Chávez's health remains a topic of national concern, with details about his cancer still undisclosed.

President Hugo Chávez, recovering from cancer surgery in Cuba, can legally govern Venezuela from abroad for up to six months, according to Vice President Elías Jaua. This has sparked concerns about a power vacuum and constitutional interpretations. Chávez's health and the lack of detailed information have led to political disputes and skepticism among his supporters. The situation is further complicated by the centralized power structure around Chávez and the control his supporters have in the National Assembly and judiciary.

Fatemeh Khezrie, a 44-year-old woman, is on a hunger strike outside the US embassy in London to protest the alleged torture of Iranian exiles at Camp Ashraf in Iraq. Despite her deteriorating health, she continues her protest, demanding the release of 36 Camp Ashraf residents held by Iraqi forces and urging the US to take over the camp's security. The protest follows a raid by Iraqi police on the camp, which has drawn criticism from Human Rights Watch and calls for an independent investigation. The British and US governments are aware of the situation but have not taken significant action.

The three-point safety belt, invented by Nils Bohlin and patented in 1958, is credited with saving a million lives since its inception. Initially introduced in Volvo's Nordic market, it became standard in front seats across the US and Europe within five years, and rear seats followed four years later. The article reflects on the historical context of the seatbelt's invention and its widespread adoption.

Women boxers have achieved a significant milestone as the International Olympic Committee has decided to include women's boxing in the 2012 London Olympics, marking the first time since 1904. The sport has seen various notable figures, including Cathy 'Cat' Davis, the Webber sisters, and Laila Ali, who have contributed to its growth. Jane Couch became the UK's first licensed female boxer and made significant strides for women's boxing rights. The 2004 film Million Dollar Baby, starring Hilary Swank, played a crucial role in popularizing the sport. Despite these advancements, there are still prominent opponents like promoter Frank Warren.

The article addresses various claims made by right-wing American figures and organizations about the UK's public healthcare system, providing detailed responses and rebuttals from UK health authorities and experts. It covers topics such as treatment availability for elderly patients, cost-effectiveness of medical treatments, cancer survival rates, and access to specialized care. The responses generally refute the claims, emphasizing the UK's commitment to providing healthcare based on clinical needs and value for money, while acknowledging areas needing improvement.