Herbicide tied to strange skin disease killing people in Vietnam

A mysterious skin disease has killed 19 people and affected 171 others in the province of Quang Ngai, one of the most impoverished in the country. The resistant disease was first discovered in April 2011 before dying down and resurfacing with a vengeance.

The illness initially presents with high fever, appetite loss and a rash on the feet and hands, but left untreated can affect the respiratory system, cause eye problems, miscarriages, liver issues and multi-organ failure. And it has doctors baffled. 

The disease found in two communes in Quang Ngai province of Southern Vietnam, was first discovered about a year ago, before subsiding and reemerging. Now within the past year, 171 people have reported disease symptoms and it has claimed the lives of 19 others.. read full article.

Video: 2 trains collide in Amsterdam ― at least 70 injured

Dutch media reports that 2 trains have collided in Amsterdam in the Netherlands, injuring at least 70 with more than 50 seriously.

The BBC reports that the trains collided between the capital's main station, Amsterdam Central and the Amsterdam Sloterdijk station. 

While it is not immediately clear how the 2 trains had ended up travelling towards each other on the same track, Ed Kraszewski of the National Police Corps said that the cause of the collision would be investigated. The trains involved were an inter-city train and a local stopping service, and the crash occurred at around 18:30 local time.. read more and view video.

Op-Ed: Photo essay: An abstract view of life in Spain

Spain is, undoubtedly, one of the most photogenic countries in the world. But its not just the every day, touristy views that are of interest to the photographer. 

Ask any photographer, whether amateur or professional - they love taking photos that are a bit out of the ordinary.

When a photographer walks the streets, everything is seen with that famous "photographer's eye".

 A ruined house, paint peeling on a door, or just a whole bunch of rust are manna in heaven for them... read full article.

Video: Reindeer races & ice-fishing in Russia's frozen north

Northern Russia is well known for its harsh climate and vast icy tundra, where residents are cut off from the rest of the country.

The video explores this isolated area and introduces us to the residents, who are quite happy with the life they lead. Reindeer herders have a hard life, following their herds through the vast tundra, but every now and then they get together for some fun. 

Stick wresting, hurdle jumping and lasso throwing are some of the participatory sports, as can be seen in the video. 

 But reindeer racing is the main event of the year. Teams come from far and wide to participate in these exciting and sometimes dangerous events and the competition is tough.... read full article and view video.

Roundup herbicide linked to Parkinson’s-related brain damage

Monsanto's controversial herbicide, Roundup, has now been linked to Parkinsonism related disorders according to research reported in the Neurotoxicology & Teratology journal. 

 

This month a new and alarming study has been published in the journal Neurotoxicology and Teratology which supports the emerging connection between glyphosate, Roundup's active ingredient, and the emergence of neurodegenerative conditions including Parkinson's disease and Parkinsonian disorders... read full article.

Both sides unite in protest in Tahrir Square in Cairo, Egypt

Tens of thousands of Egyptians packed Tahrir Square yesterday - islamists and liberals joined forces in protest against the ruling military government. 

The whole spectrum of Egyptian political protesters were collaborating in a protest for real democracy, as the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces (SCAF) is reluctant to give up power. 

 The crowds in Tahrir Square, Cairo are accusing the SCAF of manipulating the upcoming president elections so that they can retain power. 

Despite the fact that parliamentary elections have taken place, Egypt has seen little democratic change... read full article and watch video.