Coco Gauff’s support team accused of ‘mind games’ by Belinda Bencic

Gauff Alleged Bencic Told Her Support Camp to ‘Shut Up’ During Tense Clash in Beijing

During a heated match in Beijing, Coco Gauff alleged that Belinda Bencic told her support camp to “shut up.” The tense exchange added an extra layer of intensity to the already competitive encounter between the two players.

The incident reportedly occurred amid a series of close points, where emotions were running high on both sides. Gauff’s claim highlights the passionate atmosphere surrounding the match and the pressure felt by both athletes.

As the rivalry between Gauff and Bencic continues to develop, moments like these underscore the fierce competitiveness present at the highest levels of tennis. Fans and analysts alike await any further developments or responses from either camp regarding the incident.
https://www.breakingnews.ie/sport/coco-gauffs-support-team-accused-of-mind-games-by-belinda-bencic-1813044.html

Pfizer to lower prescription drug costs for Medicaid in a deal with Trump

WASHINGTON, United States — Pfizer has agreed to lower the cost of prescription drugs for Medicaid under a deal struck with the Trump administration, President Donald Trump said Tuesday, as he promised similar deals with other drugmakers under the threat of tariffs. Trump made the announcement at the White House alongside Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla
https://business.inquirer.net/550054/pfizer-to-lower-prescription-drug-costs-for-medicaid-in-a-deal-with-trump

Couple ‘deliberately starved’ three-year-old daughter to death, London court told

A couple deliberately starved their three-year-old daughter to death over many months, a UK court has heard.

Jaskiret Singh Uppal, 36, and Manpreet Jatana, 34, appeared at the Old Bailey in London on Tuesday charged with the murder of Penelope Chandrie.

Prosecutor Philip McGhee said the prosecution’s case was that the defendants mistreated their daughter over an extended period and deliberately starved her, leading to her death. The London court heard that the couple failed to register Penelope’s birth, provide her with GP care or education, as they isolated themselves from the wider world.

When the child died, it is alleged that they initially considered cremating the body in the back garden of their home in Hayes, west London, before contacting a funeral director.

On December 17, 2023, police found Penelope’s very emaciated body wrapped in a sheet with bruising to her neck, the court was told. An examination of her body found the cause of death was malnutrition. Pathological findings indicated starvation over a prolonged period of many months, culminating in fatal ketoacidosis, Mr McGhee said.

There were also marks on the neck consistent with the use of bindings, and injuries to the hands consistent with a sharp object such as a knife, the court heard.

At the time Penelope died, officers found the defendants’ home to be in poor condition, with the family’s vegetarian diet mainly consisting of yoghurt, lentils, and butter, Mr McGhee added. What appeared to be a ligature was found attached to the bannisters on the stairs.

The defendants, who met at university, had not worked for some time and lived in the house belonging to Uppal’s father.

On Tuesday, Uppal appeared in the dock of the Old Bailey, and Jatana was on a videolink from Bronzefield prison. Both spoke only to confirm their identities.

In addition to the murder charge, the defendants are accused of manslaughter, causing or allowing the death of a child, and abandoning a child or causing them unnecessary suffering or injury.

Judge Lynn Tayton KC set a timetable for the case, with a plea hearing scheduled for December 16. A provisional trial date will be confirmed later. She remanded the defendants into custody.
https://www.breakingnews.ie/world/couple-deliberately-starved-three-year-old-daughter-to-death-court-told-1813133.html

9/30: CBS Evening News Plus

What the FBI’s Mass Exodus Means for the Bureau’s Future

The recent wave of departures within the FBI has raised significant questions about the future of the bureau. This mass exodus reflects deeper issues related to leadership, workplace culture, and evolving challenges in law enforcement. As seasoned agents leave, concerns grow over the bureau’s ability to maintain institutional knowledge and effectively tackle emerging threats.

Experts suggest that retaining talent and fostering a resilient organizational culture are essential for the FBI to navigate these turbulent times. Reforms aimed at improving morale, providing better support, and encouraging diversity are critical steps toward ensuring the bureau’s strength and relevance in the years ahead.

Reporter’s Notebook: The “Journal Girl” Who Raced to Circle the Globe in 1936

In 1936, a remarkable journey captured the imagination of the public—a female reporter, famously dubbed the “Journal Girl,” embarked on an ambitious race to circle the globe. Her adventure was not only a testament to journalistic dedication but also a celebration of courage and determination during an era when female reporters were a rarity.

Documenting her travels and challenges, she offered readers a unique glimpse into distant cultures and events, broadening perspectives and inspiring many. Her story remains a fascinating chapter in the history of journalism and a reminder of the trailblazing women who helped shape the profession.

https://www.cbsnews.com/video/930-cbs-evening-news-plus/

Avalanche Studios to close Liverpool studio and lay off employees at other locations

The developer behind Just Cause has announced a strategic move aimed at securing the company’s future success.

This decision underscores their commitment to growth and innovation within the gaming industry. By taking this step, the company aims to strengthen its position and continue delivering exceptional experiences to players worldwide.
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146163/avalanche-studios-liverpool-closure-layoffs

What is lecanemab, the newly approved Alzheimer’s drug? Can it really slow down dementia

New Alzheimer’s Drug Lecanemab Approved in Australia: What You Need to Know

Dementia is a condition characterized by progressive memory and thinking problems. It is now the most common cause of death in Australia. While there are many causes of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease accounts for about 60% to 80% of all cases.

Last week, Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approved a new drug for early Alzheimer’s disease: lecanemab, sold under the brand name Leqembi. This approval follows that of a similar drug, donanemab, earlier this year. Although lecanemab has been shown to slow disease progression in some people diagnosed early, its high cost may put it out of reach for many Australians.

How Does Lecanemab Work?

Lecanemab belongs to a class of drugs known as monoclonal antibodies. When our bodies face foreign invaders such as bacteria or viruses, the immune system produces antibodies—proteins that bind to the invader and mark it for destruction by immune cells.

A monoclonal antibody like lecanemab is produced in a laboratory to target a specific substance—in this case, the amyloid protein. Amyloid plaques are a microscopic hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease. By binding to amyloid, lecanemab helps the immune system to remove this protein from the brain, thereby limiting ongoing damage.

How Effective Is Lecanemab?

The TGA’s approval is based on a large clinical trial involving 1,734 participants over 18 months, funded by Eisai, the drug company. All participants had positron emission tomography (PET) scans confirming the presence of amyloid in their brains before the trial.

Results showed that patients with early Alzheimer’s or mild cognitive impairment due to early Alzheimer’s who received lecanemab experienced 27% less disease progression compared to those given a placebo over 18 months. This was measured using the Clinical Dementia Rating Sum of Boxes scale, which assesses both cognition and function. This slowing of decline equates to about five months less deterioration in those treated with lecanemab.

For patients continuing treatment, evidence suggests benefits may persist for up to four years. Participants also showed substantial reductions in amyloid levels as seen on PET scans. By the end of the trial, most participants were below the threshold indicating Alzheimer’s presence, although their symptoms were not reversed.

What Are the Side Effects?

Safety concerns have been raised by regulators. The TGA initially rejected lecanemab’s approval last year based on its risk-benefit profile. In the clinical trial, 12.6% of patients receiving lecanemab experienced brain swelling. This rate increased to 32.6% in individuals carrying two copies of the apolipoprotein E4 (ApoE4) gene, which promotes Alzheimer’s.

Among those with brain swelling, 22% experienced side effects such as headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, and balance problems. Most side effects were mild. However, a small number of participants on blood-thinning medications suffered serious brain bleeds, some of which were fatal.

The remaining 78% with brain swelling showed no symptoms. Due to these risks, patients on lecanemab require MRI brain scans every three months for monitoring.

Furthermore, 17.3% of patients treated with lecanemab experienced small brain bleeds (microhemorrhages), compared to 9.0% in the placebo group.

Following the initial rejection, the TGA appeal included new safety and efficacy data covering up to four years of treatment.

How Much Does Lecanemab Cost?

Lecanemab is not currently subsidized by Australia’s Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). The drug costs approximately A$40,000 per year, making it unaffordable for many potential patients.

The recommended dosing schedule consists of fortnightly infusions for an 18-month period, followed by monthly maintenance doses. Additional costs include required monitoring such as doctor visits, MRI, and PET scans.

As of now, the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) has not yet reviewed lecanemab for PBS listing. The committee recently rejected a similar drug, donanemab, in July due to concerns about limited and uncertain benefits relative to treatment burdens.

Lecanemab and donanemab share similar mechanisms, efficacy, risk profiles, and costs.

Bottom Line

Lecanemab is approved only for early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. If you or a loved one experience early signs—such as consistent short-term memory loss or confusion about dates—it is important to seek medical advice promptly. Early diagnosis is essential to explore available treatment options.

It is important to understand that neither lecanemab nor donanemab cures Alzheimer’s disease. These drugs may slow disease progression but do not improve existing symptoms.

Additionally, lecanemab is not effective for dementia caused by conditions other than Alzheimer’s, nor for individuals with advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease.

https://knowridge.com/2025/10/what-is-lecanemab-the-newly-approved-alzheimers-drug-can-it-really-slow-down-dementia/

Amazon reveals range of new Kindle, Ring and Echo devices powered by AI

Online juggernaut Amazon has unveiled its next generation of Kindle, Ring, and Echo devices, among other gadgets, all powered by artificial intelligence and connected to Alexa+, its AI-infused personal assistant that made its debut in February.

The new line-up was announced at a presentation and showcase in New York on Tuesday. Highlights include new cameras for its Ring video monitoring device featuring an AI facial recognition capability. This allows users to register friends and family and receive notifications about who is at the front door.

Amazon also introduced four new Echo devices revamped with Alexa+. These smart speakers provide personalized insights, such as alerts if the user left the front door unlocked after midnight.

In addition, the Seattle-based company announced a series of Alexa+ infused Fire TVs. These televisions offer more personalized search options, like finding a specific scene in a movie or getting commentary about the previous day’s football game.

The event marked the first major product launch for Panos Panay, who joined Amazon in 2023 to lead the company’s devices and services teams. Before Amazon, Panay had a 19-year career at Microsoft, where he served as chief product officer.

Addressing an audience of several hundred journalists and bloggers, Panay emphasized the seamless integration of Alexa+ and artificial intelligence in Amazon’s devices. “Alexa+ and artificial intelligence are allowing technology to work in the background when you don’t,” he said.

“Products are creating subtle shifts in all our behavior, driven by AI, integrated into the hardware,” Panay added. “And flowing naturally through the products themselves—whether it’s a camera catching what you missed; your Fire TV updating you on a game; or your Kindle remembering exactly where you left off.”
https://www.breakingnews.ie/world/amazon-reveals-range-of-new-kindle-ring-and-echo-devices-powered-by-ai-1813170.html

Government shutdown impacts on national parks and surrounding California communities

Sequoia National Park Faces Uncertainty Ahead of Potential Government Shutdown

SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK (KFSN) – As the federal government prepares to potentially shut down on Wednesday, the Sequoia National Forest and neighboring non-profits like the Sequoia Parks Conservancy could feel significant impacts.

“I am worried about my employees, they love what they do, but also we are all just trying to make a livable wage,” says Savannah Boiano of the Sequoia Parks Conservancy. The last government shutdown lasted 35 days, highlighting the challenges such interruptions can bring.

Foothill communities such as Three Rivers heavily depend on tourism drawn by the parks. A government shutdown could mean less foot traffic, which would take a toll on local sales.

“If the government shut down for a long time, the businesses and services would get hurt big time,” says Tony Konnaris, owner of Tony’s Taverna in Three Rivers. The timing of the possible shutdown is especially critical, coming just before Maritza and Tony’s grand opening of their new Greek restaurant.

Tony’s Taverna is set to welcome its first customers this Saturday afternoon. “In terms of the effects that we would feel if the park closes, it will affect us deeply—the business, the economy,” expresses Maritza Konnaris.

The couple, along with other local businesses, have shown resilience through recent wildfires and flooding. Support from loved ones and the community keeps them motivated. Despite the possibility of closures, they invite people to visit their small town.

“It’s beautiful here in Three Rivers. You have the rivers, the creeks, hiking trails, and you can take a bike ride through the back. People need to understand this isn’t just about the park; there are other activities to enjoy in this beautiful environment,” Maritza and Tony express.

Tony’s Taverna grand opening will happen this Saturday, starting at 2 p.m., government shutdown or not. Everyone is invited to join the celebration.

The government is scheduled to run out of money at 9 p.m. Tuesday here on the West Coast if a spending plan deal isn’t reached.

https://abc30.com/post/government-shut-down-impacts-national-parks-surrounding-california-communities/17913104/

Nicole Kidman files for divorce from Keith Urban after 19 years of marriage

**Nicole Kidman Files for Divorce from Keith Urban After 19 Years of Marriage**

Actress Nicole Kidman has filed for divorce from husband Keith Urban after 19 years of marriage. Kidman petitioned on Tuesday in a Nashville court to end the marriage, citing irreconcilable differences.

The 58-year-old Oscar-winning actress and the 57-year-old Grammy-winning country singer, both originally from Australia, met in 2005 at a Los Angeles event honoring Australians. They were married in Sydney the following year and have two teenage daughters together.

Kidman and Urban have been prominent figures in the entertainment industry over the past two decades, frequently appearing together on red carpets. Urban often accompanies Kidman to events like the Oscars, while Kidman attends music award shows such as the Academy of Country Music Awards.

The divorce filings include a marriage dissolution agreement and a childcare plan, both of which have been submitted for judicial approval. According to the permanent parenting plan, both parents commit to maintaining a loving, stable, consistent, and nurturing environment for their children, despite their divorce. They also agree not to speak negatively about each other or their extended families and will encourage their daughters to continue loving and feeling comfortable with both parents.

The plan designates Kidman as the primary residential parent, with the couple’s two daughters, aged 17 and 14, living with her for 306 days per year. Urban will have custody for the remaining 59 days annually. The daughters have lived in Nashville all their lives, and there is no indication in the documents that this arrangement will change.

Financial disclosures in the filing state that each parent earns more than $100,000 (approximately £74,370) per month. Neither party will seek childcare or spousal support. The division of joint assets is outlined as roughly equal, with each party retaining assets registered in their own name.

In addition to her two children with Urban, Kidman is also a mother to two older children from her previous marriage to Tom Cruise.

Last year, at the premiere of the Netflix series *The Perfect Couple*, Kidman dismissed the idea of being a “perfect couple” with Urban. “You’re heading for trouble if you consider yourselves the perfect couple,” she said. “I’m not a believer in perfect.”

Urban has previously spoken emotionally about Kidman’s support during his struggles with substance abuse shortly after their marriage in 2006. “Four months into our marriage, I’m in rehab for three months,” Urban shared. “Nic pushed through every negative voice, I’m sure even some of her own, and she chose love. And here we are 18 years later.”

Nicole Kidman’s illustrious film career includes roles in *Days of Thunder*, *Eyes Wide Shut*, *Moulin Rouge*, and *The Hours*, for which she won an Academy Award portraying author Virginia Woolf. More recently, she has garnered acclaim for her work in television series such as *Nine Perfect Strangers* and *Big Little Lies*, earning Emmys as both actor and producer.

Keith Urban has been a major figure in country music since the 1990s, known for hits like “Somebody Like You” and “Blue Ain’t Your Color.” He has won four Grammy Awards and more than a dozen Academy of Country Music Awards.

News of their separation was first reported by TMZ. Representatives for both Kidman and Urban did not respond to emailed requests for comment on Tuesday.
https://www.breakingnews.ie/world/nicole-kidman-files-for-divorce-from-keith-urban-after-19-years-of-marriage-1813214.html