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2025-01-24
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare recently alerted hospitals across Nigeria to the emergence of a new COVID-19 variant, identified as XEC, which has been detected in Australia and has spread to 29 countries globally. The variant is reported to have a growth advantage over other circulating strains, raising concerns about its potential impact on public health. In a directive addressed to the Committee of Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors, the Ministry called for heightened vigilance in diagnosing patients presenting with COVID-like symptoms. The directive, signed by Dr. O.N. Anuma, Head of the Teaching Hospitals Division, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, urged hospitals to activate their alert systems immediately to ensure a high level of suspicion for the new strain. The Ministry also emphasised the importance of preventive measures, including practising proper hand hygiene, washing hands with soap and water, maintaining a safe distance, wearing face masks in public spaces, covering the mouth while coughing, and reporting any fever or persistent coughing to the nearest health facility. In this article, Tribune Online takes a look at some things you should know about the XEC Covid-19 variant according to JameNetwork. The XEC variant, a new recombinant strain of SARS-CoV-2, emerged as a fusion of two Omicron-descendant variants, JN.1 and KP.2. Experts have noted that it shares high genetic similarity with its predecessors, differing by only four amino acid changes. Scientists attributed the emergence of XEC to a process called recombination, where genetic material from different variants combines in individuals infected with multiple strains simultaneously. This phenomenon often occurs in immunocompromised individuals. XEC was first detected in Germany on August 7, 2024. By late September, the World Health Organisation (WHO) classified it as a “variant under monitoring,” indicating it requires close surveillance due to its potential impact on global health. The variant has shown rapid growth in prevalence. Globally, it accounted for 17% of SARS-CoV-2 sequences by mid-October and increased to 28% of cases in the United States by early November, according to health authorities. Fortunately, XEC does not appear to cause more severe symptoms than previous variants. Current COVID-19 vaccines, particularly the latest versions, are expected to remain effective in preventing severe disease associated with this variant. Researchers suggest that XEC may have emerged during large international events such as the EURO 2024 soccer tournament or the Paris Olympics. However, pinpointing the exact origin remains impossible. Laboratory studies revealed that XEC’s reproduction rate is 13% higher than that of KP.3.1.1, the dominant global variant as of early November. This means XEC has the potential to become the leading variant in the coming months. Experiments have revealed that XEC is more skilled at evading immune defences compared to its predecessors, raising concerns about its ability to spread among populations with prior infections or vaccinations. ALSO READ FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE XEC: New COVID-19 variant confirmed in 29 countries, FG alerts hospitals nationwide Get real-time news updates from Tribune Online! Follow us on WhatsApp for breaking news, exclusive stories and interviews, and much more. Join our WhatsApp Channel nowApiaries abuzz over ruling against widening cross-border trade in live honeybeessports article

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Arizona State football will likely lean heavily on its explosive running back in the on Saturday against Iowa State. If the No. 13 (10-2, 7-2 Big 12) are able to beat the No. 16 Cyclones (10-2, 7-2) and make the they'll almost certainly need a big performance from The first-team All-Big 12 running back in 2024 has been one of the top rushers in college football this season, boasting 1,398 rushing yards with 17 touchdowns on 247 carries. Skattebo has also been one of the most impressive receivers out of the backfield this season, with 35 receptions for 468 yards with two touchdowns. The 5-foot-1, 215-pound running back is the only player nationally with over 1,000 yards rushing and over 400 yards receiving so far in 2024. Skattebo has played a huge role in returning Arizona State to prominence, and he'll undoubtedly play a role in helping it potentially reach the CFP. Here's everything to know about Skattebo ahead of Saturday's Big 12 Championship: Skattebo is Arizona State's senior running back, who was a first-team All-Big 12 selection this season and one of the most productive offensive players nationally in 2024. The fourth-year running back has 1,398 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns on 247 carries this season, along with 35 receptions for 468 yards with two touchdowns, despite missing a game during the slate. Skattebo ranks second among all players in all-purpose yards per game, His mark only trails Boise State's Ashton Jeanty, one of the top contenders for the Heisman Trophy. Skattebo was also solid in his first season with the Sun Devils in 2023, but he took his game to a new level in 2024 as Arizona State also improved its win total by seven games. He rushed 164 times for 783 yards with nine touchdowns a season ago in coach Kenny Dillingham's first season. The Rio Linda, California, native transferred to Arizona State after two seasons at FCS Sacramento State, where he was named the Big Sky Offensive Player of the Year in 2022 after rushing for 1,372 yards with seven touchdowns, along with 31 receptions for 371 yards with a touchdown. Skattebo, who attended the hometown school, finished the season 12-1 with a 66-63 loss in the FCS quarterfinals to Cam Ward and Incarnate Word. Skattebo was coached by Troy Taylor, who's now the head coach at Stanford, at Sacramento State. The 5-foot-11, 215-pound running back appeared to have his eyes set on the Sun Devils after entering the transfer portal, as he committed to the Sun Devils five days after announcing his entry. The potential NFL draft pick appeared to make the right decision. Skattebo was underrecruited out of high school, ranked as a 0-star recruit with his only reported offers to William & Mary and Sacramento State, where he ultimately attended. His stock raised a bit as a transfer portal prospect, ranked as a 3-star option and the No. 31 running back in the 2023 cycle, It's safe to say Dillingham struck gold with Skattebo in the transfer portal. Skattebo is also in elite company due to his pass-catching prowess, as he became one of only 15 running backs since 1996 to rush and receive for over 100 yards in the same game. He was also named a semifinalist for the Doak Walker Award, becoming only the second player in Arizona State history to achieve the feat that rewards the top running back in college football. Here are Skattebo's year-by-year college stats: 57 carries for 520 yards with six touchdowns; 12 receptions for 124 yards with a touchdown 195 carries for 1,372 yards with seven touchdowns; 31 receptions for 371 yards with three touchdowns 164 carries for 783 yards with nine touchdowns; 24 receptions for 286 yards with a touchdown 247 carries for 1,398 yards with 17 touchdowns; 35 receptions for 468 yards with two touchdowns Here's a look at Skattebo's as a high school recruit and transfer portal prospect: 0-star, not ranked 3-star, No. 351 overall and No. 31 running backTudor and Cashel host Historical Society Lunch and LearnCeenik Exports to trade ex-dividend next week, Achyut Healthcare to trade ex-bonus; Check full list

Apiaries abuzz over ruling against widening cross-border trade in live honeybees

Netmarble and Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment have revealed Game of Thrones: Kingsroad, a newly announced action-adventure RPG set to launch in 2025. The first trailer for the upcoming title debuted Thursday night during The Game Awards, offering a glimpse of the game’s original storyline set during the events of HBO’s acclaimed fantasy series. Developed for mobile platforms with additional versions under consideration, Game of Thrones: Kingsroad places players in the role of a fresh protagonist who unexpectedly becomes heir to House Tyre, a lesser-known noble family in the North. Starting during Season 4’s timeline, the narrative has players forging their legacy while navigating Westeros’ political upheavals and its perilous frontiers, including the threats lurking beyond the Wall. Players will have access to a robust character creator and can choose between three distinct classes: Sellsword, Knight, and Assassin. Each class features unique combat abilities that will be essential to surviving the game’s challenges and seizing the opportunities the Kingsroad presents. According to Netmarble CEO Young-sig Kwon, the studio aims to expand the Game of Thrones universe by inviting fans into new stories and experiences that capture the show’s complex themes and dramatic tension. Game of Thrones: Kingsroad is slated to launch across the Americas, Europe, Africa, Oceania, and the Middle East in 2025, with release plans for Asia to follow at a later date. Fans can expect more details in the coming months, including platform availability and regional releases.

Jaland Lowe, Pitt charge past LSU in second half to move to 6-0Saudi Arabia banned film for 35 years. The Red Sea festival is just one sign of the industry's rise

Stock market today: Wall Street ends mixed after a bumpy week

The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (Natjoints) has intensified its operations along South Africa's border with Mozambique amid the unrest in that country. The government said in a statement it was actively engaging the Mozambique government at a bilateral level to address the concerns prompted by the unrest and explore sustainable solutions. Natjoints co-chairperson Lt-Gen Tebello Mosikili said the government has noted with concern the ongoing protests in parts of Mozambique and reports of prisoners escaping from a maximum-security prison during the unrest. “These developments have understandably raised apprehensions among South African citizens regarding the potential cross-border implications. “South Africa remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of its citizens and upholding regional stability,” said Mosikili. She said these operation measures aim to prevent and combat any opportunistic crimes that may arise as a result of the unrest, both during and after the protests. She said b oth nations are leveraging their strong diplomatic ties to ensure that appropriate measures are implemented to restore order and enhance security in the affected regions. “These engagements reflect the spirit of co-operation and mutual respect that underpin the relationship between South Africa and Mozambique.” South Africa recognises the interconnected nature of regional security and is determined to uphold its responsibilities in fostering peace and stability in Southern Africa, restoring peace and stability and ensuring safety for everyone. President Cyril Ramaphosa sent Prof Sydney Mufamadi as a special envoy to engage all relevant stakeholders to find an amicable solution. The government has urged South Africans to remain calm and to refrain from spreading unverified information that may lead to unnecessary panic. Mosikili said the relevant authorities are monitoring the situation closely and will provide timely updates as new information becomes available. “Citizens are encouraged to direct any concerns or enquiries to the appropriate channels to ensure accurate and constructive communication,” she said. TimesLIVE Would you like to comment on this article? Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now. Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.

Iowa turns to former walk-on QB to start against MarylandGold is heading for one of its biggest annual gains this century, with a 27 per cent advance that’s been fuelled by US monetary easing, sustained geopolitical risks and a wave of purchases by central banks. While bullion has ticked lower since Donald Trump’s sweeping victory in November’s US presidential election, its gains over 2024 still outstrip most other commodities. Base metals have had a mixed year, while iron ore has tumbled and lithium’s woes have deepened. The varied performances over 2024 highlight the absence of a single, over-riding driver that’s steered the complex’s fortunes, while also putting the spotlight on how metals, both base and precious, may fare next year. For 2025, investors are focused on uncertainty around US monetary policy, potential frictions from Trump’s presidency, and China’s efforts to revive growth. Gold’s strong gains this year — which have seen the metal set a succession of records — may signal a possible shift in the market’s dynamics given they have come despite a stronger US dollar and rising real Treasury yields, both typically headwinds. The precious metal has been “as remarkable as it’s been relentless, making it my biggest market surprise of 2024,” David Scutt, an analyst at StoneX Group said in a note. “The gold game looks to have changed.” Other metals have struggled in large part because of China’s prolonged economic slowdown. The LMEX Index of six metals on the London Metal Exchange is on track for a modest annual gain, with softer Chinese demand offset by flashes of supply stress — especially in copper and zinc — that may linger into 2025. Iron ore has slumped as weak construction activity plunged China’s steel industry, the world’s biggest, into crisis mode with little relief in sight. Futures in Singapore are down about 28 per cent over 2024. Lithium — used to make batteries — is on track for a second steep annual decline as a serious and ongoing global supply glut was compounded by turbulence for the electric-vehicle industry. Bloomberg

Herbert looks to maintain interception-free streak when Chargers host BuccaneersKMC-4 chair Maharjan receives Prestigious Local Service Excellence AwardMuscat: In a landmark achievement for Oman and the Middle East, the Sultanate successfully launched its first experimental rocket, "Duqm-1," on Thursday. This historic event was executed by Edaq, a subsidiary of the National Space Services Company (NASCOM), under the supervision of the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology (MTCIT). The launch is part of Oman's broader strategic vision to advance its space sector. The rocket was launched at 10:05 AM local time from coordinates 18°N, 56°E, south of the Wilayat of Duqm. Dr. Ali bin Amer Al-Shezani, Undersecretary for Communications and Information Technology at MTCIT, hailed the successful launch as a pivotal step in putting Oman on the global space sector map. He emphasised that this milestone could attract international investors and space companies to explore opportunities in Oman for space-related investments and activities. The ministry is actively building strategic partnerships on local and international levels while formulating incentives to drive investment into the burgeoning space sector. Dr. Al-Shezani expressed optimism that this launch would pave the way for establishing a dedicated spaceport in Oman and fostering initiatives to localise space technologies. His Highness Sayyid Azan bin Qais Al Said, Founder and CEO of NASCOM, expressed his delight at the mission's success, stating: "We are immensely proud of this historic event. From the outset, our vision has been to position Oman as a leader in space exploration in the Middle East and establish the region’s first spaceport. The success of this launch has garnered global attention, particularly within the international space community. We extend our gratitude to the MTCIT for their invaluable partnership, which has been instrumental in achieving this milestone as part of a national strategic vision to elevate Oman’s space sector. NASCOM’s objectives align with the ministry’s ambition to make Oman a regional gateway to space." Dr. Saud bin Hamid Al-Shuaili, Director-General of Policies and Governance and Head of the National Space Programme, underscored the significance of the launch as a crucial step in advancing Oman’s space capabilities. He remarked: "This successful experiment reflects Oman’s sustained efforts to develop its space sector. Leveraging our unique geographical location, we aim to attract investments and strengthen collaborations with the private sector. We look forward to undertaking more launches in the near future, contributing to our strategic objectives and enhancing Oman’s international standing in this rapidly evolving industry." Talal bin Said Al Mamari, CEO of Omantel, said: “We congratulate the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology on the successful launch of Oman’s first experimental rocket. This milestone signifies a remarkable advancement in the Sultanate’s communications and information technology sector, setting the stage for a future driven by innovation and strategic geographical advantages.”

NEW YORK (AP) — Technology stocks are pulling Wall Street toward another record amid mixed trading on Monday. The S&P 500 rose 0.2% in afternoon trading after closing its best month of the year at an all-time high . The Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 86 points, or 0.2%, with a little more than an hour remaining in trading, while the Nasdaq composite was 0.9% higher. Super Micro Computer, a stock that’s been on an AI-driven roller coaster, soared 31.1% to lead the market. Following accusations of misconduct and the resignation of its public auditor , the maker of servers used in artificial-intelligence technology said an investigation found no evidence of misconduct by its management or by the company's board. It also said it doesn’t expect to restate its past financials and that it will find a new chief financial officer, appoint a general counsel and make other moves to strengthen its governance. Big Tech stocks also helped prop up the market. Gains of 1.8% for Microsoft and 2.9% for Meta Platforms were the two strongest forces pushing upward on the S&P 500. Intel was another propellant during the morning, but it lost an early gain to fall 1.1% after the chip company said CEO Pat Gelsinger has retired and stepped down from the board. Intel is looking for Gelsinger’s replacement, and its chair said it’s “committed to restoring investor confidence.” Intel recently lost its spot in the Dow Jones Industrial Average to Nvidia, which has skyrocketed in Wall Street's frenzy around AI. Stellantis, meanwhile, skidded following the announcement of its CEO’s departure . Carlos Tavares steps down after nearly four years in the top spot of the automaker, which owns car brands like Jeep, Citroën and Ram, amid an ongoing struggle with slumping sales and an inventory backlog at dealerships. The world’s fourth-largest automaker’s stock fell 6.3% in Milan. The majority of stocks in the S&P 500 likewise fell, including California utility PG&E. It dropped 3.7% after saying it would sell $2.4 billion of stock and preferred shares to raise cash. Retailers were mixed amid what’s expected to be the best Cyber Monday on record and coming off Black Friday . Target, which recently gave a forecast for the holiday season that left investors discouraged , fell 1.6%. Walmart , which gave a more optimistic forecast, rose 0.3%. Amazon, which looks to benefit from online sales from Cyber Monday, climbed 1.3%. The stock market largely took Donald Trump’s latest threat on tariffs in stride. The president-elect on Saturday threatened 100% tariffs against a group of developing economies if they act to undermine the U.S. dollar. Trump said he wants the group, headlined by Brazil, Russia, India and China, to promise it won’t create a new currency or otherwise try to undercut the U.S. dollar. The dollar has long been the currency of choice for global trade. Speculation has also been around a long time that other currencies could knock it off its mantle, but no contender has come close. The U.S. dollar’s value rose Monday against several other currencies, but one of its strongest moves likely had less to do with the tariff threats. The euro fell amid a political battle in Paris over the French government’s budget . The euro sank 0.7% against the U.S. dollar and broke below $1.05. In the bond market, Treasury yields gave up early gains to hold relatively steady. The yield on the 10-year Treasury climbed above 4.23% during the morning before falling back to 4.19%. That was just above its level of 4.18% late Friday. A report in the morning showed the U.S. manufacturing sector contracted again last month, but not by as much as economists expected. This upcoming week will bring several big updates on the job market, including the October job openings report, weekly unemployment benefits data and the all-important November jobs report. They could steer the next moves for Federal Reserve, which recently began pulling interest rates lower to give support to the economy. Economists expect Friday's headliner report to show U.S. employers accelerated their hiring in November, coming off October's lackluster growth that was hampered by damaging hurricanes and strikes. “We now find ourselves in the middle of this Goldilocks zone, where economic health supports earnings growth while remaining weak enough to justify potential Fed rate cuts,” according to Mark Hackett, chief of investment research at Nationwide. In financial markets abroad, Chinese stocks led gains worldwide as monthly surveys showed improving conditions for manufacturing, partly driven by a surge in orders ahead of Trump’s inauguration next month. Both official and private sector surveys of factory managers showed strong new orders and export orders, possibly partly linked to efforts by importers in the U.S. to beat potential tariff hikes by Trump once he takes office. Indexes rose 0.7% in Hong Kong and 1.1% in Shanghai. AP Business Writers Matt Ott and Elaine Kurtenbach contributed.OWINGS MILLS, Md. -- Baltimore Ravens coach John Harbaugh was vague on the future of recently acquired Diontae Johnson , a day after the wide receiver didn't play a snap in Sunday's 24-19 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles . "At this time, I'm going to have to wait just to clarify it," Harbaugh said Monday. "There's some moving parts there that we're going to have to figure out and explore and just see where we're at. I know that's not the answer you want, but that's the best I can do in fairness to everybody right now." In four games with the Ravens, Johnson has one catch for six yards. He suited up Sunday but didn't play, even after starting wide receiver Rashod Bateman left the game in the third quarter with a knee injury. Harbaugh was noncommittal on whether Johnson will remain with the team. "We'll just work it out [and] see where we're at over the next few days this week," said Harbaugh, whose team is on a bye this week. Editor's Picks Ravens back Tucker after kicking woes continue 19h Jamison Hensley Johnson, 28, led the Carolina Panthers in receptions (30), receiving yards (357) and touchdown catches (three) through the first seven games before being dealt to Baltimore on Oct. 29. The Ravens sent a fifth-round pick to Carolina for Johnson and a sixth-round selection. It was considered a low-risk move because the Panthers picked up most of Johnson's remaining salary, leaving Baltimore to pay about $625,000. In Johnson's first game with the Ravens on Nov. 7, he caught his only pass for Baltimore while playing five snaps. Over his next three games, Johnson was targeted three times with no receptions while participating in a total of 17 snaps. After Sunday's game, quarterback Lamar Jackson said he spoke to Johnson about staying locked in after not playing. "We want him out there," Jackson said. "He's a great receiver. We didn't get him from the Panthers for nothing." A third-round pick in 2019 by the Steelers , Johnson has totaled 422 catches for 4,726 yards and 28 touchdowns for Pittsburgh, Carolina and Baltimore. Jackson's top three receivers are Zay Flowers , Bateman and Nelson Agholor . Harbaugh said Bateman's knee injury is not a long-term one.Mumbai, Dec 30 (IANS): Bollywood actress Sonakshi Sinha recently shared an unexpected and amusing wake-up call from her hotel room in Australia. She posted a video on her social media, capturing a lion’s roar waking her up in the morning. In the video, Sonakshi can be seen sitting on the bed in her hotel room, recording the moment when the loud roar of a lion echoes through the air. The video shows her looking out the window, where the silhouette of the lion can be seen gazing at her window. Sharing the clip on her Instagram stories, the 'Akira' actress wrote, “Today’s alarm clock.” Earlier, Zaheer posted a candid snap on Instagram, showing himself and Sonakshi relaxing while watching lions through the window of their hotel room. The photo was captioned, “4 cool cats hanging.” The 'Dabangg' actress later shared the image on her Instagram stories, adding videos of wild animals, including lions. Sonakshi and Zaheer are currently enjoying a vacation in Australia, sharing glimpses of their exciting trip on social media. In one of her posts, Sonakshi captured a tender moment where Zaheer was resting his head on her lap as they sat together in a sunlit park. She simply captioned the photo with a red heart emoji, conveying warmth and affection. The couple also attended the thrilling Boxing Day Test match between India and Australia in Melbourne, posting several pictures and videos from their day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Dressed in matching white outfits, they were seen waving the Indian flag and leading the crowd in chanting, "India, India, India." For the unversed, Sonakshi and Zaheer tied the knot in a private civil ceremony on June 23, 2024, making their relationship official. The two had been dating for seven years. On the work front, the couple is set to reunite on screen in the upcoming film “Tu Hai Meri Kiran," scheduled for release in 2025.

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