North Korea Requests Meeting With U.N. Security Council

The North Korean ambassador to the U.N. has filed a request for the body's Security Council to meet over the ongoing U.S.-South Korean joint military exercises.

The letter, obtained by CNN, calls the "Key Resolve" and "Foal Eagle 16" joint military operations, the largest to date, "aggressive" and directed toward the DPRK, an acronym for North Korea used by the regime.

The letter, written by North Korea's Permanent Representative, Ambassador, JA Song Nam, and addressed to the president of the Security Council, Ismael Abraao Gaspar Martins, alleges that the operations are a "beheading operation" aimed to remove the supreme leadership of the DPRK and "bring down its social system."

Previous attempts by North Korea to convene the Security Council have failed.

Earlier this month the regime threatened a preemptive  nuclear strike over the war games, which are held annually but have this year been ramped up to include 300,000 South Korean troops and at least 17,000 U.S. forces.

The two exercises will run until April 30. "Foal Eagle" will involve ground, air, naval and special operations forces from both militaries.

The request comes after the Security Council, including North Korea's longstanding ally China, voted on tougher sanctions on the North in the wake of Pyongyang's purported nuclear and rocket tests earlier in the year.

On Wednesday, the White House announced new sets of sanctions on the regime, independent of the U.N. restrictions.

In response, Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Lu Kang told journalists at a briefing Thursday that Beijing opposes unilateral sanctions "by any country" and "any measures that might escalate tensions on the (Korean) peninsula."

He said that Beijing has emphasized that "any country that imposes unilateral sanctions should not harm China's interests."

In the letter to the Security Council, the ambassador suggested that the body was obliged by the U.N. Charter to take the matter under consideration, and that a failure to do so would undermine its credibility.

Articles 34 and 35 of the UN Charter allow the Security Council to investigate "any dispute, or any situation which might lead to international friction," and gives member states the right to refer such situations to the attention of the Council.

The letter also references the U.N.'s "dealing with the DPRK's so-called 'human rights situation'" and suggests that addressing the U.S.-South Korean joint operations more crucial to "maintaining international peace and security" than focusing on North Korea's human rights record.

The letter comes shortly after North Korea announced that a U.S. student, Otto Frederick Warmbier, had been sentenced to 15 years of hard labour after accusing him of removing a political banner from a hotel.

The sentence against the University of Virginia student is "unduly harsh," State Department spokesman Mark Toner said, calling for his release.

Women Need More Sleep Than Men Because They Use More of Their Brain, According to Science

According to a recent study conducted by Loughborough University's Sleep Research Centre in England, women need to sleep somewhere around 20 minutes more than men, Woman’s Day reports. The study followed 210 middle-aged men and women. 

"Women's brains are wired differently ... so their sleep need will be slightly greater," Professor Jim Horne, the former director of the research centre, said. 'Women tend to multitask — they do lots at once and are flexible — and so they use more of their actual brain than men do."

 The study also found that women are more likely to be depressed, angry or hostile due to a lack of sleep. 

"For women, poor sleep is strongly associated with high levels of psychological distress and greater feelings of hostility, depression and anger," Horne said, according to the New York Post. "In contrast, these feelings were not associated with the same degree of sleep disruption in men."

Horne debunked the myth that women's tendency to sleep longer is not due to any fault of their own. Instead, the extended sleep may be due to the fact that women experience a slower-wave sleep, "and a sign of their having greater brain recovery during sleep, which in turn indicates that women tend to work their cerebral cortices harder than does the age-related man, Horne said in an email to Entrepreneur. 

Several studies corroborate the claim: Duke University scientists found that women can face serious health consequences if they miss out on sleep.

Anonymous Claims to Hack Donald Trump

Hacker group “Anonymous” claimed it had hacked Donald Trump Thursday afternoon, showcasing their alleged findings in a You Tube clip.

“Donald Trump has set his ambitions on the White House in order to promote an agenda of fascism and xenophobia as well as the religious persecution of Muslims through totalitarian policies," says the masked speaker in the video.

They say that the time is nigh to unite to “fight fascism” and "to stop any proposed Fourth Reich by the fascist Donald Trump.”

Trump’s campaign issued this statement: "The government and law enforcement authorities are seeking the arrest of the people responsible for attempting to illegally hack Mr. Trump’s accounts and telephone information.”

A government official confirmed to ABC News that federal authorities are investigating.

Anonymous released what it claimed was Trump's Social Security number, and a number it claims is his cell phone number as well as public information such as his birth date, children’s names, and company address in addition to outdated information such as his legal representation.

Guinea Government Says 2 People Have Died From Ebola

Two people from the same family have died from Ebola in Guinea, the government said Thursday, as the WHO declared a flare-up of the virus in neighbouring Sierra Leone over.

Test samples from the two patients "revealed the presence of the Ebola haemorrhagic fever virus", the government said in a statement, while officials feared further suspected cases.

"For now, we have two confirmed cases and three suspected cases," it added.

The cases are the first in Guinea since the country was declared Ebola free at the end of last year, and the UN health agency warned that a recurrence of the tropical disease -- which has claimed 11,300 lives since December 2013 -- remained a possibility.

Two cases of the virus were identified in Sierra Leone in early January, the first cases since November last year.

A 22-year-old women died while her aunt survived.

WHO declared that flare-up officially over on Thursday after no new cases were seen for 42 days -- the length of two Ebola incubation cycles.

The WHO refers to these isolated cases as "flare-ups" but maintains the original "chains of transmission" have been stopped in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone.

"WHO continues to stress that Sierra Leone, as well as Liberia and Guinea, are still at risk of Ebola flare-ups, largely due to virus persistence in some survivors, and must remain on high alert and ready to respond," it said in a statement.

The health body's representative in Sierra Leone, Anders Nordstrom, said it was "critical that we remain prepared".

The virus can stay in semen for at least nine months after a patient has recovered, six months longer than previously thought.

Scientists are working to establish how long it can persist in other bodily fluids and tissues such as the spinal column and the eye, and for how long it could remain infectious.

"Until the virus is completely cleared from the survivor population -- and that may take the remainder of the year or more -- we have to anticipate and be prepared for additional small outbreaks," a WHO representative told AFP.



All five of the new cases in Guinea were from the town of Korokpara in the southern region of Nzerekore.

"The health authorities have taken the appropriate measures to contain the spread of the disease," the statement added.

The WHO confirmed Guinea's new cases on its Twitter account.

A source close to the local anti-Ebola coordination team told AFP that the two deceased patients were a married couple who had both shown symptoms of vomiting and diarrhoea.

"That attracted the attention of local people who alerted the health services in Nzerekore," he said on condition of anonymity.

Although the outbreak -- the worst on record -- has officially claimed more than 11,300 lives since it first began in Guinea, a significant number of deaths are believed to have gone unreported.

The epidemic was first reported to have spread to Sierra Leone in May 2014, when more than a dozen women contracted Ebola at the funeral of a healer who had been treating patients from Guinea.

At the peak of the outbreak that year, Sierra Leone and its neighbours Liberia and Guinea were reporting hundreds of new cases each week, with social order on the brink of collapse.

The WHO declared Guinea Ebola-free on December 29, followed by Liberia on January 14.

Oil Price Rises Above $40 per Barrel

Oil prices rose above $40 per barrel yesterday, continuing to gather support after the world’s biggest suppliers firmed up plans to meet to discuss an output freeze. Oil producers, including Gulf Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) members, support talks holding next month on a deal to keep production at current levels. That is even if Iran declines to participate, OPEC sources said on Wednesday.

A meeting would increase the likelihood of the first global supply deal in 15 years. U.S. crude was up 65 cents at $39.11 a barrel, having earlier risen as high as $39.38. Brent crude rose 38 cents to $40.71. “A smaller than expected gain in inventories in the U.S. also supported prices,” ANZ said in a morning note. Crude inventories increased 1.3 million barrels in the week to March 11 to 523.2 million, a much smaller build than the 3.4 million-barrel increase expected by analysts.

The market is also rallying after a less hawkish U.S. monetary outlook, as the U.S. Federal Reserve held interest rates steady and indicated two rate hikes this year instead of the four expected. Qatari oil minister, Mohammed Bin Saleh Al- Sada, said producers from within and outside OPEC will meet in Doha on April 17 to discuss plans for a freeze in output.

The initiative was supported by around 15 OPEC and non-OPEC producers, accounting for about 73 per cent of global oil production, the minister said. Since the freeze was first proposed last month, prices have recovered about 50 per cent from decade-low level. 

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Petroleum, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, has advised oil-producing countries to use the fall in oil price to check cost profile in doing business. Kachikwu gave the advice at the closing ceremony of the 6th African Petroleum Congress and Exhibition, yesterday, in Abuja.

“The industry will still be in challenge in one to two years and I hope that the lesson you take away will help you either as government policymakers or practitioners in the industry, to confront some of the issues. “Amidst all these global chaos, reducing prices, lack of investments, loss of jobs, contracting of most of the servicing companies, postponement of major projects, there are some good safer linings.

“It is a good opportunity for countries to begin to look inwards, check their cost profile,” he said. According to him, during the era of $120 per barrel era, many countries and companies assumed that it would not end and the cost profile was up the bounds.

Kachikwu, who is also the Chairman of African Petroleum Producers Association (APPA), said that stakeholders were framing up the planned meeting of OPEC and non-OPEC countries. He said the meeting would hold on April 17, adding that it would help bring positive change in the industry.

“Hopefully, it will help to bring up the price higher than what it is today. Again, in the last two months, because of the work some of us have done, the prices are beginning to be firm. “We cannot know the predictions now, but there are signs of hope,” he said.

Kachikwu said that presently, countries were looking at the best ways to reposition their companies and countries. He advised African countries to emulate what countries in the Far East and the Gulf were doing right, especially in the area of governance and savings.

The minister added that a lot of intelligence was required, especially now that there was paucity of funds to unbundle challenges in the sector. Kachikwu noted that the coming together of African countries would help open up space for more investors in the sector in the region.

Sex-Drive Killers You Need to Know

It is the desire of both sex partners in a marriage to enjoy their sex life. But unfortunately, there are some factors that prevent some partners from fulfilling this dream. Loss of libido (sex drive) is a common problem affecting up to one in five men – and even more women – at some point in their life.

It's often linked to professional and personal stress, or important life-changing events such as pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding.

However, an unexpected loss of libido – especially when it lasts for a long time or keeps returning – can also indicate an underlying personal, medical or lifestyle problem, which can be upsetting to both partners in a relationship.

If you're concerned about your libido, especially if your diminished sex drive distresses you or affects your relationship, make an appointment to see your GP to discuss any underlying causes and possible medical or psychological treatments.

In the meantime, you may find the following information useful. It explains some of the most common reasons for loss of libido.

Stress

The body does not react well to stress. Emotional stress may affect physical function, including sexual desire and performance. Realizing what underlying stressors may exist is the first step in treatment. Consult your doctor if you are feeling this way.

Stress, anxiety and exhaustion can be all-consuming and have a major impact on your happiness. If you feel you're constantly tired, stressed or anxious, you may need to make some lifestyle changes or speak to your doctor for advice.

Your Partner

Sexual desire requires two to tango. Both partners need to feel connected and women especially need the feeling of being close. Poor communications, a sense of betrayal, lack of trust, and repeated fighting and criticism may create a relationship that lacks closeness and intimacy. Counselling may be the answer if couples find that the issues are too tough to resolve on their own.

Alcohol

Alcohol is usually not the answer to any problem. While alcohol may decrease inhibitions, it also decreases sexual performance and libido. Your partner may not appreciate a drunken advance and may be turned off by it. Alcohol is an addictive drug and you may need help to quit.

Lack of Sleep

As with any physical activity, a rested body increases performance. Lack of sleep, including lack of proper sleep, may be the culprit that decreases sex drive. Sleep apnea is a potential cause for lack of good sleep and lack of libido. Medical help may be needed if you or your partner suspects it.

Having Kids

Being a parent is a full-time job and you need to carve out time without a child or baby around. Planning quiet time for intimacy and sexual desire may require some creative thinking, like having sex when the baby naps, or hiring a babysitter so mom and dad can have a play date.

Medication

Taking certain medications can lower testosterone levels, which in turn may lead to low libido. For example, blood pressure medications like ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers may prevent ejaculation and erections.

Side effects of many prescription medications include loss of libido and sex drive. Some examples include:

·         High blood pressure medications including water pills and beta blockers

·         Cold medications that contain antihistamines and decongestants

·         Antidepressants

·         Birth control pills

·         Narcotic pain pills

·         Chemotherapy drugs

If this is the cause, your doctor may be able to suggest a medication alternative that might have fewer side effects.

Poor Body Image

Sexy is as sexy feels. Many people have low self-esteem when it comes to their body shape and this can affect their sex drive and desire. Being happy with yourself is an important first step. A supportive partner always helps.

Obesity

Obesity affects a sizable proportion of sexually active people in the world. Being overweight can limit desire because of decreased sexual enjoyment, lack of performance, and poor self-esteem. How you feel about yourself goes a long way in affecting how you enjoy sex. Counselling may be helpful.

Erection Problems

Erectile dysfunction (ED) can not only affect the ability to have intercourse but also how a man feels about his ability to perform. There are many options available to treat ED and your doctor can help find the option that is best for you and your partner.

 Low Testosterone

Testosterone is an important male hormone. In men, it’s mostly produced in the testicles. Testosterone is responsible for building muscles and bone mass and stimulating sperm production. Your testosterone levels also factor into your sex drive.

You’re considered to have low testosterone, or low T, when your levels fall below 300 to 350 nanograms per decilitre (ng/dL). When your testosterone levels decrease, your desire for sex also decreases.

Decreasing testosterone is a normal part of aging. However, a drastic drop in testosterone can lead to decreased libido. Talk to your doctor if you think this might be an issue for you. You may be able to take supplements or gels to increase your testosterone levels.

While a man's testosterone level gradually falls with aging, there is not necessarily any relationship between hormone levels and the desire for sex. It is just one potential cause for decreased libido and your doctor may want to look for other causes in addition to just low testosterone (“low T”).

Depression

Depression affects all facets of life including sex drive. Losing pleasure in daily activities often requires treatment including counselling and perhaps medication. Unfortunately, some antidepressants also depress libido. Your doctor and therapist need to know if low sex drive is one of your symptoms of depression.

People with depression experience a reduced or complete lack of interest in activities they once found pleasurable, including sex.

Also, low libido is a side effect of some antidepressants, especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Talk to your doctor if you’re taking antidepressants and you have a low libido. Your doctor might address your side effects by adjusting your dose or switching to another medication.

Menopause

Menopause may cause physical changes that affect intercourse, including vaginal dryness and pain with intercourse (dyspareunia). Treatments are available to enhance sexual desire and function after menopause.

Lack of Closeness

Making love is more than just sex. Intimacy and closeness are important part of a health love life. If sexual desire is waning, it may be time to inject romance back in the relationship. Snuggling, giving each other massages and spending casual time together may help ignite that spark.

 Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is the uncontrollable urge to move your legs. A study found that men with RLS are at higher risk for developing erectile dysfunction than those without RLS. Erectile dysfunction (ED) occurs when a man can’t have or maintain an erection.

In the study, researchers found that men who had RLS occurrences at least five times per month were about 50 percent more likely to get ED than men without RLS. Also, men who had RLS episodes more frequently were even more likely to become impotent.

Chronic Illness

When you’re not feeling well due to the effects of a chronic health condition, such as chronic pain, sex is likely low on your list of priorities. Certain illnesses, such as cancer, can reduce your sperm production counts since your body focuses on getting through the day.

If you’re experiencing a chronic illness, talk with your partner about ways to be intimate during this time. You may also consider seeing a marriage counsellor or sex therapist about your issues.

Aging

Testosterone levels, which are linked to libido, are at their highest when men are in their late teens. Men generally notice a difference in their libido around ages 60 to 65, according to the Mayo Clinic.

In your older years, it may take longer to have orgasms, ejaculate, and become aroused. Your erections may not be as hard, and it may take longer for your penis to become erect. However, medications are available that can help treat these issues.

Outlook

Treating low libido often depends on treating the underlying issue. You may need to switch medications. If your low libido has psychological causes, you may need to visit a therapist for relationship counselling.

You can also take steps to boost your libido on your own. The following have the potential to increase your libido:

·         living a healthier lifestyle

·         getting enough sleep

·         practicing stress management

·         eating a healthier diet

Nigerian Troops In Pursuit of Boko Haram Militants in Kumala-Photos

Troops of 81 Battalion and 251 Task Force Battalion of 25 Task Force Brigade on Wednesday engaged in hot pursuit of remnants of Boko Haram terrorists in Kumala.

According to Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, the Acting Director Army Public Relations, “This followed an earlier incident, in which suspected Boko Haram terrorists ambushed fighting patrol elements of 25 Task Force Brigade. After clearing the ambush, the troops exploited further off Damboa road from Kumala.”

He added that “During the pursuit, the troops traced the axis of withdrawal of the terrorists and discovered that the terrorists’ vehicle mounted with an Anti-Aircraft Gun tasted a bit of the Boko Haram terrorists’ evil intents as it ran into an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) buried by them.

“The vehicle was shredded into pieces by the IED while 2 of the Boko Haram terrorists died in the process. The troops recovered 1 General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG), 2 AK-47 Assault Rifles as well as one Boko Haram terrorists’ flag, 6 primed IEDs, Anti-Aircraft Gun links and rounds of ammunition. Other recoveries include 43 rounds of 7.62mm (NATO) ammunition and a mobile telephone handset.

“By this incident of the terrorists’ group falling victims of its evil plans against the troops, the wrath of God has been aroused by the retributive justice against the devilish Boko Haram terrorists.”