upi--2020-11-26--Ex-Trump lawyer files lawsuits against Georgia, Michigan election results

Nov. 26 ( UPI ) -- Prominent lawyer Sidney Powell , who the Trump campaign has recently distanced itself from , filed typo-riddled lawsuits in Georgia and Michigan asking the courts to certify that President Donald Trump won their electoral votes due to widely discredited claims of voter fraud .
The lawsuits filed late Wednesday citing witnesses , expert witnesses and `` statistical anomalies and mathematical impossibilities '' claim a widespread scheme was conducted with the intent to fraudulently manipulate the vote count to elect Trump 's Democratic challenger , former Vice President and current President-elect Joe Biden .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but the most fundamentally troubling , insidious and egregious ploy was the systemic adaptation of old-fashioned 'ballot-stuffing , ' '' both lawsuits state .
Powell names Michigan 's Democratic Gov .
Gretchen Whitmer and Georgia 's Republican Gov .
Brian Kemp as well as their administrations and interested election officials as defendants in a case that hinges heavily on the states ' use of voting software and hardware produce by Dominion Voting Systems Corp .
The lawsuits cite widely discredited claims that equipment and software used in the states aided former Venezuelan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2013 , to never lose an election and manipulated votes in Biden 's favor .
On Thursday , Dominion vehemently denied all accusations Powell made in the lawsuits it described as `` very a rough draft '' due to the typographical and spelling errors , stating it is not possible for the machines to have manipulated the votes through hacking , manipulating the software or through any other means .
`` The allegations included in the draft complaint are baseless , senseless physically impossible and unsupported by any evidence whatsoever , '' the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We stand with the state and local elected officials and bipartisan election volunteers that this suit maliciously maligns . ''
Dominion also states that it has no ties with Venezuela and has never participated in any of its elections .
It also said it was founded in Toronto , Canada , not by oligarchs and dictators , as the lawsuit claims .
The Trump campaign announced that Powell was no longer apart of its legal team on Sunday , days after she appeared along side Trump 's personal attorney Rudy Giuliani where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ machines .
Trump has yet to concede defeat in the election and continues to spread widely discredited claims of voter fraud even after a coalition of government and elections officials said earlier this month that `` the Nov. 3 election was the most secure in American history . ''
`` There is no evidence that any voting system deleted or lost votes , changed votes or was in any way compromised , '' the statement from the Department of Homeland Security 's Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency said .
The lawsuits filed late Wednesday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to de-certify their election results and designate Trump the winner of their elections as well as impound all the voting machines used and order no votes they tabulated be certified .

Nov. 26 (UPI) -- Prominent lawyer Sidney Powell, who the Trump campaign has recently distanced itself from, filed typo-riddled lawsuits in Georgia and Michigan asking the courts to certify that President Donald Trump won their electoral votes due to widely discredited claims of voter fraud.
The lawsuits filed late Wednesday citing witnesses, expert witnesses and "statistical anomalies and mathematical impossibilities" claim a widespread scheme was conducted with the intent to fraudulently manipulate the vote count to elect Trump's Democratic challenger, former Vice President and current President-elect Joe Biden.
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"The fraud was executed by many means, but the most fundamentally troubling, insidious and egregious ploy was the systemic adaptation of old-fashioned 'ballot-stuffing,'" both lawsuits state.
Powell names Michigan's Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Georgia's Republican Gov. Brian Kemp as well as their administrations and interested election officials as defendants in a case that hinges heavily on the states' use of voting software and hardware produce by Dominion Voting Systems Corp.
The lawsuits cite widely discredited claims that equipment and software used in the states aided former Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, who died in 2013, to never lose an election and manipulated votes in Biden's favor.
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On Thursday, Dominion vehemently denied all accusations Powell made in the lawsuits it described as "very a rough draft" due to the typographical and spelling errors, stating it is not possible for the machines to have manipulated the votes through hacking, manipulating the software or through any other means.
"The allegations included in the draft complaint are baseless, senseless physically impossible and unsupported by any evidence whatsoever," the Denver-based company said in a statement. "We stand with the state and local elected officials and bipartisan election volunteers that this suit maliciously maligns."
Dominion also states that it has no ties with Venezuela and has never participated in any of its elections. It also said it was founded in Toronto, Canada, not by oligarchs and dictators, as the lawsuit claims.
The Trump campaign announced that Powell was no longer apart of its legal team on Sunday, days after she appeared along side Trump's personal attorney Rudy Giuliani where she made similar claims about the voting machines.
Trump has yet to concede defeat in the election and continues to spread widely discredited claims of voter fraud even after a coalition of government and elections officials said earlier this month that "the Nov. 3 election was the most secure in American history."
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"There is no evidence that any voting system deleted or lost votes, changed votes or was in any way compromised," the statement from the Department of Homeland Security's Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency said.
The lawsuits filed late Wednesday ask the courts to direct the states to de-certify their election results and designate Trump the winner of their elections as well as impound all the voting machines used and order no votes they tabulated be certified.


upi--2020-11-26--Trump says he will leave White House following Electoral College vote for Biden

Nov. 26 ( UPI ) -- President Donald Trump said Thursday that he will leave the White House if the Electoral College votes for President-elect Joe Biden , but continued to cast doubt on the election result .
Trump took questions from reporters from the Diplomatic Room of the White House following a series of video conferences with military service members on Thanksgiving , assuring he would leave the White House on Jan. 20 .
`` Certainly I will , and you know that , '' he said .
The president , however , went on to say `` it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thing to concede '' and declared that the Electoral College would be making a `` mistake '' by voting for Biden .
He also continued to allege `` massive fraud '' related to the election and said his challenges in key states would continue .
`` You 're going to see things happening over the next week or two that are going to be shocking to people , '' said Trump .
When asked whether he would attend Biden 's inauguration Trump replied , `` I know the answer , '' but declined @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's comments came amid steps taken this week to move along the transition of power including the General Services Administration releasing transition funds to Biden and Trump allowing the president-elect to begin receiving the President 's Daily Brief .
After Thanksgiving Trump said he plans to travel to Georgia to hold a campaign-style rally , which he suggested would be in support of the state 's two Republican incumbent senators who face runoff races .
`` Speaking of Georgia , we 're going there .
I spoke with the two great senators today @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Saturday , '' he said .

President Donald Trump said he will travel to Georgia to help the state's Republican Senate candidates before the runoff election. Pool photo by Erin Schaff/UPI | License Photo
Nov. 26 (UPI) -- President Donald Trump said Thursday that he will leave the White House if the Electoral College votes for President-elect Joe Biden, but continued to cast doubt on the election result. Trump took questions from reporters from the Diplomatic Room of the White House following a series of video conferences with military service members on Thanksgiving, assuring he would leave the White House on Jan. 20. Advertisement
"Certainly I will, and you know that," he said.
The president, however, went on to say "it's going to be a very hard thing to concede" and declared that the Electoral College would be making a "mistake" by voting for Biden.
He also continued to allege "massive fraud" related to the election and said his challenges in key states would continue.
"You're going to see things happening over the next week or two that are going to be shocking to people," said Trump.
When asked whether he would attend Biden's inauguration Trump replied, "I know the answer," but declined to share it with reporters.
Trump's comments came amid steps taken this week to move along the transition of power including the General Services Administration releasing transition funds to Biden and Trump allowing the president-elect to begin receiving the President's Daily Brief.
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After Thanksgiving Trump said he plans to travel to Georgia to hold a campaign-style rally, which he suggested would be in support of the state's two Republican incumbent senators who face runoff races.
"Speaking of Georgia, we're going there. I spoke with the two great senators today. I'll probably be going on Saturday," he said.


upi--2020-11-26--California utility shuts off power to thousands amid wildfire risk

Nov. 26 ( UPI ) -- Southern California Edison cut power to thousands of customers in the state on Thursday amid a wildfire threat .
The utility apologized for the Public Safety Power Shutoff in a post on Twitter as it came amid the Thanksgiving Holiday .
`` We understand these PSPS actions are disruptive to our customers -- especially during the Thanksgiving holiday -- and we are making every effort to reduce the impact , '' SCE said .
The utility estimated that power was shut off for about 3,167 customers mostly in Ventura County with some in Los @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 111,000 customers may face shutoffs through Friday .
`` Turning off our customers ' power is not something we take lightly , but Public Power Shutoff events are one of the best ways we can better ensure the safety of the public , our customers and our employees , '' SCE said .
The shutoffs are intended to reduce the risk of fires sparked by electrical equipment due to strong winds .
The National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning for portions of Los Angeles County and the Inland Empire with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mph expected .

Southern California Edison conducted a Public Safety Power Shutoff leaving more than 3,000 customers in the state without fire amid an increased wildfire threat after large fires earlier in the year sparked by power lines. Photo by Terry Schmitt/UPI | License Photo
Nov. 26 (UPI) -- Southern California Edison cut power to thousands of customers in the state on Thursday amid a wildfire threat. The utility apologized for the Public Safety Power Shutoff in a post on Twitter as it came amid the Thanksgiving Holiday. Advertisement
"We understand these PSPS actions are disruptive to our customers -- especially during the Thanksgiving holiday -- and we are making every effort to reduce the impact," SCE said.
The utility estimated that power was shut off for about 3,167 customers mostly in Ventura County with some in Los Angeles County, while saying more than 111,000 customers may face shutoffs through Friday.
"Turning off our customers' power is not something we take lightly, but Public Power Shutoff events are one of the best ways we can better ensure the safety of the public, our customers and our employees," SCE said.
The shutoffs are intended to reduce the risk of fires sparked by electrical equipment due to strong winds.
The National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning for portions of Los Angeles County and the Inland Empire with low humidity and wind gusts of 40-65 mph expected.


upi--2020-11-26--TSA screens 5 million passengers in week before Thanksgiving

Nov. 26 ( UPI ) -- The U.S. Transportation Security Administration screened more than 5 million travelers in the week leading up to the Thanksgiving holiday despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic .
The period beginning Friday was the busiest stretch for passenger traffic at U.S. airports since the onset of the pandemic , with 1.1 million travelers being screened nationwide on Friday , surpassing the previous high of 1.03 million on Oct. 18 , according to Skift .
Friday 's travel numbers were roughly half of the 2.5 million passengers screened by the TSA in 2019 .
The record number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recommendation '' from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention against traveling for the holidays .
`` We 're alarmed about the exponential [ increases ] , '' Dr. Henry Walke , incident manager at the CDC , said .
`` COVID-19 is turning out to be a formidable foe and we need to be united in our efforts to fight this virus , '' he said during a conference call with reporters on Thursday . ''
The United States reported 181,490 new cases and 2,297 deaths on Wednesday and a total of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deaths since the start of the pandemic , according to data gathered by Johns Hopkins University .
The TSA has made efforts to help reduce virus spread , including allowing passengers carrying containers of hand sanitizer larger than 3 ounces through checkpoints , while some airlines have presented travelers the option to order a COVID-19 test along with their ticket .

More than 5 million travelers were screened by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration between Friday and Wednesday amid the Thanksgiving holiday. File Photo by Bill Greenblatt/UPI | License Photo
Nov. 26 (UPI) -- The U.S. Transportation Security Administration screened more than 5 million travelers in the week leading up to the Thanksgiving holiday despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The period beginning Friday was the busiest stretch for passenger traffic at U.S. airports since the onset of the pandemic, with 1.1 million travelers being screened nationwide on Friday, surpassing the previous high of 1.03 million on Oct. 18, according to Skift. Advertisement
Friday's travel numbers were roughly half of the 2.5 million passengers screened by the TSA in 2019.
The record number of travelers came despite a "strong recommendation" from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention against traveling for the holidays.
"We're alarmed about the exponential [increases]," Dr. Henry Walke, incident manager at the CDC, said. "COVID-19 is turning out to be a formidable foe and we need to be united in our efforts to fight this virus," he said during a conference call with reporters on Thursday."
The United States reported 181,490 new cases and 2,297 deaths on Wednesday and a total of 12.78 million cases and more than 262,000 deaths since the start of the pandemic, according to data gathered by Johns Hopkins University.
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The TSA has made efforts to help reduce virus spread, including allowing passengers carrying containers of hand sanitizer larger than 3 ounces through checkpoints, while some airlines have presented travelers the option to order a COVID-19 test along with their ticket.


upi--2020-11-26--U.N. study shows women working harder, getting poorer during pandemic

Nov. 26 ( UPI ) -- Women are doing more unpaid work during the COVID-19 pandemic and have a greater danger of slipping into poverty , a report released Thursday from the United Nations shows .
The report , `` Whose Time to Care ? ''
from U.N. Women , surveyed data in 38 countries and found that both women and men have increased their unpaid workloads , but women are `` still doing the lion 's share . ''
More women than men were leaving the workforce to take on care burdens for children and other family members , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ survey methods showed .
`` Greater numbers of women -- who are already less likely to be in the workforce -- have left the labor market altogether , '' the new report said .
The difference is highest in Latin America , a region hard hit by the economic fallout of COVID-19 , with 83 million women outside the labor force ( up from 60 million before COVID-19 ) .
Since the pandemic began , 56 % of women and 51 % of men have increased the time they spend on unpaid care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the difference expands when the study looked at caring for children .
Research in July by Ipsos for U.N. Women in 16 countries showed that before COVID-19 , women spent an average of 26 hours per week on child care , but that has increased to 31 hours since the pandemic began .
For men , the reported number of hours increased to 24 per week from 20 per week in pre-COVID-19 times .
Most alarming , the report says is that research published in September by U.N. Women shows that the economic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 13 % of women and children into poverty .
`` Next year 435 million women and girls will be living on less than $ 1.90 a day worldwide -- including 47 million specifically impoverished by COVID-19 , '' the report said .
The report calls on governments to adopt concrete policy actions , including investing in the so-called `` care economy , '' which suffers from underpayment and exploitation .
U.N. Women encourages governments to support paid family and sick leave and organize `` cash for care '' programs that subsidize parents who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when schools are closed due to COVID-19 .
`` It is high time that this work be recognized , reduced , redistributed and , ultimately , supported , '' the report said .

Women worldwide are doing more unpaid labor and risk falling into poverty due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a study released by the United Nations said. File Photo by Pat Benic/UPI | License Photo
Nov. 26 (UPI) -- Women are doing more unpaid work during the COVID-19 pandemic and have a greater danger of slipping into poverty, a report released Thursday from the United Nations shows. The report, "Whose Time to Care?" from U.N. Women, surveyed data in 38 countries and found that both women and men have increased their unpaid workloads, but women are "still doing the lion's share." Advertisement
More women than men were leaving the workforce to take on care burdens for children and other family members, the research gathered by telephone and online survey methods showed.
"Greater numbers of women -- who are already less likely to be in the workforce -- have left the labor market altogether," the new report said. The difference is highest in Latin America, a region hard hit by the economic fallout of COVID-19, with 83 million women outside the labor force (up from 60 million before COVID-19).
Since the pandemic began, 56% of women and 51% of men have increased the time they spend on unpaid care work, the report says, but the difference expands when the study looked at caring for children.
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Research in July by Ipsos for U.N. Women in 16 countries showed that before COVID-19, women spent an average of 26 hours per week on child care, but that has increased to 31 hours since the pandemic began. For men, the reported number of hours increased to 24 per week from 20 per week in pre-COVID-19 times.
Most alarming, the report says is that research published in September by U.N. Women shows that the economic losses related to the pandemic could push 13% of women and children into poverty.
"Next year 435 million women and girls will be living on less than $1.90 a day worldwide -- including 47 million specifically impoverished by COVID-19," the report said.
The report calls on governments to adopt concrete policy actions, including investing in the so-called "care economy," which suffers from underpayment and exploitation. U.N. Women encourages governments to support paid family and sick leave and organize "cash for care" programs that subsidize parents who take off work to care for children when schools are closed due to COVID-19.
"It is high time that this work be recognized, reduced, redistributed and, ultimately, supported," the report said.


upi--2020-11-26--Alex Trebek urges 'keep the faith' in pre-recorded Thanksgiving message

Nov. 26 ( UPI ) -- Jeopardy !
host Alex Trebek , who died earlier this month , urged viewers @ @ @ @ @ `` keep the faith '' in a pre-recorded Thanksgiving message Thursday .
The Jeopardy !
@ @ @ @ @ in which Trebek sought to encourage viewers to remain thankful `` in spite of what @ @ @ @ @ the world is experiencing right now . ''
`` There are more and more people @ @ @ @ @ a kindness to their neighbors and that 's a good thing , '' he said @ @ @ @ @ .
We 're going to get through all of this and a we will be @ @ @ @ @ it . ''
Trebek died on Nov. 8 following a battle with pancreatic cancer .
@ @ @ @ @ 1984 , winning five Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Game Show Host for his work @ @ @ @ @ this week that a series of guest hosts will helm the show in January , @ @ @ @ @ champion Ken Jennings .

High on our list of things to be thankful for this year: Alex's Thanksgiving message from today's show. We hope you have a safe and happy Thanksgiving! pic.twitter.com/8OlpkSGi9r— Jeopardy! (@Jeopardy) November 26, 2020
Nov. 26 (UPI) -- Jeopardy! host Alex Trebek, who died earlier this month, urged viewers of the quiz show to "keep the faith" in a pre-recorded Thanksgiving message Thursday.
The Jeopardy! Twitter account shared the message in which Trebek sought to encourage viewers to remain thankful "in spite of what America and the rest of the world is experiencing right now."
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"There are more and more people extending helpful hands to do a kindness to their neighbors and that's a good thing," he said. "Keep the faith. We're going to get through all of this and a we will be a better society because of it."
Trebek died on Nov. 8 following a battle with pancreatic cancer.
He hosted Jeopardy! since 1984, winning five Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Game Show Host for his work.
The show announced earlier this week that a series of guest hosts will helm the show in January, beginning with former Jeopardy! champion Ken Jennings.


upi--2020-11-26--Australia initiates action against 10 soldiers after war crimes report

Nov. 26 ( UPI ) -- The Australian Department of Defense sent `` show cause '' notices to 10 members of the elite Special Air Service Regiment following a report unveiling war crimes committed in Afghanistan .
The Australian Broadcasting Corporation on Thursday reported that the Defense Department `` initiated administrative action '' against serving special forces members following the landmark war crimes report , which revealed , `` credible information '' that Australian soldiers murdered civilians and prisoners in Afghanistan .
Defense sources told the ABC members of the SAS 's 3 Squadron and the now-disbanded 2 Squadron received @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ranging from formal warnings to discharge .
Army Reserve Maj. Gen. Justice Paul Brereton released a report last week identifying 25 members of the SAS as either principal participants or accessories in the murder of Afghan civilians .
The findings revealed a `` warrior culture '' within the elite ranks of soldiers involving a `` misplaced focus on prestige , status and power '' and that the regiments took part in a practice known as `` blooding , '' where junior soldiers were required by their patrol commanders to shoot prisoners .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Guardian that it had initiated administrative action `` against a number of serving Australian defense force personnel in accordance with legislation and defense policy . ''
`` As the chief of the defense force said publicly last week , findings by the IGADF Afghanistan inquiry of alleged negligence by individuals in the performance of their duties have been accepted by the CDF and allegations will be managed through the ADF 's administrative and disciplinary processes , '' a spokesman said .
`` Each matter and individual circumstance will be considered on a case-by-case @ @ @ @ @ @ @ process is followed and that no further comment be made until the process is complete . ''
Those who were served with notices were granted two weeks to plead their cases .

| License Photo An Afghan Air Force MD-530 helicopter flies over Afghan National Defense and Security Forces members during an air-to-ground integration exercise in Kabul Province, Afghanistan, in 2016. File Photo by Kay M. Nissen/NATO
Nov. 26 (UPI) -- The Australian Department of Defense sent "show cause" notices to 10 members of the elite Special Air Service Regiment following a report unveiling war crimes committed in Afghanistan. The Australian Broadcasting Corporation on Thursday reported that the Defense Department "initiated administrative action" against serving special forces members following the landmark war crimes report, which revealed, "credible information" that Australian soldiers murdered civilians and prisoners in Afghanistan. Advertisement
Defense sources told the ABC members of the SAS's 3 Squadron and the now-disbanded 2 Squadron received the notices that could result in penalties ranging from formal warnings to discharge.
Army Reserve Maj. Gen. Justice Paul Brereton released a report last week identifying 25 members of the SAS as either principal participants or accessories in the murder of Afghan civilians.
The findings revealed a "warrior culture" within the elite ranks of soldiers involving a "misplaced focus on prestige, status and power" and that the regiments took part in a practice known as "blooding," where junior soldiers were required by their patrol commanders to shoot prisoners.
The Department of Defense also confirmed to The Guardian that it had initiated administrative action "against a number of serving Australian defense force personnel in accordance with legislation and defense policy."
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"As the chief of the defense force said publicly last week, findings by the IGADF Afghanistan inquiry of alleged negligence by individuals in the performance of their duties have been accepted by the CDF and allegations will be managed through the ADF's administrative and disciplinary processes," a spokesman said.
"Each matter and individual circumstance will be considered on a case-by-case basis. It is essential that due process is followed and that no further comment be made until the process is complete."
Those who were served with notices were granted two weeks to plead their cases.


upi--2020-11-26--Quick bursts of exercise can help diabetics' hearts

Frequent , short exercise sessions may be better for diabetes patients ' blood vessels than longer and fewer workouts , and that may reduce their risk of heart disease , according to a new study .
People with Type 2 diabetes are at increased risk for heart disease and reduced vascular ( blood vessel ) function , the study authors noted .
Measuring vascular function is often used to determine heart disease risk .
Other research has shown that spending less time sitting and getting more exercise lowers the risk of heart disease in all people , not just those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advancing technologies in workplaces , transportation and home entertainment , fewer opportunities exist for incidental activity , creating many contexts of daily life that are conducive to prolonged sitting , '' according to the report published online recently in the American Journal of Physiology-Heart and Circulatory Physiology .
Frances Taylor , a doctoral candidate in exercise and sports science at Australian Catholic University in Melbourne , led the study .
Taylor 's team compared how blood flow and blood vessel dilation in obese adults with Type 2 diabetes responded to shorter , more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In one test , participants sat for eight hours without taking any exercise breaks .
In a second test , they took breaks from sitting by doing three minutes of exercises that included squats , leg lifts and calf raises every 30 minutes .
In a third test , they took six-minute exercise breaks every hour .
Compared with uninterrupted sitting , blood vessel function tended to improve with both exercise approaches , but it improved significantly more with exercise every 30 minutes , the study found .
The finding suggests that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be more important than how long it lasts , the researchers said in a journal news release .
Because blood vessel function deteriorates as Type 2 diabetes progresses , it 's possible that more frequent interruptions to sitting are needed to preserve blood flow to the legs , Taylor 's team reported .
`` Our findings suggest that more-frequent and shorter breaks may be more beneficial than longer , less-frequent breaks for improvement in vascular function in those with [ Type 2 diabetes ] , '' they concluded .
For more on Type @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Diabetes Association .

Because blood vessel function deteriorates as Type 2 diabetes progresses, it's possible that more frequent interruptions to sitting are needed to preserve blood flow to the legs, researchers say. Photo by Terry Schmitt/UPI | License Photo
Frequent, short exercise sessions may be better for diabetes patients' blood vessels than longer and fewer workouts, and that may reduce their risk of heart disease, according to a new study. People with Type 2 diabetes are at increased risk for heart disease and reduced vascular (blood vessel) function, the study authors noted. Measuring vascular function is often used to determine heart disease risk. Advertisement
Other research has shown that spending less time sitting and getting more exercise lowers the risk of heart disease in all people, not just those with diabetes.
But with "rapidly advancing technologies in workplaces, transportation and home entertainment, fewer opportunities exist for incidental activity, creating many contexts of daily life that are conducive to prolonged sitting," according to the report published online recently in the American Journal of Physiology-Heart and Circulatory Physiology.
Frances Taylor, a doctoral candidate in exercise and sports science at Australian Catholic University in Melbourne, led the study.
Taylor's team compared how blood flow and blood vessel dilation in obese adults with Type 2 diabetes responded to shorter, more frequent or longer, less-frequent exercise sessions.
In one test, participants sat for eight hours without taking any exercise breaks. In a second test, they took breaks from sitting by doing three minutes of exercises that included squats, leg lifts and calf raises every 30 minutes. In a third test, they took six-minute exercise breaks every hour.
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Compared with uninterrupted sitting, blood vessel function tended to improve with both exercise approaches, but it improved significantly more with exercise every 30 minutes, the study found.
The finding suggests that the frequency of the activity break may be more important than how long it lasts, the researchers said in a journal news release.
Because blood vessel function deteriorates as Type 2 diabetes progresses, it's possible that more frequent interruptions to sitting are needed to preserve blood flow to the legs, Taylor's team reported.
"Our findings suggest that more-frequent and shorter breaks may be more beneficial than longer, less-frequent breaks for improvement in vascular function in those with [Type 2 diabetes]," they concluded.
For more on Type 2 diabetes, go to the American Diabetes Association.
SOURCE: American Journal of Physiology-Heart and Circulatory Physiology, news release, Nov. 23, 2020
Copyright 2020 HealthDay. All rights reserved.


upi--2020-11-26--Gusty winds elevate fire risk in Southern California

Atmospheric conditions will set up just right for a period of strong winds , known as Santa Anas , to whip through Southern California and create heightened wildfire concerns through Friday night .
`` As high pressure builds across the interior West , a Santa Ana event is expected to unfold across the region to end the holiday week , bringing an increased wildfire threat , as well the potential for some localized damaging winds , '' AccuWeather Meteorologist Jake Sojda said .
Santa Ana wind events are typical across the region during the fall months and their impacts on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The air with these winds descends from high to lower elevations , which causes it to accelerate and become even drier , '' Sojda said .
Red flag warnings have been put into effect by the National Weather Service through Friday evening in anticipation of the dry , gusty winds .
The strongest wind gusts , on the order of 50-60 mph with an AccuWeather Local StormMax of 70 mph , will blow across the mountains and through the northeast- to southwest-oriented canyons and passes through Friday night .
Even though @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a sudden jump in temperatures as some Santa Ana wind events are , the dryness of the air , combined with the gusty winds and parched ground , can make up for the lack of heat in this case .
Highs are forecast to be near to slightly above average through Friday , generally in the upper 60s to lower 70s F. The rain-free and seasonable conditions will offer up residents excellent opportunities for safe and socially-distanced outdoor holiday gatherings .
Outdoor cooking should be done with utmost caution , however , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the area .
Any spark can be quickly fanned into a raging inferno given the gusty winds anticipated .
Caution should also be exercised when using outdoor power equipment , and cigarette butts and matches should be properly discarded .
Lawn furniture , planters and other loose outdoor objects should be secured or properly stowed away to prevent them from being tossed around in the windy weather .
`` Along with the high fire threat , the wind gusts can also be locally strong enough to cause some damage to trees and power @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where the wind gets funneled on its way to the coast , '' Sojda said .
Live power lines that are downed can also be sources of sparks that may ignite a wildfire .
Drivers along portions of interstates 5 and 15 will need to keep a firm grip on the steering wheel to avoid crossing over into other lanes of traffic .
High-profile vehicles will be especially susceptible to the strong winds .
Winds will lessen over the weekend , but AccuWeather meteorologists are already looking ahead to the middle of next @ @ @ @ @ @ @ event may unfold .

Atmospheric conditions will set up just right for a period of strong winds, known as Santa Anas, to whip through Southern California and create heightened wildfire concerns through Friday night.
"As high pressure builds across the interior West, a Santa Ana event is expected to unfold across the region to end the holiday week, bringing an increased wildfire threat, as well the potential for some localized damaging winds," AccuWeather Meteorologist Jake Sojda said.
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Santa Ana wind events are typical across the region during the fall months and their impacts on wildfire ignition and spread can be significant.
"The air with these winds descends from high to lower elevations, which causes it to accelerate and become even drier," Sojda said.
Red flag warnings have been put into effect by the National Weather Service through Friday evening in anticipation of the dry, gusty winds.
The strongest wind gusts, on the order of 50-60 mph with an AccuWeather Local StormMax of 70 mph, will blow across the mountains and through the northeast- to southwest-oriented canyons and passes through Friday night.
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Even though this event will not be characterized by a sudden jump in temperatures as some Santa Ana wind events are, the dryness of the air, combined with the gusty winds and parched ground, can make up for the lack of heat in this case.
Highs are forecast to be near to slightly above average through Friday, generally in the upper 60s to lower 70s F.
The rain-free and seasonable conditions will offer up residents excellent opportunities for safe and socially-distanced outdoor holiday gatherings.
Outdoor cooking should be done with utmost caution, however, and flames should be fully extinguished before leaving the area. Any spark can be quickly fanned into a raging inferno given the gusty winds anticipated. Caution should also be exercised when using outdoor power equipment, and cigarette butts and matches should be properly discarded.
Lawn furniture, planters and other loose outdoor objects should be secured or properly stowed away to prevent them from being tossed around in the windy weather.
"Along with the high fire threat, the wind gusts can also be locally strong enough to cause some damage to trees and power lines, especially in canyons and passes where the wind gets funneled on its way to the coast," Sojda said.
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Live power lines that are downed can also be sources of sparks that may ignite a wildfire.
Drivers along portions of interstates 5 and 15 will need to keep a firm grip on the steering wheel to avoid crossing over into other lanes of traffic. High-profile vehicles will be especially susceptible to the strong winds.
Winds will lessen over the weekend, but AccuWeather meteorologists are already looking ahead to the middle of next week when yet another Santa Ana wind event may unfold.


upi--2020-11-26--First commercial flight between UAE and Israel lands in Tel Aviv

Nov. 26 ( UPI ) -- The first direct flight between Dubai and Tel Aviv landed Thursday , met by a delegation led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following the normalization of diplomatic ties between Israel and the United Arab Emirates .
Budget airline flydubai , owned by the UAE government , was the first airline to begin commercial passenger service between the two countries , which hope to benefit from tourism to help boost the economy during the COVID-19 pandemic .
`` This is a pivotal moment because we 're changing history , '' Netanyahu said in remarks at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We 're flying at breakneck speed into a new era that is now , clearly , changing the Middle East , '' he added .
`` Welcome and Shalom to the first ever Emirati tourists to Israel who have just landed at Ben-Gurion international airport , '' tweeted Netanyahu 's spokesman Ofir Gendelman .
The four-hour round-trip flight between the two countries costs about $ 440 on flydubai .
Two flights will take place daily .
`` Today 's inaugural flight sees the air transport agreement realized , '' flydubai CEO Ghaith @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The creation of these direct air links will support the development of commercial ventures across a number of sectors helping to drive success and prosperity .
We look forward to welcoming the first passengers from Israel as they come to explore the UAE . ''
Israeli airlines El Al and Israir will launch commercial services between the cities next month , and Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways expects to start commercial flights between the two countries in the spring .
Israel has normalized relations with its Arab neighbors United Arab Emirates , Bahrain and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump administration .
The countries are strengthening relations to become allies against their mutual threat of Iran , said Suzanne Maloney , the Brookings Institution 's Foreign policy vice president .
`` Quiet ties developed over years of pragmatic cooperation between Israeli and Emirati officials around the threats posed by Tehran helped to overcome one of the most stubborn diplomatic schisms , '' Maloney said in August .
Netanyahu made a secret trip on Sunday to meet with the Saudi Arabia 's Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the first time , as well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Pompeo , who visited Saudi Arabia at the end of his seven-nation tour , has encouraged Saudi officials to normalize relations with Israel .

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday attended a welcoming ceremony for the first flydubai commercial flight between Dubai and Tel Aviv at Ben-Gurion International Airport in Israel. Pool photo by Emil Salman/UPI | License Photo
Nov. 26 (UPI) -- The first direct flight between Dubai and Tel Aviv landed Thursday, met by a delegation led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following the normalization of diplomatic ties between Israel and the United Arab Emirates. Budget airline flydubai, owned by the UAE government, was the first airline to begin commercial passenger service between the two countries, which hope to benefit from tourism to help boost the economy during the COVID-19 pandemic. Advertisement
"This is a pivotal moment because we're changing history," Netanyahu said in remarks at Tel Aviv Ben Gurion International Airport. "We're flying at breakneck speed into a new era that is now, clearly, changing the Middle East," he added.
"Welcome and Shalom to the first ever Emirati tourists to Israel who have just landed at Ben-Gurion international airport," tweeted Netanyahu's spokesman Ofir Gendelman.
The four-hour round-trip flight between the two countries costs about $440 on flydubai. Two flights will take place daily.
"Today's inaugural flight sees the air transport agreement realized," flydubai CEO Ghaith al-Ghaith said in a statement. "The creation of these direct air links will support the development of commercial ventures across a number of sectors helping to drive success and prosperity. We look forward to welcoming the first passengers from Israel as they come to explore the UAE."
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Israeli airlines El Al and Israir will launch commercial services between the cities next month, and Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways expects to start commercial flights between the two countries in the spring.
Israel has normalized relations with its Arab neighbors United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Sudan in moves brokered by the U.S. Trump administration.
The countries are strengthening relations to become allies against their mutual threat of Iran, said Suzanne Maloney, the Brookings Institution's Foreign policy vice president.
"Quiet ties developed over years of pragmatic cooperation between Israeli and Emirati officials around the threats posed by Tehran helped to overcome one of the most stubborn diplomatic schisms," Maloney said in August.
Netanyahu made a secret trip on Sunday to meet with the Saudi Arabia's Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the first time, as well as U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.
Pompeo, who visited Saudi Arabia at the end of his seven-nation tour, has encouraged Saudi officials to normalize relations with Israel.


upi--2020-11-26--Sadiq al-Mahdi, Sudan's last democratically elected prime minister dies of COVID-19

Nov. 26 ( UPI ) -- Sadiq al-Mahdi , the last democratically elected prime minister of Sudan , died Thursday from complications related to COVID-19 .
He was 84 years old .
Al-Mahdi died in a hospital in the United Arab Emirates where he was receiving treatment for the coronavirus , the National Umma Party said .
He led the Umma Party until his death after serving as prime minister twice , once during the 1960s and again from 1986 until he was overthrown in a coup in 1989 .
Al-Mahdi remained a fierce critic of President Omar al-Bashir , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forced out of office .
Bashir was also overthrown in a coup last year and sentenced to two years in prison .
Earlier this year , al-Mahdi condemned U.S. President Donald Trump for brokering a deal to have Sudan begin normalizing ties with Israel .
The agreement `` contributes to the elimination of the peace project in the Middle East and to preparing for the ignition of a new war . ''
Al-Mahdi was also a descendant of the 19th-century religious leader `` The Mahdi of Khartoum '' and led the Ansar Sufi @ @ @ @ @ @ @ religious groups .

Sadiq al-Mahdi, Sudan's last democratically elected prime minister, died at age 84 on Thursday following complications from COVID-19. Photo by EPA-EFE
Nov. 26 (UPI) -- Sadiq al-Mahdi, the last democratically elected prime minister of Sudan, died Thursday from complications related to COVID-19. He was 84 years old. Al-Mahdi died in a hospital in the United Arab Emirates where he was receiving treatment for the coronavirus, the National Umma Party said. Advertisement
He led the Umma Party until his death after serving as prime minister twice, once during the 1960s and again from 1986 until he was overthrown in a coup in 1989.
Al-Mahdi remained a fierce critic of President Omar al-Bashir, who rose to power after al-Mahdi was forced out of office. Bashir was also overthrown in a coup last year and sentenced to two years in prison.
Earlier this year, al-Mahdi condemned U.S. President Donald Trump for brokering a deal to have Sudan begin normalizing ties with Israel. The agreement "contributes to the elimination of the peace project in the Middle East and to preparing for the ignition of a new war."
Al-Mahdi was also a descendant of the 19th-century religious leader "The Mahdi of Khartoum" and led the Ansar Sufi order, one of Sudan's largest religious groups.


upi--2020-11-26--Donor sues pro-Trump group to recoup $2.5 million in failed election lawsuits

Nov. 26 ( UPI ) -- A North Carolina businessman and Republican donor filed suit in federal court saying he was duped by a Texas group that claimed they would file lawsuits to uncover election fraud on behalf of President Donald Trump .
Fredric N. Eshelman , founder of venture capital firm Eshelman Ventures LLC , said he donated $ 2.5 million to Houston-based nonprofit True the Vote Inc. to support the organization 's investigations into `` illegal and fraudulent conduct '' in the 2020 presidential election .
The complaint filed Wednesday in Houston federal district court alleges that True @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the lawsuits would require more than $ 7 million in financing to acquire sworn affidavits as well as to develop `` sophisticated data modeling and statistical analysis to identify potential illegal or fraudulent balloting . ''
After making multiple donations , Eshelman asked for details of about seven lawsuits in election battleground states that were to be filed by the non-profit 's Verify the Vote 2020 initiative .
He said Engelbrecht and attorney Jim Bopp , Jr. gave him `` vague responses , platitudes , and empty promises of follow-up that never @ @ @ @ @ @ @ response to requests for specific and data relating to potential whistleblowers and how their allegations fit into an overall narrative , Engelbrecht would simply respond with vague comments like : 'We are vetting ' or 'They are solid , ' '' the complaint says .
Four lawsuits were filed by the group in Wisconsin , Michigan , Georgia , and Pennsylvania , states won by President-elect Joe Biden .
The suits were later withdrawn by True the Vote on Nov. 16 , the lawsuit says .
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel told The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vote lawsuit was `` clearly designed to spread misinformation about the security and integrity of Michigan elections . ''
After refusing to answer Eshelman 's demands for a refund of his $ 2.5 million donation , True the Vote offered Eshelman $ 1 million not to sue the organization , the suit alleges .
Eshelman is demanding the full return of his donation , as well as court costs .

A Republican donor filed a federal suit saying he was "duped" after donating $2.5 million to investigate illegal conduct and fraud in the 2020 election. File Photo by Ken Cedeno/UPI | License Photo
Nov. 26 (UPI) -- A North Carolina businessman and Republican donor filed suit in federal court saying he was duped by a Texas group that claimed they would file lawsuits to uncover election fraud on behalf of President Donald Trump. Fredric N. Eshelman, founder of venture capital firm Eshelman Ventures LLC, said he donated $2.5 million to Houston-based nonprofit True the Vote Inc. to support the organization's investigations into "illegal and fraudulent conduct" in the 2020 presidential election. Advertisement
The complaint filed Wednesday in Houston federal district court alleges that True the Vote CEO Catherine Engelbrecht told Eshelman that the lawsuits would require more than $7 million in financing to acquire sworn affidavits as well as to develop "sophisticated data modeling and statistical analysis to identify potential illegal or fraudulent balloting."
After making multiple donations, Eshelman asked for details of about seven lawsuits in election battleground states that were to be filed by the non-profit's Verify the Vote 2020 initiative. He said Engelbrecht and attorney Jim Bopp, Jr. gave him "vague responses, platitudes, and empty promises of follow-up that never occurred."
"Specifically, in response to requests for specific and data relating to potential whistleblowers and how their allegations fit into an overall narrative, Engelbrecht would simply respond with vague comments like: 'We are vetting' or 'They are solid,'" the complaint says.
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Four lawsuits were filed by the group in Wisconsin, Michigan, Georgia, and Pennsylvania, states won by President-elect Joe Biden.
The suits were later withdrawn by True the Vote on Nov. 16, the lawsuit says.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel told The Detroit Free Press that the True the Vote lawsuit was "clearly designed to spread misinformation about the security and integrity of Michigan elections."
After refusing to answer Eshelman's demands for a refund of his $2.5 million donation, True the Vote offered Eshelman $1 million not to sue the organization, the suit alleges. Eshelman is demanding the full return of his donation, as well as court costs.


upi--2020-11-26--Scottish Deerhound Claire wins the National Dog Show

Nov. 26 ( UPI ) -- Claire , a Scottish Deerhound , was crowned the winner at the National Dog @ @ @ @ @ .
NBC aired the 19th edition of the Kennel Club of Philadelphia competition after the @ @ @ @ @ .
The program is scheduled to be re-broadcast Thursday night at 8 p.m. EST .
@ @ @ @ @ this year 's competition due to the coronavirus pandemic .
A 2-year-old male Bulldog named @ @ @ @ @ Show title in 2019 .

Nov. 26 (UPI) -- Claire, a Scottish Deerhound, was crowned the winner at the National Dog Show in Philadelphia on Thursday.
NBC aired the 19th edition of the Kennel Club of Philadelphia competition after the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. The program is scheduled to be re-broadcast Thursday night at 8 p.m. EST.
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Television star John O'Hurley hosted the event, alongside David Frei, a longtime breeder-owner-handler and American Kennel Club judge.
No spectators were present for this year's competition due to the coronavirus pandemic.
A 2-year-old male Bulldog named Thor won the Best in Show title in 2019.


upi--2020-11-26--Saudi Arabia moves women's rights activist's trial to terrorism court

Nov. 26 ( UPI ) -- Saudi Arabia moved the trial of women 's rights activist Loujain al-Hathloul to a special court known for handling terrorism cases , her family said Thursday .
Al-Hathloul 's sister , Lina al-Hathloul , told NBC News that the activist shook uncontrollably and spoke in a faint voice during the rare court appearance where she was told her case would be moved to the country 's Specialized Criminal Court .
State diplomats were denied entry into the courthouse , citing COVID-19 regulations .
The charges against al-Hathloul related almost exclusively to her activism , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ international activist groups , The Guardian reported .
`` It 's extremely stressful to never know what your own government can do to you , '' she said .
Lynn Maalouf , Amnesty International 's deputy regional director for the Middle East and North Africa described the `` disturbing move '' as `` yet another sign that Saudi Arabia 's claims of reform on human rights are a farce . ''
`` Loujain al-Hathloul must be immediately and unconditionally released and all charges against her dropped .
We also call on Saudi Authorities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ treated by a doctor of her choice and granted proper access to her lawyer and family , '' Maalouf said .
Al-Hathloul was arrested with seven other women 's rights activists on May 15 , 2018 , on what Saudi authorities called national security grounds after helping lead campaigns that allowed women to drive for the first time .
Earlier this month , the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women called for her immediate release saying her health is likely failing due to a hunger strike .

Nov. 26 (UPI) -- Saudi Arabia moved the trial of women's rights activist Loujain al-Hathloul to a special court known for handling terrorism cases, her family said Thursday.
Al-Hathloul's sister, Lina al-Hathloul, told NBC News that the activist shook uncontrollably and spoke in a faint voice during the rare court appearance where she was told her case would be moved to the country's Specialized Criminal Court.
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State diplomats were denied entry into the courthouse, citing COVID-19 regulations.
The charges against al-Hathloul related almost exclusively to her activism, including speaking to journalists, diplomats and international activist groups, The Guardian reported.
Al-Hathloul's sister accused Saudi authorities of "criminalizing activism."
"It's extremely stressful to never know what your own government can do to you," she said.
Lynn Maalouf, Amnesty International's deputy regional director for the Middle East and North Africa described the "disturbing move" as "yet another sign that Saudi Arabia's claims of reform on human rights are a farce."
"Loujain al-Hathloul must be immediately and unconditionally released and all charges against her dropped. We also call on Saudi Authorities to ensure she is allowed to be treated by a doctor of her choice and granted proper access to her lawyer and family," Maalouf said.
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Al-Hathloul was arrested with seven other women's rights activists on May 15, 2018, on what Saudi authorities called national security grounds after helping lead campaigns that allowed women to drive for the first time.
Earlier this month, the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women called for her immediate release saying her health is likely failing due to a hunger strike.


upi--2020-11-26--AstraZeneca responds to concerns about COVID-19 vaccine candidate

Nov. 26 ( UPI ) -- AstraZeneca and Oxford University responded Thursday to questions raised over trial results for its COVID-19 vaccine candidate .
The pharmaceutical company said Monday that its vaccine candidate , AZD1222 , had an average efficacy of 70 % .
Some in the scientific community questioned the results and the methods of the trial and criticized the way the company initially disclosed its data .
The company said a mistake led to some trial participants receiving the initial dose at half strength .
On Thursday , AstraZeneca told CNBC that it adhered to the `` highest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ More data will continue to accumulate and additional analysis will be conducted refining the efficacy reading and establishing the duration of protection , '' a spokesperson told the news outlet .
The questions emerged after a smaller group of 2,741 trial participants received a half dose of the vaccine initially followed by a full dose at least a month later , with results showing 90 % efficacy .
A second group of 8,895 participants received two full doses of the vaccine at least a month apart , with results showing 62 % efficacy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to `` a difference in the manufacturing process . ''
`` The methods for measuring the concentration are now established and we can ensure that all batches of vaccines are now equivalent , '' Oxford said .
Some U.S. scientists , including Moncef Slaoui , chief of the White House vaccine effort , Operation Warp Speed , said the 90 % efficacy result was only shown for low-risk participants younger than age 55 .
An analyst from investment bank SVB Leerink said the company 's trials did n't meet FDA requirements for populations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ severe cases , previously infected individuals and elderly .
AstraZeneca said an external Data Safety Monitoring Board monitored the study for safety and quality .
The vaccine candidate is the third to announce preliminary results of late-stage trials .
Pfizer and BioNTech and Moderna each reported early results showing 95 % efficacy for their COVID-19 vaccine candidates .
Dr. Anthony Fauci , the nation 's leading infectious diseases expert , has sought to reassure people to feel confident in the safety and efficacy of a COVID-19 vaccine once regulatory approval is granted .

Biopharmaceutical company AstraZeneca responded Thursday to questions about its COVID-19 vaccine. Photo by Dan Himbrechts/EPA-EFE
Nov. 26 (UPI) -- AstraZeneca and Oxford University responded Thursday to questions raised over trial results for its COVID-19 vaccine candidate. The pharmaceutical company said Monday that its vaccine candidate, AZD1222, had an average efficacy of 70%. Advertisement
Some in the scientific community questioned the results and the methods of the trial and criticized the way the company initially disclosed its data. The company said a mistake led to some trial participants receiving the initial dose at half strength.
On Thursday, AstraZeneca told CNBC that it adhered to the "highest standards" in its studies.
"More data will continue to accumulate and additional analysis will be conducted refining the efficacy reading and establishing the duration of protection," a spokesperson told the news outlet.
The questions emerged after a smaller group of 2,741 trial participants received a half dose of the vaccine initially followed by a full dose at least a month later, with results showing 90% efficacy. A second group of 8,895 participants received two full doses of the vaccine at least a month apart, with results showing 62% efficacy.
Oxford University attributed the lower dose to "a difference in the manufacturing process."
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"The methods for measuring the concentration are now established and we can ensure that all batches of vaccines are now equivalent," Oxford said.
Some U.S. scientists, including Moncef Slaoui, chief of the White House vaccine effort, Operation Warp Speed, said the 90% efficacy result was only shown for low-risk participants younger than age 55.
An analyst from investment bank SVB Leerink said the company's trials didn't meet FDA requirements for populations at increased risk, including minorities, severe cases, previously infected individuals and elderly.
AstraZeneca said an external Data Safety Monitoring Board monitored the study for safety and quality.
The vaccine candidate is the third to announce preliminary results of late-stage trials. Pfizer and BioNTech and Moderna each reported early results showing 95% efficacy for their COVID-19 vaccine candidates.
Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation's leading infectious diseases expert, has sought to reassure people to feel confident in the safety and efficacy of a COVID-19 vaccine once regulatory approval is granted.


upi--2020-11-26--Turkey: 500 sentenced to life for failed 2016 coup attempt

Nov. 26 ( UPI ) -- A court in Turkey handed down hundreds of life sentences Thursday to defendants charged in a failed 2016 coup attempt to overthrow President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan .
More than 250 people died and more than 2,200 were injured on July 15 , 2016 , when members of the Turkish military coordinated the takeover of fighter jets , helicopters and tanks at Akinci , an airbase north of the capital Ankara .
The failed coup by members of the Fetullah Terrorist Organization ( FETO ) , included warplanes attacking parliament and the presidential complex , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The terrorists who used the Akıncı Base as a center during the July 15 coup attempt received the punishment they deserved , '' tweeted Ömer Çelik , the spokesman for Erdoğan 's Justice and Development party .
`` The betrayal network that rained bombs on the Parliament , the Presidency and our nation was condemned once again by our nation before justice . ''
Since the events of 2016 , the government has arrested and sentenced hundreds of former military officials and soldiers involved in the failed uprising .
The most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than 3,901 years in prison for guilty verdicts for `` attempting to intentionally kill , '' `` attempting to deprive a person of liberty '' and `` depriving a person of liberty , '' Anadolu reported .
The Turkish government and Erdoğan have blamed the failed uprising on the U.S.-based Muslim cleric Fethullah Gülen , now living in Pennsylvania , who has long denied any association with the coup attempt .
Erdoğan 's demands that the United States expel Gülen have reached the highest levels of U.S. government , with former CIA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ former National Security Advisor Michael Flynn , a registered agent for Turkey , worked with Turkish lobbyists on a plot to kidnap Gülen and extradite him , a charge Flynn 's lawyers denied .
Special Counsel Robert Mueller also investigated Flynn , who was pardoned by President Donald Trump this week , in connection with the alleged kidnapping plot .

The Turkish government announced that hundreds of defendants were sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of participating in a failed 2016 coup attempt to overthrow President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. File Photo by Olcay Duzgun/EPA Turkey OUT
Nov. 26 (UPI) -- A court in Turkey handed down hundreds of life sentences Thursday to defendants charged in a failed 2016 coup attempt to overthrow President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. More than 250 people died and more than 2,200 were injured on July 15, 2016, when members of the Turkish military coordinated the takeover of fighter jets, helicopters and tanks at Akinci, an airbase north of the capital Ankara. The failed coup by members of the Fetullah Terrorist Organization (FETO), included warplanes attacking parliament and the presidential complex, the state-run news outlet Anadolu Agency reported. Advertisement
"The terrorists who used the Akıncı Base as a center during the July 15 coup attempt received the punishment they deserved," tweeted Ömer Çelik, the spokesman for Erdoğan's Justice and Development party. "The betrayal network that rained bombs on the Parliament, the Presidency and our nation was condemned once again by our nation before justice."
Since the events of 2016, the government has arrested and sentenced hundreds of former military officials and soldiers involved in the failed uprising.
The most recent batch of sentences added up to more than 3,901 years in prison for guilty verdicts for "attempting to intentionally kill," "attempting to deprive a person of liberty" and "depriving a person of liberty," Anadolu reported.
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The Turkish government and Erdoğan have blamed the failed uprising on the U.S.-based Muslim cleric Fethullah Gülen, now living in Pennsylvania, who has long denied any association with the coup attempt.
Erdoğan's demands that the United States expel Gülen have reached the highest levels of U.S. government, with former CIA Director James Woolsey claiming in 2017 that former National Security Advisor Michael Flynn, a registered agent for Turkey, worked with Turkish lobbyists on a plot to kidnap Gülen and extradite him, a charge Flynn's lawyers denied. Special Counsel Robert Mueller also investigated Flynn, who was pardoned by President Donald Trump this week, in connection with the alleged kidnapping plot.


upi--2020-11-26--Ethiopian forces begin 'final' attack on Tigray region, PM says

Nov. 26 ( UPI ) -- The Ethiopian government announced Thursday that armed troops would be taking `` final action '' in Mekelle , the capital city of the country 's northern Tigray region , and urged civilians to stay home .
As more than 40,000 refugees flowed into Sudan from Tigray , Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali said a final ultimatum to the Tigrayan People 's Liberation Front ( TPLF ) had expired .
`` The 72-hour period granted to the criminal TPLF clique to surrender peacefully is now over and our law enforcement campaign has reached its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , adding that the Ethiopian National Defense Force would be conducting a final military assault .
Abiy said the army troops would take `` great care '' to make sure to `` protect innocent civilians from harm , '' as well as protect places of worship , public facilities and heritage sites .
Abiy said thousands of Tigray Special Forces militia members had surrendered to Ethiopian troops .
But Al Jazeera reported that TPLF leadership had refuted that claim .
The United Nations and other humanitarian agencies are calling for the conflict in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people are said to be trapped in Mekelle , to end .
`` The U.N. and its humanitarian partners in Ethiopia are urgently calling on all parties to the conflict to comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law and protect civilians and civilian infrastructure , including health facilities , and water systems , '' U.N .
Spokesman Stéphane Dujarric said Monday .
Along with refugee pressure on Sudan , the conflict has made travel and communication impossible in the region , which endangers food and fuel supply remittances for nearly 100,000 refugees @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fighting since early November , when Abiy ordered air raids and attacks in Tigray and the Ethiopian parliament voted to dissolve the TPLF .
The TPLF was formerly a dominant force in Ethiopia 's ruling coalition , even though the region has only about 6 % of the population .
The party 's power diminished after Abiy became prime minister as he dissolved the ruling coalition to replace it with the Prosperity Party , a single , national party that TPLF refused to join .

Ethiopian forces attacked the Tigray capital of Mekelle Thursday as more than 40,000 refugees from the region fled into Sudan, the United Nations said. Photo by Sufian Abdul-Mout/UNFPA
Nov. 26 (UPI) -- The Ethiopian government announced Thursday that armed troops would be taking "final action" in Mekelle, the capital city of the country's northern Tigray region, and urged civilians to stay home. As more than 40,000 refugees flowed into Sudan from Tigray, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali said a final ultimatum to the Tigrayan People's Liberation Front (TPLF) had expired. Advertisement
"The 72-hour period granted to the criminal TPLF clique to surrender peacefully is now over and our law enforcement campaign has reached its final stage," Abiy tweeted Thursday, adding that the Ethiopian National Defense Force would be conducting a final military assault.
Abiy said the army troops would take "great care" to make sure to "protect innocent civilians from harm," as well as protect places of worship, public facilities and heritage sites.
Abiy said thousands of Tigray Special Forces militia members had surrendered to Ethiopian troops. But Al Jazeera reported that TPLF leadership had refuted that claim.
The United Nations and other humanitarian agencies are calling for the conflict in Tigray, where more than 6 million people are said to be trapped in Mekelle, to end.
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"The U.N. and its humanitarian partners in Ethiopia are urgently calling on all parties to the conflict to comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law and protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, including health facilities, and water systems," U.N. Spokesman Stéphane Dujarric said Monday.
Along with refugee pressure on Sudan, the conflict has made travel and communication impossible in the region, which endangers food and fuel supply remittances for nearly 100,000 refugees from Eritrea.
Hundreds have died in fighting since early November, when Abiy ordered air raids and attacks in Tigray and the Ethiopian parliament voted to dissolve the TPLF.
The TPLF was formerly a dominant force in Ethiopia's ruling coalition, even though the region has only about 6% of the population. The party's power diminished after Abiy became prime minister as he dissolved the ruling coalition to replace it with the Prosperity Party, a single, national party that TPLF refused to join.


upi--2020-11-26--Fantasy football: Hunter Henry, Travis Kelce lead Week 12 tight end rankings

Nov. 26 ( UPI ) -- Hunter Henry , Travis Kelce , Darren Waller , T.J. Hockenson and Evan Engram lead my Week 12 fantasy football tight end rankings for 2020 .
Rob Gronkowski , Eric Ebron , Austin Hooper , Mark Andrews and Jonnu Smith round out my Top 10 options at the position .
Robert Tonyan and Trey Burton are among my favorite sleepers this week .
Monitor the status for each of your players ' games this week as the coronavirus pandemic continues to impact the NFL schedule and player availability .
No teams have Week 12 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ options when it comes to finding good defensive matchups for tight ends .
Check out my weekly waiver wire article for candidates to add to your roster before your Week 12 matchup .
Here are some of my favorite players in this week 's Top 20 rankings : Los Angeles Chargers tight end Hunter Henry has scored in two consecutive games as he heads into a Week 12 matchup against the Buffalo Bills .
He is my top option at the position .
The Bills have allowed a league-high 642 yards and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ends .
Start Henry in your league , even if you are n't required to start the position .
Darren Waller of the Las Vegas Raiders has scored in two of his last three games and has five scores on the season .
He is my No .
3 tight end for Week 12 as he heads into a matchup against the Atlanta Falcons .
The Falcons have allowed the most fantasy points per game to tight ends this season .
Start Waller in all leagues in Week 12 .
New York Giants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
5 in my Week 12 rankings .
He should be started in all leagues that require starting a tight end .
The Giants pass catcher has just one score on the season , but has been targeted 32 times over his last four games .
I expect Engram to continue to get looks in Week 12 , when the Giants face a Cincinnati Bengals defense that has allowed the fourth-most fantasy points per game to tight ends .
I expect Engram to pull in at least six catches for 80 yards and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cleveland Browns tight end Austin Hooper is my No .
8 option for Week 12 .
Hooper pulled in just three catches for 33 yards in Week 11 , but I expect him to have much more impact this week .
He heads into a matchup against a Jacksonville Jaguars defense that has allowed the second-most fantasy points per game to tight ends .
Start Hooper in leagues that require starting a tight end and have at least 12 teams .
Robert Tonyan of the Green Bay Packers scored his sixth touchdown of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a great chance to reach the end zone again in Week 12 .
The Packers face a Chicago Bears defense that is tied for allowing the ninth-most fantasy points per game to tight ends on Sunday in Green Bay , Wis .
I expect Tonyan -- my No .
11 option -- to snag at least five catches for 50 yards and a score .
Indianapolis Colts tight end Trey Burton only has two scores this season , but I expect him to draw more red zone looks down the stretch .
Burton @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in an import AFC South divisional matchup in Week 12 .
The Titans have allowed the eighth-most fantasy points per game to tight ends .
Burton has a great shot to secure at least three catches for 30 yards on Sunday in Indianapolis .
He could end up as a Top 5 play if he gets into the end zone .
Burton is my No .
15 option for Week 12 and can be used as a streamer in leagues that require starting tight ends .

1/3
Los Angeles Chargers tight end Hunter Henry (L) is my top option at the position in Week 12. File Photo by Jon SooHoo/UPI | License Photo
Nov. 26 (UPI) -- Hunter Henry, Travis Kelce, Darren Waller, T.J. Hockenson and Evan Engram lead my Week 12 fantasy football tight end rankings for 2020. Rob Gronkowski, Eric Ebron, Austin Hooper, Mark Andrews and Jonnu Smith round out my Top 10 options at the position. Robert Tonyan and Trey Burton are among my favorite sleepers this week. Advertisement
Monitor the status for each of your players' games this week as the coronavirus pandemic continues to impact the NFL schedule and player availability. No teams have Week 12 byes, so you should have more options when it comes to finding good defensive matchups for tight ends.
Check out my weekly waiver wire article for candidates to add to your roster before your Week 12 matchup.
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Here are some of my favorite players in this week's Top 20 rankings:
TOP SHELF
Los Angeles Chargers tight end Hunter Henry has scored in two consecutive games as he heads into a Week 12 matchup against the Buffalo Bills. He is my top option at the position.
The Bills have allowed a league-high 642 yards and the sixth-most fantasy points per game to tight ends. Start Henry in your league, even if you aren't required to start the position.
Darren Waller of the Las Vegas Raiders has scored in two of his last three games and has five scores on the season. He is my No. 3 tight end for Week 12 as he heads into a matchup against the Atlanta Falcons.
The Falcons have allowed the most fantasy points per game to tight ends this season. Start Waller in all leagues in Week 12.
SNEAKY PLAYS
New York Giants tight end Evan Engram lands at No. 5 in my Week 12 rankings. He should be started in all leagues that require starting a tight end.
The Giants pass catcher has just one score on the season, but has been targeted 32 times over his last four games. I expect Engram to continue to get looks in Week 12, when the Giants face a Cincinnati Bengals defense that has allowed the fourth-most fantasy points per game to tight ends.
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I expect Engram to pull in at least six catches for 80 yards and a touchdown on Sunday in Cincinnati.
Cleveland Browns tight end Austin Hooper is my No. 8 option for Week 12. Hooper pulled in just three catches for 33 yards in Week 11, but I expect him to have much more impact this week.
He heads into a matchup against a Jacksonville Jaguars defense that has allowed the second-most fantasy points per game to tight ends.
Start Hooper in leagues that require starting a tight end and have at least 12 teams.
LONGSHOTS
Robert Tonyan of the Green Bay Packers scored his sixth touchdown of the season in Week 11 and has a great chance to reach the end zone again in Week 12.
The Packers face a Chicago Bears defense that is tied for allowing the ninth-most fantasy points per game to tight ends on Sunday in Green Bay, Wis. I expect Tonyan -- my No. 11 option -- to snag at least five catches for 50 yards and a score.
Indianapolis Colts tight end Trey Burton only has two scores this season, but I expect him to draw more red zone looks down the stretch.
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Burton and the Colts face the Tennessee Titans in an import AFC South divisional matchup in Week 12. The Titans have allowed the eighth-most fantasy points per game to tight ends.
Burton has a great shot to secure at least three catches for 30 yards on Sunday in Indianapolis. He could end up as a Top 5 play if he gets into the end zone. Burton is my No. 15 option for Week 12 and can be used as a streamer in leagues that require starting tight ends.
Week 12 fantasy football tight end rankings
1. Hunter Henry, Los Angeles Chargers at BUF
2. Travis Kelce, Kansas City Chiefs at TB
3. Darren Waller, Las Vegas Raiders at ATL
4. T.J. Hockenson, Detroit Lions vs. HOU
5. Evan Engram, New York Giants at CIN
6. Rob Gronkowski, Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. KC
7. Eric Ebron, Pittsburgh Steelers vs. BAL
8. Austin Hooper, Cleveland Browns at JAX
9. Mark Andrews, Baltimore Ravens at PIT
10. Jonnu Smith, Tennessee Titans at IND
11. Robert Tonyan, Green Bay Packers vs. CHI
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12. Hayden Hurst, Atlanta Falcons vs. LV
13. Jimmy Graham, Chicago Bears at GB
14. Mike Gesicki, Miami Dolphins at NYJ
15. Trey Burton, Indianapolis Colts vs. TEN
16. Dalton Schultz, Dallas Cowboys vs. WAS
17. Noah Fant, Denver Broncos vs. NO
18. Jared Cook, New Orleans Saints at DEN
19. Logan Thomas, Washington Football Team at DAL
20. Irv Smith Jr. Minnesota Vikings vs. CAR
This week in the National Football League


upi--2020-11-26--Broadway stars descend on small town in first trailer for 'The Prom'

Nov. 26 ( UPI ) -- Netflix has released the first , full-length trailer for its movie musical The Prom @ @ @ @ @ shows Meryl Streep , James Corden , Nicole Kidman and Andrew Rannells as Broadway stars @ @ @ @ @ to defend two teen girlfriends who are n't allowed to go to their high-school prom @ @ @ @ @ Ryan Murphy directed the film , which also features Jo Ellen Pellman , Kerry Washington @ @ @ @ @ DeBose .
It is scheduled to debut on the streaming service on Dec. 11 .

Nov. 26 (UPI) -- Netflix has released the first, full-length trailer for its movie musical The Prom.
Thursday's 3-minute preview shows Meryl Streep, James Corden, Nicole Kidman and Andrew Rannells as Broadway stars who head to small-town Indiana to defend two teen girlfriends who aren't allowed to go to their high-school prom together as a couple.
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Ryan Murphy directed the film, which also features Jo Ellen Pellman, Kerry Washington, Keegan-Michael Key and Ariana DeBose.
It is scheduled to debut on the streaming service on Dec. 11.


upi--2020-11-26--U.S. COVID-19 daily cases pass 180K; death toll approaches spring spike

Nov. 26 ( UPI ) -- The number of COVID-19 cases reported in the United States has risen for the fourth straight day and the one-day death toll is approaching numbers not seen since the spring , according to Johns Hopkins University .
Updated data show the number of new confirmed active cases on Wednesday was 181,490 .
The number of deaths reported Wednesday was 2,297 , the second day in a row that more than 2,000 patients died in a single day since May .
The record is about 2,600 on April 15 .
Since the start of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases and more than 262,000 deaths in the United States , according to Johns Hopkins .
Wednesday was the eighth time in nine days that cases passed 150,000 .
Close to 90,000 people in the United States are hospitalized with COVID-19 .
Of those , 17,500 are in intensive care , according to the COVID Tracking Project .
New York Gov .
Andrew Cuomo said Thursday that the state had 3,056 COVID-19 hospitalizations , as of Wednesday , a rise of 74 since Tuesday .
Sixty-seven people died in New York from COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ New Yorkers to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday safely .
The state has adopted a new `` micro-cluster '' strategy , which ranks regions by the percentage of positive cases .
`` The spread is going to be from pre-symptomatic people who do n't even know they have the virus , '' Cuomo said Thursday .
`` It 's not that they 're going to be malicious .
It 's going to be accidental and involuntary .
So what appears safe is no longer safe in this crazy world . ''
In Wyoming , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tested positive for the virus , his office announced Wednesday .
Gordon has minor symptoms and will continue working remotely , the governor 's office said .
State government offices had been closed for a deep cleaning after another employee tested positive , and it was unclear where Gordon was exposed since he had not attended any public events over the past two weeks , policy adviser Renny MacKay told The Casper Star-Tribune .
In Colorado , Gov .
Jared Polis ( D ) announced Wednesday that he would voluntarily self-quarantine for 14 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tested positive for the virus .
Polis said he had tested negative for the virus .
Several U.S. governors have tested positive for COVID-19 including Virginia Gov .
Ralph Northam ( D ) , Missouri Gov .
Mike Parson ( R ) and Oklahoma Gov .
Kevin Stitt ( R ) and Nevada Gov .
Steve Sisolak ( D ) .
Denver 's Mayor Michael Hancock faced criticism for boarding an airplane Wednesday to Mississippi to visit his wife and daughter for Thanksgiving after publicly asking Denver residents to cancel extended family gatherings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hancock apologized saying he traveled so other family members would n't have to .
`` I made my decision as a husband and father , '' Hancock tweeted .
`` For those who are angry and disappointed , I humbly ask you to forgive decisions that are borne of my heart and not my head . ''
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control posted updated recommendations Nov. 19 that families celebrating Thanksgiving together should have guests bring their own food , drinks , plates , cups and utensils and celebrate outdoors or with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should avoid going in and out of food preparation areas and hosts should disinfect touched surfaces and items between use , the agency said .

Thanksgiving holiday travelers thronged the Los Angeles International Airport as active COVID-19 cases and deaths continued to rise in the United States. Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI | License Photo
Nov. 26 (UPI) -- The number of COVID-19 cases reported in the United States has risen for the fourth straight day and the one-day death toll is approaching numbers not seen since the spring, according to Johns Hopkins University. Updated data show the number of new confirmed active cases on Wednesday was 181,490. The number of deaths reported Wednesday was 2,297, the second day in a row that more than 2,000 patients died in a single day since May. The record is about 2,600 on April 15. Advertisement
Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 12.78 million cases and more than 262,000 deaths in the United States, according to Johns Hopkins. Wednesday was the eighth time in nine days that cases passed 150,000.
Close to 90,000 people in the United States are hospitalized with COVID-19. Of those, 17,500 are in intensive care, according to the COVID Tracking Project.
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New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo said Thursday that the state had 3,056 COVID-19 hospitalizations, as of Wednesday, a rise of 74 since Tuesday. Sixty-seven people died in New York from COVID-19 on Wednesday, Cuomo said, urging New Yorkers to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday safely. The state has adopted a new "micro-cluster" strategy, which ranks regions by the percentage of positive cases.
"The spread is going to be from pre-symptomatic people who don't even know they have the virus," Cuomo said Thursday. "It's not that they're going to be malicious. It's going to be accidental and involuntary. So what appears safe is no longer safe in this crazy world."
In Wyoming, Gov. Mark Gordon (R) tested positive for the virus, his office announced Wednesday. Gordon has minor symptoms and will continue working remotely, the governor's office said. State government offices had been closed for a deep cleaning after another employee tested positive, and it was unclear where Gordon was exposed since he had not attended any public events over the past two weeks, policy adviser Renny MacKay told The Casper Star-Tribune.
In Colorado, Gov. Jared Polis (D) announced Wednesday that he would voluntarily self-quarantine for 14 days after being exposed to someone who tested positive for the virus. Polis said he had tested negative for the virus.
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Several U.S. governors have tested positive for COVID-19 including Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam (D), Missouri Gov. Mike Parson (R) and Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt (R) and Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak (D).
Denver's Mayor Michael Hancock faced criticism for boarding an airplane Wednesday to Mississippi to visit his wife and daughter for Thanksgiving after publicly asking Denver residents to cancel extended family gatherings for the holiday and avoid travel.
Hancock apologized saying he traveled so other family members wouldn't have to. "I made my decision as a husband and father," Hancock tweeted. "For those who are angry and disappointed, I humbly ask you to forgive decisions that are borne of my heart and not my head."
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control posted updated recommendations Nov. 19 that families celebrating Thanksgiving together should have guests bring their own food, drinks, plates, cups and utensils and celebrate outdoors or with windows open, if possible. Guests should avoid going in and out of food preparation areas and hosts should disinfect touched surfaces and items between use, the agency said.


upi--2020-11-26--Disney to cut 32,000 jobs amid COVID-19 closures

Nov. 26 ( UPI ) -- Walt Disney Co. will cut 32,000 jobs at its parks and resorts by the end of March as the COVID-19 pandemic has led to prolonged closures at the company 's theme parks , the company said in a filing to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on Wednesday .
`` COVID-19 and measures to prevent its spread impacted our segments in a number of ways , most significantly at Parks , Experiences and Products , where our theme parks were closed or operating at significantly reduced capacity for a significant portion of the year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were suspended since late in the second quarter and retail stories were closed for a significant portion of the year , '' the company said in its filing .
In addition to the job cuts , the company reported furloughs of 37,000 employees .
The company said it employed about 203,000 people as of Oct. 3 , including about 155,000 in its Parks , Experiences and Products segment .
The company 's 12 theme parks around the world were closed between March and May , with the closure of its California park to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and its Paris park undergoing a second closure at the end of October .
Disney previously reported revenue in its parks , experiences and products segment fell 61 % to $ 2.6 billion during the fiscal fourth quarter , which ended Oct. 3 .
Operating income was down by about $ 3.5 billion in the third quarter .
The company 's studio entertainment segment also has been impacted by the pandemic , delaying the release of films , including Black Widow .
The company 's Disney+ streaming services , launched in November 2019 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ million subscribers as of Oct. 3 .
Disney faced criticism for layoffs announced earlier , including from Abigail Disney , the granddaughter of Walt Disney 's brother .

Visitors walk in the Disneyland theme park on the first opening day after a prolonged closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Shanghai, China, on May 11. Photo by Zhou You/Costfoto/EPA-EFE
Nov. 26 (UPI) -- Walt Disney Co. will cut 32,000 jobs at its parks and resorts by the end of March as the COVID-19 pandemic has led to prolonged closures at the company's theme parks, the company said in a filing to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on Wednesday. The cuts include 28,000 previously announced in September. Advertisement
"COVID-19 and measures to prevent its spread impacted our segments in a number of ways, most significantly at Parks, Experiences and Products, where our theme parks were closed or operating at significantly reduced capacity for a significant portion of the year, cruise ship sailings and guided tours were suspended since late in the second quarter and retail stories were closed for a significant portion of the year," the company said in its filing.
In addition to the job cuts, the company reported furloughs of 37,000 employees.
The company said it employed about 203,000 people as of Oct. 3, including about 155,000 in its Parks, Experiences and Products segment.
The company's 12 theme parks around the world were closed between March and May, with the closure of its California park to continue through the end of the year and its Paris park undergoing a second closure at the end of October.
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Disney previously reported revenue in its parks, experiences and products segment fell 61% to $2.6 billion during the fiscal fourth quarter, which ended Oct. 3. Operating income was down by about $3.5 billion in the third quarter.
The company's studio entertainment segment also has been impacted by the pandemic, delaying the release of films, including Black Widow.
The company's Disney+ streaming services, launched in November 2019, has grown to an estimated 74 million subscribers as of Oct. 3.
Disney faced criticism for layoffs announced earlier, including from Abigail Disney, the granddaughter of Walt Disney's brother.


upi--2020-11-26--Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade goes on sans spectators

Nov. 26 ( UPI ) -- The Macy 's Thanksgiving Day Parade looked a little different when it kicked off Thursday amid the coronavirus pandemic .
`` REMINDER This year 's @ Macys Thanksgiving Day festivities are not open to spectators .
The bulk of the program has been pre-taped with no audience to minimize potential exposure to Covid-19 .
Enjoy the event by watching it on TV .
Have a happy and safe Thanksgiving ! ''
the New York Police Department tweeted earlier in the day .
Tonight Show host Jimmy Fallon was seen singing `` Dancing in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Macy 's department store .
NBC 's broadcast of the event included pre-recorded holiday messages and memories shared by celebrities such as Amy Poehler , Nick Offerman , Ben Feldman , Ellen DeGeneres , Blake Shelton , Sterling K. Brown and Chrissy Metz .
Balloons and floats traveled an abbreviated parade route on the warm and rainy morning , while crowds were kept away from the scene .
The casts of the shuttered Broadway shows Hamilton , Mean Girls , Jagged Little Pill and Ai n't Too Proud previously filmed the performances that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Broadway theaters have been closed since March and are not expected to re-open until next spring because of the pandemic .
`` It 's Hamilton 's 1st time performing at the Parade .
Grateful to be among the shows performing , including @ AintTooProud , @ jaggedmusical , @ MeanGirlsBway .
Live theater is waiting on the other side of all this.The ghost lights are still on .
Grateful for YOU .
Have a happy safe day , '' Hamilton creator Lin-Manuel Miranda tweeted .

1/4
The Red Titan from "Ryan's World" balloon moves down 34th Street at the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City on Thursday. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Manhattan parade route was reduced to just a few blocks of giant balloons, festive floats and performers. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo
Nov. 26 (UPI) -- The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade looked a little different when it kicked off Thursday amid the coronavirus pandemic. "REMINDER This year's @Macys Thanksgiving Day festivities are not open to spectators. The bulk of the program has been pre-taped with no audience to minimize potential exposure to Covid-19. Enjoy the event by watching it on TV. Have a happy and safe Thanksgiving!" the New York Police Department tweeted earlier in the day. Advertisement Here we go! #MacysParade @nbc @Macys pic.twitter.com/nzBwA4IPuK— jimmy fallon (@jimmyfallon) November 26, 2020 Tonight Show host Jimmy Fallon was seen singing "Dancing in the Streets" in front of the famed Macy's department store. NBC's broadcast of the event included pre-recorded holiday messages and memories shared by celebrities such as Amy Poehler, Nick Offerman, Ben Feldman, Ellen DeGeneres, Blake Shelton, Sterling K. Brown and Chrissy Metz. Balloons and floats traveled an abbreviated parade route on the warm and rainy morning, while crowds were kept away from the scene. Advertisement
Last year, an estimated 3.5 million people attended.
The casts of the shuttered Broadway shows Hamilton, Mean Girls, Jagged Little Pill and Ain't Too Proud previously filmed the performances that are airing throughout NBC's program.
Broadway theaters have been closed since March and are not expected to re-open until next spring because of the pandemic.
"It's Hamilton's 1st time performing at the Parade. Grateful to be among the shows performing, including @AintTooProud, @jaggedmusical, @MeanGirlsBway. Live theater is waiting on the other side of all this.The ghost lights are still on. Grateful for YOU. Have a happy safe day," Hamilton creator Lin-Manuel Miranda tweeted.


upi--2020-11-26--Coach Jurgen Klopp says Liverpool 'deserved' Champions League loss

Nov. 26 ( UPI ) -- Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said the Reds `` deserved '' their shutout loss to Italian Serie A foe Atalanta in the group stage of the 2020-2021 UEFA Champions League .
Atalanta beat Liverpool 2-0 on Wednesday at Anfield in Liverpool , England .
The Reds must now beat Ajax in their next Champions League match to advance to the knockout stages .
`` Rhythm , we did n't have rhythm , '' Klopp told reporters .
`` We made five changes and that obviously gives you a few problems with rhythm , but we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Atalanta was good -- Atalanta fought , Atalanta defended well .
That 's why we did n't have a shot on target .
My defense was completely fine apart from two situations .
That 's how it is .
Atalanta did well in those moments and we have to admit [ that ] .
`` It is a deserved defeat .
I have said that a couple of times .
It does n't sound nice , but it 's the truth .
So congratulations to Atalanta . ''
The Reds and Atalanta played @ @ @ @ @ @ @ D match up before striker Josip Ilicic drew first blood in the 60th minute .
Fellow striker Alejandro Gomez collected a pass on the left flank to spark the sequence .
The Atalanta forward then curled a pass toward the far post .
The feed dropped down onto the foot of Illic , who darted through the box before he tapped a shot past Reds keeper Alisson .
Gomez also helped set up the final goal about five minutes later .
The Atalanta striker received a pass at the top of the Liverpool @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He eyed the defense before he chipped a ball toward the far post .
Atalanta 's Hans Hateboer then put his head on the ball to send a pass to fellow winger Robin Gosens , who smacked a left-footed shot into the left side of the net to beat Alisson .
Liverpool battles Brighton in a Premier League game at 7:30 a.m. EST on Saturday in Brighton , England .
The Reds then host Ajax in the Champions League group stage at 3 p.m. EST on Tuesday at Anfield .
`` With @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country on top of the normal challenges already , my concern and what I think about in the moment is not Ajax , sorry , '' Klopp said .
`` We go in a few hours to Brighton and play there .
That 's the first thing we have to think about and when this game is over , then we start thinking about Ajax . ''

Manager Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool lost to Atalanta in the Champions League Wednesday in Liverpool, England. Photo by Peter Powell/EPA-EFE
Nov. 26 (UPI) -- Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said the Reds "deserved" their shutout loss to Italian Serie A foe Atalanta in the group stage of the 2020-2021 UEFA Champions League. Atalanta beat Liverpool 2-0 on Wednesday at Anfield in Liverpool, England. The Reds must now beat Ajax in their next Champions League match to advance to the knockout stages. Advertisement
"Rhythm, we didn't have rhythm," Klopp told reporters. "We made five changes and that obviously gives you a few problems with rhythm, but we usually get through a game.
"Atalanta was good -- Atalanta fought, Atalanta defended well. That's why we didn't have a shot on target. My defense was completely fine apart from two situations. That's how it is. Atalanta did well in those moments and we have to admit [that].
"It is a deserved defeat. I have said that a couple of times. It doesn't sound nice, but it's the truth. So congratulations to Atalanta."
The Reds and Atalanta played a scoreless first half in the Group D match up before striker Josip Ilicic drew first blood in the 60th minute. Fellow striker Alejandro Gomez collected a pass on the left flank to spark the sequence.
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The Atalanta forward then curled a pass toward the far post. The feed dropped down onto the foot of Illic, who darted through the box before he tapped a shot past Reds keeper Alisson.
Gomez also helped set up the final goal about five minutes later. The Atalanta striker received a pass at the top of the Liverpool box at the start of that play. He eyed the defense before he chipped a ball toward the far post.
Atalanta's Hans Hateboer then put his head on the ball to send a pass to fellow winger Robin Gosens, who smacked a left-footed shot into the left side of the net to beat Alisson.
Liverpool battles Brighton in a Premier League game at 7:30 a.m. EST on Saturday in Brighton, England. The Reds then host Ajax in the Champions League group stage at 3 p.m. EST on Tuesday at Anfield.
"With all the challenges we face in this country on top of the normal challenges already, my concern and what I think about in the moment is not Ajax, sorry," Klopp said.
"We go in a few hours to Brighton and play there. That's the first thing we have to think about and when this game is over, then we start thinking about Ajax."