Scientists redesign face mask to improve comfort, protection
Washington: Scientists, including one of Indian-origin, have designed a new reusable face mask that protects wearers and those around them from the novel coronavirus, and is comfortable enough to wear all day, an innovation that may help reduce the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic. The novel mask, developed by scientists, including Sundaresan Jayaraman from the Georgia Institute of Technology in the US, combines a filtration material with a stretchable fabric to hold it in place.
4-year-old killed in shooting in us
Baton Rouge (US): A toddler was fatally shot while riding in a vehicle along a Louisiana road late Friday in a shooting that was condemned by the city’s mayor. Ivorie Combs, 4, was identified early Saturday as the child who was killed, Baton Rouge Police Sgt. L’Jean McKneely Jr. Said in a news release. Detectives believe a passing vehicle opened fire on the vehicle Combs was riding in, and the child was struck. Combs was pronounced dead at the scene.
Pope to make first trip since pandemic
Vatican City: Pope Francis is next month set to make what would be his first visit outside Rome since Italy was put under lockdown in early March when it became the first country in Europe to feel the full brunt of the coronavirus pandemic.
Taliban return to Doha for Afghan peace talks
Islamabad: Taliban officials said a senior delegation returned early Saturday to Qatar, paving the way for the start of peace talks with the Afghan Government that are expected to take place in the tiny Gulf state. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to speak to the media. The negotiations are the second, critical part to a peace deal the US signed with the Taliban in February in Doha.
Iran begins new school yr amid virus concerns
Tehran: Iran opened the new school year after nearly seven months of closure. In a video conference, President Hassan Rouhani said the education of 15 million students is as important as the health system.