Latest news with #Sion
Associated Press
5 days ago
- General
- Associated Press
Euro 2025 host Switzerland loses to Norway in stadium close to Alpine rockslide village
SION, Switzerland (AP) — A full rehearsal for their opening day game at the Women's European Championship saw host Switzerland beaten 1-0 by Norway on Tuesday in the UEFA Nations League. The game was played at Sion, a Euro 2025 host venue about 40 kilometers (25 miles) down the River Rhone from the valley where the village of Blatten was destroyed last week by a landslide of rock and ice. The stadium observed a minute's silence before kickoff. On July 2, Switzerland will host Norway in the prime-time game on opening day of the Euros — likely not forgetting the manner of the only goal Tuesday in the fourth minute. When a Swiss defender purposely put a deflated ball out of play, Norway took the throw-in with a fresh ball and started an attack. That quickly led to a shooting chance for Vilde Boe Risa to score. 'It's not even a goal, because they haven't played with 'fair play,'' Switzerland midfielder Smilla Vallotto told broadcaster RTS. 'That motivates me for the next match. It's really not possible that they did that.' The young Swiss team coached by Pia Sundhage, who led the United States to Olympic gold medals in 2008 and 2012, is now relegated from the Nations League top tier in a group won by France, which beat Iceland 2-0 Tuesday. After hosting Norway in Basel in four weeks' time, Switzerland will play Iceland in Bern and Finland in Geneva. ___ AP soccer:
Wales Online
13-05-2025
- Wales Online
This off-grid escape just an hour from Cardiff forced me to actually switch off
This off-grid escape just an hour from Cardiff forced me to actually switch off This digital detox glamping site, in the heart of the Welsh countryside, promises a total switch off with no wifi or signal Adrift at the Dome is a fully off-grid glamping dome set in the beautiful Llanthony Valley (Image: Portia Jones ) I needed a break, a proper one. After a busy few months of deadlines and boring life admin I dreamed of escaping the endless buzz of notifications, emails, and my phone's constant pinging. I wanted somewhere off-grid – remote enough to make me feel like I was the only person for miles but also comfortable enough to hunker down for a long weekend in Wales. Luckily a swish digital detox glamping site only an hour from Cardiff promised a total switch off with no wifi or signal. Adrift at the Dome is a fully off-grid glamping dome set in the beautiful Llanthony valley. It was exactly what I needed: a glamping stay in a quirky geodome with no wifi, phone signal, or endless distractions. A secluded stay for two in the glorious Welsh countryside. Bliss. I packed my bags with my finest glamping outfits, wellies, flask, and 'must-read' books that had long been collecting dust on my shelves and I set off for Llanthony with my obliging husband in tow. After a winding drive down a single-track road through the Black Mountains, flanked by a canopy of trees, we arrived at the foot of a sweeping valley. Article continues below In the distance was a large geometric dome structure perched amid the secluded countryside landscape and resident sheep. It's a picturesque setting (Image: Portia Jones ) From the moment I stepped out of the car I could feel the stress slipping away. No notifications. No emails from editors (sorry, Sion). No rush. Just the crisp spring air and a night of remote, notification-free bliss before me. Maybe even a cheeky glass of wine and some pasta? Inside the dome was deceptively roomy and far chicer than I expected. Here cosy cabin vibes meet minimalist Scandi dream with a touch of intergalactic glam. With a panoramic view of the Llanthony valley from the huge window, it's the perfect set-up if you love nature but also value snuggly duvets, hot showers, and not being eaten alive by midges. A wild stay with hotel-room level comfort and I was here for it. A slice of luxury in the middle of nowhere (Image: Portia Jones ) The stylish and well-thought-out space is cleverly divided into zones including a proper kitchen for all your snacking needs, an en suite bathroom so you're not fumbling around in the dark with a torch, and a stargazing bed that sounds like something straight out of a 90s rom-com. There are also many thoughtful touches like a log fire, books, and blankets that give the space a homely, cwtchy feel making it ideal for a romantic break for two. It has a homely feel (Image: Portia Jones ) The dome operates solely on solar power which means there is limited electricity for charging devices but there is light and power for essentials. Don't bother bringing an iPad as there's no wifi – and you won't need it anyway as a selection of books is provided if you want a relaxing read and to chill out. Nearly half the dome is see-through so you can lie in bed with your fave and watch the constellations – there is no need to bundle up or brave the unpredictable Welsh weather. It's camping but without any of the character-building misery. The compact kitchenette has all the essentials for whipping up a meal including a small hob, fridge, cooking utensils, crockery, cutlery, washing-up liquid, sponges, and tea towels. The compact kitchenette has all the essentials (Image: Portia Jones ) While the dome is a wonderful and relaxing space the rustic outdoor area made our stay extra-special. The small fire pit and tree stump seats overlook the valley and are the perfect spot to sit watching the stars come out while toasting marshmallows. Logs and kindling for the log burner and outside fire pit are also provided to keep you toasty warm inside and out. It's the perfect place to fully unwind (Image: Portia Jones ) One of the best things about staying at the dome is that it's in a starry haven as Bannau Brycheiniog is a Dark Sky Reserve. The valley's isolation, far removed from towns and artificial lights, means that when conditions are right the sky can be perfectly clear on those cool, crisp autumn nights and you can gaze up at a canvas of twinkling stars and planets. It was slightly overcast when we stayed though moving clouds gave occasional glimpses of the glittering cosmos above. It was relaxing to sit outside toasting marshmallows and sipping wine without resorting to Netflix or idly scrolling on our phones. It was a proper digital detox evening. Bannau Brycheiniog is a Dark Sky Reserve (Image: Edward Bentley/Getty ) One of the main reasons I wanted to stay at Adrift at the dome was the promise of being completely off-grid for a short while. No wifi, no mobile signal, nothing to pull me away from the moment. And honestly I thought it might be difficult at first. As a journalist and podcaster I'm so used to reaching for my phone every few minutes – a bad habit that's hard to break. But within hours of arriving I'd already forgotten about it. The lack of a digital connection permitted me to slow down in a way I hadn't realised I needed. There was no need to doom scroll, no notifications to check, and no need to respond to messages. Instead I enjoyed a slower pace reading, cooking pasta, watching the fire, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. The lack of a digital connection permitted me to slow down in a way I hadn't realised I needed (Image: Portia Jones ) While we were perfectly content to spend much of our time around the cabin we couldn't resist exploring the valley the next day. Llanthony valley itself is rich with history and glorious natural beauty. Just a short walk from the cabin is Llanthony Priory, a magnificent 12th-century ruin in the shadow of the Black Mountains. Wandering through its arches, surrounded by sweeping Welsh countryside, felt almost otherworldly. The surrounding hills offer fantastic walks to stretch your legs and get your step count up. Bannau Brycheiniog is right on your doorstep with trails that range from gentle strolls to more challenging hikes. If you want to reintegrate into modern life the charming town of Abergavenny is a short drive away and has plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs find out What's On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here. So did I miss the internet? Not one bit. The only ping I needed was the one from my wine glass. I came, I glamped, I forgot to check my emails and, honestly, that's the kind of inbox zero I can get behind. How to get to Llanthony Castaway and what you need to know Reaching Adrift at the dome is part of the adventure (Image: Portia Jones ) Reaching Adrift at the dome is part of the adventure as its remote location deep within the Bannau Brycheiniog adds to its off-grid charm. Llanthony is approximately 30 minutes from Abergavenny, which is the nearest town if you travel by car. Abergavenny is well-connected by train so this would be your best starting point for those arriving by public transport. From there it's a scenic drive along winding narrow lanes that will bring you into the heart of the valley. Be aware that the final part of the journey involves navigating some narrow country roads so driving with care is essential. GPS signals can be unreliable in the area so it's a good idea to download directions or ensure you know the route in advance. Once you arrive you'll park in a designated area and walk across the field to your dome home for the evening. The dome has no wifi or mobile signal, which is frankly a huge bonus and not a flaw. This makes it the perfect place for a digital detox but it's worth letting family and friends know you'll be off the grid during your stay. Well-behaved dogs are allowed but an extra fee is required. You can find more information and book here. Article continues below
Medscape
13-05-2025
- Health
- Medscape
Unusual Case of Psychosis Linked to Adrenal Tumour
In older patients, elevated blood pressure is often observed during visits to general practitioners. However, if it is not measurable, this should raise particular concerns. If a psychotic episode also occurs, prompt action is needed. Bastien Picut and his colleagues at Valais Hospital in Sion, Switzerland, reported an unusual case of a 60-year-old woman with decompensated metabolic syndrome and psychosis caused by a typical adrenal cortical carcinoma (ACC; adrenocortical oncocytic neoplasm, ACON). The Patient and Her History The woman presented to the hospital with symptoms of refractory arterial hypertension, accompanied by dizziness, headaches, and asthenia, and a weight gain of 20 kg within a span of 6 months. Despite maximal antihypertensive therapy, her systolic blood pressure remained at approximately 160 mmHg. Findings and Diagnosis Examination revealed the onset of type 2 diabetes, requiring immediate insulin, and mixed hyperlipidaemia associated with hypokalaemia and hypernatremia. While hospitalised under geriatric care, the patient experienced a psychotic breakdown characterised by persecutory delirium, noncritical visual hallucinations, and mistrust of contacts associated with anxiety. A comprehensive laboratory analysis was performed. Liver function tests were abnormal, with significantly elevated levels of gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase, total bilirubin, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase. Additionally, hypernatremia (149 mmol/L) was noted (normal range, 135-145 mmol/L). The calcium and ammonia levels were normal at 2.31 mmol/L and 36 μmol/L, respectively. Urine analysis revealed proteinuria, ketonuria, urobilinogen, and haematuria. The levels of dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate and urinary catecholamines, including metanephrine, normetanephrine, and methoxytyramine, were marginally elevated. Following the initial evaluation, an ultrasound was performed, revealing a large, bilobed retro-pancreatic mass near the left kidney and para-aortic region. Subsequent abdominal CT confirmed a bilobed left adrenal mass measuring 8 × 5 cm and 1.8 × 2.2 cm, which was vascularised without calcifications. The CT scan ruled out the presence of any locoregional or distant spread of the disease. The differential diagnosis of pheochromocytoma was considered. Radiological findings and elevated urinary metanephrines, suggesting the secretion of catecholamine precursors. No other causes for the elevated urinary catecholamines were identified. Prior to the intervention, the patient was medically managed with haloperidol (1 mg orally three times daily) and clomethiazole (192 mg orally twice daily as needed) for psychiatric decompensation. For diabetes management, metformin 500 mg orally three times daily, linagliptin 5 mg orally, and insulin glargine 30U subcutaneously were administered. Hypertension was managed with metoprolol (50 mg), spironolactone (25 mg), lisinopril (20 mg), and doxazosin (4 mg) orally. Subsequently, laparoscopic left adrenalectomy was performed without intraoperative complications. The patient required adrenergic support until the fourth postoperative day. Additionally, all antihypertensive medications were discontinued, except for beta blockers. Discussion This is the first ACON case described in the literature with such an atypical clinical presentation, according to the authors. Psychotic manifestations of ACC have been previously described; however, they are associated with cortisol-secreting ACC as part of Cushing syndrome. Furthermore, the doctors could not conclusively determine whether the tumour was a pure non-secreting ACON. The clinical presentation resembled Cushing syndrome, and hypokalaemia could be attributed to vasospasm from secondary hyperaldosteronism. Aldosterone secretion from the tumour could not be clearly assessed due to the ongoing use of antihypertensive medications (beta blockers, spironolactone, calcium channel blockers, and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors). This may have affected the aldosterone-renin ratio, leading to a potentially false-negative assessment. The variable clinical presentation and the lack of sensitivity and specificity of preoperative diagnostic procedures, such as imaging in aggressive malignant diseases, make adrenocortical oncocytic neoplasms a significant challenge for clinicians.
Daily Mirror
04-05-2025
- Daily Mirror
Tiny UK seaside village with once thriving harbour now a hidden gem
The small hamlet of Porthgain offers tourists a wonderful holiday destination off the beaten track with cultural touchstones and some amazingly fresh fish and chips A tiny seaside village with a once-thriving harbour is now a hidden gem that offers the perfect holiday destination for visitors. Hugging the Pembrokeshire coastline is the coastal hamlet of Porthgain, a once-thriving harbour village that is now considered a hidden gem that has plenty to offer visitors despite its smaller size. Tucked into a small valley that faces the Irish Sea, Porthgain is protected by a rugged coastline. As its time as a harbour faded over time, new industries and attractions have emerged to keep a steady influx of tourists visiting the area. Today visitors to the small hamlet can enjoy the local Harbour Lights Galley which vows to bring "the best of Welsh art" to the area. "There is a wonderful mixture of styles and mediums available from some of the best artists Wales has to offer," Welsh Slate Water Features said on its website. "Interestingly the Gallery is located in what was once the manager's office for Porthgain brickworks." Pembrokshire local Alun Davies has also opened his own gallery in the village that features his own artwork. "His love of Pembrokeshire is evident in his beautiful landscape paintings which capture the essence of the Welsh coastline and countryside," the website added. "Alun's beautiful Pyrenean mountain dog Sion is a local celebrity and a visit to Porthgain wouldn't be complete with giving Sion a fuss." After taking in the scenic beauty of the area, visitors can tuck into Fish and Chips from the Shed Bistro that offers fresh local fish caught that day and cooked just yards away from the sea. Though, make sure you are keeping an eye out for seagulls. The history of Porthgain stretches through the centuries, according to the website and offers a treasure trove of cultural touchstones for people curious to know more about that region of Wales. The website said: "In the early 1900s the harbour was extended to allow more and bigger ships in for loading and the Ty Mawr brickworks were built to manufacture bricks out of waste material from the quarry. "This included a continuously burning Hoffman Kiln for burning the bricks. Production shifted from 1912 to 1931 into crushed road stone, and this was used for road surfaces all over the UK. The crushed dolerite stone is a similar material to the bluestones found at Stonehenge. Mining and industrial works in general ceased at the location in the 1930s." Those wanting to visit Porthgain can make their way from both St David and nearby Fishuard. A shuttle bus that operates with hikers is also available for those wanting to make their way to the hamlet. Those able to drive out to the village can also make use of free parking in the centre of the hamlet.
Korea Herald
14-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
NCT Wish presents heart-popping first love
Group's 2nd EP 'Poppop' conveys diverse emotions of first love Six-member K-pop boy group NCT Wish has returned with a refreshing sound perfect for spring. NCT Wish's second mini album 'Poppop' captures the emotions of first love through six tracks, including the title track 'Poppop.' 'It's so exciting to be back as a full group, and I really love both the title track and the B-sides. I just can't wait to unveil our new album,' said leader Sion during a group interview held at Yongsan-gu, Seoul on Thursday. 'I was hoping our title song this time would be something upbeat and rhythmic that fits with dancing, and I'm really happy that it turned out to be a song that just makes you want to move,' Sion added. Jaehee emphasized the charm of the lyrics. 'There's a line that says, 'You and I are the main characters in an anime.' It's a song that captures that feeling where everything seems beautiful as you fall in love. It starts off bubbly but then shifts in mood during the bridge, which makes it a really fun track.' NCT Wish, which debuted in February 2024 as the final sub-unit of NCT, has sold nearly 2 million copies of its debut physical single 'Wish,' second physical single 'Songbird' and first EP 'Steady.' The new album 'Poppop' surpassed 1 million preorders before its official release. Jaehee shared that he put effort into improving his vocals for this album. 'After we finished promoting 'Steady,' I spent a lot of time reflecting on my singing. I took vocal lessons and worked on finding my voice, and I finally felt like I was able to express myself in my own way.' Main rapper Sakuya said he focused on matching the cool vibe of the title track. 'There's a big mood shift when the rap comes in after the hook, and I wanted to bring that out as much as possible, so I tried to sound as cool and charismatic as I could.' Now just past its first anniversary, NCT Wish still seems a bit shy and awkward, but the members said they have grown a lot through their rookie promotions. The members also shared that the Asia tour 'Log in,' which began last November and included 12 sold-out shows across six cities in Japan, as well as sold-out concerts in Seoul and Macao, was a meaningful experience. Yushi noted that he learned how to communicate with the audience while Jaehee praised Sion, saying, 'Sion's gotten so good at interacting with the crowd with ad-libs in the middle of the performance. I feel like we're learning how to create real synergy with the audience.' The members also said that performing alongside many senior artists at SM's 30th anniversary concert 'SM Town Live 2025,' held in January, helped them grow as performers. Sion, who took the stage with SM's iconic artist BoA for her signature song 'Only One,' said it was a huge honor. He was selected as her partner — a role reserved for the top male dancers among SM's idols. 'I found out I was chosen for the role when BoA texted me saying I should start practicing the one-kick signature dance for 'Only One.' I worked really hard for that stage,' Sion recalled. Ryo looks forward to the rest of 2025. 'We're preparing for a solo concert sometime this year,' he said, expressing his excitement. Jaehee added, 'I hope people hear our songs — especially all the B-side tracks that I really love — just playing them as they walk down a street."
