When it comes to living on Mars, there’s one major problem that will affect future astronauts: oxygen, or rather, a lack thereof. But an instrument called Moxie - the Mars Oxygen In-situ Resource Utilisation Experiment - could provide a solution. It will attempt to turn carbon dioxide on Mars into oxygen when it is taken to the red planet by a new Nasa rover in 2020 - and it could be a precursor to similar technologies on manned misisons. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology is creating an instrument for Mars. Called Moxie (shown here in this illustration) it will attempt to turn the planet's carbon dioxide into oxygen. It will be taken to the red planet by a new unnamed Nasa rover in 2020 . Speaking to Business Insider, former astronaut and principle investigator for the instrument Dr Jeffrey Hoffman explained the project. ‘It will be the first time when we will actually produce oxygen on the surface of Mars,’ he said. This next-gen vehicle is the successor to the Curiosity rover, with upgraded hardware and instruments to examine Mars' rocks. The rover will assess the potential of the environment for humans to live in one day and search for signs of Martian life. It will identify and collect a collection of rock and soil samples, which it will be able to send back to Earth intact, via another spacecraft one day in the future. Dr Charles Elachi, director of Nasa's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, has previously said that collecting a rock sample and bringing it back to Earth is Nasa's top priority. Scientists are particularly interested in the samples so they can understand the hazards posed by Martian dust and demonstrate how oxygen can be created - details important to consider for human missions to Mars and the future colonisation of the planet. The rover marks the next major step in fulfilling President Obama's challenge of sending humans to Mars in the 2030s. The atmosphere of Mars is 96 per cent carbon dioxide and less than 0.2 per cent oxygen, but the team hope to convert the former into 99.6 per cent pure oxygen. To do so, it gathers carbon dioxide from its surroundings and isolates oxygen atoms, then combines them to make O2 - breathable air. On this occasion, together with the by-product of carbon monoxide, the gases will be released back into the air. But proving the technology works would have important implications for future missions - and not just for breathable air, but fuel as well. ‘Ultimately, the idea is that Nasa would send both an empty rocket and a larger version of Moxie to Mars, before a planned human mission,’ writes Jessica Orwig for Business Insider. ‘The oxygen-producing machine would take about a year and a half to fill the rocket with enough liquid oxygen for lift off. ‘Then, when astronauts arrived, they would have a rocket fueled up and ready for launch to take them home.’ Nasa’s Mars 2020 rover is a planned £1.2 billion ($1.9 billion) roving laboratory, similar to the Mars Curiosity rover currently on the planet. Moxie was selected from 58 instrument proposals from research teams around the world. If the technology can be proven, it would greatly reduce the weight of a future mission to Mars - 75 per cent of a manned Mars mission would be taken up by oxygen, or equipment carrying it. The atmosphere of Mars is 96 per cent carbon dioxide and less than 0.2 per cent oxygen, but the team hope to convert the former into 99.6 per cent pure oxygen. This could then be used for breathable air on future manned missions (illustrated) or even fuel to get them off the surface . Nasa's 2020 rover (illustrated)  is the successor to the Curiosity rover, with upgraded hardware and instruments to examine Mars' rocks. The rover will assess the potential of the environment for humans to live in one day and search for signs of Martian life .

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology is creating a Mars instrument . Called Moxie it will attempt to turn the planet's carbon dioxide into oxygen . It will be taken to the red planet by a new Nasa rover in 2020 . The atmosphere of Mars is 96% carbon dioxide and less than 0.2% oxygen . Converting it could provide fuel and air for future manned missions .

- could help to change all that.
Currently located at NASA’s Ames Research Center in Silicon Valley, Moxie was originally designed in 2017. According to the team behind the project, the name is a “pun” on NASA’s other in-situ resource exploration project, In-situ Resource Utilisation, and a reference to the original 1955 novel, The Mote in God’s Eye.
The device is designed to test how Mars’ atmosphere can be converted into oxygen, and it can also be used to produce methane from carbon dioxide, or as a catalyst to create propellants for a rocket. And the team behind the project has high hopes for the instrument, and the future of Mars exploration.
"We want to learn how the most abundant element on the surface of Mars can be made more abundant by Moxie,” explained Michael Mumma, Moxie Principal Investigator at NASA’s Ames Research Centre. “We're using a lot of the same basic process that plants use to make their food – by growing microorganisms and producing oxygen in the atmosphere.”
Related: The story of the Martian mole
It has taken more than a decade of tests and experiments on Earth for Moxie to reach this point. First unveiled on the 70th anniversary of Yuri Gagarin’s orbital flight in 2021, the device was tested in an open-top Mars simulation chamber at the NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston.
As of right now, the plan is for Moxie to be loaded onto NASA’s Mars 2026 Rover mission, and then tested on the surface of Mars, as Mars 2024 draws ever closer. If everything goes according to plan, it’s hoped that Moxie will help to prepare future astronauts for life on Mars, and allow them to live there more comfortably.
However, Mars is a complex, and potentially deadly place, which is why it’s important for the device to work as efficiently as possible. Luckily, Moxie could potentially be of some help - as it is also believed that Moxie has the potential to create propellants for rockets, potentially extending a future astronaut’s trip to the Red Planet from Earth.
All that remains to be seen now is how everything will go. But, for now, Moxie seems to be doing pretty well, with researchers at NASA describing the project as “a big technical challenge”. However, the researchers are currently


An obese nurse who lost 10st and was left with folds of saggy skin all over her body paid £20,000 to get her sex life back. Karen Smith, 42, from Nuneaton, Warwickshire, was so self-conscious about her baggy skin and drooping breasts, she felt 'more confident when she was fat.' A former size 28, she took out a £10,000 loan and used an Eastern European clinic to have cheap surgery and achieve the 'body of her dreams'. Karen Smith, 42, slimmed down from size 28 to size 12 but was so self-conscious about her baggy skin and drooping breasts, she spent thousands on surgery to fix her figure so that she could enjoy her sex life . She was so scared her husband would leave her because of her excess skin that she had an upper arm lift, a tummy tuck, thigh lift, breast augmentation and uplift. Now, the size 12 mother from Nuneaton, Warwickshire, loves showcasing her body and dressing up for her husband Darren Smith, 43. Size 28 Karen was extremely self-conscious and despite being active through work, Karen was unable to shift the pounds and weighed 21st thanks to a carb-heavy diet. In 2009, she had lost two stone naturally but was unable to slim down any further. Karen was not eligible for treatment on the NHS, so in June 2009 she booked in for gastric band surgery at the private Spire Parkway hospital in Birmingham for £5,000. She said: 'After the surgery, my stomach was so small I was on a liquid diet for six weeks and then tiny portions.' Seven months after surgery, Karen had lost 9st 7lb and was a size 10 but she was left with folds of saggy skin due to the quick weight loss. Size 28 Karen  was unable to shift the pounds and weighed 21st thanks to a carb-heavy diet . In 2009, she had lost two stone naturally but was unable to slim down any further so had gastric band surgery. She was, however, left with extremely sagging skin due to the quick weight loss . She was so scared her husband, Darren, 43, would leave her because of her flab, she had an upper arm lift, a tummy tuck, thigh lift, breast augmentation and uplift . She said: 'The baggy skin was worse than I’d ever imagined. Folds of flesh on my tummy meant slim cut jeans pinched. 'My bingo wings were so hefty. I had to go up to a size 12 just to cover my lumps and sagging bumps.' Her husband comforted her but she was so horrified she was no longer able to have sex with him. She said: 'I’d been more confident fat. My 44C boobs had shrivelled to a 36AA. 'Where my full thunder thighs had once constantly rubbed, a waterfall of skin sagged between my legs. 'Just to get comfortable when sitting, I had to tuck the loose flesh into my knickers. 'The only way I could even look at myself was when I was fully dressed, all covered up. 'I couldn’t even bear for Darren to see me naked.' After searching through the options available, Karen found she could afford to have surgery if it was performed abroad - and now she feels better than ever . Karen was so pleased with the results she wanted more surgery and taking Mr Smith's concerns on board, she opted to have more serious operations, a tummy tuck and thigh lift, in the UK . In late 2010, Karen made a doctors appointment to start the process of having the skin removed. She said: 'All the procedures I’d need came in at £35,000. I couldn’t afford to have it done privately this time and it was making me severely depressed.' After being turned down for a loan, Karen’s depression caused her to tell Mr Smith to leave her. She said: 'We’d been together 22 years, had spent so long really happy but I couldn’t remember the last time we’d had sex. 'Every time he came close to me, I cringed imagining his secret disgust at how I looked. I knew it wasn’t rational. 'He refused and insisted I looked amazing and he loved me – but I was miserable and just couldn’t seem to pick myself up.' Speaking about the excess skin, she said: 'Just to get comfortable when sitting, I had to tuck the loose flesh into my knickers The only way I could even look at myself was when I was fully dressed, all covered up' After being turned down for a loan, Karen’s depression caused her to tell Mr Smith to leave her until she explored options of having surgery abroad . Size 28 Karen was extremely self-conscious and despite being active through work, Karen was unable to shift the pounds and weighed 21st thanks to a carb-heavy diet . Mr Smith knew how hard it was for his wife and they took out a smaller loan of £10,000. After searching through the options available, Karen found she could afford to have surgery if it was performed abroad. Mr Smith was concerned about the safety of the clinic so she opted to start with a simple procedure, an upper arm lift, at the Beauty in Prague Clinic in the Czech Republic. She said: 'I was impressed by how clean the wards were and the qualifications of the surgeons.' Just a day after the surgery in August 2012, the dressings were removed. She said: 'My bingo wings were gone. In the 30 degree heat, I spent the next few days recuperating in the sun.' In 2009, she had lost two stone naturally but was unable to slim down any further. Karen was not eligible for treatment on the NHS, so in June 2009 she booked in for gastric band surgery at the private Spire Parkway hospital in Birmingham for £5,000 . Karen said she cringed every time her husband came close to her so had her saggy skin removed, pictured after she had surgery on her legs . Karen was so pleased with the results she wanted more surgery and taking Mr Smith’s concerns on board, she opted to have more serious operations, a tummy tuck and thigh lift, in the UK. Although the procedure went as planned, she was not entirely satisfied and booked more surgery in the Czech Republic. She said: 'Seeing that problems can happen at home too, Darren agreed to me going abroad again.' In April 2013, she headed back to Prague for breast augmentation, uplift and corrective surgery to her thighs. Karen, pictured before the surgery, began with an upper arm lift . Mr Smith was concerned about the safety of the clinic so she opted to start with a simple procedure, an upper arm lift, at the Beauty in Prague Clinic in the Czech Republic (pictured: after the treatment) Karen’s breasts were boosted from a AA to a DD and liposuction on her knees and thighs gave her the 'shapely pins' she had dreamed of. She said: 'I’m so happy with my new body that you can barely get me to put it away. 'I’m wearing bikinis for the first time in years. 'Last year for our 25th anniversary we celebrated with a dirty weekend and we still get away together whenever we can. 'When Darren says I look great I can see his eyes on my curves and know it’s true. Now I’ve got my confidence back, our love life is back on track too. 'We’re always going on dirty weekends away and I love shopping for new outfits in the bedroom.' Karen, pictured aged 19, began piling on the pounds after the birth of her two daughters . Karen, left, aged 12, and, right, aged 16, began putting on weight after eating a carb-heavy diet .

Karen Smith, 42, dropped from size 28 to size 12 . Was  self-conscious about her baggy skin and drooping breasts . Was too insecure to have sex with husband so spent £20,000 on surgery . Had upper arm lift, a tummy tuck, thigh lift, breast augmentation and uplift .

 so unhappy with her 'unhealthy' body that she didn't enjoy sex with her 20-year-old partner, Craig Tansley. Karen, from Nuneaton, Warwickshire - who now weighs 12st 13lb - went from a size 28 to a size 12 after undergoing a series of extreme weight-loss operations to help her cope with a life-threatening ulcer disease. But, despite losing her excess baggage, she still struggled to fit into the bedroom. 'I wasn't at my healthiest weight, but it didn't bother me,' said Karen, a children's nurse who began dating Craig in 2006. 'When I look at the pictures of us together, I don't know why he put up with me. 'My belly hung over my pants and I was a size 28. Craig was 20 and I didn't want him to see my stretch marks,' she added. 'The more I lost, the more my confidence grew.' Karen, from Nuneaton, Warwickshire, went from a size 28 to a size 12 after undergoing a series of extreme weight-loss operations to help her cope with a life-threatening ulcer disease
Karen Smith said she was horrified by her size. She told The Sun: 'The belly hung over my pants and I was a size 28.' She added: 'I didn't want Craig to see my stretch marks'
Karen Smith was left shocked by a photograph taken of her on holiday. 'I put on weight because I ate too much and was unhappy,' she added. 'I was trying to be someone I wasn't. I didn't want Craig to see me or know that I was miserable.' But it was Karen's ulcer disease, which saw her take up to 30 tablets a day, that made her look seriously at changing her life.
The 42-year-old suffered from oesophagitis - which is damage to the lining of the oesophagus. 'I went from looking at the sky, to the floor,' she added. The only treatment that worked for Karen - who now weighs 12st 13lb - was to have a fundoplication - where the stomach was wrapped around itself. But, like most people affected by the condition, she was unable to live a normal life, needing around-the-clock supervision. Her weight


Taking over: Carole Middleton is to fill in while William and Kate find new household staff . The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge can finally breathe a sigh of relief after finding new housekeepers to run their Norfolk estate – Kate’s mum and dad. Last month I revealed that William and Kate had lost the services of Amy and Colin Wood, their valuable husband-and-wife team. Now I understand that Carole and Michael Middleton are personally filling the void while they help Kate look for some new hired help to maintain elegant Anmer Hall. Though Carole has stopped short of scrubbing floors, she is said to be organising every detail of running the household from her own quarters in an annexe of the 100-room Georgian manor. Kate’s father Michael is thought to be overseeing the gardening, and has been involved in making arrangements to clear a mole infestation which has ruined a pretty lawn overlooking the Sandringham estate. It is believed that Carole, 60, and her 65-year-old husband have now committed themselves to staying in Norfolk until Kate’s second child arrives next month. Mr and Mrs Wood started working for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge in September last year when restoration work was being completed on the Georgian mansion. The property was given to the Royal couple by the Queen after they got married. The Woods lived at the site with their five-year-old son, with Mrs Wood looking after the ten-bedroom property and her husband in charge of landscaping and the garden. The couple had previously been trusted employees at the Sandringham estate and it is thought they will return to work there after five months with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and their son, Prince George. Sources say that Kate, who has endured another difficult pregnancy, has been ‘tetchy’ and can only be truly placated by her mother – one of the many reasons why William is happily encouraging the arrangement. Mrs Middleton has previously been said to be a frequent visitor to Anmer Hall. But news of the Middletons’ involvement in running the Cambridge family home comes at a time when reports suggest that Prince Charles is growing anxious about how little he sees his grandchild. A family friend tells me: ‘When George arrived, Kate and William moved into Kate’s parents’ house. This time the Middletons are moving in to Anmer with William and Kate. There is plenty of space and Kate really wants her mother around. At the moment Carole is getting everything in place because the baby is due around April 25.’ The couple have been left in the lurch since Amy and Colin Wood, their valuable husband-and-wife team, quit last month . The Middletons were the first to meet Prince George after his birth in 2013 – ahead of Charles and his wife Camilla – and it seems they are set to be favourites when it comes to getting access to George’s brother or sister too. Another source added: ‘William is very happy to sit back and let Carole take up the reins. She is ensuring that Anmer runs like clockwork. The nursery and staff will be an oasis of calm and evenings will be sacrosanct for relaxation, sleep and recovery.’ The Middletons spent Christmas at Anmer Hall - with the Duke and Duchess flouting royal tradition by being absent from the normal get together at the Queen's lunch at Sandringham. There have also been rumours that the Middletons are considering buying a house in Norfolk to be close to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and their young family. This could be a great help for the Duchess because William will be starting his new job as a helicopter pilot with East Anglian Air Ambulance in the summer. The family home in Bucklebury is a frequent bolthole for Kate, who also retreated there for a week in October last year as she again struggled with the extreme morning sickness that marked her first pregnancy. Kate's mother is thought to be running every inch of the household from her quarters at Anmer Hall (above) Despite the presence of Spanish nanny Maria Borallo, Mrs Middleton was seen taking Prince George off her daughter's hands as he dealt with her morning sickness. She is said to prefer being there than Kensington Palace because she can retreat from the public eye. Officials were forced to announce the Duchess of Cambridge's pregnancy in September, which was earlier than planned,  because her acute morning sickness meant she was forced to cancel a number of public engagements. The Duchess was hospitalised with hyperemesis gravidarum and severe dehydration during her first pregnancy with Prince George. But doctors have been better prepared this time and it has been suggested she may even have been treated with a drip at home. Might we be seeing a bit more of Hollywood actress Uma Thurman in London? I gather that the Kill Bill actress, has rekindled her romance with Chiltern Firehouse founder Andre Balazs five years after they split up. The 44-year-old actress first dated the millionaire hotelier in 2007 following her divorce from actor Ethan Hawke. Their affair later fizzled out and in 2010 she met multi-millionaire financier Arki Busson, 52, and the couple went on to have daughter, Luna, now aged two. After their breakup last April, I hear Andre, 58, is back on the scene. The Kill Bill actress is rumoured to have rekindled her romance with Chiltern Firehouse founder Andrew Balazs .

Housekeepers Amy and Colin Wood left Anmer Hall, Norfolk, last month . The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have been looking for new staff . Carole and Michael Middleton moved in to their daughter's home to help . Duchess of Cambridge is due to give birth to her second child in April .

 stepfather.
Wessex Country News can reveal Carole Middleton will work alongside William and Kate when they begin a year-long placement with their new staff.
Royal sources insist William and Kate want the Middletons to be their “gatekeepers” and will use them as their “eyes and ears”.
The couple will be staying at Anmer Hall near King’s Lynn for about 12 months and William is said to have “fallen in love” with the area when they moved there last September, reports The Express.
A royal insider, said: “Carole and the Middletons are going to be an asset to the Cambridges, rather than someone to be hired on the side.
“William and Kate want them to be the ‘eyes and ears’ of the property, and to be the ‘gatekeepers’ while they are there.
“The Middletons are a security blanket for Kate and William as they come in to a new life with different staff. They are going to do an excellent job.”
The role of the Middleton’s will be to get to know the local community and make sure they are treated fairly by the staff.
The Middleton’s were appointed as the new staff because they are regarded as “honest” and “hard-working”.
And the couple will be in a familiar territory with Carole already taking on many royal duties as the “Queen of Norfolk” with a string of jobs to get stuck into, while Charles is away at Windsor Castle.
It is believed that the royal couple will be ‘spending their time’ in Anmer Hall while the children attend one of the local schools.
The Middletons have had a tough time of late.
They are said to have lost their “mystique” due to the “over the top” coverage of Prince George and Princess Charlotte.
The Middletons’ are seen as the ‘original’ royal family – with Carole – known as the ‘Queen of Norfolk’, in a similar position to the Queen Mother.
In his book, Finding Freedom, Andrew Morton said: “Carole Middleton, the mother of two of the three children of Prince William, appears to have a strong connection with her prince, just as his mother, Princess Diana, had with the Prince of Wales.
“For a long time the Middletons had been the original, home-grown royal family – not distant from the


He was born a healthy little boy, with his whole life ahead of him. But at the age of just one, Zach Parnaby's bright future was cruelly cast into doubt when doctors diagnosed the toddler with a crippling genetic disease. Just after Christmas Zach's parents Lindsey and Ben Parnaby were given the devastating news that their son has a rare illness, which had been unwittingly passed on in their genes. The condition, known as Krabbe Luekodystrophy, which affects one in 100,000 people across the world, will cause Zach to gradually lose the ability to walk, talk, see or hear. His doctors have warned his parents, he is unlikely to live beyond his fourth birthday. When he was just 17 months old, doctors diagnosed Zach Parnaby, pictured with his mother Lindsey, with the rare genetic Krabbes disease, which will gradually cause the toddler to lose the ability to walk and talk . Doctors have warned Zach's parents Lindsey and Ben that their son is unlikely to see his fourth birthday. Determined he will make the most of the time he has left, the couple have compiled a bucket wishlist . On the 16-point list was a wish to sit in a fire engine and meet the cartoon character Fireman Sam. As well as the cartoon characters and other entries including swimming in the sea and taking a boat trip, the family are aiming to help find a cure for the genetic illness . Now, the couple have vowed to raise awareness of their son's disease, while also compiling a bucket list of things the 20-month-old must see and do in the time he has left. So far, Zach has already met his favourite cartoon character, Fireman Sam, and taken a ride on Thomas The Tank Engine. He has enjoyed a boat trip, been given his own pet puppy and met some of the Newcastle United squad. But his parents, both 29, from Spennymoor in County Durham, are determined he will fulfil the list. Still to come is a swim in the sea, riding a bike, meeting a real bear as well as Mickey Mouse, and feel a waterfall wash over his head. Zach's parent's Lindsey and Ben Parnaby have compiled a 16-strong wishlist for their son, of things for him to do and see in the time he has left. The list includes: . 1. Find a cure for Krabbes disease . 2. For Krabbes disease to be screened for at birth . 3. To meet Mickey Mouse - booked . 4. To ride in a fire engine and meet Fireman Sam - done . 5. To swim in the sea . 6. To build a snowman - done . 7. Go sledging . 8. Meet a real bear (I love bear's and this was one of my first words) 9. To meet Santa . 10. To ride a bike . 11. Meet a famous person - done . 12. Ride on a red London bus . 13. Take a boat trip - done . 14. Own my own dog - done, Sam the puppy comes home soon . 15. See a waterfall and swim near it if it's safe . 16. Take a ride on Thomas The Tank Engine - booked for March 22 . But, while each entry on the list has its own importance for Zach and his parents, their top wish is to help find a cure for Krabbes disease. Mr and Mrs Parnaby argue it is vital that all children are screened for the disease at birth. They have so far raised a staggering £4,000 to help their son realise the bucket list. Mrs Parnaby said: 'The things we are generally doing with Zach aren't out of the ordinary. 'They are things we would have done with him anyway while he was growing up, but we just have to squeeze it in to such a short space of time while he is aware. 'We want him to enjoy it and be aware of what is happening. 'Sadly his symptoms have been very rapid. We don't know what the future looks like but we have to take each day as it comes. 'Every little cold could be it, we just don't know. 'We know Zach is not going to see four, five or six. 'The doctors told us he may have between 18 months and four years.' She said the family are hoping to visit London soon to tick off more of Zach's list, including a ride on a red open top bus and the London Eye as well as meeting Disney star Mickey Mouse and characters from Frozen. 'We want him to ride a bike, it's something every child should do, but the practicalities of all of the wishes are quite difficult,' Mrs Parnaby added. 'I don't know if we can find a bike sit that will work for him.' The 29-year-old said if her son had been screened for Krabbes disease with a pin-prick test at birth, it may have allowed time for a potentially life-saving bone marrow transplant. Doctors have told the family the procedure was too expensive. Mrs Parnaby first noticed her son was struggling to walk last November, and took him to see a GP. They suspected Zach was going through a 'phase', but a month later his condition appeared to be deteriorating and reaching a the point where he could only crawl. In their quest to do as much as they can with their son, Mr and Mrs Parnaby organised for him to meet some of the Newcastle United squad. They are pictured here with attacking midfielder Remy Cabella . Zach, now 20 months, was also given the chance to meet Steven Taylor, left and Jack Colback, right . Mrs Parnaby, said: 'Sadly his symptoms have been very rapid. We don't know what the future looks like but we have to take each day as it come' His mother took him to Darlington Memorial Hospital four times, before doctors ordered an MRI scan. The toddler was referred to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle, where on Christmas Eve a specialist revealed Zach was seriously ill. Krabbes disease is typically diagnosed in the first year of life. It is a genetic condition that causes patients to rapidly regress to a point where they have little to no brain function. Those diagnosed with the condition rarely live beyond the age of two, many dying as a result of respiratory infection or brain fever. Symptoms of Krabbes disease include: . In general, the earlier a child is diagnosed with the disease, the more rapid its progression. Those who are first diagnosed at ages two to 14 will become severely incapacitated, and generally die by the age of two to seven. Source: United Leukodystrophy Foundation . The formal diagnosis of Krabbes disease was made three weeks later. 'I don't know what was going through my head when the doctor told us on Christmas Eve,' Mrs Parnaby said. 'You just don't eve expect to be told this when your son has been happy and healthy for 17 months. 'If we had learned of this disease from an earlier point it wouldn't have been easier but it would not have been such a shock thinking everything was fine and normal for all that time.' She said up to the point where doctors diagnosed the disease, Zach was a 'normal' baby, going to play group three times a week. 'He was such a clever and active baby, going to water babies till he was 14 months old,' she added. 'If we were given the option at birth to be screened and found out he had it then we would have had the option of a bone marrow transplant, which could have given him a normal life. 'It's too late now.' 'We had 17 months of thinking he was fine. It only takes a heel pin-prick test. 'I asked why they don't do it and they told me it was due to cost. Cost does not come into it with the lives of children.' A fundraising page for Zach reads: 'Myself, Ben and our family have made an agreement that Zach's life will continue as normal but in the short time that we may have we plan to achieve a lot, we have therefore created a bucket list for him that we hope people can support and assist us in achieving where possible. 'There is no treatment for this disease however if diagnosed early then there are potentially life-saving options available to those children. We are told that Zach's symptoms are too progressed for this to be an options, however if detected early enough he may have been.' To donate to Zach's wishlist quest, visit his fundraising page here. The family are gradually making their way through Zach's wishlist, pictured here with his first snowman . Mrs Parnaby and her husband have set up a fundraising page to help raise awareness of Krabbe's disease .

Zach Parnaby has been diagnosed with the genetic illness, Krabbe disease . 20-month-old is unlikely to see his fourth birthday, doctors have warned . The condition, which affects one in every 100,000 people, causes patients to gradually regress and lose the ability to walk, talk, see and hear . His parents Lindsey and Ben Parnaby have compiled a bucket list for him . He's  met Fireman Sam, met a famous person and enjoyed a boat ride . List also includes swimming in the sea and finding a cure for his disease .

The youngster suffers from a progressive movement disorder called myoclonic epilepsy, which has left his body struggling to coordinate movements, resulting in a lack of muscle control and constant spasms.
But this hasn't stopped the energetic 10-year-old, of Egham, from becoming a budding artist.
Zach (pictured with his proud mum Gemma) may only draw with one hand, but he has been praised for his unique style and has had his work featured in art publications around the world.
And Gemma Parnaby, 32, hopes to turn her son's remarkable talent into a full-time career.
"I've always been really passionate about art, since I was at school," said Gemma.
"It's lovely to see how he's using his own creativity to get a message across about how he feels. It's a great way to express himself."
Gemma, a teacher, said she felt honoured when Zach's work was featured in magazines published by the American Medical Association, but wishes he could be as proud of himself as the rest of the world is.
"There are times when I'm really upset that he gets so upset that he can't do the things that he'd really like to do," she said.
"He's very frustrated sometimes when he gets a seizure because it means he can't draw any more. But he's still very optimistic.
"He can express himself better with a pencil than most adults. His art gives a voice to people with disabilities, and that's really powerful."
She said it was an absolute thrill when she discovered Zach's work had been picked up by the world famous AMA, but admitted it had been a rollercoaster for her son.
She said: "It was hard for him that he wasn't able to get his work seen until I found out about the AMA. When I told him, he said, 'I wish I'd had all that confidence from an early age'.
"He gets a bit upset when he gets into these cycles of frustration, but then he gets over it, and says 'I'll do this next time'. He knows how to deal with what's happening to him and what the rest of the world thinks about him."
Now it is Gemma's aim to turn her son's artistic talent into a full-time career by getting his work sold, and


As fans continue to mourn the passing of their favorite Vulcan, Leonard Nimoy's passion  for photography - and the women he put in front of the lens - is also being recognized. Nimoy, called the 'Conscience of Star Trek' by the show's creator, once said he used photography to express the idea of feminine power. After eight years of taking photographs of plus-sized women, Nimoy published a collection titled The Full Body Project in 2007, which featured obese women photographed in the nude. It was when Nimoy was doing an exhibit for a different photography collection that he was turned to the idea of shooting fuller-figured women. After eight years of taking photographs of plus-sized women, Leonard Nimoy published a collection titled The Full Body Project in 2007, which featured obese women photographed in the nude . For The Full Body Project, Nimoy found new subjects in the plus-size burlesque group The Fat-Bottom Revue . He was inspired by their late founder Heather MacAllister, who he recalled once told him 'whenever a fat person steps on stage to perform, and it's not the butt of a joke, that's a political statement' He said a 250-pound woman approached him after a presentation and told Nimoy he only worked with models that had a certain body type, according to the New York Times. She then asked Nimoy if he would be interested in working with her despite her different shape, and he said yes. Nimoy was nervous the day of the shoot, afraid he wouldn't do his new subject justice, he told NPR. 'I think that's a reflection of something that's prevalent in our culture,' he said. 'We are sort of conditioned to see a different body type as acceptable and maybe look away when the other body type arrives.' But Nimoy did not look away, instead he pointed his camera right at her. And his pictures immediately sparked an interest and a response from the public. And a new passion had sparked inside Nimoy. The pictures feature the women dancing, laughing and proudly staring straight into the camera. Nimoy said the pictures show the women's strong self-esteem . 'These women are projecting an image that is their own,' he said. 'And one that also stems from their own story rather than mine' For The Full Body Project, Nimoy found new subjects in the plus-size burlesque group The Fat-Bottom Revue. He was inspired by their late founder Heather MacAllister, who he recalled once told him 'whenever a fat person steps on stage to perform, and it's not the butt of a joke, that's a political statement'. And with that Nimoy became an unlikely, but passionate, size-acceptance advocate. He told the New York Times the book was a 'direct response to the pressure women face to conform to a size two'. The pictures feature the women dancing, laughing and proudly staring straight into the camera - often times fully nude. Nimoy said the pictures show the women's strong self-esteem, he wrote for R.Michelson Galleries, where the pictures were featured in. 'These women are projecting an image that is their own,' he said. 'And one that also stems from their own story rather than mine.' It wasn't a far step for Nimoy, who has a history of championing women. It was when Nimoy was doing an exhibit for a different photography collection that he was turned to the idea of shooting fuller-sized women . A 250-pound woman approached him after a presentation and told Nimoy he only worked with models that had a certain body type. She then asked Nimoy if he would be interested in working with her despite her different shape, and he said yes . Nimoy said the book was a 'direct response to the pressure women face to conform to a size two' In the 1960s while he was filming Star Trek, Nimoy found out that Nichelle Nichols was not getting paid the same amount as her male co-stars. Nimoy approached the managers of the show and immediately had her pay equalized, he confirmed to TrekMovie.com . And in the 1970s he fought for Nichols again, telling producers he refused to do Spock's voice in the animated Star Trek series if Nichols, who had yet to receive the offer, was hired as well. Tributes to the star have been pouring in since news broke he had died on Friday morning following a long battle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. His Star Trek co-star William Shatner, who has recently come under fire for missing Nimoy's funeral to attend a charity event, said: 'I loved him like a brother. 'We will all miss his humor, his talent, and his capacity to love.'

Nimoy's collection The Full Body Project from 2007 featured obese women photographed in the nude . His subjects are the plus-size burlesque group The Fat-Bottom Revue from San Francisco . Pictures feature the women dancing, laughing and proudly staring straight into the camera . Nimoy said the book was a 'direct response to the pressure women face to conform to a size two'

 of Star Trek' for his outspoken liberal leanings, was also known for his work behind the lens, often shooting his friends and collaborators in the prime of their career.
Now his archive of personal photographs is being offered for sale by his son Adam and daughter-in-law Micaela Mart. "My Dad was an amateur photographer for over 40 years. His work as a photographer can best be described as timeless and iconic," Adam said. "They are not just photos of celebrities, but they are photos of real people doing things you could have never imagined them doing. They are photos that are beautiful, but they are not the norm."
The star of the online auction is a nude portrait of William Shatner, taken by his own father in 1970 when the captain of the U.S.S. Enterprise was 33 years old. Other items being offered are:
- A 1969 shot of Shatner's first day on the set of Star Trek (as a guest-star). This image has been scanned from a negative of a 35mm black & white print shot in Hollywood, California by Leonard Nimoy himself.
- A color photograph from the set of Star Trek (as a guest-star). Taken in Burbank, California, by Leonard Nimoy. This photograph has been scanned from a negative of a 35mm black & white print.
- A "Portrait of Audrey Hepburn" that Nimoy took in 1972, with a black & white print stamped "Copy."
- A 1973 photo of Star Trek's Uhura, Nichelle Nichols, in a red bikini, taken by Leonard Nimoy on location in Hawaii.
- A 1968 photo of Walter Koenig on the set of The Omega Man, as taken by Nimoy.
- A 1970 photograph of Kirk's girlfriend, Majel Barrett, shot by Leonard Nimoy.
Other images include a portrait of Paul Newman, a shot of Kirk, McCoy, Spock and Uhura on the set of Star Trek, a portrait of George Takei, and a nude portrait of a young Kate Mulgrew, who later became Captain Janeway on Star Trek: Voyager.
"All of these photographs have been given to us by a close friend of my father's, who recently passed away," said Adam. "These pictures span the period from 1968 –


Ultra-conservative MP Fred Nile has lashed out at Sydney's Mardi Gras celebration, saying parenting, 'not promiscuity' should be celebrated. The Christian Democratic Party NSW MP made his comments on his official Facebook page just as the party was getting underway across Sydney and came as a television advertisement was aired during the parade, which claimed same-sex marriage would disadvantage children. A spokeswoman for Mr Nile, who spent the day campaigning in Coffs Harbour, said the post was designed to remind people of the importance of traditional relationships. Scroll down for video . Ultra-conservative politician Fred Nile has lashed out at Sydney's Mardi Gras celebration, saying parenting not promiscuity should be celebrated. Mr Nile posted this image to his official Facebook account on Saturday, just as Mardi Gras Parade celebrations were getting underway. Marriage equality advocates have slammed an advertisement that aired during Sydney's Mardi Gras celebrations on Saturday night claiming children from same-sex couples are disadvantaged. 'With so much coverage and celebration of Mardi Gras, it's important to also be thankful for natural relationships - for the mum and the dad,' the spokeswoman said. 'Without that traditional relationship, natural reproduction wouldn't be possible. It's very important to celebrate natural couples and those values.' His controversial comments came as an advertisement claiming same-sex marriage disadvantaged children aired on TV on Saturday night. It was organised and paid for by the Australian Marriage Forum, a group 'disappointed with the one-sided debate' surrounding the issue. The 40-second spot starts with a mother at a park saying: 'We hear a lot about marriage equality, but what about equality for kids?' Dr David Gend, president of the Australian Marriage Forum and a family doctor based in Toowoomba, Queensland, says in the commercial that 'so-called marriage equality forces a child to miss out on a mother or a father'. The Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby accused the commercial of not only missing the point on marriage equality, but of also attempting to fight a losing battle. 'That's not equality; that's not marriage,' Dr Gend says. It also asks for supporters to donate money to the group. Marriage equality advocates have slammed the ad, and said the campaign is trying to mislead people on the issue. 'The first point for us is that marriage equality and same-sex couples having children are two different equations,' GLRL Co-Convenor Justin Koonin told Daily Mail Australia. 'Same-sex couples already can and do have children - marriage equality is not going to change that. 'If the people behind this video were really thinking of the children, they would support marriage equality so that all kids, including those with same-sex parents, could say their parents are married.' Mr Koonin also said most Australians could see through claims that marriage equality disadvantages children, and that most had 'moved on' from that discussion. 'They definitely aren't fooling anyone,' he said. 'If they want to make that claim, have some evidence to support it. 'The majority of evidence shows there is no disadvantage to children with same-sex parents, and in fact most are slightly better off than average.' Dr David Gend, president of the Australian Marriage Forum says in the commercial that 'so-called marriage equality forces a child to miss out on a mother or a father'. The controversial Australian Marriage Forum commercial starts with a mother at a park saying: 'We hear a lot about marriage equality, but what about equality for kids?' The commercial has been widely criticised on social media, with more than 1200 people disliking the video on YouTube, compared to just 150 who liked it. According to its website, the Australian Marriage Forum is 'an organisation that has been set up to encourage Australians to discuss the issue of same-sex marriage with some discernment and caution.' It also states marriage equality would 'have enormous consequences on our culture' and calls for a 'open and honest debate...free of the intimidation that so many defenders of natural marriage have been subject to in recent years.'

Image  Fred Nile posted reads 'parenting, not promiscuity worth celebrating' Nile's post came as an anti-marriage equality commercial airs in Sydney . The commercial sponsored by Australian Marriage Forum group . Dr David Gend says marriage equality 'forces inequality' on children . Gay and Lesbian Right Lobby says Australians 'won't be fooled' by claims . 'If they were thinking of kids, they'd support us' lobby group says . Commercial slammed online, with more than 1200 disliking it on YouTube .

 Mardi Gras wrapped up on Wednesday night.
"I think it's time to change the focus on Mardi Gras from promiscuity to parenting; from sex to parenthood," he wrote. "At a time when our society is crying out for solutions to its current social ills, we seem to have turned to a form of 'freedom' which seeks to legitimise the breakdown of marriage and the family.
"Parenthood, marriage and the family are vital to the future of our society. Without them, we will have only ourselves to blame if our society comes apart at the seams," he said.
Nile added: "It is interesting to reflect that all this focus on 'freedom' can so often be a form of self-limitation." He also said that the Mardi Gras should "honour families" instead of "promoting promiscuity".
His comments come just days after NSW Premier Mike Baird, while announcing the establishment of an advisory council for NSW Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras (GLAAD), said that the "message of love" was at the heart of the annual Mardi Gras parade.
"It's a very clear and loud message about love and equality and respect, and we're very pleased to be able to sponsor it," said Baird on Monday (21 February).
This year's GLAAD Parade, held on Tuesday (20 February), featured an array of performers including Sia, The Veronicas and Chet Faker, who performed alongside Delta Goodrem, Dami Im, Kylie Minogue, PNAU, Missy Higgins and Stan Walker.
Baird also said that "it is incumbent on any Premier, indeed any Governor-General, the Prime Minister to represent the state or country at these events".
"At the time when the government is working very closely with the LGBT community to tackle many of the problems associated with the drug epidemic, and particularly the epidemic of illicit drugs which is taking place in Victoria, we are very pleased to be able to sponsor the GLAAD parade," he said. "We hope that it can help encourage more young people in particular to take a stand and say 'enough is enough'."
He further added: "I think the work that GLAAD does is incredibly important for this community. A lot of this work has gone into challenging the views of the wider community, and I think the views


The Spanish Prime Minister looked shell-shocked after he heard how at least 45 of his citizens had been killed in the Alps plane crash this morning. Mariano Rajoy was being filmed by a TV crew when he received a  phone call shortly after details of the accident began to emerge. His  visit to the northern Spanish town of Vitoria-Gasteiz took on an air of grave seriousness as the PM cancelled his scheduled appointments and headed back to Madrid for a crisis cabinet meeting. Scroll down for video . Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy was on a visit to a northern province this morning when news that 45 of his citizens had been killed in the Germanwings plane crash began to emerge . A film crew from the Spanish newspaper 20 Minutos filmed him receiving a serious phone call this morning . In a hastily-arranged press conference, he said: 'I profoundly regret this very sad accident. We are going to do all we can.' Meanwhile Spain's King and Queen abandoned a planned three-day visit to France after a brief meeting with French president Francois Hollande this morning. King Felipe VI and his wife Letizia had been due to begin a state visit to Paris today in a trip intended to strengthen links between the two countries. President Hollande welcomed the King and Queen to the Elysee Palace in Paris this morning, on what was due to be an occasion of celebration. During their visit, the Spanish royals were due to open an exhibition of the works of Spanish painter Diego Velazquez at the Grand Palais. They were then planning to go at the City Hall to open a garden in honour of Spanish fighters in the Second World War, before King Felipe was due to speak at the National Assembly. Instead, there was hushed mood when the meeting took place as both French and Spanish heads of state started to hear updates of what had happened in the Alps. King Felipe VI of Spain and his wife Letizia met France's President Hollande shortly after the crash emerged . The royal couple had been due to start a three-day state visit to Paris, but the trip was abandoned today . The King struggled to contain his emotion as news of the tragedy began to filter through to Paris . President Hollande said: 'We must feel grief, because this is a tragedy that happened on our soil. 'I want to make sure that there have been no other consequences as the accident happened in a very difficult area to access, and I do not know yet if there were houses nearby. I intend to find out if there were other consequences of the accident. 'We will know in the next few hours. In the meantime, we must show support.' He added: 'I will discuss the incident with Chancellor Angela Merkel and Spanish King Felipe VI, who is visiting us today. As we wait, our first feeling should be one of solidarity.' Germanwings said it was thought that 63 of the passengers on board were Germans, while reports from Spain suggest that around 45 Spaniards may have been on the flight. It is believed two babies and 16 children from the same German school are also among the dead. In Berlin, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said: 'We still don't know much beyond the bare information on the flight, and there should be no speculation on the cause of the crash.' The King and Queen looked shaken, appearing just minutes after it emerged 45 Spaniards had been killed . President Hollande said: 'We must feel grief, because this is a tragedy that happened on our soil' The couple said they would be returning to Spain and plan to re-arrange the visit for another occasion . The Airbus A320, with 144 passengers and six crew on board was being operated by German low-fare airline Germanwings on a flight from Barcelona to Dusseldorf. Germanwings chief executive Thomas Winkelmann said the aircraft began descending again shortly after it reached its cruising height, having taken off from Barcelona at about 10am local time. This descent lasted eight minutes, he told reporters in Cologne. Radar and air traffic control contact broke off at 10.53am. In Britain, David Cameron's official spokesman said the Prime Minister had been informed of the crash and 'would wish to express how his thoughts are very much with the families and friends of all of those aboard'. He added that the Foreign Office was making inquiries about whether any British nationals were on board, but had no information at this stage. He said UK air accident investigators would offer any assistance requested by French or German authorities. King Felipe was due to speak at the French National Assembly and open an art exhibition during the visit . France rolled out the red carpet for Felipe, who arrived in Paris for his first state visit since taking the throne . Wreckage of the Germanwings Airbus was found in a remote region of the French Alps this afternoon .

Spanish leader was on visit to northern province when he heard of crash . Camera crew recorded him receiving a gravely serious phone call today . He cancelled visit and returned to Madrid for emergency cabinet meeting . Spanish King and Queen have abandoned their three-day trip to France . They looked visibly shaken as they met with President Hollande today .

 before 8am from a Spanish journalist.
Spanish TV journalist: “Señor Rajoy, we have just received the dreadful news that Spanish nationals are among those killed in this morning’s plane crash. Can you confirm if that is correct?”
Rajoy: “What? What? That can’t be possible. Oh my God. What do you mean? What do you mean? Wait. Wait. What do you mean? Wait. Wait. Wait. Wait.”
Spanish TV journalist: “Yes, I think what we have just received is correct, Señor Prime Minister. At least 45 Spanish nationals have been killed by the plane crash.”
Rajoy: “Ah. That’s impossible. Impossible. That’s the second time in less than a week that I’ve heard this news about Spanish nationals being killed in a plane crash. Who would have thought it possible that they could all be killed in two separate plane crashes just over a week apart.
“This is getting me down. I think I’ll go back to bed for a few more hours, and then maybe we’ll try and get some breakfast.”
Spanish TV journalist: “Señor Prime Minister, I believe we now have confirmation that it has been a terrible morning for Spanish nationals. But don’t worry. Spain’s great, so it’s probably time to move onto more important issues.”
Rajoy: “That’s true.”
*
On the other side of town, the Prime Minister of Poland – whose citizenship is from a central European country not part of the EU – has been in a better mood today.
Donald Tusk: “This morning, Poland was very proud. The plane crash killed at least 90 people, and it could have been worse, as Polish nationals were also on board.”
*
Just down the road, the German Chancellor has also been in a better mood today.
Angela Merkel: “We are very sad to hear that the majority of the people killed in this crash were German nationals. Fortunately, our country is not part of the EU, and therefore we do not have to worry about getting immigrants from there. So I can go back to sleep.”
*
At the US Embassy, the American Ambassador has been in a better mood than most.
Mike Pompeo: “We’re very pleased to hear that the crash has killed the majority of US nationals,


(CNN)Cycling's international governing body for a long time failed to tackle widespread and well-known doping problems in the sport and gave special treatment to Lance Armstrong, according to a damning new report. The investigation by the Cycling Independent Reform Commission (CIRC) slams the way the world body -- the International Cycling Union, or UCI -- operated over a lengthy period and calls for a series of changes to its governance. The report highlights multiple instances in which top UCI officials protected, defended and made decisions favorable to Armstrong despite concerns that he was doping. Current UCI president Brian Cookson, who was elected to his post in September 2013, told CNN Monday that he had written to one of his predecessors, Dutchman Hein Verbruggen, to "consider his position" as the honorary president of the world governing body  in the light of the findings. Both Zerbruggen and Irishman Pat McQuaid, who Cookson unseated, both come under intense scrutiny in the report for their dealings with Armstrong. "UCI exempted Lance Armstrong from rules, failed to target test him despite the suspicions, and publicly supported him against allegations of doping, even as late as 2012," it says. The UCI "saw Lance Armstrong as the perfect choice to lead the sport's renaissance" after a devastating doping scandal at the 1998 Tour de France, according to the report. "The fact that he was American opened up a new continent for the sport, he had beaten cancer and the media quickly made him a global star," it says. But Armstrong's spectacular downfall in 2012, which saw him stripped of his Tour de France titles and dropped by sponsors, helped intensify scrutiny over how he managed to get away with doping for so long. Under Cookson, the UCI set up the independent three-person commission to investigate the causes of doping in cycling and allegations that the UCI and other governing bodies were ineffective in their responses. In one case, the commission says, the UCI limited the scope of a supposedly independent investigation into allegations that  Armstrong had tested positive in a drug test at the 1999 Tour de France. UCI officials and Armstrong's team became heavily involved in the drafting of the investigation's report, which was released in 2006. "The main goal was to ensure that the report reflected UCI's and Lance Armstrong's personal conclusions," the commission says. "The significant participation of UCI and Armstrong's team was never publicly acknowledged." Between 1992 and 2006, UCI's top officials focused on protecting cycling's reputation rather than trying to root out "endemic" doping practices of which they were well aware, the commission's report says. "Not only did UCI leadership publicly disregard the magnitude of the problem, but the policies put in place to combat doping were inadequate," it says. The report highlights McQuaid's decision to allow Armstrong to participate in the 2009 Tour Down Under even though the cyclist hadn't been in the testing group for the required period of time. The commission says although there is no direct evidence of an agreement between McQuaid and Armstrong, McQuaid "made a sudden U-turn and allowed Lance Armstrong to return 13 days early" to take part in the competition, "despite advice from UCI staff not to make an exception." "There was a temporal link between this decision, which was communicated to UCI staff in the morning, and the decision of Lance Armstrong, which was notified to Pat McQuaid later that same day, to participate in the Tour of Ireland, an event run by people known to Pat McQuaid," the report says. The report says the commission found no evidence to support allegations of corruption over payments made to the UCI by Armstrong. But it adds that "requesting and accepting donations from Lance Armstrong, given the suspicions, left UCI open to criticism." CNN wasn't immediately able to reach McQuaid, but Verbruggen issued a lengthy statement Monday, claiming "wild conspiracy theories and accusations have been properly debunked once and for all." He said: "I have studied the CIRC report and I am satisfied that it confirms what I have always said: that there have never been any cover-ups, complicity or corruption in the Lance Armstrong case or, indeed, in any other doping cases." Armstrong, who cooperated with the commission's investigation, thanked it for "seeking the truth and allowing me to assist in that search." "I am deeply sorry for many things I have done. However, it is my hope that revealing the truth will lead to a bright, dope-free future for the sport I love," he said in a statement. "In the rush to vilify Lance, many of the other equally culpable participants have been allowed to escape scrutiny, much less sanction, and many of the anti-doping 'enforcers' have chosen to grandstand at Lance's expense rather than truly search for the truth," said Armstrong's attorney, Elliot Peters. The U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, USADA, which banned Armstrong from cycling for life in 2012, welcomed the commission's work. "The report confirms that, for more than a decade, UCI leaders treated riders and teams unequally -- allowing some to be above the rules," said USADA Chief Executive Travis T. Tygart. "The UCI's favoritism and intentional failure to enforce the anti-doping rules offends the principles of fair play and is contrary to the values on which true sport is based." Cookson told CNN that the world governing body would be stepping up its fight against drugs cheats, working closely with the World Anti Doping Agency (WADA), national federations and, if necessary, law enforcement agencies. But the 63-year-old Briton still believes cycling has taken strides forward in the fight against drugs cheats. "Large numbers of riders are competing without doping," he said. "I want to encourage them and support them. I think it's possible to compete successfully in our sport without doping." However, Cookson reacted angrily to other aspects of the report, which suggested amateur cyclists and junior competitors were involved in doping. Of older cyclists, competing in Masters categories, Cookson gave a damning verdict. "The only people they are fooling is themselves, they are deluded," he said. But his harshest words were reserved over allegations that drugs were being peddled to young cyclists. "The people involved should be subjected to criminal proceedings because that's child abuse. I'm astonished and appalled by those findings," he said. CNN's Kevin Dotson and Paul Gittings contributed to this report.

Report: Cycling officials protected and defended Armstrong despite doping concerns . They exempted him from rules and failed to target test him, commission says . Armstrong cooperated with the investigation and thanks it for "seeking the truth" NEW: UCI honorary president asked to 'consider his position' by current chief Brian Cookson .

Reform Commission (CIRC) found that the UCI was unable to "recognize, report and/or take action" against known doping in 2003 and 2005, including the case of the American cyclist.Read More: 'Cycling has a doping problem': Here's how to fix it "'The current level of doping is a problem," said CIRC's chair, Richard Pound, at the release of the 330-page report in Switzerland on Thursday. "The level of doping we have seen today is far, far greater than ever before." The report, the most sweeping to date into the cycling industry, comes after the UCI this year banned the US Postal team and its six-year involvement in doping.Read More: 'Cycling has a doping problem': Here's how to fix it "It's time to look at the root causes of this problem, to understand the culture that has developed, rather than to simply respond to another scandal," it said. The UCI's president Pat McQuaid has denied that his organization has ignored doping and has promised to change its practices. "It is important to remember that this was a UCI of the past," he said at the report's release. "We're building a new UCI, a new foundation on which to build a safer future."In the report, the authors said they "remain concerned as to the failure of the UCI to provide a satisfactory explanation for its actions" in the Armstrong saga."We consider that the lack of satisfactory reasons given by the UCI regarding the Armstrong case to be a matter of particular concern," they said. "Given the scale and importance of the decision taken with respect to the Armstrong case, we are of the view that it is important for the UCI and the wider world of cycling to have the reasons for that decision set out in full for public scrutiny. Read More: 'Cycling has a doping problem': Here's how to fix it "As yet, the UCI has not provided the committee with the relevant documents and we are still awaiting further action," it added. The UCI released a statement before the report was made public, denying some of its findings. "The report has made some serious allegations which the UCI categorically rejects. None of these allegations have been proven or substantiated by credible evidence and are nothing more than mere allegations," it


Aston Villa Tim Sherwood spoke exclusively to Sportsmail's Chief Sports Writer Martin Samuel this week, covering all topics from touchline antics to his spell with Tottenham. Here are the top 10 quotes from that brilliant interview. Aston Villa spoke to Sportsmail's Chief Sports Writer Martin Samuel in an exclusive interview this week . Sherwood on his leadership qualities . ‘I think I can be a leader of men, but you’re not born with that attitude. In the maternity ward, it’s not girls, boys and natural leaders. You have to become that.’ Sherwood on his touchline antics and emotional nature . 'I could try acting. I could sit down and make little notes and everyone would say I’ve matured. But I know that’s impossible. I can’t imagine being any different 500 games in. People thought I would calm down as a player, but I didn’t. The day I retired I was the same lunatic that made his debut for Watford in 1987. I can’t believe the other managers are not as emotionally involved as I am, either. I think they’re all like me inside. Sherwood says he can't believe other managers are not as emotionally involved as he is . Sherwood on his Aston Villa side . ‘We’re like Everton. I don’t think we’ve got a group of players who are cut out for a relegation battle. We can’t be the Crystal Palace of last year, or the West Brom of this year. Digging in, blood and thunder, lump the ball in, protecting a lead, that’s not us. Our squad is better on the ball, they’re more suited to pushing for a place in the Europa League. Sherwood on his players stepping up . ‘The players have a duty, a responsibility to fix this mess. I don’t want to hear crap about how difficult it is to play at home. Playing for a big club comes with pressure. Anyone can do it for a lesser team — but you have to have b******s to play for Aston Villa. This is a big club. 'Aston Villa are like Everton... they're not a group of players who are cut out for a relegation battle' Sherwood on not listening to criticism . ‘When I was at Blackburn there were times when it was difficult. My name would be read out and there were a few groans. I didn’t care. I’d sometimes tell David Batty, “I’ll give it away more times than you’ll get it this afternoon.” Sherwood on Nabil Bentaleb . ‘I’d watched him in training. Every day was like his last on earth. He would cry if he lost a five-a-side. He played and never looked back. Sherwood says he loved the way Nabil Bentaleb 'played and never looked back' last season at Tottenham . Sherwood on telling Redknapp to take Bale off in the San Siro . ‘Harry’s going mad. “Get f****** Gareth off?” he says. “He’s the only f****** chance we’ve got.” He keeps him on, he scores a hat-trick, gets us back to 4-3 and if it goes another 10 minutes, we win. The kid’s career springboards from that performance. Sherwood on playing with passion . ‘The coaches used to call me Tackler Tim, or some rubbish. One day, I put one in and he said to Graham Taylor, “Why’s he keep doing that?” I’ve never forgotten his answer. “Brian, you know that shirt you wear on Saturday?” he said. “That’s the shirt he wants.” He was right, too. Take a player like Jack Grealish. I’ve had lots of chats with Jack. He knows what I think. I tell him: “I will take desire over ability every day”. Obviously, the ability can’t be too low. But if you have the ability — and he has — you’ll make it if you have desire. Sherwood says you must have the desire and talent to make it at the top these days . The young manager was appointed last month to attempt to save Aston Villa's season . Sherwood on managing players . ‘So I didn’t come in here all guns blazing or wanting to be their headmaster. You can’t get personal these days, get your hair cut, and all that nonsense. You’ve got to move with the times. I left the stick at home, and the tickling brush. Now I feel I know them a bit better. Some get a whack, others a tickle. Sherwood on Tottenham . ‘I don’t want to be scrapping around; I want to take them forward. I think I did that at Tottenham. I didn’t leave a crumbling house — Mauricio Pochettino has done a good job, but he had it laid out for him, with players like Kane and Bentaleb. Sherwood on managing players: 'Some get a whack, others get a tickle' (pictured with Emmanuel Adebayor)

READ MARTIN SAMUEL'S EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH TIM SHERWOOD . Sherwood speaks about his emotional touchline antics and passion . Aston Villa manager compares club to Everton who should aim higher . Says it is a 'massive club' and also talks about leadership quality . Sherwood was let go as Tottenham manager at the end of last season .

 Martin before his interview with us, asking us to ask him 10 'quickfire' questions.
Martin Samuel: When your spell at Tottenham ended in February 2004, you went to manage at Watford. Did you believe you were not given the chance to succeed with Spurs?
Martin Sherwood: No. I'd been given a chance at Tottenham. My first team game (the FA Cup semi-final defeat to Arsenal in 2002), I thought I'd done OK. As a club, we had made progress at the time. I left Fulham to come here (a year after Sherwood had left Fulham, 2002) so there was probably a chance I would have taken the job when it came up. If we'd have had that season again, I'd have had another crack at it at the start, rather than in the middle of it.
There was a lot of politics involved in it (the Tottenham job). I felt I could have done better with the squad I had. I made an impact, I had my time, it was a very special club. I know what it meant and it was something that has stayed with me since. It took 10 years for them to make a real impact. You want to make an impact and if I had done better with it, I believe I would have been there now. But I didn't. So I'd taken the time there and you can't sit there and say, 'I could have done better here'. You have to accept what happens.
The other aspect was that I'm a big believer in if you're in a job and you are working hard enough, you should be successful. Not everybody gets rewarded for that, I know.
When you start at a club it's your chance to work hard and prove that you can succeed, but you have to prove it. If you're doing that and the club are putting enough money in and you work incredibly hard, I don't think you will ever be sacked. You will only be sacked if you don't succeed. So it was a tricky time and probably a bad time for me, but I'm not sitting here saying I'm disappointed (in the way it finished).
How disappointed were you at that point in your career?
(Laughs) Extremely.
Did the reaction of the Tottenham supporters that day (when they had made you


A 26-year-old man has been found guilty of sodomizing and strangling to death his girlfriend's four-month-old baby daughter in a horrific 2012 attack following just four hours of jury deliberations. Jordan Lafayette Prince was convicted on Thursday of brutally sexually assaulting and murdering little Ashlynn Lillith Peters at his mobile home in St Charles, Missouri. He is now facing life in prison. At a hearing earlier this year, Prince's girlfriend and Ashlynn's mother, Jessica Lynn Howell, 27, was jailed for 25 years after admitting felony murder and child abuse in relation to the infant's death. Howell had encouraged her boyfriend to sexually assault Ashlynn in the sickening attack, authorities said. The helpless baby was then beaten and strangled by Prince, apparently to silence her crying. Guilty: Jordan Lafayette Prince (pictured in his police mug shot) has been found guilty of sodomizing and strangling to death his girlfriend's four-month-old baby daughter following four hours of jury deliberations . On Thursday, Prince showed no emotion as he was convicted of first-degree murder, child abuse and forcible sodomy in the  killing of Ashlynn in December 2012, according to the St Louis Post-Dispatch. His attorney had  argued that prosecutors had failed to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Prince had hurt Ashlynn, claiming  no DNA belonging to the suspect had been found to support their claims. Ashlynn was rushed to hospital on the morning of her death after being discovered lifeless and alone inside Prince's home in Deerfield Village. Despite medics' best efforts, she later died of her injuries. Although her cause of death was ruled to be asphyxiation, prosecutors said the forcible sodomy - carried out with an unknown object - had caused enough internal bleeding to have killed her. Shocking: Prince was convicted on Thursday of brutally sexually assaulting and murdering little Ashlynn Lillith Peters (pictured with her mother, Jessica Lynn Howell, who has been jailed in relation to her death) Scene: On Thursday, Prince showed no emotion as he was convicted of first-degree murder, child abuse and forcible sodomy in the killing of Ashlynn at his mobile home (pictured) in St Charles, Missouri, in 2012 . During Thursday's hearing,  assistant prosecutor Phil Groenweghe said Ashlynn's future hopes, dreams and achievements had been 'snuffed out' for 'one morning of sexual fun by this defendant'. Earlier in court, forensics expert Dan Fahnestock had testified that bloodstains found on the infant's blanket on the day of her assault and death were consistent with both the victim's and Prince's DNA. But he admitted he did not know how or when the blanket had been stained. Meanwhile, medical examiner Dr Mary Case told the court Ashlynn's neck bruises were consistent with strangulation. She also detailed the horrific injuries that Ashlynn had suffered during the sexual assault. They included severe blood loss that totaled around one-third of the infant's blood volume, STL reported. Convictions: At an earlier hearing Howell (pictured, left, in her mug shot), 27, was jailed for 25 years after admitting felony murder and child abuse in relation to Ashlynn's death. Right, Prince in a previous mug shot . During an interview with police, Prince, who had been dating Howell for around five months, reportedly told officers he had become frustrated with the baby because she wouldn't stop crying. Howell, who was apparently sleeping at the time, pleaded guilty in January to her involvement in her daughter's death. She also has two older children, a boy and a girl, St Charles Patch reported. Shockingly, court documents said she had sent a series of text messages to her boyfriend - when Ashlynn was just one month old - encouraging him to have sexual contact with her baby daughter. Prince  - who is not Ashlynn's father and was previously convicted in 2007 of lewd conduct with a minor under the age of 16 - will be sentenced by Circuit Judge Nancy Schneider on April 30.

Jordan Lafayette Prince, 26, found guilty of killing Ashlynn Lillith Peters . He sodomized the four-month-old baby girl, then strangled her to death . Sickening assault took place at his mobile home in St Charles, Missouri . Prince showed no emotion as he was convicted of murder and sodomy . Earlier this year, his partner and Ashlynn's mother, Jessica Lynn Howell, was jailed for 25 years for felony murder and child abuse relating to case . She had encouraged Prince to sexually attack her baby, authorities said .

 in the US.
Justin Ross Harris, 38, from Georgia, was found guilty on Tuesday of malice murder and other charges as a Georgia jury took just four hours to deliberate before returning a verdict in a case that caused a huge public outcry.
"We know what Mr Harris did to my son, and we'll never forget," the boy's mother, Heather Mack, said in a statement, CNN reported. "We will remember him for the rest of our lives."
Mack and Harris are due to be sentenced on June 7. They face a minimum of 30 years' imprisonment.
Harris showed "no emotion" during the verdict reading and did not look at Mack as she sat across a courtroom from him, her attorneys said outside the Cobb County Courthouse after the verdict.
Earlier this month, Harris pleaded guilty in a deal with prosecutors to a 20-year sentence if the judge accepts it, in exchange for an automatic rejection of the death penalty.
Prosecutor Chuck Boring said Harris had "no remorse" for what he did.
"He knew exactly what he was doing. He did it for a selfish reason," he told the jury at a hearing on Friday. "He did not do it accidentally. He did not do it under duress. He did not do it because the baby fell down a flight of stairs."
The murder trial in the suburb of Atlanta was marked by graphic testimony of the baby's suffering and the investigation into what was possibly the deadliest instance of extreme childcare "neglect" in US history.
Harris initially told investigators that the baby, who was in a car seat on the back seat of his SUV when found dead on June 18, 2014, had been in the back of the car for an hour and a half.
"You had to at least put her on the back seat to go to the gym," Boring said on Friday. "This baby was strapped in so tight she was almost dead."
The prosecution argued that Harris, a father-of-one who had had a troubled marriage with Mack and a troubled financial outlook, decided to drive to the gym that morning, then strapped the child into her car seat and drove back home, where he hid her body in a plastic crate under a play mat.
After he was arrested six months after the killing, Harris reportedly told the police that he had strapped the child into the SUV after a trip to Costco, "


Social media users have hurled abuse at Julia Gillard after the former prime minister shared a photo of herself at school to encourage young girls in their education. Ms Gillard tweeted the photo with the caption '#TBT [throwback Thursday] my school pic! On #IWD2015 [International Women's Day] Stand #UpForSchool to empower our girls' on Thursday morning. The 53-year-old's tweet was met with harsh replies among the supportive tweets, including one which said it was a shame that Ms Gillard had grown up to be 'a bitter vile person'. Scroll down for video . Ms Gillard tweeted the photo with the caption '#TBT [throwback Thursday] my school pic! On #IWD2015 [International Women's Day] Stand #UpForSchool to empower our girls' One Twitter user responded to the abuse and claimed the former prime minister was 'a far better person than you will ever be' Other Twitter users claimed she had grown up to be 'an ignorant a***ole', and that she would 'go down as the worst PM in history'. 'Girls shouldn't have to do what you did to get on in the world, not a good example!', tweeted another. Several social media users were quick to jump to Ms Gillard's defence, labelling the comments 'bitter' and 'angry', and one Twitter user claimed the former prime minister was 'a far better person than you will ever be'. 'Winning smile. Breaking glass ceilings in Australia for women and redheads,' tweeted one user, while another wrote, 'Congratulations. You are a great role model for all young females!' Ms Gillard tweeted the photo as part of  A World At School's project 'Up for School', an international campaign to achieve the Millennium Goal of seeing all children in school. The project cites a statistic of 58 million children still out of school, and ahead of International Women's Day on March 8, Ms Gillard, who has long been outspoken about the disadvantages women face. Other Twitter users claimed she had grown up to be 'an ignorant a***ole', and that she would 'go down as the worst PM in history' The 53-year-old's tweet was met with harsh replies among the supportive tweets . Social media users abused the former prime minister after she posted a photo of herself at school . 'I want to see a future where every girl is educated and empowered to reach their full potential, just like I was. I’m sharing my school photo in solidarity with the 31 million girls around the world who are still denied the right to go to school,' Ms Gillard wrote about her post. Ms Gillard, who is well-known for her 'misogyny' speech, spoke at the NAB Women’s Agenda Leadership Awards ceremony about the importance of encouraging girls in education and women into leadership positions. 'It is a universal truism in development, when you speak to people in the global development community, that if you want to change the society, educate a girl,' Ms Gillard said. 'If you educate a girl, then she will have the empowerment and the economic freedoms, which come with that education, when she moves into the labour market, and more choices about how and when to have her children, she will choose to have less children, and have them later in her life,' reported Business Insider. 'In this great country where we enjoy so many remarkable privileges, I feel very intensely the obligation to make sure we are reaching out to our neighbours and helping them educate their girls… who are most likely to be left behind.'

Julia Gillard tweeted a 'throwback Thursday' photo of herself from school . The tweet was part of a campaign to encourage girls in their education . Her post was met with horrible abuse from social media users . Users claimed she grew to be 'a vile bitter person' and 'arrogant a**hole' Other users came to her defense, calling her inspirational for women .

 this little girl is still very much in the classroom'.
The photo shows the then 10-year-old Julia being pictured with fellow classmates and smiling in her school uniform.
However, many have hit out at the 53-year-old for sharing the image as they said that it sent the wrong message to young children who could be struggling to afford a school uniform.
Others said that they would have loved to wear a uniform to school, but instead were forced to pay for their own clothes.
'As a kid I never could afford a uniform but did everything possible to fit in. We had school uniform days - you know it wasn't that long ago - but I felt like crap because my parents were poor. All the kids would be looking their best. Now I work with poor kids and can barely afford a school uniform let alone shoes,' one person said.
Another agreed: 'I grew up being bullied and my clothes were ragged because our parents struggled to make ends meet and didn't buy me proper uniforms. The kids who could afford it always looked amazing and made you feel poor.'
However, one person who criticised Ms Gillard was told off by another user who pointed out that not everyone is in the position to attend a good school: 'If the school has rules about what you wear they can afford it. You don't know what these families are going through.'
It's not the first time the former Australian Prime Minister has come in for criticism over social media, as earlier this month a photo of her 'not having time for your s***' went viral.
Julia Gillard sparked outrage with some users commenting that they were offended by her message after the photo was shared on Twitter and Instagram by the mother of a Year 7 student.
The 53-year-old - who has a daughter, Sarah, aged 14, and son, Isaac, 12 - was pictured writing on a school desk that said: 'Have I got time for your s***? You’re probably used to a teacher writing on it. I’m the boss so I’m writing on it.'
She later deleted the picture.
Julia was raised in Barry Island, south Wales and attended the local primary school. After she left, she went on to study at Bristol University and then studied for a PhD in Australian history at Melbourne University. In 1997 she secured a position as a tutor at the University of Adelaide, and then


Yet another former model has publicly accused embattled entertainer Bill Cosby of drugging and sexually assaulting her on at least two occasions nearly 40 years ago. Cosby's latest accuser, known only as Patricia, was one of more than a dozen women who anonymously testified against the comedian as part of a 2005 lawsuit filed by Andrea Constand - a former basketball star and Temple University employee who was among the first people to call out Cosby. The multimillionaire TV star settled the lawsuit a year later for an undisclosed amount, and his accusers were effectively 'silenced,' said Patricia. Scroll down for video . More accusations: Yet another former model, a 58-year-old California resident named Patricia, has come out accusing Bill Cosby of sexually assaulting her in the late 1970s . More than 30 women have accused the 77-year-old award-winning comedian in recent years of sexually assaulting them over the past four decades. Cosby's legal team have repeatedly said their client denies all of the allegations of sexual misconduct. Speaking in an exclusive interview with BuzzFeed this week, Patricia, now 58 years old and living in California, finally got to tell her story involving the powerful show business big-shot who allegedly lured her to his home under the guise of an acting lesson and took advantage of her after spiking her drink. Patricia said she was 22 years old in 1978 when Cosby invited her to a dinner party at his home in Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts. The young model, who first met the famous comic while working as a conference planner at the University of Massachusetts - her and Cosby’s alma mater - assumed that the actor's wife, Camille, will be joining them for dinner. But when she arrived the Cosbys' house, Patrica said she found a table set just for two next to a fireplace. ‘I felt alarm bells go off because it did feel intimate, but I was trying to be so grown up and mature,' she told the site. Jane Doe: Patricia was one of more than a dozen women who anonymously testified against the comedian as part of a 2005 lawsuit filed by Andrea Constand (left and right) The young model accepted a drink from her famous host, who then proceeded to give her a set of peculiar acting directions: Patricia was asked to pretend to be a queen with oatmeal dripping down her face. 'It was so creepy,' Patricia told BuzzFeed. 'He told me to convince him that I could remain regal and queenlike no matter what I looked like.' As the odd improvisational game went on, Patricia said she started to feel strange and eventually blacked out. In a now-familiar scenario, Patricia said she later woke up naked in bed to find Cosby standing over her dressed in a robe. The comedian allegedly said that the young woman got sick and he had to remove and wash her soiled dress. She recalled that at the time, it sounded like a plausible explanation. On her way home after the disastrous dinner, Patricia got violently ill and had to pull over four times to throw up. Patricia, an aspiring singer and actress, said she felt embarrassed and was certain that Cosby would not want to help her anymore with her career in show business. But Cosby followed through on his promise to mentor her, paying for her acting lessons in New York and Los Angeles, getting her a gym membership to help her lose weight, and regularly checking up on her progress. Ideal: The last time Patricia saw Cosby in 1980, the comic allegedly requested that she style her hair like Queen Noor of Jordan (left and right) Regal: Patricia claimed  Cosby was 'obsessed' with the beautiful American-born consort of King Hussein, and that he even sent her a photo of the queen so that a hair stylist could replicate her loose bun . Patricia also accompanied the married actor to several events around the country. The last time she saw Cosby during a live taping of the Dinah Shore Show in 1980, the comedian had an odd request: Patricia was asked to style her hair like Queen Noor of Jordan. Patricia claimed that Cosby was 'obsessed' with the striking American-born consort of King Hussein, and that he even sent her a photo of the queen so that a hair stylist could replicate her loose bun. After the show taping, Patricia claimed that Cosby talked her into taking some pills to relax her. She awakened the next morning naked and knew at once that something was awry. 'I was very sick and knew that someone had penetrated me,' the ex-model told the site. Patricia then confronted Cosby, but the comedian became furious, accused her of being an ingrate and threw her out of his suite. The woman kept mum about her experiences for the next three decades, saying that she felt ashamed and partially responsible for what happened to her because she trusted the wrong person and let herself be blinded by ambition. Patricia finally broke her silence in 2005 after her therapist gave her the number of the detective investigating the allegations against Cosby. She then joined 13 other women who agreed to testify as part of Andrea Constand's five-count lawsuit against the beleaguered comic. Patricia has become the seventh Jane Doe to speak out. She hopes other alleged victims will follow her example and come out of the shadows. 'You're not alone,' she said. 'You don’t have to keep this a secret anymore.'

Woman identified as Patrica, 58, from California, was among more than a dozen of Jane Does who testified as part of 2005 lawsuit against Bill Cosby . Accuser claims she met Cosby as a 22-year-old model and aspiring actress in 1978, and that the married actor sexually assaulted her at least twice . Patricia say Cosby lured her to his home under the guise of giving her acting lessons and made her a drink that caused her to black out . The Cosby Show star allegedly paid for his protege's acting lessons and gym membership, and her her accompany him to events . Patricia claims Cosby was obsessed with Queen Noor of Jordan and once forced her to style her hair like the royal consort .

 dozens of models who helped Cosby launch his comedy career, but in a statement to The Daily Mail, she said her "world was instantly shattered by the accusations against Cosby."
"After so many years I am finally able to find the courage to address and tell the truth for my sake, my family and the many victims," Patricia wrote in the statement, which was obtained by the newspaper. "It was not easy to relive what I was forced to endure but I had to face my demons so I could find peace."
The allegations are the latest accusations against Cosby — a longtime comedian and entertainer — in the wake of reports that he's been drugging and sexually assaulting women for decades, which first came to light in 2004 after a civil suit by Andrea Constand, a former director at Cosby's alma mater Temple University. Despite the accusations and the civil suit, he remains a beloved figure in the African American community. He's still held up as a positive role model despite allegations of rape and sexual assault, dating all the way back to a 1984 incident in Massachusetts in which he was accused of assaulting Temple student Andrea Constand.
Despite the accusations, Cosby was awarded a lifetime achievement award from the NAACP in 2004. At the award show, he talked openly about his mother and his upbringing, while also acknowledging the fact that the allegations of sexual assault had "shaken" his life.
But it's Cosby's popularity in African American communities, and his willingness to talk openly about his mother and upbringing — not to mention his numerous awards and accolades — that has made his alleged actions that much more confusing.
"I guess when you're raised to be someone you're not, it becomes an identity of itself," he said. "This is an identity I created, this is an identity that has taken me so much through the years, and this is an identity that will be with me to the end of my days."
He was also given the Presidential Medal of Freedom — the nation's highest civilian honor — and inducted into the National Black Theatre Festival in Winston-Salem, N.C. on the heels of a civil lawsuit against him by actress Louisa Moritz. The case was eventually settled for $3 million, and the allegations of rape and sexual assault against Cosby were reportedly dropped from the suit.
After Moritz's case was settled,