news 1

The use of banned drugs in Australian professional sport is “widespread”, a year-long investigation has found.

The Australian Crime Commission (ACC) said scientists, coaches and support staff were involved in the provision of drugs across multiple sporting codes, without naming any individuals.

In some cases, the drugs were supplied by organised crime syndicates, it said.

Home Affairs Minister Jason Clare said the findings were “shocking and will disgust Australian sports fans”.

news 2

There are just days to go before Chinese New Year, the biggest celebration on China’s calendar, when the entire country shuts down for a few days of food, fireworks … and family.

Many enjoy the holiday, but millions of unmarried people merely endure it.

In the basement of an office tower in downtown Beijing, a cloud of gloom hovers over the canteen at lunch time. Groups of young women huddled over large bowls of noodles look depressed when asked about the February’s impending Chinese New Year holiday.

news 3

Two men have been injured in an attack by a komodo dragon in a wildlife park in eastern Indonesia, park officials say.

The 2m (7ft) long lizard attacked a park ranger in his office, then turned on another employee who tried to come to his aid.

Both suffered serious leg wounds and were being monitored in hospital.

news 4

Bombarded with adverts promising a longer, healthier life, Peter Bowes in Los Angeles goes in search of eternal youth.

Is mental infirmity an inevitable consequence of getting old? Or could we enjoy a more clear-headed old age?

In California it’s common to see advertisements promoting brain training or brain workouts which claim to help reverse the effects of ageing.

news 5

The extinction of an animal species always brings finality, but in the wake of the demise of species other creatures can prosper. More than 99% of the species which once roamed our planet no longer exist, yet a rich range of plants and animals survived.

news 6

A new international racing series hopes to change the perception of electric cars and accelerate the development of new technologies.