America may find itself without a friend in the world

It has not been an easy week for circus clowns in Mexico.

As well as the usual problems of custard pies, rotating bowties and comically misfiring motorcars, they’ve also had to deal with an embarrassing copyright infringement by the cartels. The Guardian examines a case of copying.

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You've heard about misfires, but misprints?

Police in the UK have uncovered what they believe is the first attempt by criminals to use a 3D printer to create illegal firearms. Or at least that's what they've said. The New Scientist has a critical examination of the evidences, and it's not quite convinced.

Beware — of women

Al-Jazeera has a report about Saudi officials cautioning against Saudis supporting women who plan a driving protest Oct. 26. Supporters could face up to five years in prison.

Has anything changed in Bangladesh?

It's been six months since the collapse of the Rana Plaza garment factory complex in Bangladesh, and the deaths of over a thousand workers inside. But, as Bloomberg reports, there are still few signs of a new safety regime.

As American as Mom's yakisoba

What could more Japanese than the humble soba noodle? PRI's The World has been looking into the history of the Soba – and discovered it might be more American than you think.

Al-Qaeda's business plan: Hostage-taking

What happens when ransom is paid? In Yemen, where kidnapping foreigners is a growing problem, the money may end up with al-Qaeda. The Los Angeles Times has an excellent — if harrowing —  report.

What we're seeing on social

Weather around the world

The Atlantic hurricane season comes to an end in six weeks and, for the experts at least, it has been a bust. Forecasts called for anywhere from nine to 11 hurricanes to hit the United States. But, according to the National Post, so far just one has hit US shores.