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Current Events for November 6, 2015Friday, November 6, 2015 at 9:17 am
Severe Pollution Causes India's Bellandur Lake To Spew Toxic White Foam
Though we always hear about how polluted our oceans, lakes and seas are, it is rare to witness the contamination without at least wading into the waters. However, such is not the case for the residents that live in the vicinity of Bangalore's largest body of water - Lake Bellandur. They get to both witness and experience the toxic effects of the pollution that spews out in the form of fluffy white foam, every single day of the year!
Giant Pterosaur Found In Utah Quarry Had 110 Teeth And Some Wicked Fangs!
In early October, researchers from Utah's Brigham Young University revealed the discovery of a new species of a giant pterosaur. The massive reptile is believed to have inhabited Earth over two hundred million years ago during the Triassic Period when most of the continents were combined in the giant C-shaped supercontinent known as Pangaea.
Video Of The Week - Aladdin And His "Magic Carpet" Take New York City By Storm
On Friday, October 30th, New York City residents received an early Halloween surprise when Disney's street urchin Aladdin and his "magic carpet" came zooming down the streets. The clever stunt that appeared to be straight out of the popular movie was the brainchild of vlogger Jesse Wellens, and reality television star Casey Neistat.
Earth's Gravity Is Pulling Cracks In The Moon's Surface
The fact that the moon's gravitational pull affects ocean tides is well-known. However, what scientists did not know is that the Earth's gravity has a similar tug on the satellite. The only difference is that the effects are much worse since the pull results in exacerbating and changing the direction of the cracks on the lunar surface.
Smart Device Translates American Sign Language To English
American Sign Language (ASL), has been one of the primary means of communication for the deaf in the United States and many parts of Canada since the 1800s. It is estimated that between 500,000 to 2 million people use the language on a regular basis.
Need An Extra Hour To Recover From Halloween Festivities? You Got It!
What could be better than Halloween falling on a Saturday? How about an "extra" hour on Sunday? That will be the case for most North American residents because this weekend also marks the end of Daylight Saving Time (DST). This means that on Sunday, November 1st, residents will add an extra 60 minutes to their day by simply moving back the clocks.
Tompkins Square Park Halloween Dog Parade Celebrates 25th Anniversary
Many U.S. cities host Halloween dog parades. However, few compare to the one held at New York City's Tompkins Square Park. The tremendously competitive event attracts over 300 pooches and their proud owners who fly in from all over the country and spend inordinate amounts of time and money crafting the perfect costumes. This year's event which took place on October 24th was even more special given it was the popular contest's 25th anniversary!
Video Of The Week - Wingsuit Skydivers Set New Formation Record
On October 17th, 61 wingsuit skydivers from a dozen countries arrived in Perris, California for one purpose - To shatter the skydiving record for the most wingsuit divers in formation while in freefall, set by 42 jumpers in June.
Why Crafty Crocodiles May Be Sleeping With One Eye Open
While for humans the expression "sleep with one eye open" is just a metaphor to keep alert, for some animals it is a way of life. Called unihemispheric sleep, it is the ability to snooze with one eye open and the corresponding half of the brain awake, while the other half rests.
No "Tricks" Expected From Surprise Asteroid That Will Whiz Past Earth On Halloween
Looking for a spooky Halloween tale? How about this? According to NASA scientists, an asteroid measuring between 1,050 to 2,100 feet will be making its way towards Earth on October 31st. While the massive space rock that will be zooming in at a rapid 78,000 mph will not hit us, it will come startlingly close - Within 1.3 times the distance of the moon (about 310,000 miles) - The closest such encounter since 2006.Current Events for September 15, 2015Tuesday, September 15, 2015 at 3:13 pm
Can Smarter School Designs Inspire Students To Become More Active And Make Healthier Food Choices?
With childhood obesity rates on the rise, schools are going all out to encourage students to become more active and make healthier food choices. Some have added standing desks; others have revamped their cafeteria menus. In Dillwyn, Virginia, the educators have gone one step further - They have designed a school that incorporates movement and healthy eating.
Twenty-Year-Old Boyan Slat Takes On The Monumental Task Of Cleaning Our Oceans
Most 20-year-olds are still trying to figure out what they want to do in life. Not Boyan Slat. Ever since he was 16-years old, the Dutch teenager has had one mission - To clean up the trillions of pieces of plastic that are polluting our oceans and killing precious marine life. What's amazing is that this young man who started with what sounded like an outlandish dream may actually be able to pull off this gargantuan task!
The Crafty Wasps That Turn Spiders Into Web-Weaving Zombie Slaves
Mention wasps and you are bound to hear exasperated tales of picnic sabotages and painful stings. But as it turns out, humans have it relatively easy, at least compared to some poor spiders that the wasps turn into web-weaving zombie slaves.
Chris, The World's Woolliest Sheep Gets A Much Needed Haircut
On September 2nd, Canberra's Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) received news of a woolly creature roaming around in the Mulligans Flat Nature Reserve on the outskirts of the city. When the officials arrived to investigate, they discovered a barely visible ram buried under a giant ball of beautiful merino wool.
Six "Astronauts" Embark On A Yearlong Mock Mission To Mars
On August 28, six researchers who barely know each other made their way to the slopes of the Mauna Loa volcano on Hawaii's Big Island for a year-long "vacation." However, the crew of three men and three women that includes a soil scientist, a doctor, a post-grad architect student, and an astrobiologist, did not check into a fancy resort. Instead, they locked themselves up inside a solar-powered dome without fresh air, fresh food, or privacy.
'Super' Stonehenge Discovered A Short Distance From The Original Monument
Stonehenge, a prehistoric monument located in Wiltshire, England, is one of the world's most well-known ancient religious and burial sites. Situated amidst a dense complex of Neolithic and Bronze Age monuments, the modest looking circle of stones that are visited by millions of tourists annually were declared a World Heritage Site in 1986. Now it appears that the ancient tombstones that are believed to date all the way back to 2,000 B.C. have some bigger competitors right in their own backyard.
Video Of The Week - A Sneak Peek At The 2016 Guinness World Records
Every year, the hard-working folks at Guinness World Records scour the globe to seek out and recognize the incredible achievements and talents of both humans and animals. This year was no exception. On September 10, the company released a sneak peek into all the fascinating records fans can look forward to in the 2016 edition of the iconic book.
Japanese Fisherman Reels In Monster Wolffish
Japanese fisherman Hiroshi Hirasaka has an unusual hobby. He likes to catch and eat exotic and bizarre-looking creatures.The avid hunter has even outlined his conquests in a book called "Exotic Fish Species: I Caught, Judged and Tried Eating." Hence, you can only imagine his delight when he reeled in yet another scary looking specimen off the coast of Japan's Hokkaido Island, on August 30th.
Video Of The Week - Skydiver Solves Rubik's Cube As He Free-Falls!
Solving the Rubik's Cube in 60 seconds may not seem like a big deal. In fact, it is painfully slow considering that 15-year-old world record holder Collin Burns is able to complete it in a mere 5.25 seconds. However, figuring out the Cube during a free fall jump certainly takes some skill not to mention a lot of courage. That is why skydiver Chris Walker's recent accomplishment is pretty amazing!
Netherlands Is Home To The World's First Pop-Up Sandcastle Hotels
When one thinks of sandcastles the image that comes to mind is usually that of building a masterpiece not staying inside one. However, some lucky visitors to the Netherlands can experience both thanks to two new pop-up sand hotels in the cities of Oss and Sneek.
Theo Jansen's Whimsical Strandbeests Come To America
Some sculptors like to create clay masterpieces; others prefer metal. Then there is Theo Jansen. This Dutch artist uses PVC tubes to build giant Strandbeests (beach animals in Dutch). Part work of art, part fantastical creature, the multi-legged insect-like creations are both awe-inspiring and terrifying!
Watch Out For Those Selfies, They Can Be Deadlier Than Sharks!
The proliferation of smartphones with cameras that can take self-portraits or selfies as they are popularly called has liberated us. We can now document every moment of our life and instantly share it with the world through the myriad of social networking websites. However, some believe that the incessant quest to capture the "ultimate" selfie is causing people to take unnecessary risks that in some cases are proving to be deadly!
This 'Glowing' Sea Turtle Is The World's First Known Biofluorescent Reptile
When the team of marine biologists led by David Gruber of the City University of New York headed to Solomon Islands in the South Pacific in late July, they were hoping to film some biofluorescent sharks and coral reefs. What they had never expected to find was the world's first-known biofluorescent reptile.
IG Nobel Prizes Honor 'Fun' Scientific Research
This morning, William Campbell, Satoshi Omura, and Youyou Tu, were jointly awarded the Nobel Prize for medicine for their work on parasitic diseases. Though the brilliant scientists certainly deserve the honor for their groundbreaking research, for most of us, reading about their and the achievements of other Nobel laureates can be overwhelming and perhaps even a little boring. However, the same cannot be said about the winners of the IG Nobel Prize that celebrates 'fun' scientific research.
Video Of The Week - Tiny French Bulldog Wards Off Bears From Family Home
Jules, a 20-pound French bulldog may not seem like much of a guard dog. But don't let his small size and sweet demeanor fool you. That's because when it comes to protecting his family, the tiny canine is as effective as the most aggressive dog breed.
ms3over 8 years1. Three bears appeared at the house. 2. Jules chased and barked at the bears and scared them off.
Current Events for September 3, 2015Thursday, September 3, 2015 at 6:38 pm
Ice Cream That Does Not Melt (Immediately)? Sweet!
What's better than a scoop of ice cream on a hot summer day? How about one that doesn't melt into a sticky puddle within minutes? That, believe it or not, could soon become a reality thanks to the ingenious scientists at the Universities of Edinburgh and Dundee.
Is Queen Nefertiti Resting Inside A Hidden Chamber Within King Tut's Tomb?
Queen Nefertiti, the wife of King Akhenaten who ruled from 1352 to 1336 B.C., was one of ancient Egypt's most influential and beautiful queens. Historians maintain that she played a significant role in the political and religious reforms that resulted in numerous changes including the establishment of Aten as Egypt's supreme god. Many even believe that the powerful queen served as pharaoh for a brief period following her husband's death and the accession of his 9-year-old son King Tutankhamun (Tut), to the throne.
Australian Daredevil Robbie Maddison Surfs Giant Wave . . . On His Dirt Bike
Freestyle motocross maestro Robbie Maddison is well-known for his heart-stopping stunts. In 2008, the Australian daredevil wowed the world with a leap over the 164-feet tall Arc de Triomphe in Paris, France. In 2014, he performed several back flips over stationary airplanes at the military service aircraft graveyard in Tucson, Arizona. However, neither compare to his latest stunt - "Surfing" a wave on a slightly modified KTM dirt bike.
Jet Blue's Vending Machines Will Be Welcomed At Any School
While vending machines have a bad reputation generally, they are particularly frowned upon in schools. That's because most are filled with foods that are deemed unhealthy for both kids and adults. However, no one will have any objection to Jet Blue's vending machines. That's because they dispense free books!
World's First Robot-Staffed Hotel Is Open For Business in Japan
The Japanese have always been at the forefront at deploying robots to perform jobs that are traditionally done by humans. Over the past year, humanoid robots have been seen helping customers at Mitsubishi Bank, selling Nestle's espresso machines and even filling in for human science communicators at museums. Hence, it is not surprising to hear that the country is now home to a hotel that is staffed almost entirely by the Androids!
Brave 10-Year Old Shark Bite Victim Wades Back Into The Ocean To Save Her Friend
On Wednesday, August 19th, ten-year-old Florida resident Kaley Szarmack was wading in knee-deep ocean waters at a Jacksonville beach, when she experienced a sharp pain in her right leg. Thinking that a crab was holding on to her, the young girl looked down only to see multiple lacerations on both sides of her leg. Soon after, Kaley noticed the dorsal fin of what appeared to be a three-foot long shark darting away from the crime scene.
World's Oldest Known Message In A Bottle Washes Ashore After 108 Years
Earlier this year, Marianne Winkler, a retired postal worker and her husband were vacationing on the North Sea island of Amrum, Germany, when they stumbled upon a bottle with a message inside! And it was no ordinary letter either, but one written by an Edwardian British scientist studying undersea currents.
ISS Astronauts Enjoy First Space-Grown Salad
Space food has come a long way since John Glenn orbited Earth in 1962. He and other members of Project Mercury, the first American human spaceflight program, had to endure unappetizing foods that came in the form of bite-sized cubes, freeze-dried powders, and semi-liquids stuffed in aluminum tubes. Today astronauts can select from an extensive menu of over 70 foods and 20 beverages. The one thing they still can't get? Fresh fruits and vegetables!
The Color-Changing Dusky Dottyback Is A Master Of Disguise
Camouflage is not a new concept in the animal kingdom. From grasshoppers blending in with leaves to owls mimicking tree barks, many animals, birds, and insects, depend on their ability to hide in plain sight for survival. But if there were an Oscar for the species with the best disguise, it would surely go to the dusky dottyback. The crafty predator fish can change its color to mimic that of its prey's parents, allowing it to feast on their juveniles, without raising suspicion.
Video Of The Week - Talented Five-Year Old "Hypnotizes" Animals
When Ying Ying walked up on the stage at a recent audition of the Amazing Chinese Show, the judges were not sure what to expect. After all, she is just five-years-old. So you can only imagine their surprise when the poised girl began showcasing her unique "hypnotizing" skills on some unsuspecting animals.
ms5over 8 yearsI think it is awesome
Current Events for April 27, 2015Monday, April 27, 2015 at 12:25 pm
The Goldfish Invasion That Is Threatening A Colorado Lake's Ecosystem
For the casual visitor, Teller Lake in Boulder, Colorado looks like a delightful fishbowl filled with thousands of gorgeous orange, black, and white goldfish floating around. However, to the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Department they are a group of invasive species that could end up disrupting the lake's entire ecosystem if not removed soon.
Engineering Students Use Sound Waves To Extinguish Fires
Water, foam, sand, blankets, and even baking soda are well-known solutions to putting out flames. But sound waves? That has to be a first. But that is exactly what two young engineers from George Mason University are using to douse small fires.
It's Almost Earth Day! What Are You Going To Do To Help The Planet?
On April 22, 1970, twenty million people across the United States took to the streets to ask government officials to take preventive measures to protect the environment. Today, it is a global movement that is observed by billions of people and celebrated with rallies, environmental clean-up events and pledges to undertake "green" initiatives to help the planet.
The Barkley Marathons, The World's Hardest And Quirkiest 100-Mile Race
Though there are numerous ultramarathons, competitions that exceed running or walking the traditional 26.2 miles, very few compare to The Barkley Marathons. The annual 100-mile race that challenges participants both mentally and physically has been completed by only 14 of the 1,100 total participants in its 30-year history. To put it in perspective, that is just two more than the number of people that have walked on the moon!
Retired NYC Subway Cars Transform Into "Luxurious Condominiums" For Fish
While the sight of an 18-ton subway car being dumped into the Atlantic Ocean may appear like an ecological disaster, it is quite the opposite. Instead of harming marine life, the sturdy steel structures submerged deep into the Atlantic Ocean have transformed into perfect artificial reefs that provide comfortable homes for all kinds of sea creatures.
Hi-Tech Fabric Charges Devices On The Run - Literally!
Over the past few years, researchers have come up with many innovative ways to use human kinetic energy - from powering soccer fields to playgrounds and classroom lights. Now some scientists want to take it to the next level with a new fabric that harnesses everyday motion to power personal devices!
Video Of The Week - Walking Poodle Turns Heads In China
If you ever visit the city of Chengdu that lies southwest of China's Sichuan Province don't be surprised to see a cute backpack-carrying poodle strutting down the streets on its hind legs. According to its owner 43-year-old Zhu Tai, the dog can walk for almost a mile before it needs to come down on all fours.
Urban Ants Love Junk Food Almost As Much As Humans
Dropped a chip or cookie on the pavement? Don't bother picking it up especially if you live in an urban area like Manhattan. That's because according to a team of researchers led by North Carolina State University's Clint Penick, some industrious ants will soon carry it away. For believe it or not, many city ants have come to love junk food almost as much as humans do!
Scrunchies May Save Birds From Nature's Fiercest Predator - Your Cat!
Did you know that nature's deadliest predator is probably lurking in your neighborhood? Odds are, you may be even harboring it in your home. Confused? We are talking about your pet cat. Though they may appear cuddly and innocent, they are known to wreak havoc on their local ecology, killing birds, small mammals, and reptiles at an alarming rate.
Disney's MagicBands Make Theme Park Experience Even More "Magical"
What's more magical than being at a Disney theme park? How about being at one where everything from tickets to park itinerary, fast passes, and even dinner reservations, is taken care of before you even enter the park. Sounds too good to be true? Then you have not met Disney's incredible MagicBands!
Video(s) Of The Week - Best April Fool's Pranks Of 2015
Every year after April 1st, the world takes stock of the best pranks. This year was no exception. Amongst the ones that made the top list was Google's portable mailbox and Richard Branson's announcement to move his company's US headquarters to Branson, Missouri.
Short But Spectacular Lunar Eclipse Delights Millions
On Saturday, April 4th, sky gazers in many parts of the world were treated to the third of the four lunar eclipses that will occur before the end of 2015. What made the celestial event even more special is that it was the shortest one of the century.
Ever Had That Strange Feeling Of Déjà Vu?
If you are like most people, chances are that you have experienced déjà vu. French for ‘already seen’, it is that thrilling yet eerie feeling that you have encountered a situation or been to a place before, knowing fully well that it is not the case. For most people, the feeling is sudden and fleeting. But for a 23-year-old British resident it became a prolonged affair that lasted for over eight years.Current Events for April 6, 2015Monday, April 6, 2015 at 11:50 am
Smile! It's The International Day Of Happiness And First Day Of Spring!
We are often so busy focusing on what we lack in our lives, that we forget to be happy about all the things we have - like good health and loving friends and family. Today is a great day to change that mindset. That's because it is not just the first day of spring (at least for those that live in the northern hemisphere) but also the International Day of Happiness.Ever Had That Strange Feeling Of Déjà Vu?
If you are like most people, chances are that you have experienced déjà vu. French for ‘already seen’, it is that thrilling yet eerie feeling that you have encountered a situation or been to a place before, knowing fully well that it is not the case. For most people, the feeling is sudden and fleeting. But for a 23-year-old British resident it became a prolonged affair that lasted for over eight years.
Can "Operation Wonka" Save The World From Running Out Of Chocolate?
Most of us could probably survive without spinach, kale, or broccoli, but a world without chocolate? Now that would be hard! But if some of the world's largest candy manufacturers are to be believed, it could happen if we don't act soon.
Dallas Seavey Wins Iditarod Third Time In Four Years!
For most mushers, even completing the Iditarod aka the Last Great Race On Earth, is a big achievement. But don't tell that to Mitch and Dallas Seavey. They have dominated the thousand-mile sled dog race across Alaska for the last four years. 28-year-old Dallas, who took top billing in 2012 and 2013, was once again the first to cross the finish line in Nome at 4.13 am on Wednesday March 18th.
Video Of The Week - Moritz The Puzzle-Solving Pig
When one thinks of pigs, smart is not the first word that comes to mind. However, after seeing Moritz complete puzzles with such ease you may change your mind not just about him but all the other porkers out there.
Newsflash! Cows Have Favorite Playlists Too!
We all know that music has the power to comfort us when we are frazzled or distressed. Can it do the same for animals? In 2001, University of Leicester researchers decided to test this by exposing dairy cows to different genres of music. They discovered that certain types of music helped cows produce 3% more milk than those that only heard the jarring sounds of milking machines.Short But Spectacular Lunar Eclipse Delights Millions
On Saturday, April 4th, sky gazers in many parts of the world were treated to the third of the four lunar eclipses that will occur before the end of 2015. What made the celestial event even more special is that it was the shortest one of the century.Current Events for March 9, 2015Monday, March 9, 2015 at 12:21 pm
E-Nable Connects 3-D Printer Owners And Designers To Those In Need Of Prosthetics
While 3-D Printing technology is still a young innovation, it is already being used to create a wide variety of products: action figures, musical instruments, fabrics, and even food! But for all of the fun and whimsical items that can be produced, the most exciting application of this radical invention is the printing of artificial limbs. Its low cost structure makes it ideal for those that are unable to afford traditional prosthetics which can run tens of thousands of dollars.
Friday The 13th - Lucky For Some, Unlucky For Most?
It's Friday the 13th! While a select few like Taylor Swift will simply "shake it off" and even release a new music video, there are millions of others that will not step out of their homes today. That's because when the 13th which is already considered unlucky by many, falls on a Friday, the fear factor rises exponentially. While nobody knows for sure why the combination of the 13th with Friday is so feared, there are many theories.
Eco-Friendly Designer Transforms Garbage Into Glamorous Outfits
Most artists have a favorite material they like to work with. For 28-year-old Kristen Alyce it happens to be trash. The eco-conscious designer uses her incredible talent to transform garbage like empty drink bottles and Skittles wrappers into glamorous outfits that sell for thousands of dollars.
Boston Residents Tackle Severe Winter Weather With Good Humor And A Little Insanity
Though the 2015 winter has been brutal for many East Coast cities in the United States, few have had it as bad as Boston. The city was bombarded by an astounding 7.5 feet of snow, caused by four blizzards that rammed through the area in just three weeks. With spring still a few weeks away, the foul weather is not expected to let up anytime soon. While the dreary prospects would be enough to dampen the spirits of most, hardy Bostonians have opted to embrace the excess white fluff and enjoy it in some unusual ways.
Video Of The Week - New York Park Boasts Ice Volcano And Frozen Waterfalls
February is usually not a busy time for New York's Letchworth State Park. However, this year the park has been inundated with visitors trying to get a glimpse of its new albeit temporary attractions - an ice volcano and two frozen waterfalls.
White And Gold Or Blue And Black? The Great Dress Debate!
It all began innocently enough. On Thursday, February 26th, 21-year-old Scottish singer Caitlin McNeil posed a simple question along with a photo of a dress on the social media website, Tumblr. It said, “Guys, please help me - is this dress white and gold, or blue and black?”
Surprise! Your Dog Can Tell If You Are Happy Or Angry
While every dog owner knows that their pooch can discern their moods perfectly, scientists have always been a little skeptical. Now thanks to some researchers at the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna, Austria, we finally have some tangible evidence.
Wichita Seniors Prove That Pranks Do Not Have To Be Mean-Spirited To Be "Cool"
Every year, high school seniors across the country prank their teachers and principals. Some pranks are funny, others borderline cruel, but few are as heartwarming as the recent one pulled by the students of North High School in Wichita, Kansas.Current Events for January 28, 2015Wednesday, January 28, 2015 at 10:38 am
Beachbot, The World's Most Adorable Sand Artist
The world is filled with extremely talented sand artists - people that can masterfully carve up giant castles, sculptures and even paintings, using just sand and water. But very few are as adorable as Beachbot - a robot which will keep the audience entertained as it scurries around creating beautiful masterpieces.
Video Of The Week - The Airline Safety Instructions You Will Not Want To Miss!
If you are like most people, chances are that every time you are subjected to an airline safety video, your mind wanders off shortly after the instructions on fastening seat belts. This means that you miss the most important stuff. However, you will have no such issues with the one created by Air New Zealand. In fact it is so popular that even people who have no intention of flying the airline, are watching it over and over again!
Why Hong Kong's Luminescent Blue Coastline Is A Cause For Concern
On Thursday, January 22nd, social media sites were buzzing with excitement at the pictures of the blue patches of glimmering water along Hong Kong's coastline. However, experts were not as thrilled. That's because while the algal bloom responsible for this mesmerizing sight are not toxic to humans, they are well-known to wreak havoc on marine life.
The Mystery Surrounding New England Patriots' Deflated Footballs
With less than a week left before Superbowl XLIX, the argument among sports fans and experts should largely be about which of the two teams - the New England Patriots or the Seattle Seahawks - is going to take home the coveted title. However this year, the light banter has been overshadowed by a more serious discussion - did the Patriots cheat at the January 18th AFC Championship Game against the Indianapolis Colts by using deflated balls?
"No-Show" Charge For Missing A Birthday Party Tacky Or Justified? You Decide!
Here is a story most of you are probably familiar with. Kid gets invited to a classmate's birthday party. Parents respond with a resounding yes, but later realize they have a conflict and decide it's okay to skip the party without informing the host. End of story right? No, says this British mother who wants the errant party to pay for the cost incurred.
Look, No Hands! Futuristic Driverless Cars Are All The Rage
In early January, Mercedes-Benz captured the world’s imagination by unveiling a futuristic self-driving car prototype at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Nevada. In addition to being autonomous, the F015 Luxury in Motion, also promises to be fuel efficient and as its name indicates, the epitome of luxury. While this is in complete contrast to Google's compact, koala-like autonomous vehicle, one thing is apparent - if manufacturers have their way, driverless cars will be sharing the highways with human-driven vehicles, within the next decade.
Video Of The Week - Smart Labrador Hops On City Bus Solo, To Visit Dog Park
While seeing a dog on a public bus is rare, one traveling all by itself is unheard of. That is apparently what Eclipse a two-year-old Labrador that resides in Seattle, does on a regular basis to get to the nearby dog park.
Remembering Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
On Monday January 19th, Americans will celebrate the life and achievements of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., (MLK), a Baptist clergyman turned activist, who is often credited with spearheading the country's civil rights movement. It is thanks to his efforts that America is today a nation where everyone has equal rights, regardless of race, color or creed.
The Cool Gadgets And Toys Unveiled At The 2015 Consumer Electronics Show
Every January, thousands of manufacturers from all over the globe head to Las Vegas, Nevada, to showcase their newest technology innovations at the world-renowned Consumer Electronics Show (CES). While all the products that range from household items to vehicles are amazing, there are always a few that steal the thunder. Here are the ones made the short list at this year's CES, which took place from January 6th through 9th.
Video Of The Week - Giant Panda Cub Bao Bao's First Encounter With Snow
While frolicking in soft snow never gets old, it is always super special the first time around. On January, 6th, 2015, America's favorite giant panda, Bao Bao, that resides at Smithsonian's National Zoological Park in Washington D.C., experienced the white fluff for the first time and like any other toddler, could not get enough.
Endangered Orca Whale Pod Welcomes First Newborn In Two Years
Though the sight of a baby whale is always welcome, the report of a newborn in the group of orcas that scientists call the J-Pod, is particularly exciting. That's because, this batch which is part of the 77-member Southern Resident Killer Whale group (SRKW) that reside off the coast of the state of Washington and British Columbia, has been on the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service's endangered list since 2005.
Having A Snow Day? Enjoy It While It Lasts
Every year around this time, schools districts in the Eastern and Midwestern regions of the United States brace themselves for the inevitable "snow days" - school closures forced by the freezing Arctic blasts that dip temperatures to as low as 40 below in states like Iowa. While a great favorite amongst students, the unscheduled holidays are a big nuisance for educators. That's because in order to complete the State mandated 180 days of student instruction, they have to compensate for the unscheduled holidays by cancelling teacher enrichment days, long weekends and in extreme cases, even cutting short spring and summer vacations.
Can Songbirds Hear Storms Long Before They Arrive? Some Scientists Certainly Believe So!
In April 2014, a series of devastating tornadoes wreaked havoc on the southern United States. The fierce system of multiple tornadoes that ripped through the region ravaged scores of local communities, claimed the lives of more than 35 people, and caused over a billion dollars in damages across 17 states. Also affected of course were the animals that lived in the region. The one species that managed to escape unscathed were the golden-winged warblers that left their breeding grounds in Tennessee two days before the tornadoes struck and flew off to Florida.Current Events for December 17, 2014Wednesday, December 17, 2014 at 10:32 am
Video Of The Week - New Yorkers Relive Childhood By Jumping On Beds
Most adults are too consumed with their responsibilities at work and home to even think about taking a few minutes to relive simple childhood pleasures like jumping on beds. But place one in front of them and voila, they will instantly be able to recall their inner child.
Ancient Japanese Giant Salamanders Win Top Marks For Being Awesome Dads!
With their large flattened heads, small beady eyes and slimy skins, Japanese giant salamanders are not destined to take home the prize for "best-looking". However, according to a team of scientists they may just be eligible for the most "awesome dad" award, at least amongst amphibian males who are not known for their nurturing personalities.
Remains Of 1901 "Titanic Of The Golden Gate" Shipwreck Finally Discovered
The Golden Gate, a three-mile long by one-mile wide strait that connects San Francisco Bay to the Pacific Ocean, is known for many things - its namesake bridge, beautiful views and the most importantly (at least for seamen), a notoriously heavy fog layer that often encompasses the area. Though foghorns have now been installed to guide ships to the ports of San Francisco, Oakland and Richmond, such was not the case a century ago. It is therefore not surprising to hear that hundreds of ships have veered off course and sunk, whilst trying to cross the area. Amongst the most poignant loss was that of the SS City of Rio de Janeiro, a tragedy that is often referred to as "The Golden Gate Titanic".
Geminid Meteor Showers To Dazzle The Skies This Weekend
With Christmas less than two weeks away, your neighborhood is probably aglow with beautiful lights. However they will pale in comparison to nature's own light show, the Geminids. Though this annual celestial display that has been nicknamed the 900-pound gorilla of meteor showers has been visible since December 4th, their best showing will be on the night of December 13th and the early morning of the 14th, until about 2.00 am local time.
A World Without Chocolate? Oh My!
The next time you eat a piece of chocolate, be sure to savor it, because according to two of the world's largest chocolate makers - Mars, Inc. and Barry Callebaut, the decadent treat may soon be in short supply. The problem? We are consuming the candy at a faster pace than farmers can grow cocoa.
Scientists Confirm That In Order To Succeed, You Have To First Fail
If you have ever tried a new sport or attempted learning a musical instrument, you are well aware that the hardest part is getting started. Once you figure out the technique, the skills return fairly easily, even if they are not used for long periods of time. Most experts attribute this to "muscle memory," which means the brain remembers the action and can recall it when needed. Now some researchers from John Hopkins University, believe there is another factor that may be as important in recalling previously learned motor skills - the errors made while learning the task.
Guess What? Ancient Egyptians Had A Book of Magic Spells Long Before Harry Potter
An ancient Egyptian handbook that has been in the possession of Macquarie University's Museum of Ancient Cultures in Sydney, Australia, since 1981, has finally been deciphered. According to Macquarie University professor Malcolm Choat and University of Sydney professor Iain Gardner, the book contains magical spells that residents of ancient Egypt drew upon, to make all kinds of wishes come true.
Are Smart Mouthguards The Solution To Sports-Related Concussions?
Every year, sports-related concussions affect several hundred thousand athletes - both professional and amateur. What's worrying is that despite advances in protective gear technology, the numbers are only increasing. According to CDC, emergency room visits relating to sports related injuries including concussions among children and adolescents, has increased by 60% in the last decade. While the fact that football and ice hockey players are the most susceptible to the head injury is not surprising, the high concussion rates in non-contact sports like lacrosse and soccer is certainly worrisome.
Innovative Light Technology, Algorithmic Swarms, And An Inflatable Robot- Big Hero 6 Has It All!
As a movie that portrays young scientists as superheroes, Walt Disney Animation's latest release Big Hero 6, is all about celebrating scientific curiosity and individual potential. Directed by Don Hall and Chris Williams, the movie centers around a group of young "misfits" who, with the help of a compassionate robot, successfully save the futuristic city of San Fransokyo (a blend of San Francisco and Tokyo), from an evil scientist and his swarm of malignant microbots.
Do Cats "Rule" and Dogs "Drool" (When Drinking Liquids)? . . . You Decide!
Pet enthusiasts are constantly debating whether cats or dogs are superior. Now there is a report that confirms that it may be a toss-up - at least when it comes to drinking liquids. While one has figured out how to lap up liquids without as much as wetting a whisker, the other has developed a smarter technique.
Lucky Ohio Turkeys "Mac" And "Cheese" Trot Away To Retirement!
Every year, two turkeys manage to escape the Thanksgiving table thanks to a special pardoning granted by the President of the United States of America. This year was no exception! On Wednesday, November 26th, President Obama used his powers to free a 49-pound turkey named "Cheese" and a lucky spare named "Mac" and allowed them to trot off to Morven Park, in Leesburg, Virginia, where they will spend the rest of their lives in blissful retirement.
Why Thai Officials Fear The "Hunger Games" Salute
In the popular Hunger Games series, the oppressed residents of District 12, often raised their hand in a three-finger salute - a gesture that began as a sign of gratitude and farewell, but soon evolved into a symbol of defiance. Now, the salute is being used by some Thai youngsters to show their displeasure with the military officials that have been ruling the country under martial law since they ousted the civilian government in May 2014. And just like the leaders of the dystopian society, Thailand's rulers are not too thrilled.
First Global Children’s Designathon Challenges Kids To Solve Complex World Problems
On November 15th, children aged 8 to 12 got together at a designated location in five cities around the world - Berlin, Rio de Janeiro, Nairobi, Dublin and Amsterdam, to participate in the first Global Children's Designathon. The event that was organized by Dutch design agency Unexpect, challenged kids to come up with solutions for some of the world's most pressing issues - food, waste and traffic - in a single day!
Video Of The Week - The History Of Thanksgiving
On November 27th, North Americans will celebrate Thanksgiving, an annual holiday during which families and friends get together for a scrumptious feast and reflect on all the things they are grateful for. The ancient tradition dates all the way back to 1621, when the pilgrims celebrated their first harvest with a feast that lasted for three days. While most people are aware of that, very few know that the holiday was once celebrated several times a year or that Thanksgiving as we know it today, is possible thanks to 19th century writer, Sarah Josefa Hale.Current Events for November 24, 2014Monday, November 24, 2014 at 12:16 pm
Does Oscar The Cat Have A Sixth Sense? One Doctor Certainly Thinks So
When the administrators of the Steere House Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Providence, Rhode Island, adopted six 'therapy' cats from an animal shelter, they had no idea that among them was one that possessed an uncanny sixth sense to predict the impending death of terminally ill patients.
Rocket-Powered Bicycle Leaves Ferrari F430 Scuderia In The Dust!
With its slightly elongated frame, thick tires, normal brakes and pedals, Francois Gissy's two-wheeler looks just like any other high-end customized bike. However look closer, and you will notice a modification like none other - rocket thrusters that are filled with concentrated hydrogen peroxide that help the daredevil attain speeds that no man has reached before, on a bicycle.
Crafty Seals Seek Follow Tracking Device Signals To Catch Fish
Tiny monitoring devices have become an increasingly common way for scientists to study elusive animals that are difficult to track on a day-to-day basis. However, now it seems that smart seals have caught on to the trick and are using it to their advantage to catch fish!
Solar Bike Paths Are All The Rage In The Netherlands
On November 12th, hundreds of biking enthusiasts in the Amsterdam suburbs of Krommenie and Wormerveer hopped onto their two-wheelers, to test out SolaRoad, the world's first solar bike path. The 100-meter test project is the result of a collaboration between the Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), local authorities and a consortium of Dutch companies.
Video Of The Week - Are Lions Losing Their Edge?
Lions have been called the 'King of Beasts' for centuries and for good reason too - Not only are they majestic looking, but also, at the top of the food chain. Granted, it is the males that are awarded this designation, but the females are no slouches either. After all, they are the ones that do all the hunting.
World's Most Complicated Watch Auctions For Record $24 Million
The world's most complicated watch, a 1933 timepiece made by luxury watchmaker Patek Phillipe was sold for an astounding $24.4 million USD at a Sotheby's auction in Switzerland on November 11th. The historic price for the aptly named 'Supercomplication' masterpiece smashed the world record set by same watch in 1999, when it was bought by Sheikh Saud Bin Mohammed Bin Ali Al-Thani, a member of Qatar's royal family, for $11 million USD.
European Spacecraft Makes Historic Landing On Speedy Comet
On Wednesday, November 12th, an unmanned spacecraft made history by landing perfectly on its target - a speeding comet that lies at a distance of 310 million miles from earth. According to the European Space Agency (ESA), the brainchild behind this audacious project, the Rosetta space probe that housed the 220-pound washing machine-sized Philae lander, released its passenger to its destination perfectly - not an easy feat given that the Comet 67P was hurtling through space at a speed of 41,000 mph.
'Vampire Fanged' Deer Sighted In Afghanistan After Sixty-Six Years
The recent report of the sighting of a few Kashmir musk deer has given conservationists hope that the species may be alive and well amongst the forests in Afghanistan. The study published by the World Wildlife Foundation in the November edition of the journal Oryx, states that a team of researchers scouring the country's Nuristan Province in 2008 and 2009, encountered the animals on five separate occasions.
Meet Elise Stefanik, The Youngest Woman Ever To Be Elected To The United States Congress
For all you middle-school presidents, secretaries and treasurers that aspire to lead the country some day, here is some encouraging news - Elise Stefanik, the youngest woman ever to be elected to the US Congress started the same way. The 30-year-old who defeated Democratic incumbent Aaron Woolf in New York's 21st Congressional District in the November 4th midterm elections, began her political career in sixth grade, as student council secretary.
Nasal Cell Transplant Enables Paralyzed Man To Walk Again
After a senseless attack left former fireman Darek Fidyka paralyzed from the waist down in 2010, he never thought he would be able to stand up again. But thanks to a revolutionary technique, the 38-year-old Polish man has become the first person in the world to regain use of his legs, following a traumatic spinal cord injury.
Video Of The Week - Brave Porcupine Fends Off Seventeen Lions!
It was the classic David vs. Goliath scenario, except in this case, the boy was represented by a seemingly helpless porcupine and Goliath, by a pride of 17 hungry lions that would have loved to add the quill-bearing rodent to their dinner menu. Fortunately, the struggle ended just like the story, with the lions scurrying away in defeat!
Fuzzy Baby Robots Help Researchers Get Close To Shy Emperor Penguins
Most animals are skittish around people which makes observing them in the wild, a challenging endeavor for researchers. The issue is exacerbated with naturally shy creatures like emperor penguins, who show signs of physical distress in the presence of humans.
World's Largest Corn Labyrinth Elicits Distress Calls From Disoriented "Maze Runners"
For those that love labyrinths, there is nothing like the Cool Patch Pumpkins corn maze in Dixon, California. The intricate collection of winding paths, twists, turns and loops that is hand-cut by farm owners and brothers, Matt and Mark Cooley, can disorient even the most experienced "maze runner". This year's creation was particularly bewildering given that the brothers had expanded their already large puzzle into a 60-acre behemoth, a feat that earned them a second Guinness World Record!
Central London Hotel Draws Harry Potter Fans With "Wizard Chambers"
Though the last book of the spectacular Harry Potter series was released seven years ago in 2007, the young wizard continues to be extremely popular with both kids and adults. Over the years, Potter fans have been able to experience numerous aspects of the young wizard's life, right down to his favorite drink - Butterbeer. Now thanks to a British hotel, they can also spend a night in the wizard's Hogwarts Castle dormitory room.Current Events for October 21, 2014Tuesday, October 21, 2014 at 1:25 pm
Just In Time For Halloween - A Real-Life Ghostbuster!
With Halloween rapidly approaching, reports of paranormal sightings will start to escalate as people get into the spirit of the spooky holiday. While most are obvious hoaxes, there are a few reported by people who genuinely believe they have encountered a ghost or spirit. It is these perceptions that professional skeptic Benjamin Radford spends his time investigating and resolving, with logical explanations - so far, he has not failed!
World's Elite Triathletes Battle It Out At Hawaii's Grueling Ironman World Championships
There are over twenty Ironman competitions held around the world. However none compares to the original one that takes place in Kona on Hawaii's Big Island during the second weekend of October. Now in its 36th-year, this grueling event that is dubbed the "World Championships", is considered the most prestigious Ironman race. That's because while the Hawaiian event is no different from any other Ironman challenge in terms of distance, the natural environment makes it the toughest of them all.
Beggar Turned Millionaire Returns To Repay 21-Year-Old Random Act Of Kindness
In 1993, 17-year-old He Rongfeng and his two friends left their village and made their way to Taizhou City in China's Zheijang Province, to look for work to help support their struggling families. Unfortunately, jobs were not easy to come by, and the trio were forced to resort to begging.
Video Of The Week - KLM's Detective Beagle May Be A Marketing Stunt But It Sure Is Cute!
On September 23rd, 2014, Dutch airline KLM released a YouTube video that made everyone who saw it, wish they could travel on the airline, and forget a possession or two. That's because the short clip depicted a cute beagle aptly named "Sherlock" as the newest and most efficient member of the airline's lost and found service.
Guess What? Acing Those "Mad Minute" Tests Could Make You A Math Whiz
The next time you are asked to test your math computational skills with the dreaded "Mad Minute" test, do not groan and moan! According to Stanford scientists, it is the mastery of these basic facts that will help transform you into math whizzes, as you grow older! And given that they have peeked inside the brains of elementary school-age kids, adolescents and adults, they should know.Join Class
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