Myke & Amy
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Stories (151/0)
The HPV Supervillain
For those who have received the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, you likely know that it significantly reduces the risk of certain cancers. However, what you may not be aware of is just how adept HPV is at outsmarting both our immune system and our anti-cancer defenses. While many variations of the virus are relatively harmless, some strains possess truly villainous qualities. They understand precisely how to target the very systems designed to protect us against cancer. This serves as a stark reminder of how crucial our cells' anti-cancer toolkit is and the consequences when it is compromised.
By Myke & Amy2 months ago in Education
The Dark Side of Nature
"Why do animals eat their own babies? I mean, it's a dog-eat-dog world out there, but a dog-eat-puppies world? That– it just seems too dark." You might find yourself pondering this question, wondering why certain species resort to such shocking behavior. It's true; filial cannibalism is a real phenomenon that occurs in nature, and while most cases lead to the death of the offspring, there are instances where animals feast upon their young without killing them. Let's dive into the intriguing world of filial cannibalism and explore the reasons behind this seemingly heartless behavior.
By Myke & Amy2 months ago in Earth
The Domino Effect
Deforestation, we often think, leads to the loss of habitat and subsequent decline in animal populations. While this is true, there's another aspect to deforestation that's less obvious but equally detrimental. It's a story of dominoes falling one after the other, resulting in the starvation of tropical birds. Surprisingly, these birds aren't directly impacted by the loss of trees or their food sources but by the disruption of a crucial service provided by ants. It's a complex tale of forest fragmentation and its cascading effects.
By Myke & Amy2 months ago in Earth
From Revolution to Betrayal
In December 2018, a revolution erupted in Sudan, as civilians rallied against President Omar Bashir's oppressive military regime, demanding democracy. Just a few months later, two influential figures, who once stood together in ousting Bashir through a coup, found themselves at odds, plunging Sudan into a devastating conflict that has claimed countless lives. This blog aims to unravel the rapid transformation from hope to chaos in Sudan and the complex dynamics that turned former partners into adversaries.
By Myke & Amy3 months ago in History
Texas Judge Shopping
Something remarkable is unfolding in Texas. Since 2021, the state has filed an astounding 31 lawsuits against the federal government in various federal district courthouses across the state. Let's delve into one specific case in Amarillo, which revolves around immigration. In this particular lawsuit, a judge ruled that the Biden administration must adhere to the Trump-era policy known as "Remain in Mexico," which effectively prevents asylum seekers from entering the country.
By Myke & Amy3 months ago in Criminal
From Promises to Actions
Imagine it's the year 2070, and this video has found its way to an Internet archive. Researchers of the future, if you're curious about how we tackled climate change in the 2020s, the answer lies in our commitment to achieving net zero. Over the past few years, more than 70 countries, one after another, have made pledges to reach net zero emissions. This includes nations that have contributed minimally to climate warming, as well as those most responsible for emissions thus far. The message is clear: humanity must strive for carbon neutrality within the next 3 to 5 decades.
By Myke & Amy3 months ago in Earth
The Studio that Redefined Independent Cinema
When we think of great films, our minds often jump to renowned directors like Spielberg, Hitchcock, or Peele, or to actors like Meryl Streep, Viola Davis, or Morgan Freeman. However, in recent years, a new name has emerged in the film industry, and it's not a person but a studio: A24. With over 50 Oscar nominations and 16 wins, A24 has become a force to be reckoned with.
By Myke & Amy3 months ago in History
The Epic Journey of Disney World
Let's consult a map. Here's Germany. Morocco. And Fantasyland. But beyond Walt Disney World's borders, you find a larger boundary - the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District. This district has been at the center of a feud between Disney and Governor Ron DeSantis, but its origins date back even before their conflict began.
By Myke & Amy3 months ago in Fiction
Solar Geoengineering
In 1991, Mount Pinatubo's volcanic eruption in the Philippines had a significant impact on global temperatures. The eruption released an ash plume that reached the stratosphere, forming a layer of aerosol particles. This layer acted as a solar umbrella, reflecting sunlight away from the Earth and causing a temporary cooling effect of about half a degree Celsius for nearly two years.
By Myke & Amy3 months ago in Earth
Valley Fever
Out of the millions of fungal species in the world, only a few hundred have the potential to cause illness in humans. One such fungus is Coccidioides, known for its ability to cause serious infections. What makes this fungus particularly intriguing is its unique adaptation to thrive in desert environments. While most fungi prefer dark, damp, and cool conditions, Coccidioides has discovered a way to survive in arid regions. But that's not the only fascinating aspect of this fungus—there's still so much we don't know about it.
By Myke & Amy3 months ago in Potent
The Complex Reality of Billionaire Philanthropy
Every year, Forbes magazine releases its list of America's biggest givers, showcasing the individuals and pairs who have made significant charitable contributions. In 2023, these 25 philanthropists collectively donated a staggering $196 billion throughout their lifetimes. This amount surpasses the GDP of many countries and has undoubtedly made a positive impact. However, beneath the surface lies a more intricate and problematic tale of billionaire philanthropy in America. Let's dive into this fascinating subject and unveil its complexities.
By Myke & Amy3 months ago in Education
Decarbonizing Cement
Imagine a modest-sized skyscraper, standing tall at 100 meters and 30 stories. It was likely constructed with concrete, which is responsible for a significant carbon footprint. In fact, a building like this, weighing approximately 6,000 tons, emits around 4,600 metric tons of carbon during the cement production process. To put it into perspective, that's equivalent to driving a car for 12 million miles. Now, multiply that by all the buildings worldwide, and you begin to grasp the scale of cement's carbon emissions.
By Myke & Amy3 months ago in 01