COVID-19 is here to stay: variant XEC emerges globally
It's been over a year since the World Health Organization downgraded COVID-19's pandemic status, but the summer of 2024 has seen a sharp increase in the number of cases. We all know someone who came back from their vacation and tested positive, or have come down with the virus ourselves. In September, a new COVID variant was identified worldwide, raising concerns that it could soon become the dominant strain of the virus. The XEC variant has been found in at least 15 countries and 12 US states. COVID-19 seemed to be in the rearview mirror, so why this sudden summer outbreak? Experts suggest several factors, including the emergence of XEC, which is believed to spread more easily and, according to CNN medical expert Dr. Leana Wen, an increase in travel and gatherings held indoors to escape the heat during peak temperatures. She recommends taking extra precautions when traveling or visiting those who are immunocompromised, and staying up to date on vaccines. Check out this gallery for some important tips to stay safe and slow down the spread.
2024-07-17T11:39:22Z
The deadliest passenger plane crashes ever
Even with ever-improving technology, we seem to have constant grim reminders of the catalog of air disasters recorded in the annals of commercial aviation. Sadly, few survive a plane crash, such is the destructive force of an event of this nature. And there have been some truly awful air accidents across the world. On Friday, August 9, a devastating passenger plane crash occurred outside the Brazilian city of São Paulo. The regional plane was carrying 58 passengers and 4 crew members from the state of Parana to São Paulo when it lost signal and began losing altitude. A minute and a half later, it crashed in a residential neighborhood, killing everyone on board. No one on the ground was injured, although it destroyed part of a family home while several people were in the house. The cause of the crash is still a total mystery, but the plane's two black boxes have been recovered and sent to laboratories for analysis. Sadly, there have been many similarly tragic air accidents over the years. Click through to learn about the deadliest passenger plane crashes in history.
2024-01-23T13:13:18Z
These animals can produce a baby without mating
The vast majority of animals need to breed to reproduce, but a small number of species can have offspring without mating. The process is known as parthenogenesis, which is Greek for "virgin birth." It's a form of asexual reproduction in which the production of offspring occurs in the absence of any male genetic contribution. Females produce unfertilized eggs that will develop into viable embryos. While many people may be shocked by this behavior, parthenogenesis is surprisingly common with various organisms, including plants, insects, fish, and reptiles. Because mammals, including human beings, require certain genes that come from sperm, mammals are incapable of parthenogenesis. Click on to discover the animals that can produce offspring all by themselves.
2024-03-04T10:13:30Z
Sinister declassified CIA operations
The Central Intelligence Agency, better known simply as the CIA, has inspired fear, suspicion, and curiosity ever since its official formation in 1947. Before it was called the CIA, it was known as the Office of Strategic Services, and was responsible for some of the most covert operations during and after World War II. As the CIA, the organization has become notorious for an apparent disregard of federal and international law, and is suspected to handle some projects that even the president of the United States is unaware of. From toppling governments and staging false flag operations, to introducing one of the world's most addictive drugs to the US, the covert operations of the CIA that have come to light are, if nothing else, fascinating to read about. Intrigued? Read on to learn more about some of the CIA's declassified deeds.
2024-01-21T17:10:06Z
Who are the most notorious mobsters and gangsters in history?
In the history of organized crime, the gangsters and mobsters that operated in the United States during the early and mid-20th century are known for their extreme violence and ruthlessness. The criminal syndicate known as the Sicilian Mafia, or Cosa Nostra, was especially active during the 1920s, '30s, '40s, and '50s, and enjoyed near legendary status among law enforcement agencies and the public alike. However, this period also saw the emergence of numerous hardened criminals who engaged in robbery, murder, and intimidation, solidifying their infamous status. So, who stands out as the most hateful among them all? Take a look at this gallery featuring mobsters and gangsters, all of who were convinced that a life of crime would be worth it.
2024-01-17T12:34:01Z
