Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition in which the lower esophageal sphincter allows gastric acids to move up into the esophagus. The disorder can cause heartburn, esophagitis, and chronic chest pain and has been linked to laryngitis, pulmonary fibrosis, and asthma. GERD affects children as well as adults, and it is estimated that up to 35% of babies born in the US struggle with reflux. When do most babies outgrow the disease? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Definition: (noun) A writing table; a desk.
Synonyms: secretaire, writing table, secretary.
Usage: In the large shining mahogany escritoire Mr. Osborne had a drawer especially devoted to his son's affairs and papers.
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Source: The Free Dictionary
Leave no man behind. That’s an old idea in warfare — it’s even part of the Soldier’s Creed that Army recruits learn in basic training. And never leaving a fallen comrade is also the rule for some warriors who are ants, according to a report published … Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
The Virginia Tech massacre was the deadliest peacetime shooting episode in US history by a single gunman. Seung-Hui Cho, the perpetrator, had a long history of mental illness when he enrolled at Virginia Tech University and was, in 2005, declared mentally ill by a Virginia court and ordered to seek treatment. Sixteen months later, Cho, in two separate attacks hours apart, shot and killed 32 people at the university and then himself. What did he do in the time between the two shooting sprees? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Decorating eggs is the Easter custom for which Ukrainians are known all over the world. The pysanky are presented as gifts to friends and relatives on Easter morning. One of the decorated eggs that has been hard-boiled is shelled, sliced up, and served at the beginning of the Easter dinner to symbolize the end of the Lenten fast. Due to the eggs’ religious significance and the work that goes into decorating them, the shells are never dropped on the ground or discarded. If broken, they are usually thrown into fire or water. Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Cunningham was an American modern dancer and choreographer. He studied with Martha Graham, presented his first work in 1942, and formed his own company in 1953. His innovative dances were set to the music of avant-garde composers, including his longtime partner, John Cage. He was known for collaborating with contemporary artists, including Andy Warhol and Jasper Johns, who created sets and costumes for him. In 2003, his Split Sides featured music by what two experimental rock bands? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
The Imperial Camel Corps was a brigade-sized military formation that fought for the Allies in the Sinai and Palestine Campaign of World War I. After being evacuated to Egypt following the failure of the Gallipoli Campaign, Allied troops looking to suppress a tribal rebellion in the west formed four companies of camel-mounted infantry. The units were so successful that 14 more camel companies were eventually formed. What advantages did the camel companies have over horse-mounted cavalry units? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Definition: (adjective) Of or relating to winter.
Synonyms: brumal, hiemal.
Usage: Our teacher described the first activities of bears as they emerge from hibernal sleep.
Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Well, it happened again. You were walking down the road, minding your own business, when all of a sudden you looked down, only to realize that your shoes spontaneously untied themselves again. Muttering under your breath, you kneel down, retie the laces, and go … Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Brothers Dick and Mac McDonald opened their first restaurant in San Bernardino, California, in 1940 and introduced the “Speedee Service System,” establishing the principles of the modern fast-food restaurant. Ray Kroc, a mixer salesman, recognized the idea’s potential and partnered with the brothers. Kroc opened his first McDonald’s franchise in Illinois in 1955 and later bought out the McDonald brothers. The company now has a global presence. What controversies have stemmed from its success? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary