London: Scientists have decoded the overall DNA structure of popularly known dinosaur species, like the Velociraptor and T-rex, an advance that may help get an accurate picture of what the prehistoric predators actually looked like. Researchers led by … Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
In 1939, Nazi forces staged an attack on a German radio station. They shot a well-known Polish sympathizer and planted his body at the scene, reporting the attack as the work of Polish saboteurs. The attack was part of a Nazi propaganda campaign called Operation Himmler, which involved a series of staged incidents intended to create the appearance of Polish aggression against Germany and provide a basis for the invasion of Poland. What did the Nazis broadcast from the radio station? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Merdeka Day is a national holiday in Malaysia to commemorate its merdeka, or independence, from the British in 1957. Parts of Malaysia were under the rule of various foreign powers for centuries, but by the 1920s all the states eventually comprising Malaysia were ruled by Britain. The Federation of Malaya was founded in 1957 and Malaysia was formed in 1963. The streets of towns and cities are decorated on this day, and there are numerous parades, exhibitions, and stage shows. Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
A Philippine guerrilla leader during World War II, Magsaysay helped combat the Japanese occupation and clear the way for US forces to liberate the island nation. He then entered politics and, as secretary of defense, spearheaded one of the most successful antiguerrilla campaigns in modern history by currying favor with the peasantry—thereby depriving the Hukbalahap rebels of popular support. By 1953, the Huks were no longer a threat, and Magsaysay was elected president. How did he die? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Put simply, probiotics are harmless bacteria that help protect the human body from harmful bacteria. Probiotic bacterial cultures are intended to help the body reestablish its naturally occurring gut flora—microorganisms that normally live in the digestive tract. One of the most common types of microbes used is lactic acid bacteria, which actively convert lactose into lactic acid and may help individuals with what conditions? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Definition: (adjective) Extremely wicked.
Synonyms: nefarious.
Usage: A villainous band of thieves targeted our neighborhood and in one night made off with 17 cars.
Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Lionfish are threats to not only fragile coral reef ecosystems, but the divers who keep them in check. They not only take advantage of unsuspecting fish populations, but carry poisonous spines that make them challenging to catch. Student researchers at … Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
The International Day of the Disappeared on August 30 is an annual commemoration day to draw attention to the fate of individuals imprisoned at places unknown to their relatives and without legal process. The impulse for the day came from the Latin American Federation of Associations for Relatives of Detained-Disappeared, a non-governmental organization founded in 1981 in Costa Rica. When did the United Nations adopt the Declaration on the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
On the island of St. Lucia, two floral societies known as the Roses and the Marguerites pay tribute to their namesake flowers as well as their patron saints: Rose of Lima and Margaret Mary Alacoque. In an intensive process of preparing for the two fêtes, the they each hold a series of dress rehearsals known as séances. The feast day then opens with a church service, which is followed by a street procession presenting the host society’s royal entourage. The evening program includes a banquet, the much-awaited performance by the shantwel, and folk dances. Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
The unchallenged painter of the French Revolution, and later the official portraitist to Napoleon, David was the virtual art dictator of France for a generation. His pervasive influence on European art extended beyond painting to determine the course of fashion, interior decoration, and even the development of moral philosophy. Although he was a talented portraitist, David is best known for his paintings of classical, historical, and mythological themes. What are some of his most famous works? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary