To improvise continuously as one does something; to do something without formal guidelines, structure, rules, etc. Watch the video
Month: September 2021
Phage Therapy
Bacteriophages, complex viruses that infect bacteria, were first discovered in the early 20th century. Phage therapy soon emerged as a possible treatment for bacterial infections, including epidemic diseases, but this approach was largely abandoned after the advent of antibiotics in the 1940s. More recently, the increasing threat posed by drug-resistant bacteria has led to renewed interest in phage therapy. For what use did the US Food and Drug Administration approve bacteriophages in 2006? Discuss
vacillate
pour
diffuse – Based on Latin diffundere, “pour out,” from fundere, “pour,” it means “to spread out.” More…
geyser – From Icelandic Geysir, “hot spring,” from Old Norse geysa, “pour or rush forth.” More…
refund – First meant “pour back,” and comes from Latin re- and fundere. More…
gluck, glug – Gluck or glug is the light repetitive gurgling sound of liquid being poured from a bottle. More…
Eritrean Start of the Armed Struggle Day
Between 1961 and 1991, the small country of Eritrea in eastern Africa waged a war of independence against Ethiopia. An important holiday that recognizes Eritrean sacrifices during this prolonged campaign is the Start of the Armed Struggle Day, also known as Bahti Meskerem, commemorating the first shot fired in 1961 at Mount Adal. The day’s festivities take place in the country and in Eritrean communities throughout the world. Observances typically include a moment of silence in honor of the martyrs, the singing of the Eritrean national anthem, and public statements by dignitaries. Discuss
make heavy going of (something)
To make something harder or more laborious to do, especially more than is usual or necessary. Watch the video
The Crypt of Civilization
Sealed in a chamber on the grounds of Oglethorpe University in Atlanta, Georgia, is an elaborate time capsule called the Crypt of Civilization. Inspired by the lack of information about ancient civilizations, university President Thornwell Jacobs devised the crypt in 1935 and spent the next five years deciding what to put in it. Likely the world’s first time capsule, it was sealed in 1940 and is slated be reopened in the year 8113. What items were selected to be stored in the crypt? Discuss