Found in lakes near Mexico City, axolotls are salamanders affected by a phenomenon called neoteny, which means that adults of the species often fail to undergo metamorphosis and reach reproductive maturity without losing their larval characteristics. They are able to regenerate most body parts and are used extensively in scientific research. Axolotls are also commonly kept as pets in several countries and are considered a delicacy in Mexico. What prevents axolotls from undergoing metamorphosis? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Warfare was a fundamental part of Aztec society and was the driving force behind its economy and religion. The Aztecs used warfare to achieve two main objectives: the subjugation of city states to exact tribute and expand political influence and the taking of captives for religious sacrifice. Members of warrior societies were even ranked according to the number of captives they had taken in battle. Which warrior society’s members swore not to take a step backward during battle on pain of death? _001.jpg)
The first government in history to issue paper money, the Song dynasty was the ruling dynasty in China between 960 and 1279. A culturally rich period for the arts, philosophy, and social life, the dynasty also bolstered naval strength and developed revolutionary new military technology—augmented by the use of gunpowder—to repel invaders. Nevertheless, the Song dynasty was conquered in 1279 by the Mongol ruler Kublai Khan. What nautical tool was invented during the era? 
Known as both the “Mad” and “Bloody” Baron, Baron Roman Ungern von Sternberg was a military commander who became an independent warlord after the Russian Civil War. A mystic who believed he was the reincarnation of Genghis Khan, he aimed to unite the Far-Eastern nations under one monarch. In 1921, he achieved this goal, becoming dictator of Mongolia before being captured by his own troops and executed by the Red Army. How did he trick the Chinese into abandoning Mongolia’s capital city, Urga? 
Ibogaine, a psychoactive compound derived from plants, is used by some African peoples for medicinal and ritual purposes. Identified in the early 1960s as having anti-addictive properties, it has been shown to cause sudden and complete interruption of heroin addiction—without withdrawal—in a matter of hours. Research suggests that it may also be useful in treating addiction to alcohol, methamphetamine, cocaine, and nicotine. Why is it banned in many countries? 
Orphanages have existed since the first century. Often depicted in works of fiction as cold, abusive institutions, orphanages largely fell out of favor in the 1950s, following a series of abuse and coercion scandals. Many countries then began to close such facilities in favor of foster care and accelerated adoption, leading to a dramatic rise in the number of citizens from so-called First-World countries who travel to the Third World to adopt. Where was the first orphanage in the US located? 
Ranked 32nd on TV Guide‘s list of the “50 Greatest TV Characters of All Time,” Jim Ignatowski was a character played by Christopher Lloyd in the 1970s television series Taxi. A burned-out product of 1960s counterculture, Ignatowski lived in a world of his own, often exhibiting “spaced-out” behavior as a result of his extensive drug use. However, Lloyd was able to add much humanity to what could have been a one-dimensional role. What did Ignatowski do when he inherited $3 million? 
The invention of the knitting machine revolutionized the production of knitwear, relegating the art of hand knitting to the realm of non-essential craft. However, it has since become a social activity, and many of today’s knitters hold knitting parties and blog about their craft. Knitting is currently experiencing a revival; and between 2002 and 2004, the number of 25- to 35-year-old female knitters in the US reportedly increased 150%. What is one of the earliest known examples of knitting? 
Often seen as the beginning of European imperial hegemony over China, the First Opium War was fought between the British East India Company and the Qing Dynasty from 1839 to 1842. Widespread opium addiction had led to a Chinese ban on imports of the drug in 1729, and the British aimed to reverse this policy. Easily overpowered, China agreed to the Treaty of Nanjing, which fixed tariffs on British goods, opened several Chinese ports to British merchants, and ceded what island to Queen Victoria? 
Manifesting in Jews and Christians alike, Jerusalem syndrome is a psychological phenomenon in which individuals experience religiously themed delusions while visiting Jerusalem. Seen as early as the Middle Ages, it is often marked by a desire to tour the city alone, an obsession with being clean, and the need to don a white gown. It sometimes culminates in the public delivery of a sermon. For what occasion in recent history did authorities fear a major spike in cases of Jerusalem syndrome?