Category: Feature Stories

As more people resume travel in the post-pandemic era, the risks associated with using credit cards while on vacation are increasing. One of the most common threats is skimming, which criminals use to steal credit card information. This article explores skimming, how to detect it, and what steps you can take to protect yourself while travelling. What Is Skimming? Skimming occurs when criminals use hidden devices to capture credit card information. These devices, often installed on ATMs, gas pumps, or point-of-sale (POS) terminals, are designed to look like legitimate card…

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Drinking sparkling water is generally considered safe and can be a refreshing alternative to still water. However, there are some potential risks and considerations to be aware of: 1. Dental Health Acidity: Sparkling water is slightly acidic due to the carbonic acid formed when carbon dioxide is dissolved in water. Although less acidic than soft drinks, this can still contribute to tooth enamel erosion over time, especially with frequent consumption. Added Flavors: Some flavoured sparkling waters contain citric acid or other acidic additives, which can further increase the risk of…

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Today, Catholics worldwide celebrate the Feast of the Assumption of Mary. This feast day refers to the belief that the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus, was taken up into heaven, body and soul at the end of her earthly life. This doctrine is a significant aspect of Roman Catholic theology and is celebrated as the Feast of the Assumption on August 15th. Key Points: Assumption vs. Ascension: Unlike the Ascension of Jesus, described in the Bible, which involves Jesus ascending to heaven by his divine power, the Assumption of…

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Almost all parties agree that there is work to be done. The World Health Organization (WHO) has activated its highest alert level due to a new variant of the Mpox virus in Africa and declared a “Public Health Emergency of International Concern” (PHEIC). The WHO believes there is a risk that Mpox could spread internationally again after 2022 and pose a health risk to several countries. As WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in Geneva, the organization followed the recommendation of independent Mpox experts who had met in the so-called…

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The world has had a huge long Covid problem since the start of the Sars-CoV-2 pandemic. More than 400 million people worldwide have been affected by these persistent and often severe complications. This has now been calculated by leading US scientists. They are calling for more efforts to tackle this problem. “The cumulative global incidence of Long Covid is 400 million people. This has an annual economic impact of around one trillion US dollars minus – corresponding to around one percent of the global economy,” wrote Ziyad Al-Aly (Washington University…

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Shooting stars will light up the night sky again this weekend. We’ll tell you how to best see the Perseids. In the late summer nights, nothing is more beautiful and calming than a beautiful night sky with twinkling stars. It becomes all the more beautiful when that magical dust burns up in the earth’s atmosphere and brings us wishes. “The chances are best at midnight on August 12, when the half-moon is set. That’s when it’s darkest,” explains Eric Buttini, head of the astrophysics department at the National Museum of…

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This year’s sky constellation does not offer bad conditions for observing the annual meteor stream of the Perseids: The maximum phenomenon on Monday (August 12) falls in the afternoon or early evening hours in this country. According to the Vienna Working Group for Astronomy (WAA), many sightings can be expected after that, which, assuming a clear view of the night sky, should hardly be disturbed by moonlight. Every year in mid-August, the Earth crosses the path of comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle, whose dust trail produces the Perseids shooting star shower. This happens…

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Social phobia, also known as social anxiety disorder, is one of the most common mental health conditions affecting people worldwide. It is characterized by an intense fear of social situations where an individual may feel judged, embarrassed, or scrutinized by others. This article delves into the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for social phobia, offering insight into how to manage and overcome this often debilitating condition. 1. What is Social Phobia? Social phobia, or social anxiety disorder, is more than just shyness or occasional nervousness in social situations. It’s a…

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When you think of the Olympics, several iconic images likely come to mind: the lighting of the Olympic torch, the display of national flags, and athletes proudly standing on the podium. One of the most enduring and curious traditions involves medal-winning athletes biting their medals during photo sessions. This practice has become so ingrained in the Olympic culture that it almost seems like an official part of the medal ceremony. But why do athletes bite their medals? Let’s dive into this unique tradition’s history, symbolism, and reasons. The Historical Origins…

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