Category: Feature Stories

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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More people urinate in swimming pools than you might think, and a study shows why you should avoid them in the future. Instead of going to the toilet, some bathers empty their bladders in the pool. However, this should never be done, not only because of the disgust factor but also for the sake of your health. US swimmer: Everyone pees in the pool.Scientists from China Agricultural University in Beijing and Purdue University in Indiana have discovered why peeing in the pool can be dangerous. Their study was published in…

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You never have enough sockets at home, which is why multiple sockets are so popular. They multiply the connection options without requiring an electrician to install additional sockets. However, you should beware of bad habits: certain everyday appliances have no place in multiple socket! While some dangers are common knowledge and regularly reminded of, others are less obvious. However, electricians also experience unpleasant surprises when they check an electrical installation or carry out work on the fuse box.The first basic rule is to check that the total power of the…

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When it’s hot, it’s particularly important to drink enough fluids. But how can you tell? A dermatologist explains. A skin tension test should show whether the body is sufficiently hydrated. For example, use your thumb and index finger to form a fold of skin on the back of your other hand. It should quickly snap back to its normal position if you let go of it. If the fold is slow to smooth out again, this is a sign of poor skin tension, indicating dehydration. It’s time to have a…

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Chemical compounds are released in our plastic bottles as a result of exposure to sunlight; at least, that’s what a new study suggests. However, it also indicates that although the health risk of this phenomenon is unknown, it may be minimal. We’ve all been there, especially during the warmer months: You’ve left your water bottle in the car. It has heated up in the sun, but when you return from the beach, a sip of warm water is better than being dehydrated by the salt of the seawater. This sip…

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