Earth Day 2024: Planet vs. Plastics

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Questions and Answers

What is the main purpose of the unusual contest involving a cheese wheel rolling down Cooper's Hill?

To promote local tourism

To settle land ownership disputes (correct)

To celebrate the history of cheese making

To commemorate the annual harvest festival

Which notable achievement is associated with Claudia Sheinbaum in June 2024?

She secured a treaty with the United States.

She won a Nobel Prize in Physics.

She became the first female president of Mexico. (correct)

She made significant environmental legislation.

What was the primary challenge Claudia Sheinbaum aimed to address as president of Mexico?

Unemployment rates

Economic downfall

Rising violence (correct)

Climate change

What strategy did Claudia Sheinbaum propose to reduce Mexico's reliance on fossil fuels?

Investing in green energy and mass transit systems Signup and view all the answers

How much lunar material did the Chang'e 6 lunar probe return to Earth?

Four pounds (2 kg) Signup and view all the answers

What did the Chang'e 6 lander do first upon reaching the Moon's surface?

Plant China's national flag Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the lunar region where Chang'e 6 landed?

South Pole-Aitken basin Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of Abby Lampe's strategy does she emphasize for winning the cheese rolling competition?

Embracing the fall and rolling to the bottom Signup and view all the answers

Who won the adult's uphill race during the cheese rolling competition?

Leilani Ryder Signup and view all the answers

What significant socio-political change does Claudia Sheinbaum's presidency represent in Mexico?

A milestone for gender equality in politics Signup and view all the answers

What measures did local authorities take concerning the cheese rolling contest after the rise in popularity?

Canceled the competition due to safety concerns Signup and view all the answers

Which country launched the Chang'e 6 lunar probe?

China Signup and view all the answers

What is significant about the Chang'e 6 mission in the context of space exploration?

It returned samples from the Moon's far side. Signup and view all the answers

What year did Earth Day first begin as a global movement?

1970 Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following acts was NOT mentioned as a landmark environmental law resulting from the Earth Day movement?

Climate Change Act of 2008 Signup and view all the answers

What is the target reduction percentage for plastic production that the Earth Day Network aims to achieve by 2040?

60% Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT one of the four strategies outlined by EDN to reduce plastic pollution?

Increase the use of biodegradable plastics Signup and view all the answers

According to Kathleen Rogers, what is the consequence of our reliance on plastics?

It may be the biggest gamble in human health history. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following methods can individuals use to reduce their plastic usage immediately?

Carry reusable cutlery sets. Signup and view all the answers

Which concept is highlighted as one of the main contributors to plastic pollution?

Fast fashion Signup and view all the answers

What is the current theme for Earth Day in 2024?

Planet vs. Plastics Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the primary aims of China's upcoming lunar missions Chang'e 7 and Chang'e 8?

To explore the Moon's south pole for water and resources Signup and view all the answers

Which gymnast played a crucial role in securing the bronze medal for the US men's gymnastics team?

Stephen Nedoroscik Signup and view all the answers

What historical artifact was discovered in George Washington's Mount Vernon home?

Glass bottles containing preserved food Signup and view all the answers

What was the reason for Brody Malone's previous disappointing performance at the trials?

A serious knee injury Signup and view all the answers

What insight can potentially be gained from the preserved cherries discovered at Mount Vernon?

Understanding of Virginia's climate changes Signup and view all the answers

What unique capability regarding communication have elephants displayed according to recent studies?

Assigning individual 'names' to each other Signup and view all the answers

How were the 18th-century glass bottles found at Mount Vernon preserved?

They were buried in clay and kept cool Signup and view all the answers

What did Brody Malone emphasize was important after his performance in the trials?

Forgetfulness and focus on the future Signup and view all the answers

What specific product will scientists analyze from the preserved cherries found at Mount Vernon?

Genetic DNA to identify species Signup and view all the answers

How did the US men's gymnastics team's performance in the 2024 Olympics compare to previous Olympics?

They achieved a historic medal count. Signup and view all the answers

What role did Paul Juda, Asher Hong, and Frederick Richard play in the success of the men's gymnastics team?

They delivered outstanding routines to boost team performance. Signup and view all the answers

What was the implication of the speculation around Brody Malone's ability to perform in the finals?

His injury would severely limit his performance. Signup and view all the answers

What significant feature distinguishes the elephants' way of calling each other from other species like dolphins?

They do not rely on imitation of each other's calls. Signup and view all the answers

What does the found evidence suggest about the bottles' contents in relation to their potential past use?

They were connected to the Washingtons' dining practices. Signup and view all the answers

What was the unique achievement accomplished by Brauer during her sailing journey?

She completed the Global Solo Challenge. Signup and view all the answers

What did Brauer originally plan to pursue as a career before sailing?

A doctor Signup and view all the answers

Which hazardous location did Brauer NOT navigate during her sailing journey?

Cape Verde Signup and view all the answers

What was one medical issue Brauer faced during her journey?

Dehydration due to nausea Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason researchers believe cicadas emerge every 13 or 17 years?

To avoid becoming predictable prey Signup and view all the answers

What method did Dr. Sylvain Lemoine's team use to study the chimpanzees' behavior?

GPS trackers Signup and view all the answers

What strategic behavior did the chimpanzees exhibit while patrolling their territories?

They sought higher ground to listen for rivals. Signup and view all the answers

Which cicada broods are mentioned to coexist this year?

Brood XIII and Brood XIX Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic was noted about the soldiers in Judith Hernstadt's sketch?

Their uniforms were representative of the Continental Army. Signup and view all the answers

What significant event regarding cicadas last occurred in 1803?

Two broods emerging simultaneously Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant outcome of Skic's examination of the sketch?

He concluded it was likely an eyewitness sketch. Signup and view all the answers

What impact do cicadas have on young fruit or nursery trees?

They cause stunted growth or death Signup and view all the answers

Which age and gender representation was emphasized regarding professional sailing in Brauer's experience?

Women face significant barriers in the industry. Signup and view all the answers

What is one way to protect young trees during a cicada invasion?

Cover them with nets Signup and view all the answers

What is a distinguishing feature of periodical cicadas?

They spend most of their life underground Signup and view all the answers

What is one common behavior shared between humans and chimpanzees as noted in the content?

Using tools for tasks. Signup and view all the answers

How did Brauer share her experiences during the race?

Via Instagram posts. Signup and view all the answers

During which event will breaking, surfing, skateboarding, and sport climbing debut?

Paris 2024 Olympics Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of skateboarding is judged in the park competition?

Height, speed, and agility Signup and view all the answers

Why were the chimpanzees considered strategic in their territorial behaviors?

They employed military tactics similar to humans. Signup and view all the answers

What did Brauer hope to achieve through her sailing success?

To inspire other girls to pursue sailing. Signup and view all the answers

What specific skill will be judged in the sport climbing competition?

Speed and style Signup and view all the answers

How long does it take for cicada eggs to hatch?

4-6 weeks Signup and view all the answers

How do cicadas affect the sound environment when they emerge?

Their calls reach up to 90 decibels Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following sports is returning for a second time in the Paris Olympics after debuting in Tokyo?

Skateboarding Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial aspect of scoring in the breakdancing event at the Olympics?

Incorporating mandatory moves Signup and view all the answers

What primarily causes a nova to erupt in a binary star system?

Accumulation of material on a white dwarf's surface Signup and view all the answers

How frequently does T Coronae Borealis experience nova outbursts?

Every 80 years Signup and view all the answers

What factor contributes significantly to the low fatality rate during the recent earthquake in Taiwan?

Strict building codes and earthquake preparedness Signup and view all the answers

What is a distinguishing feature of the upcoming T Coronae Borealis nova explosion?

It will be visible to the unaided eye Signup and view all the answers

What geological feature is responsible for most of the world's earthquakes, including those in Taiwan?

Ring of Fire Signup and view all the answers

What is the estimated distance of T Coronae Borealis from Earth?

3,000 light-years Signup and view all the answers

What portion of the Earth's tectonic activity is located along the Ring of Fire?

75% of earthquakes and 90% of volcano eruptions Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the main reasons that the April 2024 earthquake in Taiwan had a lower impact than the 1999 quake?

Increased seismic monitoring and public education Signup and view all the answers

Which celestial event is predicted by NASA before September 2024?

Nova outburst Signup and view all the answers

What was the magnitude of the earthquake that struck Taiwan on April 3, 2024?

7.4 Signup and view all the answers

What describes the relationship between a red giant and a white dwarf in a binary star system?

The red giant feeds material to the white dwarf Signup and view all the answers

How did residents of Taiwan benefit from the advances in earthquake preparedness?

They had prior knowledge and plans for response Signup and view all the answers

What achievement did Cole Brauer accomplish on March 7, 2024?

First American woman to sail alone around the world Signup and view all the answers

What significant event is described in the sketch attributed to the North Carolina Brigade?

The March through Philadelphia Signup and view all the answers

Who is identified as the artist of the wartime drawing of the North Carolina troops?

Pierre Eugene du Simitiere Signup and view all the answers

What role did the female followers of the Continental Army predominantly serve?

Support tasks such as cooking Signup and view all the answers

What was the unique behavior observed in the male crab spider?

It changed its color to white to blend in. Signup and view all the answers

What is one noted benefit of cooperation mimicry in crab spiders?

Enhanced camouflage effectiveness Signup and view all the answers

What key discovery did Justin and Ruby Reynolds make during their fossil hunting?

A previously unknown ichthyosaur Signup and view all the answers

What was the estimated total length of the ichthyosaur specimen discovered by the Reynolds?

80 feet Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of amateur fossil findings are typically misidentified as rocks?

95 percent Signup and view all the answers

When was the ichthyosaur named Ichthyotitan severnensis published in a scientific journal?

April 17, 2024 Signup and view all the answers

What type of environment is crucial for female crab spiders' camouflage?

Floral habitats Signup and view all the answers

What morphological similarity helps classify ichthyosaurs in relation to other marine animals?

Dolphin-like and whale-like features Signup and view all the answers

What descriptor refers to the combined appearance of male and female crab spiders?

Cooperative mimicry Signup and view all the answers

What revelation did the curator highlight regarding the sketch of the North Carolina troops?

It highlights the role of women in the army. Signup and view all the answers

What condition must be met for cooperation in mimicry to be successful among crab spiders?

Matching colors and shape Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the sea-cooled data center in Dogen City?

To manage city operations, healthcare, and drug discovery Signup and view all the answers

What significant change was made regarding the scoring of climbing events at the Paris Games?

Bouldering and lead climbing scores will be combined. Signup and view all the answers

What innovative farming technology is utilized in Dogen City?

Seawater-based food production Signup and view all the answers

What unique behavior was documented in the orangutan named Rakus?

Chewing a medicinal plant to treat a wound. Signup and view all the answers

Which unique feature does the Sphere venue in Las Vegas include?

A wrap-around LED screen and advanced audio system Signup and view all the answers

What was the outcome for the majority of patients involved in Dr. Wu's first study on personalized cancer vaccines?

Four patients showed no signs of cancer recurrence Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause for the decline in Sumatran orangutan populations?

Conversion of rainforests into plantations. Signup and view all the answers

When is tornado activity typically the highest in the United States?

March to July Signup and view all the answers

What year did Sphere open to the public?

2023 Signup and view all the answers

What type of storm is responsible for the formation of tornadoes?

Supercells. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following cities also announced plans for a sustainable maritime metropolis?

Busan Signup and view all the answers

What did Rakus do to protect his wound from flies?

Covered the wound with leaves. Signup and view all the answers

How many tons of food can be produced annually in Dogen City?

7,000 tons Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the risks faced by Sumatran orangutans due to their reproductive habits?

Low birthing frequency. Signup and view all the answers

What role do the humanoid robots play at Sphere?

Guiding guests through the interactive program Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes the Schoonship neighborhood in the Netherlands?

It contains 46 homes across 30 water plots Signup and view all the answers

What rank was the EF-4 tornado that struck Marietta, Oklahoma, in terms of tornado ratings?

F-4 Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of Dr. Wu's personalized cancer vaccines?

To boost the immune system specifically against targeted cancer cells Signup and view all the answers

How long did Rakus's wound take to heal completely?

One month Signup and view all the answers

Which state was reported to have experienced three tornadoes on May 10, 2024?

Florida Signup and view all the answers

What significant honor did Dr. Wu recently receive?

Sjöberg Prize Signup and view all the answers

What is the average number of tornadoes reported in the U.S. each year?

1,200 Signup and view all the answers

How many residents can Dogen City accommodate?

10,000 residents Signup and view all the answers

During which event did U2 showcase Sphere's technology?

Their 40-night residency Signup and view all the answers

What significant finding was revealed about Rakus's behavior?

He showed active wound treatment behavior. Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the unique sci-fi movie shown at The Sphere Experience?

Postcard from Earth Signup and view all the answers

What specific geographic area in the U.S. is referred to as 'Tornado Alley'?

Central plains and parts of the Great Lakes Signup and view all the answers

How do tornadoes form in relation to supercells?

When warm air meets cold front systems. Signup and view all the answers

What conditions contribute to the occurrence of powerful storms and tornadoes in the specified region?

Dry air from the Rocky Mountains and humid air from the Gulf of Mexico Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for the surge in 'zombie' fires in British Columbia and Alberta this year?

Significantly less snow than usual and prolonged warmer temperatures Signup and view all the answers

How do 'zombie' fires primarily sustain themselves underground?

By utilizing highly flammable organic matter such as peat Signup and view all the answers

Why are firefighters often unable to detect 'zombie' fires?

The underground fires are typically flameless and spread without visible flames Signup and view all the answers

In which regions, besides Canada, are 'zombie' fires known to occur?

Alaska, Northern Europe, and Siberia Signup and view all the answers

What significant characteristic of the X-59 aircraft enables it to fly at supersonic speeds without producing a sonic boom?

Its long, pointed nose which disrupts shock waves Signup and view all the answers

What was a major limitation of the Concorde regarding its flight pathways?

Noise disturbances prevented flights over populated areas Signup and view all the answers

What is the predicted impact of rising sea levels by 2050 on coastal communities?

Annual flooding affecting nearly 300 million people Signup and view all the answers

What innovation does Dogen City feature to protect against natural disasters?

A dual-layer design that floats to resist tsunamis Signup and view all the answers

What is one reason discussed for the higher number of 'zombie' fires this year compared to previous years?

A three-year drought has created exceptionally dry conditions Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary method of gathering community feedback on the X-59's sound during testing?

Flying over select U.S. cities to collect data Signup and view all the answers

What is expected to happen after the X-59 has completed its testing phase?

It will serve as a model for future aircraft development Signup and view all the answers

How long can 'zombie' fires remain active underground?

Several months to even years Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary factor that aids the spread of 'zombie' fires in remote forest areas?

The thick layer of vegetation that burns easily Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of the time did the computer model correctly identify the receiving elephant's identity?

28% Signup and view all the answers

What notable behavior did Florida carpenter ants exhibit in response to injuries?

They performed life-saving surgeries. Signup and view all the answers

In what year was the restored beach in Herculaneum opened to the public?

2024 Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary reason for replacing the original black sand at Herculaneum's beach?

Wheelchair accessibility Signup and view all the answers

What type of calls did elephants use to communicate over long distances?

Rumbles Signup and view all the answers

What type of injuries were inflicted on the carpenter ants during the study?

Femur and tibia injuries Signup and view all the answers

Which famous ancient eruption buried the city of Herculaneum?

Mount Vesuvius Signup and view all the answers

What unique finding was associated with the skeleton known as the 'Ring Lady' in Herculaneum?

She was found wearing jewelry Signup and view all the answers

How did researchers confirm that elephants responded to specific calls meant for them?

Through playback experiments Signup and view all the answers

What significant archaeological discovery fueled the belief that Herculaneum's residents managed to escape before the ash fell?

Few human remains found initially Signup and view all the answers

What behavior do elephants likely exhibit when calling out to their calves?

They address each other by name Signup and view all the answers

What unique feature did excavations in Herculaneum reveal about its structures?

They were remarkably well-preserved Signup and view all the answers

What do researchers plan to explore next regarding elephant calls?

Names for other important elements Signup and view all the answers

What was the method used by the ant 'doctors' when treating ants with femur injuries?

They bit off the injured leg. Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of ants survived after undergoing amputations for femur injuries?

90% Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason ants choose to lick tibia wounds instead of performing amputations?

Amputations take too long. Signup and view all the answers

What unique capability do ants have regarding wound treatment?

They can diagnose and treat wounds accordingly. Signup and view all the answers

How are diamonds transported closer to the Earth's surface?

By volcanic eruptions. Signup and view all the answers

What material were the gems cut from the Cullinan diamond primarily made of?

Diamond Signup and view all the answers

What major issue caused NASA to decide against bringing the astronauts back on the Starliner?

Safety concerns due to spacecraft issues. Signup and view all the answers

According to the findings, why are femur injuries treated more aggressively than tibia injuries in ants?

The femur has more muscle tissue to control blood flow. Signup and view all the answers

Which diamond is considered the largest ever found?

The Cullinan diamond Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary goal of the 2024 Starliner mission involving Wilmore and Williams?

To test the spacecraft's safety and capabilities. Signup and view all the answers

What significant role do Wilmore and Williams take on during their extended stay at the ISS?

They will conduct spacewalks and scientific experiments. Signup and view all the answers

What is expected to happen to the newly discovered 2,492-carat diamond?

It will likely be cut into smaller gems. Signup and view all the answers

How old do scientists believe most natural diamonds are?

At least 1 billion years. Signup and view all the answers

What was the publication date of the study on ant surgeries?

July 2, 2024 Signup and view all the answers

What safety issue affected the Starliner's approach to the ISS?

Helium leaks and thruster failures. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Earth Day 2024 Theme: Planet vs. Plastics

Earth Day, celebrated annually on April 22nd, highlights the need for environmental protection.
The global movement began in 1970 with Gaylord Nelson mobilizing 20 million Americans.
Earth Day Network (EDN) has over 50,000 partners in 190+ countries, driving landmark environmental laws like Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act, and the 2015 Paris Agreement.
EDN's 2024 theme is "Planet vs. Plastics," emphasizing the annual production of over 380 million tons of plastic, 50% for single-use.
A 60% reduction in plastic production by 2040 is EDN's goal.
EDN proposes strategies including public awareness of health risks, phasing out single-use plastics by 2030, ending fast fashion, and corporate investment in sustainable alternatives.
Kathleen Rogers, EDN president, emphasizes the ubiquitous nature of microplastics and their potential toxicity.

Upcoming Nova Outburst

A nova is a sudden brightening of a star in a binary system involving a dying red giant and a dead white dwarf.
Material from the red giant collects on the white dwarf, leading to an explosion.
T Coronae Borealis (T CrB) is a binary system located 3,000 light-years from Earth known for periodic nova outbursts, happening approximately every 80 years.
The last nova outburst was in 1946.
The upcoming outburst is predicted to occur sometime before September 2024, potentially visible to the naked eye for several days and with binoculars for over a week.

Taiwan Earthquake (April 3, 2024)

A 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck Taiwan's east coast on April 3, 2024.
It was the most powerful to hit Taiwan in 25 years.
The quake resulted in at least 13 fatalities and over 1,000 injuries.
The low death toll is attributed to improved earthquake preparedness measures since the 1999 7.7 magnitude earthquake, including earthquake sensors, alerts, and drills.
Stricter building codes and effective evacuation contributed to the low fatality rate despite extensive damage.
Landslides were the primary cause of the fatalities.

Cole Brauer's Solo Circumnavigation

Cole Brauer became the first American woman to complete the 30,000-mile Global Solo Challenge without stopping, taking only 130 days.
Brauer, at 29 years old and 5 feet 2 inches tall, was the youngest and smallest competitor.
The journey faced numerous hardships, including significant injuries and dehydration due to extreme weather conditions.
Brauer hopes her achievement inspires more young women to pursue careers in sailing.

Chimpanzee Military Tactics

Chimpanzee groups strategically patrol territory borders, using elevated positions to assess risks and opportunities for conflict with neighboring groups.
Chimpanzees form coordinated groups and actively monitor rival groups' activity to potentially expand their territory.

18th-Century Sketch of Revolutionary War

A pen-and-ink sketch depicting women and a baby in a carriage with soldiers was discovered in an antique shop.
The sketch shows the North Carolina Brigade of continental troops passing through Philadelphia in August 1777.
The sketch, signed by Pierre Eugene du Simitiere, is the first known wartime drawing of the North Carolina troops done by an eyewitness and one of two artworks depicting female supporters of the Continental Army.

Crab Spiders' Cooperative Mimicry

Male and female crab spiders were observed in a Chinese rainforest cooperating to mimic a single flower, with the male mimicking the pistils and stamens and the female mimicking the petals for camouflage to prey and avoid predators.
This is the first documented example of cooperative mimicry in any species.

New Ichthyosaur Species

A father-daughter team discovered fossil remains of a new massive ichthyosaurus species, Ichthyotitan severnensis, measuring up to 80 feet long on Blue Anchor Beach (UK).
The massive ichthyosaur remains, discovered in 2020 and 2022, provide crucial insights into the sizes and diversity of marine reptiles from the Triassic Era.

Periodical Cicadas

Trillions of cicadas are emerging simultaneously in 16 US states, an extremely rare event last seen in 1803.
Brood XIX (13-year cycle) and Brood XIII (17-year cycle) are overlapping in some states.
Periodical cicadas emerge every 13 or 17 years to reproduce and die soon after.
They are harmless to humans but potentially harmful to young trees due to egg-laying damage.

New Sports at Paris 2024 Olympics

The 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris will feature breaking (breakdancing), surfing, skateboarding, and sport climbing.
Breaking competitions will include two events—one for men and one for women judged on style and flair.
Surfing events will occur in Tahiti.
Skateboarding includes park and street disciplines, with specific scoring criteria.
Sport climbing will feature bouldering, speed climbing, and lead climbing, combining bouldering and lead climbing scores for the overall winner.

Orangutan Using Medicinal Plant

A Sumatran orangutan named Rakus was observed treating a wound with the liana plant, a known remedy by locals.
This is the first documented case of wild animal using a medical plant to treat an injury.
The orangutan showed a complete recovery in five days.
Sumatran orangutans are critically endangered due to habitat loss from palm oil plantations, hunting, and wildlife trade.

Tornado Activity in 2024

An alarming increase in tornado activity in the U.S. from March to July, especially in “Tornado Alley” states.
The April 25th-28th period saw over 100 tornadoes including a significant impact on Marietta, Oklahoma, and others.
May 2024 tornado activity continued with centers around Oklahoma, Michigan, and Tennessee, and as far South as Florida, Tallahassee in particular.
Tornadoes are violent rotating columns of air beginning at thunderstorm clouds and reaching the ground, requiring severe rotating storms (supercells) of cold, dry air against warm, moist air.
Though activity is above average, it's still below 2011 record levels.

"Zombie" Wildfires

The 2023 wildfire season in Canada was the worst on record.
"Zombie" or holdover wildfires, which remain dormant under snow or organic matter, reignited due to warming and less snow.
Significant surge in zombie fires compared to normal annual frequencies in British Columbia and Alberta.
Zombie fire detection is difficult due to remote locations, lack of visible flames, and snow-covered areas.
Climate change is contributing to the frequency of these fires.

NASA's X-59 Quiet Supersonic Jet

NASA's X-59 aircraft, designed to fly at supersonic speeds without creating sonic booms, is revolutionary for air travel.
The plane's long, pointed nose breaks up shock waves, and the lack of a forward-facing cockpit window combined with its engine placement will mitigate noise disturbance.
The X-59 aims to make supersonic travel safer, more sustainable, and quieter over land.
Testing in late 2024, and flights over US cities to collect community feedback on noise are planned.

Floating Cities Addressing Rising Sea Levels

Rising sea levels threaten coastal communities.
Japan's N-Ark plans Dogen City, a floating city with two levels (a maritime city on top, and a sea-cooled data center layer).
Dogen City can house up to 10,000 residents and 40,000 visitors annually, with self-sufficient food production, health care, and space tourism facilities.
Similar floating city projects are underway in South Korea.

Personalized Cancer Vaccines

Dr. Catherine Wu and her team at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute are developing custom vaccines tailored to individual cancer types to combat cancer.
The idea is that the personalized vaccines train the body's immune system to recognize and kill cancer cells without harming healthy cells.
In a study using six melanoma patients, four were cancer-free after a seven-shot course. The vaccine worked well even for the two with more advanced cancer.
The research earned Dr. Wu significant accolades, notably the Sjöberg Prize.

Sphere Entertainment Venue in Las Vegas

Sphere, a massive orb-shaped entertainment venue in Las Vegas, utilizes massive LED screens and advanced audio for performance and entertainment.
It features 17,500 seats with technology to integrate sound vibration, and room for 2,400 standing spectators.
Sphere opened in 2023 with U2's residency, showcasing advanced technology syncing visuals with music.
Interactive "Sphere Experience" programs are also available.

Cooper's Hill Cheese Rolling Competition

Thousands of participants gather annually for the Cooper's Hill Cheese Rolling competition in England.
The unusual competition involves running or tumbling down a hill to catch a rolling wheel of cheese.
The event, established centuries ago, was canceled briefly due to safety concerns but has continued.

Claudia Sheinbaum as Mexico's First Female President

Claudia Sheinbaum, a climate scientist and former Mexico City head of government, became Mexico's first female president in June 2024, and the first of Jewish heritage.
Sheinbaum faces Mexico's rising violence and plans to address it through increased police presence and security cameras.
Her policy focuses on transitioning to clean energy, reducing reliance on fossil fuels by 50 percent within six years.

Chang'e 6 Lunar Probe Mission

China's Chang'e 6 lunar probe successfully returned samples from the Moon's far side—a significant achievement.
The probe launched in May 2024, landing at the South Pole-Aitken basin, one of the Solar System's largest impact craters.
The samples collected include rocks and soil, and will be used for scientific research on lunar evolution and early Solar System history.

US Gymnastics at Paris 2024 Olympics

The US men's and women's gymnastics teams achieved a combined 10 medals in the 2024 Olympics.
US men's team won a bronze medal after a disappointing qualifying performance and a strong showing in the final.
A key player overcame struggles and performed exceptionally in the final.

Excavation at Mount Vernon Uncovers 18th-Century Bottles

Excavations at George Washington's Mount Vernon home unearthed 35 glass bottles, 29 of which contained preserved fruit like cherries and berries/gooseberries/currants, from the 18th century.
The bottles, likely stored before 1776, provide insights into the Washington family's daily lives and the enslaved community.
Further analysis, including DNA testing and the possible germination of seeds, is planned.

Elephants' Naming System Discovered

Research suggests elephants assign unique "names" to each other through distinct vocalizations, distinct from the imitation-based calling systems observed in other animals.
The study, from recordings of wild elephants over three decades in Kenya, analyzes complex low-frequency rumbles.
Elephant names are used selectively over distance and to specific individuals.
Further research will explore if elephants also name locations, food sources, etc.

Restored Herculaneum Beach

Herculaneum, a Roman seaside resort near Pompeii, has a newly restored beach as part of archaeological excavation and restoration, 2000 years after the volcano buried it.
The excavated area is now publicly accessible, mimicking the original Roman viewpoint.
Retaining much of the detail from the eruption in preserved infrastructure and human remains.

Florida Carpenter Ants Conduct Life-Saving "Surgeries"

Florida carpenter ants perform life-saving surgeries on nestmates with injuries, similar to human medical practices..
The treatment depends on the type of injury; extensive amputation is used for femur fractures and simpler wound cleaning for tibia injuries.
These ants assess what type of treatment is required based on injury and infection.
The complex decisions are likely linked to hemolymph flow.

2,492-Carat Diamond Found in Botswana

Lucara Diamond discovered a 2,492-carat diamond in Botswana's Karowe mine.
It is the second-largest diamond ever found and the largest in Botswana.
The diamond is expected to fetch tens of millions of dollars after cutting.

NASA Cancels Starliner Crew Return

NASA canceled the return of astronauts Wilmore and Williams aboard Boeing's Starliner to Earth, opting for a return via the SpaceX Dragon.
The decision, due to concerns raised by helium leaks and thruster issues during the Starliner's test flight journey to the International Space Station will see the astronauts stay at the ISS until February 2025..

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Explore the theme of Earth Day 2024, focused on 'Planet vs. Plastics'. This quiz covers the history of Earth Day, the environmental initiatives driven by the Earth Day Network, and the urgent need to reduce plastic production and usage. Learn about the challenges and proposed solutions to combat plastic pollution globally.