Topic Reading-Vol.3490/10/31/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

What does being a 'cultural fit' actually mean?

Similarity may create smooth connections among colleagues and team members while diversity brings about new, innovative perspectives to the group and organization. In fact, some research shows that teams with a diverse mix of genders, races, and sexual orientations show better performance than those that keep mono-culture. However, in the real world, many companies are reluctant to hire candidates who aren’t likely to fit the existing culture. Job interviews of such companies are not just checking job qualifications but also assessing the candidate’s compatibility, such as working style, behaviors, and personal profile such as appearance, preference, and interests. These assessments can be subjective and biased, but they have the final say as to whether to hire the candidate who qualifies for all the requirements. This, in turn, might not be all bad for the candidate, either. It could be stressful to work in an environment where he or she feels isolated or foreign.

Companies seem to choose either cultural fit for harmony or cultural add for diversity when they interview candidates.

Enjoy reading the article and learn about what cultural fit could mean in the hiring process.

https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20211015-what-does-being-a-cultural-fit-actually-mean

Topic Reading-Vol.3489/10/30/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

Vikings settled in North America in 1021AD, study says

Vikings are seafaring people who sailed from Scandinavia, including Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, to the Mediterranean, North Africa, the Middle East, and North America from the late 8^th to the 11^th centuries. They raided coastal dwellings, pirated merchant ships, and traded goods and people. Some of them also settled in places like England, Ireland, Iceland, Greenland, and North America. This means that Vikings were the first people who reached North America before Christopher Columbus did in 1492. But the exact year in which they arrived there had not been clarified until recently. Now, a new study found that Vikings settled in the northern tip of Newfoundland, Canada as early as 1021CE. This was revealed from pieces of cut wood found in the site by using the radiocarbon dating technique. However, it does not prove that was the first year they were there. They or other Vikings might have been there even earlier, which needs to be proved by other pieces of evidence that may be discovered in the future. New history is being revealed by science nowadays.

Enjoy reading the article and learn about Viking’s settlement in North America.

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-58996186

Topic Reading-Vol.3488/10/29/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

Royal Caribbean announces nine-month world cruise

Booking a cruise trip that sets off two years later? Marking most of the 2023 calendar now? Spending 274 nights abroad in the same cabin with over 2,000 fellow passengers? Going to Miami, Florida to set out and visit 150 destinations in the world including 31 countries at 66 ports including the Caribbean, Australia, India, Egypt, and Europe in one trip? That is what the world’s largest cruise line, Royal Caribbean is offering now as the Ultimate World Cruise. Once onboard, you’ll be a passenger of a 20-year-old, 293-meter long, 90,000-ton, 12-deck cruise ship, Serenade of the Seas. During the 274-day trip, you can also choose to visit famous tourist destinations such as Iguazu Falls, the Great Wall of China, the Taj Mahal, and the Pyramids of Giza. A very inclusive cruise trip, doesn’t it? The ticket price ranges between $66,000 and $112,000 per person. If you divide the fare by 274 nights, that’ll be about $240 to $400 per night including meals. Compare this to a 10-minute or a day trip to space which could cost even more with no or tube-meals, it might be a bargain. And of course, there is no pre-flight training or G-force pressure during the cruise trip. It is scheduled to commence sailing in December 2023.

Enjoy reading the article and think if you may want to enjoy a long, slow journey in 2023.

https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/royal-caribbean-nine-month-world-cruise/index.html

Topic Reading-Vol.3487/10/28/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,
Students sue Texas school district for banning long hair on boys
A dress code is a set of rules of clothing groups of people should wear. Different societies and cultures have different dress codes, and they tend to change from time to time. Many schools implement dress codes to prevent students from wearing inappropriate clothing items to school. Some schools have school uniforms and others set guidelines as to what is recommended or prohibited to wear at school. But how far does a school or school district enforce the dress code? One of the school districts in Texas, a conservative southern US state, maintains and enforces its dress code policy that prohibits boys from having long hair. In one school, a 9-year-old student was barred from recess and lunch breaks as punishment. Boys and non-binary students claim that the dress code is an act of segregation. One student says that long hair is a part of his family’s heritage and another student argues that it is part of their gender expression.
Can such a gender-based dress code be justified in a co-ed environment in the 21^st century?
Enjoy reading and think about the school dress code from social, cultural, and educational aspects.

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-59013608

Topic Reading-Vol.3486/10/27/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

Keep your brain sharp by finding your sleep 'sweet spot,' study says

How long do you usually sleep a night? If you regularly sleep at least seven hours, you are not in big trouble. But if you are in bed only for six or so hours on weekdays and ten or more hours on weekends, that doesn’t work well for brain function recovery. Also, if your sleep is constantly interrupted by noise, light, or a toilet, the quality of your sleep declines. You want to go through a 90-minute sleep cycle four to six times a night. In the first two stages of the sleep cycle, your body begins to decrease the rhythms to prepare for deep sleep, called delta sleep, which restores your brain and body. Then comes rapid eye movement sleep, or REM sleep, which makes you dream. This is an important stage to consolidate and store information and experiences in memory. In order to go through these stages four to six times a night, you want to sleep in an appropriate environment for six to eight hours, ideally straight. To avoid interruptions, you don’t want to eat or drink too much in the evening. Of course, there is no need to check your smartphone until the next morning.

Enjoy reading the article and learn about what good sleep does to your brain and body.

https://edition.cnn.com/2021/10/20/health/sleep-sweet-spot-brain-health-wellness/index.html

Topic Reading-Vol.3485/10/26/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

The nightmare of India's tallest rubbish mountain

India is the world's most populous democratic country with a population of around 14 billion. It has satellites, an aircraft carrier, and a high-tech hub like Bengaluru, but unlike China, social infrastructures like transportation, public facilities, and waste management system are lagging behind the pride and promises of the nation. Even though the national government passed rules to have municipalities process waste, there are not enough waste treatment plants to deal with increasing waste. In fact, there are over 3,000 waste mountains containing 800 million tons of rubbish across the country. For example, Mumbai, India’s commercial and entertainment capital with over 20 million population, has eight rubbish mountains in a suburb, which are the largest and oldest dumpsite in the country. Over 16 million tons of trash are sitting there and more are being brought in every day. The piles reach as high as 36 meters, like an 18-story building. Surprisingly, there are people who enter those trash mountains daily to fetch sellable items, such as plastic bottles, glass, and wire, though it is prohibited. It is dangerous and unhealthy, but such scavenging is necessary for them to make their living. There seems to be a lot to do for India to create a sustainable economy and environment.

Enjoy reading the article and learning about India’s waste mountains.

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-58866834

Topic Reading-Vol.3484/10/25/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

The battle to make lighter life-saving body armor

Body armor is protective clothing designed to absorb or deflect physical attacks like a bullet or a piece of shrapnel. It is usually worn by soldiers, police officers, or security guards. The ones used by combat soldiers use metal, ceramic, or compound material plates in their bullet-resistant vests. For those working on the battlefield, body armor increases the chance of survival or protects the wearer from injuries. However, the more protective the armor is, the heavier it becomes. Since soldiers need to carry kilos of items or supplies, such as a gun, ammunition, food, and communication equipment, they are already heavily loaded. Also, they sometimes have to run or climb a hill as quickly as they can. As new materials have been invented and used for modern armors, they’ve also added more weight as much as 10 kilograms compared with the ones used in the Vietnam War. Will there be a breakthrough invention or technological innovation that reduces the weight while enhancing the protection?

Enjoy reading the article and learn about what body armor means and does to a wearer.

https://www.bbc.com/news/business-58793826

Topic Reading-Vol.3483/10/24/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

How to best burn calories while walking

It is evident that walking is one of the most beneficial, cost-effective, and easy-to-do exercises for one’s physical and mental health. It doesn’t need special equipment, a dedicated field or facility, or exclusive membership. All you need is a place to walk on, like a path or field, and a pair of shoes (and an umbrella when it is raining). Furthermore, it improves one’s mental health, wellness, creativity, and productivity, too. Indeed, you usually feel better after walking, don’t you? Unlike boxing or weight training, walking is a moderate-intensity form of exercise, which uses about 70% of your maximum heart rate. Your maximum heart rate is calculated by subtracting your age from 220. For example, if you’re 50 years old, it’s 170. And 70% of 170 is about 120 beats per second. At this heart rate, you’ll be able to speak in complete sentences. If you slow down to 60% of your maximum heart rate, it’ll become a light-intensity exercise and you can enjoy conversations. If you want to burn more calories, you may want to walk at a brisk pace and slow down from time to time. Some health experts and physical trainers encourage people to walk to burn excess calories and fat. But walking naturally provides more benefits to your health and wellness, not just for your stomach.

Enjoy reading the article and learn about the benefits and mechanisms of walking.

https://edition.cnn.com/2021/10/18/health/best-way-burn-calories-walking-wellness/index.html

Topic Reading-Vol.3482/10/23/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

Our underwater future: What sea level rise will look like around the globe

In November, world leaders will meet and talk about global warming and greenhouse gas emissions in Scotland, UK. Since the world is already warmer by 1.2 degrees Celsius than pre-industrial levels, we are running out of time to avoid further temperature increases, which has already caused sea level-rising and extreme weather conditions like drought, heatwaves, and super hurricanes and typhoons. If greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise beyond the middle of the century, the planet could become three degrees warmer than pre-industrial levels by 2060s or 2070s, and sea level will keep rising. China, India, Vietnam, Indonesia, and small island nations will be affected by the sea-level rise the most. If that happens, ocean-view properties may become underwater properties, streets could become water channels, and the “G” (ground level) button in elevators would be removed. Here are images of how some of the cities will look like if temperatures rise three degrees from preindustrial levels.

Compare the images of some of the cities that could be affected by the sea-level rise.  

https://edition.cnn.com/2021/10/12/world/3-degrees-sea-level-rise-climate-central/index.html

Topic Reading-Vol.3481/10/22/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

China's spacecraft crew steps into space station

The Tiangong space station is China’s space station in low Earth orbit about 400 km above the surface. The first core module was launched in April this year and two uncrewed and two crewed spacecraft have carried materials, supplies, and crewmembers so far. The space station will have three modules next year and will add three more in the future. The core cabin module provides life support and living quarters for three members, as well as guidance, navigation, and other control functions for the station. Now, the second crewed spacecraft successfully carried three crew members who are going to stay in the space station for six months, the longest in China’s space program. Besides scientific experiments, their assignments include spacewalks, manual robotic arms control, and testing support instruments for crewmembers’ life. One of the crewmembers is a Senior Colonel who is a mother of a five-year-old daughter. She will be the first Chinese woman to conduct a spacewalk. They will also deliver educational lectures to Chinese students from space. As NASA proved, space science and technologies help stimulate scientific and adventurous minds in people and companies. Though we have more urgent and serious problems on the land and the seas, there is so much that space experiments can create and deliver for the future.

Enjoy reading the article and imagine what young Chinese students will think about and learn from their nation’s proud space programs.

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202110/16/WS616a4098a310cdd39bc6f560.html

Topic Reading-Vol.3480/10/21/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

New findings a 'complete reversal' in understanding why Earth became hospitable to life and its 'twin' didn't

Compared to other planets of our solar system, the Earth and Venus are nearly identical in several aspects, such as mass, diameter, density, and gravity, though the latter is the least habitable planet because of the temperature. As Venus orbits much more closely to the Sun than the Earth does, it is of course more heated by the Sun. But why Venus’s surface temperature reaches over 400 degrees Celsius, which is even hotter than Mercury, the closest planet to the Sun? And why do such identical planets have distinctive differences in surface and atmospheric conditions? One key factor is Venus’s slow rotation, which takes 2,800 hours or 116 days. This makes one side of the planet always faces the Sun and the other side unlit by the Sun. Also, there was a time when the Sun was dimmer, which gave the planets the chance to cool the temperatures to make the water in the air liquid, rain, and form oceans. Getting interested?

Enjoy reading the article and learn about the differences between our planet and neighboring planet hundreds of millions of years ago.

https://edition.cnn.com/2021/10/13/world/venus-oceans-earth-scn/index.html

Topic Reading-Vol.3479/10/20/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

Why not every good worker has to be a superstar

An average worker is a person who meets expectations and does the job right– nothing more or less. If a person can do the job well, why doesn’t he or she want to do more or better? One reason is that many workers don’t want to stand out or take more responsibilities because they have other priorities, such as family and other interests. In fact, just fulfilling a job description, nothing more or less, also means that the employee is meeting most of the expectations and requirements for the job. Such employees should never be undervalued in the organization in order for a team or company as a whole to be successful. Actually, consistency, dependability, and continuity are all essential factors to achieve sustainable growth and average workers are the essential driving force. However, those mediocre workers are often not recognized enough and often become discouraged and may look for another job. When you lose such a valuable employee, you’ll find it hard to find a perfect average worker. Indeed, a worker who does the job just right is hard to replace. They should be recognized and appreciated for meeting the expectations. If you lose such an employee, you’ll then have to post the job, screen applications, interview candidates, and you may or may not find one who may or may not be compatible with the person you lost. And it takes your time and extra burden on others’ shoulders until the position is filled. Indeed, replacement cost is much more expensive than rewarding average employees to keep them motivated more often.

Though AI and robotics are taking many jobs, it is still essential to keep and motivate average performers within the organization.

Enjoy reading the article and learn about how valuable average workers are for any team or organization.

https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20211008-why-not-every-good-worker-has-to-be-a-superstar

Topic Reading-Vol.3478/10/19/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

William Shatner is now the oldest person ever to go to space

James Kirk is a fictional character in the Star Trek TV and movie series. He was the first captain of the infamous starship USS Enterprise. The role was first played by William Shatner 55 years ago. Shatner, now 90 years old, of course, had not traveled to space as he did on TV or screen until he actually did recently. Though he was not on the USS Enterprise as the captain but on Blue Origin’s New Shepard, a fully autonomous spacecraft. Now, he became the oldest person ever to travel to space. Though the flight lasted just ten minutes from takeoff to parachute landing, four passengers onboard enjoyed weightlessness for about three minutes. They had to endure 5.5G during its descent and the 90-year-old former starship captain made it safely. Upon landing, he was greeted by Jeff Bezos, a lifelong Star Trek fan and the founder of Blue Origin. This time, Captain Kirk wasn’t paid for the mission but didn’t have to pay for the flight either.

Space, the final frontier. (hear the famous tune?)

Enjoy reading the article and watching the video to learn about this dream-come-true spaceflight.

https://edition.cnn.com/2021/10/13/tech/william-shatner-space-blue-origin-everything-you-need-to-know-scn/index.html

Topic Reading-Vol.3477/10/18/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

Wives do not earn as much as their husbands, says new global study

On average, women earn less than men do in most countries. One reason is that women tend to be occupied with more time on unpaid work, such as housework and caregiving so that they can work less time on paid work. For example, they perform as much as 80% of the housework in Asia, according to an International Labor Organization report. Secondly, women tend to leave work to raise children for ranging from a few months to several years, or even longer. This creates a blank in their career and working time. Furthermore, there still are a gender pay gap and unequal pay for the same work in many parts of the world. Though the gap has been narrowing in general, it seems to take time to realize equal pay for equal work in some cultures where women are traditionally regarded as an auxiliary workforce.

Enjoy reading the article and learn about how women earn less than men.

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-58867004

Topic Reading-Vol.3476/10/17/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

Now in power, Taliban sets sights on Afghan drug underworld

Opium poppy plants can be refined to form the basis for several highly addictive drugs like heroin. Afghanistan, under any rule, has been the world’s largest producer of opium, accounting for over 80% of the world’s supply. It actually contributes more than 10% of the country’s economy. Though the Taliban claims there was no production of drugs during their former ruling in 1996-2001, opium poppy cultivation rose substantially. While opium production generates employment and tax revenues in Afghanistan, it also creates massive addiction around the country. After seizing the ruling power, the Taliban started to stamp out drug usage in Kabul, the capital. Policemen, most of who are former fighters, hunt homeless drug users and take them to treatment centers. Those opium addicts are then stripped, washed, and shaved their heads to undergo a 45-day detoxification program, which accompanies discomfort and pain. When they complete the program, will they stay away from drugs?

At least, the new Afghanistan administration is trying to deal with the illness of the country.

Read the article and see the photos to learn about Afghan’s deep-rooted problem.

https://www.aljazeera.com/gallery/2021/10/11/photos-kabul-afghanistan-taliban-drugs-underworld-heroin

Topic Reading-Vol.3475/10/16/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,
You come across a bear. Your next move is very important. Do you know what to do?
Now it’s fall in the northern hemisphere. It is a good season to hike or camp in the mountain. It is also an important season for bears to get as much food as possible to prepare for hibernation. So, you may have a higher chance to encounter bears if you walk or stay in the mountain. Though such chances are still rare, rare doesn't equal never. Then do you know what you to do if you encounter a wild bear? The first thing you need to know is that bears don’t want to meet humans either. If you don’t threaten them, they usually ignore you or let you go. Here are some tips from experts in case of a bear encounter.
- Don't be alarmed if a bear stands on its hind legs; it's not considered an aggressive move.
- Don’t run or climb a tree. Bears can do them faster and better.
- Don’t play dead if it’s a black bear but play dead if it’s a grizzly bear.
- Avoid eye contact and move away slowly.
- If it doesn’t go away, try making loud noises and waving your arms to make you look larger.
If none of the above-mentioned tips works and the bear is going to attack you, fight back, aim for the face!
Enjoy reading the article and learn the safety measures you can take in case you encounter a wild bear.

https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/bear-encounters-prevent-attacks-wellness/index.html

Topic Reading-Vol.3474/10/15/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

Xi: Taiwan question will be resolved as national rejuvenation becomes reality

Lead by Sun Yat-sen, the Revolution of 1911, also known as the Xinhai Revolution, occurred on Oct0ber 10, 1911. It marked the collapse of the Chinese monarchy that had lasted over 2,000 years. Both the People's Republic of China on the mainland and the Republic of China on the island of Taiwan honor the ideals of the revolution including nationalism, republicanism, modernization of China, and national unity. To commemorate the 110^th anniversary of the revolution, China’s President Xi Jinping made important remarks on the Taiwan issue. He clarified and restated China’s stance on Taiwan in his own words. Here are some keynotes he delivered.

- The Taiwan question is purely an internal matter for China, one which brooks no external interference. This is determined by the general trend of Chinese history, but more importantly, it is the common will of all Chinese people.

- National reunification by peaceful means best serves the interests of the Chinese nation as a whole, including compatriots in Taiwan.

- Compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Straits should stand on the right side of history and join hands to achieve China's complete reunification and the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. Those who forget their heritage, betray their motherland, and seek to split the country will come to no good end.

Read the article to learn about the official statement by China’s leader about the Taiwan issue.

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202110/09/WS6160f821a310cdd39bc6dc6b_1.html

Topic Reading-Vol.3473/10/14/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

On patrol with a real-life Robocop

An R2D2-look-like robot is now circuiting around a park in Sothern Los Angeles. With 360-degree video cameras, the AI-powered K5 Robocop detects criminal, offensive, or destructive activities such as fights or vandalism and notifies the police. Also, anyone who needs police assistance can push a button in the head to contact a police officer. However, it isn’t designed to chase or arrest a criminal or engage in a fight. Instead, it observes and reports to intervene or intercept any type of abnormalities. The police reported 50% fewer crimes have been reported and 30% more arrests have been made since the debut of the Robocop. It surely seems to have some effects on making the park a safer place. Since it has neither arms nor weapons, this police robot cannot protect itself. So, when it is attacked, it has to call the police for help!

Enjoy watching the video and think if this $75,000 robot makes your place safer.

https://www.bbc.com/news/av/stories-58841837

Topic Reading-Vol.3472/10/13/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

The Earth isn't as bright as it once was

How can we measure how bright the Earth is? Of course, our planet doesn’t shine itself, though we humans lit a little artificially. But the earth reflects the sun’s light. And the dark side of the Moon catches the reflected glow. So, if we observe the earth’s glow that is reflected by the Moon, we can technically measure how bright the earth is. And the amount of reflection by the earth varies by cloud cover. The more cloud covers the earth’s surface, the more the light is reflected. Recently, by using this methodology, researchers found that the earth hasn’t been reflecting as much light from the sun in the last three years as it had been during the previous 17 years. It is not clear if global warming was the cause of this lessened cloud cover. But measuring the brightness of the earth might be another way to monitor the health of our planet.  

Enjoy reading the article and learn about what the earth’s brightness means.

https://edition.cnn.com/2021/10/04/weather/earth-dimming-climate/index.html

Topic Reading-Vol.3471/10/12/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

Historic go-ahead for malaria vaccine to protect African children

Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites that are transmitted to people through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. Though it is preventable and curable, over 400,000 people, most of who were in Africa, died of Malaria in 2019 alone. Sadly, children under five years old are the most vulnerable to the disease, accounting for two-thirds of the total deaths. Once a non-immune person is bitten by a parasite, symptoms such as fever, headache, and chills appear within two weeks. If not treated swiftly, malaria can progress to severe illness and could lead to death. To prevent and reduce malaria transmission, vector control, any method to limit or eradicate mosquitoes that transmit disease pathogens, is the main way because it takes years of being repeatedly infected to build up effective immunity, which only reduces the chances of becoming severely ill.

Now, after more than a century of trials, the malaria vaccine is ready to be rolled out across sub-Saharan Africa and other regions where there are high malaria transmissions. The World Health Organization says it is a breakthrough for science, child health, and malaria control. Because of the complexity of malaria, the vaccine has limited efficacy and requires multiple doses over an 18-month period. Therefore, other means to prevent infections like bed nets mustn’t be neglected, just like wearing a facemask even after getting vaccinated for Covid-19.

Read the article and learn about this historic medical and health achievement.

https://www.bbc.com/news/health-58810551

Topic Reading-Vol.3470/10/11/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

Guatemala: Anti-vaccine villagers attack and hold nurses with Covid jabs

The Republic of Guatemala is a small country in Central America, right beneath Mexico. Of the 17 million or so total population, a little over 50% are mixed and 40% are the Maya peoples. Most of them are Christians, consisting of Catholics and Protestants almost equally. The country is lagging behind Covid vaccination, having vaccinated just a quarter of the eligible population. Recently, villagers in the north-central part of Guatemala blocked a road and stopped the cars that were carrying nurses to the village to administer Covid-19 jabs. Then they verbally and physically attacked the nurses and destroyed the cool boxes that contained the vaccine doses because they were afraid of the side effects of the vaccination. It was just a misunderstanding that caused such vandalism to health workers.

 As reported in Vol. 3469, many health and care workers around the world are risking their lives to save others’ lives from the coronavirus pandemic. Education, information, and communication must be provided properly at all levels.

Read the article and learn about this unfortunate incident caused by a misunderstanding.

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-58801096

Topic Reading-Vol.3469/10/10/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

This is what we owe the world's health and care workers, who put their lives on the line for us. 

Who do you think should be vaccinated first? The elderly people or political leaders? The answer is simple. Those who care for others during the time of the pandemic, health and care workers in all places, not just in rich countries. It is estimated that there are 50 to 135 million health and care workers around the world including 28 million nurses who risk their lives to save others’ lives. Yes, they should be the ones who get vaccinated before anyone. However, as wealthy countries use and keep most of the available vaccines, only a few workers in poorer nations have been vaccinated. In 38 African countries, only around two million health workers have gotten at least one vaccine shot, but more than 30 million workers have not. But they are still required to work in the front line. Furthermore, they are not even properly protected due to a lack of supply and funds. Indeed, they are risking their lives to help their patients.

Read the article and learn about the situation and conditions of health and care workers under the pandemic.

https://edition.cnn.com/2021/10/03/opinions/covid-19-vaccinations-health-and-care-workers-frieden-masiyiwa/index.html

Topic Reading-Vol.3468/10/9/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

The world's best potato dishes

Potatoes are widely eaten around the world. You might think potatoes have been eaten widely for a long time. In fact, the potato was domesticated in present-day Peru around 7,000-10,000 years ago but hadn’t been introduced to other continents until the late 16^th century when the Spanish took the starchy plant home. Potatoes are now a staple food in many places of the world and the fourth-largest food crop after corn, wheat, and rice. There are nearly 4,000 varieties of potatoes in the world, such as brown, red, white, yellow, and purple ones. Potatoes are prepared in many different ways, such as mashed, boiled, baked, steamed, deep-fried, roasted, and micro-waved. They are also made into potato chips and salad. And when it comes to potato dishes, there are uncountable numbers of recipes around the world.

Enjoy reading these popular recipes and find ones you like or want to try.

https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/world-best-potato-dishes/index.html

Topic Reading-Vol.3467/10/8/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

Turkey: 'Missing' man joins search party looking for himself

Joined a search party for yourself? Sounds like a joke but it actually happened to a 50-year-old Turkish man who went missing in a forest after drinking with his friends. Since he didn’t return home, his family asked the local authorities for a search. Then …

Enjoy reading the article and keep the story for your next joke.

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-58746703

Topic Reading-Vol.3466/10/7/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

Princess Mako: Japanese royal to finally marry commoner boyfriend

The Imperial House of Japan, the world's longest-running hereditary dynasty, doesn’t allow a female emperor under the current constitution, though there were eight in its 1360-year-old history. Under the post-war constitution, the emperor is "the symbol of the State and of the unity of the people," and is not involved in politics. Other members of the Imperial Family, both male and female, perform ceremonial and social duties. Princess Mako, the first daughter of Crown Prince Fumihito, was supposed to marry her former college classmate in 2018. However, because of the fiancé’s mother’s financial scandal, their marriage was suspended, and he went to the US to study law. Three years later after he graduated a law school and became a lawyer in New York, their marriage was announced again. They are now set to marry later this month. Once married, Princess Mako will leave the royal family and become an ordinary citizen. Because of the uncelebrated nature of the scandalous path to marriage, she declined to receive the one-time payment that is usually paid to a female member when she leaves the royal family. They will live in the US after marriage, just like Harry and Meghan from the British royal family.

Enjoy reading the text and learn about another royal couple who will leave their own country.

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-58758317

Topic Reading-Vol.3465/10/6/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

Overseas fans banned from 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics

The Tokyo Summer Games were held inside empty stadiums due to COVID-19 precautions, which disappointed the athletes and fans in Japan and from abroad, sponsors who made a substantial investment, and Japan’s Olympic Organization that lost ticket revenues. And furthermore, the decision was made at the very last minute so that staff, volunteers, and supporting institutions were all screwed. The confusion seemed to have been caused by Japan’s easy-going, populism politics.

Now, China is hosting the 2022 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games in the coming winter. The nation is implementing the zero-tolerant policy towards Covid-19, imposing a 21-day quarantine on all incoming travelers from abroad (Vol.3464), and has no intention to loosen it for the international sports event. In the meantime, they want to make the event as exciting as they can for the athletes, fans, and sponsors while meeting the financial requirements, ticket sales. How? They will allow only fully vaccinated participates to enter the country and move around under a closed-loop management system. They can move freely but they will be tested daily just like all the other domestic participants and workforce who run and support the event. As for the fans, no spectators from abroad are allowed but those who live in Mainland China. So, the stadiums and event venues will be filled but only with Chinese fans. This way, they can host the event in a way almost as same as usual Olympic games. They can sell tickets as usual, and sponsors can expect good visibility. More importantly, China made the decision months before the event so that all the people and organizations concerned can plan and prepare for the event in advance. A lesson seems to have been learned well.

Enjoy reading the article about how the 2022 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games are going to be held.

https://www.aljazeera.com/sports/2021/9/29/winter-olympics-2022-china-to-allow-fans-only-from-mainland

Topic Reading-Vol.3464/10/5/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

China has built a 5,000-room quarantine center for overseas arrivals. It could be the first of many

China is one of the few countries that has successfully contained coronavirus outbreaks. Over one billion people, accounting for 70% of the nation’s population, have already been fully vaccinated, which could have achieved herd immunity. Also, China’s uncompromising, zero-tolerance strategy towards the coronavirus now mandates three-week quarantine for all incoming travelers from abroad. While other democratic, or populist countries are loosening travel restrictions for vaccinated travelers, Chinese leaders don’t seem to think this coronavirus pandemic will end in any foreseeable future and decided to build large-scale quarantine facilities in major entry cities. The first of its kind was built in Guangzhou, a major industrial and commercial city in Southern China near Hong Kong. The 5,000-room international health station was constructed by over 4,000 workers in just three months. Another example of China’s massive project with amazing speed and scale. There is a video chat camera and an AI thermometer in each room, and all the meals are delivered by robots to minimize direct contact with the quarantined travelers. You may be surprised by the sheer scale of the facility but more are being built. It’s simple math. Each international flight could bring in 300-or-so passengers and they would be all quarantined for three weeks. How many flights will they be able to accept?

Enjoy reading the article and learn about China’s determination to prevent the Covid-19 outbreak.

https://edition.cnn.com/2021/09/29/china/guangzhou-covid-quarantine-center-mic-intl-hnk/index.html

Topic Reading-Vol.3463/10/4/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

World can learn from Chinese afforestation

Unlike reforestation, which restores an area that has been deforested, afforestation is the process of introducing trees and tree seedlings to an area that has previously not been forested. Afforestation can be done through tree planting and seeding, naturally or artificially. It is regarded as one of the prospective methods to fight climate concerns, as it increases the soil quality and organic carbon levels into the soil, avoiding desertification.

China has been very active in afforestation for the last four decades even though the forest area per capita is still far lower than the international average. In fact, the amount of planted forest has exceeded 80 million hectares and still growing. China claims afforestation has generated a remarkable improvement in local diversity and lifted more than 100,000 rural residents from poverty. Apart from the self-claimed achievement, China’s goal to afforest 36,000 square kilometers each year in their new five-year plan is an ambitious but respectable commitment to sustainable and green development.

Enjoy reading the article and learn about China’s afforestation.

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202109/29/WS6153bdc4a310cdd39bc6c3f9.html

Topic Reading-Vol.3462/10/3/2021

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South Korea's President Moon says it's time to consider a ban on eating dog meat

Dog meat is used for traditional, cultural, ritualistic, or ordinary dishes in many countries throughout the world while such practice is regarded as inhumane in other cultures. In Asia, dog meat dishes are popular in some regions and for some generations, especially in China and Korea. There are dedicated herders, butchers, markets, and restaurants for dog meat in those countries. However, as dogs are becoming more popular as humans' companions, the practice of eating dog meat is viewed less favorably. Now, South Korea’s outgoing President Moon Jae-in recently suggested that the country consider prohibiting dog meat consumption. As the next presidential election is scheduled within half-year, contenders for the election may have to raise their voices on this controversial issue even though it is not as essential for the economy, national security, and Covid-19. Will this become one of the pivotal points in the election?

Enjoy reading the article and think about why it is such a controversial topic in some countries.

https://edition.cnn.com/2021/09/27/asia/south-korea-dog-meat-ban-intl-hnk/index.html

Topic Reading-Vol.3461/10/2/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

Afghanistan: Taliban ban Helmand barbers from trimming beards

Historically, social attitudes toward male beards have varied widely. While Islam considers a full beard is important and even mandates it as part of their observance, other cultures view a beard as out of fashion or unhygienic. Also, beards are grown to protect the wearer’s face from cold air or direct sunlight. But even among Muslims, beards are regarded differently by Islamic tradition. Some mandate beard and prohibit shaving it while others just recommend beard and permit shaving or trimming it. In Shia, the length of a beard is limited, and therefore trimming is allowed while prohibiting shaving. In Taliban-led Afghanistan, shaving or trimming beards is now regarded as a violation of Islamic law and officially prohibited in some regions. It seems that they are reviving the strict rulings which took place between 1996 and 2001. Barbers are told not to shave or trim anyone’s beard. They enjoyed the shaving and trimming business for the last 15 years under American influence but now they need to look for other opportunities for their business and livelihood. What will young girls, who aren’t used to unshaven, untrimmed beards, think of men?

Read the article and learn of the changes in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime.

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-58700159

Topic Reading-Vol.3460/10/1/2021

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

Iceland misses out on Europe's first female-majority parliament after recount

Iceland is an island country in the North Atlantic Ocean whose central volcanic plateau is erupting almost constantly. With a population of just 371,000, Iceland is one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world. The Nordic island country has been a leader in gender equality, ensuring equal pay for men and women and granting the same parental leave to both the father and mother. Also, it elected the first female president four decades ago. However, women haven’t represented the majority of the parliament yet. The latest election’s result briefly showed they won 33 of the 63 seats of the parliament, but the later recount proved 30, or 47.6%. Even though not all the female representatives always vote for the same measure, it would have been a historical achievement if they had won the majority in the parliament. A bit of disappointment for women but a satisfactory result for the parties that gained more seats regardless of their gender.

Enjoy reading the article and learn about Iceland’s latest election results.

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-58698490