solsticeuniversity.com – In the bustling slums of Metro Manila, where the air hums with resilience and desperation, pagpag emerges as both a lifeline and a stark symbol of inequality. This Tagalog term, meaning “to shake off dust,” refers to leftover food—often from fast-food chains like Jollibee or KFC—scavenged from garbage dumps, cleaned, and re-cooked for…
solsticeuniversity.com – Plants are the cornerstone of life on Earth, providing oxygen, food, and the foundation of ecosystems. At the heart of their biological processes lies photosynthesis, a remarkable chemical process that converts sunlight into energy. Understanding photosynthesis and plant biology not only highlights the intricacies of nature but also emphasizes its importance to human…
In 2025, oats are transcending their traditional role as a breakfast staple, emerging as a versatile ingredient in various meals throughout the day. This shift is propelled by innovative developments from Australian startup Real Oats, in collaboration with the University of Queensland’s Food and Beverage Accelerator. They’ve introduced oat-based alternatives to rice, pasta, and noodles,…
solsticeuniversity.com – The Cold War, a period of intense geopolitical tension between the Soviet Union (USSR) and the United States (US), spanned from the end of World War II in 1945 until the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. It was not a conventional “hot” war with direct military conflict between the superpowers but…
In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists at Rice University have identified a bacterium capable of “breathing” electricity instead of oxygen. These microorganisms utilize a natural electron transfer process to expel electrons outside their cells, allowing them to generate energy in oxygen-deprived environments such as deep-sea vents and the human gut. This adaptation reveals a previously unknown…
Modern infrastructure relies heavily on concrete, yet traditional mixes crack and deteriorate over time, demanding costly repairs. Enter self-healing concrete: an innovative material infused with specialized bacteria that become active when cracks form. These microorganisms produce limestone to naturally seal fissures, significantly extending the lifespan of bridges, buildings, and roads—while reducing maintenance costs and environmental…
solsticeuniversity.com – Earth is a fascinating planet, and its internal structure is equally captivating. The planet’s interior is made up of several distinct layers, each with its own unique properties and role in maintaining the planet’s overall function. In this article, we’ll explore the Earth’s layers, from the outermost crust to the innermost core, and…
Sepak Takraw, often dubbed the “kick volleyball” of Southeast Asia, is one of the most dynamic and underappreciated sports on the global stage. Played with a rattan ball and only the feet, head, chest, and knees allowed for contact, this game combines the precision of soccer, the reflexes of volleyball, and the gravity-defying agility of…
Digital twin technology is transforming the way industries design, monitor, and optimize systems. A digital twin is a virtual replica of a physical object, system, or process, powered by real-time data. Used in sectors like manufacturing, aerospace, and urban planning, these simulations allow for precise testing, predictive maintenance, and streamlined innovation—without interrupting real-world operations. What…
Far beneath the sunlit surface, in the crushing depths of the ocean, lie the astonishing ecosystems of deep-sea hydrothermal vents. These geological phenomena, often found along mid-ocean ridges, continuously spew superheated, mineral-rich fluids from the Earth’s crust, creating unique chemical environments. Unlike surface ecosystems that rely on photosynthesis, life around these vents thrives on chemosynthesis…