Latest Stories

Most recently published stories in Chapters.

The Genetic Fossils Hidden in Our DNA
Introduction In 1972, geneticist Susumu Ohno made an insightful observation: "The earth is strewn with fossil remains of extinct species; is it a wonder that our genome too is filled with the remains of extinct genes?" Little did he know that he was uncovering a fascinating aspect of our genetic heritage. Inside our genomes, we carry molecular fossils - fragments of DNA that have become non-functional over time. One such pseudogene, GULOP, found on the 8th chromosome, once played a vital role in our primate ancestors' ability to produce vitamin C. However, around 61 million years ago, a mutation turned GULOP into a pseudogene, a non-functional relic. This genetic transformation marked a crucial moment in our evolutionary journey, and it was not the last.
By Japneet Kaur2 years ago in Chapters
The Lucrative World of Golden Kiwis
Introduction: The golden kiwi, a delightful variant of the conventional green kiwi, has taken the global fruit market by storm. Renowned for its exceptional sweetness and distinct flavor, this unique strain of kiwi has become a symbol of New Zealand's horticultural excellence. However, what makes golden kiwis truly stand out is their astonishing value. In recent years, their rarity and exclusivity have led to incidents of smuggling, copyright disputes, and skyrocketing prices. In this article, we'll delve into the captivating world of golden kiwis, exploring the factors that make them so expensive, their journey from orchard to supermarket, and the fascinating story behind their cultivation.
By Japneet Kaur2 years ago in Chapters
Sri Lanka's Coconut Industry
Introduction: Sri Lanka, known for its lush landscapes and serene beaches, is also home to a thriving coconut industry. This tropical paradise produces over 30,000 metric tons of coconuts annually, but surprisingly, most of this bounty does not remain within the country. Instead, Sri Lanka exports its coconut products to eager markets in Europe, the United States, and Canada. The demand for coconut-based products has skyrocketed in recent years, driven by the perception of coconuts as a superfood. Notably, U.S. consumption of coconut oil alone has surged by nearly 30 percent since 2018. In this article, we delve into the complexities of Sri Lanka's coconut industry, exploring the challenges faced by local farmers and the global consequences of the West's insatiable thirst for coconut products.
By Japneet Kaur2 years ago in Chapters
"The Promising but Pricey World of Maglev Trains"
Introduction: Nestled deep within a Japanese mountain pass lies one of the world's most advanced and rarest transportation technologies: a 43-kilometer-long magnetic levitation (Maglev) train track. This cutting-edge track is poised to be part of the world's first inter-city Maglev train, connecting the bustling metropolises of Tokyo and Osaka. With the mesmerizing power of superconducting magnets, these Maglev trains defy gravity, hovering just 10 centimeters above the track, all while hurtling along at a breathtaking speed of 500 kilometers per hour. What sets them apart is their unique levitation mechanism, which eliminates physical contact with the track, enabling operation in any weather condition and significantly reducing maintenance costs due to minimal friction and fewer moving parts. Despite the remarkable advantages offered by Maglev trains over traditional high-speed trains, the commercial deployment of these magnetic marvels remains limited, with only one operational high-speed Maglev line, spanning 30 kilometers, connecting Shanghai Airport to the city. The discrepancy between the promise of Maglev technology and its real-world application raises intriguing questions. Why does a technology that seems poised to revolutionize transportation face such restricted implementation? In this article, we will explore how Maglev trains work, delve into the reasons behind their constrained deployment, and investigate the economic challenges they confront.
By Japneet Kaur2 years ago in Chapters
Chapter Two: The Nine Hades Snake Venom
A serene, verdant river meandered gracefully through the landscape, its clear waters rippling gently downstream. Along the riverbank, a slender youth with long hair cascading to his waist stood. In his left hand, he held a book, and in his right hand, a fishing rod. The melodious sound of his reading echoed, harmoniously blending with the tranquil nature surrounding him. The soothing flow of the river added a poetic touch to the scene. Suddenly, the youth's right wrist flicked lightly, and a foot-long grass carp was effortlessly lifted from the water and landed in a basket a short distance behind him. Then, with another flick of his wrist, the fishing line gracefully arched through the air, the baited hook returning to the river. Throughout this process, the youth's eyes never left the book in his left hand.
By Germaine D Ray2 years ago in Chapters
Meat Rendang
Rendang is a well-loved Malaysian dish, especially during the Raya festive period, that traditionally requires hours of cooking to achieve tender and flavorful meat. It can take anywhere from two to three hours on low heat, or up to 12 hours in a slow cooker. However, Ayam Brand has introduced a starter pack that allows you to enjoy rendang in just 30 minutes. With their rendang paste, kerisik (toasted grated coconut), and coconut milk, all you need to do is add your preferred meat and you're ready to cook a delicious rendang dish. Ayam Brand, a renowned household brand in Malaysia with over 130 years of experience in the food manufacturing industry, has recently launched a range of rendang paste without any preservatives, flavor enhancers, MSG, or additives. Their kerisik and coconut milk also contain no coloring, preservatives, or artificial flavoring. In addition to rendang, Ayam Brand offers three other pastes for quick meals: curry chicken, asam pedas, and sambal tumis. These convenient options are perfect for busy households while still maintaining the authentic flavors that Malaysians are familiar with. To cook rendang in just 30 minutes, follow these three simple steps: 1. Heat cooking oil in a pot and stir-fry the Ayam Brand rendang paste until fragrant. 2. Add 500g of chicken, meat, or seafood to the pot and stir until semi-cooked. Pour in 120ml of Ayam Brand coconut milk and mix well with the meat. 3. Add one pack of 40g Ayam Brand kerisik to thicken the dish. Stir thoroughly to coat the meat with kerisik. Continue stirring occasionally until the oil rises, indicating a well-cooked rendang. And that's it - your rendang is ready in just 30 minutes. While rendang is typically enjoyed with rice, it also makes a delicious burger. Here's how to make a rendang burger: 1. Cut chuck roast into 5cm cubes and sauté the meat in a pan with two tablespoons of cooking oil until the sides are browned. Add beef stock and transfer to a pressure cooker to cook until tender. Shred the beef into small strips. 2. Heat some cooking oil in a pan and stir-fry the Ayam Brand rendang paste until fragrant. Add onions and mix well. 3. Add the shredded beef to the pan and coat it with the rendang paste. Then, pour in 100ml of Ayam Brand coconut milk and add a pack of 40g Ayam Brand kerisik to thicken the dish. Ensure the meat is well-coated with kerisik. 4. Assemble your burger with your preferred salad and cheese. Meatball Rendang (Rendang Bulat) To make Meatball Rendang, simply substitute the beef with an equal amount of minced beef. Grind 100g of roasted desiccated coconut and combine it with 4 finely grated garlic cloves. Use a food processor to blend the beef, coconut, and garlic until smooth. Shape the mixture into 20g meatballs. Cook the spices and coconut milk over medium-high heat until the liquid has reduced by three-quarters. Then, add the meatballs and cook for 20 minutes until the liquid has completely evaporated, resulting in a dark brown rendang. Tempeh Rendang (Rendang Tempe) For Tempeh Rendang, replace the beef with an equal amount of tempeh cut into 2.5cm cubes. Cook the mixture for 1½ hours until it becomes dry. Please note that Tempeh Rendang will have a paler appearance compared to beef rendang. Jackfruit Rendang (Rendang Nangka) To make Jackfruit Rendang, replace the beef with 3 cans (each weighing 565g) of firm jackfruit in water. Make sure to drain the jackfruit before adding it to the spiced coconut base. Cook the mixture for 1½ hours until it becomes dry. Keep in mind that Jackfruit Rendang will have a much lighter color than traditional beef rendang. Goat Rendang (Rendang Kambing) If you prefer a different meat option, you can replace the beef with goat meat to create Goat Rendang. Enjoy your homemade rendang, whether it's the traditional version or as a flavorful burger option.
By Lilian2 years ago in Chapters
Chapter One: The Mountain Boy
In the southwest of the Huaxia country, there lay vast and countless mountains, tens of thousands in number! These mountains were lush and green throughout all four seasons. Even a mere stone here would be considered a precious oddity, worthy of extensive travel articles. However, despite the fascination with such places in the modern world, this area remained untouched and secluded, truly a rare gem.
By Germaine D Ray2 years ago in Chapters
Be Careful What Website You Open!!!
May I suggest to all you technology users, Invest in getting a external portal hard drive as seen on my cover story picture. Save your important computer files on it, that way if your computer 💻 🖥 get an virus or crashes , you have back up.
By Mariann Carroll2 years ago in Chapters
Let Love Romance
Love is essential for maintaining a strong and lasting bond. Love is a powerful and intricate emotion that forms the foundation of any healthy and fulfilling relationship. Relationships are the cornerstone of human existence, enriching our lives in countless ways. Whether they're romantic, familial, or friendships, relationships bring joy, companionship, and support. However, they can also present challenges and require effort to maintain and grow.
By Anushka Singh2 years ago in Chapters
Extraordinary Places to Call Home-I
In a world brimming with a plethora of captivating and extraordinary locales, there exist certain places that undeniably distinguish themselves by virtue of their exceptional living environments. Our voyage now transports us to the most peculiar of these locales, where human ingenuity has forged habitats that defy the very elements of nature, seamlessly adapting to the harshest and most formidable of surroundings. This unconventional expedition commences with our initial destination, the enigmatic "Coober Pedy," nestled in the remote expanses of the South Australian Outback.
By afifa2 years ago in Chapters
Chapter 1: The Science of saliva
In the heart of a bustling city, amidst the towering skyscrapers and the cacophony of honking horns, there existed a place of quiet wonder—a laboratory tucked away on the top floor of a nondescript building. This was the sanctuary of Dr. Emily Mitchell, a brilliant young scientist with an unusual passion, an obsession, some might say.
By Daniel Adeyemi2 years ago in Chapters
The Producer
As some of my regular readers, followers, and subscribers may know, one of my abiding lifelong passions is music. It all began in 1964 when, as a ten-year-old child, I heard my very first pop record. It was 'She Loves You,' by the legendary Beatles from my home city, Liverpool.
By Liam Ireland2 years ago in Chapters