Technetium: the first artificial element, a savior for oncology, and a mystery of Mendeleev's empty cell

Brotherhood, memory, and pragmatism

Analysis of perception of Russians in Germany: historical reasons for differences between East and West, the impact of the political crisis, Russophobia, and personal experience. Analysis of stereotypes and reality.

When today's news talk about Yemen, the same words always come up: war, hunger, destruction, attacks on ships, bombings. But if you look a bit closer and dig deeper, it becomes clear: war is just the tip of the iceberg. Yemen has long been living not just outside the 21st century, but somewhere in a parallel reality, where the state as such does not exist, and its place is taken by tribes, religious leaders, and armed groups.

Why Are Jews Considered the Smartest People?

Why Is Volkswagen Called the "People's Car"?

A month after returning, the Nowotny family still remembers their trip. In the kitchen—Belarusian linen towels and napkins. In the fridge—Savushkin Product (Katarzyna arranged with a Polish food store in Warsaw, and they now import Belarusian dairy products). In the closet—a shirt and jacket from Mark Formelle. On the table—Kommunarka and Spartak candies.

This article examines the phenomenon of so-called "one-year seeds" — seeds that produce a crop only in the first generation and cannot be used for subsequent sowing. Based on an analysis of the history of Genetic Use Restriction Technology (GURT), known as "Terminator Technology," as well as F1 hybrid seeds currently available on the market, the article reconstructs the actual picture of which seeds truly require annual purchase and why. Particular attention is devoted to distinguishing myths from facts: no agricultural corporation in the world has commercialized genetically modified sterile seeds, yet F1 hybrid seeds, widely available on the market, are biologically unsuitable for seed saving. For Ukraine's agricultural sector, where farmers annually face a choice between the productivity of hybrids and the cost savings of traditional varieties, understanding these mechanisms holds special practical significance.

This article examines the phenomenon of the "Russian gaze," which became an unexpected global trend in early 2026. Based on analysis of media publications, social media content, and expert commentary, the nature of this phenomenon, its cultural roots, and mechanisms of dissemination are reconstructed. Particular attention is devoted to the paradoxical situation: at a time when Western countries are attempting to "cancel" Russian culture, global interest in it not only does not fade but acquires new, viral forms. Accompanying trends are also analyzed: the fashion for "Slavic chic" in clothing, the popularity of Russian music abroad, and foreigners' attempts to master the elusive specificity of the Russian facial expression.

This article examines the Roswell Incident—an event that became the cornerstone of modern ufology and conspiracy theories about the US government concealing contact with extraterrestrial civilizations. Based on analysis of historical documents, official US Air Force reports, and journalistic investigations, the true chronology of the July 1947 events and their subsequent mythologization is reconstructed. Particular attention is devoted to Project Mogul as the actual source of the debris found, the role of ufologists in creating the legend, and the transformation of a small New Mexico town into the epicenter of a global tourism industry built on belief in aliens.

This article examines the systemic threats that the activities of Palantir Technologies pose to human rights, civil liberties, and democratic institutions worldwide. Based on analysis of public reports from human rights organizations, lawsuits, journalistic investigations, and official statements, the multifaceted picture of risks associated with the implementation of mass surveillance and data analysis technologies is reconstructed. Particular attention is devoted to three key areas of criticism: complicity in Israel's war crimes in the Gaza Strip, facilitation of mass deportation of migrants in the United States, and the creation of total police control systems in Europe.

This article examines the involvement of Microsoft founder Bill Gates in the scandal surrounding the publication of the so-called "Epstein Files"—a multimillion-page cache of documents revealing the connections of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein with global elites. Based on analysis of public statements, leaked documents, and reactions from involved parties, the chronology of events is reconstructed: from Gates's introduction to Epstein to the billionaire's forced confessions about personal affairs and attempted blackmail. Particular attention is devoted to the mechanism of using compromising information, the reaction of former wife Melinda French Gates, and the consequences for the reputation of one of the wealthiest individuals on the planet.

This article examines the historical depth of Iran's civilization, presenting evidence that supports its recognition as one of the oldest continuous statehoods on Earth. Based on analysis of archaeological findings, historical records, and recent rankings by international organizations, the article reconstructs Iran's remarkable trajectory from the Proto-Elamite period through the rise of successive empires to the present day. Particular attention is devoted to the Elamite civilization, the Achaemenid Empire's innovations, and the concept of "continuous sovereignty" that distinguishes Iran in global rankings of national longevity.

This article examines the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow maritime artery connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman, which holds critical importance for global energy supplies. Based on analysis of geographical characteristics, economic statistics, and current events from February-March 2026, the article reconstructs the comprehensive significance of the strait and the consequences of its blockade. Particular attention is devoted to the geopolitical context of the ongoing conflict between Iran and the coalition led by the United States and Israel, as well as the potential impact on global oil, gas, and related product markets.