Conspiracy theorists have claimed that Omicron is an anagram for “no Crimbo”, presenting it as proof that the new variant is a hoax designed by the authorities to spoil Christmas. The missing “b” is said to come from B.1.1.529, the name scientists first gave to the variant. Others have noted that Omicron is in fact an anagram for “moronic”.
Lost turtle found on Welsh beach
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Seagulls show their intelligence
Seagulls are smart creatures when it comes to finding food, The Times reported. Researchers in Canada have discovered that the birds are capable of solving puzzles when they are hungry, rather than relying entirely on the smash-and-grab raids that have upset some in costal towns. A quarter of 104 ring-billed gulls from four colonies in Newfoundland were able to acquire food by succeeding at cognitive tests.
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The Icelandic women’s strike 50 years onIn The Spotlight The nation is ‘still no paradise’ for women, say campaigners
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Mall World: why are people dreaming about a shopping centre?Under The Radar Thousands of strangers are dreaming about the same thing and no one sure why
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Why scientists are attempting nuclear fusionThe Explainer Harnessing the reaction that powers the stars could offer a potentially unlimited source of carbon-free energy, and the race is hotting up
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Sanae Takaichi: Japan’s Iron Lady set to be the country’s first woman prime ministerIn the Spotlight Takaichi is a member of Japan’s conservative, nationalist Liberal Democratic Party
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Russia is ‘helping China’ prepare for an invasion of TaiwanIn the Spotlight Russia is reportedly allowing China access to military training
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Interpol arrests hundreds in Africa-wide sextortion crackdownIN THE SPOTLIGHT A series of stings disrupts major cybercrime operations as law enforcement estimates millions in losses from schemes designed to prey on lonely users
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China is silently expanding its influence in American citiesUnder the Radar New York City and San Francisco, among others, have reportedly been targeted
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How China uses 'dark fleets' to circumvent trade sanctionsThe Explainer The fleets are used to smuggle goods like oil and fish
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One year after mass protests, why are Kenyans taking to the streets again?today's big question More than 60 protesters died during demonstrations in 2024
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What happens if tensions between India and Pakistan boil over?TODAY'S BIG QUESTION As the two nuclear-armed neighbors rattle their sabers in the wake of a terrorist attack on the contested Kashmir region, experts worry that the worst might be yet to come
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Why Russia removed the Taliban's terrorist designationThe Explainer Russia had designated the Taliban as a terrorist group over 20 years ago
