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Today's Birthday Emanuel Swedenborg (1688)
 Swedenborg was a Swedish scientist, theologian, and mystic. He studied almost every field of scientific investigation and wrote copiously, publishing Sweden's first scientific journal and anticipating many discoveries and inventions. However, his writing gradually shifted toward philosophy and metaphysics, and in 1744 he claimed to have had a divine vision. He spent the rest of his career interpreting the Bible and relating what he had seen in his visions. What sect is based on his beliefs? Discuss
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In the News
Underground Leaves Used to Trap Prey
 Scientists have long wondered why flowering plants of the genus Philcoxia grow leaves underground, and now they finally have an answer. It turns out that the leaves act as traps for tiny roundworms, which the plants then digest. This adaptation is vital to the survival of these plants, as they are native to the nutrient-poor savannas of central Brazil. Only a few hundred plant species are known to be carnivorous, but this finding suggests that there may be many more that have developed less obvious trapping mechanisms. Discuss
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Carnival Sued Over Shipwreck
Clothing in the ancient world served more than just a protective function; it reflected climatic necessity, class distinctions, and religious beliefs. Ornamentation was an important part of ancient clothing, and charms, trophies, and other valuables were worn to enhance attractiveness and signify one's social position. In ancient Egypt, for example, jewelry was used to symbolize power and religious standing. What was the purpose of wearing a cone of ox tallow and myrrh on top of the head? 
Liliuokalani ascended the throne in 1891 upon the death of her brother, King Kalakaua. Her refusal to recognize the constitutional changes inaugurated in 1887 precipitated a revolt, fostered largely by sugar planters—mostly American residents of Hawaii—that led to her dethronement early in 1893 and the establishment of aprovisional government. Failing in an attempt to regain the throne in 1895, she formally renounced her royal claims. What well-known song was composed by Liliuokalani? 
