The Daily Factum
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Germany's Controversial Decision to Halve Military Aid for Ukraine: Implications and Reactions
Broke On: Wednesday, 17 July 2024Germany plans to halve its military aid for Ukraine in the upcoming 2025 budget, raising concerns among allies and potentially straining relations with the US. The reduction comes as Germany grapples with its own financial challenges and seeks to fill a significant budget deficit through spending cuts. 
At Least 81 Palestinians Killed in Israeli Attacks on Gaza in Past 24 Hours: Health Officials UN-Run Schools Hit, US Aid Pier to Close
Broke On: Wednesday, 17 July 2024At least 81 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza in the past 24 hours, according to health officials. Eight UN-run schools have been hit, and over 500 people seeking shelter there have died since the conflict began nine months ago. Israel plans to replace a US-built pier for delivering aid to Gaza with a dedicated facility at Ashdod port, which will soon close due to operational issues. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announced these plans after meeting with US Central Command Gen. Erik Kurilla and discussed setting up a field hospital in Israel for treating Palestinian children unable to leave Gaza for medical care abroad. Former President Trump Shot at Pennsylvania Rally: Unity Amidst Political Polarization and Unanswered Questions
Broke On: Sunday, 14 July 2024Former President Trump was shot during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on July 14, 2024. The incident left four people injured, including Trump and the shooter, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks. The motive for the shooting is under investigation and tensions remained high as Republicans gathered for their nominating convention. 
Rep. Adam Schiff Urges Biden to Consider Dropping Out of 2024 Race: Is Widespread Opposition Brewing?
Broke On: Wednesday, 17 July 2024Rep. Adam Schiff of California publicly urged President Joe Biden to consider withdrawing from the 2024 presidential race due to concerns about his ability to defeat Donald Trump. The call came as at least 20 House Democrats reportedly made similar requests, but Biden has maintained his commitment. Pelosi's stance on the issue is closely watched for guidance, as she has a history of managing internal party conflicts effectively. 
President Biden Tests Positive for Covid-19: Runny Nose and Cough, Continues Duties in Isolation
Broke On: Wednesday, 17 July 2024President Joe Biden tested positive for Covid-19 on July 17, 2024, and is experiencing mild symptoms while self-isolating at his home in Delaware. He received a positive test result after attending events in Las Vegas and receiving vaccinations and boosters. The White House confirmed the diagnosis and announced that Biden will continue to carry out his duties while providing regular updates on his status. Blocking Inflammatory Protein IL-11 Extends Healthy Lifespan of Mice by 25%: New Study Reveals
Broke On: Wednesday, 17 July 2024Scientists discovered that blocking the inflammatory protein IL-11 extends healthy lifespan of mice by 25%, reducing deaths from cancer and improving muscle strength. Studies conducted by MRC Laboratory of Medical Science, Imperial College London, and Duke-NUS Medical School revealed IL-11's pro-inflammatory role in aging. Anti-IL-11 treatments are currently in human clinical trials for age-related diseases. 
Childhood Home Instability Linked to Increased Depression Risk in Adulthood: Study
Broke On: Wednesday, 17 July 2024A study in JAMA Psychiatry links multiple childhood moves to a 61% increased risk of depression in adulthood. Those who moved once were also more likely to develop depression. The researchers suggest that a stable home environment during childhood may protect against mental health issues, and children from income-deprived neighborhoods were 10% more likely to be diagnosed with depression. 
Newly Discovered Lunar Cave System: Potential Shelter for Future Astronauts and Insight into Lunar Volcanism
Broke On: Wednesday, 17 July 2024Scientists discover a 45-meter wide, 30-80 meter long lunar cave system in Mare Tranquillitatis region, which could offer shelter for astronauts and provide new insights into lunar volcanism and geological history. 
Mystery Meteor Streaks Across New York City Sky: NASA Confirms Entry into Atmosphere, No Damage or Injuries Reported
Broke On: Tuesday, 16 July 2024A meteor, estimated to be the size of a beach ball, entered Earth's atmosphere at 38,000 miles per hour over New York City on Tuesday. Witnesses reported seeing a bright fireball and hearing a loud boom or feeling shaking. Preliminary analysis suggests it disintegrated 29 miles above midtown Manhattan with no reports of damage or injuries. 
Japanese Honeybees Use Wing-Slapping to Defend Their Hives from Ants
Broke On: Wednesday, 17 July 2024Japanese honeybees use wing-slapping to efficiently repel ants from their hives, a new low-energy defensive behavior that sends smaller ant species flying through the air.
