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English learning articles and audio
[Example] For the perfect cup of tea, start with the right bacteria
Science, Technology and Innovation

[Example] For the perfect cup of tea, start with the right bacteria

New research suggests that the right microbes around tea plant roots can significantly affect theanine production, enhancing tea flavor. Scientists at Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University in China found that oolong tea variety Rougui had more microbes associated with nitrogen metabolism than Maoxie, leading to higher theanine accumulation. Transplanting the microbial community from Rougui to Maoxie increased theanine production, potentially improving flavor. The microbes also have the potential to reduce agricultural pollution by enhancing nitrogen uptake in soil.
[Example] A secret room in Florence boasts drawings by Michelangelo
Culture, History and Arts

[Example] A secret room in Florence boasts drawings by Michelangelo

A hidden room in Florence, believed to have been used by Michelangelo as a refuge in 1530, has been opened to the public, revealing charcoal sketches attributed to the Renaissance master. The 'stanza segreta' was rediscovered in 1975 and recently opened for a trial period to 100 visitors a week. While some experts doubt the authenticity of the drawings, the room offers a glimpse into the artist's world and the work of his contemporaries.
[Example] The third-largest exporter of television is not who you might expect
Movie, Sports and Entertainment

[Example] The third-largest exporter of television is not who you might expect

Turkish dramas have become the third-largest scripted series exporter globally, with global demand surging 184% between 2020 and 2023. Popular in the Middle East, Europe, and Latin America, Turkish shows are known for their glamour, romance, and modesty, appealing to diverse audiences. The industry earned an estimated $600m in 2022, with sales predicted to reach billions. Factors contributing to their success include high production values, cultural resonance, and creative censorship workarounds. Streaming services are now pushing boundaries with more daring content, potentially opening doors to English-speaking markets.
[Example] The third-largest exporter of television is not who you might expect
Movie, Sports and Entertainment

[Example] The third-largest exporter of television is not who you might expect

Turkey has become the third-largest exporter of scripted television series globally, with a 184% increase in global demand between 2020 and 2023. Turkish dramas are popular in the Middle East, Europe, and Latin America, with Spain, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt being the top importers. The shows' appeal lies in their high production values, romantic storylines, and depiction of Muslims as heroes rather than stereotypes. Censorship has led to creative storytelling, with subtle expressions of love and tension. The success of Turkish dramas has also boosted the country's image, particularly in former Ottoman territories, and streaming services are now producing more daring content.
[Example] A secret room in Florence boasts drawings by Michelangelo
Culture, History and Arts

[Example] A secret room in Florence boasts drawings by Michelangelo

A hidden room in Florence, believed to have been used by Michelangelo as a refuge, has been opened to the public for the first time. The small vaulted room, known as the stanza segreta, features charcoal sketches thought to be by the Renaissance master. The drawings were rediscovered in 1975, but only a select few have been allowed to view them. However, the National Museum of the Bargello has now opened the room to 100 pre-booked visitors a week until July. Some experts dispute that Michelangelo created the drawings, but the room offers a unique insight into the artist's world.
[Example] Alzheimer’s disease may, rarely, be transmitted by medical treatment
Health and Medicine

[Example] Alzheimer’s disease may, rarely, be transmitted by medical treatment

A new study published in Nature Medicine suggests that Alzheimer's disease could be transmitted by medical procedures, creating a third "iatrogenic" form of the condition. The research found that five individuals with early-onset Alzheimer's may have contracted it from human growth hormone (HGH) administered during childhood. The hormone, sourced from cadavers, was contaminated with Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD)-causing prions and amyloid-beta clumps, which are associated with Alzheimer's. The findings could lead to new treatment possibilities for Alzheimer's, which currently affects millions of people worldwide and remains incurable.
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