pandemic endpoint social judgment epidemic disease

A pandemic can end while the disease remains

Calling a pandemic over does not usually mean the disease has disappeared. Different fields, places and social groups can use different points to mark the end of an epidemic, so its endpoint can depend partly on human judgment as well as biology.

Tightly fitted stones helped Inca buildings survive earthquakes

Inca builders shaped stone blocks very carefully and fitted them together without mortar. The tight fit and slightly hollowed bottoms helped the buildings stay unusually stable during earthquakes and volcanic activity.

Being caught can trigger early births in sharks and rays

Capture while fishing can trigger premature birth or abortion in sharks and rays that carry live young. Fishers may mistake the result for a natural birth. The effect has been reported in 88 species, at least 12% of live-bearing shark and ray species.

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pandemic endpoint social judgment epidemic disease

A pandemic can end while the disease remains

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