Science

WTF Fun Fact 13580 – Deadliest Heart Attacks on Monday

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Heart attacks on Monday seem to be a recurring theme. Recent findings suggest that, for some reason, people are more likely to face life-threatening heart issues as the new week kicks off. Let’s dive into what the research says and why this might be happening.

The Monday Mystery

A big conference in Manchester brought some surprising news to the table. Medical experts from Belfast and Ireland checked out hospital data for over 10,000 patients from 2013 to 2018. They found that a very serious type of heart attack, called STEMI, was more common on Mondays. Basically, STEMI is when a main blood vessel to the heart gets fully blocked. If doctors don’t treat it fast, it can be deadly.

Now, every year, around 30,000 people in the UK end up in the hospital because of STEMI. They get a quick check and usually undergo a procedure to unblock the vessel and get blood pumping properly again. What’s odd is that this research found Mondays had a 13% higher chance of people coming in with this problem. Even Sundays had a bit of a bump.

But why Mondays? Well, that’s the big question. Some older studies think our body’s natural sleep-wake cycle might play a role. But the full picture isn’t clear yet.

Doctors Weigh in on Heart Attacks on Monday

Dr. Jack Laffan, who headed the study, admits that this Monday trend is curious. He thinks several factors might be at play. One idea is our body’s natural clock. Our sleep patterns, wake-up times, and daily habits could influence when heart attacks happen.

Meanwhile, another expert, Professor Sir Nilesh Samani, stresses the importance of these findings. Heart attacks are always a medical emergency, no matter the day. He believes that the more we learn about the “Monday effect”, the better doctors can prepare and save more lives.

In the end, while Mondays might have a higher rate of heart attacks, every day is important when it comes to heart health. Whether it’s stress from starting a new work week or something else entirely, the research continues. The goal is always to protect our hearts and understand what might put them at risk.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Why are serious heart attacks more likely on a Monday?” — British Heart Foundation

WTF Fun Fact 13579 – The Amazing, Changing Octopus Brain

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The octopus brain is unlike anything we know. Octopuses rank among Earth’s most intelligent creatures. They boast a neuron count similar to dogs. But, over half of these neurons reside in their eight arms, not in a central brain. This neural setup sets them apart.

Now, researchers have discovered something even more peculiar. Octopuses can rewrite their RNA in reaction to temperature shifts. This action is akin to humans adjusting outfits according to the weather.

By editing their RNA, octopuses change how their cells produce proteins. This flexibility may help them cope with seasonal temperature shifts. Joshua Rosenthal, a lead biologist, calls this ability “extraordinary.”

RNA Editing: A Temporary Genetic Makeover

Humans undergo RNA editing, but it’s limited. It affects protein production in fewer than 3% of our genes. In contrast, advanced cephalopods can adjust most neural proteins through RNA editing. Motivated by this disparity, scientists sought the driving forces behind cephalopod RNA editing. They prioritized temperature, given its frequent fluctuations.

They gathered California two-spot octopuses, familiarizing them with varying water temperatures. Weeks later, they probed 60,000 RNA editing sites in the octopus genomes. A third of these sites showed changes occurring astonishingly fast, from mere hours to a few days. Eli Eisenberg, another lead researcher, found the widespread changes unexpected.

Most of these changes manifested in cold conditions. They influenced proteins crucial for cell membrane health, neuron signal transmission, controlled cell death, and neuron calcium binding. Although these protein variants arise from RNA editing, Eisenberg admits that the complete adaptive benefits remain elusive.

Wild octopuses from both summer and winter displayed similar RNA changes. This solidified the belief in temperature as a major influencer in RNA editing for octopuses.

Protective RNA Editing for the Octopus Brain

Octopuses can’t control their body temperature like mammals can. Thus, scientists theorize that RNA editing acts as a protective mechanism against temperature shifts. Eisenberg elaborates that octopuses might opt for protein versions optimal for prevailing conditions. Such adaptive behavior is absent in mammals.

Heather Hundley, an external biologist, praised this groundbreaking study. She highlighted its potential in reshaping our understanding of RNA editing as a dynamic regulatory process in response to environmental changes.

The future beckons more investigations. The team plans to examine other potential RNA editing triggers in the octopus brain. Factors like pH, oxygen levels, or even social interactions might hold further insights. With each revelation, the octopus brain continues to astound the scientific community.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Octopuses Redesign Their Own Brain When They Get Chilly”‘ — Scientific American

WTF Fun Fact 13578 – Presidential DNA in Space

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What happens to a deceased person’s DNA in space? We don’t yet know, but one company is finding out.

In an unprecedented melding of history, space exploration, and pop culture, DNA samples of four iconic American Presidents are set to take an out-of-this-world journey. In a move that combines reverence for national leadership and a nod to entertainment legends, Texas-based space burial company, Celestis, is gearing up to launch an astonishing payload.

Sending Founding Fathers’ DNA in Space

Determined to make history, Celestis has chosen the DNA samples of four of the most recognized U.S. Presidents: George Washington, Dwight D. Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy, and Ronald Reagan. These samples will be part of Celestis’ deep space remembrance Enterprise Flight. This flight’s announcement fittingly occurred on Presidents’ Day, honoring some of the nation’s foremost leaders. The mission is groundbreaking, marking the first instance any U.S. president is symbolically dispatched to space.

Joining Trekkies on an Epic Journey

These presidential DNA samples are not traveling alone. Sharing their celestial voyage are the remains and DNA samples of some of the most beloved names from the “Star Trek” franchise. Among them are Nichelle Nichols, DeForest Kelley, and the show’s creator, Gene Roddenberry, along with his wife, Majel Barrett Roddenberry.

The list doesn’t end there. James “Scotty” Doohan, renowned for his role as the “Star Trek” engineer, and Douglas Trumbull, the visual effects genius behind classics like “2001: A Space Odyssey” and “Close Encounters of the Third Kind”, will also join the journey.

Interestingly, the hair samples, which are the DNA sources for these presidents, are from the collection of Louis Mushro. A global celebrity in the realm of hair collection and appraisal, Mushro’s reputation is unparalleled. Before his demise in 2014, he ensured these samples were stored meticulously in a climate-controlled facility. They now embark on a mission of historic significance, thanks to an anonymous donor who gifted these samples to Celestis.

DNA in Space, Beyond the Earth-Moon System

According to Charles M. Chafer, Co-Founder & CEO of Celestis, Inc., their “Enterprise Flight is historic by any standard.” Celestis envisions an ambitious future: assisting human expansion throughout the solar system. By sending the DNA of such significant figures into space, they aim to pave the way for future human missions.

This Enterprise Flight will transcend the Earth-moon system, traveling between 93 to 186 million miles into deep space. It will carry over 200 flight capsules, each loaded with cremated ash remains, DNA, personal messages, and greetings from global clients.

The journey of these capsules isn’t just about remembrance. The Vulcan Centaur rocket, responsible for transporting these capsules, has a primary mission: aiding the Pittsburgh aerospace company Astrobotic. This assistance involves directing their Peregrine lunar lander toward the moon’s surface. Following this, the Vulcan Centaur’s upper stage will delve deeper into space. Its destination? An orbit around the sun, where it will establish humanity’s furthest outpost, the Enterprise Station.

Adding to the mission’s allure is its partnership with Amazon. The 2023 Enterprise Flight will carry two prototype satellites, set to be part of Amazon’s internet constellation, Project Kuiper. As space exploration moves forward, collaborations like these symbolize the fusion of commerce, innovation, and remembrance.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “DNA from 4 American presidents will launch to deep space” — Space.com

WTF Fun Fact 13574 – Katalin Karikó

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Katalin Karikó’s journey to Nobel glory is one of resilience and steadfast dedication. A biochemist, Karikó had always been keen on exploring the therapeutic potentials of mRNA.

She obtained her PhD from Hungary’s esteemed Szeged University in 1982 and secured a tenure-track professor position at the University of Pennsylvania in 1989. But her research into RNA faced numerous challenges.

Funding eluded her, and her experiments saw little success. The 1990s brought more trials. This included a cancer diagnosis, the choice to abandon her research or accept a demotion, and a pay cut. She chose the latter, demonstrating her unyielding commitment to mRNA’s potential.

Katalin Karikó”s Partnership with Weissman

1997 marked a turning point. Immunologist Drew Weissman joined the University of Pennsylvania and partnered with Karikó. His interest lay in developing an HIV vaccine. The goal was to prime immune responses with dendritic cells, known for training T cells against foreign antigens. Their collaboration led to the discovery that synthetic, unmodified mRNA provoked dendritic cells into activating inflammatory responses.

The duo’s realization that mammalian cell RNA was frequently chemically modified (while bacterial DNA and RNA often weren’t) changed the course of their research. Another significant insight was that toll-like receptors (TLRs) specifically detected DNA and RNA modifications to trigger inflammation. Their 2005 research paper unveiled that synthetic RNA activated several TLRs, causing inflammatory responses. But adding specific modifications to the synthetic mRNA’s bases curtailed these responses and even enhanced protein production.

mRNA Shaping Modern Vaccine Production

This groundbreaking work ushered in the era of mRNA therapeutics. It catalyzed the inception of Moderna and BioNTech, the companies that later formulated the lifesaving mRNA COVID-19 vaccines. A testament to Karikó and Weissman’s work is the modified base m1 Ψ, now integral to Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech’s vaccine production.

Recognition Overlooked Despite the promise and subsequent success of her research, Karikó’s contributions remained largely overshadowed. The scientific community’s initial apathy was evident: post their 2005 revelation, Karikó revealed a lack of interest from peers and major biopharma companies. By 2013, this disregard culminated in her departure from the University of Pennsylvania. Yet, adversity wasn’t new to her. Rather than be deterred, she associated with BioNTech, ascending from hands-on benchwork to senior vice presidency. In 2021, she returned to academia, serving at Szeged University and as adjunct faculty at UPenn. Meanwhile, Weissman continued at UPenn, helming the Penn Institute for RNA Innovations.

Katalin Karikó and Nobel Acclaim

The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine awarded to Karikó and Weissman celebrates their persistent, pioneering work on mRNA technology. This research directly paved the way for the creation of the frontrunner COVID-19 vaccines. It’s a fitting tribute to Karikó, who faced professional setbacks and health challenges, yet never deviated from her belief in mRNA’s potential. For her, the Nobel isn’t just an award—it’s validation of decades of unwavering commitment.

The story of Katalin Karikó story serves as an inspiring lesson on perseverance. Her Nobel win, alongside Drew Weissman, underscores the importance of dedication to scientific exploration, even in the face of skepticism and adversity. Their work expanded our understanding of mRNA and provided the foundation for life-saving vaccines during a global pandemic.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “After being demoted and forced to retire, mRNA researcher wins Nobel” — Ars Technica

WTF Fun Fact 13572 – Reproduction in Space

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SpaceBorn United, a Netherlands-based startup, is rocketing into the next frontier of space exploration: human reproduction in space.

While recent advancements have made space travel more tangible, the challenge of ensuring human reproduction in foreign environments remains largely unaddressed. Natural conception in space poses multiple risks. Factors such as space radiation and potential changes in embryonic development in microgravity environments call for an innovative approach.

IVF: The Compact Solution

To meet this challenge head-on, SpaceBorn United has pioneered the development of a miniaturized in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and embryo incubator. This device, resembling a CD-ROM in size, uses advanced microfluidic technologies to condense the extensive apparatus required for IVF. The disc, beyond being programmable, spins to simulate the effects of Earth-like gravity, hosting distinct chambers for sperm fluids and female eggs, enabling a controlled conception process.

SpaceBorn’s initiative not only targets the mysteries of space reproduction but also aims to enhance IVF treatments on Earth. Conducting IVF in space’s varying gravity levels might yield insights, potentially refining IVF procedures on our home planet.

Regulatory and Ethical Hurdles

The path SpaceBorn United treads is strewn with challenges. International guidelines tightly regulate human embryo research. These standards, which limit the cultivation of human embryos to a mere 14 days, present a formidable obstacle for the company. Their planned ARTIS missions, set to embark into space in the forthcoming years, will initially involve mouse cells. Transitioning to human cells hinges on both successful results and regulatory approvals.

The Future of Space Reproduction

Despite the intricacies involved, SpaceBorn United’s ambition transcends mere conception in space. Should embryos gain the required approvals, they envision the subsequent stages of pregnancy and birth taking place on Earth, ensuring safety and optimal conditions.

The recent surge in the space tourism industry, backed by heavy investments, paints a future where common individuals, not just astronauts, venture into space or even other planets. Yet, amid these grand visions, the elemental aspect of long-term human survival and propagation in alien environments is often overlooked. SpaceBorn United’s mission accentuates this crucial element, reminding the world that space exploration is not solely about setting foot on new territories but ensuring life flourishes there.

As space exploration narratives continue to captivate global attention, initiatives like SpaceBorn United’s push the boundaries of what’s possible. Their work underscores the holistic challenges of becoming an interplanetary species, spotlighting the importance of life itself in the vastness of space.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “STARTUP PLANNING TO LAUNCH IVF AND EMBRYO INCUBATOR INTO SPACE” — Futurism

WTF Fun Fact 13568 – Smoking Math

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Smoking math? No, it’s not a typo. Researchers at Ohio State University found a surprising correlation during a research study in 2020. Smokers with better math skills are more inclined to quit smoking.

Crunching the Numbers on Smoking Math

To kick things off, researchers gauged the mathematical abilities of 696 adult smokers using a standardized test. After this assessment, participants encountered eight diverse cigarette warning labels, each paired with risk statistics. For instance, one of the statistics presented was, “75.4 percent of smokers will die before the age of 85, compared to 53.7 percent of non-smokers.”

Brittany Shoots-Reinhard, the study’s lead author, shared a crucial observation: individuals with heightened math skills retained more of the risk statistics. This increased retention directly influenced their perception of smoking dangers and their intentions to quit.

Math, Memory, and Momentum

While all participants saw the same warning labels, memory retention varied. High-emotion labels, like images of diseased lungs, seemed less memorable initially compared to low-emotion ones, such as cartoon gravestones.

However, a follow-up after six weeks revealed the high-emotion warnings stayed more vivid in participants’ minds over time.

The Role of Numeracy in Smoking Math

A pivotal revelation from the data was the role of numeracy. Smokers with higher math abilities remembered smoking-related risks better, which in turn elevated their intentions to quit.

Shoots-Reinhard emphasized the need to re-evaluate how we present risk data to smokers, especially those who may struggle with understanding numerical information. Simplified communication strategies, like infographics, might bridge the comprehension gap for the less numerate.

The Road Ahead

This research shines a spotlight on the importance of effective risk communication. As Shoots-Reinhard asserts, understanding risk equips smokers to make informed decisions. The ultimate aim? To empower more smokers with the knowledge and resolve to quit.

In a nutshell, Ohio State University’s research reveals a profound insight: the road to quitting smoking intertwines not just with understanding health risks but also with one’s ability to comprehend numbers. For many smokers, the motivation to quit might well be a matter of math.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Smokers good at math are more likely to want to quit” — Science Daily

WTF Fun Fact 13566 – Can You Forget a Language?

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Can you forget a language? Can your brain really unlearn it?

If you took a high school Spanish or French class in which you spent the period reciting verbs and learning to ask for directions to the nearest beach, you may have no problem believing that it’s possible to forget an entire language.

But when it comes to our mother tongue, can it truly fade from our minds?

Can You Really “Forget” Your Native Language?

“Language attrition” is the phenomenon in which language proficiency slowly erodes from our brains over time. Professor Monika S. Schmid, a linguistic expert from the University of York, studies this, noting that an individual may experience bouts of hesitation, mix up expressions, or entirely forget specific terms sometimes.

While aging adults may find that certain words or phrases become elusive, they’re unlikely to completely lose grip on a language they once mastered. On the contrary, youngsters might experience a profound shift.

Kids can learn languages more rapidly than adults. But they can also lose it entirely if they aren’t continuously exposed to the language. For instance, a young Russian girl adopted by an American family demonstrated a rapid decline in her Russian vocabulary as she embraced English words.

The Brain’s Role in Language Retention

A lot revolves around the brain’s architecture. Interestingly, birds and their songs, especially those from the biological order Passeriformes, offer us a clue about retaining language.

These creatures are equipped with a dual-circuit system in their brains, first learning their song and then reproducing it later. A similar framework seems to exist in humans, particularly during early developmental stages.

In essence, by early adolescence, our first language gets imprinted in our brains. While we may overlook certain terms or expressions, the core structure remains intact. This also underscores why many struggle to shed their native accent, even after mastering multiple languages.

But most importantly, it suggests that we can’t entirely unlearn a language.

Avoiding Language Attrition

Contrary to what many might believe, staying connected with speakers of one’s native language isn’t always the antidote to attrition. An intriguing observation among Cuban immigrants in Miami highlighted this. Even while in a predominantly Spanish-speaking environment, they experienced a dilution in their native linguistic structures, largely due to their interaction with diverse Spanish dialects.

But that’s not a loss of language – it’s an evolution. And it’s pivotal to recognize that language change isn’t necessarily negative.

So, Can You Forget a Language?

Witnessing one’s primary language slip away can stir deep emotions, especially when one’s linguistic roots are linked to personal history and identity.

But here’s the silver lining: research continually reinforces the notion that our foundational language remains with us. While accents, dialects, and specific terms may evolve, the foundational structure remains.

So, while languages might fade, shift, or transform, they’re never truly forgotten.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Can You Unlearn A Language?” — IFL Science

WTF Fun Fact 13565 – A Way To Regrow Teeth?

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Many of us grapple with tooth loss after an injury or other dental issue – so wouldn’t it be nice if, instead of paying thousands of dollars for a porcelain replacement, scientists found a way to help us regrow teeth?

Well, we’re getting closer!

Researchers from the University of Plymouth have made groundbreaking progress, unveiling a gene that may hold the secret to tooth regeneration.

The Power of Stem Cells

Historically, stem cells have been the beacon of hope in understanding and treating many diseases. That’s because they hold unparalleled potential by being capable of transforming into almost any cell type the body might need. Whether it’s forming new blood cells or rejuvenating bone cells, stem cells are invaluable in helping us recover and regenerate.

It’s no wonder, then, that scientists often harvest stem cells from youthful sources like primary teeth or wisdom teeth. Simply put, younger cells teem with vitality, making them robust candidates for regenerative medicine.

Stem cell therapy has, over the years, provided relief to patients battling conditions ranging from Alzheimer’s and diabetes to multiple sclerosis.

However, only recently have scientists honed in on how stem cells can revolutionize dental health.

Revolutionary Findings to Help Regrow Teeth

Dr. Bing Hu of the Peninsula Dental School at the University of Plymouth and his global team of scientists have uncovered a game-changing revelation: the Dlk1 gene. This gene seems to be the catalyst for enhanced stem cell activation and tissue renewal.

Their journey began with the discovery of a previously unknown group of stem cells in mouse incisors.

Typically found in muscles and bones, these mesenchymal cells spring into action when exposed to the Dlk1 gene. The result? An increased production of dentin – a crucial component in teeth.

Even more impressive was Dlk1’s ability to regenerate tissues in mice with dental injuries.

Future Implications

Of course, with all major discoveries come the caveats. Dr. Hu emphasizes the importance of further studies to cement their initial findings. Yet, he remains optimistic about transitioning from animal models to human trials soon.

This research is a beacon of hope for those who have struggled financially to have lost teeth replaced. Imagine a future where dental procedures are not only more efficient but also more affordable. A future where losing a tooth doesn’t spell permanent loss, but a temporary inconvenience.

While the Plymouth team’s findings are revolutionary, they aren’t the first to tread this path. Back in 2021, a study from Japan revealed the potential of targeting genes to regrow teeth in animals. Their focus? The USAG-1 gene. Fast forward to today, and this Japanese team is setting the stage for a 2024 clinical trial, targeting tooth regeneration in humans.

If all goes well, by 2030, we might be ushering in a new era of dental care.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Humans Have a Third Set of Teeth. New Medicine May Help Them Grow” — Popular Mechanics and “Scientists Discover New Gene That Can Help Repair Teeth” — Today’s RDH

WTF Fun Fact 13564 – Parasites Make Zombie Ants

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Just what we need – zombie ants. Although, to be fair, this whole brain-controlling parasite thing sounds MUCH worse for the ants.

Nature’s Puppet Show

In Denmark’s Bidstrup Forests, ants unknowingly perform a choreographed dance. It’s orchestrated by a tiny parasite – the lancet liver fluke. This flatworm manipulates ants, driving them to the tip of grass blades and priming them for consumption by grazing animals.

It’s a strategy that ensures the parasite’s survival and researchers from the University of Copenhagen have delved deeper into the nuances of this relationship.

Creating Zombie Ants

One would imagine the parasite drives the ant to the grass top and leaves it there. But nature, as usual, is more complex.

A research team from the University of Copenhagen’s Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences discovered that the fluke intelligently navigates the ant’s actions based on temperature.

In the cool embrace of dawn and dusk, when cattle and deer graze, the infected ants climb to the grass’s pinnacle. But as the sun rises and temperatures soar, the fluke directs its ant host back down the blade, protecting it from the sun’s potentially lethal heat.

In other words, not only do the flukes turn the ants into “zombies,” the process is affected by temperature. The temperature-driven “zombie switch” fascinated the researchers. There was clear evidence that lower temperatures correlated with ants attaching to grass tips.

A Parasitic Mystery

Inside an infected ant, a multitude of liver flukes resides. Yet, only one needs to sacrifice itself to venture to the brain to assume control, altering the ant’s behavior.

This pioneering fluke, after ensuring the ant’s consumption by a grazer, also meets its end in the hostile environment of the grazer’s stomach.

However, the others, safely encased within the ant’s abdomen, are shielded in protective capsules, ensuring their survival and journey into the grazing animal’s liver.

By modifying their host’s behavior, these parasites significantly influence the food chain dynamics, affecting who eats whom in the natural world.

While understanding temperature-dependent control is a significant leap, the precise mechanics remain elusive. What chemical concoction does the liver fluke deploy to zombify the ants? That’s the next puzzle the team aims to solve.

While the concept of “mind control” might seem like science fiction, for the ants in the clutches of the liver fluke, it’s a daily reality.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Brain-altering parasite turns ants into zombies at dawn and dusk” — ScienceDaily

WTF Fun Fact 13563 – Boosting Math Learning

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A study from the Universities of Surrey and Oxford, Loughborough University, and Radboud University in The Netherlands suggests that electrical noise stimulation might be a tool to enhance math learning, especially for those who typically struggle with the subject.

What’s Neurostimulation?

Neurostimulation, a non-invasive technique that involves exciting specific brain regions, has the potential to enhance learning. However, we’ve long been limited in our understanding of the physiological transformations it induces in the brain – and the extent of subsequent learning outcomes.

The researchers aimed to fill this knowledge gap by investigating how electrical noise stimulation, when applied to the frontal part of the brain, might affect mathematical learning.

We’re not sure if that sounds better or worse than just studying harder. (Though this method typically involves applying a small electrical current to the scalp to influence the brain’s neuronal activity, and it doesn’t hurt.)

The Study

The study enlisted 102 participants. Their mathematical prowess was evaluated using a set of multiplication problems. Subsequently, the researchers divided them into four groups:

  1. A learning group exposed to high-frequency random electrical noise stimulation.
  2. An overlearning group that practiced multiplication problems, even beyond mastery, with the same high-frequency stimulation.
  3. Two placebo groups: both a learning and an overlearning group, where participants experienced similar conditions to real stimulation but without significant electrical currents.

Electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings were essential in this study as they provided a window into the brain’s activity both before and after the stimulation.

Stimulating the Brain for Math Learning

The study discovered a fascinating link between brain excitation levels and the impact of electrical noise stimulation.

Specifically, individuals who exhibited lower brain excitation when initially assessed on mathematical problems seemed to benefit from the stimulation by demonstrating improved mathematical abilities.

On the contrary, those with naturally higher brain excitability and those in placebo groups did not show notable improvements after the experiment.

Not everyone’s brain responds in the same way to external stimuli. The research indicated that individuals whose brains were less excited by mathematics before the stimulation showed improvement in mathematical abilities after the electrical noise stimulation. Those with already high levels of excitation did not show the same benefits.

This differential response suggests that the stimulation may have a sort of “ceiling effect” where it’s only effective up to a certain level of natural brain excitability.

The Implications of the Experiment

It may be the case that those with inherently lower brain excitability might be prime candidates for such stimulation, potentially experiencing a jump in learning outcomes. However, individuals with high brain excitability might not find the same benefit.

Professor Roi Cohen Kadosh reflected on the broader significance of the findings. He highlighted the profound nature of learning in human life, from mundane daily tasks like driving to intricate skills like coding. This research, according to him, gives a deeper understanding of the mechanisms and conditions under which neurostimulation could be effective.

The Future of Learning Math

The findings from this study hold the promise of reshaping approaches to learning. By understanding when and how to apply neurostimulation, tailored learning strategies could be developed.

Of course, everyone will form their own opinion about whether tinkering with the brain is worth the outcome.

While this study offers exciting insights, it’s part of an ongoing scientific conversation to see if the results are repeatable.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Electrical noise stimulation applied to the brain could be key to boosting math learning” — ScienceDaily

WTF Fun Fact 13560 – Overconfidence in Scientific Knowledge

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People’s overconfidence in their own scientific knowledge is usually a good sign that they don’t know much. In fact, the more negatively people view science, the more likely they are to be overestimating their scientific knowledge.

A study led by Cristina Fonseca of the Genetics Society and Laurence Hurst of the University of Bath, among other colleagues, recently looked at the intricacies of this phenomenon.

The Perception vs. Reality Gap in Scientific Knowledge

Ever met someone who confidently declared an opinion on a scientific subject only to find that their actual knowledge on the matter was limited? Why do people have varying attitudes towards well-evidenced science?

To unravel this complex relationship between attitude and self-perceived knowledge, over 2,000 UK adults were surveyed. The survey touched on their attitudes towards science and how they gauge their own understanding. Prior studies had indicated that those negative towards science had limited textbook knowledge but high self-belief in their comprehension. Building on this, the team investigated if this high self-belief was a common trait among all strong attitudes.

Focusing specifically on genetic science, the team posed attitudinal questions and queries about individuals’ self-rated understanding of terminologies like DNA. The findings were clear-cut: individuals at both extremes of the attitude spectrum—whether strongly in favor or against science—displayed high self-belief in their own comprehension. Conversely, those with a neutral stance were less confident in their grasp.

The Psychological Implications of Overconfidence

Psychologically, this is a logical pattern. To vehemently hold an opinion, one needs to be profoundly convinced of their understanding of the foundational facts. However, when delving deeper, a clear disparity emerges.

Those with strong negative sentiments, despite their self-belief, lacked extensive textbook knowledge. On the other hand, science proponents not only believed they understood the subject but also performed commendably in factual tests.

Rethinking Science Communication

Traditionally, improving scientific literacy focused on transferring knowledge from experts to the general public. Yet, this method might not always be effective and can sometimes even backfire. This study indicates a more fruitful approach might involve reconciling the gap between actual knowledge and self-perceived understanding.

Professor Anne Ferguson-Smith aptly points out the challenge in this: addressing misconceptions requires dismantling what individuals believe they know about science and instilling a more accurate comprehension.

This revelation implies a re-evaluation of strategies in science communication. Instead of just disseminating facts, there’s a pressing need to address individuals’ self-beliefs and bridge the gap between perception and reality. In doing so, a more informed and receptive audience for science can be fostered.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “It isn’t what you know, it’s what you think you know” — Science Daily

WTF Fun Fact 13558 – Mental Imagery

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Teenagers are often vulnerable to spirals of negative thoughts, but new research suggests a possible solution: mental imagery.

The Study on Mental Imagery for Teens

Oregon State’s Hannah Lawrence, an assistant professor of psychology, spearheaded the study. The results indicated that shifting focus to mental imagery acts is a strong distractor. In fact, it’s more of a distraction than simple verbal thoughts for adolescents trapped in negative ruminations.

Lawrence’s insights shine a light on a significant issue. Drowning in past regrets not only deepens one’s sorrow but also makes emotional regulation a greater challenge.

Introducing brief diversions, especially in the form of mental imagery, offers a momentary break from these cyclic patterns. This could potentially facilitate a bridge to more extensive help through therapy, familial support, or friendships.

Experiment Procedure

Published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, the research aimed to contrast the impact of verbal thoughts and imagery-based thoughts on the general mood of adolescent participants.

The study encompassed 145 participants, aged 13 to 17, predominantly white, with 62% females. These individuals were from a rural New England area. A striking 39% displayed symptoms consistent with clinical depression.

The mood-setting phase involved an online game, inducing feelings of exclusion among the participants. Subsequently, they were divided into groups, engaging in either rumination or distraction exercises using either verbal or imagery-based prompts.

For rumination, a prompt might be “Imagine the kind of person you think you should be.” For distraction, it could be as mundane as “Think about your grocery list.”

Key Findings on the Power of Mental Imagery

The research found that both forms of rumination (verbal and imagery) affected the participants’ moods similarly. However, mental imagery stood out as a more potent form of distraction.

Lawrence noted, “Using mental imagery seems to help us improve our affect, as well as regulate our nervous system.” The form of negative thoughts, be it verbal or visual, may not matter as much as the relentless focus on distressing matters.

The potency of mental imagery is still not entirely understood. It may be the case that imagery demands more effort and is more immersive. Therefore, it elicits stronger emotional responses, thus serving as a better distraction.

There’s also evidence suggesting that visualizing mental images activates the same brain regions as witnessing those events firsthand.

The Evolution of Rumination

Lawrence has observed that while some adults stick to one form of rumination, most teenagers report employing both verbal thoughts and mental imagery. These patterns might solidify over time, becoming habitual and reinforcing the negative imagery or messages.

Lawrence highlights the crucial nature of her work with teenagers, expressing her hope that early interventions can help these youngsters navigate to adulthood without being tethered to detrimental thought patterns.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Mental imagery a helpful way to distract teens from negative thought patterns” — Science Daily

WTF Fun Fact 13557 – Lucid Dying

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A groundbreaking study spearheaded by NYU Grossman School of Medicine explored the concept of “lucid dying” and dives deeper into what is termed as “lucid death experiences.”

Lucid dying refers to the vivid, clear, and conscious experiences that some cardiac arrest survivors recall having when they were supposedly unconscious. The study involved 567 patients. Fewer than 10% made a sufficient recovery after CPR to leave the hospital. But the survivors had some fascinating stories to share. Four 4 out of every 10 of these survivors remembered experiencing some degree of consciousness during CPR.

What the Brain Shows During Lucid Dying

Advanced brain monitoring techniques provide a more in-depth look into what happens during these moments. For some patients, nearly 40% displayed brain activity reverting to normal, or close to normal, even an hour into CPR from a previously “flatline” state. This was measured using EEG technology, a tool that traces brain activity. These patients exhibited spikes in brain waves linked to higher cognitive functions.

Survivors have historically spoken of heightened awareness and potent, lucid experiences during near-death moments. They’ve described sensations such as detaching from their bodies, painlessly observing events, and conducting profound assessments of their actions and relationships throughout their lives. The study emphasizes that these are not mere hallucinations, delusions, or dreams. Instead, they appear distinct from such states and even differ from CPR-induced consciousness.

Why Does This Happen?

Researchers propose that as the brain approaches a “flatlined” state, its natural inhibitory systems get deactivated. This phenomenon is termed disinhibition.

This might grant access to “new dimensions of reality.” These could include vivid memories spanning one’s entire life, seen through a moral lens. The evolutionary reason behind such experiences remains unknown. Still, the fact that they happen prompts further investigation into the mysteries of the human mind and the event of dying.

Clinical Implications of Lucid Dying

Most doctors believe that the brain endures irreversible damage approximately 10 minutes after the heart stops supplying oxygen. However, this research demonstrates the potential for the brain to show signs of electrical recovery well into the CPR process.

Such findings suggest that these recalled experiences and changes in brain waves could be hallmarks of universal elements in so-called near-death situations.

Dr. Sam Parnia, the lead researcher of the study, had an interesting perspective. He noted, “These experiences provide a glimpse into a real, yet little understood dimension of human consciousness that becomes uncovered with death.”

Such insights could lead to innovative methods to restart the heart. They might also help prevent potential brain injuries, or have implications in transplantation procedures.

The AWARE-II Study

The AWAreness during REsuscitation (AWARE)-II study, involved observing 567 individuals who suffered cardiac arrests during their hospitalizations between 2017 and 2020 across the US and UK. By only enrolling hospitalized patients, the study ensured standardized CPR, resuscitation, and brain activity recording methods. A fraction of these patients, 85 in number, underwent brain monitoring throughout their CPR.

Additionally, the testimonies of 126 survivors from the community who remembered their experiences of death were also scrutinized. These helped provide a broader perspective on the themes tied to the recollection of dying.

The research brings up fascinating new hypotheses about lucid dying. But it neither confirms nor refutes the validity or implications of patients’ experiences and awareness during their brushes with death. However, these experiences surrounding death are deemed worthy of more exhaustive scientific investigation.

Future studies may aim to pinpoint biomarkers of clinical consciousness and observe the prolonged psychological aftermath of being resuscitated post-cardiac arrest.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “New evidence indicates patients recall death experiences after cardiac arrest” — Science Daily

WTF Fun Fact 13549 – Australia is Wider than the Moon

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It’s hard to get a handle on just how big some land masses are – but while we know the land down under was big, we were still surprised to find out that Australia is wider than the moon! Of course, they’re not the same shape, so that makes a difference in terms of their size.

Australia is Wider than the Moon – With a Caveat

When discussing Australia’s vastness, people often mention its sweeping deserts, extensive coastline, and large metropolises. But a fact that frequently catches many off guard is that, in terms of width, Australia is wider than the moon.

The moon’s diameter measures about 3,474 kilometers. It might seem massive when you gaze up on a clear night, especially considering it’s over 384,400 kilometers away from Earth. But in terms of sheer size, it’s modest compared to some of the celestial bodies in our vast universe.

Australia’s Impressive Span

Stretching from its westernmost point of Steep Point in Western Australia to its easternmost tip at Cape Byron in New South Wales, Australia boasts a width of approximately 4,000 kilometers (2,485 miles). This makes Australia over 500 kilometers wider than the moon. It’s an astonishing fact, given that the moon appears so dominant in our night sky.

Drawing from NASA’s data, the moon’s equatorial diameter measures at 3,476 km (2,159 miles). But this comparison demands further nuance.

The moon’s form is spherical, making it a three-dimensional entity. Australia, while vast, exists more like a two-dimensional plane on the surface of the Earth. This distinction is crucial. While Australia’s width might surpass that of the moon, the moon’s total surface area, encompassing 37.94 million square kilometers (14.65 million square miles), vastly exceeds Australia’s land area.

Perception vs. Reality

One might wonder, if Australia is wider than the moon, why does the moon appear so large in our sky? The answer lies in perception. The moon orbits Earth at a relatively close distance, making it appear larger to us. Additionally, phenomena like the “moon illusion,” where the moon appears larger near the horizon than when higher in the sky, can further skew our perceptions.

On the other hand, it’s challenging for our minds to grasp the true expanse of Australia. Most people experience countries piece by piece, city by city, or via maps that sometimes distort scale due to their projection. Thus, the full breadth of Australia’s landscape is not always immediately evident.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Is Australia Wider than the Earth’s Moon?” — Snopes

WTF Fun Fact 13548 – All Clownfish Are Born Male

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All clownfish are born male. But they can change their sex.

The Basics of Clownfish Biology

Clownfish are reef-dwelling fish, easily recognizable by their striking orange color punctuated with white bands. They live among sea anemones, forming a symbiotic relationship that provides protection for the fish and food for the anemone. But their physical appearance and habitat preferences aren’t the only intriguing aspects of clownfish. Their reproductive system is a study in adaptability and role reversal.

In the animal kingdom, there are creatures that can change their sex under specific conditions. Clownfish are protandrous hermaphrodites, meaning they are born male and have the potential to turn female later in life. In any given clownfish group or “school,” there’s a strict hierarchy. At the top sits the dominant female, the largest of the group. Below her is the dominant male, the second-largest. The rest of the group consists of smaller, non-reproductive males.

Clownfish Are Born Male But Not All Stay Male

When the dominant female dies or is removed from the group, an astonishing transformation occurs. The dominant male undergoes a sex change, turning into a female to fill the vacant role. Following this, the next in line from the non-reproductive males will grow larger, becoming the new dominant male. This ensures that the group remains reproductive.

This dynamic transformation isn’t just about filling a role. It’s a strategic evolutionary adaptation. In the ocean, where challenges abound, ensuring a breeding pair is always available maximizes the chances of offspring survival. The hierarchy and subsequent role shifts allow clownfish groups to maintain a breeding pair without needing to seek mates from outside their established territory.

The Science Behind Why All Clownfish Are Born Male

The process by which clownfish change their gender is a complex one, driven by hormones and external environmental factors. When the dominant female is no longer present, the absence of her hormones, which inhibited the sex change in the dominant male, triggers a shift. The dominant male’s testes transform into ovaries, and he becomes a she. This process can take a few days to weeks. Once the transformation is complete, the newly formed female can reproduce with the new dominant male.

Implications for Conservation and Aquariums

Understanding the clownfish’s unique reproductive strategy is crucial for conservation and those who keep them in aquariums. Overharvesting clownfish for home aquariums can disrupt their complex social structures, making it essential for collectors and hobbyists to be aware of their needs.

When kept in aquariums, clownfish can still display their natural gender transition behaviors. If a female clownfish in a home tank dies, it’s not unusual for the largest male to transition to take her place, provided the environment mimics their natural habitat closely.

A Window into Evolutionary Adaptations

The clownfish’s ability to change its gender as needed is a testament to the wonders of evolution. This adaptability provides them with a distinct advantage in ensuring their survival. It also serves as a reminder of the myriad ways nature devises solutions to challenges.

Clownfish are not the only creatures with such capabilities. Other fish species, and even some reptiles, have the ability to change their sex based on environmental or social triggers. However, the clownfish remains one of the most iconic examples, and their captivating life story adds another layer of intrigue to these already beloved marine creatures.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Clownfish” — National Geographic

WTF Fun Fact 13539 – Male Menstruation in Egypt

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While male menstruation sounds like an anomaly, accounts from Egypt painted a curious picture.

During the Napoleonic campaigns in the early 19th century, French soldiers noted a peculiar condition among the local Egyptian men: many reported blood in their urine, leading to the label “the land of the menstruating men.”

Deciphering Male Menstruation

The actual cause behind this perplexing phenomenon is a parasitic disease named schistosomiasis. It originates from Schistosoma worms.

When freshwater snails infected with these parasites release larvae, those larvae can penetrate the skin of humans who come into contact with the water.

Once the larvae invade a human host, they mature into adult worms that live in the blood vessels. The female worms lay eggs, some of which the body excretes through urine or feces, and some remain in the body.

It’s these eggs that can cause inflammation, tissue damage, and bleeding when they lodge in the bladder or intestine.

The presence of blood in urine, or hematuria, became a characteristic symptom among many Egyptian men. This sign of schistosomiasis was the source of the “male menstruation” confusion.

The disease not only caused physical distress but also carried a significant cultural and psychological burden given the societal perceptions of the symptoms.

French Soldiers and Schistosomiasis

In the late 18th century, under the leadership of Napoleon Bonaparte, French ambitions extended beyond Europe, aiming to challenge the British Empire’s growing dominance.

The French campaign in Egypt, which began in 1798, was a strategic endeavor to disrupt British trade routes to India and spread revolutionary ideals. Napoleon, with an army of approximately 35,000 soldiers, invaded Egypt, capturing Alexandria and later Cairo.

This expedition was not purely military; it also included scholars and scientists who studied the ancient and contemporary culture of Egypt. Their presence led to significant discoveries, including the famed Rosetta Stone.

However, while the campaign had initial successes, it faced challenges, such as an encounter with schistosomiasis.

While the local Egyptians bore the “menstruating men” moniker, the French soldiers were not immune. Many who waded in the Nile for bathing or other activities also contracted the disease. However, the term likely stuck more with the Egyptians due to pre-existing observations.

Unraveling the Mystery of Menstruating Men

It took some time before medical professionals connected the dots. The visible blood in urine, a clear symptom of a severe schistosomiasis infection, was initially misunderstood. (However, both men and women suffered from this symptom.)

Eventually, with advancements in medical knowledge and further studies in parasitology, the real nature of the disease became apparent. Scientists and doctors recognized that the “male menstruation” was actually a manifestation of schistosomiasis.

Modern medicine offers effective treatments for schistosomiasis, primarily using the drug praziquantel. Efforts to control the disease also focus on reducing the population of infected snails and improving sanitation to prevent contamination of freshwater sources. Education campaigns aim to reduce human contact with infested water.

Today, the disease remains endemic in many parts of Africa, including Egypt, but global health initiatives strive to reduce its impact.

Recognizing the history and myths surrounding schistosomiasis can help in understanding its cultural implications and the importance of continued efforts to combat it.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “History of schistosomiasis (bilharziasis) in humans: from Egyptian medical papyri to molecular biology on mummies” — Pathogens and Global Health

WTF Fun Fact 13538 – The Power of Smelling Coffee

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Do you perk up in the morning after smelling coffee? Maybe you start to feel it working even before you’ve had a sip. Or perhaps you do some of your best work at the coffee shop when you can smell those invigorating beans all day.

Well, that makes sense!

Coffee’s Olfactory Power

Many of us start our day with the intoxicating aroma of coffee. But there’s more to this scent than just an olfactory delight. In 2008, a group of researchers led by scientist Han-Seok Seo looked into the science behind this phenomenon. Their findings reveal that coffee’s aroma doesn’t just wake up the senses but might also rejuvenate the brain.

Smelling Coffee vs. Sleep Deprivation and Stress

Lack of sleep stresses the body and mind. Sleep-deprived individuals often grapple with cognitive and physical health challenges.

Given these effects, Seo’s team wondered if coffee’s aroma could counteract the negative impacts of sleep deprivation. Their subject of choice for this exploration? Laboratory rats.

The team exposed both well-rested and sleep-deprived rats to the scent of coffee. They then examined gene and protein expressions in the brains of these rats. The results were astonishing.

Rats exposed to the coffee aroma showed varied activity in 17 genes. Out of these, 13 exhibited different mRNA expressions when comparing the sleep-deprived group to the group that inhaled coffee while sleep-deprived.

Translating Science: What it Means for Us

In simple terms, inhaling coffee aroma seemed to recalibrate the brain’s workings. It potentially offsets the harmful impacts of sleep deprivation.

Among the impacted genes, some are linked to proteins with antioxidant properties. These antioxidants help protect nerve cells from stress-induced damage.

So, the smell of coffee might do more than just perk us up; it could protect our brain cells from stress-related harm.

The Power of Smelling Coffee Goes Beyond Coffee

Seo’s groundbreaking findings pave the way for more questions. If the aroma of coffee yields such benefits, what about other scents? Could the whiff of freshly baked bread or the scent of rain bring their own set of health benefits?

Next time the weight of sleeplessness bears down on you, remember the power of scent. As you pass a café or brew your morning cup, take a moment to inhale deeply. Behind that sense of alertness and the smile that follows lies a fascinating dance of molecules and biology.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Coffee’s Aroma Kick-starts Genes In The Brain” — Science Daily

WTF Fun Fact 13537 – Black Hole Eating A Star

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There’s a black hole eating a star out there at an astonishing rate.

University of Leicester astronomers discovered a star, similar to our Sun, that a relatively small black hole is devouring. Every close orbit results in the star losing a mass equivalent to three Earths!

Watching a Black Hole Eating a Star

The research, chronicled in Nature Astronomy, could be the “missing link” in understanding how black holes disrupt the stars that orbit them. Funded by the UK Space Agency and the UK Science and Technology Facilities Council, this discovery is instrumental in propelling our grasp of celestial phenomena.

An intense X-ray flash originating from the center of galaxy 2MASX J02301709+2836050 is what initially captured the team’s attention. That galaxy is approximately 500 million light-years from the Milky Way.

The anomaly has been designated as Swift J0230. And it was detected in real-time thanks to a pioneering tool designed for the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory.

Further investigations revealed a curious pattern: Swift J0230 would radiate intensely for about a week, then go dark, resuming its cycle roughly every 25 days.

How a Black Holes “Eats” Star

This behavior parallels certain phenomena involving stars having materials torn by black holes due to close orbits. However, the Swift J0230’s emission pattern positioned it as a bridge between two known categories of these eruptions.

Drawing from existing models, researchers concluded that Swift J0230 demonstrates a Sun-sized star, trapped in an elliptical orbit around a black hole with low mass, situated at the core of its galaxy.

As this star nears the black hole, a gravitational tug wrests away material equivalent to three Earth masses. This process superheats the material to about 2 million degrees Celsius, triggering the massive X-ray emissions detected by the Swift satellite.

Unprecedented Research

Dr. Phil Evans, the lead author, remarked on the unprecedented nature of this find: a Sun-like star being intermittently torn apart by a relatively small black hole. Labeling the phenomenon as “repeated, partial tidal disruption,” Dr. Evans highlighted that such events had been rare finds until now, falling into one of two categories based on their frequency. This new discovery bridges the gap, providing a more comprehensive understanding.

Dr. Rob Eyles-Ferris, who contributed to the Swift satellite study, emphasized the singularity of Swift J0230. Unlike most observed systems where stars are entirely destroyed, this system offers insights into a middle ground. The finding unifies the two previously identified categories of partially disrupted stars.

Further, Dr. Kim Page, part of the study’s data analysis team, is confident that many more similar objects await discovery.

In terms of mass, the team estimates that the black hole is between 10,000 to 100,000 times that of our Sun. That’s a mere fraction when compared to supermassive black holes typically anchoring galaxies. For perspective, our galaxy’s central black hole weighs in at 4 million solar masses.

The Tool That Helped Detect the Black Hole Eating a Star

The University of Leicester team conceptualized and designed a novel transient detector for the Swift satellite, facilitating this breakthrough. This tool instantly detects astronomical X-ray transients—rare and extreme X-ray bursts in previously silent sky regions.

Dr. Caroline Harper, the Head of Space Science at the UK Space Agency, praised the globally-acclaimed Swift mission, shedding light on a minuscule black hole periodically “snacking” on a Sun-like star. The mission’s continued partnership with NASA promises further invaluable cosmic insights.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Ravenous black hole consumes three Earths’-worth of star every time it passes” — Science Daily