facts

WTF Fun Fact 13442 – We Have More Bacterial Cells Than Human

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The human body contains more bacterial cells than human cells. Weird, right?

The majority of the cells that constitute “you” are, in fact, not human. They are microscopic organisms that are hitching a ride, making a living off your body. It might sound like science fiction, but this is a confirmed scientific fact. The human body contains ten times more bacterial cells than human cells.

How can we contain more bacterial cells than human cells?

Now, before we allow our imagination to scare us into a frenzy, let’s unpack this a bit.

These bacterial cells, collectively known as the human microbiota, live mostly in harmony with our bodies. We provide them with a suitable habitat, and they return the favor by aiding in bodily functions like digestion and immune response. Our gut houses the vast majority of these organisms.

This raises some provocative questions: With our bodies being made up predominantly of non-human cells, what does that imply about our identity? What actually makes us human?

How are we fully human if we contain so many non-human cells?

Biologically speaking, being human is about more than just the number of cells. Human cells, while fewer in number, are much larger and more complex than bacterial cells. So, in terms of volume and genetic material, we are predominantly human.

But the philosophical implications are still fascinating to consider. We ten to link our human identity to our biological makeup. But the massive presence of non-human cells introduces an intriguing paradox.

Science has often categorized organisms based on their cellular composition. However, this fact might prompt us to reconsider such traditional boundaries. We need to acknowledge the complex symbiosis that constitutes our “self.” We are, in essence, a walking, talking microbiome.

Teamwork makes the dream work

These non-human inhabitants of our body have a far-reaching impact on our health and well-being. There’s a dynamic relationship between our human cells and these bacterial cells. When this relationship is in balance, we thrive. But when it’s out of whack, we may face health issues. This fact has driven researchers to explore the potential of microbiota in shaping future treatments for various diseases.

Yet, as we learn more about our microbial inhabitants, we also uncover deeper layers of what it means to be human. Are we individual entities, or are we, as some philosophers might argue, a “superorganism” made up of numerous symbiotic relationships?

Indeed, we might be more ‘alien’ than we ever imagined, yet this very fact underscores our extraordinary complexity as living beings.

So next time you glance at your reflection, remember: You’re not just looking at ‘you.’ You’re seeing an intricate ecosystem.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “NIH Human Microbiome Project defines normal bacterial makeup of the body” — National Institutes of Health

WTF Fun Fact 13440 – The Independence Day Date

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If some of the U.S.’s founding fathers got their way, Americans the Independence Day date would be the 2nd of July.

Why is the U.S. Independence Day date the 4th of July?

On a blistering summer day in Philadelphia in the year 1776, a group of men in the Second Continental Congress convened. These “founding fathers” were ready to sever the bonds with their British overlords. This day was July 2nd, a date largely forgotten in the grand narrative of American independence.

Two of these influential men, Thomas Jefferson and John Adams, were sticklers for precision. They believed that July 2nd, not July 4th, should ring be America’s Independence Day. The Congress voted for independence on this day, – kind of a no-brainer, right?

Jefferson and Adams, who would later become presidents, firmly considered July 2nd to the true birth of American freedom.

Voting for Independence

On July 2nd, the Continental Congress voted in favor of Richard Henry Lee’s resolution for independence from British rule. This momentous decision effectively set the 13 colonies on the path to becoming the United States of America. An event of this magnitude surely deserved to be marked in history.

However, the document Americans now revere as the Declaration of Independence was finalized and formally adopted two days later on July 4th. This date engraved on the top of the document created a longstanding association with the birth of American independence. It was the date that was eventually printed in newspapers, establishing the Fourth of July in the collective consciousness of the public.

Arguing over the Inependence Day date

Jefferson and Adams harbored their beliefs passionately. Adams even went to the extent of reportedly turning down invitations to participate in Fourth of July events as a form of silent protest. He firmly believed that the celebrations were simply on the wrong day.

In a bizarre twist of fate, both Adams and Jefferson died on the same day, July 4, 1826, on the 50th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. The coincidence of their deaths on this date further romanticized the idea of July 4th as Independence Day.

Over the years, the debate has lost much of its steam. Americans now celebrate the Fourth of July Independence Day. The story of July 2nd remains a fascinating footnote in the saga of American independence, a testament to the complex and sometimes contentious process that birthed the nation we know today.

Does the Independence Day date really matter?

In the grand scheme of things, whether Independence Day falls on the second or fourth of July might seem trivial. Still, this tale serves as a potent reminder of the spirited debates and diverse perspectives that shaped the foundation of the United States.

And the next time you’re watching fireworks light up the night sky on the Fourth of July, remember the tale of July 2nd.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “When is the real Independence Day: July 2 or July 4?” — National Constitution Center

WTF Fun Fact 13439 – The Dog Days of Summer Explained

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Does the phrase “Dog Days of Summer” conjure images of lethargic canines lazing in the heat? Well, the origins of this term reach far beyond our four-legged friends and into space.

What are the dog days of summer?

Ok, technically, it does have to do with a dog – Sirius, the Dog Star. Sirius is part of the constellation Canis Major, and it’s the brightest star in the Earth’s night sky.

The term “Dog Days” stems from the ancients, both Greeks and Romans, who noticed the coincidence of the hottest time of the year with the period when Sirius rose and set with the Sun. They hypothesized that the added radiance of Sirius was the cause of the intensified summer heat. Thus the phrase “Dog Days” in reference to Sirius’s constellation.

But the “Dog Days” are more than just a celestial phenomenon and a synonym for summer swelter. They have cultural and historical significance dating back thousands of years. The Greeks, for instance, saw the period as a time of potential disaster, heralding fever, catastrophe, and even the downfall of empires.

Wobbling dog days

Fast forward to the present, and the “Dog Days” still persist in our lexicon. However, due to a phenomenon called precession (the slow wobble of Earth’s rotational axis), the dates during which Sirius rises and sets with the Sun have slowly shifted over centuries. Yet, the phrase “Dog Days” remains tethered to the heart of the summer. It’s recognized in the Northern Hemisphere primarily from July 3 to August 11.

The warmest days of summer, those long afternoons that stretch languidly towards the evening, are connected to a distant cosmic spectacle occurring about 8.6 light-years away. That is the beauty of astronomy and the power of human observation, linking us to the stars and the seasons in unexpected ways.

So, next time you’re feeling the heat of summer bearing down, spare a thought for Sirius and its ancient connection to these sultry days. The “Dog Days” are a cosmic link, a reminder that even on the hottest days of summer, we are all under the same sky.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Stars and canines collide in ‘dog days’” — Christian Science Monitor

WTF Fun Fact 13436 – Vertical Forests

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Do you know about the urban jungles called vertical forests? These towers of lush greenery stretch skyward, a testament to man’s ingenuity and nature’s adaptability.

The original vertical forest – Bosco Verticale

Vertical forests stem from the inventive mind of Italian architect Stefano Boeri. His vision for a greener planet led to the creation of Bosco Verticale, a pair of residential towers in Milan. These living, breathing structures showcase over 900 trees, 5,000 shrubs, and 11,000 floral plants. The foliage acts as an urban lung, absorbing carbon dioxide and pumping out oxygen, offering a breath of fresh air in a bustling metropolis.

Vertical forests in Asia

Hot on Milan’s heels, Nanjing, China, unveiled its vertical forest concept in 2018. Nanjing Green Towers mirror their Italian counterparts, cocooning a hotel, office, museum, school, and a rooftop club in a verdant embrace. Greenery cloaks the buildings, forming a dynamic ecosystem that provides shade, reduces noise pollution, and creates a habitat for birds and insects.

Across the globe in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, Vo Trong Nghia Architects has a vision. With the city’s greenspace dwindling, they proposed a series of condominiums swathed in bamboo-filled concrete planters. They’ve named it the “House for Trees,” with each building designed to accommodate a tree on its roof.

A burgeoning trend

But, vertical forests aren’t solely for the concrete giants of the world. Medium-sized cities have jumped on the bandwagon too, with Eindhoven, a quaint city in the Netherlands, unveiling its own verdant vision. Trudo Vertical Forest is an affordable housing project designed to provide low-income families with sustainable homes wrapped in the embrace of 125 mature trees and countless shrubs.

In Quito, Ecuador, the urban jungle takes a different form. The IQON is Latin America’s first vertical forest, with plans to feature over 300 tree species, some of which are in danger of extinction. It’s an ambitious project, and one that aims to reconcile the city with its biodiverse surroundings.

Finally, let’s take a trip to the desert. In the heart of Egypt’s New Administrative Capital, Stefano Boeri strikes again. He proposes a series of seven vertical forest buildings and three green residential complexes. The design aims to combat desertification while creating a bio-diverse urban ecosystem.

These are just a few examples of the burgeoning trend of vertical forests, a unique solution to urbanization’s challenges. As the world’s cities continue to expand, it’s this kind of innovative, nature-centric architecture that will help keep our urban environments breathable, sustainable, and beautiful.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “9 Vertical Forests Around the World That Look like Jungles in the City” — Interesting Engineering

WTF Fun Fact 13434 – Tanzania’s Lake Natron

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Tanzania’s Lake Natron is not your average lake. Imagine a vast shimmering pink and red body of water so caustic that it burns your skin and eyes. It’s rumored to turn animals into stone (though that’s not quite true). I’s both beautiful and creepy.

Lake Natron’s eerie characteristics

Lake Natron, nestled in the Great Rift Valley, is a salt lake. It gets its name from natron, a naturally occurring mixture of sodium carbonate decahydrate and around 17% sodium bicarbonate. Add in some salt and mineral impurities, and you have a lake with a pH as high as 10.5. That’s incredibly alkaline.

With these numbers, you might think nothing could survive here. But you’d be wrong. Three species of fish, Alcolapia alcalica, Alcolapia latilabris, and Alcolapia ndalalani, call this caustic lake home. These hardy creatures adapted to Lake Natron’s harsh conditions and live quite happily in its waters.

The myth of Lake Natron

In stark contrast to its resident fishes, the lake has been accused of turning birds and other animals into statues. You heard that right – stone statues. But before you jump to a petrifying conclusion, let’s debunk that myth.

Photographer Nick Brandt published a series of hauntingly beautiful images of calcified animals along Lake Natron’s shores, triggering rumors that its water could turn creatures to stone. But the reality is less fantastical and more scientific.

The animals, likely dead before they touched Natron’s waters, were preserved by its alkalinity. Similar to how ancient Egyptians used natron to mummify bodies, the lake’s water can preserve and give a stony appearance to those unfortunate creatures that end up in its depths. But instant petrification? That’s a myth.

However, that doesn’t mean Lake Natron is all welcoming. With temperatures that can reach up to 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit), it’s inhospitable for many species. Touching the water could cause burns, especially to the eyes and skin of unadapted animals and humans. So while it’s not turning beings to stone, it’s not exactly a friendly dip.

Flamingo’s love it!

Yet, despite its harshness, Lake Natron is the chosen breeding ground for more than 2.5 million Lesser Flamingos. The lake’s extreme conditions keep the flamingos safe from predators, while the algae thriving in the salty water serve as a rich food source.

The juxtaposition between Lake Natron’s beauty and harshness is stark. For this reason, it it’s a magnet for both tourists and scientists alike. Its eeriness, the ghostly images of life arrested in time, is a fascinating aspect of its lure. But there’s more to this lake than meets the eye.

Lake Natron is an excellent reminder of how nature is full of surprises and adaptations. Its unique ecosystem underscores the balance between life and death, showcasing how even in the harshest conditions, life finds a way to not just survive, but thrive.

The truth about Lake Natron is far more interesting than myths.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Lake Natron: Deadly to Most Life, but the Flamingos Love It” — Explorer’s Web

WTF Fun Fact 13433 – The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá

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If you crave a journey into the depths of the Earth to experience nature’s wonder, head to the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá in Colombia. This marvel lies 200 meters (over 600 feet) underground in a former salt mine. And it’s an awe-inspiring symbol of spiritual devotion and architectural brilliance.

Visiting the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá

Picture this – you descend into the belly of the Earth. You’re greeted by a long, shadowy tunnel, illuminated by the soft glow of strategically placed lighting. Now, you’ve reached the start of the “Via Crucis”, the Stations of the Cross. Each one represented through imposing sculptures carved directly from the salt. These artworks in themselves offer a mesmerizing spectacle, adding gravitas to the sacred pilgrimage through the mine.

As you journey deeper, you’re led to an expansive cavern. Here, the salt rocks yield to the Cathedral’s majestic centerpiece – a massive cross stretching up toward the ceiling. This 16-meter-tall monolith of salt illuminated from behind. It casts a mystical aura, offering an awe-inspiring sight that leaves visitors marveling at the artistry and devotion it represents.

An active place of worship

The Cathedral is not just a sight to behold, but also a beacon of local culture. In fact, the salt mine has supported the people of Zipaquirá for centuries, its economic significance evolving into spiritual importance with the construction of the cathedral. Today, it continues to be a vibrant place of worship where faith resonates in every salt-strewn corner.

Further adding to its uniqueness, the Cathedral’s acoustics have also been leveraged for musical performances, its echoes amplifying the harmonious notes and making the music a truly immersive experience. Here, the hymns aren’t just heard but felt, resonating with the spirit of the cathedral.

Despite its spiritual significance, the Cathedral also caters to secular tourists. A light show illuminates the cathedral, and a guided tour offers insights into its geological and architectural aspects, emphasizing its universal appeal. It’s a journey of discovery, an exploration of human ingenuity in harnessing nature, and a celebration of the enduring power of faith.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Colombia’s Salt Cathedral Is A Marvel Of Architecture And A Popular House Of Worship” — NPR

WTF Fun Fact 13432 – Poland’s Top Tourist Attraction

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A funny feline from Poland named Gacek has been causing a buzz online. He’s earned fame and become Poland’s top tourist attraction thanks to Google Maps.

This remarkable kitty, through its wanderings, has inadvertently become an international sensation. A case of an everyday cat finding a global platform. Gacek’s story combines charm, curiosity, and the surprising role of technology in our daily lives.

Why is Poland’s top tourist attraction a random cat?

Gacek’s journey to online stardom started when his owners fitted him with a GPS collar. To their surprise, the cat was far more adventurous than they had imagined. Gacek explored Szczecin, the city where he lives, covering an impressive range of urban territory.

They eventually overlaid the GPS data they collected from Gacek’s collar onto Google Maps. The resulting visual representation of his adventures was shared online, quickly capturing the attention of internet users across the globe. Gacek’s meanderings through the city, as shown on the map, paint an intriguing picture of a day in the life of an adventurous feline.

Gacek’s story fascinated and amused social media users worldwide. His explorations have sparked conversations about the role of technology in uncovering these hidden aspects of our world.

He’s also providing a great way to take a walking tour of the city!

Tour the city through the eyes of a cat

This digital snapshot of Gacek’s escapades quickly became a hit online. The map of his travels is now an unlikely tourist guide to Szczecin.

Thes “Gacek tours” let people explore famous cat’s routes and favorite haunts. And of course people are hoping to catch a glimpse of the adventurous feline. Cafes and shops along Gacek’s routes have seen a boost in business, thanks to the increased footfall from cat-loving tourists.

The phenomenon of Gacek has also highlighted the practical benefits of GPS tracking for pets, underlining its potential for ensuring the safety of our four-legged companions in an urban setting. While Gacek’s adventures have brought joy to many, they also emphasize the role of such technology in caring for our pets.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “This Polish city’s top tourist attraction? A stray cat.” — Washington Post

WTF Fun Fact 13431 – Ford’s Self-Repossessing Truck

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In a move that could revolutionize the automotive industry, Ford has patented a system enabling self-repossessing trucks. Through connectivity and automation, these vehicles could potentially drive themselves back to the dealer in the event of missed payments.

This idea of autonomous repossession is a powerful example of how technology is reshaping our world.

Self-repossessing trucks in the patent stage

The patent, as reported by The Verge, illustrates a system in which a vehicle can determine if it’s subject to repossession based on data received from a remote source. It’s not yet a reality.

However, in the future, a car could disable its own engine or even navigate itself back to the lender, provided it’s safe and legal to do so.

While this might sound dystopian to some, it’s essential to consider the problem this solution aims to address. Traditional repossession methods are far from perfect. They can lead to conflicts, damages, or, in some cases, even legal issues. Autonomous repossession could potentially eliminate these complications, making the process smoother for all parties involved.

But wait, there’s more!

But, Ford’s self-repossessing trucks patent doesn’t stop there. The documentation suggests that these vehicles could also potentially find and connect with a tow truck for assistance if self-driving to the dealer isn’t possible. The vehicle’s systems could even schedule a convenient pick-up time with the towing company, streamlining the entire process.

However, such a concept isn’t without its concerns. Critics argue that autonomous repossession could pose privacy risks. After all, the technology requires tracking and controlling vehicles remotely, raising questions about data security and personal privacy. Ford, along with all automakers pursuing such technologies, will need to address these concerns as development progresses.

Will it really work?

Furthermore, the actual implementation of this system in real-world conditions is another challenge. Various laws regulate vehicle repossession, which differ from state to state, and the legality of a self-repossessing car is still untested. Therefore, while the patent is granted, the road to seeing self-repossessing cars in action might be long and winding.

Ford’s self-repossessing car patent is a clear reflection of our changing times. It encapsulates both the remarkable potential of automation and connectivity, and the complex challenges that come along. It’s a compelling narrative of how technology continues to reimagine our world and how we must navigate the balance between innovation and privacy, efficiency and legality.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Ford’s self-repossessing car patent is a nightmare of the connected-car future” — The Verge

WTF Fun Fact 13430 – Japan’s Sauna Bus

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Japan’s sauna bus (or saubus) is intriguing people around the world (and making more than a few wonder “why?!”)

Who wants to ride in a sauna bus?

A new cultural trend in Japan has emerged from the fusion of public transportation and traditional wellness practices. A retired public bus in Japan, creatively redesigned, now roams the streets as a fully functional, mobile sauna.

The old “sabus,” as it’s called, isn’t just a manifestation of Japanese ingenuity; it represents a revolution in urban relaxation.

A unique wellness journey

Designed by architecture firm Raumplan, this refurbished bus serves as a testament to innovative design, sustainability, and a celebration of the Japanese ritual of bathing. The exterior boasts the familiar green hue that once signaled the bus’s transportation role. The inside transports people into a realm of steamy warmth and tranquility.

The transformation from a public transportation vehicle to a wellness sanctuary is nothing short of mesmerizing. The bus seats have been replaced with a compact sauna, an anteroom, and an open deck.

The sauna, clad in aromatic Japanese hinoki cypress wood, can accommodate up to six people. Its large window offers a panoramic view of the surroundings, allowing bathers to enjoy scenic landscapes while they steam.

Venturing further inside, you find the anteroom. A relaxation space with wooden benches, this area is designed for post-sauna cool downs and socializing. Finally, the bus’s rear hosts an open deck, equipped with a shower for bathers to rinse off and freshen up.

Why a mobile sauna?

The creators envisioned the saubus as a way to connect communities and promote traditional Japanese wellness practices. By repurposing a public bus, they’re able to bring the sauna experience to various locations, from scenic lakeside spots to bustling city streets, making wellness accessible and enjoyable for all.

Beyond its functionality, the sauna bus serves as a symbol of sustainability and creative repurposing. It stands as proof that, with a bit of imagination, we can transform everyday objects into something extraordinary.

Through this project, Raumplan and its collaborators have redefined what a bus and a sauna can be, creating a new experience that is quintessentially Japanese yet universally appealing. The sauna bus isn’t just a place to relax and unwind; it’s a communal space that brings people together wherever it goes.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “INTRODUCING THE ‘SABUS’ MOBILE SAUNA” — designboom