wtf fun fact

WTF Fun Fact 13544 – What Darwin Ate

You might assume that Charles Darwin, the famed naturalist, was a vegetarian since he was so enamored with living creatures, but he was just the opposite – in fact, Darwin ate some of his discoveries.

During his journey on The Beagle, he indulged in an array of exotic meats – from puma, which he found “remarkably like veal in taste,” to armadillos and iguanas.

His curiosity even led him to taste the bladder contents of a giant tortoise. Darwin’s palate wasn’t just adventurous; it was scientific. He was known for eating specimens he was studying and trying to describe scientifically.

Modern Biologists Follow Suit

This gastronomic curiosity didn’t end with Darwin. Many modern scientists continue to eat their study subjects, either out of convenience (as with those researching edible plants and animals like trout or blueberries) or driven by sheer curiosity. From bluegill and sea urchin to more peculiar choices like beetles and cicadas, the range of their dietary experiments is vast.

Notably, Richard Wassersug, while conducting a study on the palatability of tadpoles in the 1970s, had graduate students (bribed with beer) taste but not swallow various tadpole species. This experiment, now impossible to conduct due to ethical restrictions, showed that easy-to-catch tadpoles often tasted worse. Wassersug himself described the taste of toad tadpoles as “astonishingly bitter.”

The Drive Behind Why Darwin Ate an Unusual Diet

The motivation behind these gastronomic explorations varies. Sometimes it’s an academic pursuit, as in Wassersug’s study. Other times, it’s a quest to manage invasive species, turning them from pests into menu items. Sarah Treanor Bois, during her Ph.D. research on invasive plants, attended a cook-off featuring dishes made from invasive species like nutria and bullfrog legs. Eating invasives is not just about satiating curiosity but also about drawing attention to ecological problems.

However, the most common reason cited for these unusual diets is pure scientific curiosity. Robert Thorson, a geologist, once tasted 30,000-year-old meat from a giant steppe bison found in permafrost. His verdict? It was stringy and flavorless, with a “pungent rankness.”

Scientists’ Gastronomic Adventures

Why are scientists so inclined towards tasting their research subjects? Mark Siddall, a leech expert, believes it’s about familiarity. Just as an omnivore eats chicken, beef, or pork, scientists consume what they’re familiar with. To a biologist, an organism they’ve studied extensively may not seem so different from regular food. Richard Wassersug views it as a part of being a naturalist. To fully understand and connect with nature, one must engage all senses, including taste.

It’s not just about curiosity but also about a sense of community and perhaps a bit of competitiveness among scientists. The stories of Darwin and others set a precedent, and many modern scientists feel compelled to follow in their footsteps, driven by peer or ‘beer’ pressure.

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Source: “Dining Like Darwin: When Scientists Swallow Their Subjects” — NPR

WTF Fun Fact 13543 – Final Days of the Pony Express

In the 1860s, the Pony Express emerged as a revolutionary mail service, connecting the East and West coasts of the United States.

This legendary system, although short-lived, played a crucial role in American history, especially during its turbulent Civil War era. Its establishment was a response to the dire need for faster communication across the vast expanse of the country.

Challenges and Downfall

The demise of the Pony Express was a result of several factors, not just the advent of the transcontinental telegraph. Key among these was the deteriorating financial state of its parent company, Russell, Majors, and Waddell. This company had already been financially strained due to various misfortunes, including the loss of a large oxen herd and the impact of the Pyramid Lake War, which led to the destruction of many stations and the loss of essential resources.

The operating costs of the Pony Express were substantial. It needed about $1,000 daily to function, but its income fell short. Despite an initial charge of $5 per ounce for mail (later reduced to $1), the service was too expensive for the general public, limiting its use to newspapers and businesses. The company’s total expenses amounted to $700,000 against receipts of about $500,000.

Internal conflicts within the company and external pressures further aggravated the situation. The arrest of William Russell on charges related to stolen government bonds was a significant blow. Alexander Majors’ preparation for bankruptcy sent shockwaves through the business community, undermining confidence in the company.

Transition and Closure of the Pony Express

Despite these challenges, the Pony Express continued to operate, albeit at a loss. The government attempted to salvage the situation by merging the Pony Express with the Butterfield Overland Mail Company, but the effort was short-lived. The completion of the transcontinental telegraph line in October 1861 made the Pony Express obsolete, leading to its closure two days after the telegraph’s completion.

In its 18 months of operation, the Pony Express completed 308 runs, covering around 616,000 miles. This distance is equivalent to circling the Earth over 30 times. It successfully delivered 34,753 letters, losing only one mail bag throughout its operation. The primary issue, however, remained its financial non-viability.

Historical Significance

Despite its financial failure, the Pony Express is remembered for its significant impact. It was a testament to the courage, determination, and ingenuity of its founders and workers. The service played a vital role in keeping California and the West connected to the rest of the country, especially as the nation was on the brink of war. It filled an urgent need of its time and etched its name in the annals of American history.

The Pony Express’s closure marked the end of an adventurous and bold experiment in American communication history. It paved the way for more sustainable and technologically advanced means of communication, signifying the nation’s progress. Yet, the story of the Pony Express continues to captivate the imagination of many, symbolizing the relentless American spirit.

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Source: “Pony Express – Final Days” — Encyclopedia Britannica

WTF Fun Fact 13542 – The Rooster’s Soundproofing

Roosters are known for their loud crowing, but what contributes to a rooster’s soundproofing so it doesn’t go deaf from its own noise?

Researchers from the University of Antwerp and the University of Ghent dove into this mystery, revealing some surprising adaptations that protect these birds from self-induced hearing loss.

Crowing Loudness: More Than Just a Wake-Up Call

The research team embarked on a mission to determine the actual loudness of a rooster’s crow. They equipped sample roosters with tiny microphones near their ears to measure the intensity of the sound. Astonishingly, they discovered that the crowing averages over 100 decibels.

To put this in perspective, that’s comparable to the noise produced by a running chainsaw.

Continuous exposure to such noise levels typically leads to deafness in humans, caused by irreversible damage to the tiny hair cells in the inner ear. Since chickens, including roosters, possess similar hair cells, the team was curious about why these birds don’t suffer hearing damage.

A Built-In Ear-Plug Mechanism for the Rooster’s Soundproofing

The key to this avian riddle lies in the rooster’s unique anatomical structure. Through micro-computerized tomography scans of the birds’ skulls, the researchers uncovered two crucial adaptations.

First, they found that a portion of the rooster’s eardrum is covered by soft tissue, significantly dampening incoming noise. More impressively, when a rooster throws its head back to crow, another piece of material acts as a natural ear-plug, covering the ear canal completely.

This ingenious mechanism functions much like a person blocking their ears to muffle sound, providing the rooster with a form of self-protection against its own deafening calls.

Another intriguing aspect of avian biology plays a role here. Unlike humans, birds possess the ability to regenerate damaged hair cells in their ears. This regenerative capability provides an additional layer of defense against potential hearing damage.

But what about the hens and chicks that are within earshot of the male’s powerful crowing? While not explicitly covered in the research, it’s commonly observed that roosters often choose elevated and distant spots for crowing. This behavior ensures maximum sound reach while maintaining a safe distance from the hens and chicks, thereby reducing their exposure to harmful noise levels.

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Source: “Why roosters don’t go deaf from their own loud crowing” — Phys.org

WTF Fun Fact 13541 – NYC’s Rat Czar


New York City has taken a significant step forward in its war against rodents by appointing Kathleen Corradi as the city’s first-ever “rat czar.”

This initiative is a part of Mayor Eric Adams’ administration’s efforts to address a major quality-of-life and health challenge. Corradi’s role involves coordinating rat reduction efforts across city government agencies, community organizations, and the private sector.

Harlem Rat Mitigation Zone and Funding

As part of this initiative, Mayor Adams also announced the Harlem Rat Mitigation Zone, backed by a $3.5 million investment for Fiscal Year 2023. This investment aims to expand and accelerate rat reduction efforts across Harlem, encompassing Community Boards 9, 10, and 11. The funding will assist in employing new staff, purchasing equipment, and implementing innovative rat mitigation techniques.

Corradi’s strategic plan to combat the rat crisis includes cutting off rats’ food sources and deploying new technologies for detection and extermination. These efforts will harness the expertise of various city agencies like the Department of Health, Parks and Recreation, Housing Authority, Department of Education, Sanitation, and Small Business Services.

The rat mitigation strategy is more than just a quality-of-life issue. It symbolizes the fight against systemic challenges that have long affected New Yorkers, especially in low-income communities and communities of color. The plan aims to provide equitable quality of life experiences for all New Yorkers.

Collaborative Approach and Public Involvement

The strategy emphasizes the importance of each New Yorker playing their part in creating a rat-free city. This includes keeping homes clean, securing trash, destroying potential rat habitats, and adhering to common-sense tips. The city plans to offer Harlem-specific rat academies, teaching residents how to prevent rat infestations on their properties.

In support of the initiative, the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City received a donation of over 1,000 Tomcat rodent control products. These will be used across various city locations, aiding the fight against rodent infestations.

Long-Term Vision for the Rat Czar

The appointment of a rat czar marks a new era in New York City’s approach to pest control. The long-term goal is to produce a cleaner, more livable city for future generations. This effort represents a bold and creative approach to tackle one of the city’s most persistent problems.

Kathleen Corradi brings a wealth of experience in community engagement, program development, and facility operations. Her background in science and expertise in rodent mitigation positions her to lead this challenging and crucial initiative effectively.

The Adams administration has shown its commitment to addressing quality-of-life issues through various initiatives, including the ‘Get Stuff Clean’ program. The rat czar appointment further emphasizes this commitment, aiming to make New York City a cleaner and healthier place for its residents.

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Source: “Mayor Adams Anoints Kathleen Corradi as NYC’s First-Ever ‘Rat Czar'” — NYC.gov

WTF Fun Fact 13540 – Humans and Giraffes

The anatomy of humans and giraffes shares a surprising similarity. Despite stark differences in appearance and habitat, both species possess exactly seven cervical vertebrae.

This fact offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of vertebrate evolution. It highlights how different species can evolve distinct traits while maintaining a fundamental structural blueprint.

The Seven Vertebrae Similarity

In humans, the seven cervical vertebrae are compact and support head movements like nodding and turning. Each human vertebra is relatively small, with the first two, the atlas and axis, specialized for head rotation. These vertebrae are critical for protecting the spinal cord and supporting the skull.

Giraffes, renowned for their long necks, also have seven cervical vertebrae, but each one is elongated, reaching lengths up to ten inches. This elongation facilitates their tall stature, which is essential for foraging in tall trees. Despite their length, giraffe neck vertebrae maintain flexibility, crucial for their survival in the wild.

The similarity in the number of cervical vertebrae across mammals, including humans and giraffes, suggests an evolutionary blueprint conserved over millions of years. This consistency indicates an optimal balance of neck flexibility and structural support vital across various habitats and lifestyles.

The adaptation in giraffes, where their cervical vertebrae are elongated, showcases evolution’s ability to modify certain traits to meet environmental demands while keeping the overall vertebral count unchanged.

Medical and Scientific Implications for Humans and Giraffes

Studying giraffes can offer insights into human spinal health. Understanding the mechanics of giraffe vertebrae under large physical stress could lead to better treatments and preventive measures for human spinal conditions.

Research into giraffe anatomy can contribute to veterinary sciences, offering better care and conservation strategies for these unique animals. It also adds to our understanding of vertebrate evolution and adaptation.

Ecological and Conservation Aspects

The anatomical similarities between humans and giraffes reflect the interconnectedness of the animal kingdom. This comparison underscores the importance of biodiversity and the need to understand and protect various species, each contributing uniquely to our understanding of life on Earth.

Recognizing these anatomical wonders highlights the importance of conservation efforts, especially for giraffes, which face habitat loss and declining populations in the wild.

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Source: “One Good Fact” — Encyclopedia Britannica

WTF Fun Fact 13539 – Research in Space

The future of ophthalmology could be in the stars, quite literally – LambdaVision, a groundbreaking company, is exploring research in space.

The company is testing the outer limits of medical science by developing a synthetic retinal implant. This innovation could revolutionize treatment for degenerative eye diseases. Their method involves the intricate layering of bacteriorhodopsin, a light-reactive protein, to mimic the retina’s function.

Artificial Retina Research in Space

This delicate process, termed “layer-by-layer deposition,” traditionally involves transitioning a gauze piece through multiple solutions hundreds of times. The challenge? Sedimentation, evaporation, and convection significantly impact the formation of these vital thin films.

Wagner believes the microgravity environment of the International Space Station (ISS) could be the solution. In space, the absence of these earthly constraints allows for more precise film formation.

On April 27, 2023, SpaceX’s Crew Dragon spacecraft, bearing the experimental setup for LambdaVision’s synthetic retina, docked with the ISS. This venture was part of NASA’s Crew-4 mission’s extensive scientific agenda.

The Crew-4 team, consisting of NASA astronauts Kjell Lindgren, Robert Hines, and Jessica Watkins, alongside ESA astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti, engaged in various experiments over their six-month mission. Their tasks ranged from studying microgravity’s effects on the human nervous system to trialing innovative plant growth technologies.

One experiment that stands out is the Beat project, a brainchild of the German Space Agency. It involves astronauts wearing smart shirts embedded with sensors to monitor vital signs like heart rate and blood pressure.

Manufacturing the Future in Microgravity

Dr. Wagner envisions manufacturing the synthetic retinas on the ISS or future commercial space stations. This approach could significantly enhance the quality and functionality of these implants.

LambdaVision is still a few years away from clinical trials, but the work conducted on the ISS could expedite this timeline.

If successful, their space-manufactured synthetic tissues could restore sight for individuals suffering from conditions like retinitis pigmentosa or macular degeneration.

Implications and Aspirations of Research in Space

LambdaVision’s ambitious project is more than a scientific endeavor; it’s a beacon of hope for those grappling with vision loss. Their success could pave the way for more space-based biomedical manufacturing, leading to breakthroughs in various medical fields.

The ISS becomes not just a research facility but a vital production center for advanced medical therapies.

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Source: “Astronauts to help build artificial retinas on Space Station” — The Independent

WTF Fun Fact 13537 – Apologies in the Workplace

In a study by the University of Arizona, researchers revealed that non-stereotypical apologies in the workplace can enhance communication. This study challenges conventional norms, emphasizing the power of breaking gender stereotypes in apologies to repair trust and foster collaboration.

Gender Stereotypes and Apologies in the Workplace

Sarah Doyle led a research team to explore the nuances of effective apologies in professional settings. Their focus? The impact of gender stereotypes on the perception of apologies. Traditional masculine language, characterized by assertiveness and confidence, and feminine language, known for its warmth and nurturing qualities, were used as benchmarks. Surprisingly, the research found that apologies that deviate from these gender norms were perceived as more effective.

Celebrity Apologies on Social Media

The research commenced with an analysis of celebrity apologies on Twitter. This platform, a hub for public statements, provided a rich dataset of 87 apology tweets from various celebrities. The response to these tweets revealed a pattern. Female celebrities who used masculine language in their apologies received higher engagement and more positive reactions.

The study extended beyond the virtual world into more relatable workplace scenarios. Researchers created situations involving accountants and nurses making mistakes and issuing apologies. Participants in these studies consistently found counter-stereotypical apologies more effective.

For women, using a counter-stereotypical apology increased the perceived effectiveness by an average of 9.7%, and for men, by 8.2%.

The Impact of Counter-Stereotypical Apologies

This research underscores the importance of moving beyond stereotypical patterns in our apologies. By adopting language and approaches that defy gender norms, individuals can enhance the impact of their apologies, leading to better outcomes in conflict resolution and trust-building.

The findings from the University of Arizona research team suggest that the way we construct apologies is as important as the frequency with which we offer them. This shift in focus from quantity to quality in apologies could pave the way for more effective communication strategies in diverse settings.

The study’s results have significant implications for professional environments, where effective communication is crucial. By encouraging individuals to break free from stereotypical language patterns in apologies, organizations can foster a more inclusive and collaborative atmosphere.

Rethinking the Construction of Apologies in the Workplace

As we move forward, this research encourages a deeper consideration of how we construct our apologies. The study highlights the potential for nuanced, thoughtful apologies to make a substantial difference in interpersonal relationships and professional settings.

The University of Arizona’s study on apology psychology offers a fresh perspective on effective communication. By challenging gender stereotypes in the language of apologies, individuals can enhance trust and collaboration in the workplace. This research not only adds a new dimension to our understanding of apologies but also opens avenues for future exploration in communication dynamics.

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Source: “Apology psychology: Breaking gender stereotypes leads to more effective communication” — ScienceDaily

WTF Fun Fact 13536 – AI and Rogue Waves

For centuries, sailors have whispered tales of monstrous rogue waves capable of splitting ships and damaging oil rigs. These maritime myths turned real with the documented 26-meter-high rogue wave at Draupner oil platform in 1995.

Fast forward to 2023, and researchers at the University of Copenhagen and the University of Victoria have harnessed the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to predict these oceanic giants. They’ve developed a revolutionary formula using data from over a billion waves spanning 700 years, transforming maritime safety.

Decoding Rogue Waves: A Data-Driven Approach

The quest to understand rogue waves led researchers to explore vast ocean data. They focused on rogue waves, twice the size of surrounding waves, and even the extreme ones over 20 meters high. By analyzing data from buoys across the US and its territories, they amassed more than a billion wave records, equivalent to 700 years of ocean activity.

Using machine learning, the researchers crafted an algorithm to identify rogue wave causes. They discovered that rogue waves occur more frequently than imagined, with about one monster wave daily at random ocean locations. However, not all are the colossal 20-meter giants feared by mariners.

AI as a New-Age Oceanographer

The study stands out for its use of AI, particularly symbolic regression. Unlike traditional AI methods that offer single predictions, this approach yields an equation. It’s akin to Kepler deciphering planetary movements from Tycho Brahe’s astronomical data, but with AI analyzing waves.

The AI examined over a billion waves and formulated an equation, providing a “recipe” for rogue waves. This groundbreaking method offers a transparent algorithm, aligning with physics laws, and enhances human understanding beyond the typical AI black box.

Contrary to popular belief that rogue waves stem from energy-stealing wave combinations, this research points to “linear superposition” as the primary cause. Known since the 1700s, this phenomenon occurs when two wave systems intersect, amplifying each other momentarily.

The study’s data supports this long-standing theory, offering a new perspective on rogue wave formation.

Towards Safer Maritime Journeys

This AI-driven algorithm is a boon for the shipping industry, constantly navigating potential dangers at sea. With approximately 50,000 cargo ships sailing globally, this tool enables route planning that accounts for the risk of rogue waves. Shipping companies can now use the algorithm for risk assessment and choose safer routes accordingly.

The research, algorithm, and utilized weather and wave data are publicly accessible. This openness allows entities like weather services and public authorities to calculate rogue wave probabilities easily. The study’s transparency in intermediate calculations sets it apart from typical AI models, enhancing our understanding of these oceanic phenomena.

The University of Copenhagen’s groundbreaking research, blending AI with oceanography, marks a significant advancement in our understanding of rogue waves. By transforming a massive wave database into a clear, physics-aligned equation, this study not only demystifies a long-standing maritime mystery but also paves the way for safer sea travels. The algorithm’s potential to predict these maritime monsters will be a crucial tool for the global shipping industry, heralding a new era of informed and safer ocean navigation.

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Source: “AI finds formula on how to predict monster waves” — ScienceDaily

WTF Fun Fact 13535 – Catgirl Nuclear Laboratory Hack

In a bizarre turn of events, a US nuclear laboratory, the Idaho National Laboratory (INL), fell victim to a hack by a group self-identifying as “gay furry hackers.” The group, Sieged Security (SiegedSec), has an unusual demand: they want the lab to research the creation of real-life catgirls.

The Idaho Nuclear Laboratory Cyber Attack

The Idaho National Laboratory is not just any facility; it’s a pioneer in nuclear technology, operating since 1949. With over 6,000 employees, the INL has been instrumental in nuclear reactor research and development. The unexpected cyber intrusion by SiegedSec marks a significant security breach.

SiegedSec’s demands are out of the ordinary. They have threatened to release sensitive employee data unless the INL commits to researching catgirls. The data purportedly includes Social Security numbers, birthdates, addresses, and more. SiegedSec’s tactics include using playful language, such as multiple “meows” in their communications, highlighting their unique approach.

The group has a history of targeting government organizations for various causes, including human rights. Their recent activities include leaking NATO documents and attacking US state governments over anti-trans legislation.

The Nuclear Laboratory’s Response and Investigation

The Idaho National Laboratory confirmed the breach and is currently working with the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security’s Cyber Security and Infrastructure Security Agency. The investigation aims to understand the extent of the data impacted by the incident.

SiegedSec’s actions, while unusual, shed light on several issues. First, it highlights the vulnerability of even high-profile, secure facilities to cyber attacks. Second, the group’s unique demand for researching catgirls, while seemingly whimsical, echoes broader internet discussions about bio-engineering and human-animal hybrids. Lastly, it demonstrates the diverse motives and methods of hacktivist groups.

The Future of Catgirls and Cybersecurity

While the likelihood of the INL taking up research on catgirls is slim, the breach itself is a serious matter. It underscores the need for heightened cybersecurity measures in sensitive facilities. As for SiegedSec, their influence in the realm of hacktivism is notable, blurring the lines between political activism, internet culture, and cybersecurity.

While the demand for catgirls is likely a playful facade, the breach at the Idaho National Laboratory is a reminder of the ongoing cybersecurity challenges facing institutions today. The INL’s breach is a wake-up call for enhanced security protocols in an era where cyber threats can come from the most unexpected sources.

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Source: “Gay Furry Hackers Break Into Nuclear Lab Data, Want Catgirls” — Kotaku