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WTF Fun Fact 13749 – Worm Therapy

What would make you agree to worm therapy? When you hear what they can do, you might be more interested than you could have imagined.

Imagine curing severe allergies or autoimmune diseases not with advanced biotech drugs but with worms? Yes, the creepy crawlies might just be the unexpected heroes in the saga of human health, specifically gut-dwelling parasites like hookworms.

Hookworms: The Gut’s Unlikely Allies

In a twist that might make even the bravest squirm, recent research explores using parasitic worms as a potential treatment for autoimmune diseases. This idea stems from an intriguing theory: these parasites, by damping down our immune systems, might stop it from attacking our own bodies—an overreaction that’s a hallmark of autoimmune issues.

Science writer Moises Velasquez-Manoff, inspired by personal health challenges including alopecia and hay fever, ventured into this uncharted territory. His journey led him to Tijuana, where he intentionally infected himself with 30 hookworms. Yes, you read that right—Velasquez-Manoff allowed nearly three dozen parasites to take up residence in his intestines.

A Microscopic Invasion with Macro Implications

Hookworm larvae start their invasion by burrowing into the skin. They journey through the bloodstream to the lungs, then migrate to the small intestine where they clamp onto the intestinal walls and start feeding on the host’s blood. While this sounds like something out of a horror film, the real shocker comes from what happens next.

Once settled in the gut, these worms perform a bit of immunological magic. They suppress the immune system just enough to avoid being attacked by it. Researchers like P’ng Loke from the New York University School of Medicine suggest that this could prevent the immune system from overreacting. In theory, this should help alleviate symptoms of autoimmune diseases.

The Clinical Trial Turbulence

Excited by the potential, a pharmaceutical company, Coronado Biosciences, launched clinical trials to test this theory. They explored whether pig whipworms could help patients with Crohn’s disease. However, the results were disappointing. The trials showed that the patients who received the worm treatment did no better than those who took a placebo. Consequently, Coronado Biosciences saw its stock value crash and eventually shifted its business focus after canceling further trials.

Despite the setbacks in clinical trials, the concept of using parasitic worms for treating autoimmune diseases isn’t dead. The mixed results hint at a complex relationship between humans and parasites, possibly influenced by genetic factors or the specific conditions of the trials.

Velasquez-Manoff’s Personal Experiment

Back to our adventurous science writer—Velasquez-Manoff noticed significant temporary relief from his hay fever post-infestation. He even saw signs of hair growth, although minor. Unfortunately, the positive effects didn’t last. His symptoms returned, and the side effects of hosting the worms—like diarrhea and cramps—made the whole ordeal quite unpleasant.

Worm Therapy: A Gutsy Move?

Velasquez-Manoff’s personal conclusion was clear: the discomfort and risks of worm therapy did not outweigh its transient benefits. His experience underscores the complexity of biohacking with parasites. What works as a theoretical treatment might not translate into a practical or comfortable solution.

The Future of Worm Therapy

The journey of using parasites as a treatment is still in its infancy. While some may hold onto hope for worm-based therapies, current evidence suggests a cautious approach. Future research needs to address the variability in treatment outcomes and the potential long-term effects of such therapies.

In the meantime, those suffering from allergies or autoimmune diseases might want to stick to more conventional treatments. And as for the rest of us, perhaps it’s best to keep the worms in the garden, and out of our guts, at least for now.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Could Worms In Your Gut Cure Your Allergies?” — NPR

WTF Fun Fact 13732 – 10 Month Mamas

Pregnancy usually lasts around 40 weeks, but 10 month mamas challenge this norm.

In the United States, a group of women known as the “10-Month Mamas” have embraced and shared their experiences with these extended pregnancies. This term reflects their unique journey and highlights the realities of carrying a pregnancy beyond the typical gestation period.

The 10-Month Mamas navigate a complex landscape of medical advice, personal beliefs, and societal expectations. Understanding the factors contributing to extended pregnancies and the experiences of these women provides valuable insights into this phenomenon.

Causes of 10-Month Pregnancies

Several factors can contribute to a pregnancy extending to 10 months. The main reason? Well, it’s just the miscalculation of the due date. Estimating due dates accurately can be challenging, especially for women with irregular menstrual cycles. Healthcare providers typically use ultrasound and the date of the last menstrual period to estimate the due date, but these methods are not always precise.

Genetic factors also play a role in prolonged pregnancies. Some women may naturally have longer gestational periods due to their genetic makeup. Additionally, a family history of post-term pregnancies can increase the likelihood of experiencing a prolonged pregnancy.

Certain medical conditions can also lead to extended pregnancies. Conditions such as obesity, diabetes, or hormonal imbalances can affect the length of gestation. Additionally, carrying a male fetus or being over 35 can slightly increase the risk of a prolonged pregnancy.

Experiences and Challenges of 10 Month Mamas

The 10-Month Mamas often face unique challenges and decisions. One significant challenge is managing the medical and societal pressure to induce labor. Many healthcare providers recommend induction after 42 weeks due to increased risks associated with prolonged pregnancies. These risks include fetal macrosomia, stillbirth, and neonatal complications.

However, many 10-Month Mamas prefer to wait for labor to begin naturally. They often believe in allowing their bodies to follow their natural timeline unless clear medical concerns arise. This choice requires careful monitoring, including non-stress tests, biophysical profiles, and regular ultrasounds to ensure the baby’s well-being.

The decision to wait can be stressful, as these women often receive frequent inquiries about their due date and the baby’s arrival. The constant questioning can add pressure, making the waiting period more challenging. Despite these challenges, many 10-Month Mamas report positive outcomes, with healthy births and babies showing no signs of post-maturity.

Debate and Recommendations

The debate over managing prolonged pregnancies continues among medical professionals. Some experts advocate for extending the definition of “late” to 43 weeks instead of 42. They argue that each baby should come in its own time and that clear signs should indicate the need for induction. These signs include reduced fetal movement, deceleration in growth, or low amniotic fluid levels, which can be monitored by the mother or midwife.

The experiences of the 10-Month Mamas highlight the need for personalized prenatal care. Each pregnancy is unique, and decisions should be based on the specific circumstances of the mother and baby. This approach ensures that care is tailored to the individual, balancing the desire for natural birth with the need to address any medical concerns.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Nearly 45 weeks pregnant, she wanted a “freebirth” with no doctors. Online groups convinced her it would be OK” — NBC News

WTF Fun Fact 13692 – Diamond Dust

Diamond dust precipitation is one of nature’s most exquisite phenomena, painting winter landscapes with a sparkle that rivals any fairy tale. This natural spectacle occurs under specific conditions, often in polar regions and during the coldest months.

The Essence of Diamond Dust

Diamond dust isn’t composed of actual diamonds but is a meteorological term for a ground-level cloud composed of tiny ice crystals. This form of precipitation occurs in clear, calm air under frigid conditions, typically when temperatures drop to -30°C (-22°F) or lower.

Unlike snowflakes that fall from clouds, this precipitation forms directly in the air near the ground, creating a mist of glittering crystals that seem to float and dance in the light.

Formation and Conditions

The magic of diamond dust begins with supersaturated air—air that contains more water vapor than it can hold at its current temperature. In the extreme cold, the excess vapor doesn’t need a nucleus (like dust or pollen) to condense upon; it freezes directly into ice crystals. These conditions are most often met during polar nights or in continental interiors far from the moderating influence of the ocean.

Visual and Atmospheric Impact

One of the most enchanting aspects of diamond dust is its ability to create halos, sun pillars, and other optical phenomena. When sunlight or moonlight interacts with the hexagonal ice crystals, it refracts and reflects, creating stunning light displays.

These effects not only contribute to the beauty of winter landscapes but also have implications for climate studies, as they can influence the Earth’s albedo, or how much sunlight the planet reflects back into space.

Significance and Study of Diamond Dust

Meteorologists and climate scientists study diamond dust to understand better the atmospheric conditions that lead to its formation and its role in Earth’s energy balance. It can affect local weather patterns and contribute to cooling, particularly in regions where it occurs frequently.

Understanding these microclimates adds to our broader understanding of global climate systems and helps refine models that predict weather and climate change.

Human and Ecological Interactions

For inhabitants of regions where diamond dust is common, this phenomenon is both a spectacle and a signal of the harsh environmental conditions they must navigate. It affects visibility, which can influence transportation and safety.

Ecologically, this sparkling precipitation and the conditions that lead to its formation have adapted to local flora and fauna, contributing to the unique biodiversity of polar and subpolar ecosystems.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Diamond Dust: Snow From The Clear Blue Sky?” — Farmer’s Almanac

WTF Fun Fact 13688 – Chess’ Infinite Possibilities

Diving into the world of chess, we hit upon a fact that’s as mind-boggling as it is true: there are infinite possibilities in chess games. In fact, more than there are atoms in the observable universe.

Let’s break this down into manageable pieces.

Chess: A Game of Infinite Possibilities

Chess, with its 64 squares and 32 pieces, might seem finite at first glance. However, the potential moves and strategies unfold into a vast, almost limitless landscape. The number of possible game variations exceeds the number of atoms in the observable universe, which is about 10^80. In contrast, the number of possible chess games is estimated to be around 10^120. This staggering difference showcases chess’s complexity and depth.

Calculating the Infinite

The calculation of chess’s possible iterations involves a dizzying array of potential moves each piece can make, compounded with each turn. From the initial move of a pawn or knight to the intricate dances of queens and rooks in the endgame, every decision branches into a new set of possibilities, expanding the game’s potential universe exponentially.

The Impact on Strategy

What does this mean for players? It ensures that no two chess games are ever the same. Players must constantly adapt, think ahead, and strategize in novel ways. This infinite complexity makes chess a perennial challenge, one that can never be fully mastered, always offering new puzzles to solve and strategies to explore.

Beyond Human Comprehension

The vast number of iterations in chess goes beyond what the human mind can fully comprehend or explore. It’s a humbling reminder of the game’s depth and the limits of human cognition. Even with the advent of powerful chess computers and algorithms, we’re still uncovering the mysteries and beauties of this ancient game.

Infinite Possibilities on a Chessboard

This fact about chess serves as a metaphor for the infinite possibilities within seemingly finite boundaries. It reminds us that within the constraints of a chessboard lies a universe of potential, echoing the endless capacity for innovation and creativity in the human spirit.

In essence, the idea that chess offers more game possibilities than there are atoms in the universe is a testament to the game’s enduring intrigue and complexity. It’s a fascinating aspect that draws players in, offering a lifetime of discovery and challenge on just 64 squares.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Are there really more possible Chess games than atoms in the Universe?” — Medium

WTF Fun Fact 13664 – Odeuropa

Odeuropa, an innovative European Union-funded project, aims to help us imagine the sensory journey through different eras and cultures.

Spearheaded by Inger Leemans, a professor of cultural history, Odeuropa focuses on the significant role of smell in European culture. Smell, more than any other sense, connects us deeply with memories and experiences. The essence of pine needles could evoke a myriad of personal memories, from winter sports adventures to festive family gatherings.

Odeuropa: An Encyclopedia of European Smells

At the heart of the project lies the creation of an online database. It’s an encyclopedia of smells, drawing from a wide range of scent-related data from museums, universities, and other heritage institutions.

This comprehensive resource aims to unravel the olfactory cultures and vocabularies of the past. It encompasses a diverse spectrum, from perfumes used to combat diseases to the distinct odors of industrialization captured in historical literature and paintings.

Odeuropa’s team utilizes artificial intelligence to identify and analyze references to smells from historical texts and images, spanning from the 16th to the early 20th century. The project’s ambition is to rediscover Europe’s key scents and reintroduce them to the public.

Launched in November 2020, it has made significant progress, culminating in the release of the Smell Explorer search engine and the Encyclopedia of Smell History and Heritage. These tools provide insights into how past generations described, depicted, and experienced various smells.

Collaboration and Technology in Olfactory Research

Odeuropa’s team comprises experts in various fields, including olfactory storytelling and A.I. technology. Their combined efforts focus on capturing ‘smell events’ – specific occasions, circumstances, and places as described by historical witnesses.

This collaboration is crucial for providing resources to scholars and students, aiding them in exploring the ephemeral evidence of the past through scents.

Evan Kutzler, a U.S. historian, emphasizes the importance of this approach in historical research, noting its ability to reveal otherwise elusive aspects of our history.

The Odeuropa project goes beyond academic research. It opens up a new dimension in experiencing history, making it more immersive and engaging for the public. By bringing historical scents to life, the project enhances the impact of digital collections in museums and online platforms. It allows individuals to connect with history in a unique and personal way, deepening their understanding and appreciation of different cultures and eras.

The Future of Odeuropa and Historical Research

As Odeuropa continues to evolve, it sets a precedent for incorporating sensory experiences into historical research and education. It demonstrates the potential of using innovative technologies like artificial intelligence in the humanities. The project’s success could inspire similar initiatives, leading to a more multi-sensory and inclusive approach to learning and experiencing history.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “A New Encyclopedia Explores Europe’s Smelly History” — Smithsonian Magazine

WTF Fun Fact 13658 – Viking Dentistry

You probably haven’t pondered Viking dentistry. However, a recent study at the University of Gothenburg revealed that Viking dental practices were surprisingly advanced.

The study examined 3,293 teeth from 171 individuals in Varnhem, Sweden, dating back to the Viking Age. This region is renowned for well-preserved skeletal remains, offering a unique glimpse into ancient dental health.

Caries and Tooth Loss in Viking Dentistry

The findings, published in PLOS ONE, show a widespread occurrence of dental issues among the Vikings. About 49% of the population had one or more caries lesions, with 13% of adult teeth affected, often at the roots. Interestingly, children’s milk teeth were free from caries. Adults frequently experienced tooth loss, averaging a 6% loss over their lifetimes, excluding wisdom teeth.

These results suggest that tooth infections and aches were common, likely impacting daily life.

The Vikings weren’t just suffering in silence; they actively attempted dental care. Evidence of toothpick use, front teeth filing, and even treatment for infected teeth were found. Molars showed filed holes from the crown to the pulp, probably to relieve toothache caused by infection.

This method mirrors modern dental treatments, where drilling into infected teeth relieves pressure. It’s unclear whether Vikings conducted these procedures themselves or sought help.

Cultural Significance of Teeth

Filed front teeth, found predominantly in males, may have served as identity markers. This practice indicates that teeth held significant cultural importance in Viking society. The study suggests that Viking Age dentistry might have been more sophisticated than previously thought, with a better understanding of oral health than assumed.

This study offers more than just a medical perspective; it sheds light on the cultural aspects of Viking life. The care and attention given to teeth, from practical health to aesthetic modifications, reflect a society that valued oral health and appearance.

Such findings challenge the stereotypical image of Vikings and offer a more nuanced view of their daily lives.

Advancements in Viking Dentistry

The dental techniques observed in Viking remains were not rudimentary. The evidence of infection treatment and cosmetic modifications speaks to a level of sophistication in their dental knowledge.

These practices show parallels with modern dentistry, highlighting an unexpected advancement in medical understanding during the Viking Age.

This groundbreaking research opens doors for further study into the health and cultural practices of ancient civilizations. Understanding the significance of oral health in Viking society could lead to more discoveries about their lifestyle, medical practices, and societal norms.

As we uncover more about the Vikings, our perception of them evolves from mere warriors to a complex society with advanced practices.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Viking dentistry was surprisingly advanced” — ScienceDaily

WTF Fun Fact 13652 – The Grey Hulk Origin

Do you know the grey Hulk origin story? Wait…did you even know there was once a GREY Hulk?

The Incredible Hulk, known for his iconic green skin and colossal strength, didn’t start off green. In 1962, Marvel Comics debuted the Hulk as a grey-skinned goliath.

Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, the Hulk was envisioned as a misunderstood creature, akin to Quasimodo or Frankenstein’s monster. The aim was to make him relatable and devoid of any specific ethnic association.

The Unplanned Transition to Green from the Grey Hulk Origin

During the initial comic series, the colorist faced challenges with the grey ink. This inconsistency led to the Hulk’s skin appearing green in some editions. Interestingly, Stan Lee embraced this accidental green hue, and it became a defining feature of the Hulk’s character. Interestingly, the serendipitous twist gave the Hulk a distinct and now-iconic appearance.

In the world of comics, changes often get woven into the storyline. The Hulk’s color change was explained as a consequence of ongoing gamma exposure affecting Bruce Banner, the Hulk’s alter ego. As a result, the simple narrative device allowed the transition from grey to green to fit seamlessly into the Hulk’s story.

The Emergence of Grey Hulk’s Persona

The Hulk’s color change wasn’t just cosmetic. It introduced a new aspect to Bruce Banner’s persona. The Grey Hulk, also known as Joe Fixit, was an intelligent, calculating figure, quite different from the savage and primal Green Hulk. As a result, the new identity even saw the Grey Hulk working as a gangster in Las Vegas, showcasing a complex character far removed from the original concept.

Bruce Banner’s struggle with his dual identities led to a significant storyline involving therapy sessions with Doc Sampson. These sessions aimed to integrate Banner’s personalities. Eventually, they led to the creation of “The Professor,” a persona where Banner’s intellect controlled the Hulk’s strength. This concept found its way into the MCU’s “Avengers: Endgame,” where Banner and the Hulk merge into a single entity, illustrating how the character has evolved over the years.

The Impact of a Coloring Error

The Hulk’s journey from grey to green highlights how creative decisions can shape a character’s legacy. What began as a coloring issue led to an iconic change that deeply influenced the Hulk’s character development. This change not only established the Hulk’s visual identity but also paved the way for exploring multiple facets of Bruce Banner’s personality.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Yes, The Hulk Was Originally GREY in Marvel Comics” — ScreenRant

WTF Fun Fact 13629 – NASA’s Lost Tool Bag

In the vast emptiness of space, a lost tool bag from a NASA spacewalk has become an unlikely stargazer’s delight. On November 9, 2023, the bag became untethered from astronauts Jasmin Moghbeli and Loral O’Hara during repairs on the International Space Station (ISS). Now orbiting Earth, the tool bag presents a unique sighting opportunity, shining bright as a star in the night sky.

Astronomical Mishap to Stargazing Marvel

What began as a minor mishap has evolved into a spectacle for amateur astronomers and curious onlookers alike.

The tool bag, initially following close behind the ISS, has started to lose altitude and drift ahead. Observations on November 11 showed the bag five minutes ahead of the ISS. Predictions suggest it will soon be nearly ten minutes in the lead.

Catching a Glimpse of the Celestial Tool Bag

This orbital oddity offers a new kind of sighting challenge. It can still be spotted with the aid of binoculars, appearing around magnitude +6. Those hoping to witness this sight should plan to observe the trajectory of the ISS, and then shift their gaze ahead of its path. With careful timing, the tool bag will make its journey across the stargazing canvas.

Despite its current visibility, the tool bag’s time in orbit is finite. As it continues to descend, it is expected to reenter Earth’s atmosphere between March and July of 2024, ultimately disintegrating. This event will mark the end of its accidental journey and remind us of the delicate nature of space operations.

The incident has sparked a renewed conversation about space debris and its implications. While the bag of tools poses no immediate threat, it underscores the broader issue of objects lost in space, highlighting the need for meticulous practices during extravehicular activities.

The Skyward Saga of a Tool Bag

From a practical instrument for space repairs to an object of curiosity circling our planet, the tool bag’s story captivates the imagination.

It serves as a reminder of our reach into space and the traces we leave behind. For now, as it glides silently above, the tool bag offers a fleeting connection to the vastness of space, a tiny beacon reminding us of humanity’s continuous quest beyond Earth’s bounds.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Lost tool bag from spacewalk caught on video” — EarthSky

WTF Fun Fact 13624 – The Phantom Touch Illusion

Using Virtual reality (VR) scenarios where subjects interacted with their bodies using virtual objects, a research team from Ruhr University Bochum in Germany unearthed the phenomenon of the phantom touch illusion. This sensation occurs when individuals in VR environments experience a tingling feeling upon virtual contact, despite the absence of physical interaction.

Unraveling the Mystery of Phantom Touch

Dr. Artur Pilacinski and Professor Christian Klaes, spearheading the research, were intrigued by this illusion. “People in virtual reality sometimes feel as though they’re touching real objects,” explains Pilacinski. The subjects described this sensation as a tingling or electrifying experience, akin to a breeze passing through their hand. This study, detailed in the journal Scientific Reports, sheds light on how our brains and bodies interpret virtual experiences.

The research involved 36 volunteers who, equipped with VR glasses, first acclimated to the virtual environment. Their task was to touch their hand with a virtual stick in this environment. The participants reported sensations, predominantly tingling, even when touching parts of their bodies not visible in the VR setting. This finding suggests that our perception and body sensation stem from a blend of sensory inputs.

Control Experiments and Unique Results

A control experiment was conducted to discern if similar sensations could arise without VR. This used a laser pointer instead of virtual objects. That experiment did not result in the phantom touch, underscoring the unique nature of the phenomenon within virtual environments.

The discovery of the phantom touch illusion propels research in human perception and holds potential applications in VR technology and medicine. “This could enhance our understanding of neurological diseases affecting body perception,” notes neuroscience researcher Christian Klaes.

Future Research and Collaborative Efforts

The team at Bochum is eager to delve deeper into this illusion and its underlying mechanisms. A partnership with the University of Sussex aims to differentiate actual phantom touch sensations from cognitive processes like suggestion or experimental conditions. “We are keen to explore the neural basis of this illusion and expand our understanding,” says Pilacinski.

This research marks a significant step in VR technology, offering a new perspective on how virtual experiences can influence our sensory perceptions. As VR continues to evolve, its applications in understanding human cognition and aiding medical advancements become increasingly evident. The phantom touch illusion not only intrigues the scientific community but also paves the way for innovative uses of VR in various fields.

— WTF fun facts

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