Brain Tunes | MACHO Star | Arctic Appendix

I just became an uncle again!

The rest of this newsletter is pretty great, but nothing competes with that.

-Steve

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Brain Tunes

Brains can play music, too. Researchers assessed brain activity from people listening to Pink Floyd’s “Another Brick in the Wall”.

• 2,668 electrodes measured 29 listener brains

• Algorithms generated a cover song from the data

• Superior Temporal Gyrus (STG) responded most to rhythm

Removing STG electrodes lead to failed music reproduction, further implying its role in the band. Understanding how our brains process music will help develop prosthetics for people with hearing limitations. New music genre: brain-pop.

Another brain in the wall

MACHO Star

Massive tidal waves roll across a binary star system in space. MACHO 80.7443.1718’s two host stars orbit each other causing a pulsing brightness.

• Larger star is 35x bigger than our sun

• Smaller star’s gravity creates solar matter waves

• 1 wave is taller than 3 stacked suns

One of these solar tsunamis crashing down releases enough energy to obliterate Earth and then some. Astronomers are searching for similar monster waves and already identified 991 potential systems. Toootally ready for solar surfing sci-fi 🤙

Surf’s up

Arctic Appendix

Antarctic winter expeditions require at least 1 person without an appendix, the doctor. Limited evacuation means solo doctors can’t risk requiring self-surgery.

• Appendicitis affects 5-9% of people in the US

• Normally not fatal, but requires surgery

• Winter, 1961: Dr. Rogozov removed his own appendix

Another case in 1950 had also considered self-operating, but was fortunately evacuated by the Australian Navy. Standard precautions now eliminate this potential hazard from risking the entire crew’s life. And add a quirky item to doc’s travel checklist.

More like appendicICEtis 

Unnatural Selection

Last week: “I wish I had the power to...”

Ok so next meteor shower we all agree to wish we can fly. Please report back with your attempts.

(Dark mode readers: this week’s chart looks better in light mode 😉)

st3v on site

Listening Party

Given the literal nature of “Baby Shark”, st3v was surprised to learn “Another Brick in the Wall (Part 1)” is not a guide in barrier building.

Forward to a friend!

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