› added 12 years ago

162

TIL An alligator’s immune system can fight HIV.

Read more news.nationalgeographic.com

via reddit.com

YpBKW TIL the abbreviation “lb” for pound comes from the ancient Roman unit of measure “libra pondo”, meaning “a pound by weight”, which is also why we ended up calling it a “pound”.
aXJ9 TIL scientists found that men wearing white t-shirts with a large black letter “T” printed on the front were 12% more attractive to women. The t-shirt creates the illusion of broadened shoulders and a slim waist, a male body shape women typically find attractive.
NWKe TIL In 2005 Benedict Cumberbatch was abducted and held at gunpoint by armed men in South Africa. After being let go he was eventually rescued by a stranger. He commented: “It taught me that you come into this world as you leave it, on your own. It’s made me want to live a life less ordinary.”
OG9o7 TIL that HMS Victory is the world's oldest naval vessel still in commission, with with 246 years of service as of 2024. Victory is best known for her role as Horatio, Lord Nelson's flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar on 21 October 1805.
jxaR TIL In 2013, you can re-use calendars from these years: 2002, 1991, 1985, 1974, 1963, 1957, 1946, 1935, 1929, and 1918.