› added 4 years ago

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TIL that there's a genetic abnormality called Turner Syndrome, which occurs when the second X chromosome is partially or completely missing, which can cause internal and external physical deformities, as well as vision and hearing and problems, and learning disabilities.

neOXb TIL Anthony Michael Hall was the first choice to play the lead role of Private Joker in "Full Metal Jacket". Hall spent eight months preparing for the role but could not reach an agreement with Stanley Kubrick regarding monetary compensation, and was replaced by Matthew Modine.
6EPew TIL that there was a successful chess-playing machine called "The Turk" constructed in late 18th century. Its secret, a chess master inside, wasn't revealed for almost a century.
p0X4 TIL Andre the Giant’s physique was due to acromegaly, a treatable (and often reversible) gland disease that causes constant secretion of growth hormone. Despite doctors and friends begging him to have surgery, he refused: “If this is the size that God wanted me to be, I’m going to be this size.”
xr77 TIL the Cult Awareness Network listed Scientology as the #1 most dangerous cult. Over 50 Scientologists later filed civil suits against them, many using the same carbon copy claim via 1 law firm. After suing them into bankruptcy, the Church bought the name and started the New Cult Awareness Network.
lxaB TIL that the loudest outdoor warning siren ever produced was the Chrysler Air Raid Siren, which could be heard from a distance of 20 to 25 miles and was powered by a Hemi V8 engine