Phactum - 2016 01 - January

Magazine Overview

Title: Phactum
Issue: January/February/March 2016
Publisher: Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT)
Editor: Ray Haupt
Webmaster: Wes Powers

This issue of Phactum, the newsletter and 'Anti Woo Woo Organ' of the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking, focuses heavily on the debate surrounding evolution and creationism, with a particular emphasis on the fossil discovery of Tiktaalik. The publication also covers various lectures and events hosted by PhACT, and includes 'ruminations' on a range of skeptical topics.

Tiktaalik is Darwinist Plot!

The lead article, "Tiktaalik is Darwinist Plot!", argues that Tiktaalik is not a transitional species and should be removed from textbooks and museum displays. It details the 2004 discovery of the Tiktaalik roseae fossil by Dr. Ted Daeschler and his colleagues, which was hailed as a 'missing link' between fish and amphibians. However, the article highlights objections from Creationist and Intelligent Design factions, particularly the discovery of fossilized footprints in Poland dating to the Devonian Age (390 million years ago), which they claim predates Tiktaalik (375 million years ago), thus refuting its transitional status. The article cites websites like Evolution News and Harunyahya.com as proponents of this view.

PhACT invites readers to a lecture by Professor Ted Daeschler on January 16, 2016, to learn more about Tiktaalik.

Human Evolution and Skepticism

The magazine delves into human evolution, drawing parallels between Tiktaalik and human transitional species like Homo rudolfensis, Homo habilis, Australopithecus africanus, and Neanderthals. It acknowledges that while some may object to the notion of human ancestry from non-human forms, these realities are part of our shared heritage with early humans, humanoids, and primates.

PhACT Lectures and Speakers

Several upcoming lectures are announced:

• Saturday, January 16, 2016: Dr. Ted Daeschler will discuss "A Farewell to Tiktaalik" at an alternate location (West Building, 17th and Spring Garden Streets).
• Saturday, February 20, 2016: Professor Alan Mann, an expert in human evolution, will speak on "The Scars of Human Evolution" at the same alternate location. His work includes paleoanthropology and human evolution, and he is affiliated with Evolution at Princeton.
• Saturday, March 19, 2016: Professor Bob Blaskiewicz will lecture on "Skepticism and Critical Thinking" at the usual location (Center for Business and Industry, 18th and Callowhill Streets). His expertise includes conspiracy theories, alternative medicine, and the paranormal.
• Saturday, April 16, 2016: Dr. Tom Delworth will discuss "Global Warming" at the usual location.

The Scopes Trial and William Jennings Bryan

The issue revisits the Scopes Trial, also known as the Scopes Monkey Trial, in Dayton, Tennessee (1925), as a famous instance of denial of human evolution. It mentions William Jennings Bryan, who led the charge against Evolution in the trial and was an ardent anti-evolutionist and Prohibitionist.

Various Ruminations of Woo Woo and Real Science and some Gossip

This section, collected by Ray Haupt, covers a variety of topics from a skeptical perspective:

• Cryotherapy: The article expresses skepticism towards a faddish form of cryotherapy involving extreme cold chambers, citing a New York Times report on its lack of oversight.
• Bacteria in the gut: It reports on recent medical research at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia by Dr. Robert Baldassano and colleagues regarding the flora and fauna in digestive systems and their effects on health, referencing articles from the Los Angeles Times and Cleveland Clinic.
• Homeopathy - Proving of Cygnus X-1, Black Hole, Lux foraminis nigris: This section details a homeopathic remedy prepared by Rowan Jackson and astronomer Peter Lipscomb, using a telescope focused on the Cygnus X-1 black hole. The 'proving' involved administering the remedy in a double-blind format to observe symptoms. The remedy is available from Helios Homoeopathy.
• 50,000 child witches: A dismal story from the Daily Mail (October 19, 2015) about thousands of abandoned children in Kinsasha, Congo, accused of witchcraft due to poverty and superstition.
• Blacklight Power Has a New Name: The energy sector company Blacklight Power has changed its name to Brilliant Light Power. They claim to have developed a method for nearly unlimited electrical power using 'hydrinos,' which the article dismisses as non-existent substances.

Reports and Announcements

• Dr. Stephen Barrett Reports in Consumer Health Digest: Stanislaw Burzynski, M.D., is facing legal action, including a lawsuit by his former attorney for legal fees and an ongoing action by the Texas Medical Board. Burzynski is described as a "well know cancer quack."
• Miracle Mineral Solution (MMS) seller receives prison sentence: Louis Daniel Smith was sentenced for marketing industrial bleach as a "miracle cure" for various diseases.
• School Science Fairs - 2016: PhACT will participate in school science fairs in Philadelphia and Bucks County, awarding prizes to students demonstrating good Critical Thinking skills.
• Good News Announcement for PhACT Members and Donors: PhACT has been recognized as a 501(c)3 non-profit tax-exempt organization, making dues and contributions tax-deductible.

PhACT Expedition to Haycock Mountain

An upcoming expedition on May 21, 2016, to Haycock Mountain is announced, focusing on the legend of the "Wild Man of Haycock Mountain." The event will include zoological and botanical information, and participants will visit local historical sites.

Letters to the Editor and Reader Participation

Letters to the Editor are encouraged, though none were submitted for this quarter. A "Reader Participation Desired" section invites readers to engage in discussions on various controversial topics, encouraging participation from Creationists, UFOlogists, and others often scorned by skeptics.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Phactum are skepticism towards pseudoscientific claims, the promotion of critical thinking, and a strong stance against creationism and intelligent design, particularly in the context of scientific education. The editorial stance is clearly pro-evolution and anti-'woo woo,' as evidenced by the critical examination of topics like cryotherapy and homeopathy, and the reporting on legal actions against individuals promoting unproven medical treatments. The publication actively encourages intellectual engagement and debate from a rationalist perspective.

Phactum, January/February/March 2016 issue, is a publication that delves into various aspects of science, health, and natural history, often with a critical eye towards pseudoscience and misinformation. This issue features a mix of book reviews, event reports, and articles on scientific topics.

Key Articles and Features

Quackwatch and Anti-Science

The issue highlights Quackwatch's history of enforcement actions against misinformation. It also lists the "Top-10 Worst Anti-Science Sites" as updated by Brian Dunning in December 2015. These sites, including Natural News, Mercola.com, DoctorOz.com, Foodbabe.com, and Chopra.com, are criticized for promoting conspiracy theories, "quack medical products," fearmongering, and pseudoscience.

Science-Based Medicine and Vaccination

A free 10-part video lecture series from the James Randi Educational Foundation is promoted, contrasting science-based medicine with "complementary and alternative" methods. The series covers topics like acupuncture, homeopathy, and the pitfalls of research. Additionally, the failure of an antivaccine referendum drive in California (SB277) is noted, which aimed to overturn stringent childhood vaccine requirements.

Book Reviews and Discussions

"The History of Medicine in 100 Facts" by Caroline Rance: This book is introduced as a comprehensive look at medicine's past, covering discoveries, heroes, villains, and gruesome events. Caroline Rance, who runs the website www.thequackdoctor.com, offers concise introductions to historical episodes, dispelling myths and highlighting neglected figures.

"Bad Faith: When Religious Belief Undermines Modern Medicine" by Paul A. Offit: This book is reviewed, addressing how some individuals prioritize religious beliefs over modern medical treatment, leading to tragic outcomes, especially for children. It explores the complex relationship between religion and medicine in America.

"Debunk It! How to Stay Sane in a World of Misinformation" by John Grant: Reported by Jeffery B., this section details a lecture by John Grant discussing his book. Grant critiques the methodology of para-scientific research, contrasting it with robust sciences like physics and geology. He examines historical instances of pseudoscience, such as spirit photography and "heaven tourism."

"American Monster" by Paul Semonin: Reviewed by Paul Schlueter III, this book chronicles the discovery of the mastodon in pre-Revolutionary America and the scientific and religious debates surrounding these extinct creatures. It also touches upon "scientific racism" and the intermingling of religious dogma with early scientific thinking.

Scientific Lectures and Courses

Dr. Robert Baldassano on the Microbiome: A lecture report details Dr. Baldassano's discussion on "The Ecosystem Within You, How is it Affecting You?" The talk covered how a person's microbiota impacts health, influencing diseases like IBD, obesity, and colon cancer. The importance of diet and the complexity of managing the microbiome were emphasized.

Wagner Free Institute of Science Events: Several events and courses are listed for the Wagner Free Institute of Science in Philadelphia. These include "Wagner's Winter Wonderland," a talk on "When Bugs Outsmart Drugs" by Dr. Bill Wuest, and a lecture by zoologist Dr. Kristofer Helgen. Adult education courses cover topics such as agriculture, nutrition, human physiology, biochemistry, urban plant ecology, and evolution.

Other Courses: Additional adult education courses are mentioned, including "Musings on Nutrition" by Michael McCann, "Human Physiology" by Jason Downs, "Biochemistry of Your Medicine Cabinet" by Joseph B. Rucker, and "Urban Plant Ecology" by Dr. David Hewitt.

Wildlife Feature: Snow Geese

"Off the Beaten Path: Wild Goose Chase" by Kim A. Sheridan: This article focuses on the phenomenon of snow geese migrating to and gathering at Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania. It describes their gregarious nature, peak migration times, and the dramatic increase in population. The article details the geese's diet, their impact on Arctic wetlands, and the use of hunting for population control. It also touches on the impressive spectacle of tens of thousands of snow geese taking flight.

Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area Information: Practical information for visitors to Middle Creek is provided, including amenities, general information about the Visitor's Center hours, and links to the management area portal and waterfowl migration update webpage. Kim Sheridan is identified as an amateur naturalist and wildlife observer.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Phactum consistently promotes critical thinking and evidence-based science, actively challenging pseudoscience, misinformation, and "quackery" in health and other fields. The magazine features content that debunks false claims, reviews skeptical literature, and highlights scientific research and educational opportunities. There is a clear editorial stance favoring scientific literacy and a cautious approach to claims not supported by robust evidence. The publication also shows an interest in natural history and environmental topics, as seen in the feature on snow geese.

This issue of Phactum, dated January/February/March 2016, presents a diverse range of articles covering medical advancements, alternative therapies, critical thinking, and a calendar of local science events.

New Care After a Stroke

Authored by Paul Schlueter III, this article details significant improvements in post-stroke treatment, noting a success rate increase of over 140% beyond tPA injections alone. It highlights the "Solitaire" system, developed by Covidien (now Medtronic), which uses a catheter and a tunneling wire to pierce and a stent to remove blood clots from brain arteries. This device is particularly crucial for larger clots that tPA cannot dissolve. The article cites a Science News feature by Nathan Seppa (June 13, 2015) that describes the device. Jeffrey Saver, Director of the UCLA Stroke Center, is quoted calling this a "once-in-a-generation change in acute stroke care," noting that retrievable stents can open 80-90% of clots. Five studies published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2015 demonstrated the system's efficacy, with patients showing significantly better outcomes after 90 days compared to those treated with tPA alone. The article also touches on the critical importance of time in stroke treatment and suggests that awake patients may respond better to the procedure.

Cryotherapy, A New Fad in CAM

Also by Paul Schlueter III, this piece critically examines cryotherapy as a Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) fad. It reports on the death of a 24-year-old spa employee, Chelsea Ake-Salvacion, who was found "frozen solid" after using a full-body cryotherapy unit that reached -240° F. The spa owners were charged with operating without a license. The article questions the scientific basis of such extreme cold therapy, comparing it to less extreme practices like steam bathing or ice swimming, and expresses skepticism about its purported health benefits. It notes that the spa was shut down by Nevada authorities. The article also mentions a cryotherapy facility near Philadelphia and its endorsement by Dr. Oz and Dr. Alan Christianson, while maintaining a skeptical stance. The author invites reader investigation into similar salons and their licensing.

How Sherlock Was Mistaken

Paul Schlueter III analyzes the famous maxim of Sherlock Holmes: "Once you have eliminated the impossible, then whatever you have left, no matter how improbable, must be true." The author argues that this maxim relies on a flawed dichotomy and is impractical for real-world inquiry. He points out that the set of "impossibilities" is not finite and that the process of elimination can become burdensome. Furthermore, the "balance of knowledge" is vast, and one must also eliminate the "possible-but-still-wrong" explanations. The article suggests that even fictional characters like Holmes and Spock can be mistaken, and that relying too heavily on fictional characters for defining skeptical inquiry can be misleading. The author playfully admits to using a "Straw Man" argument in his own article.

PhACT Calendar

The magazine includes a detailed calendar of upcoming events hosted by PhACT (Philadelphia Area Center for the History of Science) and other related organizations, primarily in the Philadelphia area, from January to March 2016. Events include lectures on topics such as "A Farewell to Tiktaalik," "The Scars of Human Evolution," "Skepticism and Critical Thinking," and "Global Warming." Other events include historical tours of Laurel Hill Cemetery, science cafés, and discussions on crime, justice, and environmental policy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of new scientific and medical claims, the importance of evidence-based reasoning, and a healthy dose of skepticism towards unproven therapies and popular beliefs. The magazine promotes scientific literacy and encourages readers to engage critically with information. The editorial stance is clearly one of advocating for rigorous scientific inquiry and cautioning against pseudoscientific fads. The inclusion of the P.T. Barnum quote at the end of the cryotherapy article underscores this critical and skeptical perspective.

Title: Phactum
Issue: January/February/March 2016
Publisher: Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of Phactum serves as the primary communication organ for the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT), detailing a robust schedule of events and lectures primarily focused on science, history, and critical thinking, predominantly in the Philadelphia area. The publication covers events from January through April 2016, with some listings extending into May, June, and even October.

Featured Events and Lectures

Astronomy and Rittenhouse Astronomical Society

The Rittenhouse Astronomical Society hosts monthly meetings on the second Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. in the Fels Planetarium at the Franklin Institute. These free meetings aim to foster knowledge and enjoyment of astronomy. Specific lectures mentioned include one on March 9th at the Fels Planetarium, and another on April 13th and May 11th at the same location.

Science Lectures and Discussions

A variety of science-related events are highlighted:

• The Institute for Science and Religion: Hosted a lecture on "The Principle and Practice of Civil Dialogue" on March 13th at Chestnut Hill College. They also hosted a reflection on Pope Francis' Encyclical "Laudato Si" on April 17th.
• PENN Science Café: Featured Brenda Casper on March 15th discussing "Studying Climate Change in a Land of Nomads: How Species Will Respond to New Conditions in the Mongolian Steppe." On April 19th, Lauren Sallan presented "The Rise of Tiny Fish," exploring vertebrate biodiversity. These events take place at World Cafe Live.
• Science on Tap: This monthly gathering, held at National Mechanics, features informal presentations by scientists. Events are scheduled for March 14th, April 11th, May 9th, and May 16th (the latter at The Center for Environmental Policy of the Academy of Natural Sciences).
• The Searchlight Series: Held at Eastern State Penitentiary on the first Tuesday of each month, these events address issues in contemporary corrections. Dates listed include April 5th, May 3rd, and June 7th.
• PhACT Lectures: Professor Bob Blaskiewicz spoke on "Skepticism and Critical Thinking" on March 19th. Dr. Tom Delworth discussed "Global Warming" on April 16th. Both lectures were held at the Wagner Free Institute of Science.
• PENN Lightbulb Café: Michael Horowitz discussed "Why Leaders Fight" on April 5th at World Cafe Live.

Historical and Cultural Events

Several lectures delve into historical topics:

• Laurel Hill Cemetery: Hosted a "Lunchbox Lecture: Meet the Entertainers" on March 12th, exploring prolific entertainers buried in the cemetery.
• Great Myths and Legends Lecture Series: On April 6th, Dr. Megan Kassabaum and Dr. Simon Martin presented on "The Queen of Sheba in History and Legend" at the University of Pennsylvania Museum. Dr. Annette Y. Reed also discussed the Queen of Sheba on April 7th at the Free Library of Philadelphia.
• Buzz Aldrin: Presented "No Dream Is Too High: Life Lessons From a Man Who Walked on the Moon" on April 7th at the Free Library of Philadelphia.
• Historians Annette Gordon-Reed and Peter S. Onuf: Presented on Thomas Jefferson on April 21st at the Free Library of Philadelphia.
• Friends of Valley Forge Park: Featured a talk by Mary Thompson on "Mount Vernon during the Revolutionary War" on April 5th, and Todd Andrlik spoke on "Reporting the Revolutionary War" on May 3rd.

Workshops

• 18th Century Hearth-Cooking Workshop: This workshop is offered multiple times at the 1696 Thomas Massey House in Broomall, PA, on March 19th, April 23rd, May 21st, and October 22nd, focusing on seasonal meals and pickles.

PhACT Expeditions

• PhACT Expedition to Haycock Mountain: Scheduled for May 21st, with details available on page 6.

Membership and Editorial Information

PhACT is distributed four times a year. Annual membership is $15 for students (including email delivery of Phactum) and $25 for US Mail delivery. The publication welcomes letters, essays, and other contributions addressed to Ray Haupt, Phactum editor. The editorial stance emphasizes critical thinking and skepticism, with a policy for article use allowing reprints by groups recognized in CSI's international network of skeptics organizations, provided proper credit is given.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the promotion of scientific literacy, critical thinking, and historical awareness. The Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking, as the publisher, clearly advocates for a skeptical and evidence-based approach to understanding the world. The editorial stance, as suggested by the publication's name and the content, is to encourage intellectual curiosity, rigorous inquiry, and a thoughtful examination of complex issues, from astronomical phenomena to environmental challenges and historical narratives. The inclusion of a quote from Theodore Roosevelt underscores a broader concern with societal values and the potential pitfalls of unchecked materialism and comfort.