I’m well aware that some people are wired to enjoy math, just as certain others (myself included) are wired to loath it. I like to think of myself as more of a creative soul than a logically-thinking one. But hey, everyone’s different.

That said, while I certainly had no love for tackling math in stuffy classrooms packed full of disobedient kids, I have taken something of an unlikely pleasure in solving online problems when and where I find them. It’s all done in my own sweet time of course (and absolutely not in any sort of hurry), but the process of working my way through internet riddles and puzzles is something I’m now quite taken with…

… and I know I’m not the only one. No, it appears there are a whole host of folks out there who pride themselves on being able to spot patterns and work out challenging math problems.

It’s to that end that we decided to put the minds of our beloved readers to the test, with a bran-teasing issue that’s left plenty of people across the internet scratching their heads.

So, got your thinking cap on? Ready for this week’s exercise in mathematical gymnastics? I certainly hope so… because here it comes:

If 1+4=5, 2+5=12, and , then what is the value of 5+8?

Perhaps it’s easier if you see it written out as follows:

1+4=5
2+5=12
3+6=21
5+8=?

It appears that this particular problem has left a large portion of the internet scratching their heads, and a lot of people split on what the correct answer actually is. Much of it depends on how you approach the exercise of course; what exact method you employ to try and help you find the right answer.

And the crux of it all? There’s more than one correct answer! In fact, there are quite a few if our research is anything to go by. If you’ve had a go at the problem yourself and want to see if you’ve got it right (or if, like me, you were ultimately left so frustrated that you simply have to be given the answer) see below for five different ways the problem can be tackled.

Solution one

1 + 4 = 5
2 + 5 = 2 + 2(5) = 12
3 + 6 = 3 + 3(6) = 21
5 + 8 = 5 + 5(8) = 45
ALGORITHM: A + A(B) = C
ANSWER = 45

Solution two

1 + 4 = 1 + 4 + (0) = 5
2 + 5 = 2 + 5 + (5) = 12
3 + 6 = 3 + 6 + (12) = 21
5 + 8 = 5 + 8 + (21) = 34
ALGORITHM: A + B + C’ = C, where C’ is the previous answer
ANSWER = 34

Solution Three

1 + 4 = 5 = 5
2 + 5 = (5 + 2) + (5) = 12
3 + 6 = (7 + 2) + (12) = 21
5 + 8 = (9 + 2) + (21) = 32
ALGORITHM: for {X=5, C = X + C’ , X = X+2 };, where C’ is the previous answer. A and B not used in equation,
ANSWER = 32

Solution Four

1 + 4 = 5
2 + 5 = 7 (base 5) =12
3 + 6 = 9 (base 4) = 21
5 + 8 = 13 (base 3) = 111
ALGORITHM: for {X=6, C = (A + B)^(10 -> X), X -1} (First answer in Base6, then Base 5, then 4, etc…)
ANSWER = 111

Solution Five

1 + 4 = 5
2 + 5 = 7 (base 5) =12
3 + 6 = 9 (base 4) = 21
4 + 7 = 11 (base 3) = 102
5 + 8 = 13 (base 2) (aka binary) = 1101
ALGORITHM: for {X=6, C = (A + B)^(10 -> X), X -1} (First answer in Base6, then
Base 5, then 4, etc…including “missing” numbers
ANSWER = 1101

What answer did you get? Was it any of the above? Do let us know in the comments section on Facebook!

For most, they’re harmless. However, when their population grows out of control, they can lead to irritation, discomfort, and even eye problems. Knowing how to spot and manage them is essential, especially as we age.

What Are Eyelash Mites?

Demodex mites are tiny parasites that primarily live in hair follicles and sebaceous glands, according to WebMD.

There are two main types: Demodex folliculorum, which lives in hair follicles, and Demodex brevis, which prefers oil glands. While these mites naturally coexist with humans, factors like age, poor hygiene, or a weakened immune system can cause their numbers to increase, leading to issues such as blepharitis (eyelid inflammation).

Signs You Might Have Eyelash Mites

While not everyone experiences symptoms, an overgrowth of Demodex mites can cause noticeable discomfort. Signs include:

• Red, itchy, or swollen eyelids.
• A gritty or burning sensation in the eyes.
• Crusty debris around the base of the eyelashes.
• Eyelash loss or thinning.
• Increased sensitivity to light.

If these symptoms sound familiar, it may be worth discussing the possibility of eyelash mites with your doctor or eye specialist.

How to Manage and Eliminate Eyelash Mites

The good news is that controlling eyelash mites is often simple with good hygiene and proper care. Here are steps that Healthline has recommended to take:

1. Keep Your Face Clean
   Wash your face daily, paying special attention to your eyelids and lashes. Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser, as harsh soaps can irritate the skin further.
2. Invest in Eyelid Wipes
   Specially formulated eyelid wipes can help remove debris and excess oil where mites thrive. Look for products containing tea tree oil, known for its antimicrobial properties.
3. Wash Bedding Frequently
   Mites can transfer to bedding, so clean your pillowcases and sheets regularly. Use hot water and dry them on high heat for best results.
4. Avoid Sharing Personal Items
   Sharing items like makeup or towels can spread mites, so keep these personal.
5. Consult a Specialist
   In severe cases, a healthcare professional might recommend medicated ointments or prescription treatments to manage the condition.

Prevention is Key

For those aged 50 and older, maintaining proper skin care becomes even more critical, as changes in skin health can make it easier for mites to thrive. Regular check-ups and good hygiene habits can help prevent problems before they start.

While eyelash mites aren’t dangerous, they can cause significant discomfort if left unchecked. By staying informed and proactive, you can keep your eyes healthy and free from unwanted visitors.

And though she quickly triggers a coffee craving with her promise of the perfect blend, there’s a few small details that make the two-tailed mermaid delicously imperfect.

In 1971, when Starbucks was just a humble coffee bean retailer in Seattle’s Pike Place Market, the founders were looking for a name and logo that embodied adventure and the seafaring tradition of early coffee traders.

After considering names like Pequod, the whaling ship from “Moby-Dick,” the company settled on Starbucks, inspired by the first mate in Herman Melville’s novel.

This maritime theme led to the selection of a twin-tailed mermaid, or siren, as the logo, symbolizing the allure and mystery of the sea.

“It’s the siren. She is not a real person, but we kind of think of her as one. She’s the biggest symbol of our brand…She’s the face of it,” says Steve Murray, a creative director in the Starbucks Global Creative Studio. “The siren is like a super mermaid. A mermaid with one tail is just a plain ol’ mermaid. (Sorry Ariel).”

Her first facelift

The original logo featured a brown, monochrome image of the bare-breasted siren, reflecting the earthy tones of coffee. However, in 1987, as Starbucks expanded, the logo had a makeover, and the creepy creature became less creepy.

The color shifted to a vibrant green, symbolizing growth, freshness, and the brand’s commitment to quality. Additionally, the siren’s hair was adjusted to cover her breasts, making the image more modest and aligning with evolving societal norms.

Another makeover

By 1992, Starbucks had become a household name, prompting another logo update. This time, the focus was on the siren’s face, cropping out her body to create a more intimate and recognizable image. Only the tips of her tails, still held in her two hands, were visible.

She speaks for herself

In 2011, to celebrate its 40^th anniversary, Starbucks unveiled a bold new logo. The company name was removed, leaving only the siren to represent the brand.

“I hope when people see the siren on their cup, of course it’s going to stand for what they’re going to get from Starbucks,” Murray said of the globally recognized logo “If the siren is on that cup of coffee, it’s going to be awesome.”

Making her more ‘human’

This minimalist approach signified Starbucks’ evolution beyond just coffee, embracing a broader range of products and experiences. The siren’s face was further refined, making her appear more human and relatable.

Speaking of the siren’s face, there’s a fascinating detail that many might miss. While the logo’s design aims for symmetry, a slight asymmetry was intentionally introduced to make the siren appear more human and less like a “perfectly cut mask.”

She couldn’t be “perfect, like Barbie,” and needed a subtle imperfection to add character and warmth to the logo, making her more inviting to customers.

Global creative director Connie Birdsall tells Fast Company that the design team had “to step back and put some” “humanity back” in the siren’s face. “The imperfection was important to making her really successful as a mark,” she said.

“In the end, just for the face part of the drawing, there’s a slight asymmetry to it. It has a bit more shadow on the right side of the face,” says design partner Bogdan Geana. “It felt a bit more human and felt less like a perfectly cut mask.”

The siren today

The siren you see today is asymmetrical but you have to look very closely to spot the imperfections. There’s extra shadowing on the right side – her right eyebrow looks longer – and her nose dips lower, also on the right.

Can you see it now that you know?

The Starbucks’ logo is more than just a green circle with a siren; it’s a symbol of the brand’s journey, values, and connection with its customers. Next time you sip your favorite brew, take a moment to appreciate the rich history and hidden stories behind that iconic two-tailed mermaid.

Please let us know what you think of this story and then share it with your friends so we can hear from them!