Beyond pharmacy blog
All posts from: September 2012
More carnivores at risk
Carnivorous?animals can be harmed by a build-up of toxic substances acquired from prey that has fed on contaminated plants. In the mid-20th century, the widespread use of DDT as a farm pesticide almost wiped out several raptor species in Britain.
Smiling for science
Ever wondered why someone smiles at you? Do they think you are witty or they simply being polite? Your confusion need last no longer because researchers have analysed reactions to smiles and determined how various types of smile are perceived.
Build the perfect castle
If you or your children were disappointed with your sandcastles this summer it could have been because your sand was too wet. Researchers writing in the journal Nature Scientific Reports have concluded that the ideal castle building mixture is sand containing just 1 per cent water.
Avoid asthma — buy a dog
There are many generally acknowledged ways in which ownership of a dog can lead to an improvement in the owner’s health. Dog-walking helps maintain a healthy body-mass index, efficient cardiovascular system and lung function.
Heather and photoprotection
Common heather, Calluna vulgaris, is a familiar evergreen, low-growing shrub. Found throughout Europe and Asia Minor, it grows on acidic soils. Its familiar purple flowers form a dramatic cover for upland heath and moorland from mid-August.
