- 27
Earwigs: Facts, Myths, and Natural Pest Control
Earwigs have a fearsome image but aren't dangerous. They sometimes become garden pests. Natural control methods can be very helpful in dealing with the insects.
- 26
3D Printing: Exciting Technology Advances for Consumers
3D printing is an exciting and useful technology. 3D printers are becoming more affordable and some are suitable for home use. A 3D pen is also available.
- 22
Health Effects of Hydrogen Sulfide: Dangers and Benefits
Hydrogen sulfide gas in the environment can be very dangerous. The chemical is a normal component of our body, however, and has important functions.
- 28
3D Printers in Medicine: Amazing Technology and Uses
3D printers have many exciting uses as well as present and potential medical applications. They may eventually print human organs and revolutionize medical treatment.
- 28
The Omentum and Abdominal Fat: Health Benefits and Problems
The omentum is a fatty membrane that covers the intestines. It has important health benefits, but if it contains too much fat it can cause health problems.
- 62
Overcoming Writer's Block: Tips for Finding Writing Ideas
Writer's block need never be a problem if certain strategies are used. Here are some tips to help you find ideas for writing both fiction and nonfiction.
- 22
Spring Wildflowers in Southwestern British Columbia
The southwestern area of British Columbia in Canada has some beautiful wildflowers. In this article I include photos and descriptions of seven of my favourite spring blossoms—skunk cabbage, salmonberry, Indian plum or...
- 20
Fibronectin: A Cell Adhesion and Blood Clotting Protein
Fibronectin attaches cells to the extracellular matrix and controls their behavior. It also helps to stop bleeding and is used in a fetal fibronectin test.
- 38
Primulas and Primroses: Beautiful Spring Flowers
Wild primulas and primroses have been cultivated and hybridized to make a huge collection of attractive plants. The flowers have a wonderful range of colours.
- 14
Bacteriophages, Phage Therapy, and Antibiotic Resistance
Antibiotic resistance is becoming a very serious problem. Phage therapy—treatment with viruses that attack bacteria—may be the solution.
- 40
Intestinal or Gut Bacteria and Obesity: A Possible Connection
Obesity is a complex and serious condition that is becoming increasingly common. Evidence that specific gut bacteria cause or contribute to obesity is growing.
- 18
Catnip and Catmint Plants: Interesting Herbs and Their Uses
The catnip herb is a type of catmint. It has culinary uses and is also used in traditional medicine. Some cats become very excited when they smell the plant.
- 34
Amaranth: A Nutritious Gluten-Free Grain Substitute
Amaranth is an edible plant that produces tasty and nutritious seeds. The seeds are gluten-free and are very useful as a grain substitute. They are suitable for people with and without celiac disease.
- 14
Water Birds at Lost Lagoon in Stanley Park, Vancouver
Lost Lagoon is part of Stanley Park, which is located in Vancouver, British Columbia. The lagoon is a wonderful place for bird watchers and photographers.
- 32
Rye: A Nutritious, Healthy, and Useful Grain
Rye is a nutritious and tasty grain which makes a great alternative to wheat. Whole grain rye is a useful and healthy addition to the diet.
- 42
Daffodils: Beautiful Flowers and a Symbol of Hope
Daffodils are beautiful spring flowers that have a wide variety of colours and shapes. Yellow daffodils are often used by cancer societies as a symbol of hope.
- 25
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) and Proteus Mirabilis
Proteus mirabilis is responsible for urinary tract infections in some people. The bacterium causes inflammation and the production of stones in the urine.
- 24
Atlantic Cod and Pacific Hake: Northern Cold Water Fish
Cod and hake are interesting cold water fish that make nutritious foods. The fish stocks need to be managed sustainably to prevent the collapse of the fisheries.
- 30
Immunization History: Smallpox, Edward Jenner, and Mary Montagu
Edward Jenner infected people with cowpox to protect them from smallpox. Mary Montagu gave people a mild case of smallpox to protect them from a serious case.
- 35
Pros and Cons of Making Food and Nutrition Compulsory Subjects
Food and nutrition are important subjects. They should be studied in as many grades as possible to help students learn how to create healthy and tasty meals.
- 28
Reducing Stomach Ulcer Pain While Waiting for Treatment to Work
Stomach or gastric ulcers are sores on the lining of the stomach. Here are some tips for relieving pain while you're waiting for prescribed treatments to work.
- 39
Natural Products That Help to Clot Blood and Stop Bleeding
Kaolin and zeolite are minerals that can be very useful in first aid treatments. They help to stop bleeding by aiding our body's blood-clotting process.
- 48
How Blood Clots: Platelets and the Coagulation Cascade
Blood clotting or coagulation is a complex process that helps us survive when we're injured. Fibrin threads trap blood cells and stop blood loss.
- 24
How to Use Adobe Photoshop Express to Edit Photos Online
The Photoshop Express online image editor is a great program for quickly and easily improving a photo or adding special effects. It's also free to use.
- 32
Nitric Oxide in the Body: Benefits and Dangers
In small quantities, nitric oxide has important functions and health benefits in our body. In large amounts, however, it's toxic to nerve cells.
- 26
Leptospirosis in Dogs: A Potentially Serious Bacterial Infection
Leptospirosis is an infection caused by a bacterium named Leptospira. Its symptoms are sometimes very serious. It's important to try to prevent this disease in dogs.
- 110
Intestinal Blockage and Abdominal Surgery in Dogs
Some dogs swallow objects that become trapped in their intestine. Abdominal surgery may be necessary to remove the obstruction, as it was for my dog.
- 18
How to Get More Space for Free on Dropbox
Dropbox backs up files and syncs them between different devices. The free version offers limited online storage space, but this space can be easily increased.
- 16
Health Benefits of DHA: An Omega-3 Fatty Acid in Fish and Algae
DHA, or docosahexaenoic acid, is a type of omega-3 fatty acid found in oily fish and certain algae. It has some important health benefits for humans.
- 16
Function of the Appendix and Facts About Appendicitis
The appendix is often thought of as a useless organ, but it may be helpful. In appendicitis, the appendix becomes inflamed and swollen and may rupture.
- 48
Health Benefits and Risks of Methylene Blue in Medicine
Methylene blue is a dye used to stain biological tissues. It's used as a medication as well. It has some important health benefits, but its use is also associated with some risks.
- 16
What Is a Migraine and How Does Sumatriptan Relieve Pain?
A migraine is a severe headache that is often accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to light or sound, and other symptoms. Sumatriptan, or Imitrex, helps some migraine sufferers.
- 32
Knitting for Charity: How to Use Your Craft Hobby to Help Others
Knitting is fun and can be a wonderful way to help others. Knitted caps, sweaters, blankets, teddy bears, and squares are all appreciated by charities. Some of these charities have useful websites.
- 22
Animals Using Solar Energy for Photosynthesis or Electric Power
Some animals absorb chloroplasts or algal cells, which make food inside the animal's body. At least one kind of animal can make electricity from solar energy.
- 18
Acetaminophen or Paracetamol: Pain Relief and Precautions
Acetaminophen (or paracetamol) relieves pain and reduces fever. Its method of action is only partially understood. The drug is toxic to the liver at high doses.
- 12
Health Benefits of Bacteria in the Large Intestine
The huge bacterial population that lives in our large intestine has important effects on our health. Many of the bacteria are helpful, but some are harmful.
- 20
The Flipped Classroom and Educational Technology: Pros and Cons
In a flipped classroom, students watch video lectures in the evening and perform enrichment activities during class time. The system may improve learning.
- 20
The Cinderella Project, Dress for Success, and Working Gear
The Cinderella Project in Vancouver provides grad outfits for disadvantaged teenagers. Dress for Success and Working Gear provide work clothes for low income people.
- 57
Hydrochloric Acid in the Stomach and Digestive Problems
Hydrochloric acid is made in the stomach and is a helpful chemical. However, too much or too little acid or acid in the wrong place can cause problems.
- 10
Campylobacter Bacteria, Gastroenteritis, and Foodborne Illness
Campylobacter is a bacterium that causes a foodborne illness called campylobacteriosis. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhea.
- 36
Jelly Babies and Liquorice Allsorts: Candy Facts and History
Jelly babies are soft, gelatinous candies that have a fruit flavour and resemble a baby. Liquorice (or licorice) allsorts are colourful candies with a variety of appearances and flavours.
- 25
Osteoblasts, Osteoclasts, Calcium, and Bone Remodeling
Osteoblasts and osteoclasts control the production and disintegration of bone and the amount of calcium released from the bones into the bloodstream.
- 24
Brominated Vegetable Oil, Flame Retardants, and Bromine Toxicity
Brominated vegetable oil or BVO is added to some soft drinks. Bromine is also found in some flame retardants and was once used in sedatives. The chemical can be toxic if we are exposed to large doses or to smaller doses...
- 40
Daily Acts of Kindness: 40 Ideas for Helping Others
A daily or random act of kindness helps someone else and may encourage them to be kind to another person in turn. Here are forty ways to help others.
- 10
Calcium, Hypercalcemia, Hypocalcemia, and the Parathyroid Glands
The parathyroid glands produce a hormone that controls the amount of calcium in the blood. A problem with the glands may cause hypercalcemia or hypocalcemia.
- 22
Giant African and New Zealand Land Snails: Fascinating Mollusks
The giant African land snail and the carnivorous Powelliphanta from New Zealand are huge snails and fascinating animals. The first animal is a pest in the US and the second is endangered.
- 6
Onchocerciasis or River Blindness: Eye Disease and a Parasite
Onchocerciasis, or river blindness, is a debilitating disease whose symptoms include intense skin itching, vision problems, and blindness. It's caused by a parasitic nematode spread by a black fly.
- 16
The Vaquita and the Harbour Porpoise: Facts and Conservation
The vaquita is a small and critically endangered porpoise that lives in the Gulf of California. It's close to extinction. Harbour porpoises are more common than vaquitas, but one subspecies is endangered and one...
- 32
Amazing Dog Behavior: Cancer and Disease Detection in Humans
Dogs have an amazing ability to detect certain diseases and medical problems in humans by using their sense of smell.
- 16
Adrenaline or Epinephrine, Adrenal Glands, and Stress Response
Adrenaline or epinephrine is a hormone made by the adrenal gland. It plays an important role in the fight or flight response and in treating anaphylaxis.
- 16
The Hagfish: A Strange Animal with a Useful Slime or Mucus
Hagfish make large amounts of sticky slime that many people find disgusting. The slime contains strong protein threads that may be useful for making fabric.
- 22
Parasites That Infect the Brain: Toxoplasma and a Tapeworm
Toxoplasma gondii causes toxoplasmosis and may affect brain chemistry and our behavior. The pork tapeworm may enter our brain and cause serious health problems.
- 25
Fundraising for Charity and Helping Others: Ideas for Schools
There are many effective ways in which school students can raise funds for charities and help local and global communities. This article contains a list of ideas.
- 46
Blood Color in Humans and Animals: Meaning and Function
Although human blood is usually red it may have a different color, which indicates the presence of a health problem. Animals have a wide variety of blood colors.
- 10
Blow Fly Biology and Maggot Therapy for Healing Wounds
Blow flies are attractive insects that feed on dead and decaying animal matter. Some blow fly maggots, or larvae, are used to help heal human wounds.
- 24
Exploring Famous Art Galleries Online: Enjoyable and Educational
Exploring a large art gallery online is fun and educational. In this article I review four great websites that allow people to examine paintings and sculptures at home.
- 21
Chimaeras: Strange Fish With a Cartilaginous Skeleton
Chimaeras are strange fish that are sometimes known as ratfish, rabbitfish, elephant fish, or rhinochimaeras. The lines on their surface often look like seams.
- 44
A Review of Organic and Non-GMO Sprouted Grain Manna Bread
Manna bread is a nutritious, cake-like product made from sprouted grains. The Manna Organics LLC company produces eight different varieties of the bread.
- 39
Interesting Facts About Hornets: Large Wasps With Paper Nests
Hornets are large and very interesting wasps. They build intricate nests from a mixture of wood fibers and saliva and have complex behaviors.
- 20
Six Great Science Games Websites for Children: Educational and Fun
The Internet has some wonderful science games websites for children. Playing a game can be great fun as well as an excellent way to learn about science.
- 32
Great Websites for Dog Lovers: Reviews and Ratings
In this article I review and rate five very useful and interesting websites for dog lovers. They're fun to visit and informative as well.
- 28
Dog Websites With Daily Photo Updates and Interesting Facts
Dog websites that have daily photo updates as well as entertaining captions or interesting information are fun to visit. In this article I review four of these sites.
- 11
Type 1 Diabetes and the Possible Role of Viruses
Enteroviruses and flu viruses may trigger the development of type 1 diabetes. The incidence of this disorder is increasing around the world.
- 26
Moray and Wolf Eels: Interesting Fish Facts
Moray eels and wolf eels have elongated bodies and live on the ocean bottom. They have each developed some very interesting and unusual body features and behaviours.
- 26
Hormones That Control Appetite: Leptin and Ghrelin
Leptin is a hormone that reduces appetite and ghrelin is a hormone that increases it. Controlling the leptin and ghrelin levels may help to control obesity.
- 26
How to Help Endangered Orangutans: Red Apes of the Rainforest
Orangutans are endangered, mainly because their rainforest habitat is being replaced by oil palm plantations. People can do many things to help the animals.
- 14
Escherichia or E. coli: Intestinal Flora and Bacterial Infection
Escherichia coli is a bacterium that exists as different strains. Some strains live in our gut and are very helpful. Others cause foodborne illness and disease.
- 22
Bacteria on the Skin and Why We Should Wash Our Hands
When we touch objects, our hands are contaminated by bacteria on the surfaces of the objects. It's very important to wash hands regularly to prevent infections.
- 30
Gambian Pouched Rats: Exotic Pets and an Invasive Species
Gambian pouched rats, or African giant pouched rats, are large animals that are kept as exotic pets. They are also used to detect land mines and tuberculosis.
- 16
Adult Stem Cells: Facts, Research, and Potential Medical Uses
Adult or somatic stem cells can produce different types of specialized cells. Doctors may one day be able to use them to repair injuries and treat a wide range of diseases.
- 42
Good Foods for GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)
In GERD, acidic material in the stomach moves in the wrong direction and enters the esophagus, causing heartburn. Dietary changes may relieve or improve symptoms.
- 26
What Are Eustachian Tubes and Plugged Ears?
The eustachian tubes maintain equal air pressure on each side of the eardrum and drain fluid from the middle ear. They can cause a plugged ear and hearing problems if they malfunction.
- 18
Camel Spiders, Whip Scorpions, and Vinegaroons: Strange Arachnids
Camel spiders and whip scorpions are fascinating and strange arachnids. Whip scorpions are sometimes called vinegaroons because they release acetic acid when alarmed.
- 24
COPD, Emphysema, and Chronic Bronchitis: Obstructive Lung Disease
People with COPD, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, suffer from chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or both of these disorders. Treatment slows lung deterioration.
- 22
Saliva and Salivary Glands: Facts and Health Problems
Saliva is made by salivary glands and has important functions. The glands may sometimes develop stones. In Sjogren's syndrome, insufficient saliva is made.
- 34
Mary Poppins: Books, Movies, and a Biography of P. L. Travers
The Mary Poppins books were written by Pamela Lyndon Travers. The magical nanny is very popular, but her character is very different in the books than in the famous "Mary Poppins" movie. The Disney movie "Saving Mr....
- 30
Aging and Keeping a Healthy Heart: Facts and Tips
Changes happen in the heart and blood vessels as we age, but a healthy lifestyle can greatly reduce these changes and help us to live a long and healthy life.
- 30
Vitiligo: Skin Pigment Loss and Treatment
Vitiligo is a skin disorder involving loss of melanin, the pigment that colors skin. It's most likely an autoimmune condition. A variety of treatments are available.
- 20
Psoriasis, Obesity, and Heart Disease
Psoriasis is a chronic and recurring inflammatory condition of the skin. It has been linked to an increased incidence of obesity, heart disease, and strokes.
- 23
What Is Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP)?
Textured vegetable protein is a processed product that has a high protein content and is usually made from soybeans. It's a useful food for vegans but is controversial.
- 10
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) in Older Adults
Older people tend to produce fewer tears to remove bacteria and viruses from the surface of their eyes. Dry eyes and an increased risk of conjunctivitis may result.
- 20
Natural Playgrounds for Children: Advantages and Problems
A natural playground contains elements from nature, such as trees, grass, rocks, sand, and water. It's a great place for both active play and creative play.
- 18
Aging and High Blood Pressure: Healthy Lifestyle Tips
Blood pressure tends to rise as we age. Continually high blood pressure (hypertension) can cause serious health problems. A healthy lifestyle reduces the risk of hypertension.
- 38
Bone Spur Causes, Symptoms, and Possible Treatments
Bone spurs are projections or outgrowths that extend from a bone. They may press on nerves or other tissues, causing pain, numbness, or difficulty in moving.
- 18
Air Pollution and Increased Risk of Heart Disease and Stroke
Air pollution has been shown to increase the chance of heart attacks and strokes. Everyone is at risk, but especially people who already have circulatory problems.
- 159
Coffee Drinking: Health Benefits and Life Expectancy
Researchers have discovered that coffee drinkers tend to live longer than those who don't drink the beverage. This may be because coffee helps to prevent some diseases.
- 16
Osteoarthritis and Inflammation — Exploring the Connection
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that, until recently, was thought to be caused solely by wear and tear. Scientists are now discovering that inflammation is involved.
- 24
Harry Secombe: A Welsh Tenor, Comedian, Actor, and Author
Harry Secombe was a Welsh comedian, actor, and author with a wonderful tenor singing voice. He was a cast member of The Goon Show, a very popular radio comedy.
- 12
How to Boost Your Immune System With Appropriate Exercise
Moderate exercise that is performed regularly improves the activity of the immune system. This system protects our bodies from infection and helps us to stay healthy.
- 32
Walking Exercise for Health, Fitness, and Anti-Aging
Walking is a great anti-aging exercise. It’s a versatile activity that can build fitness, improve mental health, help prevent disease and help us to stay lean.
- 16
The Emerald Ash Borer: An Invasive and Destructive Pest
The emerald ash borer is an introduced insect in North America and is a very serious pest. At least sixty million ash trees have been destroyed so far by this beetle.
- 14
Parasitic Plants: Corpse Flower, Mistletoe, and Dodder
Parasitic plants obtain their food or nutrients from another plant. The relationship may last for a long time, but sometimes the parasite kills its host.
- 32
Food and Nutrients for an Anti-Aging Diet and Health
An anti-aging diet is delicious and is healthy for people of all ages. It’s rich in phytonutrients and includes a wide variety of colorful plant foods.
- 34
Great Websites for Cat Lovers: Facts, Photos, and Videos
In this article I review some great cat websites that contain interesting and useful information. I also include photos, videos, and quotes about cats.
- 4
Hemp Seeds, Oil, and Milk: Great Nutrition and Health Benefits
Hemp seeds are a nutritious food and have many health benefits. Hemp seed butter, milk, oil, protein, and flour are also available and are very useful.
- 10
Mitochondria and Disease: DNA Outside the Nucleus
Mitochondria are cell organelles that produce energy for our body. Damage to their DNA and genes can cause a mitochondrial disease, which may be serious.
- 18
Nystatin: An Antifungal Medicine for Candida Infections
Candida albicans is a yeast that lives in humans. It's generally harmless but may sometimes multiply dramatically. Nystatin is an effective medicine for the infection.
- 8
The Oregon Grape Plant and the Uses of Berberine
Oregon grape is an attractive plant with edible berries. The plant contains berberine, which may have important health benefits.
- 16
Canada Place to Stanley Park: A Walking Route in Vancouver
Canada Place is a tourist attraction in Vancouver, British Columbia. It's connected by a waterfront path to Stanley Park. The route offers wonderful views and photo opportunities.
- 31
Labrador Retrievers: Wonderful Family Pets and Companions
With proper training, Labrador Retrievers make wonderful and affectionate family pets. They get on well with children and other pets and are clever and playful.
- 10
Isomalt in Food, Sugar Sculpture, and Cake Decorating
Isomalt is a sugar substitute that has little effect on blood sugar and doesn't cause cavities. It's a great medium for creating sugar sculptures and decorating cakes.
- 30
The Human Brain: Facts, Anatomy, and Functions
The brain is a very impressive organ. Learning about its anatomy and physiology is a fascinating process. Studying the brain may enable researchers to create new treatments for disease.
- 18
Glucagon and Hypoglycemia: Hormonal Control of Blood Sugar
Glucagon is an essential pancreatic hormone that raises the blood sugar level. Glucagon administration is sometimes required to treat hypoglycemia in diabetes.
- 30
The Hedge Bindweed or Morning Glory: An Invasive Plant
The hedge bindweed or morning glory twines around other plants and interferes with their growth. Bindweed produces large and beautiful flowers in summer.
- 32
Himalayan Blackberry Plants: Invasive, Noxious, and Beautiful
The Himalayan blackberry is a beautiful plant in spring and summer. It produces delicious blackberries, but it's an invasive species and grows aggressively.
- 38
Witch Hazel: A Traditional and Useful Treatment for Skin Problems
Witch hazel is the name of a plant and of an astringent extract obtained from the plant. The astringent shrinks swollen areas on the skin, relieving pain.
- 18
Apricot Fruits and Kernels: Potential Benefits and Dangers
Apricots are delicious and nutritious fruits. The flesh is safe to eat, but the kernels may be dangerous. They contain amygdalin, which can be converted into poisonous cyanide in our bodies. Bitter apricot kernels...
- 30
Pacific and California Halibut: Large and Unusual Fish
Pacific and California halibut are flatfish. They swim on their side and their eyes are on the upper side of their body. They are predators and can be very large.
- 22
Zinc Oxide Uses: Medicinal Creams, Calamine Lotion, and Sunscreen
Zinc oxide relieves the discomfort of skin irritations and act as a sunscreen. The chemical is safe, although there are some concerns about its nanoparticle form.
- 35
Tips on How to Add Nutritious Green Vegetables to Your Diet
Nutritionists say that we should eat three to five servings of green vegetables every day. Here are some tips for adding more vegetables to your diet.
- 38
Buttercups and Daisies: Beautiful Wildflowers of Spring and Summer
Buttercups and daisies are attractive wildflowers and a lovely part of summer. Daisies have edible parts that can be used in salads, but buttercups are toxic.
- 30
Cantaloupe: A Nutritious and Delicious Fruit With Health Benefits
Cantaloupes are tasty and nutritious fruits. It’s very important to wash a cantaloupe before cutting it to prevent bacterial contamination of the inner flesh.
- 22
Listeria and Listeriosis: Foodborne Illness and Salad Greens
Listeria is a bacterium that can live in animals and humans but also survives in soil and water, where it contaminates plants. It causes a disease called listeriosis. Not everyone gets sick from a Listeria infection,...
- 26
Hector's and Maui's Dolphins: Endangered Animals of New Zealand
The Hector’s dolphin is endangered and the Maui’s dolphin is critically endangered. Both animals live around New Zealand and are killed in fishing nets.
- 18
Worcestershire Sauce Ingredients and Uses: An English Tradition
Worcestershire sauce is a delicious fermented product used to flavour meat, fish, Welsh rarebit, and cocktails. It’s made from a secret recipe by Lea and Perrins.
- 22
Health Effects of Benzoic Acid, Sodium Benzoate, and Benzene
Benzoic acid and sodium benzoate are food preservatives and are generally safe. They may sometimes cause allergy-like symptoms or produce benzene, which is harmful.
- 14
Cloves, Clove Oil, and Eugenol: Culinary and Medicinal Uses
Cloves are a tasty spice that enhances the taste of food. Clove oil may help toothaches, but the oil and the eugenol that it contains may also cause health problems.
- 20
Earl Grey Tea and Oil of Bergamot From Calabrian Oranges
Earl Grey tea is a black tea flavored by oil of bergamot. The fragrant oil is produced from the bergamot orange and is used in many products. The best oil is produced in Calabria in Italy.
- 10
Budesonide and Formoterol Inhalers for Asthma Management
Budesonide is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation. Formoterol is a bronchodilator. Both medications are useful for asthma management.
- 20
Cheddar Cheese, Gorge, and Caves in Somerset, England
Cheddar cheese originated in the village of Cheddar in Somerset. The area is also the location of the largest gorge in the UK and contains spectacular caves.
- 14
Human Skin: Structure, Functions, and Some Interesting Facts
Our skin is an impressive organ that has many functions. For example, it reduces water loss, fights infections, helps regulate body temperature, and makes vitamin D.
- 54
Chocolate Bark Recipes With Coconut Oil and Agave Nectar
Coconut oil can be mixed with cocoa, agave nectar, and extras such as nut butter, dried fruits, spices, extracts, and protein powder to make delicious chocolate.
- 16
Gelatin From Collagen: Facts, Foods, and Uses
Gelatin is made from collagen in animal skin or bones. It's used in making food and in many other applications. It forms a thermoreversible gel when it’s added to water.
- 28
Oatmeal Porridge, Cocoa, and Hazelnut Butter: A Delicious Breakfast
Cocoa and hazelnut butter mixed with cooked oatmeal produces a delicious chocolate porridge. The mixture can be both healthy and nutritious. Oatmeal is associated with some interesting and helpful traditions, including...
- 32
Oxalic Acid and Oxalates: Health Effects and Kidney Stones
Concentrated oxalic acid is poisonous. Oxalic acid and oxalates are present in plants and may cause health problems such as kidney stones.
- 22
Summer Savory: A Herb With Flavor, Aroma, and Many Uses
The summer savory plant is an aromatic herb with a lovely flavor. It's an annual plant which has many culinary uses and contains antimicrobial chemicals.
- 30
Five Ways to Use Flavorful Caraway Seeds for a Healthy Diet
Caraway seeds have a flavorful and interesting taste. They're a great addition to oatmeal, bread, sauerkraut, potato salad, cheese spreads, and other foods.
- 16
Ten Interesting Careers for People With a Biology Degree
Obtaining a biology degree can lead to many different careers. These are often interesting as well as being helpful to humans or nature. Some careers can be started with a bachelor's degree. Others require a higher...
- 24
Careers in Organic Chemistry
Organic chemistry is the study of carbon compounds. These compounds occur in nature and are also made in the laboratory. They play important roles in our lives.
- 42
Careers That Combine Biology and Mathematics
Exciting disciplines that combine biology and math include biostatistics, epidemiology, bioinformatics, mathematical biology, and population ecology. The disciplines offer interesting careers.
- 27
Biological vs. Chemical Pest Control: Benefits and Disadvantages
Biological pest control has important advantages compared to chemical pest control, such as being safer for humans and the environment. It also has some disadvantages. Integrated pest management uses a variety of...
- 29
What Is a Hydrate (Chemistry)?
A hydrate is a compound that absorbs water molecules and incorporates them into its structure. Inorganic, organic, and gas hydrates exist. The latter may become an important energy source.
- 24
How to Pass a High School Physics Exam
Students have an excellent chance of doing well on a physics exam if they work efficiently throughout the physics course and follow some tips for writing exams.
- 14
Feline Distemper in Cats: Infection, Symptoms, and Treatment
Feline distemper or panleukopenia is a very serious and contagious disease that can kill cats. Fortunately, a vaccine can protect cats from the distemper virus.
- 68
How to Study for Biology
This article describes many ways for high school or college students to study effectively for biology and do well on their tests and exams.
- 28
The Safflower Plant: Vegetable Oil, Cosmetic, Dye, and Insulin
The safflower plant provides a useful vegetable and cosmetic oil and an attractive dye for textiles. A genetically engineered form of the plant can make insulin.
- 28
Antibacterial Activity of Roasted Coffee Beans and Caffeine
Coffee has a range of health benefits. These may include antibacterial activity against tooth decay bacteria and harmful intestinal bacteria.
- 20
Dwarf Mongoose Facts: The Smallest Carnivore in Africa
The dwarf mongoose is the smallest African carnivore. It’s an inquisitive and active little animal that lives in groups and has a highly developed social life.
- 10
Yeti Crabs: Hairy Crustaceans, Hydrothermal Vents, and Cold Seeps
Yeti crabs are unusual deep sea creatures that have many hairlike structures on their bodies. Bacteria that live on these hairs may be used as food by the crabs.
- 14
The Vancouver Sun Run: Fitness and Fun in British Columbia
The annual Vancouver Sun Run in British Columbia, Canada, is a fun ten-kilometre event for wheelchair competitors, runners, and walkers of all fitness levels.
- 14
A Healthy Chip Butty With French Fries, Marmite, and Protein
In Britain, a chip butty is a traditional sandwich made from buttered bread and chips (French fries). I like to make a healthier version that is also tasty.
- 16
Honeybee Disappearance: Pesticides and Colony Collapse Disorder
Bees play a very important role in pollinating flowers, but the insects are disappearing. Pesticides may be at least partly responsible for this disappearance.
- 12
The Synovium, Synovitis, Inflammation, and Joint Pain
The synovium is a membrane that lines the inside of many of our joints. Inflammation of the synovium is known as synovitis. Symptoms include swelling and pain.
- 34
Serendipity: The Role of Chance in Making Scientific Discoveries
Serendipity is a happy and unexpected event that seems to occur by chance. It's often called a “lucky accident”. Serendipitous discoveries are important in science.
- 28
The African Black-Footed Cat: A Small and Vulnerable Feline
The black-footed cat of southern Africa is a small, solitary, and attractive animal. It's also a fierce hunter. Unfortunately, its population is threatened.
- 14
Guayule: Hypoallergenic Latex and Biofuel From a Desert Plant
A desert plant named guayule contains a latex that can be used to create a natural and hypoallergenic rubber. The plant can also be used as a biofuel.
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The Wonderpus and Mimic Octopuses of Indonesia and Malaysia
The wonderpus octopus is a beautiful animal found around Indonesia and Malaysia. It resembles a mimic octopus, which has an amazing ability to mimic other animals.
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The Narwhal: The Fascinating Unicorn Whale of the Arctic Ocean
Narwhals are strange and fascinating Arctic whales. The males—and sometimes the females—have a very long tooth that grows through their lip, forming a tusk.
- 48
How to Maintain Positivity and Deal With Negativity: Tips and Ideas
Suggestions and ideas for maintaining positivity and dealing with negativity, whether the negativity arises within ourselves or is directed at us by other people
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Sneezes and Sneezing: Causes, Facts, Myths, and Mysteries
Sneezing is a common but often annoying and embarrassing occurrence. Many myths have developed about the process, which still seems somewhat mysterious today.
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Histamine, Mast Cells, and Hay Fever Allergies
Histamine has important functions but also causes the symptoms of hay fever. It's released from mast cells. Helpful techniques can prevent or reduce hay fever symptoms.
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Lobster Facts, Photos, and Videos: Interesting Invertebrates
Lobsters are interesting animals to observe and study in a natural setting. They are popular food items, but the way in which we kill them is controversial.
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The Pallas Cat or Manul: Facts, Conservation, and Toxoplasmosis
The Pallas cat, Pallas's cat, or manul is a small, thick-furred animal of Central Asia that is near threatened. It's very susceptible to toxoplasmosis.
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Frilled Shark Facts: A Strange and Fascinating Fish of the Deep
The frilled shark is a strange, deep water shark with a wide head, a huge mouth, and a long, eel-like body. It’s caught as bycatch and is near threatened.
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Coal Tar, Pavement Sealer, and PAHs: Facts and Potential Dangers
Coal tar contains chemicals known as PAHs, or polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. These are released into the environment when tar is used in pavement sealer. Some PAHs are believed to be carcinogens, or cancer producers....
- 23
Healthy and Easy Blueberry and Cashew Butter Smoothie Recipe
This blueberry and cashew butter smoothie contains fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. It’s a green smoothie and is loaded with nutrients. It also tastes great!
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Stitches or Sutures: Wound Closure Today and in History
Stitches have been used to close wounds for thousands of years. Staples, tape, and adhesive are also used today. Laser welding of wounds may be common soon.
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A Dusky Conure as a Pet Bird: An Affectionate and Clever Parrot
Dusky conures are affectionate and clever birds. They can make wonderful pets and companions and usually get on well with other birds in the family.
- 46
The Maned Wolf of South America: Facts, Photos, and Videos
The maned wolf of South America is an unusual animal with an erectable mane and long, thin legs that resemble stilts. Its population is near threatened.
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Swollen Tongue: A Painful and Possibly Dangerous Health Problem
A swollen tongue may be a minor problem, but it may be painful and even dangerous if it blocks the airway. Allergies are a common cause of swollen tongues.
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Microplastics, Plastic Pollution, and Their Effects on Marine Life
Plastic pollution can be dangerous for marine life. Microplastic particles are tiny pieces of debris that may be harmful for animals and for humans as well.
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Scottish Wildcats: Powerful Hunters and Endangered Animals
The Scottish wildcat is a beautiful animal and a powerful hunter. Unfortunately, it’s critically endangered due to hybridization with domestic cats.
- 43
Playing the Spoons: A Fun Folk Music and Percussion Instrument
A pair of spoons can be used as a folk and percussion instrument. A variety of playing techniques are possible and a range of rhythms and sounds can be produced.
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Brown and Beige Fat for Reducing Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes
Our bodies contain a small quantity of brown and beige fat cells. These cells can break down fat molecules to produce heat, helping to maintain a healthy body mass.
- 32
Licorice Root for Tooth Decay, Gum Disease, and Oral Health
Licorice (or liquorice) root and extract may be very helpful in fighting tooth decay and gum disease. They can be dangerous if they’re used in large amounts, however.
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The Endangered Ethiopian Wolf: Life, Threats, and Conservation
The Ethiopian wolf lives in Africa at high elevations. It's the most endangered member of the dog family, or the Canidae. The animal faces some serious threats.
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Urea in Blood, Urine, Skin Creams, and Fertilizer
Urea is a nitrogen-containing waste substance in the blood and urine that is also made in the lab. It’s used to remove thickened and scaly patches on skin, to moisturize the skin, and to fertilize soil.
- 48
The Sand Cat: A Small and Beautiful Animal of the Desert
Sand cats are small and beautiful wild cats that are adapted for life in very hot deserts. In some areas their population is in trouble.
- 20
The Kinkajou: A Tropical Rainforest Animal and an Exotic Pet
Kinkajous are tropical rainforest mammals living in Central and South America. They’re bred as exotic pets and are often friendly. They may sometimes bite, however.
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Health Benefits and Delicious Culinary Uses of Hazelnuts
Hazelnuts contain healthy monounsaturated fat and are packed with nutrients. They can be used to make a meal or flour, a butter, a cream, a milk, and an oil.
- 40
The Hydraulophone: An Instrument Played by Flowing Water
The hydraulophone is a tubular musical instrument. Pressurized water moves through the tube and out of a series of holes. Placing a finger over a hole produces a sound.
- 14
The Helmeted Hornbill: A Bizarre and Critically Endangered Bird
The helmeted hornbill has a huge beak and casque, a big patch of bare, wrinkled skin on its neck, and some very interesting behaviour. It's critically endangered.
- 24
Common and Russian Dandelions: Nutrition, Latex, and Rubber
Dandelions have culinary benefits and also produce a latex that can be used to make rubber. This is important, since the supply of natural rubber is decreasing.
- 18
Egg Whites: Good Protein, Delicious Desserts, and Other Uses
Egg white is a great source of protein and can be used to make delicious desserts. It can also be used as a glue and is found in some paints and vaccines.
- 18
Darwin's Frogs and Midwife Toads: Facts, Photos, and Reproduction
Darwin’s frogs and midwife toads are strange amphibians. After the eggs are laid, they continue their development in the male's vocal sac or wrapped around his legs.
- 26
Star Anise: A Tasty and Versatile Spice With a Licorice Flavor
Star anise is a delicious spice with a strong licorice taste. It's a wonderful flavor enhancer for both sweet and savory foods.
- 37
Draco Lizards and Flying Dragons: Strange Reptiles
Draco lizards are sometimes known as flying dragons. They have a skin fold on each side of their body that forms a wing and enables the animal to glide through the air.
- 30
How to Painlessly Declutter Your Home and Keep It Organized
Decluttering and organizing a home makes life less stressful, enables us to accomplish tasks efficiently, creates a place to relax, and makes the home safer.
- 8
Chilblains, Boils, and Carbuncles: Three Painful Skin Problems
Chilblains are painful red bumps that appear after chilled skin has been rewarmed. A boil and a carbuncle are painful skin abscesses formed by a bacterial infection.
- 31
Tarsiers: Strange and Threatened Primates of Southeast Asia
A tarsier is a strange little primate with huge eyes. It reminds some people of Yoda, the Jedi master. Many tarsier species are in trouble.
- 32
Autumn Leaves and Fall Colors: Facts and a Poem
In autumn, leaves develop beautiful colors before falling and beginning to decay. This process isn’t as sad as it seems and may hold delightful mysteries.
- 34
Ragdoll Cat Photos, Breed Information, and Care
Ragdolls are large and gentle cats that are also friendly and affectionate. They can be trained to come when called, retrieve balls, sit, and walk on a leash.
- 14
Mouse Lemurs: Tiny and Endangered Primates of Madagascar
Mouse lemurs are tiny primates with a head and body length of 5.5 inches or less. They live in Madagascar. Many of them are endangered.
- 47
My Reflection in the Mirror: A Short Story
This is a story about a woman who is unhappy with her life. She forms a strange relationship with her reflection in a very special mirror.
- 28
Marshmallows: Sweet Treats, Recipes, and Herbal Origins
Marshmallows are delicious treats and recipe ingredients. The first marshmallow candy was produced from a flowering plant that is used in traditional medicine.
- 35
Broccoli: A Superfood Vegetable With Great Health Benefits
Broccoli is a very nutritious "superfood”. When it’s chewed or chopped it produces sulforaphane. This may reduce the risk of cancer and have other health benefits.
- 6
Bacteria in the Mouth, Dental Plaque Biofilms, and Tooth Decay
Dental plaque is made of bacteria living in a biofilm. Eating sugar increases the number of acid-producing bacteria in the plaque and can cause tooth decay.
- 20
Carpet, Flesh-Eating, and Trilobite Beetles: Strange Insects
Carpet, flesh-eating, and trilobite beetles are strange and interesting insects. The first eats carpets and other items made of natural fibers, the second removes flesh from animal skeletons, and the third is...
- 18
How to Write a Story: Steps, Tips, and a Poem
In this article I describe some strategies for writing a story. I also share tips from writing teachers and authors as well as a poem about a writer and her story.
- 28
The Universe Beyond the Solar System: Facts, Photos, and a Poem
The Earth is a tiny speck within the universe. We are gradually learning more about space, but there are still tantalizing mysteries to be explained.
- 14
Mustard Seeds and Greens as Part of a Nutritious Diet
Mustard seeds and greens are flavourful and nutritious. Their peppery and sometimes hot taste complements many foods. They are a very healthy addition to meals.
- 24
An Oobleck Recipe and Fun Experiments With a Non-Newtonian Fluid
Oobleck is a fun material made of cornstarch and water. It changes from a liquid to a solid when a force is applied and turns back into a liquid when the force is removed.
- 10
Elephant Shrews or Sengis: Small Animals with Long Noses
Elephant shrews, or sengis, are small animals with long, mobile and very sensitive noses. Despite their name, they aren't shrews but are related to elephants and manatees.
- 29
The Fossa: A Cat-Like Mongoose Relative in Madagascar
The fossa is the largest predator in Madagascar. It's an agile tree climber and a fierce hunter. Its population is threatened by the destruction of its habitat.
- 16
Gluten-Free, Nutritious Buckwheat and a Chocolate Cookie Recipe
Buckwheat is a nutritious gluten-free grain substitute with great health benefits. Buckwheat groats are used to make porridges, salads, savoury meals, and a flour.
- 26
Gluten-Free Flour and a Pumpkin Muffin Recipe
Gluten intolerance can be a serious condition in people with celiac disease. Luckily, many gluten-free flours are available. I use some of these in my pumpkin muffin recipe.
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Chocolate Muffins Recipe: Vegan, Whole Wheat, and Low Fat
This recipe makes twelve vegan chocolate muffins which are low in fat and contain no added sucrose. It uses pumpkin puree and apple sauce as fat substitutes.
- 12
The Aardwolf: A Hyena Relative That Feeds on Termites
Aardwolves are hyena relatives that live in Africa. Unlike hyenas, aardwolves usually forage alone. Their diet consists almost entirely of termites.
- 18
Pumpkin Spice Muffins: A Healthy and Nutritious Recipe
Pumpkin spice muffins are delicious and can be very healthy, depending on the ingredients. They can be turned into treats when a cream cheese topping is added.
- 24
Pacific Sardines and Herring: Lives of Food Fish
Sardines and herring are nutritious foods. The behaviour of the living fish is interesting to study, however. They live in groups and communicate with their companions.
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Apprenticeship Alum
I have a first class honors degree in biology from Simon Fraser University in Canada. After I obtained my degree, I completed the Professional Development Program in the Faculty of Education at SFU. As a result, I was awarded a professional teaching certificate from the British Columbia Ministry of Education.
I taught high school biology, chemistry, and science for many years. I’ve also taught other subjects, including information technology, as well as elementary school science. I’m currently a science writer, though I sometimes write about other topics that interest me.
My articles often discuss human biology, nature, and the scientific basis of health and disease. My goal is to create informative, understandable, and interesting articles about the topics that I find so fascinating myself.
Pets have been an important part of my life since childhood. At the moment I have seven pet companions—two dogs (a Leonberger and a Labrador Retriever), three cats (two Ragdolls and one rescue), and two birds (a Dusky Conure and a Moustache Parakeet).
In addition to studying nature, I enjoy reading, creating and listening to music, taking photographs, and walking. I also enjoy exploring mythology and writing fiction and poetry.