Friday, June 29, 2007

One third of the population cannot click their fingers.

Friday, June 22, 2007

It's double fact Friday

Granny and Grandpa

Did you know that the speed of your heartbeat determines how long you live?

It has been found that all creatures' hearts have a lifespan of approximately 1 billion beats except for one:

Humans - should only live 30 years on this basis, but due to improved health, diet, exercise, medicine etc we have more than doubled, effectively proving that you can cheat natures laws (eternal life here we come)

Sneezing season is upon us.


Topical Hayfever facts

* Hay fever is the commonest allergy in Western countries, affecting an estimated 20 per cent of the population in Britain.

* It is an acute allergic reaction to airborne particles of pollen which penetrate the nose, throat and upper respiratory passages.

* Typical symptoms include red, itchy and watery eyes, blocked or runny nose, frequent sneezing, coughing, and wheezing.

* The symptoms are caused by the over-sensitivity of the mucous membrane that lines the inside of the nose, throat and eyes.

* The commonest cause of hay fever is grass pollen. Pollen from birch trees especially causes hay fever in spring and from mugwort and chrysanthemum in autumn.

* Hay fever affects many people in towns because of pollution. Pollen grains become attached to particles from car exhausts, increasing their allergy-inducing effect.

* Treatment is mostly symptomatic, with anti-histamines and steroids to reduce the inflammation in the mucous membrane.

Friday, June 08, 2007

Origin of the phrase....

Rule of Thumb - This has been said to derive from the belief that English law allowed a man to beat his wife with a stick so long as it is was no thicker than his thumb. In 1782 Judge Sir Francis Buller is reported as having made this legal ruling.

It's certainly the case that, although British common law once held that it was legal for a man to chastise his wife in moderation (whatever that meant), the 'rule of thumb' has never been the law in England.

This is a good site to find the meanings and origins of other well known phrases.