Aguilera's penchant for meagre attire doesn't predispose her to colds
Dr Andrew Williams, biological sciences, reassures us that Christina Aguilera's preference for wearing very small clothes doesn't predispose her to catching colds. In a letter to the Times (02/02/04) Dr Williams writes: "If Ms Aguilera went rowing across the Atlantic in the middle of winter, wearing nothing but nipple caps and a G-string, she would be no more susceptible to catching a cold than if she remained tucked up in bed with her favourite book. Many people, including journalists, fail to make the vital connection between getting a cold and coming into contact with a virus. No virus, no cold (bacteria do not cause colds)."

Regulation of Antarctic research required
Antarctic organisms are facing an onslaught from biotech companies keen to exploit their unique nature, according to new research. Dr Nick Russell, agricultural sciences, explained that the introduction of regulations would help clarify who owned information that came from research on the continent. "Most scientists are confused about this. It's an extremely grey area and it does need to be clarified," he told the Guardian (02/02/04).

Scientists explain first date syndrome
Men who shun stable relationships for a string of passionate flings may suffer from a hormonal imbalance that makes them susceptible to philandering, according to researchers at a Valentine's Day discussion on the science of love. Professor Martin Cowie, NHLI, said that the nervous tension before a date is pleasurable, but the physical changes in the body are the same during any major challenge or risk.

"The feeling before a date is more pleasurable but, as cardiologists looking at the behaviour of the heart, we wouldn't be able to see the difference.

Some people become junkies for this feeling; they become addicted to that adrenaline surge. It is like being on a roller-coaster ride. You want to go back on again."

Sunday Herald (08/02/04)

Catapulted to stardom
Catapult designers were the celebrity scientists of the ancient world, according to new research by Dr Serafina Cuomo, centre of the history of science, technology and medicine.

Speaking to the Scotsman (06/02/04), Dr Cuomo explains that until the discovery of gunpowder, the catapult was the most powerful weapon in existence.

"Ancient engineers saw their knowledge as cumulative and progressive and believed that they were making an important contribution to the welfare of cities and the power of kings," wrote Dr Cuomo in Science.