A brainy post 20 Jun 2009 AK’s Rambling Thoughts has an absolutely wonderful post on the role of glial cells in brain function. The money quote (for me) is this: In the traditional view, the brain was made up neurons, which processed data, and glial cells, which performed support functions, including “surround neurons and hold them in place, to supply nutrients and oxygen to neurons, to insulate one neuron from another, and to destroy pathogens and remove dead neurons.” (Wiki). In recent years, this picture has been breaking down. General Science
General Science Bright flash on Australian mountain 19 Jun 2009 A bright flash has occurred near Gin Gin in Queensland, followed by a fire on the mountain. Authorities are not saying what it was, but the locals have come up with the most likely explanation: space junk, rubbish that has re-entered. About ten years ago I was driving my kids… Read More
Ecology and Biodiversity How not to Feyerabend 5 Oct 2007 On Monday night last, Jason Grossman, a philosopher form the Australian National University rang me with an idea. He was coming to my university to give a talk entitled “How to Feyerabend”, arguing that Feyerabend was a dadaist rather than an anarchist. I’d tell you more about his talk, but… Read More
General Science Congrats to Phil Plait 4 Aug 2008 Phil, of Bad Astronomy fame, has been offered and accepted the chairmanship of James Randi’s Educational Foundation. I think that’s a great choice by Randi and a great honour for Phil. Couldn’t happen to a better guy. Read More
Nah, it’s a WordPress thing, and it’s in every theme. Apparently, displaying a special image of some sort is necessary for obtaining visitor statistics. Reference.