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photos & text on this page are used with permission of the High Magnetic Field
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Butterfly Wing
"The photomicrograph below illustrates a number of miniature scales
that compose most of the surface of a butterfly wing. The scales in this image are
illuminated with a darkfield substage condenser.
A network of scales covers most of the wing, giving it a beautiful array of colors
produced either by pigmentation or through optical interference. The iridescent colors
usually associated with butterfly wings arise from the small ridges on the scales, which
interact with light causing constructive and destructive interference, much like that
produced by a soap bubble. Other coloration in the wing is caused by clusters of
dehydrated blood cells, leading to a wide spectrum of colors that we see as distinct
patterns in the wings."
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Aspirin
Aspirin is a salicylic acid acetate with anti-inflammatory and antipyretic
properties that also acts as a highly effective non-opiate analgesic. The drug
crystallizes in the form of a white, needle-like powder with only a faint odor. In most
cases, pharmaceutical aspirin is covered in a casing to buffer the stomach from injury
that may occur from ingesting the drug directly. This coating causes the aspirin to digest
in the duodenum, instead of the stomach, which is a more neutral-to-alkaline environment.
Aspirin may also be useful in reducing the risk of heart attack, stroke, or other problems
that may occur when a blood vessel is blocked. Side effects include loss of hearing,
confusion, diarrhea, dizziness, and drowsiness. |
Vitamin
C (Ascorbic Acid)
Vitamin C is one of the most ubiquitous vitamins ever
discovered. Besides playing a paramount role as an anti-oxidant and free radical
scavenger, it has been suggested to be an effective antiviral agent by some very respected
scientists. Although the antiviral properties of vitamin C remain the subject of great
debate in some circles, this water-soluble vitamin remains one of the most popular and
important vitamins. Vitamin C is commonly found naturally in peppers, citrus fruits,
tomatoes, melons, broccoli, and green leafy vegetables such as spinach, turnip, and
mustard greens.
The primary function of vitamin is to assist in the production of collagen,
although it is becoming rapidly identified as a key player in detoxifying the body from
foreign substances. Although there is somewhat limited documentation, other reported uses
of vitamin C are healing wounds and burns, accelerating healing after surgery, decreasing
blood cholesterol, reducing blood clotting, offering protection against cancer agents, and
extending life. Many of these reputed uses are highly speculative and lack the proper
scientific verification.
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Table Salt (Sodium Chloride)
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