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Why understanding how spiders spin silk may hold clues for treating Alzheimer’s disease

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/michael-landreh-1328287">Michael Landreh</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/karolinska-institutet-1250">Karolinska Institutet</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/anna-rising-1440132">Anna Rising</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/karolinska-institutet-1250">Karolinska Institutet</a> Really, we should envy spiders. Imagine being able to make silk like they do, flinging it around to get from place to place, always having a <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsmacrolett.8b00678">strong-as-steel safety line</a> or spinning a comfy hammock whenever they need a rest. The fascinating properties of spider silk make it no wonder that scientists have been trying to unravel its secrets for decades. If we could understand and recreate the spinning process, we could produce artificial spider silk for a <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0141813021021292">range of medical applications</a>. For example, artificial silk can help <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biomaterials.2021.120692">regenerate the nerves that connect our brain and limbs</a>, and can shuttle <a href="https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.biomac.0c01138">drug molecules directly into the cells where they are needed</a>. <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zNtSAQHNONo?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> Spider silk is made of <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/spidroins">proteins called spidroins</a>, which the spider stores in a silk gland in its abdomen. There are several types of spidroin for spinning different sorts of silk. Spiders <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7673682/">store them as a liquid</a> that resembles oil droplets. But one of the questions that has eluded scientists so far is how spiders turn these liquid droplets into silk. We decided to investigate why the spidroins form droplets, to get us closer to replicating a spider’s spinning process. <h2>Weaving a web</h2> The trick that spiders use to speed up their spinning process can be used to spin better artificial silk, or even develop new spinning processes. In 2017, we learned to <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/ncomms15504">make synthetic silk fibres</a> by emulating the silk gland, but we did not know how things work inside the spider. Now we know that forming droplets first <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37084706/">speeds up the conversion to these fibres</a>. An important clue to how the droplets and fibres are related came from an unexpected area of our research – on <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23013511/">Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases</a>. Proteins that are involved in these diseases, called <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/biochemistry-genetics-and-molecular-biology/alpha-synuclein#:%7E:text=%CE%B1%2DSynuclein%20is%20a%20highly,linked%20to%20familial%20Parkinson%20disease.">alpha-synuclein</a> and <a href="https://www.alz.org/media/Documents/alzheimers-dementia-tau-ts.pdf">tau</a>, can assemble into tiny, oil-like droplets in human cells. Tau is a protein that helps stabilise the internal skeleton of nerve cells (neurons) in the brain. This internal skeleton has a tube-like shape through which nutrients and other essential substances travel to reach different parts of the neuron. In Alzheimer’s disease, an abnormal form of tau builds up and clings to the normal tau proteins, creating “tau tangles”. Alpha-synuclein is found in large quantities in <a href="https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/what-is-dopamine">dopamine-producing nerve cells</a>. Abnormal forms of this protein are linked to Parkinson’s disease. <figure class="align-center zoomable"><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/528217/original/file-20230525-25-p40y48.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/528217/original/file-20230525-25-p40y48.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/528217/original/file-20230525-25-p40y48.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/528217/original/file-20230525-25-p40y48.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/528217/original/file-20230525-25-p40y48.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/528217/original/file-20230525-25-p40y48.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/528217/original/file-20230525-25-p40y48.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/528217/original/file-20230525-25-p40y48.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" alt="Beautiful spider web with water drops close-up" /></a><figcaption>The trick spiders use to speed up their spinning process can be used to spin better artificial silk. <a class="source" href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/beautiful-spider-web-water-drops-close-155560781">Aastels/Shutterstock</a></figcaption></figure> Oil droplets of either one of these proteins form in humans when they become entangled, like boiled spaghetti on a plate. At first, the proteins are flexible and elastic, much like spidroin oil droplets. But if the proteins remain entangled, they get stuck together which alters their shape, changing them into rigid fibres. These can be toxic to human cells – for example, in neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s. However, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33148640/">spidroins can form droplets</a> too. This left us wondering if the same mechanism that causes neurodegeneration in humans could help the spider to convert liquid spidroins into rigid silk fibres. To find out, we used a <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/nchembio.2269">synthetic spidroin called NT2RepCT</a>, which can be produced by bacteria. Under the microscope, we could see that this synthetic spidroin formed liquid droplets when it was dissolved in phosphate buffer, a type of salt found in the spider’s silk gland. This allowed us to replicate spider silk spinning conditions in the lab. <h2>Silky science</h2> Next, we studied how the spidroin proteins act when they form droplets. To answer this question, we turned to an analysis technique <a href="https://www.britannica.com/science/mass-spectrometry">called mass spectrometry</a>, to measure how the weight of the proteins changed when they formed droplets. To our surprise, we saw that the spidroin proteins, which normally form pairs, instead split into single molecules. We needed to do more work to find out how these protein droplets help spiders spin silk. Previous research has shown spidroins have different parts, called domains, with separate functions. The end part of the spidroin, called c-terminal domain, makes it form pairs. The c-terminal also starts <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosbiology/article?id=10.1371/journal.pbio.1001921">fibre formation when it comes into contact with acid</a>. So, we made a spidroin which contained only the c-terminal domain and tested its ability to form fibres. When we used phosphate buffer to entangle the proteins into droplets, they turned into rigid fibre instantly. When we added acid without first making droplets, fibre formation took much longer. This makes sense since the spidroin molecules must find each other when forming a fibre. Entangling the spidroins like spaghetti helps them rapidly assemble into silk. This finding tells us how the spider can instantly convert its spidroins into a solid thread. It also uncovered how nature uses the same mechanism that can make brain proteins toxic to create some of its most amazing structures. The surprising parallel between spider silk spinning and fibres toxic to humans could one day lead to new clues about how to fight neurodegenerative disorders. Scientists may use spider silk research, including what we have learned about the spider silk domains, to keep human proteins from sticking together – to stop them from becoming toxic. If spiders can learn how to keep their sticky proteins in check, perhaps so can we.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/205857/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/michael-landreh-1328287">Michael Landreh</a>, Researcher, Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/karolinska-institutet-1250">Karolinska Institutet</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/anna-rising-1440132">Anna Rising</a>, Researcher in Veterinary medicine biochemistry, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/karolinska-institutet-1250">Karolinska Institutet</a> This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/why-understanding-how-spiders-spin-silk-may-hold-clues-for-treating-alzheimers-disease-205857">original article</a>. Images: Getty

Body

How to prevent travel-related deep vein thrombosis

No matter your transportation of choice, sitting motionless for long periods of time puts people at increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT refers to blood clots that form deep in your veins, usually in the calf or leg, and results in the sensation of a swollen, painful limb. If you’ve been susceptible to DVT in your past travels, there are a few simple things to do to combat the problem. <ul> <li>Stand up and walk around at least every hour to keep blood flowing</li> <li>Exercise your calf muscles by standing on tip-toes a few times</li> <li>If you can’t walk around, exercise legs by stretching them, flexing feet and curling or pressing toes frequently</li> <li>Drink lots of fluids, especially water, to prevent dehydration</li> <li>Reduce alcohol and coffee consumption, which contributes to dehydration</li> <li>Avoid crossing your legs when seated or at least for long periods of time</li> <li>Wear compression stockings that put on gentle pressure on leg muscles.</li> <li>Don’t wear regular socks that are right or have tight elastic bands at top</li> <li>Skip the aspirin; there’s no evidence that it’s effective as a preventative measure</li> </ul> Image credits: Getty Images

Travel Tips

“Homophobic” line removed from Spider-Man

A “homophobic” line from the action fantasy 2002 Spider-Man film has been removed following a recent airing on Britain’s ITV2. The first film of the trilogy starring Tobey Maguire aired on TV recently, with one eagle-eyed fan noticing the change. “They removed Peter Parker’s homophobia,” the Twitter user wrote along with a clip of the scene. The scene where the line was cut is at the beginning of the film where Peter Parker is learning about his newfound skills and went to a wrestling match. He is seen hanging on the cage away from pro wrestler Bone Saw and says: "That's a cute outfit. Did your husband give it to you?" However, the scene changed to just say: “That’s a cute outfit”. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> THEY REMOVED PETER PARKER'S HOMOPHOBIA <a href="https://t.co/QmbFabVpc7">pic.twitter.com/QmbFabVpc7</a> — PaperPlane (@PaperPlaneTF) <a href="https://twitter.com/PaperPlaneTF/status/1517947398936535040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2022</a></blockquote> The Twitter user however pointed out that the original line was in fact “not homophobic. It's been a joke for a little while now that Spider-Man is insensitive to this man's husband.” Many people praised the change, while others questioned why they couldn’t use something else that doesn’t attack sexuality. “Why cut the joke out entirely? Why not try to change it somehow?” someone asked. “So many things happen in this world, countless deaths, robberies, and many other things. And what makes people mad is a JOKE in a SPIDER-MAN MOVIE. Learn to take a joke. seriously. And the intent behind it wasn’t even bad, y’all just want something to be mad about,” another wrote. “The fact that they removed a joke is baffling guess comedy is hate speech,” someone mentioned. “What was wrong with the joke in the first place?” a user asked. “Everyone can’t seem to understand that Spider-Man says this because Bonesaw is very clearly a big, burly macho man (no pun intended) alpha-male, kinda guy with his own team of 4 beautiful women/cheerleaders at the ringside and implying that he’s gay is a good way to rile him up,” another explained. Image: Twitter

Movies

Spider-Man’s Tom Holland fulfils sweet promise to young hero

Marvel superstar Tom Holland doesn’t merely play a superhero on screen – he’s proved time and time again just how principled and generous he is in real life, too. Most recently, he kept his word to a little boy who saved his sister from a dog attack. Bridger Walker was only six years old when he defended his four-year-old sister from a dog attack in 2020. The children were playing outside their home in Wyoming when a German Shepherd mix ran towards Bridger’s sister and he intervened. He ended up <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CDXgF2TgYZD/" target="_blank">needing 90 stitches and undergoing a two-hour surgery</a> following the July 2020 attack. Upon hearing the news, celebrities like Anne Hathaway, Mark Ruffalo, and Tom Holland, who plays Spider-Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, sent messages of support to Bridger both publicly on social media and privately, praising him for his courage. At the time, Holland promised Bridger that he could visit the set of the most recent Spider-Man film, Spider-Man: No Way Home, and photos shared by the Walker family on Instagram show that he kept his promise to the young boy. <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CXmQuR8pNMv/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CXmQuR8pNMv/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Robert Walker, JD (@robertwalker307)</a> </div> </blockquote> Sharing photos from the set visit, including several of Bridger in his own Spider-Man mask, and one where Holland, as Spider-Man, is carrying Bridger through the air, Bridger’s dad Robert explained just how much the visit meant to their family. He thanked Holland, Holland’s brother Harry, and Spider-Man co-star Zendaya, along with the entire cast and crew, for this “dream-come-true adventure”. He continued to describe their day on set, writing, “When we first arrived on set, I was a little apprehensive that once the “curtain was pulled back” that the magic of the movies would be lost for the kids. The opposite was true! “Tom, Zendaya, Harry, @lifeisaloha, @tonyrevolori, and the entire cast/crew made our kids feel like stars. ✨ They don’t just act the part of friendly neighborhood heroes - that’s what they truly are. “The look on the kids’ faces was priceless when we rounded the blue-screen to see Tom, in full costume, high above the set on a light post. It was emotional to see him waive at the kids like he was the one that was supposed to be excited - not the other way around. A short time later, Tom and Zendaya came over. I will never forget the grace and kindness they showed our children. “We have loved seeing the reviews for @spidermanmovie. While there are so many reasons it will go down as one of the best ever - I personally think it is because the cast and crew are good, kind, and passionate people. Individuals who heard about a little boy’s injury, who wanted to make it right. People who were willing to stop a very busy day of shooting to make my little boy smile, and give him a chance to “web-swing” with his hero. Thank you again to everyone who played some role in Bridger’s special day “hanging” with Spider-Man. 🕷🕸 “ Image: Instagram

Movies

Baldwin film hit by yet another tragedy

Another “devastating event” has occurred on the set of Rust, with a crew member facing the loss of their arm after a spider bite. Jason Miller, a lamp operator and pipe rigger working on the film, was bitten by a brown recluse spider while packing up the set in New Mexico. The brown recluse spider is one of three species in North America that have life-threatening venom. <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/1ynDsUP_5p/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/1ynDsUP_5p/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Smithsonian's NMNH (@smithsoniannmnh)</a> </div> </blockquote> According to a Just Giving crowdfunding page, Mr Miller started experiencing severe symptoms, including necrosis of his arm and sepsis, shortly after the bite. “He has been hospitalised and endured multiple surgeries each day as doctors do their best to stop the infection and try to save his arm from amputation,” the page says, according to <a rel="noopener" href="https://news.sky.com/story/alec-baldwin-film-shooting-rust-crew-member-in-hospital-for-multiple-surgeries-after-spider-bite-12462638" target="_blank">Sky News</a>. “It will be a very long road to recovery for Jason if the medical team is able to save his arm. “If under worse circumstances he loses the arm, this is a life changing and devastating event for Jason and his family.” <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845412/baldwin3.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/e5755507d3b94b36b588115f7fa243c9" /> The set of Rust in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Image: Getty Images A spokesperson for the film <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.news.com.au/entertainment/movies/rust-crew-member-may-lose-arm-after-deadly-spider-bite/news-story/519321d002a183f926355d7e5bbb18ef" target="_blank">said</a> they had no comment “on individual members of the cast and crew’s private matters”. The set has been shut down for the last two weeks after cinematographer Halyna Hutchins <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/alec-baldwin-allegedly-shot-and-killed-cinematographer" target="_blank">was killed</a> with a gun accidentally fired by Alec Baldwin. The actor and producer said it’s unlikely that the film will ever be completed following the tragedy, which has sparked <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/movies/change-needs-to-happen-baldwin-tragedy-sparks-reform" target="_blank">growing calls</a> from the industry to ban real guns on sets. Image: news.com.au

News

Tarantula spotted on plane MID-FLIGHT

The moment passengers realised they had an eight-legged stowaway on their flight has been caught on video and since <a rel="noopener" href="https://travel.nine.com.au/latest/stunned-passengers-spot-tarantula-lurking-in-plane-cabin-midflight/da3e6e15-eca8-40a7-9ea8-261c5d2be177" target="_blank">gone viral</a> on TikTok. In the clip, the rogue tarantula can be spotted causing a commotion during the flight as it is discovered crawling through the overhead compartments. US retailer Hype Socks <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@hypesocksusa/video/7002633090929659141?is_copy_url=1&is_from_webapp=v1" target="_blank">re-posted the video</a> on the platform, claiming it was shot by company CEO Josh Wintermantel. “When your CEO sees a tarantula on the plane,” a voiceover says over footage of the spider. Shortly after, a brave cabin crew member captures the tarantula in a clear plastic bag. “Shoutout to the employee who saved our lives,” the company captioned the video. <img style="width: 500px; height:281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7844762/spider-plane.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/49da05ca1d5a4b15a272189aec1ef1fa" /> Image: @hypesocksusa / TikTok The clip has since been viewed more than three million times, with viewers sharing a mix of comments. “I know you’re not supposed to make a scene on an airplane but if that thing was above me I would have a VERY hard time not screaming,” one person wrote. “I’m gonna need all my money back and upgrades for the rest of my life,” another said. “Not what I needed to see two days before I am getting on a plane,” a third commented. A fourth person added, “Oh HELL NO! I would have jumped mid flight!” A second clip of the incident was shared by TikTok user <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@directorbrazil/video/7002518575944600838?lang=en&is_copy_url=1&is_from_webapp=v1">@directorbrazil</a>, showing just how large the spider was. <img style="width: 284.63329452852156px; height:500px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7844763/capture.png" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/e3198776f7294fd9abcce45d07b73e5e" /> Image: @directorbrazil / TikTok The footage, which has been viewed 3.6 million times, shows the shocked expressions on passengers’ faces as the crew member takes the spider down the cabin’s middle aisle. The spider appears to be the same size as the staff member’s hand, and many have echoed the same sentiments as those who saw the first video. “This is the second video of this spider I’ve seen. I’d be out of the emergency exit the moment someone said spider,” one viewer shared. Image: TikTok

Travel Trouble

"A horror movie": Woman's shock at unwanted guest in purchase

A Woolworths customer has found the funny side to a very disturbing find in her gingerbread house. Shopper Katie explained to Facebook that she found a massive huntsman, complete with egg sac, in a readymade gingerbread house that was purchased from her local supermarket. “Wait Woolworths, this isn’t what I ordered?” laughed Katie. “Only in Australia, only in #2020. “Buy a readymade gingerbread house they said, it’ll be easier than building one they said! “Seriously I don’t say this often but: why me?” <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7839257/woollies.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/682540a519f74cd3aa37b560b2114a72" /> <div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text redactor-styles redactor-in"> She then described how she found it in the packaging. “It was like a horror movie,” she said. “I was making myself a cup of tea, I glanced up at the gingerbread house thinking, ‘Hmmmm I wonder if I can sneak a piece off without the kids noticing.’ “Then I saw it, the tip ... of a leg, and then another leg and then another, and then the body, carrying a mother trucking egg sac. “I’m done!” People were disgusted with the find. “Are you SERIOUS? It’s INSIDE THE BOX,” wrote one. “OMG! Complete with egg sac so it’s been in there a long while!” Katie said she moved the spider outside, and a Woolworths representative apologised for the "scary surprise". “Oh no Katie - this critter just wanted a home, but this is definitely not the right one for her!” the representative said. “Thanks for letting us know, and we apologise for the scary surprise. After all, it’s Christmas, not Halloween. “Please feel free to return the gingerbread house to our store service desk for a replacement - one without an added houseguest!” Photo credits: Facebook </div> </div> </div>

Family & Pets

Don’t like spiders? Here are 5 reasons to change your mind

Australia is famous for its supposedly scary spiders. While the sight of a spider may cause some people to shudder, they are a vital part of nature. Hostile reactions are harming conservation efforts – especially when people kill spiders unnecessarily. Populations of many invertebrate species, including <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/297742805_Quality_not_quantity_Conserving_species_of_low_mobility_and_dispersal_capacity_in_south-western_Australian_urban_remnants">certain spiders</a>, are highly vulnerable. Some species have become extinct due to <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-018-07916-1">habitat loss and degradation</a>. In dramatic efforts to avoid or kill a spider, people have reportedly <a href="https://www.bluemountainsgazette.com.au/story/4448093/huntsman-spider-sparks-four-car-crash/">crashed their cars,</a> <a href="https://www.news.com.au/technology/science/animals/man-tries-to-kill-wolf-spider-with-a-blowtorch-but-sets-apartment-on-fire/news-story/13ba250e2d8a58658b6c2960d69bd815">set a house on fire</a>, and even caused such a commotion that <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-01-03/wa-police-called-out-for-man-trying-to-kill-spider/10683454">police showed up</a>. A pathological fear of spiders, known as arachnophobia, is of course, a legitimate condition. But in reality, we have little to fear. Read on to find out why you should love, not loathe, our eight-legged arachnid friends. 1. Spiders haven’t killed anyone in Australia for 40 years The last confirmed fatal spider bite in Australia <a href="https://australianmuseum.net.au/learn/animals/spiders/spider-facts/">occurred in 1979</a>. Only a few species have venom that can kill humans: some mouse spiders (Missulena species), Sydney Funnel-webs (Atraxspecies) and some of their close relatives. <a href="https://australianmuseum.net.au/learn/animals/spiders/spider-facts/">Antivenom</a> for redbacks (Latrodectus hasseltii) was introduced in 1956, and for funnel-webs in 1980. However, redback venom is <a href="https://www1.health.nsw.gov.au/pds/pages/doc.aspx?dn=GL2014_005">no longer considered life-threatening</a>. 2. Spiders save us from the world’s deadliest animal Spiders mostly eat insects, which helps control their populations. Their webs – especially big, intricate ones like our orb weavers’ – are particularly adept at catching small flying insects such as mosquitos. Worldwide, mosquito-borne viruses <a href="https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/the-animals-that-kill-most-humans.html">kill more humans</a> than any other animal. 3. They can live to an impressive age The <a href="https://doi.org/10.1071/PC18015">world’s oldest recorded spider</a> was a 43- year-old female trapdoor spider (Gaius villosus) that lived near Perth, Western Australia. Tragically a wasp sting, not old age, killed her. 4. Spider silk is amazing Spider silk is the <a href="https://theconversation.com/curious-kids-what-are-spider-webs-made-from-and-how-strong-are-they-91824">strongest</a>, most flexible natural biomaterial known to man. It has historically been used to make bandages, and UK researchers have worked out how to load silk bandages with <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/adma.201604245">antibiotics</a>. Webs of the golden orb spider, common throughout Australia, are <a href="https://australianmuseum.net.au/learn/animals/spiders/golden-orb-weaving-spiders/">strong enough to catch bats and birds</a>, and a <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/gallery/2012/jan/23/golden-silk-cape-spiders-in-pictures">cloak was once woven</a> entirely from their silk. 5. Their venom could save our life The University of Queensland is using spider venom <a href="https://imb.uq.edu.au/article/2017/07/taking-bite-out-chronic-pain-new-spider-venom-treatment">to develop</a>non-addictive pain-killers. The venom rapidly immobilises prey by targeting its nervous system – an ability that can act as a painkiller in humans. The venom from a Fraser Island funnel web contains a molecule that <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-04-02/funnel-web-spider-venom-could-help-protect-brain-stroke-damage/10959032">delays the effects of stroke on the brain</a>. Researchers are investigating whether it could be administered by paramedics to protect a stroke victim on the way to hospital. Funnel-web venom is also being used to create <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/technology/funnel-web-venom-the-bees-knees-of-natural-pesticides-20160516-govvss.html">targeted pesticides</a> which are harmless to birds and mammals. Written by Leanda Denise Mason. Republished with permission of <a href="https://theconversation.com/dont-like-spiders-here-are-10-reasons-to-change-your-mind-126433">The Conversation</a>.

Art

12 ways to rein in varicose vein pain

1. Don’t stand when you can sit.Standing still in the one position for long periods of time lets blood pool in your lower legs, putting pressure on blood vessels. Whenever possible, take breaks every 15 minutes or so and sit down with your legs raised. 2. Eat more berries.Blackberries, raspberries and strawberries all contain flavonoids, which have been shown to help strengthen blood vessel walls. This is great for preventing varicose veins and haemorrhoids. Get into the habit of having berries as an after-dinner treat or on the top of your morning cereal. 3. Put your feet up when sitting. Raising your legs prevents blood from pooling in the veins. When you’re sitting down watching TV or if you’re lying down for any length of time, keep your feet elevated slightly higher than your heart to reduce the risk of blood pooling in your lower legs. 4. Move.Get up and get moving – it’s the only sure way you’ll strengthen your calf muscles and keep the blood circulating in your legs. Start going for a regular walk after dinner or before breakfast. If you spend much of the day behind a desk, point and flex your feet to boost circulation. If you’re on your feet, get the blood moving several times an hour by rising on your toes, shifting your weight from one foot to the other, bending your legs and walking on the spot. 5. Avoid tight clothes.Believe it or not, those jeans that look great and show off your curves are a bad idea. Never wear tight clothing that can restrict blood circulation at the top of your legs. 6. Lose weight.If you’re carrying any extra kilos, get serious about getting back to a more healthy weight. You’ll not only look better, but you’ll reduce the stress placed on your legs and circulatory system and improve blood flow. An extensive study conducted in Scotland found that being overweight or obese raised your chances of developing varicose veins by as much as 58%. By eating less and getting more aerobic exercise, you’ll lose weight and also reduce your risk of developing leg vein problems. 7. Wear flats. While high heels won’t cause varicose veins, wearing them makes your calf muscles less effective at pumping blood back towards your heart when you walk. Our legs much prefer walking in flat shoes. They tone calf muscles, helping to move blood through the veins. 8. Wear stockings.While not the most attractive option, wearing compression stockings (available from your pharmacy) is an effective way of easing the pain that comes with varicose veins. Compression stockings work by applying pressure to the lower part of your legs, forcing any build-up of blood back towards the heart – by as much as 20%. When Japanese researchers measured the legs of 20 people with varicose veins, they found that all grades of compression stockings reduced swelling, but medium- and strong-grade stockings worked best. Scientists in Hong Kong recently discovered a design flaw in the stocking: as study volunteers moved around, their stockings sometimes squeezed tighter at the thickest part of the calves than the ankles, which could actually promote blood pooling rather than prevent it. The conclusion was that compression stockings are still worth wearing if you’re on your feet all day, but you should also attempt to exercise your calf muscles to help keep blood moving. 9. Gotu kola.Research has found that this herb, which is native to Madagascar, India and Sri Lanka, can ease the pain, swelling and sensation of heaviness and tingling in the legs. It works by strengthening the collagen lining in the walls of veins, which enhances circulation. The recommended dose is between 30-39mg a day. 10. Horse chestnut. The seed extract from this tree is one remedy for varicose vein discomfort that seems to work. When Harvard Medical School researchers reviewed 16 studies of thousands of people with weak valves in their leg veins, they found that those who took the extract had four times less pain than those who were given a placebo. Half saw a decrease in swelling, and 70% had less itching. They also reported improvement in feelings of fatigue and heaviness in their legs. In lab studies, escin, the active ingredient in horse chestnut seeds, was found to strengthen the walls of small blood vessels. UK researchers say this safe botanical may be as effective as compression stockings. The usual daily dose is 300mg (containing 50-75mg of escin per dose). 10. Stop straining.Working too hard to have a bowel movement increases pressure on veins in the lower legs. Scottish researchers report that this kind of pushing nearly doubles the risk of vein problems in men. To make bowel movements as easy and as comfortable as possible, drink plenty of water during the day and increase your fibre intake. 11. Enjoy a glass of wine.Spanish researchers who analysed the health records of 1778 people found that those who enjoyed a glass of wine every day had a 50% lower risk of varicose veins than those who drank less – or more. Other research suggests that flavonoids and saponins in wine can help keep blood vessels flexible and healthy. This article first appeared in <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/healthsmart/tips/varicose-vein-pain">Reader’s Digest</a>. For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, <a href="http://readersdigest.innovations.co.nz/c/readersdigestemailsubscribe?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=RDSUB&keycode=WRN93V">here’s our best subscription offer.</a> <img style="width: 100px !important; height: 100px !important;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7820640/1.png" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/f30947086c8e47b89cb076eb5bb9b3e2" />

Retirement Life

Nightmare as hundreds of spiders “rain” from the sky

Arachnophobes look away, because a video posted to Facebook shows every person’s worst nightmare as Brazil experienced a strange phenomenon of spiders raining from the sky. The footage shows spiders coming down in droves at Espirito Santo do Dourado, with locals describing the event as the sky “raining with spiders”. <iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fcecilia.fonseca.712%2Fvideos%2F1962652493856369%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="308" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe> While the eight-legged insects appear to be falling from above, they are actually moving with the help of a huge web, and according to experts, spiders create canopies during hot and humid climates so they can share one giant web. João Pedro Martinelli Fonseca, who is the man behind the camera, said that he noticed the sensation at his grandparent’s farm and told local newspapers that he was “stunned and scared”. Spiders can reportedly travel hundreds of kilometres using a ballooning method. Ballooning occurs when spiders detect electric fields under natural atmospheric conditions. It is the electric fields that cause the arachnid’s strange behaviour. Spiders are able to become airborne through the technique, as they release fine silk lines that once caught in the breeze, lift the spider up in the air.

Home & Garden

Simple trick to banish spiders from your home

If you’re not a fan of creepy crawly spiders in your house, there is a simple way to deter them that doesn’t involve calling for pest control. You may not know this, but spiders dislike the smell of peppermint and will not make their home in a place where it is present. So first just give the house and garden a once over to remove spider webs. Then grab a spray bottle and add a cup of water and 15-20 drops of pure peppermint oil. Shake well and then spray it on all of the entrances to your home such as windowsills, doorframes, or anywhere that spiders tend to hang out. Once the spiders detect the scent it’s believed that they will head for another house to take shelter in. A perfect result for those of us who don’t want spiders at home but also don’t want to harm them. Have you tried this old-fashioned trick to keep spiders away? Let us know your experience in the comments.

Home & Garden

Does crossing your legs cause varicose veins?

It’s the catchcry of mothers around the world – “Stop crossing your legs, you’ll get varicose veins!” But is there any truth to the rumour? <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com.au/2017/08/13/does-crossing-your-legs-cause-varicose-veins_a_23076331/" target="_blank">HuffPost Australia</a> spoke to Dr Mark Malouf, president of the Australian and New Zealand Society of Phlebology to find out. “The short answer is no, it does not,” he revealed. “However, sitting for long periods of time, with legs crossed or not, if you already have varicose veins can worsen the situation because the blood sitting around in those varicose veins can pool and slow down, and may develop a clot (called ‘thrombosis’).” So we can all breathe a sigh of relief there, but why is it that some people are so much more prone to them than others? “Men and women both suffer from varicose veins, but much more so in women,” says Dr Malouf. “Many patients suffer symptoms from their varicose veins while others do not. “The main reason people develop varicose veins is hereditary – mum or dad has them in 70 per cent of cases that I see. That goes for the large bulging grape-like varicose veins as well as the unsightly blue and red ‘spider veins’ that many women and some men find very distressing.” So you can blame your parents for your unsightly veins, then! Thankfully, Dr Malouf explains, varicose veins and spider veins can be treated and even prevented. Here are a few preventative measures you can take today. <ol> <li>Change your lifestyle – If you’re overweight or lead a sedentary lifestyle, your veins could be paying the price. To avoid vein issues, get moving, try not to sit or stand in the same place for too long and ensure you’re wearing supportive shoes.</li> <li>Take supplements – Your doctor may recommend oral Ventonics or Vento-active drugs which work to strengthen the walls of your veins, slowing deterioration of varicose veins.</li> <li>Get supported – Support stockings, socks and pantyhose reduce the backward blood flow to diseased varicose veins, slowing the process of enlargement and relieving symptoms such as swelling.</li> </ol> If you’re concerned about your varicose or spider veins, book a visit with your doctor – there are a number of treatments available, both surgical and non-invasive.

Body

Tiny spiders flirt on researcher’s hand

Back in the old days, before the deluge of online dating apps, if you wanted to meet someone you had to get your dancing shoes on. And, if this footage is anything to go by, if you’re a peacock spider looking for love this is still the case. Michael Doe, a researcher working as part of Project Maratus, has filmed a <a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/2017/01/spider-drawing-illusion-video/">pair of tiny peacock spiders</a> performing their bizarre courting ritual on his hand. The male spider moves from side to side over the researcher’s hand, shaking his hind legs, while the female spider looks on (from what we can tell, somewhat unimpressed). Whether this pair were made in the stars remains to be seen, but it just goes to show you that in some ways <a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/2015/11/man-fear-of-spiders-causes-police-visit/">spiders aren’t too different</a> from humans after all. What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever seen an animal (or human) do? Credit: Facebook/Michael Doe (Project Maratus via Storyful)

News

How to avoid deep vein thrombosis when travelling

Generally occurring in your leg, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition where a blood clot forms in one of your deeper veins. In minor cases DVT causes pain and uncomfortable swelling, and can even lead to the occurrence of serious health complications. Any form of travel that has you seated in the one position for an extended period increases your risk of DVT, whether you’re travelling by car, bus, train or air. We’re going to take a look at some simple measures you can take when travelling to avoid DVT and make sure you remember your holiday for the right reasons. 1. Stand up and move around Sitting in a position where your leg is bent for an extended period of time, significantly reduces blood flow and increases your risk of a clot. Something as simple as standing every now and then to walk up and down the aisle of your bus, train or plane can really help circulation. If you’re driving, stop every couple of hours for a quick stroll. 2. Compression socks If you have a history of DVT, it might be an idea to invest in some fitted compression socks. These useful leggings help improve the blood flow in your lower leg. Compressions socks are available in a variety of different sizes so you can figure out the best one to suit your circumstances depending on where you suffered blood clots in the past. 3. Blood thinning medication This is for more serious cases of course, but if you’re highly concerned about the occurrence of DVT on your next trip consider asking your doctor for blood thinning medication prior to your trip. This medication will generally reduce your blood’s ability to clot while travelling, while at the same time preventing existing clots from becoming bigger. 4. Stay hydrated Dehydration can significantly increase your risk of coming down with DVT. This causes your blood volume to decrease and “thicken” significantly increasing the likelihood of a clot occurring. Make sure you drink plenty of fluids while you’re on your trip and try to be mindful about the most of alcohol you’re consuming, as that can lead to dehydration. Related links: <a href="/travel/travel-tips/2016/06/6-travel-tips-for-those-who-have-diabetes/">6 travel tips for those who have diabetes</a> <a href="/travel/travel-tips/2016/05/6-things-you-need-to-know-about-travel-vaccinations/">6 things you need to know about travel vaccinations</a> <a href="/travel/travel-tips/2016/05/10-ways-to-beat-travel-sickness/">10 ways to beat travel sickness</a>

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