Minerva

The Dorset based Scientific Exploration Society is looking for a fit doctor and a fit dentist to join an overland support group in November 2005 for an expedition led by explorer John Blashford-Snell, to navigate the Beschillo, one of the major tributaries of the Blue Nile. In addition to collecting geological data and cartographic information, the expedition will also work on several aid projects with local communities, including the refurbishment of a health clinic and construction of a new water well. For more information, telephone 01747 854898.

Liver toxicity is common with paracetamol (acetaminophen) poisoning, but little has been published about acute renal toxicity in such cases, although it is thought that N-acetylcysteine (used to treat hepatotoxicity) may cause renal problems. Data from one US poisons centre over one year report that nine of 11 patients admitted with raised liver function tests after paracetamol poisoning also developed acute renal injury, which was unrelated to the severity of liver injury. Most of them recovered within days, and N-acetylcysteine did not seem to make their condition worse (Renal Failure 2005;27: 381-3).

The way we store memories could be influenced by taking a β blocker, according to US psychiatrists (Nature 2005;436: 448-9). If it's taken at the “right” time it might be possible to prevent …