WEIRD STUFF

Viagra reduces the risk of Alzheimer's disease

A study suggests that men who take the little blue pill to treat erectile dysfunction were 18 per cent less likely to develop the degenerative brain condition, compared to others with the same medical issue who were not prescribed the medication.

The findings are only observational -- meaning that it cannot prove that Viagra was responsible for the decreased risk -- but the researchers feel that the link is worth further investigation.

An explanation could be that Viagra and other drugs increase blood flow in the brain, which has a protective effect on the organ.

Matthew Adesuyan, an author of the study at the University College London School of Pharmacy, said: "The results are encouraging and may point to a new way to reduce Alzheimer's risk."

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Researchers uncover shocking truth about lies

Most parents are guilty of telling their kids the occasional lie, but the impact has been largely unexplored until this new study. Experts from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore enlisted the help of 564 children age 11 to 12, as well as their parents, and conducted a survey into their use of two different types of fib -- instrumental lies and white lies.

The results revealed that parents used instrumental lies - told for child compliance -- more often than white lies - told to instil positive emotions -- although those exposed to white lies were more likely to tell tall tales to their parents.

Peipei Setoh, lead author of the study, said: "The bad news for parents is that sometimes, honesty may be the best policy.

"White lies may be motivated by good intentions, but if children realise they have been lied to, this can also lead to lying from the child."

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People take puppy love to staggering heights

Four in 10 dog owners tell their pooch they love them more often than their partner.

A new poll has found that humans profess their love for a canine on a more frequent basis than they do for their other half.

The data shows that 23 per cent of dog owners admit to spending lavishly on presents for their pooch, even though they rarely buy gifts for their lovers on special occasions.

The study of 1,000 dog owners -- commissioned by the dog-sitting firm Rover.com -- found that 93 per cent believe that their canines know that they are loved, with 11 per cent even revealing that they kiss their pet on the lips.

However, dog behaviourist Adem Fehmi said: "While a lot of dogs love affection...some may feel uneasy or get overwhelmed with physical contact.

"They may just feel more comfortable when you express your love, such as spending quality time together."