Life
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We summarize the week's scientific breakthroughs every Thursday.
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AnimalsA little climate change goes a long way in the tropics
In hot places, even minor warming could rev up metabolism in animals that don’t generate their own heat, a new analysis suggests.
By Susan Milius -
LifeMassive count a drop in the bucket
As the decade-long Census of Marine Life totes up thousands of new species, it leaves much yet to discover in the world’s oceans.
By Susan Milius -
LifeTo researchers’ surprise, one Pseudomonas infection is much like the next
Consistent genetic changes in the lung bacteria that commonly plague cystic fibrosis patients are a welcome discovery because they may point to new treatment strategies.
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LifeA giant penguin plumed in earth tones
The first well-preserved feathers of 36-million-year-old diving bird give clues to color and evolution.
By Susan Milius -
LifeNew genetic blueprint for bloodsuckers
Mosquito genome number three could lead to new pesticides to fight the adaptable pests.
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AnimalsMonkey in the mirror
Monkeys with implanted head devices use mirrors to inspect themselves, perhaps signaling self-awareness.
By Bruce Bower -
LifeA thousand points of height
A study finds heaps of genetic variants that influence a person’s stature, but even added together they don’t stack up to much.
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LifeA salty tail
Just adding sodium can stimulate limb regrowth in tadpoles, a study finds, raising the possibility that human tissue might respond to relatively simple treatment.
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PhysicsBeing single a real drag for spores
Launching thousands of gametes at once helps a fungus waft its offspring farther.
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LifeLone Star cats rescue cousins in Sunshine State
Florida panther numbers have tripled since the introduction of females from Texas injected vital genetic diversity, a new report says.
By Susan Milius -
LifeX-rays in 3-D show nanosized details
A new X-ray microscope technique peers inside materials to reveal their inner nature.