Figuring out function from bacteria's bewildering forms

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Stalks increase the rate of nutrient uptake by efficiently increasing cell length. The finding has potential implications for both ecology and drug production. Photo by: Jennifer Wagner
Stalks increase the rate of nutrient uptake by efficiently increasing cell length. The finding has potential implications for both ecology and drug production. Photo by: Jennifer Wagner

The constellation of shapes and sizes among bacteria is as remarkable as it is mysterious. Why should Spirochaeta halophila resemble a bedspring coil, Stella a star and Clostridium cocleatum a partly eaten donut? No one really knows.


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Scientists search for answers from the carbon in the clouds

1 hour ago | User rating: not rated yet
An aerosol mass spectrometer developed by chemists from Aerodyne Research Inc. and Boston College is giving scientists who study airborne particles the technology they need to examine the life cycles of atmospheric ...

'Green' potato health risk can be eliminated by cutting away affected area

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Potatoes that have turned 'green' can potentially contain a naturally occurring toxin called Glycoalkaloids (GA) and pose a risk to public health according to a review paper published in the latest online issue of SCI's Journal ...

N.M. researchers hope to cultivate 'calming herb'

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(AP) -- The plant has been described by local residents as magical, its qualities almost mythical. The native herb yerba mansa, translated from Spanish as the "calming herb," has been used medicinally for ...

Population policy needed for the UK in order to combat climate change

5 hours ago | User rating: not rated yet
The biggest contribution UK couples can make to combating climate change would be to have only two children or at least have one less than they first intended, argues an editorial published on BMJ.com today.

Zoo will reopen exhibit where 16 stingrays died

6 hours ago | User rating: not rated yet
(AP) -- A zoo in suburban Chicago plans to reopen an exhibit where 16 stingrays died last week when a malfunction let the tank's water get too warm.
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