Scientifics - October 2012

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    Reverse Engineering: Nosebleed Nougats

    Nosebleeds are very prevalent throughout life. Young children between the ages of 2 and 10 are constantly picking their noses, causing nosebleeds. Older people, on the other hand, may get into fist fights. Accurately placed punches on the face also lead to nosebleeds. A sudden change in elevation can also trigger a nosebleed. Due to the aggressive nose blowing and constant nose rubbing, colds may cause nosebleeds.
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    Zombie Ants

    At dusk, millions of ants throughout the world are forced to climb their way to the top of blades of grass (or flowers) and clamp on tightly. Those that survive through the morning are free to climb down and spend the rest of the day with their colony. But when evening hits again, the infected ants are stuck on the grass once again.
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    Cysteine: The Best Amino Acid

    Can you imagine birds without feathers and beaks? Horses without hooves? Can you imagine never knitting, or throwing on that cozy wool sweater? Can you imagine not having skin, nails, or hair? Most importantly, can you imagine having unstable proteins, among other things? You’d best thank cysteine – it works hard to create the world around you, and you yourself!
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