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19609
This article makes the point that shrub intrusion into tundra reduces albedo, the percentage of reflected light, but doesn’t report actual impact on ground temperature. Albedo itself is not a good indicator of waste heat. Much of the extra absorbed sun energy is used by the shrubs for photosynthesis and the fixing of carbon and […]
- Math
Climbing a Watery Slope
A water-walking insect can propel itself up steep, slippery slopes without moving its legs.
- Humans
From the November 2, 1935, issue
Indian Pipe's waxen beauty, the need for better brakes, and a new magnetic alloy.
- Health & Medicine
About Sinuses
This Web site from Dr. Wellington S. Tichenor examines the symptoms and treatment of sinusitis and other sinus diseases, as well as the interrelated problems of allergy and asthma. The site defines sinusitis and provides information on treatment regimens, fungal sinusitis, surgery, sinusitis in children, and more. Go to: http://www.sinuses.com/
- Earth
Volcanic Suppression: Major eruptions can reduce sea level
Although scientists have known for years that major volcanic eruptions can temporarily cool Earth's climate, a team now suggests that such outbursts can temporarily cause sea level to drop for a while as well.
- Materials Science
Up to Snuff: Nanotube network fights flames
Researchers have found that infusing plastics with a network of carbon nanotubes reduces their flammability.
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19608
Humans vocalize primarily non-harmonically (talk), but some can also vocalize harmonically (sing). Birds, likewise, mostly vocalize non-harmonically (chatter), but some can vocalize harmonically. It would be most helpful, when discussing birds, mice, and whale “songs,” if scientists would clarify whether they mean non-harmonic or harmonic vocalizations. Peter WilsonSimi Valley, Calif.
- Animals
Beyond Falsetto: Do mice sing at ultrasonic frequencies?
Male mice may serenade prospective mates at pitches about two octaves higher than the shrillest sounds audible to the human ear. With Audio.
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Bad Readout from DNA: Genes that act on brain may promote dyslexia
Studies conducted in the United States, Germany, and England indicate that two genes, both located on chromosome 6 and involved in orchestrating neural migration in developing brains, contribute to the severe learning disorder known as dyslexia.
- Physics
Light Pedaling: Photonic brakes are vital for circuits
A novel silicon microchip device slows and varies light-pulse speeds—a function considered critical for the development of photonic circuits based on light instead of electrons.
- Health & Medicine
More Than an Annoyance: Breathlessness could be sign of bigger problems
People who have dyspnea, the sensation of being frequently out of breath, may have an increased risk of dying from heart problems.
- Planetary Science
New Partners: Hubble finds more moons around Pluto
Astronomers using the Hubble Space Telescope have spied two tiny moons orbiting Pluto, giving this planet a total of three satellites.
