Inheritance of Traits by Offspring Follows Predictable Rules

Genes come in different varieties, called alleles. Somatic cells contain two alleles for every gene, with one allele provided by each parent of an organism. Often, it is impossible to determine which two alleles of a gene are present within an organism’s chromosomes based solely on the outward appearance of that organism. However, an allele that is hidden, …

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Genomics and Medicine

Genomic medicine is an emerging medical discipline that involves using genomic information about an individual as part of their clinical care (e.g. for diagnostic or therapeutic decision-making) and the health outcomes and policy implications of that clinical use. Already, genomic medicine is making an impact in the fields of oncology, pharmacology, rare and undiagnosed diseases, …

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Crossbreeding and the Benefits of Heterosis

The decision of whether or not to utilize a particular strategic system of crossbreeding depends upon individual production goals. First must come the blinding realization that no one breed excels in all areas that lead to profitability. In order to take advantage of breed complementarity, breeds must be paired such that they excel in different …

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The Advantage of Crossbreeding

According to the January 2012 USDA Cattle Inventory report, retained heifer numbers were up 1.4 percent. This increase indicates an attempt at cattle herd expansion. However, the cost of replacement females for a cow-calf operation is significant. Selecting replacement females is challenging, especially when you consider that decisions made now will impact your operation for …

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Why Do Snakes Shed Their Skin

As you approach a log blocking the trail, you notice something strange at the base of it. It looks almost like a snake…but not quite. What could it be? As you inch closer, you realize that it’s a long piece of snake skin! Read more

Nature Curiosity: Why Do Snakes Shed Their Skin

Snakes are unique among wildlife for many reasons, and one of those reasons is their ability to shed their skin in its entirety. We don’t see this from other animals, so why do snakes shed their skin whole?   Put simply, snakes shed their skin because it doesn’t fit anymore or because it’s old or worn out. When …

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Centrifugal Force (Physics)

centrifugal force is a fictitious force, peculiar to a particle moving on a circular path, that has the same magnitude and dimensions as the force that keeps the particle on its circular path (the centripetal force) but points in the opposite direction. Read more

Egypt’s Obsession with The Abay River (Blue Nile)

Egypt has always been in need to control the Ethiopian Abay River (AKA Blue Nile) for good reason – its livelihood depends on it. But having a good reason does not support taking any action to control the river. Egypt does not seem to appreciate this wisdom and has been trying historically to control the …

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