Origin of life: Hypothesis traces first protocells back to emergence of cell membrane bioenergetics

via sciencedaily.com

why all life as we know it conserves energy in the peculiar form of ion gradients across membranes.

"Life is, in effect, a side-reaction of an energy-harnessing reaction.

Living organisms require vast amounts of energy to go on living," said Nick Lane.

Humans consume more than a kilogram (more than 700 litres) of oxygen every day, exhaling it as carbon dioxide.

Approaching comet may outshine the moon. November 2013. Brightest seen in many generations.

via newsdaily.com

"Comet ISON…could be the brightest comet seen in many generations - brighter even than the full moon,"

"It's really rare, exciting," Novichonok wrote.

Comet ISON's path is very similar to a comet that passed by Earth in 1680, one which was so bright its tail reportedly could be seen in daylight.