The difference is that Philadelphia managed to avoid the soft underbelly that often lies below the big guns, thanks to their scouting department's knack for finding a host of unpolished gems.

FORBES: Magazine Article

But if the diminuitive republic went all the way, finding a venue to host the 2009 competition could prove a problem.

BBC: San Marino's big musical moment

But it is not simply a matter of an animal virus suddenly finding humans to be a congenial host, and flourishing as a result.

ECONOMIST: The American Association for the Advancement of Science

This means there are relatively few genetic combinations amongst them, and this makes them an ideal population for finding genes that cause a whole host of common disorders.

FORBES: Choppy IPO For deCode Genetics

Dr Madrenas says that understanding the mechanism used by MRSA to keep its host from falling severely ill may ultimately help in finding ways to combat superbugs by mimicking their method of self-preservation.

ECONOMIST: Drug-resistant infections

Many planets in similar orbits are "tidally locked", meaning the same side is always facing the host star, but further observations will be required to examine the planet further, finding out for example if it has an atmosphere.

BBC: Exoplanet around Alpha Centauri is nearest-ever