With all the clues to indicate that even relatively simple wax models can simulate the earth so well, Dr Bodenschatz is eager to plunge deeper into the research.

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Like the Moon, asteroids can wax and wane, depending on their position relative to the Sun.

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We can wax neurotic and no one calls us out on it.

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While I appreciate the great oratory skills of those who communicate using wonderful word pictures, or the academics who can wax eloquent while always using the best form of prose, I prefer my business communication to be quick and dirty.

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How much bigger can maxis wax?

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The symptoms of IBD tend to wax and wane, but can seriously debilitate some patients.

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One of the only places on Earth to see them in their natural habitat, the wax palms in Cocora Valley can grow to 60m tall, and hundreds of them randomly dot the cleared grassland like floral pinwheels, towering above fields of grazing livestock.

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But when it comes to versatility, nothing beats the fried wax worm (a type of caterpillar), which can be used in salty, spicy, and sweet dishes.

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The home version, which will cost less, is even simpler and can use hot water instead of electricity to warm the wax in the pouch.

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Skiers can thus, it seems, forget about long hours spent ironing wax on to their skis and devote more of their time to the slopes.

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Pirates in need of a pampering can invade the on-site Hollis Cosmetics and Day Spa for facials and massages, or to wax their Blackbeards.

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