Many characteristics that are under genetic control (height in people, for example, or flavour and texture in chickens) vary over a range of values.

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It is akin to using tiny adjustments to the height of a dam to control a torrent of water.

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The fire service said 11 fire engines and specialist appliances were involved with bringing the blaze under control at its height.

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All-wheel-drive was optional, with seven airbags (including one at knee-height for the driver) and stability control standard.

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Nama took control of the bad property debt from Irish banks during the height of the financial crisis, and it is tasked with maximising the return to the Irish taxpayer over the long term.

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At its height, 30 firefighters were called to help deal with the blaze, which took them several hours to control.

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