Genes & Cells

In the November 21 Issue:

::	Genes & Cells

Top Stories | November 20

Corn genome a maze of unusual diversity
Multiple teams announce complete draft of the maize genome, with a full plate of surprises that include hints about hybrid vigor.
Science/AAAS
Penguin DNA evolving faster than thought
Comparing the DNA in modern birds to that in ancient generations shows molecular evolution happens at varying rates, and that each species has its own rate of evolution.
Newborn cells clear space in brain's memory-maker
Rodent study offers first evidence that neurogenesis clears old memories in key part of the brain to make way for new ones.
Genetic effects suggest FOXP2 role in language evolution
Human version of the protein alters activity of 116 genes compared with the chimp version.
Hormones give lantern sharks the glow
In a first, a study shows that bioluminescence can be controlled by slow-acting hormones, not rapid-fire nerve cells.

:: More in Genes & Cells

In a first, a study shows that bioluminescence can be controlled by slow-acting hormones, not rapid-fire nerve cells.

Study offers most comprehensive inventory yet of the human microbiome and a basis for understanding how those microbes affect health.

Researchers are just beginning to explore the genetic landscape of the cradle of humanity

Scientists argue a newly discovered stretch of DNA essential for larynx development may have allowed the evolution of language.

Hormone is one reason that men and women carry weight differently

:: Science News
11|7 Issue Links

A new study begins to decode pheromone messages and finds that the same chemicals that attract can also maintain the species barrier.

A protein splits carbon dioxide to give fizz its unique flavor.

A new technique allows scientists to map the 3-D structure of the entire human genome.

Researchers have pinpointed the protein that gives a cell’s control room its shape and also keeps it functioning.

Science & the Public PCBs hike blood pressure
By Janet Raloff Nov 17th 2009

On the Scene Changing the paradigm around Alzheimer's disease
By Science News Staff Nov 16th 2009

Comment From fringe to electromicrobiological mainstream
By Ken Nealson Nov 20th 2009

Math Trek The four color problem gets a sharp new hue
By Julie Rehmeyer Mar 6th 2009

2008: Science News of the Year

Quantum Leaps by Jeremy Bernstein
Review by Tom Siegfried
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Reading in the Brain: The Science and Evolution of a Human Invention by Stanislas Dehaene
A cognitive neuroscientist describes how the brain has adapted to reading and what can cause reading...
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