TREE paper countering Patterson et al

More "Doubts about complex speciation

between humans and chimpanzees"

original Patterson et al nature paper HERE

more interesting candidate genes: size, longevity, behavioral stereotypes

This dog study is > a year old, but I only just discovered it:

Candidate genes associated with size, longevity, and behavioral stereotypes of dogs (New Scientist seems esp interested in high strung chihuahuas)

adaptive coloration in deer mice

Another cool study from the Hoekstra lab: A single amino acid deletion influencing (or linked to something influencing) agouti expression in Nebraska deer mice.

Linus Pauling quote

"The way to get good ideas is to get lots of ideas, and throw the bad ones away"

genetics of dog hair (length and curl)

new Science Express paper from Ostrander lab: Variation in dog coat phenotypes largely due to mutations at just 3 genes (RSPO2, FGF5, and KRT71).

This is exciting -- for several reasons!

here is an NPR snippet about the article (thanks for tip, Monica):

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=112292082&sc=fb&cc=fp

hamadryas genome

wow, I didn't realize a draft assembly (almost 6x) of the hamadryas genome is already out.

DNA from difficult samples

new way to extract DNA from poor / contaminated samples:

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/08/090810174228.htm

Won't work with the QIAcube, but something to keep in mind...

sleep genes

I think I might have fixed the links problem...

I'll test it with this science article (tip from Jason) on the DEC2 gene and the evolution of sleep

-- surely some diurnal vs cathemeral vs nocturnal projects there...

Link's don't work?

Hm.

Times story:

http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/08/06/the-pain-of-being-a-redhead/

Study page:

http://jada.ada.org/cgi/content/abstract/140/7/896

Redheaded pain

I'm sure you've all seen this, but:



MC1R mutation may lead to increased pain sensitivity as well as red hair. My question: is it the MC1R, or is it some other associated gene/linkage?

I now feel even worse for red colobus monkeys.

Gary

Study:

CI Primate field guides

Exciting-- In addition to the Lemurs of Madagascar, CI now has a range of pocket field guides with illustrations by Stephen Nash. And they are affordable - $7.95 each including shipping!

http://www.primate-sg.org/field.guides.htm