Mid-Nov 2008 papers

Here are some interesting papers.

Modified genes spread to local maize: Findings reignite debate over genetically modified crops, Rex Dalton, Nature 456:149 (12 November 2008).
Transgenes from genetically modified (GM) maize (corn) crops have been found in traditional 'landrace' maize in the Mexican heartland, a study says. The work largely confirms a similar, controversial result published in Nature in 20011 and may reignite the debate in Mexico over GM crops.

PLANT GENOMICS: A Bunch of Trouble, David Grimm, Science 322(5904):1046 - 1047 (14 November 2008).
The banana is endangered and largely ignored by funding agencies, researchers, and breeders. But things might finally be going its way.

RENEWABLE ENERGY: Minnesota Ecologist Pushes Prairie Biofuels, Eli Kintisch, Science 322(5904):1044 - 1045 (14 November 2008).
David Tilman wants to mix it up by growing native grasses for energy. Many agronomists disagree.