links for 2010-04-30

"“This is my favorite protocol for extracting DNA — mostly because it seems like a magic trick,’’ said Mackenzie Cowell, an amateur scientist who was leading a hands-on workshop to show that, with simple kitchen equipment and procedures, anyone can begin to examine his or her genetic material."

Go, Mac!

"In order to make a rubber tree's roots grow in the right direction – say, over a river – the Khasis use betel nut trunks, sliced down the middle and hollowed out, to create root-guidance systems. The thin, tender roots of the rubber tree, prevented from fanning out by the betel nut trunks, grow straight out. When they reach the other side of the river, they're allowed to take root in the soil. Given enough time, a sturdy, living bridge is produced."