The study highlights how natural disasters can disrupt industries and regions, causing significant economic losses. Intersectoral and interregional linkages contribute to these losses, which can be up to 50-70% of standard estimates for major metropolitan areas.
A new study evaluated 101 commercially available elite corn hybrids for their yield stability and crop-management adaptability. The researchers found that hybrids with stable yields under varying conditions are less responsive to environmental factors, while those with high adaptability yield well in optimal conditions but may perform ...
A new technique uses satellite data and machine learning to distinguish between corn and soybean fields in Illinois, providing accurate crop type data every two months. The researchers used Landsat satellites and a deep neural network to analyze the data, showing promise for future innovations in agricultural applications.
A new study from the University of Illinois has discovered that the Australian vine Glycine tomentella contains genetic resources that can substantially increase soybean yield. Yield increases of 3.5 to 7 bushels per acre have been recorded in soybean lines derived from crossing with Glycine tomentella.
Research from the University of Illinois found that wheat middlings and red dog, two co-product feed ingredients for livestock, have different nutrient compositions. Red dog showed higher energy and nutrient digestibility compared to wheat middlings due to its particle size and starch content.
Researchers at the University of Illinois are working on a $1 million grant to develop new, regionally adapted Miscanthus x giganteus ('Illinois') cultivars that can thrive in various climates. The team aims to create faster breeding cycles and better-adapted biomass crops using genomic selection tools.
Researchers found that soy-derived isoflavones and saponins have anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant effects on pigs. These compounds promote growth and help pigs recover faster from PRRSV infection.
Researchers aim to develop a new type of weed control system using genetic modification techniques. The goal is to introduce specific genetic controls that could change the sex ratio of waterhemp and Palmer amaranth populations, leading to population crashes.
The USDA is funding a four-year research project to investigate the environmental benefits of woody polyculture systems for crop production. Led by University of Illinois scientists, the study aims to compare different farming practices and estimate their impact on soil health, insect diversity, pollination, and carbon sequestration.
A study found that prenatal choline intake increases grey and white matter in piglets' brains. Piglets from mothers with sufficient choline had higher concentrations of grey and white matter, while those from deficient mothers had smaller brain regions.
A new study warns that Mekong River dams could cause irreversible ecological damage and force the resettlement of millions of people. The dams would affect the seasonal pulse of the river, change fish diversity and abundance, and impact downstream water flows.
A University of Illinois study found that early-killed cereal rye reduces weed density by 20% and suppresses early-season weed growth by 85%. The cover crop management system also promotes easy edamame emergence, which is notoriously challenging for the soybean variety.
The I-TOPP program, launched in 2011, trains future leaders to address childhood obesity through a transdisciplinary approach. The study found higher-impact research publications and more collaborators among I-TOPP students compared to traditional doctoral programs.
A new study finds that over 99% of Chicagoland wetlands are home to non-native plant species, with reed canary grass dominating many sites. The research highlights the importance of considering ecosystem function and functional values in restoration efforts in urban areas.
Research suggests that children's attribution biases and emotional intensity are linked to the quality of their friendships. Children with hostile biases may engage in negative interactions, while those with benign biases may exhibit pro-social behavior when emotions are intense.
Researchers have found that biochar can replace unsustainable peat moss in potting mix without harming plant growth. Biochar decomposes slowly, sequestering carbon and reducing emissions. However, high concentrations of biochar can cause pH issues, but these effects are short-lived.
Researchers found that soils with more than 18% clay are associated with a steep drop in cases of chronic wasting disease. Additionally, soils with pH above 6.6 also show higher incidence rates of the disease. These findings could inform future management schemes to prevent disease transmission.
Research at the University of Illinois found that copper hydroxychloride improves growth performance and reduces diarrhea in weanling pigs. The supplement also shows less frequent and severe diarrhea, with improved final body weight and daily feed intake.
A new study from the University of Illinois explains what it takes to get a cat to slim down, targeting a safe level of weight loss and maintaining lean mass. The researchers found that reducing food intake by 20% compared to a maintenance diet was necessary to achieve this goal.
A new study examines nutrient loss reduction strategies from three upper Midwestern states and finds promise in certain practices like cover crops and bioreactors. The researchers also assess the trackability and stackability of these practices, which will aid decision makers in choosing specific conservation practices to adopt or avoid.
A study found that prebiotics in infant formula can enhance memory and exploratory behavior in piglets, suggesting a potential link between gut health and brain development. The researchers also discovered changes in volatile fatty acid concentrations and serotonin levels in the brains of pigs fed with prebiotic supplements.
A study by the University of Illinois found that using the right blade is crucial for maximizing sugarcane harvesting. The researchers discovered that an angled blade caused the greatest damage to sugarcane stems and roots, while a serrated-edged blade reduced stem damage overall.
A study by Marty Williams found that workhorse sweet corn hybrids consistently perform well across ideal and less-than-ideal growing conditions, making them a better choice for processors. The research suggests that the 'workhorse' hybrid is preferred over the 'racehorse' due to its stability in variable weather conditions.
A new multi-institution report offers agronomic data for five cellulosic feedstocks, including switchgrass, Miscanthus, and sorghum. The study provides yield potential maps across the US, highlighting areas with high yield potential, but also notes limitations due to droughts and fertilizer application.
Scientists have identified two fungal genes that cause disease in corn, which could lead to the development of more resistant hybrid varieties. The discovery provides insight into how the fungus outsmarts corn's defenses and may enable researchers to create plant varieties that can detect and resist specific pathogens.
Researchers at University of Illinois create new maize growth model by integrating features from Community Land Model and Agricultural Production Systems sIMulator. The new model can simulate crop yields with improved accuracy and mechanism, correcting deficiencies in the original CLM model.
A new study from the University of Illinois reveals that people who are juggling bills and using financial coping strategies may be at risk for food insecurity. The researchers used data from the Hunger in America 2014 survey to show that these strategies can help identify individuals who are very food insecure or at risk.
Researchers have identified regions of the genome contributing to resistance against western corn rootworm, with ascorbate biosynthesis and nematode-attracting compounds implicated in the process. The study's findings offer hope for developing native resistance mechanisms into elite hybrids without using transgenics.
Scientists studied how intestinal epithelial stem cells respond to varying glucose levels, discovering a switch from renewal to growth mode triggered by higher glucose. This finding has implications for understanding cancer cell proliferation and developing new therapeutic strategies.
A study found that women who underwent sleeve gastrectomy may need to limit their alcohol consumption due to faster absorption rates. The surgery speeds up the transfer of alcohol into the bloodstream, leading to higher blood alcohol levels and increased risk of binge drinking and associated health issues.
Researchers developed an eDNA assay to detect invasive freshwater clam Corbicula, finding it in four out of 11 lakes where it already existed. The test revealed the location and abundance of clams, confirming its potential for monitoring new populations and preventing ecosystem degradation.
A new study from the University of Illinois found that taking a 20-minute walk in nature with moms and daughters can improve their interactions and reduce mental fatigue. The research supports the attention restoration theory, which suggests that interaction with natural environments can restore attentional functioning.
Researchers explored predictors of maternal supportive behavior during emotional challenges, revealing a time-lagged association between child's aversive behavior and mom's less supportive response.
A new imaging machine developed at the University of Illinois estimates the number of kernels per ear and provides detailed information about each kernel's shape, size, and location. The technology has the potential to revolutionize plant breeding and genetic research by enabling high-throughput phenotyping.
Researchers found that scab-resistant apple cultivars, such as GoldRush and CrimsonCrisp, retain their quality and nutritional value after storage, rivaling traditional varieties like Golden Delicious. The new apples also show promise for long-term storage using 1-MCP gas.
A recent study by researchers at the University of Illinois found that women who experienced coercive controlling violence in their marriages continued to experience higher levels of harassment, conflict, and volatility from their former partners during the first year. In contrast, women who experienced situational couple violence saw ...
Researchers found that migratory birds prefer fields with cover crops like cereal rye, providing a safe area to escape predators and increasing insect abundance. This leads to improved bird habitat and increased fueling time for migrants.
Research finds that increased conservation spending is effective in reducing biodiversity loss, with countries like Brazil experiencing fewer threats and Chile facing more. A new measurement assigns percentage of responsibility to protect threatened species based on their range within a country.
Researchers found that genetic predisposition increases risk of high triglycerides, but maintaining a healthy body weight or changing diet can help reverse the risk. A specific gene mutation was associated with higher circulating triglycerides, but the correlation was dependent on BMI and dietary intake.
A study by University of Illinois ornithologist Mike Ward found that 85% of Canada geese wintered in the Greater Chicago Metropolitan Area, with none making foraging flights to agricultural fields. The birds' ability to minimize risk by using urban areas suggests they are prioritizing survival over energy intake.
A study from the University of Illinois shows that a post-weaning low-fat diet can reverse epigenetic changes caused by a maternal high-fat diet, reducing the risk of diseases such as type 2 diabetes. This suggests that dietary changes later in life can affect gene expression and metabolic pathways.
Weeds like common waterhemp and Palmer amaranth can reduce corn and soybean yields by up to 80%, while resistant weeds are developing resistance to available herbicides. To combat this, researchers suggest diversifying weed management practices with crop rotation, weed suppressive cultivars, and other tactics.
Researchers developed a machine to automate soybean quality evaluation during harvesting, providing real-time grain quality information. The system uses high-speed camera and computer program to analyze beans in real time, allowing operators to make adjustments as they go.
Researchers discovered a mechanism by which gut bacteria contribute to hypertension, involving the breakdown of cortisol into a molecule called GALF. This process can lead to an increase in blood pressure. The study aims to develop targeted therapies to combat hypertension.
Researchers found associations between genetic variations and limited dietary variety, struggles for control during mealtime, and bitter taste perception. This study aims to understand the interplay of nature and nurture in shaping picky eating behavior in early childhood.
A recent study by University of Illinois economist Hope Michelson found that wait-and-see strategies among farmers in Nicaragua can lead to increased participation in supply chains. The study suggests that incentives may be necessary to encourage risk-takers to join the market, as early adopters bear initial costs and benefits.
Researchers at the University of Illinois study relationship maintenance strategies, finding that threats and relationship enhancement are intertwined. Couples can use individual or interactive approaches to mitigate conflicts and foster growth in their relationships.
According to a recent report, 8.1% of seniors in the US are food insecure, with some states experiencing significantly higher rates. The top 10 states for senior food insecurity rates include those in the South and Northeast, highlighting regional disparities in access to nutritious food.
A new study from the University of Illinois explains why herbicide rotation doesn't work against herbicide-resistant weeds like waterhemp. The researchers found that even with long rotations, the frequency of resistance alleles does not decrease significantly.
Researchers propose switchgrass as a solution to China's poor air quality by reducing particulate emissions from soil erosion. The crop's ability to hold soil and produce biomass makes it an attractive alternative to coal, with potential for widespread adoption in the Loess Plateau region.