A new study from the University of Illinois explores how romantic relationships, neighborhood quality, and mental health intersect among Black Americans. The research reveals significant effects of neighborhood quality on mental wellbeing, with a notable interaction between relationship functioning and neighborhood quality for Black men.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have identified strong correlations between SARS-CoV-2 cases and deaths, temperature, and latitude. The studies suggest that the virus is genetically encoded to exhibit seasonal behavior, which could be influenced by vaccine design.
A new study from the University of Illinois found that following the Dietary Guidelines for Americans promotes a diverse gut microbiota composition. The researchers analyzed data from the American Gut Project and discovered that individuals with higher diet quality had a greater abundance of beneficial bacteria involved in fiber metabo...
A new University of Illinois study suggests that widespread planting of cereal rye could significantly reduce nitrate levels in Illinois' tile drainage water. The research found that adopting winter cover crops, such as cereal rye, can help minimize nitrogen loss and improve water quality.
Researchers discovered that adding cell layers to corn bran can increase iron and zinc content by up to 35% and 15%, respectively. The technique also enhances anthocyanin production, a natural pigment in corn prized for its colorant properties.
Researchers at University of Illinois have recalibrated climate change effects on salamanders, showing a somewhat more hopeful future. The study found that incorporating microclimate data at fine spatial scales reduced predicted habitat loss by 55-80% compared to using free-air temperature data.
Researchers will use satellite data, airborne sensors, and supercomputers to evaluate the impact of tillage practices on corn and soybean yields, greenhouse gas emissions, and soil organic carbon in the Midwest region. The study aims to provide a holistic view of the effects of tillage across a large region.
A University of Illinois study finds that two human-grade vegan diets provide adequate nutrition for dogs, with benefits including lower blood triglycerides and cholesterol. The research also shows positive changes in the fecal microbiome and reduced stool, indicating a potential shift towards improved gut health.
A new study from University of Illinois evaluates the implementation of two prevention programs using a mixed-methods approach with multiple sources. The researchers identified four themes that had a positive impact on delivery, including instructor attentiveness, student involvement, and flexibility in program scheduling.
The National Cooperative Dairy Herd Improvement Program has successfully collected herd production data for 100 years, providing crucial input for cattle breeding and genetics. The program's cooperative structure, data interoperability, and governance model make it a unique example of how data collection benefits producers.
A new study from the University of Illinois finds that local enforcement of manure management regulations can effectively reduce nutrient concentrations in rivers and lakes. The study focuses on Wisconsin's unique approach, which allows counties to participate in enforcement without state approval.
A University of Illinois project uses AI-powered object recognition to quantify kernel damage in wheat, enabling faster disease analysis and improved resistance. The technology has shown promising results, with potential for an online portal to automate scoring and support breeders in their efforts to eliminate fusarium head blight.
The Center for C. elegans Anatomy is receiving $2.6 million in funding from the NIH to expand WormAtlas, a resource for researchers studying C. elegans and other nematodes. The expansion aims to incorporate new nematode species into the atlas, enabling comparisons between C. elegans and less-studied species.
A new study from the University of Illinois forecasts how increased tile drainage and crop rotation will impact nitrogen loads in Midwestern watersheds. The research team developed a model that reveals the mechanism behind nitrate increases with flow, providing a starting point for reducing nutrient loss.
Researchers identified genetic variants associated with susceptibility to Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) in white-tailed deer. The study found that deer with specific mutations are less susceptible to the disease, which has been on the rise in northern Illinois and neighboring states.
A new study suggests that the invasive rusty crayfish may be dying off naturally, allowing native water plants and snails to flourish. In some Northern Wisconsin lakes, crayfish populations have declined by nearly zero, leading to a resurgence of plant life and potential ecosystem recovery.
Global market trends are changing as Brazil catches up with US cotton exports, driven by trade policies and increased production. Brazilian cotton exports have risen significantly, while US exports have declined, especially in the Chinese market.
Researchers found muskies' size, boldness, and exploration levels are linked to their likelihood of striking. Anglers should prioritize catch-and-release and best practices to protect these traits.
University of Illinois scientists developed a way to accurately map tilled land in real-time using ground, airborne, and satellite imagery. The method increased mapping accuracy by 67% compared to upscaling directly from the ground to the satellite.
A new paper provides evidence-based strategies to create safer experiences for marginalized gender and sexual identities in ecological field research. The authors recommend comprehensive protocols, safety plans, inclusive housing policies, and affirming healthcare to attract and retain a diverse workforce.
A new study analyzed state nutrient reduction strategies and found that initial energy and inclusive planning processes were key to success. Emphasizing local water body impacts was more motivating than distant goals, and addressing scale challenges is crucial for significant results.
A new study reveals that the US Midwest has seen a significant increase in cover crop adoption, with 7.2% of cropland being planted with cover crops in 2021. This is attributed to government programs and funding initiatives, which have been shown to strongly correlate with the onset of cover crop assistance.
A new study reveals that standard goose harassment efforts are ineffective, especially in winter when birds should be most susceptible to scare tactics. Canada geese return to their territories despite harassment, prioritizing access to resources over energy conservation. The research team found that geese adapt to urban environments, ...
Researchers developed a modeling framework using remote sensing data to predict gully erosion susceptibility. They found that spatiotemporal changes in land cover and precipitation were crucial in predicting gully formation in agricultural areas, with 7.4% of the study area having an elevated risk of developing gullies.
Research reveals that sweet corn yields significantly decrease with extreme heat during flowering, especially in rainfed fields. Irrigation may help mitigate yield loss, but water scarcity could worsen climate-related challenges.
Researchers found that high oleic soybean oil improved growth performance and carcass characteristics in pigs, with minimal impact on fat thickness and lean percentage. The studies also showed that HOSO-fed pigs had thicker, firmer bellies and similar loin quality compared to DDGS-fed pigs.
A new study by the University of Illinois found that temperature in the place of origin has a significant negative impact on export of agricultural goods, while temperature in the destination has little effect. The researchers also identified precipitation as a more nuanced factor in trade.
Eastern red bats, now the most commonly detected bat in Midwestern forests, have a significant impact on tree regeneration due to their appetite for insect-damaging bugs. Forest managers can benefit from considering these bats' landscape preferences, particularly ponds and smaller forest openings.
Researchers have developed perennial rice that allows farmers to plant once and harvest up to eight times, reducing labor and costs. The crop provides significant environmental benefits, including improved soil quality and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
A new University of Illinois study reveals that maize prices do not always rise after harvest in Sub-Saharan African markets, with prices falling 16.3% of the time. This uncertainty leads farmers to make decisions based on guesswork, considering storage expenses and risks of spoilage and loss.
A new review highlights the lack of understanding about non-game native transplant (NGNT) fish in the US, which can have significant impacts on ecosystems. Researchers urge anglers and aquarium hobbyists to take steps to prevent NGNT invasions, such as not releasing bait fish into different watersheds.
A new study found that bats play a crucial role in protecting young tree seedlings from insect damage, with three times fewer bugs and five times more defoliation when bats are absent. The research reveals a mutually beneficial relationship between bats and oak trees, with bats serving as a key predator for insects that harm the trees.
A new study by University of Illinois researchers estimates the costs of removing invasive Miscanthus plants, ranging from $85 to $3,316 per site. The study's findings provide valuable insights into the challenges of eradication and highlight the need for accurate research and planning.
Researchers have found evidence of genetic diversity in the prion protein gene of endangered Eld's deer, which could provide resistance to chronic wasting disease. The study suggests reducing the frequency of a variant associated with the disease and implementing strict management practices to prevent exposure.
Researchers at the University of Illinois are investigating maize roots for organic and regenerative systems to optimize carbon storage, resource use efficiency, and productivity. They aim to develop corn varieties that provide ecosystem services even under changing weather scenarios.
A new study from the University of Illinois reveals how cattle ranchers in Brazil cope with weather shocks. The research found that ranchers make decisions based on rainfall patterns and anticipate extreme dry seasons by selling animals for slaughter or to confinement operations, which can decouple food sources from current weather.
The University of Illinois has received a $30 million investment from USAID to develop soybean value chains across Sub-Saharan Africa. The project aims to remove last-mile obstacles to technology adoption, including seed, productivity-improvement, and credit issues.
Researchers have identified four genes in corn and Arabidopsis that regulate root growth in response to gravity, a trait essential for drought tolerance and efficient water use. The study's approach, leveraging genomic comparisons between distantly related species, has the potential to be applied to other traits.
A University of Illinois study shows rumen-protected lysine can improve uterine health in dairy cows during the transition period. The supplement reduced genes involved in inflammatory proteins and increased genes keeping the uterus clean, leading to less inflammation and improved reproductive outcomes.
A new study reveals that bats' diets are more similar than previously thought, with both species eating a variety of insects and agricultural pests. The research found that the northern long-eared bat tends to pick up larger prey items due to its gleaning strategy.
Researchers found that non-growing season nitrous oxide emissions in the Midwest can account for up to 60% of annual emissions. Environmental factors such as precipitation and temperature drive these emissions, with more intensive freezing causing increased emissions in the southeastern Midwest.
A new University of Illinois study shows that fathead minnows can handle simulated heatwaves with few nasty side effects. Most minnows rapidly returned to normal physiological functioning after cooling down, but some became more susceptible to oxidative stress.
A new study from the University of Illinois found that dog gut bacteria can change rapidly after introducing a new diet, with microbial turnover occurring in under a week. The research also confirmed previous findings on the health benefits of high-fiber diets over high-fat and high-protein diets.
A University of Illinois study found tomatoes in Chicago backyard gardens have low levels of lead, making them relatively safe for consumption. However, improper soil handling and lack of washing can still pose health risks. Researchers recommend minimizing dust with heavy mulch and careful fruit washing to safely grow tomatoes.
Quantitative disease resistance is a promising approach to combat plant diseases, which cause an estimated 13% loss of global crop yields annually. Researchers aim to identify disease resistance mechanisms for important corn diseases and develop genetic resources for the broader maize genetics community.
A new study found that intimate partner violence is often overlooked in custody cases, leading to longer court times and increased risk for mothers. The research suggests that documenting IPV can lead to worse custody outcomes, but also highlights the importance of addressing safety concerns.
Researchers found that wetter pre-growing seasons reduced soil nitrogen through leaching, but applying more fertilizer can mitigate this effect. The model also showed that cold pre-growing season temperatures limited early growth in ways that affected yield potential, making extra fertilizer less effective.
A University of Illinois study examines how mothers' emotional involvement helps youth cope with peer stressors during middle school. The research reveals that youth who experience positive mother-child interactions and high maternal affect are more likely to engage in active coping strategies.
Researchers found that short-term cover crop use cannot reverse decades of soil microbial dynamics in response to unsustainable practices. Long-term fertilization disrupted nitrogen cycling communities, while cover crops enhanced biodiversity but had both positive and negative effects on soil microbes.
A new study from the University of Illinois finds that wine tariffs imposed during trade disputes have substantial economic costs for producers and consumers. The study estimates that the U.S.-EU dispute cost $190 million in lost trade, while the China-Australia dispute cost $149 million annually.