Researchers at the University of Illinois developed a modeling framework to estimate soil erosion in the Drummer Creek watershed. The study found that even partial changes in tilling practices can have significant results, with vulnerable areas seeing a near-70% reduction in soil loss and sediment yield.
Researchers developed a gene biomarker identification technique to predict liver toxicity in just 24 hours, reducing lengthy animal studies. The method uses machine learning approaches to identify key genes in messenger RNA, enabling accelerated testing for agrochemical and pharmaceutical companies.
A new study from the University of Illinois found that consuming avocados as part of a daily meal increased beneficial bacteria and improved gut health in adults with overweight or obesity. The research also showed that avocado consumption reduced bile acids and increased short-chain fatty acids, leading to positive health outcomes.
Researchers have identified key genes responsible for male sexual organs in two problematic agricultural weeds. Understanding these genes could lead to new ways to control the weeds' spread. Dioecy, a rare plant reproductive trait, allows the weeds to evade multiple herbicides and adapt to environments.
Farmers in Tanzania misuse fertilizers at low rates due to misconceptions about quality. A study found that appearance affects their willingness to buy, with poor-looking products commanding lower prices. The researchers interviewed farmers and recorded transactions to analyze the impact of physical appearance on fertilizer purchases.
A study by University of Illinois researchers found that beta-carotene's full health benefits require an active enzyme to produce vitamin A. The active enzyme BCO1 converts beta-carotene into vitamin A, which helps lower bad cholesterol and protect against atherosclerosis.
A recent study found that a new program for African American couples can lead to stronger relationships and improved health outcomes. The program, Protecting Strong African American Families (ProSAAF), uses a cognitive behavioral approach to improve couple interaction patterns and ways of thinking.
A recent study from University of Illinois researchers found that racial microaggressions contribute to disparities in STEM education programs. Students of color who experience exclusion, invisibility, or isolation on campus are less likely to continue in STEM majors. The study aimed to encourage STEM-related academic programs to addre...
Researchers predict soybean maturity date within two days using drone images and artificial intelligence, greatly reducing the need for boots on the ground. The developed model performs well independent of data collection frequency, accounting for variables such as image quality and location.
A new study from the University of Illinois found that hiring foreign-educated registered nurses does not displace U.S.-educated nurses and may even boost wages for highly educated natives. The research analyzed data from 1980-2015 and covered every commuting zone in the US, including rural areas.
A study from the University of Illinois found that college students have significantly lower rates of food insecurity than non-students and the general population, with 9.9% of full-time students facing insecurity. The gap is largest for young adults, with part-time students showing similar rates to non-students.
The project will populate a database of bioreactor and saturated buffer designs, trial novel modifications to improve efficiency, and install monitoring systems for real-time water quality detection. The goal is to increase adoption and effectiveness of these low-cost solutions in the Midwest.
A US study found a decline in water usage for most crops and livestock production due to climate change and shifts in consumer demand. Water use decreased by 8.3% for irrigation, but increased for oilseed crops driven by international supply-chain linkages.
Research reveals that many songbird parents displace nestlings too early, reducing the offspring's chances of survival. However, this behavior allows parents to minimize risks and increase their own likelihood of raising at least one offspring to independence.
The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened food insecurity in the United States, particularly in lower-wage jobs and service industry areas. According to a report by Craig Gundersen, over 50 million Americans will be food insecure in 2020, with regional differences existing across the country.
A study found that both temperate and tropical birds can tolerate high temperatures, with some species, such as doves and pigeons, exceeding heat limits, providing a buffer against climate warming. However, caution is needed as indirect effects on resources and forest structure may impact bird populations.
A University of Illinois study suggests that tree cover around schools improves standardized test scores, regardless of student demographics or school resources. The study found that even small amounts of tree cover closer to the school made a significant difference.
A University of Illinois study tracks the evolution of SARS-CoV-2 virus mutations, finding stabilization in key proteins that could improve COVID-19 treatments. The research suggests these stabilizations may help increase viral infectivity and shed light on vaccine development.
Researchers found that extruding grains like corn, wheat, and sorghum improves amino acid digestibility and increases energy digestibility in pigs. This technology could lead to economic benefits by justifying the cost of adding extrusion equipment to feed mills.
A case study on ICT infrastructure at a Ghanaian research station reveals the importance of seamless connectivity for organizations. The ICT Health Checkup tool assesses four key elements to identify gaps and provide remediation steps.
A University of Illinois study found that rituals in dating relationships can magnify normative experiences and provide a preview into family life and couple life. Rituals have the power to bond individuals and serve as diagnostic tools for where the relationship is going.
A new study shows early-terminated rye can effectively suppress weeds in edamame without harming the crop, increasing yield and reducing contamination. However, other crops like lima bean may not benefit from this approach due to their nitrogen-fixing limitations.
Researchers establish relationship between soil nitrogen at different growth stages and corn yield, finding a tradeoff between productivity and environmental impact. Soil nitrogen explains majority of grain yield variation, with optimal levels resulting in 22% yield increase.
Researchers developed an immunomodulatory feed additive to boost chickens' immune response against coccidiosis, a parasite-borne intestinal disease. The treatment showed promise in promoting gut health and reducing the effects of severe infection, but may not prevent disease altogether.
New research from University of Illinois scientists suggests that crop-relevant drought should be measured by atmospheric dryness (VPD) rather than just rainfall and soil moisture. Studies found that VPD accounts for nearly 90% of changes in crop stomatal conductance and productivity.
A new study shows that most meat products, including ribeye steak, have high digestible indispensable amino acid scores, making them suitable for improving nutrition in developing countries. This research uses pigs as a model for humans and finds that processing can affect protein quality.
A University of Illinois study identifies a naturally occurring sugar called glycans that slows sperm maturation in pigs, allowing for extended sperm storage time. The discovery has potential applications in fertility testing and AI success rates.
The University of Illinois has been awarded $4.5 million to develop a commercial solution called SYMFONI, which enables accurate and rapid field-level quantification of carbon intensity at a regional scale. This technology will facilitate the adoption of new technologies to increase feedstock productivity and reduce carbon footprint in...
Researchers have published the most comprehensive genome information for three troublesome agricultural weeds, which could lead to better understanding of herbicide resistance. The genomes will help identify specific enzymes responsible for detoxifying herbicides, enabling scientists to develop new control methods.
Researchers develop a new concept to understand how precipitation affects tropical animals, including feeding behavior, predation, and physiological responses. The hygric niche framework has implications for conservation and climate change mitigation in the tropics.
Synbiotics combine pre- and probiotics, providing a wider range of health benefits. The new definition allows for the use of microorganisms and selectively utilized substrates, enabling the creation of synergistic synbiotics with targeted health benefits.
A new study from the University of Illinois reveals a significant decline in US bird biodiversity related to neonicotinoid use, particularly affecting grassland birds. The research found a 2.2% decline in grassland bird populations for every 100 kg increase in neonicotinoid usage per county.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new method to speed up breeding for Miscanthus hybrids, which could improve renewable energy crops. The study uses genomic selection to predict phenotypic outcomes and optimize winter hardiness, biomass, disease tolerance, and flowering time in Miscanthus.
Researchers found ProCap DDGS contains more crude protein and amino acids than conventional de-oiled DDGS, and its standardized ileal digestibility is nearly all amino acids. The product also provides approximately 1,200 kcal per kilogram of metabolizable energy more than conventional DDGS.
Researchers at the University of Illinois discovered that isoflavones in soybeans can help protect pigs from viral infections, such as porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus. The study found that pigs fed a diet with isoflavones had a lower rate of infection-related mortality compared to those without.
A University of Illinois study using neonatal pigs found that pectin at 0.2% in milk replacer was safe for infants, a breakthrough made possible by public-private partnerships. The research highlights the benefits of collaborations between universities and industry, enabling faster innovation and high-quality science.
Researchers used alien substitution lines to pinpoint chromosomal region 5A as key player in wheat's natural tolerance to synthetic auxin herbicides. They found minimal injury in some plant lines due to their ability to naturally detoxify the chemical, while others were highly sensitive to high rates of the herbicide.
Researchers analyzed medieval and modern case studies to identify restrictive soil and geologic conditions for tunneling. They found arid areas with low permanent water tables are most susceptible to successful tunneling, recommending monitoring for sound and vibrations to disrupt smugglers.
Researchers have discovered that herbicide-resistant weeds like waterhemp produce detoxifying enzymes to neutralize certain chemicals, making them resistant to common herbicides. This metabolic resistance strategy is hard to identify and combat, highlighting the need for a multi-pronged approach to control these weeds.
A study from the University of Illinois found that reducing speed limits in São Paulo, Brazil, dramatically reduced fatal accidents and increased travel times only minimally. The policy resulted in an estimated 1,889 averted accidents and 104 averted fatalities, with 86% of benefits going to low-income residents.
A University of Illinois study finds climate-smart agricultural practices increase maize yields, particularly when farmers have access to training and resources. The practices, such as absorption trenches and agroforestry fertilizer trees, help conserve water and soil nutrients.
A tropical treefall created a 2.5-acre gap that attracted hundreds of hummingbird species, doubling the diversity and presence of these birds in the area. The researchers documented 16 unique individuals of one species, the snowy-bellied hummingbird, within just one year after the treefall.
Researchers at University of Illinois develop six approaches to treat hydrothermal liquefaction aqueous phase, including separation of chemicals and bioelectrochemical systems. These methods aim to valorize the wastewater byproduct, highlighting potential for sustainable oil production.
Researchers found that irrigation increases crop yield by 16% due to cooling effects, not just water supply. Cooling reduces temperature stress and improves plant growth.
The Soybean Innovation Lab helps alleviate hunger and boost local economies in Sub-Saharan Africa by providing research-based solutions to farmers. Studies found that smallholder farmers face significant challenges adopting soybeans as a commercial crop, requiring guidance and support from larger systems.
A University of Illinois study finds that reducing crime near public parks can unlock significant environmental value, with estimated gains of almost $7 billion in Chicago, Philadelphia, and New York. This highlights the importance of safety in unlocking park amenities for communities, particularly in high-crime neighborhoods.
A recent study published in Autonomic Neuroscience: Basic and Clinical reveals the extent of connections between the small intestine and the entire brain. Half of the neurons transmitting signals from the gut to the brain also send motor signals, enabling cross-talk within the same neuron.
Researchers found that copper hydroxychloride improves pigs' ability to utilize fat after absorption, leading to increased energy utilization. The element enhances lipid metabolism in the liver, adipose tissue, and muscle, enabling better feed conversion rates and economic savings.
Researchers found that machine-harvested edamame is more profitable at lower densities, with optimal rates ranging from 35,200 to 48,600 plants per acre. The new guidelines are specific to the unique aspects of the crop and aim to maximize profitability for US growers and processors.
Scientists have been collecting soybean aphids in the Midwest for 18 years using an aerial insect trap network, revealing valuable insights into spatial and temporal migration patterns. The traps also capture other insects, including those expanding their range due to climate change or habitat suitability.