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Gene discovery may lead to new varieties of soybean plants

A Purdue University scientist has discovered a long-sought gene that controls soybean stem growth, allowing for the creation of new plant varieties with desirable characteristics. The gene, Dt1, was found to be responsible for determining whether a soybean's stem continues to grow after flowering.

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 27, 2010

New CSIRO soybean a hit in Japan

The Bunya soybean variety is gaining popularity in Japan due to its enhanced suitability as an ingredient in traditional Japanese dishes. Its unique gelation properties make it ideal for producing a range of soy-based foods like tofu and custard.

Fill 'er up -- with algae

Researchers at North Carolina State University aim to create fuels that can be used in place of conventional diesel, gasoline, and jet fuel. They plan to genetically modify Dunaliella algae to produce fatty acids that can be converted into fuels, with the goal of creating a cost-competitive, renewable energy source.

Eat soybeans to prevent diseases

Researchers have found that soybeans contain high levels of tocopherols, which have antioxidant properties and may play a role in cardiovascular diseases and cancer prevention. The study suggests that selection for high α-tocopherol content in soybeans will be possible, making it easier to develop functional foods with specific health-...

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateSep 29, 2009

US crop yields could wilt in heat

A study predicts that US crop yields could decrease by 30-46% over the next century under slow global warming scenarios and by 63-82% under rapid scenarios. Crop yields are most vulnerable to temperatures above 29-32 degrees Celsius, depending on the crop.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 24, 2009

'Natural' nitrogen-fixing bacteria protect soybeans from aphids

Researchers found that soybean plants colonized with naturally occurring rhizobia had lower aphid densities than those with commercial or artificially fertilized plants. The plants produced the same level of nitrogen regardless of the type of rhizobia used, suggesting a potential tool for protecting plants from insect herbivory.

SourcePenn State·JournalPlant and Soil·DateApr 14, 2009

Minnesota Partnership targets aphids

Researchers at the Mayo Clinic have developed an insecticide that targets the soybean aphid, a pest ravaging Minnesota crops. The small molecule blocks acetylcholinesterase activity in aphids without inhibiting it in humans.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 3, 2009

Outwitting pesky parasites

Scientists identified molecular markers linked to two root-knot nematode resistance genes, enabling breeders to efficiently screen for resistant plants. This breakthrough allows for faster and cost-effective development of root-knot resistant soybean crops.

SourceCrop Science Society of America·JournalThe Plant Genome·DateJul 15, 2007

Biofuels: More than just ethanol

The study found that certain biofuel crops, such as switchgrass and hybrid poplar, can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 85% compared to gasoline and diesel. These crops also offset the largest amounts of fossil fuels reduced emissions when used for electricity generation via biomass gasification.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalEcological Applications·DateApr 5, 2007

Trans fat ban: Watch saturated fats and calories too

The trans fat ban in New York City is a step in the right direction, but restaurateurs need to replace partially hydrogenated fat with unsaturated fat. The regulation also requires restaurants to provide calorie information prominently, which may be even more important for addressing obesity and promoting heart health.

SourceTufts University·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateDec 22, 2006

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for July 5, 2005

A new 12-week study of 302 adults with high-normal or mildly elevated blood pressure found that eating special cookies containing 40 grams of soybean protein resulted in significantly larger decreases in pressure levels compared to those who ate similar cookies made of complex wheat carbohydrate. The soybean group had a net reduction o...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 4, 2005