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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

Cover crop mulches tested for no-till organic onions

Researchers found that cowpea produced comparable onion yields to bare ground, while foxtail millet was less effective as a mulch due to its thickness. Soybean meal showed potential as an effective source of nitrogen for organic onion production.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateApr 20, 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.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateApr 15, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

U of I scientist says slimming soybeans are on the horizon

Researchers have discovered a type of soy protein that inhibits fat accumulation and reduces inflammation. Soybeans with high levels of beta-conglycinins are found to limit lipid accumulation in fat cells by suppressing an enzyme called fatty acid synthase.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalMolecular Nutrition & Food Research·DateApr 1, 2010

U of I researchers identify new soybean aphid biotype

Researchers at University of Illinois have identified a new soybean aphid biotype that can overcome resistance genes in currently available varieties. This discovery highlights the need for breeders and seed companies to keep pace with evolving pest populations.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Economic Entomology·DateMar 29, 2010
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Facing the corn nematode problem in Illinois

Corn nematode populations are widespread in Illinois, with over 90% of fields sampled having lesion nematodes that can cause significant yield reductions. Experts recommend taking soil samples and using specific management strategies to mitigate the issue.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateFeb 16, 2010

Researchers fight world hunger by mapping the soybean genome

A team of researchers has identified 1.1 million base pairs of DNA in the soybean genome, including traits that affect plant development, disease resistance, and nutrition. This knowledge will enable scientists to create more resilient crops, reducing hunger and improving food security worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalNature·DateFeb 1, 2010

USDA scientists, collaborators sequence soybean genome

Researchers have sequenced 85% of the soybean genome, providing critical information to improve crop yields, disease resistance, and nutritional content. The discovery includes genes conferring resistance to a devastating disease and mutations that enhance digestibility and phosphorus absorption.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalNature·DateJan 13, 2010

Soybean genome analysis reveals pathways for improving biodiesel

The soybean genome sequence provides a parts list of what it takes to make a soybean plant, identifying genes essential for agronomic traits like protein and oil content. The analysis also revealed targets for modifying output to bolster biodiesel production.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalNature·DateJan 13, 2010
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Genome sequencing speeds ability to improve soybeans

Scientists sequenced the soybean genome to understand its genes and improve characteristics. However, duplicated genes present a challenge, with many copies shuffled, making prediction difficult. Genome sequencing eliminates this issue, enabling faster research advancements.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature·DateJan 13, 2010
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

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.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateOct 7, 2009

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
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

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

Discovering soybean plants resistant to aphids and a new aphid

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new soybean variety resistant to aphids, but also discovered a new type of aphid that can overcome this resistance. The PI 200538 gene provides additional protection against the new biotype of soybean aphid, offering hope for more durable resistance.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalCrop Science·DateAug 10, 2009
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Computers aid in cracking deception in plants

Researchers, led by MU computer scientist Dmitry Korkin, are using machine learning and pattern recognition to identify protein binding sites in plants that match those of pathogens. This work may help improve soybean cultivars for disease resistance by accelerating discovery of resistance to the soybean cyst nematode.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateJun 25, 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

No consistent advantage for planting soybean early

A study analyzing 28 soybean experiments found no significant yield advantage for early plantings, regardless of region or variety. However, delaying plantings beyond the critical date in late May or early June led to a substantial loss of yields, suggesting producers should prioritize timely planting.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateMar 16, 2009
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Study: Soybean oil reduces carbon footprint in swine barns

Soybean oil has been found to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an average of 20% in methane emissions and 19% in carbon dioxide emissions when sprayed inside swine finishing barns. The study, conducted at a northern Missouri farm, also showed a significant reduction in particulate matter.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateFeb 26, 2009

High CO2 boosts plant respiration, potentially affecting climate and crops

Researchers found that elevated CO2 levels stimulate plant respiration, increasing energy production and potentially supporting greater crop yields. The study used microarrays to detect changes in gene activity, revealing over 600 genes altered by high CO2 conditions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 9, 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

Plant soybean early to increase yield

A recent study found that early soybean planting from April to May consistently resulted in higher yields. However, oil concentration was higher at early plantings, while protein concentration was better when planted later in the season.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateFeb 2, 2009
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Soybean database will help breeders engineer better-performing plants

University of Missouri researchers are creating a comprehensive database of soybean proteins and metabolites to study changes under drought and stressed conditions. The database will help breeders engineer better-performing soybean plants using computerized models that predict physiological and biological changes.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateDec 30, 2008

DOE Joint Genome Institute completes soybean genome

The US Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute has released a complete draft assembly of the soybean genetic code, making it available to researchers. Preliminary studies suggest that the soybean genome contains as many as 66,000 genes, more than twice the number identified in the human genome.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·DateDec 8, 2008
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Tool helps identify gene function in soybeans

A new genomic tool has been developed to identify gene function in soybeans, a key step towards improving crop performance. By analyzing transposon mutations, researchers can pinpoint specific genes associated with desirable traits such as seed composition and root growth.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalPlanta·DateDec 1, 2008

Soybean grant gives researchers tools to unravel better bean

A team of researchers led by University of Georgia's Wayne Parrott is using a jumping gene in rice and radiation to identify key genes in soybeans that can be used to produce a better bean. This project aims to improve soybean yield, disease resistance and nutritional content.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·DateNov 20, 2008

ASA, CSSA, SSSA present scholarships in Houston

The American Society of Agronomy (ASA), Crop Science Society of America (CSSA), and Soil Science Society of America (SSSA) presented various scholarships to students pursuing careers in agronomic sciences. The scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership activities, and future plans related to the field.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·DateOct 27, 2008

Herbicide-tolerant crops can improve water quality

Planting herbicide-tolerant crop varieties can significantly reduce herbicide losses and concentrations in surface runoff, according to a USDA study. The study found that contact herbicides like glyphosate and glufosinate resulted in lower concentrations of herbicides in water compared to residual herbicides.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateApr 22, 2008
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Self seeding: An innovative management system

Winter cover crops can perpetuate themselves through self-seeding, eliminating planting costs and time constraints for farmers. This innovative management system also enhances weed suppression and improves soil quality.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateApr 15, 2008

Insects take a bigger bite out of plants in a higher CO2 world

Researchers found that elevated CO2 levels in soybeans attracted more adult Japanese beetles, Western corn rootworms, and Asian soybean aphids. The study suggests that global environmental change is multifaceted, with increased insect damage due to impaired plant defenses.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 24, 2008
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

MU researchers go nano, natural and green

A team of researchers at the University of Missouri-Columbia has discovered a clean process for making gold nanoparticles using gold salts, soybeans, and water. The new process eliminates the need for synthetic or man-made chemicals, which can have negative environmental impacts.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateOct 31, 2007

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
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Elevated CO2 in atmosphere weakens defenses of soybeans to herbivores

Research by the University of Illinois found that elevated CO2 levels increase the susceptibility of soybeans to Japanese beetles and enhance their invasive abilities. This study highlights the potential risks of climate change on crop defenses, particularly for highly usable crops like soybeans.

SourceAmerican Society of Plant Biologists·DateJul 6, 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

Iowa State corn/soy plastics to be made into hog feeders

Researchers at Iowa State University have created a new type of bioplastic that can be used to make durable hog feeders. The feeders are made from a combination of corn and soybean oils, which are significantly cheaper than traditional petrochemicals.

SourceIowa State University·DateJan 22, 2007
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

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

Iowa State corn/soy plastics to be made into hog feeders

Researchers at Iowa State University have developed a process for producing bioplastics from natural oils, which will be used to create high-tech hog feeders. The new feeders are expected to reduce material costs and provide a more sustainable alternative to traditional petrochemical-based feeders.

SourceIowa State University·DateSep 20, 2006

Growth in Amazon cropland may impact climate and deforestation patterns

A recent NASA study found that clearing for mechanized cropland has become a significant force in Brazilian Amazon deforestation. The study suggests that the conversion of forests to croplands can have a more pronounced ecological and climate impact than other land conversions.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 19, 2006
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Pam Henderson receives plant pathology journalism award

Pam Henderson received the APS Plant Pathology Journalism Award for her nine-article series on Asian Soybean Rust, which raised public awareness of the disease. The award recognizes outstanding achievement in increasing knowledge and understanding of plant pathology.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·DateAug 21, 2006

Going where no unhydrogenated soybean oil has gone before

Researchers at Iowa State University successfully developed a new soybean oil with elevated oleic acid content, eliminating the need for hydrogenation and reducing trans fats. The oil has been adopted by the food industry for various products, including cereal, energy bars, and non-dairy creamers.

SourceIowa State University·DateJun 23, 2006

Unique soybean lines hold promise for producing allergy-free soybeans

Two unique soybean lines (PI 567476 and PI 603570A) have been identified that do not contain the leading allergy-causing P34 protein. These naturally occurring genetic mutations eliminate the protein's potential to trigger allergies, offering hope for reducing soy allergies.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalCrop Science·DateMay 4, 2006
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

New maps reveal true extent of human footprint on Earth

Agricultural activity dominates over a third of the Earth's landscape, posing environmental challenges such as deforestation and water pollution. New maps track changing agricultural land use patterns worldwide, highlighting emerging trends like soybean production in Argentina and Brazil driven by China's demand.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·DateDec 5, 2005

Organic farms produce same yields as conventional farms

A study by Cornell University professor David Pimentel found that organic farming systems produce the same crop yields as conventional farming, while using less energy and conserving more water. Organic farming also improves soil quality and reduces pollution.

SourceCornell University·JournalBioScience·DateJul 13, 2005

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